MP DESIGN (Remodeling Planning + Design Services)

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Introduction: 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 have been in business for over 20 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. Ceative, 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, FIDER accredited as well as a Business Degree from Switzerland which I attained prior to moving to the U.S. back in the early 90s. 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 Marin Builder's Association

Overview

Hired 4 times

Background checked

1 employee

27 years in business

Payment methods

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

Social media

Facebook, Instagram, Twitter

Featured Projects

79 photos

3 story single family home remodel
Interior Design

Reviews

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

Exceptional 5.0

11 reviews

100%

Read reviews that mention:

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

Gina J.

3 weeks ago

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!

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

Carla S.

May 13, 2022

Manuela from MP Design met me at my property and helped with the paint color selection. Before enlisting Manuela, I had polled friends and while I got recommendations on beautiful colors, the respondents didn’t have the benefit of having visited the space, having seen the light, or having more context about goals for the property. I was struggling to decide if I should keep the existing color theme or give it a whole new look. She selected a fresh new look and picked the colors (plus brand and type of sheen) for the kitchen, powder room, bath and rest of the spaces, and it turned out great! My real estate agent strongly agreed. Her choices worked out well with the existing hardwood floors and stained doors. I also really appreciated Manuela's practical and budget-oriented approach based on my stated goals. Her work was done on time based on her original estimate. I highly recommend her services to anyone and will hopefully have the opportunity to use her design services again!

MP DESIGN (Remodeling Planning + Design Services)'s reply

Thank ou so much for taking the time out of your busy schedule to review my business/services. And I am very happy to hear that you are pleased with the outcome. And thank you for recommending my business. I really appreciate it.

Sandra R.

May 13, 2022

We have used the services of MP Design for multiple projects around our house - a bathroom remodel, an addition of a room, and an addition of a guest bathroom - MPD helped us from the sketches and design, the selection of finishes, to the completion of each project in the most professional, creative and timely manner. We highly recommend MP Design!

MP DESIGN (Remodeling Planning + Design Services)'s reply

Sandra, thank you so much for your time to review my business and for the fantastic review! I really enjoyed working with you and your husband. The best compliment is always a happy customer and future referrals. All the best wishes!

Credentials

Background Check

Manuela Paparella

FAQs

What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
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. 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.
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
Step 1 in the process: Please contact me to set up an initial free phone consultation. That way I can find out more about your particular project and see how I can help you.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I received my degree in Interior Architecture + Interior Design from UC Berkeley, CA in 1997. I also hold a Business Degree which I received in Switzerland prior to moving to California. I am fluent in English, Italian, and German but can also communicate in Spanish and French.