#3: Hema Persad - Scaling a Bi-Coastal Design Practice Through Intentional Systems

Hema Persad is principal designer and founder of Sagrada Studios, a bi-coastal design firm known for its systematic approach to growth and operations. Named one of Architectural Digest's New American Voices in 2023, she brings strategic thinking from her previous careers as an attorney and celebrity stylist to create efficient, scalable design processes.
This episode covers Hema's journey to interior design, her approach to scaling operations across multiple locations, and insights on PR strategy and business development. We explore how she's built robust systems using tools like Materio to support her firm's expansion while maintaining high-touch client service.
This episode is brought to you by Materio - the first true end-to-end operating system for interior designers who are ready to scale. Materio turns complex design projects into organized, repeatable systems. Stop spending your nights updating spreadsheets and searching through endless email threads. With Materio's visual workspace, everything from floor plans to mood boards, to selections (and approvals!) lives in one place, keeping your team and clients perfectly aligned. Ready to scale your design business with complete confidence and control? Visit materio.co to see how you can get your nights and weekends back.
Key topics in this episode include:
Building scalable design operations
Strategic PR and brand development
Team structure and management
Client communication strategies
Technology integration for growth
Follow Hema Persad
Website: sagradastudio....
Instagram: / hemaapersad & / sagradastudio
Designing Tomorrow with Mary Beth Chau explores conversations with visionary interior designers about building thriving businesses and shaping the future of design. New episodes every Thursday.
Follow Mary Beth Chau
Instagram: / maryb_chau
Website: bit.ly/3EiLEYm