Marcela Gurdian, RID, NCIDQ

Principal, Lead Designer

Marcela knew her calling in life at a very young age, and this is how her passion became her métier. She believes that her design sensitivity comes from being born in a place with a rich architectural legacy, surrounded by beautiful historical buildings in Leon, Nicaragua. She also had the opportunity to travel and explore different countries really early in her life which opened her vision and developed an appreciation for a variety of cultures and design styles.

In 1992 Marcela started studying Architecture at the University of Design in San Jose, Costa Rica. In 1996 she had the chance to make a shift and pursue her dream career and joined the Art Institute of Houston in Texas. She graduated in Interior Design in 1998 and started working at Carnegis & Company where she became an owner and a partner in 2004. She became a registered Interior Designer in 2007.

In 2011 Marcela decided that it was time for a change and revamp the business. She did not have to look too far as she found the perfect business partner for this journey in long-time friend and colleague, Emmy. They always wanted to do something together, where both of their talents and shared passion could be combined and complement each other. This is when Carnegis Group was born.

Marcela feels very blessed because she truly loves what she does. This love shows in her work, she has a great eye for detail and designing striking and unique concepts. She says that the most rewarding feeling for her is seeing a person’s reaction after she delivers a job, and knowing that she was responsible to evoke emotions, or influenced someone’s behavior by the creation of the space and the way the design made them feel. When people ask her what does she do for a living, she anwers,“I make the world a beautiful place, by creating beautiful design. Good design speaks to the heart".

Emmy Saman

Principal, Lead Designer

Most of Emmy’s life has revolved around design and the appreciation of anything beautiful. Being born in a family where Architecture was at its core, has molded her into the person that she is today, someone who is passionate about design. She is thankful for having her father’s design influence, which still resonates in her life today as her driving force. Emmy’s educational background includes Interior Design which began at the Art Institute of Houston, followed by Architecture in her home country of Honduras.

She’s had the privilege of creating beautiful interior spaces aside her best friend, Marcela, with whom she has harmoniously worked together with for the last 15 years. Emmy’s role initially began as a consultant with the firm, before taking on her new position as a Partner and Lead Designer which she has currently held for the past 7 years.

"I believe interior spaces enhance the human experience; they have the power to affect our emotions and they have a direct connection with our souls. I believe in molding these spaces to awaken feelings and desires and draw people into a state of sheer comfort. The subtle and delicate balance of good design is what we strive for at Carnegis Group."