DETAILS Found at Hillwood Estate This Christmas

The world is full of detail. From the wonders of nature and the perfection of a flower, to the man-made creations that come from inspiration of all sorts. The combined influences that result, in interesting and good design, are limitless and we now have layers of platforms upon which ideas are presented. The access to creativity is staggering.

Take Etsy and Pinterest. There the ideas abound. Everyone has access to creative ideas unlike ever before in our world. In the past, a keen eye observed and discerned. The clever managed to find inspiration in the most obscure places, analyze observations and interpret them for their own purposes. Creativity was spawned from observation paired with original thought. Yet, that observation was generally first-hand. Therefore, those that got about more, saw more and had greater exposure to more (and there you have it) were creatively stimulated more!

We (perhaps I should say I since it is from my own vantage point and experiences, from whence I speak/write), often are so busy observing that we don’t take the time to dissect and catalog the information we discover. I am so very guilty of that as I am so captivated by design and creativity that I forget to remember!!! Ha – yes – forget to remember or record!!!!

I constantly find myself regretting to have taken a photo of something (some who know how many photos I take might want to take exception with this point), but it’s true. I regret not taking a photo or studying something which, retrospectively, I recognize as something quite special. In the rush to experience the entire scene, I fail to notice or retain the details. Have you ever felt that you were so caught-up in a new experience that afterward you feel you should have paid closer attention? I forget to remember to store the observations or I forget to take a photo – regretting it afterward.

The breakfast room aat Hillwood Mansion where Marjorie Post rarely entertained, but was always set to do so. Pink poinsettias are the seasonal choice.

This can be from a class lecture to a theatrical production. I wish I had focused more closely rather than getting distracted by my own imagination which often runs rampant with the encounter. However, the stimulation can be so great that the imagination kicks in and causes diversions, in the attention, resulting in a deficit of detail gathering. Hence a clear case of un-diagnosed ADD!!!

With all of this having been the prelude to my thoughts for the day, I have elected to pick out a few details from a recent tour of the Hillwood Estate and Gardens nestled on magnificent wooded grounds in the heart of northeast Washington, DC. And how wonderful to have had the opportunity this week to stroll through the mansion, now museum, of the late Marjorie Merriweather Post during the Christmas season.

As previously mentioned, I would have, could have, should have taken more photos, but was so enchanted at every turn by the beauty and gracious luxury that unfolded, I was too busy darting from one magnificent scene to the next to capture more than I share here. I apologize.

Her favorite color was pink and this tree greeting visitors upon arrival is a precious jewel among many beautiful Christmas trees and decorations displayed in the mansion.

From the reflection on the polished floors of the little white lights to the shimmering crystal punctuated with pink blossoms bedecking the tree was undeniably elegant.

The railings ascending the staircase at the reception desk were draped with garland and strung with simple gold painted discs which were repeated in the coordinating tree which also featured a collection of blue reproduction Faberge eggs.

Marjorie Post was a discerning collector of all manner of artistic beauty including exceptional Russian decorative art. The actual exhibit of Faberge currently available for view on the property is nearing its end. Many dazzlingly detailed pieces from her own collection and others on loan for the exhibit are being shown.

If you are in Washington this month, please treat yourself. This exhibit of Faberge pieces is outstanding.

The gold leaves on this magnificent tree in the dining room would be fun to replicate. Could have easily been dipped in gold leaf. Like lime leaves – or from your garden perhaps photinia or laurel even rhododendron – maybe go faux with silk from the craft store – spray ’em gold!!! Paint magic!

And if you have ever installed a dangle of mistletoe…check this out! This elegant bundle suspended, from the towering heights of the entry hall, puts all other sprigs to shame!!! In the opulent foyer, this grand ball of gilded ribbon-clad mistletoe invites those to tempt the fates of love and superstition, with but a kiss!

Whether it is a theme of gold or a snowy season of white, find details and enjoy the creative opportunities that present themselves to you in passing or from the depths of your imagination and create your own holiday magic!!!

Creating fantasy, festivity or seasonal celebration, gather the details every day from observing all the particulars around you. It is amazing from where you can collect ideas and be inspired to create your own festive fantasy!!!!!! Then be sure to take some photos!!!!!!!

Posted On December 3, 2018 By pattisays In ambiance, artistic expression, artistic talent, beauty behold it, breakfast rooms, Centerpieces, Christmas, Color schemes, context of interior design, creative process, creativity, decorative accessories, decorative arts, design, design details, design process, design solutions, Design Team, design tips, design trends, dining and design, dining rooms, DIY design, drama of color, drapery treatments, entertaining, expressionism, fabrics, fine china, floral arrangement, floral arrangements, floral designs, flowers in design, functional art, good design, good taste, Hillwood Estate, Hillwood Mansion, hiring an interior designer, historic decorative arts, historic interior design, historic properties, historical interior design, history, holiday decor, holiday trends, home, home improvements, houses, interior design, interior design preferences, interior design trends, interior enhancements, investment pieces, nostalgia and design, personal expression, personal taste, pink, poinsettias, seasonal interior design, sterling silver, Subscribers, table dressings, table top, tableware, travel and design, Trees, value of good design, Washington, D.C., window dressings / 1 1 Comment

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!

Posted On November 18, 2018 By pattisays In Albuquerque, New Mexico, art and interior design, artistic expression, artistic talent, artists, before and after, blue and white, breakfast rooms, color and temperature re: interior design, Color schemes, color trends, colors, context of interior design, creative process, creativity, custom design interior design, decorative arts, design, design details, design process, design solutions, Design Team, design tips, design trends, drama of color, element of surprise in design, expanding spaces, Federico Leon de la Vega, Food and art, food and interior design, good design, good taste, hiring an interior designer, home, home improvements, houses, illusion of space, illusions of space, Impressionist painters, inspiration, inspiration from nature, interior atmosphere, interior design, interior design preferences, interior design trends, interior enhancements, joy, kitchen, kitchen cabinets, kitchen design, kitchen remodel, kitchen remodeling, lifestyle, mosaic, mosaic tile, murals, paint colors, painters, patio, personal expression, personal taste, planning a remodel, practical design, proportion in design, re-purpose, remodeling, room arrangement, selecting colors, slate floors, southwestern design, stone countertops, Subscribers, Talavera Tile, tile, timeless colors, update design, updating, value of art, value of good design, wall treatments, white kitchens /

Urban “Pieced Work” – an artistic narrative

We are excited to have the opportunity to bring a design installation(s) into a new project that will serve to support the brand with a twist. A nearly completed new smokehouse is coming to Albuquerque. This home-grown eatery blends family history and southern roots with southwestern barbecue flavors including indigenous wood and iconic chile blends. But this is not about their cooking profile. It is about how we have arrived at a design theme that will define and further the identity in this new, specialized smokehouse department of this larger local brand.

To accomplish this task, we examined the concept the owner had to remodel an existing facility that had been a popular gathering post serving this community for decades. The fringe barrio location was of a demographic primarily comprised of Mexican/Americans. Decades past it was home to a heavily black community. The fabric of these cultural combinations suggested a mosaic of color and vibrant heritages.

The spark of cultural references lead to discussion of the popular artistic expression of urban mural painting.

When we began the dialogue, the decision to have a mural painted by local neighborhood kids, with a mentor to design and supervise the work, seemed to be the direction we were headed. After subject matter debate and development, I veered off on another tangent that might take a less subjective approach, be weather-proof and more durable for a patio location – mosaic.

This new more impervious and durable medium still offered the opportunity to engage the community, but with less focus on a specific subject and more about geometric color and texture. We discussed the details of installation so as to keep it simple for kids to participate using whole tiles – minimize cutting, if any, for starters.

Inspiration came from several other installations such as the Albuquerque Convention Center’s on-going mosaic mural project wrapping many sections of the buildings with intricate scenes of New Mexican lifestyle and cultural diversity. The colorful mosaic is an elegant and sophisticated contribution to our city’s cultural aesthetic.

Helen Atkins, manager of consignment art at PATRICIAN DESIGN’s downtown boutique gallery and the lead on their current restaurant mural project, has worked on several phases of the Convention Center’s mural project.

We have incorporated mosaic into several of our own design projects such as last week’s blog https://patriciandesign.com/trust-and-custom-designs/about a residential kitchen installation.

Here, in another installation, a fireplace surround of mosaic adds movement, color and textural interest to the room.

Ultimately, one of Helen Atkin’s personal photographs cemented the approach. It was decided that a geometry of different sizes and disparate glazes and designs of tiles pieced together in a colorful, textural panel would be our design theme.

Helen Atkins, a recognized artist in many media, captured this in passing while visiting New Zealand. It’s crisp, yet irregular composition was intriguing and pleasing. It became the springboard for the concept for a geometric mosaic panel to anchor the theme of this new New Mexico eating establishment.

The idea became more exciting as we began gathering material from local tile distributors and our own personal inventories of favorite treasures saved for a special project. Here it was. It seemed such a strong design element and therefore offered a new direction for the actual brand of this establishment. We embraced the idea and brought it into the interior and distributed murals throughout the space.

Still under construction, we will not divulge the identity or locations of this project just yet. But suffice it to say, the murals are an exciting part of this interior design scheme.

As we further discussed the plans to implement this project, school started and the ease of coordinating the assistance of neighborhood kids became more difficult. Helen lead the project as primary installer, coordinator and supervisor. She enlisted the assistance of a couple of people – one experienced and the other not at all.

We have named this series, Urban Pieced Work – an artistic narrative. Here we are interpreting generations old sewing patchwork using ceramic, glass and pottery pieces rather than the traditional fabric patches. The original folk art needlework has been in the American vernacular for ages. In these installations, this up-cycled use of discarded or discontinued tiles is similar to patchwork fabrics, re-purposed to make clothing, wall decor, window treatments and bed dressing when times were tough – often referred to as “pieced work.”

My paternal grandmother in New Mexico made this twin quilt for my bed when I was a child in Virginia.

My same grandmother made this and was given to me by my cousin, her only other granddaughter.

Mosaic is often, like fabric patchwork, a practical art form that puts scrap, shards and fragments to good use in an artistic fashion. Note though that more sophisticated mosaics have been designed more intentionally for centuries not merely as salvaged material. These masterpieces both in contemporary work and antiquities represent many periods in history and movements in artistic expression.

This mosaic version connects with the history of the restaurant’s roots and southern heritage. The panels’ mural nature speaks to the urban murals found throughout the community.

Located strategically throughout the interior, these murals have become a strong design element and anchor for this facet of the brand.

Another shot of the spectacular cultural story murals at the Albuquerque Convention Center.

We have woven a meaningful artistic statement throughout the interior and also on the exterior of the building. In addition, we will be inserting a graphic version into the signage and logo design.

Urban Pieced Work – an artistic narrative, of a New Mexican Smokehouse, will provide pleasing design visuals throughout this new interior, provoke conversation and interaction, weave an element of history and context with the southern roots of this exciting new eatery!

Join the conversation and watch for the first succulent flavors to come out of the smokers later this year.

Posted On October 7, 2018 By pattisays In Abstract Art, Albuquerque, New Mexico, art and food, art and interior design, artistic expression, artistic talent, artists, bars and restaurants, branding in interior design, brew pubs, breweries, commercial interior design, commercial remodel, context of interior design, creative process, creativity, custom design interior design, decorative arts, design, design and marketing, design process, design solutions, Design Team, design tips, dining and design, drama of color, eclectic design, element of surprise in design, fabrics, folkart, Food and art, food and interior design, glass art, good design, Graphic art, graphic arts, graphic designs in interiors, Greek mosaic, handcraft, handmade, Helen Atkins, hiring an interior designer, history, inspiration, interior atmosphere, interior design, interior design preferences, interior design trends, interior enhancements, Modern Art, mosaic, mosaic tile, murals, nostalgia and design, patchwork, pieced work, quilting, quilts, re-purpose, recycle, recycle design, Regional design, remodeling, restaurant design, Santa Fe, New Mexico, southwestern design, Subscribers, textiles, textures, tile, Uncategorized, United States history, urban art, urban design, value of good design, wall texture, wall treatments, wallcovering / 1

Entrepreneurs! Getting Started with Design!

Starting out with your first brick and mortar business, the tasks are many. After homing in on your business specifics, selecting a name, designing a logo, deciding colors…you have your license and your business plan, you’ve found a place and then you need to present your business to the world!

A few weeks ago, we began a new project that is just what I have described…an exciting first-timer in the business world, having worked for others is now ready to do her own thing, be her own boss, make her own decisions and assume the risks necessary to take this leap into entrepreneurial adventure.

It’s exciting and scary, daunting at times and fun too. And it should be fun. Finding something that you enjoy, something you believe in and believe that you can do as well as, if not (hopefully) better than, anyone else in your market.

With inventory determined, name and logo designed the last task was to create the space to present her concept. We won’t divulge that today, the project is yet to be presented, but the framework is on what I want to comment.

We began compiling some finish options…paint, upholstery, privacy curtains, carpet and a little brushed aluminum bling!! We want to reinforce her brand with key colors and finishes.

Knowing the terms of the lease agreement – what is the landlord’s responsibility, what is grandfathered-in, what can be changed, any spending allowances amortized into the lease…these are all things that are necessary to determine how to go about designing the interior. It is necessary to establish costs within the over-all start-up budget. Having helpful, knowledgeable, creative people around you with whom to assemble your team is imperative.

We arrived at the site to find a very clean slate. Located in a retail strip center, it was a white box.

We instantly decided the flooring would be a combination of polished concrete and broadloom carpeting, some lights stay and some go, spots will be added, colors will reinforce her brand.

Toward the back, a break-room kitchen area needed demolition. This pocket would become fitting rooms.

There was existing ceramic tile on the floor that also needed to be removed. These were things that our client could attack herself – saving money and getting to know her space.

We learned that the restrooms were grandfathered in and did not require any additional improvements – other than cosmetic.

We learned that we could make changes and additions to the lights and only needed a permit for electrical portion of the work.

Many of these discoveries were of pleasant surprise to our client who had been miss-directed a bit and was in a state of frustration and near defeat. Gathering good information is imperative, in order to save time and money, make good decisions and know your options. Get out there and get busy!!!!!

Soon to bee completed, watch for this transformation in coming weeks.

Posted On September 24, 2018 By pattisays In Albuquerque, New Mexico, aluminum, bathroom remodel, before and after, branding in interior design, ceiling lighting, Color schemes, color trends, colors, commercial interior design, commercial remodel, concrete finishes, concrete floors, construction, creative process, creativity, custom design interior design, design, design and marketing, design process, design solutions, Design Team, design tips, existing materials, flooring, good design, hiring an interior designer, interior atmosphere, interior design, interior enhancements, lighting, logos, metal finishes, paint colors, personal expression, planning a remodel, practical design, remodeling, retail remodeling, retail storefronts, selecting colors, Subscribers, tenant improvements, tile, value of good design, workplace design / 1

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!

Posted On June 24, 2018 By pattisays In aesthetic medical, Albuquerque, New Mexico, before and after, breakfast rooms, Color schemes, colors, contrasts for balance in design, creative process, creativity, custom design interior design, design, design process, design solutions, Design Team, design tips, design trends, Disruption in design, DIY design, drama of color, element of surprise in design, existing materials, flooring, hiring an interior designer, home improvements, illusions of space, interior design, interior design trends, interior enhancements, joy, kitchen, kitchen cabinets, kitchen design, kitchen remodeling, lifestyle, Mexico, natural stone, nostalgia and design, paint colors, planning a remodel, practical design, re-purpose, Refresh, remodeling, selecting colors, Sherwin Williams, Subscribers, Talavera Tile, terracotta, tile, timeless colors, update design, updating, value of good design /

What’s Trending? Do YOU Need An Interior Designer?

As we move forward into this new year…the story is the same – only some details have changed or been added to past stories. By that I mean if you search for trends – they are ALWAYS all over the place.

We do find years when really new ideas take the stage – like when the shift from plastic laminate to stone slab counter-tops became a valid trend. It was a trend brought about by improved technology, shipping, cost and ultimately availability. After that, the engineered surfaces that grew from this trend broadening the offerings – explored color, texture and pattern and continue to introduce new options.

Myriad surface materials mimic natural stone – when is it preferable over natural stone?

Engineered stone products offer many bold, solid colors from pure white to amazing primary colors.

So right now bold color accents are in, wall covering that made a come-back a couple of years ago is sticking for the time being and with newer bolder prints. Fabrics too – prints are bold and large scale!

Wood on walls is trending. Printed concrete tile is the big thing. Farmhouse sinks – in different finishes than customary stainless or white. Vintage light fixtures – enhanced with new technology and lamping.

So, does that mean I can’t have a white sink or shouldn’t have a stainless one? I should use printed concrete tiles in my kitchen or bathroom? If my home lacks a bold print wall covering am I missing something? If I’m not sporting some raw concrete, am I out of style? Is the wall full of family photos in my bedroom passé?

Surrounding by existing vintage pieces and family heirlooms, the new living room pieces added some contrasting, contemporary lines with clean, crisp, classic, blue and white fabric patterns.

Oh, the pressure to get it right!!!! Oh so many choices – how do I decide? Do I have to start over? I want to be in style – but I don’t know what that even means between today and 6 months from now. I like neutrals – am I dating myself?

Neutral fabrics in a variety of textures and subtle patterns on a recently re-upholstered sofa.

Be calm and carry on…that’s why interior designers exist!! Sorting through all the conflicting, changing information and choices can be exhausting! Just get on Pinterest and look for any subject about an interior – window treatments, living rooms, bedrooms, wall treatments, flooring…with each year, the choices expand. The permutations seem endless. HOW does one ever decide?

Mark my word, we will be flooded with interiors plastered with printed concrete tiles, faux printed concrete tiles, filament light bulbs and jarring color contrasts, in the coming months and perhaps even years…These trends have already made their mark. But it will be the creative manner, in which the various printed concrete tiles are used and when the vintage style of filament fixtures is appropriate and effective. What colors are used (where, how and with what) is what will set a few exceptional installations apart from myriad uninspired, if not confused, versions.

An effective interior designer knows what is trendy versus a trend designed and positioned for lasting impact. This is a major part of the equation. Existing conditions with regard to architectural style, existing furnishings, personal preferences, budget, priorities, all play roles in the design process.

A young teen’s bedroom was recently redesigned to reflect her developing tastes and preferences. Bold color and a variety of geometrics and patterns make a bold, fresh statement.

You don’t want to be coerced into making changes just because new style suggestions are being presented. Trends DON’T RULE – despite the fact that the design community wants you to think they do, in order to continually change things up! Don’t be a victim of too many directives regarding what is in style. It’s intimidating and mostly due to access. We have access to so many opinions, on-line sites, magazines and advertisements that the pressure, conflicting information and choices can be ridiculous.

It’s YOUR interior, your style, your comfort and functionality. Yes, it’s all about YOU and yours.

Do YOU need an interior designer?

Posted On February 11, 2018 By pattisays In artistic expression, bars and restaurants, bathroom remodel, blue and white, color forecasting, color trends, concrete finishes, context of interior design, creative process, design, design process, design solutions, Design Team, design tips, design trends, hiring an interior designer, inspiration, interior atmosphere, interior design, interior design trends, kitchen, kitchen lighting, kitchen remodeling, lighting, patterns, personal expression, planning a remodel, re-upholstery, Refresh, selecting colors, Subscribers, tile, timeless colors, trends, update design, updating, upholstery, value of good design /

Custom Designed Art for Branding in Commercial Interiors

Designing artwork for commercial interiors offers an opportunity to connect to the brand. It means that we take into consideration the artwork as relates to the business and its identity. You might remember a blog from last year about the can wall. It was designed for a taproom. The theme was beer. The name was “Silver” and we considered that a natural off-shoot of that was the silver color of aluminum beer cans – as a wall treatment!

Designing with Balance and the Creation of the Can Wall!

For that same project (in two locations) we further emphasized the brand with photos we took of their own products transferred to and stretched on canvas stretchers to be the “art” on the surrounding walls.

Fast forward to a conference room for an energy company home-based in Albuquerque – the iconic Sandia mountain being the earth’s monument – the familiar, perfect image to represent the company and the connection to the earth and its resources. For this project, we were asked to build 27′ of custom , cabinetry and dress the wall above it.

The tall ceilings required a vertical element, but the length of the wall also begged for horizontal space-filling. As a cost-effective solution to such a large space, we decided to take a photo of the majestic mountain, separate it into 5 sections and have it enlarged and transferred onto aluminum panels for light weight and rigidity. The reviews were sensational as everyone loves and relates to the familiar scene – seen in such a colorfully explosive and expansive installation.

In response to the success of that solution, the client asked for a complimentary treatment for the opposing wall. Again, the wall was 27′ long and had the same ceiling height so we used multiple fragments in 3 groupings to center across the entire expanse. “Elemental Fragments” was born of the concept to have just that – fragments of elements in an orderly fashion – uniform yet random, to contrast against its formal geometry in response to the amorphous photographic landscape. Colors were derived from the blue, green and yellow in the scenic panorama interspersed in a field of silver.

Last week, on the day of the installation, colorful creative chaos – resulting from unwrapping the individually hand-crafted compositions and scattering them across the conference table – was part of the fun, of the scene.

The tedious work of aligning all just right, with perfect spacing and level mounting, added to the anticipation of realizing the finished product.

The luminous glass against the rich, stained wood punctuated with the brushed stainless fasteners made a striking assembly.

Modern engineering and production, worldwide energy collaborations and shared technology coming together in a grounded environment of people and their place on the planet. A daunting system of assembling fragments of many elements that make things work to bring gas to the end users. The artwork makes the concept look easy. The result of the many facets, of the actual work and the artwork representing it, is not only effective, it is triumphal.

It’s creative fun to custom design pieces to relate to the brand, the business and the culture of a project. Bringing joy, pride and a sense of confidence in the focus of the work, to the employees and guests, is a successful finale.

Bring us your design challenge and we will design a solution specifically and especially for YOU!!!

Posted On November 19, 2017 By pattisays In Abstract Art, Albuquerque, New Mexico, aluminum, art and interior design, artistic expression, artists, bars and restaurants, branding in interior design, breweries, commercial interior design, conference rooms, Contemporary Art, context of interior design, contrasts for balance in design, creative process, creativity, custom design interior design, decorative arts, design, design process, Design Team, design trends, Gas Company of New Mexico, graphic arts, handcraft, handmade, hiring an interior designer, inspiration, interior design, interior design trends, Modern Art, Nexus Brewery, organization, patterns, photography, wall sculpture, workplace design /

Designing with the Brand in Mind

The grand opening of a project is always fun. Months of planning and construction resulting in a finished scene.

It’s not an easy path nor is it always as planned, but this project, conducted mostly long-distance, with only two field visits, is a great success.

Great clients make great projects. It’s a team effort and it helps that everyone is on the same page. The designer is a navigator, lighting the way to get to the end result. It can be a circuitous path. Like all projects, there are decisions and modifications, priorities and compromises.

Arizona Facial Plastics, having created a brand and provided a concept with which they wanted present their practice, sought an interior which instilled confidence, with the refreshing, pampering atmosphere of a spa, but with the aura of a conscientious, progressive medical environment.

In the fast-paced ever-expanding world of aesthetics, it is important to emphasize the quality and experience of service offered. In this clinic the services range from complex surgical procedures (performed off-site) to all of the cutting edge procedures and treatments desired by today’s discriminating clients. World-class products and state-of-the-art equipment and procedures are provided here, in the clinic, with quiet confidence and confidentiality.

To achieve their goals, we first focused on the brand and its style and colors. A crisp, serif-style A underscored with an elegant scroll, warm, soft charcoal compliments the bold cool gradated turquoise set against a fresh white ground.

Selecting finish materials began with the flooring and cabinetry. As is true with all interior projects, it is best to begin with the items that have the least options. There are fewer carpets and cabinet finishes than there are paint colors, for example.

We found the perfect carpet with a broadloom that provided a forgiving pattern, multiple textures and yarn colors. The complex product had an organic pattern of plush cut turquoise pile set in relief from a loop comprised of a grayed lavender and pale green citrine. Having made this selection, we then extracted individual colors of vinyl tile to compliment the carpeting in adjacent exam and procedure rooms. Gradated white porcelain tiles were used at the point of entry set against the contour of the carpeting in the waiting area creating a fluid, curvaceous transition and guiding, directional flow to the interior of the suite.

Once the flooring was selected, the cabinet and counter-top materials were next. A translucent yellow-green citrine engineered solid surface material was selected for the transaction counters at the reception desk and medical assistants’ work area. Dark charcoal plastic laminate was used for casework and select counters while exam room cabinets had a pencil-sketched floral patterned soft green laminate playing across the counter-tops.

An accent of sparkling glass and stone mosaic tile face the reception counter at the point of arrival.

Behind the receptionist, an elevated planter of succulent “sansevieria trifasciata”, regarded for it’s exceptional oxygen-producing properties, is a refreshing organic backdrop. Above, custom drapes filter light from the sloped ceiling atrium windows.

Non-representational expressions of color were selected for the wall art throughout the space.

For the waiting room, we commissioned photographer, Katie Barry Councilor, of Smoketree Photography, to create a custom collection of abstracted body forms in grey scale. We then enhanced each image with their brand’s cool turquoise color, in the negative spaces, creating a series of artful stretched canvas images flanking their logo.

The take-away for clients is a serene, yet reverential experience which instills confidence and promotes relaxation and rejuvenation. The subtle reiteration of the AZFP brand’s turquoise color throughout insures that the clients will be refreshed and reminded of their pleasing experience when they encounter that color even after leaving the clinic.

Hope you enjoy these before and after shots!!

Posted On October 1, 2017 By pattisays In aesthetic medical, before and after, branding in interior design, Color schemes, commercial interior design, commercial remodel, context of interior design, contrasts for balance in design, creative process, custom design interior design, design process, Design Team, design tips, flooring, graphic arts, hiring an interior designer, interior design, interior design trends, medical offices, mosaic tile, photography, remodeling, tile, timeless colors, trends, window dressings, workplace design / 2 Comments

Inspiration Discovered in Familiar Materials Used in New Ways

While at the stop light, I found myself behind this gorgeous fire truck and by the time I thought I should take it’s photo, it was pulling away and I was making a U-turn! So I quickly grabbed the phone, fumbled for the camera icon, and snapped this shot over the dash through the windshield as it powered up the street.

I have zoomed in on this spotlessly, shiny, magnificent machine for the effect of today’s story subject. This wonderful, patriotic, service – truck struck me not only because it was colorful and sparkling, but much of the high contrast and bling came from the diamond tread wrapping the handsome body.

Earlier in the week a client casually mentioned how cool it would be to use some of this material as an interior design element! Little did he know that his simple off-the-cuff comment inspired me to investigate and plan to do just that! I was minutes from presenting to this very client when this photo op occurred. Serendipitous perhaps?

What sparks the imagination? How do things evolve? What fun it is, as a part of the Creative Process, to explore the possibilities of unexpected materials used in new ways. In this case, the material is perfect to promote the theme of the brand – a successfully growing business related to cars and the repair and restoration thereof.

I won’t reveal the business just yet – it will be a dramatic unveiling soon-to-come. Suffice it to say, I am enjoying the process, with a great team, of expressing and furthering their well-established brand, in the development of the interior and exterior design.

Back to the diamond tread. You’ve seen this used on fire trucks, tool boxes, tailgates, flooring, trap doors…and much more. It comes in glossy aluminum as shown here with its brilliant, bright, bling – also in stainless steel (a bit more expensive), and a dark carbon version. It comes in large sheets – a couple of different sizes and thicknesses.

I have also discovered here, while on the search for materials for this project, a dark iridescent porcelain tile with a bas relief pattern simulating this amazing tread. This material like other faux finishes has it’s practical purposes – but like porcelain wood or porcelain stone – it is NOT the real deal. I have elected not to present this, for use on this project.

So stay tuned to the exciting insertion of this sheet metal in our new interior design. Just enough – not too much – right where it will be effective – and make the best statement.

The takeaway is that the excitement of introducing different materials effectively – not gratuitously – but with a purpose – is part of the fun of design. The daily inspiration that comes from new projects and people, ideas and opportunities!!!

And in light of our holiday weekend – a perfect time to feature the shiny red truck that inspires and represents the outstanding individuals in the service and rescue fields – Happy Labor Day!

Posted On September 3, 2017 By pattisays In aluminum, branding in interior design, commercial interior design, context of interior design, contrasts for balance in design, creative process, creativity, custom design interior design, design, design process, Design Team, design tips, faux finishes, faux flooring materials, hiring an interior designer, inspiration, interior design, red /

DIY – Inspiration is All Around!

DIY is so in vogue. Where it used to be chic to hire someone to do everything in your world, now practicality rules! The savings and fun of doing things yourself is huge. There are so many inspirations on-line. Ideas overflow-ith and the possibilities are endless.

Where do you get YOUR inspiration? It’s all around us. I had been contemplating a shower/wedding gift. I always prefer to find something unique rather than picking from a registry at Nordstrom’s or William Sonoma…but this one was a challenge.

Recently, my inspiration came from taking a morning walk through the desert.

The decorative graphic on the invitation was a floral arrangement of soft pastels and antlers. Yes, antlers. This bride-to-be is a hunter. A long, lanky, beautiful, feminine, crack shot! I’ve known her since she was a toddler. I had been picturing that graphic in my mind in an effort to divine some special gift that related to that theme…something uniquely memorable and lasting.

As I walked through the rough desert grasses and around piles of dead tumbleweeds I regarded them with a new-found appreciation. They had such an interesting structural framework that I realized that they clearly resembled antlers.

They became the springboard for a floral arrangement that would replicate the theme of the invitation and, with that, I began selecting them and carefully carrying their rotund prickly selves back to the car.

Next step – what else will make this a successful rendition of the theme I was trying to emulate? Off to the craft stores! I selected delicate, creamy-white wooden roses, soft pink mini silk roses and some fill from both Michael’s and Hobby Lobby. The PERFECT ceramic vessel presented itself in an soft, oval shape glazed in a powder blue, but with edges and character that offered attractive, desirable, intentional imperfection.

As I have mentioned in past stories, a successful designer has a good team. Building a team to realize your dreams is the key to that success and I called on my very special and exquisitely talented floral designer to assemble my gatherings into the image of my intent. Melba has made my dreams come true for years. She gets into my head and interprets my words and elements to create a finished product that has hit the nail on the head over and over again.

I pulled out the many materials that I had purchased. She evaluated each, talked to me about my concept, and studied the combinations that were laid out on the table.

This piece exceeded my expectations. The fine branches of the tumbleweeds were the delicate punctuation amidst the flowers.

When she actually ordered real, bleached deer antlers that became the statuary of the piece, I was thrilled! Not only was the finished arrangement perfection, I didn’t think it was realistic to expect to get real antlers and incorporate them into this design in such short notice. She had less than 2 weeks! It was spectacular.

DIY inspiration is all around – even in dead, dried tumbleweeds. Creativity begins with a concept and progresses with the fun of making it uniquely yours. Team DIY!

Posted On June 24, 2017 By pattisays In Albuquerque, New Mexico, art and interior design, art as gift ideas, artistic expression, beauty behold it, Centerpieces, creative process, creativity, decorative arts, design process, Design Team, design tips, design trends, designs in nature, DIY design, dried flowers, fanciful design, floral arrangement, floral arrangements, floral designs, handcraft, inspiration from nature, interior design, interior design trends, lifestyle, natural integrity of the materials, naturalist, nature, personal expression, re-purpose, silk flowers, table dressings, table top, tumbleweeds /

Design Team