At CIRCLE Design Studio, we believe great design is shaped by curiosity, collaboration, and the exchange of ideas. Explore our perspectives, published features, podcasts, and industry conversations as we share our experience in architecture, interior design, and construction.
Designers Digest with Michael Imperatore
PODCAST | October 2026
John Dorlini recorded a conversation with Michael Imperatore for an upcoming podcast, sharing his perspective as a designer and co-founder of CIRCLE Design Studio.
Naturally Curious with Bruce Bryan
PODCAST | August 2026
Theresa Dorlini joined host Bruce Bryan on Naturally Curious for a conversation exploring her professional experience and perspective as an interior designer and co-founder of CIRCLE Design Studio.
Listen to Podcast | Read Transcript
CIRCLE Design Studio Advances International Strategy with Trade Initiative
ONLINE PUBLICATION | Home Furnishings Business | June 2026
Home Furnishings Business highlights CIRCLE Design Studio's international expansion through a competitive trade development initiative administered by the Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP). As the first architecture and interior design firm from Southwest Virginia selected for the initiative, CIRCLE is pursuing opportunities in luxury residential architecture, interior design and hospitality in Mexico and Saudi Arabia. The article details the firm's trade missions to Mexico City, Riyadh and Jeddah, where co-founder and principal architect John Dorlini explored strategic partnerships and international project opportunities.
IDEAs Lecture
Lecture | Virginia Tech | February 27, 2026
CIRCLE is listed in the supplied archive in connection with a Virginia Tech IDEAS Lecture.
Sun Devil 100 | 7th Consecutive Year
BUSINESS EXCELLENCE | Arizona State University
John and Theresa have been recognized for seven consecutive years by Arizona State University's Sun Devil 100, an annual program honoring fast-growing businesses owned or led by ASU alumni. The distinction recognizes sustained business growth and entrepreneurial leadership, placing CIRCLE among a diverse group of companies spanning architecture, construction, technology, real estate and other industries.
Mistakes We Made So You Don’t Have To: Candid Lessons from Leading Designers
PANEL | High Point Market | Fairfield | October 26, 2025
Theresa Dorlini was featured alongside Amber Guyton and Jacque Bethke in a discussion moderated by John McClain about professional missteps, lessons learned and navigating challenges in a design career or business.
CIRCLE Design Studio Celebrates 20 Years
ONLINE PUBLICATION | Design News Now | September 2025
Design News Now celebrates the 20th anniversary of CIRCLE Design Studio, founded by John and Theresa Dorlini in Roanoke, Virginia, in 2005. The article highlights the firm's evolution from a two-person studio into an award-winning, multidisciplinary practice integrating architecture, interior design, construction, custom cabinetry and furniture. It also recognizes CIRCLE's Livable Modern™ design philosophy, more than 50 interior design awards, national publications and expanding international ambitions. The milestone was celebrated at the Taubman Museum of Art with more than 120 guests.
Kitchen of the Week: Vintage Vibes and Modern Conveniences
ONLINE PUBLICATION | Houzz | August 2025
Houzz features a kitchen renovation by CIRCLE Design Studio and CIRCLE Design Build in a 1915 Roanoke, Virginia, home. The design combines vintage-inspired architectural details, furniture-style cabinetry and a generous central island with modern appliances, a dedicated coffee bar and functional storage. The project demonstrates how thoughtful kitchen design can preserve historic character while accommodating contemporary living.
Inspired Modern Living: CIRCLE Design Studio Featured in National Design Publication
BOOK PUBLICATION | Intermedia Publishing Services | July 2025
CIRCLE Design Studio is featured in Inspired Modern Living, a hardcover publication celebrating contemporary residential architecture and interior design from across the United States. Featuring CIRCLE’s Catawba Residence and Manhattan Residence, the book showcases the firm’s work across distinct residential settings and its integrated approach to architecture and interiors. The publication explores how thoughtful design, materials and a connection to place shape modern living.
Featured Projects: Catawba Residence, The Manhattan
Beyond Illumination: The Role of Lighting in Architecture, Construction and Design
PANEL | Hubbardton Forge | High Point Market | April 2025
Theresa Dorlini joined the advertised panel with Tim Green, Christopher Todd and Maria Mullen, moderated by LuAnn Nigara, to examine the role of lighting across architectural design, interiors and construction.
Ambition Without Apology: Navigating Parenthood While Growing Your Design Firm
PANEL | Odette | High Point Market | April 2025
Theresa Dorlini was featured with Hill Rondero and Jillian Hayward Schaible in a conversation moderated by Parker Bowie Larson about balancing family responsibilities and the demands of growing a design firm.
Cabinets 101: Inspiring Modern Solutions for Your Home
CONSUMER EDUCATION | Roanoke Home & Garden Show | February 2025
John and Theresa Dorlini were advertised to discuss cabinetry design, storage, material choices and functional planning, drawing on residential design experience.
Understanding the Homeowner’s Design + Function Needs
CONSUMER EDUCATION | Roanoke Home & Garden Show | February 2025
Theresa Dorlini addresses the practical and emotional requirements of residential design, and how designers balance form, function and client expectations.
The Architect + Designer’s Workflow Explained
CONSUMER EDUCATION | Roanoke Home & Garden Show | February 2025
John and Theresa Dorlini were advertised to explain the progression from initial design concepts through documentation, collaboration and construction coordination.
CIRCLE Design Studio Reaches 50 Design Award Threshold
ONLINE PUBLICATION | Home Accents Today / Furniture, Lighting & Decor | October 2024
Home Accents Today recognizes CIRCLE Design Studio as the first firm to earn 50 Interior Design Excellence Awards (IDEAs), presented by ASID Virginia and IIDA Virginia/West Virginia. Founded by John and Theresa Dorlini, the Roanoke, Virginia, architecture, interior design and construction firm has received recognition across 14 award categories since 2009. The article highlights CIRCLE's first-place Showhouse award for The Manhattan in Richmond, Virginia, along with Theresa's award-winning furniture designs for DORLINI | modern, demonstrating the firm's expertise across residential interiors, architecture and custom furniture.
Dynamic Duos: Establishing Your Role in a Design Partnership
PANEL | Odette | High Point Market | October 2024
John and Theresa Dorlini joined Everick and Lisa Brown, and Berkeley Minkhorst and Kelley Lentini, for a panel moderated by Ashley Hotham Cox about defining roles, communicating and sustaining productive creative partnerships.
Understanding the Homeowner’s Design/Function Needs
CONFERENCE PRESENTATION | Women in Construction Conference | Phoenix, Arizona | September 2024
Theresa Dorlini spoke on understanding homeowners’ functional and design priorities, a central consideration in residential interior design and client programming.
Robin Baron Live
INTERVIEW / LIVESTREAM | Robin Baron Live | June 2024
Theresa Dorlini was featured as a guest on Robin Baron Live, an online design-industry conversation.
Leadership in Design
PANEL | Howard Elliott | High Point Market | April 2024
Theresa Dorlini was featured with Christi Barbour and Ken Ludwig in a Robin Baron-moderated panel about design leadership and supporting the next generation of designers.
Soak Up History at This Restored Inn Nestled in a Virginia State Park
ONLINE PUBLICATION | Garden & Gun | November 2023
Garden & Gun features the restoration of the historic Inn at Foster Falls in Virginia's New River Trail State Park, highlighting Theresa Dorlini's interior design contributions. CIRCLE Design Studio helped reinterpret the nineteenth-century property as a boutique inn, balancing historic preservation with contemporary hospitality design.
Building Interior Design Revenue with Wholesale Sourcing
PANEL | Elk Home / Furniture, Lighting & Decor | High Point Market | October 2023
Theresa Dorlini joined Shayla Copas and Jamie Merida for a panel moderated by John McClain on wholesale sourcing and business revenue models for interior design practices.
Modern & Majestic
ONLINE PUBLICATION | WV Living | August 2023
WV Living explores the growth of Pies & Pints from its Fayetteville, West Virginia origins into a multi-location restaurant brand. The article focuses on the company's business model and expansion strategy rather than documenting a specific CIRCLE Design Studio project.
A Modern Bachelor Pad with Room to Grow
PUBLICATION | The Roanoker | August 2022
The Roanoker showcases CIRCLE Design Studio's integrated architecture, interior design, and construction of a modern custom home on 33 acres in Catawba, Virginia. The residence combines panoramic mountain views, personalized interiors, flexible family spaces, and energy-efficient building strategies.
Houzz Tour: Historic Virginia Foursquare Gets Freshened Up
ONLINE PUBLICATION | Houzz | November 2021
Houzz profiles CIRCLE Design Studio’s renovation of a 1925 American Foursquare home in Roanoke, Virginia. The design preserves original architectural details, including millwork and pocket doors, while introducing an updated kitchen, refreshed bathrooms and personalized interiors. The project illustrates CIRCLE’s approach to historic residential renovation, balancing architectural preservation with modern functionality and individual expression.
Pursuit of Design: Design Your Career
CAREER PANEL | ASID Virginia | April 2021
Theresa Dorlini was featured as a panelist in an ASID Virginia virtual career-development event for designers at different stages of professional practice.
Renovation Revives Roanoke Ranch Home
PUBLICATION | The Roanoker | December 2020
CIRCLE Design Studio reimagined a dated Roanoke County ranch home with vaulted ceilings, an open kitchen, improved circulation, and functional living spaces. The renovation demonstrates how architectural modifications and coordinated interior finishes can make an existing home feel larger, brighter, and more contemporary.
Compact Home in the Virginia Hills Looks to Japan
ONLINE PUBLICATION | Houzz | November 2020
Houzz showcases a 1,200-square-foot, Japanese-inspired residence designed by CIRCLE Design Studio in Star Tannery, Virginia. Architect John Dorlini and interior designer Theresa Dorlini collaborated on an energy-efficient rural retreat that responds to its hillside setting, surrounding views and the homeowner’s connection to Japanese culture. The project demonstrates how integrated architecture and interior design can create a distinctive, highly functional home within a compact footprint.
Having It All: Work/Life Balance, Juggling Your Business & Children
VIRTUAL PANEL | Comm Collective | July 2020
Theresa Dorlini appeared on an advertised discussion with Arianne Bellizaire and Natasha Minasian, moderated by Lindsey Shook, about balancing business ownership and family life.
Consumer Home Design Preferences Post COVID-19
VIRTUAL PANEL | International Market Centers / Furniture, Lighting & Decor | May 2020
Theresa Dorlini was featured in a virtual discussion on evolving consumer expectations for home design during the COVID-19 period.
The Interior View: Staying Informed — Diversifying Your Practice
VIRTUAL PANEL | ASID | April 2020
Theresa Dorlini was featured in an ASID industry discussion about expanding design services and developing new revenue opportunities.
New River Gorge House: Modern Architecture Overlooking West Virginia’s New River Gorge
PROJECT SHOWCASE | Dwell | Victor, West Virginia
CIRCLE Design Studio’s New River Gorge House is showcased on Dwell, highlighting a modern residence designed in response to the dramatic landscape of West Virginia’s New River Gorge. The home’s architecture incorporates Cor-Ten steel siding inspired by the nearby bridge, a two-story board-formed concrete entry wall and expansive glazing oriented toward the gorge. Designed around the homeowner’s lifestyle, the residence combines contemporary architecture, personalized interiors and flexible living spaces with a strong connection to its natural surroundings.
Meet the Furniture, Lighting & Decor Editorial Advisors: John Dorlini, CIRCLE Design Studio
PUBLISHED INTERVIEW | Furniture, Lighting & Decor | December 2019
John Dorlini, principal architect and co-founder of CIRCLE Design Studio in Roanoke, Virginia, was featured in Furniture, Lighting & Decor as a member of the publication's editorial advisory group. The recognition highlights John's professional perspective at the intersection of architecture, interior design and the home furnishings industry, extending CIRCLE's contribution beyond individual design projects to broader industry conversations.
Design on HPMKT Instagram Takeover
SOCIAL COLLABORATION | High Point Market | October 2019
John and Theresa Dorlini were featured in a Design on HPMKT social media takeover showcasing selected market finds and their perspective on furnishings and design.
Houzz Tour: Rustic-Modern Style in the Blue Ridge Mountains
ONLINE PUBLICATION | Houzz | June 2019
Houzz features CIRCLE Design Studio’s comprehensive renovation of a 1970s split-level residence in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Roanoke, Virginia. Led by Theresa Dorlini, the design-build transformation combines existing stone architecture with contemporary finishes, industrial accents and durable furnishings suited to family life. The project includes renovated kitchens and bathrooms, updated interior finishes and architectural improvements that establish a cohesive rustic-modern aesthetic.
How Designers, Builders and Architects Can Find Synergy
ONLINE PUBLICATION | Furniture, Lighting & Decor | June 2019
John and Theresa Dorlini of CIRCLE Design Studio share their expertise at High Point Market on collaboration among architects, interior designers, and builders. The discussion emphasizes early coordination, transparent construction budgets, and the value of integrating design disciplines to deliver successful custom residential projects.
Globe-Trotting Bachelor’s Lakeside Retreat
ONLINE PUBLICATION | Aspire Magazine | May 2019
Aspire Design and Home features CIRCLE Design Studio's complete renovation of a luxury Smith Mountain Lake residence for an international executive and art collector. John and Theresa Dorlini integrated modern architecture, custom interior details, and natural materials to create a sophisticated waterfront retreat.
Passion Sucks: It’s All About the Money!
PANEL | Universal Furniture | High Point Market | April 2019
Theresa Dorlini joined fellow design industry professionals Libby Langdon, Stacy Garcia, Sarah Willet, Amy Storm, Lauren Clement, and Blair Hamaty for a panel discussion moderated by Nick May. The conversation explored the financial realities of running a design business, including the importance of profitability and balancing creative passion with business success.
Common Ground: Finding Synergy Among Architects, Builders and Designers
PANEL | Universal Furniture / Furniture, Lighting & Decor | High Point Market | April 2019
John and Theresa Dorlini were featured alongside Andrew and Phil Travars in a session examining cooperation between architects, builders and interior designers.
Design on HPMKT Instagram Takeover
SOCIAL COLLABORATION | High Point Market | March 2019
John and Theresa Dorlini were featured as Design on HPMKT tastemakers in a social media collaboration connected with High Point Market.
View on Vegas Instagram Takeover
SOCIAL COLLABORATION | Las Vegas Market | January 2019
Theresa Dorlini appeared in promotional material for a Las Vegas Market design tastemaker social media takeover.
Change of Scenery
ONLINE PUBLICATION | Richmond Magazine | R•HOME | January 2019
Richmond Magazine showcases CIRCLE Design Studio's interior design work on a modern condominium overlooking the James River in Richmond, Virginia. The project combines efficient space planning, flexible living areas, and a personalized furnishings palette to create a sophisticated downsized residence.
A Well-Designed Business with LuAnn Nigara, Episode 380
PODCAST | November 2018
John and Theresa Dorlini were featured in a conversation about their combined architecture and interior design practice and how they work together.
Listen to Podcast | Read Transcript
House Tipster Interview at High Point Market
INTERVIEW | House Tipster | October 22, 2018 post
John and Theresa Dorlini were interviewed by interior designer Christopher Grubb for House Tipster during High Point Market, sharing their perspectives as design professionals and co-founders of CIRCLE Design Studio.
Q&A: Theresa Dorlini, Co-owner of Circle Design Studio
NEWSPAPER PROFILE | The Roanoke Times | October 2018
A business profile introduced Theresa Dorlini as co-owner of CIRCLE Design Studio and discussed her design practice, work and family-business experience.
The Chaise Lounge with Nick May, Episode 252
PODCAST | October 2018
John and Theresa Dorlini returned to The Chaise Lounge for their second appearance in three years, joining host Nick May for another conversation about their experiences as designers and co-founders of CIRCLE Design Studio.
Listen to Podcast | Read Transcript
John Tudisco Live!
LIVESTREAM / INTERVIEW | September 2018
John and Theresa Dorlini appeared as guests on John Tudisco Live!, discussing their professional experiences as designers and co-founders of CIRCLE Design Studio.
Kitchen of the Week: A Casually Elegant Eat-In Space
ONLINE PUBLICATION | Houzz | September 2018
Houzz highlights CIRCLE Design Studio’s kitchen renovation and residential addition in a 1940s Colonial-style home in Roanoke, Virginia. John and Theresa Dorlini integrated architectural design, interior design and construction to combine a previously separated kitchen and dining room into an open, functional gathering space connected to a new four-season sunroom. The transitional design incorporates the homeowners’ preference for red accents while improving circulation, natural light and everyday usability.
Let There Be Light
PUBLICATION | The Laker | May 2018
The Laker highlights CIRCLE Design Studio’s renovation of a 1970s waterfront home in Goodview, Virginia. Through 3D design visualization, updated kitchen planning, contemporary finishes, and improved living spaces, the firm helped transform a dark, dated residence into a bright, modern Smith Mountain Lake retreat.
Interdisciplinary Design
PROFESSIONAL PANEL | ASID Virginia | September 2017
Theresa Dorlini was featured in an ASID Virginia discussion on interdisciplinary design alongside professionals representing architecture, city government and mechanical engineering.
Contemporary Cool
ONLINE PUBLICATION | Richmond Magazine | R•HOME | January 2017
Richmond Magazine features CIRCLE Design Studio’s transformation of a 1980s residence in Richmond, Virginia, into a sophisticated contemporary home. John and Theresa Dorlini redesigned the interior layout and selected modern furnishings, finishes, and lighting, complementing an extensive renovation and primary suite addition.
Built From Scratch
PUBLICATION | The Roanoker | January 2017
The Roanoker showcases a custom residence in Salem, Virginia, designed through collaboration between CIRCLE Design Studio and Boone Graham Thomas Home Builders. John and Theresa Dorlini helped transform the homeowners’ original renovation plans into a new home featuring expansive windows, contemporary interiors, and architectural spaces designed to showcase their art collection.
Lean & Green: In a Sustainable House, a Minimal Palette Keeps Things Cool
ONLINE PUBLICATION | C-Ville | October 2016
A Charlottesville sustainable residence combines energy-efficient construction, contemporary architecture, and minimalist interiors. CIRCLE Design Studio contributed interior design expertise to the environmentally conscious home, helping complete its modern residential aesthetic.
The Family-Friendliest Home You Ever Did See
PUBLICATION | The Roanoker | August 2016
The Roanoker highlights CIRCLE Design Studio's renovation of a Troutville, Virginia home designed around the needs of a family of seven. John and Theresa Dorlini helped create an open, light-filled residence with accessible family-oriented planning, custom storage, and thoughtful architectural details.
Solved Problem
PUBLICATION | The Laker
The Laker features CIRCLE Design Studio's transformation of a lakefront residence for Sue and Bill Partsch, improving its floor plan, kitchen, primary suite, and connection to Smith Mountain Lake. The project earned first place in its residential category at the Interior Design Excellence Awards.
Ranch Reborn Under Design Couple
PUBLICATION | The Roanoker | August 2012
A feature on the transformation of a ranch-style residence, highlighting the potential of residential renovation and thoughtful architectural design.
