Everything about Meghan Cates’ most recent design project in Oak Tree was unexpected; from the planning process, to the procurement of decorative pieces, to the curious-yet-collected feel of the final design.
Cates was initially hired for a new construction project. Those plans had been in the works for five months when her client decided to purchase a 1982 home in the neighborhood instead. It had a quirky character that her client appreciated, and “good bones,” said Cates.
“No matter what you do to a brand-new construction house, it’s not going to feel the same as an older home. I think she could really see the potential of what she was trying to create,” said Cates. “Within a week, she acquired the older home and, just like that, we changed directions and started the design plans for this home.”
The home had undergone so many previous updates—all at different times—that Cates and her client joked it was experiencing an “identity crisis.” However, this project presented a clear vision: modern amenities combined with old-world treasures. Together, they transformed the home into a cohesive traditional design with eclectic elements throughout.
“Her love of antiques and desire to include unique pieces in the design plan became central to the project. Ultimately, her goal was to create a home that she absolutely loved and that truly felt like her own,” Cates said.
The two ended up sourcing many items together, traveling to Dallas for antiques as well as Round Top, Texas—they drove a U-Haul full of goods back to Oklahoma. Design meetings were extra productive. They would come up with a concept or direction and, hours later, the homeowner would send Cates something that perfectly fit their conversation, something she just found on Facebook Marketplace. They also had success at local shops like Scissortail Marketplace, which is where they found the wooden carved surround for the primary bedroom.
Since they were incorporating so many “found” items—readily available to go out the door with them—they didn’t have to navigate the lengthy ordering and shipping process typical to most design projects. Also, by partnering with an efficient contractor, Jose Soto, this project kept its momentum. Even with major layout changes to the kitchen, utility room, pantry and primary suite, the 6,000-square-foot home was completely renovated in less than a year.
Timeline aside, Cates said working on this project was extremely gratifying, thanks to her enthusiastic client and how well they worked together.
“Without a doubt, she is one of the most kind-hearted and giving people I’ve ever met,” said Cates, adding that she also appreciated the final design: lovely spaces filled with unexpected details.
“I really had to dig outside my normal sourcing with this project, which was wonderful. I’m really proud of the materials and things we put in this house,” Cates said. “Sometimes you work on projects that can drag and steal your joy, but working on this project reminded me how much I love interior design—and that the building process should be fun.”
