Our Team
We are a close-knit group of well-rounded, hands-on team members who each bring unique talents and interests to our firm. Our depth of creativity, endless resources, and deep-seated relationships ensure the firm's time-honored success and client satisfaction.
Margaret Donaldson
Founder + Creative Director
ASID, NCIDQ
Starting Margaret Donaldson Interiors was a total leap of faith! I was due with my first child in three weeks and had just left a design partnership I had been in for several years. Ready for a new adventure, I began my own business in my hometown of Charleston. I’m so glad I did, and I’ve never looked back!
After graduating from the University of Georgia with a degree in Interior Design, I achieved my NCIDQ qualification. Also, as a longstanding member of the American Society of Interior Design, I have served in numerous leadership positions and been awarded merits for many projects over the years. My passion for creating spaces that ‘live well’ runs deep. Creating a beautiful aesthetic is the easy part. Beauty that is fully in sync with the functionality of a client’s lifestyle is what elevates our designs. We’ve designed every style you could imagine, from historic downtown properties to eclectic beach houses. I take so much pride in everything our team has been able to accomplish! Thirty-three years later, I’m still on this exciting, ever-evolving interior design journey that I love.
When not at MDI, I love traveling with my family. Experiencing different cultures inspires me, especially in the design process. We are always hunting for artwork or unique finds to bring home from our trips. We are also big Clemson fans (Go Tigers!) and enjoy spending time with family at our harbor front home.
Have you tuned into the Design Biz Survival Guide's Episode featuring Margaret's deep dive into "Leadership, Culture, and Collaboration"?
Design Team
Heather
Lead Designer
Heather Kates
Lead Designer
I have always had a passion for creating beautiful, functional spaces for clients! Born in Freeport, Illinois, a town so small our high school mascot was a Pretzel, I left the comforts of home for college life in the big City of Chicago. There, I attended Harrington College of Design and received my Bachelor’s Degree in Interior Design. Shortly after graduating, I achieved my NCIDQ qualification.
After living in Chicago, I took a position with Jed Johnson Associates in New York City. I designed several high-end residential projects in both Manhattan and The Hamptons. After getting married, my husband and I left the big city life for the affordability of Columbus, Ohio, and most recently, Virginia Beach, Virginia.
Among all the great places I’ve lived, I’ve built a portfolio of over fifteen years of successful, high-profile design projects, including residential, hospitality, luxury yachts, country clubs and multi-family projects.
I most enjoy working on residential projects because they bring a high degree of personalization and fun! Every residential project is unique, offering opportunities to take individual tastes and preferences and incorporate them into beautiful, functional spaces. Getting to know clients and their families is what makes each residential project so special!
My husband and I recently moved to Charleston to be closer to family and to enjoy everything this great city is famous for. We especially love exploring Charleston’s rich history, beaches, world-class restaurants, and cocktail lounges. We have a sweet little Cavalier King Charles Spaniel named Beaujolais or “Buji” for short, who truly believes she is royalty! We also love to cheer on our favorite football teams, The Ohio State Buckeyes and Green Bay Packers!
Lily
Lead Designer
Lily Cannon
Lead Designer
Fortunately for me, Interior Design became a huge part of my life at a young age. I had a great relationship with my Aunt, who was a designer, and I witnessed so much of her journey from attending design school to working with clients. After two years as a Psychology major at the University of South Carolina, she inspired me to move back home and change my focus. I soon became an Interior Design Major at the Art Institute of Charleston and graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Arts.
I love working in my hometown, and especially as a Senior Designer at MDI! One of my favorite parts of the job is simply forming relationships and getting to know my clients and their families. Being from Charleston, I often find that I have a lot in common with the people we work with and the connections and conversations always come easy. My team members and I are all extremely dedicated to our design work but also know how to laugh and have a great time, so there’s always a great atmosphere in the studio.
If you’re looking for me outside of the studio, I enjoy sharing dinner and a good drink with my parents as often as possible, so Leon’s Oyster Shop is a good place to start. Our family beach house on Folly is a frequent go-to as well!
Mikala
Lead Designer
Mikala Kuchera
Lead Designer, Allied ASID,
I was born and raised in Jupiter, Florida, and went to college at the University of Florida for Journalism and Communications, then Parsons School of Design for Interior Design. After college, I spent ten years working in the fashion and design world in New York City, including an exciting career at Vogue. After leaving Vogue, I decided to pursue a degree at Parsons and make the switch from fashion to interiors. To me, fashion and interior design are connected because both are about your sense of style. I worked in high-end residential design briefly in New York while I was in school and then transitioned to hospitality design and worked on numerous cool projects, hotels, bars, and restaurants around the world.
I moved to Charleston because I was ready for a change of pace, and I wanted to be a bit closer to home. I have always had an interest in interior design; as a child, I’d draw my dream home floor plans with my cousins. I love working at MDI because there are so many talented women that inspire me. I’m so excited to work in residential again; I love the personality of it. I love the creative process of designing and working with clients to help bring their dreams to fruition.
I have an eclectic taste that blends my fashion background and world travels. I’m meticulous, creative, and am a team player who likes to have fun along the way. When I’m not at work, I love traveling, painting, reading, gardening, baking, and taking photos on my Contax T2 film camera.
Liz
Lead Designer
Liz Dickman
Lead Designer
I graduated from Savannah College of Art and Design with a major in Interior Design and a minor in Decorative Arts. Thankfully, I have been lucky enough to be in the design industry since I graduated. I started in residential, then moved to healthcare design for several years, then came back to residential design eight years ago.
I love working with creative people. I’ve never had an opportunity to work with an office full of designers so working at MDI is a very exciting experience; The dynamic in our office is so fun and vibrant. My personal creative aesthetic is very clean and simple with fun pops of color. I also like to include texture – and when possible, add personal touches such as photos and things I’ve collected on travels.
I have a very active family with 3 boys, you can imagine we are always on the move and outside. You can often find us at the beach or the wonderful local parks. When my husband and I get a chance to sneak away, we love to visit the local breweries in town and try new restaurants.
Hannah
Lead Designer
Hannah Powers
Lead Designer
I was born and raised in Nashville, Tennessee and graduated from University of Tennessee at Chattanooga with a degree in Communications. I started my college career in elementary education but after several education classes, I realized teaching was not for me. What I really enjoyed was the thought of decorating a classroom, creating a cozy environment and making it organized and functional. Fortunately, I fell into a position with a local interior designer, and quickly realized I had found my passion. I embraced every task and experience as an opportunity to learn, contribute and grow into the role I have today.
Moving to Charleston has always been a dream of mine. As a young girl I would visit my family in Folly Beach, and I remember coming home telling my friends “I am going to live in Charleston one day.” My boyfriend Jackson and I finally made the leap of faith when I was offered a position with MDI. I love being a part of a design team that shares a common passion to make our clients’ dreams become reality. I also love the dog-friendly environment; we have lots of pups in the studio that help keep us in high spirits.
When I am not at work, I love spending time with Jackson and our Goldendoodle, Charlie. We love boating, hanging out at the beach, listening to live music, and exploring local restaurants.
Sabrina
Lead Designer
Sabrina Dylag
Lead Designer
My love for design started at a young age and has always come naturally to me. My grandfather designed and built homes and my aunt was an interior designer, so you could say it’s in my blood! Thanks to my high school’s interior design classes, I knew early on that this was the path for me. I continued to pursue my dream by studying Interior Design at the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising (FIDM) in Los Angeles, California.
As a designer at MDI, I love the creative freedom of this role and the relationships I build with clients and vendors. My approach to design is rooted in organization, attention to detail, and a deep love for creating unique, meaningful spaces. Every day in this industry brings new opportunities for creativity, and I’m continually inspired by my surroundings at MDI. I love the family dynamic among the team, and the dog-friendly atmosphere is an incredible bonus!
I grew up in New Jersey, but I always felt like I belonged near a beach in the South. It was always a dream of mine to live in Charleston. That dream is now my reality, and I couldn’t feel more at home here. I love collecting shells and soaking up the sun at the beach. When I’m not at the beach or designing at MDI, you can find me behind a pottery wheel, in a Pilates class, or relaxing at a local coffee shop.
Grace
Lead Designer
Grace Finnan
Lead Designer
As a Lead Designer at MDI, I bring over ten years’ of experience and a lifelong passion for design. Born and raised in Athens, Georgia, I graduated from the University of Georgia with a Bachelor’s in Furnishings and Interiors. In 2015, I made the move to Charleston after falling in love with the city during college visits with friends. I love calling this beautiful city my home!
My approach to design is refined and detailed, with a focus on functionality. I view every space as a blank canvas with endless possibilities, and I’m always inspired by the opportunity to create spaces that will serve as the “backdrop” for people’s lives and precious memories. I believe peoples’ homes should bring joy, peace, and inspiration, and that is my number one mission! Designing spaces that are functional and bring joy to people’s lives is my favorite part of my job.
At MDI, I’m constantly learning from the collaborative environment and the chance to connect with clients, vendors, and trades. There is always something someone can teach you. I love the opportunity to work on different things and always look forward to being challenged creatively and finding thoughtful solutions. I especially love the beginning of a project when I get to build trust with a client and help them determine and understand their vision.
I love spending time with loved ones and exploring the Lowcountry. While I love spending time in downtown Charleston, my home base is Mount Pleasant and Sullivan’s Island. Goldbug on Sullivan’s Island is a favorite spot of mine- I love popping in and exploring all of the jewelry the local owner makes!
Savannah
Design Assistant
Savannah Johnson
Design Assistant
Even though I've only been in the interior design field for a short time, I’ve always loved design.
From the age of ten, I can remember HGTV marathons and trips to the local hardware store for every single paint, rug, and tile sample I could get my hands on. I created my own design library at home so I could continue to expand my creativity.
My passion was something I realized I wanted to pursue professionally. I currently attend the Academy of Art University in San Francisco remotely, where I will earn a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Interior Architecture and Design. Working at MDI while attending school has been so helpful to get the on the job experience and behind the scenes.
While I take work seriously, I consider myself to have a good sense of humor. I’m thankful to wok in an atmosphere where we can do amazing things and have fun at the same time. I believe our clients feel the same experience when working with our team. When not at MDI, I enjoy workout classes and long walks with my dog, Maverick.
Sarah Beth
Design Assistant
Sarah Beth
Design Assistant
My dad’s Air Force career moved us all over the country when I was growing up. I spent most of my childhood in Destin, Florida, but Charleston has always felt like home. My parents met and got married here, and my older sister was born here. After my dad retired, my family returned to Charleston and I visited frequently throughout college. After graduating from Auburn University with a Bachelor’s in Biomedical Sciences, I knew I wanted to make Charleston my home too.
As a Design Assistant at MDI, I love combining my detail-oriented, numbers-driven mindset with my creative side. My science background comes in handy when it comes to numbers, but I also enjoy exploring the endless creative possibilities of design. I’m learning how much strategic thinking is required in the design world, and I’m continually inspired by the variety and creativity that this field offers. My favorite aspect of the process is pulling fabrics, paint colors, trims, and wallcovering to define the palette. I tend to gravitate toward cozy and feminine designs, favoriting woolly textures, silks, velvets, and distressed wood finishes. Working at MDI is so rewarding- I’m constantly learning from my talented peers and love the collaborative, dog-friendly atmosphere!
Outside of work, you can find me exploring all that Charleston has to offer. You can’t go wrong with the food and shopping here! Some of my favorites include oysters at Leon’s, the entire menu at Melfi’s, and yummy ice cream at Off Track. I’m pretty sure I could find something I love at every single store on King Street. If I’m not working or shopping and dining, I’m most definitely on the boat or on the beach!
Operations Team
Courtney
Chief Financial Officer
Courtney Grafmeyer
Chief Financial Officer
I’ve always been a numbers person, as I graduated from Wofford with a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting and Clemson with a Masters of Professional Accountancy. While At MDI, I work as the Controller, which is another way of saying I oversee the finances.
Even though I'm not a designer, it's a pretty awesome field. I've enjoyed design from a young age, and even had an interior design notebook growing up with a bunch of clippings from magazines I'd find myself lost in! I love contributing to this team through my positive attitude, energy, and collaboration skills.
Charleston is my dream city to live in, so when I’m not working, you can find me enjoying everything it has to offer. If I’m not at the beach, on the boat, enjoying a local restaurant or walking my dog, Charlie, then I’m likely spending time on projects at my new home.
Kelly M.
Director of Operations & Procurement
Kelly McGinty
Director of Operations & Procurement
As an organized and creative problem solver, I really enjoy streamlining processes. I am the Director of Operations at MDI, meaning I serve as the liaison between our clients and our installers and delivery team. On a daily basis, I monitor where clients are in their projects and oversee the status of furniture, wall coverings, and other pieces of design to ensure that they will be here in time for installation.
I grew up in Charleston and graduated from the College of Charleston with a degree in International Business and Spanish. I love Charleston and knew I wanted to stay here forever, so I decided to stay and buy a home in West Ashley! While I’m not a designer, I love working at MDI. My favorite part is getting to know our clients and see how excited they are as their vision comes together on installation days. I also love the fast-paced environment and how each day is different from the day before.
I love that Charleston encourages supporting local business. Some of my favorites include The Daily, Leons, Queen Street Grocery, Halls Chophouse, Homesick Housewares, Hyams, and Meeting Green. When I’m not at MDI, you can find me enjoying all the things that The Lowcountry has to offer, including the beaches, boating, restaurants, gardening, playing soccer, and laying by our pool!
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Janet
HR & Business Development
Janet Wall
HR & Business Development
I was born in California, but grew up in Charlotte, North Carolina. After the birth of my first child, I decided I wanted to relocate to the coast. What better place than Charleston?
I worked for Ferguson Enterprises for 35 years. I was a showroom consultant for 20 of those years, assisting builders, designers, and clients with plumbing, lighting, and appliance selections for their new homes or renovations. During my last 15 years with Ferguson Enterprises, I was in showroom management, including an area position where I was responsible for 7 showrooms across North and South Carolina.
After retiring, I realized I just wasn’t quite ready to stop working. I had worked with Margaret for many years on various projects and knew I would enjoy the work environment at MDI. I now have a better understanding of the amount of hard work and passion that goes into each of our beautiful projects. I am in constant awe of the vast selection of fabrics, wallcoverings, and bedding we have in our library!
I serve as the Human Resources Office Manager at MDI, meaning I handle all things HR and manage the day-to-day tasks in running an office. My previous experience within the building industry has been instrumental in honing my managerial expertise, strengthening my HR proficiency, and fostering a mentorship mindset.
Outside of work, I love to RV camp with my husband! We also enjoy Clemson football and spending time with our children and grandchildren.
Kelly S.
Accounting Assistant
Kelly Shaw
Accounting Assistant
I was born in Valdosta, Georgia, but have called many states “home” thanks to my father’s military career. When I was in seventh grade, we moved to Beaufort and I have lived in South Carolina ever since. I attended The College of Charleston and went on to obtain a Master’s of Healthcare Administration from The Medical University of South Carolina. I recently retired from MUSC. While I’m new to the interior design industry, it has been such an exciting transition from healthcare and I am loving it.
At MDI, I assist with various tasks around the studio including invoicing and billing. As a dedicated team-player, it is my hope that my attention to detail and work experience will positively contribute to MDI’s continued success.
A favorite part of this job is experiencing the vision and creativity of team members come to life in the finished product. While everyone takes their jobs very seriously, it is also a lot of fun! We know our clients feel the same when working with us.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, traveling, or boating. I feel so lucky to live in Charleston!
Lauren
Office Manager
Lauren Whetsell
Office Manager
Already a South Carolina native, I moved to Charleston after enrolling in Trident Technical College, where I received an Associate’s degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management. I began my professional journey at Daniel Island Club and continued to grow my career in their events department, before shifting my career focus to interior design.
My background working with events ranges from weddings to golf tournaments and much more, which allows me to bring a touch of creativity and adaptability to my role as the Studio Coordinator. I draw on the trustworthiness and attention to detail that I cultivated during my time orchestrating events to contribute to each project at MDI.
Working closely with clients to help them create their own beautiful and unique oasis is one of my favorite aspects of the industry. I’m grateful to be part of the MDI team, where the camaraderie makes us more like family than colleagues. I find so much joy in the collaboration, especially when surrounded by beautiful textiles that inspire our work!
Outside of the studio, you can catch me cooking and spending quality time with family and friends.
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Emily
operations assistant
Emily Taylor
Operations Assistant
Born and raised in Anderson, South Carolina, I fell in love with Chalreston while touring the College of Charleston campus. After earning my Marketing degree from College of Charleston, I decided to stay and call this beautiful city home.
As the Operations Assistant at MDI, I help keep projects running smoothly by managing orders, tracking items to ensure they arrive in time for installation day, and maintaining organization with client accessories. Relatively new to the interior design industry, I have enjoyed learning from the designers and the operations team. While I thrive on staying organized and handling the behind-the-scenes details, I also love working in such a creative field. It truly is the best of both worlds!
My favorite part of the interior design process is seeing the vision come to life. Watching the designers bring the client’s dream to reality and witnessing the joy on their faces when it all comes together is truly such a rewarding experience. These relationships with clients are so much fun to make and keep for years to come!
I appreciate everyone’s willingness to teach, work together, and bounce ideas off each other to create amazing results for our clients. The fast-paced, upbeat collaboration at MDI is so much fun to be a part of. Everyone has a work-hard, play-hard attitude, which creates a fun and energized atmosphere that is a joy to be part of!
Outside of the office, I love discovering hidden gems around Charleston. Some of my go-to spots include Shem Creek, Little Jack’s Tavern for burgers, Santis, and Azur, and I’m always excited to find new cocktail bars! I also cherish spending time with my friends, family, and sweet little kitten, Millie.
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