Designing beautiful spaces that reflect the unique style and function of every family inspires Kristina Jones, who founded Cat in a Hammock to do just that.
Kristina’s full-service design and construction firm has the expertise to bring clients’ visions to life, from the initial glimmer of an idea to the final touches of the completed project.
“I especially love when clients share how their new backyard has changed their everyday life. It’s no longer just a yard—it’s a sanctuary, a gathering place, an extension of their home. That’s deeply rewarding,” shares Kristina, noting that creating the ideal space starts with inspiration.
“I always recommend that clients explore Pinterest, Houzz or even pull pages from magazines. It costs nothing to start dreaming. Don’t worry about whether it fits your space or your budget just yet—this is your time to gather visual ideas that stir something in you. Think of it as building a mood board for your lifestyle: textures, colors, garden moments, architectural elements. Give yourself the freedom to explore without editing. That’s where the magic begins,” says Kristina, who finds her own source of inspiration in natural settings.
“Botanical gardens have always been a wellspring of inspiration for me. Whether it's Lotusland, Descanso Gardens or a tucked-away estate abroad, I make it a point to observe how nature is framed, layered and allowed to speak,” she says, adding, “I recently visited Casa del Herrero in Montecito to refill my creative well. I love blending classical and modern influences—creating spaces that feel rooted in tradition, yet fresh and relevant.”
Exploring the Process
Meeting with clients to discuss their goals enables Cat in a Hammock to formulate a well-designed plan.
“Our consultations are deeply personal and tailored to each family,” explains Kristina. “We begin by exploring lifestyle—how our clients live, entertain, relax and connect at home. Are there children or pets? Do they host large gatherings or prefer an intimate retreat? This discovery shapes the functionality of the space before we even touch the design.”
The next step involves the artistic elements: “We then begin layering in aesthetics—materials, mood and color palettes that speak to the home’s architecture and the client’s taste. Many clients share inspiration boards they’ve curated over time, and it becomes a collaborative design conversation,” shares Kristina. Once a realistic budget is set—"we help prioritize features, select premium materials strategically, and craft a plan that reflects value and intention”—the design phase begins, transforming vision into detailed 3D renderings.
“We manage every detail in-house: engineering, permitting, materials, project management and of course, the build itself. It’s a full-service experience with a single point of contact from concept to completion,” she says, noting her satisfaction with a job well done.
“Each phase brings its own joy. The design process is imaginative and intimate, the build phase is tangible and gratifying, and the final reveal is where it all comes full circle.”
Kristina invites homeowners to explore how Cat in a Hammock can add style and elegance to enhance their home and lifestyle.
“We’re more than a design-build firm—we're storytellers of outdoor living. We care deeply about our clients’ experience, and we’re here to create timeless, soulful spaces that elevate how they live,” says Kristina. “Beauty matters, but it’s how a space makes you feel—and how it supports the way you live—that makes it meaningful.”
Contact Cat in a Hammock at 805.263.4200 or learn more at CatinaHammock.com.
“We manage every detail in-house: engineering, permitting, materials, project management and of course, the build."
"We’re here to create timeless, soulful spaces that elevate how they live.”