Elena Meredith

Elena grew up in Poulsbo, Washington, near Seattle, where she developed a deep appreciation for nature and coastal inspiration. She is graduating with a Bachelor's degree in Interior Architecture and Design from Utah State University, complemented by a minor in Art. Through both technical development and artistic exploration, she has cultivated a strong passion for interior design and the full creative process behind it. After completing an internship with a high-end residential firm in Seattle, she is eager to step into the professional design world and continue expanding her skills and experience. A summer spent living abroad in Europe deepened her appreciation for classical art, architecture, and design, influencing her evolving aesthetic. Elena is driven to expand her knowledge through travel, exploration, and hands-on practice, and looks forward to contributing to thoughtfully designed spaces that are both meaningful and inspiring.

Student Projects

Harborview

Harborview is set as a serene East Coast retreat that balances quiet restoration with meaningful connection. Rooted in the character of Newport’s shoreline, the residence embraces views, light, and the dialogue between interiors and landscape. Relaxation is the primary goal of this home, as friends and family gather to enjoy summer getaways together or simply escape the city during busier times of the year. The design expresses a refined yet classic New England sensibility, combining timeless and understated elements that are materially rich and bring life to simple spaces.

Alder Kitchen

The Alder home responds to the quiet, moody character of the Pacific Northwest through large windows and a strong connection between the interior and the surrounding landscape. With Whidbey Island’s darker winters in mind, bringing natural light deeper into the home became an important part of the design, supporting a brighter and more comfortable everyday living environment. Rather than strictly restoring the mid-century structure, the renovation takes a more thoughtful approach. The design respects the home’s original character while allowing it to evolve, blending contemporary simplicity with subtle retro influence. The result feels intentional and refined, while still warm and livable.

Azulejos Norte

Azulejos Norte reinterprets the historic language of azulejo tile through a contemporary lens, focusing on how past and present continue to influence one another within centuries of ceramic tradition. The name reflects both geographic and stylistic influence, drawing from the visual character and cultural history of northern regions where azulejo craftsmanship developed through layers of influence and exchange.

The collection looks at how pattern, pigment, and surface shift over time while still holding onto their original meaning. By placing Portuguese azulejos within a broader global context, tile becomes more than just decorative—it begins to carry memory, identity, and a sense of place. This collection translates those ideas into a more refined, modern expression while still maintaining the qualities that make traditional tile work so distinct.

Grove Montessori

The Grove Montessori transforms a former barn in Sonoma County into a learning environment designed around how young children move, learn, and interact with space. The existing structure is used to create open, flexible classrooms that support independence and hands-on learning, following Montessori principles. Natural light, simple material choices, and a thoughtful use of color help define spaces, support wayfinding, and create a calm but engaging atmosphere. The design also brings in a strong connection to the outdoors, allowing children to move easily between indoor and outdoor learning areas. Overall, the project focuses on creating a comfortable, supportive environment that encourages curiosity, growth, and everyday exploration.