K
arista is energized by guiding clients through the construction process: “I love it when I meet with a client who is starting the journey to build.” New construction can be costly, so she’s careful to be fiscally conservative and spend money where it has the most impact and long-term payoff. “I tell my clients to spend money on cabinets and tile, because you really aren’t going to want to rip those things out in the near future,”
she says. “Countertops are important too. Get what you want now even if it may cost a little more.” To save money, she often helps clients work with existing furniture—refinishing or reupholstering to give it a fresh look. “And you can be creative with accessories; not everything has to cost a fortune,” she says. “I love Kathy Cummins of Bella Blakely Furniture. She reinvents pieces of furniture with such flair.”
TOPS LOUISVILLE | may 2017 39