OUR STORY

We practice what we like to call "humble luxury living." Our clients homes are filled with textures and materials that are timeless and sophisticated but understated. No two homes of ours are the same. 

Founded in April of 2015, the Guest House Studio has successfully managed more than 30 projects and counting for clients across the country with home bases in both Charleston, SC and Eastern Shore, MD.  While we specialize in new luxury construction and residential renovations, our firm has curated a dynamic portfolio that spans commercial interior design, short term vacation rentals and model home staging. 

Since opening our doors, our full-service interior architecture and design firm has earned a sterling reputation for seamlessly integrating three major facets of a build to include construction, architecture and interiors. With knowledge in all three areas we are your one stop shop before you even file for permitting to make sure that in the end, your home is not only a place of refuge, but it is also functional for your particular lifestyle.  We want to make sure that no detail has been left unturned.  Press and praise includes features in Forbes, Houzz and more. Best believe, we’re just getting started

For us, design is personal. We find timeless presentations stem from personal testimonies and spaces that tell stories. Far more than a swoon-worthy social media post, we want your space to be your sanctuary the second you walk in the door - giving you that kick off your shoes, grab a glass of wine and unwind from life feeling.

Christyn Dunning-Gauss

Principal

Principal and Founder behind The Guest House Studio, Christyn's love of design stems from working alongside her father on the Construction field in small town Pennsylvania. 

Christyn holds a Bachelor's degree from the University of North Carolina, Greensboro in Interior Architecture.  Before opening the Guest House Studio, she worked for a high-end, prestigious design firm in Annapolis, MD where she guided clients in Northern Virginia, DC, Delaware, and Maryland through dozens of commercial and residential interior design projects.

With creativity and certifications in spades, Christyn sets a new standard in how she communicates with her clients and manages projects. She believes there is immeasurable value in making it personal by getting to know you.  From this, she prides herself on being able to design functional spaces that resonate for years to come and never hesitating to go above and beyond for her clients. 

In addition to her she-preneur sprint, Christyn is passionate about giving back more than she's been blessed with. Putting these mantras into practice, she is proud to serve as Charleston’s Chapter President for Savvy Giving by Design and insists on fair trade and practices in every aspect of her business.    

Christyn truly values the simple things in life.  Her proudest accomplishments are her two beautiful daughters and the life she has built with her Electrician Husband.  When Christyn isn’t working or raising her girls, you can find her either at the beach or in the mountains of Pennsylvania, often with a good book and vinyl on the player.

Brooke Maynor

Junior Designer

Brooke joined the Guest House Team in early 2022.  She hails from Southport, NC and holds a Bachelor's Degree in Interior Design from Meredith College.  She has a passion for Architecture and enjoys all aspects of Interior Design.  

As a member of The Guest House Studio, Brooke plays an integral part in all aspects of design.  From developing concepts to selecting light fixtures, Brooke embodies the Guest House spirit and vision that each home should should be as unique as those who inhabit them.​

When not working, Brooke enjoys spending time exploring all parts of Charleston, trying new restaurants and spending time with her friends and family. 

Alexa Pickett

Procurement Coordinator

Hailing from Fairhope, AL, Alexa joined the Guest House team in the fall of 2024. A graduate of the University of Alabama, Alexa brings with her an incredible heart and a hard working spirit. It takes a special type of person to track down all of the orders and navigate the ever changing world of the supply chain. She keeps our projects on track and on time with grace. When not working, Alexa enjoys time at the beach or visiting her family and friends.