Generation A&R
Business name: A&R Interiors
Type of business: Interior design, home decor and furnishings
Owners: Allyson and Adrienne Rich
Address: 26 Broadway Denville
Phone: (973) 625-8950; fax: (973) 625-0395
Web site: www.arinterior.com
E-mail: design@arinterior.com
Hours of operation: 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday to Friday; 10 a.. to 5 p.m. Saturday
Founded:1972
Why did you start the business?
I'd always been talented in design, but realized that a degree was necessary for a successful economic future, so I went back to school for my master's in design. I officially opened in a basement in 1969. In 1972, I opened a small store and started retaining clients. In 1980, I bought and renovated the theater and grew the business by having my daughter Allyson join. The partnership has allowed the business to truly flourish.
If you could do it again, what would you do differently?
If anything, I would have started the business sooner. Of course you learn lessons along the way, and we made adjustments over the 36 years we've been in business, but we still love interior design and the whole process of working with our clients.
What's the best business advice your parents gave?
"There will be challenges, but always keep reaching for the best."
What personality trait helps you the most?
Allyson and I are good listeners and we enjoy people. That's important in this business because interior design isn't about the designers' preferences successful design is about understanding our clients' needs and reflecting their tastes and lifestyles.
What's the hardest part of the job?
Because we are a family owned business, we have a personal connection with our staff. Finding the right employees to join our team can be challenging.
The easiest?
The most enjoyable, hence easiest part of the job, is working with clients to achieve their vision of their home. This is very gratifying.
What's your least expensive product or service?
Creating a new look with only updated accessories.
The most expensive?
Custom woodworking, library shelves, studies, home theaters.
Describe your worst customer or experience.
An armoire not fitting through the entry of a master bedroom. Fortunately, we were able to come through a window in the rear of the house.
When you leave the business, what will you do?
Since we travel for the business, we would like to continue to travel to buy special items from around the world to send back to A&R
In one sentence, tell us why customers should shop here.
A&R Interiors is a hands-on design firm built on vision, function, and comfort that puts every client first.
