&team=Kirk Nix Julia Grant Christian Schnyder Grant Gascon Greg Rogers Deborah Gregory Angelica Solis Erika Zoeller Denzil Martin Nora Gabbayan Andrew Lucich Jennifer Casey Melissa Haft Carla Caravante & & old RED = #CC3300 & &kirk=KIRK NIX, Principal

"With a fresh, direct yet pragmatic approach to design, I think of my work as a magnificent opportunity to choose things from different sources and places and combine them to produce new and unique takes on reality," says Kirk Nix, Principal Design Director at KNA.

His namesake company, KNA, is one of the most highly acclaimed in the industry. Kirk's faithful client base includes Disney, the Venetian in Las Vegas, Meridian Group and Fairmont Hotels and Resorts. Recent projects include design for the Ritz-Carlton in Mammoth Lakes, the Fairmont Heritage Palace in Acapulco and the Leela Palace in Bangalore, India.

Kirk earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Interior Design from the University of Alabama, and upon graduation, was hired by Stan Topol %26 Associates in Atlanta to work in both residential and commercial design. He went on to Design Continuum, also in Atlanta, where he directed projects for Walt Disney Resorts and other giants in the hospitality industry. Kirk was next recruited by Hirsch Bedner Associates, where he served five years as Design Director on many prestigious projects before establishing his own firm.

Today, Kirk heads a staff of more than 25 professionals on ground-breaking projects throughout the world. He oversees all aspects of design, planning, programming and project development at Kirk Nix Associates. In addition, Kirk is responsible for the initial concept and assembly of specification packages, which include color palette, furniture finishes, art and artifacts. "The work is a culmination of a lifetime of study, observation, and frankly, a great deal of trial and error. There is a certain levity in all we create," Kirk explains. "I feel exceptionally blessed that many of our clients have returned again and again. They tell me they are drawn to my true love of the process of design."

"We take great pride in our work," Kirk says. "I ask that we constantly attempt to infuse our design with a sense of permanence, and also an indigenous quality ­ it should always have a sense of place." & &julia=JULIA GRANT, Principal

Clients and colleagues alike hold Principal Julia Grant in the highest esteem for her distinctive creative vision, exceedingly strong communications skills and passion for design. Julia seamlessly coordinates the many and varied interactions between KNA and our clients, contractors and suppliers.

With degrees in Interior Design from the New York School of Interior Design and Hamilton College, Julia's professional experience reaches worldwide. After graduating in 1998, Julia was recruited by Birch Coffey Design Associates in New York where she quickly advanced to become Manager of the Residential Design division. While at BCDA, Julia was involved in the design of multiple home and apartment renovations from Park Avenue to Bridgehampton, New York. In 2000 Julia moved to the West Coast, where she worked on an impressive array of high-end hospitality and residential projects such as the Bel Air Bay Club in Pacific Palisades, the Casa Dorinda Retirement Home in Montecito and the Disney Contemporary Resort in Florida.

At KNA, Julia is the principal in charge of overseeing the day-to-day design details. In addition to guaranteeing the highest level of design quality, Julia ensures that all design deadlines are met, budgets are managed, and that stellar client communication and quality control are maintained at every step of the design process.

"I've been responsible for many successful design projects that were exceptionally well received, but the greatest fulfillment comes from a pleased client who enjoys working with me through the entire design process, and is excited about the final result," says Julia. & &christian=CHRISTIAN SCHNYDER, Project Director

Christian's broad international experience ranges from designing luxury residences and high-end retail stores to five-star hospitality projects. Some portions of his portfolio highlight the restaurant Copia in Napa (The American Center for Wine, Food and the Arts) as well as extensive experience as design director of design and construction for all of Joachim Splichal's restaurants within the Patina Group in Los Angeles.

"Good design and architecture tell stories. The plot of the story is the site, the program and the occupants. Building codes, time and the budget are the narrative structure. Each and every detail as well as color and material choices are part of the story's concept" says Christian.

Christian has a Masters Degree in Architecture from the Southern California Institute of Architecture (SCI-Arc) in Los Angeles. He has earned both his professional certificate as
an architectural draftsman and a Bachelors Degree in Architecture and Interior Design
in Switzerland.

His extensive travel abroad has infused our design product with an international quality that keeps KNA at the leading edge of the hospitality industry.

At KNA, Christian is responsible for spearheading the design concept phase, developing unique layouts and architectural material selections. Christian works in tandem with Kirk and the team to set initial design direction, oversee the project from start to finish, as well as leading and coordinating all staff assignments on each of his projects. & &greg=GREG ROGERS, Product Designer

A truly original thinker, Greg Rogers is not wedded to a particular style of period. Initially described as a minimalist, his work has evolved dramatically since entering the design force. An eager student of both graphic and industrial design, Greg brings his object-specific experiences and his experiences with several leading New York design firms to the west coast. A Bachelor's degree in Interior Design and Art History from Western Washington University, Greg began his interest in furniture design at an early age by working closely with many luxury specialty stores and discriminating clients prior to KNA.

His tenure with Sills Huniford Associates and Peter Marino Architects in furniture design and interiors, visionary Greg gained singular experience with innovative possibilities in materials and craftsmanship. While at Peter Marino, Greg was integrally involved with the development and creation of interior millwork and one of a kind furnishings for multiple New York City apartments and the penthouse for the Four Seasons New York Hotel. The exquisite juxtaposition of textures, colors and volumes together with thoughtful attention to shadow, scale and spatial quality, result in the interiors that exude refinement and elegant simplicity.

Within a strong architectural context, at KNA Greg brings a fusion of east and west coast sensibilities as well as an eye for detail and a truly unparallel point of view. Through the careful placement of objects that often reflect his interest in a variety of cultures, Greg is committed to delivering concepts that are complete, unique and exceed expectations. & &deborah=DEBORAH GREGORY, Project Director

Always open to the "the unlimited possible inspirations for design," Senior Designer Deborah Gregory finds "all aspects of the work exciting, from conceptualizing to detailing to installing."

Her vast experience includes working on notable properties such as the Grand Floridian
Beach Resort in Orlando, the Ritz Carlton in San Diego and the new Ferrari Café at the Wynn
Las Vegas, among many others. She recently designed the two, top-rated restaurants at
Hong Kong Disneyland.

Deborah earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Interior Architecture from the Lawrence Institute of Technology in Detroit. Her commitment to her profession includes teaching interior design classes at UCLA, and active involvement in several leading professional organizations such as the Association of Women in Architecture (AWA) and Architects Designers Planners for Social Responsibility (ADPSR).

At KNA, Deborah works closely with Kirk to set initial design directions and to coordinate and specify staff assignments on each project.

"Our goal is ultimate cohesion -- when all the pieces of a design start coming together and all the parts fall into place," Deborah concludes. & &angelica=ANGELICA SOLIS, Designer

With a Master's degree in Architecture, Angelica brings to KNA years of unique and varied experience. Konig Eizenberg and DMJM/Rottet are but a few of the highlights on the stellar resume prior to joining the team.

Throughout her career, Angelica has continuously built upon her reputation as a highly creative and service oriented leader with an impressive track record. She excels in managing the complexities of time, budget, project deliverables, user expectations, creative content and human resources.

Always anxious to tackle new challenges, Angelica feels there are many solutions to each and every issue as they arise. "No problem is too great to resolve," Angelica affirms. It is exactly this attitude that makes her so valuable to KNA.

"Drawing upon the influence of a building's architecture and the unique attributes of place and time, we here at KNA believe that interiors must reveal themselves to inhabitants as a series of seamless experiences," is Angelica's modus operandi.

Angelica is committed to working with our clients to establish documentation standards to ensure a cohesive, technically coordinated, biddable and buildable set of drawings and specifications. & &erika=ERIKA ZOELLER, Designer

"Good Design should stimulate and move a person to discover an atmosphere that excites
and inspires"

Erika comes to KNA with professional design experience on various Hospitality and Residential projects. Such projects include the Ojai Valley Inn %26 Spa in Ojai, CA, the Four Seasons in Palm Beach, Fl, the Renaissance Club Sport in Rockville, MD, and the Hotel Palomar in D.C.

Erika earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the University of Memphis. From there, her creative drive led her to the University of California, Los Angeles where she enrolled in the Professional Level Interior Design program.

At KNA, Erika is involved in all aspects and phases of a project from the initial schematic development to the completion of installment. Her belief in the value of detail ensures proper construction documentation and satisfied client interaction.

Erika explains, "Rooms should capture the attention of that guest or resident with elements of beauty, style and balance."

At work, Erika combines her attention to detail with a sense of playfulness. "Design should be fun. Well designed projects always bring a smile to the face." & &denzil=DENZIL MARTIN, Designer

"I enjoy helping clients develop their own style through my understanding of color, light, space, form and texture," says Project Designer Denzil Martin. "I love the challenge of using worldwide resources to stay within a client's budget."

Denzil brings a wide range of professional design experience to KNA, including work on high-end hospitality, residential, and commercial design properties such as The Ritz Carlton in Lake Las Vegas, the Regent in Singapore, the Conrad Hotel in Hong Kong and The Beverly Hills Hotel in Los Angeles.

Denzil earned her Bachelor of Science in Interior Design from Florida State University. At KNA, Denzil is responsible for all phases of design projects, including initial concepts, development, budget and coordination. "I am very passionate about my projects and clients," Denzil explains. "I believe in using the finest principles of design to create an atmosphere that reflects a client's style and personality, as well as my own creativity."

"Our success comes in turning a client's vision into an amazing and beautiful finished space," Denzil concludes.

& &nora=NORA GABBAYAN, Designer

"Beginning a project requires asking fundamental questions - how the clients are utilizing the space, and how they would like to experience their interior in an ideal world. We then facilitate the transition between the two."

Nora Gabbayan earned her degree in Interior Design, graduating top tier of her class, in the Professional Program at UCLA. She has worked extensively with KNA on hospitality and residential projects including the Tokyo Disneyland Hotel, Venezia Tower at the Venetian Hotel in Las Vegas, 80/50 Private Residence Club in Mammoth %26 Lake Tahoe, and the Leela Palace Hotel %26 Resort in Bangalore, India. "I have found that no matter where in the world the project, no matter what the cultural sensibilities, there are universal qualities that remain constant ­ the balance of function, practicality, esthetics, and budget. It's my job to put these qualities
in harmony."

Nora's superb organizational skills are a constant reassurance to our clientele that KNA is operating in the most professional capacity. Nora supports the senior design staff on a daily basis and is cheerfully prepared for every challenge that lies ahead.

As a Junior Designer at KNA, Nora is involved in every step of the project from concept to execution. Her philosophy is simple and practical. "To ensure that the interior design of a room allows it to function at its best, you first have to go back to basics," explains Nora. "Good interior design is as much about practicality, comfort, and detail as it is about mood or style." & &andrew=ANDREW LUCICH, Designer

One of the top graduates of FIDM in Los Angeles, Andrew is a proven commodity interjecting his personal style upon the internal infrastructure here at KNA Interior Design. "We are constantly investigating a universe of solutions to each and every design problem" Andrew notes enthusiastically. His fresh approach to all the varied projects continues to deliver an appealing product for our clients.

Attention to detail throughout the design process ensures successful recognition of all Andrew's endeavors. Andrew has garnered several awards during his tenure in the design industry. His expertise is constantly put to use working alongside the senior project designers in all aspects of the process from space planning to budgets and FF%26E selection and specification. & &jennifer=JENNIFER CASEY, Designer

At every step of the process, from conceptual design to execution, Jennifer strives to achieve
the client's design vision. A recent graduate, Jennifer has an unparalleled passion for the
design process.

Jennifer received her Bachelor's Degree in Art History from Wellesley College, her J.D. from UCLA School of Law and her Professional Certificate in Interior Design from the UCLA Extension Architecture and Interior Design Program. Jennifer's prior experience as a commercial real estate attorney specializing in hotel and resort properties enables her to appreciate the aesthetic aspects of the design process as well as the practical considerations. "Interior design allows me to combine and embrace my passions for art and real estate".

Jennifer's contribution here at KNA is valued support to our senior design staff. Her clear communication skills and understanding of the methodology of the design process keep KNA offices streamlined and effective in meeting aggressive deadlines.

"Although my background is diverse, my goals are always the same: do excellent work, make the client happy and attempt a little fun along the way", says Jennifer. & &melissa=MELISSA HAFT, Designer

Melissa promotes her personal philosophy through her bold approach to design. From her daring personal style, to the interiors of five-star hotels, she pushes boundaries and takes risks to create a unique final product where no two are ever the same.

Melissa stays abreast of evolving international trends in order to provide clients the most up to date and prescient result. She employs an interdisciplinary approach to design, drawing inspiration such varied fields as graphic design, fashion, and jewelry design. Even the most unexpected element can develop into an innovative and beautiful interior.

Melissa conducted a sixth month study of Interior Design and Renaissance Art History in Florence, Italy, and went on to complete her professional certification in Interior Design at UCLA Extension. Having earned her Bachelor's Degree in Communication Studies at UCLA, Melissa is able to probe the precise needs of our client base.

At KNA, Melissa utilizes her extensive skills in design conceptualization, Photoshop and AutoCAD, composing FF%26E specifications, and developing budgets and spreadsheets. Her portfolio at KNA includes the Las Vegas Venetian Hotel and Casino, Rix Restaurant in Orlando, the Hilton and Conrad Resorts in Macau, and the Adelson Trade Center in Beijing.

Melissa stays current with new developments in sustainable design, and is working toward her LEED certification. In a rapidly changing world, the needs of the hospitality world are shifting, and by consistently creating unique design, Melissa enables each and every client to be a key player in the hospitality field. & &carla=CARLA CARAVANTE, Designer

Carla continually builds upon her reputation as a service oriented leader. Each day here at KNA she leads multiple efforts at keeping the team organized and effectively streamlined in the work environment. She is currently completing her degree in Interior Design at UCLA in order to assist the team leaders in their endeavors.

"Experience isn't how long you've been doing anything, but just how creatively you've been doing it," Carla states. Her enthusiasm and hard work are a daily contribution to the productive work atmosphere here at KNA Interior Design. & &renaG=RENA GRAHAM, Project Director

With an early interest in cultural anthropology, Rena brings her experience and enthusiasm to KNA gained by having lived and worked abroad. With a solid education from California College of the Arts, she has since been intimately involved with the design industry for over 30 years. Her project management skills have been honed on a daily basis by being involved in complex, multi-disciplinary developments all over the world.

As a project director here at KNA, Rena primarily leads projects from conceptual planning through final punch list. Her expertise as a leader in the industry has earned her the respect and devotion of the designers she works alongside each and every day. Her exceptional coordination capabilities allow the various team members to produce stellar design packages that fully reflect the client's programs and specified criteria.

Prior to her employment with KNA, she was instrumental in building an international team of consultants to design the first luxury hotel in Mongolia. Her immediate goal here at KNA is to set a new standard of communication in regard to design intent via documentation.

Particularly interested in global development Rena says, "I'm excited to be a part of KNA's continuing role in this arena in the years to come." Her experience with HOK and SOM in San Francisco, as well as HBA's Singapore office has given Rena the credentials to lead KNA into the next century. Although her experience in other market sectors was fascinating, her true love of hospitality design is what drives Rena in the daily pursuit of excellence. & &noelW=NOEL WILLIAMS, Designer

With an undergraduate degree from Columbia University and a Masters of Architecture from Princeton University, Noel has been thoroughly prepared for the challenges and demands of the hospitality market. His responsibilities include managing client priorities, internal staffing and directing a job with smart design which stays on budget.

Noel's previous endeavor at Kerry Joyce Associates entailed many high-end residential design projects where Noel gained valuable experience working with venerable barons of industry and enjoyed an innate understanding of the luxury market. At KNA we feel that a background in residential design is critical, as the success of hospitality interiors require that personal element to successfully design intimate spaces.

Noel's diverse portfolio pegs him as a talent recognized for his striking interplay of classicism and modern rationale. At KNA, Noel's responsibilities include architectural design, project management and overseeing the master coordination of FF%26E and architectural finishes on his own projects. & &brianP=BRIAN PACHECO, Job Captain

Brian's experience in the hospitality industry has been exceptionally diverse. After his architectural tenure at ITESO in Guadalajara, Mexico, Brian participated in two major symposiums. They focused on urban regeneration and furthered his education and heightened his awareness of urban development and design.

At KNA, Brian is the CAD job captain, coordinating the many necessary drawing packages. His extraordinary combination of talents raise the bar here at KNA. Brian's international experience has proven an invaluable contribution to KNA and its clientele. The guiding force that drives Brian is the inherent need to deliver a unique and competitively differentiated design that ensures maximum value to the end user. & &kristenI=KRISTEN INGLEFIELD, Designer

As a lead designer here at KNA, Kristen possesses an amazing eye for detail and assists the junior designers in creating unique combinations of architectural finishes and fabric palettes that make KNA's finished product so stellar.

Kristen's background includes her tenure at Kay Lang %26 Associates, handling the FF%26E for a multitude of boutique hospitality projects around the globe. Her experience in both design and marketing has augmented her ability to manage and organize her projects, which we believe to be a necessity in this fast-paced market.

Kristen's integrity, character and competence are tantamount to KNA delivering interior concepts of lasting value. & &rachelC=RACHEL COTTEN, Designer

As KNA's latest addition, Rachel shows great enthusiasm in designing for the ever changing hospitality market. As a recent graduate of California University at Northridge with an honors degree in Interior Design, Rachel has a complete updated background on the latest materials and furnishings available to designers.

Rachel's daily activities include assisting senior designers with custom furniture and lighting design, evaluating product proportions, mix of materials, as well as developing extensive color palette options.

Her prior experience has taught Rachel the important of focusing on 'the details'. It's this attention to the finer points of each project that makes Rachel a true asset here at KNA. & &rebeccaHolt=REBECCA HOLT, Designer

With over 26 years in the design field, Rebecca brings a wealth of experience to KNA. Having worked with the top design firms in Los Angeles, her client base includes Hyatt, Ritz-Carlton and the prestigious Ocean Club Resort in Paradise Island, Bahamas.

Rebecca approached her projects with an irrefutable understanding of how projects get built. Her role at KNA is to supervise the schematic and design development phases of each project, specifically ensuring the feasibility of each design element.

Her education at the Fashion Institute of Technology in NYC gave Rebecca the skills required to excel as a team leader here at KNA. "You are only as good as your last project" is Rebecca's mantra, which inspires her to strive for excellence. & &paulSantos=PAUL SANTOS, Designer

Paul leads the conceptual design development process here at KNA. With international design experience in both Singapore and Manila, Paul's innate sense of design and detail is unsurpassed. His strengths include, but are not limited to space planning, perspective renderings and conceptual elevations. His inherent knowledge of the hotel industry and valuable design experience has provided Paul with the tools required to produce a stellar product that typifies the standard at KNA.

"I strive to create a new design paradigm for every client here at KNA. With a sophisticated marketplace we must garner new innovative ideas to create a lasting memory", says Paul.

Paul has worked with noted architect Moshe Safde on the Marina Bay Sands in Singapore, amongst other prestigious projects such as the MGM city center in Las Vegas and the Grand Hyatt in Guangzhou. &