Downtown Hyattsville will get a little more funky this Saturday.

Interior design firm Green Owl Design will hold a grand opening from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. at its new location inside the renovated Model T dealership on Gallatin Street next to the post office.

The Hyattsville Wire spoke with owners Erica Riggio and Angela Justice by email about their new business.

What does Green Owl Design do?

We are a full service interior design firm specializing in boutique commercial design and select residential projects. Our boutique showcases a variety of home décor items and local artists’ creations ranging from custom furniture, fine art, vintage finds and clothing to jewelry and more.

Where did the name come from?

The name was conceived in an effort to capture the philosophy of using local resources for design and retail and creating original and unique spaces. Owls are wise, nocturnal, and they represent the type of creative creatures that we are. Our friend graciously took the liberty to create a logo for us, and we loved it. A green owl is original and doesn’t exist, this represents a more creative entity that speaks to our unique approach to design.

Why did you choose to locate in Hyattsville?

There is a great emerging art scene in Hyattsville. Here, artistic people are really recognized. This is a community of creative people that need more businesses to showcase local talent. There is no other shop like Green Owl Design. We have completed residential and commercial design projects in this area. And last, but definitely not least, Hyattsville is a “great place to live and work!”

Where did you work before here?

During and after attending graduate school for interior design, Angela Justice worked for a luxury kitchen and bath design company. The economy took a downturn which greatly affected the company. She then made the decision to begin her own design firm which she ran since 2009 called Space 26 Designs. Her firm completed numerous residential and commercial design projects.

Erica Riggio previously worked for commercial and residential design firms, but ultimately knew she wanted to begin her own business. Shortly after graduating from graduate school for Interior Design, she began Riggio Design. For over 6 years, her firm completed residential and commercial projects of all sizes spanning across the U.S.

What do customers think of your building?

Most people we have encountered are very pleased with how the building has been renovated. Since we our celebrating our grand opening this Saturday, we will then get a better gauge of how the community receives our concept and our boutique.

Personally, we are very pleased with the renovation of the Palmer building and think it is a testament to how a building should be revamped to fit the growing needs of the community. We assisted the owner whenever possible and are pleased with his attention to detail and commitment to creating a solid, quality commercial business space. We love the space and our neighbors with whom we share the address!