Detroit Design Awards

2025 DDA: Interiors

Whether it’s a mudroom or a primary suite, each champion design showcases the region’s local talent

Butler’s Pantry

1st Place

Ellwood Interiors Inc. with Brian Neeper Architecture, P.C. and Petrucci Homes
Photo by: Martin Vecchio

This transitional butler’s pantry is a hidden gem, seamlessly concealed behind a flush kitchen wall designed to look like cabinetry. The hidden doors maintain the clean, uncluttered aesthetic of the main kitchen while offering access to a fully equipped, functional workspace. The layout is thoughtfully designed for entertaining, featuring a prep sink, under-counter refrigeration, and a built-in dishwasher. With its hidden functionality and elegant design, this butler’s pantry balances beauty with practicality.

2nd Place

North + Birch Interior Design
Photo by: Jacob Hawkins

3rd Place

Ellwood Interiors Inc.
with LUXE Homes Design Build, LLC
Photo by: Martin Vecchio

Laundry Room/Mudroom

1st Place

Dayna Flory Interiors with Glenda Meads Architects and Templeton Building Co.
Photo by: Martin Vecchio

This vibrant and cheerful laundry room was designed with both purpose and aesthetic appeal in mind. The standout feature is the cabinetry, which imbues the room with a sunny disposition. Crimson-colored Delft tiles provide a fun backdrop and are complemented by a Schumacher wallpaper with red-and-white twine motif wraps. Overall, this room is a joyful and functional retreat where color, design, and practicality merge to create an atmosphere that makes laundry day a little brighter.

2nd Place

Cloth & Kind
with Joseph Mosey Architecture Inc.
Photo by: Marta Xochilt Perez

3rd Place

Maison Birmingham
with Sterling Development Corp.
Photo by: Martin Vecchio

Specialty Room (Gym, Music, Craft, Billiards, Pet Area, Etc.)

1st Place

Martini Samartino Design Group with SunByrnes Properties & Construction
Photo by: WayUp Media

At 750 square feet, this quaint pool house cabana offers the homeowners a little getaway. Features include a sitting area with a fireplace, a walk-up bar, a private wine grotto with ample space for a card game, a private bath, an outdoor shower, and a cathedral ceiling supported by timber trusses. The challenge was to maintain the pool house’s connection to the residence. The design team achieved this by attaching the cabana to the loggia.

3rd Place – Specialty Room (Gym, Music, Craft, Billiards, Pet Area, Etc.)

2nd Place

Witmer Design
with Weldwork
Photo by: Martin Vecchio

3rd Place

Tutto Interiors
with Maison Birmingham
Photo by: John Carlson

Wine Room

1st Place

Jessica Neeper Interiors with Brian Neeper Architecture, P.C.
and Hunter Roberts Homes
Photo by: joseph Tiano

Rattan and seagrass chairs with a gray stonecast table and a natural hide rug make this wine room a retreat within the home. You enter the room by way of a custom-made steel and glass door. Inside the temperature-controlled room there’s a rich mix of materials — from rustic wood ceiling beams to smooth wood veneer walls, black metal shelving, and a natural stone veneer wall. The main design challenge was to create a gathering place with purposeful yet elevated wine storage.

2nd Place

Ellwood Interiors Inc.
with LUXE Homes Design Build, LLC
Photo by: Beth singer

3rd Place

Kendall Design Build
Photo by: Shelby Dubbin

Bar

1st Place

Decor & More Design Studio
Photo by: Kat Stevenson

The wet bar seen here is central to this lakefront Grosse Pointe home, and has become a frequently used focal point. The goal was to make a big impact within just 36 square feet. A gorgeous Thibaut grasscloth provides classic grounding, while a marbled Lee Jofa wallpaper on the ceiling commands attention. It was also important to include vintage pieces such as an original 1950s Kalmar ice glass chandelier. Like everything else in the room, the wine rack is custom-made.

2nd Place

North + Birch Interior Design
Photo by: Jacob Hawkins

3rd Place

Tiffany Jane Interiors
Photo by: Matt Smith/Forge Focus

Conservatory/Screen Room/Sunroom

1st Place

Azd Associates
Photo by: WayUp Media

An exquisite porch and patio seamlessly extend the interior living space across both levels of this home, revealing a breathtaking panoramic view of the lake. A standout feature is the innovative retractable roof. Enhancing its unique charm, a stunning 16-foot retractable door opens and stacks in both directions — a pioneering design that offers remarkable flexibility. It’s no wonder this room has quickly become the most popular spot in the home, cherished for its breathtaking vistas and adaptability in every season.

3rd Place – Conservatory/Screen Room/Sunroom

2nd Place

Marianne Jones Interior Design
with Glenda Meads Architects
Photo by: James Haefner

3rd Place

Concetti
Photo by: Brett Mountain

Children’s Room/Play Space

1st Place

Birchwood Construction Co.
Photo by: Blake Brattina

Playful yet sophisticated, this bunkroom is designed with a nautical theme that sparks the imagination while maintaining a refined aesthetic. The custom-built bunks are the room’s centerpiece, featuring sleek brass rails reminiscent of ship decks. Each bunk is thoughtfully designed to evoke the feeling of being in a luxurious cabin. Crisp navy and white accents, along with subtle rope detailing, create a fresh, coastal color palette that complements the room’s theme.

2nd Place

Jessica Neeper Interiors
with Brian Neeper Architecture, P.C. and Hunter Roberts Homes
Photo by: Joseph Tiano

3rd Place

Anna Versaci Design
Photo by: Matteo Morrison

Powder Room

1st Place

Witmer Design
Photo by: Martin Vecchio

This powder room showcases a striking design with lacquered grasscloth walls that add texture and depth. The integrated modern floating sink, crafted from Macchia Vecchia marble, is a modern focal point, while brass fixtures introduce a touch of elegance. The combination of materials enhances the overall sophistication of the space, making it a stylish retreat for guests. This powder room reflects a seamless blend of contemporary design and timeless luxury.

2nd Place

Patrick Thompson Design
Photo by: John D’Angelo

3rd Place

Concetti
Photo by: Brett Mountain

Bath (Up to 150 sq. ft.)

1st Place

Design Bar Detroit
Photo by: Shelby Dubin

This remodel took a primary bathroom from builder-basic to totally custom. Earth tones and natural materials come together to form a spa-like, moody retreat. The new shower and Japanese-style soaking tub are enveloped by walls clad in a natural green marble, while the surrounding walls and ceiling are finished in a warm, brown-toned Roman clay. A custom fluted walnut floating vanity is topped with a silver travertine top with integrated sinks.

2nd Place

Decorlift Design Co.
Photo by: Britney Fedricks

3rd Place

Studio Harmony
Photo by: Kyle Kauzlarich

Bath (More than 150 sq. ft.)

1st Place

Young & Young Architects
Photo by: David Dietrich

In this luxurious primary bath, large-format tiles wrap seamlessly around the room, with lighted niches elegantly integrated into the shower walls and extending across the floating vanities for a continuous, cohesive design. Architectural beams and ceiling acoustical panels add texture and depth, while the wood flooring brings a natural warmth to the sleek finishes. The free-standing tub is nestled in a cozy alcove and is surrounded by windows that offer breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

3rd Place – Bath (More than 150 sq. ft.)

2nd Place

Concetti
Photo by: Brett Mountain

3rd Place

Jane Spencer Designs, LLC
with Maison Birmingham
Photo by: Martin Vecchio

Kitchen (Up to 200 sq. ft.)

1st Place

Patrick Thompson Design
Photo by: John D’Angelo

Inspired by the Bauhaus Movement and the Walter Gropius and Adolf Meyer’s 1910 Fagus Factory, this house’s minimalist logic reflects the residents’ exacting standards and attention to detail. In the kitchen, a generous center island is surrounded by walnut-stained millwork and a dark porcelain countertop and backsplash. The space flows seamlessly into the living and dining rooms, where statement furniture and lighting live alongside the residents’ art collection and a stunning fireplace clad in Heath Ceramics tile.

2nd Place

Kendall Design Build
Photo by: Shelby Dubin

3rd Place

J. Raine Design
Photo by: Mark Hurrish

Kitchen (Between 201-500 sq. ft.)

1st Place

Jessica Neeper Interiors with Brian Neeper Architecture, P.C.
and Maison Birmingham
Photo by: Joseph Tiano

To incorporate the new black cabinetry the homeowner selected, the designer installed large south-facing corner windows. The refrigerator was also relocated, to open the space visually. The new custom cabinetry, countertops, appliances, wood beams, windows, and light fixtures have dramatically changed the kitchen’s overall vibe. The new corner windows enable the homeowners to enjoy their expansive yard, pool, grill station, and pool house year-round.

3rd Place – Kitchen (Between 201-500 sq. ft.)

2nd Place

Whitmer Design
with John Morgan and Vanessa Docherty
of Perspectives Custom Cabinetry
Photo by: Martin Vecchio

3rd Place

Cloth & Kind
Photo by: Robert Peterson

Kitchen (More than 500 sq. ft.)

1st Place

Maple & Mill
Photo by: Joseph Tiano

This sophisticated Grosse Pointe Farms kitchen seamlessly blends modern elegance with functional design. The renovation transformed the home’s dated kitchen, dining, and family rooms into a contemporary haven for active cooks and entertainers. Warm light wood accents beautifully contrast with crisp white cabinetry and gleaming brass fixtures. The large island serves as both a workspace and a gathering spot. Functional touches like a trough sink and a hidden coffee station ensure the kitchen meets the family’s daily needs.

3rd Place – Kitchen (More than 500 sq. ft.)

2nd Place

Stalburg Design with
John Morgan and Vanessa Docherty
of Perspectives Custom Cabinetry
Photo by: Martin Vecchio

3rd Place

Ellwood Interiors Inc. with Brian Neeper Architecture, P.C., Petrucci Homes and
James Douglas Interiors
Photo by: Martin Vecchio

Traditional Master Suite

1st Place

Sissy Yellen Living with Ideal Builders
Photo by: Joseph Tiano

This 1956 brick Colonial home masterfully blends modern updates with the timeless charm of its original design. The classic architecture is complemented by bold textiles, adding a contemporary flair while honoring the home’s heritage. The soft elegance of original details like intricate molding, hardwood floors, and classic built-ins remains intact, creating a seamless fusion of Old-World charm and modern sophistication. This home exudes character, with every room offering a thoughtful balance of style, comfort, and artistry.

2nd Place

Ellwood Interiors Inc. with Brian Neeper Architecture, P.C., Petrucci Homes and James Douglas Interiors
Photo by: Martin Vecchio

3rd Place

Textures Design
Photo by: Emily Berger-Crawford

Contemporary Master Suite

1st Place

Jessica Neeper Interiors with Brian Neeper Architecture, P.C.
and Hunter Roberts Homes
Photo by: Joseph Tiano

The goal for this master suite was to make the large space more intimate. To do so, the cathedral ceiling was wrapped in stained beams and V-groove trim, while a large natural chandelier holds up to the scale of the room. A four-poster bed, custom chairs, a chaise, nightstands, custom built-in cabinetry, and a dresser all contribute to the suite’s purposeful connectedness, and also create separate functioning work zones. The neutral layers of color contribute to a peaceful aesthetic.

2nd Place

Young & Young Architects
Photo by: David Dietrich

3rd Place

Tutto Interiors
with Skilform Architects
Photo by: John Carlson

Traditional Dining Room

1st Place

Dayna Flory Interiors with Glenda Meads Architects and Templeton Building Co.
Photo by: Martin Vecchio

Boasting a breathtaking lake view, this dining room is an inviting focal point that greets guests immediately upon entering the home. At the center is a large extendable farmhouse table, designed to accommodate both formal and casual dining. Its versatility allows for intimate family dinners as well as grand gatherings. Surrounding the table are rattan chairs with a striking chinoiserie design, while a soft brass rectangular chandelier above provides elegant illumination without obstructing the vistas beyond.

2nd Place

Jessica Neeper Interiors
with Brian Neeper Architecture, P.C. and Hunter Roberts Homes
Photo by: Joseph Tiano

3rd Place

Jones-Keena & Co.
Photo by: Beth Singer

Contemporary Dining Room

1st Place

Witmer Design
Photo by: Martin Vecchio

This contemporary dining room features a sophisticated transformation of the clients’ existing rustic dining table, harmonizing beautifully with their art. The elegant Eric Kuster dining chairs, with their distinctive three-legged design, complement the overall aesthetic without overwhelming the space. A custom Stark rug, transitioning from light to dark, enhances the room’s visual interest. The mouth-blown glass sphere chandelier serves as a stunning centerpiece, adding an airy and whimsical touch to the dining experience.

2nd Place

Ellwood Interiors Inc.
with Brian Neeper Architecture, P.C. and Hunter Roberts Homes
Photo by: Martin Vecchio

3rd Place

Arik Green Design, LLC
with Suzanne Fellows and Sterling Custom Homes
Photo by: Justin Maconochie

Traditional Foyer

1st Place

Jessica Neeper Interiors with Brian Neeper Architecture, P.C.
and Hunter Roberts Homes
Photo by: Joseph Tiano

The foyer takes center stage in this home, where it creates a warm and welcoming first impression. A round brass and crystal light fixture hangs from the circular ceiling, which is adorned with an elaborate trim. Horizontal-striped wallpaper lines the walls, adding detail and elegance, while a circular rattan area rug grounds the space. Adjacent to the door, a niche with a wood seat and custom cushions elevates the foyer’s formality.

2nd Place

LUXE Homes Design Build, LLC
with Oliver Max Inc.
Photo by: Karl Moses

3rd Place

Ellwood Interiors Inc.
with Brian Neeper Architecture, P.C. and Petrucci Homes
Photo by: Martin Vecchio

Contemporary Foyer

1st Place

Azd Associates
Photo by: WayUp Media

2nd Place

TR Design Group
Photo by: Sasha Marceta/Skyview Experts

3rd Place

Sharon Kory Interiors
with Azd Associates
Photo by: Martin Vecchio

Traditional Living Room/Great Room

1st Place

Meg Corley Interiors and Maison Birmingham
Photo by: Martin Vecchio

While planning for aging in place, these homeowners, enthusiastic art collectors, wanted to revitalize their residence and update their home’s aesthetic. In the formal living room, textured burled veneer wainscot panels add warmth and fade into the contrasting black and glass built-ins. Custom furniture provides an anchor and sets a center point in the otherwise long, narrow room. Inspiration for the palette came from the painting over the fireplace.

3rd Place – Traditional Living Room/Great Room

2nd Place

Jessica Neeper Interiors
with Brian Neeper Architecture, P.C. and Hunter Roberts Homes
Photo by: Joseph Tiano

3rd Place

Textures Design
Photo by: Katherine Stevenson Hollerbach

Contemporary Living Room/Great Room

1st Place

Sissy Yellen Living
Photo by: Emily Engler

A masterful blend of organic colors and striking design elements makes this condo feel both grounded and elevated. A Calacatta Viola table with stunning veining and a luxurious surface immediately attracts the eye. On one expansive wall, a striking work by Mies van der Rohe commands attention with its intellectual depth and visual intrigue. Art, design, and natural tones converge in this urban retreat; the result is a harmonious, sophisticated atmosphere.

3rd Place – Contemporary Living Room/Great Room

2nd Place

Concetti
Photo by: Brett Mountain

3rd Place

Young & Young Architects
Photo by: David Dietrich

Traditional Interior Design (More than one room)

1st Place

Jessica Neeper Interiors with Brian Neeper Architecture, P.C.
and Hunter Roberts Homes
Photo by: Joseph Tiano

Traditional elements and a coastal theme define this home, where elements of natural fibers such as rattan, wool, cotton, and linen are juxtaposed against natural stone, brass, and wood for a balanced aesthetic. Custom millwork and custom furniture, designed and handcrafted for each floor, do their part to contribute to the vibe. Most rooms overlook the expansive yard, with its covered terrace and swimming pool, transforming this home into a vacation-inspired retreat.

3rd Place – Traditional Interior Design (More than one room)

2nd Place

Maison Birmingham
with Meg Corley Interiors
Photo by: Martin Vecchio

3rd Place

Ellwood Interiors Inc. with Brian Neeper Architecture, P.C., Petrucci Homes, and James Douglas Interiors
Photo by: Martin Vecchio

Contemporary Interior Design (More than one room)

1st Place

Patrick Thompson Design
Photo by: John D’Angelo

3rd Place – Contemporary Interior Design (More than one room)

2nd Place

Sissy Yellen Living
with HM Homes
Photo by: Joseph Tiano

3rd Place

Ellwood Interiors Inc.
Photo by: Martin Vecchio

Library/Study

1st Place

Cloth & Kind
Photo by: Marta Xochilt Perez

Varying shades of green were fully embraced in this home library, and the final result is soothing, indeed. An early 20th-century Sarouk Farahan Persian rug introduces complementary tones of terracotta, gold, and indigo, which add a natural depth and richness to the space. Shelving wraps two of the four walls, providing ample opportunity to showcase the homeowners’ extensive book collection and infuse layers of interesting art, ceramics, and decorative objects that tell the story of their passions and travels.

2nd Place

Sissy DesRosiers Architects
with Birchwood Construction Co.
Photo by: Steve Kroodsma

3rd Place

Sean D. Gardella & Associates
with C-arc Design Group and Art | Harrison Interior Design Studio
Photo by: James Haefner

Home Office

1st Place

Ruth Casper Design Studio
Photo by: Joseph Tiano

The design challenge for this office was to devise a room with both a commanding presence and inviting comfort where the man of the house can work and relax. To that end, a handsome textured wallcovering in rich earth tones was selected as the starting point; additional interest comes via leather furnishings, a marble-crowned desk, vintage books, and a converted gas fireplace. A pheasant perched near the desk evokes fond memories of the gentleman’s father.

2nd Place

Concetti
Photo by: Brett Mountain

3rd Place

Stalburg Design
with Nosan Signature Homes
Photo by: Martin Vecchio

Use of a Collection, Antiques, or Art

1st Place

Craighall Interiors with The Parson’s Nose Antiques
Photo by: Justin Maconochie

As avid collectors of period imported English antiques, it was decided by the homeowners that a heavy influence of classic English Country House aesthetic be present in this 1912 estate. While timeless backgrounds such as glazed porcelain tile, bluestone flooring, natural slab marble, and stained oak paneling are recurring themes, an abundance of antique furniture and artwork from the couple’s personal collection completes each space, giving the home authentic Old-World charm.

3rd Place – Use of a Collection, Antiques, or Art

2nd Place

MOZ Interiors with Nightingale Co.
Photo by: Shelby Dubin

3rd Place

FindArt
Photo by: Marta Xochilt Perez

Use of Color (Interiors)

1st Place

Dayna Flory Interiors with Templeton Building Co. and Cole Wagner Cabinetry
Photo by: Martin Vecchio

After embarking on a detailed search for the perfect green, “Leaflet,” by Sherwin-Williams, was selected for this kitchen. The color strikes a harmonious balance between warm and cool tones and provides a rich, inviting presence without becoming overwhelming. The green stands out brilliantly against the warm brass cabinet hardware, for an eye-catching contrast. The color is both current and timeless — perfect for a welcoming and stylish culinary haven.

2nd Place

Birch Design Associates
Photo by: Joseph Tiano

3rd Place

CBI Design Professionals Inc.
with Cole Wagner Cabinetry
Photo by: James Haefner

Wall Treatment (Special Paint Technique, Wall Covering, Etc.)

1st Place

Dayna Flory Interiors with Templeton Building Co.
Photo by: Martin Vecchio

A remarkable wall treatment showcases custom, hand-crafted plaster acorn details that were carefully planned and executed by skilled artisans. Acorns represent growth, opportunity, and the idea that great things often have humble beginnings, and the staircase is a reflection of the homeowner’s deep appreciation for this symbol. As one ascends the main stairway, the acorn details cleverly lead the way, creating an enchanting visual journey.

3rd Place – Wall Treatment (Special Paint Technique, Wall Covering, Etc.)

2nd Place

Anna Versaci Design
Photo by: Heather Saunders

3rd Place

Kendall Design Build
Photo by: Shelby Dubin

Window Treatment

1st Place

Anna Versaci Design
Photo by: Heather Saunders

The homeowner wanted to update this guest bedroom by giving it a boutique hotel look with an Old World feel. Plaid wallcoverings on all four walls, plus a coordinating geometric on the ceiling, were selected to meet the challenge. The problem was the location of the window, which is on the only wall that made sense for the bed. The solution was to add matching draperies and an electronic woven wood shade so that, when closed, the window almost disappears and the drapes become part of the room’s design.

2nd Place

Anna Versaci Design
Photo by: Heather Saunders

3rd Place

Meg Corley Interiors
Photo by: Martin Vecchio

Closet

1st Place

CBI Design Professionals Inc. with Sissy Yellen Living
Photo by: James Haefner

How do you design a closet that fits the character of a 100-year-old home? The closet’s location is a connection point between two ends of the home, and needed to maintain the ability for the owner to occasionally pass through it. The new design includes all custom, enclosed built-ins; a working island; and a custom glass cabinet for the owner’s purse collection. The space now has character well beyond the reputation of a simple closet.

2nd Place

California Closets
with Sapphire Luxury Homes
Photo by: Amanda Rose

3rd Place

Stalburg Design
with Nosan Signature Homes
Photo by: Martin Vecchio

Finished Basement

1st Place

North + Birch Interior Design
Photo by: Jacob Hawkins

Embracing creativity and fun at every turn, this basement remodel took design to the next level. With a playful kitchen, a full theater hidden behind secret doors, a tucked-away speakeasy, and a play area complete with a slide and secret tunnels, there’s something here for both kids and adults. The client was open to taking risks, allowing the design team to fully stretch their creative wings while crafting a space that’s adventurous, functional, and designed for endless enjoyment.

2nd Place

Witmer Design
with Weldwork
Photo by: Martin Vecchio

3rd Place

Stalburg Design
with Nosan Signature Homes
Photo by: Martin Vecchio