The door to the showroom was open and inviting the day I arrived in downtown Lancaster, much like…read moreowner Alison McIndoe. Her warm and friendly smile welcomed me to the Shoppe at AK Interiors. The colorful flowers adorning the window out front made an elegant entrance, and the design continued throughout with classic furnishings inside. Unique items kept catching my eye as I perused the store, but one item in particular begged for my attention: a little black and white dog figurine sitting in front of the window. His name is "Bergere," after the chair, and he has become a beloved mascot in the store. Alison has been in the design business for most of her life. In fact, growing up in her parents' store in Pennsylvania, McIndoe's, is where her passion for design began. With a degree in Interior Design and lots of experience working in the design and building industry, Alison opened AK Interiors in 1996, working from her home. At the time, she was a single mom and it allowed her to be easily available. A little more than a year ago, she decided it was time to venture out and open a boutique home furnishings shoppe in Lancaster. The Shoppe at AK Interiors is staffed by owner Alison and three other employees. The 1,100-square-foot space includes offices for the design team and a room for meeting clients. AK Interiors works with all different types of customers: residential, commercial and renovations. One service that AK Interiors offers is "Room in a Day." Basically, they use clients' existing furnishings and accessories, sometimes borrowing from other rooms, and then Alison and staff design their clients' space. While I was looking around The Shoppe, I noticed there was long hallway filled with artwork; I was intrigued so I asked about it. It turns out that The Shoppe participates in Lancaster's First Fridays where they feature local artists' works, music, drinks and nibbles. The Shoppe at AK Interiors is a great place to get ideas, purchase items for gifts, and furnish your home or business. As for Bergere the dog, if anyone is interested, he is for sale.

From the owner: Welcome to AK Interiors, where "It's All in the Details!" At AK Interiors, we take great pride in…read moreour exceptional ability to transform spaces into stunning, one-of-a-kind masterpieces. With a keen eye for detail and a commitment to perfection, we are with you every step of the way, ensuring that your vision is not just met but exceeded. Our talented team of interior designers is dedicated to crafting spaces that reflect your unique style and personality. From concept to completion, we leave no stone unturned, ensuring that every element of your project is flawlessly executed. At AK Interiors, we understand that the true beauty of a space lies in the finer points, and we are here to make those details shine. Experience the difference that meticulous attention to detail can make, and let us turn your dream space into a reality. Choose AK Interiors for unparalleled expertise, passion, and dedication to crafting exceptional interiors.

Anastasia is a very talented designer. She is professional and very passionate about her work…read more She is a pleasure to work with and makes the design process enjoyable. She transforms spaces thru her customers eyes using her knowledge and creative talents. I have loved the results and love even more that it still feels like my space. Ask to see her amazing library of projects. She will surely impress!

I have hired Anastasia for many projects at my house. And I will continue to use her in the future!…read more She is patient and honest, but if I feel I don't like it or don't want it she is not pushy!! Anastatia has an amazing eye for what would and will look great! I can't wait to use her again!! Jill Rebuck-Cutler

Marti has a great eye for design. More important, however, she has a gift for making a house a…read morehome. She doesn't impose her aesthetic on the homeowner, but helps you realize your vision, while safely guiding you away from typical mistakes--all while helping you save money. We worked with Marti to renovate our kitchen and to purchase new furniture for our living room. We started a bit late in the year, and yet with Marti's help, we managed to get everything finished before Christmas. She worked with us from start to finish--everything from floor plans to appliance/furniture selection to hanging photographs--and a lot in-between. Marti's upbeat, positive, professional manner made the process enjoyable. We are thrilled with the results. I recommend her without reservation.

Excellent upholstery shop! As an interior designer, Kevin &…read morehis crew have help me with lots of projects. My clients are very pleased with their workmanship.

The response was very fast. The price seems reasonable. At this time I cannot get the job done but…read morewill keep them first as my choice.

To be honest, at first I thought an interior designer was going to be a waste of time and money…read more After talking to many in-house designers and decorators at several retail stores I was sure it was going to be a waste of time and money. Then Laura of Vara, Inc. walked in. She is no-nonsense and very professional and definitely knows her business. She wasn't trying to push me into buying items I didn't need or up sale me at every turn. She helped me arrange the furniture I already had, and did a wonderful job of tying in the artwork I have with everything new we added. Her recommendations ended up being perfect. A few times I had my doubts but figured I could switch things back after she left but when I saw the finished project I literally was speechless. The few projects we did that I didn't listen to Laura are the only ones I regret. I don't mean to sound like a Vara, Inc commercial. I was just so surprised that some simple changes could make such a huge difference. My rooms look bigger. I never knew color choices were so important and could change the whole feel of my home. Watching her work was like watching a magician on stage. Several time I left for work thinking she had really messed up this time only to return home and be floored.I always liked entertaining but now I look for reasons to have friends, family, even customers over to my house. She made my house into my dream home and through the whole process she did not once make me feel like I had no style or taste. I never felt uncomfortable for any reason. I will recomend Vara,Inc to anyone who needs blinds, furniture, carpet or pretty much anything else. I am 100% happy with our new addition and all the work they did in the original part of the house. Yes, I am a convert.

From the owner: With more than 35 years of professional design experience, Laura Lacovara, ASID is the owner and…read moremaster designer for VARA Inc. She graduated from the Ringling College of Art and Design in Sarasota, FL with a Bachelor's Degree in Fine Arts. In addition to studying Architecture and Decorative Arts in Europe, Laura obtained Master's credits from the world renowned Parsons New School of Design. Laura has been featured in local newspapers and publications, as well as Window Fashions Magazine, Baron's "Who's Who of Interior Design," and Baron's "Who's Who of Executives and Professionals." Laura is a professional member of the American Society of Interior Designers, a highly respected organization whose members must meet and maintain specific qualifications and standards for acceptance and continued membership.

I am so happy we updated our kitchen with The Peacocks Nest! The designer was knowledgeable and…read moreprovided us with two beautiful design ideas. She was patient when we had to switch contractors mid-project! The kitchen is everything we wanted and more. She puts much caree and thought into tHe project, even the little details. I can't wait to work with her again!!

From the owner: Harrisburg based residential interior design firm, servicing Central PA and surrounding areas. We…read morespecialize in: -Furniture selection -Art curation -Project Management -Kitchen remodels -Bath remodels -Decorating -Specialty Painting -Color Consultations We are enthusiastic, passionate, and client-centered. We believe in upfront communication and strive to be as transparent as possible with our clients so that we are aligned in the design process, which ultimately makes for a more positive experience.

Custom interior design. The owner has been in the design business for over 25 years. I would highly…read morerecommend Room with A View for designing new construction, kitchen & bath remodel, or even a room update. She's the one to call.

From the owner: Room with a View specializes in "defining your perfect living space." We help clients realize their…read moredream homes, assisting with home furnishings, custom window treatments, wallpaper, paint, and unique accessories. We also provide color consultation and project management for new and existing homes.