Shawna’s unusual blend of creative talent and technical expertise has earned her industry accolades and mentions in Texas Home and Living, Houston Business Journal, Edible Houston, and the Houston Chronicle.  She is an award winning, Registered Interior Designer with a BFA in Interior Design, and has been in the design, building and remodeling industry for over 20 years.

“Kitchens happen to be my favorite room in the house. I love a beautiful and functional kitchen. Personally, I love to cook, and would probably be a chef if I had not forged a career specializing in kitchen design.”

Karmela’s creative designs have earned her awards in NARI contests along with project features in Houzz, and in local magazines Oakland, Alameda, and Piedmont. She is an NKBA Certified Master Kitchen and Bath Designer and a Certified Interior Designer by the state of California.

We are excited to welcome Karmela to our Texas team as she continues to share her passion and 12-years of experience in residential design and construction management with Bentwood clients in the Austin market.

With her creativity and a solutionist mindset, each space is “approached artistically with function and longevity in mind”.

After several years in corporate finance, Nicole followed her passion for creativity pursuing a degree in Interior Design. The exactness required in the finance industry translates well to laying out a kitchen or a multitude of other spaces. Designing a space that will both stand the test of time visually and functionally is high on her priority list when working with clientele.

“Many of my great family memories revolve around being in the kitchen, preparing meals and breaking bread with those closest to me.” The change in industry has been a very fulfilling one to her, and she revels in helping clients achieve a beautiful space that will impact their lives for years to come – making many of their own happy memories.