Geri Russell: Founder and Design Consultant

My Background

A St. Louis native, my family lived in Dallas and Stamford, Connecticut before we pulled up stakes one last time. Where better to settle than Austin? I am excited about returning to Texas, and I'm thrilled about exploring the opportunities this unique city has to offer. I am grateful that I have a career that I love, and I am dedicated to doing my best work ever here in Austin.

I started Cross Keys Designs in 1997. We had offices in Stamford, Connecticut and St. Petersburg, Florida for 13 years. During that time, I specialized in renovating historic and vintage houses as well as tropical homes, luxury condominiums, and vacation retreats. I have extensive experience in space planning; remodeling kitchens and bathrooms; and collaborating with architects, builders, and construction managers.

My Design Practice

My goal as a design consultant is to create living environments that reflect my clients' personal style, fit comfortably into their day-to-day activities, and stay within their spending comfort level. As a result, the design solutions I offer are innovative and stylish, practical and timeless.

I guide my clients through every stage of the design project – from the initial concept through the implementation of the plan. I help them look beyond the present state of their living spaces and visualize the possibilities that each room holds. I learn about their personal style and pay attention to their lifestyle needs (that is, whether they live alone; are married and have young children; are retired and enjoy visiting grandchildren; and so on).

I present design options in a way that transforms the otherwise overwhelming process of choosing the appropriate décor into a pleasant experience. My clients appreciate how my designs resonate with their taste and enhance their lifestyles. It's important to me that they find their new surroundings both inspiring and energizing.