Inspiring Conversations with Gabriella Mendoza of Mavis Design LLC

Today we’d like to introduce you to Gabriella Mendoza.

Hi Gabriella, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I grew up around paintbrushes and renovation projects. My family owned a house painting business, so from an early age, I was immersed in the world of color, materials, and home improvement. Those early experiences sparked my love of design and the feeling that a home could be transformed into something beautiful and personal.

Over time, that spark turned into a calling. I worked in several roles—painting, retail management, and color consulting—before deciding to pursue formal education in interior design. I earned my AAS in Interior Architecture and Design as well as a certificate in Kitchen and Bath Design. Those years were incredibly formative, not just because of what I learned technically, but because they solidified my belief that good design is about listening deeply to people’s needs and dreams.

After graduating, I launched Mavis Design to help homeowners reimagine their kitchens and baths, spaces that are truly the heart of the home. What started as a solo venture grew organically through word of mouth, referrals, and a genuine commitment to service. Early on, I was honored to receive recognition from my local NKBA (National Kitchen and Bath Association) chapter, including a first-place award in kitchen design. That experience was such a meaningful confidence boost and helped me trust my instincts as a designer and business owner.

To me, design isn’t about simply recreating a Pinterest board. It’s about developing spaces that feel timeless, functional, and harmonious—places that reflect who my clients are and make everyday living more beautiful and effortless. Today, I’m proud to say I’ve helped dozens of homeowners create spaces that feel like an investment in their happiness and well-being.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely hasn’t been a completely smooth road, and I don’t think it is for most small business owners. Starting out, I had to learn how to balance the creative side of design with all the demands of running a business—things like marketing, finances, contracts, and client communication. Those are skills you don’t always realize you’ll need when you first imagine launching your own firm.

Another important part of my journey was figuring out exactly what kind of designer and business owner I wanted to be. Over the years, I’ve seen firsthand that not everyone in this industry operates with the same level of integrity or care for their clients. There are plenty of companies that sell poor-quality products at high markups or overpromise and underdeliver. From early on, I knew I wanted to build a brand based on honesty, transparency, and genuine value.

That meant taking time to define my own standards—only recommending products I believe in, being upfront about budgets and timelines, and making sure clients feel informed and respected every step of the way. It also meant learning to trust my instincts rather than feeling pressured to follow trends or do things the way everyone else was doing them.

There were also practical challenges, like navigating supply chain delays and rising material costs, especially in recent years. Those experiences taught me to be resourceful and proactive in finding solutions and communicating openly.

Even with all the ups and downs, every challenge has helped me grow not just as a designer but as a person and a business owner. I’m grateful for that process because it’s shaped a business I’m truly proud of.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Mavis Design is an interior design studio based in Colorado specializing in kitchen and bath design for homeowners who are ready to invest in spaces that feel both timeless and personal. I believe the kitchen and bathroom are two of the most important rooms in any home—they’re where daily life unfolds, so they deserve thoughtful planning, great functionality, and beautiful details that reflect who you are.

What sets my business apart is the level of care, transparency, and integrity I bring to every project. I don’t believe in cookie-cutter solutions or just copying the latest trends. Instead, I focus on helping clients make confident choices that will stand the test of time, fit their lifestyle, and feel like an authentic expression of their taste.

I’m proud that Mavis Design has built a reputation for clear communication and a collaborative approach. I guide clients through every phase, from big-picture planning and layout design down to the smaller finish selections that make a space feel complete. Whether it’s a full remodel or a more focused consultation, I’m there as a steady, experienced partner to help make the process less overwhelming and more rewarding.

I also work closely with a network of talented industry partners—including trusted vendors, local showrooms, and skilled general contractors—who all share the same commitment to quality and professionalism. Having these relationships means my clients benefit from vetted resources and a team that truly cares about delivering excellent results.

I see being a designer as much more than creating a pretty space—it’s about being an advocate for my clients. That means helping them make informed decisions, protecting their investment, and ensuring they feel supported and empowered throughout the process. My role is to look out for their best interests, from the initial ideas to the final details.

If there’s one thing I’d love readers to know, it’s that great design doesn’t have to be intimidating. My goal is to make the experience approachable and enjoyable while creating spaces that feel like an investment in your well-being and daily life.

How do you think about happiness?
I feel happiest when I’m creating something that has a positive impact on someone’s life. There’s something incredibly fulfilling about taking an idea or a vision and turning it into a space that feels just right for the people who live there. Seeing a client walk into their finished kitchen or bathroom for the first time—watching their face light up—is one of the best feelings in the world.

As a creative person, I also enjoy having lots of outlets outside of work. Whether it’s cooking, painting, or working on a personal project, I love anything that lets me explore new ideas and express myself. Fitness is another big source of joy for me—it helps me stay grounded and clear-headed, especially during busy seasons.

Beyond that, I find a lot of happiness in simple things: spending time with people I care about, getting out in nature, or exploring local shops and restaurants. I think a lot of joy comes from slowing down and really appreciating those everyday moments.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.mavisdesign.net
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mavisdesign_2019/
• Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/mavisdesignllc/
• Other: [email protected]

Image Credits
Headshot: Professional Storytelling