Maria Tenaglia

A Visionary from Concept to Creation

Armed with an Architecture degree from UC Berkeley, Maria Tenaglia embarked on her professional journey by shaping retail and restaurant spaces, both domestically and internationally. Notably, she excelled as a Senior Designer at Hambrecht Terrell International, immersing herself in their New York, London, and Los Angeles offices. Maria further refined her skills as a Senior Designer for Pat Kuleto Restaurants, showcasing her remarkable versatility.

Her influence extended to the heart of the San Francisco Bay Area, where she seamlessly integrated her expertise with the region's distinctive charm. With over 26 years since the inception of her own firm, Maria has been unwavering in delivering comprehensive interior design services, with a primary focus on refined residential projects.

Maria's portfolio transcends convention, encompassing styles from the timeless to the avant-garde.

Within each project, the meticulous fusion of countless, finely-tuned elements stands as a testament to MTD's unwavering dedication. Notably, Maria's masterful use of color breathes vibrant life into spaces as unique as her clientele, her adaptability allowing her to excel across diverse design aesthetics.

 
 

Fuelled by unyielding passion, Maria remains engaged in the creative process. Her relentless pursuit of growth infuses her work with a fresh, contemporary twist even within the realm of tradition. Conversely, her contemporary designs radiate classic harmony and bespoke artisanship, a reflection of her perpetual evolution.

However, what truly sets Maria apart is her capability to conceive and complete projects from their nascent design concepts all the way to their final adornments.

From sketches that capture the essence of a vision to the execution of intricate details, Maria orchestrates the entirety of the process. She crafts custom cabinetry, refines millwork, devises intricate trim packages, designs doors, ceilings, and floor finish details, and meticulously plans lighting and ceiling layouts. Her expertise extends to material and finishes selection, including the creation of stone fabrications and metal details. Even tile layouts are a canvas she deftly navigates. And beyond the architectural nuances, Maria’s touch extends to furnishings and decorating, seamlessly tying together a narrative that embodies her clients' desires.

With Maria, a design journey transforms into a harmonious symphony—each note meticulously composed and executed, culminating in spaces that are as captivating as they are functional. Her extensive experience, coupled with her creative finesse, empowers her to craft dynamic and lasting environments. Each space she envisions possesses a distinctive visual cadence, enveloping inhabitants in its rhythmic embrace. Notably leaving an indelible mark in the San Francisco Bay Area, Maria Tenaglia continues to weave captivating narratives through her comprehensive design journey.


Cheryl Ryner

Cheryl Ryner, the Managing Principal and Senior Designer at Maria Tenaglia Design, boasts a rich 17-year tenure within the Interior Design realm. Her academic journey began with a major in Journalism at San Diego State, yet her true passion for design emerged as the driving force in her career. Joining the MTD team in 2016, Cheryl's growth has been marked by an exceptional mastery of Project Management and Accounting, solidifying her position as a linchpin of our operations.

Cheryl's contributions span a diverse spectrum. Her skills extend beyond the obvious design sphere, as she expertly navigates all aspects of our projects. From the simplest to the most intricately customized furnishings, Cheryl orchestrates and executes orders with precision. She holds the reins over ongoing projects at various stages of progression, diligently overseeing the journey from initial Design Development to the ultimate Installation. A cornerstone of her success lies in the invaluable relationships she's forged with our vendors and skilled tradespeople, a testament to her influence in our industry.

 
 
 
 

In her capacity as both a diligent curator and a tech-savvy explorer, Cheryl's capabilities are truly versatile. Her prowess shines as she seamlessly navigates showrooms and online platforms, meticulously selecting accessories, furniture, lighting, textiles, and wallcoverings spanning a multitude of styles. Her adeptness transcends project specifications, breathing life into any design vision.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Cheryl's aptitude in nurturing client relationships is exceptional. Her poise and professionalism seamlessly meld with a warm and gracious demeanor, forming connections that stand the test of time.

As a Managing Principal and Senior Designer, Cheryl Ryner holds a pivotal role within Maria Tenaglia Design. Her invaluable contributions, ranging from the intricacies of design to the intricacies of business, ensure the firm's continued success and growth.


Amy Perry

Eighteen years ago, Amy Perry embarked on her educational journey at the New England Institute of Technology, culminating in the attainment of her Bachelor of Science Degree in Architectural/Building Engineering Technology in 2009. She stands as an adept practitioner in the realm of design software, boasting mastery in AutoCAD 2024 for both 2D and 3D design, SolidWorks, 3D Max, 3D Viz, SketchUp, Adobe suite, and Bluebeam.

Her prowess in the field of education is noteworthy. Amy has served as an AutoCAD Instructor at the Silicon Valley Polytechnic Institute in San Jose, CA, and as an Adjunct Instructor at ITT Technical Institute in Concord, CA. This speaks volumes of her commitment to not only her own growth but also to the cultivation of budding design talents.

 
 
 
 
 
 

Joining Maria Tenaglia Design in 2017, Amy assumed the role of Senior CAD Technician, notably contributing to the realization of our expansive new build projects. Her responsibilities span the spectrum of our design process, from meticulous site measurements to the production of intricate CAD drawings. This encompasses an array of elements, ranging from plans, building sections, and elevations, to interior sections, millwork, trim details, furniture layouts, and specialized custom designs in wood, stone, and metal. Amy's exceptional skills extend to bringing these designs to life through captivating colored renderings.

Her versatility shines, as she adeptly juggles multiple projects of diverse styles, all while consistently meeting deadlines. Amy's "Can Do" attitude, coupled with her remarkable skill set, has rendered her an indispensable asset to our firm. Her passion for design, dedication to excellence, and unwavering commitment to the craft continue to elevate both her and the projects she's involved in.


Elsie Judy

Meet Elsie Judy, the newest addition to Maria Tenaglia Design! Elsie holds a Bachelor of Arts in Interior Design from California State University, Fresno, and has completed a Council of Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA) program. She undertakes design projects from concept to completion, creating sketches, computer-generated renderings, and develops mood and concept boards. She is skilled in reading blueprints, managing installations, and making critical decisions on material and product sourcing.

 
 
 
 

Elsie monitors project schedules and oversees timelines and deadlines. Her design prowess includes sourcing furnishings, and guiding custom furniture and millwork execution. She actively participates in client presentations, and provides design input throughout the creative process.

With a keen eye for detail, Elsie tracks task completion, manages orders, schedules client appointments, and maintains comprehensive catalogues of materials, vendors, and contractors. Her role extends to assisting in creating specification packages, and gathering pricing and lead times for furnishings, fixtures, and materials.

Elsie's multifaceted skills and commitment to excellence make her an invaluable asset to the Maria Tenaglia Design team.


Firm Capabilities

  • Interior Design, Decoration and Project Management for new and refurbished Residential and Commercial projects

  • Interior Architectural Construction Documentation including Cabinetry  and Millwork Design

  • Project Budget and Scheduling Work prior to Design Development

  • Project Management from Schematics thru Construction

  • Kitchen and Bath Design

  • Finishes, Materials, Lighting, Fixtures and Fittings Selection and   Specification

  • Selection, Purchase and Tracking of Furniture and Furnishings   

  • Custom Furniture, Furnishings and Lighting Design 

  • Art and Accessory Consultation and Staging


Collaborators

Architects and Landscape Architects:
Butler + Armsden Architect, San Francisco, CA                   
Bennett Christopherson Architect, Oakland, CA
David Thorne Landscape Architect, EHDD, San Francisco, CA
Ground Studio, Monterey, CA
Hertel Architects, Lafayette, CA
Jeff George Landscape Architecture & Design, San Rafael, CA
Justin Pauly Architects, Monterey, CA
Patrick Houck Landscape Design, San Rafael, CA
Poss Architecture and Planning, Aspen, CO
Suzman + Cole Design Associates, San Francisco, CA
Richard Camp Landscape Architecture, Aspen, CO

General Contractors:
Blue Zone Builders, San Leandro
Branagh Custom Homes, Lafayette, CA
John Olson Builder, Inc.  Aspen, CO
Nick Ozier Construction, Oakland, CA
Richard Frye, Monterey, CA
Red Horse Construction, San Rafael, CA
Remick and Associates, San Francisco, CA
Richard Minna, Aspen, Co
Steen Construction, Concord, California
Stocker & Allaire, Monterey, CA.
Zcon Builders, Oakland, CA


Philanthropic Affiliations

Fog Forum Member, Fog Fair, SFMOMA
Chairperson for Bay Area Treasure 2014 Honoring, Jony Ive, CDO, Apple
Decor Chairperson for SFMOMA events between 2007-2015


Professional Affiliations

Associate Member, American Institute of Architects, A.I.A
Professional Member, Institute of Classical Architecture and Art, ICAA