Apr 18

Isolation Invites Innovation

By pattisays In Albuquerque, New Mexico, apartments, bathroom remodel, before and after, built-in bookcases, ceiling lighting, chairs, cleaning, clutter, Color schemes, color trends, commercial design, commercial interior design, commercial remodel, construction, contemporary interiors, context of interior design, Covid -19, creative process, creativity, custom cabinets, custom design interior design, custom furniture, custom lighting, decorative accessories, decorative mirrors, design, design challenges, design details, design process, design scenes, design solutions, design tips, design trends, designing small spaces, designing with a purpose, drama of color, education, expanding spaces, exterior - outdoor design, furniture finds, good design, hiring an interior designer, home, home decor, home improvements, home office, how to select colors, illusion of space, illusions of space, indirect lighting, interior atmosphere, interior design, interior design preferences, Interior design pro tips, interior design trends, interior enhancements, landscape design, lifestyle, lighting, master bathrooms, mirrored walls, mirrors, modern cabinets, modern interiors, multi-generational design, office furniture, open floorplans, paint colors, patio, patio design, personal expression, personal taste, planning a remodel, practical design, remodeling, residential restrooms, reupholstery, room arrangement, Santa Fe, New Mexico, Subscribers, throw pillows, trending design, trends, update design, updating, upholstery, workplace design /

Here, today, find designer focus and pro-tips for improving our living spaces. Most of us have spent more time at home than we have in years. Sure, we usually wake up, prepare for the day and return in the evening, to end the day. Weekends are usually that bonus time around the house – unless we spend them on road trip excursions. However, being at home every day is unusual for many and has provided opportunities to critique and take stock. Go from “making-do” to making better, with a little focus on the details and some professional help!

New catch-phrases like “shelter-in-place” have become part of our vernacular. Staying home has resulted in massive numbers of internet orders, cautious home improvement store visits and related activity. The shared anxious energy and creative energy spawned, from our restricted living and working regimens, is “going viral!”

Well, we certainly never really considered that trendy term of something being popular being a REAL virus spreading across the planet – but the humor, common complaints and simple joys, of this surreal modification to our lives, are “going viral” all over the internet. From the vantage point of the design world, we are seeing a multitude of comments about people going stir-crazy and making plans for needed home and office improvement.

HOME DEPOT – Pick-up in the store or have it delivered FREE to your doorstep!!

We are finally – and I say finally, after nearly everyone else we know has done so – ordering storm doors. Yes, to leave open and let in the light of day!!! It has taken being around the house for so many consecutive days that has geared us to the circadian rhythm that our orientation provides and illustrated the need to avail our interior of a significant missed opportunity for natural light! Just never seemed that important…until now! We have labored over having lights (glass) in new primary doors, but after weighing the options for light, security and transparency have opted for clear, full-panel laminated glass storm doors with interchangeable screens, for fresh air – weather permitting.

Yes – Anderson DOES do double storm doors – but try finding that information on their website or even through Home Depot – they’re terrific – you just need to inquire!!!

This unique opportunity to be quarantined inside our homes has given us an opportunity to evaluate the flow, function and lifestyle within our private environments. Have you noticed any things that you want to change as a result of this confinement and forced, close-up evaluation?

Here are a few topics and tips that have come-up in recent conversations from both consumer/clients and designers:

More perceived space: Perhaps open a wall or completely remove a wall(s) and connect two rooms for better communication and visual enlargement of the floor plan.

Adding mirrored walls or individual mirrors add depth and also expands a space to give it a perceived increase in size.

Add cozy color and texture with area rugs, throws and accent pillows.

Add skylights for more daylight.

Change paint colors for a refreshed feel.

Remodel kitchens and bathrooms – people have been sharing intimate spaces and preparing meals significantly more than regular lifestyles dictate and now recognize limitations in their current designs.

Re-upholstery of existing pieces that function well, but need to be refreshed and modernized.

Purchase new furnishing to improve the comfort, function and visual appearance of the interior.

Desires for additional lighting or replacement fixtures, to improve and enhance the quality and color of light inside all rooms for tasks, ambiance, accent spots, indirect illumination, decorative fixtures and even landscape lighting to highlight the features of the plantings and exterior structures, have been heightened.

Workplace design has migrated into homes prompting consideration for a more efficient permanent pocket of living spaces designed for that specific purpose of home-offices. A few from our website portfolio are illustrated here…

Before – this cluttered space was serving as an office – but without organization or pleasing aesthetics.

After – this same space reorganized furniture placement, added new work-surfaces and cantilevered shelves to match existing teak pieces, creating an atmosphere of organization, enhanced workspace and display of personal hobbies and memorabilia.

Before – this room doubled as a sewing room and home office – but the lack of organization made it inefficient and unpleasant.

After – by adding storage, cutting a steel trundle bed (found in their storage unit) down to window-width, and rearranging the workspaces, this same room can now comfortably accommodate a guest, organize work and sewing spaces and pleasantly display art and memorabilia.

For both working from home and schooling from home – the needs, for this space, have become critical. Imagine, down the road, more on-line courses might be considered and even more opportunities to work from home now that the practice has been proven!!

Even a pocket tucked in the corner of a room can be ample space for quiet focus and an organized workspace.

Areas designed for study can also be used for arts and crafts and other projects.

Office spaces will reflect this modification in the working environment, by creating more flexible workspaces allowing a variety of scenarios for performing tasks between home and office and an increasing appreciation for a more fluid arrangement of office layouts and furnishings.

During this isolation, I have enjoyed several ZOOM continuing education classes offered by Knoll that have centered on workspace layout and furniture both at home and in corporate settings.

Here are more helpful tips from Knoll for your consideration when planning a home-office. https://www.knoll.com/shop/work-from-home/home-office-setup-guide

Patio perk-ups to expand the enjoyment outdoors – at both home and office – maximizing the livable exterior areas of either small balconies to expansive spaces, backyards, decks, improved landscaping, outdoor kitchens and fully-furnished furnished living spaces – are seeing increased attention to detail.

Woodard furniture – one of our favorites – has been designing and fabricating for well over a hundred and fifty years. Since 1934 they have perfected the art of metal furniture design and fabrication. As industry leaders, their expertise brings a collection of superior craftsmanship and a wide variety of materials and styles to accommodate both commercial and residential applications.

Let’s keep moving forward through this pandemic with positive vibes for creating enhanced living spaces – both inside and out – for more productive and enjoyable living!

Aug 11

Everyone Loves Before and Afters

By pattisays In Albuquerque, New Mexico, bathroom remodel, before and after, blue and white, Color schemes, color trends, construction, creative process, creativity, custom cabinets, custom design interior design, decorative mirrors, design, design challenges, design details, design process, design scenes, design solutions, Design Team, design tips, design trends, designing with a purpose, good design, hiring an interior designer, home improvements, illusion of space, illustration, interior design trends, interior enhancements, marble, mirrored walls, mirrors, modern cabinets, mosaic, mosaic tile, natural stone, painted cabinets, patterns, planning a remodel, powder rooms, Refresh, remodeling, shower design, stone, Subscribers, tile, trends, update design, updating, vanitydesign, wall texture, wall treatments, white color schemes, white interiors / 1

Everyone loves before and after shots – they are so telling, dramatic and fun to compare. How about during? This week, we are nearing completion of a project that has been in the works for the past few months. Not quite finished, here is a little story about the stages of the design process…

Are YOU planning a remodel…a room an entire house?

Once a project is identified, the options are studied. Usually each party involve has their preconceived notions…images and ideas come to mind. The mind is that arena from which it is tough to articulate images and especially between people. The design process requires that ideas need to be expressed, defined and argued – pros and cons.

This room was dated and fussy. The finishes were tired and needed refreshing. The project was described as a complete makeover to compliment other recent updates in the home.

The scope of work was to remove the tub, replace the cabinets, add a second sink and create an opening into the guest room. At that point, the “what ifs” began.

Healthy arguing ensues – meaning sharing ideas back and forth, explaining the approach and concepts. More like presenting than arguing. It’s actually a fun, creative process – full of choices, ideas and seemingly limitless opportunities. It’s the “What if…” stage. Sketches are used, arm-waving and samples, photos and words all contribute to the compilation of the ultimate design. Each person contributes to the process until a common plan is adopted.

Whether formal plans are needed depends upon the code requirements, if applicable (“cosmetic only” changes requiring no modifications to structure, electrical or HVAC – for example – might not need formal drawings). Therefore, the development of documents is dependent upon the requirements of the municipality and/or methods of the contractors. Regardless, sketches begin the process.

If code requirements necessitate permitting, the process must proceed through that stage prior to commencing the work. So after weeks of ideas being tossed about, a plan was conceived, client approved drawings were made and the process moved forward.

The scheme was set with the first materials selected – glossy glazed imperfect wall tiles for an interesting and textural herringbone pattern with a stone mosaic for the floor.

The demolition – always a shock – but “you have to break and egg to make an omelet!” Unbeknownst to anyone, the floor was rotted beneath the toilet and required repair. Mirror, glass block, tile and much sheet-rock was removed.

Old cabinets were removed and after all the dust had settled, the bare bones exposed and a clean slate presented, the new work began.

The new cabinets were to accommodate a second sink and slightly longer counter-top. To make sure access between the shower and counter-top was not too restricted, I designed a radius to ease the squeeze. Enrique made a template of the radius that would be represent his end shelving and counter-top. When Rocky Mountain Stone arrived to shoot their lasers to measure for their templates, the radius template Enrique had made was very helpful.

The end of this cabinet will have radius shelves with counter-top following the radius. Until then, Enrique made a template of the shape so that the counter-top could be measured in advance of end piece being completed and installed.

The laser process to template the counter-top begins…with the help of the mock-up of the radius!

Decisions regarding lighting had not been finalized, with the completion of the plans. Having eliminated the desire to have recessed fixtures, whether to use a center sconce, two flanking sconces or a single pendant in the center between the sinks was still up in the air. Love the pun! Debating a full height panel of mirror versus two wall hung framed pieces, was also undecided.

But here’s an “oops” when we discovered the power for the light fixture off-center for a center-hung pendant.

Taking the risk to be disappointed, but with little investment to do so, our client elected to buy the two curvy framed mirrors that almost promised to be too small. Upon arrival one of the two mirrors were broken. Bummer.

The inevitable, unexpected happens on every project…we had decided not too use these so rather than have the one of the pair replaced, we requested a refund. However, upon further study, we modified the design to accommodate both mirrors – we are re-ordering the second mirror.

But in an effort to determine if we wanted to have the broken mirror replaced or refunded. We held it up on the wall, as we feared, it was confirmed that they could not carry the space. We asked that the company not replace the broken mirror, but refund the cost.

We really loved the whimsical quality of the curvy framed mirrors and their distressed turquoise finish was a great addition to the otherwise blue and white scheme. So, a week later, after pondering the dilemma of the mirrors…I offered what seemed to be a radical suggestion (but not really), and that was to install a full-panel wall mirror – backsplash to ceiling – and then mount (over it) the two mirrors. To do so, our very able and talented glass master, Robert, would have to cut (prior to installing) holes in the mirror panel located behind where the framed mirrors were prepared for hanging. The result would be the pair of mirrors hanging on top of the full panel creating a floating, multi dimensional effect. Watch for “afters” in a couple weeks, of this completed installation.

As the project proceeds, the flooring is nearly completed and all but the finishing touches remain.

Pilasters were added at each end to stop the tile on an inside corner, rather than having it quit flush on the wall. The shower will not have a door, but nearly encapsulated with frame-less clear glass to give an illusion of a more spacious room.

Best to stop here and reserve the finale for the finished “after” shots as promised.

May 03

Remodeling Process and Presenting the Same Accessories in the New Scheme

By pattisays In Albuquerque, New Mexico, bathroom remodel, before and after, cabinet pulls, color and temperature re: interior design, color forecasting, Color schemes, color trends, colors, context of interior design, creative process, creativity, decorative accessories, decorative arts, design, design challenges, design details, design process, design scenes, design solutions, design tips, design trends, DIY design, eclectic design, engineered countertops, existing materials, hiring an interior designer, home, home improvements, illusion of space, inspiration, inspiration from nature, interior atmosphere, interior design, interior design preferences, interior design trends, interior enhancements, joy, master bathrooms, mirrored walls, mirrors, mosaic, mosaic tile, natural stone, paint colors, painted cabinets, personal expression, personal taste, planning a remodel, practical design, raised panel cabinets, re-purpose, re-purpose cabinets, remodeling, residential restrooms, selecting colors, stone, Subscribers, textures, tile, timeless colors, update design, updating, white color schemes, white interiors /

It’s true. If you think designer’s projects go more smoothly than the ones they do with and for you, you’re wrong. It’s true – they don’t! It’s about Murphy’s Law and I have been remodeling our master bath for months. Starting in November and as recently as this weekend personally installing (DIY) the stone surrounding our mirror, it is still not finished. But it’s close.

The full-wall mirror was re-used. During the removal and transportation to be cut-down, the edge cracked and had to be cut down…we lost an inch or so – no big deal EXCEPT that it then affected the dimensions of the new stone surround that had already been determined. Oh well…we now will have to cut the tile – had intended not to have to do that. One of the many little surprises and delays. We had to order more stone and will now engage the installer to cut the ones that would not fit the new and slightly non-parallel conditions .

It’s actually fun to tile…until you have to cut it. It is like frosting a cookie and then pressing it onto the wall. It goes quickly and gives instant gratification. But when things are not perfectly parallel, something has to give. That’s when we cut. (Or call someone to cut!!!)

The effect, of having almost all of the mirror surround finished, gets us that much closer. The effect is great and is beginning to feel like the intended design.

The shower before and after is providing the open expansive look that our little shower enclosure didn’t provide. Despite the facts that the footprint is nearly the same and the old enclosure was all clear glass – albeit framed in gold finished aluminum – this new single panel of 1/2″ clear glass and white-on-white floor and walls looks clean and open. Not a snail design – but, no door. Prepared to add a white shower curtain on a custom curved aluminum ceiling track once winter returns – but for now we’re enjoying the refreshing and comfortable atmosphere.

We elected to use stacked stone on the rear wall of the shower as our house sits at the base of the majestic Sandia Mountain and selecting stone seemed more grounded and contextual than other decorative options – of which there are a million from printed concrete, glass mosaic, embossed porcelains…the list goes on…

Decorative elements are beginning to “read” against the new finishes. The same Portuguese ceramic footed rectangular container holds a bouquet of white washcloths. Yes, I think that the rolled terry towels look like rosebuds and I have always enjoyed the softening effect they provide amidst all the other hard surfaces. Plus they are handy on the countertop for clean replacements.

Footed Italian porcelain has had wash cloths in it for years and stays on the new counter top in a slightly different location.

Behind the terry rosettes, notice the pair of Heisey open and lidded pair of stemmed glass vessels that I use for make-up brushes and cotton balls respectively.

The same crystal wide-mouth vase holds and dispenses the facial tissues. I love the effect of the white-on-white coiled folds of the tissues. They are soft and read interestingly through the cut crystal.

I’m a LEO and find myself discovering and enjoying subtle references to lions. Our front door knocker and this cache pot that I’ve had for over 20 years as examples.

Nothing in this new scene is new. These accessories are all the exact items that were scattered on the countertop previously! Funny how the exact same decorative accessories work so well in this new interior!

A silly little collection of found things in a family inherited vintage pressed glass bowl including a glass marble, square frosted glass coke-bottle-colored mosaic tile, various sea shells and fragments, a squashed bottle Coca Cola bottle cap from Mexico, a hemp cord DIY necklace with a shell pendant…

Another glass tray that was also on the previous countertop presents my fragrances, a few products, a bobble-head turtle, my Waterford ring stand stacked with costume glass rings, my tragic, yet miraculous jade bracelet (save for another story), a fossilized bone – in – stone I found as a child, my white framed sunglasses which might seem selected for the new color scheme – when, in fact, they are a result of my love for white framed glasses and these that I bought even though I didn’t like the would-be “reader” small lenses – I kept. I don’t like the way they look on – so have relegated them to the master bath for emergency dashes to the outdoors, on the upstairs deck when my other sunglasses are downstairs!

Still to complete…the stone mirror surround, hang the glass shade for the new pendant light fixture, install the towel/robe plugs, install the polished chrome drawer bar handles to match the new square door and drawer pulls, clear all the remaining stone pieces, thin-set and grout bags and boxes from the tub deck, install the new window sills…

Re-evaluate your existing accessories (and/or furniture) before feeling the need to change everything when you remodel. Watch for the completed before and after shots of this remodel soon to come. Well, relatively soon!!

Mar 10

Patti’s Pick for a Floral Fabric for Spring…Artistic Accents in Many Colors

By pattisays In Albuquerque, New Mexico, artistic expression, Color schemes, color trends, creative process, creativity, custom design interior design, decorative arts, design, design process, design scenes, design solutions, design tips, design trends, designer fabrics, designs in nature, fabrics, floral designs, floral fabrics, flowers in design, hiring an interior designer, home, inspiration, inspiration from nature, interior atmosphere, interior design, interior design preferences, interior design trends, interior enhancements, nature, pinks and greens, Refresh, remodeling, seasonal interior design, selecting colors, Subscribers, throw pillows, trends, update design, watercolors /

Blossoms are bursting forth and spring is near…Flowers have a decidedly feminine bent, but due to their organic nature and natural occurrence as the season begins to unfold, I truly believe that they are a gender-less element of rebirth, warmth, optimism and wonder.

In our backyard, these minis are ahead of their more attenuated cousins!

Interior designers welcome floral fabrics as contributing to the pattern mixes, accents and animated offerings amidst other geometric, stripe and solid pieces.

Floral fabrics – here on a textural ground, bring artistic accents to an interior!

Yet, men don’t gravitate to floral fabrics unless perhaps they sport a tropical shirt in the summer – the uniform of the relaxed, vacay, free and festive escape! You might not find a floral throw pillow on their sofa when batching it. But why not? Spring is spring, flowers are flowers – who doesn’t like them? Embrace your natural instincts! Be brave! Go beyond the aloha shirt and fling a floral throw pillow on your sofa!

Ok…perhaps without the fringe? This denim-blue color on a linen texture is not too flowery – but makes a bright, fresh statement!

Ok – forget the possible gender gap on this subject…

But I did tip-toe outside on the patio tile this morning chilling my toes, to hop across the still dormant grass, in order to take these shots of the first bulbs forced through the crunchy soil to greet the season.

Our daffodils are one of the very first signs of Spring here in the high desert…not indigenous, for sure, but a happy addition to the garden!

In previous spring seasons, I have written about cutting branches before they bloom in order to “force” the blooms for early bouquets indoors…and inasmuch as several of the flowering trees have begun to burst, including Bradford Pears, our is close, but not quite there.

Bradford pears are early bloomers…go outside and find some flowering tree or bush in your yard and cut a few branches. Leave them tall, long and lanky – if you have the space. Bring them inside and stick them in a bucket of water, or the vase you ultimately intend too use, and watch them bloom practically before your very eyes! It is a fantastic way to celebrate spring in your home or office!

The forecast for the Washington DC cherry blossom peak is early April.

A bit early still, but you can monitor the progress at https://cherryblossomwatch.com/

My personal pick for a fabulous floral pattern this season is Pindler’s Cherry Blossom. Floral patterns for Spring – and all year round! I like this one for its linen texture and loose watercolor style. It is relaxed and yet can be crisp – a very versatile print and fabric. It comes in 5 different color-ways and therefore offers many opportunities to incorporate in your interior schemes.

Pindler’s Cherry Blossom on linen – magenta

Sky, a second of the five color in the Cherry Blossom series from Pindler and Pindler

Artistic accents always a great design detail. We have samples of these fabulous finds at PATRICIAN DESIGN. Come visit our extensive design library for terrific trends, resources, ideas and inspiration!

Mar 04

The Blue and Yellow Buzz…

By pattisays In Albuquerque, New Mexico, artistic expression, blue and white, Boulder. Colorado, breakfast rooms, color and temperature re: interior design, color forecasting, Color schemes, color trends, colors, context of interior design, Contrasting colors, creative process, custom art in interior design, custom design interior design, custom furniture, decorative accessories, design, design details, design process, design scenes, design solutions, design tips, design trends, drama of color, flowers in 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, lifestyle, paint colors, personal expression, personal taste, planning a remodel, remodeling, selecting colors, Subscribers, tile, timeless colors /

What’s all the buzz about bees this week?? Seems it has been studied and determined that they can discern between blue and yellow in order to prove they can perform remarkable arithmetic.

Last fall while hiking in Boulder, I spied this little fellow on a cornflower.

Yes, it’s official – they can distinguish colors – blue and yellow – in order to prove their math skills! Want to know more? You can immerse yourself in the study here:

http://advances.sciencemag.org/content/5/2/eaav0961

In our source library at PATRICIAN DESIGN, we have hundreds of fabric samples from designers all over the world…these little iron bees were irresistible for our purposes today!!

Blue and yellow as a color palette is classic. I never tire of it. I find myself encountering it often. Blue and white…often punctuated with yellow. It transcends styles.

Color schemes are the basis for so many design related exercises. Finding your color preferences for your lifestyle from clothing fashions to interior appointments – it’s about personality, temperature, lighting…

Here’s a great link to get you thinking about color palettes or finding one that suits your personality.

https://colorpalettes.net/tag/blue-and-yellow/

Undecided? Change schemes from one room to the next – have a little fun!

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?

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.