HOW WE WORK
A successful project is when our client feels that their interior is an expression of themselves. It’s not about our personal style—but about how we can help clients better express their own. We never lose sight of this, and strive for transparency and timeliness with all our clients.
Utilizing our extensive training and experience in architecture and construction, BK Interior Design has the capability to design from the ground up. We can do everything from moving walls to designing custom end-tables. Our expertise in finishes and our rich background in myriad design aesthetics give us the ability to cater to all design styles. And whether in California’s wine country, the beaches on Long Island, or a highrise in Chicago, our interiors always reference context, purpose, and place.
BRAD KREFMAN / OWNER & PRincipal
Brad began his design career at the office of Thierry Despont, where he was fortunate enough to work on everything from five-star international hotels to high-end residential homes. It was a formal training steeped classical proportions, fine detailing, and luxurious finishes.
After a decade in New York, Brad moved to San Francisco to head the interior design department at Backen Gillam Kroeger Architects. While at Backen Gillam and Kroeger, Brad completed numerous high-end residential projects, as well as Sonoma and Napa Valley wine-tasting rooms. Working on more rustic, relaxed environments has built on Brad’s conviction that a home must function in its environment.
Brad holds a BFA in Art History and French from NYU, and an MS in Interior Architecture from Pratt Institute. He lives in Mill Valley with his husband Eric and their French bulldogs, Leo and Gemma.
Carleigh Simpson / Senior Designer
Carleigh brings a penchant for problem solving and excellent project management skills to BK Interior Design. Her previous work experiences exposed Carleigh to all facets of the design industry including stints working in fashion design, landscape design and permaculture. Her career in interior design blossomed while working alongside Brad at Backen Gillam and Kroeger Architects. There, Carleigh was able to work on a multitude of projects ranging from high-end residences to international wineries. At BK Interior Design, Carleigh can fully exercise her managing skills and design talents as Senior Interior Designer. Her attention to detail and incomparable work ethic reinforce our commitment to excellence. She is quick on her feet, a color maven, and incessantly positive. Carleigh holds a BA in Interior Design from Florida State University with minors in French and Art History.
gwen hubbard / project manager
To say Gwen is a master multitasker would be an understatement. Her exceptional management of contractor, vendor, and client relationships ensures each of our projects is carefully thought through and executed smoothly. Gwen’s detail-oriented mindset and penchant for premium design brings a refined tone to the BK palette. Gwen has an extensive background in interior design and landscape architecture in the Mill Valley area.
cailen messersmith / Project manager
A fellow alum of Pratt Institute, Cailen brings a fresh perspective and polished sensibility to the BK design team. Her formative years were spent working for renowned New York design firm Shamir Shah Design. Her experience at the boutique firm shaped her affinity for rich textures and finishes, fine architectural details, and all things custom. At BK Interior Design Cailen is expanding her design vernacular out west and helping manage projects locally and abroad. She approaches every project with the goal of creating thoughtfully curated interiors that are unique to each client. Cailen holds a BFA in Interior Design from Pratt Institute.
Nicolas barrado / DESIGNER
With a diverse background in architecture, illustration, event planning, and interior design, Nicolas brings a plethora of experience to his role as Junior Designer. He approaches each project as a blank slate and an opportunity to achieve beautiful yet timeless designs reflective of our clients' personal styles. Whether he is sourcing, creating floor plans, or rendering elevations, Nicolas brings a collaborative spirit and international perspective to BK Interior Design. Originally hailing from Argentina, Nicolas holds a Bachelor of Architecture and an MFA in Illustration.
KYLE MEIERS / MARKETING
Introducing Kyle, our dynamic marketing manager with a decade of experience in interior design. Known for his original ideas and artistic flair, Kyle brings a fun and approachable energy to our firm. With a background as a professional dancer and choreographer, his creativity extends far and wide. His global travels across five continents ignited his passion for self-expression and led him to discover the captivating world of interiors and architecture. For the past 10 years, he has delighted clients with designs that evoke surprise and delight. Now, as our marketing manager, Kyle seamlessly combines his extensive interior design expertise with his talent for storytelling.
Leo + Gemma
Leo and Gemma joined the BKID family in February 2018. These little guys love lounging on piles of fabric samples, sniffing for forgotten snacks, and cuddling under the office desks.