Podcast Summary: Talk Shop with Ariel Okin – A Decade of Design with Kate Rheinstein Brodsky
Episode Title: A Decade of Design with Kate Rheinstein Brodsky
Release Date: July 23, 2025
Host: Ariel Okin
Guest: Kate Rheinstein Brodsky, Founder of KRB NYC and Daughter of Suzanne Reinstein
Introduction
In the inaugural episode of season four of Talk Shop with Ariel Okin, host Ariel Okin engages in an in-depth conversation with Kate Rheinstein Brodsky, a stalwart in the interior design and retail industry. Celebrating her 10th anniversary with KRB NYC, Kate brings a rich heritage as the daughter of the iconic Suzanne Reinstein, founder of Hollyhock. This episode delves into Kate's journey from her early influences to establishing a beloved home store that marries timeless design with vibrant, personal touches.
Early Life and Influences
Kate Rheinstein Brodsky opens up about her upbringing in a design-centric household in Los Angeles' Hancock Park. Growing up in a Georgian revival house and being the daughter of Suzanne Reinstein, Kate was immersed in the world of interiors from a young age.
Kate Rheinstein Brodsky [00:00]: "I think it's the opportunity to work with artists and artisans. I love that. I love getting to be a part of their support system and help them figure things out or figure out the logistics."
Her early exposure to design was not just passive; Kate actively participated in her mother's store, Hollyhock, spending afternoons dusting items and aiding in operations. This hands-on experience ingrained in her a deep appreciation for the decorative arts.
Kate Rheinstein Brodsky [05:32]: "I spent a lot of time down in San Juan Capistrano with the antiquarian GEP Durnberger. It was always designed."
Educational and Professional Journey
Contrary to the inevitable path into design, Kate initially harbored dreams of owning a bookstore. Her collegiate years saw her interning with Diane von Furstenberg in the PR department, where she discovered her true passion lay in style and people's personalities rather than fashion per se.
Kate Rheinstein Brodsky [06:43]: "You know, she was like a personality and like a lifestyle and, you know, I was more into that and, like, the ideas of people like Carrie Donovan or Deanna Vreeland."
Post-college, Kate pivoted towards interior design, enrolling in evening classes at the New York School of Interior Design and securing a position as a personal assistant at Jeffrey Bill Huber. This role provided her with invaluable insights into the inner workings of an interior design office.
Kate Rheinstein Brodsky [09:21]: "After college when I was... I've always been what I call an aggressive homebody."
Her tenure at Ralph Lauren Home and later at Elle Decor magazine further cemented her expertise, allowing her to cultivate relationships and hone her design sensibilities under mentors like Margaret Russell and Michael Boudreau.
Founding KRB NYC
In 2015, driven by a blend of personal passion and a strategic career shift, Kate launched KRB NYC on Manhattan's Upper East Side. Starting in a modest 500 square feet space, KRB quickly outgrew its initial confines, necessitating a move to a larger location within two years.
Kate Rheinstein Brodsky [14:20]: "I would say that it... it's a series of great moments."
KRB NYC distinguishes itself by offering a curated selection of antiques, vintage furniture, art, and exclusive home accessories, blending classical decor traditions with Kate's colorful and charismatic vision. The store's evolution from selling primarily antiques to a more diverse inventory, including lacquer trays and bespoke lamps, reflects Kate's adaptability and keen eye for design trends.
Kate Rheinstein Brodsky [15:31]: "Make them understand the scale of it. You need to get them to see how it would look with lamps or a mirror."
The purpose-built space, crafted with the help of industry professionals Dick Bories and James Sheeran, ensures that KRB retains an inviting ambiance even amidst the chaos of high-volume retail operations.
Kate Rheinstein Brodsky [17:42]: "You have to go through the earlier iterations of things to get to kind of the right place sometimes."
Design Philosophy and Community Engagement
Kate emphasizes the importance of architecture in design, advocating for getting the structural elements right before layering in decor.
Kate Rheinstein Brodsky [22:58]: "I think sort of the design concept... get the architecture right first."
Her approach is deeply collaborative, often working alongside artists and artisans to bring unique pieces to market. This collaborative spirit extends to the design community, fostering a sense of camaraderie and mutual support.
Kate Rheinstein Brodsky [20:31]: "I think being a part of the design community is something that's so satisfying to me."
One of her proudest moments includes seeing pieces from KRB featured in high-profile projects and publications, underscoring the store's influence and Kate's prowess in selection and styling.
Kate Rheinstein Brodsky [19:03]: "Seeing where pieces end up... I loved seeing those."
Personal Life and Inspirations
Balancing a thriving business with a bustling personal life, Kate shares insights into her family dynamics, including her husband Alexander, three daughters, and two dogs. Her home, recently featured in Architectural Digest, is a testament to her design ethos—personal, colorful, and full of character.
Kate Rheinstein Brodsky [27:04]: "I think it says that I'm a sentimental fool."
She draws inspiration from various sources, including design books, her garden, and everyday surroundings, highlighting the importance of continuous exploration and observation in maintaining creative vibrancy.
Kate Rheinstein Brodsky [31:32]: "Try and look at everything and see what the through lines are."
Rapid Fire: Getting to Know Kate
In a lighthearted segment, Kate shares her personal favorites:
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Favorite Food: Korean cuisine, especially fusion dishes.
Kate Rheinstein Brodsky [35:36]: "If we are going out to a restaurant? I. My favorite is always to go to Korean."
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Favorite Drink: Dirty vodka martini, served really cold.
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Favorite Film: Gigi, a beloved classic since childhood.
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Favorite Hotel: Villa Feltrinelli in Lake Garda, celebrated for its stunning architecture and impeccable service.
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Favorite City: New York, lauding its architecture, energy, and people.
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Favorite Bedding: A mix of Porto sheets and Leontine linens, favoring monogrammed details.
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Favorite Weekend Activity: Enjoying the dogs at Central Park followed by bedrotting with design books and magazines.
Current Projects and Future Endeavors
Looking ahead, Kate discusses her ongoing projects, including new shapes for the lacquer company and plans to reissue upholstered pieces inspired by her mother's designs. Despite the challenges of balancing motherhood with entrepreneurship, Kate remains dedicated to evolving KRB and honoring her family's design legacy.
Kate Rheinstein Brodsky [40:01]: "Take a lot of pictures... see what the through lines are."
Advice for Aspiring Designers and Enthusiasts
Concluding the episode, Kate offers valuable insights for those looking to define their interior style:
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Document Inspiration: Take extensive photographs of objects, designs, and environments that resonate with you.
Kate Rheinstein Brodsky [42:40]: "Take a lot of pictures... see what the through lines are."
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Identify Through Lines: Analyze your collection of images to uncover recurring themes, colors, and styles that define your aesthetic.
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Differentiate Admiration from Daily Use: Recognize the difference between pieces you admire and those you genuinely want to incorporate into your living space.
Her advice underscores the importance of self-awareness and intentional curation in cultivating a meaningful and personalized interior style.
Connecting with Kate Rheinstein Brodsky
Listeners interested in exploring KRB NYC or following Kate's journey can find more information through the store's website and Instagram:
- Website: krbnyc.com
- Instagram: @krbnyc
Kate's active presence on social media, including engaging tour videos, offers a window into the evolving world of KRB NYC and the broader interior design landscape.
Closing Thoughts
Ariel Okin wraps up the episode by expressing gratitude for Kate's candid and inspiring discussion. The conversation not only celebrates a decade of design excellence but also provides listeners with actionable insights and a deeper appreciation for the intricacies of running a successful design-oriented retail business.
Ariel Okin [44:18]: "This was so much fun. I want to come see you in the store soon."
Join us next week on Talk Shop with Ariel Okin for more thoughtful discussions and amazing guests from the world of interior design and beyond. Follow us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and Instagram @arielokun to stay updated.