we are
rooted in philosophy, psychology, and science.
Our strong grasp of people + place, and a foundation in neuroaesthetics, allow us to create spaces that improve the lives of those who inhabit them. We also have more faith in humans than machines, so we don’t use AI.
we focus on
people in a state of transition.
Our clients are small businesses + homeowners motivated by change. Whether moving from online-only to your first brick + mortar, expanding for team growth, growing a family, or empty-nesting, we will guide + empower your best real estate + design decisions for your commercial + residential spaces.
we believe
great design improves lives.
We assume wellness as our absolute responsibility + understand the healing power of architecture + design. Our passion lies in a deep belief that we can truly create a better world.
photo by Eva Sakellarides
founder + principal
Krista Sammons she/her
ncidq | iida | sidc certified in neuroaesthetics
Throughout my 20+ years as a designer + strategist, I have transformed environments across the US, Asia, UAE, + UK. My extensive experience spans workplace, civic, tech, retail, residential, + hospitality sectors. I work closely with my clients to create spaces that reflect their highest aspirational selves, helping to define their vision, while giving a voice to those who inhabit spaces the most- the user. My ongoing study and understanding of psychology + neuroaesthetics provides unique + innovative insights into the creative process and the built environment. Design for me is innate- when I walk into a space, I'm immediately moving walls, raising ceilings, and altering lighting + finishes in my mind. While this has been an incredibly rewarding career, it is so much more than a job to me. I am beyond grateful to get to do what I do. Design is the art of merging form + function - a collaboration of the head + heart.
motivation
My relationship with space began at age 7 when my parents enclosed our patio- outside was now inside? My mind was blown. Soon, there was a large hole between our living + family room* - what was once a strict divide was now an open, airy connection- allowing for effortless hellos + goodbyes - this was too much. My mom always taught me never to settle + this was the truest expression on the physical plane that I could imagine.
*side note- if ever there was a more useless space in my youth, it was the “living room”. reserved strictly for vacuum marks + the annual christmas tree. As a New York apartment dweller, the thought of so much wasted square footage is enough to bring me to tears. 2 years later, they settled on a model home nestled vaguely between the beach + everglades. As the contractors broke ground, I was in awe of the dramatic changes with each visit. The transformation that both our home + my perception took inspired me. As I toured the site, my parents’ VHS camcorder in hand, I understood the magic of interior design- carving space from nothing, an almost inverse stone statue.
Moving into my teen + young adult years, I was enthralled with psychology (specifically as it related to serial killers). My understanding of experience impacting behavior was reinforced, eventually leading me to merge my 2 passions. As someone who was so affected by bad design (poor lighting, improper scale, bad proportions, lack of balance, etc.) + had grown up seeing the positive impact of good design, I made my move. With just a change of major, city, + university, I was on my way.
fun facts
Marathon day is my favorite day of the year.I hate to run.I live with my partner + 2 kids (6 + 16) in Greenpoint, Brooklyn.I wholeheartedly believe in a free Palestine.I was goth in high school.I am a certified labor doula + have attended several births.I originally majored in criminal psychology bc I wanted to be a homicide detective (until I learned I had to be a cop).I swam a race in the East River.I gave birth to my youngest in a tub in our kitchen.I hate birds + frogs + sudden loud noisesI love horror films.I believe every color works together- clashing is a construct.My first crush was Michael Jackson.I saw Nirvana in concert.