As design director of interiors for IHG’s in-house strategy group, Kristen shapes design and experience across a family of brands ranging from mid-scale to lifestyle. Her superpower is storytelling, and her love for hospitality is rooted in an early discovery of the power of travel. With the mission of bold design and holistic hospitality, she works with each brand to evolve and innovate across every aspect of the guest experience, pushing boundaries and balancing legacy with forward-thinking.

Kristen’s career began with Hilton Worldwide, where she managed new build, renovation, and conversion projects across the North American full-service portfolio. Her exposure and interest in brand building led her next to West Elm, where she joined the team responsible for the creation of West Elm Hotels, and the launch of the company’s B2B division. Stretched across branding, activation, interiors, and product development, she credits her Brooklyn stint with some of the best lessons of her career to date, and a deep appreciation for the many facets of storytelling.

Kristen holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in interior design from the George Washington University. She currently resides in Atlanta with her husband, daughter, and two dogs—and is always on the hunt for her next travel adventure.