Hello
Hi, I’m Karen Duffy, the founder of Peaceful Spaces and Garden Oasis. I’ve spent more than 25 years helping people create spaces that feel calm, welcoming, and true to who they are.
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I’ve worked on everything from homes and gardens to offices, restaurants, and healthcare spaces. No matter the project, my goal is always the same: to design places that look beautiful and work beautifully too.
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In recent years, my work in restaurants alongside my design experience has given me a unique perspective on creating spaces that are both highly functional and welcoming. I use that insight to ensure every space flows effortlessly and feels inviting, whether it’s a home, garden, or commercial environment..
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I’ve called Chicago home for over 20 years and love drawing inspiration from the city’s energy, architecture, and creativity. For me, design is about connection, helping people feel at ease in the spaces where they live, work, and gather.
Resume
Karen E. Duffy
Interior Designer & Project Manager
(412) 654-1129 | karenduffy1@yahoo.com | Chicago, IL
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Summary
Highly accomplished Interior Designer and Project Manager with over 25 years of experience delivering high-impact projects in corporate, healthcare, hospitality, and residential sectors. Proven expertise in all phases of the design process, from programming and code compliance to construction administration. Skilled in leading cross-functional teams, managing budgets, and creating award-winning designs. Adept at using design software and dedicated to delivering exceptional client results.
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Professional Experience
Independent Design | Interior Designer | May 1996 – Present
* Led diverse design projects for corporate, healthcare, hospitality, and residential clients.
* Managed the full project lifecycle, including programming, code search, design, client presentations, specifications, and construction observation.
* Consistently delivered projects within or below budget, and designed and fabricated custom furniture and window treatments.
Zimmerman Weintraub Associates, Chicago, IL | Senior Designer | Jan 2008 – Aug 2008
* Directed the design and implementation for 10 Marriott properties, ensuring strict adherence to brand standards.
* Supervised a team of designers and helped develop new company-wide CAD standards to improve efficiency.
DePalma Group, Chicago, IL | Senior Designer | Sept 2006 – July 2007
* Designed the largest Lexus showroom in the US and helped develop brand design standards for Lexus and Acura that were adopted nationwide.
* Coordinated with other design disciplines and managed junior designers to ensure project success.
RAA Architecture, Pittsburgh, PA | Partner | June 2002 – Sept 2004
* Co-founded an architectural firm, responsible for business development, client prospecting, and contract negotiation.
* Served as the lead designer for commercial and residential projects, including Roland’s Seafood Grill.
Burt Hill Kosar Rittelmann, Pittsburgh, PA | Interior Designer | Sept 1998 – June 2002
* Developed and maintained long-term client relationships with Fortune 500 companies.
* Managed client accounts, including acting as the tenant manager for the historic Alcoa Building, ensuring client satisfaction and repeat business.
Sherrill Furniture, Pittsburgh, PA | Office Manager | Jan 1997 – July 1998
* Managed invoicing, ordering, and scheduling, streamlining office processes to improve efficiency.
* Maintained resource library and samples, which led to faster customer service and a more efficient sales process.
Education & Skills
La Roche College | B.S. in Interior Design, 1999 | Pittsburgh, PA
Indiana University | Sports Marketing Major, 1983-1987 | Bloomington, IN​