SoFLo HABITAT Design Stories 2023

DESIGN STORY DESIGN STORY & &

TALES OF TALENT

TOP COMPANIES TALES OF TALENT TOP COMPANIES

ARTISAN PHOTOGRAPHER

When it comes to LuAnn Warner-Prokos’ portraiture, a picture is truly worth a thousand words.

But she doesn’t strive to just capture her subjects, but through masterful use of lighting, scenery and photographic techniques, WP Portraiture creates beautiful pieces of art.

For the past 10 years, Warner-Prokos has focused on portrait photography and her new Boca Raton studio to create the perfect environment to practice her craft of fine art portraiture.

She is known for her editing and is an expert in the techniques to best create an image be it on hand-made paper, framed perfectly or designed as part of an album, all of which are certain to become treasured family heirlooms.

LuAnn Warner-Prokos

Warner-Prokos Photography/WP Fine Art Portraits

Award-winning accredited master fine art photographer 751 Park of Commerce Drive Boca Raton FL 33487

WPPortraits.net

Info@WPportratraiture.com

Info@WPportraits.net

561.271.7954

Call today about WP Portraits special Inner Beauty: Celebrating South Florida’s Women Over 40 photo sessions

Warner-Prokos Photography

PERLA LICHI DESIGN

With the fusion of different design aesthetics, mix of bright hues, combinations of patterns, various selection of finishes and layers of texture, Perla Lichi designs interiors with both a definite point-of-view and a desire to push what is typically expected for a space.

What is your design style?

I am very versatile. I have created beautiful interiors in many different aesthetics – you name it, I have designed in that style. Currently, however, most clients are looking for modern interiors. My designs are unique for each project, yet always created with comfort in mind. I would say we create warm contemporary interiors.

What is the one piece of advice you give to all your clients?

For the most successful results, a close relationship between myself and the client must be developed. It is essential to select a designer who you feel comfortable with. My clients embrace my style and point-of-view. They give me the artistic freedom to design and create what is best for a given space.

How do you begin a new design project? Measure, measure and measure! Rooms, floors, doors and windows—everything

must be measured. And, once we understand the space we are designing, we need to understand the clients. What is their lifestyle? How often do they entertain? Do they have a large extended family? Or are they professionals who are still involved with their careers? What type of artwork do they like? Are there any special needs that the design needs to address? The more we know about our clients, the better we can design their homes.

How do you approach making interiors both functional and beautiful?

I like to use the principles of Feng Shui in my designs combined with my 41 years of design knowledge and experience.

In addition to my work creating beautiful and functional residences around the world, I also keep up on the latest products, innovations and material advances to create interiors that reflect today’s lifestyles and the way people are choosing to live.

KITCHEN RENOVATIONS PERFECTED

It would be hard to find someone more passionate about his work than Elliott Landman. It can be said that interior design is in his blood, as his parents were in the fine furniture business. For the past 35 years, Landman has used his talents and creativity to renovate and remodel kitchens and baths throughout South Florida. Landman’s completed projects and client testimonies make one of the most in demand kitchen remodelers in the area.

What is your design style?

Our goal is to provide clients with the kitchens of their dreams. Because there are so many variables when remodeling/renovating a kitchen, it is important to not only be able to create a beautiful kitchen but also to understand what is involved with the plumbing

and electrical behind the pretty tiles and beautiful appliances in order to make sure the kitchen functions properly.

What is the one piece of advice you give to all your clients? Take time to read the book. Each client of Kitchen Renovations Perfected receives a binder filled with all the details and specifics for the project.

How do you begin a new design project?

We understand a kitchen remodel may be daunting as there are many decisions to be made. But with our extensive experience, we have created a logical planning process to accomplish the project with minimal surprises and/or challenges. We coordinate and oversee every step from start to finish. We work to educate our clients about appliances, lighting, cabinetry and ways in which to create the desired kitchen within the established budget and timeframe.

How do you approach making interiors both functional and beautiful?

A kitchen must be well-thought out and organized. For instance, it is better to make lower cabinets have drawers than shelves. The induction cooktop should be next to the oven, because when something hot is removed from the oven the best place to put it is on the cooktop. It is essential to have a good understanding of how a kitchen functions and to design it with a pragmatic layout.

5250 Town Center Circle

Boca Raton FL 33486

561.441.6008

KitchenRenovationsPerfected.com

CASHMERE & VINE INTERIORS

For over 22 years, Trish Beaudet has owned Cashmere & Vine Interiors. Using her passion and flair for design, she works with clients on both commercial and residential projects. Beaudet loves the results when she uses opposites in her design – light and dark, soft and textured – to bring different elements into the space to create balance and beauty.

What is your design style?

While I am well versed in all types of design and focus my designs on my clients’ preferences, I would describe my design style as casual beach elegance. I love mixing styles and lines; I feel this adds depth and interest to any room.

What is the one piece of advice you give to all your clients?

The best advice I give to my clients is to not focus every aspect and detail of the project. Too often, clients overthink the small decisions, when they really should be focused on the overall aesthetic. What is most important is the feeling or vibe they want the space to exude.

How do you begin a new design project?

Every design project begins with an in-depth fact-finding mission. I spend a great deal of time discussing the project in detail with my clients. I use these conversations to fully understand the functional desires the project needs to meet, how they want their space to function and what is the overall design or look they want to achieve. My designs are always based on the wants, needs and desires of my clients.

How do you approach making interiors both functional and beautiful?

The art of making interiors both functional and beautiful is to create a fine balance. I begin with the function and devise a plan to include these functional elements within the client’s desired design. There are so many products and materials on the market today that address functionality but do not hinder the design of a beautiful space.

248.760.5037

THE PLACE FOR KITCHENS & BATHS

The definition of a well-designed home is a masterfully crafted kitchen. Certified kitchen and bath designer Barbara Geller, owner of The Place for Kitchens & Baths, has extensive experience designing and creating kitchens. And during this time, Geller has never created the same kitchen twice. Her design talents combined with her in-depth knowledge, extensive professional experience and hours she has accrued as a home chef allows her create beautiful kitchens; and to Geller, the definition of a beautiful kitchen is one in which the space functions beautifully.

What is your design style?

My educational background is in the fine arts, so I like to use my designer eye and artistic talents to put all the elements together for clients, regardless, if they want modern with clean lines, traditional with molding and corbets or transitional design.

What is the one piece of advice you give to all your clients? I tell them to love what we choose and to choose what they love. But, I remind them it is important to stay focused and to always be mindful of the budget.

How do you begin a new design project?

Because I do a lot more remodeling projects than new construction, I like to meet the clients in their space and discuss what can and can’t be done to the existing space. Then we can begin to discuss how they want to use their kitchens and design the new space.

How do you approach making interiors both functional and beautiful?

I design kitchens with a focal point. I make sure that the kitchen is laid out, so it functions for the cook(s) using the space. I don’t want my clients to have to be on roller skates to get from the refrigerator to the prep area. I work to give my clients a designed kitchen that provides the most advantageous floor plan with the best designed cabinetry and properly selected appliances.

561.338.7171 ThePlaceForKitchensAndBaths.com

S CITY FURNITURE

ometimes when visiting a large furniture retailer, its choices, wide selections and plethora of design styles create a blessing-and-a-curse scenario. Just trying to understand the different styles from Coastal and Modern to Casual and Contemporary makes it difficult to make furnishing decisions.

For over 50 years, the Florida-based retailer CITY Furniture has been on a mission to change the way people with live with beautiful furnishings. And as it continues to evolve to bring it customers the best, the furniture company has relaunched its CITY Interiors program.

The free design service allows customers to work one-on-one (be it online or in person) with an experienced and knowledgeable designer. The designer provides the client with complete mood boards, floorplans, color palettes and hand-picked furnishing selections in order to ensure that the client’s vision for a space is achieved.

And it couldn’t be easier, because the CITY Furniture team will manage the order process, delivery and installation, allowing clients to sit back (on that new chair or sofa) and enjoy the transformation of their living spaces.

CITY Furniture’s Managing Director of Services & Contract

Paige Thies provides additional insight into CITY Interiors:

What makes CITY Interiors unique?

Our free design service is soups to nuts. We want to make being able to use an interior designer accessible to everyone. We offer this service regardless, if a customer is looking to redo a single room, set-up a nursery or redesign their entire home. At the initial appointment, the designer and customer will discuss timeline, budget and begin to reimagine the space. (Our designers are even happy to assist with even choosing paint colors if requested.)

How does CITY Furniture & CITY Interiors handle clients differing design styles?

We cover all the design styles. We believe we have something for everyone and something for every aesthetic. All our designers are well versed in the different design styles, latest trends and current furnishing offerings.

What is the best way for a customer to use CITY Interiors?

The idea behind CITY Interiors is to instill confidence in our customers. After a home and a car, furniture is the largest purchase a homeowner will make. And we understand that for those who aren’t creatively inclined designing a living space, selecting furnishings, accessories and wall art may be

overwhelming. We want to assist customers in creating beautiful homes that work with their needs. Our designers understand that when it comes to creating an interior space it isn’t only about beauty but also functionality and high-quality furniture that will last.

If the customer just wants to update a space with a few accessories is the use of CITY Interiors service still free? Yes. It doesn’t matter if you just want to update a piece of furniture or just moved to Miami and need to furnish an entire house, the services provided by CITY Interiors is free. It is suggested that the customer talk to a designer about their ideas and project and see how the service can be of assistance. And if the customer decides to go in a different direction that is okay. There is no charge for the design services provided. CITY Furniture wants to give its customers access to full-service interior designers. It is determined to not only give customers the best shopping experience but also make it easy and pleasurable.

CITY FURNITURE

CITYFurniture.com/free-design-services/

Boca Raton: 3350 North Airport Road, 561.750.5200

Cutler Bay: 18750 South Dixie Highway, 305.255.3538

Doral: 1450 NW 117th Place, 786.264.9513

Fort Lauderdale: 3501 North Federal Highway, 954.564.7700

Hialeah: 5250 West 20th Avenue, 305.825.2065

Hollywood: 3800 Oakwood Boulevard, 954.266.1384

Midtown Miami: 3635 NE 1st Avenue, 305.573.9125

Naples: 14250 Tamiami Trail North, 239.513.1535

North Miami: 1500 NW 167th Street, 305.628.9714

Pinecrest: 9255 South Dixie Highway, 305.662.1076

West Palm Beach: 2121 Palm Beach Lakes Boulevard, 561.684.3560

Photo Courtesy of City Furniture

ANNIE SANTULLI DESIGNS

lthough she pushes her clients beyond their comfort zones, Annie Santulli and her eponymous design firm create the most beautiful and comfortable interiors for their clients. But Santulli admits, that regardless of the space, a little glam is always required. “It may be sprinkled in with the use of certain fabrics or with an amazing light fixture because it is important to have a few glamorous touches,” she said.

What is your design style?

Luxurious, glamorous and unique aren’t words used to define a design style, but they are the words I like to use to describe the spaces I create for my clients regardless of the design aesthetic. The surrounding landscape becomes an integral part of my design plans be it the vistas of a golf-course estate or the views of an oceanfront penthouse. My interiors always compliment what is beyond the windows. Because I do not have a signature design style, I work with a diverse clientele.

What is the one piece of advice you give to all your clients?

As a designer, I give a lot of advice. (It is usually the reason why people hire me.) The advice I give most often is for the client to be open minded about new ideas. Rather than just show photos or slides, I like to bring my clients to various showrooms so they can see, touch and experience the actual products. I do this whenever possible and believe it really assists with the design process. I need and want my clients to trust me while being fearless and taking a leap of faith.

How do you begin a new design project?

Of course, all design projects begin by assessing the space and learning about the needs of the client. Then begins the next phase of the design journey where I get inside my clients’ heads. I spend a lot of time getting to know who they are, how they use their space and especially what they find comfortable. Spending personal time with my clients works to not only inform my design choices but also assists to break down barriers and build trust. And trust is essential for when I want to push my clients’ boundaries.

How do you approach making interiors both functional and beautiful?

Here, in SoFlo, we are so lucky to have such stunning surroundings with an unusual combination of lush foliage and beatifull ocean. Any interior design project begins with this beautiful backdrop. I believe true functionality starts with comfort; but the definition of comfort is different for each client. I create beautiful interiors by looking at the space through the eyes of my clients.

GALA OELSNER

Afine home has plenty of fine art. The artwork placed on the walls of the designed interiors acts as the polish, gives the finishing touches and punctuation of personality for the space. The selected works of art should be pieces that homeowners like and speak to them in some way.

New York-based Israeli artist Gala Oelsner understands that most of the homeowners who purchase her art want beautiful things for their homes. They want to use art to enhance their vision of the spaces in which they live.

How do you describe your artwork?

I don’t like to define it because as an artist I always like to discover new channels. My goal is to incorporate as much as I can in my sculptures, photographs and paintings. I want to compose a work that allows me to channel what I want to say. I want to be able to transfer these ideas to the viewer when he/she sees the piece. I feel art is something that needs to move you. It needs to change you as you view it.

What inspires you?

I am inspired by nature and its transformations. I like to use natural and sustainable materials in my work. I also see a lot of parallels between my own life and my artwork. I use the themes of motherhood and womanhood a lot in my work. I also like to take images and things from their original definition and place them in different environments. For instance, in my photography, I take pictures of different flowers, cut them up and create new floral collages.

What do you think is the connection between fine art and interior design?

When you surround yourself with art, you are giving meaning to your surroundings. When we talk about interior design, we talk about creating something that is beautiful. I believe art is beautiful. You should want your spaces to have beautiful things because these things become part of you.

A HUG, handbuild whitestone ceramic

SARAH Z DESIGNS

Sarah Zohar’s love for Mother Nature is what drives her interior design. She and her firm believe it is essential to bring nature and natural elements into the creation of living spaces. Zohar specializes in modern biophilic design which connects the outdoors with the indoors. It incorporates natural light and organic elements to enhance a home with not only beautiful interiors but spaces that are also designed to be positive and restorative.

What is your design style?

My design style is transitional biophilic with a modern touch. I understand how to play with materials and textures. I know how to mix elements. I then use my creative vision to transform a spaces.

What is the one piece of advice you give to all your clients?

Trust the process. Often clients will drop by the job site and start to panic. Trusting the process is essential, as the result is ALWAYS spectacular.

How do you begin a new design project?

I like to start by brainstorming with clients. I want to learn what colors they like, material preferences, etc. It is important for me to get an understanding of what they want to achieve with the design of their living space.

How do you approach making interiors both functional and beautiful?

I love to utilize empty space. I love to incorporate hidden storage areas and use the space strategically. For instance, I have used Murphy Beds on many projects because they are convenient and functional. They allow a room to go from a game room to a guest room in seconds. I believe the key to good design is to make things look timeless, not dated.

2605 NE 189th Street

Miami FL 33180

305.906.5500

SarahZDesigns.com

SKLAR FURNISHINGS SKLAR FURNISHINGS

For over 20 years, Sklar Furnishings has been assisting South Florida residents in filling the homes they have created in both renovations and new builds with its team of full-service designers. Regardless of the size and scope of the project, Sklar works with its clients to create custom living spaces that suit their individual lifestyles.

Sklar’s Architect and Design Director Camila Harasic provides additional details about its curated showroom that showcases the latest design trends and newest furnishing styles.

What makes Sklar Furnishings unique?

Sklar Furnishings is a hybrid between a design studio and a curated showroom of modern and contemporary furniture. It has a talented team of international designers who work with clients to furnish their dream homes.

What is the one piece of advice you give to all your clients? Design is not an easy or one-step process! It takes a vision and time to create beautiful spaces.

What is it that you want the Sklar design studio to be known for? We create unique spaces for each of our clients. No project or design is ever the same.

What is the first thing you do when working with a new client? We ask for a home visit. We want to understand how our clients utilize and live within their space and what they are looking to change.

What do you want people to experience when they walk into Sklar Furnishings?

The philosophy of Sklar’s buying team is buying to inspire – not to sell. We want everyone to feel inspired and invited to explore the endless possibilities of furnishings and designs we offer.

How does Sklar approach the various design aesthetics?

The vignettes we create throughout the showroom all have different personalities. We like to showcase how design can be fun, colorful and customized while embracing different design styles in harmony.

Does Sklar like to focus more on trends of lifestyle? Why?

We like to show the latest trends, but we will always prioritize each of our clients’ lifestyles and their needs. Most of the time, we can merge both trends and lifestyle to create up-to-date spaces that perfectly align with our clients’ styles of living. Our designers always strive to live up to the Sklar tagline … Your Space. Your Lifestyle. Your Choice.

6300 N. Federal Highway Boca Raton FL 33487 561.862.0800

SklarFurnishings.com

TOKAN CONSTRUCTION AND DESIGN

Tokan Construction and Design is a boutique luxury interior design-build firm owned by Heather Ferreras-Tokan. The cornerstone of her approach to design is creating harmony between simple aesthetics and efficiency. This is the easiest thing to remember but one of the hardest things to attain. But it is aiming high that drives all that Ferreras-Tokan does.

What is your design style?

I am a modernist with a minimalistic design approach. Clean lines, monochromatic palettes and simplicity allows our eyes to devote more attention on what we want them to see. I even take a minimalistic approach with my wardrobe. Typically, I wear neutral-colored clothing because I want people to interact with my personality rather than focus on the colorful blouse I am wearing.

What is the one piece of advice you give to all your clients? It is essential to trust the process. .

How do you approach making interiors both functional and beautiful?

During the consultation, I learn how my clients use the space in their home. Understanding my clients’ lifestyle allows me to plan and design with purpose.

954.526.1771

TokanConstruction.com

Photos by 3Dography

The bathroom was designed and constructed by Shawn Tokan, Heather’s husband and the person behind the construction side of the Tokan Construction and Design.

MAC ART GALLERIES

MAC Art Galleries is more than a gallery; it is a brand. It has a huge network of today’s leading artists and curators and maintains one of the largest and most diverse fine art collections in South Florida. Currently, it exhibits this thoughtfully curated collection of over 100 internationally acclaimed artists in over 20,000-square-feet of gallery space in its four South Florida galleries. In 2021, it opened its world-class Delray Beach gallery where it shows its most exclusive collections and hosts its exhibitions. It recently opened a new retail space in the heart of Delray’s downtown district, 518 East Atlantic Avenue, Delray Beach, 561.774.2928.

How does MAC Art Galleries determine the artists it will represent?

The most important element in determining which artists to represent is to select artists who create artworks that speak to us; we intuitively know will feed our clients’ souls. Since we have rather eclectic taste, we offer a wide selection of artistic styles, mediums and techniques. We exhibit art with a high level of sophistication for content and execution.

What is the connection between fine art and interior design?

Today, most spaces are contemporary, and clients are looking for statement pieces that not only define and reflect their feelings and desires but also make sense within the design of the space. We find that most people need assistance when selecting artwork from multiple sources; so, we assist in navigating the global art marketplace to source artwork. The goal is to carefully curate the art so it is part of the refined and finished interior design.

What does fine art add to well-designed interiors?

Fine art is the heart and soul of any interior. It elevates space to an entirely new level of sophistication. Our efforts ensure that the artwork our clients select not only inspires and reflects their personal aesthetic but also looks amazing in their surroundings. We pride ourselves on transforming spaces with fine art.

Who are some upcoming artists MAC Art Galleries thinks people should pay attention to?

We love the works of Walter Redondo, Jason Myers, Rene Romero Schuler, Bruce Rubenstein, John La Huis, Ed Nash, Frank Arnold, Esteban Leyva and James Leonard, plus many others who are internationally recognized by not always available in South Florida. We provide direct access to the best contemporary artists.

Painting by John La Huis

Painting by Frank Arnold; glass spheres on wall by Thor & Jennifer Bueno

TOBY ZACK DESIGN

A

s a mainstay in South Florida’s interior design scene, Toby Zack has honed her talent for creating contemporary spaces with an emphasis on clean lines (because they never go out of style). Zack believes what makes a great interior designer is a good eye and an innate understanding of scale and proportion.

What is your design style?

Some people define it as minimalism, but I like classic contemporary. I like to start with the architectural elements of a space and then use my talents for space planning to create clean, linear, well-defined and well-designed interiors.

What is the one piece of advice you give to all your clients?

The interior design must work for them. The space needs to be what they want and how they are going to use the home. Is it a vacation or primary residence? How do they expect to entertain? It is so important for them to share how and for what purpose they want to use the space.

How do you begin a new design project?

I start with getting the floor plan and looking at the space. It is essential to have a good floor plan. Then we define a scope of project, develop an understanding of the budget and go from there. I listen to the clients and get inspiration from what they want. I like to show lots of different fabrics with different textures but prefer to use more neutral colors. Then, I use rugs, artwork, decorative items to add color, whimsy and a little of the unexpected.

How do you approach making interiors both functional and beautiful?

My clients come to me because they like clean classic design. I often walk into a home that I did 25-years-ago and the interiors still look contemporary and current. I don’t like fads because they go out as quickly as they come in. If you buy things that are clean, simple with good classic design they will last forever. When it comes to contemporary furniture, I do like to buy the originals, but these can be expensive, so we often work to find something that has been more recently produced but provides the same aesthetic. The most important element of both function and fashion is space planning, scale and perspective. You must understand what will work within the space.

5940 SW 19th Street

Plantation FL 33317

954.967.8629

TobyZackDesign.com

ANTONINI MODERN LIVING

Antonini Modern Living makes it very easy to find and furnish a living space – everything from dining rooms to rugs – with modern and contemporary furnishings. The well-curated showroom makes it easy to create well-designed interiors with a cohesive look and feel.

What makes Antonini Modern Living unique?

Antonini Modern Living offers high-quality, handcrafted Italian furniture, accessories and rugs. It specializes in luxury, high-end furnishings this are designed to last. Its team of experienced designers work with clients to execute their personal vision and custom-look for their homes.

What is the one piece of advice you give to all your clients?

It is important to invest in high-quality furniture that with its timeless contemporary design will last despite everyday wear-and-tear.

What is Antonini design studio known for?

It is known for its well-designed handcrafted Italian furniture. At its Boca Raton location it offers clients high-end and stylish furniture that not only looks good but is also durable and long lasting.

What is the first thing you do when working with a new client?

When working with a new client, Antonini’s designers strive to get a foundational understanding of his/her needs, desires and preferences. They will ask lots of questions about a client’s lifestyle and tastes to be able to design rooms with the proper furniture and best accessories to create the desired spaces.

What do you want people to experience when they walk into Antonini?

The Antonini Modern Living showroom is both welcoming and luxurious. The space should inspire clients with its well-curated and elegant design vignettes. With its experienced and talented team, clients should also feel confident that they are working with a knowledgeable team who will assist them in creating the perfect look for their homes.

How does Antonini approach the various design aesthetics? Although Antonini Modern Living has “modern” in its name, it offers furnishings and accessories that span a wide range of design aesthetics. Its complete collection offers looks that in addition to modern are contemporary and transitional. It believes that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to design and every client’s desires and preferences should we the focal point when creating their homes’ interior spaces.

Does Antonini like to focus more on trends of lifestyle? Why?

Antonini Modern Living focuses on both lifestyle and trends. It believes that furnishings should be selected based on a client’s vision for his/her own but also ensure that the chosen items are on-trend and contemporary for today’s living. The goal is always to create beautiful interiors with an approach that creates timeless designs that remain current for years to come.

DESIGN NS & NORDIC GROUP

Design NS is a well-respected manufacturer of high-end custom-made leather furniture. Products include sofas, motorized sectionals, theatre seating, accent chairs and European sleepers. .

Nordic Group with its full architectural department creates and installs full-home projects. All millwork done on premises from custom designed kitchens, closets, complete home theater media cabinetry, acoustical wall panels and ceiling treatments. Audio-video technology packages available including professional installation offering total inhome cinematic experience.

These sister companies create beautifully detailed, comfortable and functional interior spaces. The Boca Ratonbased showroom and manufacturing facility are owned by the Makela family who are masters of their crafts, which began five generations ago in Scandinavia.

What trends are designers seeking in custom furniture?

Today, the trend is for simplistic clean furniture with neutral-colored imported leathers and textured fabrics. Design NS/Nordic Group custom builds hardwood furniture frames by hand using state of the art technology. Motorized seating with interchangeable features is integrated into its contemporary designs. According to Kai Makela, the furniture is still made with the original craftmanship.

How does Design NS/Nordic Group meet the demand for in-home theatres and entertainment spaces?

We have established a reputation for building custom and contemporary home media rooms/theaters from design to completion. Custom theater cabinetry, acoustical wall panels, ceiling treatments, custom power recliners and sofas. Complete home theater audio/video technology packages including professional installation is available to offer a total in-home cinematic experience.

What is the aesthetic of Design NS/Nordic Group?

Our collection of contemporary furniture is designed with an artisan aesthetic and crafted with excellence, made with the same spring and frame construction used since the company was founded. Our sleeper sofas feature European mechanisms and can be customized.

What does it mean to be only open to the trade?

Although the 40,000-square-foot showroom/factory is trade only serving professional interior designers and other members of the trade, we encourage homeowners to come with their designers. Design NS and Nordic Group proudly showcase high-end materials and a wide selection of custom furnishings all made in the United States.

KENDALL MARCELLE DESIGN ASSOCIATES

ith her eponymous design firm, Kendall Marcelle designs innovative interiors that reflect the individuality of each client. She and her team strive to create design options to epitomize each client’s style. And if she had to describe her design aesthetic, Marcelle would say it is quality and designs that are informed by the past and inspired by the future. Marcelle believes that quality design knows no boundaries.

What is your design style?

I consider my design style to be inviting and approachable with a sense of timeless elegance. I like to stay current but not be trendy. The details must be pragmatic and purposeful. I follow my creative nesting instincts and add various elements of surprise.

What is the one piece of advice you give to all your clients?

Design is a process to embrace. If you allow yourself to step out of your comfort zone you will undoubtedly heighten your creative senses and become more open to new ideas. It’s important your home reflects your personality, lifestyle and experiences. Most importantly it should become your peaceful sanctuary.

How do you begin a new design project?

I set my projects up for success by listening to my clients’ ideas, thoughts and inspirations. I engage. I determine my clients’ style and expectations and then proceed with the creative process. My imagination becomes my pallet along with my clients’ criteria. We proceed with plans, renderings and samples for review. I like to make the experience memorable.

How do you approach making interiors both functional and beautiful?

Does the existing space function well-based on my client’s needs and lifestyle? Does it work? If not, I introduce architectural details and elements that will improve the flow of the space. The aesthetic and decorative elements follow with comfortable seating, textural fabrics, wall treatments, wood finishes, personal art and more. I have no limits from where I source my merchandise. This quest always leads to intrigue and success.

CAUSA DESIGN GROUP

As a licensed interior designer, Dawn Causa prides herself on the hands-on, detail oriented approach that her firm Causa Design Group provides to both her commercial and residential clients. Causa doesn’t believe that a one-size-fits-all approach works when designing spaces; rather she believes that each home must work specifically and uniquely for each client.

What is your design style?

My design style is timeless with a focus on functionality. The design aesthetic must reflect the client’s lifestyle and personal needs.

What is the one piece of advice you give to all your clients?

I have two pieces of advice. Be candid and open throughout the design process as this helps make the design journey go smoothly and give the stress and worries to me.

How do you begin a new design project?

Listening is the key to a happy client. Not only does listening allow me to learn the clients’ priorities, time frame and budget but also allows for the less obvious things such as the clients’ sleep habits, hobbies, family dynamics and/or love for a particular color to be heard. It is the subtleties of these conversations that can show up in the interior design.

How do you approach making interiors both functional and beautiful?

My approach is to offer a delicate balance; the importance of functionality can’t be understated. Once functionality is established beauty is defined by the details incorporated into the room. Never compromise one over the other.

CALIFORNIA CLOSETS

When it comes to the contents of our homes, we all aspire to have our spaces and closets as neat as those of the Kardashian clan. And thanks to Lori Hoyt and her team at California Closets this can become more than just an item on a wish list. For the past 39 years, she and her siblings, Patti and Scott, have been assisting Fort Lauderdale and Boca Raton homeowners with designing practical, pretty and custom storage-solutions.

What makes California Closets unique?

Our designers are trained to design not sell. Our experienced staff knows how to create not only beautiful but also practical and functional storage solutions. We also change our style and color offerings annually to remain current and on-trend.

What is the one piece of advice you give to all your clients?

Although we can create great storage spaces, clients must purge and clean out some of their stuff. Also, the suggestions we make about hangers and how to organize and store the contents of a closet/storage space should be taken seriously. We can create the most beautiful and functional closet, but if its contents aren’t arranged and organized in a pragmatic fashion, the closet’s design really doesn’t matter.

What do you want your team at California Closets to be known for?

After almost four decades of experience, I consider us the experts when it comes to closet design and storage solutions. We understand that closets have become more like rooms with pieces of furniture. We only use premium

materials and hardware. With our team of experienced designers and installers, we can create functional closets/storage solutions that go from the simple to the sublime.

What is the first thing you do with a new client?

We like to arrange a one-on-one consultation to get an understanding of the client’s needs and wants.

954.946.2218

CaliforniaClosets.com

Fort Lauderdale Showroom: 1904 North Federal Highway

Boca Raton Showroom: 302 South Federal Highway