Kate Marker, principal designer and owner of Chicago-based Kate Marker Interiors, brings her signature fresh and timeless style to her debut Mitzi Tastemaker collection. With a design philosophy rooted in creating inviting spaces, Marker highlights natural elements to foster a sense of harmony. Ahead of the launch, Mitzi spoke with Marker to learn more about the process of creating this collection.  

What was the original vision for this lighting collection, and how did that idea guide the designs as they evolved? 

The vision was to create lighting that feels timeless, warm, and effortlessly versatile. I wanted pieces that quietly elevate a room rather than overpower it. I focused on the materials, finishes, and the small details that would make these fixtures feel thoughtful and collected.
Throughout the design process, every decision came back to creating fixtures that designers and homeowners could use across many different styles of homes while still feeling distinctly Kate Marker. 

Annmarie Pendant, opens in a new tab, Maddox Table Lamp, opens in a new tab
Design: Kate Marker, Photo: Margaret Rajic 

How do you envision designers and homeowners using these fixtures in real spaces? 

I designed this collection to be incredibly versatile. Whether it's a statement chandelier over a dining table, pendants above a kitchen island, sconces lining a hallway, or bedside lighting, I hope these fixtures become foundational pieces that can be layered throughout an entire home. 
My favorite interiors feel cohesive without feeling repetitive, and that's exactly how I envision this collection being used. 

Were there any materials, forms, or details in this collection that you were especially excited to explore? 

I was especially drawn to soft curves, refined silhouettes, and beautiful mixed materials that add warmth and depth. We focused on details that feel handcrafted and elevated without being overly ornate. I'm always drawn to subtle details that people may not notice immediately, but that make a piece feel timeless and beautifully made. 

Olia Wall Sconce, opens in a new tab
Design: Kate Marker, Photo: Margaret Rajic

What design risk or bold decision did you take with this collection that ultimately paid off? 

One of the boldest decisions was incorporating our signature KMH fabrics into the lighting collection in a way that felt completely natural. Fabric isn't typically the first material people associate with lighting, so it was important that it felt intentional rather than decorative. We spent a great deal of time refining the proportions, textures, and construction, so the fabric became an integral part of the collection. In the end, it created a collection that feels warm, layered, and distinctly ours while bringing a softness and familiarity to the market. 

Are there any small details you tend to obsess over that others might overlook? 

I obsess over proportion, scale, finish transitions, and how a fixture looks from every angle. Those subtle details may go unnoticed individually, but together they're what make a design feel truly special. 

Bennie Chandelier , opens in a new tab
Design: Kate Marker, Photo: Margaret Rajic

Looking ahead, what excites you most about seeing this collection out in the world, and what do you hope people ultimately take away from experiencing your work? 

The most exciting part is knowing these pieces will become part of people's everyday lives. Lighting is something we interact with every single day, and I love the idea that these fixtures will help create beautiful moments within someone's home. If these pieces help make a home feel a little warmer, a little more welcoming, and a little more personal, then we've accomplished exactly what we set out to do. 

Kate Marker x Mitzi is available now, shop the full collection here to shop the Kate Marker collection (collection), opens in a new tab!