FOUNDER + PRINCIPAL

Karen L Vangsness Allen, ASID—the visionary behind Design Studio B— is an accredited interior designer and licensed remodeling contractor with a passion for reshaping the way we live. She sees beyond the cosmetic, crafting environments that inspire connection and wellbeing, and creates exceptional homes that nurture generations, celebrate traditions, and inspire a life well-lived.

Karen is a licensed contractor, professional member of ASID and is certified with NCIDQ, National Council for Interior Design Qualification.

As a graduate of North Dakota State University, she holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Interior Design and has a wide variety of experience within the design field.

Throughout her career, she has played a key role in the design and development of premier custom homes across the country but primarily focused on the diverse population relocating to Rochester, Minnesota, home of the Mayo Clinic.

Her unparalleled approach to design creates an innovative solution for each and every client.

Outside of her love for all things design, Karen spends time walking with her husband Mike around their hobby farm and collecting, rocks, feathers, and such found on those walks.

She enjoys photographing nature in general and especially stunning skies. She also enjoys riding her horse, keeping up with her daughter's high school sporting events, or visiting her son who is attending college at UW Eau Claire.

INTERIOR DESIGNER + PROJECT MANAGER

Staci Kinsley is a 2003 graduate of North Dakota State University where she received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Interior Design along with a Minor in Child Development and Family Science.

Staci's professional experience includes a diverse background in the fields of family service, residential design, and remodeling.

With her combined experience as an interior designer and project manager, Staci has the unique ability to guide your project from start to finish.

From the initial site measure through the installation of the final design detail, Staci believes that clear communication is key. While serving as the primary liaison between the client, studio, and on-site team; Staci pairs her eye for detail, strong organizational skills, and hands-on approach to promote a positive and successful remodeling experience for all included.

As a firm believer that your home’s environment inherently impacts both your mental and physical wellbeing, Staci takes great pride and care to ensure that the project’s final result is reflective of both the design intent and clients’ expectations.

Outside of the studio, Staci enjoys spending time with her husband, their two children, working on updates throughout their own home, and hosting family and friends.

INTERIOR DESIGNER

Krista has over 15 years of experience in the design industry—she’s the face you’ll meet when your project starts the design phase and the person that will hold your hand through the entire process!

She holds an Associate Kitchen and Bath Designer Certification through NKBA as well as a NCIDQ certification. As an award wining designer she has been published in Midwest Home Magazine for her work on historical home remodels. Krista has a Bachelor of science in Interior Design from South Dakota State University and works on continuing education to uphold her certifications and ensure she is on the forefront of all the new design trends, new materials and code compliances in the industry.

Her favorite part of design is defiantly space planning, working through all the options of how a space can function to meet a client’s needs is what drives her through each project.

Outside of the studio she also runs a successful photography business, is the mom to two teenage boys and loves to DIY.

When she isn’t designing or photographing she is antiquing, paddle boarding, hiking with her dogs, or fly fishing with her dad.