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Laura Gavin is the artist and owner of Mars Design Studio, LLC, which features artistic and unique handcrafted wood creations. Laura was born deaf, but overcame the inherent obstacles to become a woman-small business owner. She has a background in the field of art and graphic design and  graduated from Columbus College of Art and Design (in Columbus, Ohio) with a bachelor's degree in studio fine arts .

Prior to launching Mars Design Studios, Laura became a partner with Jon Jaskulski, her companion of 21 years to become a landscaping/hardscaping designer and builder for former Jon's Landscaping Design & Build as Mars Design Studio, now.

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 Jon is a custom builder and designer and is deaf as a result of a childhood illness. He has a background in the fields of landscaping design and art and studied landscaping design at Columbus State Community College. Then, Jon moved to the north of Pittsburgh, PA to establish a landscaping and hardscaping business in the spring of 2011. 

Laura and Jon specialize in designing bespoke outdoor living spaces, offering hardscaping patios complemented by new wood structures such as decks, pavilions, pergolas, privacy screens, and custom-designed fences, among other features.  

 

Laura put her woodworking skills to amazing use, crafting unique cutting boards and charcuterie boards as special thank-you and holiday gifts for her clients! The incredible feedback poured in, and soon people wanted to buy her creations—so Laura launched "Mars Design Studio, LLC." Now, the company buzzes with custom orders, from stunning kitchen island tabletops with legs to sleek, modern-style furniture!

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Laura exemplifies her artistic proficiency in every board she creates, integrating pop art-inspired elements such as bold motifs, vibrant natural tones, and intricate patterns that distinguish each work. All coloration is derived exclusively from the inherent qualities of the wood—no stains or dyes are employed—ensuring genuine authenticity. Over the past eight years, Laura has expanded and refined her creative portfolio. She now focuses on producing distinctive “ART” End Grain and Face Grain Boards, which serve not only as functional pieces but also as decorative wall art, striking tabletop features, or engaging display items. These boards are crafted to enhance any environment by highlighting contemporary craftsmanship and inventive design. Furthermore, Laura remains dedicated to sustainability, adhering to zero-waste practices throughout her artistic process.

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Jon began his career crafting boards with simple, classic brown tones and straightforward designs perfect for cutting and chopping. Over the past eight years, he has moved toward creating far more detailed and inventive pieces, including traditional cutting boards that have evolved into highly intricate versions and live edge slabs using sustainable, zero-waste wood. His current portfolio features platters, bowls and tables adorned with inlays, as well as tables highlighted with vividly unique designs than traditional style.

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