October 20, 2016

“At Home” With A Kitchen Refresh

This kitchen needed to be refreshed.

After consultations with the client, a design plan was made.

Retaining some of the clients favorite design elements (tile floor, wallpaper, and fabric on windows) was part of the plan.

Deciding to paint the existing stained wood cabinets was a key element.

Eliminating the existing fluorescent light above the island was a top priority.

Replacing the bar stools and the hutch beside the table was also on the list.

A new painted sideboard, chandelier, and starburst mirror complete the refreshed breakfast area.

New counter stools with upholstered backs provide an inviting gathering area around the new granite counter top on the island.  Painting the stained cabinets gave the kitchen a bright new look.

The new light fixture updates the work space.

Feeling comfortable and “AT HOME” in one’s own kitchen is critical in good design.

June 24, 2016

Fifty Shades. The Sequel.

Having just returned from this years trip, I am happy to report that Nantucket is just as blue and just as beautiful.

A few years ago, I chronicled my honeymoon in Paris by exploring the many shades of green I happened to see at every turn. It’s not what I started out to do, it just seemed that every thing I was drawn to-the shutters, subway tile, window mullions-were all beautiful shades of green.  They were all just as current as the day they were done and can still be used in many ways today. It was a joy to see and to share what I found.

June 2, 2016

I will really miss this house!

As professional designers, we often work very closely with our clients in building or renovating their homes.  We agonize over every  decision for wiring, plumbing, wood trim, flooring, and tile as well as the “pretty” ones with fabric, wallpaper, furniture, and paint,  as if they were our own. These houses become a part of us, and it is hard to tell them goodbye.

I recently had a beloved project in downtown Charleston be put on the market and sold. We had worked on the renovation for over a year. I knew every intimate detail of this house and was involved in almost all of the decisions for it. I frequently got to stay there and enjoy our work. So, the owners and I began the sad process of saying goodbye to the house. One last visit in April, and then my wonderful installers arrived to start the dismantling process.

We’ve packed it all up ready to go to the next house in another city. It will be a year or two as we start another renovation. We will find a place for all of the beloved furniture, artwork and fabrics. Some will change form or move to another place. Some won’t fit in the new house. Maybe it will go to a son or daughter’s house. Life does constantly change.

But I will really miss this house!