Kristine Russell
Director of Design & Lead Designer
Meet Kristine, our Design Director and Lead Designer at CopeGrand Homes, where her lifelong passion for design transforms houses into bespoke sanctuaries of elegance and comfort. From her early days, surrounded by artists and photographers, Kristine's journey in interior design has been one of profound passion and extensive experience. Her journey took her from the artistic influences of her hometown in Rochester, NY, through the rich heritage of Louisville, KY, and onto the scenic beauty of Charleston, SC. With a versatile background spanning residential, commercial, and healthcare projects, Kristine's expertise is not just in creating spaces but in crafting experiences that resonate deeply with our clients' visions and desires. At CopeGrand Homes, she brings her vision, expertise, and heartfelt dedication to every project, ensuring that each home is a masterpiece of personalized design.
Kristine's Story
At a very young age I knew that I was meant to design and create. Growing up around respected artists and photographers in my family, my eye was always drawn to beauty. I gained a wealth of knowledge and walked through many doors which led me to Interior Design. I became enveloped in a world of color, textures, shapes and forms, I wanted to implement my passion within my clients’ homes, listening to every need and want and bringing their visions to life all while having fun in the process.
With over 25 years’ experience in the industry, and dabbling in all aspects from commercial, healthcare and residential, I found my love in creating from the ground up, working hand in hand with builders, architects and of course the clients. “From the first shovel to hit the ground, to the last pillow fluffed.”
I was born and raised in Rochester, NY but my love for design flourished while living in Louisville, KY where I received my bachelor’s degree in interior architecture and design. I had gained a wealth of knowledge while working and shadowing some of the top historical renovating builders and high-end designers in the area. From there I spread my wings and started my own firm trickling some of my work down onto the beautiful west coast beaches of FL. I never wanted to be tied to one style, learning the integrity of historical foundations and facades to modern streamline architecture to coastal modern retreats gave me the itch to want to move and design/build for one of the most beautiful areas in the country, Charleston, SC. A place which is so diverse in architecture and design, I knew it was the perfect fit.
After living here several years, and raising my beautiful children, I started back at it as the Director of Design for a very high-end custom home builder for Daniel Island and Kiawah. In this position, I learned a lot about the not only the design/build process in the beautiful low country but all it entails piece by piece working closely with some of the best trades in the area. With everything I learned, the last missing piece for me was to find the perfect builder, one with love and passion, the heart of a long lasting build. This is what led me to CopeGrand Homes as the Design Director and Lead Designer. Adam and Ben knew exactly where my heart was and gave me the creative leeway to do exactly what I love. At CopeGrand Homes, it’s the whole package and I am thrilled to be a part of the best team in Charleston.
