OUR STORY
Founded in 2018, Five West Designs began as a home-based studio—named after house number five on the west side of the street. The firm has since grown into a trusted design partner, now operating from an office in the Unionville section of Farmington, Connecticut. With over 20 years of construction industry experience, we bring a practical understanding of both design and building. Our focus is creating thoughtful, well-executed designs that guide projects from concept to construction.
Jared Gumula | Owner
My construction career began in 2004 with award winning custom home builder By Carrier Inc. Over the course of twelve years, I was involved in the development of more than ten residential subdivisions, numerous single lot custom homes, additions, renovations, and commercial development projects. Through that experience, I gained extensive hands on knowledge in all aspects of the building process.
I hold a bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Connecticut licenses in both HVAC and Septic Installation, and a Connecticut Home Improvement Contractor registration. I am currently a member of the Home Builders & Remodelers Association of Central Connecticut (HBRA), an Allied Member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), the American Institute of Building Design (AIBD), the Connecticut Building Officials Association (CBOA), the International Code Council (ICC), Build Green CT, and the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE).
With this broad industry experience and extensive network of building professionals, I bring a practical understanding of the details involved in both the design and construction of a home. Good design and practical construction must work together. My goal is to create thoughtful, buildable designs that efficiently bring each project from concept to construction.
Maya DeGrand | Associate Designer
I’m a graduate of the University of New Haven with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design. I love that there is an infinite number of design possibilities, and I’m passionate about creating environments that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing for users. With a fresh perspective and strong design foundation, I’m excited to bring thoughtful and innovative solutions to every project I work on.
“We shape our buildings; thereafter they shape us.”