Find top-rated Pros in your area
Enter a zip code and get matched to businesses near you.
Distinctive Interior Designs
Electrical for Home Addition or Remodel - Install, Electrical for Home Addition, Electrical Wiring or Panel Upgrade,
About us
Since 1998, award-winning decorator Nicole Lorber of Distinctive Interior Designs (DiD) has worked, along with her talented crew of design crafts-professionals, to bring delight to clients in New Jersey, Eastern Pennsylvania, and beyond, with interior touches that are truly transformational. A WFCP Master, WCAA Certified Consultant & Certified Workroom, and DraperyPro member, Nicole has been a Director of Window Coverings Association of America's (WCAA) National Board and is a recent past President of the Central New Jersey WCAA Chapter. She received her degree in Design & Textile Management from Cornell University, and studied at FIT prior to winning multiple International Window Coverings Association design awards. Nicole's work has been featured in Design NJ Magazine and often seen, over the years, in Window Fashions Magazine, where she has been a regular contributor to Window Fashions Magazine's "'Ask the Expert" column. DDN has also been 'Minority/ Women Business Enterprise' certified for State and Federal commercial bids. We also carry a $1,000,000 liability insurance bond and cover all employees/ subcontractors with Workman's Compensation insurance.
Business highlights
27 years of experience
Services we offer
We started our business with custom window treatments (drapes, and digital aided design., bathroom & kitchen redesign and contractor coordination, blinds, carpet/ woodflooring/ custom area rug design, cornices, custom bedding). Our clients asked us to keep expanding our services. We can now help you with gorgeous furniture (with wholesale access to a long list of quality companies), custom built-ins, etc) and accessories (pillows, interior design services, shutters, valances
Accepted Payment Methods
- CreditCard
Reviews
4.77 Reviews
| Number of Stars | Image of Distribution | Number of Ratings |
|---|---|---|
| 86% | ||
| 0% | ||
| 14% | ||
| 0% | ||
| 0% |
Showing 1-7 of 7 reviews
Nancy A.
Jan 2018
I was very happy with the work. The project took over a year from start to finish. We worked on several rooms, we worked with several contractors. We set a budget. Nicole from Distinctive Interior Designs was on time and within budget. She also worked with a variety of people and companies on my behalf.
Jissan C.
Dec 2017
Nicole was able to provide her pre-selected contractors to meet our needs for each and every job. Pro's: Nicole is very personable and was able to provide suggestions for different items we were looking for. She did the background work to stay on top of contractors to provide quotes, start and complete work. Her contractors, once they started, worked quickly and efficiently. Con's: Nicole got a lot of small things mixed up. At the beginning, she had some new clients with Indian names and got us confused on a couple occasions. She gave out my wrong contact info to a contractor and I had to catch and correct a few of her written mistakes. She is a busy woman and does a lot on the go, so emails can be confusing with incorrect info and wording, misspelling, incomplete/unclear writing, etc.-- this may be something small but, to me, reflects professionalism. On several occasions, I had to follow up with her after an time sensitive inquiry was not responded to within 24 hours (as per our agreement). I am a very organized person so perhaps our styles were just different, but I found her rather disorganized. At times, we did get the feeling that she was more an advocate for her contractors than she was for us as her clients. The overall work lasted much longer than anticipated due to lack of communication from a few contractors, which Nicole attempted to assist but couldn't do much about, understandably. She did help urge one contractor to finish work on a specified date when he fell behind. This was our first time using a project coordinator so perhaps we didn't exactly understand how it would work. We felt that after she coordinated the initial quotes and ordered our kitchen tile, most of the communication and coordination was left to us to manage with the contractors and she was largely out of the loop. It worked in our favor to be able to schedule dates/times with each one individually but then we weren't sure what she was working on for us in the mean time. She is certainly good at what she does, however I'm not sure her services really matched our needs. Because of the mismatch in organization styles and amount of money spent, we likely would not hire again.
Response from Distinctive Interior Designs
"I appreciate the feedback regarding the project we worked on together as I'm always trying to improve my business and make sure that my clients are happy. I've been doing this for 20 years now, but I still learn something new almost every day. First, let me say, I'm happy that you found my team and me to be professional, provide quality ideas/ workmanship, and overall do things in a timely manner. I prescreen all my contractors and set high expectations for them...that's how they stay a part of my team. And, yes, I do apologize that at times, when I'm trying to ensure I stay on top of pressing issues within client projects while on the road, autocorrect and my big fat thumbs, make errors. For those issues that are not as urgent there are times when I wait until I get back to the office to type a more formal (and more accurate) communication. Occasionally there are communications that slip past the '24 hour rule' by which I try to live; it's often because I've been on the road to client projects multiple long days in a row. To be more realistic, perhaps I need to shift that promise in the future to 24-48 hours max. Related to advocating for contractors and communication with them, I hope to reassure you that my clients and the mutually agreed upon design ALWAYS come first and my team knows that. My contractors know that they must handle every job professionally and on a timely basis or they won't get more work from my company. All that said, because I have a tremendous amount of respect for them as professionals and individuals, there are times that I need to manage expectations on both sides. One of your concerns struck home with me, and I thank you for mentioning it because I believe it's an area which I may need to handle in a slightly differently manner. You mentioned that you felt too much communication/ coordination was on your shoulders after contracts to proceed were signed. I can understand how that might seem like the case, but can assure you that there are a TREMENDOUS number of emails, texts, and phone calls that are done by me behind the scenes for every step of a project. Given your perception though, I'm considering asking clients upfront if they would like me to CC them on every email I write to my team members. Overall, I manage projects for extremely busy people who seem to prefer I just communicate the larger scale items to them, but every client is different and I need to recognize that in the future. I admit, I'm really disappointed to receive any overall C rating as we all worked very ho*** ** your project. I plan to make some changes as a result of your written feedback, and would welcome a chance to even communicate further via call or email about any other suggestions or areas in which we could improve. I thank you for the chance to work with you. We wish you both all the best in your newly refreshed beautiful home! ~Nicole & Our Team"
Susan K.
Apr 2016
Many husbands leave decoration up to their wives, but this project was a true collaboration. Luckily my husband and I have similar taste, but Nicole had to figure out how to find solutions when our ideas diverged. We are both very happy with the final outcome.
Response from Distinctive Interior Designs
"Thank you, [Member Name Removed], for your kind words... I had an absolute blast helping you with your project and getting to know both you and Irv! You guys are so much fun!"
Donna F.
Dec 2015
unknown
Response from Distinctive Interior Designs
"Thanks SO much for the great review! As well, thanks for sending me your next door neighbor to talk about HER window treatments (and maybe even new furniture) in her new home too...I tremendously appreciate it! Hopefully good things will come from my conversations with her also..."
Helen H.
Nov 2015
Nicole was not the first decorator I interviewed but the first who clearly would respect my preferences while giving me guidance. We began with a consultation about paint colors and then the selection and installation of custom blinds and draperies for the kitchen, living room, dining room and master bedroom followed by new furniture for the living room, kitchen and guest room. Ultimately Nicole provided suggestions and we went shopping for accessories and art as well as area rugs. I'm not a shopper but she had done the legwork in advance and took me to see things which I loved, no searching through lots of things I didn't like. For the first time in my life I also had custom bed covers made and Nicole suggested reversible ones so that I now have seasonal colors and patterns and beautiful fabrics. Nicole was very easy to work with and never steered me wrong. As a beige/white person all of my life I was unsure about her suggestions for paint colors but I love them as does everyone who comes to my home. The paint was the first example of her understanding of me and what I would like. After that, I overcame my reluctance to try new things and she was never wrong. Every piece gets appreciative comments from visitors right down to those little touches that make the room complete and every room brings a smile to my face every time I enter it.
A number of acquaintances who have have seen her work at my home have asked for her name, contacted her and have had her do work for them. I hear their praises regularly. In fact, someone who saw only the first of the draperies three years ago saw me this week and asked if she could come to visit to see what that "extraordinary" decorator had done since.
A number of acquaintances who have have seen her work at my home have asked for her name, contacted her and have had her do work for them. I hear their praises regularly. In fact, someone who saw only the first of the draperies three years ago saw me this week and asked if she could come to visit to see what that "extraordinary" decorator had done since.
Response from Distinctive Interior Designs
"[Member Name Removed], Thank you very much for your kind words! I really appreciate your extra effort here, AND have tremendously enjoyed getting to know you over the last 5 years. I can't believe we worked together over such a long period of time. It was wonderful really getting a chance to know someone so well--design taste-wise and personally. As well, I want to make sure you know how much I have valued the huge number of neighbors in your community you've sent to me over the years. I just finished up the 5 room contemporary project for your childhood friend's brother. Hopefully you'll get a chance to see it soon. I LOVE the way it turned out--furniture, rugs, paint, lighting, redone fireplace, custom woodworking...the whole sha-bang! If you're curious, they allowed me to put these pics on my website: [hyperlink removed]. By the way, don't be surprised if I reach out to stop by when I'm around the corner...I miss our chats! Talk to you soon hopefully! ~Nicole"
Helen H.
Oct 2011
I found Nicole on Angie's List and, once again, the list was a great source. She and I worked together throughout the summer of 2011. She helped me make selections about wall colors, window treatments, furniture, accessories and even the placement of art. I cannot find words adequate to report what a pleasant and productive relationship it was. I intend to use her services again.
Nicole was always pleasant and punctual as well as patient. She encouraged me to go beyond my preferences for beige and white but was respectful of my opinions. The house is absolutely beautiful and generates lots of compliments, often about the things I had some doubts about originally. I quickly learned to trust her suggestions although she never tried to convince me of something I'd decided against. We did a lot of shopping and I enjoyed every minute of something that has always been an unpleasant chore. She introduced me to sources that suited my tastes perfectly and on the one occasion when a piece needed to be adjusted she came herself to pick it up, took it back and returned it within a very short time. Her relationship with the supplier was clearly very good. He was very responsive on the two occasions when we spoke on the phone.
Nicole and I never had a conflict or even a harsh word or misunderstanding. Family and friends who met her were impressed with her pleasant personality and efficiency. I recommend her without reservations. I will soon be contacting Nicole to begin work on a bedroom, two bathrooms and an office. I'm looking forward to it.
Nicole was always pleasant and punctual as well as patient. She encouraged me to go beyond my preferences for beige and white but was respectful of my opinions. The house is absolutely beautiful and generates lots of compliments, often about the things I had some doubts about originally. I quickly learned to trust her suggestions although she never tried to convince me of something I'd decided against. We did a lot of shopping and I enjoyed every minute of something that has always been an unpleasant chore. She introduced me to sources that suited my tastes perfectly and on the one occasion when a piece needed to be adjusted she came herself to pick it up, took it back and returned it within a very short time. Her relationship with the supplier was clearly very good. He was very responsive on the two occasions when we spoke on the phone.
Nicole and I never had a conflict or even a harsh word or misunderstanding. Family and friends who met her were impressed with her pleasant personality and efficiency. I recommend her without reservations. I will soon be contacting Nicole to begin work on a bedroom, two bathrooms and an office. I'm looking forward to it.
Response from Distinctive Interior Designs
"Thank you SO much for the kind words, Member! You've been wonderful to work with as well. I feel like you've become a friend of mine over the last 6 months, and can't wait until your next project just so I can have a chance to catch up with you. I know you're a very busy lady, so, the amount of time and effort you put into the review means a tremendous amount to me. See you soon, hopefully!"
Ashley C.
Aug 2008
Returned all phone calls and inquiries promptly. Gave an estimate via email quickly after she visited for an estimate. Made an extra effort to get just the right color for the shades. I'm really bad with color so Nicole went to the furniture store to consult with the designer I used for my furniture and paint color about the color for the shade (Luxe Furniture in Princeton - a great store - also the place who recommended Distinctive Designs to me). She didn't have to do that, but made the extra effort to make sure I was satisfied. When there was a delay in the shades coming in from the manufacturer, Nicole stayed in contact with me and as soon as they came in she came and put them up. I also liked that she was personally on site for the installation. This company was very professional and a pleasure to work with.
Response from Distinctive Interior Designs
"THANKS FOR POSTING US ON ANGIE'S LIST (IT TOOK ME A WHILE TO FIGURE OUT HOW TO DO THIS...MY REP IS HELPING ME NOW)! IT WAS A PLEASURE WORKING WITH YOU AND I'M GLAD WE WERE ABLE TO GET THINGS 'JUST RIGHT' FOR YOU AND THE LOOK YOU WANTED. IF THERE IS ANYTHING ELSE WE CAN DO FOR YOU AT ANYTIME, KNOW THAT WE'RE ALWAYS AVAILABLE...ANY TIME...ANY DAY! HOPE ALL IS WELL AND YOUR DECORATING PROCESS IS CLOSE TO FINISHED (AND LOOKING PERFECT)!"
Licensing
State Contractor License Requirements
All statements concerning insurance, licenses, and bonds are informational only, and are self-reported. Since insurance, licenses and bonds can expire and can be cancelled, homeowners should always check such information for themselves. To find more licensing information for your state, visit our Find Licensing Requirements page.
*Contact business to see additional licenses.
FAQ
Distinctive Interior Designs is currently rated 4.7 overall out of 5.
Distinctive Interior Designs accepts the following forms of payment: CreditCard
No, Distinctive Interior Designs does not offer free project estimates.
No, Distinctive Interior Designs does not offer eco-friendly accreditations.
No, Distinctive Interior Designs does not offer a senior discount.
No, Distinctive Interior Designs does not offer emergency services.
No, Distinctive Interior Designs does not offer warranties.