I grew up in Spring Lake, Michigan, graduated from Spring Lake High School, and earned my degree in Interior Design from Michigan State University. After gaining initial experience in the building industry in Grand Rapids, I relocated to San Diego, where I truly immersed myself in the world of interior design. Surrounded by an abundance of trade showrooms and two major design centers between San Diego and Los Angeles, I had the opportunity to attend inspiring industry events and connect with talented designers who motivated me to start my own business.

Before founding Anne Rae Design in 2012, I worked for two different design firms, each contributing to my professional growth. The idea to start my own business came from a conversation with my mom, whose support has always meant the world to me. She helped me come up with the name Anne Rae Design—a tribute to both my middle name (Anne) and my grandmother's middle name (Rae). My grandmother, a woman of incredible character who we lost too soon, had a deep love for interior design. My mom always says she would have been so proud to see me pursue this career.

Looking back, I realize my career didn’t take the path I had expected. I had always imagined myself working for a large architecture and design firm in Chicago. I never thought I’d become a residential designer, and I certainly never saw myself owning my own business. However, after moving to San Diego for a change of scenery, I started working with clients to help them create their dream homes. It was there that I realized I couldn’t imagine doing anything else!

 

I’ve been married to my husband, Patrick, for 14 wonderful years. Together, we have two amazing boys— Oliver, who just turned 8, and Bennett, who is 5. After living in San Diego for 15 years, we decided to relocate back to West Michigan. Oliver was about to turn 5 when we made the move, and he jumped right into school in Grand Haven, adjusting seamlessly and thriving. Both of our boys absolutely love living in Michigan, especially being so close to both sets of grandparents. Patrick and I feel the same way—we couldn’t be happier to be back in West Michigan.

 Our kids are very active and involved in school sports and the YMCA. Oliver is a big fan of flag football, soccer, and basketball, while Bennett enjoys both soccer and basketball as well. As a family, we love spending time outdoors—during the winter, we head to Mulligan's Hollow to ski, and in the summer, we’re on the lake as much as possible. Patrick is an avid cyclist, and I’m a runner, so we both stay active in our own ways. We also love to entertain and often host friends, enjoying all the great things the Tri-Cities has to offer.

At Anne Rae Design, we take on a wide range of projects—from new home construction to kitchen and bath renovations, we do it all. As a full-service firm, we offer comprehensive interior architectural services, including space planning, custom cabinet and millwork design, lighting layouts, and 3D modeling, all the way through to the finishing touches. We also sell furnishings, custom soft goods, accents, home accessories, and wall coverings—everything you need to create a complete, personalized space. We pride ourselves on our expertise in interior design, backed by years of experience working with clients across the country.

Our portfolio spans both modern and traditional styles, with our true specialty being a seamless blend of the two. What excites us most is the diversity in our work, and we love that every project has its own unique style and story. We also place great value on honoring the history of the spaces we design. From restoring a historical home in San Diego to renovating a 1920s home in Grand Haven, we carefully research and incorporate elements that pay homage to the original architecture, ensuring that each space feels both timeless and contemporary.

 

With offices in both Grand Haven and San Diego, we bring a unique diversity to our projects, combining regional influences and a wealth of experience. This dual presence allows us to offer a broad perspective and deliver exceptional design solutions tailored to each client’s vision.

I’m incredibly grateful to be living close to family and friends once again—both longtime friends and some wonderful new ones! West Michigan has always held a special place in my heart, and I’ve always felt lucky to call it home. Coming back here, doing what I love most, feels like a dream come true. I’m excited to see what the future holds.