Blima Ehrentreu, Founder and CEO of The Designers Group, is a bold visionary and trailblazer in the interior design industry. Her leadership is defined not only by creative excellence, but by a deep commitment to empowering women and advancing philanthropic impact. Blima’s work transcends conventional design—infusing purpose, heart, and innovation into every space she helps shape. Through her passion and influence, she continues to demonstrate how design can be a powerful force for creating a more inclusive and inspired world.
About The Designers Group
The Designers Group was built on a bold mission: to design with intention and contribute to a better world. As a purpose-driven interior design firm, TDG specializes in crafting transformative spaces across commercial, healthcare, multifamily, and hospitality sectors. We collaborate with developers, property owners, and organizations who share our commitment to infusing environments with vision, value, and meaning.
With offices in Toronto, New York, and Miami, TDG continues to lead with purpose—delivering innovative design solutions that not only elevate spaces but also enrich the communities we serve.
TDG Culture
At The Designers Group (TDG), creativity serves as the foundation and curiosity drives the vision. The firm thrives on bold ideas and forward-thinking strategies, fostering a culture that champions innovation and continuous evolution. By staying ahead of industry trends and embracing purposeful design, TDG crafts environments that not only elevate client experiences but also leave a lasting, positive imprint on the communities they serve.
This is her story…
Being a business owner is about building something that creates opportunities for others. It’s leadership, responsibility, and the chance to bring something meaningful into the world. For me, design has always been about more than the aesthetic. It’s about impact, integrity, and using creativity to support people and communities. That’s what keeps me going.
What or who has been your greatest influence in business and why?
The people we design for have shaped the way I lead and think. I learn something new from each project and client. I’m also inspired by my parents, who taught me early on that we’re here to make the world a better place. That belief has become our company mantra: “Designing with purpose, creating a better world.”
What would you say is your greatest professional accomplishment to date?
Growing The Designers Group across three major cities while staying true to our purpose has been incredibly rewarding. We’ve expanded our reach, launched charitable initiatives like the TDG Furniture Exchange, and built a team I’m proud of. Watching our work create real impact means a lot, and I’m proud that our work is both beautiful and meaningful.
What’s the best advice you have received in business that you wish to pass on to our readers?
Do good work and let that speak for itself. People remember how you made them feel and how you showed up. Keep your standards high and your relationships stronger.
What is your relationship with social media?
Social media has become an important way to tell our story. My team works hard to keep it authentic, aligned with our values, and visually reflective of the work we do. For us, it’s a tool for connection and visibility, not just promotion. Over time, it’s helped us share not just what we create, but the heart behind it.
What is your favorite app?
A few I rely on: Notion for organization, Google Calendar for scheduling, and WhatsApp for communication. I also use Zoho for project management and internal systems. Personally, I love Spotify. I’ve been listening to a lot of podcasts lately. There’s so much good content out there, great ideas, interesting conversations, and lots of inspiration.
What have been the most effective marketing initiatives or programs you have used to promote your business?
Storytelling has been key — through social media, our TDG Insider platform, and strategic partnerships. We also see great value in sponsoring nonprofit events that align with our mission. It’s about creating authentic visibility in the spaces we care about.
What one thing have you learned as a small business owner that has served you well over the years?
The right team makes everything possible. Surround yourself with people who believe in the vision and give them the space to do their best work. It’s not just about hiring for skill, it’s about shared energy and values. When people feel trusted and empowered, they bring their best to the table.
How has your routine changed since COVID?
I’ve become more intentional with my time. I’ve learned to slow down when needed, focus on what actually matters, and stay flexible without losing structure. It changed how I lead and in many ways made the business stronger.
What productivity tools do you use?
I rely on my digital calendar, G Suite, and WhatsApp to keep my day organized and communication flowing. But I still love using a notebook and pen—writing things out helps me process and prioritize, especially when I need to step back and refocus.
Are there any other resources/tools that have helped you run your business?
Yes. We use Zoho across the company for project management, time tracking, and team collaboration. It helps us stay aligned across multiple offices and teams, which is especially important as we continue to grow. Whether we’re tracking a project’s progress or checking in on timelines, having one central system makes everything more efficient. We also started using AI tools to streamline internal workflows and support faster decision-making.
Do you have any new projects coming up?
Yes, we’re expanding our physical footprint, opening a new office, and actively growing our impact. We’re also looking at how to expand our charitable initiatives and take on projects with greater scope and scale. There’s a lot of exciting growth ahead, and what I love most is that it all ties back to our purpose.
How do you prepare for the next day?
I stay active, try to get enough sleep, and review what’s ahead. I also set aside time to think through priorities. Even five minutes of quiet reflection helps me reset and focus on what really matters for the day ahead.
What is the number one meeting you never miss (and why)?
My internal creative check-ins. That’s where vision meets execution and where the heart of our work really takes shape. It keeps me connected to the core of what we’re building.
What do you do for fun/relaxation?
I love to travel. It gives me inspiration and perspective. I also enjoy being active, biking, swimming, and playing pickleball. Exploring different countries, cultures, and climates always recharges me. Even a spontaneous walk or a conversation with someone who inspires me can shift my energy completely.
How would you describe yourself in a single sentence?
I’m a purpose-driven designer and entrepreneur focused on building spaces and a life that aligns with what matters most.
What is the Number One Business Goal you plan to accomplish over the next year?
Scaling our impact. We’re focused on strategic growth in new markets, expanding our charitable reach, and continuing to lead with design that creates long-term value. The goal is to grow with intention, without losing the values that got us here.
You want to write a book on:
Designing with Purpose, Creating a Better World. At TDG, we believe design has the ability to transform not just how a space looks, but how people live and interact within it. The book would explore how intentional environments can uplift individuals, strengthen communities, and support experiences. It would also look at how design thinking can apply to life, leadership, and impact, not just interiors.
What is the number one book you recommend to our readers? And why?
I recommend Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg.
It’s a powerful read for any woman navigating leadership, ambition, and balance. The book encourages women to take up space, speak up, and pursue what they want, with confidence and clarity. It also opens up conversations around the realities women face in the workplace, and how we can support one another while building careers.
What practices or boundaries have you implemented in your personal life to create more work/life balance?
I’ve become more focused on health and wellness overall. I bike to work, walk during the day, and try to stay active in a way that feels natural and energizing. I also meal prep so I can eat healthy without thinking about it at the moment. Taking time for Shabbat helps me step away and reset. It’s not about strict routines, it’s about staying balanced so I can show up fully, both in work and in life.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
You don’t have to be in design to think about how your life is shaped. The spaces you create, the people you spend time with, the way you start your mornings , it’s all designed in some form. And it should reflect who you are. My advice? Choose what feels aligned, and don’t be afraid to build something that’s your own.
Connect on Social Media:
The Designers Group (TDG)
- Instagram: @thedesignersgroup
- LinkedIn: The Designers Group
Blima Ehrentreu
- Instagram: @blima_e
- LinkedIn: Blima Ehrentreu
