About Dastvan Designs
Busy working in the corporate world and raising a young family I realized I wasn’t listening to my inner voice or valuing my true interests. While considering becoming a real estate agent it dawned on me that I was more interested in getting into the houses to see the design and decoration than I was in selling them. Going to college for interior design while raising my young family wasn’t easy, but I have to admit it was validating and intoxicating – this is my Happy Place. While some students groaned with each new project, I couldn’t wait for the next one to see what the challenges were. I am especially inspired when faced with a challenge and am relentless in finding the best solution.
Happily, I still feel the same way to this day each time I meet a prospective client! Even the challenge of designing for couples with polar opposite tastes doesn’t faze me: One likes contemporary, the other likes French country; one wants to move, the other sees the possibility of renovating; one wants to keep great grandmother’s tea cart and the other wants it to mysteriously disappear – bring it on! I enjoy the process of getting to know my clients and understanding the vibe they want their home to give. Then I help guide them through the process, keeping the big picture in mind, until the job is done and everyone is smiling.
Press & Accolades
The Baltimore Sun: “Decorator Show House”
The Washington Post: “House Calls”
Home & Design: “Top 5 Hot New Talent”
What our Clients Are Saying:
“Julie is a wonderful person to work with, so patient and good-natured — and very funny!”
“Working with Julie is proving to be a memorable experience. We’ve bonded — and it’s thanks to her.”
“My house is now a home that truly reflects my personality and style. It is an understatement to say that I’m satisfied with my renovated bathroom and redecorated living room/dining room, master bedroom, and guest bedroom. I LOVE my transformed house!”
“Each time I walk through my front door, I smile and pause to admire the welcoming, open, light, and warm appearance of my home.”
“My experience working with Julie, “the” Julie of Dastvan Designs, LLC, was terrific. From our initial consultation, I sensed that she would be a perfect interior designer to meet my needs. I never looked back or doubted my first impression, and Julie exuded patience and professionalism as we worked together from the initial design stage through construction and redecorating.”
“At times, the “house project” became overwhelming and frustrating, but Julie always helped me see the big picture and take one step at time as she retained her contagious sense of humor and assured me that she “had my back.” Her reassurance was genuine, and my beautiful home is a testament to Julie’s many talents, skills, and attributes.”
“Julie listened, truly listened, and helped me articulate my life-style, preferences, needs, likes and dislikes, etc. In this manner, she was able to design and decorate my house so that the décor reflected me. Julie also established a comfortable working relationship that meshed with how involved I wanted to be in the decision-making process.”
“When glitches occurred (as they always do in house projects), Julie acted quickly and professionally to rectify problems. This might entail calling a supply house to order additional bathroom floor tiles and arranging for next-day delivery or figuring out how to design a cabinet to accommodate/hide two litter boxes.”
“Julie was mindful of my budget. Julie’s contract was clearly written and carefully explained, so there were no surprises. I openly discussed my finances, and Julie made all decisions, keeping my budget in mind. That’s not to say that I didn’t go over-budget, but each and every decision and purchase was made with my approval. There was never any pressure from Julie.”
“I trusted Julie implicitly, and she was always true to her word. She knows many talented and respected people in the design and construction business, and her contacts proved valuable. Also, when she felt I was overcharged or an item was damaged and this caused “undue hardship,” Julie was masterful in getting credit to my account when it was due!”
“I could not be more at home in my house, thanks to Julie!”