Design Approach
Our design philosophy is straightforward: To design with purpose, definition and focus on creating spaces that are beautiful, distinctive, functional and comfortable. Liz's work is informed by her education as a textile designer and through the knowledge gained and skills developed over her interior design endeavors. An essential part of Liz's design process is developing a genuine connection with each client, and often with the client's family, developing a mutually comfortable and confident working relationship. A personalized experience is of the utmost importance and we greatly respect each client and each project.
ELIZABETH TAPPER
Principal, Creative Director
Elizabeth Tapper has a diverse background in creative design, spanning two decades. Over the past fifteen years, her professional career has been devoted to upscale residential interior design projects.
Liz began her design career as a textile designer and manufacturer following her graduation from Rhode Island School of Design (RSID) in 1992 with B.F.A. in Textile Design. Moving to New York, she founded a boutique textile design studio specializing in high-end fabrics. Over the next seven years IZ Design New York grew to become a sought-after, custom luxury fabric resource for upscale furniture companies such as Baker Furniture and Kreiss Collections.
In 2000, Liz moved to San Diego to join the Kreiss Design Department. As Design Coordinator, she continued to create exclusive upholstery fabrics as well as custom pillows and throws for the Kreiss Collection. Liz was intimately involved in the design and development of the Kreiss Furniture line with each continuing season. She ultimately became Senior Designer and oversaw all aspects of large residential interior design projects with Kreiss. In 2013, Liz moved on to become the Design Director for Marso Collection, a small boutique and manufacturer of high-end custom furniture. Liz continues to collaborate on the design and development of the Marso furniture brand with new lines each season.
Liz brings a comprehensive knowledge of textiles, custom furniture and home living products along with a sophisticated design perspective to her clients. Blending classic design principles with contemporary aesthetics, she creates luxurious living spaces that reflect each client's unique personality and authentic life experience.
Over the years, many clients have returned to work with Liz on new design ventures and have graciously referred those around them to work with her. It's always the highest compliment. Her richly diverse clientele include awesome individuals and families, some of whom are prominent Sports Figures, Hip-Hop & Rock & Roll Superstars, Internet & Business Tycoons and NBA/NFL Hall of Famers.
MICHELLE SILVA
Senior Designer, Project Manager
Michelle studied Fine Art at San Diego State University (SDSU) in California and holds a Bachelor’s Degree of Fine Arts in Interior Design since 2006. She began her professional career working with MPLA Associates, Inc. spanning almost ten years, designing for high-end residential design projects and managing the firm’s showroom. In 2014, she moved on to become the Senior Designer at Marso Collection, where she met and worked alongside Liz. Three years later, Liz and Michelle made the leap to join forces and open Gratitude Studio, a retail/design studio allowing them to be easily accessible to clients and locals. They work closely and creatively on a daily basis to bring design visions to reality.
Michelle resides in Solana Beach, California with her husband and their French Bulldog, Leo. In her free time, she can be found hitting up the local coffee shop, catching a barre class, listening to good music, or finding any/all ways to be creative.