About Stone Design Associates

Driven by a passion for architectural detail and thoughtful design, award-winning design studio Stone Design Associates creates homes that are as inspiring as they are livable. Every project begins with understanding the people who will call a house home. From there, architecture, interiors, and every carefully considered detail come together to create spaces that are timeless, highly functional, and deeply personal.

For more than 20 years, Principal Designer Janet Stone has been creating luxury residences throughout the Lake Minnetonka and Minneapolis areas and nationally. From lakeshore homes and mountain retreats to oceanfront residences, urban lofts, custom new builds, and thoughtfully detailed renovations, the studio is recognized for its collaborative process, architectural sensibility, and unwavering attention to detail.

Janet's path to interior design is uniquely multidisciplinary. Following a successful career in advertising with internationally recognized brands, she returned to earn her degree in Interior Design. After beginning her career in commercial interiors, she transitioned to luxury residential design, bringing with her a strategic mindset that continues to shape every project. Extensive travel and time living abroad have further influenced her appreciation for architecture, craftsmanship, and timeless design.

Stone Design Associates is also known for its leadership throughout the design and construction process. From helping clients select architects and builders to collaborating with the project team through construction, the studio serves as both creative partner and trusted client advocate. When inevitable field conditions or unforeseen challenges arise, Janet's philosophy of "design on the fly" allows the team to develop thoughtful solutions in real time while preserving the integrity of the original design. It is this combination of preparation, technical expertise, and adaptability that keeps projects moving forward with confidence.

Our Philosophy

At Stone Design Associates, we believe the most successful homes are designed from the inside out. Beautiful interiors begin long before finishes are selected. They begin by understanding how a family lives, entertains, works, gathers, and relaxes. That understanding informs every decision—from architectural planning and space allocation to custom millwork, lighting, furnishings, and the smallest finishing details.

Great design is the thoughtful balance of beauty and livability. Through careful planning, architectural collaboration, and meticulous attention to detail, we create homes that function effortlessly while reflecting the personality, aspirations, and lifestyle of the people who live there.

While livability is central to every project, we believe exceptional homes should also inspire. Every home deserves a defining moment—a thoughtfully conceived architectural feature or unexpected detail that becomes part of its identity. Whether it's a sculptural fireplace, a dramatic wine wall, a custom millwork installation, or a richly layered material palette, these elements are never added for effect alone. They are designed to create homes that are distinctive, memorable, and unmistakably individual.