San Francisco-based BraytonHughes Design Studios has announced the appointment of Janea Nakagawa to serve as president. Nakagawa will succeed former president Joel Villalon, who will be stepping down from the role while remaining with the company as executive advisor. The news also coincides with the firm’s 30th anniversary. “I am grateful for the opportunity to step into presidency where I will continue the firm’s legacy of tapping into the unique strengths of our staff members to help further their careers and fuel the firm’s growth,” said Nakagawa.
The first female principal in the history of BraytonHughes, Nakagawa, who joined the studio in 2005, has demonstrated a prowess for corporate, multi-family, and residential interiors. She will oversee daily operations from firm-wide contracts to staffing and scheduling as president.
Villalon joined the practice at its inception in 1992, and went on to become a principal in 2007 before rising to president in 2014. The pair will continue to work closely together following the transition. “Janea and I have been working together very collaboratively as principals, and I am extremely proud of the success the firm has seen under this leadership. There is no doubt in my mind that BraytonHughes will continue to thrive under her presidency,” said Villalon. “Together, we’ve always tried to create a space where everyone feels respected and nurtured in their growth as designers.”
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