Some homes are beautiful. And some are Unica.

Meet Julia Penha

FOUNDER AND PRINCIPAL DESIGNER

Bem-vindo! I’m Julia, a Brazilian native with a lifelong love for design. I’ve always believed that home is more than just a place — it’s a feeling. During the pandemic, as we all began to see our homes in a new light, that belief deepened. Be Unica was born from that shift — with a mission to create spaces that feel personal, meaningful, and deeply connected to the people who live in them.

With a love for color — from soft, layered tones to bold, statement hues — an obsession with tile, and genuine excitement for a good design challenge, I lead each project with curiosity, care, and creativity. While I enjoy every step of the design process, my favorite moment is the implementation — seeing the vision come to life.

Be Unica’s approach is rooted in connection: taking time to understand our clients — their lifestyle, needs, and what truly makes them feel at home — and translate that into designs that are as functional as they are beautiful. The result? Inviting, thoughtful spaces that bring joy, comfort, and lasting memories.

Portuguese words I wish existed in English: Saudade — a soulful, nostalgic longing for someone, someplace, or a moment — often bittersweet and
deeply felt. Borogodó — an irresistible, undefinable charm; a magnetic spark that makes someone or something unforgettable.

unica

( uh- ni - ka) • Portuguese

a(adj.) one of a kind; unlike any other. authentic, rare, and unmistakable her own.

Kind words

I started my house without a designer…BIG mistake. As I fumbled through my house making decisions and then changing them later – which became costly, I knew I was in over my head. that is when I brought in the Be Unica team. (…) They took the guess work out of my hands and helped with the tedious process of remodelling a home more enjoyable. (…) They listened to my needs and helping me with the next wave of overwhelming decisions. Thank you (…) the wonderful team of Be Unica! You have made this remodel a pleasant experience.

I have worked with Be Unica twice and both experiences have been amazing. The first project was a master bath in our traditional Westlake home and the second project was a full remodel in a downtown condo. The end results of both are stunning. Somehow Julia can provide her expertise and still weave in my taste. Both designs were above and beyond my expectations and yet still felt like “me”, which was really important. I highly recommend Be Unica!

We had the best experience working with the Be Unica team in our primary bathroom and laundry remodel! Every step of the process was thoroughly managed. The design phase was fun, the ordering and scheduling was on time and organized. The team has great communication skills and kept us informed along the way. The construction and management was a breeze even when challenges came up. Thank you Be Unica Team!

I can not recommend Be Unica enough. Julia and her team went above and beyond to meet our needs and make sure we are happy with the end result. Truly was a smooth process and so much taken off our shoulders from managing to ordering. Our bathroom and bedroom look stunning. Thank you guys for all the hard work!

I recently had my primary bedroom and bath remodeled by Be Unica Design. I have received so many compliments on my new space. With Julia leading the design, I could not be happier. When she consulted with me, she really listened and took my wishes to heart. I highly recommend her and her team at Be Unica Design.

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