Julia Dutton Haidlen started J. Haidlen Design Associates in 1982, from the library in her Oakdale home. Her passion for design had always been a constant in her life, and while listening to a sermon one Sunday, realized that this was her career calling. Soon word spread, the number of clients multiplied and her staff grew as the firm extended its services to include all aspects of residential, commercial and health care design.

In 1987, Julia moved the firm to its current location at 507 West F Street, in Oakdale. The famous Design House, as it is known today, is located in the heart of Oakdale. The craftsman style bungalow was built in 1909, and seemed a perfect fit for an Interior Design Firm. The downstairs of the 4,000 square foot mansion housed the retail store, while the upstairs was home to the design firm.

Julia earned her CID Certificate (Certified Interior Designer) in 1989 and became a professional member of ASID (American Society of Interior Designers). These credentials demonstrate professional practices, ethics, and integrity in the interior design profession.

In 2001, Gretchen Haidlen Arbini joined the design staff of J. Haidlen Design Associates. A lifetime of internship, with mother Julia Haidlen, she definitely was no stranger to this business. Gretchen earned her Contractors License in 2007, and expanded the business to offer turnkey services and project management. She has changed the focus from the retail environment to full service interior design.

Gretchen keeps looking to the future and developing different ways to grow the business. Some additional services include computer aided drafting for remodel construction and project management. She keeps the firm current with the latest trends in residential, commercial and health care design by attending webinars and Market, in Las Vegas and Chicago. The firm is managed by Gretchen, who continues to guide the success of the firm in residential, commercial, and health care design.

Through the years J. Haidlen Design Associates has grown and developed many accomplished designers, as well as incredible projects. J. Haidlen Design Associates continues to be one of the most successful female owned and managed businesses, in Oakdale.