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Meet the Native Citizen Team
At Native Citizen, our strength lies in a multidisciplinary team that brings creativity, precision, and execution together under one roof. Our Studio Director brings warmth to clients and direction to projects, ensuring the signature balance of design and functionality that defines our brand. With an architect background designer, our concepts are grounded in spatial understanding and thoughtful detailing—creating environments that are as practical as they are beautiful. Behind the scenes, our Logistics Specialist ensures every piece arrives and installs seamlessly, while our Construction Manager oversees each build with craftsmanship and care. Together, we offer a full-service approach to residential and commercial design, delivering cohesive spaces that tell a story. This growing effort ensures that Native Citizen’s design work (past, present, and future) is not only seen, but felt. By blending strategy, creativity, and community connection, our Media & Marketing Team continues to expand the Native Citizen brand and inspire design-minded audiences both locally and nationwide. Our Media & Marketing Team drives the storytelling behind Native Citizen that is dedicated to elevating our brand and our clients’ design stories. Through thoughtful photography, video production, and digital campaigns, our marketing team highlights every facet of Native Citizen — from in-store collections and seasonal events to our residential and commercial design projects. Our team documents our clients’ spaces and celebrates their transformation, capturing the journey from concept to completion. This growing effort ensures that Native Citizen’s design work (past, present, and future) is not only seen, but felt. By blending strategy, creativity, and community connection, our Media & Marketing Team continues to expand the Native Citizen brand and inspire design-minded audiences both locally and nationwide. At the heart of Native Citizen’s design vision is William Shoemaker, whose creative leadership has shaped the brand’s distinct, layered aesthetic. William brings depth and precision to every project including residential home, commercial space, or curated showroom display. For over 20 years, his influence has defined Native Citizen’s eclectic yet cohesive design language, blending global references with approachable sophistication. The result is a look that feels collected, lived-in, and elevated that’s designed for everyday, active living. Each space tells a story of contrast and connection, where refined materials meet organic textures and curated details bring warmth to modern design. Love the pieces you're seeing? We design homes and businesses with global spirit. Visit our Montrose or Heights studios to meet with a Native Citizen interior designer—complimentary, always. We’ll help you create a space that’s beautiful, functional, and ready for real life. Ordering online? See the latest promotional sale.Working with us as a design client? We take care of it all—from in-home measurements to furniture placement, art, and décor installation with expert precision and care. You dream it, we install it when you sign up for the design passport at our studios.
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From Global Sourcing to Design-Led Craft: The Story of Four Hands Furniture
Four Hands began in 1996 with a simple idea: travel the world, discover beauty in unexpected places, and bring it home. Founded in Austin, Texas by Brett Hatton, the company started as an importer of one-of-a-kind antiques and handcrafted furniture found throughout Asia, Europe, and South America. The name “Four Hands” represents the idea that many hands (from designers to artisans) touch every piece along the way. Each collection reflects a collaboration of craftsmanship, culture, and creativity. What started as a small import company soon evolved into one of the most influential names in the furniture industry, The Four Hands brand is now known for its design innovation, material integrity, and global inspiration. Redefining Modern Craftsmanship By the mid-2000s, Four Hands made a pivotal shift from importing to designing original collections. This change transformed them from a distributor into a design powerhouse. Today, over 90% of Four Hands pieces are created in-house by their Austin design team, combining modern aesthetics with timeless construction techniques. Every Four Hands items is made with purpose and precision. Think of plush leather sofas, a sculptural dining tables, or a piece of hand-finished lightings. The result is furniture that feels elevated, livable, and lasting. At Native Citizen, we know our clients value furniture that’s both beautiful and built to last. Four Hands consistently delivers on both fronts. What Makes Four Hands Quality Stand Out Premium Materials: Solid oak frames, hand-tanned leathers, durable stone, and metal finishes are selected for both beauty and lasting performance. Expert Craftsmanship: Traditional joinery meets modern engineering, with strict quality control across global artisan partners. Global Inspiration, Austin Design: From European farmhouses to Japanese minimalism and California coastal style, each piece is thoughtfully refined in Austin. Sustainable Practices: Materials are responsibly sourced, and long-term factory partnerships ensure ethical, environmentally conscious production. Why We Love Four Hands Four Hands shares our vision: furniture should inspire, last, and tell a story worth living in. When we curate their collections at Native Citizen, we know we’re offering our clients something more than furniture. We offer foundation pieces that become part of their home’s story. Whether you’re refreshing a single room or designing an entire home, Four Hands brings a level of craftsmanship and versatility that perfectly compliments our Native Citizen design philosophy: design with a global spirit. Love the pieces you're seeing? We design homes and businesses with global spirit. Visit our Montrose or Heights studios to meet with a Native Citizen interior designer—complimentary, always. We’ll help you create a space that’s beautiful, functional, and ready for real life. Ordering online? See the latest promotional sale.Working with us as a design client? We take care of it all—from in-home measurements to furniture placement, art, and décor installation with expert precision and care. You dream it, we install it when you sign up for the design passport at our studios.
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From Whisk to Wonder: The Story Behind Houston’s Red Dessert Dive
Houston has no shortage of great places to grab a treat. However, few feel as personal, welcoming, and downright delicious as Red Dessert Dive. Founded by Jessica Lusk, Red Dessert Dive isn’t just a bakery and coffee shop. It’s a Houston original, the kind of place that feels like home the second you walk in, and keeps you coming back for another slice of something sweet. Jessica opened Red Dessert Dive over a decade ago on Studewood Street in the Heights with one big goal in mind: to create a spot that blended homemade desserts, quality drinks, and genuine community. The business name originates from Jessica’s fiery redheaded Mammaw who could make dessert like no other, and “Red” was the endearing name that Jessica’s Pawwaw gave her. Jessica says, “Red is filled with goodness, fun, love, and lots of passion. This little shop is made possible with my loving family and kickass staff.” Eleven years later, that simple idea has turned into one of Houston’s favorite neighborhood hangouts. Every Red Dessert Dive location is filled with the smell of freshly baked cakes, cookies, brownies, and more (all made daily in small batches). Red isn’t just about sweets. Jessica’s team serves freshly brewed coffee, local craft beers, and a selection of wines that make Red as much an evening spot as a morning one. You can even take a bottle of wine to go! Whether you’re picking up coffee before work or meeting friends for dessert and a drink, the atmosphere stays relaxed, welcoming, and unmistakably Houston. Red Dessert Dive’s second location opened at 2214 W 34th Street, expanding the concept into the Garden Oaks/Oak Forest area. It recently celebrated its one-year anniversary, marking another milestone for this woman-owned small business. The new space carries the same heart as the original Heights location. There are familiar desserts, cozy atmosphere, and the friendly faces that make Red what it is. A Second Slice: The Other Location Jessica isn’t slowing down. She’s currently working on a shared space behind Red’s second location that will include “The Anxiety Dr” and her wellness products as well as a pilates studio in a shared green garden courtyard. It’s her way of bringing people together in a setting that feels good for both body and soul. Her dedication, creativity, and love for the Houston community have remained the key ingredients in Red’s success.
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Design Success: Reynolds Financial Group, Colorado
When a family-owned financial group in Colorado decided to elevate their new office, they turned to Native Citizen in Houston to bring their vision to life. Reynolds Financial Group, led by Roger and Julie Reynolds, wanted a space that reflected their professionalism and offered a warm, elevated environment for clients. Though the project was out of state, the connection between our teams felt seamless from the start. William, Sam, and Mario from Native Citizen collaborated closely with Julie and her group. Both teams were able to share ideas and make decisions quickly. “From the very beginning, we were so happy with the selection of options,” Julie shared. “Each piece of furniture we needed had four different choices provided by Native Citizen, and the team really listened to our concerns. We put our trust in William, and he absolutely delivered. He’s very creative and very talented. The space turned out even better than I could have imagined.” The design process began with a clear goal: transform the new office space in time for their grand opening. William even flew out to Colorado twice to oversee the installation and ensure every detail was done to perfection. The result is a space that feels both refined and welcoming, aligning perfectly with Reynolds Financial Group’s philosophy of personalized client care and long-term relationships. The furniture selections brought a sense of quality and uniqueness, backed by Native Citizen’s commitment to craftsmanship and warranty support. When the firm hosted their grand opening, inviting clients they had worked with for over ten years, the reactions were overwhelmingly positive. Guests were immediately impressed by how thoughtfully designed and cohesive the new space felt. It was a true reflection of the company’s growth and success. “We couldn’t have dreamed how nice it turned out,” Roger Reynolds said. From the start, they trusted William’s vision and creativity. The space represents who they are as a unit. At Native Citizen, we take pride in helping businesses design environments that not only look beautiful but also enhance the way they work and connect with their clients. For our design client, this office redesign marked more than just a move — it was a milestone that symbolized progress, trust, and a shared vision for the future.
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A Cozy Collaboration: Inside The Bunny Hive Houston with Native Citizen
The Bunny Hive in Houston, TX is a sweet oasis of comfort and connection. It’s a place where little ones learn, explore, and grow, and where parents nurture meaningful bonds through shared experiences. Native Citizen had the pleasure of working with The Bunny Hive, helping bring this beautiful space to life just as it opened its doors. Led by franchise owner Jaime Bynum, a mother of two and a true visionary, this woman-owned business is a testament to thoughtful design and community spirit. A Timeless Home Turned Haven Set inside a timeless old home, The Bunny Hive Houston carries a charm that feels both classic and new. Native Citizen’s design approach preserved the bones of the house while introducing functional zones that support both calm and creativity. Step inside and you’ll find a welcoming front room featuring a bench and cubby area for shoes that’s the perfect start to a peaceful visit. Sunlight floods the space, creating a warm glow ideal for commemorating your child’s milestones. Fresh blooms and candles enhance the atmosphere, inviting both serenity and joy. To the left, you’ll be greeted by the friendly The Bunny Hive team ready to check you in. The front desk, adorned with modern marble countertops, sets a polished tone. Nearby, a display of cozy sweaters, member spotlights, and event cards showcases the heart of The Bunny Hive community. And of course, the space wouldn’t be complete without its beloved “bunny mascot" greeting guests through the charming Dutch door entry. Designed for Play, Learning, and Bonding In the back, two thoughtfully designed areas bring the vision to life: “The Hive” and the Classroom. The Hive is a cozy play area filled with intentional design details including petite chairs, a gentle color palette, and durable yet stylish furniture that suits active little ones. A favorite piece here is the Benito Sofa from Native Citizen, offering comfort and style for both play and rest. The Koda Outdoor End Table in textured white adds a modern touch while standing up to the energy of curious toddlers. What makes The Bunny Hive truly special is its intimate arrangement. Classes are limited to ten children, focusing on infants ages 0–4 years old. Every session is designed to foster music, art, and development through shared parent–child participation (creating genuine moments of bonding and discovery). Next door, the Classroom continues that sense of connection. Bright and airy, there is a wall of books, petite tables and chairs, and a child-height dance bar that supports early movement and engagement. One of the most loved moments? The “bubble dance” that ends each class… pure joy in motion! More Than Furniture — We Design Experiences Every element in The Bunny Hive — from the charming bunny wallpaper in the restroom to the room construction, kitchenette, and thoughtfully chosen furniture — was carefully curated by the Native Citizen Design Team. It’s a reminder that great design isn’t just about how a space looks; it’s about how it feels and functions. Even the diaper changing station was designed with parents in mind, making it easy to take care of life’s little messes in comfort and style. We’re proud to have partnered with Jaime and her team to bring this vision to life. The Bunny Hive is an experience where community, comfort, and creativity come together. Are you interested in seeing this beautiful space in person?Visit The Bunny Hive Houston and discover how intentional design can nurture both parent and child (one cozy moment at a time). Also check out our new Native Citizen Montrose Showroom where designs are brought to life at 2311 Dunlavy St Houston, TX 77006.
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Syed and Sarah’s Home in Montrose
Experience the difference in design for your home We are excited to share our experience working with Syed and Sarah! They confided that they had explored other designer options, but ultimately chose Native Citizen for the local connection and personalized service. They couldn’t be happier with both the process and the home. “Working with William was effortless. He communicated his vision with clarity for our open-concept living and kitchen area. What once felt like one large space, he thoughtfully transformed into distinct yet cohesive zones.” -Sarah Once the furniture arrived, the team handled everything with care and professionalism, making the experience stress-free from start to finish. “William and team have been incredible! we’ve worked with them for months for our new construction home right down the street in Montrose the design is something out of a magazine and the prices were very reasonable. We’ve recommended them to many of our friends also purchasing new homes.” -Syed What do you think of their lovely home? P.S. Love the space you're seeing? We design homes and businesses for active, everyday living., Visit our Montrose or Heights studios to meet with a Native Citizen interior designer—complimentary, always. We’ll help you create a space that’s beautiful, functional, and ready for real life. Ordering online? See the latest promotional sale.Working with us as a design client? We take care of it all—from in-home measurements to furniture placement, art, and décor installation with expert precision and care. You dream it, we install it when you sign up for the design passport at our studios.
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Unlock Savings With the NC Design Passport
Designing your dream home just got more rewarding. Your Passport to Exclusive Perks When you join, you’ll unlock access to special in-store promotions, including $250 off every $1,000 purchase. This is an exclusive offer just for Design Passport members. Whether you’re replacing an accent chair or redesigning your entire space, your membership brings elevated design within reach. At Native Citizen, we believe your home should reflect your lifestyle — modern, intentional, and full of character. That’s why we created the Design Passport, a free membership crafted in mind for our clients. Insider Access to the World of Native Citizen Design Passport members get more than savings (they get the inside scoop). You’ll be the first to know about: Design inspiration and trends from our experts Behind-the-scenes stories from client projects and studio collaborations First to know about future sales online and in-store Community event announcements and other gatherings It’s your all-access pass to everything happening at Native Citizen. Stay connected to home inspiration in Houston. How to Join Becoming a member is simple. Opt into our marketing texts and emails with our form (refresh this screen to see the form), and you’ll instantly receive your Design Passport perks. No fees, no catch — just inspiration and rewards made for you. Start Your Design Journey Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, a design professional, or simply someone who loves beautiful spaces, the Design Passport is your gateway to curated living. Take advantage of out complimentary design services. Take Advantage of the Design Passport! Visit us at our Montrose or Heights studios to explore the furnishings, materials, and accessories to bring your home to life. Schedule a complimentary design consultation with one of our interior designers by contacting us.
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People of NC: Kathryn Robinson
Real estate is more than property—it’s about connecting people with spaces that fit their lifestyle, goals, and future. For Houston realtor Kathryn Robinson, with over 13 years of experience, success lies in pairing the right individual or family with the right home. We had the chance to sit down with Kat to learn more about her journey, her purpose, and the perspective she brings to her clients and community. Finding Her Calling In her early 30s, Kat began questioning what career would best align with her strengths. With encouragement from friends and family (who all suggested real estate) she took a leap. Starting out as an assistant, she worked her way up to become the seasoned professional she is today. Building Relationships, Not Just Closings For Kat, real estate is about people first. She thrives on relationship-building, whether with fellow realtors or the clients she celebrates life-changing wins with. One memorable moment was helping a couple land their dream home in Cypress. “They originally wanted to live closer to work, but we found this incredible million-dollar home surrounded by nature. It became their escape, a place to host and share with friends. It was completely off their radar, but it was exactly what they needed.” It’s this intuition that sets Kat apart. Her process goes deeper than bedrooms and square footage; she asks lifestyle-driven questions like, “Where are your favorite places to shop?” to better match her clients with homes that reflect who they are. A Houston Foodie & Community Leader Outside of real estate, Kat’s love for Houston shines through its food scene. Her favorites include Frenchies in Clear Lake, Kasra Persian Grill on Westheimer, and Doris Metropolitan on Shepherd for steaks. She’s not only a foodie but a leader in her industry as well. Kat has been an active volunteer with the Houston Association of Realtors for 12 years and currently serves as vice chair. By 2027, she’ll hold the title of Chair, continuing her mission to make homeownership more accessible by advocating for reduced property taxes and affordability measures. Purpose & Perspective Kat lives by the motto: “Leave whatever you touch even better.” Her advice? Focus on how people feel around you, always leave with a smile, and carry a calm, professional presence. Beyond her career, Kat is a dedicated single mother who balances her busy lifestyle with intention. She’s currently renovating her backyard, curating hanging art on the walls, and practicing unplugging from technology. It’s her way of protecting her family's mental health while nurturing their home life. She calls her home the “launch pad” and “landing pad.” Looking Ahead Whether she’s helping a family find their dream home, volunteering in the community, or creating a sanctuary for her own family, Kat reminds us that home is more than four walls—it’s where life restores and begins again.
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New Light Collection at Native Citizen!
Lighting has the power to completely transform a space—it can set a mood, highlight your favorite design details, and create an atmosphere that feels both intentional and lived-in. At Native Citizen, we’re excited to share our newest collection of lighting, now available across ceiling, wall, floor and table, and exterior light categories. This season, we’ve partnered with Hudson Valley Lighting Group, a design house known for its timeless craftsmanship and elevated style. Explore Hudson Valley Lighting Group with Troy Lighting, Corbett Lighting, Mitzi, CSL, and more. They bring a diverse mix of aesthetics, ranging from bold architectural forms to playful modern silhouettes and enduring classics. Why Hudson Valley Lighting Group? For decades, HVLG has been a name synonymous with quality and design integrity. Each fixture is thoughtfully constructed, balancing striking design with lasting durability. These aren’t just lights—they’re statement pieces designed to blend seamlessly into your home while also standing out in all the right ways. Ceiling & Wall Lights: From sculptural pendants to sleek sconces, these designs bring a polished yet effortless sense of character. Floor & Table Lamps: Functional accents that anchor a room while layering in warmth and dimension. Exterior Lighting: Durable, weather-resistant pieces that extend your living space beyond your walls. Designed for Every Style Whether your space leans modern, eclectic, or timeless, the collection offers options that illuminate more than your rooms—they highlight your style and personality. Each piece is a balance of form and function, designed not just to shine, but to inspire. At Native Citizen, we believe lighting is the finishing touch that ties a room together. With Hudson Valley Lighting Group’s collection, we’re able to bring you quality, artistry, and design that will make every corner of your home feel intentional and complete. Explore the new collection today at Native Citizen’s Montrose Studio. We design homes and businesses for active, everyday living. Visit our Montrose or Heights studios to meet with a Native Citizen interior designer—complimentary, always. We’ll help you create a space that’s beautiful, functional, and ready for real life. Ordering online? See the latest promotional sale.Working with us as a design client? We take care of it all—from in-home measurements to furniture placement, art, and décor installation with expert precision and care. You dream it, we install it when you sign up for the design passport at our studios.
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