We all have that friend — the one whose house looks straight out of a magazine, who throws parties with elite-level decorations and food, who knows how to cook absolutely anything from scratch, and is just a little bit extra in all the right ways. For me, that friend is my neighbor and designer extraordinaire Debbie Cullen. (Debbie once volunteered to handle balloons for a neighbor’s birthday party and showed up with a massive, full-blown, color-coordinated balloon wall and arch — and this was long before DIY kits for that sort of thing even existed. It was equal parts impressive and entirely on brand.)
A seasoned residential designer, Debbie recently pivoted after a decade-long stint as a consultant for Shea Homes to start her own company, Studio 2 1 5 in Palm Desert, with her husband Mark — a general contractor and master stoneworker — who brings her visions to life.
With a career spanning more than 25 years, Debbie specializes in kitchens, baths, and material selections that shape a home from the inside out.
Read on to learn more about Debbie, her design loves, and Studio 2 1 5.
XO, Lindsay
How did you first get into residential design?
Literally doing my own homes and helping friends with theirs. And my family has been in the stone business for years.
What inspired the move to open your own studio?
My husband, Mark, had a showroom for builders when I first moved to the desert and I started doing builder design work there. After finishing almost 1000 homes for Shea, I had no idea where I was going next. I thought I would enjoy having more free time, but I really missed the work. We always talked about opening a studio again and Mark kind of surprised me with it.
Can you tell us about the name Studio 2 1 5?
Mark also surprised me with the name idea. He’s definitely my biggest fan and wanted something to reflect me. My birthday is February 15th — the same day as my son’s and my grandfather’s. Our sweet little granddaughter and our beloved dog, Murphy (pictured), were also born on the 15th.
How would you describe your design style in a few words?
I would have to say transitional. I like several aspects of every style and believe there is always a way to mix designs together. It’s always fun working with clients who have a different style than me — it keeps things interesting.
Where do you draw inspiration from when starting a new project?
Talking with my clients and getting to know their vision and goals. If it’s for me personally, sometimes I see a piece of stone, furniture or even a color and it sparks inspiration. (Editor’s note – Mark custom-built the pictured table, crafted entirely from stone! I’ve seen it in person and it is stunning!)
Favorite type of design work to take on?
Anything and everything! I’m always up for branching out. I also love putting together parties and really diving into a theme. (Editor’s note – pictured is the pool décor from one of Debbie’s legendary Halloween parties.)
Do you specialize in any particular types of spaces or clients?
We also own a stone fabrication company, which is right down the street from Studio 2 1 5. Our wheelhouse has mostly been counters, floors and walls. Working for Shea, I did full options, including pools and landscaping. Our aim with Studio 2 1 5 is to create a full-concept design destination, offering cabinets, fixtures, full remodels, ADUs, and more. Another important area of our services includes outdoor living. We are already expanding Studio 2 1 5 and will be showcasing many outdoor features in our new space.
Any favorite local spots you love to source pieces or get inspiration from?
We have great relationships with many local businesses (some over 30 years) and update the studio with current and classic trends.
What’s one easy change you’d recommend for someone seeking to refresh their home this season?
That’s a tough one, but I would probably say the kitchen.
Favorite current design trend?
I love using natural stone, which is definitely back in style. It’s so beautiful and unique. There’s something special about picking out your slabs.
You are a prolific holiday decorator. What sparked your love for seasonal decor?
Probably always wanting to make holidays special for my kids when they were young. (Editor’s note – pictured is the dessert table from another of Debbie’s epic Halloween parties – all of the treats made from scratch, of course!)
What’s been the most rewarding part of owning a business in the desert?
Definitely the people. The desert is a special niche and relationships are rewarding and important. Because Mark and I have been in this business for so long, we have built many lifelong friends and partnerships.
Best business advice for newbie entrepreneurs?
Passion for what you’re doing and hard work.
What part of desert living brings you the most joy?
The beautiful weather and landscape.
Best Meal in the Valley?
We love Lunas Bar & Grill in Indio (pictured).
Other local favorites?
Thank you, Debbie!
The next time you’re in Palm Desert, be sure to stop by Studio 2 1 5 to see Debbie’s full range of work — from kitchens and baths to material selections and outdoor living concepts. You’ll leave inspired (and maybe even ready to start a project of your own!).