--- title: "A Kinder Space — Interior Designers & Decorators | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/interior-designers-and-decorators/a-kinder-space-pfvwus-pf~688219895 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~688219895.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "A Kinder Space" category: ["Interior Designers & Decorators"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/4af31e8b00d8899c_2337-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg address: "2827 Presidio Drive Unit 1, San Diego, California 92110, United States" latitude: 32.7635 longitude: -117.2028 phone: "(858) 694-8197" website: http://www.akinderspace.com rating: 4.7 review_count: 11 best_of_houzz_awards: 2 followers: 105 last_updated: 2026-08-18 --- # A Kinder Space Original Houzz profile: [A Kinder Space](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/interior-designers-and-decorators/a-kinder-space-pfvwus-pf~688219895) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** Interior Designers & Decorators - **Location:** San Diego, CA - **Serves:** San Diego, University City, Chula Vista, Point Loma San Diego, La Jolla, Ocean Beach San Diego, Lemon Grove, Coronado, Hill Crest San Diego, Lincoln Acres, Logan Heights San Diego, Mission Hills San Diego, Mission Valley San Diego, Tierrasanta San Diego - **Houzz rating:** 4.7 out of 5 (11 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 2 awards (2018–2020), for Service. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Star Houzzer - Houzz Influencer - Recommended on Houzz - 1,000 Ideabook Saves - Best of Houzz winner - Online consultation - 45 years in business Anne Kellett, ASID, CAPS (Certified Aging in Place Specialist) is an experienced interior designer whose specialty, universal/accessible design, makes it easier to keep your house a home. Her design firm, A Kinder Space, creates safe, easy to use and beautiful spaces that strive to address the present and future needs of her clients. Anne’s prime goal is to interpret those needs and desires in an aesthetically pleasing way...to make spaces work “for” them ….not “against” them…to create an environment in which they can live and work more positively and independently “I’ve actually been an interior designer for more than 45 years now. I had been an Army brat and my mother in 22 years of marriage made 30 different homes so I learned how to create ‘home’ at her knees. I’ve worked for furniture stores, small design firms and had my own business since 1984. I’ve lived and worked in different regions of the country. The styles in each area are quite different but the design process of working with clients remains the same. Creating a space that makes a difference in a person or family’s life is universal. It’s not about the style but about making it work for them in a beautiful way. Moving to San Diego has brought some new avenues to my career. As a leading edge Baby Boomer I enjoy incorporating more universal design features into my spaces so my clients can “age gracefully” in their homes. I have become a local spokesperson for this issue and often speak at events with presentations which address the challenges of aging but show beautiful solutions for specific spaces, like kitchens and baths.” ### Services Provided - Bathroom Design - Universal Design - Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) - Handicap-Accessible Design ### Areas Served - San Diego - University City - Chula Vista - Point Loma San Diego - La Jolla - Ocean Beach San Diego - Lemon Grove - Coronado - Hill Crest San Diego - Lincoln Acres - Logan Heights San Diego - Mission Hills San Diego - Mission Valley San Diego - Tierrasanta San Diego ### Typical Job Cost $25,000 - 75,000 My services are billed by the hour at $175. ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | A Kinder Space | | Address | 2827 Presidio Drive Unit 1, San Diego, California 92110, United States | | Phone | (858) 694-8197 | | Website | http://www.akinderspace.com | | License Number | ASID Professional Member | | Followers on Houzz | 105 | **Social profiles:** - Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/akinderspacedesignwithyourlifetimeinmind - LinkedIn — http://www.linkedin.com/in/anneakellett/ - Blog — https://www.instagram.com/akinderspace/?hl=en ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [A Kinder Space](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/interior-designers-and-decorators/a-kinder-space-pfvwus-pf~688219895) - **Website:** http://www.akinderspace.com - **Phone:** (858) 694-8197 ## Credentials **Certifications & Awards** - ASID (American Society of Interior Designs) Professional Member Past President San Diego 2014-2015NCIDQ (National Council for Interior Design Qualification)CAPS (Certified Aging in Place Specialist)ECHM (Executive Certificate in Home Modification) - **Best of Houzz:** 2 awards (2018–2020), for Service. **Affiliations** - [National Association of the Remodeling Industry](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/national-association-of-the-remodeling-industry-pfvwus-pf~1954795205) - [American Society of Interior Designers](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/american-society-of-interior-designers-pfvwus-pf~1510192642) - [NCIDQ Examination](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/ncidq-examination-pfvwus-pf~882083937) - [NAHB Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/professionals/schools-and-organizations/nahb-certified-aging-in-place-specialist-pfvwus-pf~471784673) ## Reviews **Overall rating: 4.7 out of 5 — 11 reviews** ### All 11 reviews **★★★★★ — Ron del Papa, April 2019** > Our house was "old and worn" the day we bought it 18-years ago; the location was and is our dream. We now needed to transform our home into a place we could "Age in Place" and it was about a lot more than just adding grab bars. We needed a designer! > > We found Anne Kellett of A Kinder Space by way of the San Diego Chapter of ASID (American Society of Interior Designers). > > At our very first meeting, Anne listened to our fumbling words and emotions and guided us to a fresh and vibrant vision for our home. She worked with us to evolve beautiful and functional designs for 2 bathrooms that would support our lives now and as we age with possibly increasing care needs. Anne’s designs transformed the hidden potentials of our home in ways we weren’t able to imagine on our own, regardless of how many TV Design shows we watched or articles we read. > > Anne was exceptionally aware of and responsive to our own preferences and quirks. She was with us and our contractor throughout the design and actual renovation work. > > Kathy and I love working with Anne and eagerly have been recommending her to others thinking about improving their homes!!! **★★★★★ — Marsha Knight, Sept. 2017** > This professional was very helpful in designing a new handicap accessible bathroom and laundry room for us! I have medical issues which over time will take my ability to complete activities of daily living safely! It was completed tastefully and keeps safety issues a top priority! **★★★★★ — Ruth and Don Rudesill, Aug. 2017** > As we enter our 70's we looked to Anne for her Aging-in-Place expertise. She listened to our preferences and improved on our requests. We appreciate the easy care of the porcelain flooring and quartz counters. We love our walk-in shower and no longer fear falling in the ugly grey tub. There are always surprises and challenges in these older homes and she worked around them beautifully. We can highly recommend her. **★★★★★ — User, Aug. 2017** > We have worked with Ann Kellett after a fire--smoke damage across the whole house and after we downsized in our new condo. THe condo was strikingly bland in all choices and dark. Ann brought it to life with color and lighting and fabric. She has an amazing sense of color and design. She is respectful of your preferences and explains thoughtfully why you might consider an alternative. My husband is really involved in any design changes and she is extremely skilled in navigation differences between husband and wife! She has contacts all over the USA so your location is not a limitation. She is very aware of safety issues for older adults (we are in our 70's). Her work is full of wonderful surprises--for example we have an antique obi (kimono sash) she showed us how we could display it to advantage AND THEN when she brought tile samples for the adjacent kitchen they had images from the obi!! we were so amazed and realized this is why you get a professional! We love how she incorporates your favorite furniture and possessions and is thoughtful about budget. You will enjoy working with her as it is clear she is knowledgeable, skilled, and we laugh a lot whenever we work with her. With luck she will supply some before and after pictures from the house fire redo and the condo. Note that she is a professor of design at a recognized school in San Diego, has done work for Williamsburg, and has been president of the leading association for interior design professionals. **★★★★ — Winston McColl, June 2017** > Anne did a great job in designing the remodel of our master bath to make it suitable for aging-in-place. Her ideas she gave us gave us enough choices to choose what direction we wanted to go. She also had contractors she knew who could remodel our space in a minimum amount of time. **★★★★ — Brent Banta, April 2017** > Anne did an excellent job of translating our vision into a completed project. The color scheme she developed fit in perfectly with the tile art which we had already chosen. She worked closely with the subcontractors to control work quality. She applied her knowledge of accessible design principles to effectively meet our requirements. **★★★★★ — Linda Hickman, Feb. 2017** > My 1946 Talmadge area home underwent a complete renovation between August and December of 2016. The whole purpose was to bring the home into the 21st century and to make it comfortable, attractive, and safe for me as I aged in place. Anne Kellett of A Kinder Space has the specialized training and certification to make your home compliant to all the current ADA suggestions which will allow you to remain there even if you become disabled and need to use a wheelchair or walker. Adaptive bathrooms are a common enough renovation for an old house but I defy you to find 2 bathrooms as attractive as those in my "new" home. The wider doors, accessible kitchen cabinets, and ramps were all designed by Anne to fit within the existing square footage of 1769 square feet. I have a lovely home that I know I will continue to enjoy for many years. **★★★★★ — CairnsCraft Design & Remodel, May 2014** > Working with Anne has been a real pleasure. By that I mean that she exceeds all standards of technical competence and measures of experience. She has, for many years, not only worked as a professional Interior Designer, but has also taught her skills to hundreds of young designers as an instructor at the San Diego Design Institute. Perhaps because of that, she has maintained a young-at-heart attitude that keeps her informed on current trends, and makes her knowledgeable about new technologies. Her designer’s eye is sharp and quick to discern the unique… the creative… the timelessly elegant… from that which is merely imitative. > > Clients, to whom we introduce Anne, get an immediate sense of her competence and experience. They quickly trust her to guide them through the design process to a successful realization of their needs, both functionally and aesthetically. As the General Contractor building from her designs, I would add that her plans are detailed and complete, with all the information required for construction. > > Finally, I must say that working with her is always a bright spot in my day. As a Certified Aging in Place specialist, I really appreciate Anne's Universal Design and Age in Place modifications ideas and feel fortunate to have been able to work with her on many projects. Her designs surpass the merely functional into the realm of beauty, and her personality brings light into every interaction. **★★★★★ — nkindness, Jan. 2014** > My award winning kitchen remodel is all that I wanted and more than I could have dreamed of. Anne was always available for all of my numerous questions and to allay all of my fears. She was professional, patient, consistent and steady as a rock. She was very creative within my guidelines, likes and needs. We applied Aging in Place principles as I plan to stay here the rest of my life. I love my new "Forever" home! **★★★★ — laurelnd, Jan. 2014** > Anne helped with the remodel of my kitchen. She gave me ideas I never would have considered on my own which resulted in a beautiful and unique kitchen (silver wallpaper; bamboo looking floor). Every time I walk in, I can't believe the transformation! **★★★★★ — dscrozier, Dec. 2012** > A new kitchen design with a new bar. Consultation with paint colors for the whole house and color for flooring. The designer was excellent and very thorough. ## Selected projects - [Mexican Inspired Accessible Bath](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/mexican-inspired-accessible-bath-pj-vj~1561174) - Location: San Diego, CA - Photos: 10 - Description: What do a blocked waste pipe, Parkinson’s and a broken hip have in common? A completely gutted and redesigned bathroom for better accessibility. Add to that a love of Mexican Talavera tiles. The space measures only about 6 foot square. The previous bathtub was replaced with a roll-in shower with regular showerhead at one end and a hand-held one near the center. The controls were placed near the other end so a caregiver will not get wet. Oiled bronze balance bars add to the safety and beauty of t… - [Accessible Shower Conversion](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/accessible-shower-conversion-pj-vj~2268915) - Location: Escondido, CA - Photos: 10 - Description: Imagine having a broken ankle in a cast and both openings into your "his and her" shower are a mere 19" wide, along with a 6" dam to step over. "Please rework this space to make it as accessible as possible" was the client's wish. "Keep the stained glass window in the space too." By moving the shower plumbing location and eliminating two small corner seats, enough space opened up to make one opening more than double its original size, the other increased by 3". Removing the 6" dam created a very… - [Steam Shower Retreat](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/steam-shower-retreat-pj-vj~2647449) - Location: San Diego, CA - Photos: 10 - Description: A landlord of over 60 rental properties, who was all too familiar with the remodeling process, called a professional interior designer to take a gutted space and turn it into a spa-like retreat. She came to the project with a very specific wish list: elegant finishes, steam shower, heated floors and towel warmer (did I mention she lives in San Diego not Montana?) and just so storage. All this and more was accomplished in less than 77 square feet. Universal Design features included single lever f… - [Historic Home Back to the Future Remodel](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/historic-home-back-to-the-future-remodel-pj-vj~2647510) - Location: San Diego, CA - Photos: 19 - Description: Client expressed that the remodel of the master bath, kitchen and office area be compatible with 1920’s era house but with function for today and tomorrow. New materials and design choices brought a previous remodel back to the homes original look but with up to date function. A combination of refaced cabinets and custom design kept the project within budget while at the same time, added better aesthetics and function. The remodel of the master bathroom space created an accessible space that kep… - [Beautifully Accessible Bathroom](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/beautifully-accessible-bathroom-pj-vj~1425829) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 14 - Description: Increase the accessibility by redesigning the existing spaces for long term ease of use was the client’s wish. A diagnosis of Parkinson’s with a possible wheelchair in the future motivated this couple to renovate now before the situation became more serious. The current space posed some unsafe issues. The tub was too wide to enter and exit safely for the spouse who enjoyed bathing. The vanity area was spacious but lacked adequate storage and had poor lighting. The toilet was too low. The shower… - [Accessible House Remodel](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/accessible-house-remodel-pj-vj~2303247) - Location: San Diego, CA - Photos: 19 - Description: “This house is totally inappropriate and inconvenient for someone, like me, who wants to age in place in it. I want it accessible front and back, kitchen, both bathrooms and all the bedrooms so I can stay here as long as the body holds out.” Such was the goal of this whole house remodel. Without expanding on the 1174 square foot space foundation, the interior was designed to feel larger by taking wasted space from some areas for much needed space in others. A useless nook in the kitchen and two… - [Two Generation Kitchen Remodel - From Outdated to Transitional](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/two-generation-kitchen-remodel-from-outdated-to-transitional-pj-vj~410643) - Location: San Diego, CA - Photos: 12 - Description: Client has patiently cooked and raised her family in the same kitchen for 30 years, even using the original appliances. While honoring an existing heirloom hutch and keeping the work triangle, the new design brings simpler lined cabinetry, easy to clean materials, better lighting, state-of-the-art appliances, innovative storage and universal design features that should take this kitchen far into the next generation. To quote the client, “It’s such a happy kitchen!” Mission accomplished! - [Refaced and Reborn Kitchen Remodel-](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/refaced-and-reborn-kitchen-remodel-pj-vj~410253) - Location: San Diego, CA - Photos: 13 - Description: A budget-friendly solution that delivers a high-end transformation The client desired a new kitchen with a more updated look: sophisticated, whimsical and Asian inspired with more functional work and storage areas and new appliances. The goals for this project included a remodel of the kitchen space, which included refacing existing cabinets, replacing appliances, hardware, countertops and light fixtures. Addition of some new custom designed cabinets, pullout shelves in existing cabinets and new… - [Transformational Kitchen Project](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/transformational-kitchen-project-pj-vj~410959) - Location: San Diego, CA - Photos: 10 - Description: After almost 30 years with a dysfunctional kitchen – the client asked me what to do with it – my answer was “gut it”!! So we did. A total remodel, which included the adjacent living room and family room, involved a new kitchen layout, new cabinets, counters and backsplash, appliances, new flooring, lighting, and furnishings. Completed just in time for the holidays, the client and her two daughters now enjoy a completely transformed space with easy care finishes and positive energy. - [Kindness Kitchen](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/kindness-kitchen-pj-vj~132163) - Location: San Diego, CA - Photos: 5 - Description: Client is a 50-something Occupational Therapist who has done Home Evaluations for her patients and is acutely aware of the need to plan for the elder years. She desired a kitchen remodel which would allow her to age-in –place. The project included the adjoining living and family room spaces but to a lesser degree. The focus of the kitchen plan was to put everything within easy reach using drawers and pull-out shelves. Lever faucet, easy grip handles on cabinetry, front controls on cooktop, lower… - [Beedle Age in Place Bathroom](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/beedle-age-in-place-bathroom-pj-vj~132173) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 3 - Description: Imagine a client who grew up on a farm, whose heritage is expressed through the earth as a Master Gardener with a love of Native American culture. Though rooted in the past he has a vision of the challenges of his future and a strong desire to plan for it. He has spent years lovingly planting the earth around their home and he wants to live there as long as possible. He realizes that their master bathroom is the first challenge in his quest to remain in his home. The existing space barely accomm… - [San Diego Animal Services "Trading Places"](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/san-diego-animal-services-trading-places-pj-vj~132180) - Location: San Diego, CA - Photos: 7 - Description: West Coast animal shelter desired a re-design of its main cat habitat to accommodate up to 4 cats. Located in the lobby area, they wanted a unique, eye-catching space that would encourage adoptions by creating a positive atmosphere that was both people and animal friendly. Design constraints included no structural changes to walls, cabinetry, lighting or floor finish. All materials needed to be easily cleaned/disinfected. All wood needed to be sealed for infection control. Furniture needed to be… - [San Diego Humane Society "Cataquarium"](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/san-diego-humane-society-cataquarium-pj-vj~132178) - Location: San Diego, CA - Photos: 3 - Description: West Coast humane society desired a re-design of its main cat habitat to maximize occupancy for up to 20 cats. They wanted a unique space that would encourage adoptions by creating a positive atmosphere that was both people and animal friendly. Design constraints included no structural changes to walls, lighting or floor finish. All materials needed to be easily cleaned/disinfected. All wood needed to be sealed for infection control. Furniture needed to be comfortable and easily movable. Multipl… - [Age in Place Bathroom Remodel](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/age-in-place-bathroom-remodel-pj-vj~5570470) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 6 [See all 14 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/interior-designers-and-decorators/a-kinder-space-pfvwus-pf~688219895) ## Ideabooks - [WELLMAN](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/174031768/list/wellman) — 6 ideas - [Gould](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/146816583/list/gould) — 4 ideas - [Mowat](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/144493033/list/mowat) — 3 ideas - [Kitchen Lighting](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/146759093/list/kitchen-lighting) — 4 ideas - [Alexis's photos](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/24548827/list/alexis-s-photos) — 32 ideas - [annekellett's Ideas](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/6054541/list/annekellett-s-ideas) — 92 ideas - [Bathroom Ideas](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/39046377/list/bathroom-ideas) — 51 ideas - [Marsha's Ideas](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/68321660/list/marsha-s-ideas) — 34 ideas - [Corner Bathtub Ideas](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/80774380/list/corner-bathtub-ideas) — 9 ideas - [Anne's Awesome Ideas](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/72625811/list/anne-s-awesome-ideas) — 5 ideas - [Accessible bathrooms](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/50272706/list/accessible-bathrooms) — 10 ideas - [Fireplaces](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/27715739/list/fireplaces) — 4 ideas [See all 12 ideabooks](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/annekellett) ## Community Q&A **Q: do you know where the bars by toilet came from?** *(in Photo Questions)* Do you know where bars by toilet came from? A: I ordered then from a company called Ponte Giulio which is in Italy but they have an office here in the US. https://www.pontegiulio.com/en-US/ Some of their products are sold on grabbarspecialists.com. **Q: Do you know who makes the bamboo pencil tiles?** *(in Photo Questions)* A: Oceanside Glasstiles Www.glasstile.com **Q: cabinet** *(in Photo Questions)* where can I find this cabinet to purchase? A: The cabinets were by Decora. A cabinet company that carries this line should be able to order them for you. **Q: Under mounted** *(in Photo Questions)* Is this undermounted or self rimming A: This sink is usually installed as a drop in. That is what you commonly see. However because I wanted the surface of this vanity to be easy to access and keep clean, I instructed the tile setter to imbed it into the thin set and tile iPad to its edge. See photo below. I didn't want to lose the blue edge of the design either which I would have if I had undercounted it. Also I needed as much uncounted knee room as possible for my client to use the space in her wheel chair. Thanks for asking! **Q: Painted Sink** *(in Photo Questions)* Where can I find the sink?thanks A: You can find it at www.tierrayfuego.com. Look under the Talavera section. **Q: Beautiful Bathroom** *(in Photo Questions)* I would love to know the source and name of the white tile . Thanks ! A: Thank you! White tile is hand painted Mexican tile in Mecican White by Tierra Y Feugo in San Diego. They have a website, www.tierrayfuego.com --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-08-18.*