Today we’d like to introduce you to Emily Bjerke.
Hi Emily, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I earned a Bachelor of Interior Design and began my LLC in 2007. After working in Kitchen and Bath, at the Michigan Design Center, and various other design related jobs while completing school, I began taking freelance design projects. Once we started our family, I chose to take a select few projects so I could focus on my kids. During this time I worked with a local developer on multi-family properties they owned. Once my children (4 boys) were all school age, I knew it was time to turn back to my roots. I rebranded, and launched Design Studio Detroit in January 2021. At that time I was working solo on smaller remodel projects. Since then, we have grown to a 3 person team, and are working on much larger scale remodel projects, and several new build project with a few different builders. We are so thankful for incredible clients, many of which are now repeat, and for the wonderful relationships we have developed with our builders.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Being a female owned and operated business, there are always challenges. One perk however, is the flexibility in my schedule, as being home with my children was very important to me. This meant I took the long route to growth, but that was ok. As a female in a largely male space (builders, contractors, trades people, etc) it can be a challenge to hold space and earn respect, but thankfully most of the gentlemen I have worked with are top notch and have shown the utmost respect. Another aspect that is channeling is managing home life, and work life. Women often do it all and finding the balance between the two is certainly difficult, but I am thankful for the support of my husband and family.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Design Studio Detroit has operated with a client-focused approach to design, serving Metro Detroit, Michigan and beyond. We pride ourselves on building lasting relationships with our clients, contractors, and vendors, while executing a beautiful design. Our experience, along with our unique style and personal touch, are just a small part of what we bring to each project. Combining our passion for great design, art, and architecture and a love of antiques, we have developed a reputation for creating beautiful yet functional spaces.
We focus predominantly on residential remodel and new home build projects, with a few commercial projects in-between.
How do you think about happiness?
Things that bring me joy:
My family- 4 boys (16, 13, 10, 10) and husband- they are my whole world.
My dog, Betty (golden retriever). She’s the daughter I never had and my bestie
My plants- I went from 0 to over 30 real quick and I have a deep love for them all! Something about nurturing them and watching them grow brings me so much joy. Also my spring flowers outside make me so happy
And….. coffee. Some might call it an obsession. and some would not be wrong…. 😉
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.designstudiodetroit.com
- Instagram: @designstudiodetroit
Image Credits
Jacob Hawkins Photography
