Hometown: Originally Washington DC and Hyattsville, Maryland
The past 17 years Raleigh, North Carolina has been home!
- Age: 46
- Education: University of Maryland, College Park
- Current Occupation: Owner and Principal of Schelfe and Associates, Inc.
- Years designing: 24 years
- First design memory: As a child designing my room
- Why I should win NNTMH Designer of the year?
Because I bring a fun, enthusiastic approach to design. I know how design can positively effect people’s lives, in how we all live, work and play in the spaces we live.
- What would be your ultimate dream design project?
Designing a new custom home for my family on a beautiful lake in the Mountains! The home would have long range views, a boathouse and a large family room for all my family and friends to gather and celebrate life!
- When designing, what can’t you live without?
Clearly defined spaces! Open floor plans are great but you need to create areas that have their own identity and in which you can feel comfortable.
- At what point of the day do you feel most inspired?
I don’t have a particular time of day. Inspiration can come from anywhere at anytime. I get inspired from people, buildings, nature, music, and of course my crazy kids! The list is never-ending!
- Name a design trend that should go away?
The view that design is easy and everyone can do it! Hire a Professional! Hire ME!
- State one thing that others don’t know about you?
Years ago I used to be a Martial Arts Instructor and taught little kids Karate.
- What did you aspire to be as a child?
My Father! He was incredible and I always look up to him.
- Strangest design request:
I once had a client that asked me to design a room for her pet bunny! I did it and I am proud to say the bunny never complained once, she was a great client.
- You want me to design around that?
I try to avoid the “thats”. If it has to go, it GOES!
- My secret to design:
Listening to my clients and remember it is their home and that I am the conduit to make their dreams a reality.
- What I plan to do with my $25,000:
Spend a little on the my home and tuck the rest away!
- Favorites:
Color: Red
Music: Classic ROCK
Song: “Just the Way You Look tonight” by Frank Sinatra & “Roll the Bones” by RUSH
Food: Anything Italian, Ciao Baby! and my Mom’s Apple Pie.
Website: www.schelfeassociates.com, what else would you expect?
Movie:West Side Story and Blazing Saddles
TV Show: M*A*S*H
Room to design: The whole house!
Thing in your home: My Family
Hobbies: Traveling and seeing the world! Cooking (when I have time).
Design tip: Design should be fun and leave a positve influence, never forget that!
