Categories
Interior Design
Art Advisors/Consultants
RECOMMENDATION
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4.5
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WORK QUALITY
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COST EVALUTION
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VALUE ANALYSIS
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ADD YOUR REVIEW
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Services & Specialties
Clean but comfortable modern take on period designs under any budget
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FR Review:
While some decorators use “wow factor” as a crutch, Jonathan Ringel allows his firm grasp on color, layout and proportion to make upscale accessible in the way that only an experienced designer can. His main concern is educating the client; he observes what styles he or she gravitates toward then explains what structurally–and financially–can or cannot work in that genre. His spatial perception and artistic eye guarantee a balanced design executed to precision. To clients, he’s funny, trustworthy and helpful, bringing “waves of relief” to an otherwise hectic endeavor. Though not a licensed architect, all drawings are Ringel’s own and he runs a tight ship to ensure that his subcontractors flawlessly bring them to fruition. Often using existing de´cor and paying homage to the period of the building’s original framework, Ringel infuses homes with artistic details for a subtly modern take on classical, comfortable design.
Ringel’s sensitivity to aesthetics dates back to his days as a fine arts undergrad at Bradley University. He continued his studies in the masters program of art at NYU, which led to a gig overseeing the cabinetry shop and upholstery finishing in the former Mansfield Manor showroom, working directly under the owner of the company. One day, Ringel redirected a customer from where her current decorator had steered her wrong; impressed, she hired him on the spot. This commission served as the basis for his firm, which he officially established in 1985. Ringel continues to stagger six projects at a time–single-handedly–in the New York area, and has expanded his work to assist returning clients with both their remote vacation homes and corporate offices. Entire renovations cost anywhere from $150,000— 600,000. While he is a master in the “get-this-look-for-less” category, Ringel still knows when quality cannot be compromised and is frank about expanding budgets for this high-low approach. For an intensive crash coarse in decorating, Ringel offers one-day revamping services at a lofty flat fee, though the effects are said to be “life changing.” Both affable and (relatively) affordable, Ringel’s only limitation is that his clients cannot have him all to themselves.
Representative Client Comments:
“I was shopping for a piece in an antique shop and asked the owner if he could recommend an interior designer. He said there wasn’t a single one in the city he liked. Six months later I got a call from Jonathan–that shop owner had given him my number.” “He did our place and it was truly something special, with every detail being top-notch. Then he did our second apartment which we use for guests; we wanted it to look just as nice but didn’t need the high-quality products. He completely delivered again. He really can do it all.” “Jonathan is good with client psychology–he knew how to mediate any disagreements my husband and I had, and in the end gave us something that was completely ‘us.’” “Everything was on time and under budget.” “It’s helpful that he can play the role of designer, architect and project manager. Everything stays organized and on schedule that way and there are never any (bad) surprises.” “Very good at defending his decisions and explaining different options or alternatives. It’s never patronizing, always helpful.” “He has a very positive demeanor. He’s not a ‘yes man’ but also doesn’t make the work about his ego; he’s the perfect balance. And he’s very funny–I’ve never seen him tense. Even with subs, he’s demanding but in a polite way.” “Perfect balance of authority and integrity.”
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