Abby Kilgore of Glastonbury is the owner of The Inspired Kitchen LLC. She has a bachelor’s degree in Interior Design from Paier College of Art in Hamden and has been a designer and project manager for hundreds of projects in Connecticut.
"I pride myself in really understanding each client’s needs and desires so that I can deliver them a space that is above and beyond what they could have imagined. In 2017 she earned her Associate Kitchen and Bath Designer (AKBD) accreditation from the National Kitchen and Bath Association.
“I am always looking to learn, keep up on trends, and grow personally and professionally.
My family and I live in Glastonbury and are deeply rooted in the community. My husband, Jesse, and I are blessed with two great kids that keep us on our toes (Rebekah and Jacob) and we all enjoy the beauty that life has to offer. We enjoy our animals (dogs, cats and chickens), friends and family, gardening, boating, snowmobiling, dance and football. I’m inspired every day by the beauty around me and look forward to having the opportunity to work with you!”
Q. What is your design philosophy?
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My philosophy is that the design should not only look good and be functional, but must also improve the life and lifestyle of my client. A proper design will invoke happiness, and it will allow for family dinners or (long overdue) girls nights. Design for me isn’t just about putting colors together; it is about solving problems with spaces, finding ways to simplify daily tasks, and transforming how my clients live.
Q. What are the big trends in kitchen and baths right now?
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Light, bright and airy has been dominating the scene for a few years now. While white isn’t going anywhere in the foreseeable future, we have started bringing in new textures to accompany it. Fun mixed metals and textural woods such as walnut and white oak (yes, OAK!) have been big this year and really compliment sleek painted cabinetry beautifully. New techniques such as painting oak (rather than a smooth wood such as maple) creates a new texture that is both fun and unique. My clients will hear me discuss textures constantly—it is one of the most important elements in creating a visually pleasing and complex space. Texture can add a rustic feel, provide contrast, and warm up a space. Clean lines and simplicity continue to dominate over ornate styles—it’s easy to keep clean and looking classic, which is perfect for busy families. Another trend I’m seeing is the warming up of traditional cool white and gray tones by replacing the usual bluish undertones with taupe.
Q. How has the renovation scene changed in 2020?
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During quarantine we had no choice but to listen to our outdated and non-functional spaces screaming at us, “It’s time!” With social distancing and staying safe at home being the reality for our foreseeable future, the projects on the back burner are finally getting the attention they need. Spaces in our homes are being used differently now—our kitchen counters are classrooms, and unique spaces are being carved out to accommodate for changing needs for privacy and togetherness—we see people giving purpose to places within homes that are creative and inspiring. Outside family spaces, home office spaces, kitchens and bathrooms are now at the top of everyone’s priority list as we acclimate to the “new normal” of staying home.
Q. What makes a good design?
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A good design is one that masterfully addresses form and function. A space full of beauty, ease of access, quality of materials and craftsmanship are all important aspects of a good design. As a National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) accredited designer, a proud woman general contractor, and a mom that loves to cook (and bathe, lol), I plan to deliver on all of those aspects on every single project.