For the past 27 years, I have been the principal leader of my namesake firm, Meryl Stern Interiors, Inc. I create exceptional environments that meet my clients’ design challenges and standards of excellence. I am an accomplished, awarded interior designer, a highly motivated, organized, independent, dedicated leader. I am exceptionally passionate about cohesive environments and space planning, and believe the collaboration between architects and designers will always produce the best results because the whole really is greater than the sum of its parts. I am inspired and dedicated to raising the bar on the quality of the spaces we inhabit and the lifestyles we lead.
What makes me different from most is that I am fueled by left brain/right brain thinking in my approach and passion for design. My education and work background includes both the business and artistic sides of the spectrum. I’ve earned two degrees, one in Accounting, and one in Interior Design. I’ve worked 8 years in an international corporate environment as a tax accountant, 27 years as a small business owner in interior design, and recently I've joined top international architects and design firms to pursue hospitality design in a team environment. My work is mostly residential, although I have won accolades from Zagat’s Top Décor List for a restaurant I designed and built, as well as ASID Design of Excellence Awards for a bustling NYC pediatrics office. I am analytical and numbers focused while at the same time completely creative and uninhibited. I am driven to solve problems and have confidence in my abilities because I know what I don't know and how to source the people who do. I’m a forward-thinking leader. I don’t sweat it, I just do it. Not by the seat of my pants, but critically thinking.
I will add value to your company, both intrinsic and monetary. I am a strong networker and have a loyal following of repeat clients. I establish client and business goals and strategize on how to manage and exceed expectations. I see the big picture through all of the important details, always. Every job I do I take personally, and every person I meet and conversation or experience I have is an opportunity to learn and grow. Sometimes it’s personal, sometimes it’s business. But I know for sure that I can and will pay it forward.
Meryl Stern Interiors, Inc., Edgewater, NJ, US, Principal
Founder and leader of namesake full service interior design firm specializing in Luxury Lifestyle Interior Design and Project Management. Based on an “exceed expectations” philosophy, the firm has consistently succeeded and retained annuity-based clients whose satisfaction is evidenced by long -term relationships, multiple projects and referrals.
Responsibilities include:
Client development, Programming, Budget development, Schematic Design, Design development,, Space Planning, CAD drawings, Construction Documentation, Specifications, Materials and FF&E Selection and Purchasing, Project Management, General Contracting, Contract negotiating, Vendor Relations, Installation, and Follow-up, Integrally positioning web-based and print Advertising and Promotion, Employee management and training, Proficient at Studio IT, AutoCAD.
BraytonHughes Design Studios, San Francisco, CA, US, Senior Interior Designer
Senior Designer/Project Manager - Assist Principal in the Development of Design Narratives, Design Direction, Concepts, Finish Schemes, Illustrations of alternative schemes and test fit layouts, Source & Specify all FF&E, and Develop Presentation Packages for various hospitality and senior residential community clients.
I have been a full-time and part-time independent contractor for BHD Studios, not an employee. I am completely open to an employment contract.
The Warner Group Architects, Inc., Santa Barbara, CA, US, Senior Interior Designer
Senior Interior Designer with 20+ years experience in high-end residential and luxury commercial projects. Worked creatively and collaboratively with Firm's architects while designing, budgeting, specifying, purchasing, and expediting interiors' projects. Provided exceptional organizational, verbal and written communication skills, and managed all details of multiple projects in fast-paced environment. Delivered first class customer experience and was awarded with entire home project by extremely happy client. Proficient in Studio Webware and AutoCAD.
New York School of Interior Design (NYSID), New York, NY, US, Interior Design
Associate in Applied Science Degree, Highest Honors.
The George Washington University, Washington, DC, US, Bachelors, Accounting
Bachelor of Accountancy.
ASID Design of Excellence Award, SILVER, Residential Several Spaces, 2nd Place
NJ ASID, Silver Award for Residential Several Spaces
ASID Design of Excellence Award, Universal Design Recognition, Westside Pediatrics, NYC, NY, 1st Place
NJ ASID, Award for Universal Design Recognition
ASID Design of Excellence Award, GOLD, Healthcare, Westside Pediatrics – NYC, NY, 1st Place
NJ ASID Chapter, Gold Award for Healthcare.
NYC Pediatrics Office
ASID Design of Excellence Award, GOLD, Residential Single Space, 1st Place
NJ ASID Chapter, Gold Award for Residential Single Space under 5000 SF
Zagat's Top Decor, New Jersey Edition, Other
Harvest Bistro & Bar, Closter, NJ consistently awarded Top Decor ranking on Zagat's New Jersey Edition Lists.