Kitchen Designers

Marissa discovered her passion for design early on and has over a decade of work experience as a professional Interior Designer. Originally from the Midwest, she spent the majority of her career in the Pacific Northwest working on a variety of projects, ranging in scope and size, including both residential and commercial designs. 

She believes in the power that built spaces have on impacting our health and overall well-being and strives to better her client’s everyday experiences throughout their environment. She enjoys tailoring every space to the unique lifestyle, aesthetic, and needs of her clients—grounded in understanding the importance of a holistically thought-out design.

In her free time, Marissa enjoys immersing herself in the great outdoors, exploring new scenery, and diving into the newest hobby/craft she’s acquired.

Jen discovered the joy of design in high school and went on to earn her degree in architecture at Wentworth Institute of Technology in Boston. Over the course of two decades working in Maine as a drafter and estimator, she spent time with builders and clients creating beautiful homes. 

Jen took time away from her career to homeschool her children—and, after her youngest reached high school, she was able to return to her love of design. Jen discovered that kitchen design gives her the ability to blend both her creative side and engineering mind in pursuit of elegant, yet functional solutions. She loves working with both builders and homeowners to explore different styles and colors, while paying attention to the details. When not at work, Jen loves to go for walks, spend time with family, and visit Boston whenever she can.

“From drafting homes to designing the heart of the home, I love helping people create a special place that brings family + friends together, and brings them joy.” —Jen Berger

Originally from Austin, TX and a member of Team Hancock since 2022, Shelby has always been an artist. During her studies at the Maryland Institute College of Art, she was fascinated by the ways in which objects and space influence behavior. She spent years working in fabrication shops, honing her skills in metalwork, finishing and installation. She’s worked on projects ranging from enrichment design for chimpanzees to steel casework for local breweries. Outside of work, Shelby continues her art practice and spends time with friends, her partner, and her two Xoloitzcuintles.

“Being able to combine my creative skills and technical expertise to design kitchens that are both beautiful and functional is so rewarding. I love connecting with customers and making their kitchen visions become reality throughout this involved process.”

Kayla started her design career in 2022 when she was hired as a Kitchen & Bath Designer at a small retail store in her hometown of Berlin, NH. It was there that she realized how much passion she had for the profession. Kayla loves to step in at any point in the process, whether it be designing a brand-new space, remodeling, or anything in-between. She has broad product knowledge in the materials and finishes used in kitchens, baths, and other areas of the home.The love of design fuels Kayla in her ongoing effort to stay current in this constantly evolving field. Using her ability to create a space that is beautiful and functional is always the goal. Outside of work, Kayla loves to spend time with her family.

“I believe it is important to listen to my clients’ needs and wants, and to treat every project as if it were going inside my own home.”

I have been in the kitchen design industry for about six years now. I started doing kitchen design when I was in high school as a paid internship. Throughout my life, even as a young child, I knew I wanted to do something in the design industry. Getting that experience while I was young was truly life changing and gave me an exciting career to persue. The kitchen is the most special part of a home and where a lot of memories are made. Being able to be a part of that and make someone’s dreams a reality is one of my favorite things about this job. I enjoy a challenge! My experience ranges from remodels to new builds, and commercial jobs. 

Denise has been working with homeowners, contractors, and vendors for over twenty years, bringing functionality and beauty into their spaces.  Spending most of her career in the interior design world, she has extensive experience with floor planning and color scheming, including furnishings, flooring, wall color, lighting, and artwork. Searching for change, she moved into kitchen and bath design in 2020.  With her considerable background in project management, Denise enjoys the challenge of focusing on the details of each individual job that make it unique to its customer. Her ability to guide clients from design, budget expectations, and material selections to the final product and installation is a gift.

“Bringing a customer’s ideas into reality, no matter how big or small, is my greatest joy!”

For 28 years, Brian Nielsen has been in the hardware and building industry – 10 of which has been spent designing kitchens. Brian went to PRVTC (now Portland Arts) upon graduating high school and continued his education in a variety of ways, including professional photography. Brian says, “I love a challenge and the opportunity to explore all the details to produce a unique design.  My background in photography gives me a solid understanding of how light and shadows interact with cabinets, countertops, walls, and floors.  My problem-solving skills allows me to approach situations and puzzle out solutions that may otherwise be overlooked.” Brian has approached his decade-long kitchen design career with a problem-solving eye and a go-getter mentality. Outside of work, Brian is a licensed foster parent and has adopted two wonderful children, Emily and Michael. In his spare time he is a scout leader and proudly holds the title of “Popcorn Kernel,” representing three units and, most recently, BSA Pine Tree Council.