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Amberleaf Inc.

Pasadena, CA, USA

(11)
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‘20 Certificate of Excellence, 2020

About

An innovative Interior Design Studio in Pasadena California, who believe every client is unique and no two designs should be the same.

Owner and Principal Designer, Michelle Blemel, specializes in creating casual yet elegant Interiors. Working with clients to take a project from concept through to completion, while providing a board range of selections for furniture, widow treatments, lighting.

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Reviews (11)

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5/5

11 customer reviews

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2 July 2019

Michelle takes the time to research the latest products and materials and has a vast network of resources, so she is able to provide clients with unique and beautiful pieces that make each project shine.

Reviewed on Facebook

2 July 2019

She is super talented and can change your house into a home.

Reviewed on Facebook

14 August 2018

Her work is absolutely amazing. I am still stunned by it! You will not be sorry to work with her.

Reviewed on Facebook

14 August 2018

Amberleaf designed Hair by Cesare in Pasadena. In less than 3 months, they were able to turn a dreary, dark closet into a warm, modern, boutique salon environment. Michelle listened to what we wanted our salon to look like, and gave some unique ideas and solutions to our small space. Very happy with the results and we will continue to recommend others to contact Amberleaf Inc. More...

Reviewed on Facebook

14 August 2018

As an owner of a furniture/cabinet business, we have the opportunity to work with many designers, builders and clients. Michelle is the cream of the crop. You always feel you are part of her team, respected for your talents and opinions. Michelle has extensive knowledge of many products and design aesthetics but is always willing to think outside the box to solve any design issue. We look forward to every opportunity we get to work with her! More...

Reviewed on Facebook

14 August 2018

I love decorating my own home as we all have our own unique taste. Last week I had the pleasure of having Michelle walk me through my house and help me tweak some of my favorite pieces of art in four different rooms. A little rearranging with better attention to balance, grouping and some purging transformed our home. I can't wait for her to come back and maybe even design a piece of furniture or lighting fixture for us. Thank you Michelle. #somuchtalent More...

Reviewed on Facebook

22 May 2018

A few years ago I had the opportunity to move my salon into an old house that I had my eye on for years for my studio Hair By Cesare in Old Town Pasadena. When it finally came available, I knew it needed work to become what I wanted in a Salon space. I asked Michelle with Amberleaf Inc. Interior Design to help bring my vision to life. I only gave her three parameters, Contemporary feel with White, Stainless steel and Blue. She was able to work with me to figure out how to take those thoughts and turn them into a Boutique salon environment I was happy to be in all day. If I had my way I would never leave. Clients always comment on how comfortable the space is. Its not too big so it was important to make use of every inch. Michelle helped me design some custom banquette seating with storage for my lounge, along with a custom white laquer metal reception desk, that is the perfect height for me when standing. Even the lighting was considered because I need to have something that closely resembles natural daylight to get the hair color right. Her expertise in lighting helped me select the perfect solution of LED track with proper color spectrum. Lets not forget the window shades which allow light in but reduce the amount of heat we get from the older windows. I would recommend Amberleaf and Michelle to anyone who wants a Design that is well thought, within budget, with great follow through. Her work really is amazing and will stand the test of time. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

12 February 2018

We bought a townhouse that hadn't been updated since the 70s so it clearly needed a remodel. I reached out to Michelle to discuss the project and, ultimately, hired her. She came with skills I didn't know I would need including lighting and electrical layout; tile, stone and wood design and layout; ... More...

Reviewed on Houzz

28 October 2017

I worked with Michelle at Amberleaf on multiple projects over the years.
My review however is for her work on my salon Hair By Cesare. Michelle took what was a dark dingy space and turned it into a boutique salon for me and my clients. Her talent in organizing a small space is amazing. She saw opp... More...

Reviewed on Houzz

5 June 2017

Wow factor! What a difference the window treatments add to our traditional home. We wanted fabrics and window coverings to soften the late '70s style town home and add contemporary flair. Michelle was meticulous about all the details and found fabrics and designs that work perfectly for our prefe... More...

Reviewed on Houzz

30 May 2017

Michelle did it again. We needed to pick out new dining chairs and she was able to help us pick the perfect style for the room with the quality we were looking for at the price we wanted to pay. I know sounds too good to be true.

We also paid her an hourly fee to help us move some art around ...
More...

Reviewed on Houzz

Q&As

Step 1 - Consultation
We meet with you in your home for a collaborative client and designer interview. In so doing, we are mutually discovering if your project is the right fit for each other. We discuss details such as your goals for the space, your design aesthetic, how you will be using the space, what inspires you, your time-frame for completion, and your anticipated investment.

Should we mutually agree to proceed with the project, we will review the terms of our Letter of Agreement and Retainer fee.

Step 2 - Proposal Outlining Project Scope and Estimated Design Fees
 
We outline the Scope of Work for the entire project, our design intent and goals, the estimated design fee, the, advance on our design fee required to get started, the estimated timeline, and the terms and conditions. The Scope of Work must be approved and initial retainer received to signal the start of the project. Please note that the Scope of Work is not the same as the design plan or design presentation.
 
Step 3 -Site Measure and Planning Day
 
This is where we invite the trades that will be involved in the process for a site visit to discuss the project scope and to take measurements and photos. They will each provide a written estimate outlining their scope of work and the cost for labor and/or materials. These estimates will be presented to you in the Final Presentation Meeting. Depending on the Scope of the project trades will vary.
 
Step 4 – Concept Development
Project design – Starting with the design intent, we further develop the concept through sketches, renderings, elevations, color schemes, fabrics and finishes. Sourcing materials, furnishings, and fixtures. We work closely with our trades people to develop quotes for each scope of work. The initial budget begins to take shape here.

Step 5 - Presentation and Budget Meeting
Inspiration day- We present you with our preliminary design concept for your space. This includes basic drawings, color scheme, mood board, key fabrics, furniture selections and budget estimates including projected costs for any work by our trades and artisans. One revisions (if any) may be requested at this time. The budget is reviewed in detail and revisions to budget can be made at this time.

A Final presentation meeting will be scheduled to go over any revisions requested. This presentation will include working drawings, fabrics, finishes, and the final detailed proposal. The required 75-100% deposit is due prior to purchasing.
 
Step 6 - Procurement and Management
We work, you relax. During this phase we begin the development and construction of your project. Here is where every detail is managed to ensure a successful completion. We collaborate with builders, vendors and fabricators and make site visits as necessary. (Varies by project)

We create all purchase orders, track orders, assess lead times, note any back-orders or discontinued items that may delay the project, and make decisions whether or not to re-select. During this time, we make sure that our projected timeline is adhered to by all vendors.
  
Step 7 – Project Update Review
Our goal is to keep you informed. On larger projects we will meet with you to review any change orders and update you on the progress of the project and any issues that may arise. This step is usually not required for smaller projects
 
Step 8 - Receipt of Orders and Initial Installations
This is where all items ordered are received at our warehouse, inspected for damages, tagged and stored for the installation day. We prefer to install on one day instead of several different deliveries arriving onsite, however, some custom items like window treatments may be installed prior to the final install. The project balance owed is required at this time

Step 9 - Furniture Installation and Styling
This is the big step when items are installed and styled for a beautiful and inspiring finish. Installation is typically done in one- two days. We ensure that all items are delivered to your project all at once instead of several different deliveries. This allows us to minimize disruption to you. However, when agreed certain items may be delivered direct to site.
  
This is the exciting moment when we walk through the finished space and discuss how to care for each piece and any warranties available (if any). There may be outstanding invoices from delivery companies, cleaning service, Etc. which we will present to you at the Client Closure Meeting.

Final Walk Through- This may happen on the same day of the reveal or on a separate day.  Although we strive for perfection, mistakes can happen. The final walk through is where the client gets a chance to point out any deficiencies observed - Items like a small splash of paint on the floor, missing dresser knob, a small rip on a pillow etc. Items that could have easily been missed during the exciting moment of the reveal.

Step 10 - Resolving Deficiencies
 
We coordinate with the trade person, subcontractor, or vendor involved to cure any deficiencies within 14 business days. Thankfully, this step is not needed in most cases, but we make sure that you will be happy with your finished space.
Once all deficiencies are resolved we move forward with closing out the project. The benefit of all warranties transfer to you the client.
At this time, we would love your feedback and may request a review or referral.
 
Step 11 - Professional Photography
Let’s show it off. We will schedule a professional photographer to shoot pictures of the project, which we will also share with you. If we intend to have these pictures published in a local or national publication, we will discuss that with you and determine if you want your name disclosed or not. Photos may be used for Social media purposes by Amberleaf Inc. we will always respect your right to privacy.

Our process ensures that there is little to no mistakes or problems, and very little impact on your family's time and your home. We take care of all the details for you for a turn-key design.

As a Designer who has been creating amazing spaces for over 20 years, I find it best to work with Clients to determine their style and work to that.
I was classically trained in Interior Design and Architecture as well as furniture design.
My personal style may be considered a bit more transitional due to the fact that I love mixing Contemporary items with Old world Antiques.

One of the best parts of my job is being able to create a design that looks seamless and acquired. Giving a home a feeling of evolving over time, and not just making it all look new and store bought.

I have always loved the design process of starting with a blank slate and creating something very personal for my clients.

Having worked in the Design Industry over 20 years, I bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table, that allows me to bring more expertise to the job. With every project you learn something new and find out what works, and what to avoid. By working with a seasoned professional you can be assured to avoid costly mistakes and save money in the long run.

Services

Layout of Furniture with a space to optimize the flow and square footage.

Selection of interior finishes such as Paint, floor coverings, window treatments, tile, counter tops, plumbing and lighting.

Design of custom Cabinetry and furniture pieces for fabrication by local craftsman.

In home consultation on selection of colors and room schemes. Paint samples and color themes per room.

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