Hello Interior Designers, Industry Partners, and Students
Welcome to a new year! As we begin 2024, I am inspired to talk to you about what our membership can look forward to in the upcoming months. Every year our Operations Plan plays a big part in shaping the growth and development of our chapter, and this year is no exception. We look to continue to grow our membership, enhance our programming and offer fresh content for all our members. As we begin this journey, we invite you all to get involved and find your niche when it comes to volunteering for the chapter. It takes a village to do the many activities we provide, and the strength of the chapter depends on the strength of our membership. We hope that you all consider sharing a bit of your time by volunteering on a committee, participating in events or taking on a leadership role.
As we move forward, it is our focus to provide you, our beloved membership, with our very best efforts for programming, fundraising, and a spectacular Design Excellence Awards program in 2024. Our January chapter meeting will provide information on the submission process for the awards which will open soon. We invite you to enter! It is always great to see the fabulous work that you all do!
We encourage all of you to reach out to me, or any board member, with any questions, comments or concerns you may have. I, personally, look forward to meeting each of you. We are looking forward to a great year!
All my best,
Teri Smithers
Teri Smithers, ASID President
ASID ARIZONA NORTH CHAPTER
PO Box 14798 Scottsdale AZ 85267
602.569.8916
Info@azn.asid.org www.azn.asid.org
COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR
SUSAN SOLIDAY, ASID
Editorial Staff
EDITOR
PAIGE LEWIS, Allied ASID
ASSISTANT EDITOR
BETH COCHRAN, WELL AP
PROOFREADERS
JEWELL BLAIR, Allied ASID
MIRANDA GWILLIAM, Industry Partner Rep for Rug Worx
CINDY LEWTON, ASID
DEB RITCHIE, volunteer
ART DIRECTOR
LINDA LONGMIRE
ADVERTISING SALES
RICK EMRICH, Marketing Rep for ASID Arizona North Chapter 602.540.9281
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Submit Date: January 15,
Your Incoming Board of Directors 2023-2024
President TERI SMITHERS, ASID
president@azn.asid.org
Developing strong relationships is the foundation of everything Teri does, both professionally and personally. In her 30+ years in the A&D industry, she has established an extensive background in architectural design, interior design, construction administration and project management.
Teri earned a BS in architecture from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and a professional certificate in interior design from Scottsdale Community College. When she’s not designing spaces she loves to travel to new places, spend time with her family, create with molten glass and enjoy a good cocktail with friends.
President-Elect
WANDA FREDERICK
president-elect@azn.asid.org
, ASID
Wanda Frederick, ASID, is a woman on a mission. After a successful career in the aerospace and automotive industry, a transfer into the Valley in the late 90’s generated an opportunity to follow her passion, change career paths, and establish Frederick Interiors in 2001. Experience, education and exposure to innovative products and techniques enhanced by an engineering background have served her well with whole home remodeling, specializing in kitchen and bath renovation projects. “Make your house a home.”
Communications Director
SUSAN SOLLIDAY, ASID
communications@azn.asid.org
Susan holds a B.S. in Business Management, and design degree and professional certification from Phoenix College and Scottsdale Community College. She is a past President of the Arizona North Chapter of ASID, LEED Green Associate and NCIDQ certified. Susan unites her expertise as an award-winning designer and luxury real estate advisor to curate homes for discerning clientele. Combining a deep insight into the residential industry she helps her clients live their best Arizona lifestyle.
Finance Director
CHRIS JOVANELLY, Allied ASID
finance@azn.asid.org
Chris Jovanelly, Allied ASID, is a senior interior designer at Est Est Interior Design. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a minor in art history from the University of South Carolina. Chris is an active community advocate, passionate about organizations that promote art and mental health awareness. His meticulous and unexpected designs continue to earn the respect of the design community and have garnered numerous awards from ASID and other national interior design publications.
Director At-Large
LEANN FERNALD, Industry Partner Representative for Ornamentation
at-large@azn.asid.org
Ornamentation LLC founder Leann Fernald is a self-taught artist and designer. She has been practicing her craft in the valley since 2003. Originally specializing in specialty finishing and furniture rehabilitation, her scope quickly grew to include design and custom fretwork services.
As Director at-Large/Industry Partner Liaison my focus is connecting with current industry partners and recruiting new industry partner members while fostering relationships between IPs and designers for their mutual business benefit and personal growth.
Membership Director
JULE
FAZZ, Industry Partner Representative, Moderno Porcelain Works
membership@azn.asid.org
With nearly three decades of experience in the design industry, Jule’s journey with Moderno Porcelain Works has turned her into a dominating force in the porcelain world. Starting as an interior décor consultant, she honed skills in prospecting, project management, and leading teams. Her passion for kitchen and bath spaces has led to numerous successful projects. Jule’s dedication and belief in large-format porcelain slabs made a significant impact. Jule’s hard work has successfully won clients over to Moderno’s solutions, proving her passion and expertise. She is looking forward to making a difference as Membership Director for 2024 ASID AZNorth Board.
Student Representative to the Board
EMILY GINSBERG, Student ASID
studentrep@azn.asid.org
Emily is a senior at ASU pursuing a degree in Interior Design and Architecture. Emily is committed to creating functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces and very passionate about design. Alongside her major, she is set to complete a minor in Special Events Management by May 2024. Currently, Emily is gaining valuable experience as a design assistant at EST EST Inc., where she contributes to innovative projects and will continue to grow in the field of design and architecture.
TOPIC: Additional Income Stream
HOST: Moderno Porcelain Works
CHAPTER MEETINGMAY
Our May chapter meeting, hosted by Moderno Porcelain Works, featured Patricia Davis Brown of Patricia Davis Brown Design as guest speaker. Patricia Davis, an awardwinning designer, can be found in numerous trade magazines and is also known for her “Dig this Design” blog. The topics offered include DIY inspiration, interior design, seasonal décor and furnishings, architecture, technology, art, and fashion. Today’s topic was how to create an additional income stream.
The Moderno Way embraced by Moderno Porcelain Works is the only North American surfacing company 100% dedicated to the fabrication and installation of large format porcelain, sintered stone and ultra-compact slabs.
The synergy between Patricia and Moderno Porcelain Works was undeniable. Both embody the belief that great design lies in the intricate details.
JUNE
TTOPIC: CEU Sustainable Fabrics
HOST: Gabby Summer Classic showroom
CHAPTER MEETING
he ASID and Gabby Summer Classic showroom came together to create a truly remarkable evening of education and inspiration. The event, centered around a Continuing Education Unit (CEU) on sustainable fabrics, as well as a tour of the new showroom, located in the heart of Paradise Valley. The showroom showcased a variety of elegant furniture pieces and accessories for indoor and outdoor use.
Delicious food, beverages and time to catch up with colleagues was followed by the insightful CEU presentation by Marcia Blake. With passion and expertise, Marcia delved into the world of outdoor living, emphasizing the importance of creating spaces that harmonize with our natural surroundings.
TOPIC: TOP Golf Event
HOST: The Stone Collection
JULY
CHAPTER MEETING
What a truly incredible evening it turned out to be! The July TOP Golf event, organized in collaboration with NKBA and ASID , surpassed all expectations. The venue was buzzing with excitement as members from both organizations filled the area to capacity.
The night unfolded with a series of exciting golf games that brought out the competitive spirit in all the participants. But it wasn’t just about the golf. The event also provided an opportunity for members to network, connect, and build relationships.
Raffle prizes donated by our sponsor, Kohler, added unexpected delight to the crowd as tickets were drawn for the winners. The mix of food, fun, and celebrations created a magical atmosphere that will forever be etched in our memories.
TOPIC: The Creative Process
HOST: Central Arizona Supply
SEPT
CHAPTER MEETING
September’s meeting was hosted by Central Arizona Supply with guest speaker Paul Jeffrey from Paul Rene Furniture. He shared his personal journey from automotive concept-car designer to unique furniture designer and how both influence his creative process today. His shop is truly the place to go when you are looking for that special item to grace a spot in your home.
We were grateful to pair this event with the “taste
of bourbon” presented by Central Arizona Supply. With light food, wine, signature cocktails, and an overwhelming attendance by our membership, the evening was truly magical. If you have a dream, your journey may take you on an unexpected path on the road to success.
MIZU™ GREEN Photography by Rare Form Builder LLC
Professional Development
As a board, we are striving to provide our chapter with relevant and interesting programming. We’re looking forward to the year ahead and the opportunity to create fun, inspiring and educational gatherings for our members. Here is just a snapshot of what’s in store:
• Student Career Day –– In February 2024, we’re working on developing an event for our student members to provide them the opportunity to gather, network and gain invaluable information as they prepare for their journey into professional design.
• Emerging Professional opportunities and events will focus on best business practices, sustainability and advanced education to study for, and pass, the NCIDQ exam.
We working closely chapter design professionals and industry partners to enhance monthly chapter meetings, bringing relevant and timely content to help support the unique needs of the design business.
As we continue to develop these programs, please be on the lookout for updates in our Buzz, emails and website for updates and more details. If you’d like to offer ideas or suggestions, we’d love to hear them. Please reach out to any of our board members. We’re eager to make this a collaborative endeavor.
We are all looking forward to coming together in the coming months and to make this an amazing year!
PASSINGS
ANNE GALE of Wiseman and Gale Interiors, passed away on September 19, 2023. She was an amazing woman. Read about her wonderful life… https://www.azcentral.com/ obituaries/par072143
ERIC BRON passed away in August. Read about his extraordinary life… https://www.legacy. com/us/obituaries/ legacyremembers/brien-bronobituary?id=53288450
by Hughes Supply
Scottsdale Gilbert
& LEARN ASID Lunch
May Lunch and Learn event was held at the Hughes Supply showroom! Leslie Delli-Venneri captivated us all with her CEU presentation, “Something Old Something New.” Leslie took us on a journey through the fascinating history of bathrooms, revealing how understanding our past can seamlessly blend with the latest products and materials in our designs. By prioritizing universal design principles and sustainable practices, we can meet the evolving needs of our clients.
We must extend our gratitude to the incredible staff at Hughes, especially Paula Quan and Leslie, for providing us with this invaluable opportunity to expand our knowledge and embrace the essential role that new products play in exceptional bath design.
We look forward to future opportunities to inspire and empower each other in our creative pursuits.
HOST: HUGHES SUPPLY
By prioritizing universal design principles and sustainable practices, we can meet the evolving needs of our clients.
& LEARN ASID Lunch
The recently opened design showroom displays polished fixtures, updated lighting fixtures and a plethora of upscale bath vessels creating a visual experience that is abound with excitement. The ASID Lunch and Learn event promised an enlightening journey into the world of precious metals and their incorporation into stunning designs.
The showroom created an ambiance of sophistication and elegance. Glowing chandeliers cast a warm glow over the room, illuminating the beautiful
displays of faucets, showerheads, and intricate metalwork. The polished countertops glistened under the soft lighting, beckoning attendees to gather around and immerse themselves in the luxurious surroundings.
The CEU presentation at Lux Kitchen and Bath revealed the secrets behind the artistry of incorporating precious metals into fixtures and designs. Attendees listened intently, their minds captivated by the possibilities and the shimmering allure of gold, silver and bronze. Throughout the presentation, the CEU showcased breathtaking examples of how these precious metals can transform a simple faucet into a work of art.
HOST:
LUX KITCHEN AND BATH GALLERY
Attendees marveled at the intricate engravings, the delicate filigree, and the meticulous craftsmanship that went into each piece. The showroom became a treasure trove of inspiration, sparking our imaginations for future projects.
Attendees left with a renewed sense of awe and admiration for the creativity and ingenuity involved in incorporating precious metals into fixtures and designs. The ASID Lunch and Learn not only provided a platform for learning but had also ignited a passion for pushing the boundaries of design. And as the Lux Kitchen and Bath Gallery returned to its serene stillness, it eagerly awaited the next opportunity to showcase the extraordinary fusion of art and functionality to the world.
ELEVATE YOUR CAREER
The Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove Kitchen Design Contest brings global recognition and priceless networking opportunities to finalists and winners. The 2022-23 contest is now open for entries.
START HERE
Learn how to submit your project today.
Design + Build: Modern Nest (Scottsdale, Arizona)
Photography: Dan Ryan Studio
& LEARN ASID Lunch
TThe ASID Lunch and Learn was held at the exquisite Norwood Furniture showroom. Interior designers and industry professionals gathered to witness a truly memorable experience. The star of the show? None other than the talented Debra May Himes, who was set to unveil her latest fabric line.
As the attendees settled into their seats, anticipation filled the room. Debra May Himes took center stage, exuding confidence and creativity. With a gleam in her eye, she
began to share the captivating story behind her new fabric line. She took everyone on a journey, from the initial spark of inspiration to the meticulous process of production.
The room was enraptured as Debra delved into intricate details of the creation of her fabric line. She spoke passionately about the importance of design, functionality, and sustainability in every thread. Her dedication to craftsmanship and her
HOST:
NORWOOD FURNITURE SHOWROOM
commitment to producing fabrics that were not only beautiful but also environmentally conscious was truly inspiring.
In addition to showcasing her new fabric line, Debra also offered a Continuing Education Unit (CEU) on fabric production. This unique opportunity allowed attendees to gain valuable knowledge and insights into the world of textiles.
Debra is an award-winning interior designer known for product design, unique interiors and oneof-a-kind architectural features. She also provided a deeper understanding of the artistry involved in fabric production and how they relate to the details of any design project.
The ASID Lunch and Learn featuring Debra was a resounding success. It was an event that brought together like-minded individuals who shared a passion for design and a hunger for knowledge. The experience left a lasting impression on all those who attended, igniting their creativity and inspiring them to push the boundaries of their own craft.
Over the past three years, Salt Creek Furniture, opened by Ed Cameron in 1991, has expanded their stores in the Valley. Salt Creek is partnering with Hooker Furniture and opening the first-ever Hooker Furniture Gallery showroom in the United State in north Scottsdale. Designers from across the Valley can now experience our great prices and great service in Scottsdale, Glendale, Tempe and Gilbert.
Salt Creek offers both commercial office interiors services and home office products, all at higher-end and quality levels. They also manufactures Serafina, with custom leathers and fabrics, offering custom design, manufacturing and installation.
Salt Creek is partnered with some great companies like Palliser, Amisco, Hooker, AspenHome, Serafina Living and many others; offering an in-stock program as well as being special-order experts who can offer endless options.
They have developed a strong working relationship with both the architectural and design communities. They are proud to support designers with their “Salt Creek Cares” program, offering special pricing on all office and home products to designers.
P R E S E N T S
T H E D E S I G N 9
An Evening Through the Looking Glass
47th Annual Design Excellence Gala and Chapter Awards
On August 19, we celebrated our designers, industry partners and student designers at the 2023 Design Excellence Awards Gala held at the Westin Kierland in Scottsdale. This year, we had 260 guests in attendance and broke the record for the number of design award entries received. For the first time in the chapter’s history, we had 259 projects entered.
The success of our awards program is attributed to the number of new categories that were added, as well as splitting the kitchen and bath categories
to allow for an even playing field between traditional/transitional and modern/contemporary projects. Additional residential categories were also added including primary suite, children’s bedroom or youth/play space and great room, living room, den or family room. Due to the number of entries in each category, judging was tight with winners often being less than a point from each other. Each entry was judged anonymously by ASID professionals across the county on a point-based system. With all the wonderful work that was submitted, we ended up with a tie
in our “Best of Show Residential” categories, as our winners had the same score.
Jule Fazz, Amy Wenger, Nicole Burke, Wanda Frederick, Lauri Howell, Susan Solliday, Beth Cochran and Christy Winters.
Emcees Saeed and Kasim Aslam
We congratulate all our winners and thank all those who participated in this year’s successful Design Excellence Awards.
The evening itself was magical as our happy hour featured a beautiful flower wall complete with our one-of-a-kind neon sign for photos, a classical quartet dressed in themed costumes playing modern songs, a pop-up photo booth, and a festive air as our attendees prepared to enter the ballroom. This year, all guests were able to take home a beautiful linen from one of Debra May Himes’s fabrics collection, and our diamond sponsor, Alyshaan, took on the role of emcee for our awards program. After all our awards were given, it was time to let the celebration begin at our Down-the-Rabbit-Hole After Party where our photo booth turned into a 360 experience, and our DJ spun all the best hits to dance the night away. It was a great experience; a fun evening and we appreciate all of those who worked so hard to help bring everything together.
Special awards given out that night included:
Designer of Distinction
PADDY RASMUSSEN
Allied ASID
New Beginnings
The 2023 Designer of Distinction Award was awarded to a designer who has not only contributed to our local chapter for the past several years,
but to the community as a whole. She has dedicated her time to the community at large, turning a life-altering event into something that helps people on an everyday basis. Her work with Holistic Referral Network, Coalition on Aging and RAIN, Strategic Networking Partners and Spotlight Events on Senior Living & Aging enables her to make a difference in her community through design.
as a volunteer for Design for Hire and Gala, working as a chair for student affairs and emerging professionals, as our chapter president in 2021, and this year, as our parliamentarian.
Industry Partner of the Year
JULIE DASHER
Industry Partner
Julie Dasher Rugs
Each year, our Industry Partner Award goes to someone who positively impacts our community, is dedicated to our success as a chapter, and volunteers when asked.
This year, we have been fortunate to have this individual be not only an advocate for our
In 2016, she founded New Beginnings to assist individuals in moving beyond loss and change by providing tools and guidance to build a new foundation. Through her business, she helps people transition so they can fully engage in life again.
Paddy has been a long-standing volunteer of our chapter, working
design community, but also our chapter’s chosen charity and fundraiser. She has worked tirelessly as a part of our fundraiser committee for the past 10 months and has worked on everything from finding a venue for sponsorship parties, entertainment and marketing and promotion.
Paddy Rasmussen
Julie Dasher, and Miranda and Scott Gwilliam
Julie has always been passionate about helping others. Her mission in her business is to hire women weavers and purchase rugs directly from them to eliminate brokers in the supply chain. She also donates a percentage of her profits to a non-profit dedicated to ending illegal child labor in the rugmaking industry.
Her dedication to our chapter as well as our design community makes Julie Dasher of Julie Dasher Rugs our Industry Partner of the Year.
community at large.
Debra has been a practicing professional interior designer in the greater Phoenix area for almost 50 years. Her life’s passion is designing and creating. Having worked throughout the US, her portfolio includes both residential and commercial projects. Her design motto is “Your Personal Vision. Our Design Mission”.
An Arizona native, Debra loves the strong and rugged desert. This is reflected in many of her designs. She presents unique and
ASID Lifetime Achievement Award
Debra May Himes, ASID
Debra May Himes Interior Design & Associates, LLC
The Lifetime Achievement Award goes to a member whose career has spanned decades and positively impacted our chapter as well as the design
wonderful design solutions to her clients. She created her line of onyx stone bathroom pedestal vanities with forged wrought iron bases. She has also designed award-winning furniture, a drapery finial line that was sold nationally through Helser Brothers Drapery Hardware, as well as lighting and drapery, and is currently working on her third fabric line with World Linens.
She is LEED accredited and NCIDQ certified.
With many years of design experience, she feels fortunate to have worked with so many wonderful architects, builders, clients, and resources. “Being a part of the building process –watching something wonderful develop that she helps create is beyond joyful and exhilarating. It is truly a blessing.”
Debra has been an active member of the ASID Arizona North Chapter her whole design career, serving the chapter in many roles including chapter president in 1998.
Debra has won over 50 awards in her career including:
• 2009 ASID National Medalist Award– The highest award level given
• Two ASID Arizona North Chapter Designer of Distinction Awards in 2005 & 2017
• Multiple chapter awardwinning designs in residential, commercial, furniture and product design
• 2010 she won Best of Show Residential
• 2008 –– 1st place––Best New Design Concept in Drapery Hardware
• 2006 –– ADEX Platinum Award ––Jewels Drapery Hardware
Quality of Life Awards Voices for Phoenix Dream Center
The Phoenix Dream Center serves over 40,000 people each month from at-risk youth to the homeless and the
Amy Strang, Debra Himes and Paddy Rasmussen
needy within our community. Services that they offer include a residential rehabilitation program, shelter and care for victims of human trafficking, affordable housing for men and women in
transition, and distribution of food and clothing throughout various Phoenix neighborhoods where the predominately poor reside. The Phoenix Dream Center is supported by donors from our community with 100% of all individual donations going directly to support their programs.
Media Partner
Modern Luxury Interiors
Our partnership with Modern Luxury this year has been wonderful. We have enjoyed the support and fresh ideas that Publisher Kelly Persellin has brought to our chapter this
year. Kelly kicked off our 2023 Gala with a series of champagne toasts. First, to welcome everyone to our “Through the Looking Glass” Gala. She then toasted our past presidents who were in attendance, thanking them for their leadership and guidance over the years.
Kelly’s final toast was to the current Board of Directors for their service to the chapter this year.
Special Thanks
Special thanks to all those who helped make this Gala an evening to remember.
Thank you to Mark Boisclair for his continued support and efforts to our chapter. He dedicates himself each and every year, and we appreciate all he does to make all of our Design Excellence winners look their best.
Thank you to Saeed and Kasim Aslam from Alyshaan, our emcees for the evening.
Thank you to our student volunteers who helped with check-in and the awards presentation.
Kelly Persellin
Mark Boisclair
Special Award Winners: Deborah Himes, Wanda Frederick, Laurie Howell, Julie Dasher and Paddy Rasmussen
Bronze • Anita Lang, Allied ASID Interior Motives Inc. Photographer: Isaac Bailey
Bronze-TIE • Bonnie Lewis, Allied ASID • Bonnie J. Lewis Design • Photographer: DeCastro Photography
Bronze-TIE • Bonnie Lewis, Allied ASID • Bonnie J. Lewis Design Photographer: DeCastro Photography
STUDENT :COMMERCIAL PROJECT
Silver • Christopher Fill, ASID Student
Bronze • Vanessa Estrada, ASID Student
invaluable contributions, dedication and passion invaluable contributions, dedication and passion
Thank You!
Dear ASID Volunteers, Committees, and Chairs,
We would like to take a moment to extend our gratitude and thanks to each and every one of you. Your dedication, hard work, and selfless efforts have not gone unnoticed. The impact you have made within our organization and the design community as a whole is truly remarkable. All our committees and chairs have exhibited exceptional leadership. Your ability to rally your team, foster collaboration, and bring out the best in those around you is truly inspiring. Your dedication to your respective roles has not only elevated the quality of our programs and services, but it has also created a positive and inclusive environment for all members.
Thank you once again for your invaluable contributions. Your dedication and passion are truly the driving force behind ASID success.
Iam thrilled to announce that I’ve been selected as the new Student Representative for the ASID (American Society of Interior Designers) AZ North chapter board. This is a tremendous honor, and I’m excited about the opportunity to contribute to our vibrant design community.
This year, I plan to strengthen the bonds between ASID student chapters and facilitate a greater exchange of information. By collaborating with other student representatives, I intend to keep a finger on the pulse of what’s happening in various interior design and architecture programs. This will help our members stay informed about the latest developments and trends within the industry.
Additionally, I want to emphasize the significance of ASID student competitions, events, and programs. These opportunities provide valuable experiences and the chance to showcase our talents. By raising awareness, I hope to encourage more students to participate and make the most of these offerings.
Lastly, I aim to stress the importance of utilizing the resources and connections that ASID provides. The connections we build within ASID can be instrumental in shaping our future careers, and the resources available can significantly enhance our knowledge and skills. I’m excited to help our members tap into these valuable assets.
I’m looking forward to a productive and inspiring year as the Student Representative and am eager to contribute to the growth and success of ASID AZ North. Together, we’ll make this year a remarkable one for all our members.
