F5: Molly Kidd on Her Love of Floral Arrangements Vintage Scandinavian Lighting

Molly Kidd, co-founder and principal designer at Light and Dwell, studied interior design as she grew up, fascinated by creativity and transforming spaces. She and co-founder, Aymee Kuhlman, met and formed a friendship that turned into a business partnership when they opened the proverbial doors to the interior design practice in 2015. Their intent was to design homes that are a place of light where families can gather, entertain, and lounge while creating memories.

Based in Oregon, Light and Dwell is naturally influenced by the Pacific Northwest and an emphasis on quality over quantity. Sustainability plays a large role in every project, as the practice implements a 50/50 initiative to mix vintage and custom-made pieces – giving new life to objects while simultaneously supporting local makers. This approach to creating spaces that feel fresh yet timeless is in line with Light and Dwell’s nod to old European culture, full of easy refinement. “
I visited Europe for the first time when I was 16. I stayed with a friend who was living in Paris and will forever be impacted by the Parisian architecture and cobblestone streets,” Molly shared.

Molly Kidd \\\ Photo: Chris Mottalini

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In the beginning, every penny made was reinvested back into the business,” Molly said. “A few years into Light and Dwell, when Aymee and I took our first “big” paycheck, that’s when I realized this could be my career! I realized that my creative abilities aren’t something that everyone else has, and that this talent could change people’s lives. Your home has the ability to transform your life for the better, and I love that I get to do that for individuals, couples and families.”

With a heavy focus on craftsmanship, Light and Dwell opened a shop in fall 2022 with their own one-of-a-kind furniture pieces. It was the next natural step after creating custom pieces for clients, gathering inspiration while traveling, and wanting to bring even more sustainability to the home collection. It’s no surprise that they’re crafted to last a lifetime, and there are plans to continue expanding the line throughout the year.

When she’s not designing or running Light and Dwell, Molly enjoys spending time outdoors with her husband and three kids and entertaining in their home in Oregon.

This week Molly Kidd joins us for Friday Five!

Photo: Chris Mottalini

1. The Outdoors in the PNW

After growing up in a beautiful forest, I always find solace and inspiration outside. Whether it’s going for a hike, driving through the mountains, or sitting in my backyard, I can’t get enough of it. Many of our designs are inspired by nature and the natural, muted, earthy palette of the region – lush green, overcast days, the ocean, and mountains. Some of my favorite materials are stone and unlacquered brass in their raw state as they age and patina over time.

Photo: Molly Kidd

2. Artisan Coffee Shops

Everyone who knows me knows I can’t go a day without a cup(s) of joe. Breve au laits are my go-to drink of choice! Every time I travel, I look up artisanal coffee shops in the area. I love supporting local cafes and trying new beans wherever I go. My everyday coffee shop knows my order before I get to the counter, and I absolutely love that sense of community. If you see me in the streets, I’ll most likely have a coffee in hand.

Photo: Molly Kidd

3. Floral Arrangements

My love for design and arranging started with being a florist in my late teens. Every project at Light and Dwell starts with a floral arrangement to create the overall color palette and inspiration. I love the textures, layers, and colors floral arrangements provide. I’m a big fan of Hart, a local florist in the PNW. Florals have the ability to completely change the atmosphere of a room. Some of my favorite florals for creating a light and airy atmosphere are chocolate cosmos, garden roses, tulips, and hellebore.

Photo: Molly Kidd

4. Local Antique Shops

I remember growing up antiquing with my mom. Every item tells such a beautiful story, and most of the items are one-of-a-kind. They bring about warmth, character and new perspective to spaces. In all of our designs, we have a 50/50 initiative, incorporating 50% new and 50% vintage items. Traveling around the country for different projects, one of my favorite things is finding antique shops to fill the project with local finds. Whether it’s vintage furniture or Levi’s, I love the hunt.

Photo courtesy 1stDibs

5. Vintage Scandinavian Lighting

I’m constantly inspired by the soft and subtle wave detailing in vintage Scandinavian lighting. Vintage lighting has this perfect juxtaposition of old-world and modern day for the perfect accent. It adds character to a space and is versatile enough to fit with any style.

Work by Molly Kidd + Light and Dwell:

Utah European Modern Projet \\\ This modern European home is the perfect place where the owners, a doctor and entrepreneur, can both entertain guests or relax. The family was drawn to warmer tones, so Kidd incorporated a variety of beige tones and unlacquered brass finishes throughout the home. Much of the inspiration throughout was pulled from elements from the French Riviera. \\\ Photo: Amy Bartlam

Villa with a View Project \\\ Light and Dwell became involved with this project at the very beginning, starting with the plan and site development. The goal was to design a forever home that would capture the surrounding views and evolve with each season of life. They also wanted each design element to speak to the vineyard the property was located on. Kidd drew inspiration from Northern California vineyards, European villas, the home’s surrounding landscape, and the clients’ love of Italy. The result is a lighter version of a rustic ranch home full of bespoke pieces mixed with a European-inspired feeling. \\\ Photo: Chris Mottalini

Villa with a View Project \\\ Light and Dwell became involved with this project at the very beginning, starting with the plan and site development. The goal was to design a forever home that would capture the surrounding views and evolve with each season of life. They also wanted each design element to speak to the vineyard the property was located on. Kidd drew inspiration from Northern California vineyards, European villas, the home’s surrounding landscape, and the clients’ love of Italy. The result is a lighter version of a rustic ranch home full of bespoke pieces mixed with a European-inspired feeling. \\\ Photo: Chris Mottalini

Villa with a View Project \\\ Light and Dwell became involved with this project at the very beginning, starting with the plan and site development. The goal was to design a forever home that would capture the surrounding views and evolve with each season of life. They also wanted each design element to speak to the vineyard the property was located on. Kidd drew inspiration from Northern California vineyards, European villas, the home’s surrounding landscape, and the clients’ love of Italy. The result is a lighter version of a rustic ranch home full of bespoke pieces mixed with a European-inspired feeling. \\\ Photo: Chris Mottalini

Kelly Beall is senior editor at Design Milk. The Pittsburgh-based graphic designer and writer has had a deep love of art and design for as long as she can remember, and enjoys sharing her finds with others. When undistracted by great art and design, she can be found making a mess in the kitchen, consuming as much information as possible, or on the couch with her three pets. Find her @designcrush on social.

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