Dondi Szombatfalvy, CKBD, CLIPP™

Kitchen & Bath Designer

My journey into design started a little differently. I spent 14 years in the restaurant industry before deciding to go back to school, drawn to a field where I could combine my love for problem-solving, math, and creative thinking. Kitchen and bath design quickly became a natural fit — it’s the heart of the home, where both function and beauty truly matter.

For the past 25 years, I’ve been helping clients reimagine their spaces in ways that make daily life easier and more enjoyable. What I love most is solving the kinds of problems that cause everyday frustration — not enough counter space, awkward layouts, or lack of storage — and turning them into thoughtful, livable designs that feel tailored to the way you live.

When we start working together, I focus on listening. I ask the right questions to understand not just your goals, but also what’s not working — even if you haven’t been able to quite put your finger on it. Whether you love to cook, need room for your kids or pets, or just want your space to flow better, I’ll help you get to the root of it.

I always start with function. A smart layout is the foundation of any successful remodel. From there, I build out the aesthetic — making sure your new space complements the surrounding areas of your home and reflects your personal style.

I understand that remodeling can feel overwhelming, which is why we follow a clear, step-by-step process here at Sims. Whether you’re someone who wants to move quickly or take your time with each decision, I’ll guide you at a pace that feels right for you. This process is meant to feel exciting and empowering — never rushed or stressful.

After all these years, I don’t stick to just one design style or favorite palette. Design is always evolving, and so are the needs of my clients. I stay open to new ideas and trends because I believe every space should be as unique as the people who live in it.

If you’re ready to take the stress out of remodeling and create a space that works beautifully for your life, I’m here to help you every step of the way.

EDUCATION:  Michigan State University

PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS:


NARI – Madison (National Association of the Remodeling Industry & Madison Area Builders Association

AWARDS & RECOGNITION

  1. NKBA (Wisconsin/Upper Michigan Chapter) — Dreams to Reality Design Competition 2014: 2nd Place, Residential Kitchen (150 sq. ft. or less) — Bella Domicile
  2. NARI (Madison) — Contractor of the Year Award (2022 CotY), Degnan Design-Build-Remodel — Team Member — Bella Domicile
  3. NKBA — Dream to Reality Design Competition 2013: Residential Kitchen (150–350 sq. ft.) — 2nd — Bella Domicile
  4. NKBA — Dream to Reality Design Competition 2015: Other Rooms — 3rd — Bella Domicile
  5. Certificate of Achievement — CLIPP (2019)
  6. NKBA — Certified Kitchen & Bath Designer (2021)
  7. 2021 Design Inspiration Awards — Gold Award (Kitchen) — Bella
  8. NARI CotY 2014 — Contractor of the Year Award — Cushman Construction LLC — Team Member — Bella
  9. Exceptional Woman (2020) — Bella
  10. NARI (CotY) 2015 — Contractor of the Year Award — Cushman Construction LLC — Team Member — Bella
  11. NARI — Contractor of the Year Award (2021 CotY Awards) — Bella

Dondi’s Favorite Projects