Meet Mary Hernandez, an Atlanta-based Kitchen and Bath Designer who advocates for the simplicity and on-trend styling of Mantra Cabinets for her clients. With more than seven years in the design business, this self-taught, highly motivated designer shares insights into her own business and tells us why she chooses Mantra Cabinets.
Tell us a little about yourself. Where are you from, family, hobbies, or anything you’d like to share!
Photo Credit: Marc Mauldin Photography
“I am the co-owner of Latitude 33 Design & Construction, an Atlanta-based home remodeling company specializing in kitchens, bathrooms, and flooring. Born with a foot in two worlds, I spent my childhood between the sandy beaches of El Salvador and the heartland of the United States.
Throughout my life, I have drawn inspiration from my diverse surroundings, finding beauty in even the simplest of settings. My interests are as varied as my background; I cherish time with my family, have a soft spot for animals, and eagerly explore the latest trends in home design.
At the core of my work is a deep commitment to family values. At Latitude 33, a business I run with my husband, Carlos, this commitment translates into transforming houses into homes where families can thrive, create lasting memories, and build their futures. ”
How long have you been a designer? How long have you been designing with Mantra?
“I have been designing professionally since 2018, building on my initial career in the building materials industry, which began in 2008 as a salesperson for Oldcastle. Latitude 33 was born from this experience, and to better bring my visions to life and serve my clients, I invested in sharpening my design skills and am completely self-taught. In 2023, Latitude 33 added the Mantra Cabinets line and became a trusted Mantra dealer. My clients appreciate Mantra’s offering of high-quality, affordable cabinets, which has enabled me to consistently deliver exceptional design choices. ”
What are some of your favorite features of Mantra cabinets?
“I particularly value Mantra’s range of styles and finishes, which enable me to tailor designs precisely to my clients’ preferences and needs. This flexibility ensures that each project reflects the unique tastes and personalities of those I work with. ”
Mantra Cabinets offers three best-selling door styles and six on-trend finishes. Explore these styles here!
Tell us about this particular kitchen design. What was the customer looking for? Were there any obstacles you had to overcome?
“For this project, my client sought a complete redesign following a kitchen leak that resulted in significant damage. With full creative freedom granted by the client, I focused on ensuring the new design not only restored functionality but also reflected the client’s personality and seamlessly integrated with the rest of their home.”
Photo Credit: Marc Mauldin Photography
“The main challenge was the necessity to demolish a wall to achieve an open concept layout between the living room and kitchen. This decision posed obstacles, particularly concerning reduced wall space for cabinets and storage. To overcome this, I strategically closed off a doorway leading to the dining room, thereby freeing up additional wall space where I could install the beautiful Mantra cabinets.”
“Demolition work of this nature always carries risks, but our team’s expertise ensured a smooth execution. Ultimately, the client was delighted with the transformation of their kitchen space, which now harmonizes beautifully with the overall aesthetic and functional needs of their home.”
Do you have any design tips or tricks that you’d like to share?
“One of my favorite design techniques is to avoid using the same color for cabinets throughout a space. Instead, I enjoy mixing different wood tones with varied paint choices. This approach incorporates a blend of textures and tones, creating a visually dynamic and multi-dimensional environment. It adds depth and interest to the space, making it feel vibrant and inviting.”
Photo Credit: Marc Mauldin Photography
What are some of the biggest design challenges you have faced?
“One of my most significant design challenges revolves around working with very small spaces. It’s crucial to create a design that not only accommodates all the modern appliances people desire, such as air fryers and espresso machines, but also ensures the kitchen remains both aesthetically pleasing and highly functional. Achieving this balance is what I consider the hallmark of a true designer kitchen.”
To learn more about Mantra Cabinets, visit our website and to find an experienced Designer, visit our Dealer Locator today!
