By Chief Architect has monthly contests for customers to show off their work. People with various backgrounds and styles compete in the following categories: Kitchen/Bath and Interior, Residential, and Remodel/Addition. Please help us congratulate the winners!
Kitchen, Bath, and Interiors-September/October
1st Place: Leslie Remenek
“Leslie is the founder and business owner of ‘No Place Like Home Designs’, a residential interior design company serving the greater Chicago area. Her passion for design began at an early age as she watched her father renovate and remodel homes but her passion truly blossomed when she and her husband embarked on their own renovation journey in their home in Barrington, Illinois. Frustrated with the lack of creativity and underwhelming design plans submitted by various architects they’d initially engaged for their project, Leslie decided to utilize and master Chief Architect Software and redesign their space herself. As the saying goes – the rest is history!
Today – Leslie works with clients across the greater Chicago area, providing interior design and architectural planning services where she creates spaces that are not only visually appealing and inviting but that transform the ordinary into welcoming, approachable, modern spaces that carry deep, personal significance for the homeowners. Leslie’s ability to provide to-scale architectural floorplans, detailed interior and exterior elevations, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC layouts, and millwork/cabinetry specifications are highly valued by clients and general contracting teams alike as her designs and plans allow teams to accurately and swiftly engage with clients throughout the project. Most importantly, Leslie’s unique design approach allows her to truly bring the client’s vision to life using 3D renderings and other visualization tools that help clients get an accurate representation of what their redesigned spaces will look and feel like before the project even begins.
No Place Like Home Designs offers design services for full-scale renovations and remodels, additions, room-by-room home improvement projects, and all things in between.”
2nd Place: Arlie Naeher, Stephen Sturtz & Leslie Ann Gali
Leslie Ann Gali: “I was born and raised in Kodiak, Alaska, and I developed a strong desire to expand my horizons and explore new opportunities. With the help of my high school teacher and mentor, Mike Finley, I was able to spark my journey in interior design and architecture. This was possible because I was able to take STEAM classes specifically involving CAD programs, which helped me explore a career that I knew I wanted. This ambition led me to Bozeman, Montana, where I pursued a degree in Interior Design at Montana State University/Gallatin College. This resulted in me finding a career involving being a draftsman.
As a draftsman at Quest Cabinetry and Design, I am dedicated to redefining design through innovative solutions and attention to detail. My role allows me to translate creative ideas into practical applications while continually pushing the boundaries of design.
Beyond my professional pursuits, I have a deep love for the outdoors. I often explore the beautiful landscapes with my dog, Trixie. I believe in living life to the fullest and embracing every adventure that comes my way. My journey from Kodiak to Bozeman reflects my commitment to both personal and professional growth as I seek to blend my love for design with the beauty of the world around me.”
3rd Place: Julie Roland
“I’m a resident of Edgewood, Washington, in the beautiful Pacific Northwest, and I am blessed to work from a design studio in Ruston, Washington, with a breathtaking view of Puget Sound! I find inspiration in the surrounding forests, mountains, and many bodies of water, incorporating the colors and feel of the Northwest into my designs whenever possible.
As an award-winning Interior Designer with a passion for design, thoughtful attention to detail, and a deep desire to
successfully guide my clients through the design process, I create designs that are customized to meet the needs
of each of my clients. A functional space plan is foundational for a great project outcome, and working with Chief
Architect Software provides me with the tools I need to accomplish that. Services I provide include:
- Whole home redesign and space planning
- Kitchen and bath design
- Finish and fixture selections
- Full-service interior design
- Cabinetry design and sales
- CAPS Designation – Certified Aging-In-Place Specialist
As a Canyon Creek Cabinetry dealer, I have the expertise and ability to design and provide for all of my clients’ cabinetry needs for their fabulous new kitchens, bathroom vanities, built-in storage, semi-custom furniture pieces, and more. Additionally, the CAPS designation I hold from the NAHB (National Association of Home Builders), coupled with many years of experience, have provided me with the expertise required to assist my clients to make the changes necessary to allow them to remain in their homes and “age-in-place”.
I began using Chief Architect Software in 2017 while working as the staff designer for a general contractor in Tacoma, Washington, where I received multiple REX awards (Remodeling Excellence) from the Pierce County Master Builders Association for both kitchen and bathroom redesigns. When I stepped away from that job earlier this year to open my own Interior Design firm, Julie Roland Design, I knew I would continue to use Chief Architect to create space plans and beautiful interior renderings for my clients.”
Remodel/Addition-August
1st Place: Tiffany Chandler, NCIDQ
“Tiffany currently serves as the Residential/Commercial Design Director with Steller Construction in Powell, Ohio. She has a bachelor’s degree in Interior Design and is NCIDQ Certified. Prior to joining Steller in 2021, Tiffany spent over two decades drafting and designing various Architectural, Civil Engineering, and Acoustic Isolation projects. Her work can be seen and heard all over the United States in multi-million dollar recording studios, university performance art centers, a national chain of fitness centers, hotels, high-rise luxury condominium communities, numerous churches, elementary school playgrounds, and NBA practice facilities.
Her true passion lies in designing luxury spaces for clients seeking the truly extraordinary in the place they call home. Chief Architect Software gives Tiffany the practical tools to go from mere vision to reality. She loves the ability to import specific materials selected by the homeowner into the 3D renderings, significantly enhancing the realism and personalization of the visuals. Viewing the design in 3D also helps Tiffany to identify potential design issues that may not be obvious in the 2D plan. Tiffany enjoys spending time with her husband and beagle in her free time and creating art with watercolors and glass mosaics.”
2nd Place: Kelly Fridline
“Kelly is a detail-oriented and architecturally trained interior designer who specializes in 3D renderings, design documentation, and consulting. She holds a Master of Architecture from the Savannah College of Art and Design and brings over 14 years of professional experience to her work. Through her company, Kelly Fridline Design, she collaborates with interior designers, architects, and contractors to help them not only visualize but also refine their designs, ensuring every project detail is meticulously planned and executed.
Since 2018, Kelly has been providing one-on-one training to hundreds of interior designers, architects, and contractors. Her training focuses on Chief Architect Software, empowering professionals to refine their skills and elevate their presentations. Her renderings are known for their technical accuracy and ability to capture high-end design trends, making her a valuable resource for those looking to stay ahead in the industry.
Kelly lives in the Detroit area with her husband, three kids, and two dogs. She is also the Vice President of the Interior Design Society, Detroit chapter, further contributing to the design community through leadership and mentorship.”
3rd Place: Lesly Villafana
“I’m a 28-year-old interior designer from Southern California, where my passion for design has been a lifelong journey. Growing up, I was immersed in the world of interior design through my father’s work in the furniture installation business. He often collaborated with a commercial design firm, which sparked my early interest in creating beautiful, functional spaces.
In 2018, I earned my interior design certificate, solidifying my dedication to this field. Since then, I’ve had the privilege of volunteering my skills in various projects, further honing my design abilities.
One of the things I love most about interior design is the process itself. I can spend hours immersed in a project, and time just seems to fly by. There’s nothing better than seeing a design come to life—being able to picture something before it even exists and then making it a reality is truly exhilarating.
Recently, I purchased my first home, and this experience has ignited a new level of inspiration and motivation. It’s also driven me to pursue my ultimate long-term goal—starting my own interior design business. I’m excited about the journey ahead and the opportunity to turn my passion into a thriving career.”
Residential-July
1st Place: Ryan McAllen
“I’m the co-founder of Tidal Drafting & Design, located on the South Shore of Nova Scotia, Canada. I’ve been working in the Architectural Design industry now for 8 years and have spent countless hours pouring over new processes, ideas, and plans in that time. I work with a variety of clients who tend to have a variety of styles and preferences ranging from post and beam structures you would find in the mountains to colorful coastal homes you would find along the Northern Atlantic seaboard and everything in between. Getting to see my client’s excitement when we finish creating a project together is about as rewarding as it gets. It’s what keeps me sane when the workload gets busy!
I tend to work directly with my clients, ensuring that every design I create is tailor-made to suit their wants and needs without blowing their budget. Chief Architect gives me the freedom I need to make adjustments and work out ideas on the fly, allowing me to visualize concepts for my clients just moments after we’ve discussed them. My expertise lies in residential and light commercial design, but I’m never afraid to take on a new challenge, thanks to the help of my incredible team here at Tidal.
I am incredibly optimistic about our future here at Tidal Drafting & Design and with Chief Architect for years to come.”
2nd Place: Melissa DeLeon
“I received my Master of Architecture degree from the University of Texas in Arlington in 2005. It is a lifelong dream fulfilled to help people design their homes.
Monolithic is a family legacy started in 1976 by the South brothers, David, Barry and Randy. Eventually, Barry and Randy each founded their own dome-building businesses in Idaho—while David kept control of Monolithic and came to Texas. All three organizations founded by the South brothers are still going strong, with sons, daughters, and trusted associates at the helm. Monolithic is co-owned by David’s sons, Dave and Michael South, and his son-in-law, Gary Clark. Gary is a 40-year veteran of the dome-building business, and Dave and Mike learned to build domes before they could drive.
Monolithic Domes are constructed of a tough, inflatable airform, steel-reinforced concrete, and polyurethane foam insulation. They meet FEMA standards for providing near-absolute protection and have a proven ability to survive tornadoes, hurricanes, earthquakes, fires, termites, and rot. They use about 50% less energy for heating and cooling than same-size, conventionally constructed buildings. They can be designed as homes, cabins, churches, gyms, arenas, and bulk storage.”
3rd Place: Jason Barker
“As Manager of the CAD Services Department, Jason leads a team of CAD design specialists. Whether for a spec, tract, or custom home, Jason’s team handles architectural design, home site grading plans, structural drafting, and any other CAD design needs. He coordinates with cities, developers, and homeowners to ensure clients’ projects are successful.
He has over 23 years of experience with architectural design as well as civil engineering design in land development, site development, subdivision, and site planning. Jason is known for finding innovative solutions to difficult design problems and for his extensive knowledge of grading design, home design, and CAD skills. Clients appreciate his easy-going manner, level-headed approach, and detail-minded results. Because he consistently looks for – and finds – ways to improve the design process, he brings value to every project.
Jason has lived in both Idaho and Utah. He is a father of three who enjoys weight training, basketball, tinkering with old cars, coaching his son’s baseball team, and attending his girls’ dance recitals.”
Kitchen, Bath, and Interiors-June
1st Place: Anna Shultice
“My passion for residential interior design started with my mother’s blue & white ginger jar collection. After earning my Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design from Iowa State University, I further developed my skills in Rome, Italy, where I learned from architects and designers, including those at Fendi. I specialize in creating timeless interiors with a vibrant use of color, constantly searching for unique pieces to add a personal touch to my projects. Outside of my profession, I cherish spending time with my family, friends, and my Italian Greyhound, Elio.”
2nd Place: Allison Caballero
“I’m an Architectural Designer at VanderBeken Remodel in the Greater Seattle Area. Our focus is on custom home remodels, including kitchens, baths, and beyond. As a fully custom luxury Design-Build Firm, we thrive on limitless possibilities. My expertise lies in crafting custom floor plans, 3D renderings, and elevations. Utilizing Chief Architect, I ensure every project detail is meticulously realized and effectively communicated to our construction team. I particularly enjoy using Chief Architect to create highly realistic visuals, enabling clients to envision their projects with the exact selections and details we’ve chosen during the design process. Witnessing my clients’ dreams come alive and providing them with a clear preview of their project’s outcome is incredibly rewarding.”
3rd Place: Ashtin Bradford
“My name is Ashtin and I’m a residential home plan drafter. I was drawn to Chief Architect Software when I first began. I loved to show clients their future homes in 3D, which allowed them to view accurate sizing and materials. I’m thankful I took the time to learn Chief Architect at the beginning of this new career, and I can’t wait to continue to move forward in designing more homes in the future for my local community.”
Remodel/Additions-May
1st Place: Christopher Mainelli
“My name is Christopher Mainelli. I am a 25 yr. old draftsman and I own Architrave Design Studio based out of Omaha. I specialize in custom house plans and 3D realistic renderings. I started my drafting business as a passion project, and I love seeing client’s dreams come to life in front of me. I enjoy working with homeowners, architects, and builders alike. This gives me a full range of clients across the construction field. I grew up working construction through a family business and majored in Art/Design in college. I always try to find the intersection of form and function and my goal is to implement that into my designs. Renderings give me a way to express this intersection in the construction world. I hope to keep doing this for many years to come and plan on using Chief to help me achieve this! I look forward to entering more design contests!”
2nd Place: Susan Lobalzo
“Susan Lobalzo, founded Lobalzo Design Associates, Ltd in 1989 after completing her Master of Arts in Interior Design and teaching interior design at Kent State University and The University of Akron. This award-winning interior designer brings together a wealth of knowledge and a broad spectrum of expertise.
My commitment is to understand the character and lifestyle of our clients, to incorporate their tastes, and to guide them to the best possible design solutions.”
3rd Place: Pun Nikolaides
“I’m a Creative Director, Graphic Designer, and Entrepreneur with a passion for building all things creative, both physically and digitally. Being highlighted in the design competition and securing 3rd place was an unexpected honor and a clear demonstration that with some creativity and problem-solving skills, anyone can master Chief Architect and compete with the pros!
This remodel project was for a home we purchased that required a significant amount of attention to restore it to its full potential. Thanks to Chief Architect, we managed to transform a once dull and dingy house into a stunning home. While I may consider home remodeling as a professional career in the future, for now, Chief Architect remains my preferred tool for all my home projects.”
Residential-April
1st Place: Kristy Jacobson
“Hey! My name is Kristy Jacobson! I am an Architectural Designer here in Northern Utah. I specialize in Custom House Plans, Remodels, and Interior and Exterior Renderings. I started K Design Studio about 5 years ago to be able to be home with my young kids. I have absolutely loved being able to continue my career while being able to be with my kids. The support from my family, friends, and clients have made it such a success. I am so grateful. I love everything about designing homes. Seeing it first come together on paper and then seeing the actual home be built, has been such a joy for me. I still have to pinch myself that I get to do this every day. Renderings have truly become a passion of mine. The excitement from my clients after seeing what their home/space can look like is what makes it all worth it. I am beyond grateful for all of the people and adventures that have shaped my career to what it is today. I love what I do, and wouldn’t want to do anything else!”
2nd Place: Taylor Gould
“All of us here at Design Texas Studios are once again excited to be featured in Chief Architects’ design competition! The Chief Architect software has allowed us to serve our clients (both Builders and Owners) in powerful ways. The ability to know each design inside and out aids in the visualization and structural integrity of each project. We will continue to utilize the advancement of technology to learn and grow as a company. We are grateful for this opportunity and look forward to what’s to come!
On a more serious note, my primary goal in joining this competition was to “beat” my brother’s interior design placing. Sadly, we tied. The feud continues….”
3rd Place: Sunitha Lal
Kitchen, Bath, and Interiors-March
1st Place: Diego Rosa
“After a couple of years working in the Kitchen and Bath industry, I created Dezign Spaces with the aim of providing superior service and results, bringing people’s dreams vividly to life. Located in Brevard County, FL, and operating both locally and online, Dezign Spaces has been assisting homeowners, interior designers, contractors, and retail stores in visualizing the complete picture before commencing any services. Through a two-hour online consultation and design process, we strive to deliver impressive results in less than a week with great renderings, construction plans, and a design handbook. Our goal is to help homeowners navigate the remodeling process smoothly while also assisting remodelers in enhancing their businesses with results that truly impress.”
2nd Place: Jesse Gould
“Being featured in the design competition has been a rewarding experience for us at Design Texas Studios. It’s a testament to our dedication to pushing the boundaries of creativity and innovation. Our success in the competition underscores our commitment to excellence and our unique approach to design, which is powered by cutting-edge technology.
Our partnership with Chief Architect has been instrumental in translating our creative vision into stunning, photorealistic renderings. We leverage the software’s advanced features and tools to bring our clients’ dreams to life in unique and powerful ways. Whether it’s intricate detailing or dynamic 3D modeling, Chief Architect allows us to deliver unparalleled results efficiently.
In an industry that demands precision and creativity, we pride ourselves on blending artistic vision with technical expertise to create spaces that resonate deeply with our clients. From custom homes to commercial spaces, we strive to deliver exceptional designs that exceed expectations.
Looking ahead, we remain committed to pushing the boundaries of design innovation and leveraging technology to shape the future of architecture and interior design. With Chief Architect by our side, we are excited about the endless possibilities and are eager to continue our journey of creativity, excellence, and innovation.”
3rd Place: Kelly Trotz
Kelly Trotz has been passionate about design since she was young, drawing on old blueprints that her mom would bring home from her job working with a builder. She began pursuing a degree in architecture but quickly found her passion in interior design.
Kelly is a Senior Designer at Lifestyle Design, where her enthusiasm, keen eye for detail, and amazing technical skills make her an outstanding designer.
