How the COVID CRISIS Might Bring Change to the Housing Market…

A friend sent me one of her trade articles from the residential real estate perspective regarding how this COVID crisis might bring change to the housing market.  In the article, it touched on the size of homes, working from home, privacy in the home and smart technology that will play a larger role. Plus a nod to adding a stock tank pool to your backyard to beat the summer heat!

It’s true that this period of weeks having a close-up look at our homes – their design, function, aesthetics – has resulted in some new ideas and opinions about how and where we live. Have you felt the need for more privacy or more space?

How might Covid 19 brings changes to the housing market?

A few years ago the pendulum swung in commercial design favoring the open office/collaboration layout.  What was a new concept of open office spaces in the middle of the last century, resulted in the design and development of systems furniture flourishing.  Then the even more “open” concepts of collaborative spaces with foosball tables to entertain the staff providing breaks without leaving the building entered the scene. 

Open office encourages interaction – not as much as fully, open collaborative spaces.It maximizes space, but still omits total privacy for more concentrated work .

This has continued today as some were slower to jump on the trend and are still experiencing the “new-found” re-design of fewer private offices and more collaborative spaces.  However,  the pendulum is swinging back a bit with feedback from some employees reporting that they need more quiet space to do their work and focus away from distractions.  Having a private space can be grounding and comforting and allows an individual to worry about less and focus on more.

In a rotating office, there  less comfort and familiarity. This can contribute to distracted performance. Yet, all of this data is variable depending upon the nature of the work, temperament of the individuals, style of individual work practices, existing conditions in the workplace, culture of the business and even geographic considerations.

But as this relates to homes, many of these factors have similar effects. The real estate article notes that rather than down-sizing homes,  with more open floor plans which has been a recent market trend , they will see a rise in the desire for buyers to want larger homes, in which to partition activities. This might very well be true. Especially if working from home is instituted. The need for privacy away from the possibly over- collaborative office environment, to finding oneself commandeering a pocket of the house for their work needs, requires a design focus.

Where larger, open kitchens had become the fulcrum of family life,  the real estate article suggests that this might not be so popular moving forward.  I’m not sure I agree.  Where the article states that “the noisy epicenter”  might require re-thinking,  I believe that it will remain the vibrant epicenter adjacent to the primary living area, but that other areas of the home will be designed to provide needed escape and privacy.

Too much collaboration and collective living/working can result in a desperation for private spaces. There seems to be a cry for balance. Where we want gathering spaces for the family to be together for meals, games, movies or projects, the confinement with family, although precious and priceless on the one hand, has also proven that there is great value/need in private spaces. 

Home-designing.com is a great resource for visual ideas. Here a cozy reading nook with office/study space and going vertical, to best use the space, are tall shelves. They can also make room-dividers when partitioning off private spaces! Lots of natural light connects inside spaces with the outdoors.

Partitioning spaces within an interior is something we reference as “zoning.” We design “zones” to offer certain tasks or activities to take place separately from others. Sometimes this is partially divided by low walls or screens and other times the need for complete partitioning – as in separate rooms – is in order.

Another creative space from home-designing.com featuring a double workspace, partial wall partition to “zone” spaces. Color “pops” are fun too!!!

The ever popular Jack and Jill bathroom might connect a bedroom with a separate study – a bedroom suite rather than merely a pair of bedrooms.  Study spaces will play a more important role as more on-line options for schooling are made available.  Learning and working from home have been eye-opening experiences. Privacy is paramount when trying to focus on your work.  Study spaces can be single rooms dedicated to this purpose or pockets in the home – converting closets and beneath stair areas for small desk spaces and study nooks.  Slivers of garage space might be opened to the indoors. Unused attic spaces might be captured for loft-like openings up and away.

Decorpad.com is another great resource for creative space-planning and design ideas. Here Leslie Goodwin shoots this valuable space which is captured to carve-out a home-office.

Space-saving and consolidating furniture pieces like bunk beds – going vertical to better utilize the “real estate” in bedrooms, etc.  Valuable square-footage will be captured and used creatively – much like clever design efficiency on a boat or motor home. Space is precious – let’s use it wisely.

Back to the kitchen being the fulcrum – multi-tasking can also be a result of this confined at-home mix of activities and responsibilities. At certain ages, parental assistance is necessary to navigate the studies and coordination with the on-line programs. The kitchen has been and becoming more and more a classroom/study hall. While older kids might just want to be in the center of things while they don their headphones effectively separating them from much of the surrounding activities, still keeping them in the mix, others are actively sharing their lessons with their at-home parent/teachers smack dab in the center of the activities.

Larger homes –  rather than downsizing to smaller can allow for multi-generational  living. College kids studying on-line rather than going away might return or stay at home.  Grandchildren requiring day care might be with grandparents part of the time.

Conversations centered around energy conservation with the desire to have a more open connected feeling with the outdoors can seem contradictory; but technology has advanced window, skylight, door, and many different translucent and transparent panels, to bring the outdoors in!

Lucere resin panels can be used a limitless commercial and residential settings!!

Residential design might be enlarging, partitioning, adding light and connections to outdoor living. Therefore,  sharing the joy while providing space, privacy, healthy circadian rhythm and connections to expanding to and enjoying the outdoors.

Isolation Invites Innovation

Here, today, find designer focus and pro-tips for improving our living spaces. Most of us have spent more time at home than we have in years.  Sure, we usually wake up, prepare for the day and return in the evening, to end the day.  Weekends are usually that bonus time around the house – unless we spend them on road trip excursions. However, being at home every day is unusual for many and has provided opportunities to critique and take stock. Go from “making-do” to making better, with a little focus on the details and some professional help!

New catch-phrases like “shelter-in-place” have become part of our vernacular. Staying home has resulted in massive numbers of internet orders, cautious home improvement store visits and related activity.  The shared anxious energy and creative energy  spawned, from our restricted living and working regimens, is “going viral!”

Well, we certainly never really considered that trendy term of something being popular being a REAL virus spreading across the planet – but the humor, common complaints and simple joys, of this surreal modification to our lives, are “going viral” all over the internet.  From the vantage point of the design world, we are seeing a multitude of comments about people going  stir-crazy and making plans for needed home and office improvement.

HOME DEPOT – Pick-up in the store or have it delivered FREE to your doorstep!!

We are finally – and I say finally, after nearly everyone else we know has done so – ordering  storm doors. Yes, to leave open and let in the light of day!!! It has taken being around the house for so many consecutive days that has geared us to the circadian rhythm that our orientation provides and illustrated the need to avail our interior of a significant missed opportunity for natural light! Just never seemed that important…until now! We have labored over having lights (glass) in new primary doors, but after weighing the options for light, security and transparency have opted for clear, full-panel laminated glass storm doors with interchangeable screens, for fresh air – weather permitting.

Yes – Anderson DOES do double storm doors – but try finding that information on their website or even through Home Depot – they’re terrific – you just need to inquire!!!

This unique opportunity to be quarantined inside our homes has given us an opportunity to evaluate the flow, function and lifestyle within our private environments.  Have you noticed any things that you want to change as a result of this confinement and forced, close-up evaluation?

Here are a few topics and tips that have come-up in recent conversations from both consumer/clients and designers:

More perceived space:  Perhaps open a wall or completely remove a wall(s) and connect two rooms for better communication and visual enlargement of the floor plan.   

Adding mirrored walls or individual mirrors add depth and also expands a space to give it a perceived increase in size.  

Add cozy color and texture with area rugs, throws and accent pillows.

Add skylights for more daylight.

Change paint colors for a refreshed feel.

Remodel kitchens and bathrooms – people have been sharing intimate spaces and preparing meals significantly more than regular lifestyles dictate and now recognize limitations in their current designs.

Re-upholstery of existing pieces that function well, but need to be refreshed and modernized.

Purchase new furnishing to improve the comfort, function and visual appearance of the interior.

Desires for additional lighting or replacement fixtures, to improve and enhance the quality and color of light inside all rooms for tasks, ambiance, accent spots, indirect illumination, decorative fixtures and even landscape lighting to highlight the features of the plantings and exterior structures, have been heightened.

Workplace design has migrated into homes prompting consideration for a more efficient permanent pocket of living spaces designed for that specific purpose of home-offices. A few from our website portfolio are illustrated here…

Before – this cluttered space was serving as an office – but without organization or pleasing aesthetics.
After – this same space reorganized furniture placement, added new work-surfaces and cantilevered shelves to match existing teak pieces, creating an atmosphere of organization, enhanced workspace and display of personal hobbies and memorabilia.
Before – this room doubled as a sewing room and home office – but the lack of organization made it inefficient and unpleasant.
After – by adding storage, cutting a steel trundle bed (found in their storage unit) down to window-width, and rearranging the workspaces, this same room can now comfortably accommodate a guest, organize work and sewing spaces and pleasantly display art and memorabilia.

For both working from home and schooling from home – the needs, for this space, have become critical. Imagine, down the road, more on-line courses might be considered and even more opportunities to work from home now that the practice has been proven!!

Even a pocket tucked in the corner of a room can be ample space for quiet focus and an organized workspace.
Areas designed for study can also be used for arts and crafts and other projects.

Office spaces will reflect this modification in the working environment, by creating more flexible workspaces allowing a variety of scenarios for performing tasks between home and office and an increasing appreciation for a more fluid arrangement of office layouts and furnishings. 

During this isolation, I have enjoyed several ZOOM continuing education classes offered by Knoll that have centered on workspace layout and furniture both at home and in corporate settings.

Here are more helpful tips from Knoll for your consideration when planning a home-office. https://www.knoll.com/shop/work-from-home/home-office-setup-guide

Patio perk-ups to expand the enjoyment outdoors –  at both home and office – maximizing the livable exterior areas of either small balconies to expansive spaces, backyards, decks, improved  landscaping,  outdoor kitchens and fully-furnished furnished living spaces – are seeing increased attention to detail.

Woodard furniture – one of our favorites –  has been designing and fabricating for  well over a hundred  and fifty years. Since 1934 they have perfected the art of metal furniture design and fabrication. As industry leaders, their expertise brings  a collection of superior craftsmanship and a wide variety of materials and styles to accommodate both commercial and residential applications.

Let’s keep moving forward through this pandemic with positive vibes for creating enhanced living spaces – both inside and out – for more productive and enjoyable living!  

Nature’s Design Elements

Neighborhood covenants, zoning, physical practicality, budgetary constraints…all enter into whether it is realistic or desirable to save vegetation when clearing land for development. Carving around existing  growth can be a tedious and costly addition to a project. But there are times when it is a design asset – an imperative even – to the over-all setting and effect of the scene.

Saving trees when designing a built environment is a challenge that often pays off.

A spectacular backdrop to this seating area – the decades old tree is the focal point.
At night – well lit – the same tree towers with dramatic illumination in the darkness as the rear “wall” of this seating area.

Raping acres of woods for barren subdivisions and adding back newly planted saplings the caliper of a quarter is unfortunate and takes years to satisfy. FHA requirements were the tell-tale token of bringing green back after a bulldozer’s brutal removal of all plant-life on a property. That lanky stick standing in the center of a dirt patch, that might get sod or seed…or rock, was a pitiful attempt to give back to the environment.  However, in addition to broad-sweeping examples, individual decisions to saver rather than remove can prove valuable.

Years ago, when planning a patio expansion and exterior kitchen, friends brought the plans to me for a quick check before committing to the design from the design/build contractors that they had engaged. The new patio plan meandered along nearly the entire back facade of the house.  With all the exciting kitchen layout and bar, seating areas and dining space, I instantly focused on the fact that their beautiful red-bud tree was gone – not in evidence on the pans!  I exclaimed about it and was told that they were told it had to go. That was about 10 years ago – or more, yet it still stands today having modified the design to include a tree-well in the patio and opening in the proposed high-ceiling patio cover.  The stunning multi-truck tree thrives, in the ground as it had for decades, and climbs skyward through the opening spreading widely toward the second story of the home. A wonderful, living, sculptural element, in the space. Good save!

Warmer climates invite the indoor/outdoor melding of living spaces. We all try to achieve them despite bitter cold transitions and near, if not complete shut-downs “off-season.” But in the tropics, outdoor living spaces become remarkable dimensions to expand living.

Sculptural trees are powerful elements viewed from inside and outside.

This past week, that situation came to mind as I enjoyed several examples of incorporating nature into the design scheme. Yes, landscape design is just that. Landscape architects do just that. They design exterior spaces with organic material. But what I was feeling recently was two complimentary things – one that designing in and around existing growth is so satisfying and in some cases, the living plant material becomes the architecture – not merely compliments it.

In addition to their sculptural beauty, they add balance, scale and a canopy over the exterior rooms.

This past couple of weeks, we have see the results of 2 years of preparation and construction which transformed of a piece of partially vacant land into a seaside resort. Several key palms and a couple other key trees  were saved and hundreds more were brought to the site to complete the design. The towering new trees showed signs of shock with their dried frond tips  – but will surely survive.

What has been a foreground of some landscaping and virgin jungle ,with houses beyond, was bladed and terraced last year in preparation for a new project.
Buildings and pools appeared, jungle growth was removed and a few key organic elements retained.
The recently finished scene is dramatically different – incorporating specimen trees throughout the property into the new plan.

When landscaping becomes architecture you know you have crossed an exciting line. What I mean by that is to have the growth become walls – to have the vegetation read as though structural framework.

This terraced dining patio is framed by massive bamboo and other large trees and plantings. They are substantial enough to read like screens, if not walls, framing the space.
From a canopy of growth, strings of LED lights are suspended as though from the ceiling – a ceiling of branches over this enchanting outside dining venue.

A tree house is another example. The tree is the structure – the framework to begin the additional elements that create a suspended room.

This entertaining and imagination-spurring book by Philip Jodidio is worth investigation. Here. find extraordinary examples of trees as the structure of other amazingly fanciful spaces!

By observing examples in your world, you will see, when designing around and in concert with the natural landscaping, the effects can be dramatic and of great value to the scene. On your next project, consider the possibilities of saving rather than removing – incorporating and celebrating nature’s design elements!

Back to School: 10 Pro-tips for Setting Up a Dorm Room

It’s that time again…the end of summer and getting kids back to school…exciting, hectic, a bit stressful and today, very nostalgic. I (who saves everything) still have my little black and white Sony TV, embroidered fiber art that hung on my wall, floral twin bed sheets and bath towels! I remember the white chenille bedspreads that I got – giving one to my bestie/roommate so we’d match – even though she was a red accent person and I chose blues and greens!! We picked each other, our college and designed our neat and tidy package.

Earlier this weekend, as Victoria navigated this information highway that is the lead-up to getting her dorm room assignment, roommate and all the related details, she texted her yet-to-meet roomie and asked what her color scheme was going to be. Victoria, having established her pink (dusty rose) and grey scheme last fall upon entering her freshman year elsewhere, was hoping that she was not going to have to share her intimate space with a shocking orange scheme or similarly discordant color. All of a sudden, from the back seat came a exclamation – “NO Way!” To what, we asked  – “What?”  And she said “Guess what her color scheme is? Pink and Grey!!! YAY!!! What were the chances?”

Well, strolling through the stores with their piles of offerings displayed in tempting color-coordinated arrangements, pink and grey still carries over from last fall in a big way – so the chances, it seems, were not all that far-fetched!! LOL.

With the prominent pink and grey,  popular turquoise and grey and for the boys (if we are being color/gender-esque) black and grey – seems grey is the common denominator facilitating merchandising and keeping everyone in color-trend order.

Pro-tip #1 Make a list of what you’ll need prior to hitting the stores with their limitless temptations for dorm decor! It can be daunting if you go shopping – cold. It can be daunting anyway – but best to attempt to be prepared! As I looked around all the displays leading these trends…leading these kids…I wondered how many – if any – might veer off course and pick an orange and lime green  theme or brilliant cherry red…and what does it say about one if they buck the established trends?  Some might be oblivious to the trends – despite being bombarded in every store by the “must have” selections. Those independent thinkers who like what they like – if it matches or not.  The eclectic ones who are driven by memories, personal expression and acquisitions gathered and honed over the years that were not guided by trending decor influencers.

However, it is entirely possible to genuinely LOVE the trends and invest in the colors for more than the first semester of eager dorm room decor! We were living it! What was purchased last fall was saved and expanded upon, with new-found knowledge of the tips learned from the pros! There are boxes, bins, rugs, lamps, staplers, desk organizers, linens, bulletin boards, throw pillows, blankets and throws – all color coordinated making the job relatively easy and swift.  

The stores are prepared. Welcoming students – their signs are out and their shelves are stocked! Rows of pillows, mattress covers, foam pads, artsy accessories and accents galore…all to enhance the otherwise bare rooms that will soon come to life!

The morning of the move, they staggered the move-in time to insure an orderly point of arrival and processing to the rooms. We were assigned 9:30 and met curbside by a handsome posse of volunteer boys who were armed with rolling cartons cleverly created using carpet-wrapped moving dollies upon which were mounted large, sturdy cardboard cartons. These rolling bins were piled high with contents from the cars and wheeled into the dorm rooms with efficiency. Co-eds in red t-shirts identified them as the RA staff – the ones with the answers to all of your questions.

Being organized is key. Victoria had benefit of a previous semester where she watched the pros and got their tips! Pro-tip #2  Be organized!

To that end, utilize your limited space to the max! Capture all available real estate! Pro-tip #3  Bed risers. The beds are high – high enough to stack storage drawers/bins beneath them. They can be raised even higher with risers. Pro-tip #4 The plastic stacking drawers are cool because they make easy access to contents just like added dresser storage space.

Victoria had it all figured out. Pro-tip #5 To consolidate luggage, she packed a lot of her clothes in the bins – all in very specific order and folded making it easy to transfer once in the room.

Once in the room, she raised the bed even higher on 4 cone-shaped plastic riser units that she had purchased. She then placed her new mini frig (Pro-tip #6 Get a mini frig) and bins beneath the bed in an organized fashion. She emptied the bins one-by-one into the chest of drawers thereby freeing the bins for other supplies such as snacks, kitchen supplies and miscellaneous other necessities.

Having a mini frig in the room keeps personal perishables under control and handy instead of having to label things in the shared frig down the hall.

Pro-tip #7 Take extension cords and multi-plug surge protectors. This was handy for the reading lamp waaaaay up high above the now super high bed and also to run power to the mini frig. You can never have enough power sources and another bonus was that one of the set of four bed-riser units had power outlets and a short cord!

Pro-tip #8 Get a collapsible shoe rack/shelf (for ease of storage and transport). They have nifty wooden ones – but we took ours back as the closet had a tidy set of built-in shelves perfect for shoes.

Once the power was all connected and the bins organized clothes put away, it was time to make the bed and add the finishing touches.

It was beginning to look like a home-away-from-home! Pro-tip #9 With hanging implements that will not harm the wall like Command Strips, the walls will gradually come to life with strings of photos clipped with clothes pins, twinkly lights, bulletin boards and other imagery.

 Pro-tip #10 Take photos – the memories are priceless!!!!!!

Still crazy after all these years…..

Thanks Sam, for the memories!!!!!

Designing a Cool Theme for a Vacay Rental Property

When designing for a vacation rental property, the first order of business is to select things that are durable and easy to maintain. This means finishes to furnishings. I know this from practical life experiences and also working with commercial/hospitality interiors. To do so, one needs time to place and receive the orders with enough contingency for mishap. It is also dependent upon the housekeeping arrangements planned for on-going maintenance.

In this recent project, the work began 12 months out – plenty of time you think…but it was all about the physical remodel. We began with the drawings for floor plan re-configuration and specifications for new lighting, cabinets and finishes throughout. The decision to furnish was not made until nearly 10 months later with a deadline to complete in less than 7 weeks. The delay was partially due to an indecision over how many of the 4 units (all on one floor) were to be short-term or long-term rentals. Then a new city ordinance imposed a moratorium, of sorts, on short-term rentals and while that was tossed about over several weeks…more indecision ensued.

It’s a riot to see overnight design projects transform interiors in 24 hours. That’s due to a free-reign for design decisions, a team(s) and vehicles to pick-up/deliver, all trades on deck, a single director calling the shots and an organized chaos that results in a magical finished project – yes, like magic. Open your eyes, be stricken with awe, cry a little and exclaim repeatedly that you “just can’t believe it!!!!”

Real life is generally not like that. Real life has in-put by owners, limited schedule openings by the various trades, little spontaneous decision-making and fleeting time riddled with unwanted surprises and delays. Real life, in this case, was a theme provided by the owner, a preconceived “look” developed in the mind’s eye and scratch paper of the designer during the selection of finishes and floor plan modifications and vacillation for several reasons, of what units to furnish and when. Over the course of a year, leading up to less than the last 30 days, the project was to be fully furnished and finished – ready to rent!

The good news is that with controlled frenzy, changing availability of products, focused efforts and teamwork, we are pleased to present the Lobster! Completed all but hanging the TVs by the requested July 1st deadline, it is beautifully appointed and offers a colorful and a bit whimsical, spacious, clean and did I mention  enviable location- 2 blocks from Pacific Beach in San Diego?

This entire project, except the move-in this last week, was done long-distance with the owner in Maine, her management company SHORE on-site in California and we the design team in New Mexico. This is not at all unusual, but Maine prompted the owner’s desire to name the unit Lobster. Not your spiny lobster from the local waters, but the New England version from the Atlantic with the classic recognizable form that accompanies the imagined crustacean – including the brilliant reds of the often appreciated steamed version!!

With fond memories of her childhood helping her elders maintain this property, the owner wanted to commemorate the building with an entry plaque visible from the street on the new redwood gate (soon to be completed). In addition, we suggested an individual name/theme for each of the 4 apartments which were all initially designated as fully-furnished short-term rentals – hence the bold identity for each!   I designed the new name plaques and had them fabricated by Artistic Bronze in Florida. The backing was built by our talented Enrique Jimenez, in New Mexico, and all shipped to California. Bronze was selected for its timeless presentation, handsome durability and commanding respect. Parisienne was the font I selected which may now be used to identify the property as though a logo to tie-in with the on-site signage. Subliminal cues that are recognized even slightly are effective reminders and triggers for recognition. The idea was intended to offer a fun, but lasting, introduction and identification which was to be reflected in the interiors. The Lobster was the largest unit with 2 bedrooms. It was ultimately chosen to the be one fully-furnished unit and owner’s second home when visiting the area.

For budget and availability, we sacrificed certain durable features that would have been better long-term investments, resulting in some knock-down furniture that was never intended for much abuse. Fragile painted table surfaces – for example – better in laminate, wood or stone…but time will tell.

The look is clean and fun, colorful and beachy – with a slightly up-scaled twist. Cool aquas accent a few walls in the otherwise crisp white interior. Red punctuates effectively in lobster accent pillows, decorative accessories and the full-wall mosaic glass tile treatment in the kitchen. Yes, once again, we like to treat tile on the walls as not mere back-splashes, but wall-covering full height and width!

Weathered grey toned LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tile) in the way of interlocking planks were an easy to maintain and durable floor finish. The faux wood adds warmth and is softer underfoot than other hard surfaces. Perfectly matched with all trim pieces, this flooring is fabulous!!

Lighting is key and here we added recessed directional lights to spot the walls and related artwork. Switching was also an important detail to have options for the lighted areas and accents.

The owner found a novel lobster rug with a great textural, tufted, yarn system that brings fun and great color and warmth to the bunk-bed room! Busy, colorful bed dressings intentionally selected (over the hospitality white that is still trending) contrast against the bright white bed frames stacked for space optimization and a little kid fun!

A cool find in the way of the glass vessel lamp…where usually the stem with electrical cord feeds down through the center of the base and of the back, this one feeds from the socket stem with a cork top that removes allowing the vessel to be filled with treasures – in this case southern California beach shells and fragments! And for a little more animation, I found a carved wooden shark to insert cruising above the shells to make the lamp even more interesting!!!

A pair of vintage photographs of a lobster shack and fishing boat contributed by a friend in Albuquerque – taken by him in Maine in 1962 – were enhanced with bright red mats in their original polished silver metal frames along with a large painting on canvas of a Maine lobster/fishing boat sent by the owner in Maine provide interest to further perpetuate the lobster theme.

The master bedroom is a comfortable retreat with another lobster pillow for punch! To give the room the best approach and make it feel as large as it can be, placing the bed in front of the windows was the solution. Beds facing the entrance to the room are always preferable to arriving into the side of them – for visual space and a more inviting orientation.

The original bathroom layout was all one space with tiny appointments jammed together…so we removed the tall storage cabinets and sink vanity allowing more room for the commode beside the tub/shower and added a privacy door. Then the new cabinets and counter have their own space with another privacy door resulting in a two-compartment bathroom area for maximum use and enjoyment. Red mosaic glass tiles were repeated from the kitchen to further coordinate the theme. 

The bold color scheme was thoroughly distributed throughout the unit which is an intentional design emphasis especially effective and novel in a short-term vacation rental – where such a thorough scheme might be too intense for one’s primary place of residence.

Effective design both functionally and visually should be a significant asset in the marketing of rental property. When used consistency in marketing material with logos and repeated features, this and other properties with attention to detail should attract the discriminating guests. Once there, repeated stays are the key to maintaining a strong guest population – of desired visitors.

Please watch for the entire slide show of before and afters of this dramatic transformation in the commercial projects section of our website, in coming weeks, entitled Emerald Green Beach Rentals – Lobster!

Time to Remodel – Finding a Theme

Time to remodel the kitchen!! This charming little bungalow had already experienced its share of remodeling – well, not so much structural – although, many interior design transformations had occurred over the decades. In the mix, the well-used and enjoyed kitchen was feeling a quite tired and dated.

You might remember I have used this now completed project, in the last few months, during its transformation process to identify certain features and design practices. Here is the as-promised unveiling of the before and after photos for further discussion about the design process, intent and results.

We loved the mottled color and organic character of the existing slate floors and opposing green-grey beams with spanning boards of a caramel stain. These were the two elements that went well together as though intentionally planned. Yet in between, the pale, peachy pickled oak cabinets with their radius detailing and red-rose/black matrix of the tiled granite counter-tops, didn’t seem to speak at all well with the ceiling treatment and slate floor’s greens, rusts and charcoal tones. It was a dark, confused space.  

When observing and “listening to” the house, it was evident that the current kitchen, in addition to being poorly coordinated, had absolutely nothing to do with the original architectural intent. The new owners had brought a few very fine antique pieces into the home. The mid-century circa 1964 age of the house accepted them on its original hardwood floors also adorned with their fine antique rugs…but something was missing. There was no cohesive thread running through the house. Over the years finishes and decorative elements had been selected and installed without any consideration for original materials or an attempt to introduce compatible and harmonious materials for the good of the home’s overall theme.

In all fairness, had the entire interior been gutted and a contemporary interior been uniformly installed into the framework/shell of the structure, I might have considered it a success. However, this multiple decade decor was a mix of disparate trends and preferences that had no commonality.

To begin the process of bringing this home into a cohesive design last year, we had redesigned the living room. There we introduced a classic blue and white color scheme derived from the Persian rug in the adjacent dining room.

To the corner kiva fireplace, we added a sandstone hearth and mantle with just enough blue and white Talavera tile trim at the base of the hearth to subtly coordinate with the new scheme. The Talavera was an appropriate material for this New Mexican bungalow.

The original fireplace had a dark, broken brick quarry tile hearth and no cap on the mantle.
The face-lift replaced the hearth material with broken-edged sandstone slab and matching mantle cap with Talavera detailing at the bottom.

With this living room having been so successfully re-designed, the obvious thought came into the discussion to continue the vernacular of the blue and white Talavera into the kitchen. As a bit of a purist when it comes to application and termination of materials, I was not content for a mere back-splash.  No, if the tile were to be effective and commandeer the stage, it had to be used wall-to-wall as though an entire wall treatment.

Treating the Talavera tile as wall-covering, it continues from the kitchen, into the adjacent pocket-space housing a desk and laundry machines.

But wait! The addition of an earthy aqua handmade tile from Spain offered an appealing and unexpected accent woven intermittently through the Talavera. It created a coordinating thread from the colors found in the mottled slate floors and ceiling beams.  

Pre-grout shot shows the individually cut 1″ pieces inserted as mosaics into the random field of Talavera

The cabinets were in excellent condition, but the doors were sadly dated and in no way spoke to the home’s other cabinets, doors and finish carpentry.

The confused interior finishes we in need of a transformation!

With the white raised panel theme throughout the home’s original appointments, we elected to salvage the cabinet boxes and replace the doors and drawer fronts with a similar raised panel detail. The same red oak was used and, with a glossy white paint applied, the grain “read-through” with a very intentional yet subtle moiré-like pattern. The new raised panel white doors and drawers, with crowning top molding provided a crisp, timeless motif. The random patterned Talavera used as an entire wall-covering was very effective. The kitchen was quite gussied-up!!

The transformation was dramatically successful!

The existing slate floor was beautifully organic and I felt, from a design standpoint, was a must to salvage. Making it look like an intentional selection – part of the new scheme – was imperative. Therefore, selecting a counter-top that communed with the tones in the floor resulted in a selection of concrete-like engineered Italian quartz material – balancing the floor with the next horizontal plane and ultimately with the stained and green-grey boards of the existing ceiling treatment.

The new concrete-like Italian quartz counter-tops coordinate well with the other materials.

Another asset was the connection to the outdoors, however the existing window over the sink was high and small.

The window over the sink was high and small…

By bucking the warranty of the Pella people, we had a new double-hung window made to close down onto the new counter-top that passed through from inside to out. They would not fabricate the window to do what we intended, so we had the contractor remove the bottom of the new window frame, thus rendering the warranty null and void, in order to have a completely open, uninterrupted pass-through when raised.

Amusing and interesting…existing family pieces of blue and white ceramics are being discovered and used as decorative accessories in the new kitchen!

We also captured the opportunity to open the opposing wall into the hallway adding pass-through light and dimension to the space. This exponentially expanded the space and made the encapsulated kitchen feel much less confined.

Before, the kitchen felt small and dark…
Opening the wall into the hallway brought in additional light and dimension.

To add drama to the newly created dimension, we discussed having a painting commissioned to pop an accent of yellow into the blue and white scheme on the far hallway wall. Lemons, a perfect citrus for the kitchen, was decided for the theme.  

A miniature oil painting by Federico Leon de la Vega was used to Photoshop into the scene to inspire and convey the design intent.

The additional POP of yellow is a dramatically effective contribution to the overall composition. After consideration, the owners selected a local artist to paint the full-scale painting.

A local Albuquerque artist, Thomas Tomlinson rendered the lemons in acrylic with blue and white tile details.

In summary…keeping the original slate floor, existing cabinet boxes (replacing door and drawer-fronts only), with a bling of new chrome cabinet pulls, switching out the stained glass pendants, replacing the island’s surface with a handsome solid walnut top and a new coordinating concrete-like counter-tops on the periphery, with the decorative embellishment of the Talavera tile continued from the subtle introduction at the living room’s kiva fireplace, the transformation of the kitchen is stunning – not trendy – and was truly, uniquely designed for the architecture and forward, on-going contextual design conversation of the home.

Uniquely designed…

Look around and listen to the environment for and in which you are designing. What makes the best sense for the design direction considering the function and context of your project?

WHITE by Design…

With all the New Year buzz about the new color forecasts…I started taking notice of the seeming non-color, white. It is often considered the absence of color when in fact it is a very complex color of many shades and values. Just try to select a white and you will know what I mean.

When you look at white paint samples, you will notice the nuances. There are pink whites and blue white, grey whites and yellow whites. Each white is off-set and contrasting to another. You see the differences by comparison and by context. You think you have just the right white until you place it against another sample and see that it is grey or cream and then second guess yourself again…and again…How do you know which white is right?

Dunn Edwards groups their whites and pastels in a separate section of their fan deck as do other paint companies. What is interesting here is that the background is a sheet of white copy paper. Notice how is reads against the colors in the samples…it seems to be a purple blue color. This shot was taken under a full-spectrum LED lamp. The colors should be true. The range of “white” is amazing.

To intentionally design with white is bold. To have the confidence, to decide that white IS the color and that white IS the scheme, is challenging. To effectively design with white, you not only have to select the right white(s), but you have to know just how much of anything else might be effective yet not detract.

Le Leche in Puerto Vallarta is a fabulous example of designing exclusively with white. Only with minimal punctuation with black lettering on the wall of containers and also by allowing shadows is the white interrupted. But the blacks’ minor interruptions gives depth and fine detail.

White design can be cold or warm. Depending upon the desired effect, mood or function of the space, the whites need to be carefully selected. This is true with lighting as well. Warm whites or cool whites…what gives you the desired result?

Popular white string lights add festivity and a warm glow to an evening scene.
See how many lighting colors you can identify in this scene…Starting on the left, a cool pocket glows through the underbrush. The walkway has a warm pink-ish light. The very cool blues of the pool area give a dramatic read. A bold yellow accent peeks from the far left and also over on the right. The palm trees are wrapped in a warm white tube lights while the far right side illuminates the entry to the dining palapa with a cool white light source. The foam of the surf on the beach is captured with a cool white spotlight that maintains its naturally expected white color.

Knowing when to add color to a white scene to achieve an intentional POP is an art. The color itself, the amount and placement is all part of the success of a good design result. From the fine black detailing in the previous shot of La Leche to this still-life composition of a tropical cocktail that I propped the other day, the minimal punctuation of color is key.

White mosaic shards of tile in the background of this composition featuring a peeled coconut and the POP of a pretty pink party umbrella result in a white-on white scene. Yes, this shot says PARTY with a perky smile!

The bench which served as the backdrop for the coconut cocktail is a dramatic serpentine sculpture of site furniture that plays with the white-on-white of the tile and grout.

Contrasting against the organic wood decking, this white monolithic bench snakes around the periphery of this outdoor lounge area. The sunset is casting a soft pink wash over the all white glazed tile.

Beach settings using white materials compliment the white sand and greenery of the tropical plants. From wood frame platform cabanas to the sprinkling of umbrellas, white is a wonderful, fresh color for a crisp clean scene.

Whites on whites…creamy sand colors to crisp white terrycloth, the white-on-white scheme is soft, inviting and clean.
Greenery compliments the white umbrellas and sunning beds on the lawn by the beach.
Palm trunks and other fruit trees are often painted white to protect against insects and what insects insist on climbing the surface are easily spotted by birds who appreciate the help to capture a snack! In this case, they contribute to the white design theme.

The soft creamy off-white folds of fabric offer a soft, inviting scene.

Shadows in the creases and depths of the folds add the dimension to the luxurious feel of the cotton damask fabric.
White stucco is dappled by shadows and greenery while given a warm, strong base by the brick pavers. White as an architectural finish is only successful if the context compliments it. This is true in all design.

Architectural color and texture of surfaces is a moving target. A recent discussion about a white building with black detailing would not have proved right for this particular use of white. The hard, commercial read would have been too severe for the intended effect. Yet that same project, with a warm white and an ochre accent, will be just the right combination to achieve the desired result. Watch for this project to be featured in a few months.

Architectural surfaces incorporating tones and textures of white provide interesting opportunities

Block and crumbled edge accent bands on the facade of an exterior wall.

White in design is an exciting selection. Knowing how, when and why to use it is a test of your creativity. Picking the right white is the challenge.

The limitless colors of white found in a pile of gravel…..

So the next time you think white, think a lot about it. Study the context and what you are trying to accomplish. Feel freed by the fact that white is a color to express and enjoy.

Rejuvenate and Expand Your Interior Spaces by Opening Walls

In past blogs Patti Says a lot about selecting paint colors. Pondering paint colors and the elusive nature of selecting just the right color. https://patriciandesign.com/5677-2/

Walls surround your world. Walls encapsulate and enclose your personal spaces. They can also frame your world and dramatize a focal point. They add effective dimension when punctured.

A current study we have in front of us is about those specific things. Walls – opening them, their color and the context of the color decision. Months ago we examined a wall in a kitchen soon to be remodeled. Re-painting it was the most obvious and least complicated of the options. We also looked at creating a dimensional recess to house art or an accent color or something to take the curse off of its up-close, massive, solidness. It was like the 10,000 pound elephant in the room!

The wall encapsulated close quarters. It divided the space between the kitchen and the parallel hallway.

What we were looking to change was atmosphere. This involved improving the dated and worn cabinets and counter-tops, updating the lighting, enhancing the back-splash and  addressing the closed, isolated feeling of the room.

Smoke and mirrors might be the answer. Like a magician appearing and disappearing behind a veil/dimension of smoke –  or when the physical space is not negotiable, mirrors will give the illusion of added space. They are VERY effective tools, but neither was the right solution for this room’s current condition. Yet, we knew we needed dimension, depth and something to help expand the space.

Hmmm…the window over the sink offered an exciting option to open out to the patio. We did that – save that for another story. However, this large elephant of a wall was still so confining.

Sometimes small spaces can be  cozy. Some people prefer tight spaces while others find them to be claustrophobic. This was not exactly claustrophobia instilling, yet it certainly spoke to all of us as an imposing, confining factor that needed attention.

After discussing all the colors and recessed options someone has the brilliant idea to ask – “What about removing the wall?” That seemed a bit radical considering that it only opened to the hallway and it served a purpose of defining the access to the kitchen and opposite bedroom quarters. To open it entirely might have given an orientation to the kitchen that suggested that the island seats be positioned facing that point-of-arrival. Hence looking directly into the far hallway wall.  That was not the desire. Rather, we decided to cut a large opening in the wall exposing the far hallway wall while maintaining the orientation of the kitchen toward the outdoors and island seats facing into the kitchen not out into the hall. It worked!

The space was instantly enlarged. Opening the space onto the patio and this opposing generous puncture of the Great Wall of Kitchen changed everything! The light borrowed from the skylights in the hallway was significant and the sensation of enlarging the space was undeniable. Except the footprint had not changed.

The physical feeling of a space is what counts. It was proven here that it wasn’t about enlarging the space but feeling like it was enlarged.  Like mirrors, the illusion of space is so important. But, unlike mirrors this space was physically opened creating the sensation of enlarging the space by adding actual dimensional reality . The benefits were immediate. It actually conveyed a palpable feeling of relaxation. It was freeing and created an entirely new experience of enjoyment.

 

A passing idea for a stenciled surround was entertained…

Tight spaces give some people comfort. Contrarily, open spaces give comfort to others.  Personal reactions to space, color, texture, temperature all  enter into the equation of good design. What tasks are being performed also play a part in determining what solutions are best.

This dark, isolated kitchen benefited from changing the cabinets to a white traditional raised panel style detailed with crown molding which added a refreshingly light element.  The house was a decades old vintage bungalow and had been dealt a disservice to have had the kitchen remodeled years ago in a not-so-sensitive, style-of-the-day fashion. But, in addition to the more traditional timeless approach to the design, opening the space resulted in additional natural light borrowed from the hall’s skylight and an enlarged interior over-the-sink window brought more coming in from the patio. Now colors…

 

So we know that picking colors is contextual.. .what’s in and around the room are all part of the equation. Any walls that are seen beyond (through doorways, around corners) contribute to the layering of colors and therefore, participate as well. The floors are multi-colored mottled slate. The tile chosen to enhance the backsplash and also serve as wall-covering was a blue and white Talavera accented with a soft aqua mosaic. The ceiling mimicked the floor as the beams were a smoky grey with caramel-color stained knotty pine boards between – we embraced these existing design features as their unselfconscious non-trendy nature suggested a more grounded, permanent place – one with organic finishes that might have resulted from local availability sourcing and craft – and probably did all those decades ago.  See what Patti Says in another blog about this very project: https://patriciandesign.com/trust-and-custom-designs/

The fact that all of these elements contribute to the equation, for deciding a color, is key to our study today.  After discussing the options for treating this newly opened wall, we found ourselves doing the paint sample potpourri on the walls!

Taking cues from the aqua accent mosaic which was derived from those tones found in the slate floor, we directed the color choices toward smoky aquas and grey blue tones.

Sometimes white is actually a color, rather than the absence of color. The wall was currently frosted with smooth crisp drywall mud as an aftermath to the demolition and framing of the new opening. The stark white was clean and fresh. Like matting around a painting – this might just be the way to go.

And at this point, we must introduce the idea that was also in the works and that was to have a painting commissioned that would POP through the opening providing a spectacular backdrop to the kitchen and dress the dimensional contribution that the opening into the far wall of the hall presented.

We knew that yellow was a great color POP for this cool kitchen pallet. A recurring bowl of lemons kept proving that to be true. Lemons became the fresh, culinary subject that seemed to be the perfect fit. So we enlisted our master muralist Federico Leon de la Vega to meet the challenge. Armed with the blue and white scheme and the accents of aqua he created a miniature to test the concept.

Isolating the image and framing it is always an important component in the formatting of scene. Whether to spotlight a sculpture on a pedestal, or properly and effectively matting a painting in a frame, this aura is important to highlight art. The same became true as we considered the painting being “framed” by this opening. The wall itself became the mat.  So to get an idea of what this might look like, a quick digital manipulation did the trick.

The final decision seems to be that we will keep the wall with the opening white, as though a matting around a painting, while painting the perpendicular wall a smoky aqua. Another opportunity for layering these two colors occurs when the smoky aqua wall is layered over a receding laundry room wall soon to also be painted white.

Watch for the completion of this wonderfully unique little kitchen to be unveiled with all the dramatic before and afters!  Meanwhile, look around your interior and see if opening a wall might be an option to expanding your sense of space. The transformation can be rejuvenating!

A Tale of Two Kitchens

Often with remodeling…it’s both the best of times as the anticipation for the exciting transitions is ignited, but since it takes “breaking an egg to make an omelet”, it is often the worst of times too as the demolition and displacement begins. Thank you Mr. Dickens, you set forth a mastery of profoundly conflicting opposites that I have used here which describe so many design project experiences so well.

Currently, in our shop, we are designing almost parallel kitchens. They are at nearly identical beginning stages. The owners share little in common, if anything, except perhaps the age of their homes. The sizes are similar, yet one is a bit larger offering different options for design consideration.

Both kitchens had been remodeled, from their originals, somewhere in the 70s and possibly 80s. One installed traditional drop-panel golden-oak with a curvy valance over the sink.

Brilliant blue paint to come will transform these re-purposed/salvaged cabinets with new personality!

The other flat panel radius corners for a “modern” look – also in lighter bleached oak.

Each set of cabinets were in good condition opening the conversation to salvage versus replace. Certainly we encounter cabinets that have been destroyed by hard use and neglect, but when the boxes are reasonably well constructed – or enough so that some reinforcement will enhance their weight-bearing and usability qualities, we often take the route of refurbishing. (NOTE: As a DIY, this requires much research to insure that a new finish will be flawless, durable and easy to maintain.)

The beginning for each project propelled forward with distinctly different ideas. One to follow the original character of the home’s raised panels painted white doors and trim throughout, the other seeking an entire transformation to a multi-colored fiesta of fun!

Mexican Talavera tile with Mexican terracotta Saltillo for the kitchen floor adjacent to white oak narrow plank original tongue and groove floor recently unveiled from beneath wall-to-wall carpeting.

Now that’s not to say that the more traditional soon-to-be white, raised panel kitchen will not be full of fun – as it will ultimately have a “party pass-through” connecting the kitchen through to the patio beyond and counter-top that transitions seamlessly from the sink area inside straight out to a party bar! A custom-sized double-hung window will open the scene in the warm weather months. We know that it’s going to be classic with a tremendous twist of fun!!!

The patio level is a step down. The kitchen counter inside will flow through a new window that is lower – opening directly on the countertop surface – providing bar height outside.

Both kitchens are being “opened” by removing portions of walls which have isolated them in years past. By removing the walls, additional daylight will be evident, a perceive expansion of the space will be realized and a connectivity to the other living areas for personal and entertaining enjoyment will become a reality.

Breaking through to daylight from the hallway skylight – adds not only light, but incredible depth and dimension!!

 

This is soon to open into the living room and large picture window beyond – a peak at the mountain will be an added reward.

A bit of structural modification to both are resulting in minor delays for permitting processes – other aspects of the work will continue, in the meanwhile, like the continued selection of finish materials, lighting fixtures and cabinet modifications.

In both cases we have discussed the design challenge of existing materials. I have found over the years that often, when confronted with existing conditions you might not have set-forth to include, they add character and an element of unselfconscious cool-ness. It occurs when certain conditions or materials are in place that you might not have chosen or planned into the design. Designs from scratch, that are too well coordinated or too perfectly planned, can lack that element of surprise or unexpected interest.

The first home had slate tile floors with a unusual mottling of colors leading with a cool aqua and including charcoal grays, smoky blues, ochre and rusty tones.

The other inherited period hollow mahogany doors all trimmed with white molding and original cabinetry. Do we paint them white – which would be the customary response or leave them and invite that element of “oh you kept these doors?”

In this second example it would be easy to “neutralize,” if not replace, the dated doors. However, the homeowner, having many fond experiences in Guatemala, appreciated the great condition of the tropical wood, grain and finish – so we will start without painting them and re-evaluate down the line as the new colors and finishes splash their celebration over the scene. As the transformation takes place, the decision regarding the doors can be re-evaluated.

This is a prime example of the design process. Often there are elements on a project that are a puzzlement. The great thing is that often the decision to remove, modify or leave unchanged can wait until the scene evolves. If you have the luxury to design as you go, you will have more opportunities to consider context, contrast, new options etc…that are often obscured by the overwhelming and often daunting task of visualizing the finished product.

Sharing the same vision is one of the hardest aspects of the design process. Full color architectural renderings, illustrations and even sketches go a long way in conveying the intent, but no two people see exactly the same thing through their mind’s eye.  During these preliminary stages of design concepts, nebulous ideas and imagined finished products, the opportunities for misconception are great.

I remember a hospital project many years ago where the head nurse was wincing at our suggestion of maple cabinets, headboards and other carpentry details. She kept quiet, but we (the design team) kept hearing rumors that she loved the color scheme, direction of the interior design and all of its architectural interest and design finishes, yet she could not embrace our suggestion of maple cabinets. One afternoon once we had gathered the materials for a touchy-feely presentation of color boards and tangible design elements, she had this incredibly surprised expression and exclaimed that she had never seen maple that color – it was natural – like a blond, wood, basketball floor. She further explained that she “pictured” the dark reddish Ethan Allen maple furniture of her childhood in her grandmother’s house. Needless to say, she had been having great difficulty accepting its inclusion into a design scheme of smoky lavenders, pastel clay tones, creamy whites, warm terra cottas and maple wood (in our mind’s eye – natural – and in hers, what she always thought was natural maple – dark reddish brown!!).

Communication is a powerful tool… often major decisions, opinions and actions can result in miscues due to miscommunications. To avoid such misunderstandings take care to provide thorough explanations along with tangible samples and other visual aids.

As we progress with these two kitchen remodels, we look forward to dramatic transformations, exciting phases of design work, some anxious anticipation, and ultimately four happy clients each enjoying their personal spaces, reflecting their lifestyle, home style and distinct personalities.  Watch for updates and before and after dazzlers!

Cats, Patterns and Participation

During the course of this day’s consultation this precious and perky bob-tailed cat, Kachina, inserted herself into the entire process.  She greeted me upon arrival, walked all manner of adjacent furniture as we discussed the scope of work. She tip-toed across tables, sofa and chair backs, and ultimately the hides we were considering for upholstery.

Initially we viewed the room and its present arrangement and realized that the l-shaped right angle position of the sofa, loveseat and recliner conflicted with the angles in the room. the sofa was perpendicular to the TV/display. The fireplace was at an angle in the corner. Neither one had the central focus – the attention was split from all angles. So the question was…Is it necessary to have the recliner as the primary TV viewing piece? Seemed like all the pieces were crammed together and the room was not being utilized to its full potential.

Kachina even has her eye on that bulky sofa as though to say – MOVE IT!

 

Kachina leaped onto the sofa to make her point- agreeing to the subject of our conversation!

It was determined that the recliner need not be positioned to directly view the TV. Once we turned the sofa to be parallel to the fireplace, it also opened the angle to the entire room and framed both the TV/display unit and fireplace. The recliner tucked into the far corner -not facing the TV – created a cozy nook for reading and next to the patio doors allowed a view of the backyard.

Needless to say, this fireplace crowned by this magnificent buffalo was an incredible focal point.  Formerly from Wyoming, this couple knew this buffalo. They knew his name and knew that he became too aggressive and gored at least one female to death – who had to also be put down and who’s pelt was on the floor in another area of the home. The hunt and subsequent shoot has been preciously preserved and revered. These were not mere trophies.

This is the most extraordinary collection of very fine Native American Art I have ever seen in a private residence. From to carved stone, amazing weavings to paintings and pottery, the presentation is stunning.

To soften all the hard and cold materials of the floor tile, leather and iron detailing, we are now on the hunt for the perfect area rug. Probably a shag to carry the balance of the contrasting finishes. Design is all about contrast, balance and harmony.  Unless the intent is to intentionally disrupt, in which case, the contrast takes center stage!!!!

These gorgeous brindle cow hides were so exotic and beautiful. The patterns and colors were wonderful and the couple who owned them had a great respect for the animals, and the celebration of their beautiful pelts.

Kachina was nearly camouflaged with her pretty pelt against theirs.

It’s fun when pets participate.

We will be making a pair of ottomans  with these two hides. Great for pull-up at parties to gather around the cocktail table in the center of the room. Watch for the additional photos once the work is finished.