Blue Pencil Collective: A Partnership Built on Creativity, Trust, and Adventure

Written by: Kathy Jalivay

Cambria design shown: Notting Hill™

At Blue Pencil Collective, led by principals Regan Nix, Kasey Johnson, and Christy Davis, creativity isn’t confined to convention—it’s an unrelenting drive to challenge norms and redefine what architecture and design can be. Their collective bold vision, paired with a uniquely personal approach to client relationships, sets the foundation for their work. They combine the technical expertise of a large firm with the warmth and attentiveness of a boutique studio, crafting spaces that inspire connection, purpose, and beauty.

Their philosophy goes beyond aesthetics to the heart of how they work. Collaboration is central—both with clients, who become like family through years-long projects, and with partners, who share their values. For Blue Pencil Collective, success is as much about building meaningful relationships as it is about delivering exceptional designs.

The Cambria Connection

Cambria has become a perfect partner for Blue Pencil Collective. What started as an admiration for Cambria’s beauty has evolved into an exploration of what is possible. Driven by curiosity and a thirst for innovation, the team has discovered they can use Cambria beyond its traditional boundaries, imagining it not just as a horizontal surface but as a material capable of bold, vertical, and 3D applications.

Every “what if” moment has been met with a resounding “yes” from Cambria. Whether it was testing a daring design idea or imagining something entirely new, Cambria’s commitment to possibility matches Blue Pencil Collective’s adventurous spirit. This collaboration isn’t just about a product—it’s about the shared passion for breaking barriers, reimagining what’s possible, and creating something extraordinary.

Cambria’s beauty inspired us to dream bigger—beyond the horizontal and into the 3D. We pushed boundaries, asking, Can we do this? Could Cambria achieve this crazy vision? And every time, the answer was a resounding, yes.
Regan Nix,
Blue Pencil Collective

The People Behind the Product

For Blue Pencil Collective, partnerships are defined by the people behind the brand, and Cambria’s team exemplifies what it means to work with purpose and heart. The Cambria culture—rooted in collaboration, care, and family-like connection—resonates deeply with the team at Blue Pencil Collective. It’s not just the exceptional quality, unmatched durability, or sustainability practices that make Cambria stand out; it’s the spirit of the people who bring it to life.

From the way Cambria embraces sustainable practices—like turning waste into gravel—to their commitment to producing a product with a lifetime guarantee, the alignment between the two teams is seamless. Blue Pencil Collective has found a partner that not only matches their design ambitions but also shares their values of quality, care, and innovation.

Pushing Boundaries Together

The projects born from this partnership are proof of what’s possible when ambition meets collaboration. Whether it’s crafting bold, unconventional designs or rethinking materials to fit a vision, the synergy between Blue Pencil Collective and Cambria continues to push the envelope.

“Working with Cambria doesn’t just feel like a partnership,” says the team at Blue Pencil Collective. “It feels like working with family.”

Cambria design shown: Inverness Bristol Bay™

Advice for the Next Generation

Blue Pencil Collective’s journey is one of innovation and connection. Their advice reflects the lessons they’ve learned:

  • For Aspiring Professionals: Take risks early, trust your instincts, and pursue your passions fearlessly.
  • For Clients: Be open to the unexpected. Great partnerships thrive on trust and a willingness to explore new ideas.
  • For Everyone: Believe in your potential, and don’t be afraid to push the boundaries of what’s possible.
     

A Future Full of Promise

As Blue Pencil Collective continues to grow, they have a distinct focus: to create designs that inspire, protect the environment, and connect people to meaningful spaces. Whether collaborating with land trusts, exploring new frontiers in design, or simply fostering joy and creativity in every project, they’re proving that architecture can be more than just buildings—it can be a force for good.

Together, with partners like Cambria, they’re not just imagining a better future—they’re building it.

Get the Look

Explore the designs featured in this story.

Additional Partner Spotlights

Gonyea Custom Homes

Builder

For over 35 years, Gonyea Custom Homes has created stunning, one-of-a-kind homes in the Twin Cities, blending client visions with expert craftsmanship to build spaces that last a lifetime.

Coastal Stone Group

Fabricator

Coastal Stone Group, led by Glenn Kross, is expanding with a new facility, showroom, and innovation-driven fabrication business, transforming spaces beyond countertops with its Cambria partnership.

Michel Smith Boyd

Designer

Renowned designer Michel Smith Boyd offered an exclusive design consultation at Cambria’s Buckhead Gallery, showcasing his creative process and selection of Cambria quartz surfaces for timeless, luxury spaces.

Please call 1-866-CAMBRIA (1-866-226-2742) to confirm design availability.