A chain-linked pendant from Krell Lighting spans the marble island, tying together warm woods, boucle stools, and layered textures in this refined yet relaxed kitchen.
Andrew Joseph: What inspired you to become a designer?
Allison Handler: My journey into design was not a straight and narrow path. I started my career (for the first 20 years) working in the fashion industry in NYC. I was not a designer, rather in merchandising, which I describe as a blend of business side and creative side. After starting a family and moving to the ‘burbs (Bergen county, NJ), I craved a more flexible schedule, and I simultaneously discovered my love for interiors while decorating my own home. While I am not a technically trained designer, my superpowers lay in other aspects of my business and I have been able to tap into my prior fashion industry experience to maneuver through the world of entrepreneurship. Needless to say, AHD was born and I haven’t looked back!
AJ: Can you describe your design philosophy in three words?
AH: Modern, organic, bold.
AJ: How do you stay creative and inspired?
AH: I pull creativity and inspiration from everywhere. Social media, vacations, clients, other designers, going to market regularly, my trade partners, my children… I am constantly inspired!
This sculptural soaking tub sits center stage beneath a playful pendant, grounded by bold stone details and a punchy checkerboard towel for a modern moment of calm.
AJ: What is your favorite place to find inspiration?
AH: I love traveling and being inspired by the local style. For example, I was just in New Orleans for the first time and was positive I was changing my style to French eclectic. Haha!
AJ: What is your favorite design trend from the past?
AH: I will always have a soft spot for midcentury design. From its clean lines and geometric shapes to the colors and textures, and of course all the natural materials, it constantly inspires me and always finds some way into my designs.
AJ: What is your favorite design element to incorporate into your projects?
AH: Lighting! Lighting really is the jewelry of a space. It completely elevates every room, and my favorite way to use lighting is to layer it in unexpected ways.
AJ: What is your favorite type of lighting to use in your designs?
AH: Sconces, hands down. I’d put sconces in every room if I was allowed!
Anchored by a striking mobile-style light fixture, this dining space balances clean lines with warmth through a fluted pedestal table and artful ceramics.
AJ: What’s your design pet peeve?
AH: Ugh I have quite a few. Angled tubs in bathrooms. Small tile cuts. Double height fireplaces (unpopular opinion!).
AJ: What is your favorite aspect of your job?
AH: Hands down it’s the relationships I cultivate with both clients and vendor partners. I absolutely love getting to know my clients intimately (it’s part of the job!) and the close relationship we develop throughout the year plus we spend together designing their project. The same goes for my vendors. I choose my partners carefully and wisely as I truly consider them extensions of my business.
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