Feb 24

Focus on an Artist, Patricia Forbes and the Art of Custom Design.

By pattisays In Abstract Art, Albuquerque, New Mexico, ambiance, art and interior design, art as gift ideas, art assemblages, art custom commissions, artistic expression, artistic talent, artists, collage art, Color schemes, color trends, colors, commercial interior design, commissioning an artist, Contemporary Art, context of interior design, Contrasting colors, creative process, creativity, custom art in interior design, custom design interior design, design, design challenges, design details, design process, design scenes, design solutions, Design Team, design tips, design trends, Discovering Art, discovering artistic talent, drama of color, eclectic design, element of surprise in design, fanciful design, floral designs, Graphic art, graphic designs in interiors, handcraft, handmade, hiring an interior designer, home, inspiration, inspiration from nature, interior atmosphere, interior design, interior design preferences, interior design trends, interior enhancements, joy, lifestyle, lofts, Modern Art, multi-media design, patterns, personal expression, personal taste, planning a remodel, red, Subscribers, textures, trends, urban art, value of art /

Collecting art, investing in art, loving art, designing with art…one aspect or all of the above, art in interior design has many facets. I have written previously about and presented a workshop about “I want a piece of art to go with my red sofa,” a kind of raspberry in the face of curators, collectors, critics and appraisers who would never take or condone that approach. But the desire and need exists and as a interior designer it is wonderful to work with artists who can and want to respond to cues, take on commissions and create for specific parameters.

Contrary to opinions from the high-brows, this is not to say that these artists lack artistic integrity or meaningful self-expression. Their value is as any other – determined by what the market will bear. The basis for this writing is that we work with many artists who love their work. And creating it (even under direction) brings them and their patrons joy.

Featured here is the up-lifting, colorful and texturally abstract work of Patricia Forbes. We have enjoyed commissioning her for specific interiors over the years and are never disappointed in the quality and creativity of her pieces.

For scale, diminutive Forbes poses by her Vertical Stick series.

With so many mass-produced art offerings at the trendy home decor stores, it is refreshing to encounter new clients who are at the start of their nesting years, establishing their own domains, selecting things that bring them comfort and identity and who’s appreciation lies in acquiring original art.

Designing an interior is about comfort and personal identity. It is about surrounding oneself with things that work – both functionally and aesthetically. Individual’s requirements, in either of those departments, can vary greatly – but suffice it to say, each person or couple or family unit creates a home environment based upon their likes and needs (and budget).

Enter the interior designer. When calling on the assistance of someone outside the intimacy of the home, the client is hoping for and expecting a successful custom-tailoring of their requests based upon the experience of the professional.

When designing an interior, it is exciting to use existing pieces already owned by the client. It is gratifying to arrange and place those items in ways not yet imagined – thereby justifying the investment in design consultation. After an intense session of rearranging furniture, artwork and decorative accessories the “ta-da” moment is one of near instant gratification and satisfaction.

When an interior needs a little something to pull it together, fill a gap, create an accent or establish a focal point, it is great fun to engage the creativity of an artist to custom design a piece to fit the need. Approaching an artist for the express purpose of acquiring a piece of their work to enhance a space is an exciting venture. It is a personal connection between artist and patron that creates a communion, a bond.

Here I took inspiration from a single panel that Forbes had constructed and requested a series of 9 panels grouped in a grid to make a larger statement on the wall. The interest created from a grid of images adds movement and dimension to this series already complex with sculpted texture and applied layers.

Color, texture, size, style, subject (or not) all are aspects of art that are to be considered for the personal interests of both artist and patron. If the patron has selected an artist to approach about a commission it is as a result of experiencing their work and appreciating it. The artist, in response, is to accept the parameters of the request and enjoy the challenge and process of creating the intended/desired finished product.

The intensity of this rich red wall was decided early in the design process. As we built layers of existing elements and introduced new pieces, the desire for a custom installation became apparent. This Urban Elements series was a collaborative effort between Forbes and me to provide a bit of an edgy, industrial vibe to this eclectic urban loft. Note too that the end table and coffee table were locally crafted for the project by Kirt Kirkpatrick

Forbes’ creativity is rooted in pattern, color and texture. Primarily non-objective, her pieces are compositions of movement and dimension. Working with a layering technique, she builds her action with a collage of papers and fibers, paint and stain. Action is key when describing Forbes’ artwork.

She creates for herself, but when called upon to collaborate on a project, her eager curiosity for what might result is enthusiastic and ever-promising. About her style and self-expression she states “When I have created a joyfulness and vibrancy in the work, I know I ahve created an experience I wish to share.”

When asked…

1. How/when/why did you start your abstract technique of layering colors and textures?

Forbes has always been drawn to color as a means of her personal expression, once she “experimented with acrylic materials that would hold a texture and started playing with those using combs and rubber spatulas and sticks to mark in the materials” she was hooked. “Metallic and interference paints call to me — so I began to combine the over the textured backgrounds, and then discovered that with acrylic one could imbed paper. It was really experimentation and discovery of what these amazing materials could do…”

2. What is the most satisfying aspect of your art for you personally?

The element of surprise is what gets Forbes excited! “When something comes together almost unexpectedly and I wonder how I did that — it’s always a search for the right combination of elements, colors, textures, feelings.” When they all come together she experiences great satisfaction. “It’s like turning over pieces to see what fits. Sometimes I have to turn over a lot of pieces to get the right combination — sometimes wondering whether to continue. Seems like it is always worth continuing the work to a happy conclusion.”

3. Why do you enjoy commissions to create specific pieces for interiors/patrons?

Forbes expresses genuine gratitude for her patrons. “I feel honored and appreciated when someone likes and appreciates my work and invites me to do something special for their home or office space.”

4. What pleases/satisfies you about this custom commission process?

The process of working together with her patrons is positive creative challenge. “I enjoy the collaborative aspect and going through the process with a client or designer and receiving their feedback as the work progresses.”

The satisfaction for a designer in partnering with an artist is designing and realizing a vision to complete a space. Bringing visions to reality. I often say that my team provides tremendous support in making my dreams come true. From artists and craftspeople to seamstresses and all manner of contractors, it is truly a team effort to achieve great results!

Feb 17

Time to Remodel – Finding a Theme

By pattisays In Albuquerque, New Mexico, architect, architecture, art and food, art and interior design, artistic expression, artistic talent, artists, before and after, blue and white, breakfast rooms, cabinet pulls, color forecasting, Color schemes, color trends, colors, concrete finishes, context of interior design, creative process, creativity, custom cabinets, custom design interior design, decorative accessories, design, design challenges, design details, design process, design solutions, design tips, design trends, designing with a purpose, dining and design, drama of color, expanding spaces, exterior - outdoor design, Federico Leon de la Vega, fireplaces, flooring, Food and art, food and interior design, good design, graphic designs in interiors, handcraft, handmade, hiring an interior designer, home, home improvements, houses, how to select colors, illusion of space, illusions of space, inspiration, interior atmosphere, interior design, interior design preferences, interior design trends, interior enhancements, kitchen, kitchen cabinets, kitchen design, kitchen lighting, kitchen remodel, kitchen remodeling, lifestyle, lighting, mosaic, mosaic tile, natural stone, nostalgia and design, organic design, paint colors, painters, patio, personal taste, planning a remodel, raised panel cabinets, Refresh, Regional design, remodeling, Santa Fe, New Mexico, selecting colors, slate floors, southwestern design, stone, Subscribers, Talavera Tile, tile, timeless colors, traditional kitchen design, trends, update design, updating, value of good design, wall texture, wall treatments, wallcovering, white color schemes, white interiors, white kitchens /

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The original fireplace had a dark, broken brick quarry tile hearth and no cap on the mantle.

The face-lift replaced the hearth material with broken-edged sandstone slab and matching mantle cap with Talavera detailing at the bottom.

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

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

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

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

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

The confused interior finishes we in need of a transformation!

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

The transformation was dramatically successful!

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

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

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

The window over the sink was high and small…

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

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

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

Before, the kitchen felt small and dark…

Opening the wall into the hallway brought in additional light and dimension.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Feb 10

Color. The Spices and Ingredients of Design

By pattisays In Albuquerque, New Mexico, ambiance, art and food, art of cooking, artistic expression, artistic talent, artists, chairs, color and temperature re: interior design, color forecasting, Color schemes, color trends, colors, context of interior design, cooking and design, creative process, creativity, custom design interior design, decorative arts, design, design challenges, design details, design process, design scenes, design solutions, design tips, design trends, designer fabrics, designing with a purpose, drama of color, drapery treatments, fabrics, floral arrangement, floral designs, flowers in design, food and interior design, good design, hiring an interior designer, home, home improvements, how to select colors, interior atmosphere, interior design, interior design preferences, interior design trends, interior enhancements, joy, kitchen design, lifestyle, paint colors, personal expression, personal taste, planning a remodel, red, retail remodeling, sectional sofas, selecting colors, sofas, southwestern design, Subscribers, textiles, textures, timeless colors, trends, upholstery, white interiors, window dressings /

Colors for fashion, interiors or a composing a bouquet are like the many ingredients, spices and herbs selected for great food. Creating dishes with fine flavors and visual appeal, by selecting the right combination, is good culinary design. So we see the spices and ingredients of design everywhere!

Assembling the colors, textures and shapes in a bouquet…

The art is in gathering the right combinations, textures, colors, flavors,…ok – maybe edible bouquets…Well, we’re not tasting the interiors – but some are scrumptious! Ooh – good enough to eat! And the fashion – yes, we’ve seen edible fabrics…generally not attempted in draperies – but who knows? The sky is the limit in design!!!

A few years ago, Kingston University Fashion Student, Emily Crane began pioneering a new strain of edible couture created from gelatin and seaweed! Brilliant and beautiful!!

Inasmuch as edible couture and creating fabrics from edible materials is fascinating, I digress…the actual point of my story is to recognize the common denominators between gathering materials for all forms of art – the assemblages result in the creative finished products. In this instance, interiors and their color schemes which bear likenesses to beautiful foods!

Color is the most apparent ingredient of most artistic design endeavors. It is the most obvious and first to catch your eye. Assembling an interior is usually grounded by a desired color. The foundation of a room begins with deciding a direction with color. This might seem to be contrary to the concept that form follows function – but I believe that the designing for the two are often concurrent events. The vision occurs while the function is simultaneously examined. Most people visualize in color.

I often write about color. It is an ongoing fascination to discover who prefers what color(s) and why. It offers the beginning of the visualization of a concept. As the framework is discussed – such as programming a kitchen. Inevitably, in the early stages, colors and materials are discussed. They might change. They might not end up as first imagined, but color aids in the visualization and process of design.

Look around your world and consider color. Why did you choose your interior colors? When selecting a color for the surfaces, fabrics and finish materials what would you do differently and why. Taking care not to merely react to trends, what colors will bring you joy? Trends often tempt. They are enticing and new, but they move along…It takes thorough examination to determine if a trend is truly applicable or merely a passing temptation. The validation of design is the approval of the occupants or function for whom/which it serves. Not just the feature of a new trend.

So have a little fun seeing these interiors paired with edible color schemes as dishes are correlated to interior schemes.

The spices and ingredients selected to create the flavor bursts might be hot green jalapenos, serranos, tart limes, dried red chiles balanced by the soft and warm yellow of corn tortillas.

What interior might look like a spicy platter of festivity? Perhaps bold wall colors sprinkled with myriad decorative accessories and functional art.

Imagine creating a creamy white-sauce mushroom pasta with velvety texture and soft finish. The ingredients you would reach for would be the cream, pasta, white pepper and perhaps a touch a sherry. Sautéing the mushrooms in butter for a luscious golden brown.

An interior that captures a similar feel derived from the same palette of colors…

Mimicking the creamy mushroom palette, rich wood, copper and steel tones contrast against the creamy whites in this interior featuring one of our favorite furniture and fabric lines – Duralee/Robert Allen!

Duralee/Robert Allen has many collections providing the perfect fabrics and furnishings for so many deliciously diverse interior projects!

From creamy, soft and warm to cool and refreshing…

Cool sushi plates featuring the pink and orange tones of tender fresh fish, cilantro sprig greens, and so white rice!

An interior possessing similar colors – the perfect ingredients to create a stunning design!

Durlaee encompasses many fine collections. Here the Clarke & Clarke Oriental Garden fabrics are gathered together to present a fresh scene reminiscent of our colorfully fresh sushi plate!

Ready for reds?

A berry lovely dish with creamy whites…Our delectable raspberry tart presented on a lace-embossed white pottery piece accented with finely sliced toasted almonds sets the stage for the next interior color scheme…

Once again we are featuring Duralee’s Clarke & Clarke statement called Zanzibar a brilliant raspberry and red ethnic statement inspired by the exotic and vibrant world of Tanzania, Africa. Discovering the creativity of colors and fabrics in distant places offers a mélange of ingredients with which to create an exciting interior design!

Mix it up. Gather the ingredients that will bring you joy and result in a deliciously creative interior!!! Come see and feel these fabulous fabrics and furnishings from Duralee/Robert Allen in our comprehensive design resource library at PATRICIAN DESIGN! Call us and we will send samples!

Jan 28

WHITE by Design…

By pattisays In architecture, artistic expression, artistic talent, bars and restaurants, brick, cabanas, coastal, cocktails, color and temperature re: interior design, color forecasting, Color schemes, color trends, colors, commercial interior design, Concealed lighting, context of interior design, Contrasting colors, contrasts for balance in design, creative process, creativity, custom lighting, design, design challenges, design details, design process, design scenes, design solutions, design tips, design trends, designer fabrics, designing with a purpose, doorways and entrances, drama of color, Dunn-Edwards Paints, element of surprise in design, exterior - outdoor design, fabrics, Garden, good design, good taste, handcraft, handmade, hiring an interior designer, home, home improvements, houses, how to select colors, illusions of space, indirect lighting, inspiration, inspiration from nature, interior atmosphere, interior design, interior design preferences, interior design trends, landscape design, lifestyle, lighting, Mexico, mosaic, mosaic tile, natural designs, natural stone, organic design, paint colors, patio, patio design, personal expression, personal taste, pink, planning a remodel, Refresh, Regional design, remodeling, restaurant design, selecting colors, site furniture, site sculpture, smart surfaces, stone, Subscribers, summer, timeless colors, travel and design, trends, tropical, umbrellas, walkways, wall texture, wall treatments, white color schemes, white interiors /

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

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

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

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

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

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

Popular white string lights add festivity and a warm glow to an evening scene.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Whites on whites…creamy sand colors to crisp white terrycloth, the white-on-white scheme is soft, inviting and clean.

Greenery compliments the white umbrellas and sunning beds on the lawn by the beach.

Palm trunks and other fruit trees are often painted white to protect against insects and what insects insist on climbing the surface are easily spotted by birds who appreciate the help to capture a snack! In this case, they contribute to the white design theme.

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

Shadows in the creases and depths of the folds add the dimension to the luxurious feel of the cotton damask fabric.

White stucco is dappled by shadows and greenery while given a warm, strong base by the brick pavers. White as an architectural finish is only successful if the context compliments it. This is true in all design.

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

Architectural surfaces incorporating tones and textures of white provide interesting opportunities

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

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

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

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

Jan 14

“COLOR IT FABULOUS” – A Color Game to Play and Learn!

By pattisays In airports, Albuquerque, New Mexico, architecture, art and food, art and interior design, artistic expression, artistic talent, artists, color trends, color wheel, colors, Company C, Contemporary Art, Contrasting colors, contrasts for balance in design, creative process, creativity, decorative arts, design, design details, design process, design scenes, design solutions, design tips, design trends, Discovering Art, drama of color, fashion and design, floral designs, flowers in design, food and interior design, Graphic art, handcraft, handmade, hiring an interior designer, home improvements, how to select colors, inspiration, inspiration from nature, interior atmosphere, interior design, interior design preferences, interior design trends, interior enhancements, lifestyle, Living Coral, Mexico, Modern Art, paint colors, painters, Pantone, personal expression, personal taste, planning a remodel, quilting, quilts, remodeling, selecting colors, Subscribers, teaching, timeless colors, travel and design, trends, tropical, Tucson /

After last week’s Color of the Year observations, I furthered the subject regarding the importance, influence and value of colors.

I don’t know the science behind how individual’s eyes perceive and translate color… rods and cones and the anatomy of the eye as it speaks to the brain…but what I do know is that COLOR and the context of COLOR MATTERS even if it is not perceived exactly the same by everyone.

My parents were coincidentally both apt to notice, remark about and describe color specifically. To them, and ultimately to me, colors were something to regard and absorb, for better or for worse, and all colors deserved acknowledgement and specification.

I distinctly remember their descriptions, “Parrot Green, Sapphire Blue, Lemon Yellow, Fire Engine Red and Brown as a berry” – a compliment which indicated that you had tanned sufficiently! I think it was a result of our island home-away-from-home that prompted many of these titles. We, for sure, had no parrots making their presence known in Virginia! But for some reason, colors in the islands prompted unusual appreciation and scrutiny. This parrot green was like grass green but a bit more intense – saturated – not a dark green and certainly not a spring green – just a brilliant, clear, secondary green! The result of true, primary blue and yellow mated to make GREEN!

Color is a communication tool to convey – color. But what color? What type of color? What specific color? Is your version of a color the same as mine? Do we “read” color the same way? Do we express the description of color the same way? How might you explain a color to a person who is blind?

I’m writing this today from the tropics and it seems worthy to note that colors are abundant here in brilliant evidence through all seasons. Whereas in a decidedly changing seasonal and climate, colors come alive in spring, progress through changes and pretty much crash for the dormant winter months. Contrarily, the topics meld their rainbow of blooming floribunda, bounty of fruits and palette of these brilliant colors year round.

Maybe it is because we straddled both worlds. The lush, verdant, colorfully blooming and always reliable tropics countered by the decidedly and distinctly changing seasons through dormancy in the northern climes. There must be an appreciation for the change. The lovely, yet possibly monotonous climates that produce blooming color all year round might dull the senses to the seasonal reemergence and staggering beauty of new growth and blooming abundance and mute the verbal expression and appreciation thereof.

For example, my color antenna is always up and running. As I struggled with my pair of carry-on luggage monstrosities clearly in excess of 75 pounds (good thing there is only a size and not a weight limit!!), I came upon 2 art pieces in the Houston Hobby airport. The colors beckoned me. Although I had noticed them in swift passing, I couldn’t help wanting to see more. So I stopped and dashed back, disassembled my cumbersome haul and quickly took photos of these two paintings on exhibit, in the concourse, in order that I could enjoy them a bit later. Initially attracted by the color, they arrested me allowing and inviting an opportunity for further examination of their subject matter and detail later, when I had the luxury of time.

The wildly organic plant life, featuring an animated orchid that tangled and writhed on the painting’s surface in a variety of verdant green’s set against a perfectly selected fiery orange table surface, was brilliantly alluring and seemed to set the stage as a precursor to my soon-to-be-destination in tropical Mexico. ARTIST: Lucas Johnson Still Life with Schomburgkia

A bit further down the corridor of the concourse another piece caught my attention. Similarly with its colorful invitation, but with entirely different subject matter which upon closer inspection was quite intriguing, a patchwork quilt of batik fabrics and collage with applied letters beckoning the viewer to wonder what might be beneath was magic. The woman or child and beloved pet in the center of the action nestled under a cozy and colorful quilt, wrapped in a cloak of starry darkness which might suggest clinging to each other against the foreboding imaginings of the night.

The intense collection of the brilliant colors contrasting against black was dramatic, mystic and inescapable in this powerful piece, It Helps to Think We’re Sleeping Underneath the Same Big Sky by artist Joo Young Choi.

Watercolor artist extraordinaire, Susan Weeks, captured this crate of mangos at an exotic market somewhere very south of here. Peru? Ecuador? I don’t remember. Susan gets around. And, Susan sees color and detail and renders it with remarkably exacting precision.

As I greet the day, I’m taking my stash of mangoes out onto the balcony to be seen and photographed in context. Reminded of how Susan rendered this succulent sweet fruit, with the delightfully “hairy pit” (nods to Tricia), I celebrate this colorful collection of nature in a sensational setting! These gorgeous tones of warm golden yellow, baby iguana green and yes, 2019’s rosy warm coral (Pantone’s “Living Coral”) are nature’s color scheme. The orbs are sensuous and the colors are excitingly bright and luscious.

Mango colors of rosy coral and warm, golden yellow are paired in this arched interior entry.

Here a similar scheme featuring one of our favorite Company C rugs illustrates the bold, effective power of color selection.

Try this exercise with color. I have no idea what your eyes see and your brain translates, but walk around and look at things in your world. Notice color. Notice individual items…book bindings to fresh fruit. Evaluate each color’s effect. Does it evoke any emotion…good or bad? If you wanted a painter to paint a wall that color and you didn’t have the paint selected, how would you describe that color in an attempt to get it on the wall as you desired?

In a more thorough test, you might be prepared with actual paint – like tubes of acrylic from the craft store. Get a print-out of a color wheel to illustrate the primary, secondary and tertiary colors. https://bit.ly/2SVKUMg Buy red, blue, yellow and white and use them to attempt to create the color being described. This could be a party game – but you would need to also have paint chips from the home improvement store or paint store to use as the prompts that would have to be described and used to match the success or failure of the person attempting to create the color.

Noticing color brings appreciation to the details and nuances of our color-filled world. The little exercise/game, to try to convey a color to another person based upon similar life experiences and references, is interesting. Please share your thoughts and experiences, dilemmas and frustrations with this project through the blog’s email.

I hope this encourages you to go forth with a new-found appreciation of color and how it adds layers of depth and interest to all that you see. Examine the natural world, or man-made creations in film, set-design, architecture, graphic advertisements, fashion design or interior design. See why color matters!

Jan 06

2019 Pantone’s Color of the Year LIVING CORAL!!!

By pattisays In Albuquerque, New Mexico, architecture, Arizona, art and interior design, artistic expression, artists, Centerpieces, color and temperature re: interior design, color forecasting, Color schemes, color trends, colors, contrasts for balance in design, coral, creative process, creativity, custom design interior design, design, design details, design process, design scenes, design solutions, design tips, design trends, dining and design, drama of color, entertaining, exterior - outdoor design, Federico Leon de la Vega, floral arrangement, flowers in design, Garden, hiring an interior designer, home, home improvements, houses, inspiration from nature, interior atmosphere, interior design, interior design preferences, interior design trends, landscape design, lifestyle, Living Coral, paint colors, painters, Pantone, patio, personal expression, personal taste, pink, planning a remodel, remodeling, seasonal interior design, selecting colors, silk flowers, Subscribers, swimming pools, table dressings, table top, tableware, Talavera Tile, Tucson, update design, wall texture, wall treatments /

Color. Fashion and trends. Pantone’s annual pick and announcement – this year, based upon observation of the field of design scenes namely Airbnb and Apple, really? I find that amusing. Described by Pantone as “an animated life-affirming shade of orange, with golden undertones.” If orange had golden undertones, it would be more yellow-orange – a golden orange – NOT the pinky-orange suggested by their swatch of Living Coral and myriad examples that are being set forth. However, a few months ago I noticed and saved (because I liked the colors), a Smith’s Food Store envelope featuring peaches that illustrated the cozy combination of the rosy-orange coral tones with the golden yellows – a perfect pairing.

This pinky coral – a hot, but smooth, orange-ish color – has been one of my favorites for years! In 2004 I referenced it as “lipstick” that wonderful color between red, orange and pink! A hard-to-find lipstick shade sought by many!!! It melds fabulously with citrus colors and is cooled and contrasted by blues. A wall of colors depicts this perfectly.

We painted the wall, took a photo of it and emailed it to Federico Leon de la Vega in Mexico to commission him to do this grapefruit painting with its luscious, pink center and coral shades, wrapped in a yellow peel and surrounded by cool, bold, brushstrokes of whites and brilliant blues.

A few years later we devoted an entire project to the fresh, citrus, color tangerine – which because of my personal preference leaned toward the coral shade of orange rather than the pure, natural tangerine. But art is about taking liberties and when developing an orange accented color scheme, all versions are allowed. Right?

This project was punctuated with orange tones from tangerine (for which it was named), and deep warm coral-pink shades. The hue and its many vibrant values!

However, to photo these nuances of color is tough. I walked around the Tangerine project a couple of days ago. It has stood the test of time by beating trends by a few years and not adopting any particular design elements that would have given it away today.

Look at how much nature played a part in the staging of these coral infused scenes!

My advice is to pick the colors that you like – the colors that make you feel good. Once determined, develop design based upon when to use that/those colors and when to contrast them or perhaps neutralize them.

Coral is bold and warm. It can read hot and energized – although is softer than red and less harsh than orange.

Nature is abundant with coral – not just the living sea coral – but flowers and the rare fabulous accent fur of Vietnamese monkey the red-shanked douc!

Vietnam’s red-shanked douc- brilliant coral accents in his coat!

The thought of warm saltwater and fresh sea air at this time of year is tantalizing. Living coral doesn’t just say – coral, (of which there are many colors) it evokes that shade that we snap to when mentioned. Hot, soft pinky coral – a color of seduction. It is featured in jewelry and art renderings, architecture and interiors.

My advice is to pick the colors that you like – the colors that make you feel good. Once determined, develop design based upon when, where and how to use that/those colors and when to contrast them or perhaps neutralize them.

A little whimsy to celebrate this bold exciting color of the year!!!

Have fun with color – any color- all colors! Welcome Pantone’s Living Coral, into the conversation and design elements, for this New Year!!!

Dec 30

Refresh and Renew Designing Purposefully for the New Year

By pattisays In artistic expression, blue and white, Color schemes, color trends, colors, context of interior design, creative process, creativity, decorative accessories, design, design challenges, design details, design process, design scenes, design solutions, design tips, design trends, designing with a purpose, dining and design, drama of color, entertaining, floral arrangement, good design, hiring an interior designer, home, home improvements, interior atmosphere, interior design, interior design preferences, interior design trends, interior enhancements, joy, kitchen, kitchen design, kitchen remodel, lifestyle, organization, paint colors, personal expression, personal taste, planning a remodel, practical design, re-purpose, re-upholstery, Refresh, remodeling, room arrangement, selecting colors, silk flowers, sofas, stone countertops, Subscribers, table dressings, table top, trends, value of good design, white kitchens /

Designing with a purpose is always the way to begin a project. But it is particularly valuable as a tool to start the New Year off fresh! What I mean by purpose is that your interiors should reflect the purpose that they serve for you and your family. By establishing a purpose for your spaces, you will achieve happiness.

Sounds simple, but happiness is proved by what brings you joy, peace and a smile to your face. To achieve this, you will need to evaluate your lifestyle, routines and the rooms in which you perform certain functions.

Upon entering your home, do you feel satisfied? Does arriving home make you feel happy? Is it your safe and comfy retreat from the outside world? Do you like the smell? Yes it matters. Like a realtor telling a home seller to boil some cinnamon sticks on the stove to create the scent of spices in the chilly months or fragrant floral bouquets in the spring and summer…all of the senses come into play when you are staging an interior. And to enhance the design of your own home – you are staging for yourself! If your home smells musty or stale, consider the sources and do a little fabric refreshing, open windows, check for grease in the kitchen…purge the unpleasant odors.

So how do you start your day? Is your room light or dark and how adjustable is it to modify as needed? Is the floor upon which you first set your feet in the morning warm or cool, rough or soft? How do these elements make you feel? How do you want to feel? Consider all of your senses. Consider the purpose of the space and what you want it to do for you. As you evaluate these small details, ask yourself “Do I want to make changes in any of these existing conditions? It’s usually fairly easy to do and if you just take one piece at a time, you will find that the improvements are very effective.

Is your bedroom restful? Are your feel happy when they hit the floor? Examine the sensory details to get started designing with a purpose.

If you enjoy cooking, see how your kitchen functions and how it looks to you as a workplace. Do you have things handy? Is what you use most often easily accessible? Evaluate and rearrange if needed. Re-organize your kitchen.

Some cooks like everything concealed, while some like having certain of their equipment out and ready. Make it suit your purpose.

When you entertain, how do you like to do it? Is your style casual or more formal? Where do people gather and how many at a given time? You can “zone” your entertaining so that some are gathered in established seating areas while others might pull up a stool and watch you cook. Consider the flow of your gatherings. Consider the purpose. I find that I am up and down a lot and therefore I opt for a little upholstered ottoman that I can scoot under the glass top coffee table when not in use. Benches, ottomans, even floor pillows can be great supplemental seating for overflow and these pieces are lower and visually less crowded than pulling chairs in from adjacent rooms.

With regard to seating, do you have pets, kids? Are you hard on your upholstery? This might determine what fabrics you select, if you are considering new pieces or re-upholstery of existing pieces, in your home.

I write often about color. There are so many paint choices that is impossible not to find the right color combinations for your spaces. Consider the purpose. Remember that different rooms can have different color schemes, if that serves your purpose. If you want a space to be restful, select soothing colors and if your want to express a more vibrant spirited feeling, choose colors that are more bright, bold and intense. Consider the purpose of the space and its color scheme regarding how you want it to make you feel.

It all boils down to observing your rooms and their details, letting go of things that no longer serve a purpose. If they do not function well or make you smile – let go. Rearrange your things. This is a neat trick to re-purposing your possessions and giving rooms a new look. Move things from one room to another or just within the same room. You will feel refreshed merely by making these simple changes.

As is true with all good New Year’s resolutions…don’t put off tomorrow, what you can do today! So get started and see how you can make your home the place where you gain strength and rejuvenation, achieve happiness and surround yourself with the things that bring you joy.

Dec 17

Wrapping It Up for Christmas in More Ways Than One!

By pattisays In Albuquerque, New Mexico, bathroom remodel, Boulder. Colorado, Christmas, creative process, custom design interior design, custom furniture, design, design challenges, design details, design process, design scenes, design solutions, Design Team, design tips, design trends, drapery rods, family rooms, functional art, handmade, hiring an interior designer, holiday decor, home improvements, interior atmosphere, interior design, interior design preferences, interior design trends, interior enhancements, lifestyle, master bathrooms, planning a remodel, practical design, remodeling, retail remodeling, retail wrap desks, Subscribers, value of good design /

There are presents to wrap as Christmas approaches, but here is another kind of wrapping up – from completing projects to taking inventory – the end of the year is busy and everyone is anxious to get things wrapped up!!

Parties are scheduled and scenes are set.

Lovely party last night! Thank you Anne and Ken!!!

Company is coming and the final kitchen drawer was just finished, walls are painted, custom iron rods were just installed, the tree is up and all is decked for Christmas. The draperies are being finished and should be installed before the big day! Will they be finished before the guests arrive?

The new store is open! (Watch for more on this soon!) The front window is in festive mode with a Christmas tree and mannequins sporting the newest fashions. The last minute details are installed on the magnificent wrap desk, the POS (Point of Sale – not to be confused with what they might be calling it during the glitch) computer cash register system is on the fritz and hours of remote consultation puts everyone on edge.

The custom designed and crafted tables are finished – although we missed the Thanksgiving deadline – a ski trip that weekend made that a forgivable situation. Delivery to Boulder dodging snow storms was a success and the tables exceeded expectations!

Two entirely different tables custom designed and fabricated, delivered and installed!

Other projects proceed as chair cushions are being finished, cabinet pulls are on order, the rug pad is due any day, the construction drawings for the commercial kitchen are underway, the solar shades are in and working nicely on the designated remotes, the walls need to be patched and painted – hopefully this week, the landscape plans are being priced, the sign package for the exterior of the building are also being priced and the plumbing fixtures aren’t here and might not be in time, the counter tops are still to be fabricated, the plumbing needs to arrive and be installed…and those last few items are for my own house!

If anyone thinks that the designers’ projects go more smoothly or finish on time and go off without a hitch – think again. Murphy’s Law isn’t prejudiced. My own indecision, delivery of the wrong sinks, budget modifications and time delays related to design details being painstakingly executed all contributed to my project not being cleared up before Christmas. Through no fault of my wonderful contractors, so many other things are in play. Designing projects is like conducting orchestras – well, to the extent that there are many players who must perform when expected without flaws – and that is not the nature of most projects. Unlike an orchestra performing a piece, having practiced for hours, days, months, years…projects are never identical and practice cannot make perfect. The variables are many and the permutations and possibilities for glitches seem endless! Perhaps it’s more like juggling rather than conducting!!!

So as we wrap-up the year and hope that everyone’s projects are providing comfort, enhanced function, fun and even profitability, we thank all of our clients and contractors who participate in the process. We are thankful for each of you – our clients and we are equally thankful for all those artists and craftspeople on our team who make our dreams come true.

Nov 18

Rejuvenate and Expand Your Interior Spaces by Opening Walls

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A passing idea for a stenciled surround was entertained…

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Nov 05

Patience and Reward for Design Processes

By pattisays In Albuquerque, New Mexico, artistic expression, before and after, blue and white, breakfast rooms, cabinet pulls, creative process, creativity, custom design interior design, design, design details, design process, design solutions, design tips, drama of color, drapery rods, drapery treatments, engineered concrete counter tops, existing materials, flooring, good design, hardwood floors, hiring an interior designer, home, home improvements, houses, interior atmosphere, interior design, interior design preferences, interior design trends, interior enhancements, kitchen, kitchen cabinets, kitchen design, kitchen remodeling, mosaic, mosaic tile, natural stone, paint colors, personal expression, personal taste, planning a remodel, Refresh, remodeling, selecting colors, slate floors, Subscribers, Talavera Tile, tile, timeless colors, value of good design /

Patience. Good design requires patience. Do you have it? The design process can either take the route of “all planned before anything starts” (everything drawn and detailed, all finishes selected, all fixtures and furnishings, fabrics and accessories decided and specified, for perfect inclusion into the design) or the process of “design-as-you-go”. The “all planned” design process allows for exact pricing and budget planning. But if the process takes too long, some of the things specified might no longer be available – that has happened more than once! The other “design-as-you-go process” is more random. There can be and often is a combination of these two approaches, but the second requires more patience and less precisely scheduled time.

The luxury of time, experimentation, trial and error, wait and see, what if, all are elements of the “design-as-you-go” process. It is decidedly the more fun and more participatory process. It starts and evolves before your very eyes, with the in-the-field options, to change, modify, massage, delete, add, think and re-think, all available while the action takes place, it is like creating an art piece one stroke at a time. Artistic expression rarely progresses in a straight line.

All of the above can be said of the pre-planning process too. You can illustrate, render, draft, erase, alter and change all the while – but you are doing it prior to commitment, prior to actually seeing the actual design unfold in real time.

Changes and additions can arrest the process – whether in pre-construction planning or live-in-the-field. However, live-in-the-field is much more int-eruptive and possibly costly. Changes and additions can cause scheduling delays which can domino throughout the otherwise planned program. This can result in not only cost considerations, but disarray and a prolonged inability to use the space.

As I visited one of two parallel kitchen remodels nearing completion that I have previously mentioned, the owner mused “It’s a painful process.” But as we stand there enjoying the transformation he continues “It is almost hard to remember all the phases we’ve been through to get here. Kind of like childbirth.” We laughed at the fact that the world would be filled with “only children” as no mother in their right mind would go through that pain again!! He and I both never having experienced it for ourselves – yet, “they say” that it’s true. All very much worth it in the end!!! The ultimate reward!

This BEFORE shot of this kitchen shows dated, anemic face-framed radius flat panel cabinets, granite tile counter-tops and back-splash.

Not quite finished, cabinet pulls are being installed, final painting details are underway and the transformation is being unveiled. New cabinet doors add a classic raised panel detail painted white, with new concrete-like engineered Italian counter-tops, and striking Talavera tile back-splash punctuated with mini mosaic Spanish tile accents. A new window opens to the outside patio with the counter-top passing through and the window closing directly on the top.

Residential design – those private, personal spaces always involve knitted brows, vacillation, additional worry and more indecision than commercial designs. Not to say that commercial designs don’t involve interested parties, if not actual owners, the investment in the personal pocketbook and personal emotion is not the same. Furthermore, there are greater personal thrills and disappointments in the residential projects.

Well, back to patience. It’s a virtue and I often struggle to practice it. I tend to be overly eager for instant gratification. But patience is very important when creating something of value and timeless appeal.

Design takes patience during the various stages of design details. We are not talking about building a rocket ship – but imagine the design and engineering required for that!. Let’s just talk about something simple, like custom drapery rods. The client thinks – fast and easy. While on vacay they experience a lovely accommodation that features hand-forged drapery rods. “Cool” they say. Filing that away among their thoughts of interesting interior details. A couple of weeks later, they are in front of an art booth and meet an iron-worker who offers all manner of custom iron work. So they recall the cool drapery rods and inquire as to whether he would do something like they described. “Sure,” he sings and whips out his portfolio of photos among which are very cool twisted iron drapery rods with swirly finials adorning the ends. They’re sold! They invite him over to see their windows and get started. At this point, their interior designer knows nothing of this idea or the contact and engagement.

Remember, they are thinking fast and easy. So they expose their idea and plan that is already underway asking their interior designer on advice for drapery fabric. With this opening, the designer asks about the rods. Come to find, they aren’t sure how far past the windows they have been measured to go, they haven’t considered that the 5/8″ solid stock might want to sag after a while spanning 8 feet and they have no idea how they are going to hang the draperies…”Oh” we need rings? So it seems that the conversation with the iron-worker has been rather cursory. Questions that needed to be asked and answered at the outset had not been thoroughly considered.

Fortunately, these details will now be addressed, issues solved and finished product all as it should be with proper extension past the actual window opening, matching rings to the iron rods, and a stout enough rod so as not to require a center support – an element to be avoided if at all possible. Whew – caught that one before it was too late!! (Watch for the installation of the hand-forged rods and custom draperies in the next few weeks).

Paint colors often wait until other decisions are made. I have mentioned previously that we usually pick things that have fewer options. There are more paint colors than anything else in our design world with fewer fabrics and even fewer rugs. In that order, we might pick the rug first, fabrics to build upon it and paint colors to bring it all together. Not necessarily – but that is a pretty good example.

Starting with an existing hardwood floors well preserved by decades of wall-to-wall carpeting, we discussed the desire to create a colorfully transforming interior and opening of the space to better connect the kitchen with the living area.

As we met to hang artwork, discuss iron drapery rods, custom chandelier and finishing touches, the clients remarked that this was so exciting to be nearing the end of this dramatically colorful transformation that so nearly has transported them back to Guatemala where so many fond memories have been established over the years.