who we are

Have you ever walked into a space and immediately felt impacted by it?  Maybe that was the first time you walked into Grand Central Station in New York City.  Or visiting the US Capital and gazing up from the inside at the massive rotunda.  Perhaps it is the view revealed by the final steps to a mountain summit, or the peaceful serenity the moment you step inside a luxury day spa.

We believe great spaces make you feel something, and that is exactly how you should feel every time you walk into your space.

Design Plus was founded in 1987, and over 4 decades we have delivered hundreds of custom and award-winning design projects.  We chose the name Design Plus to demonstrate our commitment to seeing each project from conceptual design through construction, to every last detail.  In our experience controlling the quality of the implementation is the only way to guarantee your vision becomes reality.

 

how we work

No two clients or projects are the same, and this is what makes custom design both fun and rewarding.
 
Clients typically approach us when they are ready to design and build a new luxury home, or as they are considering renovating/remodeling their home.  We have also designed professional offices, second homes, condos, yachts and even private jets for clients. 
 
We incorporate sustainability and responsibly sourced materials in our design, when possible, and biophilic design to bring nature into the spaces for health and well-being, being mindful of people, place and planet, as well as, universal design and aging in place, as appropriate and practical. 
 
We create uplifting, productive and safe spaces with great aesthetics and functional interior design which makes a difference – it positively impacts lives.
 
Some clients know exactly what they want going in, while others have some ideas and aren’t sure how to piece them together.  In all cases we find our clients have a sense of how they want the space to feel, even if they can’t explain it in words.  We help them find their voice, their vision and create and transform their spaces.
 
Many design firms provide design, drawings, specifications and construction documents before and then turn the project over to a contractor to implement.  Our experience shows us that this approach often result in miscommunication, changes, shortcuts and cost overruns – all of which can compromise the design integrity, the space and the clients’ experience.
 
We follow a complete beginning-to-end, conceptual design through project completion  approach because we know how difficult executing to perfection can be.  There are three main steps in our design process:
 
Initial Consultation and Programming
First, we meet with you to define the scope of work and determine your design aesthetic and preferences, creating a foundation for a successful project.
 
Design Development
Second, our design process begins by translating your desires into a unique design that is both created and revised with your feedback, including space planning, lighting design, colors, finishes, fixtures and furnishings, as well as, custom elements and specialty features.
 
Final Design, Drawings, Specifications w/Costs
Third, we create drawings, including floor plans, reflected ceiling plans, elevations, details and cabinetry, specifications, a preliminary budget and construction documents, so everyone is literally on the same page to maintain the integrity of the design and aesthetics. 
 
Once approved, we curate the team required to create your project as designed, procure materials and manage construction throughout the entire process.  Despite the best planning efforts, the unexpected may arise and we will be there to problem solve and preserve the integrity of your design, down to the final details and finishing touches.  
 

how we charge

Our Design and Project Management fees are based on the defined scope of work and estimated cost of your project. 
 
With our detailed specifications and preliminary budget you will know your cost estimates before construction begins; unless you choose to make any changes or additions during construction. 
 
As your single point of contact, we will coordinate and manage all contractors and trades to maintain design integrity, delivering the optimal design outcome.
 
In our experience, this ensures you receive the maximum value, the highest quality design and the best experience possible. 
 

about kaye

Kaye Christiansen Englert, FASID, NCIDQ, CAPS, founded Design Plus, Inc. and has created timeless, and award-winning designs for over thirty years.  Her work spans many different specialties including Custom Residential, Commercial, Hospitality, Retirement Communities, Health Care facilities and even Corporate Jets.

Kaye is an ASID Fellow which is the Society’s highest honor, bestowed on less than 1% of American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) members.  Kaye is the only practicing ASID Fellow in Utah, Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming.  It is a distinction reserved for those who have made outstanding contributions to the interior design profession, not only through their work but also their impact on the community.  

Kaye holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design and Advertising Design. Kaye has demonstrated a long-standing commitment to the Interior Design Profession.  She currently serves as the ASID Intermountain Chapter Government Affairs Chair and also sits on the Interior Design Advisory Committees of both Utah State University and Ensign College.

Kaye believes interior design is multi-dimensional; great projects not only meet functional needs but also transform spaces. Good design must balance form and function – there is no need to sacrifice one or the other.  Kaye’s measure of success is her client’s delight in their new space.  One client said it best, Thank you for helping us turn a dream into a reality. It has been so fun and easy working with you.”

KAYE’S CERTIFICATIONS & PROFESSIONAL LEADERSHIP
    • National Council of Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) Certificate (#002366) and NCIDQ Ambassador
    • Certified Commercial Interior Designer in the State of Utah (License #9886670-0401)
    • Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS)
    • ASID Intermountain Chapter President
    • ASID National Board of Directors
    • ASID Rocky Mountain Regional Vice President
    • Co-founder of IDEAL for Utah (Interior Design Education and Legislation) and served as the Coalition’s Treasurer.  She was instrumental in the passage of the Utah State Certified Commercial Interior Design Bill in 2016, which recognized interior designers under the technical definition of Design Professionals.