Janelle Blakely Photopoulos

principal & Owner

As the principal and business visionary behind Blakely Interior Design since founding the firm in 2012, Janelle has cultivated a loyal client base in Rhode Island and beyond for over a decade. Celebrated for her eye for detail, masterful use of color, and innovative design approach, Janelle brings a unique blend of creativity and business expertise that ensures projects are not only beautifully executed, but seamlessly managed. Her leadership has steered the company to numerous accolades, including the prestigious SBA’s Women-Owned Business of the Year award in 2020.

A graduate of Syracuse University and RISD, Janelle’s dedication to excellence extends beyond her education. She is an alumna of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Program, which has further enriched her strategic acumen and commitment to growth. Her professional affiliations include active membership in American Society of Interior Designers (ASID), Rhode Island Builders Association (RIBA)—where she served on the board for several years—and the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC). These roles reflect her deep ties to the industry and her advocacy for building strong, collaborative networks.

Janelle’s passion for design and her drive to build a business centered on trust, quality, and creativity have made Blakely Interior Design synonymous with exceptional homes and unforgettable results.

With decades of leadership and industry expertise, we blend our knowledge in design, architecture, construction administration, project management, and procurement for a truly full-service approach.

our Team

  • kristian photopoulos

    Chief Operating Officer & Owner

  • Ali Otterbein

    Director of Design

  • Marina Campbell

    Senior Project Manager

  • Brianna Chace

    Associate Designer

  • Maythi Perez Garcia

    Associate Designer

  • Jessie Barber

    Marketing Manager & Stylist

  • Dee Dee Marion

    Procurement Manager

  • Margaret O'Farrell

    Expeditor

​​“As a General Contractor for over 30 years, I’ve collaborated with a lot of interior design firms, but Blakely Interior Design truly stands out.

Their design skills are top-notch. They have a fantastic eye for aesthetics, but their knowledge goes far beyond the decorative aspects of a project. Their technical expertise ensures everything they design translates flawlessly into functional and beautiful spaces.”

-Bob Ventura, Owner, Completely Custom

Tailored. Methodical. Creative

Over the course of the project, we expertly guide our clients through their design journey to transform their lives with beautiful homes that embody their unique personalities and lifestyles.

Our client-acclaimed design process allows us to get to know you on a profound level to create a design that considers how you’ll live in every square foot. To that end, every project is complete with furnishings, wall and floor coverings, lighting, window treatments, artwork and décor.

Working seamlessly with architects, builders and other trade professionals, we serve as your dedicated project partner to elevate and execute the vision.

Every project involves the following:

  • Client discovery & concept creation

  • Space plans, drawings, elevations & 3D renderings

  • Investment recommendation & schedule development

  • Construction documentation

  • Site visits & trade management

  • Procurement, order tracking, receiving & warehousing

  • White glove delivery, installation, full styling & reveal

Building trust with your project partners is paramount in creating the home of your dreams.

All projects begin with our proven deep dive discovery process to thoroughly understand your likes and dislikes, goals, and aspirations for the project.

Because we’re well-versed in the ins and outs of even the most complex projects, we provide you with expert guidance throughout the process. We’ll show you the best ways to maximize your investment and achieve a home you’ll love.