Today we’d like to introduce you to Andrea DeRosa and Ashley Manhan.
Andrea and Ashley, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
We met at one of the first design firms we both worked at after graduating and not only did we became fast friends, but we quickly realized we both shared an entrepreneurial spirit and the ambition of starting our own design firm (something we later realized very few people wanted to embark on!).
When the economy took a turn for the worst in 2009, we realized there was no time like the present! We started really conservatively and took on small scopes we knew we could manage – but made sure they aligned with our business plan and focused on hospitality. Eventually, our clients kept enlisting us for scope after scope after scope. For the longest time, it was just Ashley and I. Now we have over a dozen designers in-house and a handful of consultants outside the office and our projects are better than ever.
Has it been a smooth road?
The road so far has been fairly smooth – but there are always bumps here and there – sometimes when we’ve least expected them. For a long time (and even to a certain extent today despite a lot of work speaks for itself) we really had to work hard to prove that we could deliver what we were promising contractually. We keep a very low profile in an industry that loves big personalities! We never oversell ourselves and are very transparent and unfortunately, I think that’s a little shocking to some potential clients. But for those clients who had faith, we never underdelivered!
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Avenue Interior Design – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
Avenue Interior Design is a full service, a hospitality-based design firm founded in 2009. Our focus within the hospitality market is far-reaching and includes restaurants, bars, nightclubs, hotels, casinos, and spas. Over the years we’ve been fortunate to be able to collaborate on the industry’s most dynamic properties for the most prominent leaders in hospitality including SBE, MGM Resorts International as well some lesser known, but very impactful private developers.
Early on we made an active decision to eschew one, limiting, ‘signature style’, instead opting to apply a fresh, distinctive and exclusive design on a project to project basis with consideration to our Client’s brand, demographic and the location of the venue. Hands down we are most proud of the quality of design we give our clients – the concept through the installation – and it’s only possible because we have one of the most talented, collaborative and dedicated teams in the business.
Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
We LOVE LA. It’s such a truly creative city that values innovation, grit and aspiration! The opportunities here are endless – even if it’s just deciding on where to grab your next meal (so many new players on the scene at any given time). The weather doesn’t hurt either. Navigating the city can be time-consuming – but you’ve got to pick your battles!
Contact Info:
- Address: 833 S. Spring St Suite 304
Los Angeles, CA 90014 - Website: www.avenueid.com
Image Credit:
Brent Dundore Photography
Getting in touch: VoyageLA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
