For the second year in a row, Tobias Designs was named “Best of Houzz 2015.”
In 2005 Lisa Tobias, founder and owner of Tobias Designs located in Hopewell, started her business as a “natural avenue to pursue given my work history and my passions.” Becoming a role model in the business world for her twin 26-year old daughters is just an added bonus.
“My alma mater [Hobart and William Smith Colleges in Geneva, NY] is very instrumental in promoting the empowerment of women. It is important for women to know they can take risks and be supported in the area and in the state.”
Lisa also did not set out to hire staff based on gender, however “by sheer coincidence our entire full-time staff is a staff of women. In projects such as kitchens and baths the need and desire is usually driven by the female in the partnership. I do have men who are the primary force or the stay-at-home parent, but in the majority of cases it is the woman who drives the project.”
“Women have a tendency to work collaboratively, and this is a very collaborative process.”
Lisa prides herself on working with her customers to design a unique kitchen or bathroom that best suits their needs, and also reflects their unique personalities. “We work with clients from the beginning to the end. From concept to installation we manage the process very closely. We help our clients not only with the kitchen layout, but with selection that tells a story – paint selection, hardware, lighting, cabinets, and countertops. We work with bathrooms in much the same way.”
Recently Lisa has noticed a growing number of clients in their 30s. These clients are now more established in their careers, are married, and are starting a family. They are also buying their first homes. “It is an age group of people who have started to have buying power, are enthusiastic, and receptive to input. I enjoy working with them.” This also gives her a chance to feed her maternal nurturing side. “It is not just about the kitchens and baths, but also about the cradles.”
In the end, “a kitchen can be beautiful, but if the process was awful, that is what the client will remember.” Lisa strives to be a “yes, because” referral, instead of a “yes, but” one. Call Tobias Designs, at 609-466-1445 to see how Lisa and her staff can make your dream kitchen and bathroom a reality.
Tobias Designs, 48 West Broad Street, Hopewell. 609-466-1445, TobiasDesignsLLC.com.
