Apr 30

Designing, Styling and Why – Finding Personal Style

By pattisays In Albuquerque, New Mexico, art and interior design, artistic expression, artistic imagery, branding in interior design, Color schemes, color trends, colors, commercial design, commercial interior design, commercial remodel, Contemporary Art, contemporary fabrics, contemporary interiors, context of interior design, Contrasting colors, contrasts for balance in design, creative process, creativity, custom art in interior design, decorative arts, design, design and marketing, design challenges, design details, design process, design scenes, design solutions, Design Team, design theme, design tips, design trends, designing a new home, designing with a purpose, DIY design, eclectic design, element of surprise in design, expressionism, family rooms, functional art, good design, good taste, home, home decor, inspiration, interior accents, interior atmosphere, interior design, Interior design pro tips, interior design pro-tips, interior design trends, lifestyle, new home design, paint colors, practical design, sofas, style, styling, Subscribers, tips for new home design, trending design, trends, Uncategorized, value of good design /  

Styling is a vague term used popularly now for many facets of artful design that come together to create a presentation (in this case) for interiors. Interior designers practice the artful tricks of “styling” while calling on their expertise with many other important professional elements regarding practical and functional design decisions, structural considerations, mechanical and electrical aspects, client collaboration, budgeting parameters, and more. Terminology can confuse the conversation because often the illusive thing that clients are seeking is finding their “style.”  This goes deeper than embracing a new trend or changing a style of furniture from Scandinavian to French. It goes deeper into the very personal places that are uniquely individual. It’s about lifestyle and personality, temperament, and taste.

Assembling elements in your home or workplace is about lifestyle and personality, temperament, and taste. This living room is taking shape for a single man wishing to update his furnishings and fixtures throughout his home.

I was told in school that there is no such thing as bad taste – just bad design. I love that. It takes an enormous percentage of the judgement out of it and leaves the important characteristics to be critiqued such as function, form, balance, color, texture, volume, lighting…

Styling and designing both require balance – designing being the more comprehensive of the two. Each consider many of the same elements, but designing digs deeper. I often converse with clients about the opposites in their spaces. Hard/soft, smooth/rough, light/dark, warm/cool, simple/complex…finding the effective, pleasing, balance in all the elements in a space is critical to the comfortable success of the design. I seek the positive, buoyant, uplifting effect that elicits good vibes.

The result should be more than satisfying, it should be joyful and personal. This chair and ottoman were vintage pieces handed down in this family and here we reupholstered them to give them new life in a new context.

As an interior designer my job is to extract and decipher the wishes of my clients – commercially or residentially. Not only what they want and need, but how to achieve it. It has to do with the art of design and the practicality or reality of executing the work. The result should be more than satisfying, it should be joyful and personal – designed for the specific needs and goals of the individual(s) with whom I am working.

Discovering your personal style might be like a lightbulb turning on – it’s been there all along but wasn’t recognizable. You have it but don’t realize it. Which begs the question, what is style? It is very representative.

From my experience, there is no such thing as no style. Not having style. The very concept of that is like a reverse condition of being without style (un-styled ) – like messing up a hairdo. Yet that disheveled do is a style unto itself – albeit not in the contrived sense of order and intent. That same hairdo in a fierce wind might become similarly disheveled – but without the intent – it might be considered an organic style.

Tidy to disheveled, style is limitless. The occupant of the space is surrounded by books that never quite get put away.
Fascinating to some – unnerving to others.

Interior design can be contrived with much intent, formalized with attention to detail or a more unselfconscious approach that always appears more casual, organic and lived-in. Of course, there are happy mediums too. However, the risk of the “unselfconscious” approach is that by the very nature of the approach to create that which does not LOOK contrived – can be very contrived!!! Hence the unfortunate, if not unintended, result!!

Tidy to disheveled, style is limitless – the permutations and opportunities are endless. But when styling a “scene”, do we keep books in the bookshelves with perhaps one on an end table or nightstand for practicality and interest or do we present piles of books as though the occupant of the space is surrounded by books that never quite get put away? Fascinating to some – unnerving to others.

Some categories of interior design allow a “stylist” to express themselves – rather than focusing on the specific design needs, desires, requirements, and ultimate joy of a client. Style for the sake of imagery. These categories include product representation and promotion/branding – ads and TV commercials, and vignettes that are not intended for real life but for effect. To create appeal and promote trending marketing efforts, assembling for model homes or staging for individual homes for sale and theatrical set design are also examples of the applicability of styling. This “styling” is a very marketable talent – different from designing for and about a client’s personal wants and needs – in a residential or commercial setting.

Commercial interiors combine the branding of the business as well as the personality of the occupants and the culture of the workplace. We completely redirected the focus of this insurance office by emphasizing their brand in color, imagery and graphics. Corporate marketing material was enlarged and used for artwork to further reinforce the brand and emphasize the mission for both employees and clients.

Style evolves. Styling can be an ongoing process – even daily. But that becomes a preoccupation that is not necessarily practical for everyone. Our tastes change with life experiences and with them new interests, accommodations and necessities all contribute to the evolution of personal style. But look at your own personal style and see what about it has remained constant even if your design direction has changed.

You have style. You need to try to articulate it, embrace it or change it. I often hear “I know what I like when I see it.” That’s true of all of us. But being a “creative,” a designer, we create and not merely discover, find, and assemble – through all parts of the process.  Helping clients distill the flood of inspiration, imagery and ideas presented, on the limitless platforms dedicated to interior design, new construction, remodeling, styling, and decorating, is the first stage of the job. With so many choices and directions from which to choose, navigating that circuitous path through the oh so many images and ideas is daunting, but essential to finding the right elements to combine and create the design – and set forth the style.

The stuff of life. This couple downsized and culled their belongings to their very favorite things. Their new interior, in their custom home, incorporated all of their treasures and added some new pieces for their next chapter.

Knowing what you like when you see it and collecting as you go is what results in what I fondly call the stuff of life. Your life is partially represented in the things you have discovered and saved – things that bring you joy that you want to see and have around you. They may change over time. Your fascination or appreciation for an object might wane…but the principle of having things collected over time and life experiences (or minimalist lack thereof) is a personal expression. Often the trick is to re-arrange what you have. The style is there, but the placement and orientation can make a significant difference. Arranging is very much a central part of effective styling and interior design. Styling is a fun way to play with options, trends, make statements, influence, and experiment. Have fun finding your style and incorporating all you love and enjoy into your interiors!

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May 10

Conquering the Fear of Color – A Q&A Interview with Patti

By pattisays In Albuquerque, New Mexico, apartments, architecture, artistic expression, bar, bars and restaurants, beauty behold it, blue and white, branding in interior design, breweries, Centerpieces, chairs, color and temperature re: interior design, color forecasting, color of light, color Q&A, Color schemes, color trends, colors, commercial design, commercial interior design, commercial remodel, Contrasting colors, corporate branding, creative process, creativity, custom design interior design, custom furniture, dark colors, design, design and marketing, design challenges, design details, design process, design Q&A, design scenes, design solutions, design theme, design tips, design trends, designing a new home, designs in nature, DIY design, drama of color, eclectic design, eclecticism, element of surprise in design, fabrics, favorite colors, good design, good taste, graphic designs in interiors, hiring an interior designer, home, home decor, home improvements, how to select colors, inspiration, inspiration from nature, interior accents, interior atmosphere, interior design, interior design preferences, Interior design pro tips, interior design pro-tips, interior design trends, interior enhancements, joy, kitchen, kitchen cabinets, kitchen design, kitchen remodel, kitchen remodeling, lifestyle, living with color, logo development, logos, modern cabinets, modern interiors, paint colors, painted cabinets, painted furniture, personal spaces, personal taste, planning a new home, planning a remodel, Q&A, re-upholstery, remodeling, reupholstery, Santa Fe, New Mexico, selecting colors, Subscribers, Talavera Tile, tile, timeless colors, tips for new home design, trending design, trends, Uncategorized, update design, updating, upholstery, value of good design, white color schemes, white kitchens /  

The serenity of neutral color schemes has a significant place in interior design. However, it is more about the fear of color that I approach this article today. Committing to color arrests most people – they want it and admire it but are fearful about selecting and committing to bold colors.

Beautiful neutrals are a color all to themselves. Layers of whites, creams, grays offer sophisticated schemes.

However, that is not all that causes clients to reach out for assistance. Even if they have made a decision about taking the leap, it is how much, where and with what or to what the color is applied or occurs.

A white kitchen receives a patchwork of blue and white Talavera tile as a backdrop adding depth and interest.
In addition, upon closer inspection, we have incorporated a fine detail of an aqua glazed Spanish tile running horizontally and vertically through the patterned tiles.

I remember when architect Antoine Predock’s project for United Blood Services in Albuquerque https://bit.ly/3LBQbDv made a splash – a really RED splash when he stuccoed the entire exterior brazenly brilliant, bold, blood red! It was astonishing – astonishingly effective!!! https://bit.ly/3NNQihd If a picture speaks a thousand words, color is right there in conveying remarkable communications.

From branding to personal style, color is key.

The addition of our tongue and groove walnut wall established the theme for the rest of the furniture in this interior.
With freedom to select colors for this new brand, the signage and interior finishes all contribute to a unified statement using a dark cadet blue, warm gold, and caramel colors throughout the space. 
From T-shirts to interior finishes, the brand is reflected and reiterated in colors throughout.

My staff recently investigated information from projects. They posed questions and gathered observations regarding my use of color. Photos, at the end illustrate some specific color decisions and why. The resulting questions and answers are as follows:

Patti Hoech‘s design practice has been and continues to be an exploration and emphasis of the subtleties and strengths of color. It is an integral part of her work. We wanted to know why and when she discovered this specialization in her design sensitivity and how it relates to her approach to effective design decisions.  We are asking clients and colleagues to pose questions to get the answers.

Why is color so important?

Patti Says: Color is power and peace. Color is important on so many levels – personal joy (or aversion), perceived temperature, brand identification, seasonal interactions, emphasis, and contrast. Color is everywhere. Understanding and harnessing it for specific purposes is key.

This new backsplash had a specific purpose, which was to acknowledge the existing rust-colored porcelain sink and the intensely green marble stone countertops. By pulling those two colors into the tile selection so strongly and interspersing other colors that complemented the palette, the result was an effectively unifying design detail.

How do you determine the color specifics for your projects?

Patti Says: What color brings you joy? What color tells your story? Interviewing clients about their color preferences – being an important question begins the dialog regarding what colors to incorporate and why. This can be personal preferences or aversions or specific colors relating to branding whether it is new or existing. Also, existing fixed design/architectural elements might also play a significant part in developing an effective color scheme.

This couple wanted turquoise and other blue tones to weave through their interior. By selecting a neutral backdrop in the floors and walls, it allowed the accent color to punctuate the space from several key pieces of fabric and finishes.

Do you believe color affects the lives of your clients in their homes and workplaces?

Patti Says: Absolutely!! Color can insert many subliminal effects that impose on people’s perception of a space or graphic. Color can evoke emotion, instill comfort or agitation, rekindle memories, spur appetite, affect perceived temperature. It can embed recall for commercial brands. Color can be a clever tool.

In this interior for Boba Tea, we played with the colors of the flavors and the multi-colored tiles to correlate to the fun experience of sucking the tapioca pearls.  

How do you navigate color trends?

Patti Says: Trends are necessary to keep our market moving. Capitalism is based on consumer activity, and nothing generates purchasing frenzies like stimulating new trends in the market. However, basing design decisions on trends must take into consideration the intended longevity of the design.  Much of color trends are based upon pairings and combinations of color.  It is those combinations that can “date” a color scheme – not so much a specific color. It is how, where and with what it is used that pegs it.

A classic, well-balanced color combination of blue, white, and yellow is a comfortable warm and cool with a neutral that transcends trends. Fabrics and finishes contribute to how one updates a classic color scheme.

Do you feel you are a forecaster or influencer?

Patti Says: I believe that I have imparted and am still providing thoughtful, challenging color consultation to my commercial and residential clients.  Having prospective clients request designs based upon others that we have produced is telling and flattering. It means they have confidence in the decisions regarding long-lasting color schemes – if not timeless, in some cases. However, it must be said that design elements that present the color often determine – in many ways – how well a selected color or color scheme “holds up” over time. Considerations regrading patterns, materials, and elements can and might be either improved or modified over time while maintaining the same color scheme. Forecasting anticipates color trends. I have successfully influenced clients to make selections based upon an anticipation of future color directions in the market or merely go with classic combinations that have been proven over time. . .

Playing off the colors in this corporate logo, the interior design reflects and further strengthens the brand. This company invited us to design various locations in three different states over the course of several years. The interiors have held up against the ravages of changing trends and market directives.

What has influenced your appreciation for and interpretation of color in design?

Patti Says: It started at an early age. Observing the world around me. Nature, architecture, decorative arts (china, textiles, artwork), fashion, logos/brands, trends, regional colors, seasonal colors, cycles of color…Pinks, turquoises, yellows of buildings in the West Indies, bold color statements of Mexico…Color is profoundly important and signature in its application. From fish to birds, flowers to leaves – color captivates me and urges me to find words to express it and continue to have it a primary part of my descriptive vocabulary.  As an omnipresent element in the design process, color is unavoidable, but to enjoy it so fully and embrace the limitless range of options is an exciting artist’s pallet of possibilities which stimulates me at every turn.

The magic of color on architectural exteriors can be amazing. Here in Burano, Italy my dear friend captured the colors! Similar to what we see in Guanajuato, Mexico and the sunny islands of the West Indies.

I attribute much of my color awareness to my mother. I remember being greatly influenced by her sense of color and design. Her sensitivity and talent were innate. She selected fabrics that had unusual color and pattern combinations. When orange, avocado, brown, and gold prevailed in the 60s and 70s, she selected the olives with chartreuse and gold for the less formal areas of our lives and leaned into Lily Pulitzer’s dynamic colors and patterns for her clothing and a pastel version of soft pinks and verdant greens for our more formal areas. The master suite was primarily yellow with beautiful bits of blues. Beach scenes always emphasized blues and greens. Nothing in our world was on common trend, but an artful interpretation of color combinations, eclecticism and comfort. Pairings of orange and brown were never her happy place nor was gold and brown.  But orange and PINK – YES! Pink and green especially! And browns were recognized in context with stone shades of greys and tans.  I believe that sense was greatly influenced by richly organic, textured stone walls of the West Indies – Danish architecture in the tropics where limitless colors of greens and blues punctuated with flowers were all around.

As a result of this of this early introduction to the value of color, my personal spaces reflected similar sensitivities. Beginning with pink in the early years I graduated into blues, turquoise and greens for my teen years. The final scheme, in my room in the home in which I grew up, was a dusty pink, clay, and mocha-rose. No one in my world had that color scheme in the late 70s and it was difficult to assemble. It helped that I worked part time in a design showroom in Georgetown where handling the amazing abundance of fabulous fabrics was a daily inspiration. Throughout my life experiences color has been a constant distraction. Not in a bad way, but rather a noticeable, unavoidable interruption that causes me to pause and take note. Ask anyone who knows me – I stop and remark about color at every turn.  For better or worse, I comment on color. It is a deep appreciation that I enjoy sharing. And the most rewarding is discovering color for clients who yearn for it but don’t quite know how to find and use that which would make them feel the joy of color!

A dear friend in Mexico recently took a leap in selecting an accent color for his seaside villa. Once an all white interior, which was lovely and fresh, he wanted a new look that provided contrast and strengthened his color theme. The yellow accents made me smile when he unveiled his new look!

Color plays a major role in discovering and expressing personal style.  Fear not – color is your friend. Find your style. Live your style. Love your Style.

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Nov 15

Color Scheme Tips

By pattisays In Arita pottery, art and interior design, art as gift ideas, artistic expression, artistic imagery, artistic talent, artists, autumnal design, beach design, beauty behold it, building blocks, ceramic, color and temperature re: interior design, color classes, color forecasting, Color schemes, color trends, colors, comfortable colors, commercial interior design, Contemporary Art, contemporary fabrics, contemporary interiors, context of interior design, Contrasting colors, contrasts for balance in design, creative process, creativity, custom art in interior design, custom design interior design, design, design and marketing, design challenges, design details, design process, design scenes, design solutions, design theme, design tips, design trends, designer fabrics, designing a new home, designing with a purpose, designs in nature, DIY design, drama of color, eclectic design, eclecticism, fabric design, fabrics, favorite colors, floral paintings, flowers in design, functional art, glass art, good design, good taste, handcraft, handmade, handmade tableware, hiring an interior designer, home decor, home improvements, how to select colors, inspiration, inspiration from nature, interior accents, interior atmosphere, interior design, interior design preferences, Interior design pro tips, interior design pro-tips, interior design trends, interior enhancements, interior paint, Japanese pottery, living with color, modern interiors, natural designs, nature, new home design, paint colors, painters, peaceful places, personal expression, personal spaces, personal taste, planning a new home, planning a remodel, pottery, practical design, public design, public spaces, re-upholstery, Refresh, Regional design, relaxation, remodeling, reupholstery, Santa Fe, New Mexico, seasonal interior design, Subscribers, sunflowers, table top, tableware, textile design, textiles, textures, timeless colors, tips for new home design, trending design, trends, Uncategorized, update design, updating, upholstery, value of good design /  1

Color schemes are limitless. The permutations are endless. Color is exciting and fun. It is personal. Colors evoke feelings, memories, emotions and are key to a comfortable interior.

How often have you been asked or pondered on your own…”What is your favorite color?” Some people hesitate to answer, while others blurt-out readily with their fav.  But what color you choose to wear versus what you enjoy in your interior surroundings and how much might be quite different.

Several weeks ago, I launched a weekly post on our PATRICIAN DESIGN Facebook page called “Color Schemes.”  The idea is to inspire design ideas by pairing artwork with designer fabrics. When planning an interior there is always a focal point complimented and surrounded by supporting elements.  Whether a key painting will command the space or an expansive window with a view will direct the focus to a scene of outside colors and textures – that key element will greatly influence a successful interior color scheme.

Annette Donald creates colorful cubes in her creative take on our beloved chile ristras. A serrano chile oil painting, on canvas, by Federico Leon de la Vega is quite representational. Paired here with Romo and Ralph Lauren fabrics, Sherwin Williams paints…fresh and festive!

Here is the example of a November Scheme and you can scroll back each Monday for the past few months to enjoy a variety of the Color Schemes! https://www.facebook.com/PatricianDesignABQ/photos/a.243005986618/10157154423221619/

We embrace the The Nature of November with its unique colors and textures. As the air becomes chilly and the leaves fade…warm, soft colors bring us indoors. Featured here an elegant fused glass ribbon wall piece by Lisa Checnoff.

There are four primary considerations that I discuss with my clients when determining which colors to choose, emphasize, avoid, use as accents and where. To establish these selections, we evaluate personal preferences, contextual implications, seasonal influences and even trends. 

PERSONAL:  In planning an interior, I always want to know what colors make our clients happy, comfortable, stimulated, vexed or relaxed. These personal insights reveal important information for selecting types of materials too.

By examining what might be one’s favorite color, the discussion will navigate the distinctions, if any, regarding preferences for clothes versus interior furnishings. Interestingly, they are not always the same – although, by mere comfort and familiarity, they often are.  Simply asking about a favorite color is not enough.

Brilliant golden yellows and blues – splash color! Featured here are fabulous photo-realistic acrylic paintings by Sheri Mays paired with amazing fabrics of the same exciting palette.

CONTEXT:  The context of the interior might dictate or at least steer the direction of the design. The luxury of having multiple personal environments offers the opportunity to have different color pleasures exercised in different places. The ski condo might be woodsy and textural with browns, greys, stone and wood punctuated with a pop of color versus the seaside retreat with its crisp whites and cool blues and greens punctuated with pastels or bold contrasts. Therefore, the location of an interior might direct the desired color palette.

Inspired by this spa-aqua pottery bowl by Penny Roberts and the custom glass tile mosaic we recently combined to face a newly remodeled kitchen wall – the cool seaside/spa feel balanced with ambers and warm dots of color – pink, fuchsia, orange and golden yellow. Durable brushed cotton solids come in myriad colors and are perfect for pillows or upholstery.

SEASONAL:  This one is tricky because it plays on the perceived climate outside – even if the interior is maintained at a constant temperature. It takes a concerted effort to plan a color scheme – including textures and finishes in anticipation of changing seasons and relative temperatures. I previously mentioned that a window with a view might be the focal point of a room…imagine the effect the changing seasons might have on the selection of interior colors and textures versus a consistent tropical scene, for example?  

Perhaps you love purple – ever pair it with golden yellow? Here, functional, fantasy pottery designed and crafted with the most precise attention to detail by Jen DePaolo inspires our boldly brilliant scheme.

TRENDS:  Inasmuch as I avoid being steered by trends, it is impossible and not advisable – in design – to avoid them. Clients are influenced by them and bring that would-be preference to the table.  It is essential to continue to have “colors-of-the-year” and other market-driven colors change to stimulate the economy with buying and selling, replacement and updating.  It’s our socio/economic norm.  It also serves as an encouragement to re-fresh. But to limit that influence, in favor of long-term personal pleasures, is best.  The pressure of this marketing color influence contributes to our being a disposable culture. Not time here for a lecture on such things – but rather to instill an appreciation for and confidence in personal selections an decisions – in this case,  color.

Patinaed pearls and stunning glasswork by Margaret Hidalgo Vanderheyden inspire the soft, greyed lavenders and blues of this cool scheme.

An interesting and on-going test for evaluating a successful interior is when designing in one season – it has to work in all others. For example, when I meet with clients in the heat of July with lush foliage and color, warm temperatures and long days, that same interior has to succeed when it is frigid outside, barren, and with darker, shorter days. What might the challenges be in creating a successful scheme and what might be the solutions to make it work?

Having noted all of this and knowing the different reactions people have to color, isn’t it interesting when an interior is so successful that it appeals to many, if not the majority, of those who experience it?  This is more applicable to commercial or public spaces – from doctors’ offices to hotels.  However, the challenge and success is in knowing the many things to be considered and implementing a balance of them throughout all aspects of the interior.

Anne Marie Werner-Smith’s brilliantly glazed pottery here with Margaret Hidalgo-Vanderheyden’s lovely fused glass crosses along with coral and dyed stone necklace and woven table runner from Chiapas reflect the changing colors of fall leaves…

Appreciating color is a gift to designers. It truly is an imperative to appreciate all colors and have the sensitivity to discern the nuances between various values and the effects of selections and combinations from the infinite choices.

I hope this has given you ideas and inspiration to move forward with YOUR color schemes! Sign-up for our weekly email of Color Schemes with classic blue and white and stunning neutral greys coming!! And follow the posts on Facebook every Monday.

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Jul 06

CONVERSATIONS ON DESIGN – SPECIFICALLY, PRO TIPS ABOUT COLOR

By pattisays In Albuquerque, New Mexico, architecture, art and interior design, artistic expression, bathroom remodel, before and after, branding in interior design, chairs, color forecasting, Color schemes, color trends, colors, commercial design, commercial interior design, commercial remodel, contemporary interiors, context of interior design, Contrasting colors, corporate branding, creative process, design, design and marketing, design challenges, design details, design process, design scenes, design solutions, design theme, design tips, design trends, designer fabrics, drama of color, existing materials, fabrics, good design, good taste, hiring an interior designer, home, home decor, home improvements, how to select colors, inspiration, interior accents, interior atmosphere, interior design, interior design preferences, Interior design pro tips, interior design trends, interior enhancements, lifestyle, paint colors, personal expression, personal taste, planning a remodel, powder rooms, re-purpose, re-upholstery, Refresh, remodeling, reupholstery, selecting colors, Sherwin Williams, Subscribers, textiles, textures, throw pillows, timeless colors, trending design, trends, Uncategorized, updating, upholstery, white interiors /  1 2 Comments

This past week alone I have consulted with a commercial client about reception seating and color, a home-owner, in a mountain setting, about durable floor finishes, bathroom remodels and color, a couple in a new home downsizing from one of 20 plus years about furniture arrangement and color, a couple from Las Vegas buying a second home by their daughter and grandkids about color, and a woman stopped in the shop yesterday visiting from Santa Fe and said that she didn’t know we were also a design firm -picked up a brochure and told me inasmuch as she had “a pretty good handle on design – she always struggled with color.”

See a common thread here? The comments were from that where she admitted to always struggling with color to another wanting her seemingly tract home to feel like a woodsy cabin with color, others wanted their spaces  lighter while others wanted to make a corporate statement that would support their brand and not go out of style in the coming few years. They all had steered toward neutrals – but not in a good way – because they were uncertain about committing to COLOR.

The whites and greys are their own beautifully valid color scheme. https://patriciandesign.com/project/modern-make-over/   I have written before about when white is a color or when it is the absence of color.  https://patriciandesign.com/white-by-design/

I also continually stress that all design decisions are based upon context. Many of you reading this, with whom I have consulted, will recognize much of these observations and tips. I stress select color to compliment your context!

Interestingly, the mountain home has existing painted doors and trim. To change those elements would be costly. How can we woodsy-up this interior without those seemingly necessary key elements?

I asked her for her priorities and “comfort colors.” As a result, we will change the flooring for look and durability, building from that add color and various textures to enrich the space – stacked pebbles at the fireplace, a slab hearth, a wooden mantle and a light neutral will be the main backdrop splashed with strong elements of color (notice them on the mantle). The very vertical fireplace will be a bold golden yellow color to intentionally work with the honey tones of the pine architectural elements.

By contrast, a magnificent home (also in the mountains with great wooden details), had too much of a good thing for the owners’ other interior furnishings. In this case, the seeming sacrilege of painting the solid wood doors and trim was in order.

To paint all the solid wood doors and trim in this home was a leap of faith. But the goal was to add back stacked stone to carry a theme from the now naked fireplace to the kitchen bar and over to the entry door wall. Having it in three places will commit to an architectural theme for this finish selection. New colorful rug and fabrics for throw pillow will enliven the space and bring focus to individual accents throughout the interior.
The grey hand woven grey rug was not providing the needed backdrop for this new scheme so we gathered rug and fabric samples to “punch-up” the scene.
After the new rug arrived, we assembled the fabrics for another study of our options to detail the design.
Before, this little powder room was a bit bland. The quality, solid wood, raised panel, pine doors were too rustic for the owner’s preference – but painting was not an option – until we discussed it. What was a possible sacrilege became a beautiful solution to changing the design direction of this interior. Mirror and sconces remained while vanity, sink and colors were transformed!
The AFTER of the little powder room is still in the process, but it is clear that the transformation is startling with the newly painted doors and trim and the fresh POP of turquoise on the walls. Layers of color and emphasis changed. It is not about painting wood, it’s about creating balance. The massive, solid wood front door and antique and art pieces throughout will be emphasized as key features

Another such interior was over-burdened with stained wood and to paint it all out white was a major commitment yet, the results will make for a lighter backdrop still revealing the bones and their texture, but freeing the owners to showcase their other pieces of fine woodwork, art and furnishings.

PRO TIPS

  • The trick with design decisions is to determine and understand the primary purpose and intended “read” of the space. What is most important and where do you want your focus?
  • Once you have evaluated the space, identified its primary purpose and selected what you want to emphasize; see what is either in the way of, or competing with that emphasis, and clear all else away. Add back the things that you consider most important either for function or joy (form).
  • If the architecture is most important, determine what about it and work from there to complete the space. If a piece of art is most important – place it to its best advantage and build around it so as not to compete, but compliment. If a view is most important – the same is true – clear away and frame with the most important and/or effective pieces.  Pick your priority, yet take everything into consideration.
  • With regard to color…it can emphasize the architecture or be inserted for a bold statement(s) of art or fabric on furniture, rugs…When using color, the idea is still to have balance in the context of where you are placing it. It can be a backdrop or a foreground accent.
  • Consider existing conditions that will not be changed – such as flooring. Select colors that include the compliment to that material. Whether in direct opposition for contrast or to meld in   a way that creates a subtle transition – the consideration of existing materials is important.
  • The effect of considering existing materials can result in their appearing as though part of the plan rather than being inherited unintended.  This is generally a desirable result. Therefore, if you have a material that will not go away – make it intentionally part of the plan.

The corporate color issue was about updating their image and connecting with their clients in an intimate and comfortable manner- an environment that carried the trust of years of experience and embracing a new generation of financial management. They developed a marketing plan moving forward to identify a theme, feel of confidence and carry it through the entire experience. In a recent Facebook post you will see this project in the process and notice that the carpet was an existing condition and that it was used deliberately to make the new materials appear to all have been coordinated from the start. Long time clients and new are comfortable with the changes!   https://www.facebook.com/PatricianDesignABQ/

It’s OK to play it safe with neutrals – but in this case, it was time for a updated “brand” for this business. The unusual eggplant and chartreuse carpets inherited in the move to a different suite required some deliberate coordination, to have it all “read” as though designed afresh!

The want-to-be woodsy cabin project will have new, durable porcelain tile floors imitating variegated slate and from that palette of colors pull paint colors to add whimsy and visual impact along with other new additions of stacked pebbles at the fireplace and wood encasing the now sheet-rock mantle.

The stacked pebble stone, engineered stone, new wood mantle and splash of colors against the neutral will make a dynamic statement. Notice new color chips leaning on the mantle.

The couple downsizing and wanting more light and a less heavy southwestern feel panted their entire ceiling of beams and tongue and groove including support columns in white. The wood still “reads,” in all its hand-hewn texture and knots. The white is no less natural than the dark chocolate that had been their previous faux finish. Albeit the tongue and groove had a clear lacquer that we concealed behind the new cloak of white for a uniform backdrop.

The dark chocolate opaque stain of the pine members was no more valid than painting them an other color. We selected a white to open and refresh with a neutral backdrop to allow other elements to be more focal.
Painting currently underway!! Watch for before and afters of this refreshed interior.

The couple with the second home had history in Hawaii and wanted a beachy, fresh theme for their new desert home. The flooring was a mottled light brown glazed tile and we selected a noticeably light, subtle sand colored wall paint to contrast and POP the existing off-white doors and trim throughout the home. Accents in recessed niches and doorways will become a soft turquoise while an interior laundry room gets a splash of citrusy yellow. The layers of color will be visible from different angles and vantage points. With the golden oak kitchen cabinets being painted out to match the existing off-white trim – the scheme will be fresh and beachy! Their artwork presents these colors and will being their personal touch to the arrangements. Watch for this project in coming weeks.

Do you have ideas about certain features in your interior that do not quite seem to come together? Do you feel the need to refresh? Are you looking for a new color scheme? Please do not be afraid of color and do not be confused about current trends. White and grey is a soothing combination. Trimmed with black, you get a defined contrast. Insert organic greens and the combination is sharp and now – and yet potentially timeless. HOWEVER – colors too have their place and selecting those and their combination that will speak to today and not be out-of-style tomorrow, as certain trending combinations might – select colors to compliment your context.

Here are a few other Patti Says blogs and PATRICIAN DESIGN projects about color selection:

Designing a Cool Theme for a Vacay Rental Property
BEFORE AND AFTER for Busy Young Couple Making First House a HOME

KEMP BEFORES  https://patriciandesign.com/rejuvenate-and-expand-your-interior-spaces-by-opening-walls/

Friends Don’t let friends pick paint colors  https://patriciandesign.com/5677-2/

Johnson’s PHX https://patriciandesign.com/spanish-style-brings-interior-spice/

Color forcasting  https://patriciandesign.com/color-schemes-and-the-complex-simplicity-of-it-all/

Bay area bungalow https://patriciandesign.com/project/bay-area-bungalow/

Celebrate the LOVE of COLOR!!!!!!!!!!

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Mar 01

Hidden Talent Exposed

By pattisays In Abstract Art, Albuquerque, New Mexico, architecture, art and food, art and interior design, art custom commissions, artistic expression, artistic imagery, artistic talent, artists, bars and restaurants, beach design, beauty behold it, coastal, Color schemes, color trends, colors, commercial interior design, commissioning an artist, Contemporary Art, contemporary interiors, context of interior design, creative process, creativity, custom art in interior design, custom design interior design, decorative arts, design, design and marketing, design details, design process, design scenes, design solutions, design theme, design tips, design trends, designs in nature, Discovering Art, discovering artistic talent, drama of color, element of surprise in design, fanciful design, fine art photography, floral designs, flower power, flowers in design, focal points, good design, good taste, Graphic art, graphic designs in interiors, handwriting, hidden talent, hiring an interior designer, home decor, inspiration, inspiration from nature, interior accents, interior design, Interior design pro tips, interior design trends, interior enhancements, joy, large format photographs, lifestyle, marketing the story, Modern Art, modern interiors, murals, nature, orchids, personal expression, personal taste, photography, public art, Refresh, Regional design, restaurant design, Santa Fe, New Mexico, Set design, Subscribers, travel and design, trending design, trends, tropical flowers, urban art, value of art, value of good design, vintage cars /  1

Hidden talent – that remarkable artwork that appears (seemingly) out of nowhere, on a par with great masters of the medium. I considered this element of surprise – looking back several decades to a local painter, Wilson Hurley, who had more than one very different, distinguished career and diverse life experiences before he delved deeply into his passion for painting in his 40s. Once exposed, his paintings revealed his extraordinary talents and he become a nationally recognized treasure for his sweeping landscapes and a variety of other subjects.  

On that note, I have just gotten off the phone with a very good friend, in Florida, Houston Evans. I have recently learned that he is a passionate weekend photographer! An amazing photo appeared in a Facebook post and I was astonished by the enchanting image, color and composition. I was instantly captivated – and curious. Upon closer inspection, his stylish swashbuckling  signature made me realize that this hobby was subtly becoming more than that – yes, he had his mark digitally mastered and is probably THE perfect brand for his diverse and stunning work.

“Star Power” is the luminous celebration of a pineapple.

As I quizzed him about his interest in photography, I learned that he attributes his eye for art, color and design to his mother who’s side of the family has spawned other talented artists, in his generation. He has been posting on Instagram for quite some time – hundreds of images. I didn’t know. I didn’t “follow.” He is modest about his photos and does it for his own amusement, pure pleasure and personal enjoyment – that he likes to share. “I don’t do it to imagine it on someone’s wall.” Yet this observer believes that there is where it absolutely should be! Many walls…many places! #houstonevansphotography

He plays with the medium and all the tools and tricks of the trade. He enjoys the freedom of experimentation. The results are controlled, yet spontaneous. From high resolution to fuzzy pixels that require distance to assimilate. Up close for precise detail and soft smears for imagination to take hold, the variety of clarity or lack thereof are a part of the experience and expression.  

“Makin’ Hay” has an enhanced pointillist treatment – a Van Gogh-esque subject with a twist.

From my interior designer’s perspective, his bold images would be key focal points in the drama of architectural spaces – interiors from Miami to Honolulu and on around the world!!! I can see the towering orchids in hotel lobbies, bars, restaurants and swanky condos everywhere!!! I am eager to find a project, for which his work would be the key to the scheme, unveiling a spontaneous design resulting from the inspiration of the image.

“Oblique Orchid” screams floral superiority as a commanding focal image.
“Shooting the Bird” speaks to paradise revisited!!!

In the beginning, the photos stood on their own merits. Evans keeps his originals – some of which remain just that – in their original form, while others are tweaked or more radically manipulated to create stunning subjects and compositions.

This brilliant, fresh simplicity of “Aqua Eye” observes the droplet’s reflection in the center of the cheery chartreuse petal.
Coming upon a cool caddie “Daddy Long Legs.”

I can see his limitless fantasies contributing to the imaginative narrative of Meow Wolf, gracing hotel lobbies with larger-than-life orchid explosions and commanding condo walls with magical statements of tropical color, subject and form. Translucent installations of LED illumination could result in magnificent walls of design influence.

“No Flies on Me” is a fantasy of oozing colors and form melting and melding around the psychedelic dragon fly.

The digital age is advancing with such a pace that we are all caught-up in photos of food, whacky selfies and sunsets on fire…but having an artist’s eye, to truly see the potential and master the tools that are now available – using them to create valid and valued masterpieces of art, is extraordinary.

“Copy Cat” reflections mirror a chorus of color from sky to watery impressionistic likeness.
This “Roadside Attraction” must have been a startling scene to distract dazzled drivers.

I truly believe that his work is exceptional – full of heart and soul – and spectacular fun!!!!!!!! I’m thrilled to learn of these images and now enjoy the continued progress of his discoveries and creations. Let’s see where this goes!!!!! He just might be coming out of hiding!!

Yes, his selfie – “Prickled!”
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Sep 24

Fantasy Centerpieces in a Magical Setting

By pattisays In Albuquerque, New Mexico, ambiance, artistic expression, artistic imagery, artistic talent, artists, Centerpieces, color of light, Color schemes, creative process, creativity, custom lighting, decorative accessories, design, design and marketing, design scenes, design solutions, Design Team, design tips, destination weddings, drama of color, entertaining, exterior - outdoor design, fanciful design, floral arrangement, floral arrangements, floral designs, flowers in design, Food and art, hearts and design, hiring an interior designer, holiday decor, indirect lighting, inspiration, interior design, Interior design pro tips, LED, lighted fabrics, lighting, lobster, luminaries, marketing the story, night clubs, organization, party themes, patio, patio design, personal expression, public art, public design, public spaces, Set design, silk flowers, Subscribers, table dressings, table top, tableware, temperature of light, theatrical design, trends, umbrellas, urban art, white color schemes, winter design trends /  1

Inspiration for centerpieces – here – a neutral color scheme – white on white on white…Often limited to weddings, take a tip from a social phenomenon – Diner en Blanc for dramatic centerpieces! Any of which could be ablaze with seasonal color – depending upon your desired theme. And with the advancements in LED lighting, the colors are limitless and instantly changeable.

The Diner en Blanc is an international event that began in Paris, 1988. An amazing concept that began with an invitation among friends to an elegant al fresco affair. This unique gathering was prestigious and decadent.

Someone gave a nod to the city of origin!

Everyone wore white so that they could find each other amidst other crowds who were gathered at the venue. ( Which becomes rather humorous amidst 2,000 people ALL wearing white!!) https://www.google.com/search?q=origin+diner+en+blanc&oq=origin+diner+en+blanc&aqs=chrome..69i57j0.5779j0j4&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8

The remarkable event spread around the world and Albuquerque has celebrated this creative event for several years. This is my second experience with this white fantasy. Every year the venue is kept secret only to be revealed at the last moment when attendees are assembled and usually transported on buses to the destination. This surprise location was right across from the designated gathering places downtown. And instead of boarding a bus each group, expecting just that, cued up as though to go aboard – only to be led single file across the street to the expansive Civic Plaza!

One big patio party!

This year with the Hyatt Regency team screaming with creativity from the table dressings…to the phenomenal food…to the fabulous frivolity – it was magic!

Would you believe luscious, chunky lobster salad served in a half tail, sliced beef filet and many artfully decadent extras…

Asked to wear white, bring your own tables, chairs, table dressings, centerpieces – all in white – the evening unfolds with exciting flurries of fabric, flowers, statuary, lights – all intended to make a spectacular statement for each group’s table.

Imagine all of this theatrical staging with 2,000 performers (we) in one enormous space – outside in the perfection of a last ditch of summer evening. It is a remarkable event.

Pretty parasols…
mysterious masks…

As I strolled through the tables capturing photos of the various “tablescapes”, I realized that the creativity was applicable to so many possibilities of table dressings – with color added!

LED lighting set the scene aglow with myriad magical colors! It changes the perceived temperature of a scene.

So enjoy seeing these creations and imagine them in seasonal splendor – fall now…winter coming…spring bursting forth and summer ablaze with color – for your upcoming parties throughout the year!

The scene changed and darkness fell..

With magnificent mariachis to flowing flamenco dancers the entertainment was dazzling and morphed into an enthusiastic DJ who rocked the stage for dancing into the night… It was an exterior nightclub – an excellent setting for a many faceted affair! https://www.facebook.com/DinerEnBlanc.Albuquerque/

An elegant table for Dion’s Pizza and water bottles!!!

Cheers to elegant parties! Who needs an excuse???

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Jul 05

Designing a Cool Theme for a Vacay Rental Property

By pattisays In Albuquerque, New Mexico, art and interior design, beach, beach design, breakfast rooms, bronze sculpture, ceiling lighting, coastal, color and temperature re: interior design, Color schemes, color trends, colors, commercial interior design, commercial remodel, context of interior design, contrasts for balance in design, coral, creative process, creativity, custom cabinets, custom design interior design, decorative accessories, decorative arts, decorative mirrors, design, design and marketing, design details, design process, design scenes, design solutions, Design Team, design tips, design trends, designer fabrics, designing with a purpose, dining and design, drama of color, engineered countertops, expanding spaces, exterior - outdoor design, fabrics, flooring, good design, hiring an interior designer, history, home improvements, how to select colors, illusions of space, indirect lighting, inspiration, inspiration from nature, interior atmosphere, interior design, interior design preferences, interior design trends, interior enhancements, kitchen, kitchen cabinets, kitchen design, kitchen lighting, kitchen remodel, kitchen remodeling, lifestyle, lighting, lighting a new home, lobster, LVT Luxury Vinyl Tile, marketing the story, mirrors, mosaic tile, new home design, paint colors, painted cabinets, personal expression, personal taste, planning a remodel, practical design, privacy in design, residential restrooms, room arrangement, San Diego, California interior design, selecting colors, silk flowers, Subscribers, throw pillows, timeless colors, tips for new home design, travel and design, trends, update design, updating, value of good design, Vinyl wood flooring, white kitchens /  1

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!

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May 19

Enjoying Creativity – How Do You Exercise/Express Your Creative Juices?

By pattisays In architect, art as gift ideas, art assemblages, artistic expression, artistic talent, artists, cocktails, creative process, creativity, custom design interior design, decorative arts, design, design and marketing, design process, design solutions, design tips, discovering artistic talent, DIY design, Graphic art, graphic arts, greeting cards, handcraft, handmade, hiring an interior designer, illustration, inspiration, interior design, interior design trends, joy, love, martini, personal expression, Subscribers, sushi /  

Have you ever had a moment or period of time when you longed to create something just for fun? It might be to crochet a blanket or knit a scarf.  It might be to build a model plane or learn how to cast a bronze. What have you longed to create?

It seems that everyone needs a creative outlet even though they might not recognize it as creativity. When speaking to a guy  about his interest in working on cars, he didn’t consider his work “creative.” To work on a car for purposes of enhanced performance, restoration, maintenance or repair all takes a certain amount of creativity. The thought process of problem solving and taking action requires creative thinking.

Gardening, painting, sculpting, carving, pottery, collage…there are so many outlets for relaxing creativity. The idea is to not do it under pressure. Lest one defeat the purpose of the relaxing aspect – just for fun – pure joy.

Yesterday I spoke to an architect who said that her creative juices needed exercising. Despite the fact that her daily work required lots of creative thought, it was not pure pleasure. It was not all fun. She wanted/needed another outlet. So she set forth, to do some creative design time, purely for her leisure. She started creating desert floral collages, in a size that could be shared, as greeting cards. She brought them to show me, with a modest timidity, and was most surprised and thrilled when I received her work with great enthusiasm!

Rebecca has found the medium of paper to be quite satisfying, It is clean and precise, crisp and conveys her intent. She loves flowers, lives in the high desert and communes with cacti and appreciates all flowers – and with that her exciting, yet quiet, introspective, personally satisfying, creative expression has found an outlet.

With positive feedback from several people, she wants to launch a re-sale card line! Now the creative process goes another step. She needs to establish a brand – at least a name for her card line. Will she want a logo? What about her entire experience can she list in words and cull and distill to result in the perfect identity?

There are two parts to this situation and the first is to recognize the need for and find an outlet for the relaxing exercise of expressing creative juices and the second is receiving positive reinforcement for your efforts. Inasmuch as the second might seem  unnecessary, it is a great affirmation and valid “feel good” feeling to create for the fun of it and have your work appreciated!

It need not be commercial  – but “selling” your idea or creative project is even MORE flattering.  Although, it is usually not for compliment much less profit.

Creativity can be relaxing, if it is not in a demanding framework. It’s therapeutic. In pondering this subject, I wanted to know more. Seems that this is a complex topic that deserves more investigation. So,  I did a bit of reading…I found the Handbook of Creativity edited by Robert J. Sternberg from the Cambridge University Press 1999. In the first section – The Concept of Creativity: Prospects and Paradigms by Robert J. Sternberg and Todd I. Lubart it states “If one wanted to select the best novelist, artist, entrepreneur, or even chief executive officer, one would most likely want someone who is creative.”

It is true for those of us doing hiring – looking for that spirit that can see beyond…create…are desirable traits. Yet everyone has a certain creative element in their person. It is the degree to which they have it and in what capacity or direction which might be more applicable or desirable, for consideration  in a certain position over another.

The Concept of Creativity  further states that “Creativity is the ability to produce work that is both novel (i.e., original, unexpected) and appropriate (i.e., useful, adaptive concerning task constraints) (Lubart, 1994: Ochse, 1990; Sternberg, 1988a; Sternberg & Lubart, 1991, 1995, 1996).

The aforementioned seems obvious.

So is creativity a divine gift?  One that makes it difficult to study much less quantify or discern from another? That is not the purpose of his blog…but to not mention that query would be leaving something that one might ask – out.

As a professional designer, creativity is part of the daily job description. Yet you will find most designer’s exercise creative outlets that are different from their work. This spring I too launched a greeting card line. It was spawned from hours on the road between San Diego and Albuquerque, with the practice of harnessing myriad ditties that continually race thorough my thoughts. A sudden lightning bolt on one of those trips suggested that I doodle to accompany my ditties. Hence, DATE NITE CARDS were born in March of this year.   Little ditties and doodles to bring a smile, start a conversation, set a date, make new friends, rekindle the spark, celebrate friends, love, anniversaries, romance…

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Apr 19

Designing with Your Story in Mind

By pattisays In Albuquerque, New Mexico, architecture, art and interior design, art assemblages, art custom commissions, artistic expression, bars and restaurants, branding in interior design, brew pubs, commercial interior design, commercial remodel, context of interior design, corporate branding, creative process, creativity, custom art in interior design, custom design interior design, design, design and marketing, design challenges, design details, design process, design solutions, design tips, design trends, designing with a purpose, dining and design, dining rooms, eclectic design, exterior - outdoor design, good design, Graphic art, graphic arts, graphic designs in interiors, hiring an interior designer, historic properties, inspiration, interior atmosphere, interior design, interior design trends, interior enhancements, logo development, marketing the story, mosaic, mosaic tile, murals, Nexus Brewery, nostalgia and design, patchwork, patterns, personal expression, photography, pieced work, practical design, quilts, restaurant design, Subscribers, textures, the story, tile, trends, urban art, value of good design, wall treatments, your story /  1

Is your story important? Does anyone care about your story? And what does this have to do with interior design?

Whether you are marketing yourself or your business, your story has merit. It is about identity, branding and connecting. It is about letting people in a bit. It is about sharing history, experiences and process. It is about your unique reason for doing what you do.

For the past several months, I have been working with a client on a combination of interior design, graphic design, exterior design…it is all intertwined. A successful design laces together all these design elements. And that brings me to “the story.”

Even Facebook features a section to tell “your story.”  Yet, my client resisted presenting/using the story of this new business venture as a part of the design. He told me that was “so seventies.” That he had read that it was a dated concept that was no longer relevant. I begged to differ. For months I begged to differ! We agreed to disagree.

I believe that this is similar to many interpretations of design. What might be considered “dated” is often the manner in which it is used or done – not the thing itself. Whether a color,  a font, a style of furniture, a wall tile or wallpaper, an architectural detail or form…so many design elements are considered dated due to their context. Often, this is fair to observe. But, mix it up a bit and use things differently or with other different elements than the original trend presented and – Voila! You have a perfectly valid, even fabulous design – think outside the box!

The idea of a “story” is not unlike the “mission statement” which became a standard feature decades ago in every company’s presentation on printed media, lobby plaques, conference room walls, break rooms… Some say it is passe, but when something is good and has meaning – re-consider. Like “the story”, “the mission statement” identifies goals and intent…when paired with the story, it provides an overview of the who, what, why that inquiring patrons want to know.

So back to the story…about “the story.”  When a business or any concept is respected or liked, revered or praised, it is natural for people to wonder “How did they get started?” “How did they come up with this idea?” “What is their history in this business?” These are common questions that clever ideas or designs invite. So why not satisfy that interest, create a buzz…Let’s give them something to talk about!!!

In this world of disconnection, making connections seem all the more important. What used to be a natural exchange – of communication, ideas, sharing – is now something that has to be inserted with greater intention.

So this new business, for which I have been designing, is a barbeque establishment. There are a million. They have certain things in common. Without my enumerating them here – can you envision some common denominators that you might connect with barbeque joints? As is true with any venture, I asked: “What makes this one different? Better barbeque? Maybe. Cool interior? Hopefully. Are those the only unique traits? Is that the memorable take-away?  It certainly isn’t a bad one – the idea is to have great food – and a fun environment, but what else might contribute to the experience of this barbecue being unforgettable? What might you have, to tell your friends, to spread the word?”

My opinion was a  combination of an intriguing brand and “the story.” But before I go further, they coined a word to express their beer brewing prowess – exbeerience!  This will enter into the story as we go along.

Now maybe my opinion about their story was so worthy of consideration because there was so much to this story. That certainly helps. It happens to be a great story with layers of interesting twists and turns – riddled with history and significance. Plus, it had a local interest angle that has the potential to create a buzz far beyond their actual location.  

To begin to tell the story, I encouraged the development of a unique logo for this specific branch of the brand. Taking the lead to design it,  and incorporating it into interior/exterior design was part of my vision for a complete design package and presentation. Extracting from the story to create the logo seemed natural. The private persona was becoming public.

As we developed the logo, featuring a wood-carved graphic of an original log cabin/smokehouse, the story was recorded and edited down to a summarized version.

It was available for printed material, social media, and as art to be presented on walls. Yes, it was intended to become a decorative element too.

The Story became a focal piece in the interior along with authentic, original photos of the log smokehouse and an interpretation of patchwork quilts entitled Urban Piecework made from leftover ceramic and porcelain tiles, glass and clay assembled in wall-mounted panels throughout the interior and exterior spaces. 

Photos of the original smokehouse in North Carolina will soon be presented to further reiterate the story on the interior walls.
Urban Piecework commands the interior with bold mosaics reminiscent of patchwork quilts – an intriguing backdrop installed both inside and out.

Connecting with patrons, followers, clients, friends, family and acquaintances is valuable. As a business, it wraps who and those elements that are important to you in a familiar cocoon of context. It can instill a level of comfort and confidence in addition to sparking additional interest that might have taken longer to establish, without the introduction of your story.

The final multi-dimensional and multi-textural wall-piece featuring the story and mission is a striking 4’x6′ multi-textural panel. It offers patrons an opportunity to get a few questions answered as they enjoy their “exbeerience” at BLUE.

It was a privilege to promote, extract and produce this story and contribute such an important and valuable element to this business’s marketing and solidifying it’s new, exciting chapter of their brand.

Consider your story. Own it. Share it. Celebrate the uniqueness of your story. Design with your story in mind.

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Mar 25

When Extraordinary is an Understatement.

By pattisays In art and food, art of cooking, artistic expression, artistic talent, artists, bars and restaurants, beauty behold it, branding in interior design, chefs in art, Chocolate, Color schemes, commercial interior design, concrete floors, context of interior design, contrasts for balance in design, cooking and design, creative process, creativity, custom lighting, design, design and marketing, design details, design process, design scenes, design solutions, design tips, design trends, desserts, element of surprise in design, fanciful design, floral designs, flowers in design, Food and art, food and interior design, good design, good taste, handmade, hiring an interior designer, how to select colors, inspiration, interior atmosphere, interior design, interior design preferences, interior design trends, interior enhancements, joy, lifestyle, metal and wood furniture design, party themes, personal expression, personal taste, Subscribers, the art and design of food presentation, urban living, value of good design, white interiors /  

A few years ago, awesome crept into our vernacular and took over. It stole our ability to select options for descriptive excess or exception. Everything from accolades for a job well done, positive reinforcement for anything, to a spectacular sunset, a great new outfit or a startling meteor shower – everything from a tad past the norm…to something truly fantastic – became awesome.   Our language offers so many superlatives, yet we have gotten so lazy.

At the expense of sounding like an advertisement or otherwise paid spokesperson, I write today of a late-night confection experience that is truly like no other. An experience so artful that I could not take enough photos. Artistic delights at a bustling urban eatery where flowers and gold leaf adorn each piece of fanciful frosted awesomeness. Ha -there it is! Had to add more to the mere “awesome,” though!

Extra ordinary – extraordinary – beyond the norm – beyond ordinary, yes, that is an understatement for what I am about to reveal. Yet, that is the moniker of this extraordinary establishment – Extraordinary Desserts!

Several years ago we were treated to a late night surprise. Not knowing our intended destination, we were taken winding through the streets and came upon this little structure the read like an Asian garden. Twinkling lights peeking through wooden slats softened by lush tropical vegetation – the scene was magic. Once we realized the focus of this cozy pocket, we were enchanted. Patrons stood in line to pass along the “extraordinary” dessert cases displaying all manner of outrageously beautiful desserts. Once they decided and paid for their selection, they gathered in intimate twosomes or small groups to savor the delectable delights they had chosen.

Last night, we decided to rediscover this uniquely sweet spot and Googled our way into downtown San Diego. What we found, by happy accident, was a second location – an urban edifice presented on a crowded sidewalk packed with people waiting eagerly to be seated and begin their indulgences.

After leaving our name with the greeters at the podium, we squeezed through the throngs to get a peek at the cases full of magical wonders. Ok – you think I exaggerate…so now begins the photos…

When extraordinary is an UNDERSTATEMENT, you  know you are in the presence of something quite special.  Maybe that’s why people invent words like splendiferous or supercalifragilisticexpialidocious!

The rich velvety and textured frostings and layers of fabulous flavors awaited us as we scanned the displays.

Floribunda- yes, gilding the lilies (orchids as it were) – nothing was too over-the-top!   The rich velvety and textured frostings and layers of fabulous flavors awaited us as we scanned the displays.

Seeing so many astonishingly spectacular desserts in one place all for the spontaneous taking is almost too much to bear. You mean I can HAVE that right now??? I can have a piece of many of them – RIGHT NOW?????

Emulating fine Cerelene Limoges, the would-be doilies of parchment paper rimmed with gold detailing and lettered with Extraordinary the details were dazzling!  No stone left un-turned, they thought of everything to make this a tantalizing treat and patrician presentation!

The interior offers seating at the bar and tables organized throughout. Two tops or ganged together for a crowd, everyone was so focused on their prizes – beauty set before them – animated chatter wafted through the sugar-spun air!  Some chose to sample several knowing that they would take a goodly portion home. Others savored a single serving of a beautifully flavorful masterpiece.

And yes, there’s a book about the cakes – Karen Krasne – appears to be the brain behind this bounty.   I look forward to meeting her. She has an amazing machine with a well-oiled staff. Everyone was efficient and friendly and shared in the enthusiasm that was being expressed all around.

The shelves are filled with teas and other sweet temptations, interesting vessels and serving pieces.

The lighting is dim and the structure envelopes the interior with white-washed frosting of voluminous space punctuated with dark cylindrical pendant lights and pierced bubble-like panels back-lit for added interest, subtle luminosity and dimension.

Raw, polished concrete floors, steel tables and molded wood chairs give a nice balance of warm and cool, rigid and suave – while clean and almost hygge in feel.

Perhaps, in the world of custom confections and TV foodie competitions, these desserts might be within some semblance of a norm – but only from the finest of creatives, in circles of which we usually do not run.

But having cavorted last night through the cheerful melee of confection connoisseurs – albeit one doesn’t have to be clubbed over the head or knighted by the cooks of the kingdom to appreciate what we experienced –  we are sufficiently spoiled both visually and flavor-wise to be tough to ever satisfy again. Good design. Great design. Extraordinary design is often still an understatement!

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