Feb 25

Friends Don’t Let Friends Pick Paint Colors

By pattisays In color and temperature re: interior design, color forecasting, color of light, Color schemes, color trends, colors, context of interior design, Contrasting colors, contrasts for balance in design, creative process, creativity, dark colors, design, design process, design solutions, design tips, design trends, drama of color, graphic designs in interiors, hiring an interior designer, illusions of space, interior design, interior design trends, lifestyle, paint colors, painters, planning a remodel, timeless colors, trends, update design, updating / 1

WHY? It’s never as easy as it seems! You can track the trends. See what is relevant to today’s popular design concepts. But how do you really pick a paint color? Warm versus cool, safe versus bold…there are seemingly limitless choices and so many things affect the decision. HELP!!!!!!

Does it help to swipe a swath on a wall?

Not usually. The surrounding often white paint isolates the color in a small concentration and it cannot begin to give the full effect of an entire wall or more. The most telling is to paint an entire section of wall that you can frame in your field of vision without seeing anything else. That or painting an entire wall, for the best test.

Here a frustrated color connoisseur tried several test patches before calling for HELP!!! But we LOVE the novelty of the effect! What a conversation piece – a work of art in its own right!!

When is the ceiling painted other than white and why?

Some colors stand-out and are more imposing while others meld with their associates. It depends upon your personal comfort level. For example a room painted a sunny yellow might be too bold or imposing if the ceiling were to be painted that same color – white would be customary and give relief and contrast to the yellow vertical surfaces. A more mellow color (like a taupe) might work well on all surfaces creating a soft, unifying encapsulation. Shades of the same color – lighter or darker – can also prove to be an effective treatment. Light reflectance – artificial versus natural, depth, the hue and value all play a part in determining what works in a given situation. Not to mention any existing furnishings that might direct a color direction/selection.

Should different walls be different colors?

Why not? Variety is the spice of fabulous interiors – but that doesn’t negate the beauty of an all white interior . Knowing when you want color, how much and from what source is part of the balance of design.

Remodeling this room was comprised of removing walls, adding a serpentine banco and hearth, stone wall surface, painting stained cabinets…We started this project with a new white on white texture and contrast of 3 different stone materials adjacent white walls and white wood trim.

We ultimately added coral punctuation in the recesses of the niches.

What is color layering with paint?

Planes of color seen over-lapping can provide a fantastic effect of colors literally layering over each other. Looking through an interior and reading a wall of one color and another wall behind it peeking out with a different color can add interest and contrast.

How do you stop colors from wall to wall?

I prefer stopping on an inside corner – always. But that’s me. I prefer to “read” the element (wall, monolith, enclosure, etc) as a structural unit. As though the wall were build of that material – the finish suggests the material rather than illustrating a surface application that quits. And I feel the same way about any surface application – tile, wall-covering – preferring to stop on an inside corner to define the element from beginning to end.

EXCEPTION: I have had several instances where we have a little fun with transitions between colors – a zig-zag motif, for example, can provide a surface graphic and change colors on one surface!!

Wrapping a corner from a full wall of yellow to another – but not wanting the yellow on the entire following wall – intentional graphics are fun and allow for the change of color.

Semi-gloss versus flat?

Glossy finishes show more defects in the surface material. So a wall with imperfections such as texture flaws, repairs, any uneven detail will be enhanced. So to minimize defects, a flat paint is preferable. It also depends upon what you are trying to convey – a smooth plaster finish – might be better expressed with a semi-gloss but an earthen softness is better with a flat paint. Clean ability and durability might play into this decision – but not at the expense of the desired visual effect as there are many grades of paint to accomplish various levels of ease of maintenance – consult your paint products professional.

Contrasting a gloss against a flat on different adjacent elements is a nice contrast such as wood trim in a gloss against flat on the adjacent wall. Is the trim the same color as the wall or is it a contrasting color?

Do dark colors make small spaces smaller?

It is a deceptive misconception that this is the case. Dark colors recede and therefore can actually expand the illusion of space. A dark ceiling seems to recede into the void and creates the feeling that the surface is far much higher than it really is. Dark colors behind light colors does the same – recede as a back-drop. Do not fear dark colors – they contribute depth and drama.

Picking paint colors is like selecting the backdrop for your world. All your things are set against this plane. Applying paint is having control of transformation. Like controlling when and how the sun washes the dawn or the night envelopes in darkness and all the amazing colors that occur in-between. Visualizing the end result, creating the transformation that takes place beneath the brush, roller or spray gun as it alters the scene are magical powers.

Feb 18

What Do Fabulous Fabrics Have in Common?

By pattisays In Albuquerque, New Mexico, art and interior design, artistic expression, creative process, creativity, custom design interior design, design, design process, design solutions, design tips, design trends, fabrics, fashion and design, Fiber art, graphic arts, handcraft, handmade, hiring an interior designer, inspiration, interior design, interior design trends, lifestyle, organic design, patterns, personal expression, re-upholstery, Refresh, retro, Subscribers, textiles, textures, updating, upholstery, value of art, value of good design, wall texture, weavings, weavings, window dressings / 1 Comment

Fabulous fabrics are NOT common – that’s what they have in common!! After paint, fabrics are the most malleable design element that can make dramatic transformations in an interior. New pieces, reupholstering existing pieces, treasure-hunting to cover vintage pieces, salvaging family heirlooms, plastering or padding walls and ceilings, draping and accenting – doesn’t it sound exhilarating? Imagine the possibilities!

Metal studs to trim things…wrap a lampshade, border draperies, trim a sofa, adorn a pillow…so many things…and the stormy cloud printed velvet in the background of this trim – is blustery and powerful.

One of the most fun-filled events in our design studio are the road-trip visits by our fabulous sales reps that bring the world to our conference table!! In larger cities, the design resource centers, markets and their showrooms offer myriad marvelous samples of furniture, decorative accessories, art, lighting, fixtures, finishes and fabrics. Exciting new design trends are presented each season.

But when you live, in isolation from the major centers, as we do here in the high desert – we are treated to personal presentations that are intimate, relaxing, inspiring and educational. Here is an exclusive collection that was presented just last week. Sit back and watch the fabrics unfurl and float – one after another – in layers of color, texture and incredibly inspirational style.

Weighty over-stitching or “top-stitching” adds detail-either high-contrast, color-on-color subtlety or the median slightly contrasting grey with white. Trending – touchable textures! Here presented for interior fashion, but you can bet that clothing fashion designers would love to play with these textiles for wearable art too!!!

Sure, throughout the year we travel to source hubs, surf the net, call our reps, request samples, compile materials and gather what we need across the miles. It is challenging. Like living on an island and bringing the amphibious containers of supplies over the sea and up onto the beach! But inasmuch as we don’t have a design center handy to do a lot of “one-stop-shopping,” we do curate our own very extensive source library of fabrics and architectural materials. With that at our fingertips, without leaving the studio, it’s a time-saver, a stimulating place to to engage clients and we are easily spoiled!

Fine weaves make terrific grounds for bold prints – here in three different color-ways – what a POP! Retro to new concepts – patterns add pizzazz!!

This recent textile presentation brought refined and rugged landscapes of intriguing textures and patterns that stimulated our design juices.

Intentionally cut after the weaving process provides extra texture and pattern interest.

Often the “backside” of these fabrics are as interesting (if not more so) than the fronts – but be mindful of floating threads and other weaving details/methods that interfere with practical use.

Bold “geometrics” are not only vivid with high contrast threads, the texture is what cannot be accurately replicated or conveyed via digital images on a screen. Despite the fact that I got up close and personal with these samples to photo, nothing beats touching and feeling the fibers and textures.

Complex weaves dazzle with design creativity. Bringing an artist’s concepts to fruition, with a mill to fabricate the dreams, is enchanting.

Traditions of weaving artisans are found in countries around the world. Sadly, not many fine fabrics are woven here in the States, partially due to the cost of fabrication and also due to the generations of crafts people who are experienced in the art of weaving more cultivated in other cultures. Whether organic, engineered, by hand or efficient, fast-paced mechanization – art and technology continue to push the envelope of fantastic creation and production in the fabric industry.

Here’s a great tip – if for only a pillow cover – if only ONE side of a pillow cover, having unique fabrics is having art. Living with functional art. Appreciating the designs, textures, craftsmanship and unique qualities of fine fabrics and wall-coverings is most satisfying.

Paints hand applied to the surface of fine woven fabrics is gilding the lily.

Who doesn’t love these colorfully, whimsical dot halves hand-applied to the surface of this nubby neutral??!!

Silk-screening also is an art-form that enhances the quality and appreciation of fine fabrics and papers.

Some of this collection are vintage art-pieces resurrected with new colors on the screen prints. The caliber of a fine, timeless, resource is about quality of both design and construction. A collection that continuously offers – classic and new, bold and subtle – answers to so many opportunities, is a resource that is to be celebrated!!

We investigate the most extraordinary fabrics, in the world, so that we can compile and create the perfect combinations for your exclusive lifestyle.

Feb 06

A Dozen Tips for Planning a Kitchen Update

By pattisays In before and after, ceiling lighting, creative process, custom design interior design, design, design solutions, design tips, design trends, hiring an interior designer, inspiration, interior atmosphere, interior design, interior design trends, kitchen, kitchen lighting, kitchen remodeling, lifestyle, modern cabinets, natural stone, personal expression, planning a remodel, practical design, re-purpose, recycle design, Refresh, remodeling, Subscribers, trends, update design, updating, value of good design, wall texture / 1

As we know, kitchens and bathrooms lead the features that often make or break a house sale. Investing in such improvements can not only enhance your living experience, but also serve you well when it comes time to sell. There are a few basic tips to follow as you embark on this could-be, (but need-not be) daunting project. Here are some important things to consider for all facets of the experience!

To begin, note what things about your kitchen you would like to improve – both functional and aesthetic.
Gather inspirations – make a hard-copy file or at least collect in a folder in your computer things that inspire you in your quest for your improved kitchen. Use kitchen design magazines, Pinterest posts or remodeled kitchen ideas that you Google-search. These ideas are a great springboard to narrowing your design direction and conveying your concept to your design professional.
Based upon your “inspirations” what is your color scheme? This direction will impact options and decisions for finish materials such as flooring, cabinets, countertops, back-splashes, wall finish and window treatments.
Is it merely a facelift? New cabinet doors and drawer fronts? Perhaps new countertops and back-splash. Or is it a complete gut and replace?
New appliances – replacements or additional components?
Sketch the layout of your new kitchen, if applicable. Make sure the available space accomplishes what you are imagining.
Imagine the finished product. Illustrations of the “after” design are the best way to accomplish this.
When in this process should you consult with a design professional? Perhaps after number 3 once you have gathered examples of your preferences…I let the list continue beyond number 3 to give you an idea of where in the process you might feel the need to have some qualified assistance!! An experienced designer will see things you don’t, know things you might not have considered and ideally maximize your budget by avoiding costly mistakes or missed opportunities.
For example, don’t miss opportunities for additional storage – this is a critically creative design detail that results, in great benefit, to the finished product.
In fairness to you and your contractor, try to establish a budget. Do a little homework. Gather rough costs for lineal feet of cabinets, appliances, design consultation and construction costs (a good resource are the home-improvement stores). Give yourself some latitude as this cannot be a finite budget at this early stage of the planning.
With your design pro, discuss contractors that fit the bill to what you are trying to accomplish. If you are only tackling cosmetic improvements, a general contractor might not be needed. For example, new wall finish, countertops and appliances or new cabinet fronts, a new light fixture…these are individual sub-contractor projects. But as soon as you get into moving plumbing and electric, adding or removing walls, puncturing the envelope with windows or skylights – you had better hire a general contractor to take responsibility for the scheduling, coordination, licensing and permitting of the work.
Once your scope of work is determined, you might need to get familiar with great carry-out in your neighborhood!!! That and a few great restaurants too, as you might be without your kitchen during a portion, if not all, of the process once the work begins!!!

Here are a few projects that we have documented with pretty effective “before and afters” to help you consider some of the above referenced tips.

These peachy pickled white-washed red-oak cabinets had classic lines and were in excellent shape after 30 years! The original owners were ready for an update.

Purely cosmetic (except for replacing the lighting) we saved the cabinets in their entirety, painted the boxes, doors and drawers. By shooting the fronts remotely, quality control was insured and caused less imposition at the residence.

Black accent pieces were already in play. The new black finish was a dramatic transformation. Using a special tinted varnish, proper prep and several coats results in a very strong new finish. All other finishes were replaced with a conscientious effort to coordinate with the existing flooring. The result “reads” as though it was all done at the same time. The floor tile looks good as new!

Similarly, we saved the cabinet boxes, but differently from the previous project, we added a few updated cabinet features and replaced the door and drawer fronts to a more classic raised panel detail.

Again the transformation was exciting, but by saving the perfectly good cabinets, we had far less disruption to the home-owners. Enhanced cabinet details for improved drawer glides, additional storage, new counter-tops, new lighting, and as is true with all of these projects “cabinet jewelry,” in the way of new door and drawer pulls and handles, adds the finishing touches.

This very dated kitchen from the early 70s, had a new owner – a single man – and he definitely didn’t want this provincial look!

In this case, a general contractor was in order. We opened walls, re-designed all the lighting, replaced all cabinets with new custom cabinets, appliances, flooring, counter-tops and back-splashes. The transformation is astonishing!

Jan 28

TAKE NOTICE – Or You Might Just Miss Something Extraordinary!!

By pattisays In artistic expression, artists, beauty behold it, bronze sculpture, context of interior design, creativity, decorative arts, design, design process, Discovering Art, element of surprise in design, FOMO, Food and art, handmade, hiring an interior designer, ICYMI, Impressionist painters, inspiration, interior design, interior design trends, investment pieces, joy, Leon de la Vega, lifestyle, METRO, Mexico, Modern Art, musicians, Nuevo Vallarta, sculpture, site sculpture, Subscribers, travel and design, value of good design, Violins, Washington D.C. / 1

The world is becoming so fast. Decisions are “snap.” Instant gratification abounds. And as we get caught-up in it all, more and more…there is a pendulum swinging. People are taking notice and longing for a reprieve. There is a clinging to values that if not grasped, might be lost.

Slow Food, farm-to-table proximity, support local, shop small…sound familiar? And does it appeal? Why do you think? As Amazon gobbles-up Whole Foods and everyone finds expeditious shopping satisfaction in cyber-space at the click of a finger – why?

Last night, as the sun set and the lights penetrated the darkness with their warm glow, I found myself strolling around, taking photos and breathing in the moist night air. Seaside, tucked in a quiet corner of a significant marina in Nuevo Vallarta, I recognized the magic. I was experiencing such magic.

It’s actually all around us, but it often takes a change of venue to realize it. In your world there is magic all around, but you have to take notice!

As I strolled, I came upon the painting recently completed by a dear friend. As I learned of the intent and while studying this painting of “The Violinist”, the sensitivity of the artist is revealed. And later confirmed by him. Her tentative stance and demeanor begs the question he set the stage to ask: “Might this be her debut?”

The Violinist – a detail of the original oil painting by Federico Leon de la Vega

I then spoke to the sister-in-law of the artist, (chef/owner of the acclaimed Estudio-Cafe) and she reminded me about Joshua Bell. Although I had forgotten his name, his enlightening story was quickly remembered. Have you heard of him? He’s the world-famous violinist who participated in a little experiment prompted by The Washington Post a few years ago. The idea was to have him play a $3 million dollar 1733 Stradivarius violin incognito, in the Washington METRO, to see if anyone noticed. Disguised as a street musician, with a baseball cap, he played for 45 minutes and collected a mere $32.00!! This is a man who, two days before, played to a sellout crowd of pricey ticket-holders in a Boston theater. A world-class musician, with a priceless instrument, performing classical music of all of mankind and barely anyone notices!

Menu cover of Estudio-Cafe, Nuevo Vallarta

Coincidentally, I came upon another violinist-themed art piece last evening as I meandered through the patio among the quite varied artwork. Here a graceful bronze of a lithe, nude, mermaid projects imaginary sound wafting from her poised violin through the warm evening breeze. I was enchanted. And my imagination was running wild!

Ready for evening to begin Estudio-Cafe Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico

Passersby seemed not to recognize the art beside them. As they walked slowly passing by the patio, unhurried, but caught-up in conversation, hopefully enjoying the incredible setting in which they found themselves. Yet they were oblivious to the outstanding collection of art displayed quietly, unpretentiously on the patio.

One of a captivating series of the mermaids in bronze by Octavio Gonzales

Back to powers of observation and taking time to absorb all the beauty and experiences around you…Joshua Bell admits, in retrospect, that it was terribly noisy and very fast-paced down in the METRO as better than 1,000 people rushed to their appointments. But regardless, it illuminates the concern that if we don’t pause to listen as we pass by the world’s most beautiful music, what other amazing things in this life might we be missing?

My husband continuously observes that I am NOT very observant. I know that this is true and I think it is because he and I observe differently. He takes in a wide swath of his surroundings – all sensory perceptions – 360. While I zero in on things and can be oblivious to something right in front of me, in favor of something nearby that has caught my eye. I would not make a very good Columbo as he often points out! But I do enjoy the details as I encounter them!

From an interior design standpoint, I take in entire scenes and their context all the time. I “practice” this – I am practicing interior design. This is not spontaneity, it is the art of the study and evaluation of a scene. The challenging work of problem-solving. Until or unless something catches my eye that interrupts the study in favor of the unexpected!!!!

STOP and smell (or paint) the roses!!!!!

Federico Leon de la Vega with a previous commission of “Yellow Rose of Texas Bouquet” oil on canvas.

Jan 14

DIY…Do It Yourself Beachfront Getaways or DWI…Designing While Intoxicated!!

By pattisays In architecture, artistic expression, beach, beauty behold it, coastal, construction, context of interior design, creative process, creativity, design, design solutions, designs in nature, DIY design, exterior - outdoor design, fanciful design, handcraft, handmade, hiring an interior designer, inspiration, inspiration from nature, interior design trends, lifestyle, natural designs, natural integrity of the materials, natural stone, naturalist, nature, Organic art, organic design, patio, personal expression, primitive design, recycle design, Subscribers, travel and design, trends, tropical /

Not as the title suggests…tequila shots and all – but another kind of intoxication…an intoxication from unexpected beauty, sensory overload, inspiration as seen in the following photographs.

Those of you bundled up against the elements this time of year…freezing your booties off in the icy winter climes. Enjoy this escape into your unbridled imagination of design and lifestyle gone wild!

Thought a beachfront condo was out of reach? Think again. With all the DIY out there on the internet today, anything is possible. As evidenced by the inspiring framework of architecture that I have encountered just this week alone, consider the possibilities and have a little fun!!!

Very simple things trigger design concepts. Beyond the fascination I have had with these beach structures, this particular photo was bathed in late afternoon light. The glow of the orange towels was emitting a warmth that was so tropical, had it not been on a tropical beach, finding the same boldly colored and textured structure in a snow storm would have elicited a startling, contrasting feeling of the same tangible warmth.

This make-shift west-facing beachfront was so beautiful, in its simplicity, that it spurred ideas of bold fresh color, basic found-material furniture possibilities, fabric design and organic architectural solutions for patios both commercial and residential.

Imagine raw elements incorporated with concealed structural support to convey the feeling of spontaneous simplicity.

Then there’s that general calling that speaks to “the natural integrity of the materials.” You realize it is a grounding. It is a starting point of reference to all the embellishments, layers, machinations and manipulations that are possible.

Wood is wood until it is stained, painted, appliquéd…when does it lose its “natural integrity?” Even raw, man-made cinder block – CMU – concrete masonry units have their own natural character. Then stained in the aggregate or applied color, thickly coated…it alters it’s state – losing its material’s natural integrity.

What ignites design thrills? The fireworks of ideas that burst onto the scene illuminating so much that was previously obscured. It doesn’t have to be a remote and seemingly inaccessible tropical beach…it’s everywhere. Look around. See texture and color, shape and frame. Urban, suburban and rural settings in any climate all offer inspiration that can be isolated and appreciated. Design inspiration can be intoxicating.

Why is designing so exciting? Why is it often such a rush? You never know when an idea will appear or from where.

The world around you is a constant stimulation of ideas, inspirations and possibilities. You are thirsty for whatever is out there…whatever is waiting to be discovered, implemented… quench those longings. It is all about the freedom to allow ideas to be spawned from anything around you or in intertwined with your own imagination.

What fun to have come upon these simple structures on a glorious and sparsely populated beach. What fanciful design ideas and story-lines were prompted by the imaginary occupants, their creativity, resourcefulness and problem-solving simplicity. Lest you think they house the homeless adventurers, they are actually sun-shades for creative surfers and affluent sun-bathers seeking a primitive beach experience.

How might these primitive structural solutions play into a future project? Watch for design trends to incorporate more organic materials and nature’s inspirations!

I’m ready to explore the possibilities. Are YOU?

Dec 31

TRENDS DIE – What’s New for 2018?

By pattisays In Abstract Art, apartments, architecture, art and interior design, artistic expression, Benjamin Moore Paint, color and temperature re: interior design, color forecasting, Color schemes, color trends, color wheel, colors, context of interior design, Contrasting colors, contrasts for balance in design, dark colors, design solutions, design tips, design trends, drama of color, element of surprise in design, hiring an interior designer, inspiration, interior design, interior design trends, lifestyle, mobiles, Modern Art, Museums, National Gallery of Art, Pantone, personal expression, practical design, red, Refresh, selecting colors, Sherwin Williams, timeless colors, trends, value of good design, Washington, D.C. / 2 Comments

I was surfing for fodder about the new color trends to kick-off this first mindful missive for the New Year and the color trends were all over the place – no consistency at all. From Ben Moore selecting Caliente AF290,

“Caliente is the signature color of a modern architectural masterpiece; a lush carpet rolled out for a grand arrival; the assured backdrop for a book-lined library; a powerful first impression on a glossy front door. The eye can’t help but follow its bold strokes. Harness the vitality.”

—Ellen O’Neill, Benjamin Moore & Co.

to Sherwin Williams in a totally opposite direction proclaiming Oceanside SW 6496 their color of the year.

“A collision of rich blue with jewel-toned green, a color that is both accessible and elusive… A complex, deep color that offers a sense of the familiar with a hint of the unknown, Oceanside, bridges together a harmonious balance of blues and greens that can be found in what’s old and new.”

What? Are we straddling now? Do we have one foot in one color trend while the other stretches across the color wheel and causes us to nearly do the splits trying desperately to hang on?

The walls of my east gallery space were a spicy version of Caliente for nearly 20 years! Bold at the time and unheard-of for gallery walls – it was not to be changed for nearly 2 decades!!!

Whew – that was a run. I even named the retail space “Caliente.” And the color-band between the crown and picture molding at the back was a version of Oceanside – a lighter value of the blue-green hue.

The Grand Re-Opening July 2016 presented a dramatic transformation to a pale aqua resulting in a diametrically opposed feeling – a cleansing from what was crowded and hot to spare and cool.

But I digress…

Annoyed by the seeming authority, but weak contrasting rationale that I encountered with the wide range of picks and opinions, I left the paint companies and clicked over to the Pantone site. There I encountered their authoritative, ethereal color forecast of the year – Ultra Violet!!!!!

Yikes – they were coming at me from every conceivable direction!!! How on earth is any eager apartment dwelling or home-owning individual supposed to know how to go forward in sprucing up their space without fear?

Then I came upon a piece by Mehgan Nesmith Ugh, What’s With These Generational Color “Trends”? From observing the broad reaching trend surrounding millennial pink to snippets from other sources, I scanned the paragraphs amused, but still not satisfied. Until I arrived at paragraph 6 and there it was – the true fact that keeps the world moving forward – for better or worse – TRENDS DIE.

Yes they do and for good reason. I’ve said it before, take care in making costly selections that will stay with you past their prime. Trends are there for a reason. Designers dabble in creativity every day of the year to come up with things to tantalize, inspire, evoke, and entertain – and most importantly, SELL. Some of these trends stick. Then they are no longer trends, they transition and become classics. But to transcend the fleeting status of trend, “it” must have something very solid about its being.

And when it comes to interior design, with all the style trends for furniture, fabrics, architectural elements, finishes and decorative accessories – colors race through history like no other design element has or will. Colors rule and when they are good, they are very very good, but when they are bad, they are horrid!!!!! Thank you Mr. Longfellow!!

Take the massively graceful modern art piece suspended from the ceiling of the East Wing of the National Art Gallery in Washington, D.C. – classic – both in form and color. Red and black. Strong and simple. Bold and brilliant. Imagine if it were this year’s Pantone pick Ultra Violet Aghhhh!!!!!!!

Actually, methinks I protest too much. The shade of purple picked, by Pantone, is heavy on the blue rather than the red. The blue cast gives it a calm. Not whacky like Barney screaming purple – but, rather a royal shade. Nonetheless, it is better served as an accent – don’t buy wallpaper in it. Go ahead and paint the walls and have your fun – but know that you can change it without peeling off hundreds, if not thousands of dollars of wall-covering or re-upholstering your sofa like Meghan was tempted to do!!

It’s a color that stands alone – plays better by itself than with friends – like the child’s report card where the box that says “plays well with others” is not checked. In my estimation, it will read well with clean, crisp white. However, like Ms. Nesmith aptly says in her piece “if you are still curious about that Gen Z yellow, buy a vase!”

That’s how we play with colors and create a bit of collision, unexpected off-key harmony, intrigue and suspense. But it is not for the faint of heart and the chance of tiring of it is paramount. Trends die and colors are tricky.

So Happy New Year and Happy New Colors in your world to refresh and renew!! Thank you Meghan, for your lively contribution to today’s story.

Dec 24

COMFORT & JOY with ART

By pattisays In Abstract Art, architecture, art and interior design, artistic expression, artists, beauty behold it, Christmas, Contemporary Art, context of interior design, design, design process, design solutions, Discovering Art, fanciful design, hiring an interior designer, interior design, interior design trends, joy, lifestyle, Mind Your Handwriting by Leon de la Vega, Modern Art, personal expression, recycle design, value of art /

A few years ago I gave a talk. The title was something like “I Need a Piece of Art to Go with My Red Sofa.” It was a defensive argument giving liberty to those who sought artwork for decorative purposes rather than an esoteric rationale. As an interior designer surrounded by artistic influences and drawn to the limitless styles, pieces, concepts and movements of the art world, I see and appreciate both sides of this controversial coin.

Federico Leon de la Vega’s Pomogranates

In my opinion art should bring joy. And that is not to discount art as a social commentary, honest statement of artistic philosophy, opinion, or personal expression. As an interior designer, my simple philosophy is that joy is a goal of interior habitats – function and joy simultaneously. For me, there is a synonym for beauty in there. Oh – and how apropos – it’s Christmas time and the carol God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen specifically identifies bringing “tidings of comfort and joy.”

In this month’s December 2017 issue of AD “Architectural Digest” Living with Art, architect Luis Laplace offers that he doesn’t really know about beauty in art. He sounds modest and self-effacing. “I say I don’t know beauty. When I see that something works, then I see beauty.” I say that is saying a lot about context. But inasmuch as I can see context being so perfect to showcase a piece that it validates it somehow, it seems lacking in the department of honest personal appreciation or criticism. Surely he must find beauty in art before it is placed.

I can see admitting that something having potential is a valid “wait and see” position to take when allowing a piece to be placed to its best advantage, prior to judging it too harshly – but that seems reserved for pieces about which one is trying to give them the benefit of the doubt! It sounds a bit like tap-dancing…making excuses. Excuses for not having an initial opinion or spontaneous reaction – much less appreciation – much less, joy.

Festive boat bringing JOY at the San Diego harbor parade last week.

Another comment that Laplace makes in this article “High Art” is that “We never use art as a decoration,” he declares. “We design for installation and rotation.” And I am sure in his world, that is exactly what he does. But let’s get down to earth and acknowledge that it’s a chicken and egg thing – the luxury to design expressly for the presentation of magnificent rotating works of art versus finding joy in a piece to decorate your world – with or without rotation. He makes decoration sound like a bad word. And perhaps he thinks it is – but why? Adornment, decoration, enhancement, emphasis – all superlatives, in my estimation.

Federico Leon de la Vega’s Script on Blue

In a completely opposite place on the planet both figuratively and physically, Robert Downey Jr, in this same issue of AD, expresses an explanation for their selections and design direction. “We didn’t set out to do something conspicuously whacky.” He obviously gets great joy and a kick in the pants out of his approach which he cements, with the following comment: “We just enjoy a bit of whimsy and fun.” And then a negative nod to separate him from the more cerebral art enthusiasts – “We definitely don’t like boring.”

But that is a direct comment on the joy thing and one of my oft borrowed quotes “One man’s trash is another man’s treasure.” Here, a tangible example that I created for my grandson, Liam a few years ago. Debris he and I collected while on a walk one day, I assembled into a collage and had it framed for him with the plaque to remind him to look at things and regard things from all angles.

From what one person derives joy, another might find boring and uninteresting. And that oddly seems to return to the Luis Laplace comment about not seeing beauty until it is placed and then can be recognized. Hmmmm…Yet, I am saying that it might be of value to study things and think about things differently than face value at a quick glance…spontaneity is valid and so is “love at first sight,” but often things are missed because their context s not serving them well. That space above your red sofa might be just the context and proper setting to showcase the “whatever it is” piece which might be far less interesting otherwise.

Which is why, in this time of international commerce delivering things from all over the planet with an almost instant gratification speed, we still have difficulty making decisions about what to chose to have in our world. Which fabric, which furniture, which art…the choices are at our fingertips and delivered to our doorsteps without leaving our living rooms, but fear of costly mistakes, second guessing trends and how to make good investments still remain the dilemma shared by most. Fear of trusting your own joy. Or, better yet, discovering and defining your personal joy.

Which brings me to the last quote I extracted from the December 2017 issue of AD by an artist, Brian Donnelly, speaking about his own residence and art collection, and that is “I don’t buy art to put in specific places. I just collect what I love and hope to find a place for it.” Sounds like spontaneous joy to me!!

Closing with best wishes for a Merry Christmas and “tidings of comfort and joy.”

Dec 10

Value. What is an “Investment Piece” and Why?

By pattisays In artistic expression, beauty behold it, context of interior design, creative process, design, design solutions, design tips, design trends, Discovering Art, element of surprise in design, furniture finds, hiring an interior designer, inspiration, interior design, interior design trends, investment pieces, joy, lifestyle, nostalgia and design, personal expression, re-purpose, trends /

In the design vernacular we keep hearing the term “investment piece.” What makes an investment piece? Is it that you spent more on it than most other purchases? You splurged? You made an unusual purchase that generally costs more than your norm. Sure, makes sense, I get this. Considered to be a focal piece, this seems to be the nod. However, I often feel entirely differently.

Investment. An investment in time, emotion, thoughts and beliefs…what type of unusual investment? An “investment piece” is usually a focal point or a piece placed in a position of prominence. It makes sense to identify an “investment piece” as something that is monetarily outside your usual comfort zone – but must it?

Consider that there is also the fact that a piece that hits a chord and is not easily replaced – if at all – is an investment. Seeing an objet d’art, on a folding table at a garage sale or amidst the throngs of a flea market, that catches your eye and is yours for a song – the bargain of the decade, or at least that day, is an emotional investment. It’s not about the money.

This “find” might actually have “cred” in a broad evaluation of appraisal. It might be a tiny Waterford crystal bud vase, like I found at a flea market for two dollars, about 35 years ago. I was just starting out, decorating my world, and it’s cut glistened and caught my eye from a cluttered table of garden tools, electric curlers and all manner of debris. There was and still is a true value for this type of piece. It is replaceable – not one-of-a-kind, but a lovely piece. Similarly, at garage sale many years later, I spied a sparkle across many tables to discover a large Waterford ship’s decanter clustered with a few other unmarked pieces. Neighbors selling for a friend, they were cautiously asking twenty five dollars – the bargain of the day.

Once, in a consignment store, I came upon an ARS Italian ceramic box for five dollars that, although marked on the bottom, is not so published as to be easily priced. And I don’t care. Too me it is a one-of-a-kind find. It is old. I can’t replace it. I love the colors of the glazes and little pear top, it’s imperfections speak to it’s vintage and made-by-hand quality. It makes me smile.

When I hear people reference things by their monetary value, it strikes a sensitivity in me that is quite emotional. It annoys me. It frustrates me. Perhaps I am too sentimental, too attached to the enjoyment of “things,” but it’s what these things evoke, what they trigger in the form of memories or just spontaneous pleasure. What brings a smile, a tangible joy, is more to the point. It is a treasure.

Pieces with genuine sentimental value, because they have been inherited, reminding the current custodians of who preceded them and cared enough to preserve and pass down…and contrarily the ease with which some can unemotionally and easily part with something that has passed to them. It can be distilled to what one might find beautiful or not, and what speaks to the point – does this bring you joy or is it an onus?

It makes perfect sense that I am in this field. I see what clients have, ask them about what means what, and sometimes even argue in favor of keeping something that was destined for replacement or complete removal. I want to know what brings my clients joy. I want to make sure they don’t miss something they already have. It might just be the context that makes the difference.

Sometimes my clients have a piece – usually large – that they just don’t know how to use. They would like to, but just can’t find the right place. This is when we might consider other uses than the obvious. A bedroom dresser, might become a dining buffet. We change the context and save the piece. It gives new life and appreciation. It is a combination, in some cases, of function and joy. Thinking outside the box.

To have a careless non-attachment to things, that have not cost a relatively unusual amount, frustrates me. Yes, it can be a good thing, freeing actually. Whereas I am burdened by my sentimentality. The fact that something is disposable merely because it was a “find” or a “bargain” should not make it less valuable – in my estimation. It’s not always about an expense.

It is a similar, yet reverse, process as selecting an item because of its cost or brand as thought that validates it. As though it is the primary reason to make the decision. I prefer to encourage people to find confidence in what they like – not merely a perceived or recognizable value. The result is the uniqueness that makes their world more personal, more individual, more uniquely theirs. It’s a treasure hunt. What is the value?

An “investment piece” should be almost, if not, irreplaceable – not by its cost – but by its unique ability to bring you joy. Have confidence to know it when you see it. It will be the right decision.

Nov 25

COOK + PARTY: Set the Stage for Style with Art in Daily Life

By pattisays In art and food, art and interior design, artistic expression, creativity, decorative arts, design tips, design trends, dining and design, entertaining, Food and art, food and interior design, glass art, Guy Fieri, Guy Fieri's Next Big Project, Guy's Big Project, handmade tableware, interior design, interior design trends, lifestyle, party themes, pottery, sunflowers, tableware, unique serving pieces /

Having art woven through the daily activities of your world is stimulating, satisfying and inspirational. It stimulates the imagination, satisfies with the knowledge that is was created by an individual artist and inspires to spur the creativity we each have to express – whether we know it or not. It encourages appreciation.

Functional art is a cornerstone of the work we offer at PATRICIAN DESIGN. As a novel promotion of the various artists who create and produce exciting food-safe serving pieces on display and for sale in our shop and affirmation, of the belief we have that art should set the stage for style in daily life, we began our series – Patti’s COOK + PARTY. We like to party and we love art – so we party with art at the center of the festivities!!!! Let’s get this party started!!!!!

Six months ago, we began our series and followed the seasons as we progressed. By Fourth of July we featured festive party parfaits in expected red, white and blue! Our martini glasses were placed upon colorful cocktail coasters hand dyed and pieced into pretty patchwork squares by fiber artist, Rebecca Speakes!

Micheladas were given a twist with plump yellow heirloom tomatoes! Alongside was a fresh guacamole featured in a rippled-edged undulating little piece of pottery by artist Anne Marie Werner Smith.

Her collection is wonderful and we continue to feature key pieces in our weekly recipe pairings.

The pairing of recipes, with handmade art pieces on which to present and serve is inspiring. Here is a New York Strip steak bathed in a crazy fresh, from the garden, combination of pesto/chimichurri (yes, we created some crazy combinations of the two) sauce presented on a fanciful leaf platter by artist Robin Chlad!

Seeing examples of fun recipe ideas displayed on functional art creations is an unbeatable combination. Just tell Guy Fieri that for his Next Big Project!!! Rooting out artist’s studios in every pocket of the country and discovering great work and pairing it with great food – fantastic!

The colorful drawings and painterly style of Mariana Gasteyer’s pottery is whimsical and festive! Here a couple of examples and a fabulous featured recipe of a paired pear salad – half roasted and half freshly sliced – the combination was divine and the presentation on the platter was perfection!

A summer road trip took us too Tucson where we featured a huge lotus platter by artist Penne Roberts. Here we featured a vintage Shrimp Louis Salad.

As fall progressed, we hiked Tent Rocks to photo this amazing platform piece by Jenn Dipaolo.

Upon the platform we placed a pair of sweet and savory mini pumpkin pots de creme.

This past week we featured a dazzling, luminous glass sunflower bowl Margaret Hidalgo Vanderheyden.

This spectacular fused glass assemblage frames our pecan crusted cheese ball perfectly. Fall colors with holiday flair, this bowl makes a statement!!!

Supporting local artists, showcasing their pieces by pairing with food is the bomb!

Start family traditions with signature art pieces, build collections and shop small supporting local artists in your community!!!

If you would like to receive our weekly Patti’s COOK + PARTY recipes and pairings with our functional art finds, let us know what you think and sign-up with your email address!!

Nov 05

Adding Personality & Panache – Before & Afters

By pattisays In bathroom remodel, before and after, color and temperature re: interior design, Color schemes, custom design interior design, dark colors, design, design tips, drama of color, hiring an interior designer, interior design, interior design trends, lifestyle, master bathrooms, mosaic tile, natural integrity of the materials, natural stone, personal expression, powder rooms, remodeling, residential restrooms, selecting colors, stone, tile, timeless colors, trends, updating /

Everyone loves befores and afters. Last week we featured a project that received a dramatic transformation. The trick is, you have to think thoroughly about taking “befores” before you tear into it!!! Hindsight is so often 20/20 when delving into a remodel.

I dashed over to Phoenix last month to celebrate the Grand Opening of an exciting new clinic that we have recently completed. While there I visited great friends and re-visited a wonderful residential project that has stood the test of time.

Here we have two restrooms in that same project. Rich colors of warm coral, brick and golden tones with natural materials from stone floors to counter-tops and wall treatments. It is a Spanish theme – albeit eclectic with art and decorative accessories, of this well-traveled couple.

What was plain 80s’ vanilla receives a new-found richness and warmth, depth and interest. Do not be afraid of dark colors in small rooms – I’ve said that many times in the past. I’ll bet that you have seen spaces exactly like these “before” shots. Clean slates, but so uninteresting it is remarkable to think owners are content to live without personality in their anemic interior spaces. We added powerful personality and panache throughout this residence.

The master bath had dated surfaces and uninteresting configuration. We transformed the area by connecting, with a glass panel, the tub and shower areas. However, we elected to use a shower curtain instead of glass door. I often suggest this alternative. It is softening, less expensive, easy, minimal maintenance – less wiping!!! Watch for another new master bath with a shower curtain and glass combo.

Full wall treatments of stone or ceramic are wonderful, substantive ways to suggest architecture over mere decorative appliqué. The material suggests structural forms. It never should stop on an outside corner, lest it defeat the purpose. It is to be a mass.

So take those “befores” and enjoy the “afters.” Don’t be afraid of dark colors in small rooms, and use stone and ceramics generously without fear.

P.S. Last week and this today are of a fabulously enjoyable and successful remodel transformation done 12 years ago!!! Yes, revisiting a couple of weeks ago, I took these afters of exactly the interior that we designed that long ago. It has been a virtually timeless project. The owners have enjoyed the spaces so well that they have maintained them without any modification. So we thought that you as readers would get a kick out of the long-term success of these design decisions.