---
title: "A.J. Szam Designs, Inc. — Interior Designers & Decorators | Houzz"
canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/interior-designers-and-decorators/a-j-szam-designs-inc-pfvwus-pf~1669487522
markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~1669487522.md
entity_type: LocalBusiness
business_name: "A.J. Szam Designs, Inc."
category: ["Interior Designers & Decorators"]
image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/9bf38edf0565d5ba_0111-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg
address: "Cedar Lake, Indiana 46303, United States"
phone: "(219) 781-6246"
website: http://
rating: 5
review_count: 28
best_of_houzz_awards: 4
last_updated: 2026-08-11
---

# A.J. Szam Designs, Inc.

Original Houzz profile: [A.J. Szam Designs, Inc.](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/interior-designers-and-decorators/a-j-szam-designs-inc-pfvwus-pf~1669487522)

## Professional summary

- **Primary category:** Interior Designers & Decorators
- **Location:** Cedar Lake, IN
- **Serves:** Merrillville, Crown Point, Schererville, Highland, Saint John, Dyer, Griffith, Cedar Lake, Lowell, Plymouth, Winfield, Monticello, Knox, Hebron, Kouts, Lake Dalecarlia, Wheatfield, San Pierre, Beecher, Brooke, Crete, Grant Park, Northwest Indiana & Chicago
- **Houzz rating:** 5.0 out of 5 (28 reviews)
- **Best of Houzz:** 4 awards (2017–2026), for Service.

## About

### Houzz Badges

- Star Houzzer
- Recommended on Houzz
- 250 Ideabook Saves

With a passion for Interior Design, experience, quality, and attention to every detail, we are sure to make your dream space a reality. With budget minded designers that listen to your wish list, we can help you to prioritize your wants and desires to ensure your project comes together as you intend. After a consultation to establish the basics, we will work together to establish designs, budgets, and timelines to final completion. Have your own Contractor? No problem. Can you connect  your own plumbing? No problem. Not so handy? Also, no problem. A.J. Szam Designs has contractors and builders on call to ensure your project is completed to our high standards by the highly respected tradesmen in the area. Lets make your dreams a reality today.

### Services Provided

- Interior Design
- Kitchen Design
- Bathroom Design
- Living Room Design
- Color Consulting
- Space Planning
- Furniture Selection
- Kids Bedroom Design
- Dining Room Design
- Custom Cabinets
- Custom Kitchen Cabinets
- Custom Built-ins
- Playroom Design
- Floor Plans
- Custom Bathroom Vanities
- Laundry Room Design
- Mudroom Design
- Custom Home Bars
- Closet Design
- 3D Rendering
- Basement Design
- Custom Bookcases
- Custom Entertainment Centers
- Custom Walk-in Closets
- Sunroom Design & Construction
- Custom Fireplace Mantels
- Wine Cellar Design
- Custom Pantries
- Downsizing
- Drafting
- Custom Beds
- Attic Conversion
- Decluttering
- Custom Storage
- Custom Murphy Beds
- Garage Storage
- Kitchen Remodeling
- Home Office Design

### Areas Served

- Merrillville
- Crown Point
- Schererville
- Highland
- Saint John
- Dyer
- Griffith
- Cedar Lake
- Lowell
- Plymouth
- Winfield
- Monticello
- Knox
- Hebron
- Kouts
- Lake Dalecarlia
- Wheatfield
- San Pierre
- Beecher
- Brooke
- Crete
- Grant Park
- Northwest Indiana & Chicago

### Typical Job Cost

$125.00 consultation - and up

Hourly billing at $85/hr- $150/hr +travel/mileage as applicable by site location or supplier location.

## Business Details

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Business Name | A.J. Szam Designs, Inc. |
| Address | Cedar Lake, Indiana 46303, United States |
| Phone | (219) 781-6246 |
| Website | http:// |

**Social profiles:**
- Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/amanda.jursic
- LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-szamatowicz-3a804996
- Blog — www.homesbydutchmill.com

## Contact

- **Houzz profile:** [A.J. Szam Designs, Inc.](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/interior-designers-and-decorators/a-j-szam-designs-inc-pfvwus-pf~1669487522)
- **Website:** http://
- **Phone:** (219) 781-6246

## Credentials

**Certifications & Awards**
- Over 20 years experience with Custom Kitchen & Bath design and architectural space planning.

- **Best of Houzz:** 4 awards (2017–2026), for Service.

## Reviews

**Overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 — 28 reviews**

*Aspect averages:*
- Work Quality: 50.0
- Communication: 50.0
- Value: 50.0

### Reviews

**★★★★★ — Patricia McGehee, April 2026**

> My husband and I took on a total remodel of our old and outdated lake home.  Initially, the project was a bit overwhelming. This was before we came into contact with AJ Szams Designs. AJ came on site to see our project in the works. She listened to our ideas and thoughts on redesigning our kitchen, laundry and bathroom. She gave her input, but was never pushy. She always followed our lead and suggested alternatives when appropriate. Her expertise opened our eyes to some new configurations which ultimately  we used. Her patience with answering our many exhausting questions was unwavering. Her timeless response when there was an issue was extraordinary.  She was ALWAYS pleasant. We simply love our new lake home!  I would highly recommend reaching out to AJ if you are in the market for designing help. You will not be disappointed. Not only will you be pleased with her expertise, but you will gain a friend also!

**★★★★★ — HU-735764341, Oct. 2025**

> I love AJ’s designs and ideas! She has current & fresh takes on all my projects yet always keeps me within my budget. She’s very personable, approachable and always politely reworks my initial ideas into something much better than I could have imagined.

**★★★★★ — HU-263243621, May 2019**

> Amanda is truly talented! She has drawn up our plans for three rooms to be remodeled. These rooms are absolutely beautiful! We are trying to downsize and Amanda has made it much easier! Now we know what we should get rid of and what we should to keep!! Its like a weight has been lifted. She took her time at our house discussing many options and ideas. We couldn't be happier with her work!

**★★★★★ — Jeff & Chris Layman, Oct. 2017**

> We met with A.J. after 3 years of contemplating a full kitchen remodel.  Once we sat down with her and saw her overall design plan (she incorporated our design wishes and also came up with some fantastic ideas of her own), we were hooked!!  All of her references checked out and we embarked on a 7 week demo/remodel that couldn't have went any better!!  A.J. was always available to answer questions and help out with the selection of appliances, fixtures, cabinetry, and the occasional issues that arise during this type of project.  She made the experience a fun and exciting time for our family as we transformed our kitchen space into an efficient, organized, and beautiful dream kitchen.  A.J. has a great working relationship with all of her contractors and her schedule was spot on!  Communication was fantastic and we will definitely use her when we look to remodel our master bathroom.

**★★★★★ — Patricia Herr, April 2017**

> Our experience with A.J. was wonderful. We were building our fourth new home and though we'd had experience with decorating and design before; this time we felt we needed some assistance. There are just so many decorating ideas and designs out there now. She was able to zone in on what we needed. She listened carefully and took her cues from information we gave her. She is creative and has experiences to backup her suggestions. A.J. was always prompt with our appointments and always answered our questions and allayed our worries in a timely fashion. If ever the occasion arises we would call for her assistance again.

**★★★★★ — lyn klosowski, April 2017**

> Working with A.J. was a pleasure. She is conscientious, professional, easy to work with, and easily accessible. We worked with her before on our kitchen project, and were delighted when we were able to find her again for our bathroom remodel. She helped us envision our 2 bathroom projects, brought us ideas, and followed up on our materials. Through no fault of hers, the cabinet doors we ordered did not meet our expectations. Amanda was right on it.. contacted the cabinet maker, and followed through until the new cabinet doors arrived on our doorstep . Amanda is a true professional . We would without hesitation, highly recommend her.

**★★★★★ — Jaclyn Boomsma, April 2017**

> Amanda is well-organized and just a pleasure to work with.  She makes renovations and projects run smoothly with very little stress.  She notices and makes sure every little detail is perfect.  I would recommend her for any design project!

**★★★★★ — Cecilia Heiberger, April 2017**

> Our home remodel was a huge undertaking and we could not have done it without Amanda's,  of AJ Szam Designs, guidance and support every step of the way!  My husband and nephew are do-it-yourself guys, however, Amanda provided detailed designs that were easy to follow from paint colors to flooring to cabinetry and custom counter tops.  Amanda fulfilled our vision of having a home with a modern flair, yet warm and inviting.  Her design incorporated rich looking wood floors throughout our home, customized white cabinetry balanced with warm wood cabinetry. The white tile back splash incorporated a custom tile I fell in love with from New Orleans! She selected a beautiful quartz counter top that ties the kitchen together with the rest of our open concept floor plan. Amanda also designed our custom cabinets for our home office, created a beautiful seating area along our stairway landing, and designed an awesome guest bathroom complete with a beautiful granite counter top and recommended accent pieces. She made herself available to help me select furniture as part of her design services.  Any concerns or questions that may have been raised, Amanda was on top of it.  We appreciated working with such a professional committed to high quality and customer satisfaction!

**★★★★★ — sheilamcorbin, March 2017**

> Working with Amanda was a great experience. She was so helpful and qualified. Any questions or concerns about or building project she would always have an answer for me. Amanda made the whole building experience go so much smoother and quicker.  I would definitely recommend her. Also, she was very approachable and professional. Honestly gonna miss having my Starbucks with her . She is the best!!

**★★★★★ — Anne Albert, March 2017**

> I have remodeled a kitchen and a bathroom with A.J. and she has always been a complete joy to work with.  Remodeling always includes unforeseen obstacles and AJ. remains positive and patient.  She's creative, and always makes me think of something I wouldn't have on my own.  A.J's design and construction knowledge is evident.  She is well versed in materials and resources.  She is highly professional and always makes herself available for questions and concerns.  I confidently recommend her!

**★★★★★ — Doug Van Der Weide- Designer @ WaterPlace, March 2017**

> It is clear that when A.J. is working with a customer she is focused on her client needs. She is passionate about design and I would highly recommend her.

**★★★★★ — Gail Barenie, March 2017**

> AJ Szam Design professionals possess strong design skills, are informed, energetic, and provide stunning results!  I highly recommend her and have referred her to my clients.

## Selected projects

- [St John Home Baths 2025](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/st-john-home-baths-2025-pj-vj~7746253)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 12
- [St John New Construction](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/st-john-new-construction-pj-vj~7746246)
  - Location: Saint John, IN
  - Photos: 21
- [LOWELL PRIMARY BATH](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/lowell-primary-bath-pj-vj~7711965)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 3
- [CROWN POINT BATH](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/crown-point-bath-pj-vj~7711962)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 2
- [Dental Office 2](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/dental-office-2-pj-vj~7711956)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 5
- [Dental Office 1](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/dental-office-1-pj-vj~7711951)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 13
- [Cedar Lake, Laundry Room](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/cedar-lake-laundry-room-pj-vj~1534308)
  - Location: Cedar Lake, IN
  - Photos: 2
- [Custom Shower Tile design](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/custom-shower-tile-design-pj-vj~1543845)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 3
- [Custom Dining Room Hutch](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/custom-dining-room-hutch-pj-vj~2466599)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 3
- [Valparaiso Kitchen Overhaul](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/valparaiso-kitchen-overhaul-pj-vj~2767539)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 27
  - Description: Taking an entry level builder's grade kitchen, and unlocking its true potential. Eliminating the peninsula, rearranging the appliances, and opening up the space, while nearly doubling the amount of cabinetry space from the original floor plan. This design maximized storage and organization, while blending rustic elements with a modern design. This doesn't even look like the same house!
- [Valparaiso - New Const. 4](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/valparaiso-new-const-4-pj-vj~2466583)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 9
- [Valparaiso - New Construction](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/valparaiso-new-construction-pj-vj~2466535)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 10
- [St. John - New Construction](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/st-john-new-construction-pj-vj~2466510)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 28
- [Cedar Lake - New Construction](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/cedar-lake-new-construction-pj-vj~2466501)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 26
- [ST. JOHN - REMODEL 1](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/st-john-remodel-1-pj-vj~2466608)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 9
- [VALPARAISO - NEW CONST. 2](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/valparaiso-new-const-2-pj-vj~2466607)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 2
- [Valparaiso - New Const. 3](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/valparaiso-new-const-3-pj-vj~2466601)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 8
- [MARBLE BATHROOM](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/marble-bathroom-pj-vj~2466598)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 1
- [A-SYMMETRICAL CUSTOM FIREPLACE BUILT-IN](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/a-symmetrical-custom-fireplace-built-in-pj-vj~2466595)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 1
- [CUSTOM ENTERTAINMENT CENTER](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/custom-entertainment-center-pj-vj~2466594)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 1

[See all 43 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/interior-designers-and-decorators/a-j-szam-designs-inc-pfvwus-pf~1669487522)

## Ideabooks

- [ajszamdesignsinc's Ideas](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/75404429/list/ajszamdesignsinc-s-ideas) — 76 ideas
- [guest room](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/8344331/list/guest-room) — 29 ideas
- [My Office](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/103067647/list/my-office) — 4 ideas
- [dining room](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/8344097/list/dining-room) — 32 ideas
- [great room](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/8343945/list/great-room) — 51 ideas
- [Powder](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/103067726/list/powder) — 2 ideas
- [ceiling details](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/13745688/list/ceiling-details) — 16 ideas
- [Eden’s Room](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/104116918/list/eden-s-room) — 13 ideas
- [Bunk Bed Ideas](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/103452065/list/bunk-bed-ideas) — 5 ideas
- [stairs](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/8344149/list/stairs) — 15 ideas
- [master closet](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/13706279/list/master-closet) — 13 ideas
- [Foyer](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/22684971/list/foyer) — 15 ideas
- [master bath](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/13704820/list/master-bath) — 36 ideas
- [laundry room](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/4519162/list/laundry-room) — 27 ideas
- [kitchen](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/4519205/list/kitchen) — 71 ideas
- [exterior ideas](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/4519099/list/exterior-ideas) — 75 ideas
- [basement ideas](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/13706124/list/basement-ideas) — 67 ideas
- [lighting ideas](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/13705665/list/lighting-ideas) — 7 ideas
- [Guest bath/powder](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/22684876/list/guest-bath-powder) — 20 ideas
- [little boy's room](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/8344388/list/little-boy-s-room) — 24 ideas

[See all 44 ideabooks](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/ajszamdesignsinc)

## Community Q&A

**Q: what are the dimensions?** *(in Photo Questions)*

A: The tile was roughly 42"H up the wall. The needed dimension will be based upon where you have your plumbing mounted.

**Q: What tiles were used for the tub surround?  Thanks.** *(in Photo Questions)*

A: Actual Carerra marble was used.

**Q: What is the name of the granite on the island?** *(in Photo Questions)*

A: Different granite suppliers will change the names of their materials to make it harder to compare pricing accurately. This color through the supplier used was called "LENNON" at the time. It can also go by Bianco Antico or Blue Nile. This stone has a tone of movement & pattern that changes as the quarry depths change (so color variation should be expected). The color range is typically grey/silver/white/rust tones/with mixes of clear/brown quartzite streaks.

---

*Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-08-11.*