Home Remodeling Team
Irene Designs, LLC has been a presence in the local market since 2006. Some of our team members have been with us since the very beginning, while the majority of the remaining members have dedicated at least several years to our company, contributing to our success.
We are a cohesive unit of skilled professionals who are passionate about their work. Each member brings their unique expertise and dedication to every project, collaborating harmoniously to ensure each endeavor is a resounding success. Our shared enthusiasm and commitment shine through the high-quality work we deliver, making our team a driving force in the remodeling industry.
We have established a reputation for delivering exceptional customer service and adopting a distinctive, customized approach for every project we undertake. Our team remains attuned to our customers’ needs, skillfully transforming their ideas into bespoke designs.
Irene Designs, LLC has proudly maintained the prestigious annual customer service award from Houzz since 2015.
Contact us at (860) 791-6571 to discuss our various home remodeling services.
Meet the Team
Irene Samson
Interior Designer
About Irene Samson
Irene is the cornerstone of our company, the visionary who transforms our customers’ ideas into singular, tailor-made designs that align with their distinct preferences, lifestyles, and the structural nuances of their homes. Her expertise sets the direction and forms the bedrock for all our future projects.
Irene’s lifelong travels have afforded her a rich tapestry of experiences, exposing her to diverse cultures and traditions. This unique journey has cultivated in her a broad perspective and an open-minded approach, allowing her to seamlessly adapt to the ever-evolving landscape of human tastes and environments.
With a penchant for thinking outside the box, Irene possesses an innate ability to unravel even the most complex architectural puzzles, consistently delivering innovative solutions. Her world-spanning experiences have undoubtedly enriched her creative toolkit, making her an invaluable asset in crafting exceptional and adaptable designs.
“I have had a passion for interior design since I was a child. One of my favorite games was to draw floor plans for my doll’s dream house. I would position a bed, a dresser, and a table and imagine my dolls living there. I was designing homes even before I knew of the career. I have been designing interiors ever since. My first college degree was in foreign languages and economics but later I got my second degree in interior design and started as a professional. I enjoy what I am doing, even if I had enough money to sustain me throughout my entire life, I would still be doing this for fun.”
In addition to her design prowess, Irene finds joy in a multitude of interests. She delights in the world of music, embraces the elegance of ballroom dancing, expresses her creativity through poetry and painting, and cherishes quality time with her family. She enjoys hiking amidst nature’s beauty, and, of course, Irene’s heart swells with affection for her beloved pets, whom she loves to play and bond with.
Gene Samson
General Manager
About Gene Samson
Gene brings a wealth of experience and expertise to our team with his background in engineering and construction. Prior to venturing into entrepreneurship, he gained valuable insights working as a contractor for several years. With over 25 years of hands-on experience, Gene is well-versed in various aspects of the trade, including framing, sheetrock installation, carpentry, painting, and tile work.
Gene’s role in our company is pivotal as the General Manager and project supervisor. He assumes overall control of all operations, meticulously coordinating every phase of the project while maintaining stringent internal quality control standards. His commitment to excellence extends to performing estimates and inspections during construction, readily stepping in when needed.
What sets Gene apart is his unwavering positivity and zest for life. He finds inspiration in philosophy and poetry, embracing a creed that centers on cherishing life’s everyday blessings and seeking joy in each moment. Gene’s innate creativity equips him to navigate even the most challenging situations with innovative solutions. As an expert and consultant, Gene is always ready to provide creative and out-of-the-box solutions to any challenges that may arise during the remodeling process, ensuring that every project is a success.
Beyond the professional sphere, Gene’s interests encompass spending quality time with his family, indulging in the company of his beloved dogs and cats, exploring the great outdoors through hiking, and immersing himself in the worlds of literature and writing.
Fred Motolla
Office Manager
About Fred Motolla
Fred Motolla is an invaluable asset within our company, a true gem whose experience and professionalism stand out prominently. Hailing from the old school of craftsmanship, Fred excels in multiple trades, consistently delivering top-notch workmanship.
Fred’s work ethic is characterized by an unwavering commitment to cleanliness and precision, ensuring that every operation is executed with meticulous care. His extensive knowledge in his field is a testament to his expertise, which he generously shares with others.
Notably, Fred often steps into the role of a project manager, offering invaluable guidance and leadership to his colleagues. His presence elevates our team’s performance and underscores our commitment to excellence. Fred Motolla is a shining example of the dedication and proficiency that define our company.
In his spare time he enjoys boating, fishing, camping, creating works of art and spending time with his friends and family.
Walter Lomaga
Contractor
About Walter Lomaga
Walter Lomaga is a distinguished professional in the realm of carpentry, specializing as a master deck builder. His expertise encompasses custom wood design, as well as the finer aspects of rough and finish carpentry work. Walter has been an esteemed member of our team since 2009, contributing significantly to our projects.
Walter takes immense pride in his work, a trait that is reflected in his meticulous approach to his craft. His tools are always maintained in impeccable condition, a testament to his commitment to excellence. Walter’s work ethic is characterized by a high degree of cleanliness and orderliness when tacking projects, a hallmark of his old-school professionalism – a rare find in today’s landscape.
Prior to joining our team, Walter ‘s career journey encompassed diverse roles, including managing construction teams, overseeing maintenance at skiing resorts and running his own company. His multifaceted experience lends a unique perspective to his work.
Beyond his carpentry talents, Walter’s interests span a variety of activities. He finds joy in skiing down slopes, indulging in the culinary arts by cooking his favorite dishes, and dedicating his time to remodeling his own home. With over three decades of experience as a master carpenter, Walter’s genuine passion for working with different types of wood shines through in his craftsmanship and commitment to his craft.
Denys Zelentsov
Contractor
About Denys Zelentsov
Denys Zelentsov has extensive experience as a seasoned professional in painting and tile installation. He has been an integral part of Irene Designs since 2006. Denys came to the US from Ukraine and his heart remains close to his homeland, where his parents still reside, and their well-being in a war-torn region is a constant source of concern.
Within his profession, Denys finds profound fulfillment in using his passion and skills to bring designs to life. His artistic flair shines through in his meticulous approach to tile installation. He diligently selects tiles by their continuous pattern, lending a harmonious touch to his work. Denys goes extra mile by conduction dry layouts to ensure the overall tapestry looks seamlessly integrated, emphasizing his unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction.
Outside of his work, Denys indulges in a range of interests, including reading, immersing himself in classical music, fishing, hiking, and embarking on journeys. In every endeavor, Denys carries with him the rich tapestry of European design sensibilities and a strong professional work ethic, consistently adding value and expertise to everything he undertakes.
Raymond Sprague
Contractor
About Raymond Sprague
Raymond Sprague has been with Irene Designs since 2018. He is a versatile craftsman with an impressive track record spanning over 30 years in the field of home remodeling. His commitment to excellence is evident in the pride he takes in his work, and his unwavering dedication to client satisfaction. Raymond meticulously adheres to his clients’ wishes, going above and beyond to ensure their vision becomes a reality.
What truly sets Raymond apart is his remarkable tenacity and problem-solving prowess. When faced with challenges or situations that don’t quite meet expectations, he doesn’t hesitate to rectify them, striving for perfection. Raymond’s calm and composed demeanor shines through even in the most demanding circumstances, where he consistently finds the right solutions without ever succumbing to anxiety.
During his leisure moments, Raymond finds solace and fulfillment in the company of his family, where his happiness is amplified by his loving marriage and two wonderful children. Beyond his family, Raymond is an ardent animal lover, deeply connected to nature, and attuned to its beauty and serenity. These personal interests reflect his appreciation for the simple joys of life and the importance of cherishing meaningful connections.
David Steiner
Electrical Contractor
About David Steiner
David Steiner is a highly valued member of our team with a remarkable journey that brought him from being our satisfied customer to an indispensable part of our company. David first came to us as a homeowner when we had the privilege of remodeling his kitchen. He then decided to join our team and share his passion for electrical craftsmanship with us.
One of David’s remarkable qualities is his ability to tackle intricate projects with complex lighting designs. He embraces the challenge of bringing innovative lighting concepts to life, turning them into reality with precision and attention to detail.
A true team player, David readily collaborates with Irene, our Interior Designer, welcoming her guidance and insights. His ability to seamlessly integrate electrical solutions into her designs is a testament to his flexibility and commitment to delivering exceptional results.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, David enjoys a fulfilling personal life. He is happily married, sharing his life’s journey with his beloved spouse. However, it’s his deep bond with his cherished canine companion that truly shines through. His dog is not just a pet but a beloved member of his family, akin to a child, and their connection is a heartwarming aspect of David’s life.
With his dedication, expertise, and a heart full of love for his family and furry friend, David continues to be an integral part of our team, embodying the values of craftsmanship, collaboration, and compassion.
David Robbin
Plumber
About David Robbin
David has been operating his business for 14 years, providing plumbing and heating services to the Hartford area and surrounding regions. He possesses extensive experience in both residential and commercial installations in these fields.
His company holds full licensing and insurance, demonstrating a commitment to professionalism and reliability. David takes great pride in his work, consistently striving to ensure complete customer satisfaction. Consistently arrives punctually and honors his commitments.
With a successful 30-year marriage, three children, two grandchildren, and beloved dog, David places significant importance on his family life. During his leisure time, he derives enjoyment from activities such as boating and travel.
Sal Garofalo
Electrical Contractor
About Sal Garofalo
Sal Garofalo, the owner, and principal electrician of Garofalo Electric, brings an impressive 35 years of electrical expertise to his craft, holding an E-1 master electrical license. His specialized focus lies in home remodeling projects, where his wealth of knowledge and experience truly shines.
Sal has been an invaluable part of the Irene Designs team since 2008, consistently delivering top-notch electrical work that aligns seamlessly with our remodeling projects. His extensive experience and dedication to his craft make him an indispensable asset to our team and contribute to the excellence we bring to each project.
During his leisure hours, Sal finds solace and enjoyment in a range of activities. He has a green thumb for gardening, savors the tranquility of fishing, indulges in culinary pursuits through cooking, and cherishes the quality moments spent with his daughter. These diverse interests reflect a well-rounded and fulfilling life outside of his professional endeavors.
David Barcomb
Painter, Minor Home Improvement
About David Barcomb
David Barcomb’s journey as a skilled craftsman began under the tutelage of his mother, who was a valued member of Irene Designs team a few years ago. Drawing from this solid foundation, Dave has honed his expertise, particularly excelling in sheetrock installation, taping, and painting. Dave is distinguished by his impeccable manners and adeptness in interacting with both customers and fellow contractors. His respectful and courteous demeanor contributes to a harmonious work environment and fosters positive relationships with all involved parties.
“I enjoy being an integral part of bringing a project’s vision to fruition. Often being one of the last people to work on or to touch up the project, I like paying attention to the small details that make the total work stand out. Personally interested in history, technology, gardening, and a little bit in most subjects. I also enjoy writing my own, usually terrible poetry”.
Vlad Popov
Carpentry, Tile Installation
About Vlad Popov
Introducing Vlad Popov, our valued team member at [Your Remodeling Business Name]. Vlad’s journey to the United States from Ukraine was marked by resilience and courage, as he sought refuge from the hardships of war. With nearly two decades of experience in the construction industry, Vlad brings a wealth of expertise in various trades, including sheetrock, tile installation, carpentry, and more.
In addition to his impressive construction skills, Vlad is a devoted father to a remarkable family of ten children. Guided by a strong Christian upbringing, he has nurtured his children into exceptional individuals, a testament to his dedication and values.
Vlad’s commitment to excellence, coupled with his unwavering determination, makes him an invaluable asset to our team. His personal journey and professional skills reflect the core values of [Your Remodeling Business Name], where dedication, craftsmanship, and family values come together to create exceptional remodeling experiences.
Andrey Akimov
Assistant Contractor
About Andrey Akimov
Andrey Akimov has been an integral part of Irene Designs since 2016, contributing his expertise in tile installation, various types of flooring, and painting. Beyond his specialized skills, Andrey demonstrates remarkable versatility, willingly taking on various tasks as needed.
What truly sets Andrey apart is his cooperative nature and unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction. He goes the extra mile, investing additional time and effort to ensure each customer’s needs are met to the fullest. His sweet demeanor and exceptional politeness add an extra layer of courtesy to our team, making him a pleasure to work with and a valuable asset to our company.
During his leisure time, Andrey derives great pleasure from spending quality moments with his family, indulging in his passion for soccer as an avid enthusiast, and exploring new destinations through travel. These interests reflect his well-rounded and fulfilling life outside of his professional endeavors.