Team

Architectural history has been a passion since long before David began his career. With an emphasis on architectural and interior design history, he received a Bachelor of Architecture degree from Drake University. He performed post graduate studies at both the University of Minnesota and the Minneapolis College of Art and Design. This extensive educational background has provided David with a broad knowledge of late 19th and early 20th Century decorative arts, furnishings, and finishes.

Concurrent with his education and public service, David worked for ten years on historic preservation projects for a nationally recognized architecture firm. In 1997 he founded David Heide Design Studio, which carries on his endeavor to preserve our historic treasures and carry that integrity forward into the design of new residences. Under his leadership, the Studio has received both local and national awards from a wide range of professional organizations.

A longtime resident of the historic Summit Hill neighborhood in St. Paul, David has lived within a mile of Macalester College since studying classical languages there in his first college years. He and his husband Michael divide their time between Minnesota and Palm Springs, California.

Brad, Associate AIA, joined the Studio in December 1999 shortly after receiving a bachelor’s degree from the University of Minnesota.

He has worked as designer and project manager on a wide variety of historically-based projects and has special expertise in the design of cabinetry, millwork, and interior details. While earning his degree in architecture, Brad also studied comparative literature, preparing him to take on occasional writing assignments in the Studio.

Chris Christofferson, AIA, holds a Master of Architecture from the University of Minnesota. His passion for architecture began early, inspired by growing up in a century-old farmhouse rich with historic detail and quality construction. That experience fostered a deep appreciation for thoughtful, timeless design that has influenced his work over the past two decades at David Heide Design Studio.

Chris enjoys the diversity of residential architecture and values the opportunity to work across a wide range of styles. With a mechanically minded approach, he is particularly drawn to the technical side of design and enjoys developing custom construction details that seamlessly integrate modern amenities while preserving and enhancing the character of a home. He especially values collaborative relationships with clients, builders, and other artisans with whom we love to work.

The most rewarding part of Chris’s work is hearing how a thoughtfully designed home has enhanced a client’s life. His design philosophy centers on creating functional, lasting solutions that meet each client’s needs while honoring the integrity of the home itself. Outside of the Studio, Chris enjoys spending time outdoors with his family, and is a valued member of the AIA Minnesota Residential Architecture committee.

Rocky has been assisting the Studio since it first opened in 1997. He is a great asset to both the architecture and interior design departments, and frequently assists with photo shoots, interiors installations, and organizing the sample library.

Tam Ngo, AIA, brings a thoughtful and design-driven perspective to each project. He was drawn to architecture for its ability to shape the way people experience the world around them. A registered architect, Tam enjoys the structural and technical aspects of the profession, while maintaining a deep appreciation for how spaces influence daily life and human connection.

Tam values the collaborative nature of the design process and enjoys working alongside a creative team to transform ideas into refined environments. Since joining the studio in 2020, he has been passionate about partnering with clients to create spaces that reflect their individuality and support the way they want to live.

Tam and his family are fortunate to enjoy their own midcentury modern residence in St. Paul’s University Grove neighborhood.

Educated in interior design at the University of Wisconsin, Michael, Allied ASID, worked as a visual merchandizing and marketing specialist for two major retailers before joining our Studio.

His broad knowledge of interior design, textiles, furniture, color, and finishes informs much of our portfolio. Drawing on a large network of resource contacts, Michael regularly locates unique and hard-to-find items such as art-glass lamps, antique and one-of-a-kind furniture pieces, and specific pieces of architectural salvage. He excels in color and creates wonderful color stories and material coordination.

Leanna Kemp Kristoff, Associate AIA, holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Minnesota and a master’s degree from the Savannah College of Art and Design. Leanna joined David Heide Design Studio in 2016 and brings deep consideration and respect to her work.

Leanna’s interest in architecture began in early childhood, compelled to point out of the car window on every trip evaluating which buildings were acceptable, and which she preferred to change. With a particular fondness for historic homes, she is inspired by the idea that thoughtful design can honor history while serving future generations. Her work reflects the belief that every home should tell the story of the family who lives there. She loves helping clients share that story.

Outside of the Studio, Leanna is a talented painter and avid book club member who enjoys imagining possibilities for her own 1910 home. Her creative pursuits and appreciation for history continue to shape her artistic perspective and approach to design.

Jake Hasse earned his Master of Architecture from North Dakota State University and brings a deep appreciation for the intersection of creativity, craftsmanship, and everyday living to his work. Drawn to architecture from an early age, Jake has long been fascinated by how thoughtfully designed spaces enhance life experience.

A valued member of the studio since 2019, Jake enjoys guiding clients toward design solutions that align with their expectations and even reveal possibilities they may never have imagined. His practical and organized approach is rooted in a construction background. He also appreciates opportunities to bring versatility and collaboration to the Studio by being a go-to guy.

Outside of work, Jake and his wife find inspiration in the outdoors, enjoy camping with their dogs, and volunteering with the local garden club.

Elizabeth Mueller, Allied ASID, holds a Bachelor of Science in interior design. Elizabeth brings a thoughtful and human-centered perspective to every project she undertakes. Her background in the arts, including ballet and music, informs her sensitivity to movement, balance, and composition—elements that translate seamlessly into her approach to interior environments.

Elizabeth excels in designing spaces that enhance the natural rhythm of daily life, fostering both efficiency and a sense of calm. For over a decade at the Studio, she has been building meaningful connections with clients and creating spaces that reflect their unique lifestyles. Her work is guided by a commitment to timelessness, functionality, and beauty, resulting in spaces that feel both personal and enduring.

Beyond work, Elizabeth enjoys spending time with her family and pets.

Madie is a passionate designer and aspiring architect who graduated in 2024 from the University of Minnesota with a Bachelor’s of Design in Architecture. Creating spaces that are meant to be loved and lived in is what drives her passion for beautiful design.

Prior to University, Madie was a potter creating functional custom pieces for her clients. This understanding of functionality at a small and detailed level allows her to immerse herself in every detail of a project with care and compassion. By diving deep into client needs and understanding the context of each project, she aims to create spaces that inspire meaningful experiences beyond mere functionality. Driven by a commitment to continual improvement, Madie actively seeks to expand her skill set, ensuring that every project leaves a lasting, positive impact.

Outside of her architectural pursuits, Madie enjoys creating pottery, tending to her garden, and embracing creativity and fun in all aspects of life.

Kamryn Schmeltzer joined the Studio in 2025 and has long been passionate about residential design. Her childhood was nearly an internship given the countless house tours she convinced her parents to visit. She was captivated by homes and interiors long before realizing design could become a career and is elated to immerse herself in the profession.

Kamryn believes each residence should be thoughtfully tailored to the clients, creating spaces that feel intuitive and personal. Her attention to detail and appreciation for craftsmanship are reflected in her work.

When not at work, Kamryn stays inspired through painting, craft projects, and caring for her aquariums. She loves spending Minnesota summers on the water and in nature, experiences that continue to influence her appreciation for thoughtful environments.

Bio coming soon!

Samantha Timmerman holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design. Originally inspired by a love of magazine design, Samantha has always been drawn to the power of visual storytelling. From an early age, she knew her path would be rooted in creativity, and over time she discovered a passion for connecting with people, leading her to a career that blends design and marketing.

Samantha believes that good design works quietly, shaping how people feel and respond without demanding attention. Her approach centers on creating thoughtful, engaging work that can elevate everyday experiences.

Outside of work, Samantha is an avid traveler who finds inspiration in exploring new cultures and perspectives. Having visited 47 countries and lived abroad in places like Thailand and Colombia, she brings curiosity and sensitivity to everything she does.