Meet Katherine Waronker | Interior Designer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Katherine Waronker and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Katherine, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
The idea of starting my own business felt inevitable—I’ve always had a deep sense of independence. From a young age, I found myself gravitating toward the mindset of, “I’ll do it myself.” While I’ve had the privilege of working with and learning from people I admire, it was never quite the right fit. I thrive in creative collaboration, but I also find joy and fulfillment in the autonomy of shaping my own vision. Running my own business allows me to lean into both creativity and freedom, blending them seamlessly in every project.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?

What sets me apart is my ability to see the bigger picture within the smallest details—like seeing the full vision in just a single pixel. Taking the leap to start my own business was a risk, but design thrives on risks. It’s where the magic happens. No risk, no reward—but that doesn’t mean it isn’t nerve-wracking, especially when you’re presenting bold ideas that challenge expectations. Some risks can make clients uneasy, but that’s where vision and communication become essential. Renderings and detailed plans help everyone visualize the outcome and recognize the beauty in the process. Ultimately, creative freedom depends on taking those risks—without them, there’s no growth.

Design has always been part of my environment. I was first asked to design a space when I was 19, and I fell in love with the process. While I spent several years working in fashion, I kept getting pulled back into interiors—clients would ask for my input on materials, and I realized my passion for creating spaces ran deeper than styling wardrobes. After landing my first large-scale project 15 years ago, I never looked back.

Through the years, I’ve learned that success lies in balancing the big picture with meticulous organization. Listening carefully and staying focused on the broader vision is essential, but being detailed and prepared ensures that you don’t get lost in the chaos. This business can be incredibly beautiful and rewarding, but it’s also demanding—it’s not for the faint of heart. Challenges come up every day, and you have to be ready to pivot, problem-solve, and keep moving forward.

At the core of my brand is the belief that design isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about creating spaces that evoke emotion and tell a story. Each project is a reflection of the people who inhabit it, and my goal is to blend creativity, intuition, and trust to bring those stories to life.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Los Angeles is a funny place—often misunderstood as lacking things to do, see, or experience. But I always say, “Come see *my* LA.” It’s not about a long list, but a curated experience of the places I love and share with my people.

Food is a defining feature of the city, with California cuisine rooted in LA’s identity. My favorites include Gjelina, Gjusta, Felix, Escuela Taqueria, Antico Nuovo, and Pace—each offering a distinct flavor of what makes dining here so special.

Shopping in LA is an experience of its own. Galerie Half, Just One Eye, Jacques Marie Mage, Bode, Seventh House, Noodle Stories, and Garde are my go-tos, all standing out for their individuality and impeccable taste.

For culture, I gravitate toward places that offer a deeper connection and inspiration. The Broad Museum, Self-Realization Fellowship Lake Shrine, and Huntington Library are among the gems that never fail to renew my perspective on art, beauty, and mindfulness.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’ve been fortunate to have the unwavering support of my family, especially my father, Lenny Waronker, an influential music executive. Throughout his career, he has shaped countless successful musicians and artists, inspiring major music movements across eras. Watching his passion and talent for curating style and sound deeply influenced me—it’s always been a part of who I am. While I chose to express my creativity through aesthetics in design rather than the musical gifts that run in my family, his ability to blend vision, intuition, and artistry has guided my journey. His advice to “do what you love, and everything else will come” wasn’t always easy to follow, but it’s proven true time and time again. That foundation has allowed me to build a career rooted in passion, creativity, and trust in my instincts.

Website: https://Www.katherinewaronker.com

Instagram: https://Www.instagram.com/katherinewaronkerdesignstudio

Image Credits
Austin Lei, Mike Zahar and Katherine Waronker