ABOUT US
CREATIVITY FROM THE START
We are a diverse team of artisans, craftsman and designers who together have over 150 years combined experience in this industry.
We understand the level of quality and attention to detail that our clients require and have come to expect.
We only use the highest quality materials in everything we produce. Our 21,000 square foot manufacturing facility allows us to handle a magnitude of services and projects near and nationwide.
Not only do we create beautiful furniture, but lasting client relationships are developed as well.
Furthermore, something very near and dear to our hearts is giving back to the community by sponsoring our local chapters and donating our labor and items to several charitable organizations throughout the year.
We are hands-on every step of the way, from the initial design and estimating process, to the frames built in our workshop. We apply our own custom finishes and we deliver furniture on time and on budget, bringing customers spaces to life.
We are SO grateful and honored to be part of such an inspiring community of creative minds that utilize our services.
MEET THE TEAM
APRIL D. DARDIS
President
A native Houstonian and born entrepreneur, April Dardis is the Founder and President of Creative Style Furniture, Houston’s largest woman-owned custom furniture and upholstery company. April’s ambitious nature and proven leadership has driven the company’s growth into purchasing its own 21,000 square foot location. A culmination of artistry, creativity and dedication solidifies April’s position as Houston’s most successful Women entrepreneur in the upholstery arena.
April leads a diverse group of artisans and craftsmen, by creating award-winning custom furniture and artistic masterpieces which compliments each clients unique style and inspiration. Collaborating with the most accomplished interior designers, April and her team continue to handcraft custom furnishings that inject exuberance into residential, commercial and hospitality spaces throughout the city, state and country.
The joy that she finds in helping others and putting God first is central to her life. April makes giving back to her community a priority. From volunteering with her church youth group as a young adult to donating goods and services to charitable organizations throughout her life. As a wife, mother and grandmother she has always managed to lead a work-life balance while being a fair, yet firm leader tenuring employees of more than a decade.
April has been awarded a proclamation from the mayor of Houston, declaring March 8, 2023, as Creative Style Furniture Day. She has won numerous ASID awards as an industry partner and holds WBE, SBE and HUB certificates from the City of Houston. Her creations have been featured in renowned publications such as Architectural Digest, Elegant Home, Modern Luxury Interiors, Southern Home, Southern Living and Traditional Home to name a few.
Her personal integrity is reflected in the top tier quality fabrication of the furniture she produces and the client relations that have blossomed through the years.
ROBERT COLLEY
Production Director
Born in the furniture capital of America; North Carolina, Robert followed in his father’s path and began his career in the fabric department with the Lazy Boy Company.
Surrounded by seasoned craftsmen, Robert honed his upholstery expertise while also learning furniture repair and finishing skills. His desire to excel and natural aptitude for the craft led him to management positions with furniture giants Broyhill and McCreary Modern. Robert continues to nurture his deep understanding and passion for custom furniture making in his work for Creative Style Furniture.
Dennis Havran
Upholstery Manager
When it comes to furniture making, Dennis is a true craftsman, creating each piece with skill and dexterity. He began honing his upholstery skills alongside his father at the age of thirteen.
Dennis enjoys planning out projects with designers and lending his artistic expertise in furniture construction to create truly unique pieces that reflect the style, personality and needs of the customer. He views upholstery as an art form, studying the quality and nuances of fabric and putting his heart into all the work he composes.
Brian Babbitt
Operations Director
With over 25 years of experience in customer service, Brian brings to Creative Style Furniture a team player that truly understands the value of taking care of the clients’ needs.
Brian started his careers as an office assistant for a department store in Central Texas. He moved to Houston to advance his career in management and client relationships. His ability to handle and solve customer problems in a professional manner is derived from his “whatever it takes” attitude to get the job done.
Having always enjoyed working in a creative environment and with creative people, Brian creates lasting client relationships that he values with the upmost respect.
MIGUEL GONZALEZ
Production Manager
An integral part of the team, Miguel brings over 25 years of experience in pattern cutting and management.
Miguel started his career in the furniture business in 1999. He quickly displayed a talent for pattern cutting and personally ensures that all templates and fabric are impeccable and ready to cut for furniture production. His attention to detail and dedication to quality is demonstrated through each finished design. For Miguel, the best part of his job is seeing the finished masterpiece and a satisfied client.
JULIE MANRIQUEZ
Office Administrator
Lovingly referred to as the “glue” that holds our front office together, Julie Manriquez is an empowered self-starter with over 10 years of experience. An avid sports fan and outdoorsperson, you can find Julie cheering for her alma mater HBU, leading her scouts, or participating in her local Catholic church. She’s a proud mother of two, wife of 23 years, and will forever root for the home team (go ‘stros)!
