Meet Krysti Lyn | Whole Home Designer

Christine Lin, founder and principal of Form + Field, an interior design firm based in San Francisco, shares insights into her work, inspirations, and projects. Lin's background includes studies in architecture and mechanical engineering at MIT, where she also delved into furniture and product design and art history. This diverse academic foundation, combined with rigorous training in corporate and startup tech environments and an MBA from UC Berkeley, equipped her with expert management and execution skills. Her keen eye for design has been further honed through extensive study and global travel, seeking out new art, design, and architecture. Form + Field's design philosophy centers on integration and longevity, aiming to create holistic, enduring environments that promote joy and well-being. The firm intentionally crafts spaces tailored to individual needs, whether residential or commercial. Lin describes her style aesthetic as 'eclectic modernism with an emphasis on contemporary art and architectural detailing.' The design process at Form + Field is highly client-centric. It begins with a comprehensive discovery phase, including extensive questionnaires, to deeply understand clients' personal interests, preferences, and cherished memories of interiors. This information serves as a foundation for crafting a unique space. Lin likens the design process to a Venn diagram, where one circle represents the client's desires and functional requirements, and the other encompasses Form + Field's design principles. The 'overlap' between these two circles, which varies with each client, is where the firm identifies the magical and personalized aspects of a project. Lin finds inspiration primarily through conversations with passionate individuals across various crafts and arts, transferring that energy into her design work. One of her most inspiring projects to date is the Martis Camp project in Tahoe, a collaboration with Faulkner Architects, set to conclude in 2024. This project stands out for its ambitious scope, extensive custom design integrated with interior architecture, and the exploration of new vendors, fabrication processes, and color applications. Her dream project involves designing a small boutique hotel that offers a unique guest experience, deeply rooted in the surrounding culture and context of its location. Form + Field's ideal clients are described as kind, well-traveled, cultured individuals who value quality, invest in good design, appreciate architecture, and collect art. These clients are typically open to exploration, new ideas, and unexpected design solutions. Lin identifies Form + Field's 'design superpower' as their ability to interpret clients' needs and desires through their distinct lens, translating them into elevated, unique designs. The firm prides itself on creating spaces where each project possesses a distinct personality, clearly reflecting the occupants. Her design heroes include architect Rem Koolhaas/OMA, whose conceptual approach, focus on ideas over a singular aesthetic, and willingness to take risks are deeply inspiring. Looking ahead, Form + Field is embarking on a large, new-construction generational home project in Kauai, collaborating with Zak Architecture. This endeavor represents an exciting opportunity to create a holistic vision for a dream vacation home, building on an established trust with the clients, for whom this is their third project with the firm. #InteriorDesign #ChristineLin #FormAndField #DesignPhilosophy #EclecticModernism #ClientCentricDesign #ArchitecturalDetailing #DesignInspiration #CustomDesign

The article presents an interview with Kristin Gray, an interior designer based in Los Angeles. Gray shares insights into the interior design industry, emphasizing that owning a design business extends beyond creative design to encompass business processes, marketing, logistics, and human resources. She highlights the importance of building personal connections and trust with clients, stating that successful interior design is ultimately about providing high-level client service with integrity. Gray recounts her professional journey, beginning in 2005 when she moved to Los Angeles after college with aspirations of working in design or architecture. Her first role was as an office manager at an architectural firm, where she acquired skills in AutoCAD and blueprint reading. During this time, she pursued further education, enrolling in a Design Psychology class at UCLA Extension, which combined her undergraduate background with her interest in design. This marked the start of a seven-year endeavor to earn her Master's in Interior Architecture, a period during which she simultaneously gained practical experience in the design field through various work opportunities. She reflects on her growth as a designer, stressing the value of self-belief, confidence in her abilities, and her commitment to creating homes that serve as havens for her clients. Gray also offers a suggested itinerary for a week-long visit to Los Angeles, focusing on diverse experiences. Her recommendations include spending an afternoon in the Downtown Arts District, particularly The Row, to explore Smorgasburg's food offerings, browse shops, and enjoy coffee at Go Get Em Tiger. Another day would involve a visit to Terranea in the South Bay for a stroll along the coastal walking path, a meal, and potentially a massage. For dining, she suggests Planta Cocina in Marina del Rey, noting its delicious food and appealing design. The itinerary also features exploring South Bay beach towns like Redondo and Manhattan Beach, complete with shopping, coffee or acai bowls at BlendzUp, food and drinks at Salt & Pearl, and dinner and entertainment at Belle Epoque. Cultural activities include visiting the Huntington for art and gardens and attending a show at the Hollywood Bowl. A relaxed day at the beach is also included in her ideal Los Angeles experience. In her 'shoutout' section, Gray expresses gratitude to the many individuals who have supported her career. She acknowledges past colleagues, friends, and her husband for their encouragement during challenging times, their motivation for professional advancement, their support for her education, their recommendations for new projects, and their trust in her work. Her website, 'kdgrayinteriors.com,' is provided as a resource for those interested in her work. The article encourages readers to nominate others deserving of recognition within the community, aligning with the platform's mission to highlight 'hidden gems' and foster community interaction. #InteriorDesign #BusinessOwnership #ClientRelationships #ProfessionalJourney #LosAngeles #TravelItinerary #LocalRecommendations #Gratitude

Brittany Lyons, an Oak Cliff resident, transitioned from a full-time position as a chairman’s office coordinator at UT Southwestern Medical Center to a career in interior design. Despite holding a biology degree, Lyons’ passion for home interiors, cultivated since her childhood experiences with her parents flipping and building houses in Mississippi, eventually led her to establish Brittany Lyons Interiors. Her journey into professional interior design began in 2015 after she decorated her own home and shared photos on Instagram. A high school friend, impressed by her work, commissioned her for a home makeover, initiating a steady flow of clients primarily through word-of-mouth referrals. Upon moving to Dallas in 2016, Lyons strategically utilized social media platforms like Instagram, Houzz, and Pinterest to expand her client base. Her design philosophy centers on creating "peaceful, functional design" that promotes self-care for her clients, regardless of the project's scale, from large suburban residences to compact urban apartments. Lyons emphasizes that even small spaces deserve thoughtful design to enhance enjoyment and utility. She offers practical advice for smaller areas, such as using lighter paint colors, painting ceilings the same color as walls to create an illusion of space, incorporating mirrors, and avoiding oversized electronics. Running her business, Lyons faced the initial challenge of assembling a reliable team of contractors, painters, and installers who could deliver quality work at a reasonable cost and uphold her brand's integrity. She has since built a trusted crew, ensuring that anyone representing her company is professional and dependable. Lyons considers professional photography of her completed projects an indispensable asset for her business, as these images are crucial for her online marketing efforts and attract a significant portion of her clientele. Among her notable projects, Lyons recently completed a $1.5 million custom-built new home in Lucas, Texas, where her responsibilities included selecting every detail, from flooring and paint colors to stone and lighting fixtures, to personalize the space for her clients. She particularly enjoys redesigning bedrooms, considering them personal spaces where much can be done with elements like headboards, linens, and pillows to foster peaceful environments. Lyons highlights that many people misunderstand the value of hiring an interior designer, often viewing it as a luxury rather than a worthwhile investment. She clarifies that a designer's role extends far beyond aesthetic choices, encompassing intricate tasks such as coordinating deliveries, ensuring correct item reception, running errands for materials, advising on technical details like grout type and lighting placement, and managing contractors. Ultimately, Lyons asserts that the primary benefit of hiring a designer is saving clients considerable time and ensuring projects are executed correctly the first time, thus providing significant value for a fraction of the total renovation cost. She finds immense satisfaction in witnessing clients' reactions to their newly designed spaces and hearing how these transformations positively impact their lives, despite the inherent stresses of her profession. #InteriorDesign #SmallBusiness #Entrepreneurship #HomeDecor #ResidentialDesign #DallasBusiness #CareerTransition

Meredith Stern, an interior designer and home stylist, defines her legacy through the relationships she cultivates with clients and the personal, transformative spaces she designs for them. Her design philosophy extends beyond aesthetics, focusing on understanding each client's lifestyle, preferences, and aspirations to create spaces that are not only visually appealing but also uniquely tailored to their individual needs. Stern limits the number of large-scale projects she undertakes to ensure each receives her full attention and commitment. Her undergraduate background in psychology significantly influences her design approach, enabling her to create homes that positively impact her clients' mood, productivity, and overall well-being. She emphasizes that the functionality and appearance of a home profoundly affect happiness and quality of life, aiming for her projects to leave a lasting impression of joy, comfort, and inspiration. Meredith Stern Interiors is characterized by its meticulous approach to client understanding, eschewing 'cookie-cutter' designs for personalized spaces that enhance daily life. Stern's psychological background provides a unique insight into how environments shape emotions and well-being, which she integrates into every project. She takes pride in the trust clients place in her to actualize their visions, finding immense reward in transforming homes and the lives within them. The human connections forged during projects are as meaningful to her as the design itself. Starting her own business, Meredith Stern Interiors, was a significant life transition initiated during the COVID-19 pandemic after renovating her own home in Florida. This experience rekindled her passion for design, though the entrepreneurial journey presented challenges such as client acquisition, balancing creativity with business operations, and establishing her brand in a competitive industry. Perseverance, hard work, and the support of her husband, family, and the design community were crucial to her success. She learned the importance of patience, resilience, and maintaining her vision, along with prioritizing quality over quantity by selectively choosing projects to ensure dedicated attention to each client. Stern articulates that Meredith Stern Interiors is more than just about creating beautiful spaces; it is about designing homes that genuinely reflect their inhabitants. Her overarching goal is to craft spaces that are aesthetically pleasing, highly functional, and transformative, ultimately bringing joy, comfort, and daily inspiration to her clients. She views design as a service that profoundly impacts lives by shaping the environments people inhabit. The interview also delves into a personal anecdote, outlining a hypothetical week-long itinerary for a best friend visiting Florida, filled with activities centered around thrifting, vintage hunting, and design inspiration. This includes visits to World Thrift in Lake Worth Beach, various thrift stores in Delray Beach, followed by dinner at The Grove. The itinerary extends to Miami to explore vintage and antique shops on Biscayne Boulevard, particularly mentioning Avra Art, Robert Massello, Cur8ed Studio, Iconic Design Gallery, CastellArts, and Michel Contessa. Meals at Mandolin in the Design District are suggested, alongside exploration of Wynwood's street art and the Design District's architecture. A visit to the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens in Boca Raton is also included, highlighting its serene beauty and intentional design. Stern attributes much of her success and confidence to her husband, who has been her biggest supporter and cheerleader since the inception of Meredith Stern Interiors, providing unwavering belief and encouragement throughout the challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship. #InteriorDesign #HomeStyling #MeredithStern #ClientRelationships #PsychologyInDesign #Entrepreneurship #FloridaDesign #PersonalizedSpaces

Tiffany Clark, an interior designer, shares her journey, insights into managing social media for her business, and how she funded her venture. Clark emphasizes the significant role social media plays in her business, noting that 95% of her clientele comes from these platforms without direct advertising costs. She personally manages her social media, which involves content strategy, customer relations, responding to supporters, and brand promotions through high-quality visual content. Understanding platform algorithms and optimal posting times is crucial for visibility and audience engagement. Clark advises aspiring entrepreneurs to start immediately, even if it means creating a new account to attract a targeted audience with business-related content and a visually appealing page. Clark discusses her lifelong passion for interior design, which she discovered as a child while decorating her own room and later extended to family and friends. Her love for design was further nurtured by playing "The Sims" and watching HGTV shows like "Design on a Dime" and "Property Brothers." After serving nine years in the military, Clark decided to pursue interior design professionally in 2018. Despite initially struggling with self-doubt and fear of leaving a stable corporate job with good benefits, she enrolled in "The Interior Design Institute" to expand her knowledge. A pivotal moment for her was reading "Woman Evolve" by Sarah Jakes Roberts, which helped her overcome her fears and fully commit to her design career. This decision led to significant positive changes in her life, freeing her from previous anxieties. Funding her business began with "zero dollars" and a strong belief in her vision. Clark stresses the importance of faith and self-confidence for any entrepreneur, especially when seeking investors. She advises against waiting for the "right moment" to start a business, as there will always be challenges; instead, one should have a plan, a vision, and trust in divine guidance. Her journey highlights that achieving significant goals requires hard work, dedication, determination, and unwavering faith. Clark also shares a story of resilience, recalling her initial attempts to find employment with design firms after completing her studies. Despite curating a portfolio, she faced numerous rejections due to the close-knit nature of the industry and limited hiring opportunities. This period was discouraging and led her to temporarily stop designing for others. However, she eventually realized that these rejections were a redirection, guiding her towards starting her own business. Believing that a higher power had bigger plans for her, she launched her own company, allowing faith to lead the way. This leap of faith transformed her professional life, empowering her to become her own boss and find fulfillment in her purpose. Her contact information, including her website, Instagram, and Facebook profiles, is provided for those interested in connecting with her work. #InteriorDesign #Entrepreneurship #SocialMediaMarketing #BusinessFunding #CareerTransition #PersonalGrowth #Resilience #SmallBusiness #CreativePursuits

The article presents an interview with interior designer Trish Lynn, founder and principal designer of Colette Interiors, who shares insights into the remodel of her Craftsman-style home in Chatham, New Jersey. Built in 1952, the house is situated in a heavily wooded area, inspiring Lynn to integrate natural elements and organic finishes into the interior design. Lynn emphasizes the importance of balancing aesthetics with functionality, particularly as she designed the home for her family of five. She aimed for an elevated yet approachable environment, prioritizing livability and practicality in every space. A key focus of the renovation was to enhance the functionality of various areas. The mudroom, for instance, was specifically redesigned to better serve the family's needs. The kitchen underwent a transformation to achieve a bright and airy feel, incorporating classic white elements alongside organic textures and natural materials, such as rustic beams and an overgrouted stone wall in the butler's pantry. Lynn reflects on a minor regret, wishing she had replaced the kitchen countertops with authentic stone during the initial renovation, rather than keeping the existing ones. The initial renovation phase lasted approximately six to eight weeks, with subsequent, smaller-scale improvements implemented over time. The outdoor environment significantly influenced the interior design choices, as exemplified by the butler's pantry, which features an overgrouted stone backsplash and a rustic beamed door to echo the natural surroundings. For the dining room, Lynn opted for a minimalistic and clean-lined approach, utilizing low-profile furnishings to maintain an approachable and casual atmosphere. The great room was conceived as a natural yet well-defined space, characterized by intentional transitions between rooms and ample negative space to create a casual and uncluttered ambiance. In the living room, a neutral and warm color palette was chosen to foster a light, bright, and inviting environment, integrating rustic woods, textured furnishings, and layered organic materials to connect with the wooded exteriors. The home office stands out as the only space with a darker color scheme, offering a cozy contrast to the rest of the house. The primary bedroom was designed as a serene sanctuary, with its primary focus directed towards the outdoor views. It features a warm white palette, organic textures, and materials like a stone-surround fireplace and whitewashed wood ceilings. The walls are painted in Benjamin Moore’s Simply White, and the stone fireplace surround was achieved using stone veneers and overgrouted joints by a mason, reinforcing the natural and tranquil aesthetic throughout the home. #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #FamilyHome #CraftsmanStyle #ColetteInteriors #NaturalElements #FunctionalDesign #KitchenDesign #Mudroom #LivingRoomDesign #BedroomDesign

This article, originally published in November 2012, details the interior design project undertaken by Kelly Wearstler for Lara and Jeff Sanderson's 11,000-square-foot home on Mercer Island, Washington. The Sandersons, seeking an artistic approach rather than traditional decorating, commissioned Wearstler to transform their 1946 cottage-style house. Despite its classic Pacific Northwest exterior, the couple desired an interior that blended the elegance of a Parisian jewel box, the intellectual depth of a scholar’s retreat, and the wonder of nature. Kelly Wearstler, described as an emotional and instinctive designer, embraced the challenge of creating a space that resonated with the clients' diverse interests. Jeff Sanderson, a former Microsoft employee and a collector of music manuscripts, and Lara Sanderson, a professionally trained dancer with a background in politics, established Sanderson Ventures, a venture-capital fund supporting local businesses. Their home was designed to reflect their combined passions, featuring an art-filled salon, a music room adorned with historical manuscripts, and a sprawling kitchen. One of the most notable transformations in the house is the double-height library. Wearstler achieved this by extending the space into an upstairs bedroom. She designed a massive partners desk and a brass-railed spiral staircase for the library, describing the staircase as a "piece of jewelry" due to the meticulous work of metalworkers and a patination specialist. The article emphasizes the collaborative spirit of the project, highlighting how the Sandersons valued the craftsmanship and passion of everyone involved, from artists hand-painting wallpapers to stonemasons laying marble floors. The entry hall, affectionately termed "the Kelly special" by Lara Sanderson, showcases Wearstler's signature exuberant style. Jeff Sanderson described his initial reaction to the entry as "Shazam," underscoring its dramatic impact. In contrast, a guest bedroom exemplifies Lara's more grounded sensibility, featuring a neutral palette with a large, concentric ring pattern on the walls and ceiling, inspired by tree trunk cross-sections. This room includes a custom leather-upholstered bed, linens by Kelly Wearstler for Sferra, vintage side tables from JF Chen, and a Paris flea-market light fixture. The dining room further illustrates the unique synergy between client and designer. Wearstler, at Lara's request, designed a purple dining room, an unusual choice for her, and sourced Venetian-glass chandeliers from a New York dealer. Wearstler expressed her appreciation for clients who challenge her, viewing such requests as opportunities for exploration and discovery that lead to perfect design solutions. The Sandersons affirmed their enduring satisfaction with the completed home, noting its harmonious design and intellectual stimulation. #KellyWearstler #InteriorDesign #LuxuryHomes #HomeDecor #ArchitecturalRenovation #ResidentialDesign #PacificNorthwest

Kathryn M. Ireland, a Los Angeles-based interior designer, is releasing a new book titled "A Life In Design" on October 24. This book commemorates her three decades in the industry, highlighting her distinct and fearless approach to interior design. Ireland's philosophy emphasizes a non-serious, playful attitude towards decorating, which has attracted a diverse clientele, including notable figures like Steve Martin and Drew Barrymore. The book will feature some of her Hollywood projects and personal residences, showcasing her signature style of blending colors, global styles, and various fabrics. Ireland's journey into interior design began unconventionally. She transformed her filmmaker husband's editing studio in Santa Monica into a decorative accessories shop, which quickly gained popularity. Her initial foray into professional interior design came when Steve Martin, impressed by an article she wrote for House & Garden about another celebrity home, commissioned her to design his cottage. For Martin's home, Ireland incorporated subtle seafoam green and cream fabrics with interesting textures to complement his vibrant modern art collection. She also designed simple yet luxurious curtains and created relaxed seating areas, fostering an environment suitable for conversation or impromptu musical sessions, reflecting Martin's interest in playing the banjo. Ireland views each project as a significant learning experience, and her work for Steve Martin taught her the importance of starting with art and antiques in her design process. Her design projects extend beyond celebrity homes to include residential transformations across various locations. For instance, she renovated cosmetics giant Victoria Jackson's ranch house in Ojai, California. This project involved extensive work, such as stripping floors and remodeling bathrooms, and introduced elements like Moroccan and Mexican tiles, Spanish light fixtures, and European furnishings. Ireland also added unexpected details, such as curtains made from vintage Mexican serapes and distinctive red floral-shaped light fixtures in the master bedroom, embodying her preference for amusing, unexpected touches over kitsch. Her expertise also extended to a full-scale renovation of a British actor's farmhouse in the Cotswolds, formerly owned by Sir Mark Palmer. In this project, she meticulously preserved the original spirit of the house while infusing her style. This included wallpapering the master bedroom with her Marrakech Natural in Teal fabric, pairing it with a French armchair upholstered in Pampas Teal by Andrew Martin, and incorporating an armoire from Lorfords in Tetbury. A kente cloth bedspread, created by an Ashanti tribe in Ghana, further exemplified her global aesthetic. Ireland's connection to Ghanaian fabrics dates back to the 1980s when she traveled there for a documentary, and these textiles have since become a primary inspiration for her own fabric collections, which are also featured in her new book. Ireland describes her rooms as resembling a "United Nations," where diverse elements from Bali, Ghana, and France coexist harmoniously. She believes that while many elements can be prominent, they must collectively create a sense of balance and unity rather than any single item dominating the space. Her long-standing engagement with textiles began at an early age, winning a sewing prize at seven for a patchwork quilt, and she continues to sew her own clothes. Ireland, who started her career in fashion, views home design as an extension of fashion, believing that decorating is a therapeutic and relaxing process for both herself and her clients. #KathrynMIreland #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #DesignBook #CelebrityHomes #GlobalStyles #TextileDesign #CaliforniaDesign

A Midlothian couple, Chris and Christy Davoud, sought to integrate their passion for nature into the design of their new home in Canterbury Farms. Collaborating with Lauren Utsch, owner of Lauren Christopher Designs, and South River Custom Homes, the goal was to create a contemporary space that embraced the outdoors without resorting to a traditional lodge aesthetic. The design incorporates airy spaces, natural materials, luxury finishes, and innovative choices to reflect the couple's love for hunting and fishing. Chris Davoud's home office embodies a classic Virginia huntsman feel, featuring walls painted in Benjamin Moore Hidden Falls. The drapery fabric, Sanderson Elysian Geese, complements the rich wall color, while a custom fish painting by Powhatan artist John Obolewicz introduces a vibrant element. The fabric used for the office chair and kitchen barstools subtly mimics bark texture, providing a continuous natural theme. Christy Davoud has a dedicated sitting room adjacent to a chilled wine room. This space is adorned with a mirrored coffee table and an oyster shell chandelier from Low Country Originals, which serves as a nod to the Rappahannock River, a significant location for the couple. Wellborn + Wright contributed to the home's rustic yet refined Craftsman aesthetic by designing and fabricating custom steel doors and windows, and installing custom wood beams and engineered white oak flooring throughout the residence. The living room features custom-made wallpaper depicting an Italian country scene, offering a sophisticated interpretation of the outdoor theme. Sage accents soften the room, and walls painted in Sherwin-Williams Alabaster provide a balance to the deeper, earthy tones of the furniture. In the kitchen, the vaulted ceilings, initially a design challenge, were enhanced with stone to add warmth and texture. Oversized mercury glass lanterns from Visual Comfort were installed to fill the expansive space effectively. Even the garage reflects the Davouds' interests, with powder room wallpaper resembling feathers and an artistic display of Chris' mounted fish. Yeti storage containers are integrated for both their practicality and decorative appeal. The son's bedroom includes a chandelier and Henry bed from Four Hands, with walls painted in Benjamin Moore Stonybrook 1566. The home is designed for both relaxation and entertaining, while also preparing the couple for their future outdoor adventures. #homes #interiorDesign #homeDecor #Midlothian #LaurenUtsch #LaurenChristopherDesigns

Celeste Jones, owner of Oditto Gallery and an interior designer, discusses her journey into entrepreneurship, driven by a belief in autonomy and the rewards of passion-driven work. She emphasizes that when one invests heart and soul into their passions, work ceases to feel like a chore, and success naturally follows. This philosophy underpins her business ventures, where she combines her love for art and design with her professional life. Oditto Gallery offers a unique and accessible experience for art enthusiasts worldwide. The gallery can be explored virtually through a metaverse platform, an online gallery, or via Zoom for private viewings in a client's residence. Additionally, a physical location is available in Palm Beach, Florida. Oditto, in conjunction with Celeste Jones Interiors, provides comprehensive art and interior design services, including the creation of virtual renditions to help clients visualize how art pieces will look within their specific spaces. This innovative approach integrates technology to enhance the client experience and broaden the gallery's reach. For a hypothetical week-long visit to the area with a best friend, Celeste outlines an itinerary focused on luxury and local culture. The day would start with a boat trip on the intercoastal waters, followed by oceanfront golf. Dinner options include Imoto or Buccan, leading to an evening at HMF at The Breakers and dancing at Cucina. The following day would involve cultural exploration, starting with the historic Flagler Museum, a stroll along Worth Avenue, and a visit to The Royal Poinciana, with a stop at San Ambrose. A classic breakfast at Green's Pharmacy would complete the experience, showcasing a blend of leisure, fine dining, and cultural landmarks. Celeste Jones is also deeply committed to philanthropy, particularly with Big Dog Ranch Rescue. This organization holds a significant place in her heart due to her strong affection for animals. She actively uses her platform and gallery events to raise funds and awareness for the rescue, which is recognized as the largest no-kill facility in the country. Her involvement aims to promote animal kindness and foster a more compassionate society, spreading Big Dog Ranch Rescue's message across her social media platforms and YouTube channel. #CelesteJones #OdittoGallery #InteriorDesign #Entrepreneurship #ArtGallery #VirtualReality #PalmBeach #BigDogRanchRescue

Interior designer Traci Connell, recognized as a 2022 Best Designer, shares insights into her personal home, which she inhabits with her husband, Michael McDonald. Their residence, marked by distinctive architectural features like a C-shaped floorplan, triangular windows, and angled ceilings, previously housed a series of architects. Connell's design philosophy for her own living space prioritizes a "neutrals and natural" aesthetic, diverging from the vibrant palettes she often employs in her professional work. She describes her home as a place that "breathes a sigh of relief," filled with blacks, whites, creams, and subtle hints of greens and camel tones. This approach allows her to unwind from the constant creative demands of her profession, where she is frequently surrounded by color. A core aspect of Connell's design strategy involves a strategic blend of high-end, custom-made pieces with more affordable, ready-made items from large retailers such as Crate & Barrel, CB2, and Ikea. She emphasizes that while her clients seek custom designs, certain foundational and utilitarian items can be sourced from big-box stores without compromising the overall sophisticated look. This combination prevents the space from feeling overly formal or "stuffy," creating an environment that is both visually appealing and highly practical. Connell explains that everything in her home is meticulously curated, showcasing how accessible items can be elevated when paired with bespoke elements. The couple moved into their home four years prior, just before their wedding. Following a house fire, they embarked on a multi-phase renovation, transforming the adversity into an opportunity for fresh design. Despite the fire, Connell preserved original elements like the brick floors. She maintained her neutral color scheme, selectively introducing rich pops of color, such as deep greens or aubergines, in unexpected areas. Her rationale for a predominantly neutral interior is that the vibrant personalities and attire of guests often introduce enough color, aligning with her desire for a relatively quiet and serene backdrop. Connell highlights several specific design choices throughout her home. In the kitchen, original features like the hood, range, and silestone countertops were retained, while cabinetry was redone and striking rift-cut wood details were added. She incorporated Olympia white marble for the islands and backsplash, a personal indulgence. The dining room, in contrast to the overall neutral theme, features a dramatic grasscloth wallpapered ceiling, reflecting Connell's inclination to "push limits a little bit" as a designer. The family office embraces all-black walls, made possible by abundant natural light, and includes colorful original art, a vintage Sutherland desk, and lacquered green bookcases from Scout Design Studio. The master bedroom showcases a black-and-white aesthetic with bedding from Peacock Alley and Harlequin fabric accent pillows, alongside nightstands from Currey & Co. and lamps by Arteriors. The bathroom features a distinctive wallcovering that mimics tile and a durable porcelain flooring, completed with a Stone Forest sink and a Made Goods mirror. The family room, a testament to her love for nature and neutrals, is bathed in warm ivory tones, complemented by exposed brick floors and various plants. It features a custom sectional by Hickory Chair, swivel chairs from Four Hands, and a Feizy rug, along with a beloved bar area where Connell and her husband enjoy their "Martini Friday" tradition. The article includes a Q&A section where Connell elaborates on her philosophy of mixing high and low-priced pieces, stressing the importance of removing overly popular mass-market items from design presentations to maintain a unique, custom aesthetic for her clients. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #TraciConnell #DallasHomes #NeutralPalette #LuxuryDesign #AffordableDecor #HomeRenovation #DesignPhilosophy

The article introduces Karin Breve, an architect and interior designer, and her business, Iconic Design. Breve discusses the thought process behind starting her business, highlighting her passion for architecture, her Brazilian heritage, and her desire to create emotionally resonant spaces. Growing up surrounded by diverse Brazilian design influences, from Rio's vibrant energy to Oscar Niemeyer's modernism, shaped her unique perspective. After migrating to a new country, she recognized the importance of belonging and combined her architectural background with her cultural insights to establish Iconic Design. Breve emphasizes that Iconic Design goes beyond aesthetics, focusing on crafting functional, sustainable, and deeply personal environments. Her approach involves listening to clients' stories and understanding their needs, whether it's creating a home that reflects their heritage, a workspace that enhances productivity, or a commercial space embodying a brand's essence. This philosophy aims to merge practicality, creativity, and cultural identity, resulting in spaces that leave a lasting impression and inspire innovation. The distinctiveness of Iconic Design stems from Breve's blend of architectural training, cultural diversity, and commitment to meaningful spaces. She draws inspiration from Brazilian color, texture, and tradition, alongside architectural principles of structure and function, to design experiences rather than just rooms. Personalization is central to her work; she delves into clients' needs, preferences, and stories to create authentic spaces. A notable project involved a cultural space celebrating Brazilian heritage, where she fused traditional elements with modern contexts, sparking discussions on cultural preservation and design. Breve's journey to becoming an interior designer involved significant challenges, including cultural differences, language barriers, and navigating a new professional landscape after moving from Brazil. Despite initial rejections and the competitive market, she persevered by focusing on her strengths, unique background, and passion. She learned to adapt to new market preferences and integrated her Brazilian roots into her designs, offering a distinctive style. Building trust and reputation required active networking and seeking out projects aligned with her values. She highlights resilience as a crucial lesson, viewing setbacks as opportunities for growth and trusting the process. Authenticity has been key to connecting with clients who appreciate her vision. Breve's ultimate goal for Iconic Design is to transform lives by creating spaces that elevate the human experience. She believes design can foster connection, whether through a sanctuary-like home, a creative workspace, or a public area that tells a unique story. She concludes by stating that Iconic Design aims to create environments that are truly iconic, reflecting passion, heritage, and the power of design. The article also includes a detailed itinerary for a friend visiting Los Angeles, offering a mix of iconic landmarks, cultural experiences, and culinary recommendations across seven days. This section provides specific suggestions for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and activities in various parts of LA, from Hollywood and Griffith Observatory to Venice Beach, The Getty Center, and the Arts District, reflecting a local's perspective on enjoying the city. #KarinBreve #IconicDesign #InteriorDesign #Architecture #BrazilianCulture #Entrepreneurship #CulturalIdentity #LosAngeles

Brittny Button, an interior designer and real estate investor, discusses her journey in establishing her own business and her unique design philosophy. Her passion for building, architecture, and design naturally led her to open an interior design firm, where she focuses on transforming spaces. Additionally, she realized a long-held dream by opening Button Atelier, a shop within the Agoura Antique Mart. This venture allows her to showcase and sell her collection of vintage furniture, many of which have been revitalized with new upholstery, alongside a curated selection of decorative accessories. Button's distinctive design aesthetic is deeply rooted in Old World European Classicism, with a particular fondness for Spanish architecture and Art Deco-inspired furniture. Her past projects have garnered significant recognition, being featured in prominent publications such as Architectural Digest, Vogue Living, Homes & Gardens, and Living etc. This acclaim underscores her ability to create aesthetically pleasing and functional living environments. A notable challenge she identifies in her work is the difficulty of assembling a cohesive on-site team, including project managers, contractors, and subcontractors, who fully grasp and align with her design vision. She emphasizes the importance of shared understanding, even suggesting that it is better to disengage from a project if the team is not in sync, to ensure the integrity of the final outcome. Button Atelier is envisioned as an evolving 'workshop' or 'studio,' extending beyond a traditional interior design firm, with various exciting projects anticipated for completion later in the year. When asked about local recommendations, Button suggests visiting the Pacific Design Center in LA to explore new home furnishings. For family outings, she highlights the playground at Malibu Country Mart, often combined with lunch at one of the local restaurants. She also enjoys browsing CB2 Design Shop in Malibu for new arrivals. For unwinding with friends, Soho House and Nobu in the same vicinity are her preferred spots. She acknowledges the significant impact of recent fires on the Malibu area, expressing empathy for affected families and businesses, and offering her design services at free or reduced rates to support those who have suffered losses. Button attributes much of her success and development to the influence of her parents, who fostered her artistic eye from a young age through their shared passion for collecting antiques and architectural history, particularly Art Deco. Accompanying them to flea markets and estate sales instilled in her a joy for discovering and reimagining vintage pieces, a practice she has maintained throughout her life. She recalls acquiring a vintage chandelier and mirror for her bedroom in high school, marking the beginning of her fascination with reclaimed items. Her husband, Jenson Button, is credited as a constant source of support over the past decade, granting her full creative freedom in their home renovation projects and bolstering her confidence in her design capabilities. Her four-year-old daughter, Lenny, also expresses an interest in following in her mother's footsteps, aspiring to design houses. #InteriorDesign #RealEstateInvesting #Entrepreneurship #DesignAesthetics #VintageFurniture #ArchitecturalDesign #SmallBusiness #CreativeProcess

Maya Newlin, the driving force behind KAMO Studio, shares her entrepreneurial journey, detailing the motivations and experiences that led her to establish her own interior design business. From a young age, Newlin harbored aspirations of entrepreneurship, often sketching floor plans and envisioning room transformations. Her passion for design was nurtured through a childhood fascination with a Victorian dollhouse, which served as an early outlet for her creativity in curating and storytelling within spaces. Prior to founding KAMO Studio, Newlin pursued a career as a national competitive figure skater, a background that instilled in her ambition and a strong-willed approach. Her professional path included a significant role as an Imagineer for Walt Disney Imagineering. While initially perceived as a dream job, the large-scale, impersonal nature of designing for global audiences at Disney led her to realize a longing for more intimate, one-on-one creative problem-solving. This experience, though valuable for fostering creativity, reinforced her desire to work independently, leading her to pursue a Master's degree in Interior Architecture, complemented by business courses, to equip her for launching her own venture. KAMO Studio, co-founded with business partner Jasmine, specializes in residential and boutique hospitality projects. The studio's philosophy centers on creating personalized spaces that genuinely reflect their clients' personalities and life stories. They emphasize incorporating unique elements like vintage finds and generational heirlooms into contemporary designs, aiming to celebrate everyday moments and evoke specific emotions within a space. The focus is on achieving an effortless aesthetic that also boasts hidden functionality, a skill KAMO Studio has refined and prides itself on. Newlin highlights the matchmaking aspect of design, where understanding and translating a client's often unarticulated desires into a tangible design is paramount. The studio guides clients beyond transient trends, encouraging them to trust their instincts and create spaces that resonate deeply with their individual needs. Newlin also provides a detailed, week-long itinerary for experiencing Los Angeles, offering a glimpse into her personal preferences and local favorites. The itinerary covers a range of activities, from active pursuits like rollerblading from Venice to Malibu and hiking in the Vicente Bluffs Reserve, to cultural experiences such as visiting art exhibitions at Hauser & Wirth. Dining recommendations span various cuisines and atmospheres, including Gjusta for baked goods, Ospi Venice for handmade pasta, Blueys Santa Monica for brunch, Le Great Outdoor for farm-to-table fare, Manuela or Bavel in the Arts District, and Broad Street Oyster Company for seafood. The itinerary also includes shopping excursions at Abbot Kinney and ROW DTLA, a nightcap at the DTLA Proper hotel, exploring Culver City's Citizen Public Market, and a day in Malibu with a visit to Cielo Farms for wine tasting. Sundays are reserved for the Brentwood farmers market and Jon & Vinny's for Italian food, showcasing a balance of local exploration, culinary delights, and relaxation. Finally, Newlin dedicates a "shoutout" to her mother, Kathy, acknowledging her as a primary source of inspiration and support. Her mother's pioneering career as one of the first female scientists in STEM, despite facing challenges, serves as a powerful role model for Newlin as a female entrepreneur. This recognition underscores the personal influences that have shaped Newlin's drive and resilience in building her business. #InteriorDesign #SmallBusinessOwner #Entrepreneurship #KAMOStudio #WaltDisneyImagineering #LosAngelesTravel #DesignPhilosophy #FemaleEntrepreneur #BusinessJourney

Holly Hunt, a significant figure in the interior design industry, has been inducted into the 2024 Interior Design Hall of Fame. Born in 1942 in San Angelo, Texas, Hunt initially pursued a career in fashion after majoring in English at Texas Tech. Her early professional experience included an executive training program at Foley’s, a Houston department store, and a role as an assistant buyer in millinery, followed by designing for a costume jewelry company in New York City in 1969. Hunt’s pivotal entry into the design world occurred in 1983 when she acquired R.J. Randolph, a struggling showroom at Chicago’s Merchandise Mart. She rebranded it under her own name, HOLLY HUNT, and embarked on a mission to redefine the showroom experience. Her approach was revolutionary for its time, focusing on elevating customer service, improving product display, and introducing transparency in pricing—a practice that faced initial industry resistance. Hunt curated showrooms that resembled actual living spaces, integrating architectural details, artwork, and a diverse mix of products and styles. She championed established designers like Vladimir Kagan and Rose Tarlow, while also discovering and promoting emerging talents such as glass artist Alison Berger and furniture maker Christian Astuguevieille. The company’s sophisticated branding and marketing materials were developed with the avant-garde graphics studio Thirst, all united by a commitment to superior quality. A key collaboration in the early 1990s was with French furniture designer Christian Liaigre, whose sleek, monochromatic aesthetic resonated with Hunt’s own. Hunt’s company became instrumental in manufacturing and distributing Liaigre’s designs in the U.S., influencing American interior design with rich dark woods and creamy textiles. This partnership gained significant recognition when André Balazs's Mercer Hotel in Manhattan opened with Liaigre-designed interiors in 1997. Hunt’s strategic vision extended to expanding her showrooms, notably opening one in the nascent Miami Design District in 1998. Designed by architect Alison Spear, this showroom deviated from conventional layouts, offering a luxury boutique experience accessible to all. Another Manhattan showroom, intended to open in October 2001, was successfully launched just two months after the 9/11 events, demonstrating Hunt’s resilience and foresight. She navigated the 2008 recession by restructuring her company, which led to the creation of Holly Hunt Modern, a collection that surpassed the profitability of her previous collaborations. In 2014, Knoll acquired HOLLY HUNT for $110 million. Hunt remained CEO for two years, overseeing expansions in Dallas and Los Angeles, and continued as a consultant until 2019. During this period, she undertook design projects such as a penthouse at the Surf Club in Miami Beach. Currently, Hunt leads House of Hunt, a Chicago-based interior architecture and furniture studio, engaging in projects ranging from product design, like the Dune sofa for HOLLY HUNT, to comprehensive home renovations. Her career trajectory is marked by continuous evolution and an adaptability to challenges, consistently eschewing rigid business plans in favor of dynamic engagement. #HollyHunt #InteriorDesign #HallOfFame #FurnitureDesign #ShowroomInnovation #DesignEntrepreneur #LuxuryDesign #ChristianLiaigre #DesignIndustry