Business Details
38 Years
experience
Custom Interior Design for Discerning Homeowners
For over three decades, Margaret Donaldson Interiors has redefined residential interior design through a philosophy that harmonizes modern functionality with enduring elegance. Our approach prioritizes creating spaces that reflect clients' lifestyles while maintaining architectural integrity. With a foundation built on collaboration, we work closely with homeowners and artisans to transform visions into personalized sanctuaries. Our expertise spans new construction and renovations, emphasizing thoughtful space planning and curated material selections. The firm's longevity and reputation stem from our commitment to listening intently to client needs while maintaining rigorous attention to detail.Our team's collective experience, spanning diverse design styles and project types, ensures we deliver solutions that balance aesthetics with practical living requirements. As industry leaders, we maintain affiliations with professional organizations like ASID and NCIDQ, reinforcing our dedication to design excellence and ethical standards. Client testimonials consistently highlight our organizational prowess and ability to exceed expectations while maintaining project timelines and budgets.
Services
Residential New Construction
Home Renovation
Space Planning
Furniture Selection
Art Curation
Details
- Year established: 1988
Highlights and features
- 30+ years of experience in residential interior design
- Personalized approach combining client vision with professional expertise
- Award-winning portfolio spanning diverse architectural styles
- Collaboration with trusted craftsmen and vendors nationwide
- Proven process ensuring seamless project execution from concept to completion
Associations and certifications
- ASID
- NCIDQ
What people say
Enjoyable process
Finished product exceeded expectations
Super organized
Great communication
Zen oasis
Services
Residential New Construction
We specialize in creating bespoke new homes that balance architectural integrity with modern living requirements. Our process begins with understanding client lifestyles to develop floor plans that optimize flow and functionality. From material selection to final detailing, our team ensures every element reflects the homeowner's personality while maintaining timeless appeal. Projects typically involve collaboration with architects and builders to achieve cohesive design solutions that meet both aesthetic and practical needs.
Home Renovation
Our renovation services transform existing spaces while preserving architectural character. We work closely with clients to update layouts, modernize systems, and enhance aesthetics without compromising historical elements. The process includes space planning, material selection, and coordination with contractors to ensure seamless execution. Whether updating kitchens, bathrooms, or whole-house renovations, we focus on creating functional spaces that align with contemporary living standards while maintaining original charm.
Space Planning
We optimize spatial arrangements to enhance functionality and flow within residential environments. Our approach considers traffic patterns, furniture placement, and storage solutions while maintaining aesthetic harmony. This service includes creating detailed floor plans and 3D renderings to visualize the proposed layout. We address lighting requirements, architectural features, and ergonomic considerations to ensure spaces work efficiently for daily living while maintaining visual appeal through balanced proportions and scale.
Furniture Selection
Our curated furniture selection process combines style with practicality to create cohesive interior environments. We source pieces from trusted vendors worldwide, focusing on quality craftsmanship and timeless design. The service includes specifying custom upholstery, case goods, and accessories that align with client preferences and lifestyle needs. We coordinate deliveries and installations to ensure seamless integration with existing elements, creating layered, personalized spaces that balance comfort with sophisticated aesthetics.
Art Curation
We specialize in creating art collections that reflect clients' personalities and enhance interior environments. Our process includes selecting paintings, sculptures, and decorative objects that complement architectural features and interior schemes. We source from galleries and artists worldwide while incorporating existing family pieces to create meaningful narratives. The service includes specifying framing, lighting, and placement to ensure proper display, creating visually engaging spaces that tell a cohesive story through curated artistic elements.
People
Margaret Donaldson
Founder + Creative Director
Established Margaret Donaldson Interiors in 1988 after graduating from University of Georgia with Interior Design degree. Achieved NCIDQ certification and served in leadership roles within ASID. With over 30 years experience, she specializes in creating functional yet elegant residential spaces that reflect clients' lifestyles while maintaining architectural integrity.
Lucy Hund
Design Director
Brings financial background and interior design certification from Parsons School. Specializes in traditional, layered spaces with carefully selected fabrics. Combines analytical skills with creativity to manage complex projects. Graduated from University of Georgia with Finance degree before pursuing design career. Focuses on creating functional, meaningful spaces that balance aesthetics with practical living requirements.
Heather Kates
Lead Designer
NCIDQ-certified designer with 15+ years experience in residential, hospitality, and luxury yacht projects. Specializes in personalized spaces that reflect client tastes. Graduated from Harrington College of Design in Chicago before working with Jed Johnson Associates in NYC. Brings extensive experience in high-end residential projects to Charleston market.
Lily Cannon
Lead Designer
Charleston native with BFA in Fine Arts from Art Institute of Charleston. Focuses on building client relationships to create personalized spaces. Combines local knowledge with design expertise to develop spaces that reflect regional character. Specializes in traditional Southern aesthetics with modern functionality while maintaining approachable, collaborative design process.
Mikala Kuchera
Lead Designer
Trained at Parsons School of Design after Journalism degree. Transferred fashion industry experience to interior design, focusing on residential projects. Specializes in blending eclectic tastes with practical solutions. Brings global perspective from New York City experience while embracing Charleston's coastal lifestyle in design approach.
Questions
What types of residential projects do you handle?
We specialize in both new construction and renovation projects, including custom homes, historic restorations, coastal properties, and urban residences across the US and Canada.
How does your design process work?
Our collaborative process includes three phases: Form + Function analysis, Design + Detail selection, and Creativity + Communication implementation, ensuring every decision aligns with client needs and lifestyle.
Do you work with existing architectural elements?
Yes, we specialize in preserving architectural integrity while updating spaces for modern living, whether maintaining historical features or integrating contemporary additions.
Can you accommodate different design styles?
Our team has expertise in traditional, contemporary, coastal, and eclectic styles, creating personalized spaces that reflect client preferences rather than following trends.
How do you handle project timelines and organization?
We maintain strict project management systems with dedicated operations staff to ensure timely delivery while keeping clients informed through regular communication at every project stage.
Do you provide full-service interior design?
Yes, we offer comprehensive services from initial concept through final installation, including space planning, material selection, furniture procurement, and art curation.
