Studio Grey

team

behind the ‘grey’

Studio Grey was never meant to be about one person.

From the beginning in 2013, the name reflected a belief: the best work doesn’t live at the extremes. Design is rarely black or white. The most meaningful outcomes happen in the space between, where ideas are challenged, perspectives are blended, and solutions are shaped collaboratively.

“Grey” represents that space. It’s where architecture meets interiors. Where brand meets operations. Where vision meets reality. And where our studio works best; adapting to each client and project without a one-size-fits-all approach.

It was intentional not to put a name on the door. Studio Grey is a celebration of collective creativity: the talents of our team, the insight of our clients, and the partnership that forms when trust and curiosity lead the process. Every voice matters. Every project is shaped together. What we create isn’t about individual authorship. It’s about alignment, collaboration, and designing spaces that feel thoughtful, intentional, and uniquely right for the people they’re built for.

 
 

Amanda Maday

owner

i’m…the founder and design director of studio grey with over 20 years of commercial design experience.

i always…infuse hospitality in every project.

i think…the influence a brand has on its spatial environments can enhance the overall user experience.

i love…exploring new hotels. and watching scary movies, 100%.

i drink…coffee, water, coffee, repeat. then top it off with an old-fashioned.

i think…working in television design is a fun side gig!

 

brooke smalley

interiors

i’m…an optimistic realist,  a maker,  and a designer who sees every project as a story waiting to be told.

i always...hunt for the perfect “thing” (light, tile, art piece) for each project. finding items that bring the concept to life brings so much joy.

i love...cooking while listening to my current favorite artist or podcasts.

i drink...coffee, water, red wine.

i think...design is in the details. a thoughtfully designed space just feels good to be in.

jordan brookens

architecture

i’m…a person who feels that time is our most valuable resource and try not take it for granted.

i always…want to know the project’s timeline and budget. 

i love…supporting creative ideas to make them a reality. and, a day with no plans that starts with coffee in the sun.

i drink…coffee, wine, and whatever cocktail my husband wants me to try that week, day, or hour.

i think…being clear is kind.

 

joining soon!

EMMA EMCH

interiors

i’m…a detail-oriented optimist who aims to design emotion-evoking spaces.

i always…sing in the car!

i love…the color brown, a sweet treat, and my dogs.

i drink…midwest martinis, i am from wisconsin after all. 

i think…lighting can make or break a design. no "big lights"! i also think every space deserves an "instagrammable" moment. 

IAN NIELSEN-FOX

architecture

i’m…an experience-motivated designer who looks to keep the user at the center of the design.

i always…sketch out my ideas to test things out.

i love…cross country skiing and fishing with friends.

i drink…iced lattes, bubbly water, and whiskey.

i think…everybody deserves well designed spaces.