Meet Katja Lauterbach: Principal Designer & Owner of Duett Design

We had the good fortune of connecting with Katja Lauterbach and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Katja, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I was scared of working in the corporate world because I thought my language skills are not good enough to do so. I majored in entrepreneurship during my MBA in Germany and thought creating my own company is an easier thing to do because I can do it on my own terms. With the encouragement of my former business partner and a deep love for designing livable spaces that tell the story of the people living in them Duett Design was born in 2013.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I own an Interior Design Studio that specializes in modern design – clean lines and classic pieces. I have a strong belief in the philosophy that “less is more”. This is a very specific niche especially here in the south. It took me a while to be clear about this direction but since I named it and put my efforts into communicating it to clients I am more successful when ever. Of course it was a long road to figure this out – in the beginning of my Design career I said yes to projects that are out of the style zone I appreciate and do best – while I was able to perform I did not always enjoy those projects. The “power of No” is a concept that is hard to learn especially when you are starting a business. Today I am more true to myself and this direction – I am becoming better every day.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
My office is located in Chamblee, GA – I would start right here. Lunch at Hopstix and dinner at Southbound .. both places are great and just within walking distance. For breakfast I highly recommend Sun in my Belly (we could take Marta from Chamblee to go there) and hit the Atlanta Botanical Garden afterwards. The garden is always a good idea. Its my favorite place to recharge, relax and be inspired by nature. Next in the itinerary would be MODA (Museum of Design Atlanta) and a sunset cocktail on the roof of the The Clermont Hotel. I am an early riser and if my visitor would be as well a hike to the top of Stone Mountain to see the sunrise is a very special treat nobody should miss when visiting the area.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My biggest supporter in every step was and always is my husband. He was so sure I can do this that I started to belief it myself. My parents taught me the importance of open mindedness, punctuality and efficiency in everything I do – I still benefit from this to this day.

Website: www.duettdesign.com
Instagram: @duettdesignatl
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/duett-design-llc
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DuettDesignATL/
Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/duett-design-atlanta

Image Credits
Tara Carter Photography Marc Mauldin Photography I tried to upload pictures but I am not sure they are available – please let me know if you can not see them.