--- title: "Perceptions Interiors — Interior Designers & Decorators | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/interior-designers-and-decorators/perceptions-interiors-pfvwus-pf~151124935 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~151124935.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "Perceptions Interiors" category: ["Interior Designers & Decorators"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/162305890ec46e0e_7048-w400-h400-b1-p10--.jpg address: "5614 Connecticut Ave. #291, NW Washington, D.C. 20015, United States" latitude: 38.9658 longitude: -77.068 phone: "(202) 330-5619" website: http://www.perceptionsinteriors.com rating: 5 review_count: 14 best_of_houzz_awards: 4 followers: 384 last_updated: 2026-09-05 --- # Perceptions Interiors Original Houzz profile: [Perceptions Interiors](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/interior-designers-and-decorators/perceptions-interiors-pfvwus-pf~151124935) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** Interior Designers & Decorators - **Location:** NW Washington, DC - **Serves:** Washington, DC (Washington), Alexandria, Arlington, Aspen Hill, Bethesda, Calverton, Chevy Chase, Falls Church, Gaithersburg, Langley Park, Leisure World, Mclean, North Bethesda, North Kensington, Philladelphia, Potomac, Richmond, Rockville, Seven Corners, Silver Spring, South Kensington, Vienna, White Oak - **Houzz rating:** 5.0 out of 5 (14 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 4 awards (2013–2016), for Service, Design. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Star Houzzer - Houzz Influencer - Recommended on Houzz - 25,000 Ideabook Saves About J: Houzz Contributor. J. Allen, Principal designer at Perceptions Interiors is an accomplished interior designer adept at transforming a homeowner’s vision into reality. With 16+ years experience in residential & commercial design J's designs have been featured on HGTV’s Design Star, in Home & Design Magazine as "Hot Talent", The Washington Post as well as in properties in Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Pennsylvania, the DC Metropolitan area and abroad. About Perceptions: Perceptions Interiors is a full-scale design firm with experience in residential, commercial and hospitality interiors. Our talented team of designers make the ordinary appear extraordinary by creating environments that reflect and evolve with our clients’ lifestyle, tastes, passions, and dreams. We pride ourselves on our ability to guide clients to create highly personalized spaces where inspiration and imagination coincide with the realities of everyday living. Services Provided: Design + Build Renovation/Remodel Full Scale Interior Design Interior Staging Color Palette Selection Space Planning Specification & Finishes Window Treatments Custom Cabinetry/Built-In’s Kitchen & Bath Design Custom Furniture & Lighting Space Organization Project Management ### Services Provided - Interior Design - Kitchen Design - Bathroom Design - Living Room Design - Bedroom Design - Color Consulting - Space Planning - Furniture Selection - Kids Bedroom Design - Dining Room Design - Home Office Design & Construction - Project Management - Playroom Design - Custom Furniture - Nursery Design - Universal Design - Basement Design - Sunroom Design & Construction - Home Theater Design - Sustainable Design - Kitchen Remodeling - Built ins - Color Palette Selection - Custom Cabinetry - Design Build - Full Scale Interior Design - Interior Staging - Kitchen and Bath Design - Renovation/Remodel - Space Organization - Specification & Finishes - Window Treatments ### Areas Served - Washington - DC (Washington) - Alexandria - Arlington - Aspen Hill - Bethesda - Calverton - Chevy Chase - Falls Church - Gaithersburg - Langley Park - Leisure World - Mclean - North Bethesda - North Kensington - Philladelphia - Potomac - Richmond - Rockville - Seven Corners - Silver Spring - South Kensington - Vienna - White Oak ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | Perceptions Interiors | | Address | 5614 Connecticut Ave. \#291, NW Washington, D.C. 20015, United States | | Phone | (202) 330-5619 | | Website | http://www.perceptionsinteriors.com | | Followers on Houzz | 384 | **Social profiles:** - Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/PerceptionsInteriors - X (Twitter) — https://twitter.com/JAllenInteriors - LinkedIn — http://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=93790656&trk=nav\_responsive\_tab\_profile\_pic - Blog — http://www.perceptionshome.com ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [Perceptions Interiors](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/interior-designers-and-decorators/perceptions-interiors-pfvwus-pf~151124935) - **Website:** http://www.perceptionsinteriors.com - **Phone:** (202) 330-5619 ## Credentials **Certifications & Awards** - NCIDQ Certificate No.31078 - **Best of Houzz:** 4 awards (2013–2016), for Service, Design. **Affiliations** - [American Society of Interior Designers](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/american-society-of-interior-designers-pfvwus-pf~1510192642) - [NCIDQ Examination](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/ncidq-examination-pfvwus-pf~882083937) ## Reviews **Overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 — 14 reviews** ### Reviews **★★★★★ — L Rich, Sept. 2015** > Design services including purchasing furniture (at a discount) and planning for implementation. > Member Comments: The firm in general offers a great concept in packaging their overall services. I hired them to assist with the implementation (follow-on) of their initial design along with additional design work for some other areas. After a very short time into the project, I was told that my hours were almost exhausted. However, that was quickly redirected on their own initiative and they came through to assist me until the end. Great service. > Pros: Extremely responsive to my renovation budget. Initiation of the implementation work by coordinating/negotiating construction quotes. Professionalism. Design. Prompt response to all questions/emails. > My only complaint would be the time it took to coordinate quotes and implementation. **★★★★★ — latonjae3, Aug. 2015** > Selected Ms. Allen based on her celebrity status and my research on her previous work. The scope of work was to completely redesign kitchen/bath/living room of a below grade condo unit that had suffered water damage. Exactly...Yikes!! which is why I went with someone used to challenges! She and her team excelled! with design plan, budget constraints, and of course with working with the me - the owner! The goal was to bring light into the space, select paint that would go throughout the entire unit, kitchen cabinet update, lighting updates, and bathroom vanity selections. **★★★★★ — kdixit, Feb. 2015** > We have been working with J and her team on various projects from doing my son's room to now where she has been managing our construction project - our new home in Bethesda, MD. J and her team are reliable, professional, organized and are always willing to answer our questions regardless of how redundant or annoying. Another amazing thing about this team is how they have kept us within budget and have been responsible for ensuring that the timing is right. The entire project from the architectural drawings to finding the right builder, to landscape architect to geothermal options...everything is handled with meticulous care. Everyone has a can-do attitude and above all J makes sure that everyone works well together. We would not have taken on this project if it hadn't been for J. She is trustworthy, reliable and a complete professional. You would be lucky to work with this team! **★★★★★ — None None, Feb. 2015** > I am so thankful to have found J! With several unfinished spaces in my super small house, I had been apprehensive to reach out for help. I was nervous about a designer really understanding my style and direction. J and Andrea came in, bursting with talent, and got me immediately. They assessed the rooms with interest and enthusiasm, and came up with spot-on ideas right then and there. They worked with items and had and loved, but were honest about things could be improved. Their positive and fun attitude really shined through in their work. They obviously love what they do, and are TRUE professionals. First class all the way. I can't wait to have them back for more projects - it was such a fun experience! **★★★★★ — Nitin Gogtay, Feb. 2015** > This is a good, smart team. Outstanding and timely service. Cost conscious. Patient, diligent and willing to work hard to satisfy the client needs. **★★★★★ — kpierre, Feb. 2015** > Perceptions Interior was a phenomenal company to work with. I choose them for their design sense but also for the fact that they selected and managed all the contractors. This was a godsend, as it relieved me of having to do this aspect and hold a full time job. If there were problems with the contractors, Perceptions handled it Immediately. I was informed of when issues were resolved and given different solutions to choose from. > > Re: Design. They created an amazing bath space for me. It is elegant, feminine without being girly, classic and with a change of accessories easily moved from eclectic to modern. And most importantly, it reflect my style and who I am. I've seen lots of designed spaces that are beautiful but don't reflect the owner. This was not the case with Perceptions, they listened to me, and helped to create a vision for the bathroom that spoke to what I wanted and was beautiful. **Comment from Perceptions Interiors:** > It's been a pleasure working with you. I think we've enjoyed creating the space as much as we hope you enjoy using it! **★★★★★ — Ramsey Hakki, July 2014** > J was extremely helpful to our company. Our initial consultation with her put us at ease immediately as she understood ultimate goals for our space. She made our vision a reality and was very pleasant while doing so. J was not only a joy to have in the office, but was very professional as well, and it is people like her who are the easiest and most fun to work with. We will definitely request her in the future if we are in need of such services again. **★★★★★ — contronial, July 2014** > Working with J. Allen and her team has been gratifying. J. made my home exciting and I constantly receive compliments on its uniqueness and beauty. J. was able to bring the vision that I had for the interior of my home to life in an uncanny way. It was as though she got into in my head! Although I worked with Perceptions Interiors, the home speaks of my personality, and not that of Perception's designer. This is key because prior to working with J, I worked with another quite reputable firm, but they could not interpret my vision. It turned out to be the designer's vision, which was disheartening. > > Perceptions Interiors works well with any budget, and typically provides options at different price points throughout the process. They stayed within the set budget and worked with contractors and crafts people with the highest of skill level. J is very resourceful. > > I felt safe in the hands of Perceptions Interiors. I am confident that all of their clients do. I cannot recommend the firm more. **★★★★★ — grumpytie, Dec. 2013** > The original project included a complete design to transform the living room, dining room and kitchen of a condominium apartment into an open concept kitchen and great room. Some of the kitchen renovation had begun when the Perceptions Interiors design team were added. The design team worked well with the General Contractor, providing high end finishes for the kitchen. The team developed the floor plan for the dining and living spaces and options for furnishing the spaces that were within budget. Because of the teams involvement, all of the design elements work well together, there is great flow and continuity throughout and the space is truly beautiful. > > The team is currently involved in converting a bedroom into an office/guestroom and updates for the master bedroom. Again, the team is working within budget unless I approve an expense beyond the budget limits. The options for the furnishings are always in keeping with my style and work well together. I'm confident these rooms will be as elegant and beautiful as the original project. **★★★★★ — jessa, Nov. 2013** > J is AMAZING! And I know this because we have worked with other designers in the past who did not work out at all. J not only "gets" our style but she can walk into a room and just know exactly what it needs, what is working, what is not, plus she's practical about making a room work for REAL LIFE. She is confident and decisive. When I ask if X might work, she knows right away whether it will or will not -- and if not, what doesn't work about it. > > My problem is that I can pick out great pieces - I know what I love when I see it - but I cannot put it all together in the big picture (what rug? what lighting?). J sees the big picture and easily puts it all together in a way that suits our style and lifestyle. Any room in our house that she has touched become our FAVORITE rooms. > > She also reins me in when needed - my favorite example: One day my husband and I found this GREAT deal on a pricey sideboard at Design Within Reach (we love scratch & dent floor model deals) but when we sent it to J and asked her opinion she agreed it was a great deal and gorgeous (and that she loves a great deal as much as we do) BUT the piece we were looking at was going to be hidden at the back of my husband's office so WHY would we spend our hard-earned money there? She steered us to a great IKEA piece instead that works perfectly and was IKEA priced. Now THAT is a good designer! We cannot recommend J highly enough! Plus she has a great attitude and sense of humor and is fun to work with! **★★★★★ — mtownes, June 2013** > J Allen and Perception Interiors transformed my living room, dining area and office from ordinary to spectacular. > > Sure I could have picked out this furniture on my own but without J's patient guidance on colors, style and those little touches that pull a room together -- my living spaces would not have the unified look that makes a living space memorable. > > J is a talented designer. I've done several projects with her. On each one, she listened to me. She helped guide my decision points with creative suggestions. She executed each project on time with professional crews who did quality work. The final result were rooms that fit my style and taste. > > J is organized and professional. One aspect of J's style I appreciate is her patience. When a piece of our project did not turn out as we hoped, she went back to the drawing board without complaint - even though it meant more time and planning on her part. I was very happy with the final result. > > J also has a knack for organization and accessories. My office and living space is full of innovative ways to organize my "stuff." So now I have the storage I need in rooms that are crisp and uncluttered. > > The result - spaces I cherish that are dazzling and functional. **★★★★★ — sgexchange, Jan. 2013** > Working with J. Allen of Perceptions Interiors was easy, convenient and fun! > > Despite my inability to articulate my 'style,' she asked all the right questions and designed a space that represented the best version of me - right on budget. > > Whether a small space, or designing your whole home, I can't recommend Perceptions Interiors enough! ## Selected projects - [Contemporary Cool - Bethesda, MD Design + Build (Exterior)](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/contemporary-cool-bethesda-md-design-build-exterior-pj-vj~1975826) - Location: Bethesda, MD - Photos: 17 - Description: We transformed this single story Bethesda tear down into an expansive 3 level contemporary show stopper! Cedar wood and stucco paired with natural stone details make up the striking exterior while massive windows flood the interior with natural light. Nestled in a lush wooded surround the landscape ensures every room has a serene view. - [Mid Century Modern: Living Room](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/mid-century-modern-living-room-pj-vj~849754) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 4 - Description: In Chevy Chase, Maryland a two-toned gray rug defines the seating area of this modern living room designed for entertaining. Walls of windows bring in loads of natural light and emphasize the home’s modern architecture. Furniture includes versatile glass-topped tables that add to the space’s openness. - [Inner City Digs - Bathroom](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/inner-city-digs-bathroom-pj-vj~1510687) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 4 - Description: This tiny DC bathroom snuggled into this 2 bedroom condo packs a big punch. Sleek streamline design incorporating a monochromatic palette with chrome accents brings the previously dated space into the 21 Century. - [Double Duty: Office Guest Room](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/double-duty-office-guest-room-pj-vj~2091680) - Location: Washington, DC - Photos: 5 - Description: The owners of this DC row house needed to convert the once neglected catch all space into a functioning guest room and home office. The result, a cool gray pallet with pops of red. The minimalist approach to this tiny space makes a bold striking statement while leaving just enough room for guest to feel at home. - [Bachelor Pad Perfection: Living Room](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/bachelor-pad-perfection-living-room-pj-vj~970855) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 5 - Description: This modern masculine living space in Silver Spring, MD redefines the bachelor pad. With a sophisticated palette of chocolate & gray designer Andrea Mason incorporates masculine notes with rustic reclaimed wood coffee table, industrial galvanized steel end tables and graphic patterns to create a modern day bachelor pad. - [A Delightful Downsize: Greatroom](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/a-delightful-downsize-greatroom-pj-vj~266297) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 6 - Description: Downsizing into this 1,800 square foot condo was no easy feat for these owners who spent 20+ years living in a sprawling estate. Seeking a more low maintenance lifestyle they decided to wipe the slate clean and leave their transitional style behind. The Perceptions team drew inspiration for this urban space from the homeowners attraction to a minimalist palette with clean monochromatic tones. We introduced color & texture through bright area rugs and art while highlighting the outdoor views with… - [History Made Over: Kalorama Park, DC](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/history-made-over-kalorama-park-dc-pj-vj~37527) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 9 - Description: This 1923 Georgian Revival has been made over to highlight its historic charm with an edge of modern interpretation. The new traditional; where the best of yesterday joins the edge of tomorrow to create a space that is timeless. Located in Washington, DC (Kalorama Park) - [Master Bath Bliss](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/master-bath-bliss-pj-vj~946247) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 5 - Description: When tasked with restoring the master bathroom of this 1909 row house in NW Washington, DC Andrea Mason and the team at Perceptions set out to transform the utilitarian space into a romantic retreat. Keeping the original footprint we replaced the outdated tile with white marble, framed the shower in glass, added built-it storage, a chandelier, and retreated the original claw-foot tub with a navy blue exterior. The end result, a relaxing retreat with modern amenities and a classic romantic feel. - [Sweet Sophistication: Living Room](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/sweet-sophistication-living-room-pj-vj~197305) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 5 - Description: This homeowner wanted the look of grand sophistication but several missteps along the way left her discouraged and her budget in rapid decline. We were able to transform the space without breaking the bank by keeping most of the existing big ticket purchases and refreshing the space with window treatments, a fireplace mini-makeover and a few new accents! Located in: Chevy Chase, MD - [Loft Living: Greatroom](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/loft-living-greatroom-pj-vj~88433) - Location: Reston, VA - Photos: 4 - Description: Scenic views give this lofty living space instant appeal. Cool muted tones and an open floor plan speak to relaxed luxury and easy living. Located in Reston, VA - [Funk Defined: Eclectic Living Room](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/funk-defined-eclectic-living-room-pj-vj~667236) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 5 - Description: This eclectic living space highlights the homeowners collected artifacts by incorporating a modern foundation with whimsical pops of color and bold patterns throughout. Perceptions designer Andrea Kavanaugh-Mason pulled together a space that is chock full of treasure holding a treat for the eye at every turn. - [Tranquil Quarters: Master Bedroom](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/tranquil-quarters-master-bedroom-pj-vj~593392) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 3 - Description: Tranquility inspires an abundance of R&R in this free flow of positive energy. Soft neutral tones paired with subtle touches of blue and green make this master bedroom a welcome retreat. Located in Northern Virginia. - [The Great Outdoors: Patio](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/the-great-outdoors-patio-pj-vj~593408) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 3 - Description: Vibrant splashes of color & pattern make this patio sing! Located in Washington, DC - [Kids Spaces: Tween & Pre-Tween Bedrooms](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/kids-spaces-tween-and-pre-tween-bedrooms-pj-vj~42101) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 9 - Description: This Washington, DC home offers up 3 cool bedrooms for 3 super cool kids! - [Casual Family Room](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/casual-family-room-pj-vj~42098) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 3 - Description: This cozy family room is perfect for hosting informal guests, catching up on your favorite show, curling up with a book by the fire or completing homework! There is a place for everyone in the family and not a bad seat in the house! Located in Kalorama Park (Washington, DC) - [Simple Abundance: Living Room](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/simple-abundance-living-room-pj-vj~36995) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 3 - Description: This modern living room incorporates neutral tones of "greige" with pops of red. The room is anchored by dark painted wood floors and plush black area rug. Located in Alexandria, VA - [Sweet Dreams: Guest Bedroom](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/sweet-dreams-guest-bedroom-pj-vj~593384) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 2 - Description: The relaxed inviting style of this bedroom suite encourages any guest to get comfortable and stay awhile. Located in Washington, DC - [Mid-Century Modern: Living & Dining Room](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/mid-century-modern-living-and-dining-room-pj-vj~727954) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 3 - Description: This casual mid-century modern great room design is the perfect combination of rustic meets modern. Lead by Perceptions designer Andrea Kavanuagh-Mason this space seamlessly blends reclaimed wood & brick with sleek Barcelona chairs, a tailored tuxedo sofa and edgy graphic patterned area rug. This great room is definitely ready for it's close-up! - [R & R: Guest Bedroom (Bethesda, MD)](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/r-and-r-guest-bedroom-bethesda-md-pj-vj~1510717) - Location: Bethesda, MD - Photos: 5 - Description: Home away from home. This simple guest bedroom incorporates all the comforts of home in a tiny space by keeping things light and bright with the use of acrylic tables and accents, slim furniture selections with open back and base detail to keep things visually light and open. - [Bright & Beautiful Living Room](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/bright-and-beautiful-living-room-pj-vj~780667) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 2 - Description: Perceptions designer Andrea Mason breathes new life into this dated living space in Annandale, VA with a fresh color palette, updated decor and dramatic built-in's. These homeowners are sitting pretty in this fantastic space! [See all 35 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/interior-designers-and-decorators/perceptions-interiors-pfvwus-pf~151124935) ## Ideabooks - [Paytley](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/161871726/list/paytley) — 23 ideas - [Wish List](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/163078883/list/wish-list) — 1 idea - [Genius: Small Bath Room Solutions](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/29899805/list/genius-small-bath-room-solutions) — 17 ideas - [Painted Cabinets - Gray](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/83588965/list/painted-cabinets-gray) — 9 ideas - [Smoke and Mirrors: Designing for Life’s Little Messes](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/74880291/list/smoke-and-mirrors-designing-for-life-s-little-messes) — 16 ideas - [Oh...What a novel concept!](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/1928608/list/oh-what-a-novel-concept) — 3 ideas [See all 6 ideabooks](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/perceptions) ## Community Q&A **Q: Couch** *(in Photo Questions)* I love this couch! Who makes this couch? A: Hi! This sectional is made by Italian manufacturer Gamma Furniture. You can check out some of their work at: https://www.gammarr.com/en/ **Q: Where did you get this desk?** *(in Photo Questions)* Any suggestions on where to purchase this desk? Also, what type of wood is in the base inset? Thanks! A: Hey Greg! This is the Victor desk by Elite Modern. The wood inset is walnut and there are a ton of metal and glass finish options. Good luck! Elite Modern Victor Desk **Q: Do you have any pictures of the inside design of the house?** *(in Photo Questions)* A: Hi There, While we are dragging our feet about posting the amazing shots of this spectacular home our photographer is more on top of these things. You can check out some of the interior on her page: Contemporary Cool Interior Shots Enjoy! **Q: Can you give me the paint color? Love it.** *(in Photo Questions)* A: Hi There! This color is 6234 Uncertain Gray by Sherwin Williams. **Q: Who makes the sofa and the coffee table?** *(in Photo Questions)* A: Hey Betty, This 3 piece sectional is made by an Italian manufacturer called Gamma Leather. The coffee table is also Italian from a company called Cattelan Italia. Happy shopping! J. **Q: I love all the accent tables... can you please tell me who makes them?** *(in Photo Questions)* can you please tell me who makes and where can I buy all accent tables in this pic. A: Hello Betty, The cocktail tables in this photo are the distressed Ionic Capital Coffee Tables from Restoration Hardware. The antiqued mirror nesting tables are made by Bernhardt furniture. Best, J- --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-09-05.*