When Alexandra Killion isn’t raising money for local charities by chairing the La Petite Maison Gala, she’s busy raising two children and running a successful design firm. Recently, she began opening her design office as a showroom for her new semi-eponymous, local-artisan-crafted furniture line AK Collective.
Her Spring Branch office will now be open, by-appointment, for those with an eye for gorgeous pieces that could not previously be successfully sourced elsewhere. Fourteen pieces total, AK Collective is divided into case goods and upholstered furniture, all customizable. The upholstery is dressed in the most beautifully washed linens and velvets — performance strength, of course — including sofas, occasional chairs, and an ottoman with a removable slip-cover for washing. All pieces have classic silhouettes and elegant lines, think scooped arms and tailored skirts. Sturdy case goods include a variety of handsomely carved chests, nightstands, occasional tables, and a pedestal, all customizable as well. Developed as an extension of the custom pieces she designed for clients, prices start around $1,000 and go up to $5,000 or more for the largest sofas.
Killion’s ability to translate her refined taste to the home goods market is assisted by local makers and craftsmen; every piece in the collection is made right here in Houston by the best of each trade. Intricate case goods like the Domus chest begin with the woodworking specialist, then off to the best finisher, followed by a trip to the hardware craftsman —“only the best,” Killion tells CultureMap. It is little wonder that lead times on pieces sit at around 12 weeks — it’s a journey.
Each piece is offered in abundant colors, finishes (including burl and plaster options!), hardware, and tops. The Andreas pedestal table in plaster is particularly striking — not too many companies still manufacture pedestal tables, but they are amazingly multifunctional.
The Andreas pedestal tableCourtesy of Alexandra Killion
I asked why, being a young designer, she’s is so interested in antiques, wanting her line to replicate heirloom pieces — it’s all in the family. Like this author, her love for antiques comes from her grandmother.
“My home is filled with beautiful pieces I inherited from my grandmother and I love the warmth they add to the space,” she says. “I’ll be passing them down myself,” she delightfully quips before saying “that was the inspiration in creating heirloom quality furniture.” Describing the overall aesthetic of her line as “elegant and timeless, with a contemporary twist,” many will agree that her dream has been entirely realized.
One favorite thing about Killion’s showroom is that she also offers antique case goods, accompanied by really fun vintage accessories that are wildly easy on the wallet. For example, she has a beautiful Wedgewood pitcher for $45 and natural stone lamps for under $500 per piece. Keeping with the “shop local” theme of her showroom, artwork by Houston artists Katie Hagar and Michael Cisarik is also available.
Scheduling a private appointment in a designer's showroom can be intimidating, but Killion's showroom has an overall aesthetic that's designed to put people at ease. "It’s eclectic, and very Round Top inspired,” she says, which is as it should be, since her family keeps a residence in the town. Anyone who appreciates the low key charm of Round Top — or plans biannual shopping pilgrimages to Marburger Farm — will feel comfortable shopping the showroom with her.
Courtesy of Alexandra Killion
The designer's showroom features her furniture as well as vintage finds.
