Team
Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia in 1999, Sims Patrick Studio was founded by Libby Patrick and is led by a trio of experienced Principals working in complementary roles: Libby (our conceptual and narrative guru), Jenny Rutledge (3D design, construction and architect collaboration), and Melissa Wylie (operations and FF&A quality control).
Our team is a collection of world travelers and creative explorers, designers, planners and administrators. We are brimming with a love of culture, nature, fashion, leisure, business and sport. Each team member is more than their job title; we pride ourselves in not only our work but in the passions that fuel our fires beyond our desks.
Read more about each of us below.
Libby Sims Patrick
Founder & CEO
Education
Bachelor of Interior Design, School of Architecture—Auburn University
Prior Professional Experience
tvsdesign—Atlanta, GAKPS Group—Birmingham, AL
Stevens & Wilkinson—Atlanta, GA
Libby Sims Patrick
NCIDQ, IIDA, LEED-AP
Founder & CEO
"Design should inspire all the senses!"
Libby Sims Patrick is the founding Principal and CEO of Atlanta-based Sims Patrick Studio (SPS). With more than 30 years of experience in the architecture and interior design industry, Libby is an expert in the design and conceptualization of nearly all space typologies, from commercial to residential and across numerous verticals. Drawing on a lifetime of creative endeavors, Libby brought her own firm to life in 1999, and has since spearheaded work on a multitude of projects throughout the United States, utilizing her wide breadth of knowledge to inform the firm’s ongoing work in the hospitality sector.
Libby has served as a featured panelist and speaker at local and national events, including NeoCon, HD Expo, and IIDA, and her award-winning work has been featured in notable publications such as Architectural Record, Boutique Design, Hospitality Design, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, and Better Homes & Gardens, among others. Libby’s eye for color, use of planning, and aptitude for three-dimensional design direction has made her a force not just in the southeast, but in the broader design industry as she commands the helm of SPS.
Education
Bachelor of Interior Design, School of Architecture—Auburn University
Prior Professional Experience
tvsdesign—Atlanta, GAKPS Group—Birmingham, AL
Stevens & Wilkinson—Atlanta, GA
Jenny Rutledge
Principal, Design + Construction
Education
Bachelor of Arts, School of Interior Design—Florida State University
Prior Professional Experience
Studio L—Atlanta, GAMarcia Davis & Associates—Atlanta, GA
Hosey Interiors—Auburn, AL
Main Street Design—Quincy, FL
Jenny Rutledge
Principal, Design + Construction
“Knowledge, fueled with passion, creates extraordinary results.”
Jenny Rutledge, Principal of Design and Construction, has spent the last two decades as part of the leadership team at Sims Patrick Studio. Drawing inspiration from her mother's deep-rooted passion for antiques and repurposing found treasures, Jenny discovered the art of imagining design possibilities at a young age, and subsequently pursued a degree in interior design from Florida State University. She then began her career with two major firms before joining SPS in its infancy.
Today, Jenny skillfully navigates the design journey from concept to final product. With a keen eye for branding and an intuitive grasp of transforming grand ideas into inviting spaces, she excels at bringing concepts to life in immersive three-dimensional experiences. With expertise that spans interior architecture, including proportions, distinctive features, lighting, and materials, Jenny pushes the boundaries of convention, resulting in exquisite spaces that tell unique tales. Her unwavering attention to detail and commitment to achieving desired results make her an invaluable asset to the SPS team.
Education
Bachelor of Arts, School of Interior Design—Florida State University
Prior Professional Experience
Studio L—Atlanta, GAMarcia Davis & Associates—Atlanta, GA
Hosey Interiors—Auburn, AL
Main Street Design—Quincy, FL
Melissa Wylie
Principal, Design + Operations
Education
Bachelor of Science, College of Design, Architecture, Art and Planning—University of Cincinnati, OH
Prior Professional Experience
Studio L—Atlanta, GAMarcia Davis & Associates—Atlanta, GA
Walt Disney Imagineering—Kissimeee, FL
Smallwood, Reynolds, Stewart, Stewart Interiors—Atlanta, GA
Limited Store Planning—Columbus, OH
Melissa Wylie
LEED – AP
Principal, Design + Operations
“Design should always have a twist; something to make it yours and keep it interesting."
Melissa Wylie, LEED-AP, is the Principal of Design and Operations at Sims Patrick Studio. With a background in portrait art, a passion for fashion, and a keen eye for pop culture, Melissa's journey into luxury residential design was a natural evolution. After receiving her degree at the University of Cincinnati's College of Design, Architecture, and Planning, Melissa has spent the last two decades as part of the leadership team at SPS.
Melissa leads design and management of multiple projects, overseeing day-to-day administrative operations and ensuring the highest standards of quality. Her meticulous work ethic and management skills make her an invaluable asset, especially when it comes to the technical specifications of furniture, furnishings, and artwork (FF&A), and construction documentation. Melissa's three-dimensional thinking, leadership skills, and innovative design approach set her apart. She transforms spaces into well-crafted designs, bringing client visions to life through research and innovation in form, color, and texture.
Education
Bachelor of Science, College of Design, Architecture, Art and Planning—University of Cincinnati, OH
Prior Professional Experience
Studio L—Atlanta, GAMarcia Davis & Associates—Atlanta, GA
Walt Disney Imagineering—Kissimeee, FL
Smallwood, Reynolds, Stewart, Stewart Interiors—Atlanta, GA
Limited Store Planning—Columbus, OH
Stephanie England
CFO
Education
Bachelor of Business Administration in Risk Management and Insurance – Georgia State University
Prior Professional Experience
Synergist, LLC, Atlanta, GASilicon Audio, Inc, Atlanta, GA
Design Build Agency, Inc, Atlanta, GA
Stephanie England
CFO
"It is wonderful to work with such inspired, hard-working people."
As the CFO of Sims Patrick Studio, Stephanie manages the business infrastructure of the firm so that the studio can focus on creating the best work possible. She also collaborates daily with leadership to establish and direct long-term goals of the firm as well as manages the day-to-day finances and business operations. When she’s not crunching numbers, Stephanie enjoys yoga, gardening and spending time with her husband and young son.
Education
Bachelor of Business Administration in Risk Management and Insurance – Georgia State University
Prior Professional Experience
Synergist, LLC, Atlanta, GASilicon Audio, Inc, Atlanta, GA
Design Build Agency, Inc, Atlanta, GA
Lauren Coley
Project Director
Education
Georgia State University, B.F.A. Interior Design
Prior Professional Experience
The Gettys Group, Chicago, ILStudio K Creative, Chicago, IL
Mitsch Design, Indianapolis, IN
Design Environments, Inc., Kennesaw, GA
Lauren Coley
Project Director
“Here, every project has its own personality, which in turn makes each one feel unique.”
For Lauren, the path toward a career in interior design began with pure creative exuberance: in her childhood bedroom, a space she arranged and re-arranged constantly. As a seasoned design professional, today Lauren lends a balanced mix of right-brained creativity and left-brained organization and detail-orientation to the SPS team, designing each space she touches with meticulous thought toward functionality and space-planning as well as design and aesthetics. She enjoys the challenge of the puzzle of hospitality design (her favorite project is her work on the storied Zachary Hotel in Chicago, named after the architect of Wrigley Field), and when she’s not helping us create narratives in space and surfaces she’s drawing, painting, and traveling, often exploring new cities.
Education
Georgia State University, B.F.A. Interior Design
Prior Professional Experience
The Gettys Group, Chicago, ILStudio K Creative, Chicago, IL
Mitsch Design, Indianapolis, IN
Design Environments, Inc., Kennesaw, GA
Stephanie Head
Project Director
Education
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design (Magna Cum Laude), Art Institute of Atlanta
Prior Professional Experience
designONE studio - Atlanta, GAHirsch Bedner Associates - Atlanta, GA
Stephanie Head
Project Director
Stephanie Head pursued a B.A. in Interior Design from the Art Institute of Atlanta prior to entering the industry. Over the last 16 years, much of which was spent conceptualizing and creating luxury interiors, Stephanie has remained devoted to translating the needs and unique visions of clients into the built environment, while remaining cognizant of budget and schedule restraints. Creative and collaborative, Stephanie’s dedication to both her work and the beautification of space shines through in her efforts overseeing design direction, additional phasing, and client communication throughout the life of a project.
Education
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design (Magna Cum Laude), Art Institute of Atlanta
Prior Professional Experience
designONE studio - Atlanta, GAHirsch Bedner Associates - Atlanta, GA
Katrina Garcia
Project Director
Education
Bachelor of Science - School of Interior Design (Cum Laude), Florida State University
Prior Professional Experience
designONE studio - Atlanta, GAHirsch Bedner Associates - Atlanta, GA
Katrina Garcia
NCIDQ
Project Director
Katrina Garcia received her B.S. in Interior Design from Florida State University. Katrina boasts nearly 15 years of experience in hotel and hospitality-centric design, having worked on a wide variety of projects for notable national and international clients throughout her career. A passionate storyteller, Katrina is adept at identifying and creating well-defined narratives for projects, solidifying strong design concepts and authentic experiences for guests and occupants. In her role at Sims Patrick Studio, she oversees project management, design direction, and quality control while facilitating communication with clients throughout phasing.
Education
Bachelor of Science - School of Interior Design (Cum Laude), Florida State University
Prior Professional Experience
designONE studio - Atlanta, GAHirsch Bedner Associates - Atlanta, GA
Stacy Elliston
Project Director
Education
Art Institute Of Dallas- Associates of Applied Arts in Interior Design – 1993 Graduated with Honors
Prior Professional Experience
Studio 11 Design - Principal/Co-FounderDallas, Texas
RDH & Associates, INC. - Principal/Co-Founder
Addison, Texas
Elliston Design, INC. - Principal
Dallas, Texas
Wilson Associates - Interior Designer/FF&E Coordinator
Dallas, Texas
Stacy Elliston
RID, IIDA, LEED-AP, NEWH, CID
Project Director
Stacy V. Elliston, RID, IIDA, LEED AP, FNEWH, CID, Principal, is a seasoned professional in the field of hospitality design, renowned for her remarkable leadership and extensive experience across diverse segments of the industry. Having collaborated with industry giants such as Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt, MGM Resorts, and more, Stacy possesses an innate understanding of the goals and missions of owners, clients, and brands, ensuring the success of every project she undertakes. With a leadership approach marked by her hands-on involvement, Stacy actively engages with her team to overcome challenges and achieve excellence. Her role spans sourcing, operations, budgeting, scheduling, design, problem-solving, and mentoring. Her dedication and accomplishments have further earned her numerous awards throughout her career, culminating in her induction into NEWH's College of Fellows in 2020.
Education
Art Institute Of Dallas- Associates of Applied Arts in Interior Design – 1993 Graduated with Honors
Prior Professional Experience
Studio 11 Design - Principal/Co-FounderDallas, Texas
RDH & Associates, INC. - Principal/Co-Founder
Addison, Texas
Elliston Design, INC. - Principal
Dallas, Texas
Wilson Associates - Interior Designer/FF&E Coordinator
Dallas, Texas
Kristiina Peterson
Design Lead
Education
Georgia State University, BFA Interior Design, Ernest G Welch School of Art & Design Georgia Perimeter College, Tallinn’s Tailoring School, Tallinn, Estonia
Prior Professional Experience
Restoration Hardware – Atlanta, GADesign Consultant, Independent Contractor – Atlanta, GA
Kristiina Peterson
Design Lead
Kristiina Peterson received her B.F.A in Fine Arts with a concentration in Interior Design from Georgia State University. Originally from Estonia, Kristiina has spent the last 20 years in the United States, 10 of which she has spent as a member of the Sims Patrick Studio team. Her eye for detail, knack for space planning, and love of color and texture inform much of the work she does in the hospitality and high-end residential design verticals. As Design Lead, Kristiina creates concepts for design direction, creates computer/manual renderings, and assists with FF&E selection and specifications, ultimately aiming to create unique spaces that reflect the client’s culture and lifestyle.
Education
Georgia State University, BFA Interior Design, Ernest G Welch School of Art & Design Georgia Perimeter College, Tallinn’s Tailoring School, Tallinn, Estonia
Prior Professional Experience
Restoration Hardware – Atlanta, GADesign Consultant, Independent Contractor – Atlanta, GA
Philip Zein
Design Lead
Education
Interior Design- Dawson College
Prior Professional Experience
Phaze Interior Design, Montreal, QCProvencher Roy, Montreal, QC
Lasalle College and ilasalle, Montreal, QC
Metaphore Design, Montreal, QC
Ericsson Montreal, Montreal, QC
Kiva Design, Montreal, QC
Philip Zein
Design Lead
Philip Ash Zein joins the team with an impressive 13 years of experience in the industry. Receiving his degree in Interior Design from Dawson College in Montreal, he quickly entered the design industry, recently relocating to Atlanta to further his career in hospitality interiors. Philip boasts a wealth of strengths, from problem-solving and collaboration to mentorship, and he is well known for his imaginative and forward-thinking approach to design work. In his new role, Philip handles a diverse range of responsibilities, from handling internal/external project communications to design development and execution. His design skills, collaborative nature, and dedication to delivering exceptional results make him a natural fit for the Sims Patrick Team.
Education
Interior Design- Dawson College
Prior Professional Experience
Phaze Interior Design, Montreal, QCProvencher Roy, Montreal, QC
Lasalle College and ilasalle, Montreal, QC
Metaphore Design, Montreal, QC
Ericsson Montreal, Montreal, QC
Kiva Design, Montreal, QC
Ansley Kaase
Project Designer
Education
Bachelor of Science, Interior Design- University of Alabama
Prior Professional Experience
Blackdog Studio Atlanta, GADesign Environments, Inc. Marietta, GA
Ansley Kaase
Project Designer
Ansley Kaase received her Bachelor of Arts. in Interior Design from the University of Alabama before entering the industry. She joins the team at Sims Patrick with 11 years of experience in the multifamily and hospitality sectors, having previously worked with notable brands including Marriott, IHG, Hilton and Hyatt. With meticulous attention to detail, a talent for early conceptualization, and a commitment to building strong relationships with clients, Ansley finds joy in creating unique but functional spaces that foster connections and create lasting memories. Day to day, Ansley is involved in processes including documentation, product sourcing, collaborator specifications, and creating custom elements.
Education
Bachelor of Science, Interior Design- University of Alabama
Prior Professional Experience
Blackdog Studio Atlanta, GADesign Environments, Inc. Marietta, GA
Ross Burch
Project Designer
Education
Texas Christian University - Bachelor Of Science -Interior Design Class Of 2008; American Intercontinental University London, England; Pace University New York, New York
Prior Professional Experience
Jim Scott + SonsSuperintendent/Project Manager
Dahlgren Duck
Lead Designer/Purchasing Coordinator
Studio 11 Design
Studio Director
Wilson Associates
Designer/Project Director
Ross Burch
Project Designer
Ross Burch, Project Director, boasts a rich background in project design and management, with extensive expertise in the luxury hospitality sector. Since entering the industry, Jeremy has led multiple high-profile projects and managed dynamic teams for leading organizations across the United States. With a keen eye for global design trends, Jeremy works closely with clients and design teams to develop and deliver bespoke projects. In his role at Sims Patrick, a distinctive blend of design acumen and on-site training helps him to manage not only the creative aspects of projects but also subcontractors, ensuring that spaces are not only beautifully designed but also fully realized.
Education
Texas Christian University - Bachelor Of Science -Interior Design Class Of 2008; American Intercontinental University London, England; Pace University New York, New York
Prior Professional Experience
Jim Scott + SonsSuperintendent/Project Manager
Dahlgren Duck
Lead Designer/Purchasing Coordinator
Studio 11 Design
Studio Director
Wilson Associates
Designer/Project Director
Jake Schibi
Technical Lead
Education
Bachelor of Science, Construction- Georgia Southern University
Prior Professional Experience
Winter Construction, Atlanta, GAJake Schibi
Technical Lead
Jake Schibi holds a Bachelor of Science in Construction Management from Georgia Southern University. With over three years of experience in general contracting, Jake possesses a unique perspective, approaching design through the lens of a builder. His pragmatic and construction-oriented mindset stems from years of managing projects in the field, and he ensures that initial design aligns with the practicalities of implementation. In his role at Sims Patrick Studio, he conducts feasibility analyses, leads construction administration efforts, and collaborates with consultants while assisting with broader design development.
Education
Bachelor of Science, Construction- Georgia Southern University
Prior Professional Experience
Winter Construction, Atlanta, GA
Abby Mills
Project Designer
Education
Auburn University, Bachelor's Degree, Interior Design
Abby Mills
Project Designer
Abby Mills is a recent graduate from Auburn University, where she received her B.A. in Interior Design prior to joining the team at Sims Patrick Studio. As a Junior Interior Designer, Abby is directly involved in each phase of the design process, including concept creation, space planning, 3D rendering, and presentation building. Abby’s strong imagination and creative spirit allow her to conceptualize spaces that bring stories to life through design while remaining authentic to their locale.
Education
Auburn University, Bachelor's Degree, Interior Design
Shyam Ketkar
Interior Architecture
Education
Government Diploma in Architecture (Equivalent to BS Arch) – Government of Maharashtra State, Bombay, India, 1964
Prior Professional Experience
Fruchtman Associates Architects – Atlanta, GAHeery International, Inc – Atlanta, GA
Studio L – Atlanta, GA
Smallwood, Reynolds, Stewart, Stewart – Atlanta, GA
Osgood & Associates – Atlanta, GA
Hendrick Associates – Atlanta, GA
Stevens & Wilkinson – Atlanta, GA
Skidmore, Owings & Merrill – Chicago, IL
Friedman, Alshuler & Sincere – Chicago, IL
Shyam Ketkar
Interior Architecture
“SPS treats me like family, and I love them for that.”
“Experience” is Shyam Ketkar’s middle name. He’s been a fixture in the architecture industry since 1972 and has vast experience problem-solving projects. A virtual human library of design details, whenever our designers have a question, Shyam’s easy-going, approachable personality makes him the ultimate friendly source of information. While his simple, logical approach helps him to relate and work effectively with clients, contractors, manufacturers, consultants and designers, his international background and travel experience also gives him a unique perspective we more than appreciate.
Education
Government Diploma in Architecture (Equivalent to BS Arch) – Government of Maharashtra State, Bombay, India, 1964
Prior Professional Experience
Fruchtman Associates Architects – Atlanta, GAHeery International, Inc – Atlanta, GA
Studio L – Atlanta, GA
Smallwood, Reynolds, Stewart, Stewart – Atlanta, GA
Osgood & Associates – Atlanta, GA
Hendrick Associates – Atlanta, GA
Stevens & Wilkinson – Atlanta, GA
Skidmore, Owings & Merrill – Chicago, IL
Friedman, Alshuler & Sincere – Chicago, IL
Rachel Skinner
Project Designer
Education
University of Georgia, B.F.A. Interior Design, Minor in Studio Art
Rachel Skinner
University of Georgia, Certificate in Entrepreneurship
Project Designer
Rachel joins Sims Patrick Studio with a B.F.A. in Interior Design and a Minor in Studio Art from the University of Georgia. With substantial experience in the wedding industry, Rachel brings a strong background in client interaction and communication to her new role as Project Designer. A recipient of the 2022 ASID Silver Design Excellence Award, Rachel uses her creativity and solutions-oriented approach to create spaces that positively impact the lives of users.
Education
University of Georgia, B.F.A. Interior Design, Minor in Studio Art
Nikki McCrimmon
Studio Coordinator
Education
Make-up Designory with a Master in Makeup Artistry in Beauty and Special Effects, Burbank, California
Prior Professional Experience
Mike Thomas Group- Atlanta, GASalon de la Vie- Burbank, CA
Nikki McCrimmon
Studio Coordinator
Nicole McCrimmon joins the team at Sims Patrick Studio with a background in marketing. With a family history in the AEC community, she also possesses a deep familiarity with the industry itself. Nicole brings a highly organized, detail-oriented, and efficient approach to her new role as Studio Coordinator. Her responsibilities encompass a range of tasks, and she collaborates closely with Principals to enhance efficiency, assisting with project scheduling, duties, and deadlines as needed. She also manages booking and updating all meetings, trips, and client presentations. Nicole’s attention to detail, creative flair, and dedication to ensuring seamless operations have already made her an integral part of the team.
Education
Make-up Designory with a Master in Makeup Artistry in Beauty and Special Effects, Burbank, California
Prior Professional Experience
Mike Thomas Group- Atlanta, GASalon de la Vie- Burbank, CA
Danielle Moss
Project Designer
Education
Bachelor of Science Interior Design, Baylor University
Prior Professional Experience
Junior DesignerPastor Discipleship Network | Kampala, Uganda
Project Designer
designONE studio | Marietta, GA
Danielle Moss
Project Designer
Danielle Moss, Project Designer, brings over four years of industry experience to her new role at Sims Patrick Studio. Establishing herself as a dynamic force in the field, her project experience is extensive, ranging from hotel renovations to new build projects with renowned hospitality brands such as Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt, IHG, and more. Danielle’s strengths lie in her creativity, intuitive collaboration, adaptability, and a strong willingness to learn, in part ingrained in her due to her unique experience growing up in several states and countries on various military bases. In her role as a Project Designer, Danielle collaborates closely with project managers, contributing to the entire design process from conceptualization to documentation. She further excels at researching and developing conceptual design narratives, as well as creating presentations, renderings, and material boards to ensure that client’s design visions become stunning realities.
Education
Bachelor of Science Interior Design, Baylor University
Prior Professional Experience
Junior DesignerPastor Discipleship Network | Kampala, Uganda
Project Designer
designONE studio | Marietta, GA
Alex Tyer
Junior Designer
Education
Bachelor of Science Interior Design, Auburn University
Alex Tyer
Junior Designer
Alex Tyer, Junior Designer, received her degree from Auburn University in 2023 before moving to Atlanta to pursue a career in the design industry. She showcases great talent and dedication to creating spaces that people truly enjoy, as well as a deep appreciation for aesthetics. With a family history in the commercial construction industry, Alex possesses a keen knowledge and well-rounded perspective when it comes to the intricacies of design and business. In her role at Sims Patrick Studio, she contributes to various aspects of the firm's projects, assisting in creating design concepts, crafting mood boards, developing space plans, and meticulously drawing documents. Her talent shines through in her ability to render plans and elevations, bringing designs to life with precision and flair.
Education
Bachelor of Science Interior Design, Auburn University
Adriana Acosta
Project Director
Education
Savannah College of Art and Design, 2013 Masters of Architecture B.F.A Architecture, 2011 Minor in Interior Design
Prior Professional Experience
PERKINS+WILL, Project Designer | Austin, TexasPERKINS + WILL, Designer | Atlanta, GA, Designer
COOPER CARRY, Architectural Staff II
IDEA |SPAN, Design Director
GENSLER, Senior Interior Designer
Adriana Acosta
National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) American Institute of Architects (AIA) Registered Interior Designer LEED Green Associate
Project Director
Education
Savannah College of Art and Design, 2013 Masters of Architecture B.F.A Architecture, 2011 Minor in Interior Design
Prior Professional Experience
PERKINS+WILL, Project Designer | Austin, TexasPERKINS + WILL, Designer | Atlanta, GA, Designer
COOPER CARRY, Architectural Staff II
IDEA |SPAN, Design Director
GENSLER, Senior Interior Designer