From our first few conversations with Shawn Merkel at Align Design we knew we had found the perfect interior designer to help guide us in creating our dream bathroom suite. When discussing our aesthetic, "a bathroom in the trees / Scandinavian minimalist / nature spa" she understood our overall design style immediately and we never looked back! Shawn was definitely critical in achieving our dream space for so many reasons; but to name a few, she kept us focused on budget, had connections and access to local artisans and contractors for beautiful custom design work, and most importantly during the brainstorming/dreaming phase she kept our design cohesive while still using various different substrates and natural elements as we hoped for (custom hickory wood vanity/laundry cabinet, custom concrete countertops throughout, stone shower flooring, custom wood encased windows throughout, oversized and beautiful travertine floors...and light fixtures that incorporated a little bit of all of the above). Overall, Shawn created a space for us that is not only beyond our wildest dreams design-wise, but maximizes storage which was our biggest need. She created stylish, elegant built-in storage solutions in every nook and cranny, and overall we couldn't be happier. When we are ready to live in a construction zone again - not any time soon! - we will absolutely call Shawn for our next projects' interior design needs. read more

Working with Shawn and Align Design through our home renovation project was key to getting it right and staying sane through the process. My spouse and I were both able to work well with Shawn. She was a great communicator and knew how to present and explain the project in ways that both of us understood. She was open to collaborating and encouraged us to give her input, ask questions, and explore options. She was pivotal in solving some of our space issues and figuring out the best way to maximize the use of our first floor renovation. Shawn is skilled at reconfiguring space as well as designing layouts, colors, and making it all feel cohesive which was exactly what we were seeking in a designer. She is relaxed but professional; up-to-date but willing to listen to what we preferred; and organized and assertive, but kind and respectful in the process. We really liked her flexibility and honesty in helping us to know how best to utilize her skills whether it was a full-service type relationship, or an "as-needed" hand-holding through difficult choices (have you seen all the tile options out there?!?) type relationship. Shawn was agile in adapting to what we needed and willing to recognize when we were good to make our own decisions. We highly recommend Shawn Merkel and Align Design and will use her again in the future. read more

I met Shawn as I was visiting Asheville and considering a move to the area. I had recently graduated from Design school. We met for an interview for an unpaid internship. She looked over my portfolio and after a couple of hours of conversation she agreed to help mentor me in this new profession. Shawn took me to client's homes to see what the initial consultation would be like and to also show me how to do field measurements. Shawn also took me to some of Asheville's furniture stores to source rugs and furniture for her clients. I was able to help her with a few projects that took many hours of my time, but was very valuable for me to learn. She even paid me for my time which I was not expecting, but I was very grateful for since I had not secured work yet. I learned so much from Shawn for the very short time that I was able to work with her on the projects that she was doing. Shawn is an amazing mentor and person. I love being around her. Anyone that would have the opportunity to work with her would be lucky to because she is extremely talented in what she does regarding design work and you will learn a lot from her. I feel really lucky to have met Shawn Merkel. She is one of the reasons that I am happy that I moved to Asheville. read more

I would definitely recommend Shawn as a design planner. She was completely up front & professional throughout the process. She made it clear what her fees would be & what that included with a signed agreement. She also put me through an exhausting questionnaire, which I did not like, but I know she was trying to get as much information as possible about me so she could do her best job at pleasing me with her product. Can't fault her for that. Couple things I learned that might help others. Don't simply accept Shawn's or any designers' choices regarding your contractor, cabinet maker of other professional without doing some of your own research. Shawn really pushed her cabinet guy hard stating she had much experience with him & knew he did a great job. I have no doubt that this is true, but his price for my kitchen was $14,000 more than the guy I got from another contractor & he has been fabulous with a beautiful result. Also, don't be surprised if your design plan has to be tweaked once demolition occurs & a real view of the space is obtained. That said, having a detailed plan on paper from a professional is much better than having nothing or an amateurish drawing (like one I might draw). read more

I have worked with Shawn while creating a 500 square foot guest suite in the lower level of my home. I needed a floor plan that would give a guest privacy while also keeping a separate space for a workshop. Shawn came up with a great design concept, and provided my contractor with working drawings that he could submit to the city to obtain permits for the project. She made herself available if there were any questions. Once demolition was done, almost all dimensions she provided were correct which made my contractor's job that much easier. Shawn was great working within my budget. She was spot on with her estimate of the time she needed to create the floor plan. The finished project is much better than I could have imagined. Shawn also worked with me on design and furniture finishes. Because I had a very small budget she would give me advice, looked for items on-line and helped steer me towards a cohesive finished project. The guest suite is beautiful! I would highly recommend her, she is easy to work with, quickly understood my vision for this project, and worked well with the small budget that I gave her. read more

Shawn used a dinning area ceiling light I had purchased shortly after buying my Asheville home as inspiration to completely redesign my kitchen, remodel the fireplace surround in the living room, and refresh the bathrooms to reflect my modern and minimalist style while also significantly enhancing the functionality and aesthetic appeal of the space. She seamlessly coordinated a diverse team of experienced craftsmen and technicians to implement her vision. In additional, she was very receptive to my input and suggestions during the evolution of the project. I am extremely pleased with the final product. Should you require interior design services I would certainly recommend Shawn Merkel. read more

I couldn't have completed my project without Shawn!! She walked me through every step, offering suggestions and information, resources and support. Shawn's comfort level with design quickly put me at ease. Shawn did a lot of the footwork that kept me from starting the project for so long...finding contractors, getting estimates, and keeping track of deadlines and budgets. She was available for any question and always kept me in the loop. Shawn approaches her work with a great deal of professionalism, warmth, and attention to detail. A pleasure to work with! Thanks so much, Shawn!! read more

I have worked with Shawn of Align Design over the past several years and she has helped me tremendously to transform my 1947 Bungalow . Shawn has designed and lead the transformation of my kitchen, master bathroom, new walk in closet and powder room.All of the work has been of the best quality, with Shawn's reliable execution to match her innovative design and product suggestions. I highly recommend this design and build company, and will use them again. read more

Faced with a whole house remodel we really needed help! I am so glad we found Shawn online. She was able to come in and draw out plans after she got to know us and figured out what our style was. She was also helpful with selecting colors and kept us from making an expensive mistake in our kitchen remodel. I Found Shawn to be very reasonable and flexible, she responded quickly to email and was always prompt. I highly recommend Shawn! read more

I felt well listened to when making my needs known for our home & was able to heavily rely on Shawns design talents to lay out a pattern for living in each space. It became energetically draining to try and design our home myself, when I called Shawn I was ready hand it all over to her. After our consults and a few email exchanges I received an exceptional floor plan we r so excited to see come to fruition in the coming months! read more

I have really enjoyed working with Shawn. She has a clear vision of what she needs for her clients. Shawn is very professional and provides a great line of communication. Shawn has extensive flooring knowledge that makes our process flow nicely. I certainly recommend Shawn! read more

Shawn Merkel is an absolute pleasure to work with. She's so friendly, listens well and asks really good questions to help you design a space that works well for you. Her designs are beautiful, elegant and worth every penny. Hire her, you'll be happy you did! read more