Providing design services in and around Metro-Detroit for over 30 years, My team and I team are committed to balancing form and function with science and technology, allowing us to design projects that are aesthetically appealing while not losing focus on the needs of the client.
Welcome to Colonna Design
get to know us
& the story behind Colonna Design
As a college professor teaching art and architecture, students often sit through my lectures where the conversation has little to do with architecture, and more with understanding the ontological basis for the advancement of human ingenuity. My approach to teaching is aimed at learning and cognition with an emphasis on unleashing the creative and intellectual potential that I see in all people. Therefore, design, for me, involves a five-principle approach (art, science, philosophy, history, and psychology) used to artistically and poetically produce a living environment that reflects the essence of our humanity.
In terms of design and build implementation, I collaborate with a network of design professionals, making sure every aspect of your design meets the criteria related to accuracy, safety, form, function, and cost. I also work closely with the building community to offer you the benefit of securing competent and competitive services.
If you are considering design services, please fill out the inquiry form and I will get back with you right away! I sincerely look forward to hearing from you!
meet the team
The big hearts
behind Colonna Designs
Michael
Colonna
Gabriella
Vittoria
Rebeca
Terra
click to meet
OUR VALUES
I have been drawing and designing since my youth when at age 10, my mother bought me a light board. Many think my creativity was cultivated in an art school or during my academic training. The truth is, in the late sixties and early seventies, I would play “sick” to stay home and watch Mr. Dressup draw on his art easel (oh the things I got away with in my youth). School bored me and I did not fare so well in a structured setting. So, I find it a bit ironic that upon completion of my PhD. I will have four advanced education degrees (architecture and psychology). I had my life planned out by the age of twelve, and I knew exactly where I would be in this stage of my life. I am happy to share with you that my vision since then is still the same: to create an environment through the creative process that engages the senses and provides a sense of overall well-being. Art has been my solace during hard times and has awakened my spirit of truth and knowledge that was suppressed in my early days of compulsory education.
So, why am I not delineating the nuances associate with design or conveying to you my professional or academic competencies? When you get a sense of who I am and what motivates me, I hope will understand more clearly my passion for my life’s work. Design for me is not a job, a career, or something that I do; it is a way of life for me! I would be honored to work with you to help you see your own vision come to fruition; it is what I do best!
"I am inspired by Andrea Palladio and his vision to bring art and design characteristics into the home where our life is surrounded by forms and functions of space that provide the unifying backdrop for family life." | Michael Colonna
MICHAEL COLONNA
OWNER & HEAD DESIGNER
The essence of design is not reflected in the design outcome but rather, in the philosophy from which the design emerges. I love being able to bring the foundational aspects of design to the team so that the design, as a whole, moves in the direction that matches the vision of both the design team and our clients. It is our table talks that define the approach best suited for attaining the functional and aesthetic needs of our clients.
Creativity is oftentimes a rouge force that when left unchecked, can lead to an exhaustive and sometimes futile exercise in design. It is my job to keep the train on the track. I do this by establishing the basis for design so that the design retains a continuity that is consistent across all spectrums of the design process. I may not have my paw prints on the drawings, but I would like to think my eye provides the horizon line that our designers keep in sight.
On a personal note, I love Detroit, art, ballet, music, all things floral, cats, and doggos! I hope to meet you…. and your pets!
“What some see as mere brick and mortar, I see a cityscape that invites me to throw love her way””
GABRIELLA VITTORIA
MULTI MEDIA & GRAPHIC ARTS
I am a passionate interior designer with more than 4 years’ experience in design, project development, and customer service. My goal is to redefine every client’s environment by turning it into a complete living experience using creativity, personalization, and innovation. From the ceiling to the flooring, and in every square foot, I am always searching for unique ways to create beautiful and highly-functional interior spaces. Through my work, I can show my clients the real power of design solutions and how it can transform their lives to bring success to their residencies and work spaces.
My diverse design experiences along with my multi-cultural background allow me to bring a fresh perspective to every project and to discover design strategies that truly speak to my clients and their unique story.
