Joan, a native of New Jersey, began her design career in New York in 1971.  After relocating to Florida in 1988, she formed Simonsen-Hickok Interiors.  Major influences on Joan’s work included childhood exposure to movies of the 40’s & 50’s
with their elaborate sets, and weekly antique shopping excursions along Madison Avenue in New York with her
Uncle Henry, a well known antique dealer and collector.

Her role models include Elsie de Wolfe, whose spunky stripes were America’s first introduction to the rationality of modernism,
and Sister Parish, who was known for her genteel and comfortable rooms. Always an animal lover, Joan (pictured with her
rescued PBGV, Henry) is active in the community as a Co-Chair of Naples Hospice PAWS program, and participating in many charitable activities in support of the Humane Society and the PAWS program. Joan brings Henry to work daily in her animal friendly design studio, where other employees and even clients are known to bring their pets. 

Christina Heins grew up in Michigan, but was transplanted to Florida by Simonsen-Hickok after graduating from
Michigan State University’s highly accredited Interior Design program. Growing up in and
renovating a 100-year-old brick farmhouse ignited her passion for interior design.

After moving to Florida, she passed the NCIDQ exam, and became a licensed interior designer in the state of Florida.
Christina has volunteered for the Humane Society and is an active member in the philanthropic Naples Junior Women’s Club.
She rescued a black Miniature Schnauzer, Gypsy, four years ago from a puppy mill.  Gypsy, who loves to come to work
and pick out her favorite rug sample to sit on, sleeps in a bed under Christina’s drafting table when her opinion is not needed.