Headquartered in Chicago, with projects spanning both residential and commercial spaces across the city and suburbs, the team has built lasting trust with a distinguished clientele, ranging from entrepreneurs, executives, developers, and private families.
Their portfolio includes everything from Gold Coast penthouses, Lincoln Park brownstones, and weekend retreats for the family to boutique spas and large-scale rental complexes. Known for their meticulous standards and seamless execution, Studio MAK is widely recognized for its comprehensive, full-service approach to design.
Studio MAK is a team of innovative creatives, but above all, they are savvy business professionals with a deep understanding of designing projects that deliver a strong ROI. The three partners bring a wealth of expertise to each client and project, drawing from their diverse backgrounds in billion-dollar commercial real estate, high fashion + branding, and the financial strategy of an established CPA from a Big Four firm.
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Founder | Lead DesignerMarina Zelenkova, Co-Founder and COO of Studio MAK seamlessly blends her passion for design, fashion, and real estate. With a background as an international model, having lived in LA, Paris, and Moscow, she infuses a global, trend-forward perspective into her work. Marina's extensive background in billion-dollar commercial real estate development is a key asset, allowing her to approach interior design with a strategic, detailed, and results-oriented mindset.
Outside of Studio MAK, Marina and her husband are savvy real estate investors, specializing in multifamily properties. On weekends, you’ll find her spending time with family, shopping, trying out Chicago’s newest restaurants, or enjoying moments with friends and her mini-me.
FOUNDER | Lead Designer
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Founder | Lead DesignerAshley Manchester, Co-Founder and CMO at Studio MAK, has always been captivated by the realm of design. Renowned for her expertise in style and home aesthetics, she fulfills the role of the firm's in-house authority on all matters relating to entertainment, art, culture, and fashion. With nearly a decade of experience as a Creative Executive collaborating with leading developers to market cutting-edge properties, Ashley has honed her talent for translating a client's vision into reality. Ashley approaches projects with a dynamic and open-minded perspective, leveraging her keen understanding and creative insight to exceed client expectations.
When she's not immersed in fabric selections, Ashley enjoys exploring new culinary delights at local eateries or experimenting with innovative dishes in her own kitchen, while her husband cultivates the latest libations.
FOUNDER | Lead Designer
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Bio coming soon
Studio Support
Design Coordinator
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Founder | Lead Designer
Kimberly Kappleman, Co-Founder and CFO at Studio MAK, is known for her meticulous attention to detail and her strong background in finance, having started her career at a Big Four public accounting firm. She brings a level of corporate professionalism to the firm that deeply resonates with clients. With extensive experience in real estate, Kim has renovated and flipped over 30 properties and recently completed 3 custom home development projects in Tampa. Kim and her husband are also avid real estate investors, co-owning and managing 40 rental units.In her free time, Kimberly can be found attending her kids' sporting events, traveling with her family, and discovering new destinations. She is also an avid horseback rider, often spending time at the stable, unwinding, and connecting with nature.
FOUNDER | Lead Designer
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Bio coming soon
Technical Designer