Kathleen Franza
Principal
Kathleen opened KMH Design in 1996 and has spent more than 25 years creating interiors that feel effortless, intentional, and quietly refined. Based within the beaches of Northeast Florida, she’s had the privilege of designing primary residences and destination homes for longstanding clients who trust her vision time and again. Her design sensibility began in Miami, where years spent in film and photography sharpened her instinct for composition, light, and detail. After relocating to Jacksonville in 1987, she expanded her expertise in the commercial furniture industry, gaining a deep understanding of materials, artistry, and the quiet sophistication that comes from thoughtful design. Her first interior project came from a chance meeting with an architect, and that collaboration launched her career. Even without the traditional design school background, Kathleen’s mix of creative experiences shaped a style that feels natural, personal, and far from formulaic. Her approach is simple: listen well, design thoughtfully, and create spaces that support the client’s everyday life with clarity and ease.
- Kathleen Hines Franza
Daniela Santos
Senior Designer & Project Lead
Daniela’s design approach blends creative vision with a strong foundation in technical detail. She earned her degree in architecture from Sao Judas Tadeu University in Sao Paulo, where she spent more than a decade working in corporate and commercial interiors. After moving to the U.S. in 2011 Daniela joined KMH Design and has been an integral part of the team ever since. Over the past ten years, she has expanded her expertise and grown into a lead designer, collaborating on more than 20 residential projects from initial concept through completion. Daniela values the collaborative nature of design and enjoys working closely with architects, contractors, and trades to bring each project together seamlessly. With over twenty years of experience across residential, corporate, and commercial design, she is committed to creating thoughtful, functional, and beautifully crafted spaces that reflect KMH Design’s high standard of excellence.
-Daniela Santos
Kristen McFarland
Junior Designer
Kristen, a 2019 graduate of the University of North Florida, brings over five years of residential design experience to the KMH team. Born and raised in Florida, Kristen has long been connected to custom home building, drawing early inspiration from her father, a high-end residential contractor, an influence that naturally led her into the interior design field. With a balance of creativity, technical skill, and attention to detail, Kristen approaches every project with intention and care. Her hands-on support reflects the level of service the firm is known for, organized, collaborative, and focused, thereby instilling confidence in our clients every step of the way.
-Kristen McFarland