ous mental and physical aspects of her job – designing, client interac- tion, problem solving, setting tile and grouting – basically playing with tile. She approaches her “design and installation work with an appre- ciation for the elegance and econ- omy of the processes of the natural world,” she explained. “So I think that my greatest satisfaction comes from those daily occurrences that reveal elegance: finding a solution to a problem, understanding a client’s desire (no easy task!), working out the perfect layout, finding the right tool for the job.” A tile contractor for 24 years, Edelstein provides clients with full design, fabrication and installation services. “I am fortunate to be able to design nearly all of my installa- tions, and have had some adventur- ous clients,” she said. “One thing that sets my company apart from others is that I like to collaborate with other tile artists and design custom installations. I have found that clients appreciate working with someone who can design a space while understanding the complexi- ties of the installation process.” Her studio is 100% women-run, with all female assistants. “I am happy to see more women joining this career path, and look forward to a time in the near future where it will not be the novelty that it has been,” she said. Largely self taught, Edelstein came to NTCA 10 years ago seek- ing the support of the technical resources to support her knowl- edge. She also thought NTCA affili- ation would help her business stand out. In fact, NTCA has become a “sort of partner” to Edelstein’s busi- ness over the years. “As one must only be licensed and bonded to be a contractor and there are no skill or aptitude prereq- uisites, having NTCA affiliation has shown my clients that I care about my work,” she said. “I have often over the years received excellent tech assistance and solved many installation problems with the help of NTCA staff. Being a member of the NTCA involves me in a larger professional community and this has greatly enhanced my day-to-day life as a sole proprietor in a career that can otherwise feel quite isolated.” An added bonus of NTCA mem- bership for Edelstein is the voucher program. “Yes, it can save money, but more importantly it removes the barrier to trying new products,” she said. “That’s great for the entire industry.” Edelstein has won a number of awards, including the 2010 TileLetter Residential Mosaic Grand Prize, 2013 Coverings Installation and Design (CID) Award for Residential Stone Design, and 2018 CID Award, Residential Tile Installation. Interested in learning more about her work? View her profession- al profile on Houzz.com and a portfolio on Instagram (@tiledesign- byedelstein). MEMBER SPOTLIGHT ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 102 TileLetter | October 2018