We inspire our clients to reach outside the box and go further than they imagined by introducing creative and unique concepts.

Applegate Tran Interiors is located in the Mission District of San Francisco and was established in 1999 by its principal designers Vernon Applegate and Gioi Tran. In addition to many years of creating bold, inviting, and dynamic spaces all over the world, our team has extensive experience in the fine, culinary, visual, and performing arts. All of this not only places us on the cutting edge of design trends, it grounds us with an understanding of timeless and beautiful design. Gioi and Vernon are also the co-owners of the Poliform San Francisco showroom where visitors can discover a range of iconic products, from kitchens to the living area, from the bedroom to the walk-in-closets, all in the comfort of an intimate and private atmosphere.

The services we offer range from fresh décor updates to ground up new construction projects. We specialize in architectural finishes, space planning, art curation, and custom furniture. Our clients appreciate the design process which is uniquely catered to them and their personalities and creates an elevated, more enjoyable, way for them to live or work in their space. We inspire our clients to reach outside the box and go further than they imagined by introducing creative and unique concepts.

Meet the Team

  • interior designer principal

    Vernon Applegate

    Founder & Principal Designer

    Vernon Applegate received a B.S. in Architectural Studies from The University of the Arts in Philadelphia. After earning his degree, he moved to California and completed additional coursework at the University of California. Prior to co-founding his own firm, Vernon worked for several esteemed interior design firms throughout Los Angeles and San Francisco. Once Vernon arrived in San Francisco, he and Gioi Tran founded Applegate Tran Interiors in 1999, and have been designing and converting home interiors since.

  • principal and founder interior designer

    Gioi Tran

    Founder & Principal Designer

    Gioi Tran is a strong creative force influencing many distinct fields. He has a long standing passion for fine arts and dance but has built his career in the design field. He received a B.S. in Interior Design from the Academy of Art University in San Francisco. With co-founder Vernon Applegate they founded Applegate Tran Interiors. Then in 2007, Gioi launched a furniture and lighting line manufacturer that is now represented in San Francisco, Chicago, and Los Angeles.

  • design director

    Cita Rojas-Sila

    Business & Design Director

    A California girl at heart, Cita has developed a keen eye for art, design, and architecture through her travels and studies. She studied interior design at FIDM, UC Santa Cruz and West Valley College in Saratoga, where she served as President of the Interior Design Club and VP of the USGBC Club. She is fascinated with color and how it affects the human soul. She completed a LEED internship with WVC and Aedis Architects that led her to her accreditation as a LEED Green Associate. Cita has continued her leadership roles professionally as an active member of ASID, where she currently serves on the board of directors as the Board President. She is passionate about sharing sustainable design practices with her clients and enhancing their lives through design.

  • Leanne Wu

    Design Assistant

    Leanne received a B.S. in Pure Mathematics from UCLA and completed coursework at the UCLA Extension Program for Interior Architecture. Born and raised in San Francisco, Leanne is an important part of our design process alongside Senior Designers in the office. She joined the team in 2021 and is looking forward to all of the new and exciting projects in the year ahead.

  • Nayely Limon

    Office Manager

    Nayely received her BS degree from Whittier College in Sociology. Nayely has worked in varieties of industries such as furniture market in Los Angeles, nonprofits in San Francisco and now interior design. With 8 years of administrative experience Nayely recently joined Applegate Tran January 2023. She is excited to learn and expand her knowledge in this industry.

  • Danny Villan

    Events Coordinator & Professional Chef

    Danny Villan began his career in Colombia where he received a Bachelor’s degree in Business Marketing. He then moved to the United States and spent two years living on the East coast before moving to San Francisco. He has been with Applegate Tran Interiors for four years as an Event Planner and Coordinator. He is also a professional chef, preparing meals for events hosted at ATI. He is currently attending San Francisco State University earning his Associate Degree in Graphic Design.

  • Luigi

    Head of Security

    Luigi has been with the company since its founding. He is an integral member of the team as he assures anyone entering the building will be woofed at and thoroughly sniffed.