Designers Contemporary Laminates....Custom Laminate Cabinetry & Display Fixtures

History

DCL's Start-Up
In 1985, Bob Krauss (Founder and President) decided to branch off from the shop he was presently working for. Initially, the new start provided a way to expand his previous employer's finishing department by outsourcing the laminate work they could no longer accommodate. The work was fabricated in the employer's plant and transported to Designers Contemporary Laminates (DCL) to finish.

In 1986, Bob took on his first commercial project with Peoples Savings Bank. It seemed an overwhelming task for a one-man shop, but the project was successfully completed and DCL became the sole supplier for that bank.

That paved the way for many subsequent projects including Bank One, Parkview Savings Bank and FirstMerit Bank. Incredibly during this time period, DCL also opened four Booksellers stores.

DCL continues to produce similar projects with great success due to the attention to detail and commitment to deadlines. DCL's commitment to its customers is, and always will be, one of quality not quantity.

Facility
For over ten years DCL has been located in their Code Avenue plant. They added 2400 square feet a couple years ago to expand the space to a total of 8100 square feet.

Equipment
DCL's goal has always been to create niches by offering services that competitors could not. When DCL was still a one-man shop, they acquired a 12' postforming machine. This machine provided the capability to produce some unusual projects. DCL also has many common pieces such as edgebanders, beam saws, CNC routers, line borers, etc. The newest acquisition is a 6x12 CNC router with a laser on board. They are hoping this will create new markets in signage and inlay work in solid surface.

Staff Profile

Bob Krauss:
Bob is the Founder and President of DCL. He possesses two main components for managing DCL: a degree in business management and a love for woodworking. Bob provides strategic management as well as day to day decision making. He also spends time working in the shop (once a cabinetmaker always a cabinetmaker).

Anne Krauss:
Anne controls the company's books. This is a critical component to the business' operation. She is a tremendous asset to the company, not to mention that she keeps Bob in line.

Rick Sray:
Rick has been with DCL since 1988 and works as the shop manager. He is in charge of day to day operations including purchasing and inventory control. He is also responsible for employees and scheduling work. Rick is a skilled fabricator and has a great talent for problem-solving DCL's more difficult projects.

Judy Reynolds:
Judy has been with the company for over five years. She will most likely be the first voice you hear when you call DCL. Judy is responsible for keeping the office running smoothly, as she is a fantastic organizer. (Judy is also a great cook, and keeps us all watching our waistlines!)