At an early age, I learned that I liked affecting change by way of improving things and processes. From college on, I enjoyed figuring out how something could be improved. First it was process efficiencies in banking, but there was no creativity there; then high-tech sales was great, but it just wasn’t me. It wasn’t challenging my artistic side. Finally, one day it hit me, I could use my artistic talents to improve the function of peoples homes. Lightbulb moment, I wanted to become an interior designer. 

Back to school it was for me and a brand new 2nd (or was it 3rd or 4th?) career. While in design school, I always dreamt of having my own design business but when graduation time came I thought it was overwhelming and scary. I had nightmares of living paycheck to paycheck like I did my first year in California. So, I took a stable job to learn the ropes, did many internships (some paying, some non paying). One of my most notable experiences was at Bethe Cohen Design in downtown Campbell. Bethe was a well established designer with an award winning firm. From her, I learned how to pull the many layers of design together, artistic spaces through rhythm, texture, form- she was one of the best in class. The lessons I learned with her I still carry on today - design as artistry. From there, I gained more experience at design firms in Los Altos and San Jose. I was then ready to really push myself, and took on a new position as a Senior Designer on an award winning design team at DeMattei Construction. Having the insight in the construction process allowed me to understand how remodels and buildings really work. During my time at DeMattei, I struggled as many moms do to balance work and home life. I needed flexibility for my two young children. I wanted to be there for them and freelancing made the most sense. 

My first solo project was awarded to me by a friend who believed in me, and it earned a Silver Award in Hospitality Design for Emerging Professionals in 2017. That first break gave me the confidence I needed to believe in myself, and little by little design projects started to come my way (as did subsequent awards and notoriety). 

Today, my kids are grown and I still love what I do - creating comfortable livable spaces which reflect our client's style and function like a dream. I'm still incredibly humbled by the wonderful clients that choose our firm to partner with on their amazing homes and spaces.