Team

Karly discovered her passion for design at a young age, spending her childhood reimagining spaces and drawing inspiration from watching HGTV. She pursued her dream by earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Interior Architecture from Marywood University, where she also had the opportunity to study abroad in Florence, Italy. Her design approach focuses on creating spaces that are not only beautiful but deeply personal and functional for her clients. For Karly, the greatest reward is seeing the joy on clients’ faces when their vision comes to life in a space they’ll love and enjoy every day.

Mashal earned her undergraduate degree in Interior Design from the prestigious Indus Valley School of Art and Architecture in Pakistan. Before moving to the U.S., she gained experience in residential and commercial design. Inspired by the heritage and colonial architecture of her hometown, Karachi, she finds beauty in imperfections—a perspective she brings to every project. For Mashal, design is about turning flaws into visually striking, functional spaces that tell meaningful and inspiring stories.

Interior design has always been Erin’s lifelong passion, and now, as a graduate with a degree in Interior Design from Kean University, she’s excited to begin her professional journey. Drawn to residential design for its personal connection with clients, Erin creates spaces that reflect each individual’s unique personality and needs. She believes great design blends creativity with functionality, transforming homes into both beautiful and practical environments. Erin is dedicated to crafting thoughtful, personalized interiors that feel like home, and she looks forward to growing as a designer with every new project.

Every successful business requires strong leadership to run smoothly, and for UA Designs, that leader is Deana O’Donnell. As the Director of Operations and the longest-serving full-time employee, Deana is essential in organizing and guiding the creative team. Since joining UA Designs in 2016, she has provided structure and stability during its early growth, leveraging her ten years of experience in administration and as a legal secretary. Her skill in establishing effective systems and handling the team’s fast-paced challenges is key to the company’s success. Outside of work, Deana enjoys hiking, yoga, baking, and cooking. Her ideal vacation involves relaxing with a book on the beach. She is married to her high school sweetheart, and they have four children and two grandchildren.

Rachel is a valued member of the operations team, passionate about people, organization, and supporting others to ensure everything runs smoothly. With prior experience in marketing and operations at an interior design firm in Charlotte, NC, she brings a keen eye for detail and a drive for efficiency to her role. In addition to her professional expertise, Rachel is also a social worker, dedicated to helping others and making meaningful connections. She finds joy in hiking, baking, and traveling, always seeking out new experiences. For Rachel, interior design goes beyond aesthetics; it’s about storytelling, with each space reflecting the unique journey of its owner while creating a setting for new memories to unfold.

Paul became a part of the UA Designs team in 2021, bringing with him a deep appreciation for the creative journey from concept to completion. He finds genuine fulfillment in watching the design process unfold; starting with on-site measurements, progressing through detailed renderings, and culminating in a beautifully realized space. For Paul, there's nothing more rewarding than seeing a design come to life, knowing it will serve as the backdrop for a family’s most cherished memories. Certified in AutoCAD by the New York Institute of Art and Design, Paul combines technical expertise with a lifelong passion for art and a sharp eye for detail. His thoughtful, methodical approach plays a key role in ensuring a seamless transition from the design phase to project execution, making him an invaluable asset to the team.

Each business needs an office wrangler, and that’s where Diana comes in for UA. The self-proclaimed printer whisperer and storage room tamer, Diana keeps the office running for a team of more than a dozen employees. Diana has been with UA since late 2021 and feeds off the creativity and organizational structure. The process of seeing a simple drawing become a designed living space has fueled her excitement to be part of the company. When not keeping UA’s office in order, Diana is spending time with her husband and four daughters and their families, including four grandchildren.