We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Kevin Francis O’gara a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Kevin Francis, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?

The most meaningful project I’ve worked on is undoubtedly my first area rug collection, the Labyrinth Collection. Inspired by a trip to France I took when I was young, this collection is deeply personal and represents the foundation of Kevin Francis Design. While exploring the historic hedge mazes of a French château, I was captivated by the intricate patterns, the sense of discovery, and the connection to nature’s quiet elegance. This experience sparked a vision to translate those timeless, labyrinth designs into handmade wool rugs that fuse my passions for travel, history, and nature. Launching this collection at 18 was more than just the beginning of my career; it was a testament to the values that continue to shape my design practice—crafting pieces that tell stories, evoke wonder, and stand the test of time.

Kevin Francis, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I’m Kevin Francis, a native Atlantan and the founder of Kevin Francis Design, a studio specializing in luxury handmade rugs and interior design. My journey into the design world began early—I launched my first rug collection while still in college, inspired by the timeless beauty of French hedge mazes. My studio offers bespoke handmade rugs and interior design services, both of which reflect my passion for blending history, nature, and travel with contemporary functionality.

What sets me apart is my unique approach to merging the old with the new. I have a deep appreciation for antiques, but I also understand the demands of modern living. In my interior design work, I love breathing new life into historic pieces and spaces by seamlessly integrating them with contemporary elements, creating environments that are both timeless and livable. This philosophy extends to my rug collections, which draw inspiration from history and nature, transforming those influences into modern heirlooms.

I’m most proud of building a brand that respects tradition while embracing innovation, and telling stories through design that resonate across generations. I want clients and followers to know that every piece I create is thoughtfully crafted to bring beauty, history, and a sense of place into their lives.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect of being a creative is the opportunity to transform ideas into tangible, meaningful experiences that resonate with others. For me, design is about storytelling—whether it’s crafting a rug that captures the essence of a historic labyrinth or blending antiques with contemporary pieces to breathe new life into a space. Seeing a client connect with a piece I’ve created or a room I’ve designed, and knowing that it brings beauty, history, and functionality into their lives, is incredibly fulfilling. Creativity allows me to share my passions for travel, history, and nature with the world, and there’s nothing more rewarding than watching those inspirations spark joy and inspiration in others.

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

One of the most significant pivots in my journey was navigating the complexities of international production while working with rug artisans in India. Early on, I discovered that I was unknowingly working through a middleman, which created challenges in communication, quality control, and fair compensation for the artisans. Realizing this, I knew I had to make a change—not only to ensure the integrity of my work but also to uphold the values of transparency and respect that are fundamental to Kevin Francis Design.

I set out to establish a direct relationship with a trusted production team. This required extensive research and building connections based on mutual respect and understanding. It wasn’t just about finding skilled artisans; it was about creating a partnership where both sides felt valued and invested in the creative process. Today, I’m proud to work directly with a team in India that shares my commitment to craftsmanship and ethical practices. This pivot transformed a challenging situation into a truly positive cross-border collaboration, allowing us to produce luxury handmade rugs that honor the artistry and heritage behind each piece.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://kevinfrancisdesign.com/
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/kfogara