Our dream:
Making yours come to life.

Studio Casa Vita exists for one reason: To make the process of designing your dream home unforgettable.

The way we see it, you deserve to work with a team that thinks deeply about every aspect of your goals and lifestyle, asking the questions you don’t even know to ask, turning over stones you didn’t even know were there to be overturned, and actually explaining recommendations instead of just defending them. Whether you’ve been dreaming for days or for decades, our feeling is the same: You deserve a space that fills you with excitement every single day.

Two women in an office looking at a computer screen with architectural drawings and interior designs, one woman is pointing at the screen.

With over 20 years of industry experience at the helm, our studio is more than equipped with the skills, expertise, and resources to bring your dream home to life.

But what we bring to the table is more than a laundry list of accolades and accreditations. What really sets us apart is our approach—one we’ve refined over years of meeting with and guiding clients, learning firsthand what works best and how to improve.

The takeaway from all that experience? We listen. Really listen.

Then, we listen some more.

Because we know the one thing that guarantees you will fall in love with your home the moment you step through the front door is actually getting to be an integral part of the process.

For us, “collaboration” isn’t just a buzzword. It’s our mantra.

Two women discussing an interior design project at a table with home plans and a phone, in a modern office with large windows.

If you’re looking for a design team who are as dedicated to going above and beyond for your dream as you are, there’s good news.

You’ve already found us.

Our Team

Gina Elkins

Assoc. AIA, NCIDQ, ICAA
Founder | Principal

Gina, an Assoc. AIA, NCIDQ, and ICAA member, has a passion for architecture and design that started in her childhood, studying construction books and supervising her home’s construction. She pursued her love for building by studying architecture and interior design at the University of Houston, leading an award-winning two-decade career in residential architecture and interiors.
She has contributed to projects featured in Architectural Digest, Luxe Magazine, Modern Luxury Interiors, The Wall Street Journal, and Traditional Home. Gina has worked on projects across Texas and beyond, including a fourteen-year tenure as Principal of a leading architecture firm and serving as Creative Director for a multi-disciplinary design studio. A longtime admirer of historical architecture, she delights in the nuances of texture, detail, and scale that old homes evoke—and brings that same sensibility to every project she touches.
Her depth of passion and eye for detail are the cornerstones of her work. Gina leads the company with foundational principals rooted in creating "home"; she considers it a privilege to create spaces where memories are cultivated.
Gina enjoys traveling, cooking, art, hiking and raising her family of six alongside her husband.

With more than twenty years of experience in high-end residential architecture, Boba brings a thoughtful, hands-on approach to creating beautifully crafted homes. A graduate of The Irwin S. Chanin School of Architecture at The Cooper Union in New York City—where she completed the renowned five-year NAAB-accredited program on a full scholarship—she developed a strong foundation in both design rigor and creative exploration.
Over the course of her career, she has led the design and construction of more than 50 custom homes and renovations, earning a reputation for her meticulous attention to detail, collaborative spirit, and ability to translate complex ideas into elegant, functional spaces. She values close partnerships with clients, builders, and design teams to ensure every project feels cohesive, intentional, and distinctly personal.
Guided by the belief that well-designed spaces can truly elevate everyday living, Boba strives to create environments that are as inviting as they are refined. Beyond her work, she finds inspiration in travel, holistic wellness, and time spent with family, friends, and her beloved ridgeback, Luna.

Lead Designer

Boba Kovacevic

Hayden is a University of Houston School of Architecture graduate who brings a thoughtful, detail-driven approach to his work at Studio Casa Vita. A native Houstonian with American-British roots, he draws inspiration from both local context and a broader global perspective.
Outside the studio, Hayden is an automotive enthusiast and enjoys black-and-white DSLR photography, where he explores composition, contrast, and form. He previously served as a graphics lead for Missouri City Green, reflecting his commitment to creative collaboration and community involvement.
At home, Hayden is a proud dog dad to his 15-year-old teacup chihuahua.

Hayden Jefferies

Project Designer

With a background that bridges design and environmental science, April brings a thoughtful and holistic approach to residential design. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Interior Design from Sam Houston State University and a Bachelor of Science in Bioenvironmental Science from Texas A&M University—an academic foundation that informs her sensitivity to both aesthetic and functional balance in every space she creates.
Since joining the firm, April has contributed to the success of more than a dozen projects, helping bring design concepts to life from early vision through installation. Known for her approachable demeanor and collaborative nature, she is dedicated to developing strong client relationships and ensuring each project not only meets but exceeds expectations.
Inspired by travel and cultural exploration, she draws creative influence from the places she visits—translating those experiences into fresh perspectives and layered, meaningful homes.

April Chambers

Designer

Passionate about art, history, and literature, Jennie brings a storytelling approach to design, creating homes that blend aesthetics, function, and personal meaning. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Interior Design from Sam Houston State University, building a strong foundation in space planning, design principles, and material selection, complemented by hands-on project experience.
With a careful and intentional approach, she ensures each project is thoughtfully considered, meticulously refined, and expertly guided from concept to completion. Drawing inspiration from travel, time spent with loved ones, and the natural world—especially beaches and mountains—Jennie strives to craft homes and designs that reflect the lives and personalities of those who inhabit them.

Jennie McDonald

Design Assistant

Grounded in over a decade of experience across construction and interior design, Cherie brings a balanced blend of technical understanding, organization, and thoughtful support to every project. She studied Interior Design at Collin College in Dallas, Texas, where she developed a strong foundation in materials, structure, and collaboration.
Having contributed to numerous high-profile projects—some recognized in Architectural Digest and Luxe Magazine—she approaches her work with quiet diligence and a steady commitment to excellence. Known for her composure, precision, and intuitive sense of timing, she ensures every detail is handled with care and intention.
Beyond her professional role, she continues to broaden her knowledge and enjoys spending time with her family.

Cherie Ryan