Meet Karin Breve | Architect & Interior Designer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Karin Breve and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Karin, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Starting Iconic Design was both a personal and professional journey—a fusion of my passion for architecture, my roots in Brazil, and my desire to create spaces that resonate on a deep, emotional level. As someone who grew up in Brazil, I was always surrounded by diverse and vibrant design influences—from the colorful energy of Rio to the modernist architecture of Oscar Niemeyer. This blend of rich cultural influences shaped my perspective on design and pushed me to pursue my dream of creating spaces that go beyond aesthetics.

After migrating to a new country, I realized how important it was for people to feel a sense of belonging in their environments, especially when they are far from home. My background in architecture, combined with my unique cultural perspective, allowed me to approach interior design with an emphasis on integrating global inspiration with local needs. This is what led to the creation of Iconic Design.

With a solid foundation in architecture and an eye for detail, I wanted to go beyond traditional design practices. Iconic Design is not just about creating beautiful spaces; it’s about crafting environments that are functional, sustainable, and deeply personal. I focus on listening to clients’ stories and understanding their needs—whether it’s a home that reflects their heritage, a workspace that enhances productivity, or a commercial environment that captures a brand’s essence.

By merging my architectural education with my cultural background, I’ve been able to offer something truly unique: a design philosophy that honors the intersection of practicality, creativity, and cultural identity. My aim is always to create spaces that leave a lasting impression, inspire innovation, and evoke a true sense of home, no matter where you are from.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
What sets Iconic Design apart from other interior design firms is my unique blend of architectural training, cultural diversity, and a deep commitment to creating spaces that are not just beautiful but deeply meaningful. I draw inspiration from my Brazilian roots, which are rich in color, texture, and tradition, as well as my architectural background, which prioritizes structure, flow, and function. I’m not just designing a room—I’m designing an experience. Every project I take on is an opportunity to tell a story, whether it’s the story of a client, a place, or a vision of what could be.
One thing that I feel truly sets me apart is my emphasis on personalization. I listen carefully to my clients’ needs, their preferences, and, most importantly, their stories. For me, design is deeply personal—it’s about creating spaces that resonate with the people who inhabit them. Whether it’s a cozy apartment or a corporate office, my goal is always to craft environments that feel authentic and truly reflective of those who live or work there.

I’m incredibly proud of how far Iconic Design has come. Looking back, it’s humbling to see the progression—from an idea born out of a passion for design to a thriving business that now impacts many people’s lives through their spaces. One project I’m especially proud of was a collaboration on a cultural space that celebrated Brazilian heritage, bringing together elements from my background and presenting them in a modern context. The project not only enhanced the aesthetic value of the space but also sparked meaningful conversations about cultural preservation and fusion in design.
I’m also proud of the relationships I’ve built with my clients. When they trust me with their spaces, it’s a huge responsibility that I take very seriously. Seeing them so happy with the final outcome and knowing that I’ve created a space that truly makes a difference in their daily lives is incredibly fulfilling.

My journey to becoming an interior designer wasn’t exactly easy, but it has been incredibly rewarding. Moving from Brazil to a new country brought its own set of challenges—cultural differences, learning a new language, navigating a new professional landscape—but it also gave me a unique opportunity to embrace new perspectives and expand my creativity.
With a degree in architecture, I had a solid foundation, but entering the design world in a new country meant I had to start from scratch, building my network, understanding local design preferences, and proving myself in a highly competitive market. In the beginning, I faced a lot of rejection, but I refused to let those setbacks define me. I focused on my strengths, my unique background, my passion for design, and my commitment to understanding my clients’ needs, and built my brand one project at a time.

One of the biggest challenges I faced was adjusting to a new market. Design preferences and cultural expectations vary from place to place, and it took time to learn and adapt. But instead of seeing this as a limitation, I embraced it as an opportunity to innovate. I began to incorporate my Brazilian roots into my designs, giving clients something they couldn’t find anywhere else.
Another significant challenge was finding clients who understood and appreciated my vision. In the early days, I had to work hard to build my reputation and trust in the industry. I reached out to other professionals, attended networking events, and sought out projects that aligned with my values. Over time, the right clients found me, and I built strong, long-lasting relationships.

The most important lesson I’ve learned along the way is the value of resilience. The road to success is rarely linear, and setbacks are a natural part of any entrepreneurial journey. What matters most is how you respond to those challenges. I’ve learned to embrace failure as an opportunity for growth and to trust the process even when things feel uncertain.
I’ve also learned the power of authenticity. When I started Iconic Design, I made a conscious decision to stay true to my roots and my values. This commitment to authenticity has helped me connect with clients who value my perspective and approach to design.

What I want people to know about Iconic Design is that it’s more than just a business for me—it’s a reflection of my passion, my heritage, and my belief that design has the power to transform lives. At Iconic Design, we don’t just create beautiful spaces; we create spaces that make a difference. My goal is to help people feel more connected to their surroundings, whether that’s through a home that feels like a sanctuary, a workspace that fosters creativity, or a public space that tells a unique story.
Ultimately, I want the world to know that Iconic Design is about more than just aesthetics. It’s about crafting environments that elevate the human experience. And for me, that’s what makes it truly iconic

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend were visiting Los Angeles for a week, I’d want to give them a mix of classic LA vibes, hidden gems, cultural spots, and some local favorites! LA has so much to offer, and I’d want to ensure we experience a variety of what makes the city unique. Here’s a fun itinerary that mixes adventure, relaxation, art, and of course, great food:

Day 1: Iconic LA

Breakfast: We’d start with The Griddle Café in Hollywood. Their pancakes are legendary and a must-try (the Red Velvet pancakes are a fan favorite!).

Morning Activity: Head to Griffith Observatory. The view of the city and the Hollywood sign is stunning, and we could hike up to the observatory, check out the exhibits, and enjoy the panoramic views of LA.

Lunch: Afterward, we’d grab a bite at In-N-Out Burger (because, come on, it’s a classic California experience!).

Afternoon Activity: Walk around Hollywood Boulevard to check out the Walk of Fame, TCL Chinese Theatre, and maybe catch a show at El Capitan Theatre if we’re feeling up for it.

Dinner: For a stylish yet casual dinner, we’d head to Bestia in the Arts District. The Italian-inspired dishes here are delicious, and the ambiance is really cool.

Night Activity: Grab drinks at The Rooftop Bar at The Standard Downtown—the views of the skyline are amazing, and it’s a great spot to unwind.

Day 2: Arts, Culture, and Food

Breakfast: Start the day at Sqirl in Silver Lake, known for their inventive breakfast dishes and delicious jams.

Morning Activity: Visit The Getty Center for stunning architecture, art exhibits, and beautiful gardens. The views over LA are unbeatable.

Lunch: For something unique, we could hit Grand Central Market in Downtown LA. It’s a lively spot with diverse food stalls, from tacos at Tacos Tumbras a Tomas to gourmet grilled cheese at The Cheese Store of Silver Lake.

Afternoon Activity: Take a stroll through The Arts District and check out the street art and murals. We can stop by galleries like Hauser & Wirth for contemporary art exhibits.

Dinner: Head to Providence for an upscale seafood dinner. It’s perfect for a more refined evening, with fresh fish and beautifully plated dishes.

Night Activity: Head to The Speakeasy Bar at The Roosevelt Hotel, an old-school bar with a cool vibe. If we want to go out dancing, we could swing by The Abbey in West Hollywood, a lively LGBTQ+ friendly club with great music.

Day 3: Beach Day

Breakfast: We’ll have a light and healthy start at Cafe Gratitude in Venice for their organic and plant-based dishes.

Morning Activity: Start at Venice Beach, exploring the boardwalk, street performers, skatepark, and Muscle Beach.

Lunch: Grab a delicious bite at Gjelina in Venice for amazing pizzas and salads. It’s a trendy spot and perfect after a morning at the beach.

Afternoon Activity: Rent bikes and ride along the Marina del Rey Bike Path to Santa Monica Pier, where we can enjoy the iconic Ferris wheel and do some shopping at the 3rd Street Promenade.

Dinner: The Lobster in Santa Monica is a great place for seafood with views of the Pacific Ocean at sunset.

Night Activity: If we’re up for it, we can head over to The Bungalow in Santa Monica for some cocktails and great vibes. It’s laid-back and perfect for unwinding after a day at the beach.

Day 4: Unique LA Vibes

Breakfast: Start with something unique at The Original Pantry Café, an LA institution known for its hearty, classic breakfast plates.

Morning Activity: Head to LACMA (Los Angeles County Museum of Art) and explore the collection of modern art. Don’t miss the Urban Light installation—it’s iconic!

Lunch: We’ll grab lunch at Pizzana in West Hollywood, where we can enjoy authentic Neapolitan pizza.

Afternoon Activity: Go on a shopping spree in Melrose Avenue for trendy boutiques, vintage shops, and streetwear stores. Don’t forget to pop into The Last Bookstore for a quirky stop.

Dinner: For something special, we’ll dine at n/naka, a two Michelin-starred restaurant in Palms offering exquisite Japanese kaiseki (multi-course) meals.

Night Activity: After dinner, head to The Magic Castle in Hollywood, an exclusive magic club that requires an invitation to enter. It’s a fun, old-school experience with amazing performances.

Day 5: Nature and Local Vibes

Breakfast: Have a cozy breakfast at Rose Café in Venice, a relaxed spot with a lovely vibe.

Morning Activity: Head to Runyon Canyon for an easy hike. It’s popular among locals for morning walks with beautiful views of the city and the Hollywood sign.

Lunch: After our hike, we’ll grab lunch at Joan’s on Third in Studio City, a charming cafe with great sandwiches and salads.

Afternoon Activity: Take a tour of the Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden in Arcadia, a peaceful, lush escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Dinner: For dinner, we’ll hit Republique, a chic French bistro offering an array of options from croissants to hearty dishes, all in a stunning space.

Night Activity: End the night at The Rooftop at The Wayfarer in Downtown LA. It’s a great rooftop bar to relax and enjoy a drink with a view of the city lights.

Day 6: Hidden Gems and Cool Experiences

Breakfast: Start the day with breakfast at Blue Bottle Coffee for delicious coffee and pastries.

Morning Activity: Visit the Los Angeles Natural History Museum, especially if you love dinosaurs and history.

Lunch: Try Tacos Leo for some of the best al pastor tacos in LA—authentic and mouthwatering!

Afternoon Activity: Check out The Bradbury Building (featured in Blade Runner), an architectural gem with a stunning interior.

Dinner: Head to Osteria Mozza for Italian food in a beautiful setting. It’s perfect for a special night out.

Night Activity: If we’re feeling adventurous, we could visit The Room, an underground bar in Downtown LA known for its cool, intimate atmosphere.

Day 7: The LA Chill Day

Breakfast: We’d start slow with a casual breakfast at The Butcher, The Baker, The Cappuccino Maker in West Hollywood.

Morning Activity: Take a stroll around The Getty Villa in Malibu for a quieter, Mediterranean-style escape, with beautiful gardens and impressive art collections.

Lunch: Enjoy a seaside lunch at Nobu Malibu for fresh sushi and incredible ocean views.

Afternoon Activity: Spend the afternoon walking along Malibu Beach or exploring El Matador Beach, a hidden gem with stunning rock formations and peaceful surroundings.

Dinner: For a relaxed but amazing final dinner, we’ll head to Mastro’s Ocean Club in Malibu for seafood and steak with an amazing view of the Pacific.

Night Activity: End the trip with drinks at Sunset Lounge at The London West Hollywood for panoramic views and great vibes.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My husband Mario Valenga

Website: https://iconic.la/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iconic.design_official/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karin-b-1a90656b/

Image Credits
Sthefanie Souza Photography