VALERIE'S BACKGROUND:
My passion for residential design began as a teenager with an appreciation of historic homes. The stories that a home’s architectural exterior and its’ interior rooms could tell, have always fascinated me. Taking note of the intricacies and details of these homes would fill me with wonder and delight. Streets came alive with personality because of the design of these homes. The rooms within them helped shape the lives of their families through the years. I have always had a strong connection with houses, and know well that they impact how a person feels. Homes have the ability to tell the tales of the people who reside within them.
Knowing that my future needed to be involved with the expression of those stories, I completed my Bachelor’s Degree in Interior Design at the CIDA and NCIDQ accredited North Dakota State University.
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The relationship I form with each of my clients enables me to design spaces that not only function well for the individuals using them, but also conveys their nature and personality. Building those relationships, and getting to know my clients, is one of my favorite parts of the entire design process. With over two decades of experience in the home design field, I continue to help clients enhance their own surroundings, simply express their personality, and bring them more joy in their home.
RICK'S BACKGROUND:
The designing and building aspects of architecture intrigued me throughout high school. The ability to have a complete understanding of how buildings are put together drove me into the study of architecture. After the completion of my college degree there were better opportunities in the field of mechanical design. This path allowed me to use my abilities to analyze and design working machine and structural components.
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I completed my Associate’s Degree in Architectural Design at the St. Cloud Technical & Community College. I am a licensed General Contractor in the state of Minnesota. In the past 5 years my wife and I have successfully renovated and sold 16 project houses around central Minnesota. During that time, we have also helped numerous clients renovate various areas of their homes or businesses.
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Throughout twenty years of sales & management I gained significant experience working with customers to guide them through problem solving and decision making. Managing multiple large projects has given me insight into the importance of clear communication and a sensitivity to project timelines. These attributes are essential for our daily tasks of managing renovations and simplifying the process for our clients.
Your Problems
Our Solutions
I am feeling overwhelmed by a project, and I don't know where to begin?
When it comes to the design and construction of your home or workspace there are so many items that need to be considered, researched and selected. Planning and scheduling the project, hiring the contractors, and specifying interior and exterior selections on any size project are the areas where most people begin to question their judgment, or feel overwhelmed by the vast array of decisions that need to be made. This is where our insight, guidance, and smiles can alleviate some of the stress and anxiety that you may be feeling. It does not have to be complicated, and can be quite fun. Over the years we have gained knowledge while working with vendors in all areas of design and construction. We have developed connections with companies and trades people that will help simplify the process.
I want to make some changes, but I just don’t have the time or capacity to do them.
Being parents of two teenage girls we can absolutely relate. Helping clients solve their home and work environment design dilemmas is what we are passionate about. We are easy to work with in part because we have a flexible schedule and we are willing to work with yours. We take the responsibility of running a project, meeting with contractors and scheduling off your plate. On the interior design side, we curate a few choices for you to select from so you aren't stuck with decision fatigue after running from place to place to see what's all available for each of the many selections needed in a renovation. We will find solutions for you that will convey your vision and suit your lifestyle.
I want a fresh, new look but I am on a limited budget?
Good design does not have to come with a high price tag. Our past projects have ranged from starter home budgets to dream home budgets, and gained us the knowledge to create beautiful spaces, while keeping every client's budget in mind. Finding an inventive way to create the look you desire on a small budget is a challenge that we enthusiastically take on.