Christen & Jacob Kriesel

President / Designer / Project Manager & Vice-President / Operations Manager

Aside from designing for new home construction, Christen assists other designers at Preferred Kitchens with remodel projects. Her strong ability in creating 3D designs, give clients an inspirational and functional representation of their project. She coordinates with a variety of subcontractors to seamlessly complete projects for herself and others. Christen is a graduate from the University of Minnesota, College of Design where she graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Architecture and a minor in History.

Jacob has been with Preferred Kitchens since 2016, and is an essential part of the organization. Unlike other design firms that place the responsibility on the customer for managing multiple subcontractors and complex schedules, Preferred Kitchens operates as a full-service design firm, coordinating all aspects of each project. Jacob’s behind the scene role makes this possible, by running the day to day operations of the office as well as keeping track of all projects with each designer. In addition, Jacob’s experience goes beyond just administration with his knowledge and experience in process development.

John Wangen

Senior Designer / Project Manager

John was born into a construction family and started his career as a laborer at age 14. He worked as a carpenter for the next ten years while putting himself through college where he earned a degree from UW Stout in Construction Management. He entered the home building industry, worked as a Superintendent, and coordinated the construction of well over 300 homes. He gravitated back to his roots and now specializes in the remodeling of Kitchens and Bathrooms. His lifelong construction experience, dedication and creativity has made him the designer and Project Manager he is today.

Barbara Bircher, CKD

Senior Designer / Project Manager

Barbara’s talents and experience stem from over 35 years in the kitchen and bath industry including several years of working as a cabinetmaker after graduating from Minneapolis Technical Institute for Cabinetmaking. Her technical knowledge and attention to detail is a real asset to her clients. Continuing her education ensures her Certified Kitchen Designer status since 1987.

Barbara works closely with her clients during the entire remodeling process. From the beginning stages of design through the final stage of completion, she will offer the luxury of endless options for a variety of remodeling projects throughout the home. She prides herself in making a homeowner’s remodeling experience a smooth transition.

Barbara’s approach to each remodeling opportunity is clear in her mission statement: “It is my goal to design a functional space that expresses your personal style, meets your lifestyle needs, and exceeds your expectations.

Jaime Hall

Senior Designer / Project Manager

Jaime has worked in many areas of the design and construction industries over the past 20+ years. Her experience ranges from remodeling to new construction, wholesale to retail sales as well as being on both the design and installation sides of the design world. When not working with clients, she is building or remodeling in her personal time with her husband.

Jaime works to make sure that every space you design is yours and one that is a statement of not only your home but of who you are. She uses her array of talents and experience to best inform and educate every client so that they feel at home in their new space from the moment it is put on paper.

“I want your home to represent YOU!”

Madeline Thomey

Designer / Project Manager

Bio Coming Soon…

Delia Tacheny

Designer / Project Manager

Delia graduated from Judson University with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Interior Design and a minor in Architecture.

As a creative thinker, Delia values both the artistry and problem-solving involved in any project. She’s purpose-driven with a passion to produce both a real-life design and a holistically impactful space. She approaches clients with a listening-first philosophy, and manages her jobs with attention to detail from start to finish.

Personally, Delia is enamored with historical character and natural elements, enhanced by her architectural studies in Europe. Outside of PKI, she always enjoys a good book, time with friends and family, a cup of tea, and very dark chocolate.

Inspired by the transformative experience of remodeling, she hopes to inspire you on your next project.

Annelise Wackerfuss

Designer / Project Manager

Annelise brings a thoughtful presence to the design-build process, grounded in deep experience and genuine care for her clients and their families. A third-generation professional in the construction industry, she balances design vision, project management, and real-world construction knowledge to create spaces that truly feel like home.

Known for designing warm, highly functional spaces, Annelise values clear, honest communication and guides clients confidently from early design decisions through construction Outside of the office, she enjoys time with her family on White Bear Lake, gardening, and exploring local restaurants.

Rachel Angerhofer

Operations Manager

Bio Coming Soon…

Isaac Gelfman

Assistant Operations Manager

Bio Coming Soon!

Mark Klosterman

Chairman

“My goal for the past 30 years as part of the team at Preferred Kitchens is to provide the best possible experience for our clients regardless of the scale or budget of your project. It’s all about real life design, products and project management for your real life home.”