KITCHEN DESIGN - Key Persons


Caren Rideau

Job Titles:
  • Principal
Caren is no stranger to the kitchen. As an avid cook, she understands the elements of a well-designed kitchen. She recalls assisting her mother in the preparation of traditional Mexican dishes, specifically homemade tamales for Christmas. After her collegiate graduation, Caren knew she would pursue a career in kitchen design. Caren founded the Kitchen Design Group in the Pacific Palisades over 30 years ago, and she has been perfecting her design skills ever since. When she is not designing kitchens, she spends time in the Santa Ynez Valley, refining her and her partner's Tierra y Vino wine.

Elvira Herrera

A native Californian, and fluent in Spanish, Elvira graduated from California State University - Long Beach with a degree in Interior Design. Her preferred design style is a blend of Bali and Spanish influence. Elvira loves the outdoors, and her ideal destination is nestled within the Canadian Rockies, soaking in the awe-inspiring views.

Jenna McCarthy

Jenna resides in Newbury Park, California, and graduated from Point Loma Nazarene University with a degree in Interior Design. She is drawn to spaces that elude a sense of warmth, complete with a unique variety of textures. Jenna maintains an unwavering passion for travel, and would love to visit Africa and Iceland.

Mariann Claggett

Job Titles:
  • Senior Designer
Mariann hails from St. Louis, Missouri, and received a degree in Interior Design, with a minor in Architectural Design and Art from Southeast Missouri University. She prefers a modern, coastal interior with a bohemian twist. She enjoys countless outdoor activities: beach walks, hiking, backpacking, and the occasional via ferrata.

Michael Cain

Job Titles:
  • Senior Designer
Mike studied Architecture, Photography, and Fine Arts in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. His preferred design style continues to develop over his 30-year career, encompassing a little bit of everything. Mike enjoys brewing beer and refining his photography skills in his spare time. He hopes to visit Europe with his family and explore new countries.

Tara Wickstrom

Job Titles:
  • Junior Designer
Tara hails from northern Colorado, and obtained a degree in Interior Architecture and Design at Colorado State University. She favors eclectic design, combining various elements, specifically mid-century modern pieces or French toile prints. Tara likes to play guitar, and plans to visit Egypt to explore the Valley of the Kings.