Featured Designer - Karri Files

Aug 10
3 min read

At Quarry & Kiln, we value designers who create outdoor spaces that are as functional as they are beautiful. We are pleased to spotlight Karri Files Paul, founder and CEO of KFiles Design.

Karri’s work blends the charm of classic English gardens with clean, contemporary lines to create spaces that are meant to be lived in, not simply looked at. Specializing in residential gardens, sustainable planting, hardscaping, and outdoor living spaces, she approaches each project with a thoughtful balance of timeless design and modern living.

Her portfolio includes standout projects such as a complete backyard transformation and the renovation of a historic Rose Garden in Eastover. Both reflect her belief that meaningful outdoor environments begin with intentional design and quality materials.

In this feature, Karri shares her design philosophy, what makes an outdoor space truly work, and how she creates landscapes designed to endure.

Karri is one of several talented designers we are proud to work alongside. Stay tuned for more designer features from Quarry & Kiln.

Outdoor Living Ideas

We're Loving Right Now

Beautiful outdoor spaces are more than a collection of features—they're thoughtfully designed environments that enhance the way families live, gather, and unwind. While styles continue to evolve, we find ourselves returning to materials and design principles that feel timeless, functional, and deeply connected to the architecture of the home. Here are three elements we're incorporating more than ever into our outdoor living projects.

01. Natural Limestone

Timeless beauty with everyday comfort

Natural limestone continues to be one of our favorite paving materials because it delivers both exceptional beauty and practical performance. Unlike many darker paving materials, limestone remains noticeably cooler underfoot during the warmer months, making it an ideal choice for pool decks,

patios, terraces, and walkways where families spend much of their time barefoot.

Beyond its comfort, limestone introduces a softness that beautifully complements Charlotte's traditional architecture. Its subtle movement, warm neutral tones, and natural texture help balance the richness of red brick while creating an outdoor environment that feels relaxed, elegant, and welcoming.

As limewashed brick continues to gain popularity, limestone becomes an even stronger design partner. The combination creates a light, layered palette that feels fresh yet timeless, allowing both the home and surrounding landscape to shine. Rather than competing with the architecture, limestone enhances it—creating outdoor spaces that will remain beautiful for decades.

02. Terraced Outdoor Living

Creating outdoor rooms that follow the land

Charlotte's rolling topography presents one of the greatest opportunities in landscape design. Rather than forcing every backyard into a single flat

surface, we often embrace the natural grade by designing a series of interconnected terraces that feel intentional and beautifully integrated into the landscape.

Terracing allows us to create distinct outdoor rooms for dining, lounging, cooking, gathering around a fire, or relaxing beside the pool, all while

maintaining a seamless flow between each space. Wide masonry steps, retaining walls, and carefully layered planting help transition from one level

to the next while adding architectural interest throughout the property.

Terraces aren't defined solely by hardscape. Some of our favorite designs combine limestone, brick, ornamental plantings, synthetic turf, lawn panels,

and garden beds to soften transitions and create a landscape that feels lush rather than overly constructed. The result is a layered outdoor

environment that maximizes usable space while respecting the natural character of the property.

Rather than viewing a sloping yard as a challenge, we see it as an opportunity to create depth, movement, and a series of memorable outdoor experiences.

03. Water Features

Bringing wellness into the landscape

Water has an incredible ability to transform the atmosphere of an outdoor space. More than simply serving as a visual focal point, thoughtfully designed water features introduce movement, sound, and a sense of calm that encourages people to slow down and enjoy their surroundings.

Whether it's a classic wall fountain, a sculptural bubbling bowl, or an elegant pool water feature, moving water naturally masks surrounding noise while creating a peaceful backdrop for conversation, entertaining, or quiet reflection. The gentle sound adds another sensory layer that makes

outdoor living spaces feel more intimate and restorative.

Studies continue to demonstrate what designers have long appreciated—that exposure to the sound and movement of water can reduce stress, encourage relaxation, and contribute to an overall sense of well-being. We believe the best water features feel like a natural extension of the landscape, enriching the garden throughout every season while creating moments of beauty both day and night.