Thank you, Sufres! Glad to hear of all the positive feedback... though I am seeing my logo in the third-place spot. I know I cannot say anything specific about other designs, so please keep in mind that a successful logo will work well in both color and black and white. Many that I see now would be lost if sent by fax or if copied in black and white. Another common theme I see is this sort of "dated" look, mainly with the colors and typefaces. Many of the submitted logos look like they are logos for an early 1990s sunglasses company and unfortunately, look a bit cheap.
I used to work as an interior designer before I moved into graphics, so I know your target market well. I would have liked to submit a variation or two before the contest ends in 9 hours, though I'm now about to leave for work. If you plan to extend the contest please let me know.
Thanks again for all your thoughts and feedback. Good luck!