About Us
At Cornerstone Design we focus on much more that just getting the job done. We listen carefully to our clients and work with them closely throughout each step of their project to ensure their satisfaction. We see each project as an opportunity to apply common sense and creativity to remodeling, while giving you solutions that are efficient, effective, and affordable.
Think about it. Your home has a major impact on your quality of life. It should reflect your needs, be a place of comfort, and feature the amenities you enjoy. We want to help you explore the possibilities of creating a home environment that enhances your life.
Russ Silipigni, Founder and Owner
Russ founded Cornerstone in 2002 when he saw the need for housing contractors who care enough to give clients personal attention. He loves listening to clients’ ideas and guiding them through the process of making their dreams turn into realities. Russ specializes in helping people envision the best options for their homes, and then designing and building projects that make those visions come to life.
Russ is originally from Rochester, New York, and moved to Northern Virginia in 1998. His professional background includes positions with the U.S. Department of the Treasury, Pratt & Whitney Aircraft, Boeing, Dresser Rand Industries, and American Management Systems. He also has a diverse educational background that includes studying mechanical engineering, economics, and political science.
Ray Nissen, Project Manager/Senior Carpenter
Ray has been with Cornerstone since 2002. Ray is a highly-skilled craftsman, with almost 20 years of experience as a custom cabinet maker and professional remodeler. Ray truly enjoys the remodeling process, and loves coming up with creative solutions to the challenges that arise when transforming something old into something new.
Ray moved to Northern Virginia from Oak Harbor, Ohio, in 1966, and grew up in Arlington. He and his wife now live in Fairfax with their two very active teenagers, so there’s a good chance you’ll find him at a football, lacrosse, or basketball game.
Karen Kimbrough, Office Manager
Karen joined Cornerstone in 2010. Her strong organization and management skills keep operations running smoothly in the office and on the job site. She facilitates scheduling and communication between vendors, work crews, and clients to keep everyone informed. Karen’s background in design and knowledge of design software applications provides us with excellent marketing support as well.
Karen is originally from Vermont and has lived in Northern Virginia since 1991. Her professional background includes roles as executive assistant, marketing manager, and professional organizer. Karen and her husband enjoy spending time with their grown children and grandchildren and are very active in their local church.
Jolene Silipigni, Administrative Support
Jolene helped Russ start Cornerstone in 2002 and loves being part of the remodeling process. Jolene works part-time and provides an extra level of behind-the-scenes administrative and production support. Her role in taking care of the details helps to ensure that our clients are satisfied with their projects from start to finish.
She grew up on Long Island and graduated from the University of Buffalo in 1986. She has worked in community development in Florida, New York, and Virginia. She has been married to Russ since 1990 and enjoys raising her children and practicing yoga and Pilates in Northern Virginia.