South River, NJ
South River, NJ
Owner & Principal Designer
Richard Gacek, Principal Designer and Owner of Gacek Design Group, has been shaping distinguished interiors since 1988. With a formal foundation in architecture, he brings a deeply refined and disciplined sensibility to every project. His design approach is classic with an eclectic edge defined by clean lines, thoughtful layering, and an intuitive balance between beauty and function.
A graduate of the State University of New York at Buffalo with a Bachelor of Professional Studies in Architecture, Richard is driven by a belief in the emotional power of design. He views color, texture, light, and form as essential tools in creating spaces that go beyond aesthetics, transforming interiors into meaningful, immersive experiences.
Influenced by timeless innovators such as Frank Lloyd Wright, Richard draws inspiration from architectural history while continuously evolving his own distinctive point of view. Outside the studio, his passions include antiquing, cooking, traveling, sailing and the art of living well.
Architect
Emily is a registered architect with a Master of Architecture from Roger Williams University in Bristol, Rhode Island, and a background in art and architectural history. With a deep appreciation for both architecture and interior design, Emily approaches each project through a balanced technical and artistic lens, viewing the two disciplines as inherently interconnected. Her work focuses on reshaping spaces into environments that are both functional and beautiful.
Looking ahead, she hopes to one day unite her passions in the creation of a warm, character-rich bed and breakfast. Outside of the studio, Emily finds inspiration in the outdoors, particularly through hiking and spending time in nature with her husband and dog.
Senior Designer
Fascinated by how space could shape the way people live, Michelle began drawing floor plans at age 11, knowing at that early age she wanted to pursue a career in architecture and design. She attended Philadelphia University and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Interior Design. Since joining Gacek Design Group in 2012, she has built a reputation for transforming concepts into refined, memorable spaces. Michelle brings conviction to every project – crafting residential and commercial environments that feel simultaneously luxurious and deeply livable. She works closely with developers and clients alike to produce spaces that are visually compelling, purpose-driven, and emotionally resonant – spaces that tell a story.
Michelle’s passion for effortless livability and her deep connection to the natural world is how she lives her everyday life – creating family memories, either outdoors or around the dinner table in her rustic log home.
Senior Designer
Sharon holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design from The College of New Jersey and an MBA in Marketing and Finance from Fordham University. At Gacek Design Group, Sharon specializes in designing elevated commercial amenity spaces, guided by her signature “Less is More” philosophy. She thrives in collaborative environments, finding great fulfillment in fostering a team where shared creativity and mutual support bring out the best in every project.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Sharon is driven by a heartfelt vision for the future: she hopes to one day open a dog farm and shelter dedicated to providing care, love, and a safe haven for dogs in need.
Production Manager
With over 22 years of industry experience, Eric is a seasoned expert in procurement, logistics, and sourcing at Gacek Design Group. He brings a discerning designer’s eye and meticulous attention to detail to every project, ensuring thoughtful execution from concept through completion. A graduate of Philadelphia University with a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Design, Eric combines a strong creative foundation with hands-on experience, allowing him to expertly guide projects toward seamless and successful outcomes.
Eric’s greatest satisfaction comes from seeing every element of a project come together with precision and purpose. Outside the studio, Eric is an avid traveler who has even hiked to the top of Half Dome in Yosemite and enjoys discovering exceptional cuisine wherever his travels take him.
Administrative Design Assistant
Erika brings a multidisciplinary creative background rooted in Graphic Design and Theatre Design, shaped by a lifetime of artistic influence. Initially pursuing architecture, Erika’s path evolved as she discovered graphic design and later, through graduate studies in theatre, the transformative world of scenic design. It was there that she recognized the strong parallels between designing for the stage and creating environments for commercial and residential clients: both require narrative, intention, and a deep understanding of how people experience space.
Erika holds a Bachelor of Science in Graphic Design Communication with a minor in Photography from Philadelphia University, and a Master of Arts in Theatre with a concentration in Scenic Design from Villanova University. Outside of the studio, she is a devoted wife, mother to two teenagers, and baker of decadent cakes.