Anna Maria Mannarino, past president of the American Society of Interior Designers New Jersey chapter and head of Mannarino Designs Inc. in Holmdel, received clear design directives for the new Trū Birth Center, the first female-owned freestanding birthing center in the state, located in Lakewood.
“We wanted the design to be as far away from the sterile, cold environment of a hospital as possible, while still maintaining safety as a top priority,” said Dr. Clara Surowitz, medical director of the new facility, who herself is a mother of six and has delivered more than 4,000 babies over the course of her career.
Mannarino fulfilled that directive and more, setting a new standard. The data- and science-driven facility provides a spa-like environment for women to give birth in, in contrast to the clinical feel of a hospital.
To date, it has won a highly competitive 2022 Chrysalis Award sponsored by Qualified Remodeler and Kitchen & Bath Design News, as well as a Design Excellence Award from ASID N.J.
The facility is located at 1382 Lanes Mill Road.
Mannarino created contemporary, spa-like interiors in a palette of serene, earth-inspired hues punctuated by fireplaces and big picture windows looking out onto the tree-lined exterior. Spacious and comfortable beds, modern accessories, natural textiles and luxe details make the rooms feel like a hotel. There are also spa amenities and treatment rooms.
“I’m very excited to have been a part of such an innovative project,” Mannarino said. “The Trū Birth Center really shows how design can impact lives and make everything more comfortable and comforting, while still adhering to the highest safety standards.”
At the Grand Opening, New Jersey first lady Tammy Murphy, who has made maternal and infant health her top priority, expressed her appreciation for the Trū Birth Center. Among her remarks, she noted that it is “beautifully serene, thoughtful and literally every detail has been attended to.”
