1. No results to show.
  1. No results to show.

MP DESIGN (Remodeling Planning + Design Services)

Contact for price

Sorry this pro can’t do your job, but we know other pros who can. Check them out
About
Discount: offered for large projects such as full home remodeling projects! Hi, I'm Manuela and I operate a small woman owned full-service design studio: MP DESIGN. I specialize in remodels, from full house projects down to a tiny Powder Room redo, to custom built-in cabinetry design to paint color consultations and assistance with furniture selection. I'm also a Certified Aging-in Place Specialist (CAPS NAHB). I'm in the process of obtaining my Nevada State Registration in August 2025. I have been in business for over 25 years. I am very experienced with planning and designing remodels in the SF Bay Area. Relocated to North Lake Tahoe in November 2023 and taking on local projects/clients. Creative, resourceful and with working relationships with structural engineers, contractors, cabinet makers, showrooms, etc. I strive to provide not only well thought through functional designs but also creative and visually pleasing spaces which blend with the existing architecture. I practices a holistic design/remodeling philosophy. My approach is to take all project aspects in consideration. This includes use of space, furniture layout, budget, value engineering, timing, resale value, etc. I walk you through the process, explaining pros and cons along the way, answering questions while keeping your goals and budget in mind. I hold an Interior Architecture + Interior Design Degree from UC Berkeley, CIDA accredited as well as a Business Degree from Switzerland which I attained prior to moving to the U.S. back in the early 90s. Please note that I am not a registered Architect. However, in CA an unlicensed architect or designer can design new single family dwellings of conventional wood frame construction not more than two stories and basement in height. Featured on the HGTV show "BANG FOR THE BUCK": One of my Master Bath designs was featured on the HGTV Bang for the Buck TV show for which it won the challenge. Step 1 in the process: Please contact me to set up an initial free phone consultation. Fee structure: I bill both by the hour or by the project, depending on the scope of your project. Remodels are typically billed on an hourly basis. Decorating projects and paint color consultations are oftentimes billed on a project basis. Also, like most professionals in my trade, I do charge for travel time but only half of my hourly rate. Time is a very valuable commodity for everybody. Member of the North Tahoe Business Alliance/Chamber of Commerce and Marin Builder's Association
Overview

Hired 5 times

Background checked

1 employee

28 years in business

Business hours

Sun9:00 am - 12:00 pmMon8:00 am - 8:00 pm

Payment methods

This pro accepts payments via Cash, Check, Venmo, and Zelle.

Social media

Facebook, Instagram, Twitter

Services offered
Project type description

Remodel of a few rooms

Complete remodel

Professional services needed

Project consultation

Design drawings

Construction documents (blueprints)

Construction administration

Property type

Residential

Projects and media
Projects and media
Reviews

Customers rated this pro highly for professionalism, responsiveness, and work quality.

Exceptional 5.0

12 reviews

5

100%

4

0%

3

0%

2

0%

1

0%

Read reviews that mention:


pro avatar
Karen s.

Aug 11, 2025

I worked with MP Design to remodel a vacation condo into a full time home. It was the first time in my life working with a designer and working with MP Design was really nice...she is patient, kind, understanding but most importantly...attentive. In other words, she really listened to what I wanted and most importantly understood our financial constraints and our project budget. We talked about remodeling this condo for years but MP Designs really helped motivate me to move forward and get the project going. She found multiple contractors for us to evaluate and helped the contractors understand the RFP in addition to drafting the the RFP. In addition to listening....she was more than willing to give me her opinion even when it was different from my own. She really pushed back on me with regard to design issues and I am glad she did because I listened to her and it made the project better! The project is complete and we are over the moon with the results.
MP DESIGN (Remodeling Planning + Design Services)'s reply
Karen, thank you sincerely for taking the time to share your generous review—especially given your busy schedule. It was a true pleasure collaborating with you and Kevin throughout your remodeling project. I'm so pleased to hear that you're very happy with the outcome and enjoying your beautifully refreshed home. Your enthusiasm means the world, and I'm grateful to have been part of the transformation.
pro avatar
Robby C.

May 24, 2022

Hired on Thumbtack

I was considering a condo remodel and I’m experienced working with architects/contractors on bigger projects. This being a custom project, I sought out a few people on thumbtack and Manuela of MP Design was by far the best in terms of professionalism and follow through. I had 2 long phone conversations with her and she gave me very valuable insight information on how to proceed with my condo remodel regarding design, construction cost and permitting. In the end and based on the solid input from Manuela, I decided not to move forward with any remodeling besides a new coat of paint and a new carpet. But should the need for another remodel arise, she’ll be my first call.. just a very good vibe right from the start.

Details: Project consultation • Design drawings • Construction administration • Contractor selection assistance • Remodel of a few rooms • Residential • 500 - 1,000 sq ft

MP DESIGN (Remodeling Planning + Design Services)'s reply
Rob, thank for your reviewing my services even though the remodeling project was essentially cancelled in the end. I was glad to have been able to provide you with valuable information and tips on how to best handle your particular situation. I'd be happy to work with you if the need should arise. Best of luck!
Architectural Services
pro avatar
Suzanne n.

Jun 13, 2023

Hired on Thumbtack

It was a pleasure meeting Manuela and having her work on the plans for my new guest bath. Not only was the space challenging, but my budget as well. Manuela was able to deliver prompt, professional and friendly service in getting plans completed to help me achieve my remodel plans. I welcome working with her again on future projects and would recommend her to anyone looking to remodel/build/improve their existing spaces.

Details: Design drawings • Project consultation • Remodel of a few rooms • Residential • Less than 500 sq ft

MP DESIGN (Remodeling Planning + Design Services)'s reply
Suzanne, thank you so much for the fantastic review. I very much enjoyed working with you as well even though it was only briefly. I very much look forward working with you again in the near future. All the best wishes with the bathroom remodel.
Architectural Services
pro avatar
Gina J.

Apr 25, 2024

We were interested in remodeling our downstairs garage in order to create some additional living space in our home and contacted Manuela to have her draw up a plan for the downstairs. Manuela is a talented designer with a good imagination for how a space should look and function. We were impressed with her level of knowledge, not only in the field of design, but in working with the city planning department. Manuela worked with us and our contractor to develop an excellent floor plan to create a space that is more inhabitable, functional, and frankly quite beautiful. We are very happy with the final result.
MP DESIGN (Remodeling Planning + Design Services)'s reply
Dear Gina and Bob, it was a pleasure to work with you to transform your garage area into the much needed living space and with the added bathroom and laundry room. I love how it turned out and it truly makes my day to know that you are thrilled and happy with your new space. Thank you again for taking the time to review my services/business and for letting me assist you. All the best wishes!
pro avatar
Greta M.

Oct 8, 2022

We hired Manuela to work on plans for our renovation and she has done an amazing job. She is very knowledgable when it comes to building design and codes, and she is super on top of things! It is very easy to communicate with Manuela and she always understands exactly what I need. We like her so much we decided to hire her for another project too! We give Manuela our highest recommendations!
MP DESIGN (Remodeling Planning + Design Services)'s reply
Greta, thank you so much for the terrific review and recommendation. And for taking the time out of your very busy schedule to write it. I've been enjoying working with you as well. Hopefully, the permitting will be moving along quickly and we can get the contractor in there to start the renovation asap.
Credentials
Background Check

Manuela Paparella

  • Loading