Deep Dive in Design: Hotel Design with Kit Kemp

Episode Release Date: June 4, 2025

Host: Dara Caponigro
Guest: Kit Kemp, Creative Director of Ferndale Hotels

1. Introduction

In this episode of Deep Dive in Design, Dara Caponigro welcomes Kit Kemp, the esteemed Creative Director of Ferndale Hotels. Kit, renowned for her distinctive approach to hotel design, shares her journey, design philosophies, and insights into creating memorable guest experiences.

2. Kit Kemp's Journey into Hotel Design

Kit Kemp begins by recounting her entry into the hotel industry, influenced by her work with Leszek Nowitzki, a charismatic architect. (01:09) She highlights how her collaboration with Nowitzki and her eventual partnership with her husband, Tim Kemp, led to the transformation of student hotels into beloved establishments like Dorset Square, Ferndale's inaugural property.

Notable Quote:
"Working with Leszek was a transformative experience that laid the foundation for our approach to hotel design." (01:57)

3. Design Philosophy and Signature Style

Kit emphasizes her commitment to craftsmanship and bespoke design. Her hotels, while each uniquely styled, share common attributes such as vibrant color palettes and handcrafted elements. She opts for smaller, individual makers over large companies to ensure each piece is unique.

Notable Quote:
"I commission lots of makers and embrace an individual approach. Handcrafted elements ensure that no two pieces are exactly alike." (03:45)

She further discusses her love for color, integrating works from artists like Jaumi Plenzer and Anselm Kiefer, which enhance the aesthetic and ambiance of each property. (03:48)

4. Approaching Hotel Design Projects

Kit outlines her process, starting with foundational elements like natural light and functional layouts before delving into aesthetic details. Whether working with new builds or historic structures, she adapts her strategies to preserve architectural integrity while infusing modern elegance.

Notable Quote:
"Designing a hotel is about creating a seamless experience where every space works harmoniously, from the lobby to the guestrooms." (04:29)

5. Balancing Joy and Sophistication

Kit discusses the delicate balance between creating joyful, vibrant spaces and maintaining sophistication. She draws inspiration from folk art worldwide, ensuring designs are both playful and enduring.

Notable Quote:
"There’s always a balance between lyricism and joy in design, and the sophistication that ensures it lasts." (06:19)

6. Addressing Design Pet Peeves

Kit shares her disdain for impersonal hotel practices, such as unwelcoming reception areas and overuse of technology that diminishes human interaction. She advocates for warm, personal touches that make guests feel genuinely welcomed.

Notable Quote:
"There should be a welcome. Little gestures, like our receptionist Lottie greeting guests, make a huge difference." (07:10)

7. Integrating Technology Without Losing the Human Element

While acknowledging the convenience of technology, Kit expresses concerns about its overuse in hospitality. She believes technology should enhance, not replace, personal interactions, ensuring guests feel connected and cared for.

Notable Quote:
"Nothing can replace that one-to-one interaction with guests that truly makes their stay memorable." (09:31)

8. Expanding Beyond Hotel Interiors

Kit reveals her ventures into product design, including toiletries, crockery, and furniture. She enjoys extending her design aesthetic beyond hotel walls, creating cohesive experiences for guests both during their stay and in their personal lives.

Notable Quote:
"Designing our own soaps and furniture allows us to infuse our signature style into every aspect of the guest experience." (12:29)

9. Signature Design Elements: Tall Headboards and Mannequins

One of Kit's signature features is the use of tall, fabric-covered headboards, which serve as focal points in guestrooms. Additionally, life-sized mannequins adorned with room-specific fabrics provide both functionality and artistic flair.

Notable Quote:
"Our high headboards showcase beautiful fabrics and evolving shapes, turning each room into a unique story." (15:20)

10. Challenges of New vs. Historic Construction

Kit contrasts the challenges of designing new builds versus historic properties. While new constructions offer flexibility, infusing character akin to historic gems requires substantial creativity and effort.

Notable Quote:
"Creating character in a new build is challenging. Historic buildings come with inherent charm that’s easier to enhance." (18:52)

11. Managing Mistakes and Continuous Improvement

Acknowledging that mistakes are part of the creative process, Kit shares her experience with logistical challenges, such as missing furniture deliveries. She underscores the importance of robust contracts and learning from errors to mitigate future risks.

Notable Quote:
"Once you've made a mistake, implement systems to prevent it from recurring and keep moving forward." (20:35)

12. Continuous Redecoration and Keeping Spaces Fresh

Kit explains that Ferndale Hotels undergo redecoration every three to five years to keep the environment lively and contemporary. This proactive approach ensures that each stay feels new and engaging.

Notable Quote:
"A living space evolves. Regular updates keep the environment fresh and exciting for returning guests." (21:12)

13. Advice for Aspiring Hospitality Designers

Kit advises emerging designers to showcase their creativity beyond written proposals. She encourages them to present tangible design schemes incorporating their favorite elements to capture her attention effectively.

Notable Quote:
"Don’t just write a letter. Present a scheme with your favorite fabrics and show how you envision a space." (22:14)

14. Inspirations from Other Hotels

While Kit prefers not to single out her own properties, she shares admiration for grand hotels like Hotel du Palais in Biarritz and the charming Hotel Yaka in Saint Tropez. These establishments inspire her with their unique atmospheres and architectural beauty.

Notable Quote:
"Each hotel has its own charm, whether it’s the grandeur of Hotel du Palais or the cozy streets leading to Hotel Yaka." (23:06)

15. Mastering Color Balance in Design

Kit delves into her approach to balancing colors, striving for harmony and depth. She emphasizes the importance of creating a layered color palette that adds life and dimension to interiors.

Notable Quote:
"Balancing color is about creating depth—using different tones to add life and perspective to the space." (24:49)

Conclusion

Kit Kemp’s episode on Deep Dive in Design offers a comprehensive look into her thoughtful and vibrant approach to hotel design. From her dedication to craftsmanship and color to her strategies for balancing technology with human connection, Kit provides invaluable insights for both design enthusiasts and professionals in the hospitality industry.

Notable Closing Quote:
"Creating spaces that are both joyful and sophisticated is the heart of what we do at Ferndale Hotels." (26:01)

Stay tuned for more episodes of Deep Dive in Design as Dara Caponigro continues to explore the intricate world of decorating with industry leaders.