Today we’d like to introduce you to Marianne Jones.
Hi Marianne, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My journey into interior design began with a strong foundation in fine art and a business minor. I started my career in graphic design, working with clients in the building and development space—first in Orange County, California, then later in Birmingham, Michigan. I was drawn to small, entrepreneurial businesses where I continually gravitated toward the account and strategy side of projects.
This led me to transition into sales, where I worked with key accounts and gained valuable experience in budget development and goal-setting. Meanwhile, in my personal life, my husband and I were buying, fixing up, and selling homes—and it was there that I discovered my true passion.
After taking some time off to raise my children, I decided to return to the professional world, but this time selling what I loved: design. I took on the role of New Business Development for the Michigan Design Center, where I had the opportunity to meet and build friendships within the local design community, as well as connect with thought leaders in the national design center arena.
In 2010, I launched my own design firm. Looking back, I realize it was the culmination of all these experiences—art, business, strategy, sales, and hands-on renovation—that brought me to where I am today. Our expertise is luxury interior design with a focus on construction and renovation projects.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It hasn’t been a completely smooth road. Not having worked for a design firm prior to launching my own, the most difficult challenge was establishing best practices from the ground up—developing internal systems and processes, understanding margins, creating contracts, and building the right platforms to run the business efficiently.
Fortunately, I had many generous teachers in the design community who guided me through the nuances of the market, introduced me to key vendors, and even shared their contracts with me as templates. It has been a journey to get us to where we are now, and I’ve relied heavily on industry experts along the way. I’m always learning, and I see that as one of our greatest strengths—staying curious and continuously evolving our practice.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
We’re known for our “timeless classic” aesthetic. Interior design is a significant investment, and I’m most proud of the way our interiors stand the test of time—they don’t feel dated five or ten years down the road.
Our specialty is ground-up construction, where we create environments that bring our clients’ visions to life. It’s our goal to deliver on their personal vision, not impose our own. To do that well, we immerse ourselves in understanding the resources available in the marketplace, the nuances of materiality, and where technology and construction methods are headed as they relate to the modern home.
I’d like to believe that what truly sets us apart is the combination of our design sensibility, our refined process, and our personal integrity. We build relationships based on trust and transparency, and we’re committed to guiding our clients through what can be an overwhelming process with clarity and care.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
This is a wonderful question! “It takes a village” is truly an understatement in my case.
I’ve had so many professional mentors and peers throughout my journey, and I’m a firm believer in seeking out experts and learning from those who’ve walked the path before you. The local design showrooms and vendors have been incredible business partners, playing a crucial role in helping us grow and refine our practice. This is not a journey to go alone, I have been blessed with a team of talented designers, technicians, administrative support, consultants and independent contractors. The trades that support our projects are key in the success of all of our projects.
I’ve also had the privilege of developing some wonderful team members who have been integral to the growth and success of the firm. Their talent, dedication, and collaboration have elevated everything we do.
My biggest cheerleaders have been my family. I have an incredible husband and three wonderful adult children who have contributed to the firm in so many ways—whether it’s strategic coaching, brand and marketing support, or simply providing emotional support when I need it most. Their belief in me and this business has been invaluable, and I’m deeply grateful for that foundation.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://mariannejones.com
- Instagram: mariannejonesdesign
- LinkedIn: marianne jones interior design
Image Credits
Photography: Stephanie Russo Stylist: Rachel Forslund
