It may very well be the “non-decorative years” of Stephanie Stokes’ career that have contributed the most to her unique sense of style and interior design. A former International Photojournalist, Art Historian, and Wall Street investment banker, Stephanie combines a thoughtful approach to architecture, proportion and order. She is known for "understated elegance" and a skillful use of color. Above all, she is practical. With exacting precision, she plans every anticipated need and can turn the tiniest of spaces into virtual cornucopia of storage — complete with good lighting.Because for her Art History background, Stephanie often advises her clients on their art collections. She has assembled the following collections: Art work by living African-American artists, American paintings from the 1930-40's, a collection of black and white photography, two collections of Asian art, and several Contemporary Art collections (one of which is now at the Plaza Hotel.) The experience of visiting over 50 countries, with their countless sites and museums, as well as a degree from the Institute of Fine Arts, NYU, has give her an extensive knowledge and appreciation for fine and decorative arts.Stephanie Stokes started her design company, Stephanie Stokes, Inc. in 1982. Prior to that she trained with designerMark Hampton and was the partner of the late Harrison Cultra. Ms. Stokes has completed projects focusing on Manhattan apartments, but including houses in Aspen, Colorado, Bel-Air, California, and numerous houses up and down the east coast.Ms. Stokes has been published in numerous magazines, including ARCHITECTURAL DIGEST, TRADITIONAL HOME, HOUSE BEAUTIFUL, as well as dozens of other magazines. She has appeared on social television shows including HGTV with Chris Madden. HOUSE BEAUTIFUL named her to their list of the Top 100 Designers, and awarded her kitchen the "Kitchen of the Month" award in 2008.