Studio Nex-sës is a bespoke consulting agency rooted in research, insights, and creative strategy for home and lifestyle brands. Based in Portland, Oregon, we specialize in trend forecasting, product development, brand refreshes, and custom color, print, and pattern direction. Our mission is to help businesses unlock the next phase of their creative evolution.

With 20+ years in the industry—including 13 years directing product design and trend forecasting as Creative Director for Fortune 50 retailer Kroger—Erin Barnes leads Studio Nex-sës with deep retail expertise and a proven creative vision. Her insight-driven approach and leadership shape every project, ensuring strategic clarity and standout results. Erin has assembled a team of seasoned experts who bring innovation, style, and market savvy to every collaboration.

From leading the development of thousands of successful products at Kroger to now offering boutique-level creative direction through Studio Nex-sës, Erin's experience spans large-scale retail and specialized consulting. Our services scale to fit your needs—from trend reports and color forecasting to hands-on product design, competitive market analysis, and curated store tour itineraries. Every project is tailored, and every solution is grounded in deep market knowledge and inspired design thinking.

What makes us different? We connect the dots between brand identity, consumer behavior, and retail strategy—translating cultural shifts and design trends into market-ready ideas. Whether you need a seasonal trend forecast or a complete brand overhaul, our process is collaborative, strategic, and results-driven.

"Nex-sës" means "a connection or link between things,”—and that's exactly what we offer: a link between your brand's vision and the marketplace's evolving needs.

Let's create the future of home design together.

Studio Nex-sës

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Studio Nex-sës

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