Behind the Build, Client Interview
- Robin Johnson
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
One of my favorite parts of being a designer is watching a home truly transform into a client’s happy place. Recently, I sat down with my sweet client Christie Streetman to talk about her remodeling experience — the highs, the challenges, and what she’s most excited about as she and her husband Bert get ready to move into their forever home on Pawleys Island.
You can tell we didn't have any fun!
From Investment Property to Forever Home
Christie and Bert originally purchased their home as an investment property in 2021, renting it out to long-term tenants while living in Texas. But with family nearby and some health concerns shifting their timeline, they decided it was time to move back sooner than expected. That’s when they began the remodel journey — and quickly discovered that “minor” structural issues weren’t quite so minor. What started as porch and roof repairs turned into a whole-house transformation, complete with a brand-new kitchen, reworked bathrooms, fresh flooring and updated living spaces.
Designing a Dream Kitchen
Christie came into our first consult knowing what she wanted: more countertop space, ceiling beams, a coffee bar, a pot filler, a wine fridge, and yes — a statement-making La Cornue range that we designed the whole kitchen around.
One of the biggest design wins was reclaiming space by removing an oddly placed window that once divided the kitchen. Now, her new range and hood take center stage, creating a spacious, functional layout that’s 70% kitchen and 30% breakfast nook.
Another big highlight? Converting the former breakfast porch into a beautiful walk-in pantry, complete with refrigerator drawers for fresh market produce.
The Power of Visualization
When I asked Christie what helped most during the design process, she didn’t hesitate: 3D renderings. She and Bert had plenty of ideas, but seeing the new layout in full color gave them confidence that the space would work — and kept surprises to a minimum.
Lessons Learned Along the Way
Remodels rarely go 100% according to plan. Shipping delays, material shortages, and structural discoveries can all add time to the project. Christie emphasized the importance of:
Finding a contractor you trust — one who keeps the job site clean and respects your home.
Planning for extra time — things will take longer than you expect.
Hiring professionals — “You can make costly mistakes trying to do it all yourself,” she said.
Favorite Details That Make a Big Impact
Some of the little things Christie can’t wait to use include:
In-cabinet outlets for small appliances
Under-cabinet lighting for warmth and ambiance
A pot filler (hello, gumbo nights!)
A microwave drawer at a comfortable height
Wallpaper accents that tie the whole color palette together
And when asked to sum up her new kitchen in three words? Beautiful, functional, happy.
Music to my ears!
Christie's Best Advice for Remodelers
Her number one takeaway for anyone considering a remodel: “Hire a designer you trust, who shares your vision. It’s worth it.” After 15 months of planning, decisions, and construction, Christie says she would do it all over again — maybe on a slightly smaller scale, but absolutely worth it for a home that feels like “them.”
🎧 If you want to listen to our entire conversation, tune into this week's podcast "Behind the Build, Client Interview"
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