Meet Stina Funch | Creative entrepreneur, interior storyteller, and ocean soul.

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

Hi Stina, what makes you happy? Why?
What makes me happy… Preparing for the interview I sat in my Northridge backyard with my morning coffee, gazing out at the pool and the greenhouse….Why am I happy? The answer came quickly: I’m blessed. I’m a single mom to an incredible son, and a creative entrepreneur doing what I love every day.

My journey began on the small, beautiful island of Bornholm in Denmark, and somehow it led me to the vibrant, sun-soaked sprawl of Los Angeles, which I’ve called home for nearly 25 years. My son, Viggo, is graduating high school this spring—a huge milestone, and a reminder of how far we’ve come together.

My work is my passion. I create soulful, intentional spaces in homes, hotels, and interiors—spaces that tell a story and evoke a true sense of place. I get to collaborate with brilliant, visionary minds, and draw endless inspiration from the city around me. The ocean has always grounded me, especially the Malibu coastline—it’s where I feel most at peace.

I love to travel, explore new cultures and countries, then come back to my own little sanctuary: a home filled with love, dogs, chickens, and peach trees. A space that reflects everything I care about—family, creativity, nature, and beauty.

Writing this made me smile. Because somehow, in the chaos of life, I’ve built something that feels real, rooted, and completely mine.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
In 2001 I attended an open house for the UCLA Extension of Interior design. The then program advisor Suzanne Sheppard, met with me and inquired about my background. I told her I love hotels, and had just arrived in LA from Dubai and a Hotel position as Sales executive. I had a degree from the Hospitality College in Copenhagen and had worked for the Sheraton brand as Sales and FOH, in Copenhagen, London and Dubai. Suzanne looked at me and said, well, we’ll teach you design and with your background in Hotels, you’ll design Hospitality interiors. I took a leap of faith and never looked back. I worked for big and small Hospitality design firms in LA prior to establishing Atwater.

I founded Atwater Inc, in 2013. A desire for a better work life Balance lead me down the path of entrepreneurship. My son needed more time and I needed a break from the constant overseas trips to the far east. What was meant as some quality time off, became Atwater Inc. We started as a boutique studio and have always maintained a very deep presence and involvement in all our projects.

Atwater Inc was founded as a boutique design studio specializing in elevated interiors for hotels, homes and hospitality spaces. We blend Scandinavian simplicity with California ease to create environments that are both beautiful and deeply livable.

What sets Atwater Inc apart is our deep commitment to creating spaces that feel as authentic as they are beautiful. We don’t design Hotels—we craft experiences that resonate with the people who live or work in them. Our approach is rooted in my Danish upbringing, where simplicity, functionality, and a strong connection to nature were core values. It’s a balance that feels both timeless and modern.

I’m most proud of how my business has grown from the ground up. When I started, it wasn’t easy…..
In 2020 we, and the rest of the world were hit by the pandemic and I had my own avalanche of overcoming a divorce. But each challenge brought with it a lesson. I learned how to trust my instincts, how to ask for help, and how to stay true to my values in every decision I made. The biggest breakthrough? Realizing that success isn’t just about “making it”—it’s about finding joy in the journey and building something meaningful along the way.

There’s a saying I hold close: “Your vibe attracts your tribe.” This has been so true for me. The clients I work with, the collaborators I partner with—they are all aligned with the vision of creating spaces that reflect the true spirit of those who inhabit them. Whether it’s a home, a hotel, or a commercial project, I’m proud to work with people who value design as much as I do.

My biggest lesson? Resilience. There will always be setbacks, bumps in the road, but it’s how you respond that defines your path. I’ve learned that the key to overcoming challenges is having the right mindset and a strong support system. And most importantly, embracing that what you bring to the table—your experiences, your culture, your passions—is what makes you unique and invaluable in your field.

At Atwater Inc, we focus on building more than just beautiful spaces. We build lasting relationships with our clients and partners, and we bring that same passion for beauty and purpose into every project we touch. My story is one of resilience, creativity, and love for the craft, and that’s exactly what I want the world to know about me and my brand.

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?
How fitting that my childhood friend Susan and her husband Kim are visiting at the end of the month—what better way to experience LA than with a week steeped in beauty, design, nature, and connection?

Day 1: Malibu Reset
From the Valley, we’d take the scenic drive along the 101, winding through Topanga Canyon to Malibu—my happy place. It’s the perfect way to ease into LA life and overcome the jet lag.
We’d start with brunch at Malibu Farm on the pier—fresh juice, eggs, and that unbeatable ocean breeze. A beach walk to catch the sun and soak in Pacific energy, followed by a stop at the charming Adamson House, where history and ocean views collide. We’d end the afternoon with cocktails on the rooftop of The Surfrider Hotel, then head home for a cozy backyard dinner under the stars—dogs at our feet, chickens tucked in, and the peach trees glowing in twilight.

Day 2: Culture & Creativity in DTLA
We’d take the train from Chatsworth to Union Station—sometimes the journey is as fun as the destination, especially when LA traffic is in full swing!
Our first stop: Grand Central Market, where mood dictates breakfast (but usually it’s an Eggslut sandwich). Then it’s off to The Broad Museum, followed by a walk around the sculptural masterpiece that is Walt Disney Concert Hall.
Lunch is across the street at San Laurel, José Andrés’ rooftop restaurant at the Conrad—delicious, vibrant, and with views to match. As the sun sets, we’ll head to Perch for dinner and cocktails under the city lights. DTLA always pulses with creative energy—it never fails to inspire.

Day 3: Art, Architecture & Ocean Air – The Getty & Santa Monica
A day of elevation in every sense.
We’d head to The Getty Center, where art, architecture, gardens, and panoramic views create a complete sensory experience. I always find peace and inspiration there. From the Getty, we’ll cruise down the 405 to Santa Monica for a late lunch, followed by a sandy stroll along the shore. Maybe a sunset drink at The Proper Hotel, where the design is as gorgeous as the cocktails.

Day 4: A Coastal Escape – Santa Barbara, Carpinteria & Ojai
We’d take the Pacific Coast Highway north for a scenic road trip. A stop at a local winery for a tasting—nothing too serious, just beautiful views and even better wine. Then on to Ojai, where we’ll spend the night at the peaceful Ojai Valley Inn. There’s something magical about Ojai—the pink sunsets, the citrus groves, the stillness. A true exhale.

Day 5: The Sunday Slow Down
Our final day would be all about presence and reflection.
Morning coffee in the garden, fresh eggs from the chickens, peaches or citrus from the trees. A hike with the dogs in O’Melveny Park, one of the Valley’s hidden gems. We’d finish the day with a backyard dinner—something simple and slow. A great bottle of Opálo, a fire pit flickering, and one of those long, soul-nourishing conversations that make you wish time would stand still.

Somehow with an extra day, we’d fit in the Hollywood bowl, a picnic before the show and a concert under the stars. Simply magical!
The Flamingo Estate is a place I so admire and dream of visiting,… – Hopefully Richard Christansen sends an invite : )

I love LA—sun-soaked, design-filled, soulful, and full of beauty in every corner. Whether it’s tucked away in an art bookshop or served with sea salt on the edge of the Pacific, this city gives you everything—if you slow down enough to feel it.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
There have been many people and pivotal moments that have shaped my journey, but if I had to dedicate this moment, it would be to my son, Viggo, and my best friend, Ronni Massok-Beechen.

I’ve always had a courageous spirit—being a Viking at heart comes with the territory. But becoming a mother gave me grounding. Watching Viggo grow into the thoughtful, kind, and smart man he is today is one of my proudest achievements. And Ronni—she is the kind of friend most people only dream of having: endlessly supportive, honest, and always there when it counts.

I’m incredibly grateful to the many brilliant collaborators, clients, and mentors who have trusted my vision and helped me grow. From those early days of finding my footing as a designer in a new country to building a business rooted in beauty and integrity, every relationship has played a meaningful role in my evolution.

Lastly, I have to acknowledge the two main places that shaped me: the island of Bornholm in Denmark, where I was born, and Los Angeles, which has been my home for nearly 25 years. They’re vastly different and beautiful, yet both have profoundly influenced my aesthetic, my mindset, and my resilience. I carry a piece of each with me every day.

Website: https://www.atwaterinc.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/atwaterincstudio/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stinafunch/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/atwdesignstudio/

Image Credits
Robert Miller – Photography
Bethany Nauert – Photography