We had the good fortune of connecting with Karen “K” Abate and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Karen “K”, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
After years of climbing the corporate ladder and being in the ever-changing world of tech, I decided it was time for my creative side to take the lead. In May 2023, after being laid off from yet another tech job, I wanted to pursue something that fueled my passions rather than just the urge to “keep climbing”. During a 3000+ mile road trip with my little camper & dog Bagel, I contemplated what could be, and upon returning, I decided to take a risk. I started working on a few design projects for friends and family, testing the waters to see if interior design could be more than just a hobby. I was thrilled to discover that not only did I enjoy the design process with others, but I also found fulfillment in helping clients create spaces that reflected their stories and provided comfort. With my eye for design and love for working with people, I officially launched Nomada Design LLC in January 2024.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Nomada Design is a Denver-based interior design studio committed to improving your world through thoughtful design. My career has been a journey of shaping experiences—from working with international students and WeWork members to designing the day to day experience for tech employees. Now, I’m dedicated to creating personal and meaningful at-home experiences. My unique background, combined with a love for design, equips me to craft beautiful and functional spaces that are truly reflective of each individual.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I love showing my family and friends around Denver, and I have a few favorite spots that are must-visits when I’m the tour guide! For breakfast, check out Fox Run Cafe, they have all the breakfast classics and don’t forget to order the Lemon Ricotta pancakes for the table. For lunch, Leven’s Deli is a must—their Pastrami Reuben is unbeatable! My all time fave is Mister Oso in RiNo, where the spicy margaritas and birria tacos are truly exceptional. For after-dinner drinks, Gold Point across the street is a great choice.

When it comes to day trips, Idaho Springs is my go-to. Just 40 minutes from Denver, it offers all the charm you’d expect from a mountain town. I never miss a chance to dine at Westbound & Down, where the Fried Green Tomato BLT paired with their house-brewed Mexican lager hits the spot every time.

Lastly, my favorite store in Denver is Modern Nomad in the Golden Triangle. They have an incredible selection of unique home goods, both new and vintage, that I love incorporating into my designs. Don’t miss it!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I wouldn’t have had the courage to start my own business without the love and support of my female friends. I’m incredibly fortunate to have women in my life who not only inspire me but also cheer me on in a way that makes me believe I can achieve anything! I even joke that one of my best friends timed the purchase of her house perfectly—right as I was diving into interior design—and let me design every inch of it. This experience gave me the confidence to launch Nomada Design. I’m forever grateful to these amazing women for their unwavering encouragement, from celebrating the small wins to helping me navigate challenges.

Website: https://www.nomadadesign.co

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nomadadesign.co

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karen-abate/

Image Credits
Headshot by Kelly Shroads with Essence and Artistry (https://essenceandartistry.com/)

Interiors by Connor Reidy (https://www.connorreidy.com/)

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