About
I am a design director, materials and CMF leader, and entrepreneur specializing in sustainable material systems, including natural, bio-based, recycled, and upcycled materials. My work spans interior, architectural, lighting, and consumer product applications, with a focus on integrating color direction, material innovation, and performance through thoughtful, human-centered design.
I am a co-founder of FilzFelt, which was acquired by Knoll in 2011, and previously served as Creative Director and VP of Design for Spinneybeck | FilzFelt. My work is recognized for its distinctive use of pattern, color, and material-driven innovation. Whether designing textiles, architectural installations, lighting, or furniture, my process begins with a careful analysis of how people interact with materials over time—through touch, movement, durability, and use.
A consistent throughline in my practice is sustainable material innovation. I have extensive experience working with natural fibers, recycled and post-industrial materials, and upcycled inputs such as deadstock yarns—often using material constraints as a catalyst for performance, craft, and new applications. I currently collaborate with companies to develop innovative, scalable material solutions that balance sustainability, performance, and brand intent.
I am also the founder of Minni, a creative community space in Boston dedicated to art and design education for young children.
I am a co-author of Universal Principles of Interior Design, a widely used reference on design systems and applied principles. My work has been recognized by Interior Design (HiP and Best of Year Awards), NYCxDesign, and Metropolis Magazine, and my designs have been featured in the MoMA Design Store.
I earned a Bachelor of Science in Architecture from Northeastern University and am based in Boston, Massachusetts.
Services
I partner with companies to lead materials development and CMF strategy—translating material innovation into thoughtful, scalable product systems.
Materials Development & Innovation
Exploration, evaluation, and development of natural, bio-based, recycled, and upcycled material systems, from early concept through production-ready solutions.
CMF Strategy & Color Direction
Research-driven color, material, and finish strategies that align brand intent, performance requirements, and long-term product systems.
Sustainable Materials Advisory
Guidance on responsible material choices, alternative fibers, deadstock and post-industrial inputs, and circular or waste-reduction strategies—grounded in real manufacturing constraints.
Product, System & Licensed Design
Design and development of original products and material systems across interior, architectural, lighting, and consumer applications—including licensed collaborations that translate material innovation and CMF strategy into scalable offerings.
Prototyping & Supplier Collaboration
Hands-on exploration, sampling, and iteration in close collaboration with mills, manufacturers, and fabricators to test, refine, and scale material concepts.
Strategic & Embedded Partnerships
Ongoing or project-based collaboration with internal teams to support material roadmaps, innovation initiatives, internal training, and early-stage concept development.
Sustainability
Sustainability is a foundational consideration in my work and in every collaboration. I approach it as a materials and design discipline—considering environmental impact alongside performance, durability, and long-term use.
I work with natural, bio-based, recycled, and upcycled materials, including deadstock and post-industrial sources. I’m interested in how materials can be used responsibly and well—designed to last, adapt, and be part of everyday life.
I’m also committed to teaching future generations to think creatively about material conservation and reuse. This belief led me to found Minni, a community creative space where children are introduced early to design thinking, making, and sustainable approaches to materials.
Inspiration + Process
Inspiration comes from close observation of the built and natural world. Color, texture, pattern, and material behavior—whether in a fleeting moment of light, a worn surface, or an architectural detail—often spark new ideas.
My process is exploratory and hands-on. Depending on the project, I photograph, sketch, collage, prototype, or work directly with materials before moving into conceptual drawings and refined development. Follow along below.
Contact
My design studio is based in Boston, Massachusetts, and I work with companies and collaborators worldwide.
For commissions, product collaborations, press inquiries, or general information, please email info (@) kellyharrissmith.com or fill out the form below.
