 | Jamie Merida, Jamie Merida Interiorsjamiemerida.com, 410-819-8666 |
 | Laura Hildebrandt, Interiors by LHinteriorsbylh.com, 571-334-6476 PHOTO: Christy Kosnic Photography |
 | Becky Wetzler, Haus Interior Designhausinteriordesign.com, 240-907-7465 Photo and Styling: Stylist Productions |
 | Barbara Hawthorn, IFDA, |
 | Joyce Pearl, Interior Concepts, Inc.interiorconceptsinc.com, 410-224-7366 PHOTO: Matthew Dandy |
 | Ann Gottlieb, Ann Gottlieb Design PLLCanngottliebdesign.com, 571-771-9357 PHOTO: Angela Newton Roy Photography |
 | Andrea Maaseide, Casa Milliecasamillie.com, 571-459-2136 |
 | Bonnie Ammon, Bonnie Ammon Interiorsbonnieammoninteriors.com, 703-778-5755 |
 | Laura Fox, Laura Fox Interior Design, LLCIn addition to aesthetics, designing a living room comes down to balance and function. For example, a coffee table should measure approximately two-thirds of the sofa’s length. If a room is large enough, multiple furniture groupings will encourage conversation and let you move pieces around as needed. |
 | Hannah Goldberg, Hannah Charlotte Interiorshannahcharlotteinteriors.com PHOTO: Jenn Verrier |
 | Suzanne Manlove, Manlove & Company InteriorsA well-designed living room should include a layered mix of ambient lighting for overall warmth, task lighting for activities like reading and accent lighting to highlight art or architecture. We often collaborate with smart-home specialists who create custom lighting solutions that seamlessly shift moods from daytime to evening. manloveandco.com, 703-520-2125 |
 | Sarita Simpson, Interior MatterThe best conversation areas are designed around people, not the room itself. We arrange seating so people can face one another within comfortable distance; leaving generous pathways for movement creates a space that feels both inviting and effortless. When the layout feels intuitive, a room quietly encourages connection. interiormatter.com, 202-900-3818 |
 | What I love: “With their timeless beauty, the Arteriors chandelier and Mastour rug are my favorite elements in this Georgetown tasting room. The modern lattice pattern of the rug has just the right scale and the chandelier lends visual harmony.” —Courtney Griffin, Interior Concepts, Inc. |
 | What I love: “Phillip Jeffries’ Union Square wallcovering is the jewelry that makes this dining room sparkle. Like framed artwork on the ceiling, this paper draws the eye up, visually expanding the space and adding interest to the fifth wall.” —Debby Cooper, DC Interiors |
 | What I love: “The way muralist Dee Lenehan can transform any space with a small amount of paint and a huge quantity of talent! For a guest bedroom, we incorporated the family’s love of travel in a fun, innovative, and spontaneous two-tone wall mural.” —Christie Leu, Christie Leu Interiors |
 | What I love: “The painting, by revered abstract expressionist Paul Jenkins, brings a joyful pop of color to a serene Bethesda primary suite, where custom-designed furnishings and luxurious neutral fabrics imbue the space with elegance.” —Barbara Hawthorn, Barbara Hawthorn Interiors, Ltd. Photo: Kenneth M. Wyner Photography
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 | What I love: “Arte’s Object Grandeur wall covering because it adds instant architecture to this Vienna home office, instantly elevating the room. The Fog color is so serene, and it’s suede texture helps to absorb sound, removing any of the echoes.” —Laura Hildebrandt, Interiors by LH |
 | What I love: “With its sculptural presence and timeless craftsmanship, Signature Hardware’s Kateryn Cast Iron Soaking Tub serves as a striking focal point within this central Virginia wet room, enhancing the bath’s refined spa-like atmosphere.” —Becky Wetzler, ASID Allied, Haus Interior Design, Inc. |
 | What I love: “Benjamin Moore’s Cheating Heart paint adds depth to small spaces like this Vienna home office, creating the feeling of a chic cocoon. A charcoal gray with blue undertones, it works with the room’s moody vibe, giving it a cool, modern edge.” —Andrea Maaseide, Founder & Principal & Allied Member ASID, Casa Millie |
 | What I love: “Bold yet whimsical, Clarence House’s Asian-inspired Tibet wallpaper is the perfect finishing touch for this Bohemian-styled bath in Bethesda, while Currey & Company’s tumbled seaglass Bayou pendant lends a luxurious vibe.” —Melissa Broffman, Melissa Broffman Interior Design |
 | What I love: “Phillip Jeffries Rivet Grasscloth Wallcovering instantly transforms this Lake Anna, Virginia, bedroom into a sophisticated retreat that feels like a luxury boutique hotel. Its rich texture and subtle metallic detailing bring depth and sophistication to the space without overpowering it.” —Bonnie Ammon, Bonnie Ammon Interiors
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 | What I love: “As an interior designer, I enjoy finding solutions for small spaces. In one narrow townhouse, we selected a Gladiator workbench for the dining table and paired it with sustainable rubberwood Safavieh chairs. This combination offers great functionality and a unique modern aesthetic.” —Martina Lipperini, Martina Lipperini Interior Design |
 | What I love: “With a rich faux-bois wallcovering, botanical drapes that softly filter light and cane-backed lacquer chairs, this dining room balances sophistication with warmth in a way that feels timeless for a space that is truly memorable.” —Katy Anderson, Katy Anderson Interiors
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 | What I love: “Animal prints, such as the Kudu pattern rug from Masland Carpets, are a timeless choice. Because it’s polyester, stains won’t stick, so it’s perfect for this grown-up den. Even though it’s a fun design and colorway, it’s quite sophisticated.” —Skip Sroka, Sroka Design |
Every year, Home & Design shines a light on up-and-coming designers who have launched firms of their own. Our 2026 lineup includes Caroline Kofol, Jazmyne Simmons, Matthew Quill, Robin Heller and Jen Levy. We spent a day getting to know and photographing these pros at the stunning Ateliers Jacob showroom in Cady’s Alley—their stories follow.
 | Caroline KofolCaroline Kofol Interiors |
 | Jazmyne SimmonsJazmyne Design Studio |
 | Matthew QuillMatthew Quill Interiors |
 | Jen Levy & Robin HellerSurrounded by Color |
How do you like to enjoy the bay?
We started out sailing but transitioned to a Downeast-style power boat to cover longer distances in less time. One memorable trip was a visit to Smith Island—a vivid reminder of the rapid and dramatic changes affecting people who make their living on the Chesapeake.
What building most inspires you?
The Fisher Fine Arts Library at the University of Pennsylvania, designed by Frank Furness, is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. I spent a good deal of time there as a master’s student and each visit revealed something new.
Go-to hot spot for local fare?
Davis’ Pub in Eastport truly feels like stepping into another era. We almost always know someone there, and the gumbo is terrific.
Must-wear seasonal accessory?
My OluKai flip-flops. They donate a portion of their profits to conservation, which is a plus.
Share a recent revelatory read.
Evicted by Matthew Desmond follows eight families struggling with poverty, moving quickly between hope and loss. It’s not an easy read, but it offers meaningful insight and explores potential solutions.
FAVORITE STATEMENT SOFA?
I’m drawn to unique pieces that give a room character. The curvaceous lines of this mid-century-styled Global Views sofa soften the rectangular shapes and add sophistication to this living room I designed in a Maryland home.
WHAT’S ON YOUR SUMMER PLAYLIST?
I lean into songs with a Caribbean vibe, so Bob Marley and Shaggy, plus SZA, Bruno Mars and Taylor Swift.
NAME YOUR DREAM DESTINATION.
Nice, France, always inspires me. I love how the natural landscape overlooks the sea and how the locals have an easy, breezy countenance.
GO-TO DC DINING SPOT?
Rasika West End. They have the cutest seating pods for small, intimate parties. Don’t miss the Palaak Chat.
SEASONAL TABLETOP TIP?
The most delightful summer tablescapes incorporate bright colors. As you can see in a garden party covered in my book, vivid tablecloths, greenery and glasses always add cheer.
ULTIMATE BEACH ACCESSORY?
A pair of fabulous, tortoise-framed Powder sunglasses I recently found at the Hillwood mansion gift shop.
Home & Design unveiled its May/June 2026 issue on April 30th with a festive party at ADU—Your Appliance Source in Gaithersburg. Guests mingled and perused the showroom’s sleek installations.
 | Jamie Merida, Jamie Merida Interiorsjamiemerida.com, 410-819-8666 |
 | Laura Hildebrandt, Interiors by LHinteriorsbylh.com, 571-334-6476 PHOTO: Christy Kosnic Photography |
 | Becky Wetzler, Haus Interior DesignRepeating key hues creates rhythm and balance, while variations in tone keep the palette layered and interesting,” says Becky Wetzler, Allied ASID, of Haus Interior Design. She achieved this goal in a Maryland game room, blending soft velvets and jacquards in warm neutrals and muted reds with airy linen drapes. “The goal is not for everything to match perfectly,” she adds, “but for each element to feel intentional. hausinteriordesign.com, 240-907-7465 Photo: Stacy Zarin Goldberg |
 | Barbara Hawthorn, IFDA, Barbara Hawthorn InteriorsA common mistake is leaning too heavily on fabrics that are similar in scale or pattern, which can make a room feel flat. On the flip side, combining too many bold elements without a unifying palette can quickly feel chaotic. Texture is often overlooked, but it is just as important as pattern. And resist the urge to over-layer. A bit of restraint gives a room its refinement and allows each element to stand out. barbarahawthorninteriors.com, 703-241-5588 Photo: Kenneth M. Wyner Photography |
 | Joyce Pearl, Interior Concepts, Inc.interiorconceptsinc.com, 410-224-7366 Photo: Stacy Zarin Goldberg |
 | Ann Gottlieb, Ann Gottlieb Design PLLCYou’ve gone too far when the design looks untrained, mixing color tones and patterns that don’t harmonize. This skill takes time and doesn’t come overnight. anngottliebdesign.com, 571-771-9357 Photo: Angela Newton Roy Photography |
 | Andrea Maaseide, Allied ASID, Casa MillieResist the urge to put too many “superstar” fabrics in the same room. Think of it like a show: There’s a lead and there’s a supporting cast. Each role is essential, and neither truly shines without the other. The same principle applies to textiles: Let one fabric take center stage and the others play beautifully alongside it. casamillie.com, 571-459-2136 |
 | Bonnie Ammon, Bonnie Ammon InteriorsColor creates harmony within a layered space so we look for a common thread within the palette to keep a room feeling intentional and cohesive. Neutrals help provide moments of rest, while tailored details such as trim or subtle texture create refinement and continuity. bonnieammoninteriors.com, 703-778-5755 |
 | Laura Fox, Laura Fox Interior Design, LLC |
 | Hannah Goldberg, Hannah Charlotte InteriorsPhoto: Jenn Verrier |
 | Dennese Guadeloupe Rojas, Interiors by Design, LLCinteriorsbydesignmd.com, 301-933-7723
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 | Sarita Simpson, Interior Matterinteriormatter.com, 202-900-3818 |
 | McHale Landscape DesignMcHale Landscape Design is a residential landscape firm that focuses on designing, constructing and maintaining extraordinary gardens, pools and outdoor living areas. Read more... 301-281-6737 — mchalelandscape.com/hd |
 | Kane Landscapes, Inc.Kane Landscapes creates memorable outdoor living experiences providing excellence for our customers. Read more... 703-803-3146 — kanelandscapes.com |
 | Ed Ball DesignsEd Ball Designs is an award-winning design-build firm specializing in high-end residential landscapes across the Northern Virginia region. Read more... 703-433-1863 — edballdesigns.com |
 | Pristine AcresPristine Acres is an outdoor design/build firm that makes dreams come true through landscape designs that promote an indoor-outdoor lifestyle. Read more... 877-333-5651 — pristineacres.com |
 | SurroundsFounded in 2002, Surrounds is a high-end residential landscape firm. Our company name emerged from the idea that the beauty of nature surrounds us. Read more... 703-430-6001 — surroundslandscaping.com |
 | Fine Earth LandscapeFounded in 1977, Fine Earth Landscape creates and maintains beautiful outdoor environments, offering experience, reliability and craftsmanship. Read more... 301-972-8810 — fineearth.com |
 | Colao & Peter Luxury Outdoor LivingColao & Peter is an award-winning, outdoor-living firm specializing in luxury residential landscapes that balance function, craftsmanship and long-term performance. Read more... 703-553-0123 — colaopeter.com |
 | Wheat’s LandscapeEstablished in 1978, Wheat’s Landscape has evolved from a family lawn-care service to a full service Design Build and Maintenance company. Read more... 703-641-4790 — wheats.com |
 | Fine LandscapesFine Landscapes offers a bespoke, full-service approach to landscape architecture and horticulture, reflecting the unique character of each home. Read more... 703-672-2968 — finelandscapes.com |
 | Planted EarthSince 2010, Planted Earth has enriched the lives of clients by creating and maintaining beautiful, functional and award-winning spaces enhanced by nature’s beauty. Read more... 410-857-4744 — plantedearthlandscaping.com |
 | Land Art DesignFor over 40 years, Land Art Design has specialized in designing and implementing every detail of exceptional outdoor spaces. Read more... 703-448-9094 — landartdesign.com |
 | Executing Elegance in Northwest DCMcHale Landscape Design |
 | A Business Built on TrustPremier Turf & Landscaping |
 | Indoor Outdoor FlowEd Ball Designs |
Since opening its doors in 1981, McHale Landscape Design has grown into a full-service, 350+ person design-build firm specializing in high-end residential landscapes. We operate six locations, including three design studios and a private 40-acre nursery, ensuring seamless project execution. Our in-house teams of landscape architects, masons, carpenters, and maintenance professionals allow us to deliver projects with unmatched precision and cohesion—no outsourcing, no finger-pointing, just a unified vision.
McHale Landscape Design is dedicated to creating exceptional residential landscapes that combine artistry, craftsmanship, and horticultural expertise, such as the Northwest DC project with Cathedral views seen here.. For over 40 years, we have designed, built and maintained stunning outdoor spaces, including more than 450 award-winning landscapes.
In today’s fast-paced world, a beautifully designed outdoor space provides a much-needed retreat—a place to relax, entertain, exercise, cook, and reconnect with nature. Since the pandemic and increasing societal stressors, homeowners have placed even greater value on creating personal sanctuaries where they can feel secure, unwind, and truly enjoy their home.
McHale Landscape Design
301-281-6737 | mchalelandscape.com/hd
Ed Ball Designs transformed this underperforming backyard in Arlington, Virginia into a fully functional outdoor living space designed for both everyday family use and entertaining. The project includes a large patio for dining and seating, a custom pergola for shade and structure, an outdoor kitchen, a stucco fireplace for cooler evenings, and a regraded lawn that created a larger, more usable green space.
Large-format concrete pavers were used for the patio, dry-stacked Pennsylvania drystone walls help define the different levels of the yard, and granite countertops were incorporated into the outdoor kitchen. Layered evergreen shrubs, ornamental grasses and seasonal perennials soften the hardscape and provide structure and interest throughout the year.
The result is a backyard that functions as a true extension of the home, with spaces for cooking, dining, relaxing and entertaining throughout the seasons.
Ed Ball Designs
703-433-1863 | edballdesigns.com
Premier Turf and Landscaping was founded in 1995 by Don and Michelle Doxsee in Prince William County, Virginia. The owners recognized a need for a landscaping company that prioritized strong relationships, quality workmanship, and dependable service. From the beginning, their goal was to build a company focused on trust, long-term client relationships and exceptional outdoor spaces. This philosophy continues to guide the company today.
Premier Turf and Landscaping specializes in high-quality residential hardscape and softscape design and construction. The company also provides professional tree removal, pruning and a full range of landscape services designed to enhance and maintain beautiful outdoor environments. Recently, the company worked on one of their most rewarding projects; the transformation of a school playground area. What was once a muddy, bare slope was redesigned into a functional and beautiful outdoor space for students and teachers to enjoy. It’s just one example of how Premier Turf and Landscaping puts people first by offering complete outdoor solutions from concept to completion.
Premier Turf & Landscaping
703-754-3326 | premierturfandlandscaping.com
