TEAM MEMBERS KEITH KOVAR, FRDI – PRINCIPAL • Graduate of The Art Center College of Design, California • Fellow of the Retail Design Institute • Member of DDI Magazine editorial advisory board • Project analysis • Planning expert and problem-solver • Storefront and exterior designer • Construction knowledge ………………………………………………………………………………………… Yelton Fine Jewelry, West Chester, Ohio When Mark and Tina Yelton purchased an old brick roadhouse restaurant, they needed to change its look.  Mark is a talented goldsmith, a second-generation retailer.  Kovar used stucco panels to cover some of the existing building and added windows.  The result: an intriguing earth-toned building, with blue window framing emphasizes the store’s new function. The interior 7000 sq. ft. space makes extensive use of the curve.  The interior: an emphasis on rich materials, a mix of ceramic tile and carpet, glass tiles behind the cash and a couple of different wood finishes create the elegant look. ………………………………………………………………………………………… Hannoush Jewelers, Albany NY The brothers expanded the freestanding building to include a salon and spa for their sister.  Their store is a high-end family jewelry store in a suburban shopping area.  The long restaurant building had sufficient expansion space.  The look: the character of a lodge was developed with earth tones, ceramic tiles and a fireplace, which reflects the nearby Adirondack Mountain resorts. To offset low ceilings, Kovar punched through several areas to expose gables, thereby carrying its lodge character.  The result: ceiling with various peaked areas and carved entrance doors in existing entryway creates a clearly marked entrance, visible to shoppers entering parking space. ………………………………………………………………………………………… Plateau Jewelers, Sammamish, Washington After searching for a larger location, Plateau Jewelers, a high-end custom jeweler opted to retain his existing location.  The work: the interior was completely gutted and redone. The 1000 sq. ft. space was planned right down to the corners, to fit all of the store’s functions.  The result: maximization of space, utilizing extensive use of curves and different ceiling heights, completely transformed the look of the store. ………………………………………………………………………………………… Geto & de Milly, New York, NY Geto and de Milly leased office space close to Madison Square Park for their work as lobbyists and public relations. The owners plus staff of 8-10 employees had a lot of equipment, including a specific filing system, which had to be accommodated with comfort and efficiency enabling staff to work independently and hold occasional meetings.  The layout: a series of workstations are spread throughout the open area; individual offices all have windows; strong colour interspersed with off-white identifies specific areas.   The office had to be efficiently planned, lit properly and designed with panache.  The space facilitates interaction among staff, while providing sufficient privacy for them to work independently.  Customers are welcomed in the handsome Reception area.