Design First Interiors

We had an outdated kitchen with a difficult layout. We went to Design First after seeing a friend's kitchen they had designed. The process with Friedemann was highly consultative. Several meetings were just to get a feel for the space and how we wanted to use the kitchen. The end result is both beautiful and perfect for our needs. Unfortunately Friedemann passed away during the project. While it was a difficult time for everybody, Megan and Nicole were extremely professional throughout. They really carried forward the design ethos of DesignFirst. They were great problem solvers when the inevitable construction surprises happened. Shopping with Megan for tiles, lights, handles etc was a pleasure. Their attention to detail and regular communication was great and the result looks even better than I imagined from the designs. I totally love cooking in it!

As soon as we stepped into Design First Interiors for our first consultation, we knew we had found the right designer for our new kitchen. Friedemann and Nicole worked with us to come up with a creative use for our space that we absolutely love. We had been to other designers but were put off by the secrecy behind the process and pricing. Design First was upfront with everything so there were no surprises. We especially liked how they really listened to what we wanted to achieve so that we felt we were participants in the project and not just bystanders. Nicole supervised the entire project, from shopping with us for ceramic tiles to being on-site for trouble shooting and inspections. Their referral for a contractor was spot on and Nicole took care of all the communications and scheduling so we had a no-stress experience. Our new kitchen is not only beautiful, but functional and perfect for entertaining. We highly recommend Design First Interiors.

I went to Friedemann Weindhardt, Design First, for ideas for redesigns for two bathrooms. I also had a budget in mind. I'd met with other companies before but only got ideas for replacement rather than redesign. Friedemann's approach was very different from what others had proposed - wonderfully creative, and I now have two beautiful bathrooms I'm very happy with. Friedemann took the time to address my concerns regarding the budget in the overall design. He was great to work with - energetic, positive, and creative! Nathalie, his project manager on the team, helped me patiently and creatively to address material and fixture choices, and worked hard to quickly resolve issues as they came up. I am glad to have had the opportunity to work with Friedemann and his Design First team on my bathroom redesign.

We hired Friedemann Weindhardt, Design First, to finish part of our basement, We wanted office space, a lounge area with fireplace, servery, wine storage and full bathroom. After meeting with three companies, we chose Friedemann because he focussed mainly on design elements that would meet our vision, rather than, as others had, on the process issues and warnings to reduce our wish list for budget reasons. We left our first meeting with Friedemann feeling excited and positive about the prospect of undertaking our first-ever renovation project. Design First did not disappoint. Friedemann was a delight to work with. Nathalie, Friedemann’s talented and efficient design assistant, played a key role in helping us select materials while overseeing the project schedule. Her keen eye ensured that we avoided potential problems. Overall, the design and construction phases were very well executed. We have a beautiful, fully functional space that we can now enjoy with friends and family. Thank you Friedemann and Nathalie!

I am most pleased to recommend Design First Interiors. This company has recently designed my new kitchen as well as my main and ensuite bathrooms. Throughout the project Friedemann and his team paid careful attention to my desires and, thankfully, made excellent suggestions as well. These interiors are beautifully up-to-date and space efficient. We are thrilled with the quality of the materials used and the expertise that went into all of the installations. Every minute detail was considered. Another very important area throughout the project was that of communication between myself and Design First Interiors. Friedemann and his very talented assistant, Nathalie, were constantly in touch throughout the project and always efficient and available to me by email whenever I had questions or concerns – this was very much appreciated. Friedemann's professional and congenial matter, creative expertise and demand for perfection have made this project a total success!!!

After our first meeting with Friedemann we knew he would be the best choice for our main level and kitchen redesign. We were looking for an open concept that would provide more functionality, more comfort, and yet give a "wow" factor. He was willing to listen to us to incorporate our needs and wants into his vision but still impart his wonderful design sense. After deciding on our final design, Friedemann and his team put the plan into action. They oversaw the entire renovation, always available for questions and concerns, and helped us achieve the kitchen we wanted. After living in our completed space for nearly 6 months now, we could not be happier. We would not hesitate to hire Friedemann and his team again for future home renovations. Highly recommended to anyone looking for a fresh and stunning home re-design. Thanks Friedemann and team. Paul and Jorie

My wife and I decided to renovate our house with the kitchen being the centerpiece of the project. We visited a number of companies but we never walked out of any of the meetings thinking that it was productive. It felt like they were trying to sell their cabinets and other wares instead of the concept. It never felt like they were listening to what we wanted. Friedemann was the first person who didn’t initially talk product but rather ideas and concepts. The first couple meetings we had with him were for the purpose of just getting to know each other. He wanted to get to know us, our likes & dislikes. From these initial conversations, we sat down with him and he’d have the current layout of our house on a table. He would then lay some tracing paper on top of it and would start throwing ideas at us. He’d sketch suggestions on top of our current configuration while continually asking us questions. There were a number of crumpled papers tossed into the garbage. We (I can’t strongly emphasize this point!) finally came up with a new layout. We were completely involved in the concept phase. From that point forward, Friedemann and his team completed the architectural drawings based on our concepts and sketches, managed the project and all of its phases. Even now, they’re making sure that the last few things are completed properly and to the specifications that we had asked for. From concept to finished project, we now have our dream home that we always wanted.

I simply love food. In 2009, Friedemann designed my dream kitchen and working in it was an absolute pleasure. In 2014, I moved into a new home and missed my old kitchen more than I could have imagined. This new house was older and much smaller than the first but I knew who to call and what to expect. Friedemann really does put ‘design first’. Yes, the final product is aesthetically beautiful, but as a cook, the space has to be a place you are drawn to. I love my new kitchen and look forward to working in it for many years to come. Dylan.

After having done two homes with Design First what truly sets them apart is the attention to the needs of their customers. They have truly designed Kitchens that have been just a pleasure to stay home and cook instead of going out . Value for the service and quality was exceptional. Claude & Francine

Working with Friedemann and his team at Design First was a first class experience. In 2015, we made structural design changes to an existing home. In the initial planning phase, Design First spent quality upfront time with us to truly understand our functional needs and personal design style to solidify and enhance our vision and plan. They helped create and implement a beautiful and functional kitchen for our home and enhanced our family room with design features of the cut out glass which provides light to the neighbouring hallway, the wall panelling, and the built-in cabinets and shelves. Overall their creativity and detailed eye provided enhancements to various areas of our home. From start to finish, Design First's customer service was impeccable! We would highly recommend them to anyone! Kerri-Lynn and Brian

We had wanted to update the kitchen in our 107 year old home for quite some time, but we were not finding something that would work. At a friend's suggestion, we met with Friedemann at Design First. He worked dynamically on a plan with us that was beyond what we had envisioned but was exactly what we had been wanting. He then set about making it a reality. Friedemann and his team oversaw every aspect of the reno/project that not only gave us our kitchen, but transformed our entire main floor such our home suddenly made sense. My husband and I now cook together with ample room, and entertain with pride. So many times, I walk downstairs and say Wow! I live HERE! Pinch me! :) Living through a reno is not easy, but I felt that Design First would deliver the entire way through. Their commitment to quality in all areas was refreshing & stress-relieving. The response from friends, neighbours and family to our kitchen has been "wow, it's beautiful and so you" I would highly recommend Design First. We couldn't be happier. There is nothing I would change in my new kitchen. :) Thank you Friedemann.

We purchased a bungalow on the Rideau River in Manotick, in need of a makeover Our goal was to have the open concept kitchen and family room reflect our personal style while adding functionality. It was also important for this space to have the flexibility of family life during the week and entertaining space on weekends. After meeting Friedemann and his team, I was content that we had made the right decision. I have to say, I myself felt as though I was part of their team, making decisions along the way while being supported by talent and expertise. I kept thinking, this is how it should be done. We are thrilled with the results, which exceeded our expectations. When we get home now from work, we feel like we're stepping into a magazine, its a true showpiece. And the biggest compliment is this; when guests arrive at our home now, they pull out their phones to take photos. - Sue

Almost 7 years ago we decided to make some changes to our 1960's bungalow. A small kitchen and awkward layout had us wondering how we could best make use of the space. Thankfully we went with Design First, Friedemann and his team thought beyond the use of space and focussed on how we lived in it. The plans called for a small addition and renovation to kitchen and living room. What could have been a painful/stressful experience was anything but. They were responsive always on site worrying about the things any home owner does, but they do it for you. In many cases we did not even have to ask about details, was already done. The rare cases where we did have concerns they were addressed immediately. Looking back can't imagine doing it any other way. The end result was a classic kitchen/living space that 7 years later looks as fresh as the day it was completed. It was an award winner for a Subzero kitchen design contest. We are grateful to Friedemann and his team for not only making good use of space but for making a room our growing family loves living in.

It is more than 20 years since we first worked with Friedemann on a major kitchen renovation. Both our 2 daughters and us enjoyed cooking and our small galley kitchen, the style of that time, but not up to all our activities. We decided to expand the kitchen with a small addition and that was when we discovered Friedemann. We explained what features were important to us; this was to be a working kitchen, function and efficiency were priorities. He did wonders with the space he had to work with. His advice on appliances has stood the test of time, his design and use of space created a WOW kitchen. Styles have changed, but good design lasts - we love our kitchen; visitors still say, "it's a kitchen to die for". Last fall we decided that our bathrooms (from the 70s) needed a facelift, so we visited Friedemann again. This time there was no extra space to work with, but Freidmann came up with some really innovative renovations and created spa-like spaces. He walked us through the maze of fixtures and tile options. These show rooms can be intimidating to the novice, but Friedemann came up with some stunning combinations, which we bounced around until we were satisfied. His design staff is very knowledgeable about products and gave excellent advice on the smaller details and also supervised deliveries and coordinated the work site activities. The tile and cabinet installers he subcontracted are artists. They took ownership and pride in their work and persisted until they were satisfied; their craftsmanship will be appreciated for years to come. From Design First you can expect exciting design options, expert product advice and quality workmanship. You will also meet some very interesting people.

We hired Friedemann Weinhardt of Design First Interiors to design and join together our 2 Penthouse suites to make it into one suite. We have known Friedemann since the early 1980’s and we always said we would have him do a kitchen for us some day but we did not anticipate putting two units together that would also require a kitchen. We chose Friedemann first and foremost for his design acumen and because we wanted the best designer for this custom project. He and his Interior Designer, Megan Lewis, have done an exemplary job at designing our new home, down to the minutest detail. They followed through with our builder to be sure the design remained true to the drawings. We are now living in the space and absolutely love it but it remains a work in progress. The Design First team will be on board with us as we move forward to complete our home. A gorgeous new kitchen, Master bath vanity, Laundry room and other built-in units are yet to come. We cannot praise the design team enough and we know we made the right choice in hiring Design First Interiors to design our new home. Ken and Lynn

What a genius! Friedemann has more talent in his little finger than any other designer of kitchens and interiors I've ever met! I bought the same house twice and Friedemann designed the kitchen and master bath the first time and then again 25 years later, he redesigned them. Fabulous results both times! I recommend him highly for any design work you may need ... And besides, he' s really a nice guy and fun to know!

I've had 2 major projects designed and installed by Design First Interiors ( February 2014 and January 2015). Their professionalism and care to details was excellent. They re-designed my kitchen and living room. I had so many positive comments on the design and work, I would have no hesitation referring this company to anyone. No other company can match Design First Interiors. The staff is courtious, helpful and keep you updated on every stage of the project. They performed and excellent job. Bravo

Design First designed a fabulous new kitchen for our 1950s house and acted as project manager through the renovation. The design introduced a new powder room and modernized kitchen where an old small kitchen and dining room used to be. The design seemlessly transitions to an existing family room addition which was not well used or connected before. Friedemann's design has transformed our home and how we use it. By seeing the possibilities of the current footprint of the house, Friedemann talked us out of an addition and incorporated our wishlist within the current structure of the house. We recommend Friedemann and his team highly.

In 2006 we underwent extensive renovation of our kitchen and en-suite bathroom with the team at Design First helping us through this often challenging process. Friedemann guided the design process with his knowledge and creative ideas but respected our input and particular needs. He worked with us to design rooms that fit with the rest of our home. The outcomes were stylish and fresh. Friedemann is very exacting and a stickler for the details, which makes a huge difference to the final product. His oversight of the project ensured quality throughout. We have since had some “accidents” requiring repair and found Design First very helpful in getting this fixed properly. We are extremely pleased with all aspects of Design First – from the design concept to installation to aftercare. We are planning to do some more renovations and will definitely be calling on Friedemann and his team.

The Kitchen Renovation Our home was built in the early 1960's and as was the custom of the day kitchens were considered as an afterthought towards form along with function. Our kitchen could be best described as an L shaped galley that was dark and not inviting. Over the years we found our kitchen was not being used that much as we tended to go out for dinner more often than at home as we found food preparation was difficult with the space allotted for this. In the mid nineties on a walk through the Byward Market in Ottawa we came across the company Design First Interiors and to suggest we were impressed with the concepts this company produced would be the classic use of the term understatement. At this time in our lives we were doing a lot of travelling and decided to put the kitchen renovation on hold until we did the major travel we wanted to do. In 2006 we had our first meeting with Friedemann Weinhardt of Design First Interiors. What impressed us both was his quiet professionalism and how in less than five minutes with the use of onion paper as an overlay over the house plans for the kitchen he drew 95% of the proposed concept. At this time we had saved what we considered a reasonable amount of money and on review of the costs we decided another year of savings would be in order as we would be redoing the dining room as well. In 2007 we committed ourselves early in the year for a post Labour Day start for our project in which a Gantt chart was used to show a coherent work schedule. What was very impressive is the completion date was the same date the chart stated! Friedemann subcontracted the construction work to Crossford Construction in which we were really impressed with the attention to detail for example at the end of the day not only was the work site swept but a large shop vacuum was used to clean up after each day. As work progressed it was analogous to layers of an onion being peeled back as they found and rectified mistakes made in the original construction such as a live electrical wire that was left behind the wall. As in any major construction there can be some problems and when such problems occurred Friedemann personal ethos is "for any problem there is a solution"! -2- Now eight years later we have a kitchen that works, a very bright interior enhanced by a box window for the kitchen, halogen ceiling lights, more openness in the kitchen by better use of space for storage, a very nice stone mosaic of the world by our gas range and more importantly a "wow factor" that still exists each morning when we come into the kitchen. Even our friends who come over still comment on the design and functionality of the kitchen. In closing yes this was an expensive project but well worth the time it took from completion to end so much so we wrote an unsolicited letter of commendation to the Better Business Bureau of Ottawa and Outaouais for Design First Interiors for the excellent work they did.

Friedemann and his team helped us design two homes from the inside out. We involved him from the planning stages and are so happy that we did. In both cases, the final result was better than we had imagined and we know that we would not have been as satisfied had we not worked with Friedemann. His attention to detail is amazing. On our projects, he did not settle with a design until he was sure and so were we that it was the best possible design. He also insured that every detail was built out according to plan. We are grateful for all the time and effort he put in to helping us. We couldn't have done it without him!

We have used Design First Interiors services twice : the first time to redo our kitchen and the other time to redo a bathroom. In both cases, it was a total redesign. On both occasions, Friedemann sat down with us and took plenty of time to know our needs and the items we had on our wish list. There are no boundaries with him. He starts with a clean slate and everything builds up from there. He listens to you and makes sure he delivers a product that works for you. He's an absolute genius at what he does. Before you start any big house renovation project, consider stopping by Design First Interiors to get Friedemann's advice and opinion.

We have been fortunate to have used the services of Design First on two renovations on our dreary, early 1960s home. The first was a two-story kitchen/family room addition. The second was a master bedroom/bathroom renovation and second floor main bath. Friedemann is a gifted, creative and talented designer who was able to take a challenging, outdated, 1960s space and transform it into a family space that is beautiful, relevant, long-lasting, and timeless. The attention to detail, quality and material is exceptional. The entire process was very collaborative and we would absolutely use the services of Friedemann and his design team. I would jump at the opportunity to experience another renovation by Design First Interiors.

The project. Renovation of a small kitchen and bathroom in an almost century-old house. The kitchen was a difficult space to work with because of its odd configuration with several doorways. The challenge with the bathroom was that although very small, we wanted a three-piece bathroom including a shower! The team. Friedemann proposed excellent ideas regarding design while respecting our preferences. One of the aspects of Design First that appealed to us was that they take care of everything from start to finish. Design, selection of trades, proposed style and materials, right down to finishings. They gave us a detailed timeline, which was adhered to. The Design First team served as go-between in solving issues that arose, as expected during the project, in a timely and professional manner. We were very satisfied with our experience with Friedemann and his team and are still enjoying our beautifully finished bathroom and kitchen after 5 years of extensive use.

Friedemann helped us to built our dream kitchen in our century-old home, taking account of the limited space and blending it perfectly with the character of the building. From the planing until the end of the kitchen project we enjoyed working with Friedemann, who had always the best ideas. i am looking forward to doing other projects with him

Friedman was able to design a great kitchen for me and then make sure my contractor completed the job on time in a flawless manner .

When it came time in 2005 to renovate the kitchen in our century home, Friedemann proposed a design that optimized the use of space while blending naturally with the traditional characteristics of the house, a combination that ultimately won the Design First team an award for their work. Beyond the design, Friedemann delivered on his promise to manage all aspects of the renovation, leaving us to enjoy the emergence of our spectacular new kitchen, on time and on budget. Visitors inevitably comment on the kitchen, particularly its timeless quality and the way it integrates with the rest of our home. Given our high level of satisfaction, Design First was a natural choice when it came time in 2010 to renovate our master bath. Once again, Friedemann’s creative use of space and attention to detail produced a first class outcome.

We've recently completed a total home renovation, including the addition of a large outdoor living area. Design First Interiors comprehensive approach during the initial phases of the project resulted in a design that not only included all of the design features we were looking to incorporate, but also many innovative ideas to enhance those improvements. Friedemann's ability to customize millwork, appliance and furniture selection, lighting concepts and finishes to the personal tastes of the homeowner ensures a result that is both elegant and impressive. Their extensive portfolio of award winning designs and completed projects is a testament to their ability to transform spaces that maximize functionality and esthetics. Design First oversees the project, working with excellent sub-trades to ensure quality installations and finishing that precisely conform to the approved design. We are thoroughly happy with our experience and the finished home has exceeded all our initial expectations. Dr. Terry Olsheski Pembroke, Ontario

We highly recommend Design First Interiors, as an excellent full service renovator in Ottawa, with special expertise in kitchens and bathrooms. In 2010 our kitchen and 2 bathrooms were renovated, using high quality Canadian cabinetry supplied by Artcraft Kitchens. Friedemann Weinhardt and Gabriela Miguel, along with installer Charles Czuczor, carried out our project and they provided us with good design options to work with, along with estimated costs to help us make choices. They were very professional and easy to work with. The team is extremely knowledgeable in their trade, exacting in details and have impeccable taste in design and in materials. This company is an award winner and its accolades are well deserved.

Project Price: $35,000 We engaged Design First Interiors to provide full interiors design for a brand new home in 2011. The work involved interior layout and selection of materials for kitchen, living room, dining room, bedrooms, laundry room, bathrooms and master en suite. We were very pleased with the design concepts in all areas; everything was exceptional and well thought through. The square footage used efficiently and functionality has been evident since I moved in last year. Friedemann selected materials such that the project met our expectations as well as our budget. The result has been absolutely stunning, a wonderful appealing space. Friedemann is a great project manager as his work ran smoothly and on time from start to finish. After living in the house for almost one year, I can confirm that Designs First Interiors succeeded in creating the place I always wanted. I feel strongly that I received top value for the money I spent. I would definitely recommend Design First Interiors to anyone planning to build a new house or for remodelling of an existing house.

Friedemann and his team assisted us with our condo kitchen renovation the Cayman Islands. While we originally were considering simply replacing the cabinetry, the team made highly useful recommendations given the space, views, and storage needs for the unit. We effectively "flipped" the kitchen in a different direction, relocated the fridge and created a modern kitchen that ties directly into the sand out the front of our unit. The design process identified potential challenges upfront and the installer was able to complete the project quickly. When challenges came up (as invariably do) during the installation, the team was quick with potential options and work arounds. We were thrilled with the update, the budget and enjoy working with the team in Ottawa.

Friedemann and his team have produced excellent designs and have been a huge help to us in our design process. Initially, we hired Friedemann to design our kitchen, however, he ended up doing much more than that! He has a great eye for details and knows how to make the flow of a house work well. The products that we have in our home from Design First are amazing quality and top notch.

We retained Design First to remodel the ground floor of our house, and the master bath in our new (old) home. We were - and 7 years later remain - very pleased with every aspect of the project. Friedemann's design made excellent use of the space, and resulted in a very usable, yet beautiful kitchen. Making the myriad choices ended up being straightforward, painless and well organized. Also very helpful was his attention to detail and insistence that the trades deliver first class work - which redressed any deficiencies. Highly recommended.

In 2010, our sad 1980's kitchen and family room were badly in need of major renovation. We never imagined we were about to become the proud owners of an award-winning kitchen! It began with our search for out-of-the-box thinking, which we certainly found in Friedemann Weinhardt, owner of Design First Interiors. Within minutes of meeting him, we were blown away by his creative and immensely practical ideas. In the weeks that followed, Friedemann took us through a careful process of assessing our needs and wishes, our lifestyle and preferences, and of course our budget. His resulting design was brilliant. Design First managed the project, working closely with the contractor throughout the entire renovation and ensuring that every detail was finely tuned and built to perfection. We were so pleased with the concepts and the workmanship, that the project expanded to most of the ground floor. Friedemann made our decisions easy for us, and his recommendations always proved to be the right choice in every detail of the project. From the stunning, efficient cabinetry, to the floor and ceiling details, it all came together beautifully. We have absolutely no regrets - we love it!

I have worked with Design First Interior a number of times and have been thrilled with the results each time. Our kitchen was designed and installed in 2002 and still looks terrific. I still love cooking and baking in this wonderful space. The design is not only beautiful but so practical and efficient. Design First understood my needs and was able to incorporate them into the plan. In addition to the kitchen Design First designed two bathrooms and a powder room, bedroom storage and helped with the overall remodelling of our home. The design work is exceptional and of excellent quality with very detailed plans. I highly recommend Design First. The staff is very pleasant, available and supportive.

Design First did a complete redo of our kitchen. We went to four other firms first but none came up with a layout plan that inspired us. Friedman did and we could not be happier with the result. After nearly a year of daily use, we continue to marvel not just at how good it looks but even more importantly at how functional the room now is compared to what it was before. The commitment to quality and customer service from the Design First team shines through the results.

We engaged Design First Interiors to design a kitchen and master bathroom in 2011. Friedemann's creativity in suggesting design concepts was exceptional and combined functionality with a beautiful aesthetic. The fact that the designs were the subject of recognition in the form of awards confirms the success of the project. It also represents a bonus in terms of resale value.

I used Design First Interiors in June 2010 when I was doing a complete renovation of my 1920’s home and wanted a design that would complement and enhance a very modern interior design in a home that had a staid and formal exterior presence. Friedemann’s design gave me exactly what I was looking for and the kitchen remains a focal point for the ground floor and continues to get great reviews. Friedemann provided detailed drawings, supervised the installation and delivered his work on time and within budget which is not something that happens with every renovation.

Friedemann upgraded our kitchen and apartment 30 years after he did the original installation. The upgrade is as marvellous as the original installation, and now looks and functions even better with the additional work.

After consultation with several kitchen designers that were uninspiring we selected Friedemann Weinhardt of Design First to update our kitchen. His obvious vision and enthusiasm for the project was the deciding factor in choosing him. He modernized our small cramped kitchen and opened it up so that it flowed seamlessly into the rest of our heritage home. His attention to detail was flawless and he was diligent about helping us to stay on budget while gently persuading us to accept his professional advice. The work was completed on schedule and on budget by very qualified professionals who cleaned up every evening before they left. We are very satisfied clients who would use Friedemann for any future project and have no hesitation in recommending Design First to others.

I would highly recommend Design First Interiors to anyone considering a kitchen or bathroom remodelling. We have worked with Friedemann and his team on two occasions, first for a kitchen renovation in 2008, followed by the redesign of our master bath in 2012. In both cases the results were absolutely stunning. We particularly appreciated Friedemann's creativity in proposing design options that complemented the existing layout of our century home and made maximum use of the relatively small space available. None of the other designers we consulted came close to Friedemann in terms of the quality of his work. In addition, he ensured that the project ran smoothly and on time from start to finish, and the contractors he used were consistently professional and expert. Friedemann's recommendations for surfaces, cabinetry, appliances etc were all excellent, and at the end of both projects I felt strongly that we had received very good value for money.

They were very helpful and knowledgeable about there products. Pleasant to deal with and was prompt in arriving on the time arranged. They cleaned up after they were finished the job. I will use them again.

We cannot be more pleased with our Design First kitchen. At first we tried to figure out a remodel ourselves but gave up trying to incorporate an island into our small space. Design First developed a creative plan to get the feel and functionality we wanted. The resulting kitchen is absolutely stunning and is complimented by everyone who walks in the door. It is now the focal point of our home and a joy to be in. It is also the winner of two design awards — amazing given the stiff competition from million-dollar homes, which ours is not. (A bonus when we go to sell.) The biggest surprise, however, was the cost competitive cabinetry. We priced Design First’s custom cabinets against Home Depot's, and were shocked to discover that the pricing for an equivalent design was nearly the same. Every once in a while you get more than you pay for.

I first met Friedman of Design First Interiors years ago when we hired him to help us plan the layout of our new kitchen. He is very knowledgeable and was a pleasure to work with. I have seen some of his latest work and can tell you that this man has talent! I would highly recommend him for any design project.