Since 2006, Downsize Designs has successfully managed hundreds of moves with owner, Ann Armistead, continuing to supervise each and every project personally and working consistently with the same trusted moving partners.
Our wide range of transition services means we have excellent working relationships with the best local professionals in many fields including movers, handymen, estate liquidators, real estate agents, auctioneers and more. Downsize Designs is fully licensed and insured and has been a trusted name in the industry for 18 years.
“Ann’s vision, energy, professionalism, compassion, attention to detail and endless resources are unsurpassed.”
— Bob & Jan T.
Ann Armistead was inspired to start Downsize Designs after helping her own parents and in-laws deal with long-distance moves into a local retirement community.
A professional background in interior design, combined with experience gained from undergoing 17 moves as a Navy spouse, have provided a solid foundation for over 18 years of successfully helping clients reduce moving stress, clear the clutter out of their lives and create beautiful new spaces.
After graduating from the University of Virginia with a B.A. in Economics, Ann spent some time working in bank management, but eventually her true passion led her to design. In 1990 she began her career in residential interior design and was trained by one of the nation’s premier designers. Since then, she has helped individuals create beautiful, clutter-free and comfortable spaces. In 2006, to focus those efforts on seniors and moving, she founded Downsize Designs and became a Certified Senior Move Manager (SMM-C).
Ann’s approach with her clients is hands-on and compassionate. She enjoys working with seniors and other individuals to help sort through a lifetime of belongings, determine what matters most, and to come up with creative solutions to make the most of what they already have.
Ann has served as president (2013) of Arts Alive, a non-profit supporting arts education and scholarships for local students, and was vice chair (2007-2009) for the Virginia Beach Task Force on Aging. She currently lives in Virginia Beach and continues to help those in transition every day.
Why Hire a Senior Move Manager?
Everyone’s reasons for needing assistance with their move or downsizing are different, however, there are certain benefits that we see across the board.
Ready to work with us?
If our services sound like a good fit, we’d love to talk to you and create a custom quote for your exact need.