Meet Trailblazer Kathryn Burgess

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kathryn Burgess.

So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I’d like to start by saying thank you VoyageDenver Magazine for highlighting small businesses in our great state of Colorado, and thank you for reaching out to our design and remodeling company – Arbor Atelier!

The dream of becoming an interior designer flourished in college, and no doubts followed the decision of choosing an interior design as my career path. Design is powerful. Good (and bad!) design can change you physically and psychologically. Through observing the power of design, serving others and transforming their environment for the better became an important calling in my life.

While working in the interior design industry, I quickly began to realize that appropriating equal importance to both a creative AND functional space resulted in an enduring client satisfaction well after the “WOW!” affects leveled.

Through this perception, my husband and I focused on specializing in kitchens and baths. Kitchens and baths function more mechanically then many realize, and while beauty in these spaces should certainly be considered, it cannot overshadow the importance of your kitchen operating like a “well-oiled machine.” While American architect Louis Sullivan stated that “form follows function,” I like to take it a step further and say, “form is married to function.” Beauty and function can and should co-exist – especially in kitchens and baths!

Over time, the design journey led us here today – hailing from Colorado Springs! My husband and I planted roots and started Arbor Atelier. “Arbor” represents nature and the influence of nature in good design. An “Atelier” houses the work of a fine craftsman or artist.

In a true representation of our name, we strive daily to inject nature and craftsmanship in our work, offering our clients beautiful and functional design that both soothes their spirit and eases their lifestyle for years to come.

Has it been a smooth road?
I truly believe that the entrepreneur reaches the highest highs and the lowest lows on a monthly basis. Knowing to expect this will get you through to the next month as a result of understanding that both mountain tops and valleys come with the territory.

Achieving your goals isn’t the only way of measuring “success.” Rather, success can be measured by “progress.” Just keep striving to become better while you are in that valley.

No one achieves success alone – no one. Seek advice from others who are smarter than you and who have successful businesses. Once you’ve gained knowledge, share it with others in your industry! “A rising tide lifts all boats!” – John F. Kennedy

Additionally, I’d like to encourage women starting their journey to read “Business Boutique,” by Christy Wright. The knowledge and encouragement in this book will guide you through your foundational “Why” in business, teach you that fear is normal, and show you specific steps to take in serving others while making money doing what you love.

Do you recommend any apps, books or podcasts that have been helpful to you?
Absolutely! I’m constantly flooding my mind with knowledge from other successful people through reading and podcasts.

A few valuable reads are “Entreleadership,” by Dave Ramsey and “Business Boutique,” by Christy Wright. Both also have podcasts.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.arboratelier.co
• Phone: 719-362-0208
• Email: hello@arboratelier.co
• Instagram: @arboratelier.co

Image Credit:
Angela Roy Photography

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