HOW I SAVED MY CUSTOM WALL COVERING AFTER A BLEACH SPILL!!!

September 23, 2024

A few years ago, I finally found the time to do a complete renovation of my powder room. I chose a stunning, custom floral wallcovering printed on a durable, heavy canvas. I specifically opted for this material because I wanted something that could withstand the occasional splash of water in a bathroom.

I'm so glad I trusted my instincts and invested in a high-quality product.

Just last week, someone accidentally dropped a bottle of Clorox near the powder room while doing laundry, and bleach splashed onto the back wall. I was convinced the entire wallcovering was ruined and would need to be replaced. But then, inspiration struck! Since the wallcovering was made of heavy canvas, I decided to try painting over the damaged area—and it worked beautifully! Check out how well it turned out!

Me, using acrylic paint to cover up damage!

DESIGNING FOR GENERATIONS:A FAMILY’S FOREVER HOME IN GREENWICH,CT.

September 3, 2024

I feel incredibly fortunate to work with fabulous families, often starting with one couple and then having the privilege to work with their children over the years. Twenty-two years ago, I was hired to design a nursery for the younger couple who just had a son.. Then two more nurseries, now these three young men are in college. Since then, I've completed four projects for this wonderful family, including their latest—a custom ground-up forever home in Greenwich, CT.

What makes this project so special is the story behind it. My clients envisioned a home that would accommodate their future and extended family. They included a suite for her aging parents and individual rooms for each son, each with its own en-suite bathroom, ensuring comfort for their future wives.

The house features a spacious basement with a movie theater, gym, game room, and even a kiln for their pottery-loving son. Every room, including guest rooms and offices, has its own en-suite bathroom. The cozy family room and large dining table that seats 14 (with the ability to expand) open up to a generous kitchen, all designed with children and dogs in mind.

There is also a kids' playroom with sleeping quarters on the third floor for future grandchildren and a pool house with additional beds. The beautiful pool and overall design create a space that, in our ever-crazy world, feels so pure and special. This house is all about family, now and forever.

A SUCCESSFUL PHOTO SHOOT

August 12, 2024

One of the most thrilling days in our interior design journey is when we get to do a photo shoot of a recently completed project. This day is the culmination of meticulous planning and creative effort. Here’s a glimpse into our process:

Hire a Professional Photographer
Capturing the essence of your design requires a skilled photographer who can translate your vision into stunning visuals.
Hire a Stylist
If time and expertise allow, you might style the space yourself. However, bringing in a professional stylist can elevate the shoot, ensuring every detail aligns with the story you want to tell.
Craft the Project Narrative
Before the shoot, reflect on the story behind the design. Consider who the clients are, what they were looking to achieve, and how your design brings that vision to life.
Final Touches and Accessories
If you didn’t hire a stylist, shop for those last-minute items that can make a difference—like a cozy throw for the sofa, an extra pillow, or flowers to add vibrancy to the space. These small additions can enhance the overall aesthetic, particularly if the client hasn’t let us fully complete the space.

The Day of the Shoot

When we arrive on site, the first thing we do is take photos of the space as it is. This helps us document the starting point and ensures we’re mindful of not disrupting the client’s home too much.

We’re always grateful to our clients for allowing us to capture their space, and we aim to be as unobtrusive as possible. As a gesture of thanks, we leave behind any fresh flowers, fruit, or vegetables we bring for the shoot.

The Magic of the Final Touches

It’s often the case that the special pieces we source for a photo shoot—whether it’s an antique, artwork, or a unique accessory—end up becoming permanent fixtures in the client’s home. When they fall in love with these items, it makes the space look even better, creating a win-win situation for everyone involved.

A staged vignette of lemonade , fresh fruit and flowers

Vibrant pillows a curated bookcase and framed art were the finishing touches of this Family Room.

The fresh flowers enhanced this vase and coffee table.

Transforming a Dining Room with a Touch of Magic: A Renovation Journey

July 25, 2024

Occasionally, we embark on a complete renovation or decoration of a room, sourcing and designing all new elements such as rugs, wallpaper, lighting fixtures, and furniture, while removing the old items. However, sometimes there’s a non-negotiable piece that must stay. This dining room project was just such a case.

We revamped the space by wallpapering the walls, purchasing a new dining table, custom-making chairs, buying a new rug and a vintage chandelier, designing bespoke window treatments, and acquiring art pieces. The dining room was stunning—except for the old brown breakfront that housed the family’s dinnerware, glassware, and heirlooms. This piece was non-negotiable and had to stay.

To integrate the breakfront into the new design, we decided to paint it. Using #FarrowandBall paint in a satin finish, we transformed it completely. The result was astonishing! This one change not only revitalized the breakfront but also elevated the entire dining room.

Discover how a touch of paint and creativity can turn a must-keep piece into the centerpiece of your renovation.

WHEN THINGS GO TERRIBLY WRONG TO EXCEPTIONAL CLIENTS!

July 19, 2024

One of the undeniable truths about construction, renovations, and decorating is that something unexpected always happens. How these surprises are handled depends on the contractor, the designer, and the client’s reactions. While you can’t change the reality of things going wrong, you can control how you react. This is the true story of wonderful lifetime clients who waited over 20 years to finally build the kitchen of their dreams.

Initially, everything went smoothly with the renovation, which included bumping out walls and floors. The new electrical, plumbing, flooring, and walls were completed. Appliances and cabinets were installed, paint was applied to the walls, furniture arrived, and artwork and accessories were put in place. Everyone was thrilled!

But then, one tile cracked. Three months later, another followed. We knew something was terribly wrong. Although these were large 48”x48” tiles, properly installed, they should never have cracked.

Thank goodness these clients hired an upstanding, honest contractor who stood by his work. We found new tiles, and the entire floor will be ripped up and the new tiles installed correctly this time. Yes, it’s a significant inconvenience, but fortunately, these clients are very grounded. They understand that much worse things could happen and are taking it in stride. I hope to always be this lucky to work with such level-headed and amazing clients!

THE BENEFITS OF INCLUDING A BUILT-IN WALL UNIT TO YOUR DESIGN

June 30, 2024

Over the years, I've often been invited into living rooms or family rooms that lack a focal point. While these spaces may look fine, they often feel directionless and unbalanced. That's where a built-in wall unit can work wonders! I've designed many wall units, ranging from simple bookshelves to those that accommodate flat-screen TVs or even feature elegant mirrored bars. Wall units have the power to truly transform a room, and I believe they are well worth the investment. Take a look at some of the stunning transformations below!

SHARING A FUNNY STORY

June 24, 2024

All of my projects have stories because my clients are people with unique tales to tell. One such project was a 4-bedroom apartment and a roof deck on the penthouse floor of a famous building on Fifth Avenue, right across the street from Central Park.

This was a significant project with a tight deadline. However, what we didn’t anticipate was the building becoming a constant news headline during our time there. The reason?

New York Gov. Eliot Spitzer leaves his apartment building on New York’s Fifth Ave., Wednesday morning, March 12, 2008. Spitzer announced Wednesday, March 12, 2008, that he would resign effective March 17, completing a stunning fall from power after he was nationally disgraced by links to a high-priced prostitution ring.

That was when the media arrived, and from then on we wore sunglasses going in and out of this building that Elliot Spizer lived in with his family and owned.

WHAT DOES IT TAKE TO BE A SUCCESSFUL INTERIOR DESIGNER?

June 13, 2024

I am blessed to be in the business I love best! I've often been asked what it takes to run a successful interior design business, so I'm thrilled to share my insights.

First and foremost, interior design is a service industry. You need a passion for serving others and doing it exceptionally well. At its core, this field is about solving problems creatively, so being a fantastic problem solver and thinking outside the box is essential. Most importantly, you must be a people person who loves meeting and interacting with new people.

Talent is crucial. For the fortunate few, design is intuitive, a gift. If you're just starting out, having a business degree can set you apart and prove incredibly handy.

Having a unique niche or a distinctive style that sets you apart is vital. In a world where many designs look the same, originality is refreshing!

Connections are key. Be outgoing, kind, and loyal to your industry friends and vendors. These relationships are invaluable when challenges arise. Learning to LISTEN is critical. One of your most important roles is to listen to your clients and exceed their expectations.

I'm known for delivering more than my clients expect. I am passionate, efficient, loyal, reliable, and almost always available. Trust is everything! Building these relationships is like a marriage; mutual respect is a must. If you don't click with a client during the interview, it's best not to take on the project. You need to be their advocate and therapist, which requires a lot of patience and a genuine liking for them.

Ultimately, it comes down to being good at what you do and loving every moment of it!

A SURPRISE BOCA PROJECT RIGHT ON THE OCEAN

March 3, 2024

What made this project unique was the story behind it. – My client a gentleman of refined taste, wanted to surprise his wife of over four decades with a stunning condominium right on the ocean.

The project involved a gut renovation encompassing the kitchen, two bedrooms, two bathrooms, floors, and lighting. Every detail was meticulously curated, from the installation of furniture, lighting, and vintage antiques to the careful placement of art and accessories. The entire transformation unfolded over the course of a year.

The grand reveal marked the culmination of many months of hard work, and it was on this day that I had the pleasure of meeting the client's charming wife. The joyous occasion was met with enthusiasm as she expressed her love for every aspect of the project. It was truly a delightful conclusion to a year-long journey, resulting in a project that surpassed expectations.

The new kitchen with Calacutta Verde marble countertops and an ocean view!

A close-up of this new modern kitchen with glass cabinets and stunning ocean views.

The primary bathroom with a mosaic feature wall .

The primary bathroom featuring a leaf mosaic wall.

Lighting plays a big part in every project!

CELEBRATING 21 YEARS of COLLABORATION : A CONTEMPORARY KITCHEN TRANSFORMATION

October 24, 2023

As an interior designer, some projects hold a special place in your heart. They become more than just assignments; they evolve into remarkable journeys of creativity, trust, and enduring relationships. Such is the story of my 21-year collaboration with a remarkable couple who recently embarked on an exciting new venture - the gut renovation and expansion of their kitchen. What unfolded was nothing short of spectacular, and today, I'm thrilled to share the story of one of my all-time favorite projects.

Our journey began over two decades ago when I first had the pleasure of working with this wonderful couple. From the very beginning, it was clear that they were not just clients; they were partners in a shared vision. We embarked on various projects over the years, each one strengthening our professional relationship and deepening our friendship.

When the idea of renovating their kitchen arose, I was overjoyed. Having known them for so long, I was already attuned to their tastes and preferences. They graciously gave me free rein to explore creative possibilities, which was a testament to the trust we had built over the years.

The day we unveiled the finished kitchen was a moment of pure joy. The looks on their faces, the gasps of amazement, and the tears of happiness were a testament to the success of the project. Every detail, from the carefully chosen color palette to the innovative storage solutions, had come together to create a space that exceeded even our loftiest expectations.
The objective was clear - create a contemporary kitchen that would seamlessly blend modern aesthetics with functionality. We envisioned a space that would not only be the heart of their home but a reflection of their personalities and lifestyles.

The design process was a whirlwind of excitement and inspiration. We carefully selected sleek, minimalist cabinetry and countertops that would provide ample storage while maintaining a clean, uncluttered look. A large central island became the focal point, a place for family gatherings and culinary adventures.

Natural light was optimized, flooding the space through strategically placed windows, High-end appliances were seamlessly integrated into the design, ensuring that the kitchen was as efficient as it was beautiful.
The day we unveiled the finished kitchen was a moment of pure joy. The looks on their faces, and the gasps of amazement, were a testament to the success of the project. Every detail, from the carefully chosen color palette to the innovative storage solutions, had come together to create a space that exceeded even our loftiest expectations.

This project wasn't just about designing a kitchen; it was about celebrating a lasting bond with clients who had become like family. Their trust and willingness to give us creative freedom were the driving forces behind the success of this project. It's a testament to the power of long-term relationships in the world of design.

As I reflect on the journey of the past 21 years and this remarkable kitchen transformation, I am filled with gratitude. Grateful for clients who became friends, for the opportunity to create a space that will bring them joy for years to come, and for the enduring power of trust and collaboration.

This white oak veneered cabinetry set he tone for this modern light and airy kitchen.

This round table and chairs fit perfectly in the space. The chairs feature the same silhouette as the counter stools with a different coordinating wool backing to create added interest.

The integrated cabinetry handles adds a minimalistic feel to this modern kitchen.

The installed mirror above the stove creates the illusion of even more space in this large luxurious kitchen.

Bright and fun colors come together to tie in the artwork, table scape and lighting fixture.

We used two light fixtures installed together to create a large cohesive lighting over the center island.

This styled corner really brings this kitchen to life.

EMBRACE THE COZY ELEGANCE: INTERIOR DESIGN TRENDS FOR FALL 2023

September 20, 2023

As the leaves begin to change and a crisp chill fills the air, it's the perfect time to refresh your home's interior and embrace the latest design trends for fall 2023. This season, we are seeing a shift towards warmth, comfort, and a touch of sophistication. Here are some of the top interior design trends to inspire your fall home makeover:

Earthy Color Palettes: This fall, nature-inspired color palettes take center stage. Think deep, earthy tones like rich terracotta, warm olive greens, and muted mustard yellows. These colors evoke a sense of comfort and connection to the outdoors, making your space feel cozier and more inviting.
Velvet and Bouclé Textures: Luxurious textures are making a comeback this fall. Velvet and bouclé fabrics are in high demand for upholstery and soft furnishings. These materials add depth and tactile appeal to your interior, creating a sense of opulence and comfort.
Biophilic Design: As our lives become increasingly urbanized, the desire to reconnect with nature within our homes grows stronger. Biophilic design principles, such as incorporating natural materials like wood, stone, and indoor plants, continue to be popular. Large windows and ample natural light also play a significant role in bringing the outdoors in.
Grandmillennial Style: A mix of traditional and contemporary elements, grandmillennial style is all about embracing the charm of vintage decor with a modern twist. Think floral wallpapers, antique furniture, and heirloom-inspired pieces blended seamlessly with modern accents.
Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Choices: Sustainability remains a crucial consideration in interior design. Look for eco-friendly materials, such as recycled wood, sustainable textiles, and energy-efficient lighting, to reduce your environmental footprint while staying on-trend.
Maximalist Decor: Fall 2023 welcomes bold, eclectic interiors. Embrace maximalism by mixing patterns, textures, and colors to create a vibrant and visually stimulating space. Incorporate statement pieces and don't be afraid to showcase your personality through decor.
Smart Home Integration: Technology is seamlessly merging with design. Smart home features like voice-activated lighting, climate control, and automated window treatments are becoming increasingly popular, offering convenience and efficiency without sacrificing aesthetics.
Artistic Expression: Personalized art and unique sculptures are gaining prominence in interior design. Showcase your individuality by curating an art collection that speaks to your taste and style, adding a distinctive touch to your space.
Cozy Nooks and Reading Corners: With the fall season comes a desire to curl up with a good book. Create inviting reading nooks with plush armchairs, soft throws, and ample bookshelves to encourage moments of relaxation and reflection.
Transitional Spaces: Open-concept living is evolving into more versatile, transitional spaces. Incorporate movable partitions, sliding doors, or furniture that can adapt to changing needs, providing flexibility in your living arrangements.

Fall 2023's interior design trends revolve around the idea of creating a welcoming, harmonious, and eco-conscious environment. Whether you're looking to make small updates or embark on a complete home transformation, these trends offer a roadmap to achieving a stylish and comfortable living space that reflects your unique personality and values. So, get ready to infuse your home with the warmth and elegance of this season's design trends and embrace the coziness of fall.

FEATUREED IN NYC COTTAGES & GARDENS/ TRIBECA PIED-A-TERRE

March 25, 2023

As we celebrate our 25th year in business, I'm thrilled to reflect on one of our favorite projects. To me, the key to success is establishing a great rapport with clients. When there's mutual trust and positive energy, everything falls into place beautifully.

This project was a true testament to the power of joyful collaboration. The clients, a happy couple who had just become empty nesters after marrying off their children, were looking for a pied-a-terre that would serve as a peaceful retreat in the heart of Tribeca. Since both of their newlywed children lived nearby, they wanted a cozy space where they could all come together, visit and unwind.

The challenge was to create a design that combined bold, exuberant colors with a sophisticated style that conveyed a sense of understated luxury and comfort. The result was a space that radiated joy, happiness, and tranquility, perfectly suited to the client's needs and personalities.