When it comes to transforming a space, few do it with the artistry and intention of Michael Ferrante. A true triple threat—artist, tradesman, and entrepreneur—he blurs the line between renovation and fine art through his company, Michael J Design. Whether he's breathing new life into kitchen cabinets, reimagining a room with wallpaper, or refinishing furniture, Ferrante approaches every project with craftsmanship and creativity.
Ferrante’s roots trace back to Rockaway Township, where his journey began by helping his friends’ fathers with various tasks. He quickly fell in love with the work—especially painting—which ignited a passion that never faded. That hands-on experience, combined with his creative instincts, led him to pursue a degree in art—a decision that still colors every corner of his career.
“We do traditional paint projects,” he said, adding, “We also do decorative paint and plasters, which are more on the artistic side of things.”
Seven years ago, the now business owner turned his passion into a profession, officially founding Michael J Design. What sets the company apart isn’t just the quality of work—it’s the level of communication, planning, and client care that shapes each job.
“We execute our services with professionalism,” he explained. “And it’s always fun. It’s creating an art project versus just putting paint or plaster on a wall.”
From detailed project management to budget-conscious solutions, Ferrante makes sure every client feels heard, involved, and creatively inspired. He thoroughly enjoys sitting down with a potential client and discussing the project while looking at color samples.
“Paint selection is an extremely important part of the process. Painters are always known as the finishers. After the details are in, whether [the client] is getting their floors redone, new hardware, or designers are coming in and incorporating new furniture, all of the tradesmen look at the painters as the last ones in, as the finishers,” he noted. “The importance of a fresh coat of paint obviously cleans things up if they use the same colors. It ties everything together regarding color scheme and change of color towards overall design.”
Michael J Design serves both residential and commercial clients, with roughly 70% of their work focused on homes and the remaining 30% on restaurants, retail spaces, and offices—inside and out. Regardless of the project, he thrives on helping clients infuse their spaces with personality and purpose.
“We do a lot of restaurants and commercial businesses, retail businesses - interior and exterior,” he explained. “Everyone has their specific desires in regard to design and color, so every client is different.”
At the end of the day, it’s the ability to witness self-expression through design that Ferrante finds most compelling.
“They may want to wallpaper the ceiling or use decorative paint in the powder room,” he offered. “A lot of personality comes from the client and that makes the process exciting and interesting—it’s the overall creativity and collaboration, throwing out ideas and inspiration at each other to land on a common goal.”
Running a team of seven, the Michael J Design owner splits his time between the field and the front office—balancing the artistry of the work with the responsibility of managing a growing business.
“I have a crew of seven men. I’m responsible for them and responsible for getting jobs so they can earn money and feed their families. A lot of that responsibility is a big stress, but it’s also very fulfilling to know that we’re all doing what we love to do – create and paint,” he revealed.
From bold brush strokes to subtle design choices, Ferrante has built more than a company—he’s built a reputation for turning spaces into works of art.
Whether you’re reimagining a retail space or refreshing your home, Michael J Design is where craftsmanship meets creativity—and where your vision finds its perfect finish.
It's time to start your next design project—contact Michael J Design at michael@michaeljdesign.com.
"We execute our services with professionalism and it’s always fun. It’s creating an art project versus just putting paint or plaster on a wall.”