Hospitality designer Karen Herold, formerly of Chicago-based 555 International, has opened her own firm, Studio K.
Herold has partnered with longtime friend Kim Nawara, who will manage financial and operational aspects of Studio K, while Herold will focus on design. Prior to opening the firm, Nawara directed design operations at 555, a position that complimented her background in culinary operations and general contracting. 

“Each project is personal,” Herold says. “I approach every client as a friend. I spend time with them to fully see their vision, so that I can translate each space into a design experience that expresses the message that they are trying to convey.”
The Studio K team already has a lineup of projects, including Chicago’s GT Prime, a new steakhouse concept with chef Giuseppe Tentori. The firm is also completing Core Campus’ Hub projects across the country, redefining the student housing experience with refined layouts and design features customized for each location. Drawing on this experience, Studio K will also begin work on its first hostel, Urban Holiday, in Chicago. Nationwide, the firm is expanding with projects that include a mountainside restaurant in Aspen with restaurateur and chef David Burke, among others.
