Home is where memories are made and stories unfold. It reflects the essence of its inhabitants—what they cherish and the world they craft. It’s more than just a house; it’s a sanctuary where you can build your roots and create a meaningful life. At Palm and Oak Designs, we cherish the opportunity to connect with our clients and collaborate on designing homes that serve as a beautiful backdrop for their unique world and a lasting foundation for their future.
Designing homes you can build your roots in.
Hello!
Owner & Principal Designer
Hi, I’m Karen! I was born and raised in New Jersey and relocated to Bluffton, South Carolina with my husband and two children in January 2022. My passion for design and custom homes began early, influenced by my dad—more on that below. To me, "home" is more than just a place; it’s a feeling. It’s the backdrop for life’s greatest moments and memories. My goal is to create spaces that are not only comfortable but also personal. I focus on the small details that make a big impact, ensuring each home reflects your personality and individuality, while being thoughtfully and functionally designed.
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STAYING TRUE TO MY ROOTS
My dad is the reason I fell in love with the design and building world. He marks the 4th generation of custom home builders in my family. Before relocating to the Lowcountry I had the privilege of working alongside him and my brother for nearly a decade in the family business. I got to marry two worlds I love: design and building.
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I spent my childhood tagging along with him on job sites and early mornings in the backseat of my Grandpa’s car where he and my Grandpa would discuss and review jobs over a cup of coffee and a buttered hard roll (it’s a Jersey thing). I’d eavesdrop behind the door when he’d have late-night meetings at the dining table of our family home. Eventually, I got invited to sit quietly at the end of the table. I absorbed as much as I could. His knowledge. His practices. His wisdom. His values.
He taught me the importance of the littlest details and their effect on the big picture. To always think five steps ahead and to master the process. That true success is achieved by having two things: integrity and passion.
I’m incredibly blessed to have him and to share the same passion as he and my brother. Working with family has its challenges, but I was truly so fortunate. I had knowledge poured into me every day. I had the comfort of family, deep roots, and established relationships. Leaving was hard, really hard. But, our move to the Lowcountry has brought new growth, new relationships, and new beginnings.
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Mailing Address
Po Box 1128
Buffton, SC 29910
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Phone
908-581-3908