Sep 16

Relocating – Making a new house a HOME

By pattisays In Albuquerque, New Mexico, art and interior design, before and after, Boulder. Colorado, breakfast rooms, chairs, Color schemes, color trends, colors, design, design process, design solutions, design tips, design trends, dining rooms, exterior - outdoor design, fabrics, family rooms, fireplaces, good design, hiring an interior designer, home, home improvements, inspiration, interior design, interior design preferences, interior design trends, interior enhancements, lifestyle, nostalgia and design, paint colors, personal expression, personal taste, practical design, re-purpose, recycle design, sectional sofas, selecting colors, Subscribers, textiles, timeless colors, travel and design, update design, updating, value of good design / 2 Comments

Thirteen or so years ago we designed the interior of a home for a young family complete with a toddler. The desire was to bring color and modern accents while still selecting durable materials and hopefully timeless elements.

Fast forward these many years later and this same family now with two beautiful daughters is relocating to another city, another state and a new home. This home was well furnished and much, of what was shown, stayed with the house. The trick was, after having adopted so much from the previous owners, how would they make this house their home?

The point of arrival – the front door – was a tasteful charcoal grey, but by changing it to a bit lighter smoky green, it made a significant difference.

It’s tough to be up-rooted anytime in your school years…these girls missed the only home they had ever had, friends, activities, groups and familiar environs. This challenge was to help all four of them – parents and kids – get settled and assist in making this new house their true home.

As I flew to consult with them, I imagined the scene having seen photos to get somewhat oriented. I made the natural assumption that paint would make new statements to alter the previous owner’s selections and introduce the new family’s preferences. However, despite the change we made to the front door, it wasn’t all about paint once I arrived.

In the previous residence all those many years ago, we punctuated the interior with paint accents. Good design transcends trends and the years. Who would think that this interior was created thirteen years ago?

The dining room in the new home was painted entirely charcoal – trim and walls. Oppressive was an understatement and before I even got there they painted all the trim white to match the rest of the home. However, they left the fireplace charcoal – waiting for a discussion as to how to proceed.

Notice the dining room furniture having moved from one home into the next. We decided to paint all the wood trim surrounding the fireplace area white to match the rest. But it produced a startling brightness that will be absorbed once a new painting is selected for above the mantle.

They inherited the chandalier with the home and although it is quite different from their previous dining room fixtures, they are making it their own by mixing their chairs, table, rug and sideboard.

The framed lounge chair found a home in the new living room alongside the large sectional that they acquired from the previous owners of the house.

Here in the previous home, the painting over the fireplace has a prominent position, yet also has a place of prominence in the new home along with the chair and a half and the arm chair in the foreground.

Checking out a sample of a rug to add further color to the otherwise neutral scene.

The simple placement of custom throw pillows initially designed for the banco in the kitchen are now colorful accents in the living room, on the newly acquired sectional left by the previous owners, are a remarkable save.

These pillows had seen their share of spilled milk and ground-in cereal over the years. But with periodic cleaning, they maintained their appearance perfectly.

Here the pillows are the perfect accent on the camel-colored sectional that came with the new house. The painting has been a family favorite for years.

The rest of the collection of throw pillows from that original breakfast nook are being re-purposed on the sectional in the lower level media room/office. They add the necessary splash of color in this neutral scene.

The fully upholstered chair-and-a-half also transferred from old to new. Previously in the family room, now in the music room/office. The master bedroom transferred completely. The girls’ rooms have a mix of their things and some new features. All in all it is beginning to take shape.

It pays to buy good materials that maintain well and take proper care of them. Not only will they offer years of enjoyment, in this case they bring the familiarity, to the new house, that is beginning to make it feel like “home.”

Sure, some might like the opportunity to start new without remnants of the previous life – but in this case, they cling to that which was comforting, familiar and theirs. Moving to a new home and being able to mix existing pieces so well with new ones to make this new house a home is a design success story!

Aug 19

Decorative Wallcovering – Fun with Tile

By pattisays In Abstract Art, Albuquerque, New Mexico, architecture, art and interior design, artistic expression, artistic talent, artists, bathroom remodel, before and after, blue and white, breakfast rooms, commercial interior design, creative process, creativity, custom design interior design, decorative mirrors, design, design process, design solutions, design tips, design trends, DIY design, eclectic design, exterior - outdoor design, fireplaces, functional art, good design, graphic designs in interiors, handcraft, handmade, hiring an interior designer, home improvements, inspiration, interior atmosphere, interior design, interior design preferences, interior design trends, interior enhancements, kitchen, kitchen design, kitchen remodeling, lifestyle, master bathrooms, mirrors, mosaic, mosaic tile, murals, natural stone, personal expression, personal taste, planning a remodel, powder rooms, public restrooms, recycle, recycle design, remodeling, residential restrooms, restaurant restrooms, stone, stone countertops, Subscribers, Talavera Tile, tile, update design, updating, urban art, wall texture, wall treatments, wallcovering / 2 Comments

When you think about finishing a wall, you probably think about paint colors…you might think about a wallcovering – wallpaper, or even a mirror – I’ve previously noted how mirroring an entire wall can exponentially expand a room – a dimensional effect/illusion that suggests the room extends well beyond its actual size. But another wall treatment, with which I LOVE to play, is tile!

All over the world, the art of designing and creating decorative finishes with tile has been evolving for centuries. All cultures have utilized mud and clay, glazes and fire to bake beautiful patterns and colors onto geometric slabs. Shapes of rectangular, square, octagonal, dots or diamonds – the geometric shapes are many and the designs are limitless.

As is true with other wall treatments, I prefer not to stop on an outside corner. I believe that the color or material should suggest a built mass – part of the architecture. To stop on an outside corner suggests a veneer. It proves that the finish on the element is not a structural/integral part of a built mass. When you paint into an inside corner and stop, it allows the mass the read as though solid and not merely superficially treated. The same is true with tile. Don’t stop it until you get to an inside corner – if possible. There are situations that force a finished edge on the flat plain of a wall – but avoid outside corners at all cost!!

This entire shower is tiled floor to ceiling, around the pony wall, bench…no door…it reads like a built environment of stone tile.

Think of the surface as an architectural element. Tile from floor to ceiling, inside corner to inside corner – wrapping corners, if needed, along the way.

Take a backsplash…customarily used to do just that – catch splashes at the back wall of a wet area (sink) countertop…bathrooms and kitchens, behind sinks and between upper and lower cabinets – but why stop there?

The entire back wall of this kitchen is mosaic marble tiles in a herringbone pattern.

Think of it as a true wallcovering – wallpaper. Commit to the entire surface. Here are more effective examples…

The backsplash and entire adjacent wall were covered in glass mosaic tiles. It “reads” like wallpaper.

here again, the classic blue and white Talavera tile backsplash is continued along the entire wall from floor to ceiling.

We are currently working on a couple of kitchen projects that will soon be completed. They both use tile liberally. Each quite different from the other. Stay tuned for the finished products!

In bathrooms, the area around a mirror can be more than merely the backsplash. Embed the mirror into the tile surround or tile the entire wall and hang a mirror on top of the tile surface.

This mirror is flush with the surrounding tile, suggesting that it is embedded into a tile wall.

Planning this transformation, the mosaic vase was the inspiration. Then loose tiles were scattered on the countertop and the concept began. Note, the existing mirror was attached to wall with light fixture mounted above it and a medicine cabinet off to the side.

The transformation involved removing the medicine cabinet, taking the floor tile up the wall and wrapping it floor to ceiling. It was also cut into smaller squares to use behind the sink as a “full-wall backsplash.” Then punctuated with glass and glazed tiles to create an updated design. Relocating electrical to flanking the mirror for a pair of new sconces and a new countertop, faucet and sink with existing cabinets painted resulted in a cost-effective design.

Here a mirror is mounted on top of the fully tiled wall. Inside and outside of the shower enclosure the tile is a true wall treatment.

I recently received this advertisement in my email. It was such a spectacular collection that it caught my eye and I share here one of the patterns and context shots as the backdrop to a range.

Mosaic assemblages can be fun! Here is a fireplace surround.

The addition of three-dimensional pieces adds interest.

This exterior fireplace surround tolerates the elements – an all-season installation.

Here is a mosaic mural of a dynamic geometric abstraction discovered in New Zealand. We are using this inspiration to establish a theme in a current restaurant project. An interpretation of this in the form of geometric tiles of various sizes, colors and patterns will be used to create a cohesive repeated design element through various areas of the restaurant – both inside and out. Watch for this completed project in coming months.

Commercial restrooms can benefit from full-wall tile treatments too. Not only does it look complete, but it is an ease of maintenance consideration.

Three dimensional tiles add interest to this cactus motif!

Fun with color and texture, tile are also easy too keep clean – terrific for public restrooms.

Murals are also terrific ways to use tile as art in your interior/exterior designs!

This is embedded into the stucco for an integral installation.

When using outside though, remember to consider the range of temperature and moisture to which it will be exposed. Porcelain is the most durable in areas where the temperatures get to and below freezing. Freezing and thawing can destroy tile. Many murals are made from clay that is not suitable in cold climates!

Inset into the tile wall treatment is this stunning glass mosaic abstract mural.

Tile – it’s a nearly limitless medium. So consider the possibilities for your next project! As a piece of art, an accent wall or an entire installation – full-wall treatments make a statement! Have fun with tile!

Aug 13

Southwest Style – What is it?

By pattisays In Albuquerque, New Mexico, architecture, art and food, art and interior design, artistic expression, artistic talent, artists, bathroom remodel, beauty behold it, blue and white, civilization, color forecasting, Color schemes, color trends, colors, context of interior design, cowhides, creative process, creativity, custom design interior design, decorative arts, decorative mirrors, design, design process, design solutions, design tips, design trends, designs in nature, dining and design, drama of color, eclectic design, eclecticism, functional art, hammered metal, handcraft, handmade tableware, hiring an interior designer, historic properties, historical interior design, home improvements, houses, inspiration, inspiration from nature, interior atmosphere, interior design, interior design preferences, interior design trends, interior enhancements, joy, kitchen, kitchen design, Leon de la Vega, lifestyle, Mexico, natural designs, nature, nostalgia and design, organic design, paint colors, personal expression, personal taste, powder rooms, Pueblo pottery, quilting, Regional design, residential restrooms, Santa Fe, New Mexico, selecting colors, Smithsonian American Art Museum, Spanish Colonial, stone countertops, Subscribers, table dressings, table top, tableware, Talavera Tile, terracotta, textiles, tile, timeless colors, travel and design, trends, value of good design, weavings / 1 2 Comments

Arriving for the first time in our American Southwest, one might feel like they have entered a different country, if not a different world!! To fly from anywhere else where there are rolling green hills, or green fields or dense green wooded landscapes, not to mention tropical environs and cruise over America’s Southwest, it looks like the moon – or some barren planet. Everyone remembers their first impression. Whether exotic or scary, lonely or seemingly uninhabitable, once you get on the ground and explore the beauty and variety of what’s here, you’re bitten – even smitten.

In all fairness, this is a completely defoliated winter shot!! Many now know how lush this magnificent Sandia Mountain can be at the top, in the summer. Yes, I said lush.

No other region has the distinct architecture and tri-cultural identity of what has become the elemental design style and flavor of this magical place. From “sea to shining sea” New England to Southern California you will find nuances of regional distinction – but not to the degree that the American southwest is set apart. Architectural influences from colonization have been the standard guiding style nationwide. Yet the ancient, practical elements, of civilization that long preceded the Europeans discovering the New World, is at the roots of this enchanting design style.

Tri-cultural architecture and interior design results from the remarkable history combining Native Americans carving out of stone walls, building with mud (adobe) bricks, devising simple, practical designs to capture heat and insulate in cold while minimizing solar gain in the warm weather months, with the conquering Spaniards and their colonial influences, and finally the pioneers from the east with their colonial English influences. Now more often replicated, with frame construction and stucco facades, this unique melding is the core of Southwestern architectural design.

When one hears the term “earth tones” setting a design trend in the 70s, it suggests the brown, tan, orange palette that was terribly limiting. Certainly to label it earth tones, it became a curse of a color scheme. Sadly to link it to a representation of southwestern design was misplaced and unfortunate. And how sad to think that it was so broadly accepted – like lemmings following blindly – everyone adopted this as a truism. So often the case with trends. The 70’s also spawned a diametrically opposite color scheme of blues and greens to refresh that which had been so mired in the “earth-tone” movement.

However, real earth tones are limitless. Earth tones are all colors…look down…look around. Even if you confine your interpretation to the dirt beneath your feet – the colors are vastly more than the brown, tan, rust, orange that became the rage. Soft pinks and grays, pale blue and whites…look at dirt. It might be more clay, might be more peat – from soft terracotta to dark espresso – dirt is earth and the colors and tones are limitless.

Tom Glover captured the beauty of the natural landscape through his artistic photographic medium that Georgia O’Keeffe and others have depicted through their artistic media.

Georgia O’Keeffe saw it and captured it in her own enduring style.

Nature offers color. Natural dyes have riddled that art world through time. Synthetic dyes took it a level further. But nature is at the core of all we have in this world.

http://www.quilthistory.com/dye.htm

Turquoise being a natural mineral in the American Southwest became a signature accent color punctuating the soft earthen tones of the adobe design palette.

Artist Victoria Martinez Rodgers paints a valley apple orchard and the turquoise wall is the perfect backdrop.

Color was always there for those who cared to notice. The great painters of this region presented it well. Their recordings of everything from the many colors of the rugged windswept landscapes to lush green mountain forests with shimmering golden aspen groves – and bosque cottonwoods screaming with yellow brilliance capture and convey so much more.

In autumn, bosque cottonwoods explode with color sending a streak of brilliant yellow all along the Rio Grande. Federico Leon de la Vega create this commissioned oil painting from a photo provided by his clients.

There are the natural and also synthetic dyes that were woven through the magnificent textiles of the Native Americans – blankets and articles of clothing were not limited to buckskin animal hides.

Ernest Blumenschein was the founder of the Taos Society of Artists capturing the color and textures of the realities that he encountered in this Land of Enchantment.

Sunsets everywhere play a part in the imagery of the landscape – here we see vast landscapes with brilliant fiery skies and those exciting corals and lavenders, soft pink and blue wisps provide inspiration for wall colors and backdrops to our richly embellished interior designs.

Yet spare, understated neutral interpretations also offer elegant representations of southwestern style.

So what do you visualize when you think of Southwestern Design? Please don’t say a turquoise wooden cutout of a howling coyote! Death by Southwestern Style – the overdose resulting from overdone clichés and trends that have spoiled the real art and beauty.

It doesn’t have to be all about cow skulls and pelts…but these cow hide butterfly chairs are pretty cool!!!

Perhaps you see a Mexican influence which is also part of the melding of the regional style – like food, we have a fine line sometimes with certain traditional dishes that when adopted and adapted by American Southwest kitchens took on a unique identity all its own – differing between Texas, New Mexico, Arizona and California. We all enjoy bringing art and craft from our southern neighbors into our designs.

Borrowing, sharing, combining so many design elements such as adobe architecture, colonial wood trim detailing, fired brick technology, Mexican Talavera tile and pottery,

Native American textiles and so many other handcrafts

The owners of this interior have an intimate relationship with each of the artists that they have collected down to this magnificent mount of a buffalo. They knew him and his name and why he was put down.

from punched and tooled tin, paintings and pottery – southwestern interior design is rich with color, texture, artistic detailing and true soul. The connection to the earth is undeniable and nature always plays a key role.

So how might you introduce southwestern influences into YOUR design scheme? You could tile the wall(s) of a powder room in Talavera Tile. Maybe just a mirror surround?

You might paint an accent wall – or all walls in a room or some other bold color inspired by a regional image

Mango watercolor by Susan Weeks splashes coral against the golden yellow wall with a lime green lighted cabinet showcasing old, traditional, low-fire Talavera tableware. classic Talavera blue and white tile frame the bar opening and on through out the kitchen.

and collect art pieces such a punched tin crosses, wood and straw,

landscape or still life painting, hang a blanket or drape a bed with a beautiful woven textile…introducing different styles speaks to last week’s story about eclecticism. Don’t be afraid to mix things that you like. What brings you joy?

Aug 07

Eclecticism in Design – What Does it Mean? What Does it Say?

By pattisays In art and interior design, artistic expression, beauty behold it, context of interior design, contrasts for balance in design, creative process, creativity, decorative arts, design process, design solutions, design tips, design trends, eclectic design, eclecticism, element of surprise in design, fine china, furniture finds, good design, hammered metal, handcraft, handmade, hiring an interior designer, historical interior design, history, home, home improvements, inspiration, interior atmosphere, interior design, interior design preferences, interior design trends, investment pieces, joy, lifestyle, multi-generational design, nostalgia and design, personal expression, personal taste, practical design, re-purpose, retro, Subscribers, table top, Thrift Shops, Thrifting, travel and design, trends, unique serving pieces, value of good design / 1 1 Comment

Looking back (to both sides of the turn of the 20th century), eclectic interiors were only cultivated by the very rich. Those who had the discretionary income to take vacations abroad, had diplomatic ties or nomadic adventuresome types who took precious time off to explore different locations and cultures other than from whence they came. Others of means might have merely hired decorators to create interiors that suggested such adventure and access, without leaving their drawing rooms. Expensive eclecticism catapulted status.

Leaf through decades of Architectural Digest – THE authority on design for examples and inspiration of fabulously eclectic interiors among all the varied styles they have documented for us!

A surge in eclecticism occurred with the many military personnel and their families who were stationed overseas and were able to transport containers of belongings along the way.

Recognize a meter tray? A meter size diameter of solid brass tooled with hand detailing and pressed/formed/hammered designs. From table tops to wall hangings, they are statement pieces!

They brought back fine and fun arts and crafts from around the globe. These homes were distinctively punctuated with art that was recognizable in those circles – you could tell where people had been stationed by the decorative elements in their homes.

A souvenir from 1970s South Vietnam! Ceramic elephants were the rage!!! From stand-alone accents to end tables and bases for larger cocktail tables supporting glass slabs, these animated novelties of artistic expressions continue to bring joy decades later!

As the original owners handed down these nostalgic treasures, the history of the discoveries was diluted if not lost but the appreciation for many of the collectibles remained and was passed down to younger generations starting their homes. Inherited interiors spawns eclecticism.

Antique collection Rose Medallion passed down in a family.

Many homes have been assembled with the elements gifted by others resulting in a nostalgic, familiar collage of decorative accessories.

Vintage pink glass salad plates, family antique chairs, and a china cabinet of new and old collectibles used and mixed with love and affection.

Pier One capitalized on this decades ago. Their slogan was something like “we shop the world so you don’t have to.” In lieu of experiencing great world travels, the buyers sought exotic, interesting, affordable, mass-produced items and eclecticism expanded exponentially. They actually set seasonal decor trends with their ability to influence the market with their sweeping design reach to international artisans and fabricators, massive buying power, focused design team and extensive marketing campaigns.

Some, in order to create that sense of eclecticism, haunt thrift stores and antique markets. “Thrifting” is today’s trend for gathering eclectic “finds.” From antiques to current cast-offs, the sport can be quite satisfying, cost-effective and can result in some amazing acquisitions!

“Thrifted” antique table and eclectic crystal decanters contrast sweeping contour of limestone hearth.

Eclecticism means varied interests and experiences, an appreciation for what is good and fun rather than merely coordinating. It suggests independence, personal taste and style, with a freedom from convention and changing trends. A successful eclectic interior still requires balance and proper placement and distribution of the varied objects. Have what you like. Be surrounded by things that make you feel good, productive and bring you joy.

Jul 29

HOME – An Artist’s Perspective

By pattisays In architect, architecture, art and interior design, artistic expression, artistic talent, artists, bars and restaurants, construction, context of interior design, creative process, creativity, design, design process, discovering artistic talent, Do Ho Suh, door hardware, embroidery, fabrics, handmade, hiring an interior designer, home, houses, inspiration, interior atmosphere, interior design, lifestyle, Modern Art, multi-media design, Museums, nostalgia and design, personal expression, SAAM, Smithsonian American Art Museum, Subscribers, textiles, Washington D.C. /

It was quite by accident that we ran into SAAM! Truly, our destination and plan for the afternoon was to catch a bite at the hip and artsy Jaleo tapas restaurant and head to the Bible Museum to see some cool film of all of the buildings in downtown DC that feature biblical quotes on their facades – or something to that effect. But as we sat there in this trippy Spanish-themed interior, right next to the window, we

watched the staff bring in umbrellas from the sidewalk seating areas as the wind picked-up and the sky darkened. Our plans soon began to change. We dawdled at the table well past our tantalizing tapas feast and watched the rain come down in sheets.

As the time past, it became apparent that the Bible Museum was too daunting a task to embark on after the storm subsided. So we dashed between the drops to the nearby Smithsonian American Art Museum – SAAM!

Having never been there before and not having planned this outing, we entered without a clue as to what we might find – except perhaps the portraits of the Presidents – cool enough. Yet inasmuch as the exhibits were wonderful and many faceted, I want to focus on one inspired installation that pertains directly to architecture and design.

Considered to be perhaps the most compelling architectural artists around today, Do Ho Suh takes nostalgia for “home” to a whole new dimension. He figured out that he didn’t need to wait for enchanted ruby red slippers – no, he re-creates memories of “home” and makes them transportable all over the planet. And by whole new dimension, I mean we walked through fine translucent fabrics – taught and stitched – over concealed stainless steel frames creating hallways of houses where he had formerly lived around the world.

With great attention to detail, he stitched door hardware, radiators, and wood trim details. It was remarkable.

This interactive immersion was thought provoking. I think it is impossible to pass through this presentation without experiencing a few fleeting personal memories of the your own past homes. As Dorothy taught us,”There’s no place like home.”

It was as though the sheer polyester fabric was misty or ethereal as though not really there – a very effective medium to suggest a thought or memory. How fascinating to render a structure with such a diaphanous, fragile sense – tangible yet not. “Almost Home.” There, but not quite.

The time it must have taken to create this tedious textile architectural art-piece, of delicately painstaking work, surely proves his love for these past dwellings.

This presentation will be the most comprehensive of Do Ho Suh’s work ever shown on the East Coast. And wait – there’s more! After having navigated the Twilight Zone of Do Ho Suh’s recollections, I was even more strongly drawn to this large-scale piece of stitched textile work mounted on the wall! It was a colorful and beautifully complex collection of images of people and homes in various states of movement and fantasy.

Colorful threads intentionally strewn from the stitched images of human figures, some sporting houses on their heads, another running with memories flying behind his head…taking the home (s) through life’s stages – memories…home is where the heart is…taking their memories with them…

People parachuting with houses floating through the air…pitched roofs and domes – all manner of interpretations of “home.”

There is a stitched reference to Seoul and a house on a jetty suspended above a wild, choppy sea.

Live – dwell – reside – inhabit…Be quick – it’s only there until the 5th of August.

Jul 22

Living Room Transformation

By pattisays In ambiance, bar, before and after, blue and white, breakfast rooms, cats, Color schemes, color trends, colors, contrasts for balance in design, creative process, custom design interior design, design, design process, design solutions, design tips, design trends, dining and design, dining rooms, entertaining, family rooms, faux finishes, fireplaces, flooring, furniture finds, good design, hardwood floors, hiring an interior designer, home improvements, inspiration, interior atmosphere, interior design, interior design preferences, interior design trends, interior enhancements, kitchen, kitchen cabinets, kitchen design, kitchen lighting, kitchen remodeling, lifestyle, lighting, Millenial, modern cabinets, mosaic, mosaic tile, natural stone, open floorplans, paint colors, patterns, personal expression, personal taste, planning a remodel, practical design, re-upholstery, remodeling, sectional sofas, selecting colors, stone, Subscribers, tile, trends, update design, updating, upholstery, value of good design, wall-to-wall carpeting, white kitchens / 1 Comment

As an adjunct to last week’s story about the progressive young couple and their dramatic kitchen remodel, I thought I should finish the subject and tell about the adjacent living room transformation and comfortable family room on the lower level.

When the kitchen grew to become the focal point upon entering and the bar counter expanded into the living area, it reduced that space to now become a comfortable sitting room for guests to gather or the family to relax while activities are brewing in the kitchen.

Looking through to the dining room where a built-in storage bench was added along the window wall, offers additional seating. A new fabric-shade chandelier softens the light levels. All lighting in this remodel are on dimmers.

The former white brick wall had gently rubbed edges to suggest a distressed condition exposing the red brick beneath. The fireplace had an unrelated golden oak mantle and surround with insipid tile inset also used to cover the hearth. The tile was a glazed faux marble with a Victorian design accent feature.

By simply painting the oak white to match the rest of the wood trim throughout the home and also painting the brick a soft taupe/grey tone, the look was instantly transformed. But they still had that awful tile…so here’s a design tip: to buy time either while you decide or until you save-up for the next phase, paint the tile away!!! To accommodate a new TV that is to go over the mantle, the wood surround was shortened. Notice the extra piece of wood trim that was removed to lower the mantle.

The hearth was removed and rebuilt (without the cut-off corners) with brick and painted to match the wall. Lucky for them the hardwood floor went beneath the hearth – so when they modified the size, they didn’t have to patch the floor! Tile was removed and replaced with 2×2 mosaic Carrara marble to coordinate with the herringbone mosaic of the same marble in the new kitchen backsplash/wall (see last week’s blog).

A sofa found, for nearly free, was in good shape and reupholstered beautifully in this plush, durable navy solid.

The classic blue and white motif was punctuated with organic yellow.

The newly refinished original hardwood floors – taken from a golden oak finish to a rich espresso/walnut stain…

…with the blue and white wool hook rug creates a handsome contrast. The rug actually “reads” blue and white, but upon closer inspection has warm khaki tones, soft turquoise detailing and is quite complex.

This revitalized cozy ambiance of this new sitting area/living room is perfect for this growing young family!

And for a more expansive gathering space, the lower level family room received a new sectional sofa in a durable charcoal fabric and a low-pile small diamond patterned wall to wall carpeting to conceal what had been cold tile floors and make a comfortable room for all seasons!

Purrrrrrhaps someday they’ll have a cat to climb that crazy rope-wrapped pole!!!!!

Jul 17

Young Family Prioritizes Remodel

By pattisays In artistic expression, blue and white, breakfast rooms, brick, cabinet pulls, Color schemes, context of interior design, creative process, creativity, design, design solutions, design tips, design trends, dining rooms, entertaining, existing materials, fireplaces, flooring, good design, hiring an interior designer, home improvements, illusion of space, interior atmosphere, interior design, interior design preferences, interior design trends, interior enhancements, kitchen, kitchen cabinets, kitchen design, kitchen lighting, kitchen remodeling, lifestyle, lighting, lofts, Millenial, mosaic, mosaic tile, natural stone, open floorplans, paint colors, patterns, personal taste, planning a remodel, practical design, Refresh, remodeling, room arrangement, selecting colors, stone, Subscribers, tile, timeless colors, update design, updating, value of good design, white kitchens / 1 Comment

We all know that traditional housing floor plans are changing to maximize smaller footprints. The result is a more open layout. This preference, often seen in “loft” design where warehouse space is converted to living spaces – without many walls and with an eye on the interestingly industrial finishes of the existing space. But this same concept applies to new home construction for starters or down-sizing to smaller homes and is definitely applicable in remodels of existing traditionally compartmentalized plans.

Lifestyles too have opened kitchens. Although often to maximize smaller spaces, they are also more open as cooking is more celebrated in the home and related activities are shared. Kitchens have truly become the fulcrum of family life. So when this young couple purchased their first home, the vintage 1960s split-level plan was not quite right.

The kitchen was a narrow galley-style tucked into a rear corner of the main floor. And although it had recently been remodeled, it was confining and not conducive to entertaining and growing a family.

The point of arrival was an open space with entry wall about 12-15 feet from the front door. To the right, the living room had a focal fireplace and the adjacent dining room made an “L” back to where the kitchen was tucked behind that previously mentioned entry wall.

So this progressive young couple thought way beyond merely opening the wall creating a pass-through bar to better connect the kitchen to the living spaces. No, they said ” Let’s blast this baby out of here!” And with that they proceeded to visualize the point of arrival being the actual kitchen in full-view as guests arrived. Hello!!!!!

The former kitchen containment was revealed to present the new elongated welcoming bar counter-top, luminous glass pendants and supplemental recessed down lights, to meet and greet all who pass through their front door! Original hardwood floors were refinished in a dark walnut stain.

Their priorities were to create a larger, more functional kitchen with a clean, modern look and feel while making all open to better interact with their soon-to-arrive baby!

The clean white on white finishes in the kitchen are fresh and crisp. Lest you think they saved and added to existing cabinets, they did not – all cabinets are new!

And this might be considered gilding the lily, but we added a splash of artistic expression when we hand-painted the small squares in the new brushed stainless cabinet pulls to give them a bit of extra pizzazz!!!

By using the Carrara mosaic as a wall-covering, rather than merely a back-splash, the walls get a truly finished built-environment “read.”

The upper bar counter-top bows at bar-level to offer a more comfortable conversation scene.

The living room became a cozy sitting area off this wonderfully open kitchen and dining area.

Existing brick walls were softened with a grey-taupe to contrast with the white trim making it POP!

The fireplace now has a complimentary new Carrara mosaic in a diamond pattern to coordinate with the new herringbone mosaic of the kitchen wall.

And baby accoutrements adds colorful animation to the beautifully finished scene!

“HELLO!” they say. “Welcome to our beautiful new home!”

Jul 01

Mirror Mirror on the Wall – Do You Even Notice Me at All?

By pattisays In architecture, art and interior design, artistic expression, artistic talent, beauty behold it, before and after, commercial interior design, creativity, custom design interior design, decorative mirrors, design, design process, design solutions, design tips, design trends, designs in nature, dining rooms, DIY design, element of surprise in design, functional art, handcraft, handmade, hiring an interior designer, home improvements, illusion of space, inspiration, interior atmosphere, interior design, interior design trends, interior enhancements, kitchen, kitchen design, kitchen remodeling, lifestyle, master bathrooms, mirrored walls, mirrors, murals, personal expression, powder rooms, practical design, remodeling, residential restrooms, Subscribers, Talavera Tile, theatrical design, trompe l oeil, update design, updating, value of good design /

Designers use tricks, “trompe l oeil” – ever heard of it? Parlez-vous français? It’s a trick of the eye – and how handy is that to create an effect? Often murals are painted to give the illusion of depth or a scene that is not real, yet might fool you into thinking it is. Similarly, mirrors can create the illusion of dimension and improve spaces – especially small spaces or rooms that feel particularly one-sided. Like the idea? Want to hear some fun designer tips?

Large decorative mirrors expand the dining space in this restaurant. Faux finish composite material give the impression of hand-carved wood – not!

Mirrors in the Bath We know mirrors are commonly used for practical purposes such as bathroom vanities. They can be simple over-the-sink functional elements or framed versions for decorative pizzazz.

Below, a built-in tiled surround is nearly a full-wall treatment but with a little relief.

an a more encapsulated/inset mirror shown here

or full wall-to wall treatments that “go away” leaving only the illusion that the room continues beyond…you don’t really “see” the mirror, you see the illusion of space that it creates.

Bathrooms can be intimate spaces of decorative interest

or expanded to be grand spaces of extraordinary volume.

Dining Room Décor and Expansion Other rooms of the house can benefit from mirrors too. Often mirrors are placed in dining rooms over buffets to once again give the illusion of space to a room that is often small for the number of furniture pieces and people that gather there. It is an opportunity to add a decorative element as well as expand the space.

Mixing Geometrics A rectangular console table, sideboard, buffet or dresser enjoys the contrast of a round mirror

Mirrors as Artistic Accessories There are also fun additions to existing pieces like this framed grill-work which is given a new element of interest by adding a mirror behind the iron, set into the frame. Depth and interest instantly change the nature of this decorative wall piece.

Yes, the mirror becomes the decorative focal point. Large framed mirrors can become just that – a great focal point AND provide an illusion of depth. Notice too, the entire wall was tiled behind this focal piece adding further drama and interest.

The limitless options for frames and shapes makes mirrors a valuable accessory similar to a piece of artwork!

Kitchen Surprises Here’s a little trick…rather than looking into a tiled wall behind your cook-top, insert a mirror into the back-splash! It will give the illusion of an opening passing through to another room!!

Wish for a Window Add a “window” where you have none. A “fake window” adds dimension to an otherwise encapsulated interior space. This can be with an actual window to which you add mirrored glass to replace existing or merely a grouping of mirrors to suggest a window to the world.

Embellish with Crafts Here we added white shells to have a little DIY fun!

Make it BIGGER – Make it Better Expand your living space, add value and create perceived square-footage!! Truly enlarging a room with a trick of design expertise is to know where to mirror an entire wall to achieve that illusion of a much larger space.

Consider what is being reflected. You won’t want it reflecting an open bathroom door necessarily…You can even enhance the area that will be reflected to maximize the effect.

Theatrical/Dramatic Lighting Effects and Mirrors

ART & Technology As is true with our fast-paced word today, the art of creating mirrors has gone from fine craft to commodity. Phenomenal prices are now available for what once was a luxury item. Certainly, there are exquisite hand carved, fantastically finished and even gilded wood frames still being designed and handcrafted by artisans around the world,

but the offerings for production pieces of man-made faux wood and other interesting composites are now on the market. Beveling used to be an art. It was performed by hand (and still is – but it is a lost art and it’s not as necessary a trade with the advances in technology to achieve the detail).

Difficult to see the hand-beveled work on this amazing hand-carved mirror.

The effects of a bevel either on the mirror within a frame or here as a frame itself, bevels add detail of angular reflection that add interest to a mirror’s single-plane depth providing the angular plane to reflect other surrounding facets of the scene.

Mirrors are one of the most versatile and effective design components. Look at them, look into them, use them, play with them – they will expand your world!!

Jun 24

A Tale of Two Kitchens

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 /

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!

Jun 17

Have You Listened to Your Heart on a Quest to Create ART?

By pattisays In Albuquerque, New Mexico, art and interior design, art as gift ideas, artistic expression, artistic talent, artists, beginning artists, creative process, creativity, decorative arts, design process, design tips, Discovering Art, discovering artistic talent, George W. Bush, Glennon Doyle, handcraft, handmade, handwriting, hiring an interior designer, inspiration, interior design, interior enhancements, Kim Jackson, lifestyle, love, Mind Your Handwriting by Leon de la Vega, natural stone, Organic art, painted rocks, painters, personal expression, presidents of the United States, recognizing signs, stone, Subscribers, value of art, value of good design / 1

When do you know when to listen to a sign? What opportunity changes your life? From romance to career changes and all manner of life’s opportunities – what catches your attention? What switches on inside and makes you take notice? Having someone cross your path and not realize he/she is your soul-mate. We’ve seen many movies with this elusive thread woven through the plot. One of my favorite songs, about such would-be near-misses, is “If He’s Ever Near” in which Karla Bonoff pines…

They say just once in life
You find someone that’s right
But the world looks so confused
I can’t tell false from true

And love’s so hard to find
In this state of mind
Oh I hope I’ll know him
I hope I’ll know him
If he’s ever near

…her yearning hits a cord. What is a sign? How do you know? What action do you take? It’s not always particularly obvious.

Recognizing opportunities is what separates many successful people from the rest of the world. Taking chances, when those signs make their appearance, is the other factor. Risk-taking is a scary leap into the unknown, but so often results in great reward when it is a true calling and approached with dedication to seek and meet the challenges.

Seems from many with whom I’ve spoken, a true calling is pretty clear. It taps into a passion and ignites a level of excitement and enthusiasm that is hence to fore unmatched. It becomes an irreversible path forward. Like an involuntary propulsion. Thrilling for some – terrifying for others. Which type are YOU? Perhaps you find yourself in the middle – healthy respect for the trepidation, but curiosity for what’s in store!!!

Twice this week I have met with artists who are each taking an enormous leap into a new life direction. One who might not be ready for me to blog about her adventure has leaped from a 30+ year life in Mexico… to a year-long reunion in Arizona with family tapping into the vibrant art scene in Sedona…then a soul-searching move to New Mexico where she invested her savings to start a new independent life…and after exploring her options and searching introspectively for her personal needs, happiness and goals has decided, after yet another year, to sell her new home and return to Sedona to pursue what she firmly believes is her calling. She took leaps, explored options, followed leads and returned to what she initially thought was the right place for her, but which had contingencies that masked her true indicators. She did not want to have imagined constraints rule her decision. Now she realizes that it is her choice, her viewpoint, and ultimately her quest for joy. Her focus and grace have inspired me on many levels and I hope to share her story once she’s ready!

Yesterday I was visited by a Renaissance artist whose enthusiasm and self-effacing manner bring sunshine to every event! Kim Jackson has a new-found passion! Having mastered her profession in the arena of photography (http://www.kimjacksonphotography.com) she had an encounter that looks like will change her life path with new-found joy.

Sprinkled at my reception desk, I was presented with an array of amazing little jewels. Kim spread a collection of painted rocks and miniature paintings in a scattering like pebbles and fallen leaves. Only these jewels were painted with such detail and expression that I was arrested – awestruck.

Her own words about this turning point in her life is enchanting.

Last summer I was gifted a painted rock by a 4 year old girl about to lose both of her dogs – the rock read “Love”.

I was touched and photographed it to share with my instagram followers, which lead me down the #paintedrock hashtag. The first artist’s post I clicked on – she does amazing mandala dot art – shared what kind of paint she used and gave other general tips. By that afternoon I had a rainbow of colors and was painting my first rocks.

Kim was there to capture the family on the eve of having to put their two dogs down. The little girl presented her with a simple yet profound object and message that resonated so strongly with Kim that it sparked an idea that lead down a path…

My rock art (art rocks) style has evolved in the last 10 months, and at the beginning of May 2018 I painted my first 2D “little dessert” and bird paintings – supposed to be gifts for Mother’s Day. With encouragement from a fellow artist I have approached galleries and received warm reviews on both the stones and little paintings.

Although Kim’s photography still plays a significant and pleasurable career role in her life, this quest to explore other of her creative energies and talents is proving to be an exciting and potentially lucrative path.

Thanks to the support of my husband Billy, I feel extremely lucky to be given a chance with a second artistic medium – something I never dreamed I would be able to do. I’ve lived my entire life thinking that I could not paint well. While feeling blessed to make a career out of my photography, this is an exciting new direction, I am excited to see where it leads.

I see Kim as a precious stone, of many facets. Although she will still pursue her love of photography and capture people’s lives and many story chapters, Kim will make room for this blossoming career move into the exploration of creating art directly from her heart to her hand.

This sentiment has been so profoundly stated by Federico Leon de la Vega as he references a similar heartfelt expression regarding the (very personal and possibly evolutionary level) value of handwriting. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H9j_pLgCr1U

Federico prepares a prp for his TEDX Talk. “From my head to my mind, from my mind to my hand, from my hand to the paper, I place in your hand, so you may fold it and keep it near your heart.”

Some things cross your path unwanted and certainly change your life. For the undesirable things, I recently read this phrase by Glennon Doyle “Your wound probably is not your fault, but your healing is your responsibility.” Well, you might very well have caused your wound – but either way, taking charge of the healing is your responsibility. Which makes me realize that which we have all been told so many times – that your destiny is in YOUR hands.

As this relates to art – do not be afraid to explore your creative tendencies. Do not feel you are not worthy or good enough. Experiment. There are so many examples of late bloomers in life. A prime example are the magnificent Portraits of Courage by George W Bush. He dabbled and played with a wide variety of subjects before he hit on portraiture. His abstractly artistic interpretations of people too shape and he discovered that these seemingly primitive paintings had intriguing representation, expression, character, beauty and appeal. The path led him to a powerful platform for veterans, fund-raising opportunities, heightened awareness and acknowledgement of sacrifice.

https://www.bushcenter.org/exhibits-and-events/exhibits/2017/portraits-of-courage-exhibit.html

As stated on the website, this exercise has become significant:

A VIBRANT COLLECTION OF OIL PAINTINGS AND STORIES BY PRESIDENT GEORGE W. BUSH HONORING THE SACRIFICE AND COURAGE OF AMERICA’S MILITARY VETERANS — AND HIGHLIGHTING THE WORK OF THE BUSH INSTITUTE’S MILITARY SERVICE INITIATIVE.

A great article on the accidental painter is here in The Artists’ Network

President George W. Bush’s Portrait Paintings of Veterans

“These portrait paintings aren’t great but they are gutsy, because it is gutsy to show your artwork period, but it is really gutsy when you know the work isn’t perfect and you do it anyway, because it matters to you.

We could all learn a little bit from this–to embrace our abilities as they are right now, and then to simply let the work go…”

It’s not about a perception of being great or even good enough – most artists never really believe that they are. It is about following your passion – in this case, artistic expression. You might be surprised at what happens next! Believe in the power of ART!!