What is your past work experience/education? Tell us a little bit about how you ended up in this field and what experiences brought you to the world of design.
I have an industrial design degree from Wayne State University.
I come from a building background. I worked at a high-end
home builder for almost 10 years. After that, I had my own
interior design business for about 7 years. Then, a prominent
local design firm asked me to manage their new lighting showroom. Eight years later, I’m at CAI.
Where were you raised?
I spent half of my childhood in Georgia and the rest of my life
has been in Michigan.
Where do you draw inspiration from?
Nature and my kids.
In your experience working with C.A.I. Designs thus far, what are some of your favorite product lines and why?
I love Hammerton, Accord, Alora and Lodes. Learning about
Hammerton’s artisanal quality and that it’s made in the USA is
important to know. The Accord wood lighting is so unique,
beautiful and unexpected. Alora has great designs similar to
other popular lines but there are design aspects that make them
unique and easy to sell. Lodes is just simply beautiful. It doesn’t
need any wacky designs to be “cool”. I love the edited offering
they have that is not overwhelming.
What is your favorite color?
Purple.
What do you like to do in your spare time? (Hobbies, Talents, Travel, Family, etc.)
I started watercolor painting & love it! I like cooking, gardening
and hiking. I am also a troop leader with our local boy scouts.
How would you characterize your design style?
I like new traditional with MCM thrown in.
What is your favorite food?
Mexican.
What is your favorite TV series?
Sopranos.
Maria can be reached in the Troy showroom at mariak@caidesigns.net or by phone at (248) 822-1300×2370