Partners in both life and business, the principals of these three design firms offer two perspectives on every project.
Anderson Campanella Architects
After working together on a large project in New Delhi, architects James Anderson and Felicia Campanella fell in love, got married and moved to Rumson, New Jersey, to open Anderson Campanella Architects. The firm specializes in custom residences—many on the water—in New Jersey and around the country. That variety of projects, plus a focus on teamwork, is what the couple credits with keeping the process fun for 30-plus years. “We’ve always found that our strengths balance each other out,” Campanella says. “It’s been a really positive dynamic that we’ve been able to enjoy in our practice.” Anderson adds, “During the design process, we each have a sounding board to bounce ideas and sketches off of and are able to get some really trusted feedback.”
Burr Salvatore Architects
Mary Burr and Ryan Salvatore were perhaps destined to work together. “My mom and dad are architects, and they practice together,” Burr says. “Then my older sister became an architect and married an architect. We are six for six, and we all practice with our spouses.” The couple’s Darien, Connecticut-based firm, Burr Salvatore Architects, focuses on high-end residential projects, which the couple executes with a unique workflow. “The first thing we do is build a narrative—ask clients questions and get on the same page,” Salvatore says. “Then we each start a scheme, and halfway through, we trade. Neither of us gets too invested, and the client gets two fully realized plans to start with.” Burr notes that their system of swapping and finishing each other’s designs is one that’s good for their clients—and their marriage.
Mabley Handler Interior Design
When she met her now-husband, Austin Handler, Jennifer Mabley already had her own interior design and custom upholstery firm. Then, their move from Manhattan to the Hamptons prompted them to join forces. “Jennifer was going to do interior design, and I was going to do graphic design,” Handler explains. But rapid growth—including being offered a room in a local designer show house—meant Handler was soon enmeshed in the business. “I was like, ‘How hard could it be?’ And it was, in fact, hard work.” Their room in the show house garnered national attention, and both were soon working full time at the newly christened Mabley Handler. “We love to design homes that strike an interesting balance of being a retreat and a place of comfort,” Mabley says, “while also having a level of sophistication in art and design.”
