about
Forbes Ergas Design Associates is an interior design firm that was founded in 1970 by Susan A. Forbes and Joel M Ergas. During the early years, F-E conducted a general practice designing projects that included restaurants, cruise ships merchant and military vessels, corporate offices and private residences. And retail shops.
In the mid-1980's Forbes-Ergas, responding to the market demands, started to design cooperative and condominium hallways and lobbies and from that point on the practice has gradually evolved into an exclusive specialty in the design of common spaces in cooperative, condominium and rental buildings.
Principal KAREN JACK
Karen Jack is an accomplished interior designer with over 18 years of experience specializing in commercial interior design throughout the Greater New York City area. Her portfolio includes numerous high-rise cooperative, condominium, and rental property renovations, with an emphasis on lobbies, hallways, package/mail rooms, elevators, and social spaces.
Karen approaches each project as a unique opportunity, taking time to understand her clients’ goals and vision. She then develops thoughtful, cohesive designs that integrate seamlessly with the building’s architecture—enhancing both function and aesthetic while maximizing value.
Known for her hands-on project management, Karen serves as a dedicated advocate for her clients, overseeing every phase of the renovation from concept to completion. Her transparent communication style ensures clients are consistently informed and actively involved in key decisions throughout the process.
Karen holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design from the New York Institute of Technology and is an active member of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID)
Principal Kevin McGowan
Originally from the Midwest, Kevin graduated from a Michigan-based college before relocating to New York City in the early 1990s. He began his professional journey in jewelry design but soon transitioned to the architectural sales industry, where he built an impressive 18-year career. Over the years, Kevin became one of the most respected and well-connected representatives in the New York City market.
His extensive industry knowledge spans a wide range of products, and he has cultivated strong, long-standing relationships with numerous vendors and manufacturers. Kevin has toured factories across the country and developed deep connections at all levels of various organizations. When challenges arise, he’s able to leverage these relationships—often working directly with company leadership—to achieve swift and effective resolutions.
Kevin’s depth of experience and industry insight provide F-E with a distinct competitive advantage, setting the firm apart in a crowded design landscape