Face to Face

84 Lumber | Manahawkin, NJ | 609-597-8400

Michael Wallace’s day starts at dawn. As General Manager of 84 Lumber’s Manahawkin store, he needs to be on-site early to go over the day’s goals with his team.

84 Lumber is the nation’s leading privately-held supplier of building materials, and that kind of success requires hard work and commitment. It also takes impressive logistical skills. “We run multiple delivery trucks daily,” Michael says. “The pieces are constantly moving; it’s important that we’re extremely organized and focused, with a clear plan.”

“Personalized customer service is what sets 84 Lumber apart. ”

While planning is important, so is responsiveness to customer needs. “We form partnerships with each of our customers,” Michael explains. “I have a really extraordinary crew. We get ahead of any issues.” Those issues grew exponentially over the past year and a half, but Michael and his team responded to industry changes swiftly and effectively. “We’re mindful of our customers’ struggles and stressors; we serve them with honesty, empathy and adaptability. That kind of personalized customer service sets 84 Lumber apart.”

In addition to supplying building materials, 84 Lumber Manahawkin specializes in windows, doors and trim. Michael’s team of experienced associates can help with services ranging anywhere from building a new deck and replacing windows to building beach front properties.

“It’s rewarding to be a part of the 84 Lumber team,” Michael says. “We’re helping people build their first home or that beach house they’ve always wanted. “It’s fun helping people achieve their dreams.”

Contact Michael at Michael.Wallace@84lumber.com, (609) 597-8400 or visit 84lumber.com

Tracy Pearce Interior Design | Point Pleasant Beach, NJ | 732-202-5588

Tracy Pearce is an Aquarius. Being born under that astrological sign, she says, means her decorative aesthetic encompasses “a bit of everything – beach or farm or a brownstone in the city.”

That versatility helps her to create distinctive, client- specific environments. “I design homes based on my clients’ unique lifestyles. They drive the bus; I’m in the backseat guiding them.”

She began learning about the guiding principals of design early on. “I was always interested in design and curious about how things were built,” she says of her youth. “My friends would have teen and fashion magazines and I would show up with Architectural Digest and Popular Mechanics,” she laughs. She knew a design profession was in her future. “I found it interesting that you could build a career mixing colors, textures, patterns and materials to create warm and inviting spaces.”

“I was always interested in design and curious about how things were built. ” – Tracy Pearce

Today, Tracy leads a successful design/build business, masterminding projects from start to finish. “The benefit of overseeing every step in the process is that there are fewer mistakes and more room for creativity,” she explains. “We control all the specifications for things like moldings and door styles, which results in a more cohesive look.”

Tracy has shared her talent with a wide audience on This Old House and George To The Rescue. “It’s exciting that those who aren’t familiar with my work can see it come to life on TV.” It’s clear both on the air and in person that Tracy is passionate about her work. “I love the creative energy on a jobsite. I love that every day is different.”

Contact Tracy at 732-202-5588 or Tracy@PearceInteriorDesign.com, or visit her website, PearceInteriorDesign.com.

Thyme & Place Design | Wyckoff, NJ | 201-847-1400

Sharon L. Sherman, ASID, CKD, CID, began her career at a large design/build firm in Northern New Jersey.

She enjoyed her work, but sought a different path, one that would speak to her unique passions. Her desire to create interior environments which balance health, wellness, beauty and function sparked the realization that it was time to open her own business; so Thyme & Place Design was born.

Sharon brings an unmatched level of beauty, detail, and quality to every project, infusing “Thymeless” luxury into every room. "We love to create warm, inviting, inspired spaces for our clients," she says. “For more than two decades, we have designed stunning spaces in homes across New Jersey and along the eastern seaboard.” Sharon is dedicated to offering the finest design and unsurpassed craftsmanship with every project she undertakes. “Our team is meticulous,” she explains. “Each project is given our full attention, from the design phase, through installation, to the finishing touches.” Her portfolio demonstrates her fluency with an extensive range of design styles, specifically tailored to individual tastes and preferences. “Our client testimonials speak for themselves,” she adds.

“We love to create warm, inviting, inspired spaces for our clients. ” – Sharon Sherman

Her award-winning designs and editorial comments have been featured in a long list of publications such as Woman’s Day, Country Decorating, Design NJ, Family Circle, as well as several books. She has also appeared on HGTV’s My Big Amazing Renovation and episodes of House Smarts with Lou Manfredini.

Contact Sharon at 201-847-1400, interiors@thymeandplacedesign.com, or visit her website, ThymeAndPlaceDesign.com.

Kate Susannah Home | Hoboken, NJ | 201-683-4425

For Kate Jacobowitz, interior design is a legacy handed down from her mother and great-grandmother, who both worked in the industry.

It was almost a foregone conclusion that Kate, who has a degree in art history and material culture, would enter the design field.

Her background is impressive. She spent ten years working with designer and TV personality, Thom Filicia, eventually becoming his director of interior design. She then established her own firm, Kate Susannah Home, where she creates beautiful, livable spaces. “I don’t like to design things that are so precious you feel like you can never actually enjoy them,” she notes. “The value in my design is comfort.”

Kate gathers design ideas from around the world, particularly hotel interiors. “I love the inventive ways that lighting, textiles and materials are used to create a mood.” Though she’s internationally inspired, she likes to focus on vendors close to home. “I enjoy building relationships with local businesses,” she says. “I love finding people who are passionate about what they do.” For Kate, the reward is “getting to incorporate amazing work into the homes of people who otherwise would not have discovered it. It’s great to see how excited my clients are.” The power of interior design, she notes, is all about making people happy. “It can have an effect on someone’s entire lifestyle just to be in a well-designed home.”

Contact Kate at 201-683-4425, via email at info@katesusannahhome.com or visit her website, katesusannahhome.com.

Mitchell's Woodworking & Designs  | Westampton, NJ | 609-261-7500

For Gordon Mitchell, "woodworking was a natural destiny."

As a child he worked alongside his cabinetmaker father and discovered he enjoyed working with his hands. After a brief foray into air conditioner production, Gordon returned to his first love. "I joined an architectural millwork firm and learned about high-end woodworking."

With that experience in hand, Gordon took the leap in 1990 and started his own company. This year, Mitchell's Woodworking & Designs celebrates its 30th anniversary. "It's quite an accomplishment," he notes.

“My favorite part of the process is when a job takes shape. I love it when a plan comes together. ”

– Gordon Mitchell

It's a well-earned accomplishment, achieved through hard work and innate talent. Gordon's affinity for the craft is apparent. He is inspired by traditional architecture and creative design. "My favorite part of the process is when a job takes shape," he explains, adding a particularly apt quote: "I love it when a plan comes together."

His plan has certainly come together, a fact he attributes to a loyal customer base. "I want to thank all my clients for making this a reality." As for the future, Gordon is excited about new technologies in the field. "I'm a gadget person. I'm always looking forward to new processes to ensure our product is the best it can be."

Contact Gordon at 609-261-7500 or visit MitchellsWoodworking.com.

Design Studio of Somerville | Somerville, NJ | 908-685-1921

The first business Tom Sfisco owned in the interior design industry sold window blinds. “It was called ‘Peeping Tom,’” he laughs.

“It was cute at the time because there was no Google. You’d get in trouble with that now.” The creatively named company did very well immediately. “The business took off in six months,” Tom says.

“I get inspired when I meet a homeowner and we have a conversation about how they live. I love to create with my clients.” – Tom Sfisco

As time went on, the business grew organically into a full-service design studio. “Clients would say ‘can you pick out a paint for me?’ or “I need a sofa and I don’t know what to do.”

Of course, Tom knew exactly what to do, having been immersed in stylish interiors since he was a child. “My parents had very good taste,” he says. “Our home was always well put together.” That childhood exposure to impeccable design informs Tom’s work today, but it’s his customers who have the most influence. “I get inspired when I meet a homeowner and we have a conversation about how they live. I love to create with my clients.” Tom also loves to work with his design team at the studio. “My team at Design Studio of Somerville are a talented group. We’ve created this small, tight-knit family. It’s a pleasure to go to work every day.”

Contact Tom at 908-685-1921 or visit DSOSDesign.com.

BDesign’D | Lebanon, NJ | 908-963-8299

Maria Bowers began her career in the financial industry and, she says, that experience proved to be invaluable to her current line of work as owner of BDesign’D.

“Working in that field helped me become more goal oriented and organized, and it enhanced my communication skills,” she says. “These attributes are so important when running a business. Managing expectations while listening to a client’s needs are the keys to a successful business in interior design.”

“I want to create a home that’s nothing short of fabulous, that my clients can relax in and enjoy for years to come.” – Maria Bowers, BDesign'D

Maria started on the interior design path after the birth of her first child. “We had just moved into our first home. Instead of feeling overwhelmed with designing and decorating, I felt invigorated.” Faced with a challenge — creating a stylish, yet child-friendly home — she was able to strike the perfect balance. “I realized that I wanted to create that for other families.”

Every home provides unique inspiration for Maria. “Each house has a different style, story and history. You never know what you are going to find with each new project.” And while each project is different, Maria’s philosophy remains constant. “I want to create a home that’s nothing short of fabulous, that my clients can relax in and enjoy for years to come.”

Contact Maria at 908-963-8299 or visit BDesignD.com.

House of Style & Design | Holmdel, NJ | 917-584-7559

Yelena's goal is to become a household brand and to have her own line of furniture and accessories.

Yelena Gerts grew up in Odessa, Ukraine, surrounded by historical buildings, beautiful architecture and parents with an affinity for design. Yelena learned early on that she shares that affinity. “I love everything that has to do with design, every aspect of it - from fashion and styling, decorating and entertaining, to growing my business and my brand.” Taking inspiration from her extensive travels, the designer has created a singular aesthetic. “All my interiors transcend a sense of luxury and style; they’re elegant and edgy, indulging all five senses while staying comfortable and practical.”

"It’s important to me to create a sense of luxury, to indulge all five senses, while keeping a space comfortable and practical." – Yelena Gerts, House of Style & Design

Yelena works with a broad spectrum of clientele, but she has also developed a niche designing interiors for men. “I love working in that category.” She’s also skilled at creating custom window treatments perfectly suited to her clients’ homes. “There is nothing more special than working with beautiful and luxurious fabrics and hardware,” she says.

The designer continues to dream big. “My goal is to become a household brand; to have my own line of furniture and accessories.” Lofty goals suit Yelena. “Overall, I am really happy to have found an industry where I feel I fit so perfectly.”

Contact Yelena at 917-584-7559 or visit HouseOfStyleInteriors.com.

JSE Interiors | Montclair, NJ | 973-287-9792

Julia Epstein takes pride in her non-traditional approach to interior design.

 Having spent her first career in the legal field, she recognizes the challenges that come with bridging the gap between practicality and creativity. “I design for real-world living,” she says. Julia is adept at managing spatial issues and budgetary concerns, and she understands that, with the right decorative elements, beauty can be brought to any space. Julia tailors her methodology to each individual client. “Each room is a unique composition of color, shape and form.

“What you look at every day affects your mood and mind-set. My goal is for the space you live in to bring you serenity and joy. I want you to love where you live.” – Julia Epstein, JSE Interiors

In the nine years I’ve had this business, no two rooms I’ve designed have ever been the same. I create spaces that are eclectic, warm and personal. They showcase the client’s style.” Julia’s goal is to create fun, accessible, affordable and beautiful homes at any price point. “Your surroundings do matter,” she notes. “What you look at every day affects your mood and mind-set. My goal is for the space you live in to bring you serenity and joy. I want you to love where you live.” Julia lives by that philosophy herself. “I have three kids, two dogs, two cats and a home that I entertain in that’s both beautiful and livable—which is what I bring to all my clients.” Contact Julia at 973-287-9792 or visit JSEInteriors.com.

Ulrich Inc. | Ridgewood, NJ | 201-445-1260

The Ulrich team brings a combined 96 years of experience.

Aparna Vijayan, an artist, architect and designer, says, “I particularly like what I do because the people I work with often become loyal clients and wonderful friends.” Julia Kleyman, who studied architecture in Moscow and design in New York City, notes, “My favorite part of my job is discovering unique products and materials to create truly distinctive spaces for my clients.” Jeannie Fulton, who has a background in both business and interior design, reveals, “There is nothing I love more than creatively collaborating with my clients.” Bonnie Hufnagel is a certified kitchen designer and also has a degree in psychology.

“What sets the designers of the Ulrich kitchen and bath design team apart? They’re employee owners who have a vested interest in the complete success of your project.” – Ulrich Team

She explains, “I enjoy making the most of a space aesthetically and functionally.” Anna McAuley, who has a design degree, adds, “I love continuing to hone my knowledge and skills with this amazing team of design experts.” With a combined 96 years of experience, the extraordinary Ulrich kitchen and bath design team brings to each project vast knowledge, talent, dedication and attention to detail along with lots of creativity, pride and passion. Contact the Ulrich team at 201-445-1260 or visit UlrichInc.com.

FDS Architects and Timeless Development LLC | Tenafly, NJ | 201-569-7500 (office), 201-694-9261 (mobile)

It was in middle school that Peter Dito discovered his interest in architecture.

“I was good in art class, especially pencil sketching,” he says. In fact, he was more than “good.” Recognizing his innate aptitude, his instructor recommended him for an advanced mechanical drawing course. Peter took that opportunity and ran with it, eventually graduating from Pratt Institute with a degree in architecture. Peter began his career in an entry-level position: print boy. “I made blueprints and models, ran messages to and from various project locations and cleaned project sites. I was a glorified gopher!” The hard work paid off as he worked his way up the ladder; he now owns the company. From print boy to partner to owner, it’s a classic example of the rewards of hard work and perseverance.

“My favorite part of my job is bringing the design that my team and I have created from paper to an actual structure.” – Peter Dito, FDS Architects and Timeless Development LLC

Peter harnesses that work ethic to excel at the career he loves. “I’m inspired by the challenge that every project presents.” With his architectural and artistic flare he ensures that his clients’ dreams become a reality. He handpicks each project team through his construction management company, Timeless Development LLC. “My favorite part of my job is bringing the design that my team and I have created from paper to an actual structure.” Contact Peter at 201-569-7500 (office), 201-694-9261 (mobile) or visit FDSArchitects.com.

Gacek Design Group | New Hope, Pa | 215.862.9038 x126

Richard Gacek has always had a sense of wonder about the world around him.

“Even at a young age, I was influenced by my surroundings. I grew up in a suburb of Boston with beautiful architecture and landscapes. I remember the first time I experienced the architecture of the Boston Library—arched details, curved, cloister-like entrances, limestone arches, mosaic tile... pretty spectacular.”

While he appreciated the beauty of his environment, Richard also strove to understand the mechanics behind it. “I was drawn to the way things were put together. I was innately drawn to structures and architecture.” Today, that affinity for design that’s both pretty and practical informs his professional philosophy. “Form has to follow function,” he says. “It can be beautiful but it needs to have a purpose.” The goal of his distinctive style is to “create a design environment that not only evokes an emotional response but also delivers function in an innovative way.”

“It’s an exceptional gift to create interior and exterior spaces, from the ground up, that reflect a design aesthetic that appeals to the client’s needs and is always classic and timeless.” – Richard Gacek, Gacek Design Group

Richard’s passion for his career is palpable. “It’s an exceptional gift to create interior and exterior spaces, from the ground up, that reflect a design aesthetic that appeals to the client’s needs and is always classic and timeless.”

Contact Gacek Design Group 215.862.9038 x126 or visit gacekdesign.com.

AK Design Studios | Monsey, NY | 845 216 0756

Adina Kornbluth’s career is all about making dreams come true

“The most exciting part of design for me is taking clients’ homes and making them more beautiful and functional than they thought possible.” The creative arts “have always been a part of my DNA,” she says. “I always loved to paint and draw and was art editor of my school yearbook.” That creative flair served her well through stints as a jewelry designer, writer and event planner.

Interior design has long been a passion, though and, armed with a design degree from Parsons and an architectural design degree from Berkeley College, Adina now creates one-of-a-kind spaces by “taking classic decor and adding unexpected elements.” She works closely with her clients “to listen to what they say and what they don’t verbalize, to truly understand their needs.” She also acts as a troubleshooter. “Part of my process is to understand the problems my clients face and anticipate what they need to improve.”

Adina strives to remove the stress from the design process as well. “I handle the unpleasant parts of the process so my clients are left with the enjoyable experience of transforming their spaces into a haven to truly love how they live.”

““The most exciting part of design for me is taking a client’s home and making it more beautiful and functional than they thought possible.””
– Adina Kornbluth, AK Design Studios

Contact Adina at 845-216-0756 or visit AkDesignStudios.com.

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Lasley Brahaney Architecture + Construction | Princeton, NJ | 609 921 2822

Marc Brahaney understands that our surroundings play a major role in our well-being.

“Our design philosophy begins with the conviction that the spaces we occupy affect and facilitate all the things we do,” he says. Marc’s immersion in the world of design and construction began at an early age. “My father was a builder. As a child, I was on construction sites, sometimes helping and sometimes just watching to see how things got built.” Studying architecture at Princeton University, he found “it offered the right mixture of academic study and practical problem-solving.”

Today, Marc uses those complementary skills working side by side with his staff. “One of my favorite things about my business is the opportunity to solve problems while collaborating with terrific clients and a talented team. We’re all focused on helping our clients achieve something special.” Marc gets to the heart of his clients' needs by “drawing out their hopes and wishes for the kinds of spaces they want to live in and raise their families in. Our overall goal is to make our clients’ homes better attuned to how they live their lives.”

“One of my favorite things about my business is the opportunity to solve problems while collaborating with terrific clients and a talented team.”
– Marc Brahaney, Lasley Brahaney Architecture + Construction

You can reach Marc at 609-921-2822 or visit LasleyBrahaney.com.

California Closets | Fairfield, NJ | 973 882 3800

Julie Ginsberg LaFranco and Bob LaFranco make a great team.

As second-generation owners of California Closets North Jersey, this power couple has expanded the business exponentially—it’s now the 10th largest California Closets franchise systemwide.

It’s a success born from decades of experience. Julie’s association with the company began in 1984. That’s when her parents purchased the North Jersey franchise, and Julie, still in high school, began working there as a receptionist. Bob joined the firm in 1991. Both worked their way up through the ranks, filling various positions along the way. Today, they continue at the forefront of the business, each handling a different aspect of operations: Julie is general manager and Bob is production manager.

The LaFrancos’ achievements are due in large part to their commitment to continued advancement and innovation. “We have invested in cutting-edge machinery,” Julie says. “We’re always adding new products to our mix, and we pride ourselves on providing ‘White Glove Service’ to our clients.”

“We’re always adding new products to our mix, and we pride ourselves on providing ‘White Glove Service’ to our clients. ”
– Julie Ginsberg LaFranco and Bob LaFranco, California Closets

For more information, go to CaliforniaClosets.com or contact California Closets in Fairfield at 973-882-3800 or FairfieldCustServ@CalClosets.com.

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Liepold Design Group | New York, NY and Millburn, NJ | 917-202-6524

Awarded ASID’s Ones to Watch

Julie Liepold has earned recognition throughout the design community for her professionalism, style and client-centric creative process. Julie’s background in art and design fuels that creativity and connects her clients with the very best in furnishings, finishes, art and collectibles.

Her love of fine and decorative art is informed by a Master’s Degree in Interdisciplinary Art History and Arts Administration from New York University. Beyond the academic, Julie brings nearly a decade of art market experience, working at Sotheby’s and other auction houses before launching her own firm 15 years ago. Liepold Design Group is a full-service luxury interior design firm. From historic house renovations to new-build custom homes, Julie’s classic designs exemplify elegance and complement the architecture of the space.

“Design impacts lives. My role is to help each client express their unique style and elevate their life through a transparent and collaborative interior design process. ”
– Julie Liepold, Liepold Design Group

Julie further embodies the “design impacts lives” philosophy by organizing annual pro bono interior design projects benefiting non-profit organizations, including The Valerie Fund, the Junior League and the Women’s Center.

Contact Julie at 917-202-6524 or visit liepolddesign.com.

Nardini Custom | Red Bank, NJ | 732-383-7711

Tom Nardini was born into the home improvement industry.

“The Nardini family has been servicing the housing industry for over 75 years,” he says. “My father started in the electrical business. Then he moved into the carpet and flooring industry, and that’s when my mom came on board. That is where I grew up.” Beginning at age 11, Tom worked in the family business, where he learned the importance of a commitment to service and high quality.

He brought that philosophy to his current business, a full-service retail design/build firm that takes clients from design to execution. Tom’s showroom features custom kitchen cabinetry, designer carpet, area rugs, wide plank hardwood flooring, luxury vinyl plank, natural stone, custom tile, custom countertops, quartz, marble and granite. Designers and their clients are always welcome in the showroom.

“I truly believe this is the most fun business there is. We get to come into someone’s home and totally transform it. I get excited about each project, as if it were my own home!”
– Tom Nardini, Nardini Custom

In his 20 years in the remodeling business, Tom has lived by certain standards: 1. Call people back; 2. Show up on time; 3. Do what you say you’re going to do; 4. Provide the best workmanship/quality; 5. Treat people the way I want to be treated. “When someone walks into our showroom, we greet them as if they were family. We serve cookies. We have great music playing. It’s not boring. Our customers start as clients and eventually become part of our family, and I love it!"

Contact Tom at info@nardinicustom.com or 732-383-7711.

Finishing Touches | Spring Lake, NJ | 732-449-8686

Maureen Skea has always been a fashionista at heart.

She began her career as a clothing buyer. “I traveled throughout Europe and Asia exploring couture clothing lines that we could transform into more reasonably priced, quality products.”

Though she enjoyed her work, Maureen always had a singular goal in mind. “I raised my children with the expectation that, once they were older, I would establish my own interior design business and retail store and name it ‘Finishing Touches.’” In the early years, Maureen ran the business out of her home—designing and fabricating window treatments for clients who heard about her through word of mouth. Eventually, she opened a brick-and- mortar store at 1313 3rd Avenue in Spring Lake.

“One of the most enjoyable aspects of my business is carefully curating fabrics, furnishings and artwork to complement my clients’ tastes”
– Maureen Skea, Finishing Touches

Maureen’s great strength is her skill at helping her clients define and express their own style. “One of the most enjoyable aspects of my business is carefully curating fabrics, furnishings and artwork to complement my clients’ tastes.” Maureen’s ability to connect with the needs and wants of clients has allowed her career to flow seamlessly from high fashion to home fashion. “I derive great satisfaction when my clients and I, as teammates, are able to navigate the world of design to define their character in their space.”

You can reach Maureen at ftbymaureen@aol.com or call 732-449-8686.

Interiors by Kelli | Sea Girt, NJ | 732-859-9042

Kelli Chitty is a prime example of successful career pivoting.

“Before starting the design business, I was in banking.” In 1995, after the birth of her first child, Chitty made the leap into design. “This business gave me more flexibility.” Interiors by Kelli began as a custom window treatment design studio and workroom, then expanded to include residential and commercial design services.

Chitty’s time in the corporate sector allowed her to develop a skill set that’s useful in any industry. “I’m as comfortable in a boardroom as I am in a workroom. Because I was in sales, I’m comfortable with the client-relationship side of the business. And I’m sure my organizational skills came from juggling banking clients.”

"Designing a space is all about the people who live there, what makes them happy and what is meaningful to them rather than what is popular or trending at the moment.”
– Kelli Chitty, Interiors by Kelli

Chitty, who won an Interior Design Society Designer of the Year award in 2017, has taken her business to the next level, founding IBK Design Resource Center to share her expertise. Her quarterly “Lunch & Learn” sessions bring together members of the home furnishings industry to discuss trends and innovations. ­ “I love to work collaboratively,” she says. Designing a space is all about the people who live there, what makes them happy and what is meaningful to them.”

Contact Kelli at Kelli@interiorsbykelli.com.

Window Works | Livingston NJ | 973-535-5860

LuAnn Nigara wears a lot of hats.

She is co-owner of Window Works in Livingston; host and creator of the Window Works podcast, A Well-Designed Business®; and author of The Making of A Well-Designed Business® and Things I Learned From A Well-Designed Business®, which is being released in April 2019. LuAnn joined her husband, Vince, and cousin, Bill, at Window Works in 1983. With a focus on providing a turn-key experience for consumers and interior designers, the company fabricates, installs, services and repairs custom window treatments and awnings.

“Our core values are integrity and a 100% commitment to customer satisfaction. We are proud to be recognized as a leader for custom window treatments and awnings in the New Jersey and New York Metro area.”
– LuAnn Nigara, Window Works

Window Works’ owners care about the experience their customers have with them and the experience their employees have in working for them. To LuAnn and the management team, little things matter. Whether in the field, in the store, with a client or researching her latest project, LuAnn embodies the company motto: “Experience, Expertise, Excellence.”

You can reach LuAnn by email or call 973-535-5860.

M. Silberstein Interior Design | Shrewsbury NJ | 732-741-1762

With a childhood spent rummaging through the fabrics...

of her mother’s designer dress shop and notebooks filled with lessons from her Art History classes in college, it is no surprise that Mindy approached her design career with a seamless culmination of nostalgia and ingenuity.

Loving nothing more than to hear a good story, Mindy, a third-generation designer, has created a relationship-centric business and uses her unique instincts to translate the stories that make up her client’s lives into inspired and sophisticated homes. While her design work is meticulous, Mindy herself is effortlessly warm and approachable.

“Solutions aren’t always easy, but when you find the right one, for the right person, it’s magic. When all is said and done, it is the relationships forged through a project that inspire me to take on the next project.”
– Mindy Silberstein, M. Silberstein Interior Design

Her boundless creativity has continued to make M. Silberstein Interior Design a well-known name in the design world as the business heads into its 99th year. Mindy’s work can be seen in homes throughout the country as well as in several commercial properties, including the rebuild and new construction of The Count Basie Theater in Red Bank, which will be open to the public by 2020.

Contact Mindy at 732-741-1762 or visit her website at msilberstein.com.

Garden State Tile | Princeton NJ | 609-356-1100

Nicole Doran brings years of industry experience and expertise to the new Garden State Tile luxury showroom in Princeton.

“Garden State Tile has always been a valuable and trusted partner for the A&D community. I’m thrilled to be taking our service and selection to the next level. The Princeton area is rich with quality design and architecture, and we are so proud to be a part of this diverse and thriving market.”

“Garden State Tile has always been a valuable and trusted partner for the A&D community. I’m thrilled to be taking our service and selection to the next level.”
– Nicole Doran, Garden State Tile

Architects, designers and builders are welcome to reserve a private meeting room for one-on-one consultations with clients, or they can work directly with Nicole to make selections for their projects. Consumers are also encouraged to visit the state-of-the-art showroom and see the latest trends in tile, flooring and countertop displays.

Consumers and the design trade are invited to contact Nicole by email.

Elephant in the Room | Princeton NJ | 609-454-3378

When you meet Cindy Johnson, you know you have met Cindy Johnson.

She is not your average business owner, and Elephant in the Room Design in Princeton is not your average furniture consignment store. As founder and designer, Cindy combines “I-can’t-believe-it’s-consigned” pieces with new, custom furniture from high-end American manufacturers such as C.R. Laine, Wesley Hall, Thibaut and Cox Manufacturing. The concept behind her niche in the consignment market is showing people how to combine old and new for a fresh, updated look. Her exclusive collection of textiles featuring original designs provides an unexpected twist to the showroom inventory. Cindy incorporates her own drawings, paintings and photography into every pattern. In conversation she says, “I LOVE WHAT I DO,” and that passion is evident at every turn.

“My personal credo is ‘be true and inspire’, so my aesthetic is apparent in my showroom. I incorporate all types of styles, price points, colors, patterns...and creative surprises—it's smile inducing!”
– Cindy Johnson, Elephant in the Room Design

Cindy also recognizes the allure of online shopping. To that she comments, “I get it, you can shop in your PJs, but really, you can shop here in your PJs too — I just ask that you wear a robe.”

You can reach Cindy by email or drop in and say hi anytime.