Who we are
B E Y O N D T H E L I G H T
Welcome to A K A R I atmospheric design house— where the architecture of nature meets the discipline of high design.
Founded by MaryEllen Curran, A K A R I is the culmination of a life dedicated to capturing and creating space, atmosphere, and uncompromised luxury. Our philosophy is simple: we bring the restorative, silent energy of the natural world to life across both interior environments and exterior landscapes, seamlessly blurring the lines of architectural design.
Our Heritage: From Elite Hospitality to Master Design
Before A K A R I became a design house, our foundation was forged in the world of five-star luxury hospitality. As a former Chef Concierge, MaryEllen mastered the exact standards required to elevate a guest's sensory experience and command a premium atmosphere. We understand that a luxury space does not just require a product—it requires an immersive feeling.
This deep understanding of VIP hospitality is seamlessly paired with professional botanical training. Having specialized in structural botanical design during a month-long master study of European floral architecture in Amsterdam, MaryEllen integrates master Japanese design studies alongside a life spent capturing the biology of nature as an international award-winning infrared photographer. She approaches plants not merely as decor, but as living sculptures.
The Evolution of the Sanctuary to a Design House
For years, MaryEllen’s creative vision was anchored in aquaculture and the element of water—celebrated for creating and documenting the profound, vibrant energy of a renowned Koi sanctuary. Today, that exact same devotion to nature’s deep design has naturally expanded from river and koi pond waters to the pure, brilliant water here on Geneva Lake. MaryEllen has taken the structural design principles and the deep respect for nature's patterns developed at the sanctuary and applied them beautifully to both interior environments and exterior landscapes.
What We Create
Operating on a frequency where fine art photography and living materials intertwine, A K A R I designs bespoke atmospheric experiences for luxury resorts, boutique spas, and private fine art collectors:
Bespoke Botanical Installations: From preserved moss structures and wrapped, distinct floral presentations to dramatic, hanging glass root and tube installations.
Atmospheric Fine Art: High-contrast, monochromatic, and vivid fine art infrared prints that capture the invisible, architectural truths of nature.
The Boundless Future: Our ultimate journey is rooted in the earth, building toward the future fields of our signature Irish Moss Flower Farm.
