DON'T MISS A THING

Interior designer Yelena Gerts, founder of House of Style & Design, shares her journey, vision, and approach to creating spaces defined by everyday luxury. In this edition of The Women of…, we step inside her world—while also meeting the women behind the brand who help bring each project to life through creativity, collaboration, and intention.

At the helm of House of Style & Design, Yelena Gerts has created a design universe rooted in elegance, intention, and what she defines as “everyday luxury.” Her work—recognized by Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, and Design NJ, and honored with accolades including the ASID NJ Design Excellence Awards—reflects a refined balance of timeless sophistication and bold personal expression.

But beyond the spaces she creates is a story shaped by instinct, evolution, and authenticity. From a childhood surrounded by antiques and beauty to a career that began in luxury business before finding its true home in interiors, Yelena’s journey is one of aligning passion with purpose—and building a business that reflects both.

A devoted mother, wife, and leader, she brings that same sense of care and clarity to her team and clients alike, fostering an environment where creativity, growth, and empowerment go hand in hand—an ethos reflected not only in her work, but in the women who help bring her vision to life.

Here, Yelena opens up about her path—sharing the defining moments, lessons, and mindset that continue to shape her vision of luxury living today.

Meet Yelena Gerts and The Women of House of Style & Design

Yelena Gerts

Founder & Principal Interior Designer

When did your love affair with design begin? And how did it make you feel?

My father was an antique collector, and I grew up surrounded by beauty from different centuries. Both my father and mother loved decorating, design, and fashion. Growing up exposed to that world sparked my interest in the design industry. It felt magical—being immersed in timeless elegance and creativity made everything feel richer and more inspiring.

Tell us a bit about your path and what led to your decision to start House of Style & Design?

I didn’t start with House of Style & Design right away. My career began with luxury cosmetic brands, where I handled overall business management. I always knew I wanted to pursue design, but I wasn’t sure which area. So I explored everything—from fashion to floral arrangements to events—gradually finding my way to where I truly belong: luxury residential interior design. Launching House of Style & Design felt like coming home; it combined my business acumen with my passion for creating beautiful, functional spaces.

Do you recall any critical turning point when you realized your business was succeeding?

Yes, I remember that moment exactly. The minute I realized who I am and who my ideal client is, everything changed. I started catering specifically to them, and my career took off like wildfire. Early on, I was advised to be “relatable” and blend into any environment. That didn’t work—I love wearing high heels, dressing up, and embracing luxury fashion and style. When I embraced that authenticity, I found clients who appreciated luxury, quality, and stylish interiors. Once I aligned with them, the business ignited.

What do you consider your greatest achievement to date?

My greatest achievement is building a business I absolutely love while providing exceptional service to my clients. Creating incredible systems for smooth project execution has been transformative. Equally meaningful is offering my team a livelihood, a place where they feel inspired, empowered, and able to learn and grow. And personally, my showroom dream has come to life as a dedicated space for client collaborations—it’s been years in the making and now enhances our concierge-level experience.

Who has contributed most to your success?

My team has been a huge factor throughout the years—their loyalty and dedication have brought me where I am today. And of course, my amazing clients, who have let me be part of their lives for so many years, trusted me and our process, and allowed us to be incredibly creative.

What surprised you most about growing a business?

As a business owner, sometimes you have to be very assertive and make tough decisions that are good for the overall business. They’re not always easy, but they’re necessary. That balance of heart and strategy was a real eye-opener.

Tell us about your most demanding client and what you learned from the experience.

The majority of our clients are very demanding—and that’s absolutely normal. They’re investing in the best and expect nothing less. That demanding philosophy aligns perfectly with my business model of concierge-level, personalized luxury service.

How do you handle negative feedback or criticism of your work?

I’ve learned to handle constructive criticism or negative feedback with a simple, effective approach: I acknowledge and truly hear what the client has to say. I always do my best to solve the issue and make them happy, as long as it’s reasonable. Both sides—clients and our trades—are very important to us, so I make sure to listen to both stories and find fair resolutions.

If you could have done something different, what would it be?

If I could start all over again, there are only two things I would do differently.

Number one: Don’t give my time away for free. As I’m getting older, I realize how valuable and precious time is, and giving it away to people who don’t appreciate our value is just not worth it.
The other lesson: Don’t hold onto anyone who does not want to be here. It’s a privilege to be a part of our team.

What helps you move forward with your business despite the inevitable struggles?

When things get a little challenging, I accept the challenge and come up with a plan. I strategize, perfect, restore, recharge, reorganize, and use this time to improve and learn.

Lately, we’ve been fully invested in AI for efficiency and productivity and have been getting incredible results.

Although I have to say that we rarely get this opportunity :).

Who is Yelena Gerts, the woman of House of Style & Design?

In real life, I’m a mother to three wonderful boys, married to the love of my life, a mom to two very playful golden retrievers. I love living life to the fullest—I love to travel, spend time with family and friends, while taking a million pictures along the way.

When women invest in other women, we all rise together. Do you have any specific thoughts about working with women on your team?

I feel lucky and privileged to be surrounded by the most talented, dedicated, and hard-working women on my team who inspire me every day. I understand what they go through at different phases of life, and I fully support them every step of the way. I care deeply about their professional growth and development, their success, mental health, and financial independence.

What advice would you give to someone starting their career in design?

My main pieces of advice: Be patient, realistic, and honest.

This is a very difficult business, despite what social media and TV make it look like. Be honest with your clients about what you know and what you’re still learning. Most importantly, gain as much experience as possible.

Do you have any mottos you like to live by?

My favorite motto is:
“Don’t take no for an answer.”
And from my own philosophy:
“When you add style and class to the ordinary, it becomes extraordinary.”

What’s next for Yelena and House of Style & Design?

Oh my God, we’re working on the most incredible projects right now—all of them are “pinch me” kind of dreams come true. With exciting new collaborations on the horizon, the future is brighter than ever. We’re continuing to elevate luxury living, one extraordinary space at a time.

Yelena Gerts proves that true success is built on authenticity, perseverance, and a clear sense of self, embracing both the creative and the strategic with equal intention. Through House of Style & Design, she continues to shape a vision of luxury living that is both personal and enduring.

Behind that vision is a team of talented women who help bring each project to life—each with her own perspective, passion, and creative voice. Together, they shape the world of House of Style & Design.

Alyssa Katehis

Lead Interior Designer

With over 15 years of experience in interior design, Alyssa Katehis brings a refined and thoughtful approach to creating beautifully curated spaces. Driven by a commitment to excellence, she is known for her meticulous attention to detail, appreciation for craftsmanship, and dedication to delivering a seamless client experience.

At House of Style & Design, she thrives in a collaborative environment that encourages creativity and the exploration of distinctive, elevated concepts, often working with emerging trends and exclusive materials to shape truly bespoke interiors.

A devoted mother of three boys, Alyssa balances her dynamic professional life with meaningful time at home, where her love for cooking and baking reflects the same artistry she brings to her work. Guided by a perfectionist’s eye and a passion for design, she approaches every project with the goal of exceeding expectations—creating spaces that feel both timeless and exceptional.

Lauren Prince

Senior Interior Designer

With a background in fine arts and nine years of experience in interior design, Lauren Prince brings a creative and considered perspective to every project she touches.

As a Senior Designer at House of Style & Design, she approaches each space as an opportunity to craft something truly unique—blending innovative materials, fresh concepts, and functional beauty. She is particularly passionate about building strong relationships with clients and guiding them through the entire design journey, from initial vision to final installation, finding inspiration in their reactions as each project comes to life.

Drawn to the industry’s constant evolution, Lauren embraces new technologies, materials, and trends, allowing her to continually refine her creative voice. Outside of work, she loves traveling and exploring new destinations, drawing inspiration from global architecture and design details that inform and enrich her work.

Alyssa Pica

Associate Interior Designer

With over six years of experience in the design industry, Alyssa Pica brings a fresh, passionate perspective to her role as an interior designer. She thrives in dynamic, collaborative environments—an energy she finds at House of Style & Design, where each project offers new creative challenges and opportunities to evolve.

Growing up surrounded by construction and design, particularly influenced by her father, Alyssa developed an early appreciation for the industry that continues to shape her work today. She is inspired by the ever-changing nature of design, embracing new materials, trends, and ideas with curiosity and enthusiasm.

Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family, baking, and practicing yoga—moments that keep her grounded and inspired. For Alyssa, design is not only a profession but a constantly evolving journey of learning, creativity, and passion.

Led by the vision of Yelena Gerts, The Women of House of Style & Design redefine what it means to build something meaningful. Through creativity, strength, and shared purpose, they transform interiors into experiences—spaces rooted in beauty, intention, and everyday luxury.

Explore more by Yelena Gerts and The Women of House of Style & Design!

All Images Courtesy of House of Style & Design

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