Dunn-Edwards specs+spaces

Celebrate 50 Years of Color with Pantone

Ross Brooks — 5/14/2013 12:00:00 AM

From the '60s to the '00s, popular hues have changed dramatically. Pantone takes a look at color over the last 50 years and how it deeply affects our lives. READ STORY

Desert Paradise

World of Architecture News — 5/14/2013 12:00:00 AM

Offering stellar views, this entertainer's haven in Paradise Valley, Arizona, reflects its desert surroundings while embracing absolute elegance. READ STORY

Outside In: The Architecture of Smith & Williams

Sara McLean — 5/5/2013 12:00:00 AM

The expression of post-war California ideas about the relationship between architecture and the environment is examined in the exhibition titled "Outside In: The Architecture of Smith and Williams". Whitney Smith (1911-2002) and Wayne Williams (1919-2007) developed a body of work throughout their long careers. From 1936 to 1973 their firm designed residential, commercial and public buildings along with housing tracts, parks and urban development plans -- and the work produced received more than 40 awards.

With the Great Depression and WW2 framing much of the background of Smith and Williams' work, many of the designs showcase the ideals of the postwar years through the growth and opportunity in Southern California.

Located in the Architecture and Design Collection of the Art, Design, & Architecture Museum at University of California, Santa Barbara, the exhibit reveals the archives of Smith and Williams (1926-1989) in more than 200 architectural designs. On view now through June 16, 2013.

AD&A Museum

The Art, Design & Architecture Museum, located at UC Santa Barbara, provides permanent and rotating collections of exhibitions and programs, committed to education, research and service for the student body and the Santa Barbara community. To find out more, http://www.museum.ucsb.edu/

Pacific Standard Time Presents: Modern Architecture in L.A.

"Outside In: The Architecture of Smith and Williams" is part of the Pacific Standard Time Presents: Modern Architecture in L.A. The initiative takes an in-depth look at the city of Los Angeles and its contributions to design and architecture, providing exhibitions and programs from April through July. To find out more, visit http://www.pacificstandardtimepresents.org

All images courtesy AD&A Museum at U.C. Santa Barbara

Historic Inspiration

Sara McLean — 5/5/2013 12:00:00 AM

With a keen eye for color and design detail, Francesca Garcia-Marques looks around the Mount St. Mary’s Campus with delight as her design vision is coming to fruition. Years of design research and development have paved the way for an updated look to the Southern California campus, all the while maintaining the integrity of the architecture, Francesca looks forward to the next phase of this project. We recently discussed this project as well as her design background and what inspires her to keep designing. Here is our interview:

Please describe your design studio and how you began your company.
Studio Francesca Garcia-Marques was founded in Los Angeles in 1989 as a design-oriented firm, operating in the fields of interior design, branding, graphic design, exhibition curating and design, as well as direction and organization of architectural/design programs.

This interdisciplinary approach is based on my training and experience in Milan, where I worked for Giò Ponti and other top designers who created everything from spoons to skyscrapers. When I moved to Los Angeles, all the firms I interviewed with were specialized in one design discipline only so I decided to start my own studio.

What or who inspires you in your design work?
I am inspired by harmonious compositions, as well as by unexpected juxtapositions of form, color and materials. I am inspired by innovative current architecture, as well as by the classic beauty of ancient cities. Architects, artists and designers who inspire me: Tadao Ando, Paul Klee, Le Corbusier, Andrea Palladio, Giò Ponti, Richard Serra, Philippe Starck and so many others.

Please describe your work at Mount St. Mary’s College and the history of the campuses.
Since 2003, I have enjoyed the good fortune of working with Mount St. Mary’s College (MSMC) on design projects at both historic campuses. Projects include exterior color schemes, as well as interior design and lighting design for auditoriums and theaters, classrooms, conference rooms, offices, residence halls and lounges.

Mount St. Mary’s College was founded in 1925 by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet. The Chalon Campus that opened in 1928 is located in the Santa Monica Mountains, with a breathtaking view of the mountains, the city and the ocean. The architecture is predominantly Spanish Colonial.

The downtown Doheny Campus opened in 1962 on Chester Place, a century-old estate once owned by Los Angeles oil baron Edward L. Doheny. In addition to the renowned Doheny Mansion, built in 1899, the verdant park-like setting of the campus contains mansions and homes in multiple architectural styles such as Romantic Revival, Victorian, Queen Anne and Craftsman.

What was your design inspiration and design process for choosing the colors on the campuses? What Dunn-Edwards colors were used?
Chalon Campus:
The main entrance to the Chalon Campus is the gracious circle that includes Mary Chapel, the jewel and centerpiece, surrounded by the library, residence halls, classrooms and administrative buildings. Colonnaded walkways link the structures.

When I first saw the campus all the circle buildings were painted white. Inspired by the Spanish Colonial architecture, my concept was to create the atmosphere of a traditional Spanish plaza. The overall field color is cream, to preserve the unity of the circle, but each structure now has specific accent and trim colors that complement existing ceramic, stone or wood elements, and transition subtly from one building to the next.

The introduction of color has provided an inviting space where students enjoy hanging out. It has also revealed intricate details of the structures that were barely noticeable with the previous monochromatic palette.

Chalon Campus: Dunn-Edwards Perfect Palette paint colors

DE6193 Bamboo Screen	DE6164 Canary Island	DE5359 Crossroads
DE5257 Fall Foliage	DE5296 Granola	DEC728 Madera
DEC729 Medallion	DEC772 Navajo White	DE6179 Oak Harbor
DE5297 Paloma Tan	DEC713 Roman Brick	DE5248 Rusty Orange

DE5256 Soft Leather

Doheny Campus:
The architecture at the Doheny Campus comprises an eclectic mix of styles. Many of the historic homes that have been converted into classrooms, offices, meeting rooms and housing were constructed between 1897 and 1905.

Because the campus is located in the West Adams Historic Preservation Overlay Zone, all restoration work and color palettes are required to be consistent with the style and period of the structure and the neighborhood. This initially implied a significant amount of research on my part as I was not familiar with the area.

Each house is unique, but many had been covered in the past with dull or mismatched paints. It is a delight to see them come to life with harmonious color palettes that also complement the surrounding buildings.

Doheny Campus: Dunn-Edwards Perfect Palette colors used

DE6367 Covered in Platinum	DE6369 Legendary Gray	DE6279 Armored Steel
DE6280 English Forest	DE6233 Limestone	DEC781 Sycamore Stand
DE6205 Stucco Tan	DE6129 Rustic Taupe	DE6164 Canary Island
DEW322 Magnolia	DEW380 White	DE6232 Abstract White

DEW340 Whisper

What has been the outcome of the projects – client reaction?
My clients at Mount St. Mary's College are thrilled with the results. I believe their positive reaction is evidenced by the fact that they have been engaging my studio's design services for 10 years. A recent comment:"Her unerring sense of scale, color and the historic value of the campuses have made her an invaluable part of the MSMC consulting team."

I would like to add that I could not do these projects without the amazing assistance and advice that I receive from Dunn-Edwards, the tools you supply to designers such as the Perfect Palette system, and your immense range of high-quality paint colors.

What’s next for you?
Classic and modern design projects are equally exciting for me. I hope to continue my historical work with Mount St. Mary's College. I also look forward to new cutting edge projects, particularly in the restaurant, retail or exhibition fields where I can incorporate my talents in interior, lighting, display and graphic design.

To find out more about Francesca and Studio Garcia-Marques, visit http://www.studio-garciamarques.com/

PHOTO CAPTIONS:
All photos courtesy of Studio Francesca Garcia-Marques, except Mary Chapel, photographer Rick Mendoza..All copyrights are reserved.

Image Details:
MSMC Chalon Campus: Mary Chapel -- photographer: Rick Mendoza; Following Images by Studio Francesca Garcia-Marquest: Rossiter Hall & Colonnaded Walkway; Rossiter Colonnaded Walkway; St. Joseph Administration and Seaver Science Center; Colonnaded Walkway at St. Joseph Administration Center / Humanities Building; Charles Willard Coe Memorial Library

MSMC Doheny Campus
House 1, House 7, House 10, House 22 photos courtesy of Studio Francesca Garcia-Marques

Personal Space

Bethany Nauert — 5/5/2013 12:00:00 AM

We welcome back Bethany Nauert, guest blogger and photographer, whose photographic work is featured in our 2014 trends report, Simply Enlightenment 2014. One of Bethany's latest home tours takes us on a journey to the home of Jason and Jon in Los Angeles, CA, which showcases a great use of Perfect Palette^®color. Enter the home tour!

Simply Enlightenment 2014

Sara McLean — 5/5/2013 12:00:00 AM

Simply Enlightenment 2014 is a movement brought on by a period of reflection and need for reform using reason and scientific knowledge. Also, 2014 sees a new period in redefining American lifestyles, promotion of scientific discoveries and intellectual revelations, and a rejection of old ideas.

Read about this and other discoveries that will shape the color landscape for 2014. Click here to download.

LOOP Kindergarten by SAKO Architects

designboom — 4/30/2013 12:00:00 AM

The LOOP Kindergarten in Tianjin is in high contrast to the industrial surroundings. The kid-friendly environment comes to life with 18 vivid colors that span the rainbow and carry throughout the structure. READ MORE

2013 Spring Dunn-Edwards Designer Events

Sara McLean — 4/23/2013 12:00:00 AM

Attention designers and architects! Want to learn all about 2013 color trends while networking with fellow designers and contractors? Then be sure to attend one of our upcoming Designer Events. Learn more!

April 23, 2013
Dunn-Edwards San Francisco store
750 Bryant St.
San Francisco, CA 94107

April 24, 2013
Dunn-Edwards San Rafael store
717 Francisco Blvd.
San Rafael, CA 94901

April 25, 2013
Dunn-Edwards San Mateo store
3580 S. El Camino Real
San Mateo, CA 94403

April 30, 2013
Dunn-Edwards Fresno store
4916 N. Blackstone Ave.
Fresno, CA 93726

May 1, 2013
Dunn-Edwards Roseville store
1850 Douglas Blvd.
Roseville, CA 95661

May 2, 2013
Dunn-Edwards Rancho Cordova store
11521 Folsom Blvd
Rancho Cordova, CA 95742

Color in Space

Tim Young — 4/30/2013 12:00:00 AM

Munsell Color has created an innovative color matching chart for a variety of uses aboard the International Space Station. READ MORE

2013 Color and Trends at New York Auto Show

Timothy Heyer — 4/30/2013 12:00:00 AM

Looking for colors that really pop? Look no further than the hues that highlighted the 2013 NY Auto Show! READ MORE

Plasticine Inspirations

Pantone — 4/23/2013 12:00:00 AM

Plasticine's playful, highly saturated look is nothing, if not electric. From art to fashion, this bold aesthetic is bringing a fresh, fun feel to the digital age! READ MORE

Welcome to Marfa, Texas

Morley Safer — 4/23/2013 12:00:00 AM

The far west Texas town of Marfa may not look like much at first glance but, thanks to a growing artist population, it has become a melting pot of cowboys and culture. READ MORE

Journey to the Most Colorful Cities

Sarah Kahn — 4/16/2013 12:00:00 AM

Color knows no borders and speaks every language. In cities across the world, color pops up everywhere, showcasing the creative spirit of the people within. From Rio to Jaipur, check out some of the most colorful cities in the world! READ MORE

Dining in Color

Elle Decor Staff — 4/16/2013 12:00:00 AM

Lime green to zesty orange - some say the dining room is the heart of a home. Looking to give yours a lift? These razzle-dazzle rooms will certainly whet your appetite! READ MORE

Molecular Color

Amy Frearson — 4/16/2013 12:00:00 AM

Covered in the bright hexagonal geometry of a molecular structure, the La Trobe Institute in Melbourne uniquely reflects the research that goes on inside. This structure showcases six stories of hexagonal windows across its front and rear facades. And, color is used to highlight the details throughout -- reds and blues frame the windows, bright orange is used on columns and banisters, and lime green is used on the bridge. READ MORE

A Bank of Color

Amy Frearson — 4/9/2013 12:00:00 AM

A 12-layer stack of rainbow colors peeking out from the façade welcomes visitors to Sugamo Shinkin Bank in Tokyo. Designed by French architect Emmanuelle Moureaux, the building is also furnished with colorful furniture and dandelion motif graphics. Take a peek inside! READ MORE

Colorfully Secretive Shopping

Amy Frearson — 4/9/2013 12:00:00 AM

The Gourmet Tea, located in a shopping center in Sao Paulo, Brazil, is the multi-colored creation designed by Brazilian architect Alan Chu. Panels on a multi-colored wall slide, swing and roll out, unveiling a secret gourmet tea shop. READ MORE

Lakeside Retreat: Casa Itu

Amy Frearson — 4/9/2013 12:00:00 AM

Outside the city of Sao Paulo, Brazil, sits a lakehouse on an idyllic setting. With glass panels that slide into the walls to create an outdoor living room, this residence, designed by Brazilian architects Studio Arthur Casas, blends naturally into the surrounding landscape.

Pasadena Showcase House of Design to Highlight Monterey Colonial

Sara McLean — 4/1/2013 12:00:00 AM

Dunn-Edwards is proud to -- once again -- be the exclusive paint sponsor for the 2013 Pasadena Showcase House of Design. This is the event's 49th year as the annual fundraiser for Pasadena Showcase House for the Arts (PSHA). Dunn-Edwards has been the paint sponsor for more than 46 years and, this year, welcomes another home into the Showcase collection.

As one of the oldest, largest and most successful house and garden tours in the country, Showcase will highlight the work of residential architect Roland E. Coate, Sr. at a 1941 residence located in Arcadia, California. Open April 21 through May 19, 2013, this historic home will be transformed and fully renovated into an extraordinary jewel by renowned designers from throughout Southern California.

Originally built for prominent furniture executive C. Lawrence Barker, of the former Southland furniture company, Barker Brothers, the estate is a Monterey Colonial residence that features a number of Colonial Revival subtypes, a mixture that the architect was known for in his attempts in creating a native "California Style." The estate is a two-story, 10,433-square-foot home that features several gardens, a tennis/basketball court, a swimming pool with spa, and a pool house set on 1.79 acres.

PSHA is a non-profit, all-volunteer organization in California whose members donate time and resources to the annual Pasadena Showcase House of Design. Founded in 1948, the PSHA adopted the Pasadena Showcase House of Design as its annual benefit in 1965. Event proceeds support local arts and music programs with gifts and grants, the annual Pasadena Showcase House Youth Concert, the Pasadena Showcase House Music Mobile, and the Pasadena Showcase House Instrumental Competition.

See past Showcase homes and color palettes using Perfect Palette Colors

2012: See the House

2012 Color Palette

DE6206 Desert Suede	DE5531 Dark Cavern	DE5796 Before the Storm
DE5386 Brown Wood	DE5097 Red Rock	DE6062 Tea Bag
DE5364 Coffee Cream	DE6171 Sand Dollar	DEA163 Rodeo
DEC787 Mythical Blue	DE6277 Pebble Walk	DEA155 Arabian Red
DE5744 Seaport	DE5500 Olive Hint	DE5820 Polished Silver

2011: See the House
2011 Color Palette

DE6213 Fine Grain	DEC728 Madera	DE5498 Calla Lily
DE5562 Olive Martini	DEW341 Swiss Coffee	DE5565 Crocodile Smile
DEA150 Scarlet Past	DEW380 White	DE6371 Black Jack

2010: See the House
2010 Color Palette

DEC771 Shaggy Barked	DEC723 Champagne	DE6385 Black Bean
DE6199 Pale Beach	DE5333 Burst of Gold	DE5803 Turbulent Sea
DE6193 Bamboo Screen	DEC792 Cape Cod Blue	DEC764 Inside Passage
DE6198 Cream Wave	DEW319 Damask	DE6170 Rice Bowl
DE6270 Antique Coin	DEC761 Cochise	DEC781 Sycamore Stand

2009: See the House

2009 Color Palette

DE6297 Patina Creek	DEC761 Cochise	DEC756 Weathered Brown
DEC771 Shaggy Barked	DE5117 Redwood City	DE5528 Watercress
DE6303 Sky Glass	DE6312 Dusty Dream	DE6335 Novelty Navy
DE5529 Stuffed Olive	DEW302 Romantic	DE6207 Egyptian Sand
DEC714 Friar Tuck	DEW380 White	DE5774 Thundercloud

2008: See the House
2008 Color Palette

DE6193 Bamboo Screen	DE5536 Dill Grass	DE6148 Antique Linen
DEC788 Dark Lagoon	DE5097 Red Rock	DE5502 Serpentine
DE5772 Blue Spruce	DE6036 Cloudy Gray	DE6111 S'mores
DE6151 Warm Butterscotch	DE5426 Mustard Seed	DE5460 18th Century Green
DEA194 Mulberry	DE5790 Atlantis	DE6192 Nomadic Taupe

2007: See the House

2007 Color Palette

DEC757 Rincon Cove	DEA187 Black	DEC741 Bone White
DE6234 Serene Thought	DE6197 Modern Ivory	DE6140 Brown Bear
DE6130 Wooded Acre	DE6235 Northgate Green	DE6311 Haze Blue
DEC751 Ash Gray	DEW383 Cool December	DE6278 Stone Creek
DE6205 Stucco Tan	DE6063 Black Walnut	DE6346 Silver Springs

2006: See the House

2006 Color Palette

DEA158 Northern Territory	DEW341 Swiss Coffee	DEC720 Cliff's View
DEW382 Faded Gray	DE6377 Boat Anchor	DE5882 Harbor Afternoon
DE6284 Graceful Green	DE5360 Wheatbread	DE5898 Prim Blue
DEA148 Sunken Ship	DE5359 Crossroads	DE6150 Gourmet Honey
DE6144 Graham Cracker	DEC772 Navajo White	DE6178 Boutique Beige

2005: See the House

2005 Color Palette

DE6150 Gourmet Honey	DEA173 Frond	DE5118 BBQ
DE5213 Seasonal Beige	DE5241 Sicilian Villa	DEC780 Tickled Crow
DE6157 Bisque Tan	DEC762 Milkweed	DE6135 Verona Beach
DEW317 Day Lily	DEC736 Flaxseed	DEC761 Cochise
DE5359 Crossroads	DE5878 Bachelor Blue	DE6249 Trinity Islands

To order your tickets and find out more about Pasadena Showcase House of Design, visit http://www.pasadenashowcase.org

Introducing Our Newest Contributor

Bethany Nauert — 4/1/2013 12:00:00 AM

Welcome Bethany Nauert! Our latest guest blogger is a freelance photographer and writer, best known for her work on Apartment Therapy. And, if you’ve read our Simply 2013 Trends report, many of the images incorporated in the report are hers.

Her work has been seen in a range of top-tier publications, including the Los Angeles Times, Elle Decor, Town & Country and Country Living. One of her recent interviews for Apartment Therapy was at the home of Irene and Evan Lovett, who - with the use of Dunn-Edwards Paint colors - transformed their home into colorful whimsy. For Bethany’s interview, CLICK HERE.

Dunn-Edwards Paint Colors used at Evan and Irene's Home

DEC750 Bison Beige

DE5783 Nocturnal Sea

DE6368 Walrus

DE5110 Prime Pink

DE5700 Frosty Mint

All Photography in Apartment Therapy by Bethany Nauert

Melinda's Latest Study: Color Combinations

Melinda Ashton Turner — 3/26/2013 12:00:00 AM

Our international guest blogger, Melinda Ashton Turner, has been working on color combination studies and has a beautiful series of style displays to showcase. Dunn-Edwards Perfect Palette colors play a supporting role within the colors chosen, and Melinda shows us the relationships between unlikely color combinations.
READ MORE

Holi Celebrates Spring in a Burst of Color

Sara McLean — 4/1/2013 12:00:00 AM

Holi, a Krishna celebration of color, began in India to announce the arrival of spring and passing of winter. Yearly traditional festivals provide an atmosphere of social interaction and colorful sights and -- in the Southwest -- recent celebrations included Los Angeles, California and Spanish Fork, Utah. During festival time, people throw red, yellow, green, blue, black and silver powder on each other, signifying throwing their worries out the window. An amazing celebration of color!

The Legend Behind the Festival
According to legend, the word Holi came from the demoness Holika, a sister of the demon king Hiranya Kashipu (meaning love of gold and a soft bed), who had proclaimed his supremacy over the Universe. The king, angry over his son’s devotion to Lord Vishnu, decides to punish his son and has Holika carry the son, Prahlad, into the fire; but divine intervention prevails and destroys Holika, saving Prahlad. Therefore, Holi is a celebration to mark the burning of the evil Holika.

Journey to India
Holi is an especially important celebration in northern India. It is a time to celebrate the love of Radha and Krishna and the spraying of colored powders signifies the love of Krishna for his devotees.

Take a moment and see what this colorful tradition looks like for yourself!

What We Witnessed at the Los Angeles Holi. Festival of Colors

See the 2012 Holi. Festival of Colors

To learn more about the festival, visit http://www.holifestival.com and http://www.festivalofcolorsla.com
Photography by Sara McLean

Videos courtesy the organizers at Holi. Festival of Colours

Sagrada Familia: Architectural Masterpiece by Antoni Gaudi

Lara Logan — 3/12/2013 12:00:00 AM

CBS goes behind the scenes of Antoni Gaudi's masterpiece, the Sagrada Familia, a basilica under construction for 130 years. Catch a behind-the-scenes look at this architectural masterpiece in Barcelona, Spain.

Video and imagery owned by CBS News and CBS 60 Minutes

Color by Night at the Sagrada Familia

designboom — 3/19/2013 12:00:00 AM

The first multimedia projection on Antoni Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain was witnessed by 32,000 people. The large-scale piece entitled ‘ode a la vie’, tells the story of rebirth and hope and was the brainchild of Montreal-based studio Moment Factory. READ MORE

Colorful Installations

designboom — 3/19/2013 12:00:00 AM

Interlacing strips of vibrantly colored flagging tape cover the café and lobby areas of the Wexler Center for the Arts in Columbus, Ohio. The creation of Los-Angeles-based artist Megan Geckler, the work entitled “Spread the Ashes of Colors” used a CMYK color process for the installation. READ MORE

Stepping Out with Street Art

designboom — 3/19/2013 12:00:00 AM

In the streets of Beirut, staircases have been transformed into colorful works of art by a Lebanese team of artists and designers called “dihzahners” who color the streets through initiatives such as “paint up!”. READ MORE

UNStudio: Canaletto

Amy Frearson — 3/26/2013 12:00:00 AM

The first images of Canaletto, a 30-story residential tower on London’s City Road, UK, has been unveiled by Dutch firm UNStudio. Canaletto, designed of metal and glass in a curving façade, breaks the height of the building into a series of three-to-five story clusters and each of these clusters create “neighborhoods in the sky”, with the imagination of the visionaries at UNStudio. READ MORE

Still by Apollo Architects

Amy Frearson — 3/26/2013 12:00:00 AM

Situated along a busy road in Yotsukaido City, Japan, contains a residence of stillness and privacy. Designed by the architecture firm of Apollo Architects & Associates, the residence is designed with slabs of reinforced concrete for soundproofing around the interior spaces, and provides three courtyards with elevated wooden walkways and glass walls behind its concrete exterior. READ MORE

LA Textile

Sara McLean — 3/12/2013 12:00:00 AM

To inform and inspire! That is the motto of the Los Angeles International Textile Show (LA Textile). And as the fashion industry’s West Coast destination for premier textile, design and production resources, LA Textile showcases a high-caliber range of resources and trend direction for designers. Open February 25-27, 2013, attendance was essential to find out the latest in textile design, what we’ll see in the fashion industry that will translate to interior design and meet the trend makers in this cross-industry platform.

Resources at the show presented their latest collections to the trade for the Spring and Summer 2014 season. With these introductions, we see several trends pushing forward in the fashion industry for 2014. Presented and displayed by Stylesight, a leading trend forecasting organization for the fashion industry, here are the trend highlights to note from the runways to interiors.

Eden

Based on fantastical escapism, there is an explosion of color in this trend theme. Think jungle paradise with a touch of modernism.

Creed

Created with a basis of meditation and contemplation, this trend focuses on the quiet escape of the oceans below and skies above. Colors are tranquil, heavy on blue hues and with a touch of the life force of coral.

Real

The 1970s is reviewed through filtered rose-colored glasses inspiring memories and reflections of time past. Colors are muted, filtered, rosy and with a touch of 70s yellow and avocado.

Rational

Mathematics inspire this trend and highlight the beauty in symmetry and simplicity. Colors are architectural and muted with chalky whites, terra cotta shades, grays and black.

All Photography by Sara McLean

To learn more about LA Textile, visit http://www.californiamarketcenter.com/latextile

Blog http://www.latextile.blogspot.com

Twitter http://www.twitter.com/latextile

Facebook http://www.facebook.com/latextile

Instagram http://www.instagram.com/latextile

Pan Am: Mid-Century in Flight

Sara McLean — 3/12/2013 12:00:00 AM

At the recent Palm Spring Modernism Week, an exhibition on the history of Pan Am Airlines was a must-see exhibit. This curated collection of historical memorabilia traces the history of the airline, showcased in all its hip mid-century modern design.

From the fashions of the flight attendants and crew to the cabin designs to the toys for young and old, it was a treat to see. Memorabilia ranged from purses, clutches, scarves, toys, ashtrays, crew pins, books, posters, and even first-class dinnerware and dining menus. Truly the height of design in the air. M18 Public Relations sponsored the events and exhibition. Here are the highlights:

Pan Am in Fashion

Pan Am Memorabilia

Pan Am in Flight

To find out more about Palm Springs Modernism Week, visit http://www.modernismweek.com

All Photography by Sara McLean

Just Visiting: The Interplay of Man and Nature

Sara McLean — 4/1/2013 12:00:00 AM

Kathy Taslitz, formerly an interior designer, now a fine artist, has introduced her 2013 sculptural series called “Just Visiting." Based on the reflection of the symbiosis between nature and humanity and how the two coexist, Kathy melds her sculptures with elaborate technical components -- each of the sculptures representing one of the five senses.

Within the integration of the technical components such as sound, lighting, computer-aided technology and video, the sculptures take on additional dimension and surround the viewer with a quiet interweaving of technology and the organic.I asked Kathy to explain more about her exhibit “Just Visiting,” and she takes us behind the scenes on this magical journey of nature and technology.

What is the meaning behind the series title “Just Visiting”?
The series title refers to the relationship between nature and humanity. Seashells are being used as symbolism for the entire natural world that has been around for millions of years and will remain long after mankind is gone. We are essentially just the visitors here.

Is there any significance to the use of color within each of the sculptures?
The color in the interior of the pieces refers to a natural state for the shells, as well as the human form. When the sculptures are illuminated, they exude neon colors referring to the consumerism we bring to the planet.

In reviewing the work process, it looks like there’s some use of math, the use of the golden mean ratio by Fibonacci or geometry. As math is a trending topic in the design world – both fashion and interiors, I was curious if this was true and, if so, how does the use of mathematics assist in your work process? Do all your works involve the use of math or are some series more of a free-flow pattern?
There is geometry involved in all my work. I have a sense of visual balance that I call on when creating my forms.

What is the average length of time to develop each sculpture?
My sculptures can take anywhere from a year up to three years once I start production. I can think about a concept for many years and then, eventually, figure out how I want that interpreted -- or I may think of an idea and act on it immediately. Each time is a unique event.

In reviewing the sculptures last night, it appears you work in many mediums including fiberglass, wax, metal, clay. What is your favorite medium to work with and why?
I like to change things up and constantly evolve so I wouldn't say I have any one favorite. I like to embrace new challenges and enjoy working within different mediums.

What will we see next from you?
I am working on several new works at the moment. I'm doing a large-scale commission in polished stainless steel for a collector on the East Coast that I am really excited about.

Raised around the sculptural works in Chicago, Kathy draws inspiration from nature and technology in her work. Her work ranges from an 11-foot sculptural monument at the College of Santa Fe’s Performing Art Center, to stainless-steel sculptures to fiberglass forms such as seashells. Her work has been featured in Architectural Digest, the Los Angeles Times and Vogue Living among others and has been shown at Art Basel Miami Beach with the Richard Gray Gallery, Miami, Florida; Gerald Peters Gallery, Santa Fe, New Mexico; Wright, Chicago, Illinois; Art Crush/Aspen Art Museum, Aspen, Colorado; and Galerie Maxmillan, Aspen, Colorado.

WATCH KATHY AT WORK

All photography and video by Trent PR and Kathy Taslitz

To learn more about Kathy Taslitz and see her work, visit http://www.kathytaslitz.com

Palm Springs Modernism Week: A Retro Celebration

Sara McLean — 3/3/2013 12:00:00 AM

Traveling back in time, we arrive at the hippest place to be this week, Palm Springs, California, for the annual Modernism Week show.

Filled with tours, exhibitions, and seminars along with the coolest mid-century architecture, this show gathers the largest pool of mid-century modern information for those professionals seeking the latest information on the design and history of this architectural style.

Last year’s show was a focus on overall architecture in the Palm Springs area as well as a tour of the Annenberg Estate. This year’s time was spent at the Pan-Am exhibition, a tour of several neighborhoods in Palm Springs- including the El Rancho Vista Estates designed by the architectural firm of Wexler & Harrison, a tour of the Marrakesh Country Club and estates in Palm Desert, and taking part in the Modernism Expo, Prefab Show and Vintage Trailer show. As mid-century design continues to uptrend in the Southwest, confirming that this classic design endures today, we continue to research the influences this time period has on our architecture and design today. Enjoy the show!

Pan Am Exhibit

Marrakesh Designer Showcase

El Rancho Vista Estates Tour

Modern Home Expo, Prefab Show and Vintage Trailer Show

See the Show in Detail

Photography by Sara McLean except images noted below:
Lead Photo: Palm Springs Visitors Center (formerly Tramway Gas Station), Frey and Chambers, architects, 1963-65; photo by Gregg Felson
Bus Tour Photo: David Dixon

Traditions in Color: Chinese New Year

Sara McLean — 3/3/2013 12:00:00 AM

Exploring the many cultures throughout the world inspires the designer in all of us. Recently, these explorations carried me to the many festivities and celebrations of Chinese New Year in Chinatown, Los Angeles. With its colorful urban setting, historic monuments and an explosion of fantastic sights, sounds and colors, the Year of the Snake entices the imagination.

Color plays an extremely important role in the Chinese culture, especially the yellowed-red that is prevalent in décor and fashion, as well as architecture and design. Red, noted everywhere during the Chinese New Year, represents good fortune and joy. Yellow or gold, representing good luck and neutrality, is typically considered the most beautiful of the Chinese colors and has a history centuries long in the Chinese culture. Green or jade is typically associated with harmony or nature. Examples of these colors and others were found on my journey through this part of town.

Red lanterns: Found everywhere, in the house and in the streets. Symbolizing brightness, harmony, happiness and good luck, it is supposed to warm the house, send away evil spirits and create an atmosphere of harmony.

Red couplets: Pasting red spring couplets has been an important part of the Chinese New Year's celebration since ancient times. The couplet is written on two strips of red paper and is composed of two poetic sentences that match and rhyme with each other to express hopes for the coming New Year. The red couplets, along with the New Year paintings on the door, serve as décor and as protective shields to ward off evil spirits.

Color Symbolism

Red envelope: The Chinese people have a tradition of giving money to children or unmarried children in red envelopes containing the money, also called good luck money.

Trending in fashion and décor are snake prints and patterns, and with 2013 being the Year of the Snake, this trend will continue to stay on runways and in show rooms throughout the year.

Color in Chinatown Architecture

Color on Parade

Color About Town

See more of the 2013 Chinese New Year parade and get a glimpse into the New Year festivities.

To learn more about Chinatown Los Angeles and the Chinese cultural traditions, visit http://www.chinatownla.com

Beauty in Motion: 21st Annual Film Costume Design Exhibit

Sara McLean — 3/3/2013 12:00:00 AM

The glamour and style of the Oscars^® is on display at the Los Angeles Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising (FIDM) during this annual, one-of-a-kind exhibition. Paying homage to the costume designer creations of motion pictures nominated for an Oscar, the museum exhibit celebrates these fashions as more than 100 costumes from over 20 outstanding 2012 films.

Colorful and vibrant, each costume provides a rich look into the world of history, fantasy, and contemporary design of fashion and textiles. And with interior design playing a supporting role to each costume as an additional character within the movie scenes, style comes to life in each of the represented movies. Here are the five movies nominated for an award for costume design with the Oscar being awarded on Feb.24, 2013 to Jacqueline Durran for Anna Karenina:

Anna Karenina by Costume Designer Jacqueline Durran

Photo Right:(L to R): Costumes: Kelly Macdonald as Dolly, Keira Knightley as Anna Karenina, Aaron Taylor-Johnson as Vronsky

Les Misérables by Costume Designer Paco Delgado

(L to R): Costumes: Eddie Redmayne as Marius, Samantha Barks as Éponine, Eddie Redmayne as Marius, Amanda Seyfried as Cosette, Hugh Jackman as Jean Valjean, Anne Hathaway as Fantine

Lincoln by Costume Designer Joanna Johnston

(L to R): Costumes: Julie White as Elizabeth Blair Lee, Sally Field as Mary Todd Lincoln, Daniel Day-Lewis as Abraham Lincoln, Sally Field as Mary Todd Lincoln

Mirror Mirror by Costume Designer Eiko Ishioka

Photo Left: (L to R): Costumes: Armie Hammer as Prince Alcott, Lily Collins as Snow White, Julia Roberts as The Queen

Snow White and the Huntsman by Costume Designer Colleen Atwood

Photo Right: (L to R): Costumes: Charlize Theron as Ravenna, Charlize Theron as Ravenna, Charlize Theron as Ravenna, Kristen Stewart as Snow White, Charlize Theron as Ravenna, Chris Hemsworth as The Huntsman

And, as is tradition at the FIDM museum exhibition, the costumes from the prior year’s Oscar winner for Best Costume Design are displayed - so the costumes from The Artist by Costume Designer Mark Bridges are also shown. On display through April 27, 2013, admission is free. What a great way to get inspired for your own designs!

To visit the FIDM Museum & Galleries On The Park, 1st level, FIDM/ Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising, 919 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90015 (corner of Grand Avenue & 9th Street).

To find out more about the exhibition and FIDM,visit http://www.fidm.edu

All photography courtesy and permission of the FIDM Museum & Galleries

hunt+gather: Re-inspired Design

Sara McLean — 3/3/2013 12:00:00 AM

On a recent trip to New York City, NY for the PremiereVision and Indigo-Salon NYC textile design to-the-trade shows, I found a jewel among the textile firms - hunt+gather studio.

As a textile print design studio, the artistic textiles and colorful patterns are trend-forward, bold and fun. Following the trade show, I interviewed Lesley Merola Moya, founder and owner of hunt+gather studio, to find out more about her work, inspiration and life in Taos, New Mexico.

Please describe your design studio and how you began your studio:
hunt+gather studio is a textile print design studio. We create artwork that can be used for home furnishings, fashion or any surface design. The designs are sold as a fabric swatch and digital file. I began this from my home studio almost two years ago after moving from the East Coast to Taos, New Mexico, with my husband who is from here.

I had been working in corporate home furnishings and fashion as a textile designer for about 10 years and really started to feel like my creativity was being stunted on a daily basis, only working on and creating designs for one specific client every single day. Working in corporate fashion, everything moves so quickly that there is no time for in-house textile designers to be creating originals all day. My role was very technical and I mostly only did repeats, color separations and design tweaks on other people's designs. We would buy many prints each season from different studios around the world and work from that artwork. All the years I spent going to print design shows like Indigo (formerly Directions) Printsource and visiting print design studios really got me thinking after a while!

I always wanted to be on the other side of the business doing more of the creating, and for the last few years that I worked in NYC, I dreamt of having my own business and being my own boss. The 9 to 6-plus, Monday through Friday typical NYC work week with little or no breaks and commute was really starting to drain me and the work I was doing was not what I had hoped for after graduating college. Moving up the ladder in corporate fashion usually means less creativity, more managing and meetings, and less hands-on. Those were really the only goals I would have been offered if I were to move up, which was going in the opposite direction of my original goals!

I began hunt+gather by doing freelance textile design for fashion companies mostly in NYC, Philadelphia and L.A. and creating my own artwork on the side for the print collection. I just started compiling designs little by little and now work with about 15 different designers who all have their own style that I feel fits into our aesthetic. We are still considered a very small studio, we will have over 1,000 designs by our fall/winter 2014 collection, but I would like to grow a little bit every year. I do feel that keeping it small is only beneficial - we have gotten a lot of compliments from clients that say they love us because we are fresh and not so "cookie cutter"

I still do a lot of freelance design service work and create original designs for projects for companies in the fashion industry as well as running hunt+gather studio and I have a rep who shows the collection in person in L.A. and NYC.

Who are some of your clients?
Most of our clients are in the women's fashion industry, although we have sold to a few home furnishings companies. We sell a lot to the junior's surf wear, swimwear-type brands, which is a lot of fun and something I am really excited about - but also to higher-end clients. I think we have a good range of designs that can fit into many categories.

Who/What inspires you?
When I design, I am always inspired by nature first - it is where the best color palettes come from and the most organic and interesting shapes. Print and pattern can be found everywhere in nature - it's not just florals, which I actually don't really enjoy creating very much. It could be the texture from the bark of a tree or moss growing on a rock. I am really inspired by insects and birds especially - there are crazy beetles out there with the most amazing patterns on their wings!

I have always been attracted to really fine details and symmetry in nature and anything under a microscope. Ernst Haeckel illustrations have been a huge inspiration since I discovered him before college. To this day I can sit down and look at one of his books and still be completely mesmerized! I aslo love fine artists who create sort of an allover flow of abstract texture and art that is really obsessive like Yoyoi Kusama. Her net paintings are some of my favorites.

I am inspired by fashion, too of course, but not in the same way. I am a lot more into vintage fashion and antiques for inspiration. I do get really excited when the runway shows come out after fashion week and am drawn to completely different designers each time - whoever has the most interesting collection of prints!
Now that more digital prints are being created I really love seeing those, Basso and Brooke are absolutely amazing, and I love Clover Canyon.

Being in New Mexico has really inspired me a lot, as the landscape is so different from what I am used to seeing every day and the light is always so great. I always tell the story about unpacking my things when I first got here. All the colors looked so different to me! It blew me away! Clothes that I had forever looked different and even my bedding which is all white looked a different shade of white to me! There is a reason why artists like Georgia O'Keefe were drawn to Northern New Mexico!

I love looking at design blogs and Pinterest but often find that for me it's like inspiration overload and I start to freak out. I would rather just go on a hike and discover little things that inspire me in nature, take a trip to a few thrift stores and then combine that with what is trending in the design world at the moment.

What was your training in textile design? How did you get into this segment of the design world?
I had never thought too much about textile design before. I have been creating art since I first held a crayon and it was really the only thing I ever wanted to do but as much as I was always drawn to print and pattern I never gave it much thought as a career. I never thought "Wow, there is someone who actually does nothing but textile and surface design for a living!" I was taking some classes at a community college, and one of our projects was to create a textile design. I remember being really into it and I believe I used gouache for the first time which is strange to me because no one ever told me that was what I was supposed to use, it just seemed like the best thing to me! (Gouache is what was typically used on hand-painted textile designs.)

After that I went to FIT in NYC (The Fashion Institute of Technology) for fine arts. I loved every second of it, but my professors were always trying to get me to loosen up. I was always painting too tightly and always painting some sort of symmetry or pattern, even if I was given a 6-foot canvas! I was never painting anything with deep meaning or anything with a story behind it that I could explain, I just painted what I wanted to see hanging on my wall or what I thought looked good! I started losing confidence and near the end of my last semester I really started freaking out about what I was going to do and how I was going to pay my rent. We were only trained to be artists to sell work in galleries and I just didn't see that happening or I was too scared to pursue it maybe.

One day I was thinking really hard about this and walking aimlessly through the halls at FIT when I passed by the textile/surface design department and saw the students work in the display windows. A HUGE lightbulb went off over my head! THIS was what I was supposed to be doing! It just all came together at once, I had always been interested in fashion and interior design, but I knew I did not want to be a fashion designer or an interior decorator, I was obsessed with pattern, the Fibonacci theory, Tetris was my favorite game, I loved puzzles and making things fit. This was a way to combine everything together! That was it, I signed up, had my interview for the textile surface design major and I got in. I am thankful that I had my degree in fine arts as well, as I think it just makes for a more rounded education, and it goes hand in hand with textile design. Also, these days with everything being so digital its a good reminder to get off the computer and get out the paints and pencils, which I think is the best way to design, at least in the beginning stages even if it has to become digital in the end.

Please describe your latest collection
Well, the latest collection was for spring/summer 2013, which was about 300 designs. We are now working on fall/winter 2014. The fashion world always works a year ahead and we work a year ahead of them so that we can present the latest season that they are working on when they need it. It is hard to describe the collection because it's not one, cohesive thing. It definitely has an overall look that I guess is very hunt+gather, but we have to have such a range of ideas so that there is something for everyone in there. I always tell my artists to try to stay somewhat on trend, especially for color, but to stick with what they love doing the most so they are not forcing anything.

I have some artists who do nothing but hand-painted florals, some who do nothing but hand-drawn geometrics or who use block printing and screen printing techniques, and some who do a lot of overall textures or animal skins. I think they all come together to form a pretty cool collection and I love how it turned out. I think it's a good balance between more of an organic handmade feel and digital prints and gives the client some options when they are thinking about their end result and especially their printing needs. I think as time goes on and we have done a few more seasons the overall look will just become more and more recognizable, but I think this takes time, as with any artistic endeavor. It can take a while to form a definite style but I think we have a really good head start and I am proud of where we have come in under two years!

Many thanks to Lesley for taking time out to talk all things design-inpired!

To learn more about Lesley and hunt+gather studio, here are the links:
website- www.hunt-and-gather-studio.com
blog- http://huntandgatherstudio.blogspot.com/
twitter and Facebook pages- https://twitter.com/textilechick
https://www.facebook.com/pages/HuntGather-Studio/110333482396646

All photography courtesy and permission of hunt+gather studio

Collaborative Color

designboom — 2/26/2013 12:00:00 AM

Located in Selb, Germany, is the award-winning 'haus der tagesmutter' or 'childminders center'. Built with the collaborative efforts of Spanish firms tallerDE2 arquitectos and gutierrez-delafuente arquitectos, this daycare center is based on the concept of ‘urban acupuncture’ where small structures are placed in empty urban blocks.

See the results of this collaboration. READ MORE

A Colorful Tribute

designboom — 2/26/2013 12:00:00 AM

Brazilian street artist Eduardo Kobra created a mural to grace the entire side of a skyscraper as a tribute to Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer who passed away in December 2012 at the age of 104. Check out this amazing mural that is located on Paulista Avenue in Sao Paulo, Brazil. READ MORE

Colorfully Schooled

Amy Frearson — 2/26/2013 12:00:00 AM

With bold blocks of color on the first level in contrast with the white upper stories, the Binissalem School Complex in Mallorca is built as a single building made of overlapping volumes and recessed buildings.

Spanish architects RipollTizon explain how the building was designed to reference the different scales. READ MORE

Spotlight: Surfaces 2013 Trade Show Trends

Sara McLean — 2/19/2013 12:00:00 AM

SURFACES/StonExpo/Marmomacc Americas 2013, a leading international design flooring trade show and conference sponsored by Hanley Wood, held its annual gathering concurrently with Las Vegas Market this past January 2013.

For three days, the event brought together thousands of retailers, distributors, installers, designers and homebuilders for networking, education and product sourcing of hardwoods, carpeting, tile, rugs, and a myriad of flooring choices.

The conference portion of the trade show brought a wealth of information on flooring trends as well as classes on social media, marketing, business, maintenance and restoration among many other categories. I attended the Designer Days seminars, two all-day seminars which included hard and soft surface trends, show tours and presentations by prominent designers. These designer days have become increasingly popular and Scarlet Opus, a trend forecasting firm from the UK, offered several seminars and tours devoted to showcasing flooring trends.

Scarlet Opus is participating in Surfaces for the fourth year, providing a comprehensive program to the design industry. Forecasting two years, they are already completing the autumn/winter 2014-15 trends. During the show, we viewed the 2013-2014 trends of flooring, both soft and hard surfaces and a behind-the-scenes look on how Scarlet Opus determines their forecast.

Victoria Redshaw, managing director of Scarlet Opus, provided key trend stories and overall, has noticed a return to pattern and color. After the past few seasons of austerity, which reflected the economic recession, people are ready for a return to color and lively pattern mixes. Here are the Scarlet Opus trends for hard and soft surfaces.

HARD and SOFT SURFACE TRENDS 2013-2014

The Vision
Evolution of SCI/tech science and technology trend from past season

Color is less clinical, sterile and masculine and is transitioning to subtle, fragile and diffused pastels and soft cosmetic tones complemented with white, black and silver sheens

Key Architectural influence: pearlescent finishes

Hard Surfaces:
ordered patterns
tessellated patterns
blonder woods

Soft Surfaces:
sea pod shapes and skeletal formations
fleshy-colored furnishings
carpets and rugs in grayed lilacs and hazy apricots
nude shimmers and blush shades
nuanced colors in pink, lilac, green, blue
repetitive patterns and serene order

DE5295 Sandstorm	DE5206 Tan Temptation	DE5058 Cherry Blush
DE5961 Tinted Iris	DE5723 Fountain City	DE5741 Peacock Plume

The Expedition (hardsurface-only trend)
Evolution of Forces of Nature trend from 2012 and Craftpunk trend of autumn/winter 2012-2013

Colors are cloudy, earthy with greens, blues and browns plus accents of brights such as red and cobalt blue; Ice white is key along with rock gray

Key Architectural influence: lodge luxe

Hard surfaces: burnished timbers, natural curves, end grains of wood, recycled materials that look and act like wood, color and character infused into the wood grain, rock surface interiors

El Estancia
Similar trend to The Expedition trend, however, El Estancia focuses on tribal trends with exotic, dark, spicy and luxury twists

Fusion of 2 distinct styles – earthy and humble plus glamour and sophistication

Colors are blackened, dark and oily with dry linen and pewter as grounding influences

Key Architectural influence: bringing the outdoors inside; open spaces of South America

Hard surfaces:
dark copper
oxidized surfaces
reclaimed oak tobacco
worn effects
ikat prints
Soft Surfaces:
Carpets are pebbled, felted, in shearling
Knitted; chenilles are oversized
Pompom knits
Luster to yarn and fibers

DEA182 Encore Teal	DE6014 Dark Chocolate	DE5804 Nightfall
DE5958 Purple Potion	DEA154 Red Revival	DE6111 S'mores

H.ACKtivist
Evolution of Color Capital trend of 2012 and Retro trend of autumn/winter 2012-2013

Colors are bright, pushing the primaries and pastels to the limit with highlighter yellow and glossy white and black; Key Color – Coral;

Key architectural influence: outdoor wallpaper, spliced and fragmented patterns and materials on building exteriors

Hard Surfaces:
poured concrete
neon continues
super bright colors with blonde woods
hi-def color with gray
quirky and fun furniture pieces
Soft Surfaces:
personalized and playful
embroidery
subtle flecks of bright color
all things bright and beautiful
key color combination: coral and pink

DE5731 Port Hope	DEA119 Electric Glow	DEA113 Orange Burst
DE5040 Lipstick	DE5969 Purple Potion	DE5109 Salmon Upstream

The Curator
Evolution of Emporium 2012 and Orient spring/summer 2013

Colors are opulent and grand, with Emerald, blues, champagne gold, oxidized bronze, pewter and black plus marble

Key architectural influence: adopting a mix of historic styles including Art Nouveau and Art Deco as well as late 19^th century and Victorian Gothic

Hard Surfaces:
tile is bold
lots of pattern
eclectic mixes
wood is aged, antiqued and worn

Soft Surfaces:
Densely packed florals that are slightly wilted, darkly romantic
Key colors: wine, berry, ruby
Japanese styling and Art Nouveau influences
Old World weaves, tapestries, Venetian marbling

DE6387 Dangerous Robot	DE6123 Trail Dust	DE6021 Outer Boundary
DEA147 Garnet Evening	DE5699 Emerald Pool	DE5832 Navy Teal

Bottom Product Images:
On Left: Allusion by Genesis Product Development http://www.genesispd.nl
On Right: Blue/Green resin by Metal FX http://metal-fx.com

The Bloc-(soft surface-only trend)

Russian Revival Trend: a mix of 2 styles – old USSR styling and constructivism
Colors are jewel tones with black and military gold, red, dark blue, aerosol pink and highlighter yellow
Key architectural influence: Russian folk styling, ornate, jewel-detailed
Soft surfaces:
Russian folk styling
bold and flat color such as red and blue with ecru and cream
tapestries, needlepoint, cross-stitch

Special thanks to Scarlet Opus for providing key insights into these trends. To read more about this trend service provider to the trade; http://www.scarletopus.com and http://www.trendsblog.co.uk

All photography by Sara McLean

Pantone Introduces Fall 2013 Fashion Color Report

Sara McLean — 2/12/2013 12:00:00 AM

With the opening of New York's Fashion Week, Pantone has announced their Fashion Color Report for Fall 2013. "Just as the leaves change in autumn, the consumer will enjoy the ability to change their 'look' and try a new approach to their wardrobe for brisk days ahead, " said Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute. "The fall 2013 palette allows for that versatility and experimentation."

Women's Fashion 2013 Top Colors:
17-5641 Emerald
18-4434 Mykonos Blue
15-0533 Linden Green
19-3628 Acai
19-1662 Samba
17-1452 Koi
18-0312 Deep Lichen Green
19-2045 Vivacious
19-4215 Turbulance
19-1116 Carafe

To read the full report, download at http://www.pantone.com/fall2013

Spotlight: PremièreVision & Indigo New York

Sara McLean — 2/12/2013 12:00:00 AM

January brings a plethora of new and exciting products and trends to view at trade shows all around the world. Key to the apparel and textile industry trade are Première Vision and Indigo New York, and I attended to gather key information on trends that carry over from fashion design to interior design.

Occurring on January 15 and 16, these shows brought a surge of creativity as the world’s top mills and print designs studios came together to showcase their Spring and Summer 2014 collections. Attendance at the show was on the rise with buyers, fashion designers and tastemakers all seeking the latest in mill trends.

Visitors were also drawn into the trend services for Spring and Summer 2014 season, which included color cards, the Indigo “Influences” wall, the fabric forum and trend seminars. I attended several of the trend seminars to gain further understanding of the connection between fashion and interior trends, and came away with key information and connections between these creative industries.

Key 2014 Spring and Summer Fashion Trends that will carry into the Interior Design trend arena include:

High-tech fabrics: including strange hybrid and ambiguous colors and patterns. Noting this same trend at Maison Ob’jet, the sportwear textiles and patterns are beginning to find their way into the Interiors stories.
Textile Stories: sporty and glamorous combined
mixed coatings such as silk/plastic, grainy/ultra-smooth, lace/neoprene
synthetic, techno fabric construction, iridescent, sparkly material
gelled fabrics, wet-looks, lacquered and plasticized finishes

Color Stories: architectural and building material colors: vegetal coloring, pearlized darks and pink gold, high-impact florals

Primitive fabrics and motifs: raw and industrial design updated; forward-evolution of our Simply A New Renaissance 2013 Trends report/Simply RE-Invented story. Rebooting the Arts & Crafts era, updating with ethnic and tribal influences

Textile Stories: raw, mineralized, and tribal
textile irregularities and crude embroideries
rustic fleece, graphic two-tone and three-tone, pixilated patterns
mineral and stone motifs, mica, and mirrors

Color Stories: raw and earthy: warm sand tones, contemporary primitive hues, dark/light contrasts

Transparent and lightweight fabrics: drawing on the use of lightweight materials and structured design, this trend follows trends in architectural design. From open and empty spaces to the advances in modern architecture, this trend follows a simple and clean, structured format.

Textile Stories: airy and light
layered translucency
lightened 3Ds, quilted, embossed, honeycomb motifs
laser cutouts, perforations, micro patterns

Color Stories: color effects: Soft multi-colored hues and graduated color, Chalks and pastels,
Bright mixtures, Tone-on-tone and transparent coloring

All photography courtesy and permission of PremiereVision New York and Indigo New York.
To find out more about Indigo New York, click here.
To find out more about PremiereVision New York, click here.

Spotlight: Las Vegas Market Winter 2013

Sara McLean — 2/12/2013 12:00:00 AM

With the New Year upon us, the design industry is looking to new see what’s new and trending in the world of product design for upcoming interior design projects. The market was buzzing with excitement as companies seem to be on the rebound and ready for new business.

Showrooms were full with new product and promotions while designers and buyers from national and international destinations came in droves to view it all. From textiles and fabrics to furnishings and rugs, check out what was trending at the Las Vegas Market in January.

Market Trends to Watch

Jewel Tones and The Emerald Road
With the introduction of Pantone’s Color of the Year, Emerald 17-5641, many products were highlighted at the show with this luxurious color. From jewelry to fabrics, rugs to home sachets, this color has taken over for 2012’s Color of the Year, Tangerine Tango. A display of rooms showcasing the last three year’s of Pantone’s color journey was also on view to see the history of hue highlights.

Photographed: AF-Lighting 8500-3H
Other Noted Products on Trend:
Phillips Collection: cracked glass and resin-filled tree root cavities create one-of-a-kind ice stools
Robert Allen: Dwell Studio’s Modern Bungalow indoor/outdoor fabrics collectio
Artists Guild of America: Cat’s Eye, wall décor created using acrylic paints

2013 Pantone Color of the Year: Emerald

Contemporary Living Room design by Las Vegas Photographer Larry Hanna

2012 Color of the Year: Tangerine Tango

Contemporary Bedroom design by Las Vegas Photographer Larry Hanna

2011 Pantone Color of the Year: Honeysuckle

Contemporary Dining Room design by Las Vegas Photographer Larry Hanna

Tinted Whites and Pastels

This spring, the palettes also diverge into the softer, spring tones including soft jade, grayed pink and blue as well as hints of lavender.

Photographed: Hallway Vignette; Peninsula Home-Calada
Other Noted Products on Trend:
Lexington Home Brands: Sligh Studio Designs group of writing/laptop desks

Cobalt Blue

Based on Monaco Blue, a color reference from Pantone’s Spring 2013 Fashion Color Palette, this lush and vivid blue was displayed in many contemporary collections.

Photographed: Grasslands Road, Festival of Lights
Other Noted Products on Trend:
Chandra Rugs: Poligan shag features a shimmery textur
Brown Jordan: Flex, from the Richard Frinier Collection, is next-generation strap furniture

Mirrored Reflections

Hollywood chic is still trending, appearing via mirrored surfaces on a variety of furnishings.

Photographed: Phillips Collection
Other Noted Products On Trend:
Bassett Furniture: new accents from the HGTV Home Furniture Collection
Amy Howard Home: the Vendome cocktail table

Dramatic and Dark

Edgy and dark furnishings revealed dramatic shapes and dark, oily finishes alongside deep, blackened jewel tones.

Photographed: Lite Source: LS-22202
Other Noted Products on Trend:
Camerich USA: the Venus chair
Mercana Art Décor: classic urn table lamp goes gothic in all black

Chevron and Flame Stitch Patterns

This trend evolves into these two more abstract and elongated formations. From deconstructed patterns to video wavelengths, these patterns still created a buzz at the show.
Noted Products on Trend:
Lazar Industries: the Swivelette chair in the Wavelength fabric
Momeni: part of the Delhi Collection, an area rug in a deconstructed chevron pattern

Gilded Finishes

Warm gold and gilded finishes graced home accents throughout the show.

Photographed: Grasslands Road: Everyday Life

Other Noted Products on Trend:
Shaw Living: area rug from the Mirabella Collection, in Fernwood Gold
Santangelo Lighting & Design: chandelier in gold and silver leaf applied over whitewash finish

Neutrals Endure

With texture and motifs playing up in products, subdued color played in the background on many products.

Photographed: Hallway Vignette; Peninsula Home: Chaise Provence
Other Noted Products on Trend:
Drexel Heritage Furniture: Henson sofa in the Leather Pairings program
Jaipur Rugs: Foundations Chayse Dacoda, wool and art silk area rug

Beachy Keen

As spring arrives, an array of beach-inspired décor shows up. From airy, sunbleached fabrics to bright accents, sunny days are ahead.

Photographed: Ratana-Blueberry Hill Swivel Gliding Club; Peninsula Home-Solanas
Other Noted Products on Trend:
Lexington Home Brands: the Tommy Bahama Home Ivory Key Collection
Andrea by Sadek: bright porcelain platters in the shape of fish

American West

Lodge design meets Ghost Town. Décor inspired by cowboy bandanas to Native American motifs show up in a variety of products.

Photographed: India House: Ikat Pillow Collection

Other Noted Products on Trend:
Villa Home: Cheyenne Twist pillow in classic bandana pattern
Saddleman’s of Santa Fe: natural brindle cowhide rug

Updated Traditions

Traditional furniture gets updated with experimentations in scale, design and materials.

Photographed: Hallway Vignette; Capel Rugs-Bowden
Other Noted Products on Trend:
French Heritage: tea table with silhouettes of famous composers
Massoud Furniture: Wingback chair in patterned premium leather and textured fabric called Regent Ash

Urbanistas

Companies are listening to customers and have started to make furnishings and décor and scale to smaller dwellings. And, a multitude of showrooms began showing these sleeker, smaller designs.

Photographed: Hallway Vignette; Prepac Manufacturing
Other Noted Products on Trend:

Adesso Home: tripod floor lamp with paperclip legs

Broyhill Furniture Industries: Atlas Sofa

Birds Aplenty

Bird motifs remain appealing to designers and showrooms continue to provide additional twists on these patterns. Newer twists include depicting birds outside their birdcages.

Photographed: Red Door Interiors
Other Noted Products on Trend:
Villa Home Collection: Clarity Collection Garden Party pillow with uncaged birds
Creative Co-Op: Bristol Terrace Collection, Bird on Branch iron table

To see more products from the show,Las Vegas Market has introduced their Pinterest page. Check it out at Pinterest.com/LasVegasMarket

All photography for use with permission of Las Vegas Market at WMCLV and the respective companies and show rooms mentioned above, with the exception of those by Sara McLean.

The Forest Pond House

Amy Frearson — 2/19/2013 12:00:00 AM

The Forest Pond House, the first project by London design firm TDO, is a combination of two design concepts – a children’s play area concept with the idea of hiding and playing in the woods and a meditation concept with focus, relaxation and environmental immersion.

Located in rural Hampshire, UK, the structure is cantilevered over a pond and made of timber, glass and copper.

2013 Oscars Greenroom by Architectural Digest

Mitchell Owens — 2/19/2013 12:00:00 AM

As the 85^th annual Oscars quickly approach on February 24, 2013, we take a look at the Architectural Digest green room where the stars and celebrities will relax before taking center stage.

Designed by Madeline Stuart, the room is an Art Deco-inspired space inspired by the 1930s Hollywood Golden Era.

READ MORE

The Architectural Legacy of Cliff May

Kate — 2/19/2013 12:00:00 AM

Steven Murphy, an architect who has been inspired by the mid-century ranch architect Cliff May, discusses his designs and how each of these designs was inspired by his love of Cliff May architecture.

Here is Retro Renovation’s interview.

2013 LA Art Show

Sara McLean — 2/3/2013 12:00:00 AM

The 18^th annual LA Art Show, presented by the Palm Beach Show Group, was held from January 23-27, showcasing works by over 100 prominent galleries from the world. Featuring four sections: Modern and Contemporary section, Historic and Traditional Contemporary section, Vintage Poster section and the Los Angeles IFPDA Fine Print Fair section, this showcased a wide variety of artistic sensibilities.

Modern and Contemporary Section: This section features vibrant and exciting works from today’s great artists and visionaries. From performance pieces to mixed media and video installations, as well as photography, paintings and sculptures and a series of curated exhibits, the list of high-quality works is extraordinary.

Historic and Traditional Contemporary Section: The show provides collectors the opportunity to purchase and view rare examples of historic works from 18^th century European to contemporary realism and California plein air to the Hudson River School. Featuring works of masters such as Degas, Picasso, Dali, Rodin, Van Gough, Jan van Beers and Jules Dupre, these works represent major artistic points throughout history.

The Los Angeles IFPDA Fine Print Fair: As one of the longest running print fairs in the United State, this fair brings art dealers who are members of the International Fine Print Dealer Association. The IFPDA is dedicated to promoting a greater understanding of printmaking, an artistic medium that has been around for over 500 years.

Vintage Poster Section: The vintage poster is a long-loved genre of art, representing the hot topics of historic times, catching the viewer’s eye on art, politics and commerce. Styles include Art Nouveau, Art Deco, and Mid-century Modern.

The Tour
Walking the show provided real glimpses into the genius of these artistic masters and kept going back to view the modern and contemporary section. With bold splashes of color, a whimsical sense of humor in many of the works, a sense of history and great back stories of the artists who created these works, here are our highlights.

HUMOUR
The McLoughlin Gallery, San Francisco, CA

The Cardboard Life by Cristobal Valecillos
Using recycled materials, photographer Cristobal re-used these materials to construct luxury atmospheres. With a subtle wink to the message of consumerism, his use of metallic paper elevates the photography to a chic and glamorous series of portrait settings.

Artist: Desire Obtain Cherish
All works by this artist caught our attention. Starting as a street artist, his work grew into a sophisticated and satirical comment on the idea of addiction on many levels. From his designer drug series to a sculpture of three colorful suckers, Desire Obtain Cherish has risen to cult-like status. Works below include Grape Meltdown, Pink Champagne Meltdown, Basquiat Punched, Designer Drug Soft Pill Packs, Designer Drugs Louis Vuitton, Marilyn Unveiled and Designer Drugs Chanel. To see more of his work, check out The McLoughlin Gallery.

Arcadia Fine Arts, New York, NY
Artist Paul Rousso
With a nod towards the state of the nation, a wink and wit of satire, artist Paul Rousso showcases his mixed media sculptures of paper money. He explains, ‘‘Soon there will be no new magazines, no newspapers, no new books… everyone will have their reader, iPad etc., to which they can download whatever they want, whenever they want, where ever they are. The last paper and ink to go away will likely be our paper currency. Perhaps the audience for my work is only just being born.’

On display: Color of Money, Wall Street Journal, 50 Dollar Tip, 5 Grand from New York, A Lost 10 Spot and Rippling 1000

Fabien Castanier Gallery, Studio City, CA
Artist: Tilt
Tilt, recognized internationally as a graffiti artist,developed his artistic style in the 1980s as a youth on the streets of Toulouse, France. His work emphasizes primitive lettering and complicated 3D wild characters with strong color and high impact shapes. His paintings focus on stylized versions of various sayings and names, placed as "throw-up" bubble letters. "Throw-ups" allow graffiti artists to quickly lay down art.

Currently, the Fabien Castanier Gallery is showcasing a solo exhibition by Tilt called All You Can Eat, a reflection of American appetites. On display at the LA Art Show: Walking on Mushrooms, Ronald Loves Vanilla Milkshake, and Endless Obsession.

WATCH TILT WORK: Video courtesy Fabien Castanier Gallery

Timothy Yarger Fine Art, Beverly Hills, CA
Artist: Seth Casteel
Photographer Seth Casteel is an award-winning artist and New York Times Best Selling author. With his work series Underwater Dogs, he has become world-renowned and these images have become some of the most widely famous images of the last decade.

Known for his efforts in the animal rescue community, he has been recognized in TIME magazine, The Today Show and The Humane Society. Personally, we award him for the absolute delight and smile his work puts on our faces every time we see his work.

HISTORY DEFINED
Latin American Influence
The Latin American Masters Gallery for Modern and Contemporary Latin American Art focuses on artistic works from mid-career to masters artists including Olga de Almaral from Columbia, Arnaldo Roche from Puerto Rico, and Francisco Toledo from Mexico. Jenise Ramos, Assistant Director of the gallery, showcased some of the highlights of these artistic geniuses.

Francisco Toledo, widely considered Mexico’s greatest living artist, has an impressive array of talent which spans a variety of disciplines including printmaking, drafting, painting, sculpting and ceramics. On display, his works showcase his love of nature, in particular many insects and animals that aren't usually thought of as beautiful and his vision of proving that the world of humans and nature are one.

His creations are fantastical hybrid creatures, part human and part animal. The work here Fish with Swimmer is a creation of handcut mica and watercolor in soft, muted coloring, displaying his vision of a new nature.

Olga de Almaral, a world-renowned Columbian textile artist, transforms two-dimensional textiles into three-dimensional works of art through the use of gesso, fiber, paint and precious metals. Her work is widely exhibited in museums such as the Museum of Modern Art, New York, the Museum of Modern Art, Kyoto, Japan and Musee de Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris, Paris, France.

Her use of gold, inspired by the pre-Hispanic and Colonial intertwined histories, provides a unique and sensual, otherworldly presence. The featured work here Umbra 46, dated 2005, is a creation of fiber, acrylic and gold leaf. Stunning!

Asian Influence
PYO Gallery LA, Los Angeles, CA
Artist: Park Sung Tae

Park Sung Tae is a renowned artist in South Korea who began his artistic career painting portraits, and working in clay and ceramics. Realizing the heaviness of these materials as many works were destroyed upon transport to final destinations such as Germany, he began experimenting with lighter materials such as recycled aluminum screens, cut to focus on the light and shadow effects of objects.

With a play on dimension and space, Park Sung Tae experiments with exaggerated muscle formations and contours, and his expertise with the human and animal form is clearly shown in the nuances of the aluminum bents and formations. And with subtle sprays of color on the aluminum to further provide depth of character, his works display a lifetime of commitment to understanding this dimension and spaces. On display: Untitled, mixed media human forms; Untitled, mixed media horse forms.

International Influence
ADC & Building Bridges International Art Exchange Program, Santa Monica, CA

The ADC Contemporary Art Gallery & Building Bridges International Art Exchange is a non-profit organization dedicated to strengthening and cultivating international cultural relations and engaging local communities through art programs. This platform provides new and emerging artists support, information and opportunities for exhibiting and exposure.

Artist: Betsabee Romero
Born in Mexico City, where she lives and works, Betsabee studied communications, fine arts and art history in Mexico and France. As an internationally renowned artist, she has participated in numerous shows throughout Latin America, Mexico, the United States and Europe.

Betsabee Romero's work showcases the contemporary street scene. From tire tracks imprinted on cloth to idealize the depths of urban life and migratory aspects of culture to prints made on car hoods and even toy cars, these works depict her vision of human behavior.

To find out more about the exhibits, galleries and artists, contact the LA Art Show at http://www.laartshow.com

All Photography by Sara McLean; taken with permission of LA Art Show
Sculpture on first paragraph: AXIOM Contemporary Fine Art Gallery: Stuart Kusher, Contessa

Winter 2013 California Gift Show

Sara McLean — 2/3/2013 12:00:00 AM

The LA Gift and Home Market Week held its semi-annual event in Los Angeles, showcasing a comprehensive line of design resources for the design trade. From January 23-28, the event provided numerous exhibitions spanning both the permanent spaces at the L.A. Mart and temporary exhibitions of the California Gift Show held at the Los Angeles Convention Center.

As the first edition under Urban Expositions management, California Gift Show welcomed an expanded exhibitor base, including established industry leaders, emerging newcomers and two new product categories custom-tailored to the Southern California lifestyle – Boardwalk and Outdoor Living. “With more than 22 million people living in Southern California alone, there’s a vibrant, underserved retail audience right at the Show’s doorstep,” explains Doug Miller, president, Urban Expositions. “Since taking over the reins of the show in August, we’ve focused tremendous effort on rebuilding this show and working to create a whole new buying experience for these retailers.”

These new additions joined 7 other product categories including Design LA, Handcrafted, Gifts and Personal Style including Spa, World Style, Jewelry Cash & Carry and Vintage. With all the new products, colors, and patterns at the show, let the buying begin!

Give-Back Brands: ROOZT
Studies show 85% of Millennials choose to buy from companies with a cause. And with over $400 billion in discretionary income, companies are creating cause-integrated products and brands to gain a foothold in this hot trend. ROOZT, a company founded on an e-commerce platform, provides an online shopping forum for shoppers seeking companies that give back in a myriad of ways. All are socially-conscious brands, small and medium sized companies, that are seeking an audience of like-minded consumers.

Many of these companies find it difficult to open store-fronts on their own, so ROOZT provides the venue for these companies to gain an audience. Brent Freeman, co-founder and CEO of ROOZT, explains, "Social consciousness is part of the Millennial DNA; we've been brought up hearing all these messages of doing more, being sustainable, helping others, etc. So ROOZT is a place for these hip and fun products to gain an audience. In a sense, we want to bring sexy back to giving back." Well said!

Give-Back Brands: Fresco Fabrics
Owners Annie Castleberry and Andie Smith started Fresco Fabrics three years ago after a trip to Guatamala. Long-time collectors of Guatamalan textiles, watching the Guatamalan artisans weave their richly colored textiles, they knew designers in North America would love to use these wovens within their designs.

The textile designs are adapted from their Mayan ancestors and infused with regional color schemes and motifs. Unlike any other textiles in the world, these textiles are still worn daily by the Guatamalan people. And the give-back? With the purchase of these textiles, Fresco Fabrics is providing a new source of income to these villages, providing a lifeline out of proverty and into a flourishing trade business.

Bejeweled Color
Color is playing out in a variety of ways and splashes of vibrant hues provided a welcome introduction to the spring lines. As Rio de Janiero, Brazil is heating up as the "it" spot to be in 2016 for the Olympics, bright hues are making a bigger play into all areas of design. We also started to see spots of the 2013 Pantone Color of the Year Emerald playing.

Color and scent combine into a fragrant, lush and fresh atmosphere. Jonathan Adler is expanding his home fragrance collection into bath and body with creations of soaps, trays and more fragrance options in his candle lines.

The rich colors of orange, midnight blue, ocean blue, marigold yellow and citrus green, combined with clever scent names such as Fig, Tomato, Pepper, Earl Gray and Sugar and luxurious scents all combine to bring a bold freshness to this spring line.

Fine Lines Company
Fine Lines Company, a leader in the gift, home decor and fashion industry, is always a great place to see the latest in trending wares. Matthew Katzenson, representative for Fine Lines, walked me through the showroom, showcasing the latest displays from Rowallan, Homart, Michael Aram, and ROOST, to name a few.

Rowallan showcased its gorgeous line of handbags, wallets and accessories in a variety of floral hues. And it's newest line highlights colorblocking in royal, saddle brown and crisp white in a new fabric weave called vegan leather. Blending sophistication and function with a Scottish sensibility, this company was featured on Oprah's Favorite Things 2012 with the introduction of their DEDE Jewelry Trunk. How chic!

English Re-invented
With English television shows such as Downton Abby gaining an ever wider following in North America, designs have followed. This spring we see more wickers, linen textures, mosses, and garden-based decor gracing the showroom floors.

Homart displays garden containers made of a new concrete-resin mix making these delightful touches to any decor. And spring-green mosses drape over their latest line of wicker and linens.

The palette is subdued throughout with a focus on texture. Willow is uptrending along with the afore-mentioned wicker and linen. Specialty finds include linen-wrapped vase collections and animals, organic forms and glazed stones.

Two's Company
Two's Company, a leader in the gift and home decor industry, displayed an array of products touching many trend points, from minerals to Brazil mania, we found a feast for the eyes.

Minerals Galore
Minerals, noted in our Trends 2013 report, and a stone to watch, has shown up in spring lines. Malachite, the inky emerald green stone, is noted as a hotpoint for minerals though an array of home decor products.

Tozai Home showcased a beautiful arrangement of wall prints and decor elements that will find its way into many retail shops. We also noted rugs and raw rock mineral formations that complement the line of minerals.

Origami
As organic shapes tilt and twist to new forms from season to season, many examples were found of the origami bird and other shapes taking hold throughout the show.

Warm Neutrals
In other lines, a lack of color was the story. Warm neutrals are uptrending and there's a focus on texture and wovens in design. Two's Company's Natura's line features global patterns, organic materials and handcrafted designs, all natural and stylish items that exude a serene attitude. Two's Company's Brand Manager Kirk Salaya states, "Neutrals such as browns and tinted whites are this season's reaction to the strong plays of color we've seen in past seasons. And textures such as jute, blockprints and wovens are key to this trend."

The Softer Side of Color
Though many products focused on the precious gems and brights in coloring, other products focused on the grayed- and tinted hints of color in their products. From furnishings to vase collections, here is a look at this springs softer hues.

Luxury in the Details
The luxury market is in full bloom again and designers like Michael Aram, represented by Fine Lines Company, introduced new collections with an upscale attitude. The new Aram collection showcases silver pieces with pearled edges alongside a touch of whimsy with the introduction of his spine chair. What a clever homage to the trend of transparency!

Animalia
Owls have overtaken the animal kingdom in all things designwise for the past couple of years and they are still abundant; however, other animals are trying to make a play as the front-runner in cuddlly creature decor. And, taxidermy is on the rise from commercial to residential design.

A Touch of Whimsy
Decor finds its whimsical side in many of the showrooms. From techie treats to retro kitsch, designs are finding the fun again.

Just Beachy
As a cure for the winter doldrums, the beach always seems to evoke sunny days ahead. Two's Company's Watercolors line features products that are relaxed and dreamy, natural and rustic.

Brazil is Buzzing

As mentioned earlier, with the upcoming 2016 summer Olympics, designs are heating up everywhere we look. Two's Company's Brasilia line features mix-n-match patterns in sizzling colors with a tropical vibe, creating a celebratory lifestyle.

The Full Tour

All Photography by Sara McLean

Nose Knows Design

Sara McLean — 2/3/2013 12:00:00 AM

The latest design trend to hit the market is the art of scent design. Beyond celebrity perfumes and typical seasonal fragrances we’ve become accustomed to lies designers whose focus is on the olfactory senses.

I recently heard of this trend through our yearly international Color Marketing Group (CMG) meeting where I met Tracy Pepe, owner of Nose Knows Design in Toronto, Canada. Her presentation on the world of scent design culminated in showcasing personalized scents corresponding to a few of the CMG-forecasted colors for 2014. A fascinating combination to be sure – to smell a color! And the world of scent marketing has even garnered national attention. Check out this clip on The Today Show discussing the scent marketing trend:

Scent Marketing on The Today Show

Design Background
Tracy studied perfumery and began her career with a request of an architect. As Tracy further explains, “It started with a simple request from an architect who knew my husband, they were building an office space. They were working with a common area, open concept, and they wanted aromas to a) contract food aromas from employees and b) to add to the space - I said YES as I always do, and worked with them until it was perfect. The client IBI Group - the space McDonalds Head Office Canada. I was just studying perfumery and jumped all over it.” This amazing opportunity allowed Tracy to begin her business, Nose Knows Design.

Nose Knows Design
Nose Knows Design, Tracy’s company, creates custom aromas for architecture, interior design and store environments in order to capture the aroma of a space. As the first person to scent a commercial space in Canada, Tracy has worked over 25 years scenting spaces and works closely with her clientele to find the best scent to heighten the experience, noting the psychological and emotional impacts of scent along with clientele insights, architectural or design aesthetics and brand recognition. Each client walks away with a highly personalized scent experience and aroma to call their own.

Creative Inspiration comes from everywhere and Tracy’s inspirational sources are similar to many of us working in creative fields. “My source of inspiration comes from many areas. I love all kinds of scents; I just find it fascinating - so this desire I have really pushes me to find more.”

She further exclaims, “As a pioneer in my world, within a new industry meaning under 25 years, it is like a kid in a candy store - I rarely say NO to a challenge but I do say no to many ideas. I find color-design just fascinating, and with my interest in synesthesia, (I guess I have a slight condition of it), when I smell I can see color and how it will make us feel in a space, my sixth sense.”

With scent playing such a significant role in her life, I wondered what Tracy’s favorite scents are. “Scents - love them all, but I love gourmands, chocolate, coffee, I am a foody and cook as a hobby so I smell everything!”

As for least favorite scents? “Sweet florals! I am not crazy about perfume in general and I really do not like perfumes in general. I appreciate if they are crafted well, and I can value perfumers who work on projects for years as a craft but truthfully - scent should not be so personal, it should be appreciated more.”

CMG Scents
What is the smell of color? Tracy Pepe has this figured out, and with the launch of Déjà vu, a fragrance collection based on several colors of the CMG 2014 color forecast, each color delivers a specific aroma personality that you can practically smell on your computer screen. Here are the four fragrances:

Lipstain: Wanton passion meets intimate comfort. A scent designed to paint sensory pleasures in a palette of deep blushing colors and rich, fragrant ingredients.

Cocoa Repose: Shameless notes of benzoin and dark earthy chocolate melt with vanilla so smooth and rich that a mere trace of it suggests an intimate connection.

RE-BLUED: Sun-kissed and sea breezed, the scent of RE-BLUED soothes the senses like a sailboat ride over gentle waves.

Analog: Mossy notes roll out like a green carpet for the spirits of the forest to grace in their entire luminous splendor.

To read about the Déjà vu collection in its entirety, click here.

What’s Next?
“OH my! The list is huge, Déjà vu is the scent system I am launching to the design trade hoping to teach how scent and color work in design. In the field of branding I’m working on scented bus shelters for McDonalds with fresh coffee, and scenting high-end appliances so when you open the oven it smells like pizza without cooking. In the artistic world, I am working at the Toronto Festival with a local artist to feature scent as an art in an outdoor exhibit at Nuit et Blanche in Toronto.

In the research field, I am working with a world class research team, studying five areas on how scent impacts space. And finally, I am writing my book on the entire journey of scenting spaces.” With a full plate of projects and several upcoming speaking engagements, Tracy Pepe’s work as ambassador of scent design will soon be everywhere.

To read more on Nose Knows Design, http://www.noseknowsdesign.com

All photography with permission and courtesy of Tracy Pepe at Nose Knows Design.

Beko Masterplan by Zaha Hadid

designboom — 1/29/2013 12:00:00 AM

Located in Belgrade, Ireland’s cultural zone, sits the future site of architect Zaha Hadid’s “beko masterplan." This new complex will include residential and commercial spaces as well as a hotel and large convention facility.

The free-flowing, undulating form will be situated next to historic Kalemegdon Castle. Designboom covers this story. READ MORE

The Silence Room at Selfridges

Dan Howarth — 1/29/2013 12:00:00 AM

Amid the hustle and bustle of the Selfridge's shopping emporium in London sits The Silence Room. Designed by Alex Cochrane Architects, the space is dedicated to enhance the shopper experience, creating a place to unwind and relax amid the chaos.

And, as part of Selfridge's No Noise Campaing, shoppers who experience The Silence Room can also experience the purchase of products without labels. Dan Howarth from Dezeen covers this story. READ MORE

The Glass Farm

Amy Frearson — 1/29/2013 12:00:00 AM

The town of Schijndel,in the Netherlands, celebrates its newest building in the village square. Designed by MVRDV and called the Glass Farm, this building's exterior construction is made of printed glass with a collage of local farms as an homage to the past.

Inside the building, it contains shops, restaurants and a healthcare center. Amy Frearson of Dezeen covers the story. READ MORE

Blockbuster Buildings from Around the World

Fred A Bernstein — 1/22/2013 12:00:00 AM

From the far reaches of the world, architectural feats know no bounds. And today's architecture is meant to be enveloping and re-energizing, exhilarating and inspiring.

Steven Holl, architect for the firm that designed Linked Hybrid, the Beijing complex, states, "It's not about creating an icon, but shaping public space. You can't understand it unless you're over, under, and around it."

Another fascinating project is Reykjavik's Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Center (lead photo) that is clad in a skin of LED-illuminated glass and steel bricks.

Architectural Digest covers these complexes and 8 other cutting-edge projects.

READ MORE

The Pot Hole Gardener

designboom — 1/22/2013 12:00:00 AM

London artist Steve Wheen brings to life miniature scenes in his "Pot Hole Gardener" project in East London.

His idea, based on guerilla gardening, is to create distinct green spaces. designboom follows his work around the streets of East London.

Denmark on Ice

Amy Frearson — 1/22/2013 12:00:00 AM

Modelled on a cluster of floating icebergs, a harbour-side housing development is close to being complete. And with a team of architects including Belgian studio JDS Architects and Danish firm CEBRA, this project is sure to please.

With a tentative completion date of this spring 2013, this complex is one of the first projects underway at the new docklands quarter of Aarhus, which will accommodate 7000 residents and 12,000 new workplaces once it's complete. Dezeen covers this cutting-edge feat of architecture.
READ MORE

The Art of Scent

Sara McLean — 2/3/2013 12:00:00 AM

The Art of Scent, the first museum exhibition dedicated to exploring the design of perfume, is on display at New York’s Museum of Art and Design (MAD).

The exhibition showcases twelve perfumes that profoundly impacted the design and aesthetics of olfactory art. These twelve perfumes date from 1889 to the present and were chosen for their impact on the art of scent. With emphasis on the perfume craft and the creators of the perfume, this exhibit analyzes the processes of the creators and provides insight into the major stylistic and cultural developments in scent design. In a specially designed installation by Diller Scofidio+Renfro, each scent is experienced individually in order to emphasize the distinct artistry and raw materials used in these creations.

The Art of Scent - A Hint of the Scents Through History
Showcasing the initial three of twelve historical scent points

Scent 1: Jicky, 1889, by Aime' Guerlain
(1834-1910), France

Born into a family of well-known scent creators in 19th-century Paris, Guerlain developed Jicky using 3 newly available synthetic raw materials, the same year as the Eiffel Tower was completed.

Jicky allowed olfactory artists to free themselves from an exclusively natural scent palette for the first time in history. photo credit: Guerlain

Scent 2: Chanel No. 5, 1921, by Ernest Beaux
(1881-1961), France

Chanel No.5, noted as the first modern scent, was a revolution. Beaux built a traditional French floral scent, then wrapped it in new synthetics, creating the greatest impace on olfactory arts in the past century.
photo credit: Chanel

Scent 3: L'Interdit, 1957, by Francis Fabron
(1913-2005), France

As abstract art was becoming popular, offering newer artistic
offerings, Fabron developed L'Interdit using scents of flowers and
woods along with synthetics to evoke, not imitate art. As
counterpoint to Guerlain, who enhanced the natural world, and
Beaux, who reframed the natural world, Fabron sought to transform
nature into an olfactory abstract art form. photo credit: Givaudan

Holly Hotchner, the museum’s Nanette L. Laitman Director, describes the exhibition as a “game changer” for scent as an artistic medium. “At MAD, we are always looking to push the boundaries and question the hierarchies in art by exploring the materials and processes behind groundbreaking work. There has not been the exploration or recognition of olfactory art as there has been of art that stimulates the other four senses.” Chandler Burr, MAD’s Curator of Olfactory Art, reinforces this insight by divulging, “My goal for this exhibition is to transform the ways in which people respond to scent artists and their art.”

Walking throught the exhibition, visitors will note a focus on the olfactory experience, and that the exhibition is almost void of all visual indicators. This encourages visitors to concentrate exclusively on their sense of smell.

In addition, visitors get a glimpse into the labor-intensive artistic process of creating perfume by showcasing the stages of development for one fragrance, Trésor by Sophia Grojsman, from the initial written brief to the final work. Working my way through the "mods" to gain further insight into the stages, I note that it's a brilliant display of the history of this scent. What is smelled at the first test site is nothing like the final test site, which is the familiar scent on the market. photo credit: IFF

The Art of Scent is exhibiting until February 24, 2013.

All photography courtesy and permission through the New York Museum of Art and Design

To read more about The Art of Scent or the New York Museum of Art and Design or to contact for more information, go to http://www.madmuseum.org

The 2013 Rose Parade: Post Parade Viewing

Sara McLean — 1/15/2013 12:00:00 AM

Each year for the past 124 years, Pasadena comes to life with the Rose Parade. And with this parade, a majestic display of color and design showcases the best of creativity and imagination.

As a kick-off to another colorful year, the 2013 Post Parade Showcase of Floats presented the theme "Oh, the Places you'll Go!" with over 30 floats dedicated to at showing the best in floral design. Here is a tour of this year's post-parade viewing, an up close look at all the beautiful blooms, plumage, and floral creations.

This unique event began at the Valley Hunt Club in Pasadena, CA back in 1890 when club members were brainstorming ways to promote "The Mediterranean of the West." The members would invite their East Coast friends and family out for the winter to enjoy games and festivities. From there it has grown over the years into the events we see today and that is how the Tournament of Roses began.

2013 Float Viewing: A Sample of the Floats in the Parade

See Slideshow

All photography by Sara McLean

NEW How to Paint Videos

Sara McLean — 1/15/2013 12:00:00 AM

Dunn-Edwards is pleased to announce seven new videos that have been added to our How to Paint Video Series. These videos cover a variety of jobsite conditions, so whether you are a design professional or consumer, you can make sure your paint project is the best it can be.

The seven new videos cover the following paint topics:

* How to Choose the Right Contractor
* How to Choose the Right Paint
* Painting Tips and Tricks
* How to Paint a Front Door
* How to Paint a Wood Gate
* How to Paint a Wood Deck
* How to Paint Wood Siding

All videos can be viewed on our YouTube channel at http://www.youtube.com/dunnedwards

Dunn-Edwards Goes Hollywood!

specs+spaces staff — 1/5/2013 12:00:00 AM

Having its corporate headquarters in Los Angeles means Hollywood is right in Dunn-Edwards’ backyard, so it’s only fitting that "The #1 Choice of Painting Professionals^®*" supplies the paints for some of the biggest motion picture and television studios in the industry. I took a tour of the Universal and Warner Bros. back lots as well as the Universal Studios Tour to give you a behind the scenes look at some of the sets and backdrops you may have seen in some of your favorite movies and TV shows – and it was all painted with Dunn-Edwards paints!

Why Dunn-Edwards?
According to James Ryan of the Warner Bros. paint department, they choose Dunn-Edwards paints because, “The product is trusted, it covers well and the service is outstanding.” Taking a ride through the Warner Bros. lot via a studio golf cart, I felt like I was going on a world tour. The prop streetscapes envelope you in the feel of different cities from New York to old Dixie. Some buildings look old and weathered, but they actually are only painted that way for realistic effect.

Mark Danon of the Universal Studio Operations Group also confirmed the quality of Dunn-Edwards, noting a specific case when another brand was used on an outdoor backdrop and started peeling just weeks later, sending an entire production team into panic mode. “We called Dunn-Edwards and repainted it and to this day it still looks good, they really saved the day!”

Throughout the Universal Studios tour, Dunn-Edwards Paints is used to create a variety of settings -- from the Art Deco era leading into the “Transformers” exhibit, to the festive holiday “Grinchmas” stage, to ancient Egyptian relics. Look closely and you’ll see the magic of the Universal artists who create textured surfaces with a variety of shades of paints using rag and splatter techniques along with metallics and specialty paints from Modern Masters. And of course it all has to hold to heavy wear and tear of hundreds of tourists who pass through the Studio Tour on a daily basis.

Where Else?
In addition Dunn-Edwards Paints can be seen on Universal Citywalk and the Disney Studios.

See the Slideshows:

Warner Bros. Studio Tour

Universal Studios Tour

Where Can I See It?

Not only is Dunn-Edwards paints used on exterior sets, such as the homes of “Desperate Housewives’” Wisteria Lane, it can also be seen on the sets for shows such as “The Mentalist,” “Conan,” “The Ellen Degeneres Show,” and “Two And A Half Men.”

Desperate Housewives

The Mentalist

Two And A Half Men

You can see all of the sets up close on the studio tours.
For more on the Warner Bros. Studios Tour, visit their website.
For more on the Universal Studios Tour, visit their website.

Hooray for Hollywood!

Photos by specs+spaces. Tour access courtesy of Warner Bros. and Universal Studios.

* The #1 Choice of Painting Professionals^®* - Based on an August 2009 survey of licensed painting contractors in the Los Angeles, San Diego and Phoenix areas, conducted by Options Market Research.

RA-DA to the Rescue! Architecture for Man's Best Friend

Sara McLean — 1/5/2013 12:00:00 AM

Architecturally creative, open-minded and always focused on the unique, Rania Alamor has garnered prestige and recognition for her body of work with her architecture firm RA-DA. We recently sat down to discuss her life, projects and what’s next for her in the world of architecture.

“Always ask the obscure,” state Rania as we begin by discussing the work process surrounding RA-DA. “When starting any design, we push the boundaries and get out of our comfort zone, which I believe is so important to the success of our projects.” For example, what is the architecture of sound? By describing, showcasing renderings and the job flow, I see how the idea of sound is captured within application, creating an amazingly successful interior.

Rania studied architecture in Manchester, England, where she was raised, and then after deciding between graphic artistry or architecture, she pursued her graduate degree at SCI-Arc. It was here she found herself immersed in inspiring ideas, surrounded by professors who guided her along with way, showing her that as an architect, she could do it all in the field of architecture, signage and graphics included.

Upon graduation, several years were spent in commercial architecture within the sports and entertainment industry. Then, once she felt ready to pursue her dream of owning an architecture firm, RA-DA was born. As Rania explains, “I always wanted to stay with commercial architecture so after years spent learning as many aspects of design from the firms I worked for, I felt it was time to make a go of it on my own.” Starting from her first commissioned work, she soon received notoriety for her boutique-style firm an unusual projects. “We tend to keep everything into the work, and in this office it’s all about the client experience. That is most important. We explore and research, always growing and studying in order to be on the leading edge of design.” And with RA-DA’s business model of collaboration, non-hierarchical, non-competitive format, Rania’s employees feel inclusive of the design process and all want the best of the project.

One unusual area of expertise RA-DA has tapped into as a boutique firm is the work they’ve done for animal shelters. These long-neglected places have typically felt more like prisons, less like inspiring places of rescue for animals. Here are two projects that will hopefully inspire much-needed changes in animal health and welfare.

CASE STUDY 1: Westside German Shepherd Rescue, Los Angeles, CA
photo credit: Ralf Strathmann

The goal of the Westside German Shepherd Rescue was to change the idea of animal adoption, thereby increasing adoptions and educating the public on the joys of German Shepherd adoptions. Replacing this adoption concept with the idea of “re-homing” an animal, the idea is to show that these animals are happy, well-adjusted creatures and just going from one home to another.

The design of the rescue center focuses on the Cape Cod residential interior and exterior. Within the building, there’s a gallery meant to resemble an outdoor boardwalk. The kennels are series of “houses” or cabanas painted in various shades of Dunn-Edwards blues, creating a calming environment for all.

DEW383 Cool December	DE5814 Anchors Away	DE5815 Frozen Lake
DE5813 Two Harbors	DE6212 Crisp Muslin	DEC756 Weathered Brown
DE5778 Crystal River	DEW380 White	DEW395 Heirloom Shade

The reaction? “The clients loved it…and so did the dogs!”

CASE STUDY 2: South Los Angeles Animal Care Center & Community Center

Throwing old notions of animal adoption out the window, the City of Los Angeles sought to create a welcoming environment for visitors and animals in order to increase adoptions and reduce euthanasia.

With color as a focal point of the design, the shelter brightens the surrounding industrial area, creating a place where visitors want to take their time and choose their new best friend. “Color is key to delineate the active spaces,” Rania exclaims, “The use of broad strokes of color is an easy and unique, important way of showing the uses of various spaces.”

DEW383 Cool December	DE5579 Cabbage Patch
DE5578 Wasabi	DE5525 Pale View

Though just completed, the project has created quite a bit of buzz and is already gleaning awards. Zeftron just awarded RA-DA the Zeftron Sustainability Award, plus the Los Angeles Business Council Award. Along with the awards, the press has heard about this unique project. Look for Rania on CNN, in Humane Society magazine and other publications.

Rania Alomar is a creative genius with a unique talent of finding the unusual opportunity and fresh approach to architecture. Look for many more works to come.

To contact RA-DA, http://www.ra-da.com

All photography with courtesy and permission of RA-DA, the City of Los Angeles, and Ralf Strathmann

Winter in Venice: Holidays at The Venetian

Sara McLean — 12/18/2012 12:00:00 AM

A celebration of winter is underway at The Venetian and The Palazzo Las Vegas. Winter in Venice showcases the mysterious beauty of the holiday season, complete with a nightly holiday parade and tree lighting, a delightful outdoor ice-skating rink, and the music of Mannheim Steamroller.

“The holidays are such a magical time for everyone and Winter in Venice offers the perfect place to truly enjoy this special time of year,” said John Caparella, president and chief operating officer of The Venetian, The Palazzo and Sands Expo.

The Venetian Resort Hotel Casino and Palazzo Las Vegas are located at 3355 Las Vegas Blvd. South Las Vegas, NV 89109

To read more about the resorts and Winter in Venice, go to http://www.venetian.com

CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY

VENETIAN CHRISTMAS "THE SEASONS" VIDEO

HOLIDAY PARADE

Happy holidays from all of us at Dunn-Edwards! Wishing you colorful and artistic holiday inspirations.

All photography by Sara McLean

Winter Wonderland at The Bellagio

Sara McLean — 12/18/2012 12:00:00 AM

The Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Gardens has transformed into a holiday winter wonderland, filled with childlike wonder. On display through January 5, 2013, the exhibit showcases holiday traditions such as toy solders, a rocking horse, a train set complete with a mountain village surrounding the tracks and of course, a magnificent Christmas tree .

"This year's winter display at Bellagio's Conservatory is truly magnificent," said Randy Morton, president and COO of Bellagio. "Our horticulture and pastry teams have outdone themselves with remarkable creativity and visitors from around the world will marvel at what has been created for this magical holiday experience."

Complementing the traditional setting are touches of the North and South Pole. The charm of penguins and polar bears in play complete the garden display. Enjoy the winterland tour!

The Bellagio is located at 3600 Las Vegas Blvd. South, Las Vegas, NV 89109. For more information or to contact them, http://www.bellagio.com

OVERVIEW OF CONSERVATORY

PENGUINS AT PLAY

POLAR BEARS IN ACTION

ROCKING HORSE AND TRAIN VILLAGE

CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS

Happy Holidays from all of us at Dunn-Edwards and we encourage you to be holiday-inspired!

All photography by Sara McLean

Pantone Announces Emerald as 2013 Color of the Year

Sara McLean — 12/11/2012 12:00:00 AM

Pantone has announced that 17-5641 Emerald is their 2013 Color of the Year. This color, associated with balance and harmony will be showcased in a variety of industries including fashion and textiles.

As Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute and specs+spaces guest blogger, points out, “Green is the most abundant hue in nature – the human eye sees more green than any other color in the spectrum. As it has throughout history, multifaceted Emerald continues to sparkle and fascinate. Symbolically, Emerald brings a sense of clarity, renewal and rejuvenation, which is so important in today’s complex world. This powerful and universally appealing tone translates easily to both fashion and home interiors.”

To read more in-depth reporting on Pantone’s 2013 Color of the Year, go to their website.

All images courtesy of Pantone LLC

From Rags to Riches: A Cinderella House Restored

Faith Paulus — 1/5/2013 12:00:00 AM

When Faith Paulus, Interior Designer and owner of Interiors By Faith happened upon a neglected cottage home in the quaint beachside community of Oceanside, CA - she was immediately smitten.

“Stop the car!” she exclaimed to her perplexed Realtor, Karen Rivoira, of The Jacques Company, who had somehow missed the ‘For Sale’ sign, which had been posted almost as an afterthought on the mangled front lawn.

Karen seemed dubious as she took in the drab apricot-colored Spanish Home, its natural light diminished by prison-like iron clad windows that did not appear to welcome the prospect of unsuspecting visitors. Nevertheless, Faith picked up the closest cell phone and thrust it into the reluctant hands of her realtor friend. “It’s worth a call” she insisted. “If nothing else, I like the elevation.”

The Listing Agent haltingly gave the usual information, before casually mentioning that the home was in dire need of an update. “It’s a 1928 Spanish Home and has had just two owners over the years,” she replied. “Try to use your imagination,” she added with an apologetic tone, “and please ignore the smell. We plan to fumigate before officially placing the home on the market.”

Together the two friends warily climbed the porch; where glimpses of a sky blue Pacific coastline peeked out mischievously between mossy green pines -- one of which appeared to be the centuries-old home of a doddering falcon who swooped down to inspect the two trespassers. A stout old woman wearing a turquoise housedress which managed to perfectly match her turquoise house, also eyed the two girls precariously as she rubbed the mangled fur of a tired calico cat. “There are stories about that house….” she warned from the safe distance of her porch.

Peering into the musty old living room, Karen took one sniff of stale smoke and cat urine, and immediately decided to bow out; “I have allergies” the courageous realtor confessed, as she slinked out the front door. “I’ll just meet you back in the car,” Karen added with a feeble smile.

Faith, nodded absentmindedly--already captivated with the homes features. Drawing back the tobacco stained curtains, she marveled at the beautiful moldings of this 1928 Spanish Home, and with a slight tug of a tattered corner of the carpet, was delighted to find the original hardwood floors in pristine condition. The vintage doors were still intact, their crystal knobs gleaming as if in complete disregard to the passing of eighty-four years.

An established visionary who excels at any design challenge, Faith has an uncanny knack as her business motto suggests, for Finding the Soul of Your Home. She decided to go forward with the purchase – and together with her team of trusted contractors – created a plan with the ambitious projection of just 8 weeks of construction.

Demo Day arrived – and with it came trailers of old wiring and drywall, which revealed the original ‘lathe and plaster’ studs. Next, the homes entire operating system was given a fresh and efficient new overhaul, including updates on the lighting and electrical system. The dining room received its very own enclosure via a newly arched doorway to separate it from the living room, and salvaged moldings were used to create a hexagon window between dining room and kitchen, to lure in both light and color from the garden.

The bathroom was gutted out to allow room for a Jacuzzi tub, and sophisticated appliances that spoke of a bygone era were brought in to both kitchen and bath. “It was important to maintain the architectural integrity of the cottage, while at the same time introducing twentieth century updates for improved efficiency.” Faith notes. Details such as mosaic tile in the bathroom along with a bib sink and soaring cabinets in the kitchen helped to conserve the vintage look throughout the home.

Faith was delighted to find an original Doug Fir floor under five layers of vinyl in the kitchen. And chose as her finish a Dunn Edwards chestnut stain which blended nicely with the surrounding oak floors - also carefully restored to their original luster. An old railroad tie was discovered at a local salvage junkyard – and was chiseled and honed to create a beautiful mantelpiece - perfectly stained to match in a warm mahogany finish.

Finally, a smooth Venetian drywall finish was applied to both walls and ceilings of the home, and Faith- a professional color consultant, went to work weaving Dunn Edwards colors of ‘Tropical Moss” and “Russett Green” as a warm contrast to the new floors. To enhance the home’s Spanish architecture, she applied ‘Tuscan Mosaic” as an accent within each of the newly created doorway arches. And ‘Pearl Necklace’ was chosen in a high gloss finish for all moldings, doors, and built-ins.

DE5486 Tropical Moss	DE5484 Russet Green
DE6208 Tuscan Mosaic	DEW343 Pearl Necklace

Now, complete with its elegant new look, this lovely restored Craftsman home is known as “Casa By The Sea” and is used as both a vacation rental home for growing Oceanside travelers, as well as an office for Faith, who consults and designs vacation rental properties. The exterior flaunts a fresh coat of ‘Shaker Grey” paint coupled with traditional black awnings to match the wrought iron gates, which were designed by Faith and fabricated in Mexico.

Charming black awnings and overflowing boxes of brilliant geraniums peek out from the whimsical ‘pomegranate” window sashes. And the former rodent-infested garage is now a newly renovated ‘Casita’, complete with twenties-era mahogany windows, stained glass, and cedar floors from a local architectural salvage store. Its original raftered ceilings have been newly stained with an emerald green – the perfect compliment to the freshly painted walls which included Dunn Edwards ‘Tapering Light’, a perfect color for today’s more neutral palette.

DE5090 Pomegranate

DE5497 Tapering Light

Citrus infused ocean breezes and wide tree lined streets of soaring pines and carefree palms surround this genteel neighborhood. The mailman still makes his daily deliveries on foot, and smiling golden retrievers stride gallantly alongside their mistress’s baby strollers, seemingly aloof to the new wave of changes that are currently taking place within this lovely seaside town. While some of the most coveted ocean view cottages are surrendering to the mighty cranes of the developer’s swift sword, other residential owners like Faith Paulus are attempting to ‘beat the clock’ in order to preserve the historical homes of one of the last southern California beachside communities.

A gleaming bronze plaque that was presented by the Historical Society of Oceanside now greets each of the weary guests with the words: The 1928 Lindsay Residence-- its entrenched message forever forming an honorable tribute to just one of the respectable Oceanside families that walked this changing neighborhood at one time in history.

In order to respond to her growing list of appreciative vacation rental clientele, Faith is busy working on her next building project: ‘Blue Zones’ a small Eco Resort which will overlook Costa Rica’s Nicoya peninsula. In the meantime, she continues to play hostess to those who are in search of the perfect Southern California beach experience.

If you listen very carefully you may just hear the Spirits of the House celebrate along with its pampered guests - as Casa by the Sea shows off her loveliest new finery to entertain among the blossoming foliage of an enchanting, yet ever-changing San Diego garden.

Faith Paulus is the Author of POPCORN POPPIN ON THE APRICOT TREE

For more information, please visit: www.popcornpoppinontheapricottree.com

For more information regarding INTERIORS BY FAITH, please visit:

www.interiorsbyfaith.com

Photography by Aimee Westcott

A CHILL is in the Air!

Sara McLean — 12/11/2012 12:00:00 AM

The Queen Mary, a maritime icon, debuted a new holiday attraction called CHILL, which showcases holiday entertainment along with the exhibit The Ice Kingdom at CHILL, where over 2 million pounds of ice created a one-of-a-kind winter ice sculpture gallery.

The Ice Kingdom at CHILL is a spectacular display of giant ice carvings created by Chinese artisans and are reminiscent of those seen in Harbin, China where their annual winter festival draws global attendance. Steve Sheldon, Director of Entertainment Events states, “We have converted the Queen Mary Dome into the world’s largest ‘igloo’ – where the temperature is Arctic-cold and demands that each visitor be provided with a parka to ensure their comfort.”

What I noticed when touring the gallery is the numerous colors on display within the ice. Whether blue, pink, red or green, this holiday exhibit displays the ultimate in color and design creativity. Open through January 6, 2013, this installation is a must-see on the designer holiday list.

CHILL ICE EXHIBIT ENTRY HALL

QUEEN MARY ICE SLIDE EXHIBIT

SANTA'S TOYLAND ICE EXHIBIT

NATIVITY SCENES ICE EXHIBIT

For tours and more information, visit http://www.queenmary.com/CHILL

All photography by Sara McLean. All sketches courtesy of ISA Attractions

Holiday 2012 Tour Store by Store

Sara McLean — 12/11/2012 12:00:00 AM

Last week we highlighted the color and design trends for this holiday season. Now we bring you an in-depth tour of the stores visited, highlighting the creative genius of these designer masterpieces. Enjoy the tour!

Louis Vuitton - Showcasing starbursts of metallic flare, Louis Vuitton highlights the world of luxury and the trend in metals.

Tiffany - What’s behind the blue door? A Tiffany diamond of course. Gorgeous miniature displays of times past highlight these precious jewels.

Cartier - The Cartier red box is a staple of the jewelry scene. Seeing a bountiful set of these boxes dangling from the air while a cat tries to grab one brings a sense of frivolity and fun to the scene.

Ralph Lauren - American luxury with Art Deco nuances are displayed at the Ralph Lauren store on Rodeo. Beautiful creams with touches of black, charcoal, gold and silver make this set shine.

Brooks Brothers - As mentioned in prior reporting, plaids are uptrending and we see this trend best displayed at Brooks Brothers. Traditional plaids play against a traditional holiday backdrop; reminders of home.

Barney’s - Always creative, this year Barney’s brings us a partnership between the Disney characters and the Barney’s brand. Appropriately named “Electric Holiday” the window displays herald the best of the trend in the use of lighting and technology in design. Be sure to check out the 3 minute video of Minnie Mouse and other characters on the catwalk when you walk Rodeo Drive. It will surely brighten your holidays.

Burberry - Silver metallic balloons surround the mannequins on display at Burberry. Another great example of the trend in metals.

J.Crew - A charming display at J.Crew provides the viewer a colorful world of gift tags. With home made and hand crafted looks on trend, this is on-point.

Anthropologie - Anthropologie seems to have an endless treasure trove of magnificent displays and this season is no different. For the holidays we see intricate laser-cut papers exhibiting winter wonderlands.

The Grove in Los Angeles - In the center of this shopping village stands Santa’s workshop. A great display of theatrics, the workshop is set up as a gingerbread house with color and design elements covering every square inch of the display. A beautiful display of theater.

Over in Paris - Two stores that always get quite a bit of attention at the holidays in Paris are Printemps Paris and Galeries Lafayette. Intricate details in each of their scene provide a wondrous view of the Dior dolls dressed at adventurists in hot-air balloons while the Luis Vuitton characters provide comic relief with penguins, dancers, and drum majors dancing to the Vuitton tune. We are also shown a glimpse of the world of Cinderella in a resplendent landscape scene.

Happy Holidays from all of us at Dunn-Edwards!

All photography by Sara McLean and Corbis Images

The Castle Green: A Trip Back in Time

specs+spaces staff — 12/1/2012 12:00:00 AM

Regally standing in the heart of Old Town Pasadena, the Castle Green provides a sense of old world charm for visitors and the few residents lucky enough to score an apartment in this historic landmark.

The Castle is the second building of a complex that was built in the 1880s and originally known as the Webster Hotel before it was purchased by George Gill Green, a patent medicine entrepreneur who renamed it the Hotel Green. It became home to the Pasadena Tournament of Roses and Valley Hunt Club.

Opening in 1899 and originally known as the “Central Annex,” it was renamed the Castle Green in 1924 when it was taken over by investors and divided into 50 residential apartments. For its seven stories, Architect Frederick I. Roehrig drew on Moorish, Spanish, Victorian, and other stylistic elements.

The complex -- with its ballrooms and dining rooms, a gentleman's smoking salon, a woman's salon, crystal chandeliers, and grand staircase -- became a popular luxurious resort destination for wealthy patrons looking to escape the cold winter months.

Today, the Castle Green still operates as residential units. The interior public rooms have been restored to recreate the original look of the late 1800s. Several of the sitting rooms even contain their original furniture. A spacious sun room features historic wicker and the grand lobby greets visitors with a mosaic tile floor and marble stairway. A large, grand ballroom waits for occupiers to fill it with festive events. The Castle Green is also home to the oldest wrought iron elevator on the West Coast. Much of the interior was painted with Dunn-Edwards Paint, custom-matched through paint analysis to replicate colors that maintain historical accuracy.

If you would like to get the look, we’ve created a Castle Green-inspired paint palette using our Perfect Palette colors here:

DEA147 Garnet Evening	DE5151 Cinnamon Stick	DEC702 Antique Rose
DE5298 Butterscotch Syrup	DE5641 Mermaid’s Cove	DE5818 Midnight Haze

The Castle Green is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the State Historic Register, and the City of Pasadena’s list of Historic Places.

The space has become a favorite for filmmakers looking to recreate a moment in time and for love-struck couples looking for romantic Victorian charm for their weddings. The public rooms and grounds are available for parties and corporate events and the Castle is open to the public for grand tours approximately twice a year.

See inside the Castle Green

Get a peek into some of the Castle Green apartments/condos
(Note how the residents even decorate their doorway into the halls!)

Castle Green Holiday Tour 2012

For more information on the Castle Green, visit their website.

Photos by specs+spaces

Over the Ocean, Through the Stores: International Holiday Trends

Melinda Ashton Turner — 12/2/2012 12:00:00 AM

One way to get into the Christmas spirit is to tour your city's Christmas window displays. Luckily for me it was a sunny clear evening when I choose to ride my bike through the cold London streets. The whole experience has taken me back to my childhood when my mother use to take my sister and I into town to see all the department store windows. Christmas windows are magical and the year it takes to plan most of them isn’t in vain.

Generally speaking, as you would expect the windows were bright and colourful but all seem to tactical our notion of traditional Christmas imagery. Most have taken the approach of displaying product on mass to create impact. Lots of product repeated and colour block; it’s the cheaper opinion but visually effective.

Where possible stores have looked beyond their window and taken displays to the footpath/sidewalk and framed windows with Christmas branches, fairy lights and in one instance, The Conran Shop have Santa scaling the building.

At Londons most famous department store, Harrods, they took Disney Princesses and dressed them in designer gowns; Sleeping Beauty in Elie Saab, Cinderalla in Versace. Absolutely spectacular.

In Harvey Nichols, the one-stop luxury department store- were their windows always verge on installations- have taken inspiration from the Eastern fashion trends on this years catwalks. Their detail is truly incredible.

Selfridges windows emulate their 2012 Festive campaign and film by photographer/ filmmaker, Bruce Weber titled ‘Not Your Usual Christmas’. Whilst Anya Hindmarsh has recreated her 2012 runway show concept, ‘All I’ve ever Wanted’ as a moving and mechanical installation based on Santa’s workshop. To see inspiration view, http://www.selfridges.com/en/Christmas/Features/Bruce-Weber-Christmas

To contact Melinda Ashton Turner or read her blog, go to The Colour Field design blog.

Credit: Photography by Grant Turner in London and Tim Gawler in Sydney.
http://www.selfridges.com
http://www.harrods.com
http://www.harveynichols.com/
www.liberty.co.uk
www.conranshop.co.uk
www.habitat.co.uk
www.muji.eu
www.thewhitecompany.com
www.johnlewis.com
www.asprey.com/
www.heals.co.uk
www.jane-packer.co.uk
www.loftdesignby.com

Wintry Scenes of the Holidays: 2012 Trends

Sara McLean — 12/2/2012 12:00:00 AM

As the holidays approach, we set out to explore regionally and internationally the top color and design trends for the holidays.

From handcrafted to luxury and everything in between, we scoured the markets to find out the greatest reflections of seasonal design. And, with color as a highlight of the season, we showcase four color palettes to brighten your designs.

Holiday Trend 1: Rooted - A reconnection with nature, handcrafted techniques and a focus on earthy and rural leads us to Rooted. Inspired by animals, botany, and countryside elements, we find a warmth and coziness to the traditional color palettes and a roughness and ruddiness in the textural designs.

DE5018 First Plum	DEA153 Glitzy Red	DEA133 Rare Turquoise
DE5520 Crocodile Tears	DEC706 Rosewood	DE6192 Nomadic Taupe
DE5069 Cherry Hill	DE6280 English Forest	DE5795 Spirit Mountain

Holiday Trend 2: Luminous - Celebratory light is the key to this trend. And with the increased use of LEDs, fiber optics and other technologies, magical sceneries abound. Bold uses of color and contemporary splashes of design showcase the best of this trend.

DE5944 Fresh Eggplant	DE5894 Starstruck	DEA187 Black
DEA104 Red Icon	DE5677 Jungle	DE5047 Love Letter
DE5293 Persimmon	DE5417 Dandelion	DE5075 Fiery Flamingo

Holiday Trend 3: Lush - This decadent trend displays the best of luxury this season. Colors are rich and grandiose while designs are reminders of the past. Think of films such as The Age of Innocence exploring the intimate social scenes amongst majestic backdrops.

DEA165 Hearth Gold	DEA178 Billiard Table	DEA188 Black Bay
DEA194 Mulberry	DE5356 Roman Gold	DE5082 Redstone
DE5755 Carnival Night	DEA145 Wine Stain	DE6212 Crisp Muslin

Holiday Trend 4: Baroque - What are the holidays without a bit of theatrics? From Santa’s workshop to traveling circuses, to train tours and holiday sets, Baroque is laden with extravagant, surreal and dazzling designs.

DE5691 Inspiration Peak	DE5012 Vivid Violet	DEA108 Red Power
DEA113 Orange Burst	DEA125 In the Tropics	DEC743 High Noon
DEA118 Yellow Summer	DE5382 Golden Appeal	DEA169 Peppered Moss

All images by Sara McLean and Getty Images
Stores on Tour:
http://www.jcrew.com
http://www.anthropologie.com
http://www.louisvuitton.com
http://www.dolcegabbana.com
http://www.dior.com
http://www.brooksbrothers.com
http://www.printemps.com
http://www.galerieslafayette.com
http://www.cartier.com
http://www.barneys.com
http://www.thegrovela.com

House Beautiful Names 2013 Top Design Trends

Michelle Manetti — 11/27/2012 12:00:00 AM

In the December 2012 issue of House Beautiful magazine, we get a sneak peek at the top design trends appearing in 2013. Michelle Manetti from Huffington Post reports on these top trends. READ MORE

Michael S. Smith: Rustic Montana Retreat

Mayer Rus — 11/27/2012 12:00:00 AM

Michael S. Smith, Los Angeles-based designer, has created an refined, yet rustic retreat in Montana for one of his latest clients.

Mayer Rus from Architectural Digest sits down with Michael to discuss this project.

READ MORE

Jason Yates: Every Self-Portrait is a Cry for Help

Sara McLean — 11/20/2012 12:00:00 AM

Welcome to the latest installation by Jason Yates. Located at MJ Briggs Gallery on Fairfax Avenue by husband and wife gallerist team Anna Meleksetian and MJ Briggs, the installation titled “Jason Yates: Every Self-Portrait is a Cry for Help” is open through December 1, 2012.

Jason Yates, who lives and works in Los Angeles, California, has showcased his work in past exhibits including Land of Tomorrow in Louisville, Kentucky; Barbara Davis Gallery in Houston, Texas and Circus Gallery in Hollywood, California among others.

This latest exhibit displays a hyper-stylized version of a bedroom, which transforms the gallery into an intimate, as well as public space. According to Meleksetian and Briggs, “Yates creates a tightly focused installation, a space where common, everyday objects: a bed, end tables, vanity, mirrors and wallpaper, are freed from their functional categorization. The mirrors, inscribed with Yates’ hatch marks, serve as an entry point into the exhibition, confronting the viewer with his/her reflection, veiled, distorted, and fractured by the artist’s markings. One has to lose oneself to enter the artist’s constructed space.”

The installation is located at MJ Briggs Gallery on 313 N Fairfax Ave (@ Beverly Blvd) 90036. Tuesday-Saturday 11 a.m-6 p.m.

All photography by Fredrik Nilsen

For more information or to contact Anna Meliksetian and MJ Briggs:
Anna Meliksetian, info@meliksetian.com; www.meliksetian.com
MJ Briggs, info@mjbriggs.com ; www.mjbriggs.com
Press Inquiries: Trent PR, Jessica Trent, Jessica@trentpr.com

Understanding Flame Spread Ratings

Dave Heiligenthal — 11/13/2012 12:00:00 AM

It's time to clear the air and extinguish any misperceptions of flame spread ratings and how they apply to architectural paints. Quite simply, paints are not required by The ICC International Building Code (for new buildings) and International Fire Code (for existing buildings) to be tested for allowable flame spread and smoke development characteristics. Instead, those two agencies assign classifications to building materials used for interior finishing for their flame spread and smoke development indices. Building materials are grouped in the following classes by Flame Spread Index and Smoke Developed Index when tested in accordance with ASTM Method E 84, “Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials”:

Class A:	Flame Spread Index	0 – 25
	Smoke Developed Index	0 – 450
Class B:	Flame Spread Index	26 – 75
	Smoke Developed Index	0 – 450
Class C:	Flame Spread Index	76 – 100
	Smoke Developed Index	0 – 450

Why are architectural coatings not assigned a Flame Spread or Smoke Density Index?

In 1974, a study was conducted by the National Paint & Coatings Association to examine the flame spread and smoke development characteristics of various combustible and non-combustible building materials.* The study examined both coated and uncoated building materials with a wide variety of conventional interior paints and coatings. The research report concluded that the study “provides substantial evidence that conventional paints and coatings do not increase the flame spread of either non-flammable or flammable substrates upon which they are applied. It also indicates that any fuel contribution to smoke density increase is insignificant when compared with the contribution of the substrate itself.”

What do the results mean? When paints are applied to substrate materials that have been tested and classified, interior paints and coatings have been found to have no effect on the Flame Spread Index or Smoke Density Index of rated materials. For example, if the Gypsum drywall is rated Class A, whether painted or unpainted, the substrate classification remains Class A. The architectural paint used does not change that classification, nor does it specifically receive a rating. So, if the subject of flame spread or smoke density ever arises concerning conventional paints, you can feel confident knowing that it is the substrate that is classified and not the coating itself.

For more information concerning flame spread or other building code regulations, please visit the ICC website at www.iccsafe.org.

*Flammability of Paint Study, National Paint & Coatings Association, Inc., 1974, Project 3-3774-141, Southwest Research Institute.

Color Direction: Neons+Neutrals

Lindsay Tella — 11/20/2012 12:00:00 AM

Trends in color are everywhere in the design world and one to follow is neons combined with neutrals. Our 2013 Simply A New Renaissance color trend report discusses these brights in one of the stories. Apartment Therapy's Lindsay Tella discusses her finds on this trend.

The design world has embraced a neon trend in both fashion and interiors. Whether or not it's here to stay, we're always inspired by a bold mix that works. A hint of highlighter yellow or a touch of hot pink can't help but put a smile on your face. READ MORE

Pattern Picks: Modern Florals

Kim Lucian — 11/20/2012 12:00:00 AM

Decorating with florals is part of every designer's aesthetic. Whether traditional or modern, florals come in an array of color and design ideas. Kim Lucien from Apartment Therapy discusses some of the latest choices in floral pattern design.

Floral patterns are one of the original motifs in decorating with versions found in nearly every time period. They bring a bit of the natural world indoors and are a simple way to introduce the color palette of your choice.

From vivid primary colors, to muted tones, to soft shades like blush, the possibilities are endless and never look out of place.

Check below the jump for a few modern floral picks. READ MORE

Color Marketing Group's 2013 Color of the Year: Re-Blued!

Kate Smith — 11/13/2012 12:00:00 AM

Our guest blogger, Kate Smith from Sensational Color, recently attended the Color Marketing Group conference in Miami, Florida, with me and has some exciting news to share on our 2013 Color of the Year Re-Blued!

I participated in the International Color Marketing Group (CMG) meeting in the color-drenched South Beach area of Miami, FL. It was one of the best CMG summits I have attended.

The big news that came out of that meeting was how strong the color blue is going to remain for another year. READ MORE

Brad Pitt Designs Furniture Collection

Tara Bellucci — 11/13/2012 12:00:00 AM

Brad Pitt has been making headlines recently, and not in the typical Hollywood fashion. As an avid follower and collector of design, he has recently introduced a new line of furnishings. Apartment Therapy's Tara Bellucci discusses his collection.

Joining the ranks of celebrities-turned-designers, Brad Pitt debuts his first furniture collection in collaboration with Frank Pollaro. The actor says he's been sketching buildings and furniture since the 1990s, when he fell in love with Frank Lloyd Wright's work.

Pollaro is known for his Art Deco reproductions, and Pitt's collection is inspired by the era, especially the grandiose bed, of which only nine will be made. The 12-piece collection debuts on November 11. In other news, QR codes that can help you find lost stuff, and check out a Lichtenstein retrospective in Washington DC. See the headlines after the jump.READ MORE

The Truth About Priming

Dave Heiligenthal — 11/3/2012 12:00:00 AM

"To prime, or not to prime." This seems to be a question on the minds of many people. It is a question that can be somewhat confusing. There are a growing number of paint companies who claim that their paint is "self-priming," but do these paints really eliminate the need to prime, or are they self-priming only under certain circumstances?

Many paint manufacturers make claims of Paint and Primer in One, or market paints labeled as Self-Priming, but you really need to read the fine print. For interior drywall surfaces, most top quality paints could be considered self-priming when the main focus is to achieve adhesion or hide on un-stained walls. Self priming merely implies that the paint will adhere to a properly prepared surface. Properly prepared simply means the surface is clean, and free from any surface contaminants such as ink, pencil, food, dirt or other types of stains. In the event these stains exist, manufacturers will recommend a stain blocking primer be applied to prevent the stains from bleeding through the finish. What about drastic color changes on your interior walls? When transitioning from a dark color to a light color, primers are a much less expensive choice versus two coats of a top quality finish.

To get professional results, prime first

It is an industry best practice to properly prime the surface before applying the paint. This practice is particularly important when dealing with exterior paints. Priming helps seal in stains, prevents rust, resists efflorescence or alkali burn, creates a smoother, even finish, and ensures superior adhesion between the top coat and the surface you’re painting. When you consider all the various types of building materials available, professionals will always want to deal with those critical surfaces using the appropriate primer. For exterior paints, failing to prime can result in any number of problems including cracking, flaking, peeling, blistering, mildew, stain bleed-through, chalking, and fading. Testing done at the Paint Quality Institute, an independent industry research group, shows that even one coat of topcoat over a properly primed surface will outperform two coats of topcoat applied directly to wood.

Priming is often a step that is overlooked, and it results in increased costs from having to fix paint failures or repaint sooner. Choosing and applying the right type of primer will ensure long-lasting, professional results.

2012 Fall Color + Design

Sara McLean — 11/4/2012 12:00:00 AM

Fall, a time of magic, the witching hour, fall leaves, and gorgeous sunsets, designers can feel inspired by the color all around us. With fall in full swing, we take a look at a few of the color and design trends in the marketplace.

From the vibrant color combinations of cobalt, tangerine and fuchsia to the deep autumnal coloring of magenta, inky green, and deep brown, the fall color trend palette offers so much opportunity for creativity in design.

Visiting trade shows and window displays provides so much creative eye candy. We also are seeing several design trends for retail this fall - nordic/snow lodge, glamorous settings and sculpted back drops to name a few. Here is a breakdown of the trends.

Colors On Trend

DE6021 Outer Boundary	DE5376 Chipmunk	DE5062 Rosy Cheeks
DEA111 Burning Tomato	DEA132 Ocean Oasis	DE5479 Hay Day
DE5867 Blue Chip	DE6355 Tarnished Silver	DE5976 Veiled Violet
DE6115 Practical Tan	DEA149 Scarlet Apple	DE6233 Limestone

Plum to Purple: In Full Swing

From fashion to décor, we’re seeing all shades of this color evident throughout. Purple has been trending for several seasons and this season is no exception. Try Veiled Violet, a grayed-purple that feels soft and meditative.

Vibrant Color to Continue its Strength

Pattern and intense color continue to create bold swatches of style and whether its one color or multiple hues, interest continues to provide drama.

Pink and Fuchsia: Stimulating the Senses

Ever happy and chic, pops of pink and fuchsia pervade fashion and interiors. Rosy Cheeks add a bit of heat to the color palettes when combined with Burning Tomato.

Cobalt: Brilliant and Beautiful

As blues continue to shine, cobalt is the latest shade of blue to give a boost to the winter doldrums. Try Blue Chip paired with any of the colors in the palette for a pop of glamour.

Browns: Sumptuous Chocolate

As this earthy neutral gains ground again after playing in the background for several seasons, we see a punch of chocolate in fashion and interiors. Outer Boundary is a sophisticated, deep earthy color as an alternative to black.

Greens: Oxidized and Olive

Greens continue to morph and regain ground with oxidized shades as well as olive taking hold. Also seen in fashion are hints of emerald green, playing as a precious mineral cousin to cobalt. Chartreuse, a bridge color between yellow and green, softens the season’s color palette.

Grays: Everlasting Classic

Grays are present from warm to cool tones, and play with one another to continue this trend. Titanium is a cool gray pairs well with any color.

Design Trends on Scene

Nordic Realms

Lodge style interiors and fashion windows filled with leaves, sticks and logs suggest the outdoors lifestyle is still trending. Included for the fall must-have house wares are mushrooms, owls and birch branches.

Glam it Up

Luxurious detailing mixes with vintage finds create a colorfully artistic take on the glamorous life.

Sculpted Geometry

Visual displays are showcasing a variety of shapes, utilizing math concepts in creative new functions. From octagons, pleats, cubes and circles, all shapes are sure to please.

Design professionals, what fall trends are you seeing?

All photography by Sara McLean and courtesy of Bethany Nauert Photography

Trends in Metal: A Re-Cap from Melinda

Melinda Ashton Turner — 11/4/2012 12:00:00 AM

Our guest writer Melinda Ashton Turner gives us an update on one of the hottest trends she's been seeing in her travels abroad - precious metals such as copper, pewter and brass. Here are her finds.

Brass, bronze, pewter and copper could all be seen on almost every stand over London Design Festival and Maison et Objet. Materials that were used by past generations have been reborn in 2012 and paired with concrete, wood and marble. And when using such materials, Zapon seems to be the chosen finish: a treatment that prevents items from oxidation.

Candle holders, pendants and vases were all being designed to be shown on mass. Glass, smoked and coloured, featured heavily in all forms of lighting revealing a filament bulb.

READ MORE on on this and other color and design trends at Melinda's blog The Colour Field.

To read more on Melinda and her design business, read http://thecolourfield.net

All photography courtesy of Melinda Ashton Turner.

It’s in the Details: Eb Flow Design Group

Sara McLean — 10/30/2012 12:00:00 AM

Color can transform a space, evolving a bland vanilla box into an atmosphere of warmth and energy. Elana Lathan and Breyan Sussman of Eb Flow Design Group, know just how to use the power of color to give spaces new energy and life. We discussed their design backgrounds, design firm and a recent project showcasing the power of color change.

Design Backgrounds

Elana Lathan and Breyan Sussman started their design firm in April 2010. Prior to this they had worked together at a retail store/design showroom for several years until both decided to branch out on their own. Upon realizing that they worked well together, Eb Flow Design Group was launched. Elana specialized in healthcare and hospitality design, noting such projects featured in numerous publications, while Breyan is trained in Western Feng Shui practices. Together, they work on residential and commercial projects. Elana states, "In fact, we just finished up a behavioral health pediatric facility where we specified Dunn-Edwards Paints for that project as well. Our commercial experience is healthcare, hospitality and offices."

The Design Challenge: Spice It Up!

A new client contacted Elana and Breyan to re-design his living room. And with the only request being to add some spice to his space, while still sticking to the budget constraints. Elana adds, “He liked the color orange so that was the starting point for our palette. And, he wanted us to shop at The Room Store, something we have never done before as interior designers….we were actually pleasantly surprised when we were able to purchase all the items at a lower price than the original sofa we had proposed. What surprised us even more is how good it looked!”

Working with the client’s keepsake pieces, artwork and accessories, the furnishings blended seamlessly and the room came together, tied in with the spicy wall colors of Dunn-Edwards Perfect Palette colors DE5202 Desert Spice and DE6137 Tan Plan. And the client reaction? Breyan declares, "...the client loves it and says the living room looks better than ever!" Color does indeed transform.

DE5202 Desert Spice

DE6137 Tan Plan

Eb Flow Design Group is located 12221 North 39^th Street, Phoenix, AZ 85032

To find out more or to contact Elana Lathan and Breyan Sussman, http://www.ebflowdesigngroup.com

All photography courtesy and with permission of Eb Flow Design Group

Sugar Skulls + Stormtroopers: The Fine Art of Dia De Los Muertos

Tess Wilson — 10/30/2012 12:00:00 AM

Around this time last year, I wrote about beautiful handmade Dia De Los Muertos goods with which to decorate the home, as well as fabrics to make your own heirloom projects.

This year highlights works of art that celebrate the magic and beauty of this holiday. READ MORE

Preview the Target+Neiman Marcus Holiday Collection

Tara Bellucci — 10/23/2012 12:00:00 AM

Target is no stranger to partnering with other retailers and luxury designers, but this holiday season, they do both at the same time. The Target+Neiman Marcus Holiday Collection includes 24 fashion designers and over 50 items ranging from $7.99 to $499.99.

You can grab it December 1st online and in stores, but click through for a few of our fave home picks! READ MORE

A Sneak Peek at Upcoming IKEA Trends

Neila Deen — 10/23/2012 12:00:00 AM

Have you ever wondered who the designers are behind IKEA products and where they get their ideas?

Maxwell was lucky enough to have a sit down with Mats Nillson, Range Strategist for IKEA Global and Marty Marston, IKEA Public Relations. READ MORE...

Dunn-Edwards Introduces Acri-Hues® Eggshell and Semi-Gloss

Sara McLean — 10/16/2012 12:00:00 AM

Dunn-Edwards has introduced two new finishes to its popular Acri-Hues line. The new offerings include Eggshell and Semi-Gloss finishes, joining the existing Acri-Hues Exterior Flat Paint that painting professionals and specifiers have come to depend on and trust for their projects. With the addition of the Eggshell and Semi-Gloss finishes, Dunn-Edwards now offers a complete exterior line that meets the demands and needs of specifiers and painting professionals.

Acri-Hues Exterior Flat is formulated using a high quality 100 percent acrylic resin, and will continue to be available in all Perfect Palette colors. “Acri-Hues Exterior Flat was introduced six years ago and has become hugely popular,” said Dave Heiligenthal, product manager. “It is an extremely dependable paint that provides excellent fade and grain crack resistance and is ideal for use on residential and commercial projects,” added Heiligenthal.

The two new additions to the Acri-Hues line, exterior Eggshell and Semi-Gloss, are ultra-low VOC, acrylic paints that provide dependable performance when used on properly prepared exterior wood, masonry, stucco, concrete and metal surfaces. “The new Acri-Hues Eggshell and Semi-Gloss paints perform as well as some competitive 100 percent acrylic paints,” he said. “Our competitive benchmark testing reveals that these two new products show superior resistance to dirt pick-up as well as improved application performance.”

Like all other Dunn-Edwards products, Acri-Hues Exterior Paint is eco-friendly, ethylene glycol (EG)-free and produced in the world’s only LEED^® Gold-certified paint manufacturing plant. Acri-Hues Exterior Paint is ultra-low VOC at 50 grams per liter, and has very low odor both during and after application. Dunn-Edwards paint is tinted with zero VOC colorants.

Dunn-Edwards Introduces Ultra-Grip® Select Multi-Surface Primer

Sara McLean — 10/16/2012 12:00:00 AM

Dunn-Edwards Paints has introduced a new multi-surface primer called Ultra-Grip Select. This new primer exhibits outstanding adhesion to multiple surfaces such as drywall, wood, masonry, as well as those hard-to-stick surfaces such as aluminum and galvanized metal.

“During testing, we found that Ultra-Grip Select outperformed competitive premium products in adhesion, enamel holdout and stain resistance,” said Dave Heiligenthal, product manager. “With this exceptional new primer, we are better able to meet the needs of the demanding commercial construction market, as well as residential projects,” adds Heiligenthal.

Ultra-Grip Select Multi-Surface Primer is available in one- and five-gallon containers. It has ultra-low VOC, at 45 grams per liter, and has very low odor both during and after application. Ultra-Grip Select is easy to apply, dries fast and is compatible with all Dunn-Edwards latex and alkyd finishes.

Like all other Dunn-Edwards products, Ultra-Grip Select is eco-friendly, ethylene glycol (EG)-free and produced in the world’s first and only LEED^® Gold-certified paint manufacturing plant. The new Ultra-Grip Select Multi-Surface Primer is now available in all Dunn-Edwards’ stores.

Design Loves Art: The New PDC Exhibition

Sara McLean — 10/7/2012 12:00:00 AM

Artwork can transform spaces, evoking a sense of peace or high-energy, or be used to tie together rooms or building spaces. Design professionals have come to understand the importance of artwork in the process of designing spaces. And with this understanding comes the importance of continual research to stay on top of what is going on in the world of art.

To help facilitate the relationship between designer and artist, The Pacific Design Center in Los Angeles, California, has launched a program called Design Loves Art, which is the opening of 15 art galleries on the second floor of the Blue Building, featuring works by upcoming and established artists. Design Loves Art is a program that addresses the complex relationships between art and interior design.

Paula Scher

One of the featured exhibits is by renowned artist and graphic designer Paula Scher. As a graphic designer, illustrator, painter and educator, Scher broke barriers as one of the few female art directors in the 1970s creating iconic record cover art. She went on to Pentagram, where she became the first female principal. In this position, she created branding and graphics programs for the likes of MoMA, who shows her fine art in their permanent collection, Coca-Cola, The New York City Ballet, and The Daily Show with Jon Stewart. As an educator, Scher has taught at the School of Visual Arts, the Cooper Union, and Yale. Her first solo show as an artist occurred in New York in 2006.

Scher’s exhibition of map works showcases her re-imagined approach to data and visual representation of the world through mapmaking. Explorations of data collection, categorization and labeling are combined with her belief that no map could ever be entirely accurate. These maps are subjective, distorted, and playful and include an amazing mass of information; all geared to have the viewer re-imagine geographical spaces and landscapes. Composed of landmasses, neighborhoods, oceans, sea trade routes, time zones and flight paths, the audience is apt to review the works many times, finding new information with each viewing.

Will Ryman

Another featured artist is Will Ryman, who is making his debut in Los Angeles with a large scale installation in the lobby of the PDC’s Blue Building. For those familiar with his work, you will remember one of his latest exhibits in New York on Park Avenue called The Roses.

On view until February 2013, the exhibit is a reinterpretation of Signature, a work shown recently in Sculpted Matter at the Paul Kasmin Gallery, New York. This sculpture is a creation of almost 50,000 paintbrushes stacked on top of each other towering up to 14 feet tall. The work is Ryman’s interpretation of dreamlike environments where he changes the meaning of everyday objects.

Design Loves Art is conceived and directed by New York-based curator Helen Varola and made possible by the generous support of Charles S. Cohen, art collector and museum trustee at MOCA, which is onsite at the PDC.

For more information, visit http://www.pacificdesigncenter.com/#/design-loves-art/

Pacific Design Center is located at 8687 Melrose Avenue, West Hollywood, CA 90069

All photography and images courtesy and permission of Pacific Design Center

The Library Design Boom Hits Sydney

Jane Parkins — 10/2/2012 12:00:00 AM

Sydney is the latest city to delve into the ever-expanding field of library design, with 168 architects from 30 nations around the world vying for the tender for the Green Square Library and Plaza. The competition comes as part of the city’s $8 billion, 278-hectare Green Square Development, which will be built on the former site of the Royal South Sydney Hospital. The number of entries is not surprising given the popularity of library interior design in both the private and public sectors.READ MORE

London Design Festival 2012: The Crystal Bulb Shop by Lee Broom

Sam Dunne — 10/2/2012 12:00:00 AM

Up-and-coming London-based design star Lee Broom has been joining in the LDF12 festivities this week with a beautifully crafted pop-up shop in Shoreditch, taking his charming handcut crystal pendant lightbulbs to the streets—perfect for festival goers hoping to take home a piece of the designerly action. The bulbs themselves are hardly groundbreaking but arranged in the store like this the 90 GBP price tag begins to seem a little more reasonable.READ MORE

Playfully Styled: Erinn Valencich

Sara McLean — 10/7/2012 12:00:00 AM

Erinn Valencich, interior designer and owner of Erinn V Maison, believes design should be fun, yet sophisticated. And with the recent opening of her retail store, her reputation for glamorous, clean and approachable vision on interior design is reaching new heights. I recently spoke with Erinn about design and discussed her Venice Canals project to get a more in-depth view of what inspires her.

Design Background

Erinn opened her design firm eight years ago after working for Susie Coelho, a lifestyle expert, for six years. As she explains, “I always wanted to have my own company though, and interior design kind of fell into my lap, as I had a knack for it. I decorated my first apartment in Silverlake with Ikea elements, vintage store finds and pieces picked up at garage sales, along with some good color choices on the walls, and everyone was suddenly telling me I should be a designer! I didn't have any formal design training, I'm much more of a learn-on-the-job type of girl. I started with one client, and then built a snazzy website and grew it from there.”

The Process of Design

Design can be fun one day, daunting the next. I asked Erinn to describe her favorite part of design, “The beginning when you get to start the new creative process on a job! Then there comes a ton of administrative work and getting things built.... and then you get to install, which is fun again!”

What’s Next

With a packed calendar full of design projects, Erinn is constantly busy, “My store, Erinn V Maison, opened 10 months ago, so that is still a major focus. We are expanding the line and starting to distribute the collection across the country! http://www.ErinnVMaison.com Plus, I am also starting on my second hotel project, the Hilton in Niagara Falls.

Venice Canals Project

Erinn was awarded the Venice Canals project from a family who wanted to live in a fun and beachy, yet elegant home. She divulges, “My client loves fun fabrics, so it was a great project to work on, as we were allowed a lot of freedom to choose and mix some fun patterns. I designed and made most of the furniture in the home, which is available through my store.” And the design aesthetic? “A mix of sensibilities, which I think is very much of the moment. There is a subtle Asian influence running through the home, which you see in the custom bed in the master.”

Faced with the design challenge of horrible cabinetry in the living and family rooms, she designed a new mantle with bookcases on each side, as the client is an avid reader and book collector. Erinn also designed the family/TV room cabinetry into the beautiful statement shown today.

Dunn-Edwards Colors

DE5118 BBQ

DEW380 White

DE5701 Whisper of Grass

The result? Erinn exclaims, “The client absolutely loves the home, so much so that they had us come and work on their Denver property.” Now that’s a perfect result of excellent and thoughtful design.

To learn more about Erinn Valencich or to contact her, http://www.erinnvmaison.com

Photographer: Melissa Valladares

All photography with permission and courtesy of Erinn Valencich

Boo! Halloween 2012 Trends

Sara McLean — 10/7/2012 12:00:00 AM

Within the past few years Halloween has surged in popularity for design ideas, every year increasing in the sophistication of visual displays and home décor.
We’ve noticed a few trends that have been taking shape with the popularity of designing around this holiday. Overall, these trends in Halloween décor are borrowed from visual displays at trade shows and global exhibits, as well as recent films and television shows. With a hint of macabre blended with a bit a humor and a dash of color, here are this year’s Halloween trends.

Halloween Trend 1: Forage

Marie Laveau would be proud! New Orleans at dusk, with a constant hum of Bourbon Street in the distance, you find yourself touring through ancient cemeteries. Shrines and altars, global traditions and discarded items come together as homage to natural history museums as well as family history.
This trend relies on collecting everyday objects such as carcasses and bones, vintage fabrics and textiles, creating a nature-based theme.

Key items:
wood, feathers, animal bones, discarded items and fabrics, apothecary jars, scavenged items, natural elements, global themes

Halloween Trend 2: Humor with a Twist

Inspired by Hollywood through shows like True Blood and movies by the brilliant Tim Burton, this trend blends the fantastical and humorous side of the holiday, showcasing the dark side of human nature.

Drawing on stories around masquerades, the Day of the Dead, and tongue-in-cheek gore, this trend is oh-so-twisted but fun.

Key items:
masks, day of the dead statuettes, True Blood posters, vampire teeth, blood vials and splatters, creepy silhouettes, sinister fonts

Halloween Trend 3: Fables and Tales

Mythical creatures and mystical scenes create this trend. Full of magic and mystery, its sweet but with a dark underlayment of sinister.
Expect inspiration from Sleeping Beauty, Grimm Tales, Snow White and Red Riding Hood where medieval villages live with secrets and shadows of werewolves and monsters.

Key items:
vintage items, nature, laser-cut materials, fairytale silhouettes,
low lighting, feathers and leaves, sinister illustrations, bats and witches

Halloween Trend 4: Gothic Fairytales

Ghosts of Halloween past preside over this trend. Period details rich in faded splendor, crumble and decay are surrounded by dark corners, large haunted manors and mystical, foggy English moors.
Inspired by Edgar Allen Poe, Jane Eyre and Victorian gothic mysteries, this trend exudes romance with an undercurrent of horror.

Key items:
matte black décor and accessories, low lighting, ghostly effects, fog machines, crumbling statues, black crows, Victorian silhouette profile art, candlesticks, black and white portraits, cobwebs, Victorian display domes, gilt mirrors

Color Palette Inspiration:

Red and White

DEA153 Glitzy Red	DEA147 Garnet Evening	DE5104 Amour
DE6275 Silver Creek	DE6321 Soot	DE6360 Foil

Green and Blue

DE5772 Blue Spruce	DE5888 Luna Pier	DE5724 Polished Aqua
DEA138 Indigo Night	DEA179 Enchanting Ivy	DE5619 Spring Fields

Burnt Tones

DE5208 Harvest Time	DEA112 Exuberant Orange	DEA174 Olive Court
DE6248 Spooky	DE5321 Jackpot	DE6137 Tan Plan

Black

DEA187 Black	DE6342 Blue Steel	DE5804 Nightfall
DEA156 Cherry Cola	DE6381 Silver Bullet	DE5171 October Haze

Happy Halloween!

All images used with permission by Corbis Images

The Glass House

Christopher Hawthorne — 9/25/2012 12:00:00 AM

In the late 1940s architect Philip Johnson distilled the principles of modernism into a residence of radical simplicity

READ MORE at Architectural Digest

Candy Installations by Pip & Pop

Roni Shapira Ben-Yoseph — 9/25/2012 12:00:00 AM

Australian artists Tanya Schultz and Nicole Andrijevic create massive, colorful installations under the name Pip & Pop. Their endless, playful works are made of sand, glitter, found objects, modelling clay, and lots and lots of candy. Read More...

Ritsue Mishima

Mitchell Owens — 9/18/2012 12:00:00 AM

A Japanese artist puts a clearly original spin on Venetian glass

His Own Voice

Finn Olaf-Jones — 9/18/2012 12:00:00 AM

Maroon 5 front man Adam Levine’s Hollywood Hills home combines midcentury sophistication with a shot of bachelor attitude

READ MORE at Architectural Digest

Sarah Barnard: So Eco-Chic!

Sara McLean — 9/9/2012 12:00:00 AM

Award-winning interior designer Sarah Barnard transforms spaces into resplendent interiors, complete with sustainable processes and materials. I interviewed Sarah to find out what inspires her, her design background and how she weaves sustainability into the design process. Here is our interview.

Design Background

Growing up, Sarah had a love of creativity and with parents as active preservationists; it seemed a natural fit to eventually find herself involved in eco-design. As she explains, “I'm not sure of the moment I realized I should be designing interiors, but I certainly had a childhood that primed me for this profession. My parents are avid preservationist; my father restoring houses and antique furnishings and my mother, who authored a book on the architectural history of our hometown.

I've always been interested in and a student of architecture, fashion and nature and so, historic preservation, interior design and healthy living are arenas in which I just fit...”

After several years of working in a large design firm, Sarah started her own company in 2003 called Sarah Barnard Design and a design blog called Eco Chic Interiors. Sarah divulges, “I had learned a lot working as part of team and was ready to evolve my practice and frankly, start doing things my own way.”

And why focus on sustainable design? “Sustainable design isn't so much a focus as much as a sensibility. I don't discuss much “saving of the planet” with my clients. It's just a professional standard.”

Sarah further explains, “All interior designers should be providing environments that are smart, beautiful and safe. I always think about an artistic concept and the clients functional requirements first. After I've determined where the project needs to go I make careful selections along the way to get us there in the healthiest way possible.”

The Process of Design

Every designer has a favorite part of the design process so I was curious what Sarah’s favorite is. She exclaimed, “Getting to know what makes people unique and then finding ways to express that individuality through the compositions I create in their personal spaces is just fantastic. I really enjoy the art process and the personal connections that are formed through an interior design project.”

As for what’s next, Sarah is working on several projects at this time, “I'm currently working on a handful of historic homes locally, in Santa
Monica Canyon, Pacific Palisades, Hollywood and San Francisco. I'm also consulting on design and decorating projects out of state as well as helping to develop the interiors for a casual, organic food restaurant brand.”

Case Study: Ocean Avenue Project

I asked Sarah to provide an example of a favored project where she utilized her design sensibilities as well as sustainable beliefs. Her Ocean Avenue penthouse project is a perfect example of this combination.

What were the client requests for the property?

The owners wanted an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. They wanted a space conducive to relaxation and meditation.

What, if any, design challenges did you face?

The space is actually quite small (under 2000 SF) and so creating a sense of visual expanse was challenging. One of the strategies I employed to virtually raise the ceiling height was to paint out the crown molding to match the wall and ceiling color (but not the baseboard).

The media room functions also as a second bedroom with a contemporary sofa that folds out into a comfy guest bed. Also, this is a penthouse apartment that looks over Ocean Avenue in Santa Monica, CA. Anything that needed to go inside the apartment had to fit in the freight elevator. If the item could fit in the freight elevator...it couldn't be a part of the design!

Please describe the design aesthetic and color palette?

The aesthetic is generally quiet and is a combination of contemporary pieces and vintage items. The living area is intentionally light and bright, encouraging the walls and furnishings to recede so that the ocean views can remain the focus. The master bedroom is intentionally considerably darker to encourage sleep, while the horizontal lines of the furnishings and drapery echo the direction of the shoreline.

Please describe how you threaded sustainable design into this project.

Careful selection of organic natural textiles, non-toxic wall finishes, re-use of on site materials as was feasible, incorporation of vintage fixtures and furnishings as well as energy efficient appliances and lighting.

What was the outcome? What was the client reaction to the project?

The space is amazing! The clients live full time in the San Francisco Bay area and use this space as a relaxing retreat. Everyone who has visited the space has fallen in love with the interiors and the views!

SARAH BARNARD is a member of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID), is certified by the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA), and is recognized by the International Institute for Bau-Biologie & Ecology as a Building Biology Practitioner (BBP) and by the United States Green Building Council as a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Accredited Professional (LEED AP). She serves on the Santa Monica Conservancy’s board of directors and specializes in green interior design and historic preservation.

To contact Sarah Barnard or find out more about her and her design firm Sarah Barnard Design, see more at http://www.sarahbarnard.com

Read Sarah’s blog! Eco Chic Interiors at http://www.sarahbarnarddesign.blogspot.com/

All photography with permission and courtesy of Sarah Barnard Design

Brooke Vink: A Designer Profile

Sara McLean — 9/9/2012 12:00:00 AM

Brooke Vink, interior designer for Deutsch Architecture Group, was the lead design consultant for the Dunn-Edwards Phoenix Factory built last year. I recently sat down with Brooke to catch up on her life as a designer, what inspires her and what’s next.

Design Background

Brooke Vink knew throughout her life that she loved the creative side of life, always fascinated with color and mechanics. She details, “I’d like to say it was when I picked up my first set of Crayola crayons and was enamored with the expanse of color variations. However, as life and schooling played a huge role in my adolescence, I found myself fascinated with how things work and why they must look the way they do to achieve the forecasted task. It was in high school when the ultimate ‘what do you want to be when you grow up” question occupied my thoughts.

After much analysis, my math and science skills were my strong suit; I wanted to be a doctor. When my guidance counselor helped me to research the requirements and best schools to attend, it quickly dawned on me ~ FINALLY to ask, “What can I do with my art (hobby, or so I thought) that would take advantage of my math and science skill set?” The answer was architecture, which inevitably led me to interior design. Most of my anticipation preparing for college was excitement to get a degree in something I truly found passion in knowing about…let alone doing professionally.”

Building upon her schooling at Arizona State University, she landed her first intern position at Est Est, Inc in Scottsdale, Arizona, where she gained more skills within the design trade. After some time in the design field, Brooke started working at Deutsch Architecture Group, located in Phoenix, Arizona.

Brooke on Living Design

Every designer seems to have a certain style, even when working within the confines of a client’s aesthetic. For Brooke, that style is clean and timeless. As she explains, “I think this will always be evolutionary. However, my strongest efforts go into making every space clean and modern in the sense of timelessness, and always understated with an added touch of elegance… suited to the end user of course.

Branding is a big key focus for me – I do everything I can to embrace the brand I am designing for and transform the brand multi-dimensionally; creating intuitively appropriate spaces that speak to the essence of what each brand represents.

My personal design style is that of which each space can dually function. My husband (an Interior Designer, as well) and I use our condo as a working laboratory. This allows us to test the dimensions of space and what is REALLY required for us to live. We have made strong efforts to reduce our square footage without losing any of the fun activities we would have with a lush footprint – pool table and 360 rotating TV included.

Design Lightning Round

Who inspires you in design?

Charles and Ray Eames are a key inspiration for me~ I admire their innate sense of how people use spaces and materials (especially in a down market). Their use of materials were never costly, but always impactful, and perhaps lifestyle altering.

Like many designers, I look to social interaction (people watching) to spot trends early on and of course, look to the fashion world to open our eyes to take risks and pull it together simultaneously.

When designing, what are some of your design rules?

In regard to paint, I think this is more of a ‘pet peeve’…Paint must always terminate at an inside corner, or with some type of planar transition.

Other than that, I stand by branding – even it is residential. In the early programming stage, homeowners share the gift of their personal experiences with you, the designer. All the things that have made them who they are can be transformed into a tangible space with the right balance to subliminally make then feel at home.

What would you say every room needs as a finishing touch to polish off the room design?

Plants, art, and a natural metal ~ even metallic can do the job of adding the finishing touch on a space. I think of it as the jewelry or accessories of an ensemble; the outfit would not have the same attitude as the finished product without careful consideration to detail.

What will we see from you next in design? What are you working on?

“Innovative use of materials to create a softer commercial design mantra.” I find inspiration in things rich in history, prompting a story to be made around them.

The most current project in our studio is a wine-crushing facility that encompasses both an office building and a tasting room. The plan is to use plywood in lieu of drywall, keeping the interior feeling earthly and down to earth. From a paint perspective, the plywood wall becomes the ‘field’ and any accents stand out that much more.

Brooke on Color

As a regular user of Dunn-Edwards Paints, here are Brooke's thoughts on color in design.

Go-to color palette: “Dunn Edwards Classics Palette (is that too brown nosy, it’s true…)

Dependent on the mood of the space desired, I find subtle classic tones that inspire a greater compilation of color combinations.”

Color to shy away from: “Pure white, unless the design is fitting ~ I used to say PINK, as it was soo feminine for a commercial space. However, I now believe consumers are more open and vivid tones can really transpire the emotions in a space.”

Color you can’t live without: “Dunn-Edwards ‘Draw Your Sword’; especially for corporate interiors that would usually be drawn to blue tones – it’s a sophisticated blue/grey, appropriate for anything from furniture to trim and accents.

Tied for my favorite is Dunn-Edwards ‘Black Walnut’. This was the first black-brown that was brought to me in my design career. I use it to infuse drama into spaces without the daunting black.”

A follower of trends?: “Yes, Dunn-Edwards Specs + Spaces, Pantone, and WWD (Women’s Wear Daily). I am especially fond to forecasts that are pre-release to the general market. WWD specifically feeds my desire for international awareness, flair, and courage in design decisions.”

A color that describes you: “Draw Your Sword; I find it to be chameleon-like and I tend to call it the ‘new neutral’. It works well in so many applications, including floors, art, walls, cabinetry, and furniture.”

A Case for Design

I asked Brooke to describe a design project where the use of color transformed a project.

My work with the Starwood account was a great timeframe in my design career. This occupied more than three years of work and more than 50 projects, completed with Starwood and MICE | North America.

Each project/brand that was brought to our international design team had a unique brand-presence that required conveyance into the interior space to further sell future real estate to their customers. Each brand had a demographic to hit and geographical location to which it appealed. Our design team developed indigenous palettes that truly represented the brands and geographical areas our projects resided within.

The first project that installed was in the Palm Desert area, which happens to be one of my personal ‘favorite places’ in the world. (perhaps it was near to my heart). The clients’ reaction was ‘stunning’. I had never been so touched by a one-word e-mail. I look at every project as an opportunity for ‘lessons learned’ – some design teams even have a debrief meeting to cover such items.

My ‘lesson learned’, in this case, was the importance of ‘sense of place.’ It was not until after the completion of many projects of this type that I could fully appreciate that the sense of place created is far more important than the objects in a space. The objects do contribute; however, the bigger picture is to transform objects to create spaces, rather than place them ‘off the shelf’. One should always lead the other…

To contact Brooke Vink and read more on the happenings at Deutsch Architecture Group, http://2929.com

Deustch Architecture Group is a locally owned architecture and design studio. Started as a big box retail architecture firm, the former Deutsch Associates quickly came to include corporate office and soon to follow, interior design with a branding emphasis, now known today as Deutsch Architecture Group, lead by Bernie Deutsch and David Calcaterra.

All photography with permission and courtesy of Deutsch Architecture Group and Brooke Vink

Shio: Otherworldly Lights Made From Pure Salt

Linda Ly — 9/4/2012 12:00:00 AM

What began as a Kickstarter dream last month is now a design reality for Daniel MacDonald, a Seattle-based scientist who invented Shio, a line of lighted mineral sculptures based on his adventures at Yellowstone as a child. Read More...

10 Green Picks from the NYIGF — New York International Gift Fair 2012

Kate Legere — 9/4/2012 12:00:00 AM

The New York International Gift Show returned to the Javits Center this year, and I spent a day combing the isles looking for new and interesting products. Good news is that handmade and sustainable still seem to be growing trends, and many vendors are incorporating environmentally sound practices into their production. Below are some of our favorite green finds from the show. Read More...

A Visit to the Toy Hall of Fame

Carrie McBride — 8/28/2012 12:00:00 AM

If you find yourself near Rochester, NY, (whether you have kids or not) carve out a few hours to spend at the National Museum of Play. Not only is it an excellent interactive children's museum, it is filled with exhibits about the history of toys and houses the National Toy Hall of Fame. Seeing the toys chosen for induction was not only a trip down memory lane (and the memory lane of my parents' generation), but it gave me a new perspective on what to look for when buying toys. More Read More...

Will "White Ice" Replace Stainless Steel as the New Appliance Trend?

Jason Loper — 8/28/2012 12:00:00 AM

Trends in appliance colors come and go. Remember those avocado green appliances of yesteryear? Since stainless steel has been the trend in modern kitchens for the past few years, we're wondering what's next. Maybe Whirlpool's new white ice? More Read More...

FLOR: A Step Above

Sara McLean — 9/9/2012 12:00:00 AM

This month we catch up with Jenise Yagle from FLOR, one of the coolest flooring companies in the market today. I first met Jenise at Dwell on Design, and we chatted about our product lines, color and all things design.

Following this initial meet up, I interviewed her at the FLOR West Hollywood showroom to get a deeper understanding of FLOR and her life in the design world. Here is our interview:

Jenise: Design Background

From an early age, Jenise knew she wanted to be in design. Creativity runs through the family, and with her mom as the main artistic force, she pursued a design degree at UCLA. From there, she started from the ground up, working as a sample girl at Decorator’s Walk in the Pacific Design Center. Jenise explains, “I worked my way up in the business, learning everything I could about design. I then worked for some well-known designers, including Sally Sirken Lewis, Holly Hunt and Rose Tarlow.”

With this knowledge, she opened her own design business for several years, working in the Los Angeles area with many well-known clients, showcasing product lines and creating a loyal customer following.

The opportunity to work for FLOR came up and she made the leap. As Jenise describes, “This was an amazing opportunity to work for an amazing company, opening and managing two show rooms in Los Angeles - our West Hollywood and Santa Monica locations. I had the design contacts, plus I knew the client base in Los Angeles and the area in general. It was a great fit for me.” Both show rooms service both trade and retail, with the West Hollywood show room catering more to the trade and the Santa Monica show room servicing more retail, mostly due to the locations.

With several years of FLOR experience, Jenise still glows when talking about working at FLOR. “I love spreading the FLOR word, reaching out to professionals and retail consumers, showing how great the product is. The product is ever-changing, always sustainable, and led by true design leaders. And, the fact that they provided me an opportunity to start these show rooms from the ground up and grow the business has given me daily design inspiration and a place to feel inspired.” She also loves working in color and know Dunn-Edwards Paints very well, “I love Dunn-Edwards Paints. I love your whites collection, the large chips and Waterloo is one of my favorite blues!”

Who is her greatest design inspiration? Jenise reflects, “I can name a few but here are my top three – Richard Serra, an American minimalist sculptor, Holly Hunt, who taught me to never forget the details and Rose Tarlow, who taught me to take my time and to not rush through the process.”

FLOR: Company Background

To get an overall perspective on FLOR, the background, design strategy and sustainability messaging, here is our interview with the company spokesman, Patrick Skirtisch.

Please describe the inspiration behind the start of the company FLOR.Greg Colando was President of Interface’s American modular floor covering business in 2000 when he noticed emerging consumer behaviors in the marketplace: urban lifestyle resurgence, growing Internet purchases and increased design demand. These trends, compounded with conventional carpeting’s limitations, posed an opportunity to deliver a more responsible and design-focused floor covering directly to consumers. He would call the new entity FLOR.

To help realize the FLOR vision, Colando and his creative partner, noted interior and product designer Chip DeGrace, tapped experts from the worlds of design, direct marketing and Internet technology of such brands as Google, Apple and Kodak. Their charge was to communicate FLOR as a smarter floor covering choice to design-savvy, environmentally-aware consumers. The FLOR concept went live in the spring of 2003 with the launch of the FLOR catalog and FLOR.com to design enthusiasts everywhere.

The company launched with an online trade concept. What made you decide that brick and mortar was also necessary?We had long thought that consumers would want to see and touch the product up close and in person to determine which styles would best suit their needs, but that was just the beginning. With today’s design media empowering the general population to design their own spaces, visitors to our store love the concept of creating a rug customized for their space. And for those that need a little assistance, we have expert design consultants at the ready.

What is the company philosophy on sustainability?I think this video tells it best.

Who is your target buyer? FLOR is really for anyone who has an appreciation for design, whether they can create it on their own or just want to point at a rug creation and say, “I want that one.”

Do you offer designer programs? Yes, we have a Design Professional Program open to all professional designers and architects. You can register here

Where do you see the company in 5 years?We humbly believe that in everyone’s home there is an opportunity for smart design solutions. We are a product of the times and FLOR’s wide application range resonates with that. Having said that, we don’t see why FLOR is limited to North America only. Additionally, our ambitious goal to be carbon neutral - Mission Zero – is going to take a lot of work but we are committed to seeing it through.

What is the plan for company expansion?We are striving to open more than 20 retail locations nationwide, moving us closer toward delivering the FLOR brand experience to design admirers all across the country. By the end of this year we plan to open another 7-10 stores in design-savvy markets such as Portland, Seattle and Denver. We are also thrilled to enter the Canadian market by opening a store in Toronto.

How many new product offerings are you launching this year?We will have launched between 15-20 styles by the end of this year. Our new styles are always an exciting take of today and tomorrow’s design trends, but they are also just a piece of the puzzle. FLOR provides the ability to mix and match across styles both old and new, textures, patterns and color to create daring rugs and combinations for any season.

Who comes up with the FLOR designs and what is your most popular design line?Legitimately, everyone at FLOR participates in design, from the design assistance provided in the call center to our design consultants in our retail locations. As far as product development goes, we take pulse of the market and of our customers’ appetite (from real interaction with them) as we design rugs every day. In-house design staff then creates the designs you see today. And, House Pet, Fedora, and Made You Look are our most popular design lines.

To find out more about FLOR or to make contact, http://www.flor.com

Read their design blog! http://www.flor.com/blog/

To make an appointment with Jenise Yagle or her staff, contact her at

FLOR West Hollywood: 9020 Beverly Blvd., West Hollywood, CA. 310.786.9220

FLOR Santa Monica: 412 Broadway, Santa Monica, CA. 310.393.2952

All product photography with permission and courtesy of FLOR. Showroom photography by Sara McLean

Design Loves Austin

Adrienne Breaux — 8/21/2012 12:00:00 AM

Austin has seen fast-paced growth of design-related businesses and places for years now, and it's an absolute pleasure to live in a city that treasures good design so highly.

If you're visiting, you'll find no lack of things to see and do and great-looking places to eat good food in. READ MORE

Mathias Bengtsson: Design Wizard

David Colman — 8/21/2012 12:00:00 AM

A Danish furniture designer thinks far outside the box, melding nature with computer wizardry.

READ MORE on how Danish designer Mathias Bengtsson brilliantly experiments with state-of-the-art methods to create his amazing collection.

Moritz Waldameyer: Design Innovator

Anthony Gardner — 8/14/2012 12:00:00 AM

Using LEDs to dazzling effect, a London-based technological visionary lights a new path READ MORE

West 8: Sublime Landscapes

Fred A Bernstein — 8/14/2012 12:00:00 AM

Guided by cofounder Adriaan Geuze, a Dutch landscape design group conceives settings both startling and sublime READ MORE

Global Color Trend Watch

Melinda Ashton Turner — 8/5/2012 12:00:00 AM

Trends! It’s an interesting concept that can lead you, offend and enslave you. You can choose to follow or ignore them and at times you wonder if it is in fact a trend, or a fad.

Traveling regularly between continents you can see how some trends know no boundaries and how others are lost in translation. With each new colour forecast some will have more relevance than others. All will be needed to communicate a look or trend, and as I explain on my blog, The Colour Field, there is hierarchy with each to be used in a certain percentage. From these forecasted colours some will be embraced in one country while overlooked by others.

Trends work in cycles. Think of the Milan International Furniture Fair as the beginning with discount home stores being the end. What is seen in Milan will be reinterpreted down the line over a period of months, or years, to the local discount store. In between are the independent shops, major department stores and so forth. I’ve worked across all markets from a international Swedish furniture company, to living in London for 12 years and for the past 2 years travelling back and forth from Sydney, apart from that I’ve also lived in Los Angeles, California. It’s interesting to see who adopts what colours, along with when, and how, they are used.

Deciphering trends is a multi layered process and it’s hard to verbalise why some colours will be more popular than others. Take Pantone’s prediction of Tangerine for 2012. By the end of 2012 it will become more prominent in the Australian stores in the way of soft furnishings as it has in the UK over the past 6 months. The UK however, have taken it a step further and flowed the colour through to furniture.

In terms of fashion, on the streets of London Spring/Summer 2010 red, green and yellow jeans could be seen with no signs of them in Sydney. By Spring/Summer 2011 in London primary colours appeared everywhere under the title of colour blocking. Come November/December 2011 it’s hitting the streets of Sydney and transferring to interior magazines. March/April 2012 in London the colour blocking trend starts to diminish but peaks in Sydney. Neon, which is dangerously close to being over-used is tracking one year behind this.

Some trends will transfer to the next relative seasons between countries but others will take longer, if at all, to be adsorbed or accepted. The quantity of people gravitating towards Tom Dixon’s fluoro Offcut Collection four years ago in Australia would have been minimal but these pieces now seem to have relevance with the introduction of fluoro to smaller consumerable items such as cushions and bowls. The latter are the cheaper more conventional purchases that people understand which in turn has them accepting the radical hue. The more one sees a colour subliminally, the more they feel comfortable introducing it within their home.

Each week as I sit and deconstruct interior colour palettes for my blog I’m surrounded-almost drowning-in various paint decks and charts from the UK, US and Australia. As I pile them into the three continents you can almost immediately see where each country sits within the colour spectrum.

Generally speaking, the UK range from liking the moody, dark, muted black based colours to the polar opposite of the white based lilacs and blues. Whilst Australia leans towards the tonal schemes of whites, greys, chocolates etc., the American market leans toward the brighter, cleaner colours such as reds, blues, corals and yellows. No matter what colours are predicted these countries rarely stray from these. However, what you will see is the odd colour pop out-neon is a perfect example.

By nature people are inspired by their environment. For Australia it’s very much about earth tones, colours of the ocean and the flora and fauna. Where as the English are more about wanting to either brighten up their interior due to the sullen sky or more interestingly, wanting to create an interior that is evocative. The English perception of colour is based on architectural history, such as Victorian and Georgian colourings. There is a myth that Australians love colour-note I am generalizing, we do, but it’s localized, and mostly introduced in soft furnishings, and the classic feature wall, but not across a whole room. Whereas I would say the English completely embrace colour, the whole palette across the entire room-not always a good thing I might add.

Currently, the trend emerging specifically in Australia are the colours and patterns inspired by our close neighbours-Asia and India. Raspberry, sienna, chartreuse and indigo, all appearing in Ikat patterns and block prints along with African coloured batik cushions and objects. Unlike most countries, in Australia a singular colour will be chosen from the above and used as an accent in a tonal scheme. Charcoals, chocolates, taupe’s and whites are the main stay in Australian interiors with highly reflective materials like copper and silver becoming more visible in the way of lights, wall art, side tables and detailing on chairs. A trend in Australian isn’t necessarily just about colour it’s about introducing texture-weathered woods, industrial metals, linens, wicker etc. It’s in introducing these materials that a colour trend is established.

In the UK colours coming through are more delicate, subdued and nostalgic, reminiscent of the 50’s. Soft mauves, dusty pinks, pale blues, mid greys and muted greens all with grey undertones and all being used in one. In relation to Australia, these colours will appear in soft furnishings. Where as the UK will introduce these colours in the way of paint, whether it be on the wall or a painted piece of furniture.

At the other end of the spectrum, and more of an underground movement, are the darker, moodier and muddy colours like charcoals, blood reds, deep ocean greens and blues. And like Australia, the UK are leaning towards the greyer end of the colour scale. The days of the white based 80’s mints, peaches and lemons appearing in interiors are gone but then again, never say never! Today’s trends will rebranded as an interior style in the years to come.

To learn more about Melinda Ashton Turner and her work as a stylist and interior designer, visit http://www.thecolourfield.net

All photography by Melinda Ashton-Turner

On Trend: 2012 California Gift Show

Sara McLean — 7/31/2012 12:00:00 AM

The 2012 California Gift Show opened July 25, 2012, ushering in new and exciting product offerings, expanded lines and re-merchandised presentations to inspire retailers who are looking at offering trending merchandise for their consumers. This year’s show spans the L.A. Mart and Los Angeles Convention Center and is open through today, July 31, 2012.

West Coast style leaders showcased an immense collection of wares from emerging local craftsmen, artists and manufacturers along with many of the gift industry’s brand leaders. Product categories include gift, seasonal, fashion accessories, jewelry, personal care, home décor, tabletop, stationary, plush, baby and kids, handmade and others.

The show premiered many of the important trends that buyers are sourcing for next season. Jeff Sampson, VP Marketing, L.A.Mart/L.A.Mart Design Center/California Gift Show declared, “This Market we are seeing design statements that continue to dictate the industry’s current direction. Apparel, fashion accessories, jewelry, home décor and items reflecting individual style…many infused with vivid pops of color or referencing the organic…remain in-demand among consumers. Buyers in search of these essential must-haves, as well as category staples from industry veterans, look to the California Gift Show to satisfy their order-writing plans and customers’ needs.”

Here are my top finds that confirm our 2012-13 color and design trends.

Painterly

Paint splatters and colorful displays of minerals, pigments and color chips naturally held my fascination. The highlight of this trend was within the Two’s Company showroom, where new collections by designers John Dransfield and Geoffrey Ross were shown including Designing for Tozai and the Starving Artist Collection.

Prep School

Tradition circles back to prep-school and includes a variety of plaids, wetland wildlife accessories and aged trunks, to trophies, farm animal art and accessories.

Glass, Glass, Glass

Colored glass was in almost every home décor presentation, and with colors ranging from amber and emerald green to cobalt and amethyst, these jewels certainly create an ethereal beauty to the environment.

A Bygone Era

Collections of home décor showcasing house wares, hobbies and treasures from the Victorian and turn-of-the-century eras were on display throughout the show. Apothecary jars, terrariums, industrial-age styled metal accessories and dainty, feminine touches against deep coloring provide further proof of our 2013 Simply Re-newal color trend story.

Science and Tech

The focus on science and tech finds its way to kids’ toys, home décor and jewelry, highlighting how fun science can be when displayed in fun, unique ways.

What a Colorful World

Color at the show was both vivid and saturated or sunbleached in cool and warm tones. This range of hues provided the buyer opportunities for bold statements in their shops, along with softer, more organic directions, reminders of beachcombing and the California coastline.

Exo-Skeleton

A variety of art and accessories showcased skulls and skeletons, providing more proof of science and tech as part of the living space and not just for the lab.

Wetland Wildlife
Herons, pheasants and owls were abundantly displayed. This supports our 2013 trends story Simply Re-newal and discussions on the return of wetland wildlife as part of design.

Precious Stones
A variety of showrooms such as Palachek prominently displayed furnishing and accessories with either inlaid semi-precious metals and stone or actually semi-precious stone displayed in casings. On trend with our 2013 trend story Simply Re-invented, this provides further confirmation of design creations using earth's resources.

Stay tuned for more in-depth reporting from the 2012 California Gift Show.

To learn more, http://www.californiagiftshow.com

All Photography by Sara McLean

KOHLER: The Jonathan Adler Color Collection

Sara McLean — 8/5/2012 12:00:00 AM

The recent introduction of the Jonathan Adler color collection at KOHLER sparked my curiosity. KOHLER, who typically has a large presence at design trade shows, sparkled this year at NeoCon and Dwell on Design, displaying unique interior design backdrops for the new Jonathan Adler Color Collection. Always in support of the design community, KOHLER’s tagline “The Bold Look of Kohler” also showcases how tied into color and design the company is. This partnership with Jonathan Adler is the company's first design collaboration.

The Beginning

Headquartered in Kohler, Wisconsin, the company was founded in 1873 and is a global leader in kitchen and bath products. Woven within the fabric of the company is the dedication to color and design introductions. Here are just a few highlights:

• 1927 Kohler Co. introduces Old Ivory, Autumn Brown, Horizon Blue, Spring Green and Lavender—the industry's first colors available on plumbing products.
• 1929 An industrial design exhibit at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City features KOHLER fixtures in black—quite a design statement for the time.
• 1965 Kohler Co. adds bright, lively accent colors to the its color palette—another industry first.
• 1967 Kohler Co. captures the essence of bold KOHLER design and color with the tagline

Jonathan Adler

Jonathan Adler is a world-renowned designer who partnered with Kohler, introducing four special edition colors available only on six selected KOHLER enameled cast iron kitchen and bathroom sinks. The partnership seemed a natural fit for these two design forces. States KOHLER creative director Tristan Butterfield, “KOHLER, like Jonathan Adler, prides itself on creating heirloom-quality products. That shared vision made this partnership much more than a natural fit – it made it a fun one.”

JONATHAN ADLER DISCUSSES THE KOHLER COLOR COLLECTION

The Color Collection

• Greenwich Green captures the beauty of the perfectly manicured lawns of an English Estate—cultured and cultivated. "This is not dull avocado green," Jonathan Adler says. "It's bolder, yet timeless. So crisp and refreshing you can taste it."
• Piccadilly Yellow evokes the riot of colors from London's Piccadilly Circus. Exuberant and fun, a Piccadilly yellow kitchen or bathroom sink instantly fills the space with giddiness. Adler says: "There's a very mod quality to Piccadilly yellow, especially when paired with white. It's unexpected and will always feel fresh."

• Palermo Blue is beautiful, serene splash of the Mediterranean Sea where it opens before the city of Palermo on Sicily. "A nice, crisp light blue is cool and refreshing," Adler says. "Like taking a dip in the Med itself."
• Annapolis Navy, an unconditionally classic hue, calls to mind the sailing city of Annapolis on Maryland's Severn River. "Annapolis Navy epitomizes nautical chic. It's such a classic color because it pairs so well with other bold colors," he says.

Here are the highlights of the collection from the 2012 trade shows NeoCon and Dwell on Design.

Founded in 1873 and headquartered in Kohler, Wisconsin., Kohler Co. is one of America's oldest and largest privately held companies. Kohler is a global leader in the manufacture of kitchen and bath products, engines and power generation systems, tile and home interiors, and an international host to award-winning hospitality and world-class golf destinations.

To find out more about Kohler or the partnership with Jonathan Adler, http://www.kohler.com

To learn more about Kohler colors, go to http://www.us.kohler.com/us/KOHLER-Colors/content/CNT14300929.htm?id1=www.kohler.com/color/
Kohler also has a blog!; go to http://blog.kohler.com

All press photography courtesy and permission of Kohler Company.

Trade show photography by Sara McLean

Summer 2012 Outdoor Design Trends

Sara McLean — 7/24/2012 12:00:00 AM

With summer upon us, we searched for some of the top trends for outdoor spaces. Here are some of our top finds and ways to update your clients' spaces.

2012 OUTDOOR THEMES

Yachts Away

Hampton-style beach furnishings seem to be everywhere, including updated sailcloth ideas for shade structures, umbrellas, and even furnishings. This timeless look updates itself every summer, tying into the nautical fashion trends that hit the runways for summertime. Nautical blue and white are always on point, looking clean and fresh. Adding a third color to the mixes keeps this look updated and fresh, such as a fuchsia or orange striped rug, throw pillows or painted accent wall to add punch.

Flea Market Chic

Creative furniture finds and bright colors add inspiration to any outdoor space. Add drama and whimsy with colorful pillows, vases and painted canvas cloth in bold stripes or polka dots as finishing touches to furnishings in teak and black wrought iron, or updated wicker styles. Colorful plantings such as daisies or geraniums add another layer of color. Lighting is hand-crafted from wine bottles or glass jars, in an array of color.

Urban Poolside
Taking inspiration from city and nature - water and sky, moss and rocks; this trend is a happy splash of nature with a sassy dash of urban. Ornaments are scantily clad in their simplest expression of shapes and natural textures. Furnishings in teak, white wood and rattan drip with relaxed attitude, with crisp white, geometrics or stripes on the cushions. Accessorize with sea glass and decorate with whimsical frogs or turtles .Lighting fixtures finished in brushed nickel, stainless steel or antique brass provide the finishing touches.

2012 OUTDOOR HOT PICKS

Tree of Life
A new playground for adults, the treehouse has grown up. Finding new uses for vertical living include guest quarters or just a quiet getaway, treehouses are trending in a myriad of design themes.

In the Clouds

With CasaBubble at the forefront of this trend, you can literally sleep in a cloud. Experiment with these outdoor tents to create a new type of camping experience.

Vertical Gardens

Vertical gardening is one of the hottest outdoor design trends this year. From living walls to modular hanging solutions, it’s never been easier to leverage that growing space above you.

Modern Materials

Material mash-ups like wicker, metals and acrylics set the stage for an eclectic, modern room.

Bringing the Indoors Out
Furnishings such as sofas made look like they could seamlessly transition indoors continues to uptrend in exteriors. Create this luxury look by the layering of sturdier outdoor fabrics in trendy motifs.

Weaving In and Out
Wider weaves in rattan furnishings feature thicker strands of wicker, providing a stand-out look in this furniture series. With outdoor spaces increasing in size, this furniture can fill spaces perfectly.

There are so many more trends but these are just a few highlights of our finds this year. Stay tuned as we continue to search out the latest trends.

All photography by Sara McLean, and with permission and courtesy of Bethany Nauert Photography and Corbis Images.

Comic-Con 2012: Superhero Inspiration

specs+spaces staff — 7/17/2012 12:00:00 AM

It’s no secret, the annual Comic-Con convention has grown from a comic book lovers geek fest to a mega pop culture and entertainment showcase featuring films, TV, games and books. It’s about dressing up as your favorite character, seeing celebrities, buying up merchandise and catching sneak previews of upcoming releases. Our roving reporters headed down to San Diego to catch Comic-Con fever and take photos of all the action.

And if you are just back from the convention and missing it already, why not put a little comic book styling in your home? Check out our blog on comic book interior design ideas.

See the slideshow from Comic-Con 2012:

Photos by Tim Bosveld

Introduction by Sara McLean

Annenberg Retreat at Sunnylands: A Walk Through World History

Sara McLean — 7/17/2012 12:00:00 AM

Located in the beautiful desert oasis of Rancho Mirage, California is the Annenberg Retreat at Sunnylands. Named after Sunnylands, the Annenberg family home in Pennsylvania, this is the most recent gift to the nation from the Annenberg Foundation and was dedicated and opened earlier this year 2012. The sanctuary includes the historic estate, the Sunnylands Center and Gardens, and the collections at Sunnylands.

Living room of the Annenberg Estate, featuring original furniture by William Hanes. Photo by Graydon Wood

The Annenbergs

Ambassador Walter Annenberg (1908-2002) was an American diplomat, philanthropist and publisher. He became a prominent business leader after his father’s passing in 1942 and through this success, gained access to some of the business and political elite. Tapped by President Nixon to be the Ambassador to the United Kingdom in 1969, he grew to have close ties with British royalty and stayed in touch with many of these contacts throughout this life.

Walter Annenberg, First Lady Betty Ford, Leonore Annenberg, and President Gerald Ford at Walter Annenberg's 90th birthday celebration, March 1998. Photo by Marc Glassman

Japanese Prime Minister Toshiki Kaifu, President H.W.Bush, First Lady Barbara Bush, and Walter Annenberg on the occasion of a State Dinner held at Sunnylands by the President for the Prime Minister. March 2, 1990. Official White House Photo.

Leonore (Lee) Cohn Annenberg (1918-2009), born in New York, New York and raised in Los Angeles, California, was the niece of Harry Cohn, founder of Columbia Pictures. She married Walter Annenberg in 1951 and with this partnership, she made a mark in philanthropic endeavors in education and culture. She became Chief of Protocol of the United States in 1981 after contributing heavily to the Reagan Presidential campaign in 1980. During this tenure, she advised the President, Vice President and Secretary of State on matters dealing with diplomatic protocol.

Prince Phillip, Leonore Annenberg, Queen Elizabeth, and Walter Annenberg at the entrance of the historic house. February 1983

President William Jefferson Clinton with Walter and Leonore Annenberg at the entrance of the historic estate. February 14, 1995. Official White House Photo

The Annenberg Legacy

Walter and Lee Annenberg loved philanthropic work and dedicated their life to these pursuits. In 2001, Lee received the Andrew Carnegie Medal of Philanthropy and when presented the award, she was asked why she and Walter donated to causes, and according to the Annenberg Foundation at Sunnylands, she responded, “Walter and I believe that education is the foundation of a democratic society. When asked what motivates his philanthropic work, my husband has responded with a very powerful statement: 'I regard my philanthropic work as an investment in the future of America. It is the most effective way I can serve my country and help to ensure its benefits for the next generation.'”

During their lifetimes, it is estimated that they donated over $2 billion. And today, many schools, libraries, theatres, hospitals and museums across America bear the Annenberg name. And, during Walter’s lifetime he collected artwork, mostly French impressionist art, and after his passing, he donated his entire collection, valued at approximately $1 billion in 1991, to the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.

The Historic Sunnylands Estate at Rancho Mirage, CA

The Annenbergs commissioned a lavish winter estate in Rancho Mirage, California, and hosted gatherings with people such as President and First Lady Reagan, Frank Sinatra, Bob Hope, Bing Crosby, Prince Charles and Queen Elizabeth.

Secretary of State George Schulz, President Ronald Reagan, and Ambassador Walter Annenberg on the Sunnylands golf course. New Year's Day 1986

Ambassador Charles Price, President Gerald Ford, Bob Hope, Prince Andrew, and Walter Annenberg on the golf course. April 1994.

The Sunnylands estate includes a 25,000 square foot home designed by A. Quincy Jones, which covers 200 acres, surrounded by a pink stucco wall. The estate also includes three cottages designed by A. Quincy Jones, eleven lakes, a tennis court and a nine-hole golf course.

Atrium of the historic house. The sculpture is an original casting of Eve, by Auguste Rodin, 1881.
Photo by Graydon Wood.

The Room of Memories in the historic house. Photo by Graydon Wood

A view of the Sunnylands golf course

Sunnylands, the historic house.
Photo by Ned Redway

Today, the historic estate is available as a sanctuary for high-level national and world leaders who seek privacy, and many political retreats are held on the premises. One recent retreat “Envisioning the Future of the United States-Mexico Relationship” was held on the premises, and a group of top leaders and policy makers from both countries were on hand to create a bilateral agenda.

Sunnylands Center and Gardens

The Sunnylands Center and Gardens was commissioned by Leonore Annenberg in 2008. Designed by Frederick Fisher & Partners and completed in 2011, the building is a 17,000 square foot reference to the historic estate designed by A. Quincy Jones and sets upon a 15-acre parcel of land next to the historic estate. Michael Smith, interior designer to President and First Lady Obama, designed the interiors, and the Office of James Burnett designed the 9-acre art gardens, which contains more than 53,000 plants and over a mile of walking paths. As education is key to the Annenberg Foundation, the Center also provides information on midcentury modern architecture, the Annenberg family and public history and ideas for sustainable living in a desert climate.

Sunnylands Center & Gardens. Palo Verde trees in
bloom. Photo by Dillon Diers/
The Office of James Burnett

Sunnylands Center & Gardens.
Photo by Mark Davidson

Sunnylands Gardens. Agave plants in bloom. Photo by Dillon Diers/The Office of James Burnett

Sunnylands Center & Gardens. Frederick Fisher & Partners Architects. Photo by Mark Davidson

The Tour

The docent-led tours cover the historic estate and grounds and provide an amazing insight into American history and the life of Walter and Leonore Annenberg. We encourage you to visit to gain greater insight into their contribution to America.

For more information on estate, gardens, political retreats, history and to schedule a tour, contact www.sunnylands.org

All photography (except official White House photos) with courtesy and permission of the Annenberg Foundation Trust at Sunnylands

Meet the Kramers: Modernist Moguls

Sara McLean — 7/8/2012 12:00:00 AM

Meet Rochelle and Doug Kramer, realtors specializing in midcentury, ranch and modern real estate. With interest trending in midcentury design (see our recent posting of Simply A Renaissance 2013, Simply Revival), we spoke with the Kramers on how they cornered this market of real estate.

Background

Recognizing a love of design and feeling the need for a career change, Doug, who already had a love of midcentury design and owned a Cliff May home, decided to pursue a real estate career. He loved the open floor plan of his dwelling, the “James Bond” aesthetic, but it wasn’t until he and Rochelle came across a book that included a photograph of a home in their neighborhood, that they recognized the historical significance of their home. Rochelle explains, “We contacted the home owners to find out more about Cliff May and the history of our Long Beach neighborhood, and finding more about our home touched off ideas of creating a niche market in real estate.”

Rochelle, who has a background in graphic design, joined Doug in real estate a couple years later and developed their four web and blog sites, the first being ranchostyle.com, their real estate website dedicated to marketing ranch style homes for buyers and sellers. Rochelle reveals, “Living in our Long Beach neighborhood where Cliff May homes are prevalent has provided an easy network of neighbor contacts and information-gathering, all assisting in highlighting the beauty and history of the ranch-style home.”

Selling Modernism

To capture the attention of buyers and sellers, the websites have become key selling tools for Rochelle and Doug. “We realize that our customers are looking beyond the vanilla, and will get to our listings when they start looking for homes with modern elements,” says Rochelle. “Websites and social media have greatly helped in standing out against the competition by reaching a broader range of people, even outside the US.” The monthly traffic to their four websites averages upwards of 22,000 a month, and are from as far away as India. This has helped to keep their real estate business brisk while the general real estate market is still faltering.

The Social Connection

Here are the four websites that the Kramer’s developed and maintain for design enthusiasts.

SoCalModern.com – Midcentury Modern Architecture & Homes for Sale SoCal Modern is a destination website for anyone interested in midcentury modern homes. With upwards of 13,000 unique visitors a month, SoCalModern.com has a growing fan base and a Facebook page to boot. The website features our own listings plus a curated set of modern homes for sale in Los Angeles and Orange Counties.

LagunaModern.com – Contemporary & Modern Architecture in Laguna Beach Laguna Beach and the south Orange County coastline features impressive architectural homes, from midcentury modern designs by Chris Abel, Lamont Langworthy and the great John Lautner, to contemporary designs by active architects such as Horst Noppenberger and Mark Singer. LagunaModern.com pays tribute to the unique modern and contemporary architecture of this region and curates listings of homes for sale.

RanchoStyle.com – Cliff May Ranch Style Homes for Sale This website showcases the Cliff May designed ranch homes in Long Beach, California. There is an extensive photo gallery as well as featured listings of homes for sale. Resource material about Cliff May is prominently displayed.

CalBungalow.com – Bungalow and Craftsman Architecture Cal Bungalow focuses on bungalow and Craftsman architecture in Los Angeles and Orange County. Along with featured listings the site aggregates the best bungalow and Craftsman homes for sale in all price ranges. Cal Bungalow is also on Facebook.

So who’s buying? According to Rochelle and Doug, the typical buyer of a modern or midcentury modern home is in their 30s-40s and typically in their second or third home. However, there are many first time buyers who would love to own this style of home and the Kramers represent these firsttime buyers as well.

Also, collectors of midcentury homes and décor are always interested, sometimes having all the home décor and even dressing the part, with the last part of the puzzle being the purchase of a midcentury gem to complete the lifestyle. “In terms of trends we are finding that buyers are craving an indoor/outdoor connection and either a clean, modern style (Dwell-like interpretation) or completely original (Atomic Ranch interpretation). They would rather live in a smaller home with style than in a larger, newer home that feels relatively boxy.

Trend-wise we are seeing that many buyers are savvy when it comes to design. They have a vision for how they want to live. They often have modern furniture and art and are looking for the right home to call their own. The design of outdoor spaces is increasingly important since most affordable, midcentury modern homes are small. The same is true for bungalow style homes of the 1920s and 30s.”

Designers take note, according to the Kramers, buyers are willing to pay top dollar for these modern elements: Polished concrete, wood or cork flooring rather than laminate, carpet or tile floors. Even natural stone such as slate and travertine is not desirable; Flat front European style cabinetry over raised panel or molded doors; Birch, maple and walnut over cherry and oak; Quartz, such as Casaerstone, countertops rather than granite, Corian or tile; and Chrome and satin chrome hardware over bronze, brass and nickel.

Yet, when helping buyers, location and pricing can be another challenge as Rochelle unveils, “Unfortunately for buyers there is not a lot of modern architecture to choose from. Price range plays the biggest factor for buyers wanting these architectural styles. Price will determine locations where homes might be found. Over $1 million buyers will find modern homes scattered throughout LA and Orange County. Under $700,000, which is the majority of buyers, modern homes are mostly relegated to just a few tracts: the Eichler tracts in Orange and in the SF Valley, and the Cliff May tract in Long Beach.”

A Love of Design

Selling to this niche market also requires Rochelle and Doug to be in-the-know on design trends. Catching up with them at the Dwell on Design Show, I asked them to describe the top trends they found at the show, Rochelle describes, “Color is big. Kohler has a new line of porcelain fixtures in candy colored hues. I often advise my clients to try and work with original fixtures like the blue bathtubs that are original in the 1950s Cliff May homes. Augmenting original pieces with new ones is a great way to honor the past and still achieve great design with modern conveniences.

There was a great variety of outdoor design products from planters to concrete pavers, teak tiles, furniture and fire features. Many in sustainable or recycled materials. Teak tiles are a favorite of mine. They provide a clever way to define an outdoor space and a cosmetic cover-up solution for cracked and tired looking concrete.”

The recent exhibition at University of California, Santa Barbara for Cliff May architecture brought more attention to the ranch and midcentury lifestyles, and the Kramers closer to their design dreams. This appreciation of simplistic design, meaningful beauty in uncluttered and sustainable forms, is confirming a very bright future for these two.

To contact or find out more about Rochelle and Doug Kramer, go to www.socalmodern.com, www.ranchostyle.com , www.calbungalow.com , or www.lagunamodern.com

All photography courtesy and permission of Rochelle and Doug Kramer

Stacy Garcia: NY State of Design

Sara McLean — 7/8/2012 12:00:00 AM

As a New York based product designer and trend forecaster, Stacy Garcia runs a design studio where she collaborates with interior designers to create gorgeous patterns and products for their one-of-a-kind spaces. And, as a fellow CMG member, I was able to see Stacy's newest creations. We recently caught up at NeoCon 2012, where Stacy showed me her latest innovations and talked design. Here is our interview.

How did you know you wanted to be part of the design world in your career?
As a child, I was always interested in art and design became a way for me to express myself and a way to communicate. As I grew older, I realized design is at the crossroads of art and commerce and today that allows me to have a job that is also my passion.

What was your first design job and how did it influence your career?
I was fortunate to have an internship at Ralph Lauren as my first design job which led to freelance opportunities within their brand. At Ralph Lauren I was exposed to the process of licensing and the idea that design can allow you to become anything you want whether it be through clothing or products. I was allowed to see the magic behind the Ralph Lauren lifestyle and that influenced my thinking as I discovered the power of design.

Why did you go into business for yourself instead of working in a corporation/business?

I think the entrepreneurial path was always in the cards for me. I come from a family of entrepreneurs, spanning back generations, and I grew up surrounded by family members discussing their various businesses. I think it was almost expected that I would own my own business. The time was right to go off on my own when I was expecting my first baby and I wanted more control over my future.

What is your latest design introduction? Describe the lines you introduced at NeoCon.
Our newest design introductions include wallcoverings and fabrics. Our Charleston wallcovering for York and our Speakeasy mini-grouping of fabrics for LebaTex Inc., are both deco and roaring twenties inspired. These collections come from our Speakeasy trend which we forecasted and now we are seeing validated on the runways and in both
residential and hospitality design. In that time period, after an economic downturn, society was ready to kick up their heels and have fun, here, we are today looking to do the same.

What’s next for you in design?
We are really excited for our foray into three-dimensional product as we are creating a furniture line with OFS Lowenstein to launch later this year. From a trend forecasting perspective, it is amazing to see the trends our studio forecasted come to life in furniture.

To find out more about Stacy Garcia or to contact her, go to www.lebatexinc.com and www.stacygarcia.com

All photography courtesy and permission of Stacy Garcia

3form: Material Illusions

Sara McLean — 7/8/2012 12:00:00 AM

Jill Canales, design innovator, creative powerhouse. As Vice President of Design and Marketing at 3form, Canales displays genius-level talent in creating some of 3form's most successful product offerings. I first met Jill at a Color Marketing Group (CMG) conference and have stayed in touch through the years. Meeting up again at NeoCon 2012, we discussed her design life and work at 3form.

Please describe your background in design.

Education-wise, I have a BFA in product design from Parsons School of Design. My career has always been centered in design, starting out at Nissan and now here at 3form. I’ve also developed a practical design curriculum for the Art Academy of San Francisco, teaching and lecturing about translating color and material theory into design. And I’ve also taught at the Cooper-Hewitt Summer Design Institute in New York. So, design is really something I live and breathe!

What was your first job in design and how did that influence your career?

As I mentioned, before joining 3form, I worked for automotive giant Nissan for 13 years. At Nissan, I designed colors and materials, developing products for up to 10 years into the future and leveraging pragmatic research about what today's consumers need and want. It was great to be a part of the tremendous success of the colors and materials of the Titan, Xterra and Altima models. Working at Nissan influenced my career by helping me understand the collaborative relationship between design and manufacturing – maintaining that subtle balance between extreme creativity and the realities of pushing the technological envelope.

How did you come to be part of the 3form family?

3form approached me when I was in the automotive industry. They were interested in partnering with Nissan to get Varia Ecoresin into the interior paneling of the Sentra model, and I worked with the company on a consulting basis for a while. Later on, they reached out to me again with the intent of bringing me in-house, and the rest is history!

What is it like to work for 3form?

Love it! What a dynamic, creative, forward-thinking, sustainability-minded company to be a part of. It’s so refreshing to be on a team that asks “why not?” instead of shying away from a creative or technical challenge. I relish having the freedom to indulge my deep love of color (and texture and new materials and design possibilities and….)

Over the past six years at 3form, I’ve had an excellent opportunity to bring to bear both my design eye and my love and understanding of materials technology. I get to provide the creative direction behind 3form products used in corporate, commercial and hospitality spaces. And I get to work with a driven team to come up with cool new stuff every year, always staying at the forefront of the trends.

I just love the challenge of developing award-winning products that meet a unique demand in a beautiful and intelligent way.

What is your latest design introduction? Please describe the lines you introduced at NeoCon.

We had a number of great new additions this year at NeoCon. First off, we introduced Hint, a captivating new set of textures for Varia Ecoresin that have an appearance of etched glass. The collection includes six fresh patterns that can be mixed-and-matched using single or double-sided relief – a tool kit allowing you to create entirely new texture effects in Varia.

Our new Varia Ecoresin interlayer is called Mirage, which is abeautiful assortment of fabric interlayers in select color themes. The ribbons seem to come to life – multi-colored, sheer and crisp – and flow in a linear formation, twisting and turning.A fresh take on a stripe, Mirage features overlapping ribbons that create gentle angles that tease out unexpected hues.

Another new product in Varia is called Mix, which offers a striated aesthetic juxtaposed with the interlayer detail of each unique segment. It’s available in a parallel or brick-type configuration.

We also launched a new material in our Stone product line called Onyx. With Onyx, you can create the appearance of real stone – with much easier fabrication. Onyx combines the classic look and natural beauty of real stone with modern illumination and the design freedom and fabrication ease of resin materials. It’s available in cross-cut and vein-cut patterns.

Finally, our 3form Studio collection added Edge, a really cool new wall feature system. This easy-to-install, modular wall treatment comes in four basic configurations, or can be customized to fit any space – from long corridors to a smaller space reserved for wall art.

So, lots of great new stuff.

VIDEO:3FORM NEW PRODUCT AND NY SHOWROOM 2012

What’s next for you in design?

Well, it’s a never-ending process, really. As soon as we’re done setting up for NeoCon, we’re already deeply involved in creating the next year’s round of product launches – always actively working at least a year out, while thinking even further out than that.

Preparing for the next launch involves traveling the globe to source new materials for interlayers, carefully studying the latest color trends, and most of all, listening closely to what our clients are saying. But that’s about all the detail I can give you for now – I wouldn’t want to reveal our secrets too early!

3form is the leading manufacturer of award-winning, sustainable building materials and architectural hardware solutions for the Architecture + Design industry. Their innovative 3form Varia Ecoresin system, with 40% recycled content, encapsulates translucent color, organic materials, sheer textiles and embossed textures within translucent panels for architectural glass alternatives. Use 3form Hardware with their innovative translucent panels to create Ready to Go translucent walls, dividers, sliding doors;or custom architectural solutions engineered by their Advanced Technology Group.

All photography and video courtesy and permission of 3form

Mark Woodman: Global Color Trends

Sara McLean — 7/8/2012 12:00:00 AM

As President of Color Marketing Group® (CMG), Mark heads up a prestigious organization of color and design professionals, to discuss and forecast the influences, indicators and directions of color on products and culture. He was also tapped to be a contributing editor of Global Color Research®, the color forecasting and publishing company responsible for the award-winning MIX Trend book and MIX magazine.

Global Color Research:
As contributing editor of Global Color Research, Mark is constantly involved in color and design predictions, so we wanted to check in on a past trend report to see if these predictions came true. One trend out of the MIX Trend book in Spring Summer 2010 called Monitor predicted the use of bright, bold, neon coloring with layers of technology as the influencer. As I view current events and demographics, this prediction appears to be spot-on.

To get a better idea of how much color and his involvement with color forecasting organizations has influenced his career, I sat down with him to discuss color, design and career paths.

Please describe how your involvement with trends organizations has shaped your career.
One of my favorite stories is having been invited to speak at a design show in Australia, I realized that color and design have the power to bring me half way around the world! Travel allows one to experience and share so many things and has helped me offer my thoughts and musings to many people...and for me to learn from them!

I came to Global Color Research, Limited, first as a customer and thought, "Wow, this would be an exciting group to work with!" And when the opportunity arose, I was fortunate to be able to take it. My expertise in North America added an additional dimension to the group and I constantly interact with colleagues from around the world. It is quite an amazing thing.

The most exciting thing, though, has been broadening my scope. My liberal arts background has come fully into play as I am writing, helping design, working on projects, assisting on color palettes and reporting. It is a group that thrives on all of us continuing to round out our knowledge and skills.

The more you can experience, the more you have to offer.

Please describe the importance of Color Marketing Group and how it’s made you a better marketer of color and trends.
First off, my involvement in Color Marketing has been a personal source of affirmation. When I joined I found other people with a shared love of color and I also learned that those of us who pay attention to color and trends are often grasping similar concepts and directions; you realize you're not so "out there" after all.

Of course, that affirmation leads naturally to one's professional side. It has helped me tailor and edit my design work to its essence and really get to the story behind the talk.

What have you learned from these experiences?
Humility. As exciting as it all is, you are just one piece of a very big world. You have to be a part of it and enjoy it, but not think you're better than any of it.

On the design side, I've learned that you never stop learning.

How do trends work for you in your design career?
Understanding trends helps me offer clients the right thing for them. Trends come from myriad sources, but in the end, they have to relate to the people with whom you're working. Whether it is interior design, a product collection or reporting on trends, you have to understand how why they will be important and relevant. As I understand new directions in technologies, I can figure out how to incorporate them into a space. When purple, for instance, becomes the color to describe undecided swing states during elections, I can explain how that hue has found neutrality.

Trends become quiet allies with all of the other research one does to create. Whether it be a trend book, room setting or color palette.

For more information on Mark Woodman, Global Color Research and Color Marketing Group:
Mark Woodman markdesigncolor@aol.com
Global Color Research www.globalcolor.co.uk
Color Marketing Group www.colormarketing.org

All photography and illustrations courtesy and permissions of Mark Woodman, Global Color Research and Color Marketing Group

Steelcase: Design Solutions for Education

Sara McLean — 8/5/2012 12:00:00 AM

During NeoCon 2012, North America’s largest design exhibition, Steelcase Education Solutions provided a showcase of collaboration and engagement between student and teacher by introducing a first-of-its-kind table-based collection of classroom furnishings called Verb, and has enhanced its award-winning learning chair, Node.

Dr. Lennie Scott-Webber, IIDA, Director of Education Environments at Steelcase, provided more insight into the launches by discussing the need for a more collaborative environment in schools today. “Children need an active learning environment today to be able to get the most out of school. The world has changed but the classroom has fallen behind the times.

This situation has helped inspire Steelcase to form the Education Solutions Group and study trending student behaviors.” Dr Scott-Webber and team found that a traditional classroom environment where there is a typical, rectangular classroom, with students sitting on one side while the teacher presents on the other, creates a culture of passive engagement by the students. On the other hand, the real world is trending toward a collaborative environment where people solve problems and generate new ideas together, driving up innovation.

Verb, the table-based collection of classroom furniture includes table-based learning spaces, each with its own whiteboard. These whiteboards assist in easy-access classroom collaborative settings that also provide students with note-taking surfaces during group projects. Positive aspects of these whiteboards include becoming instant displays for sharing with classmates as well as easy space-dividers during test time. Other furnishings in the Verb collection include instructor stations, which provide adjustable lecterns with storage; student tables, which are chevron-shaped to enhance sight-lines amongst the students and faculty; and board displays, which are easels that display whiteboards.

Node, the award-winning chair from Steelcase, now has even more features including an adjustable-height five-star base with worksurface, a new tablet stand on the worksurface and it comes in nine new signature colors to help schools express their brand. The new signature colors include crimson, purple, green, burgundy, blue, orange, brown, gold and red.

And what about color in classrooms? Steelcase has studied changes in education for years and color is one component that cannot be overlooked. Dr. Scott-Webber, when discussing the classroom environment with me stated that color is coming back into design, “Gone are the days of white walls and dreary setting; children need excitement and one way we added a punch of color into the class room setting is through our Node chair collection. It’s a small dose of color so it’s not overwhelming to the room, and kids are sitting in the chairs most of the time anyway.”

Many studies have been conducted through the years on the best uses of color in the classroom, including research by Dr. Scott-Webber. All concur that color is an important factor in the physical learning environment and impacts student achievement. And though these studies vary somewhat in how much the role of color should play in a class room environment, most recommend a variety of colors within a room to reduce eye strain, boredom and passivity.

WATCH STEELCASE VIDEO

Steelcase Education Solutions is focused on helping schools, colleges, and universities create the most effective, rewarding and inspiring environments to help improve student success. A dedicated group focused exclusively on education.

To find out more information, contact http://www.steelcase.com

All photography courtesy and permission of Steelcase

Dwell Insights: The New Face of Affluence

Sara McLean — 7/3/2012 12:00:00 AM

Dwell Insights Group, the independent marketing research division of Dwell, presented their latest findings on trends and the affluent buyer market at the Dwell on Design 2012 show.

The presentation, “2012 New Face of Affluence Survey” details a comprehensive overview of this trending group with large purchasing power and showcases important areas of focus for design professionals. This report provides an amazing amount of data including demographics, attitudes, buyer behaviors, brand behaviors and social media usage among others. If this is your target market, this information is critical to your business. For example, did you know that the New Affluents talk about what they like - brands, books, movies, products, etc - with 10 or more people every week?

With many thanks to the Dwell Insights Group, download the topline report.

For further information or to discuss more in-depth on how this report can influence your design business, please contact: Michele Gerus, Director, Client Services, Dwell Insights Group at Michele@dwell.com

All information and photography courtesy of and with permission of Dwell Insights Group, and independent market research division of Dwell

Dwell on Design 2012: Modernist Mecca

Sara McLean — 7/3/2012 12:00:00 AM

Dwell on Design, the West Coast’s largest design show, returned to the Los Angeles Convention Center June 22-24, 2012. As a sponsor of the show as well as a booth exhibitor, Dunn-Edwards is proud to be a participant in this three-day celebration of modernist design. Along with over 350 floor exhibitions, there were over 70 presentations, ongoing demonstrations and citywide tours.

This year’s show is focused on going beyond the urban dwelling, seeking a new definition of modern. “Design is driven by exploration and touches every aspect of our lives from the technology and products we use, to the way in which we communicate, to the spaces in which we live,” states Dwell Media President Michela O’Connor Abrams.

With an emphasis on outdoor living spaces, American made goods, and color popping up everywhere this year in sustainable design, here are some of my top favorite Dwell on Design exhibitions for 2012.

Kohler

With their tagline of “We Love Color”, how can I not love this booth? Partnering with Jonathan Adler on a line of colors for a range of products helped transform this space into a modernist spa mecca. Playfully designed sofas in the shape of tubs along with a train car box set as the backlot for the store front drove people through the exhibit.

AACDD

The African and African-Caribbean Design Diaspora is a three year initiative designed by the British European Design Group (BEDG) to promote the creative skills and commercial potential of ethnic minorities of African and African-Caribbean descent in the UK and their creative counterparts in Africa and the Caribbean. Lawrence Denzil Phillips, Finance Director of BEDG, along with two of artists, showcased a range of African artwork from paintings to masks and furnishings to jewelry, all hanging on poles painted in various shades of Dunn-Edwards paint. Speaking with Phillips, I asked if this was a touring show, “Not at this time though we were just in San Francisco for a show. Our next stop is to go back home to the UK where we will have a large warehouse exhibit space during the Olympics.” The UK is indeed having a banner year.

CasaBubble

These dreamy structures literally bring the outdoors in. Looking like large bubbles of air, these frameless structures are inflated by a special silent turbine, which keeps its shape, renews the air and eliminates humidity and condensation problems. And the best part? It can be installed anywhere. Freedom and imagination reign.

Revolution Design House
Based in Portland, Oregon, Revolution Design House focuses on American-made designer goods for the home. A fun example of this is called "The Bloomer", a wall-mounted pot for herbs and plants, with gorgeous eye-popping colors in laser-cut floral patterns. Vertical gardening is a definite trend.

Golden Gate Bridge Furniture Company

These limited edition furniture pieces have been crafted by bridge steel off the Golden Gate Bridge when the bridge was under repair. You can have your own piece of California history in your home or studio.

BottleHood

Instead of recycling your empty wine and liquor bottles, have you ever thought about wearing them around your neck? BottleHood has. Reclaiming bottles and hand crafting products ranging from jewelry and lighting to glassware and serving trays.

Dwell Outdoors

A favorite among the attendees, the outdoor space at Dwell is a modernist’s dream. With products ranging from prefab homes to Form LA's hottest lines of outdoor products to the latest in Airstream Trailers, this space was packed daily with attendees. Definitely a yearly favorite of mine!

Student Designers

Design and art colleges increased in exhibition attendance this year, and several graduate students of design displayed their thesis work. Amazing new talents on the rise!

I can't wait to see what's in store for 2013!
For more information on the exhibits, speakers, tours and seminars Dwell on Design, visit www.dwellondesign.com

All photography by Sara McLean

Frank Lloyd Wright: A Prairie Tour

Sara McLean — 6/26/2012 12:00:00 AM

With the 75th anniversary of Taliesin West this year and NeoCon's recent show in Chicago, it was a perfect time to take a historical homes tour of Frank Lloyd Wright's famed Prairie Style of architecture in Oak Park, Illinois to gather more architectural and design inspiration.

History of the Prairie Style
The Prairie Style (abt 1893 -1920) transformed the architectural design landscape by showcasing low horizontal lines and open interior spaces. Frank Lloyd Wright was a leader of this transformation and helped to develop this Prairie Style of home.

Wright believed that the rooms in Victorian era homes were boxed-in and confining spaces, so he began designing homes with these low horizontal lines and open interior spaces. Furniture was typically built-in or specially designed to the home, and rooms were often divided by leaded glass panels. These homes were called prairie style after Wright's 1901 Ladies Home Journal article titled "A Home in a Prairie Town", and were designed to blend in with the flat, prairie landscape.

Typical features of a Prairie Style home include low-pitched roof lines, overhanging eaves, horizontal lines, central chimneys, open floor plans and clerestory windows. Earlier versions of Prairie homes were built with plaster and wood trim or horizontal board and batten, while later versions were built with concrete block.

The Tour
Located in Oak Park, Illinois, Wright's Prairie homes dot the landscape. And with a myriad of tours underway every day, one can see many of the homes built by Wright during his residency in Illinois. Here are just a few of the homes on display along with Unity Temple, one of the best examples of Wright's design principles still in existence.

1898: Frank Lloyd Wright's Home and Studio, 951 Chicago Avenue, Oak Park, Ill
In 1898 Wright added a studio to his Oak Park home where he was able to experiment with light and form, and conceived the concepts of Prairie style architecture. Walking through the business entrance to his studio, columns showcase symbolic designs. According to the tour guide book, "The book of knowledge issues from the tree of life, a symbol of natural growth. A scroll of architectural plans unrolls from it. On either side are sentry storks, perhaps symbols of wisdom and fertility."

1895, Rebuilt in 1923: Nathan G Moore House, 333 Forest Avenue, Oak Park, Ill
Though not a Prairie Style home, Moore's home is part of the Oak Park tour. Nathan Moore told Wright, "We don't want you giving us anything like that house you did for Winslow. I don't fancy sneaking down back streets to my morning train just to avoid being laughed at." So Wright, in need of money, agreed to build this house that he found "repugnant", a Tudor Revival. A fire destroyed the upper floor of the house and Wright built a new version in 1923, retaining its Tudor flavor.

1906: Edward R. Hills House, 313 Forest Avenue, Oak Park, Illinois
The Hills house was originally located on a lot north of where it now resides, and it was moved in 1906 to be the foundation of a house for William Gray's daughter Mary and her husband Edward Hills. Gray commissioned Wright to remodel the home and little of the original 1874 home remained after the remodel. Exterior walls were covered in stucco, the home was rotated 90 degrees so it faced north, and the windows were organized in horizontal bands. In 1977 a fire severely damaged the home and has undergone extensive restoration by Mr. and Mrs. Thomas DeCaro. Through this effort, this home is often called the "Hills-DeCaro House."

1902: Arthur Heurtley House
Designed for Arthur Heurtley, who was a banker with an interest in the arts; this home has variegated brick work with vibrant color. There is a continuous band of windows on most of the second floor, which are sheltered by deep soffits and a vast hip roofline.

1909: Mrs. Thomas H. Gale House, 6 Elizabeth Court, Oak Park, Ill
Laura Gale, widow of realtor Thomas Gale, commissioned this home for her and her children. Her husband, Thomas Gale, had previously commissioned Wright in 1892 to build two homes on Chicago Avenue called the "Bootleg Houses". The home was built with extensive use of geometrical shapes for detail and mass, showcasing severe rectilinear geometry. It is considered one of the most unusual projects of Wright's Oak Park years and remind many of his Fallingwater project.

1906: Peter A Beachy House, 238 Forest Avenue, Oak Park, Ill
Peter Beachy commissioned Wright to remodel the former gothic cottage that resided on the property. This brick and stucco residence displays open gables at the roofline that resemble many of Wright's residences around the same era. The Beachy house is oriented at right angles to the street in order to utilize the pre-existing foundation.

1901: Frank W. Thomas House, 201 Forest Avenue, Oak Park, Ill
This home was commissioned by James C. Rogers for his daughter and her husband, Frank Wright Thomas. The Thomas house is considered Wright's first Prairie Style home in Oak Park and his first all stucco home in Oak Park.

1905-1908: Unity Temple - Wright's "little jewel box" 875 Lake Street, Oak Park, Ill
Unity Temple was one of Frank Lloyd Wright's favorite commissions. In 1905, after a storm destroyed the original church, Wright was asked to design the church. His plans included a cubist building made of poured concrete, which was revolutionary at the time. His idea was to have the building express the simplicity of ancient temples and suggested that the building be called a temple instead of a church. There are still services held at the temple and daily tours.

To see more of the tour and the history of Chicago, check out the Chicago Architecture Foundation, www.architecture.org for a myriad of lectures and tours dedicated to architecture and design.

All Photography by Sara McLean

Behind the Scenes at NeoCon

Sara McLean — 6/26/2012 12:00:00 AM

Throughout NeoCon's 44 year history, the show held at The Merchandise Mart (MMPI) in Chicago has been the event for the exhibition of contract furniture, furnishings and services in commercial design. This year provided additional product and information depth with a new President, more focus on design’s global impact and a design program tailored to the professional futures of design students. I sat down with Mark Falanga, President of MMPI, during NeoCon to get a behind-the-scenes perspective on the show.

With eighteen years of experience working at MMPI, Falanga has overseen all the leasing and marketing efforts for all of MMPI’s contract furnishings businesses, including NeoCon® in Chicago, Illinois, NeoCon® East in Baltimore, Maryland and IIDEX®/NeoCon® Canada in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. During this tenure as Senior Vice President, he has also managed all office and retail leasing and marketing efforts of the MMPI.

A Global Focus

As NeoCon opened its doors for 2012, I wondered if there would be any noticeable or significant changes with Falanga’s new tenure as President. Walking me through the process and history of the show, he divulges, “There aren’t going to be any significant changes as the show has a history of running well, but we have focused more on a global reach, especially in the Middle East. In areas such as Dubai, we are marketing to possible attendees as new construction in the Middle East continues to increase. And it’s working! This year we have an attendance of 72 countries and all 50 states.”

The Show

These three days each year are intense for attendees, walking miles to tour vendor booths, network with customers and collaborate with fellow designers and manufacturers. Curious as to why the show is set on three days with the amount of floor space to cover, Mark shares, “The show used to be five days; however, the decision to cut it down to three days was driven by the exhibitors and showrooms that found it was too hard to be away from daily business activities for that long. So, these three days provide attendees more concentrated efforts to conduct business and push better time management. To help with this process, we have a website within neocon.com called myneocon.com, which provides attendees the ability to organize their activities, find inspiration, and promote their products if they’re a manufacturer.”

Another key focus of NeoCon is design students. With special exhibits, panel discussions, and docent-led tours, the days are full of learning experiences. There is even a student design charrette where design groups are provided design problems and need to present solutions to a panel of judges by the end of the show.

Behind the scenes of the show, the MMPI sales team travels to shows all over the world, searching out appropriate products for the show. This experienced team assists Mark in determining the best product mix for NeoCon. And if a manufacturer is showing for the first time, a “wow” factor is definitely encouraged. “The showrooms are extremely competitive in trying to capture your business, so a common mistake for first year exhibitors is to not put too much emphasis on the booth design. They learn fast that attendees need that “wow” to grab attention during the show or they get ignored. It usually only takes one year, then they come back the next year with a whole new showroom or booth, typically hiring a designer with expertise in exhibition design.”

Trending Now

Walking the show daily and meeting with all the showrooms provides additional insight into the 2012 show. So I asked Mark what his thoughts were on trends he was seeing at the show. “I’m seeing collaborative and open environments, informal settings and more attention paid to having fun. There is also more of an emphasis on color than in the past few years.” What colors specifically? He chuckles, “White, gray and black, always a safe answer!”

Parting Words

Chicago, with its vast history of architecture and design, provides additional inspiration outside of the show. What should an out-of-towner do and see after the show? Mark’s love of the city shows as he exclaims, “There are 176 neighborhoods in Chicago, all providing amazing opportunities for exploration and eating. The fabric of the city is tied to each of these neighborhoods. Also, we have amazing cultural opportunities with over 65 museums and theatres. Explore!”

Prior to joining MMPI, Falanga was the director of business development and market research at Marvel, Weiser Lock, two Masco Corporation divisions. During his career at Masco, Falanga was also an adjunct professor at Northwestern University’s Kellogg Graduate School of Management from 1990-1995, teaching New Product Development, an MBA marketing course. He was distinguished as one of four outstanding faculty members at Kellogg for each year he taught as determined by a student vote. Falanga holds a Ph.D. in Urban, Technological and Environmental Planning and Architecture from the University of Michigan.

All Photography courtesy of and with permission of MMPI

NeoCon 2012: Trends and Takeaways

Sara McLean — 6/19/2012 12:00:00 AM

The design community descended on Chicago, IL for the annual NeoCon trade show to see the latest in color, design and architecture for the commercial market. This three-day extravaganza provides the best of innovation and trend, providing exciting products and tools for future design projects.

Driven by the past few years of hard economic times, there was an optimistic, upbeat feeling among show-goers, ready to take on the future of design and shake off the past years. Here, a quick overview of some of the trends and takeaways I noted.

Color explosions: throughout the floors, I noticed bright punches of color scattered through all products from chairs to walls to gadgets. Not just the leafy green or punch of fuchsia paired with crisp white that we’ve noted in past shows; this year was a veritable rainbow of hues from brilliant cobalt blues to yellows to pinks and more. Grays were ubiquitous, while wine/magenta provided extra proof of this color trend. Dark browns popped up in several show rooms as well.

Collaborative focus: companies displayed products with a focus on workplace collaboration among peers. Products included range of chair designs, pod-like meeting rooms, open-forum spaces, and walls and furnishings that are light and easily moveable.

For privacy’s sake: the same companies providing collaboration among workspaces also revealed products with a focus on privacy. Settings of chairs with high backs and sides were seen as hideaways to focus on the tasks at hand.

Let’s be flexible: with the need for both collaborative and private environments, furnishings must work harder. Many products on display had multiple uses, melding in various forms, ready take on the task at hand.

Fun times!: people are ready for fun, especially in the workplace, and products everywhere showed ways to bring back the smiles. Colorful, happy spaces full of cheer.

Informality reigns: no longer do workspaces need to feel so formal. This is not a new trend, however, I was hard-pressed to find a stuffy, formal space at this year’s show.

Texture and materiality: from the Wolf-Gordon sculpture on the first level to dyed yarns threaded throughout in many shapes, texture took on a threaded, finite quality; blending color throughout material. Quilted shapes are taking hold, carrying from residential and European trends over to commercial settings.

I need air: Perforations in fabrics, wall panels and other products reveal another layer of fun and informality to a space, while still maintaining a beautiful design aesthetic.

Stay tuned for further in-depth reporting from NeoCon 2012!

All Photography by Sara McLean

Riviera Historic Homes Tour

Sara McLean — 6/12/2012 12:00:00 AM

Presenting a peek of the Riviera Historic Homes Tour, a recent tour of the creation and evolution of the Hollywood Riviera neighborhood in Torrance and Redondo Beach, CA. The Riviera Garden Club promoted and set up the tour, and members studied the history of the neighborhood and brought families together who own several of the historic gems on the hillside for the tour held on June 1 and 2, 2012.

The Tour

Seven homes were on display, each showing an important piece of the historical puzzle of the neighborhood. These seven homes were built in the late 1920s to early 1930s, representing coastal Mediterranean architecture along with references to European travels from the original families who owned these estates.

The Reid-Rice Home
Built in 1928, "The Castle" was considered the first home built in the Hollywood Riviera. The Italian Mediterranean mansion was designed for Clifford Reid, the Hollywood Riviera developer.

Dr. Smith-Odom Home
Built in 1929, this Argenbright-designed home was one of the earliest homes on the Hollywood Riviera. This Spanish Colonial design features balconies, a courtyard and many original features still on display today.

Marlow-Block Home
Built in 1928, this Spanish-style home was designed by architect Lester Sherer and featured unique hidden passages from the Prohibition era still showcased today. As the second home developed in the Hollywood Riviera, this home was used as the model home for the area during the early days of development.

Ellinwood-Vargas Home
Built in 1929, this Argenbright-designed home was built for Dr. Ellinwood, who owned many acres of land. Part of the property eventually became Walteria.

Stewart-Walecki Home
Built in 1929, this Argenbright-designed home was built for Roy Stewart and family. Roy's wife was the sister to Clifford Reid, the Hollywood Riviera developer. The foyer of this home leads to an enclosed patio.

Oden-Martis Home
Built in 1930, this Argenbright-designed Spanish-farmhouse was originally owned by Daisy Oden, who was a teacher at Redondo High School. An expansive back lawn leads to a large "party room" and outdoor covered patio where the current owners' children hang out today.

Argenbright-Broeg Home
Built in 1929 by and for architect C.S. Argenbright, this home boasts several original frescoes, hand hewn beams and Prohibition era accoutrements such as viewing wall and speakeasy door.

Watch the movie here to catch a glimpse of the tour.

The History

Jared Sydney Torrance, founder and developer of Torrance, CA, and Clifford F. Reid, founder and developer of the Hollywood Riviera, planned and developed the original Hollywood Riviera in the 1910s and 1920s. Though it’s unlikely that they met, each brought a love of the coastline that can be felt even today.

Clifford Reid decided to duplicate the French Riviera near Hollywood in order to bring celebrities outside the city. Choosing vacant land between Torrance and Redondo Beach, the Hollywood Riviera was born.

To read more about the history of the Hollywood Riviera and the Riviera Garden Club, please contact www.RivieraGardenClub.org

All Photography by Sara McLean

Princess Cruises: Globally Inspired

Sara McLean — 6/12/2012 12:00:00 AM

Princess Cruises, the third largest cruise line in the world, has released a new video in their series of videos previewing the new Royal Princess, slated to debut June 2013. In this latest installment, the interior designers offer a peek at what passengers can expect when the ship opens for business.

The video features Vice President of Interior Design, Teresa Anderson, and Coordinating Architect, Giacomo Mortola, and leads viewers throughout the ship design, showcasing glass spiral staircases in the atrium to Frank Lloyd Wright inspired décor in the dining room. Here is the journey.

For more information or to contact Princess Cruises,www.princess.com

To read the official press release, http://www.princess.com/news/article.jsp?newsArticleId=na1240

Video and photography courtesy and with permission of Princess Cruises

Simply a Renaissance: 2013 Color Trends

Sara McLean — 6/3/2012 12:00:00 AM

Renaissance 2013, a movement brought on by a period of pessimism and nostalgia for the mid-20th century, while new scientific discoveries, inventions, massive changes to the American landscape and innovations in medicine, art, politics permeate. Read about this and other trends affecting color in our 2013 color trends report.

Click on the photo to download the PDF book.

Welcome! Front Door Color Ideas

Sara McLean — 5/22/2012 12:00:00 AM

Summer is here and what a better way to showcase the change than showing off a fresh color! The color of the front door is as impactful as the rest of the exterior, including landscaping. It can welcome a visitor or customer into a traditional or contemporary space, and provides a focal point and strong design element. As a design professional you clearly want to convey a warmth, happiness and comfort for your business and clients’ homes. Here are some tips for choosing the right color for your welcome statement.

Exterior Complements

Brick Exteriors

Brick red exteriors and buildings painted red look best with darker doors and light trim. To play up a contemporary façade, try a dark purple front door and complement with a light tan or gray trim color. And, to highlight tradition, paint the door black and the trim white.

Neutral Tan Exteriors

When a building or home is painted a neutral color, there are a variety of options and color choice can be as simple as what you and your client prefer. Cream colored doors look great if the exterior is a darker brown shade; however, cream will fade into the background of a tan exterior. Other more striking choices are rust, which will look great on most neutral exteriors, and black, which, if paired with cream, provides a wow factor.

Bright Exteriors

If you live or work in an area that allows you to push your creativity on the exterior, this is definitely a fun feature to highlight. Yellow and pink exteriors pop when paired with black doors. Light gray and white exteriors are suited well to blue, maroon or black doors.

A Colorful Welcome - A few color favorites

RED: A front red door is powerful, fun, bright and festive. It attracts attention and is welcoming to all. Red is very commonly paired with colonial-style and traditional-styled homes and buildings because it showcases these typical traditional colors – white, ivory, blue and hunter green – so well.

DEA103 Striking Red	DEA149 Spiced Berry	DEA107 Hot Jazz
DEA154 Red Revival	DEA152 Deep Crimson	DEA155 Arabian Red

ORANGE: Pumpkin-orange doors are refreshing and vibrant, still providing the festive atmosphere of red, yet creating an extra layer of distinction. More striking in its presence, it conveys a spicy autumnal warmth and enhances olive green, purple, cream and yellow exteriors.

DE5118 BBQ	DE5179 Bronzed Orange	DE5153 Iron Ore
DE5181 Georgia Clay	DE5187 Weathered Saddle	DE5151 Cinnamon Stick

PLUM/PURPLE: At first glance, plum may seem to be an unusual color for the front door, but it’s eye-catching, trendy and lends an air of mystery and a regal quality. It’s a perfect choice for that hip hotel or contemporary abode. Plum front doors mix well with white, cream, yellow, orange, green and brown exteriors.

DEA192 Violet Shadow	DEA145 Wine Stain	DEA193 Preserve
DEA143 Purple Odyssey	DEA195 Primitive Plum	DE5951 Exotic Evening

INDIGO/BLUE: Royal, inky, and classic. Blues are classic and traditional, providing an elegant look in its darker shades. Indigo may contain slight purple undertones or black undertones and complement blue, green, white, cream and gold. Brighter blues show off fun and friendly exteriors, and are great for retail spaces and many styles of residences.

DEA191 Magic Night	DEA136 Beautiful Blue	DE5811 Summer Blue
DEA137 Deep Sapphire	DE5832 Navy Teal	DEA138 Indigo Night

STEEL GRAY: Gray is trendy and popular, providing the design professional even more choices for this beautiful range of neutrals. To blend well, a gray door can enhance a mostly white exterior without detracting from the rest of the architecture. On the other hand, to stand out among the crown, choosing a gray shade with purple or brown undertones will elevate the exterior and please the eye.

DEA183 Dark Shadows	DE6319 Gray Flannel	DEC751 Ash Gray
DE6355 Tarnished Silver	DE6383 Bank Vault	DE6370 Charcoal Smudge

WHITE: Clean, crisp, contemporary and traditional. White is a popular door choice when the exterior is painted bold or vibrant colors, and it provides a clean contrast to traditional gray, blue, brown or yellow. Simple and to the point. White is a standout.

Don’t Forget

Other items to consider when choosing color for front doors: the surrounding landscape that will showcase another level of color and detail, neighborhood restrictions with pre-approved color schemes, whether the building or home is considered a historical property, where certain colors are best for a time period, and of course, the architectural style of the building or home.

Front doors are just one aspect of a building’s architecture, but an important statement to all who are welcome. Make your door another expression of design taste.

Photography by Dunn-Edwards and courtesy of Fred Fehlau and Bethany Nauert Photography

Lotusland: A Landscape Study

Sara McLean — 5/15/2012 12:00:00 AM

Hidden among the Santa Barbara mountainside is a historical landscape gem called Lotusland. Inspired by Madame Ganna Walska, who purchased the land in 1941, the land already had many of the outposts, swimming pools and some plantings from two previous owners. Today, the 37 acres of property is home to over 3,000 species of plants from all over the world.

Madame Ganna Walska

Ganna Walska, born Hanna Puacz on June 26, 1887 in Poland, grew up in an eccentric and wildly entertaining world. Sent to live with relatives in St Petersburg, Russia early on after her mother’s death, she had ambitions to be in the entertainment industry, so she pursued singing and opera lessons. Changing her name to Madame Ganna Walska – Ganna, the exotic Russian version of Hanna and Walska, from her love of the waltz; she soon found the notoriety and glamour she sought.

Madame Ganna Walska became one of the original international celebutantes, attracting attention for her singing and beauty, and marrying six men over her lifetime. Later in life at her California estate, her love of horticulture gave her the peace she had been seeking, always hunting for more plant species and planning out her garden. Dedicating the remaining forty years of her life to Lotusland, she acquired some of the rarest, most exotic species of plants in the world.

On March 2, 1984, Madame Walska died at Lotusland, leaving her entire estate to the Ganna Walska Lotusland Foundation, in order to ensure that her legacy would remain intact for future generations.

Lotusland Tour

Lotusland contains an amazing array of gardens, each strategically connected by a series of paths. Dotting the gardens are unusual objects throughout from glass from a local bottling plant, to seashells to stone statues and fountains. Of the many gardens on the property, here are just a few: Theatre Garden, Water Garden, Cactus Garden, Fern Garden, Aloe Garden and Japanese Garden.

Flora and Fauna Close Ups
Take a closer look at the many beautiful plants and flowers along the tour.

Lotusland-Inspired Color Palette

DE5019 Rosewine	DE5184 Brilliant Beige
DE5779 Bayshore	DE5584 Shrubbery
DE5317 Precious Nectar	DEW317 Day Lily
DE5039 Real Raspberry	DE6220 Porous Stone

For more information and to book your tour, contact www.lotusland.org. Reservations are required and may be made by calling 805-969-9990.

All photography by Sara McLean with corporate permissions courtesy the Lotusland Foundation

Leatrice Eiseman: It's a Colorful Life!

Sara McLean — 6/3/2012 12:00:00 AM

As guest blogger of specs+spaces for June, Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director of the Pantone Institute, has become an icon of color throughout the world. With her new book Pantone: The 20th Century in Color, recently published, we interviewed Leatrice (also known as Lee) to find out more about her life in color. Here is her story.

Color Sense

The passion for color began early in Lee’s life as she felt inspired by her mother’s sense and use of color. She explains, “My mother was a demon with the paint brush. I would come home from school one day every spring when other mothers were doing spring cleaning, and my mother would have transformed the major living spaces of the house. That was her form of spring cleaning—a new coat of paint on everything that didn’t move, including the upright piano.”

Lee found she had a proclivity for color, combining and choosing combinations, so she pursued both design and psychology in college. “I felt that they were two important paths to understanding how color works and affects us,” she disclosed.

The Business of Color

Color consulting became the hallmark of Lee’s business, consulting clientele with personal image color choices, as well as assisting home buyers with interior and exterior colors. Founding the Eiseman Center for Color Information and Training in 1991 on Bainbridge Island, Washington, Lee has been a color consultant for 30 years, with numerous publications touting her as the “color guru”. She actively consults for all industries, provides training for color and design specialties, and gives color presentations worldwide, showcasing insights into the latest color trends.

Curious about her methods for helping to define color and design trends, hoping to gain more kernels of knowledge I could use in my own color trend analysis, Lee reveals, “It’s a multitude of factors, including gauging the human ‘zeitgeist ‘ at any given time, looking at leading influences such as upcoming films, tracking art collections, pop culture, fashion, global events, travel, cyclical influences, socio-economic influences, lifestyles, new technologies, the food and wellness industry, observation and research and so on. The challenge is putting it all together so that it forms a logical direction.”

Color Gets Personal

As a color expert, Lee works in a vast realm of color throughout the world, creating a wealth of color knowledge at her disposal. With that in mind, I was curious if she had a go-to palette or any favorites among the rainbow. Lee exclaims, “Oh no. I was as experimental as my mother. I loved creating new combinations and it was always fun to create something new and different. So it’s difficult to choose just one color that I can’t live without. It would be difficult for me to function in my color world without a representation of every color family.”

When asked if she has a color that describes her best, she doesn’t hesitate, “Purple. Especially the red purples. I have to keep my energy up—that’s the red side, as well as staying cool and composed—the blue side. Together they make purple—a good balance of warm and cool, some complexity because of the marriage of cool and warm opposites, striving for creativity and some uniqueness.”

What’s Next?

Lee, always on the run, explains what her calendar looks like for the foreseeable future, “I am a multi-tasker (not always a good thing) so I have another book I am working on (maybe two), working on the trends for 2014, travel to London, Paris and South Africa and preparing for a summer color/design class that I teach on Bainbridge island.” What a colorful life!

Lightning Round

- quick insights into the daily life of a color guru

What's your ideal of the perfect day?

Taking a walk with my husband and my Labradoodle, eating the perfect meal (pescatarian—no meat please), completing a task, reading a book or watching a great film—as I said, I am a multi-tasker!!

What's your favorite kitchen gadget?

A vegetable peeler. Simple technology, gets the job done.

What's your favorite design accessory?

In interiors, it would be a piece of art , especially glass. In clothing—shoes, scarves and/or unique jewelry.

Do you have a uniform or "lucky" outfit/something you wear that makes you feel like it'll be a great day?

I love simplicity in design and quality in texture. A cashmere turtleneck and soft wool flannel plants in a favorite color (like aubergine) with an exciting scarf or interesting piece of jewelry is a satisfying outfit that I know I can rely on.

Are you a books or Kindle person?

Books—I still like the “feel’ of a book.

What's your signature fragrance?

I love L’Occitane fragrances. They are fresh and never heavy, especially if a bit citrusy. In flowers, it is the scent of the lilac or jasmine.

What's your favorite meal?

As my diet consists mainly of vegetables, grains, olive oil, nuts, seeds and fruits I especially enjoy the clever use of spices and flavorings and sometimes those that might have a bit of exotic flair, such as Indian curries. But I also enjoy or the artful simplicity of Japanese cuisine. Presentation is key—especially in the use of color on the plate.

What's your favorite season?

Spring. The sense of renewal and all of the wonderful colorful surprises that pop off the foliage. I live in the northwest where gardens are magnificent with color, especially in springtime and this is the beginning season of visual treats everywhere.

What's your most prized possession?

Scrapbooks of family pictures.

What's your last splurge?

We rented a fabulous home on the river and taking our entire family to Lake Tahoe for a fun vacation. We all pitched in making the dinners and lunches, played silly games, hiked, went boating, swimming and even spotted a big brown bear. Fortunately, he didn’t see us.

What's your favorite vacation spot and why?

Italy is my favorite place to visit. Although we go there annually for the Salone del Moblier in Milan, we always manage to take a few days on Lake Como. We love the area, the cuisine, the styling, the charm and architecture. Bellisimo!!

Photography courtesy and permission of Leatrice Eiseman

Pantone: The 20th Century in Color

Leatrice Eiseman — 6/3/2012 12:00:00 AM

Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director of the Pantone Color Institute, has written an expansive new resource on color called Pantone: The 20^th Century in Color.

In collaboration with Keith Recker, they have identified more than 200 touchstones of color through art, products, décor and fashion. Palettes are provided to showcase a visual guide to each decade. These color resources guide us through each unique highpoint within the decades and help to create inspiration for the future. Here is one of my favorite stories:

“The Leyendecker Man:

The career of illustrator Joseph Christian Leyendecker was fueled by a booming market for magazines that created an intense demand for illustrators. Over a forty-year period he created more than three hundred covers for the Saturday Evening Post alone, where he is credited with originating the rotund, rosy-cheeked Santa which still presides over the American Christmas season, as well as sash-wearing Baby New Year.

As the number of printed pages grew, so did the number of advertisements needed to fund them – and the growing commercial market is a second force behind Leyendecker’s career. He was among the most influential commercial artists of his day, starting with years of work for Chicago-based menswear labels Kuppenheimer and Hart, Schaffner and Marx.

Leyendecker’s most enduring commercial creation, however, was the Arrow Collar Man. Leyendecker himself approached Arrow with the idea of creating a signature masculine icon for their company: “Not simply a man, but a manly man, a handsome man…an ideal American man.” The fit, pensive and undeniably handsome character created by Leyendecker came to represent the ideal of masculine beauty still resonant today. The Arrow Collar Man also remains one of advertising’s great success stories: he helped Arrow eventually gain control of 96 percent of the market for store-bought shirts.

What was the final force behind Leyendecker’s success? Love. His life-partner of nearly fifty years, Charles Beach, was the model for the Arrow campaign. They kept their personal life mostly hidden, but their undercover attachment may explain the smoldering quality of Leyendecker’s colors and brushwork.

Toast, Rutabega, and True Blue create a stable triad of sincerity and wholesomeness in Leyendecker’s palette – which Peat, Nasturtium, and Prune bring alive with complex and passionate color.”

Pantone The 20^th Century in Color can be purchased at www.pantone.com

To find out more about Leatrice Eiseman, www.colorexpert.com

All photography courtesy and permission of Leatrice Eiseman and The Pantone Institute

TreeHouse: Smart Building, Better Living

Sara McLean — 6/3/2012 12:00:00 AM

Dunn-Edwards has arrived in Austin, Texas. Known throughout California, Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico and West Texas as the “#1 choice of painting professionals,” is now available at a new kind of home improvement store called TreeHouse. I recently sat down with Jason Ballard, co-founder of TreeHouse, to discover more about the store concept and how his dream came to life.

Boyhood Dreams

Growing up on the east Texas gulf, Jason had a Huck Finn childhood full of boyhood dreams, fishing with his grand father and staying outside until all hours playing with friends and family. With this deep love of nature ingrained in him through his teen years, he ended up majoring in biology and ecology at Texas A & M, then moved on to Boulder, Colorado to become involved in the green building industry.

Jason’s friends, Ryland and Sherry, who are professional green builders, taught Jason the green building trade. Jason reveals, “During this early time of green building, green builders had to seek out green products from everywhere, creating higher costs and longer wait times for these projects.” Yet, there was still a belief in this way of life.

Concept and Inspiration

Great ideas tend to form through solving everyday problems. Jason, seeing the problems that builders go through on a daily basis of price and travel, and inspired to be the solution, decided to be a green retailer. Social entrepreneurship meets ecology! “With this idea forming, we hit the ground running – building back-end systems, finding investors and vendors, and ultimately naming the storefront. I give that credit to my wife, Jenny, who came up with the name TreeHouse,” he disclosed. Opening in Austin, Texas, in October 2011, Jason’s dream came to life.

Centered on a team of educated experts from New York to South Dakota, Colorado and beyond, TreeHouse is a green idea center. Three certified interior designers and an architect are among the employees, all sharing the same values of green building and moving the company forward in the right direction.

Along with Jason, who is has the official, creatively-named title VP of Sustainability and Education/Fly Fisherman, the other founding members of TreeHouse include Greg King, CEO/Visionary; Kevin Graham, VP Marketing/Technical Rock Climber; Evan Loomis, VP Business Development, HR & IR/Adventure Aficionado; Brian Williamson, VP Merchandising & Operations/Baseball Coach; and Paul Yanosy, Chief of Staff & Counsel/Backpacker.

TreeHouse Design

Local-centric in values, the merchandising concept is built around the local Austin lifestyle. “We built our company based on the idea that people, communities, nature, excellence and dreams all matter. Sourcing local and green vendors, all committed to making TreeHouse the perfect one-stop shop for most green home-building needs." Jason details, “We never want to be cookie cutter; our merchandising will ultimately vary place to place as we face expansion opportunities. Right now, we are testing the perfect mix of product and want to become known as Austin’s home center choice. Ultimately, the vision of green building for us is to be as normal as sliced bread, not a separate division of the building industry.”

Partnerships in local Austin companies in building categories such as windows, air filtration, solar, water filters, kitchen and bath products, hardware and tools, and of course, paint, provide the Austin consumer an abundance of opportunity to easily go green in their home. There is also a “Better Living” category of products, all aimed at providing items that you may need to live and work better.

Education is a very important part of sustainable living, and TreeHouse provides a continual schedule of classes on everything from native planting to flooring installation. And, with a stream of public relations campaigns to highlight local and green living, ranging from hosting regular farmers’ markets to Earth Day event involvement to grass roots marketing campaigns, TreeHouse is gaining a cult-like following among the Austin crowd.

The Involvement of Dunn-Edwards

Committed to providing Austin with the best that green building has to offer, the folks at TreeHouse searched and found Dunn-Edwards. With the Dunn-Edwards commitment to green and the launch of Enso, the company's Zero-VOC, no odor product line, the choice was easy to make. With this partnership in place, Dunn-Edwards is one of only two paint manufacturers in the store front. “As future expansion plans formulate through the Southwest region, we are looking at Dunn-Edwards to continue being a paint partner,” Jason explains.

Brad Wheeler, Director of Channel Management at Dunn-Edwards, has been part of the TreeHouse dream prior to the launch of the store. Jason further states, “We feel like Brad is an employee of TreeHouse. He assisted in so many ways, helping us to set up the merchandising to providing assisting in classes and events, Brad and Dunn-Edwards have provided that extra level of partnership we need to be successful.”

What’s Next?

Committed to making TreeHouse successful, there aren’t any immediate plans to expand. As Jason details, “We want to make sure we have the perfect product mix, get profitable and become a home leader in Austin, only then we can think of what comes next.” Expansion plans may either follow a regional path or follow the where the green movement takes them.

What’s Up, Jason?

As is a specs+spaces custom, we like to find out more about the person behind the story. Who is Jason Ballard? What does he do outside of work? Surprising and thoughtful answers provide insight into the man behind the idea.

Growing up on the Gulf Coast of Texas, surrounded by nature, Jason became an avid trail runner. With the goal of running an ultra marathon, the Black Hills 100, he finds this pursuit the ultimate in pushing a person to this limits of what one can do. “I love the outdoors and really any activity that keeps me outdoors is a key to a very happy day.” Other hobbies include fly fishing, reading, watching Texas A & M football, and listening to music.

Ultimately, Jason’s future dreams include becoming a priest in the Episcopal church. Early on in his education, he began pursuing this line before committing to biology and ecology. “I’m a conservationist at heart, and like my father who was also an entrepreneur, I find that this genetic predisposition to follow my dreams of having my own business led me in this direction.”

Facing this journey of entrepreneurship with his wife, Jenny and two children by his side, is the ultimate dream. “We’ve faced some personal hardships recently, and with two young children, launching a new business and this hardship, I find that the best time spent outside of work is just to be with my family. Making sure the children get outside every day and play, providing them a similar experience to my childhood puts a smile on my face,” states Jason.

Parting Words of Wisdom

As our interview comes to a close, I ask Jason for any final words, a perspective on life. He pauses to reflect on his life and accomplishments, turns and says, “TreeHouse isn’t going to solve the world’s problems, but hopeful signs are pointing us in the right direction. Creating meaningful work opportunities, a place where values and craftsmanship intermingle seamlessly, is something I can be proud of. Why we do what we do is just as important as what we do in life.”

To learn more, http://www.treehouseonline.com

All photography courtesy and permissions of TreeHouse

Mojave Rock Ranch: Frontier Luxury

Sara McLean — 5/5/2012 12:00:00 AM

On a recent self-driven architectural tour of Palm Springs during Desert Spanish Weekend, I kept running into this other family throughout the day. Towards the end of the tour we introduced ourselves and this is how my friendship with Troy Williams and Gino Dreese began. Showing me a postcard of their property in Joshua Tree called Mojave Rock Ranch, I was instantly intrigued. Further research led me to a tour of the property and a day spent with two creative geniuses. Enjoy the tour!

A Love of Landscape Design

Troy Williams grew up in Delray Beach, Florida, and his first contact with landscaping started out as a chore. Having to mow the lawn and trim the plants as a child, Troy soon learned that he loved the outdoors. Armed with a degree from Syracuse University in Environmental Design, he moved to Hollywood. While he was busy studying in the States, Gino Dreese, who grew up in Amsterdam, studied landscape architecture in The Netherlands. From here, he moved to the States and met Troy. Soon after, they started their first landscape design business in Hollywood.

Knowing that the best way to learn design is to live it, Troy started work at a nursery, learning exterior plantings and landscaping. Customers found themselves needing help in planting and maintenance, so Troy tackled these projects after work. Gino, on other hand, worked at a job maintaining interior plantings and florals, all the while learning hands-on the care of these types of plants.

Shortly into their day jobs, they realized they could have more control over the design and soon started their first landscape design business catering to the local Hollywood clientele and movie industry. As their first living portfolio, their Craftsmen style home in Hollywood constantly evolved to include cactus, desert, tropical, sun, and ginger gardens among others. Constantly researching and testing plants, knowledge came by practice and customers felt an instant comfort level when viewing the portfolio. Gino states, “We just knew it was the best way for our customers to see what we could do. Hollywood is a competitive place and this living proof of our skills seemed to win over customers.”

Mojave Rock Ranch: The Idea

A quick trip to the desert sparked the imaginations of Gino and Troy. Exploring the area and staying at a local rustic inn provided more insight into the Joshua Tree region. Initially looking at vacation locations as a getaway from Los Angeles, it took a few more years before they came back to the idea of moving to the desert. Gino explains, “We finally decided to leave Los Angeles and shut down our landscape design business after 18 years. We landed in Carmel, California, which as you know is far different than Joshua Tree and while we loved it, everything was already done. There were so many restrictions on building anything new, so Joshua Tree entered our thoughts again."

They found a blurb in a local real estate section stating “artist retreat on 40 acres” and thought it sounded promising. Troy explains, “The real estate agent gave us the keys to go look as it was in the middle of nowhere. As soon as we saw the place, we fell in love with it instantly and knew this was the place.” After shutting down their landscape business in Carmel and selling their home, off they went to explore the great unknown.

Mojave Rock Ranch: The Inn

Gino and Troy, having made a great many contacts in Hollywood with their landscape design business early on, created a luxury set of cabins to be used as rentals and invited their friends and contacts to stay. Word soon spread and business flourished. Mojave Rock Ranch was getting a lot of press attention, and they were even the grand prize for an MTV contest in England. People were calling the place “The Jewel of Joshua Tree.”

The attention was a blessing though the work was arduous. Time spent cleaning, cooking and preparing for new guests became all-consuming and they found themselves missing design. Troy states, “We found the fun part of the hospitality business was setting up the business and designing the inns. We had wine setups, Burt’s Bees baskets, and customized bedding, basically everything you would need when staying in the middle of nowhere. But overall, we hated all the time spent on the cleaning and cooking.”

With some soul searching, Gino and Troy sold 4 of the 5 cabins and decided to go back to landscape design, their first love. Taking some time off before opening up their firm, Gino and Troy spent six months traveling the globe, spending time in Australia, Thailand, Tokyo, Hong Kong, Beijing, South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Kenya, Amsterdam, Brazil, Chile, Peru and Easter Island. All through their travels, they picked up treasures that would soon find themselves permanent fixtures of Mojave Rock Ranch.

Mojave Rock Ranch: The Design

Entering Joshua Tree, there is the sense of an extreme desert climate, different from Palm Springs, yet still beautiful with its varied desert blooms. Gino explains, “This is high desert while Palm Springs is considered low desert. We had to learn a whole new range of landscape plantings that would work in this climate.”

Leading me along a dirt road for about 4 miles, we finally reach the Mojave Rock Ranch home of Gino and Troy. Now over 225 acres of desert oasis, we head over to their residence. Considered by them as the best of the 5 original cabins they owned, they kept this one as their home. Rock formations, an abundance of succulents and art everywhere! The ranch is a home that is constantly evolving. Each wall in the home showcases a treasure trove of memorabilia from their travels around the world as well as their childhood. These constantly evolving walls are cemented with new trinkets of every sort as inspiration hits them. And, with a landscape that provides living testimony to their love of landscape design, Troy tells me, “This property is our living portfolio, our best proof to our clientele that we know design. As soon as clients see the property, they are instantly sold on our services.”

Color is everywhere I turn, showing up in the rock formations to the succulents and native wildflowers. Magentas, peaches, vivid yellows, soft coral to turquoise and all shades of green, hues come alive in this desert oasis. Glass bottles are used as windows as well as decorative features within the walls of the home. Tiles, vases and sculptures abound and walking the grounds proves a photographer's delight as I constantly find something new to capture.

Catering to luxury residential clients and some commercial clients, they find many customers are escapees of Los Angeles; musicians, artists, movie industry people, all looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of LA, even for a second home getaway, but still need to be surrounded by luxury and design.

Mojave Rock Ranch is also open for movie location and photo shoots. Media such as Maxim magazine, Chico’s retailer and Sundance catalogue have all shot campaigns on location. Between their landscape design business and photo shoot location business, Gino and Troy are booked solid. “Day by day is how we set up our life right now. As past experience has taught us, life is short and we enjoy the most out of life. We make sure to see as much of the world as possible and our work schedules revolve around our vacation schedule. In two weeks, we depart to Turkey, then its on to Napa Valley in August and Burma, Thailand and Cambodia in November,” Troy exclaims. Now that’s living!

To learn more about Troy Williams and Gino Dreese and their landscape business, http://mojaverockranch.net

All photography by Sara McLean

Inspiring Cuisine: The Jose Garces Evolution

Sara McLean — 5/4/2012 12:00:00 AM

Venturing into the final story of our two-part series on The Saguaro Hotels , our journey takes us into a Latin Food Evolution created by Executive Chef Jose Garces. The Palm Springs Saguaro Hotel offers up Tinto, a Spanish tapas-style restaurant, plus El Jefe, a tequila bar; while the Scottsdale Saguaro Hotel offers up three delights bring a fresh take on regional Latin cuisine in creative atmospheres.

The Saguaro Hotel Scottsdale

Old Town Whiskey, features over 100 varieties of its namesake including bourbon, whiskey, rye and scotch, making the restaurant one of the most comprehensive collections of whiskey in Scottsdale. This bar is evocative of the old town American western saloon parlors offering artful beverages and classic American cuisine.

Distrito is a modern Mexican restaurant that shares the hotel’s bright colors and aesthetic, offering a delightful feast for the eyes and stomach. The food is a celebration of the vibrant culture and food of Mexico.

The Saguaro Hotel Palm Springs

Tinto is a wine bar and restaurant inspired by the Basque region of northern Spain and southern France. Warm woods contrasted with cool gray shades of paint bring alive the artistic grid formations throughout the location.

El Jefe is a cool celebration of the culture and cuisine of Mexico City, with a menu focused on the cuisine of what is known by locals as the "Distrito Federal.” With a premium tequila bar and lounge seating, El Jefe is a muted backdrop for Chef Garces' modern Mexican small plates. The design reflects the American West of the 1800s with an homage to the saloons, plus cowboy and biker memorabilia that dot the walls.

Chef Jose Garces

As one of the country’s most distinguished chefs, Chef Jose Garces is a master of Latin cuisine. With 9 restaurants across the country from Philadelphia to California, a beautiful cookbook titled Latin Evolution (2008), and an award winner of the James Beard Foundation’s prestigious “Best Chef Mid-Atlantic” in 2009, The Saguaro Hotel restaurants are sure to please.

For more information, see www.thesaguaro.com

All photography by Sara McLean and courtesy and with permissions of Joie de Vivre, M18 Public Relations, Sydell Group for Tim Street-Porter, official photographer

Made Men: The Mob Museum

Sara McLean — 5/1/2012 12:00:00 AM

An urban development renaissance is happening in downtown Las Vegas. Outside the neon lights of the Fremont Street Experience and a couple miles beyond the Las Vegas strip The Mob Museum has opened its doors to present a collection of organized crime and law enforcement memorabilia in one of Las Vegas’s most historic buildings.

The Museum reveals an insider’s look at the historical events and people on both sides of the law, showcasing mob history in America through a myriad of engaging exhibits, iconic one-of-a kind artifacts and themed environments. Some of the biggest names in organized crime are shown throughout including Al Capone, George Moran, Lucky Luciano, Ben Siegel and John Gotti just to name a few.

The Museum is located at the former federal courthouse and United States Post Office. Completed in 1933 and listed on the Nevada and National Registers of Historic Places, it house the very courtroom where, in 1950, one of 14 national Kefauver hearings was held to expose and control organized crime in America. The building has been meticulously rehabilitated for The Mob Museum, and is a classic example of neo-classical architecture and is significant for this architecture as well as the historic events that occurred inside it.

The Mob Museum was a $42 million construction project funded by the city of Las Vegas and nearly $9 million in historic preservation grants. Designed by two highly experienced design firms Westlake Reed Leskosky (WRL) and Gallagher & Associates, these firms are also known for other successful museums including the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, Ohio and the International Spy Museum in Washington, D.C.

To get your taste of another side of Vegas history and architecture, The Mob Museum is located at 300 Stewart Avenue, Las Vegas, Nevada.

For more information, www.themobmuseum.org
Photography by Sara McLean and courtesy and permissions of The Mob Museum.

Introducing Melinda Ashton Turner

Melinda Ashton Turner — 5/5/2012 12:00:00 AM

Introducing Melinda Ashton Turner, Interiors Stylist from Australia and the UK. With her work in leading magazines such as Vogue Living in Australia and House & Garden in the UK, Melinda brings a wealth of knowledge to interiors and color from a global perspective. We will be periodically featuring her work to our specs+spaces audience. Enjoy!

The Start

Like a lot of 16 year old students in high school I was being told I had to choose a career. A career that I would be doing for the rest of my living days! Some said they wanted to be in a famous band and others dreamed of playing football professionally. Most of the girls were about to leave school for secretarial studies or start a hairdressing apprenticeship. I didn’t really vocalize my dream of wanting to be an Interior Designer. The school I went to didn’t cater to creatives, it swayed towards the academically minded, which wasn’t me.

In my last year of school I was in a horrific bus accident, which resulted in me needing months of physio. My confidence was low and my dream career seemed unreachable. Luckily, I recovered completely and after leaving school I started employment at a small family printing business with a brilliant and supportive owner. I was given the responsibility of managing the retail space, then eventually the wholesale sections. It was here, working on artwork, that I realized I had to pursue my dream of working in a creative field. Whilst on holiday in Queensland I met Dame Dulcie Hewitt, an award wining Interior Designer, who was teaching an Interior Design course and so it began.

Lesson 1: Your first instinct is generally the right one. I apply this to everything I do and keep hold of your dream.

In my working life I have crossed paths with three exceptional people that have been instrumental in establishing my career. It takes a number of things to start a fire. The family behind the printing business gave me the matches, and Dulcie gave me the wood. The third person, Meta Dalhgren, saw something in me, gave me a chance and lit the fire. A position became available as a showroom decorator at IKEA in Melbourne; I applied but was told I didn’t have enough experience.

Now what happens next I wouldn’t necessarily advise. This is a case, and I’m sure some of you know what I’m talking about, where I felt the need to defend myself. After being told this in the interview, together with the positive gut feeling I had towards the person conducting the interview, I said in the kindest possible way, ‘Well how can I get experience if I don’t get given the chance!” She was taken aback but smiled and said fair enough. I went on to work for IKEA for the next 5 years.

Lesson 2: Build a rapport with clients and learn to read situations.

Lesson 3: Be honest without being confrontational.

From Interior Designer to Interior Stylist

It was my years at IKEA that have been the foundation for all my work. From planning and implementing room sets in stores, I then went on to the larger-scale work of designing new stores and managing the building team. I spent the following years traveling up and down the east coast of Australia implementing the new catalogues into all the stores each year. Australia had the opportunity to produce the first catalogue outside of Sweden where it had been produced for over 50 years.

It was at this point I was informed I would be styling for the catalogue, and as part of my training I would be sent to work in the Almhult photography studios in Sweden. On my return I would then spend 3 months working on the Australian catalogue and then would go back to traveling and translating the images and new product into all the stores. I continued this project for 3 years.

Lesson 4: Designing rooms through the lens of a camera requires a different thought process and skill to designing a 3 dimensional space.

Lesson 5: How to communicate a marketing and advertising image tool image and reinterpret it into a retail environment.

Let the Fun Begin

I’d gone from hoping one day I would be an Interior Designer, designing and decorating IKEA stores, to styling catalogues and being the conduit between the advertising and marketing departments to the retails stores.

With my eye’s now wide open I could see there was a whole other world of opportunities for an interior stylist. Behind every image is a stylist - be it food, fashion or interiors. I went freelance working on a variety of projects with various photographers. I don’t believe in the saying ‘the right place and at the right time’ I feel it’s more a case of ‘you’ meeting the right person for ‘you’.

I met acclaimed photographer Geoff Lung who recommended I show my folio to Vogue Entertaining and Travel. Vogue, like most magazines, is a closed shop. It’s hard to get your foot in the door, but on Geoff’s advice Vogue agreed to meet with me. It was clear as I sat there showing my work that I was interiors based and they were about food and we were both wasting each others time. But in that split second I realized I was near the Holy Grail so I better make the most of it, I asked if I could show my work to Vogue Living. I went on to work with Vogue Living, and their brilliant team, for the next 3 years.

Lesson 5: See the bigger picture and understand the people’s role around you. Each discipline needs the other to complete the job successfully.

Lesson 6: Meet the right person. It’s not just ‘who’ you meet but the type of person they are.

For personal reasons I moved to London, and after a week I was offered the much coveted position of Decoration Editor on British Homes & Gardens. And again it came down to meeting the right person at the time. I worked on the title for just over 3 years.

Having worked for two of the best titles in their respective countries, I needed to step off the magazine merry-go-round and try something new, so back to freelance I went. I’ve since designed an award winning carpet collection, launched a magazine, worked on private clients’ homes and re-branded companies. Calling on my knowledge of large scale builds and productions from my IKEA days, I was able to design and style events and catalogues for clients such as the UK furniture company, Habitat. All of this resulted in a nomination for UK’s Stylist of the Decade.

It has only been a fairly recent development that stylists has become recognized in their own right, and with this, more opportunities have become available such as guest lecturing, books and conducting workshops.

Lesson 7: To excel you need the right group of people for the job. A photographer or a builder is only as good as the stylist or designer and we both need a client who is trusting - we need each other to truly produce the best possible outcome.

Lesson 8: to evolve you need to keep questioning and pushing yourself while accepting that it’s OK to make mistakes.

Stay tuned for future global color and design insights from Melinda Ashton Turner!
To find out more about Melinda Ashton Turner, visit her at www.melindaashtonturner.com
All photography courtesy of Melinda Ashton Turner

Viva Las Vegas! Neon Museum

Sara McLean — 5/1/2012 12:00:00 AM

The lights of Las Vegas blanket the desert calling all to come out and play the night away. But what happens when the lights go out and the signs need to be replaced? Time to call the Neon Museum! The Neon Museum collects, preserves, studies and exhibits iconic Las Vegas signs for educational, historic and cultural enrichment.

Established in 1996 as a non-profit organization, the Neon Museum collects and exhibits these neon signs, which are such a large part of Las Vegas history. Each sign tells a unique story about who created it, what inspired the sign and how it fits into the Vegas lore. The pieces range from 1930s to present day.

The museum showcases two exhibits: the “Neon Boneyard”, which consists of unrestored signs select pieces that have been restored and are installed as public art in downtown Las Vegas near the Fremont Street Experience and as part of the Las Vegas Blvd Signs Project; and the “Neon Museum”, which is rehabilitating the historic La Concha Motel lobby to be used as a visitor’s center. The curvilinear structure was designed by famed African-American architect Paul Revere Williams and is on the City of Las Vegas Historic Register.

To learn more, www.neonmuseum.org

All Photography by Sara McLean

Designing a Dream: Julia Caro

Sara McLean — 4/24/2012 12:00:00 AM

The Orange County chapter of ASID recently held their 2012 Dream Home showcase, and I had the opportunity to meet Julia Caro of Julia Caro Interior Design of Newport Beach, who had designed the nursery space for the show using Dunn-Edwards paint. With a creative use of color and design with paint, I asked Julia about her start in design and how she got involved in the showcase.

Design Background

Julia credits her love and curiosity of design to her father, who was an architect and brought her and her brother to jobsites. As her childhood curiosity grew, she designed her own bedroom in 1973 with the theme of pink and green flower power. Julia explains, “But my first job in design was in 1986 after making a cold call out of the phone book. I was so lucky to have been hired with no experience or education. I learned on my toes starting in the library, pulling materials and eventually meeting with clients.”

Starting Up

Since 1998, Julia Caro Interior Design of Newport Beach has been in business. As a full service design firm specializing in residential design, she is a strong believer in the process of design and enjoys the collaboration between the homeowner and design team. “I believe my job as a designer is to interpret the homeowner’s vision into reality and guide them through the myriad of design choices.”

During the start-up phase of her company launch in 1998, she was also working for a group of designers as a design assistant. An unwanted project landed on her desk and what was initially thought to be a small project specifying bedding and carpet turned out to be an entire home including 13 pieces of art. Julia states, “From there, it just took off. It’s the only other career I love more than riding and showing jumping horses, which I did off and on for many years. I find myself excited about life when I’m creating interiors and on the hunt for the perfect item.”

Design Aesthetic

I asked Julia to describe her style and any design rules that she follows to keep on task with projects.

What is your design style? What are you known for?

My style reflects my clients’ vision, but I would say I am known for tailored, clean design. I love all styles and would say that the best part of my job is that I get to explore various styles of design through each new client or project.

Do you have any design rules that you follow?

The design of your home needs to suit your lifestyle. It should reflect the personality of the people who live there and it should create a feeling. I also believe that comfort and function is very important to designing a room or home. Basic design elements and principles still reign such as proportion, scale, balance, line, color, texture, etc. But it’s ok to break a few now and then just to mix things up. Oh! And buy what you love.

What does a room need as a finishing touch?

Finishing touches for a room include accessories such as artwork, rugs, lamps, collectibles, books, flowers and splashes of color to add personality. Followed by people, laughter and life!

Do you have a favorite color palette or color you work with?

I think typically I prefer warm palettes over cool, but I would never rule anything out. It all depends on the client and the project. I personally love warm grays right now. It’s a great neutral that goes with most anything. I find it calming and nurturing.

Do you shy away from any color(s)?

I don’t find myself shying away from any particular colors. It just depends on how the color is to be used and what the feeling you are trying to achieve might be. I always leave myself open to explore.

What can we see from you next? What projects are you working on?

I have a few projects that are just getting started after wrapping up a lovely home, one of my father’s projects, where I designed two classic cottage bath suites for a couple’s visiting children and grandchildren. Next up, I am doing an Island style home for return clients, a Nautical style child’s room, a warm Italian dining room with a kitchen in the next phase and an Equestrian residence for a dear friend.

ASID Dream Home

Julia became involved in the 2012 ASID Dream Home project by applying to design a room at the Dream Home. As an Allied Member of ASID, she is actively involved within the organization. She was selected to design the nursery. “After participating in the 2009 Urban Living Tour, where I designed a powder bath and home office, I knew the experience would be positive both professionally and personally. It’s great exposure for my business and it supports a wonderful cause, MS, and I love being part of the design house family.” The ASID Dream Home also actively addressed the relevant issues of Universal Design MultiGenerational Living.

Julia’s nursery was designed to be gender-neutral with bright, happy colors and simple, clean lines. “I used paint as an effective and inexpensive way to add detail and graphics to the crib wall. And, I planned for the ADA requirements of the design house by providing enough room for a wheelchair to turn around, easily approach furniture and exit the room with out issue.”

Inspiration for the design of the nursery came from an exotic paisley and animal print fabric in bright hues of green, magenta, aqua, yellow, brown and gray. Giraffes and lions from the print were pulled as inspiration for the stuffed toys in the room and a bright print wall-mounted giraffe head with a chandelier Lucite necklace. Sophisticated furniture partnered with gallery art from local artists and reclaimed wood flooring from the Santa Fe Railroad Building in Missouri all contributed to create this enchanted world.

Using the high-low theory of design by mixing high-end designer furnishings such as the crib with inexpensive materials such as the wool rug, sustainable toys and accessories and bookshelves from local retailers, the room fully addresses the needs of the Dream Home project. “The nursery is a fun, hip room with luxury appointments and fully accessible to best meet this family’s needs and concerns.”

Dunn-Edwards Perfect Palette Colors Use in the Nursery

DE6228 Play on Gray

DE5508 Palm Leaf

DE5013 Deep Magenta

To contact Julia, www.juliacarointdesign.com

All photography courtesy of and with permissions of Julia Caro

Citadel Environmental Services: Greening the Workplace

specs+spaces staff — 4/17/2012 12:00:00 AM

For a business owner, what does it mean to go green? At first glance, it may mean improvements to electricity and water use. But it also includes concepts such as taking out hazardous materials, improving indoor air quality and looking at operations materials – office furniture, lighting, flooring, equipment and supplies that could be sourced more responsibly and perform more efficiently in terms of boosting worker productivity, safety and morale.

Where does a company begin in this challenge to green their space? They could start with a call to Citadel Environmental Services.

As experts in the understanding of architecture and building-related toxins, Citadel formed in 1993 to help businesses comply with regulations and meet health, safety and environmental goals.

Co-founder Loren Witkin, LEED^® AP, explained. “We help businesses through the entire lifecycle of real estate from the beginning. We go through due diligence, phase 1 and 2 site assessments, and work on the entitlement side through identifying hazardous materials and specifications on how to remove them,” he says. “Then once the operating facility is up, we do audits for energy, air and water, offering consulting services on how to reduce energy consumption and get rebates to reduce costs and get businesses more environmentally friendly.”

SETTING THE EXAMPLE

One way Witkin and his company can show a tangible example of the possibilities is by offering a tour of their own facilities at Citadel. The company moved one of their seven offices in California to Glendale in 2010. The building they bought was a neglected 8000 square foot space built in 1973, complete with asbestos and lead paint. Their goal – turn it green.

“There are more complications in trying to take an older building and retrofit it to green than a newer building,” says Witkin. “This scares a lot of businesses off because they think it’s going to be too costly. But our mission was to do it at traditional construction costs and we found with all the rebates available from the government and utility companies, we recouped a lot of the money we put in it, in addition to making our building worth a lot more if we decide to lease it or sell it.”

The Citadel building was awarded LEED^® Platinum certification in June 2011. They made upgrades in the following ways:

Asbestos and lead paint were cleaned out to make way for greener features
Skylights were installed to bring natural brightness to the dark floor space
Put in energy efficient lighting that requires 38.5% less power
Added a new packaged air handling system that is 37% more efficient
Fitted 120 solar panels that provide enough energy to power the entire building that houses Citadel and a neighboring tenant, plus gives an additional 16% back to the city’s energy grid
Put in new water-efficient interior plumbing and fixtures that reduce usage by 62%
Laid down low-VOC flooring
Brought in Green Seal-certified furniture systems with low partitions so every desk has a window view
Put in all Energy Star appliances
Added tempered glass awnings to reduce urban heat island effect
Installed double-paned exterior windows
Insulated the roof deck for energy efficiency
Planted native, drought-tolerant landscaping with temporary drip irrigation system
Selected a building location along two bus routes which gives employees access to public transportation

They also repainted using Dunn-Edwards low-VOC paints with the following specs:

SPARTASHEEN - Interior/Exterior in

White (DEW380)

(Currently known as SPARTASHIELD^™30)

Acri-Flat Wood Stain & Masonry Paint –Exterior in Birchwood (DEC 752

(Currently known as SPARTASHIELD^™10)

As an added bonus, they saved a historic mural of the Three Stooges owned by building’s previous tenant, the licensing arm of the famous comedy team. It is now preserved on the wall to delight everyone in the break room.

The company can now speak from personal experience on how businesses can go green and the benefits it brought. “It was a nice twist to put ourselves on the client side and see the hurdles in the process,” says Witkin. “But this wasn’t done for the outside world, it was done for us so we could have a functional space and desirable product in the real estate market. We got the added benefit of positive feedback from our clients and the community and a lot of press out of it.”

TANGIBLE AND INTANGIBLE ROI

While Citadel’s office space now demonstrates what can be done, there is still the burning question of exact ROI numbers. “For the most part it pencils out on paper,” says Witkin. “But there are also all the intangibles you can’t measure. How do you quantify when people are happier in their work environment? We’ve noticed that sick and vacation days have gone down. How do you quantify the publicity we received? How do you quantify the ability to be in front of clients with something that shows your integrity?”

It turns out, that in addition to cost savings on utilities and creating a healthier environment, having a green work space is also a strong marketing move for a company, creating a key selling point to attract top worker talent and good branding for the company’s reputation of walking the walk of social responsibility.

PUBLIC IMAGE

That’s not to mention that as the general public becomes more aware of being green, they look for transparency in companies - from how they source materials for their product manufacturing, all the way down to the company’s operations practices. “It’s important to people and they look for contradictions in what companies say and what they do,” says Witkin. “For example, we have a number of low emissions vehicles and we also have some bigger vehicles, one being a Ford Expedition. I was valet parking that vehicle one day and the guy looked at me and said, ‘environmental huh?’ That was a wake up call for me. People are really looking to see what kind of example companies are setting.”

Witkin concluded that companies need to start thinking in terms of long-term gains rather than short-term ROI and look at the real value of creating a healthier, more sustainable work environment. “It’s not a balancing act really. It’s completely in line with business interests of making a profit…If we can do it ourselves on a small scale, then our clients can do it.”

For more about Citadel Environmental Services, visit their website.

Photos courtesy of Citadel Environmental Services

20th Anniversary Philharmonic House of Design

Sara McLean — 4/24/2012 12:00:00 AM

Announcing the 20^th anniversary of the Philharmonic House of Design! This home is located on 40 pristine acres of coastal hills in Laguna Beach. This 11,000 square foot estate showcases ocean and city views and features the work of interior designers from Los Angeles and Orange County.

Dunn-Edwards is the proud paint sponsor of the show house. With the color palette of spa greens and blues based with beiges and tans, the colors are pure coastal in attitude. On view from April 24 through May 20, 2012, the design house benefits the Philharmic Society Youth Music Education Programs.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.PhilharmonicSociety.org

2012 Pasadena Showcase House for the Arts

Sara McLean — 4/17/2012 12:00:00 AM

The Pasadena Showcase House for the Arts presents their 48^th Showcase featuring the 1927 Robbins Estate. Located in beautiful La Cañada Flintridge, California, the 16-room Spanish villa on approximately 2-acres has been redesigned by 31 designers from around the southern California region and will be on view from April 15, 2012 through May 13, 2012.

Dunn-Edwards has been the proud paint sponsor of the Showcase for over 45 years. This year’s color palette features the influence of the Spanish architecture as well as the surrounding landscape. Here are many of the colors shown in the home. A complete listing of the colors is located on www.dunnedwards.com.

History of the Estate

The estate was built as the winter home of Hunter Savidge Robbins, his wife Margaret Robbins, their four children and one male French-born servant. The family fortune in Michigan was based on lumber and Hunter Robbins was also an alumnus of the University of Michigan. He and his wife were avid tennis players and active in the Flintridge Country Club. Mrs. Robbins was also a local champion golfer .

After the Robbins separated in the 1940s, Mrs. Robbins stayed at the home until her passing. Two additional owners of the estate have had possession of the home. The current owners purchased the property in 1996.

The home is 6,429 square feet with 8 bedrooms and baths. This example of Spanish Colonial Revival architecture includes architectural elements from Spain and Mexico, as well as Italy and northern Africa.

The Architect

John Winford Byers, 1875-1966, designed the estate in 1927. A graduate of the University of Michigan in 1898 with a degree in Electrical Engineering, Byers taught French and English in Montevideo, Uruguay where he may have cultivated his interest in Spanish architectural styles. He came to California in 1902 and in 1919 established the John Byers Mexican Handmade Tile Company, where he employed Mexican artisans to create roofing and floor tiles and adobe bricks adapted to modern construction standards. His work attracted a large amount of attention and was regularly featured in magazines and publications such as Architectural Digest.

For more information and to purchase tickets to the event, www.pasadenashowcase.org

Recap: Desert Spanish Weekend

Sara McLean — 4/10/2012 12:00:00 AM

The Palm Springs Preservation Foundation recently hosted Desert Spanish Weekend, a local tour event celebrating the early historical desert Spanish architecture of Palm Springs. Along with the tour, author Patrick McGrew and the foundation showcased their new book Desert Spanish: The Early Architecture of Palm Springs, which explores the region’s Spanish-Mexican architectural roots and the Palm Springs of the 1920s and 1930s era.

From historic Casa Cody Inn with its Adobe House where Charlie Chaplin once stayed, to the 1929 Artist Colony with its several guest homes that range from adobe to ranch-style; the story of Palm Springs unfolded. Here is a snapshot of the tour:

All Photography by Sara McLean

For more information, contact http://www.pspreservationfoundation.org/

Saxony Design Build: Historically Inspired

Sara McLean — 4/2/2012 12:00:00 AM

Josh Cain, co-owner of Saxony Design Build, is proud to showcase his latest design creation: historic Villa Alegre, also known as the Crane House, in Palm Springs for the Celebrity Doodles Event held on March 31, 2012.

I sat down with Josh at Ville Alegre to discuss this latest project, how he got started in design and what he finds inspiring. Here is his story:

Design Background

Growing up in Denver, Colorado, Josh had a love of art and was going to college for a fine arts degree, when through happenstance, heard of the Interior Design program at the Art Institute in Denver. He knew instantly this is where he needed to be.

As luck and a lot of talent would have it, Josh began his first business his first year of design school called Ambiance Interior Design, located within a local luxury kitchen and bath showroom. The owners of the showroom only wanted to sell cabinetry and provided Josh the opportunity to hone his skills by giving him free reign on all other design aspects.

Villa Alegre, the Crane House

Then, during a class trip to Los Angeles for NeoCon, he fell in love with Los Angeles and knew this is where he wanted to land after college. Soon after, his dreams came true and he found his first design job in Los Angeles prior to starting up Saxony Design Build.

Saxony Design Build

Saxony Design Build is comprised of two owners, Josh Cain, interior design, and Jeff Godbold, general contractor. First meeting at Pasadena Showcase where they were working on the project, they realized that teaming up would allow for a complete design vision. From construction to final linens or “pour to silver” as Josh says, the team would be able to provide all design needs and wants. As Josh states, “It just made sense to combine efforts.”

Currently located in Burbank, California, they are completing renovations on a historic 1927 Mediterranean Revival property in Los Olivos, California, and will be moving there within a month. And with an impressive list of clientele, the team has gained attention as a top firm for luxury design.

Design Aesthetics and What Josh Finds Inspiring

With a talent for designing any type of style, I asked Josh what he finds most inspiring in design and architecture. He reflects on this for a moment and looks around, “I guess I find the California Spanish style is what I love to do most, but I’ll design any style the client wants,” and further explains, “anything historically-inspired or vintage speaks to me.” With a background in art history and showcasing over the years at the Pasadena Showcase Home for the Arts, his work speaks to this aesthetic. Also, a belief in architectural renderings for each of his projects set his company apart from much of the competition and provides further depth to the designs, especially for historical works.

Sample architectural renderings for Villa Alegre, the Crane House

On color, Josh finds he can’t live without gray, which is perfect for this trend in gray coloring we’re seeing these days. Yet, does he shy away from any color? “Absolutely! I can’t stand purple…and I’m not really sure why, but I won’t use it,” he emphatically states. And his favorite Dunn-Edwards color is DEW341 Swiss Coffee, with its serene and spare feeling in a room, while still offering gentle warmth. His love of neutrals carries over in all design, “I tend to design in neutrals and use colors as accent. I guess it's my love of art and architectural history, so I shy away from anything too trendy,” exclaims Josh.

Dunn-Edwards Perfect Palette Colors used at the Crane House

DEW358 Milk Glass	DE6063 Black Walnut	DE6369 Legendary Gray
DE6334 Long Lake	DEC750 Bison Beige	DEC764 Inside Passage

DEW341 Swiss Coffee

Villa Alegre: The Crane House

Walking through Villa Alegre, also known as the Charles Crane house, Josh provides background on the home’s history and his design for the clients. Built in 1926 for Charles Crane as a vacation home, this was one of the first homes built in the Las Palmas area of Palm Springs in the 1920s by developer Prescott T. Stevens and contractor Alvah Hicks. Within this community there are about twenty Spanish Colonial style homes built by them that are still largely intact to this day.

Ville Alegre, the Crane House, property surrounding the home

Charles Richard Crane (1858-1939), born in Chicago, worked at the family firm, the Crane Company, one of the largest manufacturers of plumbing equipment and related supplies in the world. In 1912, he became President and two years later sold most of his holdings to his brother, Richard Teller Crane, Jr. for about $15 million. This sale allowed his to pursue his other interests including travel, philanthropic activities, and public service. Charles Crane passed away at his home, Villa Alegre, in 1939.

Villa Alegre, views of family room, two-story shower and art studio

Over the years, the home has been remodeled and altered, even removing many of its Spanish roots at a time to be more French-inspired. Josh and Saxony Design Build entered the picture when the property went on the market and the property owner, who loves Josh’s work, hired his firm to do a complete rehabilitation to the property. For the past year, most of the original details have been saved and restored. And with this restoration, a sense of elegant grandeur has come back to the property and the original Spanish Colonial home is at last back to its original vision.

Villa Alegre, the Crane House: design details finalize the look of the property inside and out from keeping original tile details, custom molding details to redesigning the entire landscape plan

The client, only the sixth owner of the property, gave Josh the freedom to design from top to bottom with little input other than wanting tile floors and the fountain in the back courtyard to be noisy enough to drown out any neighborhood noise. The owner, upon seeing it, absolutely loved it and is proud of his part in restoring a piece of Palm Springs history.

What’s Next?

Saxony Design Build is busy with a myriad of projects and can next be seen at the 48^th annual Pasadena Showcase home event and the California Homes Magazine Orange County Showcase home event, both held through May 2012. Also, the home owner of the Crane House has hired the firm to work on his mid-century modern home in Pasadena. With these and other projects from Palm Springs to Los Olivos, we’ll be seeing a lot more of Josh Cain and Saxony Design Build.

To find out more or contact Josh Cain, www.saxonydesignbuild.com

All photography by Sara McLean and with courtesy and permission of Saxony Design Build

Time Out with Bene Harrison

Sara McLean — 4/10/2012 12:00:00 AM

Bene Harrison, owner of Bene Harrison Interior Design and Planning, recently sat down to talk to us about her experience in commercial interiors, interior design in Tucson, Arizona, and one of her recent projects for Retina Associates.

Background

Working within the design industry for Bene grew out of her love of color and art. Armed with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree, she first felt the design bug when working for a furniture design company and, with company approval, began designing and directing the furniture lines.

Upon moving to Tucson, Arizona, she ended up working at the Tucson Medical Center, where she was hired on as staff designer and from there, the interior design career took off. Eventually, she began her own business with a focus on commercial interiors.

Views on Design

According to Bene, “…commercial interiors involve a lot of background work. You need to know all aspects of the design, especially in healthcare.” Color, as one aspect of commercial interiors, must involve the homework, but also a sense of what will feel and look good. Bene loves color, “I think it’s because I have a background in fine arts and my father was a sculptor and painter. It’s part of me.” In healthcare design, she works more in nature-based colors and likes to work in a combination of cool and warm palettes, providing the high contrast necessary in the desert. Overall, the desert provides a rich layer of inspiration to every design project along with the Spanish and Mexican architecture prevalent in the Tucson community.

Retina Associates

Retina Associates came to Bene wanting to have their healthcare office updated to feel more like a spa, yet a space that would work well for a long period of time. Bene used the following colors from the Dunn-Edwards Perfect Palette color system to accomplish this task. With rave reviews from the client, his colleagues and customers alike, she can look forward to future projects with this client.

Dunn-Edwards Perfect Palette Colors
Used at Retina Associates

DE6135 Verona Beach	DEW380 White
DEC759 Hickory	DE6137 Terracotta Sand
DE6138 Dark Sepia	DE6119 Neutral Valley
DE6070 Chocolate Chunk	DE6335 Novelty Navy

What’s Next?

Projects in the works include healthcare facility work and projects at an aerospace facility. Colorfully commercial spaces to look forward to!

For more information, contact Bene Harrison Interior Design and Planning at www.bhidp.com

All photography courtesy of and by permission of Bene Harrison

On View: Frank Lloyd Wright-Organic Architecture for the 21st Century

Sara McLean — 3/27/2012 12:00:00 AM

In honor of the 75^th anniversary of Taliesin West, Frank Lloyd Wright’s Scottsdale home and studio, the Phoenix Art Museum presents the exhibit Frank Lloyd Wright: Organic Architecture for the 21^st Century.

On view through April 29, 2012, this exhibit highlights and reviews his decades-long career in a new perspective, showcasing his relevance today through a survey of over 40 projects.

These projects include his utopian vision of a city including a model set and rarely seen drawings, sketches, furnishings photographs and film.

Throughout Frank Lloyd Wright’s career, he promoted organic architecture and emphasized the use of natural materials and creating harmony between landscape and structure. Many of the concepts he developed are critical to today’s green architecture movement. James Ballinger, the Sybil Harrington Director, Phoenix Art Museum, further explained, “Wright’s concerns with materials, efficient use of space, sustainable manufacturing, attention to local environment and use of natural light mirror those of contemporary architects worldwide. This exhibition provides an exciting forum for which Wright’s work can be re-examined and applied to concerns of the day. The Museum is privileged to have the opportunity to partner with the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation and the Milwaukee Art Museum to bring this exhibition to the people of Arizona.”

Fallingwater Taliesin West

Lenkurt Electric Co model Lenkurt Electric Co night rendering

The Phoenix Art Museum is located at 1625 N. Central Ave., Phoenix, Arizona 85004. For more information, www.phxart.org

All photography courtesy and with permission of Phoenix Art Museum.

Frank Lloyd Wright: Organic Architecture for the 21st Century is organized by Phoenix Art Museum and Milwaukee Art Museum in conjunction with the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation. The exhibition will be on view in Phoenix Art Museum’s Steele Gallery through April 29, 2012, and is included in general Museum admission.

About Frank Lloyd Wright

Frank Lloyd Wright (1867-1959) spent more than 70 years creating designs that revolutionized the art and architecture of the 20th century. In all, he designed 1,191 works – including houses, offices, churches, schools, libraries, bridges and museums. Of that total, 460 resulted in complete works, 384 of which still stand. Wright also designed furniture, fabrics, art glass, lamps, dinnerware, linens and graphic arts. In addition, he was a prolific writer, an educator and a philosopher. He authored 20 books and countless articles, lectured throughout the United States and in Europe, and developed a remarkable plan for decentralizing urban America that continues to be debated by scholars and writers to this day.

About Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation

The Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation is a nonprofit organization that was established by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1940 to be a cultural and educational institution and the primary conservator of his work. The Foundation owns two of Wright’s homes: Taliesin in Spring Green, Wis. and Taliesin West in Scottsdale, Ariz., both Historic National Landmarks. The Foundation also owns and manages the vast Frank Lloyd Wright Archives at Taliesin West and operates the Frank Lloyd Wright School of Architecture, a continuation of the apprenticeship program Wright established in 1932.

About Phoenix Art Museum

Phoenix Art Museum is the Southwest’s premier destination for world-class visual arts. Popular international exhibitions are shown alongside the Museum’s outstanding collection of more than 18,000 works of American, Asian, European, Latin American, Western American, modern and contemporary art, and fashion design. A vibrant destination for over 50 years, Phoenix Art Museum presents festivals, live performances, independent art films and educational programs that enlighten, entertain and stimulate. Visitors also enjoy PhxArtKids an interactive space for children, vibrant photography exhibitions through the Museum’s landmark partnership with the Center for Creative Photography, the lushly landscaped Sculpture Garden, dining at Palette, and shopping at The Museum Store.

The Saguaro Hotels: Colorfully Modernist Retreats

Sara McLean — 4/2/2012 12:00:00 AM

Clustered among the palm trees in Palm Springs and Scottsdale sets cubes of color. The Saguaro Palm Springs opened at the beginning of February 2012 and I, in a modernist mood, decided to stay at this lovely retreat during my time at Modernism Week. As luck would have it, the architects who designed The Saguaro for both Scottsdale, Arizona, and Palm Springs, California, were presenting their colorful vision and design process for the launches of the hotels. Full of inspiration, I traveled over to The Saguaro Scottsdale to view the initial hotel that started this desert color explosion. Presented here is the evolution of this creative enterprise at both locations.

As a tribute to the Southwest, the colors chosen throughout both properties were inspired by the vibrant desert landscape wildflowers. In a color palette of oranges, tangerines, banana yellows, hot fuchsias to pretty pinks, the atmosphere signals a welcoming color splash to the region. Color is carefully applied through out each of the hotels as way-finding methods and highlighting property details, all while paying attention to all interior details such as furnishings and custom textiles.

The Saguaro – Scottsdale

Settled among the Old Town area of Scottsdale, The Saguaro is a colorful, bright spot in beige surroundings. Arising as if it’s a mirage among the center of town, this retreat creates a cocoon of vibrancy as you enter the property.

Photo Credit: Tim Street-Porter Photo Credit: Tim Street-Porter

Sonoran Desert Flowers Closest D-E Color Matches

Scarlet Hedge Nettle	DEA108 Red Power
Desert Mariposa Lily	DEA113 Orange Burst
California Poppy	DEA115 Orange Jewel
California Poppy	DE5314 Vibrant Honey
Common Sunflower	DE5405 Summer Sun
Staghorn Cholla	DEA124 Lime Twist
Lantana Camara	DE5419 Soleil
Tall Mountain Larkspur	DE5909 Beaded Blue
Lewis Flax	DE5907 Twilight Twinkle
Desert Ruellia	DE5991 Purple Pride
Red Desert Globe Mallow	DE5027 Razzle Dazzle
Parry's Penstemon	DE5046 Carnation

Design Process
The Saguaro Scottsdale was the first project Stamberg Aferiat Architecture collaborated with Andrew Zobler, founder and CEO of the Sydell Group, and it was with a love of color and design that brought owner and designer together.

A review of the mid-century property, all white from exterior to interior, suggested a cold modernity. To revive the tired building and create a “wow” factor, Peter Stamberg and Paul Aferiat turned to their modernist roots and the historical Newton color wheel to create a vibrant and colorful combination of palettes while paying homage to the Sonoran desert and the city of Scottsdale.

The city of Scottsdale, known for more traditional, Mediterranean architectural styles and traditional desert sand and sage coloring, was surprisingly on board with the colorful solution after Peter and Paul persuaded the committee that desert coloring was more than this sage and sand. With about 30 color combinations balanced against white, and interior designs including references to the Southwest, The Saguaro Scottsdale is a magnificent, and colorful, desert gem.

The Saguaro – Palm Springs

Situated along the Palm Springs Highway 111 route, the vibrant color palette draws you into the experience of the new modernist desert. Inspired by the landscape of the Coachella Valley, the colors complement the native wildflowers grown here.

Photo Credit: Sara McLean

Coachella Valley Flowers Closest D-E Color Matches

Lemon Bottlebrush	DEA108 Red Power
Cape Honeysuckle	DE5195 Bright Mango
Emory's Globemallow	DE5307 Ripe Pumpkin
California Poppy	DE5342 Bumblebee
Brittlebush	DE5405 Summer Sun
Agave	DE5419 Soleil
Sago Palm	DEA124 Lime Twist
Desert Penstemon	DE5009 Soft Cashmere
Strawberry Hedgehog Cactus	DE5027 Razzle Dazzle
Desert Sand Verbena	DE5970 Lush Lilac
Lewis Flax	DE5857 Marina
Indigo Bush	DE5907 Twilight Twinkle
Fan Palm	DEA126 Leprechaun
California Fan Palm	DEA125 In the Tropics

Design Process

Challenged with a short construction time frame, dark lobby and pool fencing that needed to stay per city requirements, Peter and Paul set out to create a paradise of color among the Palm Springs landscape. With 52 color combinations representing 14 of the desert flowers indigenous to Coachella Valley and with mountains and desert landscape to provide further inspiration to their drawings and specifications, Peter and Paul ultimately persuaded the Palm Springs city council that these colors were indeed of the desert, just not the traditional and typical pink-beige color palette reminiscent of the desert sand still shown prevalently in the city.

Flickr stream photography by Sara McLean and courtesy and permissions of Joie de Vivre and M18 Public Relations for Tim Street-Porter and Paul Dyer

Designs for the lobby and rooms include bright coloring and lighting throughout, as well as furnishings from Mexico. And the pool area fencing is re-invented to capture the spirit of the Palm Springs mountain range in its view. Abstract lines representing the desert mountain landscape and color create a vibrant playfulness to the outdoor recreation area.

The Results

The word is out! Guests line up and visitors stop by to take pictures of the colorful surroundings. Colorfully modernist, and fully connected to the best of Palm Springs and Scottsdale design. To paraphrase Peter and Paul, “Modernism has always been colorful, and while black and white photography changed the concept of modern design into a “no-color allowed”, design greats such as Le Corbusier, Frey, and Eames never meant for this to be. It’s time to showcase color+modernism!”

The Saguaro Scottsdale is located at 4000 N. Drinkwater Blvd., Scottsdale, AZ 85251

The Saguaro Palm Springs is located at 1800 East Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, CA 92264
For more information on both locations, www.thesaguaro.com

Architects: Stamberg Aferiat are located at 126 Fifth Ave, New York City, NY 10011, for more information www.stambergaferiat.com

Owner: Sydell Group, for more information www.sydellgroup.com

Management Company: Joie de Vivre Hospitality, Inc., for more information www.thesaguaro.com

Story photography by Sara McLean and with courtesy and permission of The Saguaro/Joie de Vivre/M18 Public Relations/Sydell Group

Flickr stream photography by Sara McLean and courtesy and permission of Joie de Vivre and M18 Public Relations for Tim Street-Porter

Celebrity Doodles

Sara McLean — 3/27/2012 12:00:00 AM

This Saturday, March 31, will mark an evening of fun at Celebrity Doodles, a local event being held at the historic Villa Alegre in the Old Las Palmas area of Palm Springs, CA.

Celebrity Doodles, a benefit supporting the Desert AIDS Project serves people living with HIV and AIDS by providing a myriad of support services. Suzanne Somers, '70s TV icon, will be hosting the event.

Dunn-Edwards is proud to sponsor the event through paint donations to Villa Alegre and Josh Cain, owner of Saxony Design Build. The color palette blends history and Hollywood lore.

Villa Alegre Color Palette using Dunn-Edwards Perfect Palette Colors

DEW358 Milk Glass	DE6063 Black Walnut	DEC750 Bison Beige
DE6369 Legendary Gray	DEC764 Inside Passage	DE6334 Long Lake

Exterior Color: DEW341 Swiss Coffee

A View of the Villa Alegre through the lens of Josh Cain

For more information, www.celebritydoodles.com

For design information, Saxony Design Build is located at 1011 West Olive Ave, Ste A, Burbank, CA 91506, www.saxonydesignbuild.com

Celebrity Doodles logo and photography courtesy of Peter Demopoulos of Celebrity Doodles

Villa Alegre photography and drawings courtesy of Josh Cain, Saxony Design Build

Susan Bacchi: Circling Back

Sara McLean — 3/20/2012 12:00:00 AM

This week we feature Susan Bacchi, house artist and associate designer for Napolean at Home. For those familiar with us, we have featured Susan’s work before. See our previous story on Susan: An Artistic Collaboration with Susan Bacchi. We catch up with Susan again as she discusses her latest project.

Experience has taught Susan well and shown by her latest commissioned project for Napoleon at Home. Armed with minimal requirements from the client to “paint giant circles”, she states that knowing the design aesthetic of Napoleon at Home greatly helped her in creating a piece of art that would compliment their various decorating schemes.

Susan states, “The painting composition was designed to display together as a set. They needed to be large enough to cover the wall, while making a significant impact in a minimally decorated room. These paintings are more on the modern or contemporary side of the spectrum and would also compliment an eclectic, new traditional space.”

Colors were selected from the Dunn-Edwards Perfect Palette color system. Susan explains, “The most important component of these pieces was the paints from Dunn-Edwards. They were pivotal in creating that ‘old world’ layering effect to the canvas background that I was trying to achieve.”

Perfect Palette Colors Used

DEC752 Birchwood

DEC756 Weathered Brown

Susan Marie Bacchi is a Northern California-based painter whose art serves as homage to her lifelong fascination with the role of art throughout the ages. Bacchi describes her art as new traditional, a modern take on old world aesthetics. She is available for commissioned paintings, for more information please visit: www.susanbacchi.com.

All Photography courtesy of and by permissions of Susan Bacchi

The Greenest Paint Just Got Greener: Introducing Zero VOC Colorants for Tinting

Robert Wendoll — 4/2/2012 12:00:00 AM

For more than three years, the Dunn-Edwards^® Color Lab has worked closely with our colorant supplier to develop a high performance line of Zero VOC colorants. These new colorants will perform to the same exacting standards as our conventional colorants, but with no added VOC solvents.

Low-odor Zero VOC paints – made without any added Volatile Organic Compound solvents – have been available at Dunn-Edwards since the 1990s. When these paints are tinted, however, using conventional colorants to make custom colors, some amount of VOC is added. Although on average the amount is small, in certain deep-tone colors the amount is enough to give a Zero VOC paint the VOC content of conventional paints.

With our new environmentally-superior Zero VOC colorants, our Zero VOC paint will remain Zero VOC even when tinted to the deepest colors. When used to tint VOC-containing waterborne paints, the Zero VOC colorants will ensure that paint odor remains held to a minimum. Also, unlike colorants used by some other paint companies, Dunn-Edwards^® Zero VOC colorants are free of any U.S. EPA “Chemicals of Concern.”

The VOC content of paint is regulated to minimize potential impacts on outdoor air quality. VOC emissions may also be an indoor air quality concern, as most VOC have an odor, and some VOC may have health effects. For regulatory purposes, the VOC content of paint is calculated “excluding any colorant added to tint bases” at the point of sale. At least one local air quality agency will begin regulating the VOC content of colorants beginning in 2014. In keeping with our greener by design^® philosophy of being as eco-efficient as possible, Dunn-Edwards has planned to introduce its Zero VOC colorants during 2012, well in advance of any regulatory mandate.

By spring of 2012, Zero VOC colorants will be in use at all 16 of our Northern California stores, and rolled out to our remaining 92 stores over the course of a year. Zero VOC colorants will also be used for making factory-tinted colors at the LEED^® Gold-certified Dunn-Edwards manufacturing facility in Phoenix, Arizona. For more information about VOC in paint, see our “Frequently Asked Questions About VOC.”

Lesson in Color: Simultaneous Contrast

Fred Fehlau — 3/3/2012 12:00:00 AM

Fred Fehlau, our guest writer for March, shares with us the importance of knowing about Simultaneous Contrast when working with color. Here, he shares his story.

Simultaneous Contrast is the affect of one color upon another, or more specifically the condition in which a stronger color pushes a weaker color towards the stronger color’s opposite, or complement (complementary colors are located directly across from one another on a color wheel – see figure 1).

Figure 1

For example, a strong red will force a weak gray towards green, which is red’s complement; a strong green will force the same gray towards red (see figure 2). The gray square inside the red background appears to be greenish, and the same color gray appears to be reddish against the green background.

Figure 2 Figure 3

This happens with all complementary pairs, such as purple and yellow (see figure 3). The background colors don’t even need to be complementary. A famous painting by Joseph Albers illustrates this: a pale blue-green panel sits next to a yellow panel and a yellow-green line crosses each. The yellow-green line appears to be yellow on the blue-green panel and blue-green across the yellow panel (see figure 4).

Figure 4

The effect also works with values (darks and lights of the same base color regardless of its saturation). In figure 5, the inside square on the left appears to be the same value as the lighter background on the right, and the inside square on the right appears to be the same value as the darker background on the left. The two smaller squares are in fact the same value appearing to be different; the dark background makes the square look lighter, and the lighter background makes the same value square look darker.

Figure 5 Figure 6

A more complex phenomenon occurs when one works with a gradation. In figure 6, ten steps from black to white are overlayed with a middle gray bar. The horizontal bar appears to gradate from light to dark, but is in fact the same value. An equally interesting affect is evident in the vertical bars themselves. Each bar appears to be scalloped, with the left edge appearing to be lighter next to the darker gray to the left, and with the right edge appearing to be darker next to the lighter gray to the right. The affect is more noticeable if you squint.

An equally interesting example is where two different colors appear to be the same. In figure 7, a green panel is placed next to a pale blue panel. Two orange squares, which appear to be the same color, are in fact not the same at all. The orange on the green background is actually darker and duller; it has been brightened by its contrast to the value and color of the green. The orange on the pale blue background is actually lighter and brighter, but has been made to appear duller and darker by the lightness and color of the pale blue. The two different oranges above are the same as the corresponding oranges below.

After Effects

A similar phenomenon is an “afterimage.” An afterimage is an optical illusion where one image continues to be “seen” as a “negative” of the first after viewing the original image for an extended period of time. Afterimages are caused when one’s eye photoreceptors (cone cells), are overstimulated, and attempt to compensate for the missing colors by replacing the viewed color with its complementary color.

For example, stare at figure 8 for twenty seconds and then move your attention to a bare white wall. In the place of the pink, black and cyan bars an Italian flag of green, white and red will appear.

Figure 8

How to choose colors with Simultaneous Contrast in Mind
All of this suggests that color is not specific or fixed. Rather, color is relative and dependent upon adjacent or other environmental colors, especially when the color is desaturated. This is why colors appear to be different in different situations.

So, when you set out to choose a color for a building or a wall, consider what you’ve got next to or on top of those surfaces. If you don’t you may be in for a surprise!

Photography and images courtesy and by permission of Fred Fehlau

Holy Comic Books – Look at that Room!

specs+spaces staff — 3/3/2012 12:00:00 AM

“Doesn’t every child dream of tying a towel around their neck and flying off to save the world?”

Comedy writer/ stand-up comic/ author Torry Martin built his entire office around his love for comic books - and why not? A little superhero stimulation is a pretty empowering force to have around. With huge legions of comic book fans around the world and events like the massive Comic-Con Conference this summer and the upcoming WonderCon March 16-18, comic book culture is proving to be a popular form of entertainment, and with that design is bound to follow.

I spoke with a couple of comic book enthusiasts to find out exactly what the appeal is. Plus, we found some fun pieces you can use to decorate your space with the flair of a superhero!

“Comics books have a way of making that dream feel like a reality,” says Martin, who stated he’s been a comic book enthusiast his whole life, which inspired him to build his entire office around his love for comic characters and stories. That includes a large, L-shaped desk covered with 2000 miniature comic book covers. He and friends made a party out of cutting out the covers and he mounted them to desk himself with a coating of epoxy. He made sure he built in plenty of shelf space for his large collection of books for writing resources and memorabilia of comic book characters that serve as inspiration and cheerful support. In addition, he made use of a leather covered trunk and ottoman for hiding unsightly files and a shredder – so clever Batman would be proud!

He posted an entire how-to on his website.

See photos of his comic book inspired office:

For comic art collector and blogger Jason Versaggi, comic books provide “the escapist joy you get from a great story – we want to believe there could be a place where that is happening.” He understands why people are drawn to the art form. “You have to marvel at what these guys can do….the people working in comics are master storytellers, they have cinematic minds that see the world in sequential panels and many even push past those boundaries.” Versaggi currently commissions comic inspired art on ComicArtFans.com.

As comic book fans follow the ever-twisting storylines and know the characters like they are family, Hollywood figured out long ago that taking characters off the pages and turning them into major films is a hit machine in the making. It only makes sense that the art of comic book illustrations would also make its way into interior design.

If you would like to add a little comic book touch to your space, we found some items that will help "animate" your design:

	The “Talk Bulletin Board” by Umbra looks like a comic speaker box. It hangs on the wall for you to write memos or create your own story. Comes with a pen and magnets to post notes.
	Artist Suzie Murphy makes 3-D letters covered in vintage comics, which she sells on Etsy. Any letter can be requested and says she likes to customize to tell stories with her art.
	Say what? These comic strip speaker boxes are just that -“Speak-ers”! This set of MP3 audio speakers can be plugged into any iPod or computer.

We were really knocked out by Italian designers, CIA International’s DC Comics Furniture pieces – modular wardrobe closets and book cases with comic book scenes and covers featuring the DC Comics Superheroes, which look great paired with the company’s ultra contemporary cubic-style furniture:

Others items we found include a speaker box shelf, a comic strip picture frame and Marvel comic book wallpaper murals. Fans of anime might be inspired by the Hotel Tomo in San Francisco’s Japantown.

So roll up your sleeves, put on your cape and go rescue you your space with a little comic book flair – you just might find you have some super powers to do super design!

Images of Torry Martin's office courtesy of Torry Martin
Image of "Talk Bulletin Board" courtesy of Umbra
Image of 3-D Letters courtesy of Suzie Murphy
Image of "Speak-ers" courtesy of the.
Images of the DC Comics furniture courtesy of CIA International

Meet Fred Fehlau

Sara McLean — 3/3/2012 12:00:00 AM

With a sharp eye for graphic detail, Fred Fehlau has amassed an impressive resume’ of work over the years in graphic design that exudes a European confidence and flair of Hollywood past. Currently, Fred is the Provost at the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, where he has taught since 1986 in the Graphic Design, Photography and Fine Art departments, helping to shape the next generation of artists and designers. With homes in both Los Angeles and Palm Springs, California, Fred also dedicates time to freelance work, primarily in magazines and other print materials. Here is our interview.

Shaping a Future

Fred started his graphic design career in college in 1978 working on album covers and promotional materials for rock bands with a couple of local record companies. He further explains, “I also worked the night shift at a large design firm doing film posters and daily newspaper and magazine advertising. Whatever an actor did one day ended up in the paper the next; studios had to keep up with them whether it was an Academy Award or a traffic violation.”

After college, Fred headed to Europe with expectations of being there about three months, or at least as long as his Eurail Pass lasted. Fred further disclosed, “As it turned out I didn’t even use the pass and I stayed for almost two years. I bought a bike and hitchhiked for some time (hitchhiking with a bike is easier than one thinks), lived in Berlin for three months and then got bored. I rode my bike back to London where I got a job with Michael Peters & Partners.

Michael had a small design firm doing packaging, corporate identity and display for such clients as Penhalaligon’s, Seagrams and Threshers. Although I didn’t have much of a graphic design portfolio (I majored in fine art in college), I did a few drawings and showed them to Michael and he sat me down at an empty desk.

Fortunately or not, clients started to select the work I produced, and although I didn’t have a work permit, Michael had to keep me around. I did packaging for Gauloises cigarettes, an identity system for the Bank of Rome, packaging for Taylor’s of Harrogate, and other corporate identity projects. Eventually the lack of a work permit became a problem. I moved to Paris for a few months, thinking I could return on another tourist visa. When I did come back, the British immigration authorities gave me 48 hours to pack my stuff and leave the country.

Upon my return to Los Angeles I started working with Rip Georges, a very fine magazine designer, as an Associate Art Director. Together we designed such magazines as Revue, Arts & Architecture, the Trade and L.A. Style.”

Defining His Style

Rule #1: “Try doing something that shouldn’t work, and keeping doing it anyway.” This sums up Fred’s constant push towards graphic perfection. Having worked with Fred on several projects for specs+spaces, I know him to be extremely creative and am constantly amazed at his ideas. He defines his signature style as the following, “It is very important to create an overall structure to the magazine or collateral piece I am working on. That includes creating a hierarchy of content so that the reader or user understands the relative importance of each section. Images and graphics punctuate the story and provide meanings that cannot be expressed by text. The color and size of various elements are important to create reading order — what is to be read first, second, etc.”

As inspiration, he finds Jan Tschichold enlightening. “After writing Die neue Typographie, in which he established himself as the leading advocate of asymmetrical typography, Tschichold completely reversed himself in his work for Penguin Books, based upon an equally rigorous use of centered typography. I love a man who can change his mind and still be right.”

In Living Color

Color plays such an important role in defining a look, especially graphically, so I was curious
what role color plays in his life.

What is your go-to color palette?

I have a favorite tie by BCBG with two different color palettes, one for the face and one for the lining. The two don’t look like they should go together, but they do.

Do you tend to shy away from any color(s)?

I don’t like some blacks and reds. Too flat and dead, particularly in fabrics. But Le Creuset’s Flame is amazing, especially on my dull green Brazilian granite countertop. I know that’s not a sustainable material, but I installed it many years ago.

Is there a color that you can’t live without? Why?

A blue the color of the sky. It reflects light in the most amazing way.

Do you follow color and design trends?

Not really, but sometimes they follow me! (Fred was our graphic designer for Simply Refocus 2012 Trends. Stay tuned for our work on the 2013 Trends.)

And of course, please choose a Dunn-Edwards Perfect Palette color that describes you.

Dark Shadows DEA183 and Oh Boy! DE5862 — but not at the same time!

DEA183 Dark Shadows

DE5862 Oh Boy!

The Road Ahead

Fred is currently working on a multitude of projects including, “a set of shopping bags, a series of photography/text collages, packaging for a line of gourmet spices, and a live/work space in two 8 x 20 foot storage containers with a solar shade canopy cantilevered over a very steep hillside.”

Fred is also our guest feature writer for the month of March. Read his article Lesson in Color: Simultaneous Contrast. We can’t wait to see what’s next!

Quick Fix – Lightning Round

What’s your idea of the perfect day?

Working in the morning and riding my bike in the afternoon.

What’s your favorite kitchen gadget?

Someone else cooking for me.

What’s your favorite design accessory?

I collect Blenko glassware and unusual sterling silver objects.

Do you have a uniform or “lucky” outfit/something you wear that makes you feel like it’ll be a great day?

I always wear Levi’s 501 jeans. I like colorful shirts and don’t wear black too often. I like wearing ties when I don’t have to.

Are you a books or Kindle person?

Books — way too many — and my Macbook Air and iPhone. I’ve started listening to audio books on my commutes from Los Angeles to Palm Springs.

What’s your favorite meal?

Beet salad with goat cheese and a good steak. And dark chocolate. Sliced cucumbers with sea salt and coarse ground pepper if I’m being good or lying.

What’s your most influential movie?

Come Back to the Five and Dime, Jimmy Dean, Jimmy Dean.

What’s your favorite season?

Winter in New York. Summer in Palm Springs. Anything to avoid tourists.

What are your most prized possessions?

My father’s ivory slide rule. An original George Nelson Swag Leg chair manufactured the year I was born. I bought it for myself as a birthday present. And of course, my dogs, but they own me.

What’s your last splurge?

A complete set of Raymond Loewy Script dinnerware by Rosenthal. He didn’t design it, but he hired good designers and put his name on everything.

What’s the one place we should not miss when we visit your area of LA?

Getting lost in the hills above Silverlake. There are so many amazing homes tucked away up there. And then there is my house. (“Wow!” )

All images courtesy and by permission of Fred Fehlau

Ernesto Garcia: Scottsdale Sophistication

Sara McLean — 3/3/2012 12:00:00 AM

Ernesto Garcia, Owner of Ernesto Garcia Interior Design, LLC, and I sat down recently to discuss his design firm, share with us some of his recent work and to find out more about his personal views on color and design.

Foundations in Design

Knowing early on what he wanted to do in life, Ernesto studied architecture and has been working mostly independently since college, with the occasional association of other design professionals, builders, and industry people. His first design job came soon after college and was a remodeling project of a large residence his clients had just purchased. Ernesto recalled, “I was so ready to go from the ‘conceptual’ realm of school to the reality of design and construction! My clients were very adventurous and receptive to my most daring ideas and use of color. It was a wonderful experience I remember fondly.”

Design for Today’s Client

Feeling comfortable designing in many design styles ranging from French Country to ultra-contemporary, Ernesto’s training as an Architect came with a great educational study of Styles. And while he provides each client the home they want, Ernesto declared, “…having said that, I enjoy doing Eclectic interiors the most; they truly require knowledge of style in order to create a harmonious dialogue between pieces from different periods.”

Ernesto finds inspiration almost everywhere he turns and considers travel a must. One may find him wandering the narrow streets of a remote town to scaling the big cities all over the world in search of that “aha!” moment in museums to art galleries. Also, concerts are a place where Ernesto finds that his mind freely wanders through a design to come up with a surprising solution, “Ballet, classic or contemporary, I once did an entire living room based on some costumes designed for a Paul Taylor Dance.”

A Love of Color

With a love of color, Ernesto designs to the clients’ preferences in color yet never will shy away from a color. Explains Ernesto, “I never met a color I didn’t like. There is no such thing as an ugly color in my design vocabulary. There are colors not suited for one space, a specific use or a client’s taste, but I don’t believe in ugly or tacky colors; those are cultural associations. I call it “Chromatic Prejudice”.

The love of color covers a range of reds and blues and some Perfect Palette favorites that include DE5872 Lakeville, DE5820 Polished Silver, DE6012 Plumville and DE5937 Night Night.

DE5872 Lakeville

DE5820 Polished Silver

DE6012 Plumville

DE5937 Night Night

Design in Practice

The following projects showcase Ernesto’s use of color and commentary on the interior styling of the spaces.

PROJECT STUDY 1

Project: New Construction project

Clients: Residential clients who wanted eclectic and cosmopolitan-looking spaces and a true mixture of traditional and modern styles.

Perfect Palette Colors used in Living Room, Dining Room

DE6150 Gourmet Honey

DE6149 Cream Washed

DE6148 Antique Linen

“This triad gives a warm, gentle and refined quality to the room allowing the furnishings, art and rug to display their silhouettes and colors freely without competition.”

Outcome: “They love their home and so do all their friends and family.”

PROJECT STUDY 2

Project: Total renovation Project; received the 2011 Award of Excellence from ASID for residences above 6000 sq.ft.

Clients: A couple who had moved from New York’s Upper East Side and was used to formal spaces.

Perfect Palette Colors used in the Kitchen

DEW336 White Sand

DEW345 White Fever

DEW341 Swiss Coffee

Perfect Palette Colors used in Office

DE6153 Pyramid

DE6150 Gourmet Honey

DEW341 Swiss Coffee

Noted: The husband wanted a warm, masculine, serene and uncluttered space with some contemporary accents. “I set out to find colors that would fill the space and give it a warm and less abstract quality. Only a rich color like “Pyramid” could have given the silk draperies the importance and majesty in this room. Don’t be afraid to use saturated colors! They are your best tool to enhance other design elements such as draperies, upholstery and case goods.”

Perfect Palette Colors used in the Master Bath

DEW336 White Sand

DEW345 White Fever

DEW341 Swiss Coffee

Noted: "This is by far one of the rooms that received the most accolades in the house. My clients absolutely love it! When they give parties, there are tours of guests coming to see this bathroom. All the mosaic surfaces were custom made in Italy, and paint in this area had the delicate function of enhancing these precious surfaces. At the same time, the paint had to reflect enought light for the space to be appreciated in all its details and grandeur."

Perfect Palette Colors used in Nursery

DEW300 Coy

DE5280 Still Morning

DEW325 Vanilla Shake

DEW341 Swiss Coffee

Noted: "The nursery was designed to welcome a little girl into the family, and the walls display a harlequin pattern in very light pastel cream and rose. The subtle variation has the purpose of associating most of the elements of the room and provide a light background to accent pieces. The clients wanted a peaceful and light room where this girl could begin her life. Outcome? The whole family loves this room. These walls have witnessed every new smile and new word."

Ernesto Garcia Interior Design, LLC, provides high-end interior design services for residential, commercial and hospitality projects in a range of traditional to contemporary styles. As an award-winning professional member of the American Society of Interior Designers, his work has been extensively published. Located in Arizona, between Phoenix and Scottsdale, Ernesto provides interior design services to many customers in Paradise Valley, and also has projects nationally and internationally.

To contact Ernesto Garcia Interior Design, LLC, visit www.ernestogarciadesign.com

All Photography with permission and rights of Ernesto Garcia Interior Design, LLC

Modernism Week: Midcentury Dreamin'

Sara McLean — 2/28/2012 12:00:00 AM

I just returned from this year’s Modernism Week in Palm Springs, which promised and delivered an exciting lineup of seminars, tours and events, all in celebration of midcentury design. Highlights of the 11 days included house tours including the first public tours of Sunnylands, the 1966 Annenberg Estate, designed by A.Quincy Jones as well as tours of the Frank Sinatra Palm Springs residence; a four-day Modernism Show that showcased vintage furniture and art; a modern garden tour; vintage Airstream, trailer and car shows; lectures and bus tours. Stay tuned as I bring you more in-depth coverage of my findings at this year’s show. In the meantime, I have included a few images from the places I visited. For more information, visit www.modernismweek.com

Typical modern home in Palm Springs Dinah Shore owned this property

Typical modern property in Palm Springs Historic midcentury property in Palm Springs

Palm Springs Visitors Center Typical modern property in Palm Springs

Exterior of Frank Sinatra Palm Springs Interior of Frank Sinatra Palm Springs
residence residence

All photography by Sara McLean

Color in History: Josef Albers

Sara McLean — 2/6/2012 12:00:00 AM

Through the various studies of color, the design community gathers more information on subjects ranging from color theories to color relations. Several prominent color theorists have helped to shape these studies and theories.
Josef Albers is one such prominent figure. His legacy as a designer, artist and color theorist continues to form the ways creatives think about color today. Here is a review of his integral body of work, Interaction of Color.

Josef Albers, History

Josef Albers (1888-1976) was born in Germany and began his art education in Berlin before studying at the Bauhaus school, Weimar, where founder Walter Gropius invited him to teach rather than to learn. Joining the school’s design and craft department in 1923, he was promoted to professor in 1925, teaching alongside artists Wassily Kandinsky and Paul Klee in the school’s new premises in Dessau.

Josef and Anni Albers, Black Mountain College ca 1935. Photo Credit: Albers Foundation/Art Resource, NY

Albers was an integral faculty member of the Bauhaus school of design until its closure in 1933, when he then immigrated to America. He continued teaching at various universities including Black Mountain College and Yale University, where he influenced the students with his studies of color.

Retiring in 1958, Albers focused on his own practice during the following years, designing for clients and publishing Interaction of Color in 1963. In this book, he discusses the fundamental problems of color recollection along with showcasing how color perception is relative and can be manipulated. Here are just a few of Albers' theories in summary.

Theory of Color Recollection

In his explorations of the issues of color recollection, Albers explained that because color is perceived differently by each of us, the true definition of color can never be reached. When we recall colors in the mind’s eye, each person pictures the slightly different sensation, and no person experiences precisely the same color.

The focus of his teachings centers around the theory of simultaneous contrast (see our article on Sonia Delaunay for further reading on simultaneous contrast), as first published by scientist Michel Eugene Chevreul in his book The Laws of Contrast of Color (1861). Chevreul stated that two colors that sit in close proximity to each other will interact with each other to change our perception of their true hue. Therefore, a person’s perception of one color is always relative to those surrounding it.

Josef Albers, Hommage to the Square - Open Outward, 1967.
Photo Credit: bpk, Berlin/Nationalgalerie, Staatliche Museen, Berlin, Germany/Joerg P. Anders/ Art Resource, NY

Josef Albers, Hommage to the Square - Within a Thin Interval, 1967.
Photo Credit: bpk, Berlin/Nationalgalerie, Staatliche Museen, Berlin, Germany/Joerg P. Anders/ Art Resource, NY

Theory of Relative Color

When describing an individual color, Albers states that it can only be described in relation to other colors surrounding it. By surrounding two squares of the same color with contrasting colors, an optical illusion can be created and the two squares appear to be different in hue.

These observations were also used to show that dissimilar colors appear to be the same. Albers proved that color could be “pushed” into a different perceived area of light and hue by surrounding it with a color that would distort its relative appearance. “Any ground substracts its own hue from the colors which it carries and therefore influences.”

Josef Albers, Study for Oscillating, 1940-1945.
Photo Credit: CNAC/MNAM/Dist.Reunion des Musees Nationaux/
Art Resource, NY

After-Images and Ghosting

The phenomenon of after-imaging that is experienced after viewing a colored image – also known as “ghosting” – was demonstrated by Albers using circles of yellow paper placed within a black surrounding image. Viewers were asked to focus on the dot in the center of the white square on the left-hand side, then look at the empty right-hand square, therefore, experiencing this ghosting effect.

To explain this experience, we use the science of the human eye. The nerve endings within the retina are programmed to react to three primary colors – yellow, red and blue. By looking at a shape that is only one of these colors – yellow – the yellow receptive nerves become fatigued. Then when the eye looks at a white surface, which reflects red, yellow and blue wavelengths of light, only the red and blue wavelengths are perceived, because the yellow receptive nerves are still recovering. This causes the eye to experience only red and blue, resulting in a purple after-image.

Art – A Practice of Color

Albers continued his own work throughout his career and into retirement. His personal color studies often focused on specific patterns or palettes, showing how colors affect each other when in specific arrangements. He often worked in oil paint for its density and color vibrancy, and he also worked in colored glass and designed several pieces of furniture for the Bauhaus that followed the minimalist aesthetic.

Josef Albers, Variant/Adobe -

Luminous Day, 1947.
Photo Credit:Albers Foundation/Art Resource, NY

Josef Albers, Variant/Adobe, 1956.
Photo Credit:Albers Foundation/Art Resource, NY

Josef Albers, Mantic, 1940.
Photo Credit:Albers Foundation/Art Resource, NY

A final thought from Albers, “As basic rules of language must be practiced continually, and therefore are never fixed, so exercises toward distinct color effects never are done or over. New and different cases will be discovered time and again.”

IMAGE CREDITS: 2012 The Josef and Anni Albers Foundation, Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York
Lead Photo: Josef Albers, Hommage to the Square - Open Outward, 1967.
Photo Credit:Albers Foundation/Art Resource, NY

Time Out with Desta Krong

Sara McLean — 2/28/2012 12:00:00 AM

Desta Krong of Krong Design, Inc. – the architecture firm highlighted in our story In Learning Color: Calabazas Branch Library, takes time out with us so we can find out more about what she loves about design.

Please describe your company.

Krong Design Inc. is a small architectural and interior design firm with a track record of successful projects for a diverse client base throughout the Bay Area. Our focus is to help our clients define their true project goals, and tailor design solutions accordingly. Our design practice has encompassed a range of projects, including corporate and high-tech tenant improvements, medical and veterinary offices, corporate cafeterias, restaurants, retail, dance studios, libraries and banks. We also enjoy pro bono work for a good cause.

When and how did you form your company?

After graduating from college, I was fortunate to work with a variety of large and small architectural design firms in the Bay Area. I decided to start Krong Design Inc. when we started a family in 1993, to enjoy more flexibility with my schedule. My husband, an Architect, joined the firm 5 years ago; this has expanded our capabilities, and we now are able to take on all types of projects. We have enjoyed keeping Krong Design small so our clients always know who they will be working with. Now that our daughter has gone off to college, we look forward to focusing more on business and growing our firm, while continuing to provide our client with the personal attention they have come to appreciate from us.

What was your first design job?

The very first was a retail space at Valley Fair Shopping Mall. With Krong Design Inc., my first projects were office tenant improvements.

When did you know you were meant to be in the design profession?

For as long as I can remember I’ve always loved art and design. My father is an Architect and my mother enjoys sketching and sculpting, and has a great appreciation for the arts. My parents shared their passion for design and art with my two sisters and I. Even at a very young age our family frequently visited open houses and buildings and discussed their design, and enjoyed exploring art museums. The design of the home I grew up in was very contemporary, with furniture by classic designers such as Charles Eames, Marcel Breuer, George Nelson, Harry Bertoia and Eero Saarinen. It only seemed natural for me to pursue design as a profession to carry on the love of art and design my parents shared with our family.

Describe your design aesthetic/signature style.

I am passionate about contemporary design, but our firm’s design is widely varied as appropriate for each client and context. I enjoy creating a “canvas backdrop” with rich neutral colors to accentuate interesting forms, splashes of color and texture.

Who and/or what inspires you in your designs?

My clients inspire me of course and everything I see….nature, art, architecture, graphic design, industrial design, fashion, travel & food.

What is your go-to color palette?

I don’t have a “go-to palette”. Inspiration for the color palette of each project usually begins with getting to know and interacting with our clients.

Do you shy away from any color(s)?

Not really. It is almost always possible to find a version of a color that I feel comfortable specifying. My color palettes can be inspired by any number of things, including the project context, a client’s branding elements or a client’s personal color preferences.

What color can’t you live without and why?

A basic warm white. White is a beautiful backdrop for any color, texture or form.

When designing, what are some of your design rules?

My fundamental design rule is: NO RULES! Every project is a unique challenge and merits a unique approach. Listen carefully to your client and create a space that will satisfy their goal such as a space to promote productivity, energy, exploration, collaboration, calmness, security, or comfort.

What would you say every room needs as a finishing touch to polish of the room design?

A splash of color and element of surprise!

Do you follow color and design trends? If so or not, why?

Not consciously, but instinctively as part of closely following and monitoring design in general…from graphic design to fashion trends. But the key is to create a space that is beautiful, classic and timeless.

Choose a D-E Perfect Palette color that describes you.

I would have to choose three:

Spicy Tomato (DE5139) –I am excitable and extremely enthusiastic about things - if I like it, I go for it! Plus I love spicy foods.

Sun Surprise (DE5409) – The name, not necessarily the color, since I prefer a brighter more saturated yellow such as Electric Glow or Goldenrod. Sun represents a new day, new experiences….I am the kind of person who loves to experience new things: travelling to new places as opposed to going back to the same place repeatedly; new B & Bs; new restaurants; new galleries; new parks and trails; cooking with new foods and experimenting with new combinations of foods …you get the idea. This carries directly into design – I love experimenting with new products and materials.

Fluorescent Lime(DE5517) - This fresh green color is my favorite; it makes me happy, so I tend to wear or accessorize with this color a lot!

DE5139 Spicy Tomato

DE5409 Sun Surprise

DE5517 Fluorescent Lime

What will we see from you next in design? What are you working on?
We are currently working on several office designs for rapidly growing nationwide high tech and medical device companies, as well as a couple of residential projects. We are also working on a non-profit “recovery café” which will be a welcoming place for men and women who have suffered trauma, homelessness, addiction and other serious life challenges. It will be a supportive refuge for a recovering community, incorporating a library, rooms to hold classes including yoga, art and personal growth, as well as a full restaurant, coffee bar and café dining.

Krong Design Inc is located at 1905 Park Avenue, Suite 210 San Jose, California 95126, www.krongdesign.com

Photography courtesy of Krong Design Inc.

In Learning Color: Calabazas Branch Library

Sara McLean — 2/28/2012 12:00:00 AM

Quiet time fills the air as children peer through books filled with new adventures: this was the typical library experience many of us grew up with. Brushing that tradition aside, the San Jose Public Library System is breaking new ground, providing a fresh, exciting approach that completely re-envisions the public library environment. With the architectural expertise of Desta and Steve Krong of Krong Design and Kelly Simcox of Studio G Design, Calabazas showcases dynamic forms, colorful details, and an atmosphere that's more like a lively coffee shop than a library.

Defining the Exterior

A contemporary building in San Jose now fills the lot that once housed a tired, under-sized branch library. This vibrant new library will provide a lively community hub for people of all ages and backgrounds in this diverse community to enjoy. In describing the building’s architectural elements, Desta states, “The site enjoys nature on three sides—Rodeo Creek and the Community Garden adjacent, and Calabazas Park across the street. This building is crisp in its’ architectural forms, and imparts an engaging sense of fun. The theme of language is reinforced on the exterior by the large graphic three-dimensional letters “aBc” at the children’s end and the “xYz” in the exterior glass facing the entry plaza from the community room.”

Dunn-Edwards colors used on the Exterior

DEA120 Goldenrod	DE5412 Lemon Zest
DEA166 Tavern Creek	DE6319 Gray Flannel
DEC789 Light Gray	DE5475 Martian
DE6378 Jet	DE5328 Driftwood

A Discovery of Colorful Interiors

Washes of colorful light filter through the colored architectural glass upon entering the building. To experience this building is to experience a sense of fun for reading, learning and interaction throughout. As Desta and Kelly explain, “Inside the building, the words “READ” and “discovery” are cut into the colorful rubber flooring, and quotes by Shel Silverstein and Dr. Seuss are graphically incorporated into architectural elements in the Children’s area. Another important mission of this project is engagement of the community – from technology access and instruction to children’s storytime to an internet café and a living room with a fireplace for relaxing.”

Dunn-Edwards colors used on the Interior

DEC789 Light Gray	DE5412 Lemon Zest
DEA120 Goldenrod	DE5523 Lazy Lizard
DE5475 Martian	DE6319 Gray Flannel
DE5146 Campfire	DEA110 Untamed Orange
DEA114 Instant Orange	DEA112 Exuberant Orange
DE5062 Rosy Cheeks	DE5061 Cupid's Arrow
DE5733 Reef Encounter	DE6366 Silver Spoon
DE6367 Covered in Platinum	DE6378 Jet

DEW341 Swiss Coffee

The Client

The City of San Jose created the guidelines for this new approach to library design. Krong Design and Studio G were to follow and interpret this carefully defined program including specific quantities of circulation materials, designated program and functional areas, carefully thought-out adjacencies and functional services, and branded colors such as purple/lime green for teens and red for the internet café. “We were directed to provide a contemporary, exciting, fun and colorful space. We enjoyed lots of design freedom and support with regards to how to accomplish this, and benefitted from a dynamic and supportive collaboration with our clients,” Desta explains. In addition to the functional and visual design requirements, an important project goal was to be LEED-certified. At this time, the Calabazas Branch Library is on track for LEED-Silver Certification.

The Outcome

The City of San Jose loves the building and can’t wait to show the community. Due to open upon final city review and planning, the entire community - kids and parents alike - are anxious to see this colorful jewel box open its’ doors to them. Desta opens up about her experience and advice on Calabazas Branch Library: “Don’t be afraid to put forth bold ideas, including a rich palette of paint color! Great design enhances the environments in which we live, work and play. Our paint color palette for the Calabazas Public Library consists of 20 colors --- and everyone who tours the library loves it!”

Krong Design, Inc is located at 1905 Park Avenue, Suite 210 San Jose, California 95126, www.krongdesign.com

Studio G Architects, Inc. is located at 1427 Cherry Valley Drive, San Jose, California 95125
www.studiogarchitectsinc.com

All photography by Sara McLean

Realizing the Green Dream: Farrar Green Home

Sara McLean — 2/21/2012 12:00:00 AM

Cresting along a hillside in Escondido perches the home of Rhonda and Nigel Farrar. Built as their dream “green” home complete with magnificent views of Lake Hodges, the environmentally-friendly home is a testament to the ease of moving towards a greener lifestyle.

I recently sat down with Rhonda to discuss where the idea came from to build their dream home, the construction process and the outcome. Driving up to the property, the first design element I noticed was all the plantings and the solar panels on the roof. And as Rhonda led me to the patio where we sat to discuss the home, I couldn’t stop staring at the view to the lake.

Rhonda and Nigel hadn’t really intended to go green prior to this process. The idea formed when they were looking for a small home on a large lot in order to plant a large garden. Unheard of these days in San Diego where the lot sizes get smaller as the homes get larger, Rhonda and Nigel were pleasantly surprised to find this hillside location in Escondido that perfectly fit their list of needs and wants.

Design Comes to Life

To realize the dream, the Farrar family researched over 40 architecture firms and interviewed 6 before deciding on Drew Hubbell. Drew, of Hubbell & Hubbell Architects in San Diego, was a natural choice for the project. Hubbell & Hubbell Architects has specialized in green building design since 1996 and is a leader in the use of alternative green building materials. When reviewing the jobsite, Drew states, “My initial inspiration for the home was the site and taking advantage of the great views along with celebrating the indoor – outdoor connection by the bringing the organic gardens into the home.”

The Farrars also worked with Dan Smith and Jason Maune at Point of Departure to coordinate the interior and exterior color palettes for the home. "We were heavily involved in the interior design of the home, from the color coordination to the furnishings. Rhonda is extremely smart and organized so throughout this process, we learned and grew as a company along the way," Dan stated.

The paint colors are shown below and were used with the Dunn-Edwards Enso product line. As Dan further explained, "The colors complement the subtle hues of the lake and surroundings with the blues and greens. We also wanted to bring in a bit of beige to complement the hillside terrain. And we though Enso was a natural paint product choice to showcase the colors as well as provide the no-VOC protection."

DE5181 Georgia Clay	DE6319 Gray Flannel
DEC745 Chaparral	DE6375 Castlerock

Going Green

For the Farrars, it seemed like a natural choice to go green as they prepared for construction of their home. And, while many consider going green to be more expensive, as Rhonda states, “You’re essentially prepaying for all the energy you’ll need for the lifetime of the home. And, using ICF (Insulated Concrete Form) construction also means a higher quality of life and peace of mind knowing that you won’t have the issues of a typical home such as mold and termite. And, in California, there's the added security knowing that it will withstand earthquakes and fires since the home is made of concrete, not wood.”

When you put all the features together, it results in a sustainable home, which in this case will be net zero-energy and carbon neutral. "We are in the final stages of our review for LEED-Platinum certification. We expect to be the first net-zero energy, carbon neutral home, heated and cooled with a geothermal heat pump, in San Diego and possibly the state," Rhonda states. The home incorporates the latest in environmentally-friendly technologies. Here are several of the many features:

Dunn-Edwards Paints – Enso paint line, a Zero-VOC line of eco-friendly paints. When walking through the home, Rhonda provided more insight into the decision, “There are no paint fumes whatsoever. It’s great to be in a house that’s painted throughout, but with no paint smell. It’s healthier for you and the colors are beautiful. Tom Summit, our painter, worked closely with Dunn-Edwards to ensure a perfect result.”
The electricity supply comes from the solar panels, which provide enough power during the daytime to feed back into the utility grid.

Air conditioning is provided by a geothermal heat pump that taps into the underground ambient temperature of 70 degrees year-round.
The walls are made of Insulating Concrete Form blocks. These ICF blocks are stronger, more insulating, provide better sound-proofing, stand up to earthquakes, and are resistant to mold and termites. Built to last!
The pool is small but with a Swim Gym motor, swimmers are still able to get a workout. And, the motorized cover that is used at night keeps the heat in and the temperature steady.

The design elements and materials used in the home are sustainable and, in many cases, locally-manufactured. The granite is from a local quarry, the floors and cabinets use bamboo, LED lighting is used throughout the home and of course, Dunn-Edwards Zero-VOC Enso paint.
Smart-home technology provides instant access to the home’s needs, from lighting, heating and air conditioning, irrigation, to music and security.

The Farm

Walking through the garden, Rhonda points out the amazing variety of edible plants, fruits and vegetables that are not commonly available commercially.

Rhonda’s inspiration for the garden is her grandmother, who, by planting a large garden, was able to feed her family through the hard times. And, as a member of the Rare Fruit Growers Association of San Diego and Slow Food Group of San Diego, she is providing an opportunity to continue her family’s legacy.

During the planning process, Heather Koermer of HK Design Studio, was on-hand as the landscape architect and Bruce and Sharon Asakawa of Garden Life were on location to provide advise based on their expertise in plants and sustainable farming.

The Learning Curve

In any construction project, only time will tell the outcome. For the Farrar’s, 95% of the project’s success was due to hiring the right team of people. The team worked well together and they wouldn’t change anything.

The neighbors love it and are proud of the property with a story near them. Many are interested in considering the use of these sustainable materials on their own projects.

What’s Next

With retirement in their sights, Rhonda and Nigel are here to stay. Active in the community, Rhonda has had several speaking engagements and when fully settled into the home, she will be working on more publicity.

To find out more about the Farrar’s Green Home and how you can incorporate green elements in your designs, www.farrargreenhome.org

Farrar Home Design Partners
Architect: Drew Hubbell, HUBBELL & HUBBELL Architects, www.hubbellandhubbell.com
Designers: Dan Smith and Jason Maune, Point of Departure (POD), www.pod-architecture.com
Landscape Architect: Heather Koermer, HK Design Studio, www.hk-designstudio.com
Plant consultants: Bruce and Sharon Asakawa, Garden Life, www.gardenlife.com

All Photography by Sara McLean

Inspiring an Education: Broadway Continuation High School

Sara McLean — 2/14/2012 12:00:00 AM

When a child needs the extra support to finish their education, one inspiring place can be found at the Broadway Continuation High School in San Jose. Designed by ARTIK Art & Architecture and completed in October 2011, the multi-use building was a collaboration between the district, architect and school principal who were all involved in the design. This was also the first attempt by the San Jose Unified School District for a LEED^® certified building.

Catherine Jacobsen, LEED^® AP BD+C, designer at ARTIK, led the project team through the maze of green construction. “Being that this was a LEED^® project, we experimented with different materials and design approaches that were unfamiliar. I learned how to best work with specific materials to get the outcome originally intended.”

The multi-use building is used as a cafeteria, for indoor sports, assembly and is available for community use. Construction of the building meant the use of very high impact materials in order to withstand the indoor sports use. Examples include high impact sheetrock, paper stone paneling, concrete floor and exposed concrete curb that were all chosen for ease of maintenance and to withstand sports use. Also, the windows were placed extremely high to allow for natural lighting, but minimizing damage.

GOING GREEN

Using Dunn-Edwards eco-friendly paint and the Perfect Palette color system, here are the colors used on the building:

Dunn-Edwards Perfect Palette^® Exterior Colors Used

DEC776 Courtyard Green

DE6084 Roxy Brown

DE5215 Caramel Apple

Dunn-Edwards Perfect Palette^® Interior Colors Used

DE6186 Desert Floor

DE6164 Canary Island

DEC769 Ranier White

Over 85% of material waste was diverted from the landfill in the construction of Broadway Continuation High School multi-use building. The insulation was made of recycled blue jeans, the tile was manufactured from recycled materials, and the solar array installed is estimated to meet the energy needs of the building and result in a net-zero building. "The goal for it is to produce the amount of energy the building uses. In a years’ time we will be able to assess if it can make that goal. The array is expected to emit 46,000 kilowatt hours,” says Catherine.

OTHER GREEN FEATURES

Sloped roof to maximize southern exposure for solar panel array
Window space maximized on the north side to maximize natural light
Reduced the heat island effect by maximizing landscape areas and pervious areas including pervious pavers and concrete. Reflective coating was also applied to the asphalt.
Minimized water flow to storm drains and the water that does make it to storm drains is filtered through a bio-swale and pervious elements.

When asked of the reaction to the building’s opening, Catherine simply stated, “They absolutely love their new building.”

TIME OUT WITH CATHERINE –

Who is Catherine? We dug deeper to find out more about her.

What was your first design job?

The tenant improvements for the relocation to the new building for ARTIK.

When did you know you were meant to be in the design profession?

I was attending West Valley College upon my graduation from high school. Not knowing what I wanted to do with my life, I took a semester to explore my options. Interior design intrigued me and it felt like a good fit.

What inspires you in your designs?

The character of the space.

What is your go-to color palette and do you shy away from any color(s)?

Colors based on nature are my go-to colors and I really don’t shy away from any color. Orange is a color I can’t live without. It’s so warm, inviting and interesting!

What will we see next from you in design?

I’m working on a renovation of the Center for Employment Training here in San Jose, CA. It’s a historic 1920s building originally designed by William E. Weeks.

ARTIK Art & Architecture (San Jose, CA) provides full-service architectural and public art design for a wide variety of public schools, special education organizations and community buildings. Established in 1996 under the name Bill Gould Design Art & Architecture, Founding Principal Bill Gould had the specific goal of bridging educational architecture and public, participatory art. The philosophy combines economical, functional designs with an artistic, creative flair that results in extraordinary educational environments within the strict budgetary and schedule constraints of public schools. In May 2010, the firm transitioned to its new name ARTIK Art & Architecture, reflecting the evolution into a three-principal led firm.

ARTIK Art & Architecture is located at 394-A Umbarger Rd, San Jose, CA 95111
For more information, www.artika3.com
Photography courtesy of James Dewrance and ARTIK Art & Architecture

Pantone Unveils Fashion Color Report Fall 2012

Sara McLean — 2/14/2012 12:00:00 AM

Fashion+Color! Pantone just released their fashion color report for fall 2012, which showcases designers’ use of color in their upcoming collections. The report was announced the first day of New York Fashion Week and showcases the top 10 colors for women’s and men’s fashion for fall 2012, along with designer sketches, quotes and headshots.

"By playing to consumers' practical side with versatile neutrals, and boosting their confidence with bold, spirited hues, this skillfully balanced palette has something for everyone," said Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute^®.

PANTONE Top 10 Women's Fashion Fall 2012 Colors

19-4056 Olympian Blue	17-1463 Tangerine Tango
18-5338 Ultramarine Green	17-4014 Titanium
15-1142 Honey Gold	18-2133 Pink Flambe'
16-3817 Rhapsody	14-1506 Rose Smoke
19-1012 French Roast	14-0445 Bright Chartreuse

PANTONE Top 10 Men's Fashion Fall 2012 Colors

19-1012 French Roast	19-4056 Olympian Blue
15-1143 Honey Gold	17-1463 Tangerine Tango
18-5338 Ultramarine Green	17-4014 Titanium
19-1652 Rhubarb	14-0445 Bright Chartreuse
16-3304 Sea Fog	12-0304 Whitecap Gray

The report is available for download at www.pantone.com/fall2012

To read more on Pantone color and learn more about Lee Eiseman, Executive Director of Pantone's Color Institute, www.colorexpert.com and www.eisemancolorblog.com

Envisioning a New Bel Air

Molly Luetkemeyer — 2/6/2012 12:00:00 AM

During my interview with Molly Luetkemeyer, owner of M. Design Interiors, I asked her to describe a project where the use of color transformed the room to the delight of the clients. Here is her story.

I was working with a family in Bel Air and they had an enormous, sunken living room with 14 foot ceilings. We had been furnishing the room and I kept suggesting all kinds of color for the walls. The husband was hesitant to put anything on the walls because he liked to screen movies there.

When the project was nearly finished, I sat with him in the room and asked him if he felt like something was missing. After talking for a while, he finally acquiesced to a painted mural on the largest wall, with the caveat that if he didn’t like the end result, we could repaint it white.

Since we were adding this piece near the end of the project, I decided to pull the colors from all of the fabrics in the room as well as the adjacent spaces to create a link between them all.

Dunn-Edwards Perfect Palette Colors Used on Mural

DE5381 Summertime	DE5174 Claypot
DE5594 Jolly Green	DEW340 Whisper
DEA139 Nautical	DE5793 Frozen Tundra
DE6366 Silver Spoon	DEC714 Friar Tuck
DE5114 Mesa Rose	DE5802 China Clay

DE6350 Dark Engine

The result was really dynamic and the clients were thrilled. I learned that sometimes, even though I can envision the end result, the client needs to live in the space for awhile to come to his or her own conclusion. At the end of the day, this is their home and I want them to be comfortable and excited by all of the design decisions. It reminded me not to get attached to a particular process (i.e., start with the walls or floor) and to be open to allowing a space to evolve over time.

To find out more about Molly or to follow her blog, go to www.mdesignla.com www.mollyloot.com

Terranea Resort: Where Pleasure and Preservation Meet

specs+spaces staff — 2/3/2012 12:00:00 AM

Jutting out into the crystal blue Pacific Ocean, The Terranea resort has the feel of a getaway for sure. Located on the Palos Verdes Peninsula, just outside of bustling Los Angeles, it’s the perfect spot for a resort destination where relaxation, golfing, swimming, fitness and spa treatments are the only things on the agenda, that and taking in the 270-degree stunning ocean views.

From this spectacular point on a clear day, you might see dolphins and whales frolicking in the ocean. Look out on the horizon, and you can see all the way to Catalina Island.

Terranea Marketing Manager, Julie Fisher gave us a tour of the site on a sparkling, clear 78-degree day. See the video:

The Terranea resides on a stretch of land formerly known for Marineland, California’s first major theme park featuring a public aquarium (1954-1989). The area sat abandoned for almost two decades after the theme park closed. When the Terranea broke ground in 2007, locals worried it would be just another ostentatious, elite-only resort gobbling up the precious landscape. But once development began, it became clear the Terranea was designed to complement the area’s natural beauty, and preserve not only the environmental integrity but also the land’s history.

AT ONE WITH NATURE

The main way this was achieved was building with sustainability in mind. Great care was taken to protect the terrestrial and aquatic life of the peninsula’s ecosystem as well as preserving the sense of open space and ensuring the public would have access to the beaches and trails.

The Terranea’s architectural design was created with the intention of fitting in with the environment and historically relevant look of Mediterranean inspiration. All of the structures were painted with Dunn-Edwards Paints in customized colors to blend seamlessly with the natural setting. Landscaping centered around planting drought-resistant indigenous plants and preserving the coastal sage scrub habitat. Dozens of mature, non-native trees that were left from the Marineland days, were painstakingly preserved and replanted at key points on the property to maximize their stately beauty.

Terranea Colors

PURE PLEASURE

The Terranea has its own 9-hole, par-3 golf course, with unobstructed views of the Pacific Ocean; walking carts are available for rent. The club also employs three PGA professionals for instruction.

There are an abundance of ways to get in a workout on site – a full size gym, which features a yoga, Pilates and spinning classes overlooking the ocean view, or take in some laps swimming in the adults-only pool. When it’s time to relax, The Terranea Spa offers a full menu of treatments, including massages, facials and a bath in a tub looking out on the water.

BIRD’S EYE VIEW

Guests may also catch a glimpse of the resort’s eco-friendly efforts of controlling the large seagull population, which can overwhelm an area if left unmanaged. Enter the falcon, this majestic species offers a non-lethal threat with a simple law of the jungle approach. A trained “falconer” brings in the birds to fly a few laps and provide a natural scare tactic approach. Witnessing the falconer in action is one the unique experiences offered by the Terranea.

HOLLYWOOD LEGACY

Though it feels like a million miles away from the big city and the glaring spotlight of Hollywood, the Terranea is not without celebrity history. Television shows such as “The Beverly Hillbillies” and “Hart to Hart” and movies “The Aviator” and “Pirates of the Caribbean” were filmed along the peninsula. But it is probably best known for the late ‘50s television show “Sea Hunt” starring Lloyd Bridges. It is his character Mike Nelson that the restaurant “Nelson’s” is named after. The developers of the Terranea made a special request to the Bridges family for involvement in the planning Nelson’s. Excited to participate, they donated memorabilia and their collection of photos which now hang on the walls.

Nelson’s sits just atop the water line, the structure features its own friendly architectural style to separate it from the grand Mediterranean feel of the resort. Just like the resort itself, the restaurant was built with the utmost regard to creating the smallest possible environmental footprint featuring stones quarried on site, and a bar made from recycled wine bottles. Terranea guests and local residents are welcome to come eat, hang out and enjoy the spectacular setting – don’t miss it at sunset!

So whether you come for a special dinner, a stroll along the water or a luxurious days-long getaway, the Terranea is open to everyone who wants to be part of the exquisite beauty of this preserved little gem of space along the California coastline.

See the slideshow for more of the Terranea Resort:

For more information, visit their website: www.terranea.com

Photos and video by specs+spaces

In Time with Molly Luetkemeyer

Sara McLean — 2/4/2012 12:00:00 AM

Molly Luetkemeyer, acclaimed interior designer and owner of M. Design Interiors, Inc., based in Los Angeles, California, was kind enough to spend time with me and discuss all things color and design. Here is our interview:

Please describe your design company and the location.
We are a small design firm that specializes in high-end residential projects (though we occasionally do commercial projects.) We are located on Melrose Avenue in West Hollywood.

When and how did you form your company? What was your first design job?
I started the company in 2001 when I completed the design program at UCLA.
While I was at UCLA, I interned for both Kelly Wearstler and Antonia Hutt and worked on a number of exciting projects from the Avalon Hotel to high-end residences. When I formed M. Design, my first job was renovating and decorating a friend’s first floor in the Silver Lake area.

When did you know you were meant to be a designer?
I had an early mid-life crisis when I moved to LA from New York City and realized I didn’t want to be in the film industry any longer. I was talking to a friend and she pointed out that I was constantly giving design advice, moving furniture, painting walls and hanging art, so why not take a class and see if I wanted to explore it as a profession. During my first course at UCLA, I realized I had found my calling.

Describe your design aesthetic/signature style.
I like color and encourage my clients to be bold. I also like to mix furnishings from all eras, as well as high end and mass-market pieces. That said, it is imperative to me that each home I work on clearly reflects the people who live there and accommodates all of their needs, in addition to looking good.

Who and/or what inspires you in your designs?
Art and nature are my primary inspirations. I find both endlessly satisfying and stimulating. As far as people, I am very inspired by contemporary Dutch design at the moment – Hella Jongerius, Tord Boontje, Maarten Baas, Marcel Wanders, the Droog and Moooi collective, Scholten and Baijings to name a few.

What is your go-to color palette? Do you shy away from any color(s)?
I like working with white walls to create a fresh backdrop for a colorful room. Here in Los Angeles, we have such clear, beautiful natural light and I find that white walls really sing. I think that all colors are useful and can be a wonderful addition if used in the correct proportion.

When designing, what are some of your design rules?
I really only have one – harmony. You can do anything, mix any kind of furnishings, use any mix of colors if you are careful to understand how all of the elements work in harmony. I never want a space to feel jarring or weighted too much in any one direction. I work to get the balance and proportion right in each space so that when you spend time in the room, you feel energized or calm or inspired.

What would you say every room needs as a finishing touch to polish of the room design?
A collection of personal items, be they books or shells found on the beach or childrens' drawings. These items help give the space a layered and personal look and take it from a designed space to a home.

Do you follow color and design trends? If so or not, why?
No. I like all colors and use them according to what works in each specific space. Also, trends come and go and I am trying to create spaces that will last over time and still feel fresh and interesting.

Choose a Perfect Palette color that describes you.
Hmmm. Well, one of my favorite colors from the Perfect Palette is English River (DE5789). I like it because it reminds me of a deep Mediterranean sea and it’s rich and complex as opposed to juvenile and predictable. I don’t know if I would describe myself that way but the color always resonates with me.

DE5789 English River

What will we see from you next in design? What are you working on?
I am currently hard at work on a number of projects – a large summer home on Martha’s Vineyard, a hyper-contemporary apartment in New York’s West Village, a rambling Tudor house in Riverdale, NY, a Spanish gem in high above the Sunset Strip, an African inspired condo in Brentwood and a midcentury jewel in Beverly Hills.

Quick and Fun - A Peek into Molly's World

What’s your idea of the perfect day?
Getting to sleep in, taking my dogs for a hike, going to a museum, having dinner with friends at a delicious farm-to-table restaurant and hitting the dance floor!

What’s your favorite kitchen gadget?
My electric teakettle. I am a tea addict and I love having boiling hot water in seconds, especially at the office.

What’s your favorite design accessory?
My camera. I am constantly taking photographs of plants and things I see on the street and scraps of paper and inspiring color combinations. I refer back these images often when I am looking for a fresh start for a space.

Do you have a uniform or “lucky” outfit/something you wear that makes you feel like it’ll be a great day?
Sadly, my uniform tends to be my workout clothes. I always intend to put on a cute outfit but often, the phone calls and emails start coming in as soon as I get off the trail or out of the gym and I jump into my day without realizing that I never changed. God bless the women in my office. They must really be shocked to see me day after day looking like that!

Are you a books or Kindle person?
I am a book fanatic, especially art and design books. That said, I travel a lot and love my iPad because it is one tenth of the weight of the books I used to lug with me.

What’s your signature fragrance?
Romeo by Romeo Gigli. I have been wearing it for years. It was discontinued in the late 80s and I have to buy dead stock on eBay. I live in fear of the day I can’t find it anymore.

What’s your favorite meal?
I love pasta of all kinds but I try not to indulge too often for fear of not fitting into my clothes.

What’s your influential movie?
That’s a hard one. I find myself thinking about scenes and costumes and colors and moods from so many. Some of my faves are This is Spinal Tap, All That Jazz, True Romance, Far From Heaven and Orlando.

What’s your favorite season?
Spring. It is so full of promise.

What’s your most prized possession?
My house. It is my laboratory and I am grateful to have a space to experiment.

What’s your last splurge?
A Chloe bag. It is so damn beautiful. I feel happy and polished every time I pick it up (even in my gym clothes!)

What’s the one place we should not miss when we visit your area of LA?
LACMA (Los Angeles Museum of Modern Art). They have wonderful exhibitions, a beautiful sculpture garden and their permanent collection is excellent. The new Broad space is a dynamic addition.

Catch up with Molly as she talks color on one of her projects in her feature with us "Envisioning A New Bel Air."

To contact Molly, www.mdesignla.com To read Molly's blog, www.mollyloot.com

All Photography courtesy of and permissions by Molly Luetkemyer