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. Just like our clients, 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 has known that she wanted to design homes since a teenager, growing up in small town Pennsylvania. 

Christyn has been practicing Interior Design professionally for almost 15 years. She holds a Bachelor's degree from the University of North Carolina, Greensboro in Interior Architecture and before opening the Guest House Studio, she worked for a high-end, prestigious design firm in Annapolis, MD.

Christyn has an organic and collected approach to design. She loves mixing timeless natural textures with modern elements to create a home that is warm and inviting 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.

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

Designer

Brooke joined The Guest House Studio in early 2022, bringing with her a thoughtful and grounded approach to design. She works on a range of projects including renovations, new construction, and full home furnishings—assisting and guiding clients through every stage of the process, from early concepts and architectural details to the final layers of styling. Brooke finds equal joy in breathing new life into existing spaces as she does in shaping a new one from the ground up.

Originally from Southport, North Carolina, Brooke knows coastal living from experience. Her design sensibility is deeply influenced by the relaxed, natural beauty of the coast—favoring organic textures, soft palettes, and a sense of effortless comfort that makes every space feel inviting and lived in.

A graduate of Meredith College with a Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design, Brooke combines technical knowledge with an intuitive sense of balance and beauty. Her work reflects a deep appreciation for natural materials, texture, and timeless design—qualities that align seamlessly with The Guest House Studio’s belief in creating spaces that feel authentic, collected, and welcoming.

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.