Happy New Year. I’m not much of an intention-setter, but I do pause at the beginning of each year to consider what it might bring… what I hope it will bring. As we step into 2026, I feel more dedicated than ever to living a life and building a business from the heart. Those of you who have known me a long time can attest to my imperfect efforts. And as I circle back, reflect, and dream forward, I can’t think of anything more important to continue striving for.
Our studio is in an exciting phase of growth, and with all the possibility and responsibility that comes with it, my hope is that we deepen our commitment to creating beauty from a heart-centered place.
This begins with exploring, within our tactile efforts, a deeper layer – the relational and often invisible one. It’s what connects the physical aspects of our work – textures, shapes, color, craftsmanship, artistry – to the spirit of a place. It’s the unmeasurable quality that allows a space to feel alive, grounding, and peaceful. It also means prioritizing how our clients feel throughout the design process: that they experience the joy of creating and exploring possibility, not only the satisfaction of the final, tangible result.
A mentor recently shared something that deeply resonated with me:
Our gift is not what we do, it's who we are."
Contemplating how I show up, and how our team shows up, with attention, attunement, and care is what we’ll be refining together this year. Professional rigor and good design are a given, but if we don’t prioritize relationships and experience, the work can feel empty… fall flat, as one might say.
Design is a relationship business. Being attuned to the unspoken is what truly matters. One can have all the technical proficiency in the world (and technical excellence matters deeply to me), but without care, the creative opportunity loses its soul… and the chance to create something that makes a lasting difference is diminished.
I also recognize that my reflection on “heart” comes from a place of privilege. We are fortunate to have choice… in the work we do, the people we collaborate with, and the direction of our efforts. And so, we begin with gratitude. Thank you for being part of this community, for engaging thoughtfully, and for considering how we might do things better – together. I’m deeply grateful to be here with you – looking forward together.