MEET OUR TEAM
Driven by exceptional taste and a finely honed instinct, our team is committed to transforming daily living through a client-focused approach that embraces extraordinary form and function.
Our mission is clear: to create beauty in the world, spread positivity through each and every interaction, and to foster opportunities for our collaborators across the globe to do the same. Our commitment remains steadfast: to create with care, serve with joy, and commit to excellence. We demonstrate our mission and our commitment through what we create together with all of our collaborators.
OUR LEADERSHIP TEAM
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Partner & Creative Director
Benjamin Johnston sits at the helm of his eponymous firm, Benjamin Johnston Design. As Partner and Creative Director, he has dedicated his life to artistic pursuits backed by the extensive and finely-tuned skills he acquired through studying and practicing home design for nearly two decades.
Following his graduation from St. John’s School in Houston, Ben earned his Bachelors of Architecture from Texas A&M University and his Masters of Architecture from The University of Texas at Austin. Ben was honored to be the first American selected for a design residency with the prestigious firm, Cesar Pelli & Associates –Tokyo. Following this, Ben launched his first design business in Houston, Texas focused exclusively on interior design, allowing him to follow his passion for bringing extraordinary designs to life. Ben eventually expanded the firm, offering clients a holistic approach that invites his prestigious team to manage the creation of luxury homes from start to finish.
Ben shares his knowledge with the world through syndicated television appearances, international shelter magazine placements, speaking opportunities at industry events and conferences nationwide, and through his role as brand ambassador for numerous luxury brands. His passion for form, function, and design coupled with a keen understanding of market needs has resulted in three licensed collections, including a furniture line for Chaddock Home, a diverse collection of rugs for Madison Lily Rugs, and a fabric collection for S.Harris.
Learn more about the Benjamin Johnston Collections here.
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Partner & Managing Director
Erich Ploog oversees the direction of all operations for Benjamin Johnston Design, LLC including accounting, procurement and human resources. He brings a wealth of business process, operational excellence and organizational change management experience to the team.
Erich is a native Iowan and moved to Texas for college where he obtained his Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) from the University of Houston and his Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Texas at Austin. He has had a long and successful career in management consulting for firms such as Accenture and IBM, where he advised numerous Fortune 100 companies during strategic and operational transformations.
Today, Erich runs Benjamin Johnston Design like any other successful company. In fact, under his leadership, University of Houston named Benjamin Johnston Design as one of their 'Top 10 Fastest Growing Businesses" managed by one of their graduates. As with everything he does, Erich strives to make the experience for clients not only enjoyable, but highly efficient and professional.
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Director of Architecture
A native Texan and licensed architect (License No. 31242), Greg Roffino received his Masters of Architecture from Texas Tech University in 2012. With a strong interest in urban forms and contextual design, he also holds a professional degree in Urban & Community Design. Over the last 11 years, Greg has honed and perfected his skills in residential home design, working with firms such as Curtis & Windham prior to joining Benjamin Johnston Design. Greg designs, produces and manages the coordination of construction processes; overseeing a wide range of projects spanning construction, renovation, and historical preservation while leading a team of designers and associates.
As a native Texan with an affinity for travel, Greg enjoys seeing & studying regional and vernacular architecture across the country and globe. Studying abroad in Spain and Portugal began his passion for historical and traditional architecture, and how it still influences contemporary design today. Using a strong understanding and respect for the principles of traditional architecture and the importance of scale, proportion, and context, he strives to create designs and details that are not only timeless, and contemporary, but that also acutely respond to the needs and tastes of his clients.
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Director of Interiors
Paola Neri seeks to create beauty in the world, drawing inspiration from many different artistic pursuits and expressions.
Growing up in Cochabamba, Bolivia, Paola originally trained to be a dancer, as it was her first love and earliest exposure to the arts. In later years, she branched out and began developing her skill in oil painting and design. These interests ultimately led her to pursue a Bachelors Degree of Architecture from the Universidad Privada Boliviana. Her early career was spent in her hometown, working in various arenas of design, including residential, hospitality, and landscape. She also gained construction administration experience. It was during this time that Neri realized interior design was her professional calling. She moved to Florence, Italy, to pursue a Master of Interior Design and graduated from the Florence Institute of Design International in 2012. Since moving to Houston in 2013, Paola acquired a deeper understanding about furniture design and how it can shape the way in which we live. In 2017, Paola joined Benjamin Johnston Design where her artistic mindset and detail-oriented nature are invaluable to every project. Today, Paola leads a team of talented interior designers to create curated, inspired spaces for the firm’s clients.
Se habla Español.
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Design Director
Michael Viviano brings a decade of experience in the world of architecture and interior design to his interdisciplinary role, where he oversees every aspect of the design process across many of the firm’s projects. His distinctive point of view and fresh stylistic approach support Benjamin Johnston Design’s continued expansion within the world of comprehensive home design.
Viviano received his Master of Architecture from the University of Houston in 2013 and, after working alongside award-winning architecture firms Logan and Johnson and Robertson Design, opened the boutique design firm Viviano / Viviano with his mother, Catherine. While there, he specialized in residential custom-builds, large-scale renovations and client-focused interior design. He is known for crafting modern spaces flush with understated elegance and the mixed-use implementation of vintage, antique, and contemporary pieces. His work has been featured by AD Pro, VERANDA, Domino, and New Texas Modern.
OUR INTERIOR DESIGN TEAM
(in alphabetical order)
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Designer
Martha is a talented designer who is driven by the sensorial connection between interior spaces and human emotions. After studying nutrition for one year, Martha found her true calling in the world of interior design. Born and raised in Mexico, and of German descent, she received her Bachelors in Interior Architecture with Honors from the Universidad Interamericana in 2016.
She incorporates her multicultural background and love for traveling in unique designs that blend new ideas, diverse cultures, and fulfilling experiences. With a background in luxury residential and commercial projects, Martha translates the client’s vision into beautiful and exciting spaces.
Se habla Español.
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Design Assistant
Born in Las Vegas, Nevada, and raised in Houston, Texas, Dylan grew up immersed in the arts through dance, training in a variety of styles that fostered her appreciation for movement, rhythm, and creative expression. Her passion for design first emerged in the world of fashion, where she explored the interplay of textiles, structure, and color. However, it was during an internship that she discovered her love for interior design and its ability to transform spaces in meaningful ways.
She pursued this passion at the University of Texas at San Antonio, earning a Bachelor of Science in Interior Design. Eager to expand her perspective, she spent the summer of 2022 in Seoul, South Korea, studying the language and culture, followed by a senior semester abroad exploring the design and architecture of Italy, Spain, France, and Morocco. These global experiences continue to inspire her, shaping her design philosophy and encouraging her to blend diverse cultural elements, textures, and historical influences into her work.
Dylan approaches interior design with a balance of technical precision and artistic intuition, drawing from her background in fashion and international experiences. She is passionate about creating spaces that feel both refined and harmonious, ensuring that each design tells a story while maintaining a sense of functionality and beauty.
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Design Assistant
Upon obtaining her Bachelor of Science in Interior Design from The University of Alabama, Mckenzie journeyed back to her hometown of Houston to pursue her studies, now as a career. Nurtured by a lifelong fascination, she delights in the intricate subtleties that shape captivating interiors.
While immersed in her academic pursuits, Mckenzie found joy in confronting novel challenges, seeking to blend her passion for functional interiors with the joy of aesthetic storytelling. Continuously growing, Mckenzie remains committed to expanding her knowledge and embracing emerging trends and concepts. A guiding principle she cherishes is the mantra, 'we must cultivate comfort in the discomfort,' which resonates with her deeply as designers must constantly adapt to a changing landscape, striving to excel both professionally and personally.
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Designer
Cristine Navarrete is a native Houstonian who grew up in the vibrant neighborhood of "Eado" on the edge of downtown. Cristine’s rich cultural background, along with her extensive travels throughout Central and South America, have given her a great appreciation of history, textures, finishes, and colors across a broad spectrum of design styles. Since obtaining her Bachelors Degree in Interior Design from Sam Houston State University in 2016, Cristine’s experiences in the industry have only increased her passion for creating beautiful designs that offer functional impact for clients. With a unique, cheerful disposition and empathetic qualities, Cristine creates meaningful designs embedded with purpose and detail.
Cristine is a Design Assistant at Benjamin Johnston Design, LLC and collaborates on numerous projects - helping with everything from extensive remodels to ground-up construction. Her desire to create meaningful beauty is only matched by her drive to ensure the complete satisfaction of her clients.
Se habla Español.
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Design Assistant
Lizbeth has always appreciated the artistic elements of life—from art and design to fashion and travel. With a Bachelor's degree in Interior Design from the University of Texas at San Antonio (2022) and a minor in Dance, Lizbeth brings a unique understanding of movement and rhythm into her design work.
Throughout her academic career, Lizbeth’s passion for design was enriched by a transformative study abroad experience in Italy, where she immersed herself in the rich history of art, architecture, and design. This experience continues to influence her approach, helping her weave a diverse range of creative influences into her design work.
As a Design Assistant, Lizbeth is dedicated to supporting the team through her attention to detail, innovative thinking, and strong understanding of both form and function. She is excited to further develop her skills and contribute to the creation of thoughtful and meaningful design.
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Designer
From a young age, Zoë has been captivated by texture, design, art, and style. This passion, combined with her innate desire to help and heal through space led her to discover her calling in interior design. Originally from Atlanta, Georgia, Zoë earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Interior Design with a minor in Visual Studies from the University of Kentucky in 2016.
Zoë brings a wealth of experience garnered since the inception of her career, beginning as a sales associate at a prestigious furniture establishment before delving into furniture procurement at a boutique firm specializing in multi-family and office design ventures. These diverse roles have allowed Zoë to seamlessly blend and refine her skills in sales and design, consistently delivering optimal outcomes for her clientele.
Fueled by boundless creativity and her passion for exploration, fashion, and textiles, Zoë approaches each project with a harmonious fusion of expertise and zeal, endeavoring to craft spaces that are both transformative and unforgettable.
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Senior Designer
After growing up in Houston and London, Renee is thrilled to be creating beauty back in her hometown. Renee’s interest in design was sparked at a young age, with an early memory of laying on the floors of the great houses of Europe, examining the elaborately painted ceilings and ornate decor.
She has had the opportunity to travel extensively, observing global styles and inspirations and ultimately discovering methods for incorporating those very influences into a cohesive design that is still applicable for modern-day interiors.
Renee graduated with two degrees from the University of Alabama: a Bachelor of Science in Interior Design and a Bachelor of Arts in Musical Theatre. These two creative outlets continue to influence each other; from lighting and color to presentations and creative expression. Upon graduation, Renee moved to New York City where she lived for eight years, working and honing her design skills with several companies. Renee is particularly passionate about creating spaces that spark instant joy in her clients as soon as they walk in the door. Her background in theatre brings a dramatic quality to her creative design work, while her travels have instilled the importance of history and other cultures. She believes that design and beauty have the power to immediately impact people’s lives for the better.
OUR ARCHITECTURE TEAM
(in alphabetical order)
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Senior Associate
Marc graduated from Texas Tech University with honors in 2014, obtaining his Masters in Architecture with a Certificate in Community and Urban Design. After a semester abroad in France he furthered explored his passion for architecture, studying classical and contemporary design with a strong focus on scale, proportion, and place. Since his graduation, Marc has returned to his hometown of Houston, practicing residential home design with Curtis & Windham Architects before joining Benjamin Johnston Design, LLC. He has participated in, produced, and coordinated on a wide range of projects throughout Texas, spanning from remodels to new construction.
Marc is a designer at Benjamin Johnston Design, LLC and assists the team with numerous projects throughout the design process. He enjoys working closely with clients to make the vision into a reality. Through every phase of a project, Marc strives to deliver an enjoyable experience while creating designs that respond to the client's specific functional and aesthetic needs.
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Associate
Lisa Evans received her Bachelors of Architecture from the University of Houston in 2021, with a Minor in Business Foundations. Although born and raised in Dallas, Lisa has fallen in love with Houston and its exciting and diverse culture. Today, Lisa is thrilled to call Houston her home.
Lisa has a passion for architectural details and approaches the interior design process in the same manner as Benjamin Johnston Design - believing that structure plays a critical role in the creation of beautiful spaces, be it residential or commercial. Additionally, Lisa is also fascinated by the means and methods necessary to make designs a reality and the thrilling potential of cross-pollinating the exciting design work found in contemporary hospitality and commercial environments with residential spaces.
We are thrilled to count Lisa as a valued team member and look forward to watching her promising career unfold!
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Designer
After receiving her Bachelor of Architecture, Vinoti moved to the United States and graduated with a Master’s degree in Interior Architecture from Rhode Island School of Design, where she specialized in the field of adaptive reuse. With over five years of experience working in Manhattan, Vinoti has established herself as a versatile and creative designer. She has collaborated on a wide range of projects, from luxury residential spaces to large commercial developments. Vinoti’s work is distinguished by her meticulous attention to detail and thoughtful comprehension of curating spaces that seamlessly integrate the requirements of her clients, with an end result that is nothing short of functional and elegant.
Vinoti recently made the move to Houston, Texas, in search of warmer weather and new design opportunities. She is thrilled to explore our vibrant city and collaborate with the incredible team at Benjamin Johnston Design.
मै हिंदी बोलती हूँ
Mai hindi bolti hoon
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Designer
Malik was raised in Pennsylvania before moving to the Midwest where he graduated from the University of Colorado Denver in 2020 with a Bachelor of Science in Architecture. Malik returned for his graduate degree where he discovered his passion for the Classical principles of architecture. Having exhibited potential, Malik was awarded a scholarship to study Classical design in New York City. While working at the Fabrication Lab on campus, Malik graduated in 2022 with his Master's in Architecture and a certificate from the Institute of Classical Architecture & Art (ICAA). Classicism brought Malik to Houston where he began working for the traditional residential firm, Curtis & Windham Architects, before landing a role at Benjamin Johnston Design. He is active with the ICAA and finds much joy in teaching the craft of Classical design.
Malik strives to be tailored and technical yet inventive and imaginative; the pursuit to be wildly creative within Classical parameters. He explores architecture in relation to neuroscience and how design can be purposefully evocative. Outside of Architecture, Malik is fascinated with cooking and pastry making, music culture, and graphic design.
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Designer
Claudia grew up in Guatemala and is deeply in love with its culture, textiles, and vibrant colors. The vibrant Guatemalan fabric and its warm hospitality is woven into the fabric of her life, influencing her design aesthetic and approach.
In 2016, Claudia graduated with a Bachelor of Architecture from The University of Houston. That same year, she had the invaluable experience of participating in a study abroad program in Spain. Claudia’s professional journey spans a wide range of residential projects, from high-end residential projects to commercial. Claudia approaches each project with attentive listening, believing that every project should be uniquely tailored to the client's lifestyle and how they experience their space.
Beyond Claudia’s passion for design, she most cherishes spending time with family, which grounds and inspires her in her creative endeavors.
OUR SUPPORT TEAM
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Social Media
Mary Ann Addis, a native Houstonian, brings a wealth of experience and passion to Benjamin Johnston Design. With a background in music and English from Texas A&M University, Mary Ann spent over a decade teaching music and serving as the Director of Fine Arts at her previous school. Her love for travel, particularly to Europe and South America, has enriched her perspective, infusing her storytelling with a global flair. Now, as the designated storyteller at Benjamin Johnston Design, Mary Ann continues to educate and inspire by showcasing the firm’s magnificent interior and architectural designs.
Mary Ann’s role extends beyond narration; she brings insightfulness and innovative ideas to the forefront through social media, bridging the gap between beautiful design and its rich, underlying stories. Her musical talents also shine as she performs with the Houston Symphony Chorus, adding a harmonious touch to her creative endeavors. Mary Ann believes that design and beauty have the power to transform lives, and she passionately shares this vision with the world through her engaging and informative storytelling.
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Accouting Manager
Dan McDermott is responsible for all day-to-day accounting activities of the firm, including accounts payable, accounts receivable and financial reporting. Dan ensures that all financial transactions between the firm and our clients and vendors are handled with the utmost care and professionalism.
Dan started working as an Account Manager and became part of the Benjamin Johnston Design team in 2021. We are thrilled to have his expertise guiding us forward!
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Purchasing Agent
Jessica manages client orders from start to finish and ensures they are placed correctly with our vendors. She monitors orders closely throughout the process as they are being manufactured, transported, received and inspected. Jessica oversees hundreds of orders from around the world and strives to exceed client expectations at every turn.
Jessica began working as a Project Manager at Designer Advantage in 2022 and joined the Benjamin Johnston Design team shortly after.
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Purchasing Agent
Samantha manages client orders from start to finish and ensures they are placed correctly with our vendors. She monitors orders closely throughout the process as they are being manufactured, transported, received and inspected. Samantha oversees hundreds of orders from around the world and strives to exceed client expectations at every turn.
Samantha began working as a Project Manager at Designer Advantage in 2022 and joined the Benjamin Johnston Design team shortly after.