Designer Spotlight: Paige Kunkle Designs
At New York Hardware, we take pride in highlighting the visionary designers who make our products come to life in breathtaking spaces. This month, we’re thrilled to spotlight longtime client and creative force Paige Kunkle, founder of Paige Kunkle Designs.
A Creative Journey Rooted in Nature
Paige’s journey into design began organically, deeply influenced by her mother, a decorator with an intuitive sense of style. After years in the corporate world, Paige took a career change and pivoted to a more creative path by opening a flower and garden shop on Balboa Island in Newport Beach, CA. From those early days of crafting floral arrangements with pieces snipped from her own garden, a new passion blossomed.
What started as floral artistry evolved into full-scale garden, patio, and eventually interior design projects. Today, Paige leads a full-service design firm specializing in residential, hospitality, and ground-up projects that reflect her eclectic and deeply personalized approach.
From Flower Shop to Full Homes
Paige officially founded Paige Kunkle Designs after a close friend asked her to design their home on Lido Island. This project reignited her creative flame and led to a wave of referrals. With no formal advertising, her work speaks for itself. Her portfolio ranges from luxury residences and lake homes to boutique hotels like Casa Almira in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico.
"I design for the way people live. Whether they entertain often, have pets, or just want a space that brings calm, I start there."
Eclectic, Bold, and Designed for Living
Paige doesn’t define her work to fall under one design style label. While personally her home is more eclectic, her true specialty is adapting to each client’s needs and aesthetic. She blends antiques with modern art, pairs transitional silhouettes with handcrafted details, and creates what she calls "unexpected moments".
"Hardware is like jewelry for the home. It’s the finishing touch that elevates everything."
She’s especially drawn to bold, artisan hardware that tells a story, whether it’s abalone-inlaid pulls, bronzed ridged knobs, or custom Du Verre pieces with rich textural finishes.
Don’t play it too safe
Hardware is more than just a finishing touch — it’s a design opportunity. Think of it like jewelry for your space. Little details throughout your home spark joy and show off your personality. Paige believes that the most memorable spaces are the ones that have character. Don’t be afraid to go bold or whimsical with your selections — sometimes it’s that unexpected knob or quirky pull that becomes everyone’s favorite feature in a room.
Mix It Up
Uniformity has its place, but mixing hardware styles can add richness and dimension to your space. Paige often blends different knobs and pulls within the same room or even the same vanity — not just for visual interest, but to tell a more layered design story. A sleek modern pull paired with an antique-inspired knob? Yes, please. Mixing finishes, shapes, or materials can bring unexpected harmony and reflect a more curated, collected aesthetic. It’s all about creating moments — and when done right, those moments make your home feel more personal and designed with intention.
Function and beauty should coexist
Gorgeous hardware is great — but if it isn’t functional for your daily life, it’s not doing its job. Paige always considers how her clients live in their spaces before choosing hardware. Do you have kids? Pets? Love to entertain? She designs with all of that in mind. Hardware should be durable, easy to use, and a natural part of your home’s flow. The goal is to create a space that feels elevated but still livable. Because what good is a stunning pull if it doesn’t stand up to sticky fingers or muddy paws?
An Award-Winning Portfolio
A 7000 sq. ft. Lake Arrowhead home, winner of the NKBA Best Secondary Bath award.
The Casa Almira boutique hotel in Mexico, where every element — from the tile to the lighting — was custom designed.
A series of eclectic Southern California homes blending relaxed luxury with high-function design.
Why She Chooses New York Hardware
Paige first discovered New York Hardware while passing by its iconic building in Costa Mesa, CA, driving her kids to school. Over the years, it’s become her go-to resource for high-quality, unique, and customizable hardware. She sources hardware for local and international projects — including personally bringing pieces in her suitcase for homes in Mexico.
"I love that NYH has everything from mid-range to high-end. And the service? Incredible. Everyone here is kind and knows their product."
See Her Style Up Close
Ready to explore the pieces Paige loves most? Visit us in Costa Mesa to experience her favorite finds in person. You might even find your own “moment” — that perfect hardware piece that completes your space.
Shop Paige's Top Picks Online
Follow Paige Kunkle Designs
Want to see more of Paige’s stunning work? Follow Paige Kunkle Designs on Instagram and Facebook, or visit paigekunkledesigns.com to explore her latest projects and design inspiration.
