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NOMINATED FOR 2021 DESIGN EXCELLENCE AWARD BY DESIGN JOURNAL

WHO WE ARE

"Creating unique, quality products from an investment of emotions..."

Designer

ABOUT US

Virtuoso Interior Design Studio is a Los Angeles Based Full Interior design service firm, and the founder, Michiko Kawakami is at the top of her game with over 20 years’ experience in international five-star hospitality design. Michiko's work can be seen in the Ritz Carlton, Kyoto; Shilla hotel, Seoul; the Langham hotel, Shanghai China; City Center, Las Vegas; Grand Hyatt, Guangzhou; the W Scottsdale, Arizona; Hotel Sorella, Texas and the Conrad Hotel, New York. She established her own, Virtuoso Interior design studio in 2015 and has been servicing design consultancy for high-end residential project, small to medium size office project, and international hotel projects. Under Peter Remedios's mentoring at Remedios Studio, Michiko worked as Design Director where she developed a strong design vision and a unique sophisticated style. As Design Director, Michiko oversaw all projects in the firm, ensuring that the design concept stayed true through design execution. Michiko creates and develops the first phase of the design concept, much like telling a story both intellectually and visually. “I believe that the design concept should stand alone, visually evoking emotions and feelings without the need for words”. From the first moment a new project is initiated, she visualizes what the space should look like and communicates that vision using graphic lines, colors and compositions. Michiko believes that space is like music… the sound, rhythm and the beat come together, creating a beautiful tune and touches one’s soul. When design solutions come naturally, it gives life to the space. One of Michiko's other strengths is efficiency, both in terms of the design process and time management. All deadlines are taken seriously and the quality of work is never compromised. She believes that adhering to a schedule is critical in business. Communicating well with clients is of utmost importance, focusing on their expectations. Then, there is the creative process of translating their goals into design. Michiko believes that all these elements, coupled with proficient execution of the concept are the recipe for a successful project. One of her recently completed projects, Ritz Carlton Kyoto won Asia Hotel award for guest rooms, and the Nativo office was selected to be finalist for 2018 IIDA Medium size workplace project in Los Angeles.

TESTIMONIALS

There undoubtedly was only one individual I chose for my project to met and exceeded the bar. Michiko time after time showed me designs and layouts that completely transformed a smaller space into something amazing. Not only are her design skills excellent, but she would make sure my other teams were building towards her design with extreme precision. I ended up designing my entire interior space with her guidance as it was a new construction and I could be happier. I'd recommend Michiko to anyone who needs a designer they can trust who has the taste and listening to build a design that fits your personality while leveraging an extremely talented professional.Read More

Michiko was critical to the successful completion of our project. She completed a design that was stunning and well beyond that which I had imagined. She also solved a few critical roadblocks and challenges we were facing. I can’t thank Michiko enough for all her dedication and hard work. Our project would not have been the success it has turned out to be without her.Read More

Michiko is an incredibly kind and hard working individual. We've worked with her many times and all of the work she does is wonderful. She is highly recommended by us.Read More

I’ve had the pleasure of working w Michiko and had a wonderful experience and would highly recommend her. She has a great eye for style, high attention to detail and really pays attention to the client, their personality and vibe to create the best living environment for them.Read More

If you are reading this review, that means you have found Michiko Kawakami so consider yourself truly blessed and lucky. Michiko is not only a very experienced interior designer, she’s a true expert and passionate artist. What also comes handy is that she truly knows what is amazing and hip in every single style and era of interior design. She becomes your secret weapon with this talent because you can literally chat with her about any of your visions and fantasies and she understands how to bring that to life. Interior design is not easy. I’m a person who loves homes and beautifully decorated rooms but when it came down to figuring out what I wanted to do with my place I found myself having too many thoughts with no certain directions. Many people will end up in that position because in the world of decor there is just so many cool things out there....you will just want to have them all. :) I love my place so much. Michiko has made my world so beautiful, so functional and comfortable. Every day I am grateful to be around all the personalized details that she has made for me. Everyone that comes over to my place has to take a minute to take their jaws off the floor because they are so amazed by the way it is put together. During the designing process Michiko is so professional and organized it will make your mind at ease because remodeling can get so hectic. Last but not least, Michiko Kawakami is the sweetest, trustworthy and kindest person ! She will light up the room with her amazingly positive energy ~ I am forever thankful for her. Love, Amanda K.Read More

AWARDS & AFFILIATIONS

Best of Houzz 2024 - Client Satisfaction
Best of Houzz 2023 - Design
Best of Houzz 2023 - Client Satisfaction
Best of Houzz 2022 - Design
Best of Houzz 2022 - Client Satisfaction
Best of Houzz 2021 - Design
Best of Houzz 2020 - Design
Best of Houzz 2019 - Design
Best of Houzz 2018 - Design
Best of Houzz 2017 - Client Satisfaction
Houzz Pro Software User
Star Houzzer
Recommended on Houzz
1,000 Ideabook Saves
IIDA Japan Chapter
IIDA Illinois Chapter