About carmella design studio
CarMELLA Design Studio is built on the belief that an organized space leads to an organized mind. The studio’s mission is to transform homes and businesses into functional, stylish, and peaceful spaces where everything has its place, allowing life to run more smoothly. Whether it’s organizing closets, drawers, or daily routines, CarMELLA Design Studio is committed to making the management of spaces—and life—effortless.
For the team at CarMELLA Design Studio, it’s about so much more than just organizing homes and businesses; it’s about helping clients live simply and focus on what truly matters. By using the CarMELLA GOALS Method—Get Organized And Live Simply—the studio works to instill lasting habits and routines that maintain harmony in home, work, and lifestyle. With a holistic approach that goes beyond just tidying up, CarMELLA offers custom-designed solutions that are practical, sustainable, and tailored to the specific and long-term needs of each client. Guided by values of simplicity, joy, and intentionality, the studio strives to make the design and organization process seamless and enjoyable, allowing clients to focus on what matters most to them.
Bespoke services range from organizing and styling spaces to assisting with moves, all with the goal of helping clients create homes that are not just organized and stylish, but also a true reflection of their lifestyles. In addition to homes, the team works with businesses to incorporate layout design, visual styling, merchandising, backroom organization, and more. By prioritizing functionality and tailoring each project to the unique needs of each client, CarMELLA Design Studios continues to help people find the balance and joy that come with a beautifully organized space.
Hi! I’m Carly
I’m Carly, the owner and founder of CarMELLA Design Studio, and I’m so thrilled that you’re here!
Organization has always been my passion and a natural talent. Growing up, my mom kept our home sparkling clean and beautifully organized, and she taught me that “everything has a place,” which has shaped my love for creating orderly spaces. To me, organizing is like solving a puzzle—I love figuring out tailored systems for each project. With over 20 years of experience in corporate visual merchandising, I’ve honed my skills working with several prominent women’s retail brands. My career has been dedicated to creating visually appealing, well-organized environments, whether through simple merchandising updates, developing new product displays, or overseeing complete retail store renovations and relocations.
Now, I bring that same care and precision to individuals, families, and businesses, transforming my clients’ spaces with the same expertise I’ve provided to corporations throughout my career—and having the time of my life while doing it! What started as a small side gig to fuel my creativity has now become my full-time passion, and I couldn’t be more excited.
Originally from Philadelphia, I recently moved to Virginia Beach and am loving the friendly community and new lifestyle as I organize my way through Hampton Roads. Through CarMELLA Design Studio, I combine my love for organization with a genuine desire to help others create peaceful, orderly spaces that enhance their lives. Seeing my clients’ reactions to their newly transformed spaces is the highlight of my work!
I founded CarMELLA Design Studio with a clear mission: to help you declutter your space (and your mind!), create simple, easy-to-maintain systems, and style the spaces where you spend the most time in a way that reflects your lifestyle and priorities. I’m so excited to connect with you and understand your needs. Together, we’ll turn chaos into simplicity so you can finally focus on what truly matters to you.
Cheers!
Carly M.
Want to get to know me?
Here are a few glimpses into my world:
I AM…
A music lover and total Swiftie—whether it’s concerts or playlists, music fuels my creativity and keeps me inspired. Some of the best concerts I’ve attended are Coldplay, U2, Billy Joel, and Mumford and Sons.
A fitness enthusiast! I love running and staying active especially in the Peloton community. Fitness is the key to keeping me focused and energized.
A proud cat mom to Charlie and Hunter, someone who cherishes time with my amazing family and friends…especially my “luv luv” Rich. Laughter and making memories are what life’s all about!
I love…
All things stationery! A new notebook or to-do list is my secret weapon for tackling the day. I’ve been obsessed with collecting new paper goods since I was a kid.
Buying and wrapping gifts—matching the paper to the occasion and making every gift feel special is a passion of mine. I have a whole closet dedicated to gift wrap (and it’s beautifully organized, of course).
Carrot cake, especially my Grams’ recipe, which was award-winning. In my opinion it’s the most underrated dessert.
I have…
A deep appreciation for routines and schedules. My daily to-do list keeps me organized and on track.
A strong passion for travel, which fuels my creativity. I love seeing different cultures, eating their food, and soaking in their scenery. Some of the most beautiful places I’ve visited are Barcelona, Aruba, and Rome. Every trip I take leaves me refreshed and full of new ideas!
A lifelong love for Nike, starting with my obsession with Jordan as a kid. It’s still my go-to brand for all things athletic.
about the name
CarMELLA Design Studio is named in honor of my grandmother, Carmella, who, along with my grandfather Charlie, had a profound influence on my life. As a child, I spent a great deal of time at their home, and I have so many special memories with both of them. Carmella—who I called Grams—had a deep love for fashion and an impeccable sense of style. She loved to shop, and was always excited to share her latest finds, often saying, “Carly, let’s go look at my blouses—I want to show you the new ones I got.” Her closet was always meticulously organized, color-coded from light to dark, with pink being the most prominent color (it was her favorite).
These memories left a lasting impression on me, sparking my own love for organizing and ensuring that treasured and important items always have their perfect place. Naming my business CarMELLA Design Studio is my way of paying tribute to Grams and carrying forward her values of organization and mindfulness. Through this work, I’m honored to help others create spaces that reflect their most cherished memories and priorities.
