2025 Judges
Design Judges
Elizabeth Gerdes: With a lifelong passion for textiles and a keen eye for window treatments, Elizabeth Gerdes has turned her fascination into a thriving career as the founder of Stitch Above the Rest, LLC. Armed with a bachelor’s degree in communications from Kennesaw State University and a childhood spent mastering sewing, she launched her business in 2003 to provide for her family. Over time, she has become a leader in the industry, known for her commitment to quality, customer service and innovative designs. From crafting nontraditional treatments to transforming some of Atlanta’s finest homes, her expertise and dedication have earned her widespread recognition and accolades in the field.
Kathryn Ireland: British-born interior designer Kathryn Ireland is a globally celebrated talent known for her bold use of color, layered patterns and effortless elegance. Renowned for her “sympathetic restorations” of architectural landmarks and extraordinary homes for Hollywood elites, she blends European grandeur with California chic. A prolific author of seven best-selling books, including “A Life in Design,” Kathryn also creates bespoke textiles and furniture, all crafted in the U.S. She has collaborated with iconic brands like AGA Rangemaster and hosts sought-after design retreats in France, London, the Cotswolds and Paris. Frequently featured in top publications like Architectural Digest and ELLE Decor, Kathryn is a regular on the coveted ELLE Decor A-List and among The Hollywood Reporter’s Top 25 Interior Designers. She divides her time between Santa Monica, California, and her farmhouse in southwest France.
Lindsey Putzier: Lindsey Putzier, an award-winning interior designer based in Hudson, Ohio, is renowned for creating timeless, personalized interiors that reflect her clients’ unique stories and tastes. Combining luxurious details, custom furnishings and a passion for antiques, she crafts spaces that are both fresh and enduring. A graduate with honors from the University of Virginia and a Certified True Color Expert, Lindsey’s sophisticated approach is enriched by her studies in interior design, a double major in French and time spent in Paris. Her innovative use of color and ability to balance classic and contemporary styles make her a leading voice in the design world.
Artisan Judges
Tracie Bresnahan: Tracie Bresnahan holds a bachelor’s degree in apparel engineering and a master’s degree in quality assurance technology from Southern Polytechnic State University. With nine years of experience in the apparel and consumer products industries, Tracie founded Custom Creations in 1996, where she specializes in fabricating custom window treatments and soft home furnishings. Her engineering background has helped her establish a business that excels in unique and challenging design solutions, as well as custom-designed furniture upholstery. Tracie collaborates closely with her husband, Brian, who has a degree in architectural engineering, making him an invaluable partner in designing and building custom projects.
Pete Eastwood: Trained as an artist with a degree in fine art and art history, followed much later by studying for a master’s in management, Pete Eastwood can run the spreadsheets and finances but spends most of his time in the workroom making curtains, which he equates to feeling just like drawing. Flirtations with corporate careers and management meetings led to Pete coming back to the creative world of manufacturing. His artistic background means he has a good eye for composition and balance, but he’s not all “head in the clouds,” as he (too lovingly) curates a collection of power tools and carries out all the fittings.
Ryan Whittaker: After beginning his career with the Soho House Group, Ryan Whittaker specialized in interior design for boutique commercial clients, such as hotels, restaurants and bars. After designing yet another hotel room, Ryan decided to take a break and trained with his curtain maker, as his first love was always the fabric. It was a brilliant move that led to a successful career combining design and making. An adventurous spirit and love affair with color means Ryan has the confidence to work across a whole palette of tones, colors and textures.
Vita Vygovska: Vitalia (Vita) Vygovska is the founder and CEO of Vitalia Inc., a distinguished custom luxury window treatment atelier serving Architectural Digest-featured designers, renowned architects and leading hospitality organizations. Through meticulous attention to detail and a signature turnkey approach, Vitalia Inc. consistently delivers magazine-worthy results, while helping clients realize 20% margin gains. Vita’s skills have been deployed on both residential and commercial projects, including Palm Beach estates, Philadelphia penthouses, oceanfront villas and award-winning boutique hospitality gems.