J Parker McCollum, Inc.

Working with Jan was a great experience. As clients owning a 1920s home, we sought to renovate and restore. Jan’s innovation, creativity and respect for historical elements balanced with our need for modern living were a perfect match to our objectives. Our nine-month project required an ethical, communicative and trustworthy design project manager because we, as clients, were away in another country during much of the work. We commissioned Jan to redesign three bathrooms, a study/walk-in-closet/bedroom and kitchen. Phase I construction included the demolition of the three bathrooms and their reconstruction. Jan’s designs were instrumental in opening up the floor plan and creating 21st century bathroom amenities with a 1920s touch. Jan is a strong project leader. She is capable of managing contractors/builders with the ability to keep all parties to the project focused on the big picture and working together in a positive, collaborative approach. Jan was excellent is assisting us to match materials with budget: Our Master bathroom is opulent (including marble throughout and Murano-glass manufactured light fixtures) while our children’s bathroom is lower cost but attractive, durable and functional. Jan had excellent relationships with suppliers who worked with us to meet our timeframes and budget objectives and who stood by their product. We look forward to completing out study/walk-in-closet/bedroom and kitchen and will commission her for our basement and mudroom redesign. Jan is an exceptional, client focused designer with whom it is a true pleasure to work. We cannot recommend her highly enough. Rachel and San Haddad East Grand Rapids, Michigan

My wife and I hired Designer Jan McCollum to completely transform our foyer and she did this with vision and panache that far exceeded what we had expected and hoped for as we began our project. It is not a simple matter for a designer to enter into a house that has almost been finished in terms of existing design and find a way to bring unique perspective to a space while respecting and enhancing the already completed spaces. From the outset, Jan showed a commendable willingness to listen to us as clients and allow us input into the design process. As a result, my wife and I felt that our needs and desires were carefully considered in every aspect of the design and construction process. Jan brought to bear her years of experience and thoughtful creative finesse in carefully choosing materials and contractors to install the elements of the design. The largest element in our project was a complete tear out of the existing staircase, followed by construction of a newly built, all finished wood staircase. Jan paid attention to every detail of the new staircase, from the type of railings chosen, to the ornate spindles and the type of treads, stringers and moldings used. Some of the other elements of the design, like the unique hand-crafted embossed metallic wallpaper were entirely different from our original thoughts on finishing the foyer, but proved to be remarkably effective. Lighting, paint, and carpet were all chosen to integrate with the new staircase and wallpaper - as well as existing paint work. When there was a rather significant problem with one of the contractors, Jan showed truly admirable integrity and stood behind us as her clients, insisting that the finished product should be of the highest standard. She met every challenge with a calm and reassuring presence and followed through with action that met the demands of the project. We are thrilled with our completed foyer and are very appreciative of the vision that Jan brought to completion in our home.

Project involved a complete interior redesign, converting a condo interior from a dated, non-descript look to a crisp, clean contemporary look. This professional listened to my vague concepts and, by listening well, utilized her experience and expertise to present a number of alternative approaches and components ( including furniture and color recommendations ) for consideration......making specific recommendations when asked. Costs were always presented and approved in advance within the framework of an overall budget. The result exceeded expectations by far. Would not hesitate to recommend.

I hired Jan to redecorate my walkout basement. She took the time to understand my wants for this project, as well as my budget. She spent a lot of time taking me around to different showrooms to get an idea of my style, likes, and dislikes. She then came up with a furniture plan for the area and options for carpet, fabric, etc. She worked directly with all the contractors and was on site much of the time, so I didn't have to deal with any of them. I enjoyed working with Jan and would recommend her services to anyone.

I hired J Parker McCollum in 2008 for a major home renovation. There were several "projects" going on at the same time. The kitchen was completely gutted, a second story was added to the house and we incorporated a water feature in to our fireplace. Jan was vital to the process on all these projects. She worked with me to select all the necessary pieces (tile, granite, cabinets, flooring, paint,etc.) to be sure everything flowed in a cohesive way. With Jan's talent and eye for design, I was confident we would not make a mistake. I am so happy to say that I love everything about our renovation. Jan listened to our needs and worked tirelessly with us to give us a home that truly meets our personality and lifestyle.