Though the change included a significant refresh of the premises, the business never closed. “It was difficult, but the team worked hard to ensure our clients felt minimal impact among all the changes,” Brandt explains. Visitors appreciated the new look. “We’ve had good suc- cess with the new Kallista and Rohl displays, specifically,” Brandt notes. “The overhauled counter is more inviting and welcoming as well.” The change also brought resources that have enhanced the experience for customers and employees alike. “Doing business with GPS should allow the former Consolidat- ed customers access to one of the strongest suppliers of Kohler, Moen, Delta, AO Smith water heaters, and many boiler and HVAC lines that they did not have prior,” notes Freedman. Brandt theorizes that GPS Mount Vernon’s success will hinge upon maintaining lasting connections with the people they serve. “We always strive to connect with our custom- ers on a personal level,” he says. “This was important to Consolidated as it was a family business started in 1928 and was a true staple in Mount Vernon. We’ve been able to con- tinue that connection with our customers—old and new—as GPS has similar values and is also a family business. Many of the current GPS employees had been with Consolidated for many years and that continuity helps with our close and long-standing customer relationships.” ■ MEET THE DESIGNERS How would you describe your per- sonal design style?
CPS had been connecting designers and homeowners with beautiful Kohler products even before its transformation.
How about a finish—which one would be the match for you? If I had to choose a fixture finish, it would be polished nickel—it’s warm, neutral, and timeless. How do you unwind when you’re feeling stressed out? Spending time with family and—when possible—getting to the beach. Is there a design upgrade you’d love to make in your own home? We would love to one day update our kitchen to be more modern—since currently everything is original to the house. What is something you’ve seen trending recently in the world of design that fascinates you? Curbless walk-in showers. Is there an iconic building or space where you’d like to try living—even if it wasn’t originally designed as a living space? I think lighthouses are such cool spaces. If I could, I’d love to live in the Lighthouse of Alexandria—which is no
I always choose my design based on the surroundings, but if I had to pick, it would be industrial. Could you describe a memorable de- sign project that you’ve worked on? I designed a coastal modern villa in the Dominican Republic with 15 bath- rooms and four kitchens—both indoor and outdoor. I had to work with the clients to ensure all the fixtures fit the space and the elements. Who do you see making TV or film with design that is worth noticing? I would say Wes Anderson. It’s not necessarily my personal style, but it’s surprising and different. He utilizes bright colors and the sets are ex- tremely detailed and quirky. It’s enter- taining to watch and definitely gives ideas for when people are looking to “push the envelope.” If you were a color, what color would you be and why? I love the color blue. It reminds me of the water; it’s both cool and calming.
CHRIS BRANDT MOUNT VERNON
longer standing—with its 360-degree views. It was one of the tallest man- made structures at the time. What do you hope clients have thought about when you begin working with them? Realistic budgets and time frames— ha! Is there a sensation that you associ- ate with autumn? I always think of the smell of fallen leaves and apples. We love to go apple picking with the boys each year and then enjoy all the different ways to cook with and eat them.
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