Milwaukee Magazine | Expert of the Month | Ben Jondle

Expert of the Month

Ben Jondle

MILLWORK SALES SPECIALIST, ZUERN BUILDING

WHETHER SOMEONE IS building a home, remodeling or simply installing new shelving, Ben Jondle works with them to find the right look. As a Millwork Sales Specialist at Zuern for the past four years, he is an expert in interiors, from doors to trims and more. He shares his advice here.

What are the latest trends in interiors?

White oak is a huge trend right now. It’s almost impossible to get because everyone wants to have white oak stair accents, white oak doors, white oak trim, beams.

Wall details are making a big comeback, too, whether that be wainscotting or panelized walls. The majority of houses in the Metropolitan Builders Association Parade of Homes this past year had at least one or two walls with detailing.

In terms of overall style, the look right now is leaning toward clean and crisp. Not quite minimalist, but closer to that than to the traditional colonial profiles.

What are some things a homeowner should consider when starting a project?

No matter the size of your project, you should decide what overall look you want for your house so it coheres. One of the first questions I always ask when people come into the showroom is if they want their space more traditional or contemporary. For example, a raised-panel door fits in a more traditional look, a flat-panel door fits the more contemporary. I talk through the whole process with clients to make sure they’re happy with their project, start to finish. At Zuern, what we’re really focused on is the customer service experience and making sure we take care of everyone who comes here. ◆