Brooklinen's 'Spaces' Helps You Discover and Buy From New Home Startups

Craig Stillman, founder of Garagezilla, discusses the origins of his business, his background in decorative concrete, and the unique value proposition of his company. The idea for Garagezilla emerged from a confluence of events: Stillman sold his share of a decorative concrete business after 22 years, retaining only the resinous coating services he had developed. Simultaneously, his current business partner, a carpenter with 25 years of experience, was navigating a career transition due to a work injury. This timing proved opportune, allowing them to combine Stillman's expertise in floor coatings with his partner's carpentry skills to create a specialized garage interiors business. Garagezilla aims to redefine the perception and functionality of garages, moving beyond basic offerings to provide complete transformations. The company offers high-end solutions such as polyaspartic flake and Swisstrax floors, along with advanced cabinet systems and storage solutions, including premium Hayley cabinets. Stillman emphasizes that the goal is to create spaces that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing, tailored to meet each homeowner's specific needs, ranging from simple organization to luxury finishes. The satisfaction derived from client reactions to their revamped garages reinforces the value of their endeavor, transforming overlooked spaces into areas of pride, utility, and enjoyment. Stillman's journey in the decorative concrete industry spanned over two decades, during which he specialized in resinous coatings for various applications, from polished floors to intricate epoxy designs. This experience formed the foundation for Garagezilla, enabling him to build upon his extensive knowledge in creating durable, high-quality spaces. The collaboration with his business partner, whose skills in design and cabinetry complemented Stillman's, allowed them to offer a comprehensive suite of garage solutions. These include flooring systems, slat walls, Steadyrack bike racks, and custom cabinet installations, addressing both average homeowners seeking decluttering and organization, and luxury-minded clients desiring high-end, customized spaces that integrate with their home's overall design. What distinguishes Garagezilla is its commitment to customization, functionality, and durability. The company focuses on crafting organized environments that align with each homeowner's unique vision, ensuring that garages receive the same level of attention and care as any other room in the home. Stillman recounts a significant pivot in his career: the unexpected sale of his previous business. This decision, prompted by partnership complications, pushed him to explore new opportunities that ultimately led to the creation of Garagezilla. This challenging period became a fresh start, aligning him more closely with his professional goals. Drawing from his experience of selling a business, Stillman offers key entrepreneurial lessons. He advises against 50/50 partnerships, suggesting that a 51/49 split allows for decisive leadership. Meticulous financial record-keeping, including transparent and well-organized profit and loss statements, is crucial for daily management and for facilitating smoother negotiations during a sale. Finally, he stresses the importance of timing, recommending that businesses be sold during a growth trajectory to maximize valuation and attract more potential buyers, as businesses on a downward trend typically yield a lower return. #Entrepreneurship #Garagezilla #HomeImprovement #BusinessPartnership #FlooringSolutions #Cabinetry #BusinessStrategy #CustomerSatisfaction #CareerPivot

This monthly series, "In Our Carts," highlights a curated selection of new product launches and collaborations in the home and lifestyle sphere. The June 2024 edition features a range of items, from bedding and rugs to furniture, lighting, and kitchenware, all chosen for their design and functionality. One of the notable collaborations is between Danish home brand Tekla and Artek, which resulted in a new line of bedding. This collection includes duvets and shams in three colors, adorned with Finnish architect Aino Aalto’s Kirsikankukka pattern, inspired by a Japanese scarf. The collaboration also marks Tekla's first venture into kids' bedding. Cold Picnic, known for its printed rugs, has expanded its offerings with a new collection of richly hued, solid-color rugs. These nature-inspired designs, such as Grass Green, Roasted Tomato, Sky Blue, and Pear, are crafted from 100% New Zealand wool, providing a luxurious feel underfoot. Dusen Dusen has introduced three new vibrant and graphic throw pillow designs: Daisy, Hourglass, and Ricrac. These pillows come in bold colors like sunflower yellow, denim blue, and Kelly green, adding a playful touch to home decor. CB2 has launched new alabaster sconces designed by Australian studio VUUE. These hand-carved alabaster globes are available in two sizes, 6 and 10 inches, and offer a blend of old-world glamour with a modern sensibility, suitable for various interior and exterior settings. Fashion designer Carly Cushnie has collaborated with Lulu and Georgia on her first furniture collection. This 11-piece line showcases a mix of materials, including cane, wood, bouclé, fringe, and velvet. Standout pieces include the warm-toned Yucca sofa and the burl-wood Sabal console table, offering extensive mix-and-match possibilities. Opinel has released a cleverly designed grilling set that emphasizes simplicity and utility. The stainless steel tongs are extra-long with notched tips and a curved edge for effective gripping. A unique feature is the folding knife that ingeniously transforms into a spatula handle, complete with a Virobloc locking ring. The knife handle also integrates a bottle opener, enhancing its functionality for outdoor cooking. R+D Lab has partnered with Mexican chef Elena Reygadas and Fenn Apartamento to create the Rosetta collection of glassware. This collection features three new glass shapes—Acqua, Sour, and Martini—inspired by ancient vessels discovered in Pompeii. While named for specific drinks, these versatile glasses are suggested for various beverages, such as white wine in the water cups and cordials in the stemmed glasses. Finally, Belgian architect Vincent Van Duysen continues to expand his collection with Zara Home. The latest additions emphasize natural materials like wood, concrete, and solid brass, featuring pieces such as a daybed, a library system, and organically shaped concrete side tables. Dark brown is a prominent color throughout this new iteration of the collection, reflecting a sophisticated aesthetic. Baggu has also collaborated with Collina Strada on a line of limited-edition prints for its reusable bags, picnic blankets, and towels. A new highlight from this collaboration is the Horse Bag, a mini zippered pony-shaped bag, and the Boxer Plaid print on the Small Cloud carry-on, combining playful design with practical application. #ProductLaunches #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #TextileDesign #Furniture #Lighting #Kitchenware #DesignCollaborations #NewArrivals

Eddie Mickenberg, an interior design business owner, shares her journey and insights into the industry. With a degree in interior design obtained 15 years ago, Mickenberg initially had no intention of owning her own business, expecting to work for established firms throughout her career. However, after years of working for luxury residential remodel and design firms, she developed a deep passion for the creative industry. Her experience working for others provided valuable business insights, allowing her to discern what she wanted and didn't want for her own professional life. The path was challenging, filled with obstacles that could have deterred her, yet her commitment to interior design remained steadfast. The decision to branch out independently in 2020 was a significant and daunting step, as it meant financial reliance solely on herself, a shift from the safety net of working for a firm. Mickenberg observed a considerable difference in responsibility between being an interior designer and owning an interior design business. Her motivation stemmed from a desire to take full credit for her designs, which necessitated establishing her own firm. This move, initiated during the reflective period of 2020, involved taking a significant risk that ultimately proved to be one of her best decisions. Mickenberg's interior design business focuses on creating environments that tell a story and evoke a feeling, alongside addressing functional aspects. She notes that some designers prioritize functionality over visual aesthetics, a different approach from her own. Her journey has been exciting yet challenging, and she embraces the discomfort of aiming for higher marks and taking calculated risks. Having faced numerous rejections and closed doors, she developed resilience, adopting a mindset of perseverance. A key philosophy is that excessive planning can prevent action, leading her to trust herself and allow things to unfold organically, consistently building her business as she progresses. Effective communication, boundary-setting for self-protection, and empathy are also highlighted as crucial components of her professional approach. When asked about recommendations for a visitor to Los Angeles, Mickenberg suggests diverse options depending on the friend's preferences. For dining, she recommends Bacari in Silverlake or The Proper Hotel Rooftop restaurant in Santa Monica for their good food and atmosphere. For friends interested in the entertainment industry, she proposes visits to WB Studios or live tapings of shows like The Voice or The Price Is Right. For family with children, Santa Monica and The Grove are recommended during the weekdays to avoid traffic and crowds. She emphasizes her adaptability and her extensive list of curated places in Los Angeles, allowing her to tailor recommendations based on individual preferences and the desired vibe. She advises visiting during the week to optimize the experience and avoid weekend congestion. Mickenberg attributes her success and perseverance to her friends and family, who have supported her since her move from San Diego to pursue her dreams. She also credits the business owners she worked for over the years as mentors, who provided diverse business styles, character lessons, and examples of grit. These experiences, both positive and negative, served as a learning ground, enabling her to develop a business structure and style that aligns with her values. She views countless mistakes and wins as integral to her growth, emphasizing that her faith in herself was the ultimate driver in continuing to pursue her passion despite challenges. Photographer Andrew Bui is credited for the images in the article. Her website is www.eddiemickenberg.com and her Instagram handle is emickenberg. #InteriorDesign #BusinessOwner #EntrepreneurshipJourney #CreativeIndustry #LuxuryResidentialDesign #LosAngeles #CareerDevelopment #SmallBusiness

Sweeten, an online marketplace connecting homeowners with vetted general contractors, was founded by Jean Brownhill in 2011 to address the significant trust deficit in the home renovation industry. Brownhill, who had a background in architecture and construction, recognized the widespread struggle among homeowners to find reliable contractors after experiencing a renovation mishap in her own Brooklyn home in 2007. Her personal experience underscored the need for a transparent and trustworthy system to facilitate home renovation projects. Since its inception, Sweeten has garnered $20 million in funding and boasts a substantial pipeline of $1.5 billion worth of projects, indicating its success in mediating these complex transactions. Brownhill's strategic approach to building Sweeten involved a multi-faceted focus on establishing trust among all stakeholders. Initially, she concentrated on expanding her professional network beyond her architectural sphere into the tech and venture capital communities. This involved attending numerous Meetup events daily, covering diverse topics like coding, talent recruitment, and fundraising. This proactive networking allowed her to identify critical early talent, including the developer who coded Sweeten's first iteration, and to gain insights into the startup ecosystem. Building trust with contractors was another cornerstone of Sweeten's model. Brownhill personally engaged with contractors, often meeting them at their job sites, to convey Sweeten's commitment to mutual benefit. The platform offers contractors access to a broader client base without upfront fees, but enforces a strict quality control system: consistent negative feedback leads to removal from the platform. This policy ensures accountability and maintains the quality of the contractor network, thereby reinforcing trust with both contractors and homeowners. Customer trust was cultivated through highly personalized efforts in the early stages. Recognizing that consumers were hesitant to hire contractors online, Brownhill went to extraordinary lengths to humanize the service. This included personal visits to homes for measurements, sending handwritten thank-you notes, and providing her personal cellphone number to clients. While these highly unscalable practices are no longer feasible at Sweeten's current scale, they were crucial in fostering initial customer confidence and demonstrating a commitment to service quality. This direct engagement helped to overcome initial skepticism about an online platform for such a significant and personal service as home renovation. Finally, Brownhill faced the challenge of building trust in her own vision and securing institutional capital. After initially self-funding Sweeten by cashing out her 401(k) and using credit cards, she encountered numerous rejections from investors when seeking growth capital. Her persistence eventually led her to Joanne Wilson at Gotham Gal Ventures, who recognized the potential of Sweeten's model and its founder. This breakthrough funding was pivotal for Sweeten's expansion, highlighting the importance of resilience and seeking investors who truly understand a business's unique value proposition, particularly for underrepresented founders. #HomeRenovation #Startup #TrustBuilding #Entrepreneurship #OnlineMarketplace #VentureCapital #Networking #CustomerService #BusinessStrategy

Visionary Showroom, a home remodeling center with six locations across Western New York and Northern Pennsylvania, is presented as a resource for home renovation projects, especially as fall arrives. The article highlights that the start of a new season is an opportune time to consider upgrading living spaces to create a personal sanctuary. The showroom, previously known as Visionary Baths & More, has undergone a rebrand to reflect its expanded focus beyond just bathrooms to a comprehensive home remodeling space. This change signifies the team's growth and commitment to offering a wider array of high-quality products and services, ensuring a customer-focused experience. The rebranding to Visionary Showroom emphasizes its capacity to handle various home improvement needs, including kitchens, laundry rooms, and utility spaces, in addition to its traditional bathroom offerings. This broader scope allows customers to find solutions for multiple areas of their homes under one roof. The article points out that the expansion means customers can access more product categories while still receiving the high level of service they have come to expect from the company. A key aspect of Visionary Showroom's appeal is its interactive showroom experience. Unlike traditional showrooms that might only display photographs or limited products, Visionary Showroom designs its spaces for hands-on interaction. This approach enables visitors to physically touch, feel, and test products, providing a more accurate understanding of how items will look and function in their own homes. This interactive environment allows customers to explore various design possibilities firsthand, from modern aesthetics to cozy farmhouse styles or bold statement pieces. The showroom offers a diverse range of products to facilitate various renovation visions. Some of the highlighted products include waterfall showers, elegant bathtubs, backlit mirrors, sophisticated faucet fixtures, cabinetry, toilets, and a variety of light fixtures. This extensive selection caters to different tastes and functional requirements, ensuring that customers can find items that align with their specific design preferences and home needs. Furthermore, Visionary Showroom prides itself on its knowledgeable and experienced staff. These professionals are available to provide expert guidance and insider knowledge throughout the renovation process, whether it involves a simple fixture replacement, a complete remodel, or a new build. The staff's expertise ensures that customers receive personalized advice and make informed decisions, helping them achieve their desired outcomes. The article also reassures potential customers that Visionary Showroom partners exclusively with top, trusted brands in the industry, guaranteeing product quality and reliability for any chosen design. The article encourages readers to visit one of the six convenient locations in Orchard Park, Clarence, North Tonawanda, Oneonta, Binghamton, and Erie to begin their home remodeling journey, suggesting that their website and social media pages also offer additional inspiration. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #HomeImprovement #VisionaryShowroom #WesternNewYork #NorthernPennsylvania #RemodelingCenter #KitchenRemodel #BathroomRemodel

Dana Esser, an interior designer and creative, discusses her business, Dana Michele Design, and its profound impact on the daily lives of occupants in the spaces she designs. Esser highlights the significance of her work in creating therapeutic environments, such as offices for therapists and psychiatrists. These projects involved extensive research into layout, audio and visual privacy, color, texture, and furniture selections to ensure patients feel welcome, calm, comfortable, and safe. The insights gained from designing these therapeutic spaces are now applied to all her projects, ensuring they enhance the well-being of occupants and meet functional needs. Dana Michele Design distinguishes itself through an unwavering commitment to clients, with Esser acting as a 'client advocate.' With eight years of corporate interior design experience, she is now directly involved in every project, ensuring personalized attention and expertise for each client. The design process at Dana Michele Design integrates spatial intelligence with creative intuition, focusing on solving complex puzzles and understanding human needs to create spaces that resonate deeply. This process begins with in-depth client engagement to understand their aspirations and challenges, leading to designs that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also supportive of their present and future needs. Esser emphasizes the importance of professional integrity and personal well-being, stating a rule to only accept projects where her team is respected and valued, especially as a female entrepreneur in a male-dominated industry. Looking ahead, Esser plans to launch a non-profit arm of Dana Michele Design. This initiative will focus on community engagement by partnering with organizations that provide housing and support to vulnerable communities, aiming to create nurturing environments that empower individuals to thrive. The success of Dana Michele Design is attributed to human connection and the transformative power of thoughtful design, driven by a commitment to clients and the wider community. Outside of her professional life, Esser shares recommendations for enjoying Los Angeles with a visiting friend. Her ideal week would include coffee from Primo on Montana Street, brunch at Courtyard Kitchen in Santa Monica, leisurely strolls along the boardwalk, and beach volleyball. Nature excursions would involve hiking the Los Leones trail in Pacific Palisades for panoramic ocean views. Cultural experiences would include visiting the Broad or Hammer museum exhibits. Evenings would feature live entertainment at venues like the Hollywood Bowl or Aviator Nation’s Dreamland in Malibu, or attending a comedy show. Dining options range from Fia in Santa Monica to Osteria Mozza, followed by a night out in West Hollywood or Hollywood. Esser acknowledges several individuals who have significantly influenced her journey. She credits her family for providing essential physical and financial security and unwavering love. Her high school art teacher is recognized for channeling her creativity and introducing her to interior design at 16, a pivotal moment in discovering her passion. Lastly, she highlights the continuous inspiration, encouragement, and love from her closest friends, whom she considers her chosen family, calling them her backbone and biggest cheerleaders, especially when she experiences imposter syndrome. #InteriorDesign #CreativeEntrepreneur #TherapeuticSpaces #ClientAdvocacy #CommunityImpact #FemaleEntrepreneur #NonProfitInitiative #LosAngelesLifestyle #PersonalDevelopment

Yasmin Sewell, a former fashion editor, has returned to New York City's SoHo neighborhood with a pop-up store for her scent-focused wellness brand, Vyrao. This venture, designed in collaboration with the renowned architectural firm OMA, known for its work with luxury fashion brands like Prada, Loewe, and Jacquemus, is described by Sewell as more than just a retail space; it's an "energetic experience." The pop-up is scheduled to operate until November 28. The collaboration between Sewell and OMA's David Gianotten and designer Helena To aimed to create an open and ethereal environment. The design emphasizes color, light, and a sense of flow, moving beyond traditional retail aesthetics. A key feature of the store's layout is a series of mobile "totems," which function as discovery points for customers. Each of Vyrao’s ten fragrances is displayed on a pedestal, framed by floor-to-ceiling curtains. These curtains are printed in colors that correspond to the individual scents, creating a visually immersive and thematic presentation for each product. Gianotten highlighted that the project's appeal stemmed from Sewell's focus on "mood" rather than just perfume or luxury, signaling a departure from conventional approaches in the fragrance industry. This perspective influenced the store’s innovative use of visual and interactive elements. The brand's logo, crafted from four-foot-tall mirrored letters, is prominently placed at the entrance. This installation interacts with looping projections of Vyrao's past campaign imagery, inviting visitors to engage with the brand's visual history. LED lighting further enhances the store's atmosphere, with subtle color shifts that animate the space, creating a dynamic and evolving environment. Gianotten noted that this "bombardment of imagery" was designed to attract attention and allows for diverse visual interpretations, ranging from natural green tones to more intense red hues, each evoking a different energy. Beyond the primary retail area, the pop-up includes a distinctive egg-shaped space at the back, situated under a skylight. This area is designed to encourage visitors to linger and connect with the brand on a deeper level. The concept of connection is further reinforced through various collaborations featured within the store. Notably, ceramic cups handmade by actress Lake Bell are available for purchase and are used to serve Keith’s Cacao from Guatemala. Additionally, a curated selection of books by Isabella Burley of Climax Books is offered, contributing to the experiential aspect of the space. Sewell emphasized that the intention behind the pop-up transcends typical shopping; it's conceived as a sanctuary where individuals can "slow down, breathe, and feel," offering a holistic wellness experience rather than merely a transaction. #RetailDesign #PopUpStore #ArchitecturalInnovation #ScentWellness #ExperientialRetail #OMAArchitects #SoHo #LuxuryRetail

The article discusses six expert tips for designing a home that can adapt to various life stages, catering to first-home buyers, upsizers, and downsizers. Ebony O’Brien, Evolve studio manager at Bold Living, emphasizes the importance of understanding priorities, which can differ significantly across these groups. For first-home buyers, affordability and space for growth are often key, while upsizers may prioritize flexible rooms that can evolve with a changing family structure. One crucial tip is to opt for classic and timeless designs in major elements like kitchen cabinets and bathroom tiles. This approach ensures lasting value and allows homeowners to personalize their interiors with accessories without frequent major renovations. A neutral design provides a versatile foundation that can be easily adapted to different styles over time. Flexibility in floor plans is another critical consideration, particularly for upsizers and downsizers. Designs that allow for rooms to be repurposed, such as converting extra bedrooms into home offices or hobby spaces, are highly beneficial. For instance, the Bold Living 'Athena 351' design offers spacious living areas, multiple bedrooms, and separate zones, accommodating the needs of growing families and multi-generational households by providing a kids’ retreat and a master bedroom separated from other living areas. Functionality is also paramount; homes should be stylish yet practical for daily life. Examples include incorporating a mudroom for families with children or avid gardeners to manage dirt and mess, and designing wider hallways and accessible bathroom spaces to accommodate changing mobility needs. The article highlights practical features like placing washing machines and dryers at bench height with storage underneath to prevent bending. The integration of indoor and outdoor spaces is another key design principle. Creating a seamless connection between the outdoor living area, indoor kitchen, dining, and living spaces promotes a cohesive environment suitable for families and entertaining guests. The Bold Living 'Balwyn' design is cited as an excellent example of this indoor-outdoor flow. Effective storage solutions are essential for all homeowners. The recommendation is to choose designs that include built-in cabinetry to minimize clutter. Bold Living offers existing floor plans with ample storage and the option for customization to meet specific storage requirements. Finally, understanding when to save and when to splurge is crucial for managing budgets at different stages of homeownership. First-time buyers, for example, might prioritize affordable designs with essential features like three bedrooms, open-plan living, and indoor-outdoor connectivity, like the 'Felix' design from Bold Living. Prospective buyers can explore design ideas and display homes at Bold Living's Evolve Design Studio and various display locations across Southeast Queensland. #BuyingAndBuildingNew #FeaturedHomeBuilders #FeaturedHomeDesigns #HomeDesign #Interior #InteriorDesign

Brittany Lyons, an Oak Cliff resident, transitioned from a full-time position as a chairman’s office coordinator at UT Southwestern Medical Center to a career in interior design. Despite holding a biology degree, Lyons’ passion for home interiors, cultivated since her childhood experiences with her parents flipping and building houses in Mississippi, eventually led her to establish Brittany Lyons Interiors. Her journey into professional interior design began in 2015 after she decorated her own home and shared photos on Instagram. A high school friend, impressed by her work, commissioned her for a home makeover, initiating a steady flow of clients primarily through word-of-mouth referrals. Upon moving to Dallas in 2016, Lyons strategically utilized social media platforms like Instagram, Houzz, and Pinterest to expand her client base. Her design philosophy centers on creating "peaceful, functional design" that promotes self-care for her clients, regardless of the project's scale, from large suburban residences to compact urban apartments. Lyons emphasizes that even small spaces deserve thoughtful design to enhance enjoyment and utility. She offers practical advice for smaller areas, such as using lighter paint colors, painting ceilings the same color as walls to create an illusion of space, incorporating mirrors, and avoiding oversized electronics. Running her business, Lyons faced the initial challenge of assembling a reliable team of contractors, painters, and installers who could deliver quality work at a reasonable cost and uphold her brand's integrity. She has since built a trusted crew, ensuring that anyone representing her company is professional and dependable. Lyons considers professional photography of her completed projects an indispensable asset for her business, as these images are crucial for her online marketing efforts and attract a significant portion of her clientele. Among her notable projects, Lyons recently completed a $1.5 million custom-built new home in Lucas, Texas, where her responsibilities included selecting every detail, from flooring and paint colors to stone and lighting fixtures, to personalize the space for her clients. She particularly enjoys redesigning bedrooms, considering them personal spaces where much can be done with elements like headboards, linens, and pillows to foster peaceful environments. Lyons highlights that many people misunderstand the value of hiring an interior designer, often viewing it as a luxury rather than a worthwhile investment. She clarifies that a designer's role extends far beyond aesthetic choices, encompassing intricate tasks such as coordinating deliveries, ensuring correct item reception, running errands for materials, advising on technical details like grout type and lighting placement, and managing contractors. Ultimately, Lyons asserts that the primary benefit of hiring a designer is saving clients considerable time and ensuring projects are executed correctly the first time, thus providing significant value for a fraction of the total renovation cost. She finds immense satisfaction in witnessing clients' reactions to their newly designed spaces and hearing how these transformations positively impact their lives, despite the inherent stresses of her profession. #InteriorDesign #SmallBusiness #Entrepreneurship #HomeDecor #ResidentialDesign #DallasBusiness #CareerTransition

Brittny Button, an interior designer and real estate investor, discusses her journey in establishing her own business and her unique design philosophy. Her passion for building, architecture, and design naturally led her to open an interior design firm, where she focuses on transforming spaces. Additionally, she realized a long-held dream by opening Button Atelier, a shop within the Agoura Antique Mart. This venture allows her to showcase and sell her collection of vintage furniture, many of which have been revitalized with new upholstery, alongside a curated selection of decorative accessories. Button's distinctive design aesthetic is deeply rooted in Old World European Classicism, with a particular fondness for Spanish architecture and Art Deco-inspired furniture. Her past projects have garnered significant recognition, being featured in prominent publications such as Architectural Digest, Vogue Living, Homes & Gardens, and Living etc. This acclaim underscores her ability to create aesthetically pleasing and functional living environments. A notable challenge she identifies in her work is the difficulty of assembling a cohesive on-site team, including project managers, contractors, and subcontractors, who fully grasp and align with her design vision. She emphasizes the importance of shared understanding, even suggesting that it is better to disengage from a project if the team is not in sync, to ensure the integrity of the final outcome. Button Atelier is envisioned as an evolving 'workshop' or 'studio,' extending beyond a traditional interior design firm, with various exciting projects anticipated for completion later in the year. When asked about local recommendations, Button suggests visiting the Pacific Design Center in LA to explore new home furnishings. For family outings, she highlights the playground at Malibu Country Mart, often combined with lunch at one of the local restaurants. She also enjoys browsing CB2 Design Shop in Malibu for new arrivals. For unwinding with friends, Soho House and Nobu in the same vicinity are her preferred spots. She acknowledges the significant impact of recent fires on the Malibu area, expressing empathy for affected families and businesses, and offering her design services at free or reduced rates to support those who have suffered losses. Button attributes much of her success and development to the influence of her parents, who fostered her artistic eye from a young age through their shared passion for collecting antiques and architectural history, particularly Art Deco. Accompanying them to flea markets and estate sales instilled in her a joy for discovering and reimagining vintage pieces, a practice she has maintained throughout her life. She recalls acquiring a vintage chandelier and mirror for her bedroom in high school, marking the beginning of her fascination with reclaimed items. Her husband, Jenson Button, is credited as a constant source of support over the past decade, granting her full creative freedom in their home renovation projects and bolstering her confidence in her design capabilities. Her four-year-old daughter, Lenny, also expresses an interest in following in her mother's footsteps, aspiring to design houses. #InteriorDesign #RealEstateInvesting #Entrepreneurship #DesignAesthetics #VintageFurniture #ArchitecturalDesign #SmallBusiness #CreativeProcess

Nicole Roby, a Birmingham-based entrepreneur, initially established a successful interior design business in 2019, undertaking a variety of projects including high-end residential designs, commercial ventures in Downtown Birmingham, and designs for tech companies like Shipt. Driven by a desire to expand her offerings beyond traditional interior design, Roby launched Rome Curate in the fall of 2023. This luxury lifestyle brand aims to provide a comprehensive range of products for the home and personal well-being, reflecting a holistic approach to curated living. Rome Curate's product line is diverse, featuring custom home furnishings, decor, skincare, fashion accessories, art, and photography. The brand manufactures its own furniture in North Carolina and produces designer rugs. Roby's passion for Korean skincare, influenced by her family background, led to its inclusion in the brand's offerings. Additionally, her interest in fashion inspired the inclusion of various leather products. The brand also sources unique items from markets, such as wine glasses and luxury towels, to provide a broad selection beyond typical furniture and home decor. A key distinguishing factor for Rome Curate is its emphasis on community engagement. Roby hosts warehouse events to foster direct interaction with customers. These events offer opportunities for individuals who might not require full design services to access specific items like chairs or sofas. The events also feature special buys, including gently used furniture and market samples, providing customers with access to good deals. These events are planned to occur monthly, reinforcing the brand's connection with its local community. Roby offers practical advice for individuals struggling with home decoration, emphasizing the importance of starting with foundational pieces. She suggests selecting one high-quality, timeless item as a starting point, around which the rest of the room can be built. Accessories can be added later to introduce different vibes or update the room's aesthetic. This approach advocates for a gradual and thoughtful curation process rather than an overwhelming overhaul. Looking ahead, Rome Curate is continually expanding its product categories. The brand plans to launch a headboard and upholstered bed program in early fall, alongside a variety of bedding ensembles and pillows designed to complement these new offerings. Roby's entry into interior design was influenced by her mother, who is also in the industry, and her lifelong passion for fashion. She appreciates Birmingham for its blend of big-city amenities and small-town community feel. Outside of work, Roby enjoys spending time with her family, including her husband, Chris Roby, and their three children, William, Beau, and Olivia, engaging in activities such as fishing at Lake Wedowee and family golf tournaments. She also finds time for binge-watching TV shows and follows celebrity gossip. Her favorite local shopping destinations include Children’s Edit for kids' clothing and Le Weekend for personal fashion. Favorite local restaurants include Le Fresca, Gianmarco’s, and Chez Fonfon. Roby credits a piece of advice—that hard work leads to luck—as a guiding principle in her entrepreneurial journey, highlighting the payoff of dedication. Aside from faith, family, and friends, she considers O HUI makeup remover wipes, an eyelash curler, and lip balm as essential items. Her recent reads include "The Silent Patient," and her bucket list travel destination is Jackson Hole, Wyoming. She also highlights The Hidden Park in Crestline as a favorite hidden gem in Greater Birmingham. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #LuxuryLifestyle #Entrepreneurship #BirminghamBusinesses #DesignTips #CommunityEngagement #SmallBusiness

Anna Franklin, founder and CEO of Stone House Collective, has opened the full-service interior design firm's first retail space in Shorewood, aiming to create a comprehensive home design hub. The new storefront, which officially opened earlier this month, reflects the firm's signature aesthetic of organic textures and serene tones, a style applied to both residential and commercial projects. Franklin's vision for the space is to engage all five senses of visitors from the moment they enter, offering an immersive experience into the world of interior design. The store is designed to meet various design needs, from full-scale home makeovers to individual item purchases. It features a curated selection of products from community partners and manufacturers with Wisconsin roots. These offerings include high-quality fixtures from Kohler, plumbing solutions from Able, and appliances from Sub-Zero. For decor and finishing touches, Talking Walls provides wallpaper, and Twig + Ember offers a signature candle scent. Shoppers can also find new and vintage art pieces, as well as a dedicated lighting display wall, catering to those looking to add fresh elements to their homes without undertaking a complete renovation. Furniture options are also available, including new pieces for those simply wishing to replace a sofa. Franklin emphasizes the store's commitment to quality, stating that all items are sourced to be durable and long-lasting, avoiding what she calls 'throwaway furniture.' While the store offers items across various price points, Franklin highlights that even their entry-level couch, priced at $5,000, is built for longevity. A notable exclusive offering at Stone House Collective is Parachute bedding, making it the only retailer in Wisconsin to carry the brand, which otherwise operates through its own brick-and-mortar stores across the U.S. Franklin clarifies that the intention behind carrying products from other companies is not to compete but to provide a convenient destination for individuals interested in design. If Stone House Collective's design firm cannot provide a specific service, they are committed to referring clients to trusted community partners who can. Looking ahead, the store has plans for a grand opening event on May 30, which will include food, drinks, and live painting to celebrate its arrival in Shorewood. Additionally, Franklin intends to collaborate with Sub-Zero Group, a luxury kitchen brand known for Cove and Wolf products, to host private dining experiences within the showroom. Seasonal additions to the store's inventory will include outdoor furnishings, timed to coincide with the summer season, further expanding the range of products and services available to customers. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #Shorewood #RetailStore #AnnaFranklin #OrganicDesign #HomeFurnishings #LocalBusiness

Dezeen Showroom has unveiled 14 new products this week, featuring a diverse range of furniture, lighting, and finishes for both commercial and residential projects. Among the highlights is the "Technicolour" textile collection by graphic designer Peter Saville for Danish brand Kvadrat. This collection draws inspiration from the colorful sprays used by farmers to mark sheep, translating this rustic aesthetic into a series of vibrant handwoven and robot-tufted rugs with color spots, iridescent curtains, and upholstery made from British sheep's wool. Saville describes the collection as bringing "the industry of the land, in raw form, into the living environment," likening it to "rural graffiti." Other notable product additions include the "Mouro" lamp, designed by Patricia Perez for Case Furniture. This portable and rechargeable table lamp, suitable for indoor and outdoor use, features a disc-shaped LED light that rotates 360 degrees, enclosed within a rectangular frame that doubles as a handle. Rainlight's "Phlox" collection for Okamura offers a comprehensive range of seating and tables, including conference chairs, lounge chairs, high stools, and five table shapes. The collection, characterized by its gently undulating silhouettes, is inspired by the petals of the night-blooming phlox flower. For storage solutions, Bruno Rainaldi's "Ptolomeo" bookshelf for Opinion Ciatti is designed to emulate the appearance of books stacked in high piles while providing structural stability. Named after the founder of the Library of Alexandria, this stainless steel shelf is available in black, white, or Corten effect lacquered finishes. Dedar introduces two new textile collections: "The Art of Jacquard" and a "Textile wall covering collection." The Jacquard collection features ultra-thin yarns woven directly into the fabric to create rich patterns, including tropical bird motifs, nature-inspired designs, bold graphics, and abstract floral landscapes. The wall covering collection, inspired by grand tapestries, includes four patterns, such as screen-printed illustrations on linen and classic weaves of jute and linen, aimed at creating a cozy atmosphere. The "Hymn" lamp by Hiroto Yoshizoe for Ambientec is another portable and durable lighting option for indoor and outdoor settings. It employs two magnets to create constant oscillations, producing a flickering effect reminiscent of a candle flame. GamFratesi's "Beetle Chair," available through Suite NY, has been re-released with four new upholstery options in neutral shades, alongside black or brass leg finishes. John Pawson's "Frame" dining table for Nikari, originally designed for his own farmhouse, is a minimalist piece made from responsibly sourced ash or oak wood with a natural oil finish, boasting a lifespan of over 100 years. Alegre Design's "Talent" desk for Actiu is a versatile, mobile, and height-adjustable workstation designed for educational and training environments, featuring a dry-erase worktop that functions as a whiteboard when folded. Finishes also see new additions with CDUK's expanded "Corian Solid Surface" range, now available in a broader spectrum of neutral and warm colors. This material is lauded for its hygienic, durable, abrasion-resistant, and fade-proof qualities, making it suitable for both commercial and residential applications. Forbo Flooring Systems introduces "Marmoleum Linear," a carbon-neutral, plant-based linoleum flooring made from linseed oil, waste wood flour, and jute, designed to mimic wood with irregular grey and neutral stripes. ADEX presents the "Habitat" tile collection, a sustainable ceramic option for interior walls made with 55 percent white-body ceramics for enhanced durability. Lastly, Decocer's "Crag" tiles offer a family of porcelain tiles that replicate the look of stone and weathered steel, suitable for indoor and outdoor walls and floors, characterized by an industrial aesthetic and textured matte finish. #ProductLaunch #InteriorDesign #FurnitureDesign #TextileDesign #LightingDesign #SustainableMaterials #DesignInnovation #HomeDecor #WorkplaceSolutions

Tiffany Clark, an interior designer, shares her journey, insights into managing social media for her business, and how she funded her venture. Clark emphasizes the significant role social media plays in her business, noting that 95% of her clientele comes from these platforms without direct advertising costs. She personally manages her social media, which involves content strategy, customer relations, responding to supporters, and brand promotions through high-quality visual content. Understanding platform algorithms and optimal posting times is crucial for visibility and audience engagement. Clark advises aspiring entrepreneurs to start immediately, even if it means creating a new account to attract a targeted audience with business-related content and a visually appealing page. Clark discusses her lifelong passion for interior design, which she discovered as a child while decorating her own room and later extended to family and friends. Her love for design was further nurtured by playing "The Sims" and watching HGTV shows like "Design on a Dime" and "Property Brothers." After serving nine years in the military, Clark decided to pursue interior design professionally in 2018. Despite initially struggling with self-doubt and fear of leaving a stable corporate job with good benefits, she enrolled in "The Interior Design Institute" to expand her knowledge. A pivotal moment for her was reading "Woman Evolve" by Sarah Jakes Roberts, which helped her overcome her fears and fully commit to her design career. This decision led to significant positive changes in her life, freeing her from previous anxieties. Funding her business began with "zero dollars" and a strong belief in her vision. Clark stresses the importance of faith and self-confidence for any entrepreneur, especially when seeking investors. She advises against waiting for the "right moment" to start a business, as there will always be challenges; instead, one should have a plan, a vision, and trust in divine guidance. Her journey highlights that achieving significant goals requires hard work, dedication, determination, and unwavering faith. Clark also shares a story of resilience, recalling her initial attempts to find employment with design firms after completing her studies. Despite curating a portfolio, she faced numerous rejections due to the close-knit nature of the industry and limited hiring opportunities. This period was discouraging and led her to temporarily stop designing for others. However, she eventually realized that these rejections were a redirection, guiding her towards starting her own business. Believing that a higher power had bigger plans for her, she launched her own company, allowing faith to lead the way. This leap of faith transformed her professional life, empowering her to become her own boss and find fulfillment in her purpose. Her contact information, including her website, Instagram, and Facebook profiles, is provided for those interested in connecting with her work. #InteriorDesign #Entrepreneurship #SocialMediaMarketing #BusinessFunding #CareerTransition #PersonalGrowth #Resilience #SmallBusiness #CreativePursuits

Darin Wells, owner of Professional Foundation Repair, shares his entrepreneurial journey and insights into the challenges and rewards of building a business. He begins by challenging the common social media narrative that starting a business is easy, emphasizing that it's a daily struggle requiring a 'warrior' mentality, despite its rewarding aspects. Wells's career path commenced at age 20 with an interest in real estate, following his father's footsteps in the loan brokerage business. However, his true passion quickly shifted to rehabbing and flipping investment properties, a venture he successfully pursued for 22 years. The 2008 market crash presented a significant setback, leading to personal and professional reassessment. This experience, though difficult, taught him valuable lessons about resilience and the importance of diversification. After a period of introspection, Wells discovered a clear market need in the foundation repair business, which became his new focus. Starting from scratch, he navigated numerous challenges and mistakes, driven by a strong determination to avoid past failures. His partnership with his future wife, Shanese, marked a turning point, leading to the development of a unique foundation repair and drainage company. The core mission of their companies has always been to treat every client like family, a philosophy that has guided their growth. Today, their combined enterprises boast over 50 employees and generate more than $10 million in annual business, encompassing two primary companies and two additional ventures. Wells views this success as merely the beginning of their journey, aiming to positively impact as many people as possible through their work and values. When asked about local recommendations, Wells describes a simple yet meaningful outing: starting with a great meal (reflecting his self-proclaimed 'foodie' nature) and concluding with line dancing and cocktails at Cowboy Country, a country bar in Long Beach where he and his wife met. This choice highlights the personal connection he has to the local community and his appreciation for shared experiences. Wells attributes much of his success to the influences of his parents. His single mother instilled in him the values of being a good person, the belief in his potential, and the necessity of fighting through life's challenges. Growing up with a poor mother and a rich, divorced father, he gained a unique perspective on financial disparities. His father served as an early mentor, inspiring Wells to emulate and eventually surpass him in business, fostering a competitive drive. These formative experiences, coupled with understanding his personal 'why,' have equipped him with the determination to overcome any obstacle. #Entrepreneurship #BusinessJourney #FoundationRepair #RealEstate #MarketCrash #BusinessGrowth #FamilyBusiness #ClientService #Mentorship #PersonalDevelopment

Nicole Roby, a Birmingham-based interior designer, has launched a new lifestyle brand called Rome Curate. The brand offers a diverse collection of home furnishings, décor, and skincare products designed to be both timeless and functional for everyday living. Roby, a mother of three young children, emphasizes the durability and ease of maintenance of her products, ensuring they can withstand daily use and spills. The Rome Curate collection features custom furnishings and carefully selected notable finds that reflect a classic aesthetic. Roby's motivation for creating Rome Curate stemmed from identifying a gap in the market for accessible yet elevated design pieces. Her goal is to provide customers with curated items that facilitate the creation of an elegant living space without sacrificing practicality. She highlights that every piece in the collection is designed with functionality in mind, intended to be lived on and enjoyed. This philosophy is particularly evident in the materials chosen for items like furniture and rugs, which are made to be easily cleaned. In addition to furnishings, Rome Curate offers a hand-picked selection of rugs featuring timeless patterns and colorways, designed to serve as foundational elements for any room. The brand also supports local artists by showcasing their home décor and art, which complement the overall aesthetic of the collection. A unique aspect of Rome Curate is its inclusion of luxurious Korean skincare products. Roby integrates her family's connection to Korean beauty traditions, offering high-end brands known for their exclusive formulations, such as The History of Whoo and O HUI. As the holiday season approaches, Rome Curate is presented as a destination for holiday décor and gifts. Examples of seasonal offerings include Christmas tree door hangers made with solid brass and real leather, as well as stylish candles and the aforementioned luxury skincare products, suitable for stocking stuffers. To celebrate the launch, Rome Curate and Nicole Roby Designs are hosting a giveaway for a $5,000 gift card towards home furnishings and rugs, coupled with a two-hour design consultation worth $500. The brand's products are available online through their website and by appointment at their showroom located at 3409 5th Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35222. #RomeCurate #NicoleRobyDesigns #InteriorDesign #LifestyleBrand #HomeFurnishings #HomeDecor #Skincare #BirminghamBusiness #HolidayShopping

Maya Newlin, the driving force behind KAMO Studio, shares her entrepreneurial journey, detailing the motivations and experiences that led her to establish her own interior design business. From a young age, Newlin harbored aspirations of entrepreneurship, often sketching floor plans and envisioning room transformations. Her passion for design was nurtured through a childhood fascination with a Victorian dollhouse, which served as an early outlet for her creativity in curating and storytelling within spaces. Prior to founding KAMO Studio, Newlin pursued a career as a national competitive figure skater, a background that instilled in her ambition and a strong-willed approach. Her professional path included a significant role as an Imagineer for Walt Disney Imagineering. While initially perceived as a dream job, the large-scale, impersonal nature of designing for global audiences at Disney led her to realize a longing for more intimate, one-on-one creative problem-solving. This experience, though valuable for fostering creativity, reinforced her desire to work independently, leading her to pursue a Master's degree in Interior Architecture, complemented by business courses, to equip her for launching her own venture. KAMO Studio, co-founded with business partner Jasmine, specializes in residential and boutique hospitality projects. The studio's philosophy centers on creating personalized spaces that genuinely reflect their clients' personalities and life stories. They emphasize incorporating unique elements like vintage finds and generational heirlooms into contemporary designs, aiming to celebrate everyday moments and evoke specific emotions within a space. The focus is on achieving an effortless aesthetic that also boasts hidden functionality, a skill KAMO Studio has refined and prides itself on. Newlin highlights the matchmaking aspect of design, where understanding and translating a client's often unarticulated desires into a tangible design is paramount. The studio guides clients beyond transient trends, encouraging them to trust their instincts and create spaces that resonate deeply with their individual needs. Newlin also provides a detailed, week-long itinerary for experiencing Los Angeles, offering a glimpse into her personal preferences and local favorites. The itinerary covers a range of activities, from active pursuits like rollerblading from Venice to Malibu and hiking in the Vicente Bluffs Reserve, to cultural experiences such as visiting art exhibitions at Hauser & Wirth. Dining recommendations span various cuisines and atmospheres, including Gjusta for baked goods, Ospi Venice for handmade pasta, Blueys Santa Monica for brunch, Le Great Outdoor for farm-to-table fare, Manuela or Bavel in the Arts District, and Broad Street Oyster Company for seafood. The itinerary also includes shopping excursions at Abbot Kinney and ROW DTLA, a nightcap at the DTLA Proper hotel, exploring Culver City's Citizen Public Market, and a day in Malibu with a visit to Cielo Farms for wine tasting. Sundays are reserved for the Brentwood farmers market and Jon & Vinny's for Italian food, showcasing a balance of local exploration, culinary delights, and relaxation. Finally, Newlin dedicates a "shoutout" to her mother, Kathy, acknowledging her as a primary source of inspiration and support. Her mother's pioneering career as one of the first female scientists in STEM, despite facing challenges, serves as a powerful role model for Newlin as a female entrepreneur. This recognition underscores the personal influences that have shaped Newlin's drive and resilience in building her business. #InteriorDesign #SmallBusinessOwner #Entrepreneurship #KAMOStudio #WaltDisneyImagineering #LosAngelesTravel #DesignPhilosophy #FemaleEntrepreneur #BusinessJourney