ABOUT US

Maison Birmingham is a Michigan-based custom cabinetry design studio specializing in kitchens and baths: the rooms that so often start as the focal point for many of the projects we design and manage. We are a full-service design build firm offering everything from interior architecture, to custom cabinetry, interior design, construction, and project management. We pride ourselves on creating timeless interiors that reflect our client’s lifestyle and needs. We focus on fabricating versatile spaces that can grow with our clients, while maintaining a strong balance that can make both a formal space inviting and a casual space practical.

Our firm works on all scales of projects, and we enjoy working with different styles as well, whether that be creating new modern spaces, or working with older homes that want an updated look while holding true to the historical integrity of the home. We also collaborate with architects, builders and designers on additions, renovations and custom homes.

LAUREN TOLLES, ASID, founder

Inspired by her mother’s constant redesigning of their family homes, Lauren grew up following her mother around the San Francisco Design center. She developed a passion for all things design, and went on to pursue a career in both architecture and interior design. By establishing Maison Birmingham, Lauren is able to fully engage both of these interests as she utilizes her technical expertise as an architect to take her innovative designs to the next level, making each space truly unique.

Lauren’s architectural background also gives her the unique ability to completely understand the entire home, ensuring the interior design is consistent and harmonious with the exterior. She believes every project should represent a successful collaboration of the entire team – designers, architects, and contractors.  It all begins with the clients, and making their visions come to life. 

Prior to starting Maison Birmingham, Lauren operated her own interior design studio, and also worked with local architecture firms HF:architecture and McIntosh Poris Associates.

Lauren earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from Duke University, and her Master of Architecture degree from The University of Michigan. Lauren lives with her two young children and Duke the dog, in Birmingham where they are updating the home they built in 2016 [featured on the cover of Detroit Home Oct 2019]

Lauren was named one of the Top 50 Innovators by Kitchen & Bath Design News, and named the Brian Killian Rising Star by Detroit Design Magazine back in 2017. She has since served as a judge on a number of regional and national design competitions, and serves as a product development advisor for a number of our vendors. She is also NCIDQ certified, a member of ASID, and recently served as a member of The City of Birmingham's Design Review Board.

** Lauren also does the website, which is often a bit outdated since client jobs take priority **

ZACH DIDIA, DESIGNER

Zach Didia is an award-winning kitchen and bath designer with a passion for creating thoughtful, highly functional spaces tailored to the way his clients live. A graduate of Central Michigan University with a B.S. in Interior Design, Zach began his career in landscape and interior design before joining KSI Kitchen & Bath in 2020. His creativity, problem-solving skills, and strong early sales growth earned him KSI’s Rising Star Award and helped propel his advancement from Design Coordinator to Associate Designer and, most recently, Designer at Maison Birmingham! Zach brings a fresh perspective to each project, balancing current design ideas with practical solutions to create spaces that feel both distinctive and livable.

ASHLEY MEYER, JUNIOR designer

Ashley  joins us with 9 years of experience in the high-end residential design world, where she’s worked alongside some of the best in the industry. A Central Michigan grad with a degree in Interior Design (and a minor in Art & Event Management), she brings not only serious talent but also a genuine love for thoughtful, detailed, elevated spaces. Her creativity, attention to detail, and passion for beautiful, livable spaces make her a perfect fit for our team.

Ashley balances her growing design career with her newest role as a mom, bringing an impressive mix of creativity, organization, and positive energy to everything she does. Her bubbly personality makes her a joy to work with, while her attention to detail keeps even the most complex projects moving smoothly. When she’s not immersed in design, she’s likely exploring new restaurants in Detroit, relaxing by the water, or spending time with her husband, adorable daughter Celine, and their two pups!

KAREN CLOVER, DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

Karen Clover brings more than 30 years of experience in accounting, construction, and operations to Maison Birmingham. A Michigan State University graduate with a B.A. in Accounting, Karen has worked with residential and commercial builders and developers throughout Metro Detroit, managing everything from accounting and purchasing to closings, human resources, IT, scheduling, and logistics. She also spent 15 years as a home inspector, giving her a uniquely well-rounded understanding of the building and remodeling process.

At Maison, Karen keeps countless details moving behind the scenes, overseeing accounting, scheduling, ordering, and day-to-day operations. Her exceptional organization, attention to detail, and ability to manage many moving pieces at once help ensure a smooth experience for both our clients and design team.

Karen lives in Berkley and is one of Maison’s most devoted sports fans! A loyal Michigan State Spartan, she also loves cheering on the Detroit Red Wings and Tigers.

DUKE, greeter & security, CHIEF BARKETING OFFICER

Duke can often be found sleeping under Lauren’s desk - more on Karen’s lap! He loves to hop up and greet guests coming in, and will likely become their BFF shortly after. You may also see him gazing longingly out the windows on a nice day.