February 21, 2014

Cantina in the Country

Several months ago, when it was still warm and the thought of getting in a pool was nice,  my client approached me about turning their existing pool house into a Cantina. A comfortable oasis in the country was their desire. Construction had begun but quickly slowed down when some difficult decisions had to be made. How were we going to finish the beams, the ceiling, the columns, the cabinets… and make them all look good together?

February 18, 2014

Don’t Forget to Look Up!

So many elements come together to make a finished room.  Certainly furnishings are a main factor, but let’s consider the architectural elements of the room as well.  The floors are a good place to start.  They can be wood (what species, what stain?) or tile (ceramic, natural stone or marble?).  Will your walls be painted, wallpapered or paneled?  The window choices are endless and how you treat the fireplace or built-in cabinetry can completely define the style of a room.

February 11, 2014

Belgium – Inspiration Everywhere

Everywhere I go, but especially when I travel, I see things that inspire me – clothing, flowers, colors, buildings. I can’t help but notice them. It’s part of a designer’s mind that never turns off.

On a recent trip to Belgium, I was struck by how many old European architectural elements are still relevant for today’s homes.