5 minute read
FULL FRAME: Designer
TIMELESS LUXURY
BY JENNIFER JENSEN
Yelena Gerts is an award-winning, luxury interior designer and CEO of House of Style & Design based in Holmdel, New Jersey. She started her career in interior design after 15 years of experience in a luxury retail environment. “I took the leap to pursue my true passion for design and started my own business,” she said.
She now leads a team of other designers and experienced employees who specialize in turnkey residential interiors, renovations, new construction, smart home solutions and custom window treatments. She is also an allied member of the American Association of Interior Designers. In 2022, the firm received six awards in design from the association. Her company’s motto is to “create interiors that transcend a feeling of everyday luxury with style, function and comfort.”
WINDOW FASHION VISION: How would you describe your design style?
YELENA GERTS: Luxury that is modern and comfortable yet elegant and timeless.
WFV: How do you ensure a design will remain timeless and in style?
YG: To make something timeless, I try to remain true to the essence of the project and the client. Trends are good for accents and styling that can be easily changed while making sure that the more permanent elements are classic and unique.
WFV: Where do you look for inspiration?
YG: Travel is a major factor of inspiration, getting out of the everyday environment and visiting trade shows and places with architectural and cultural beauty.
WFV: Where are your favorite places to travel to for inspiration?
YG: Europe is one of the most beautiful places for inspiration. Italian architecture and Parisian couture are especially inspirational. Seeing new trends and modern fashion helps me think of the lifestyle I want to create with each project. I also love winter-esque places like Colorado. The architecture and color palettes are stunning. Designing a winter chateau is an absolute dream of mine.
WFV: What role do you feel windows play in the overall design of a room?
YG: Windows are a luxurious necessity. They are one of the most important elements of the room and complete the space.
WFV: Are there any new trends you’re seeing in design?
YG: People are starting to bring color back into the design space. There is a whole new wave of maximalism, textures, colors and patterns that are making a clear comeback. The 1960s and ’70s seem to be playing a part in sculptural forms. Lots of texture and stone in the kitchens and bathrooms are coming in, veering away from the smooth, sleek white that is so popular. Patterned wallpaper is coming back as well.
WFV: Any new trends in window treatments specifically?
YG: Window treatments are becoming more and more about texture and motorization is the new normal. The finer materials like silks are coming back, as well as daring trims, from metal and pearls to organic materials in the most sophisticated way.
WFV: What are the biggest challenges of your job?
YG: The true challenge is the growing pains of expanding a new business. Growing the team while redefining my business model to accommodate the direction that I want to take is a challenge, one that I am proud to face.
WFV: What do you love about your job?
YG: The personal connections that I’m able to form through my business,
PHOTO: MARCO RICCA STUDIO whether with my clients, my team or the trades and vendors we work with. This business is truly about personal connections and learning about others. My business has allowed me to meet people and form relationships that I would never have expected and has given me rare opportunities and close friends. I also love being able to realize the concept of what we are trying to create. Seeing the process through from the drawing stages to the final installations is such a joy and achievement. Seeing the amazed and happy looks on the clients’ faces after they see their new home, which is an unrivaled experience of accomplishment and pride.
WFV: What’s next for you?
YG: The next step for me and my business is opening a luxury design showroom in Holmdel, New Jersey, as well as an online store that will be up and running in the next few months with curated pieces to allow for bringing small elements of luxury to add that elegance and taste to everyone’s home. V
» HouseOfStyleInteriors.com
Horizons Workroom
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Located in Waukegan, Illinois, our team of talented artisans pride themselves on bringing your designs to life. Each project is given the same attention to detail and care as a small workroom, all while serving designers like you nationwide.
We understand that your designs are as unique as the clients you serve. That’s why we give our full attention to each custom window treatment—no matter the size, quantity, or simplicity. Want to see for yourself? Come visit us for an in-person tour. Simply call 800-858-2352 or email sales@horizonshades.com to set up an appointment.
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A Local Workroom at Your Fingertips
Finding a place to make your clients’ dreams a reality can be tricky. At Horizons, we work closely with designers just like you to make sure every detail is just the way you envisioned it from the first few cuts to the very last stiches.
The Proof Is in the People
It takes more than beautiful fabrics to create high quality custom window treatments. Our team of dedicated artisans cut and sew each design, ensuring each project receives detailed attention. Our talented staff makes sure each window treatment meets high quality standards—creating a finished product they would be proud to display in their own homes.
