Located along the scenic White River, Julie planned on running a small, unique design boutique for guests to shop and gain inspiration. But with guests traveling from all over to visit the store, the demand for their products and services quickly grew.
Today Open Gate is a top-notch team of interior designers with a fully furnished 6500 sq/ft design studio delivering the best services, finishes and products available to homeowners and design professionals. Our mission is to create spaces clients love while also providing a one-stop studio workspace for fellow interior designers.
Over a decade ago, founder Julie Ricker hired designer Eric Scott to complete numerous projects for her and her family. With a shared love for all things design, Julie and Eric became fast friends and soon joined business hands to launch Open Gate Design & Decor.
IT ALL STARTED WITH FRIENDSHIP.
OUR STORY
Open Gate focuses exclusively on design services and Pro Studio Membership
We expand our interior design services and team yet again
Our design team grows to meet customer demands
Magnolia Line now carried at the studio
Showroom grows to 4400 sq/ft
Open Gate opens for business with small boutique (Oct 1st)
2021
2020
2017
2016
2016
2015
Years in the making
our journey
Warehouse Manager
travis wise
Warehouse Manager
Josh Bricker
warehouse
Studio Manager
Lesley Henning
studio
Project Manager, Associate Designer
Kizzy Baker
Co-Founder & CEO
julie ricker
Design Assistant
michelle shank
Associate Designer, Lighting Specialist
luda ranahan
Lead Designer, Cabinet Specialist
nick smith
Creative Director
michael hansen
Dedicated, creative and original—we’re the design pros you want in your corner.
MEET THE TEAM
Andrea Meek
Central Ops Analyst
Heirloom Library Table
SW - Peppercorn
Unique & Eclectic
Relatable and understanding. Loves to mix old and new pieces to create a one-of-a-kind space.
CO-FOUNDER & lead designer
ERIC J. SCOTT
White and Blue Artwork
Farrow and Ball - Conforth
Traditional Modern
Sees functionality in surprising spaces. Appreciates out-of-the box thinking and creativity.
Business Development, lead designer
MICHAEL HANSEN
Dresser & nightstand built with my daughter
SW - Tricorn Black
rustic / Industrial
Skilled at carpentry. Relishes a client’s smile when their “dream” project comes true.
Lead Designer
NICK SMITH
mirror
SW - Agreeable Gray
Trendy
Organized and detailed. Loves the joy of going above and beyond expectations to wow clients.
Associate Designer
LUDA Ranahan
Chair
SW - Peppercorn / Revere - Pewter
Classic and Traditional
Special knack for window coverings. Enjoys using her great eye for color to bring client visions to life.
Associate Designer
tanya richardson
Family DIY Barn Door
SW - Repose Gray
transitional
Creative and analytical thinker. Treasures the staff’s dedicated vision, mission and camaraderie.
DESIGN ASSISTANT
MICHELLE SHANK
Master Bathroom Vanity
SW - Agreeable Gray
timeless & Classic
Sees challenges as opportunities. Loves problem-solving solutions and putting people first for the best possible outcome imaginable.
Co-Founder & CEO
JULIE RICKER
record holder
SW - Cascade Green
modern bohemian
Takes a modern, yet unorthodox approach to creating eclectic interiors and detailed digital designs.
Project Manager, Associate Designer
Kizzy baker
Vintage Wine Cabinet
sW - Peppercorn
Modern Meets Traditional
Positive and upbeat. Cherishes the staff “family” bond and satisfied repeat clients.
studio co-manager
greg cole
Heirloom Dining Table
sW - Oyster Bay
Functional and Classic
Master at multitasking. Loves turning ideas into reality and capturing a client’s perfect style.
studio co-manager
Lesley henning
Heirloom Dining Table
sW - Oyster Bay
Functional and Classic
Master at multitasking. Loves turning ideas into reality and capturing a client’s perfect style.
studio co-manager
Lesley henning
PIECE IN HOME
paint swatch
design style
favorites
close
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Behind the scenes of every great business is a team of hard-working people getting the job done right. Open Gate is no exception. Our warehouse crew not only does the heavy lifting (literally), but they help make all of our design ideas go from dream to reality.