Krista Manna
Cape and Plymouth Business Media Logo Circle

40 Under 40 Class of 2021!

Honoree Name: Krista Manna
Company: KR Architecture & Interiors, Abington
Career background / highlights: More than 17 years of experience in the design industry including residential, corporate interiors, tech and retail. Clients include Google, Bank of America, TD Bank, Pearson Education, Drexel & Binghamton University, Ellis Realty, Emery Contracting, Blush Tan, Go Fresh Cafe. In addition to being an architect, I am also a real estate investor. I purchase run-down properties, renovate them and then either rent or sell them.
Community commitment: None listed.
Favorite professional moment: Each one of my company's projects make up my "favorite" moments. I love being able to help each project happen and I am able to focus on my clients in a way that larger companies cannot.
Who is your role model / mentor? My family inspires me the most. My grandfather gave me the chance to be his helper and taught me the ropes. My mother always knew she would go into design, and her inheritance enabled her to start her business. My father was a color lab technician but was also an after-hours/ weekend tinkerer around the house; fixing what needed to be fixed. I became his assistant and the skills I learned from him have served me well in my profession and inspires me to always strive to learn more.
What mistake has taught you the most? Not starting my own business sooner. Owning my own business has allowed me to be both more present for my family and be able to serve my clients better. Feeling more connected to the work allows me to do my job better, no matter what the project is.
What one book has impacted your life? “Rich Dad, Poor Dad” by Robert Kiyosaki and Sharon Lechter
What is your superpower? Time management and delegating.
Where can you be found on the weekends? In summer, in my garden, tending my chickens, camping and running my kids around. During the winter I ski, knit, crochet, make handmade artisanal soap, tend the chickens and plan next year's garden or whatever other personal project I have up my sleeve.