We bring clarity, meaning, and emotional resonance to the ideas we help shape and the products we sell.

The image featured in the middle of the about us page

Meet Our Founders

Meltem Parlak and Leah Caplan began working together in 2017 at Birsel + Seck.

What they built was a way of working grounded in trust, deep listening, and mutual respect — an intergenerational partnership that creates the conditions where clarity can emerge.

They care as much about the process as the outcome — shaping each from deep understanding, so collaboration and outcome alike carry a sense of ease, resonance, even joy.

That way of working became the foundation for P&H Studio and approach.

Meltem Parlak and Leah Caplan began working together in 2017 at Birsel + Seck.

What they built was a way of working grounded in trust, deep listening, and mutual respect — an intergenerational partnership that creates the conditions where clarity can emerge.

They care as much about the process as the outcome — shaping each from deep understanding, so collaboration and outcome alike carry a sense of ease, resonance, even joy.

That way of working became the foundation for P&H Studio and approach.

Meltem Parlak and Leah Caplan began working together in 2017 at Birsel + Seck.

What they built was a way of working grounded in trust, deep listening, and mutual respect — an intergenerational partnership that creates the conditions where clarity can emerge.

They care as much about the process as the outcome — shaping each from deep understanding, so collaboration and outcome alike carry a sense of ease, resonance, even joy.

That way of working became the foundation for P&H Studio and approach.

WHAT MELTEM BRINGS

Meltem brings a sharp, systems-oriented way of thinking — grounded in research, making, and an ability to see patterns quickly. She approaches complexity with curiosity and momentum, helping ideas take shape through structure, experimentation, and forward motion. Her perspective brings nimbleness, clarity, and a future-facing sensibility to the partnership.

Meltem is an award-winning industrial designer and design strategist who has led research and innovation work for global organizations across industries.

WHAT LEAH BRINGS

Leah brings depth, perspective, and an intuitive sense for how ideas land over time. With decades of experience guiding creative work, she listens for what's beneath the surface — helping teams articulate meaning, make thoughtful decisions, and stay aligned as they grow. Her presence brings steadiness, discernment, and long-view wisdom to the work.

Leah is a creative leader and award-winning brand strategist with over 25 years of experience guiding complex research, design, and product development efforts for global brands and institutions.