Today we’d like to introduce you to Kai Thompson.
Hi Kai, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I am an interior designer, but that certainly wasn’t what I wanted to be at first. I actually started out in science before pursuing my creative career. I got my first undergraduate degree in Biology from Texas Woman’s University. My plan was to become a scientist, so I applied to Ph.D. programs and ended up at the UT Health Science Center here in San Antonio. As much as I loved neuroscience, it didn’t save me from feeling miserable in grad school.
So, my plans changed. I left the program and eventually figured out that interior design was where I could thrive. I returned to undergrad at UTSA for my design degree. It was one of the most humbling experiences of my life. I started working in the industry while still a student. I graduated, then took my certification exams. I got licensed. And after several years in Architecture and Design, I decided to open up my own firm. And here we are!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Well, the roundabout way I got into this career was, in itself, a challenge. And every step I take is the first time I’ve taken it, so that’s a common human struggle that can be quite anxiety-inducing when my livelihood is at stake. But I’m going with the flow and leaning into the discomfort, because I know it will be worth it.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
The firm is called Carrot & Honey, named for its founder—me! —and my partner Jon Davis. I am a TBAE-Registered Interior Designer, and I’ve worked in educational, commercial, healthcare, and residential design. I have a mind for practicality, durability, and accessibility as well as beauty and quirkiness when designing. I believe that our experiences with interior spaces directly affect our well-being, comfort, and general health. It’s super important to feel good in the places we spend our time!
In addition to the breadth of experience brought to our interior design services, we offer custom furniture design and fabrication services. That’s definitely something that sets us apart. Jon is an accomplished fabricator and custom furniture maker with Iron Moose Co.His skills with metal and woodwork have produced a plethora of interiors-enhancing elements, from sculptural table bases to light fixtures to stair handrails. We work together to visualize a client’s space and integrate the design concepts into custom pieces. We’re quite the dynamic duo!
Risk-taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
I’d say I’m pretty pragmatic in many ways. When it comes to defending my principles, however, I am quicker to take the “risky” route by speaking up when needed or saying ‘no’ to certain opportunities.
I think that’s a lot of the reason I decided to start my own business. It’s very important to me to provide a service to our community that’s inclusive and personalized.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.carrotandhoney.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carrotandhoneytx/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carrotandhoneytx
