Designer of the Week: Amanda Tomlinson

Amanda Tomlinson is the Founder and Principal Designer of AK&CO, an East Coast interior design studio specializing in luxury residential renovations, new construction, and furnishings. With a background in both hospitality and residential design, Amanda is known for creating thoughtfully considered interiors that balance timeless architecture with modern livability. Her work is guided by the belief that exceptional design should feel intuitive - where every material, proportion, and detail is carefully considered to create spaces that are both refined and effortlessly functional.

Founded in 2019, AK&CO approaches every project as a true collaboration, translating each client’s vision into homes defined by understated elegance, thoughtful functionality, and enduring design. Serving clients throughout the East Coast, the studio has been recognized for its tailored approach to luxury living, with work featured in Florida Design magazine.

Why do you love interior design?

I love interior design because it has the power to shape how people experience their everyday lives. Through thoughtful details, architectural precision and a balance of sophistication and versatility, we have the ability to create spaces that feel refined, personal and effortlessly livable. Great design goes beyond aesthetics — it influences how we gather, connect, recharge and create memories within our homes.

Describe your style in three words

Refined. Layered. Effortless.

Where do you find inspiration?

Nature is one of my greatest sources of inspiration. Growing up along the water, I was constantly aware of how the sky, light and landscape transformed from one day to the next. No two sunsets were ever the same. That ever-changing beauty continues to influence my work today, inspiring nuanced color palettes, layered textures and a sense of calm that feels both timeless and enduring. While I also draw inspiration from architecture, travel and music, I find that nature remains the most enduring teacher of balance, beauty and design.

Name a current trend that you love.

I'm drawn to the return of warmth and character in interiors. We're seeing clients embrace richer materials, layered textures and pieces that feel collected over time rather than overly curated. In our work, we're incorporating natural stone, handcrafted finishes, custom furniture and nuanced color palettes to create homes with personality and a lasting sense of place.

What is one design "rule" or trick of the trade you always swear by?

Scale and proportion are everything. Even the most beautiful furnishings can feel off if they're not appropriately sized for the room. When scale is thoughtfully considered, a space feels balanced and effortless.

Tell us about your project with Ernesta. What was the vision, and how did the custom-sized rug bring it to life?

The vision was to create a space that felt both elevated and approachable, with every element contributing to a cohesive, layered experience that felt akin to a luxury hotel lobby. The custom-sized rug served as the foundation of the room, grounding the various groupings of furnishings and helping define the conversation area. Having the flexibility to create a rug tailored specifically to the space ensured the proportions felt intentional and allowed the design to achieve a polished, custom look that was also suitable for indoor/outdoor entertaining.

When you’re selecting or sizing a rug for a space, what factors do you always consider to get it just right?

I always start with the furniture layout and the overall scale of the room. A rug should help anchor the space and create visual cohesion, rather than feeling like an afterthought. Material, texture, durability and how the room will be used are equally important considerations, ensuring the rug performs as beautifully as it looks.

What is your idea of great design?

Great design feels effortless. It solves problems elegantly, reflects the people who live within it, and continues to feel relevant years after it's completed. The most successful interiors aren't just beautiful, they evoke a feeling and enhance everyday life.

How do you balance beauty and functionality in your work?  

I believe the most beautiful spaces are the ones that truly support the way people live. Every design decision should enhance both form and function. By understanding how our clients use their homes, we're able to create interiors that are visually compelling while remaining practical, comfortable and enduring.

What are you reading or watching right now?

To be honest, this time of year I'm spending less time reading or watching and more time being present with my family. Summer in Connecticut is something I look forward to all year long. Growing up in Florida, I developed a deep appreciation for life on the water and being outdoors, so I cherish these months when I can spend long evenings outside with my four young boys in between traveling for work. Whether we're in the pool, driving with the windows down or simply enjoying the extra daylight, this season is a reminder to slow down and savor time together.