St. Louis Design Hall of Fame: Mike Rachocki

Mike Rachocki, The Scobis Company

With over 20 years in the door and door hardware business, Mike Rachocki is the best of the best when it comes to custom, luxury doors. The Scobis Company focuses on the customer from the design stage to installation,

ensuring that all needs are met in a timely and professional manner. As the owner of the Scobis Company, Mike Rachocki brings a personal and intricate touch to each custom door.

Edited by Moe Godat

Portrait photography by Colin Miller/Strauss Peyton

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Expert Q&A

What is your design style/philosophy?

Mike: I always identify the client's taste and desire to provide a finished product that melds with the architecture of the home or building.

What is the first step you take when designing a project of any size?

Mike: I like to have an overall view of the project. It takes more than simply understanding the portion we will be providing.

What advice would you give to someone just starting a design career?

Mike: You never stop learning new things. Keep your eyes open because you never know where your inspiration will come.

How has the industry evolved since you started?

Mike: The internet has provided a vast resource for products and features. We are no longer constrained by what is available locally.

Tell us a place in St. Louis that inspires you in your career.

Mike: I love the beautiful homes off of Wydown, streets such as Brentmoor, Carlswold and Hillvale. These homes were built at a time where quality counted. The level of craftsmanship is impressive, and we strive to bring that level of craftsmanship into our own work.