8 things that inspire my work as a designer
I’m Anna — an artist, surfer, solo traveler, and dedicated brand designer.
When I started my design studio, I knew I wanted to build something more than just a business—I wanted to create meaningful work rooted in who I am and what I love. Perhaps it’s because creativity feels like an expression of the soul that the lines between my work and my passions are often blurred…but over time, I’ve found that the most fulfilling projects come from staying true to the values that shape my perspective in life. These eight elements define not just my design approach, but the inspiration behind my professional goals.
1. Integrity & Authenticity
I believe design should feel genuine. That’s why I always strive to capture the true essence of the brands I work with—not just what looks good, but what feels real. I approach each project with curiosity and care, taking the time to understand your story and express it through visuals that are genuine, intentional, and aligned with your values. I approach life & work as my true self, and I love surrounding myself with others who care to do the same.
2. Coastal Origins
I grew up by the beach in Wilmington, North Carolina and fell in love with surfing in my twenties. I’ve been returning to the ocean in body and mind ever since—and those salty memories continue to influence my work. There’s a calm, effortless rhythm to coastal life that inspires the flow of my designs. From organic textures to sun-washed palettes, that coastal feeling is woven into my creative process (and keeps me connected to home).
3. Appreciation for Nature
Nature is where I feel the most grounded—it has a raw, unpretentious beauty that restores my mind and points to something greater. That same mindfulness shapes my design approach. I’m inspired by hand-drawn forms, natural textures, earthy tones, and the quiet details found in the outdoors—all of which bring a sense of organic elegance and harmony to the brands I create.
4. Travel & Adventure
Travel has shaped both my personal journey and my creative pursuits. I’ve solo traveled to Australia, New Zealand, and Iceland, and I seek out exciting adventures everywhere I go. Living in faraway places like Byron Bay and exploring new landscapes across the U.S. has taught me to stay open-minded, independent, and bold. Even when I’m close to home, I’m still eager to create memories through surfing, rock climbing, hiking, or camping. Every experience brings a sense of gratitude and wonder—and those moments of inspiration fuel my curiosity for new ideas and perspectives in my design work.
5. Art & Culture
Sometimes a girl just needs a day to get lost in an art museum. It’s my favorite thing to do when I’m visiting a new city, and it’s also the world that led me to design in the first place. I’ve been creating visual art with various traditional mediums from a young age, and this background echoes in my hand-drawn logo designs and illustrations. I’m also inspired by the way art challenges us to explore ideas beyond the surface—capturing emotion, culture, and symbolism through abstract, sometimes unexpected ways. Whether through creative storytelling or subtle visual metaphors, I aim to create brand identities that feel rich with meaning and originality.
6. Handcrafted Details
I’ve always been someone with an eye for the little things. Precise craftsmanship isn’t just about making something look good—it’s a reflection of something deeper. I believe the smallest details can tell a powerful story. Alignment, spacing, texture, type—as a designer, I make careful decisions about these elements, knowing they add up to make a brand feel polished, thoughtful, and trustworthy. If it’s not intentional, it’s something I can’t ignore.
7. Minimalist Luxury
I’m drawn to a kind of natural, effortless aesthetic—design that’s clean, refined, and timeless. When done well, minimalist design allows the brand’s message to speak with strength and confidence—no extra noise, just the essentials. The luxury brands that I collaborate with value this attention to craft, clarity, and space. I focus on creating work that balances refined simplicity with purposeful detail, resulting in visuals that feel both elevated and approachable.
8. Intentionality & Depth
Like coffee and a catch-up with a close friend, my design process is never rushed or surface-level. Through collaborative conversations and honest feedback, I take time to understand the story and goals behind a brand before shaping a visual direction. That depth, clarity, and trust creates a foundation that guides the evolution of the design at every step.
In Closing
These eight pillars are more than just inspiration—they’re a reflection of how I live, work, and create. They guide me in designing brands that feel authentic, soulful, and deeply connected to their purpose. If these values resonate with you, I’d love to connect and see how we can bring your vision to life.
-Anna
