ABOUT US
we are urban cottage design
A full-service design-build firm based in Northern Virginia.
Founded in 2016 with a mission to reimagine the way people live in their homes. Specializing in custom renovations, real estate services, and interior design, we bring over 30 completed large-scale renovations to every new project we take on.
What sets us apart is our streamlined business model—minimal overhead, focused attention, and a deeply personalized approach that delivers maximum value to our clients. From redesigning outdated layouts to managing full-scale investment projects, we transform properties into elegant, modern, and welcoming homes.
WHY US?
Because We Craft Beauty from Your Vision.
Comprehensive Service
From initial design to renovation and real estate, we guide the entire process under one roof—so nothing gets lost in translation.
Client-First Approach
We’ve built our reputation on trust, clear communication, and results that exceed expectations—reflected in dozens of 5-star reviews.
Thoughtful, Tailored Design
Every home is unique. We craft spaces that reflect your lifestyle, enhance functionality, and feel beautifully lived-in.
Real Estate with Vision
Whether buying or selling, we bring design insight to every transaction—helping you maximize value and see the full potential of your home.
Meet the team
We are passionate about the entire process—designing, building, renovating, and staging homes that are functional, beautiful, and market-ready. Whether you're updating your forever home or preparing a property for sale, we're with you from concept to completion.
Chris Mitchell
Construction + Renovation Lead
Chris brings more than 25 years of hands-on construction experience to Urban Cottage Design. From helping on job sites as a kid to building homes across Southern Virginia, his roots in the renovation world run deep. After launching his own remodeling company focused on kitchens and baths, Chris expanded his expertise to full investment property transformations throughout Northern Virginia. A proud Army veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, Chris lives in Falls Church with his wife and two children.
Nancy Hubacher
Real Estate Agent + Certified Designer
With a dynamic background that blends real estate, design, and marketing, Nancy wears many hats at Urban Cottage Design. A licensed agent since 2015, she provides expert guidance for both buyers and sellers—while also offering full-service staging and certified design consulting. Her 23-year career as Vice President of Corporate Partnerships for the Washington Commanders adds marketing insight to every property she touches. Nancy, a University of Maryland graduate, raised her two (now adult) children in Fairfax County, where she still calls home.
Mitch Gershman
Managing Partner
Mitch brings 30+ years of real estate investment and property management experience to the team, along with a background as a C-level executive in the telecom and sports industries. A University of Maryland graduate, Mitch has owned and managed a portfolio of properties across the country, and now leads operational and financial strategy for Urban Cottage Design. He raised his three adult children in Northern Virginia and currently resides in Fairfax Station.
Martha Mitchell
Senior Project Manager
Martha joins Urban Cottage Design as Senior Project Manager after taking time away from the workforce to raise her children. With a background in accounting and office management, she brings strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a problem-solving mindset to every project. Martha is passionate about keeping projects running smoothly and supporting both the team and clients throughout the design and build process. She lives in Falls Church, Virginia, with her husband, their two kids, Evie and Eddie, and their chocolate lab, Maple.