Hello! I’m Nicole, a designer living in Petaluma, California.

I have 16 years experience in branding and 8 years experience in human centered design. I’ve designed culturally sensitive, visually engaging brands for both niche communities and international audiences. I’ve led prototyping-forward design research across the US, Africa, and India to gather insights and test ideas. My strengths are storytelling and visualizing to make content easy to understand and fun to read.

Most of my career has been in the nonprofit sector. I have content expertise in health services, financial services, and early childhood care services. My passion lies in creating systems and experiences that make life easier and more delightful. I recently rolled off an eight year tenure at IDEO.org, and I’m looking forward to working with new people on new challenges.

To give some more context about myself as a human— I’m a plant nerd, I love the quiet joy of watching a leaf unfurl. I’m an aspirational surfer, 2 years in and getting washing machined on the regular. I’m a consumer of fantasy in all its forms, relaxing for me is an epic daydream underneath my cozy blanket. And more than anything I am the proud mama of Zaki (4) and Hena (2) who make everyday a wild ride.

Let’s work together!

“Beauty matters. It just matters. It is amazing to give the gift of beauty.” 

— Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Program Officer / former client

“Nicole's thoughtful approach and graphic design skills brought our online presence to life! It is an absolute pleasure working with her.”

— Sarah Ebner / Principal, See Arch