Our team

joel linn

founder & Principal designer

Joel Linn is a second-generation designer and the founder of Forest Kitchen Design in Greenville, SC. Having grown up in his family’s Florida showroom, Joel turned a childhood fascination with design into a career, rising from lead designer at Linn’s Prestige Kitchens to launching his own independent firm in 2019.

With a B.A. in Philosophy and over 60 hours of NKBA training, Joel blends technical expertise with a deep intuition for his clients' needs. His diverse background—ranging from Olympic weightlifting to philosophical inquiry—fuels his detail-oriented, customer-centric approach. Joel lives in Greenville with his wife and kids, where he balances his passion for design with deep conversations and trips to the coast.

todd mercer

co-founder & Principal designer

An Upstate New York native with a deep foundation in the trades, Todd brings a unique "builder-first" perspective to Forest Kitchen Design. After a diverse career spanning international manufacturing operations, mechanical engineering, and construction project management, Todd co-founded Tekton Builds before moving into leadership at Forest. Now serving as Principal Designer and Charlotte Showroom Manager, he leverages his mastery of craftsmanship and engineering to create spaces that are as technically sound as they are beautiful. Known for his frankness and dedication to excellence, Todd bridges the gap between complex construction and elegant, end-user design.

katherine blank

lead technical designer

Katherine is a Technical Designer at Forest Kitchen Design who thrives at the intersection of math, physics, and aesthetics. A military child who grew up globally, she eventually found her home in Greenville after earning her degree in Interior Architecture and Design from Bob Jones University. Katherine specializes in the fine-tuning of technical layouts and complex problem-solving. Her passion for precision extends to her personal life, where she spends her free time on woodworking, puzzles, and even "de-stressing" by assembling furniture.

infinite creation

Welcome to Forest Kitchen Design, where innovation meets functionality, and every detail matters. Our design philosophy revolves around robust design concepts and an unwavering focus on the finer points. Embracing a modernist approach deeply rooted in architectural principles, we bring a discerning eye for innovation while maintaining an open-minded view.

our belief is simple

Our belief is simple: to rejuvenate and transform spaces, infusing new life into every project we undertake. Specializing in residential, development, and commercial interior design, our portfolio spans across various countries and numerous cities, showcasing our versatile expertise.


At the driving force behind Forest Kitchen Design, is a dedicated team who exude a passion for creating innovative interiors. Our approach ensures that our designs transcend trends, focusing instead on creating spaces that exude timeless sophistication and longevity. With an innate ability to deeply understand our clients' visions, our projects range from bespoke homes, high-rise condominiums and retail spaces.

START YOUR JOURNEY

Forest Kitchen Design Studio is recognized for its seamless fusion of bold style and tasteful elegance, earning us acclaim across the industry. Each meticulously curated idea contributes to the creation of extraordinary spaces that resonate with unparalleled attention to detail. Join us on a journey where craftsmanship and innovation converge, transforming spaces into masterpieces that captivate and endure.

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