OUR
STUDIO
We cultivate an environment of collaboration within our team and understand we each have a unique point of view but with a common goal of thoughtfully designed projects.
STEPHANIE HANDLEY
It would have to start with waking up after about 12 hours of sleep ( just kidding, who has time for sleep!). So assuming I’m well rested when I wake up, the perfect Saturday morning would start with an extra large cup of coffee followed by spending the morning digging in my flower and vegetable garden. After sufficiently getting enough dirt under my fingernails, I would then have MORE coffee, and then go float in the pool. For hours. With friends.
WHAT'S YOUR PERFECT SATURDAY MORNING?
Basically, I want to love to walk into my home at the end of the day. For me, I want to feel immediately comfortable and casual, but with a few unexpected details. No room ever feels quite right in my home until it has its mix of elegant and thoughtful pieces juxtaposed with a quirky piece of art, or something I have found outside that I have turned into an accessory.
How would you describe your personal design style?
As cliche as this sounds, I really am most inspired by nature! I love seeing new color palettes everywhere I look. I spend most of my free time in my backyard garden, and the fresh veggies and flowers (peonies are a personal fave!) never cease being an inspiration to me.
WHAT INSPIRES YOU AS A DESIGNER?
Stephanie graduated with a bachelors of Fine Arts from O’More College of Architecture & Design in 2008. Since then, Stephanie has done every conceivable type of design one can do (that’s an exaggeration obviously, but seriously, ask her about all the jobs she’s had- she has excellent stories) but residential design is her calling.
Principal Interior Designer + Owner
STEPHANIE HANDLEY
rylee martin
Rylee graduated from the University of TN at Chattanooga in 2015. She spent six years working in the tile industry but was eager to learn more about interior design, which ultimately led her to joining Studio36. In her spare time, you can find her spending time with her family, going to a concert, or catching up on the latest Netflix binge.
interior designer
Rylee martin
Jersey Mike’s Turkey & Provolone Sandwich, Mike’s Way or no way. And don’t forget pickles and banana peppers!
If you could only eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Don’t wait for the perfect time to start something. There’s beauty in showing up and seeing what will grow from hard work and trusting the process.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever gotten at work?
I think I fall somewhere between traditional and modern- personally, I love a warm, neutral pallet with small pops of color. I want my home to always feel light and comfortable!
how would you describe your personal design style?
elloa mathis
Elloa grew up in Minnesota, then went south to Liberty University in Virginia for college, where she graduated in 2023. She moved to Nashville after graduation and absolutely loves it here. Elloa is always on the move, whether that's going for a long walk outside, thrifting, seeing a concert, or exploring a new city over the weekend!.
Junior designer & social media coordinator
Elloa Mathis
Dolly Parton! I have always loved her, & I think she would be the most fun client to work with. Who wouldn't want to add a little sparkle to their space?!
If you could design a dream space for anyone, living or historical, who would it be?
My personal style is very eclectic! I love a contemporary feel with touches of French country & a few vintage pieces thrown in the mix. I adore a space where each piece has a story, making it immediately feel homey & inviting when you walk in.
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONAL DESIGN STYLE?
I would love to one day skydive or paraglide over the Swiss alps!
What's the most random item on your bucket list?
paige stricker
Paige grew up in the home building industry, which is where her love for interior design and architecture really took off. After graduating from the University of Alabama with a degree in Interior Design in 2025, Paige moved to Nashville and has been loving it ever since. Outside of work, she's typically with her golden retriever, Millie, adventuring with friends, or trying to find the best coffee in town.
junior designer
Paige stricker
I could easily do a 10-minute presentation on why golden retrievers would be terrible at corporate jobs but make a great camp counselor.
What’s one completely random thing you could give a 10-minute presentation on with zero prep?
I’d say my design style is a bit of an assorted mix. I tend to lean towards warm wood tones and neutral palettes, but I love adding in a fun fabric or a striking light fixture for contrast. I find that layering different textures and finishes is what really pulls a space together and makes it feel welcoming and elevated.
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONAL DESIGN STYLE?
I’d design my dream space in the mountains of Wyoming, somewhere like Jackson Hole. I love being surrounded by nature and having incredible views right outside. It would be the perfect escape, and I’d have fun designing a house with a style that’s different from what I usually get to do!
If you could design your dream space anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
christa collins
Christa grew up in Tennessee and has always had a passion for creativity, design, and making spaces feel both beautiful and welcoming. She is excited to be part of the Studio 36 team and continue growing in the interior design world. Outside of design, Christa is also an abstract artist and loves using painting and sculpting as creative outlets. She loves anything that feels inspiring and creative — whether that’s exploring local coffee shops, vintage thrift and furniture stores, gallery hopping, or spending time with friends and family.
OFFICE MANAGER
christa collins
