Nice to meet you, my name is Koko Avo Manouelian (and yes, that is my real name, a common Armenian nickname for the name Krikor, or Gregory.) As a first-generation Armenian growing up in Southern California, hard work and dedication were instilled in me from a young age. Most of my first memories are of shadowing my dad at his automotive sales & service center, which started with changing license plate frames at the age of 5 and later at the age of 13 spending most of my free time helping with a range of tasks.

 

Through this invaluable experience growing up, I knew I wanted to use my creativity to run my own business one day. Through my passion for architecture, design, the arts, and business, Koko Avo Designs was born. 

 

My firm combines historical precedent and modern trends, with a reflection of the beach city lifestyle that I was so lucky to grow up in. I truly enjoy working with my clients to curate their aspirations through functional and beautiful designs.  

 

When I am not designing, I enjoy traveling and exploring with my wife Gacia, going on adventures with our golden doodle Noosh, and spending time with my big Armenian family.