ABOUT
For over 20 years, ballonSTUDIO has been a leading boutique design firm in San Francisco, dedicated to turning clients vision of a "beautiful life" into stunning reality. Our full-service interior design team seamlessly integrates architecture, art, hospitality, and worldly experiences to create intentional, luxurious spaces that reflect a client’s unique style. With a global reputation and recognition in prestigious publications like SF Chronicle, Elle Décor, Luxe, California Homes, and CA Home + Design, Sabra and her team redefine sophistication and bring unparalleled expertise to every project.
We are deeply committed to PEOPLE, PLANET & PURPOSE which aren’t just principles but the heartbeat of our business.
SABRA BALLON, Founder and Principal Designer
With decades of experience spanning interior design, architecture, construction, set design, and production design, Sabra Ballon is a holistic designer known for her seamless integration of these disciplines. As the Founder and Principal Designer of ballonSTUDIO, Sabra has made a significant impact on the design community. Her unique blend of earthy modernism with a hint of glamour has consistently won the admiration of her clients. Her expertise extends to luxury residential, boutique hospitality, and commercial projects throughout San Francisco and California. Notably, Sabra's transformative vision has enhanced hotel interiors in renowned destinations such as San Francisco, Hawaii, and Las Vegas, including establishments like Hotel Nikko, Hilton Hotels, Hawaii Prince, and Del Webb properties.
Raised in Palo Alto, Sabra studied undergraduate design at UCLA and received a Master of Architecture at UC Berkeley. Drawing inspiration from the diverse cultures of Africa, Asia, and Europe, Sabra embraces a global perspective that enriches her work. Her fascination with Ancient Roman architecture, design, and decoration adds a timeless depth of her designs.
““I have a reputation for being a ‘client whisperer’ for knowing what the client wants without them necessarily even saying it.
This comes from deep listening and observation.” ”
AISHANIE MARWAH
SENIOR DESIGNER
After a decade with Gensler, Aishanie has honed her Interior Design skills serving corporate clients within various sectors, including financial services and law firms. Her extensive experience with commercial and workplace projects in the Bay Area and London has afforded her a multifaceted skill set. At ballonSTUDIO, Aishanie seamlessly navigates the realms of both luxury residential and corporate workplace interiors, using those same big firm skills while providing a boutique client experience. She employs her robust Interior Design, project management, client relationship, and team management skills to oversee our residential, commercial, and hospitality projects. This inter-industry insight ensures excellence and innovation, positioning Aishanie as the in-house authority for ballonSTUDIO’s large-scale and complex projects.
DEE PEARCE
DESIGNER
With invaluable experience in architectural and interior projects at Butler Armsden Architects, Dee joined ballonSTUDIO to pursue her love for interior design. Having worked on both residential and commercial projects, Dee is a passionate, creative designer who has the combination of abilities to meet the high standards that ballonSTUDIO is known for.
JORDAN PYERS
DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS
Jordan brings over nine years of diverse operational expertise across industries like manufacturing, technology, and food and beverage. She's played a pivotal role in building multiple companies from the ground up; truly a dynamic professional who combines financial acumen, operational expertise, and a commitment to excellence. At ballonSTUDIO, Jordan's innovative spirit provides an unparalleled client and design team experience.
EILEEN FLANNIGAN
MARKETING & BUSINESS
Eileen is a seasoned marketing and business strategist, who has 20+ years in tech innovation, holding executive roles in Digital Marketing, Partnerships, and Innovation in Fortune 500 companies in Silicon Valley. Beyond tech, she has 10+ years of leading and designing transformative partnerships, community-driven initiatives, and impactful solutions across women’s entrepreneurship, art programs, girls’ education, and climate action in India and Africa.
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MERYL CHAUM
PURCHASING MANAGER
With nearly 20 years experience as an interior designer, Meryl coordinates and expedites project purchasing for ballonSTUDIO. Her residential and hospitality design expertise, along with her natural attention to detail and organizational skills, helps ensure the ballonSTUDIO vision becomes a reality. Meryl recently completed construction and interior design of her own modern home in Napa, CA.
KHALDOUN “KAI” SHARABI
INTERIOR ARCHITECT
With experience from global firm Rem Koohaas OMA to BAR Architects in the Bay Area, Kai has honed his expertise in high-end residences and complex commercial projects. Adept in both cutting-edge design and technical aspects, he’s also working towards architectural licensure while imparting knowledge part-time at the Academy of Art University. A comprehensive journey, from teaching to international design, continues to fuel a passion for architecture.
VANESSA MELLO
INTERIOR DESIGNER
Vanessa is a creative and passionate interior designer, holding degrees in Interior Design and Cultural Production, and specializing in Cool Hunting. She’s a design social media phenom and influencer. Her deep passion for design shines through in her styling work, innovative concept development, and her expertise in crafting detailed 3D images to bring design visions to life for residential and commercial projects.