I worked at one of the top design agencies in the world, Pentagram, where I designed campaigns, books, annual reports, logos, and more for clients like Rockefeller Center and Hudson Yards. I have since been self employed, with clients like 1 Hotels, Union Square Hospitality Group, Starret-Lehigh, and smaller clients in the financial and science fields.

Emily Makarainen

I worked at one of the top design agencies in the world, Pentagram, where I designed campaigns, books, annual reports, logos, and more for clients like Rockefeller Center and Hudson Yards. I have since been self employed, with clients like 1 Hotels, Union Square Hospitality Group, Starret-Lehigh, and smaller clients in the financial and science fields.

Available to hire

I worked at one of the top design agencies in the world, Pentagram, where I designed campaigns, books, annual reports, logos, and more for clients like Rockefeller Center and Hudson Yards. I have since been self employed, with clients like 1 Hotels, Union Square Hospitality Group, Starret-Lehigh, and smaller clients in the financial and science fields.

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Language

English
Fluent

Work Experience

Owner / Designer at Liisa Studio
July 1, 2018 - November 11, 2025
Conceptualize and design logos and branding packages, branded decks, event collateral, stationery, books, web assistance for boutique and luxury clients.
Designer at Pentagram
July 1, 2018 - July 1, 2018
Worked on projects including Rockefeller Center, The National Gallery of Art and more under the direction of Michael Gericke. Worked directly with clients, printers, and vendors.
Designer at Teroforma
September 1, 2015 - September 1, 2015
Conceptualized and designed packaging, print and web collateral, and emails while working directly with printers and vendors.
Designer at University of Connecticut Libraries
May 1, 2015 - May 1, 2015
Worked closely with the Communications Team to design printed material including brochures, annual reports, posters, and exhibits.
Designer at Student-Run Design Studio
May 1, 2015 - May 1, 2015
Participated in a student-run design studio working and branding local clients.
Designer at Lindsay Coral Harper Interiors
June 1, 2014 - June 1, 2014
Designed room plans, created color schemes and moodboards, and spoke with vendors for residential interiors.
Designer at Carol Buettner Sherts Brand Design
June 1, 2013 - June 1, 2013
Assisted with designing and creating packaging for luxury brands.

Education

Bachelor of Fine Arts at University of Connecticut
January 11, 2030 - May 1, 2015
After Effects at NYU School of Professional Studies
January 11, 2030 - January 1, 2017
Study at Central Saint Martins
January 11, 2030 - November 11, 2025

Qualifications

Senior Thesis Faculty Recognition Award
January 11, 2030 - November 11, 2025
Dean’s List
January 1, 2013 - December 31, 2015
Arthur Evans Purchase Prize in Printmaking
January 1, 2013 - December 31, 2013
Donna Samson Krenicki Design Scholarship
January 1, 2013 - December 31, 2013
Provost Photography Competition: First Place Winner
January 1, 2013 - December 31, 2013
New England Scholar
January 11, 2030 - November 11, 2025

Industry Experience

Media & Entertainment, Professional Services, Retail