Houston Design Force Expands Her Talents to Tabletops — Nina Magon Keeps It Artistic

Nina Magon, founder of Contour Interior Design, has established a reputation for glamorous, modern interiors in Houston. Her journey into interior design was influenced by a lifelong appreciation for beautiful objects, cultivated since her teenage years through shopping trips with her aunt for luxury items like Versace plates and Waterford crystal. Although initially encouraged by her parents, who immigrated from India and Canada, to pursue a business career, Magon first studied economics and finance at Southern Methodist University. She also secretly attended fashion classes at the Art Institute of Dallas, indicating an early passion for design. After graduating, Magon ventured into retail, opening a lingerie store. However, the demanding hours and limited financial returns led her to close the business. She then joined her parents' real estate company, where she discovered her true calling. Magon realized she could combine her interest in fashion with real estate by designing homes. She convinced her father to finance a spec home project in West U, for which she oversaw the design and construction. To gain expertise, she enrolled in interior design classes at the Art Institute of Houston and even hired her professors as consultants for her project. This first endeavor proved highly successful, selling before completion and generating more profit than her previous retail business. Inspired by designers like Zaha Hadid and Mies van der Rohe, Magon developed a vision for luxury modern design. In 2008, she established Contour Interior Design, which now manages a diverse portfolio of residential, commercial, and hospitality projects. Her firm also designs interiors for the spec homes built by her husband, Karun Magon, through his company, Capital Builders. Magon is expanding her reach further with a licensing agreement with Universal Furniture, through which she will launch a 20-plus piece collection of European-influenced, high-end luxury home furnishings in April 2019. Her personal home, a 6,000-square-foot mid-century modern residence in Memorial, serves as a testament to her design philosophy. Purchased for its lot value, the house was a fixer-upper with a dysfunctional layout. The Magons undertook a significant renovation in 2013, gutting and reinventing the interior to create a more open and functional living space. They reduced the number of bedrooms to create larger, more luxurious rooms, converted a bar into a powder room, and transformed a sunken living room into a media room. The home now features a sprawling open-concept ground floor, a gleaming white foyer, and a modern aesthetic dominated by a black, gray, and white color palette with occasional bursts of color from art and accessories. Karun Magon influenced his wife's embrace of modern design, advocating for it as a forward-thinking style. The home incorporates automated systems for security, lighting, air conditioning, and television, all controlled via smartphones or an iPad, a feature that many friends have since replicated in their own homes. The Magons also recently integrated Vastu Shastra, Hindu architectural principles, into their home by consolidating their prayer areas. Nina Magon's career received a significant boost from her participation in NBC’s “American Dream Builders” in 2014, where she tied for third place. This experience, though initially daunting, built her confidence and opened doors to prominent projects, including designing the interiors of the 51Fifteen Restaurant inside Saks Fifth Avenue in Houston's Galleria, a project praised for its design elegance and ability to cater to a stylish clientele. #NinaMagon #ContourInteriorDesign #InteriorDesign #HoustonDesign #ModernInteriors #LuxuryDesign #HomeRenovation #UniversalFurniture #AmericanDreamBuilders

Fashion illustrator Megan Hess, renowned for her elegant line drawings, resides in a meticulously designed three-bedroom apartment in Port Melbourne, Australia, with her architect husband, Craig Yelland, and their two children. The couple transformed the roof space of a Victorian church into their family home, prioritizing a sense of calm amidst the bustling street below, which is lined with shops, cafes, and is close to the beach and parks. The apartment's design emphasizes an airy, light-filled main living space, serving as the heart of the home. The ambiance shifts with the seasons, from open doors inviting salty beach air in summer to cozy candlelight in winter. Megan's aesthetic draws inspiration from glamorous interiors, particularly Coco Chanel's apartment at the Ritz in Paris. This influence is evident in her choice of a neutral backdrop featuring white walls and polished jarrah wood floors. She incorporates velvets and silks in classic creamy tones, accented with striking black and white elements such as striped wallpaper and graphic tiles in the kitchen and bathroom. This monochrome palette serves as a deliberate contrast to the vibrant colors and patterns found in her professional artwork, allowing her mind to be free for creative expression within a pared-back environment. The home reflects a blend of custom-made pieces and vintage finds. Craig, Megan's husband, custom-designed much of the furniture, including discreet, concealed storage solutions throughout the apartment. Megan complements these bespoke elements with unique vintage items she has collected during her travels, adding character and personal history to each space. Her philosophy is that any beloved art or sentimental piece will seamlessly integrate into the existing decor, regardless of its individual style. Each room features a distinct, eclectic chair to provide a focal point and character. An example is a reupholstered bergère armchair. The wallpaper in one of the bedrooms is identified as Spalding Stripe by Ralph Lauren, and the bed in that room was custom-designed by Craig. Fashion prints, reminiscent of Megan's work, are displayed, including an original illustration of Coco Chanel's room from her book "Fashion House." Megan's personal spaces, such as her walk-in wardrobe, demonstrate her organized approach, where everything is color-coded for quick access. She cherishes pieces with sentimental value, like her first Chanel bag. The bathroom features a custom-made black granite vanity unit, with similar tiles suggested as Topps Tiles Baroque Charcoal and taps from Archiproducts. Decorative items like a gold-lidded ceramic dish by Jonathan Adler and an urn from Rural Interiors add sophisticated touches. Floor-to-ceiling glazed windows and doors connect the interior to an outdoor terrace. Her home studio, though small, is described as a highly creative and positive space, filled with a "silly, lovable" collection of photos, illustrations, and objects. A wall in the studio displays a collection of her illustrations and favorite photographs, with a Tiffany blue wall color recommended for a similar effect. Her work table features a specially made Montblanc pen, affectionately nicknamed 'Monty,' which she uses for all her illustrations. Her daughter Gwyn's room is painted in a vibrant pink, chosen by Megan to be enjoyed during her childhood, with similar paint options from Dulux and a comparable chair design from Made. Megan Hess's home is a testament to sophisticated design, personal touches, and functional elegance, providing both a sanctuary and an inspiring environment for her artistic endeavors. #FashionIllustratorHome #MeganHess #HomeDesign #VictorianChurchConversion #MelbourneApartment #GlamorousInteriors #MonochromeDecor #CustomFurniture #VintageFinds

Petra, a new showroom founded by Monica Khemsurov, co-founder of Sight Unseen, made its debut at NYCxDESIGN, introducing a curated collection of artistic hardware. The brand aims to revitalize the popularity of sculptural hardware designs, drawing inspiration from Khemsurov's observations during her travels. Petra focuses on offering select boutique hardware pieces and exclusive, commissioned works from independent designers, emphasizing architectural detail and artistry. The inaugural collection features hardware from 27 designers and brands, providing solutions for various applications including cabinet knobs, drawer pulls, door handles, switch plates, appliance handles, curtain tiebacks, and towel bars. A notable inclusion in this debut is a new line of hardware from designer Pamela Love, which showcases hand-carved cabinet knobs in organic forms such as eyes, pomegranates, and urns. The collection also highlights historical designs through licensed reproductions from BD Barcelona, featuring knobs and handles originally crafted by Antoni Gaudí for buildings constructed between 1902 and 1910, as well as Salvador Dali’s intricate 1937 Rinoceróntico door handle. Petra distinguishes itself through its commitment to expressive hardware, both in aesthetic and conceptual terms. The brand's offerings largely consist of small-batch, handmade fixtures designed to serve as distinctive elements within interior spaces, differentiating them from mass-market options. While some pieces function as elevated basics, many are intended to be statement pieces, reflecting a fusion of art and functionality in everyday hardware. The initiative seeks to elevate the role of hardware in interior design, transforming utilitarian objects into points of artistic expression and focal points within a room. The curated selection suggests a move towards hardware that not only performs its function but also contributes significantly to the overall design narrative of a space. #NYCxDESIGN #ArtisticHardware #HomeFurnishings #InteriorDesign #MonicaKhemsurov #PamelaLove #SculpturalDesign #DesignerHardware

British artist Sophie Smallhorn, whose work explores the relationships between color, volume, and proportion, grew up immersed in a creative environment. Her parents were industrial and textile designers, and her Montessori education, with its use of brightly colored, precisely shaped wooden objects, fostered an early understanding of color, form, and dimension. This upbringing shaped her artistic approach, which is characterized by sophisticated geometric solids and a focus on color dynamics. Initially, Smallhorn pursued a degree in Wood, Metal, Ceramics, and Plastics at the University of Brighton, where she crafted sculptural furniture pieces that, despite their limited functionality, were primarily driven by color. She began creating assemblages from leftover materials for personal enjoyment, eventually selling them informally. Her acceptance of her work as fine art came only after a gallery explicitly presented it as sculpture, reflecting her background in design and making. Early career milestones included significant commissions from the avant-garde fashion brand Comme des Garçons, which provided opportunities for large-scale installations at its Tokyo flagship. These projects broadened her scope, leading to collaborations such as developing a 56-color palette for the London 2012 Olympic Stadium with Populous Architects, where exterior canvas banners in various hues marked spectator entrances. More recently, Smallhorn has ventured into textile design with Designtex, creating an upholstery pattern named Ribbon. This marks her first formal foray into textiles, a field her mother worked in, and one Smallhorn initially resisted due to her discomfort with digital design processes and the overwhelming possibilities of digital printing. However, a clear vision from Designtex's executive design director, Sara Balderi, during their renewed collaboration post-COVID, made the digital process manageable and even a revelation. The inspiration for the Ribbon motif originated from an enameled snuff box with an undulating ribbon, which Smallhorn encountered at the Victoria and Albert Museum. She developed the idea by physically manipulating collage and colored acetates, twisting and folding them, before translating these physical experiments into a digital layout for pattern repeat, palette, and scale. The initial design, which started smaller, evolved into a bold, graphic, and dynamic pattern with a theatrical quality, largely influenced by Designtex. The ribbon on the fabric is not solid but composed of parallel lines, a deliberate choice by Smallhorn to achieve an effect similar to screen printing, where overlapping transparent colors create a third hue, adding a playful and energizing graphic element. A solid version of this pattern, called Flat Ribbon, is available as a customizable wallcovering through Designtex’s Digital Studio website. Smallhorn notes a significant crossover between her two-dimensional prints and her three-dimensional sculptures and installations, as both involve compositions of hard-edged formal shapes. Screen printing serves as a rapid and playful method for developing ideas, allowing for serendipitous color scenarios that often inform her sculptural pieces. While her three-dimensional work does not allow for layering transparent colors, the print table mimics sketching, providing inspiration for new color combinations. She uses the same acrylic paint for both prints and assemblages, viewing the latter as vehicles for exploring and holding a palette. Smallhorn emphasizes the intuitive nature of her color decisions, often repainting pieces multiple times to achieve a desired equilibrium among what she describes as 'easy' and 'less easy' or 'awkward' and 'less awkward' colors, without relying on a predefined system. Her collaborations with brands like Comme des Garçons and COS exemplify her ability to bridge fine art and commercial design. For COS, she created window displays for five global stores, featuring large, overgrown stacks of shapes designed to complement product displays. This dual engagement with both artistic and commercial realms is a comfortable space for Smallhorn, who appreciates working with brands that share a similar sensibility toward color and design. Her career demonstrates a consistent exploration of color, form, and proportion across various mediums, continually seeking synergistic relationships in her chromatic work. #SophieSmallhorn #ArtistInterview #ColorDesign #Sculpture #TextileDesign #InteriorArt #DesigntexCollaboration #GeometricForms #CreativeProcess

The article explores the increasing trend of restaurateurs integrating art into their establishments to enhance the dining experience, moving beyond traditional ambiance elements like lighting and music. Stephanie Dillon, an artist, shares her experiences and collaborations, particularly with chef David Fhima, in creating art-forward dining spaces. Dillon recounts her journey in the art world, including painting for the W Minneapolis hotel and selling limited-edition prints for the Sundance Film Festival. She details her third restaurant project with David Fhima for Maison Margaux in the North Loop, Minneapolis, a collaboration that began five years prior with Fhima's restaurant. The partnership with David and his son Eli aims to create a multi-sensory experience that intertwines food, community, family, and joy. Their efforts have positioned Minneapolis alongside other major food cities recognized for innovative dining experiences. Dillon explains the collaborative creative process for Maison Margaux, which involved understanding Fhima's vision and desired emotional environment for the space. The art was conceived as a 'spice' to complement the interior design, food, and the overall atmosphere. This involved an initial walkthrough of the space, discussions about Fhima's inspirations, and the development of color palettes. Following these initial impressions, Dillon collaborated with digital artist Linnea Maas to rapidly create numerous pieces. After reviews and feedback from Fhima and his team, the selected artworks were finalized, sized, printed on canvas, framed, and installed, completing the sensorial experience. The article highlights that this art-forward approach is gaining national traction, citing examples beyond the Twin Cities. The Modern in New York City, a Michelin-starred restaurant designed by Peter Bentel, features a rotating collection of contemporary art seamlessly integrated into its design, offering a fresh experience with each visit. Similarly, Foreign Cinema in San Francisco's Mission District uses its outdoor dining area as a rotating gallery for contemporary art. The trend also extends to institutions like the Whitney Museum in New York City and the Museum of Contemporary Art in Los Angeles, which incorporate art into their in-house eateries. These examples underscore a shared commitment to creativity and an appreciation for the symbiotic relationship between food and art. David and Eli Fhima's contributions to the Minneapolis dining scene are presented as pivotal in supporting the local artist community and keeping the city's culinary landscape innovative. Diners entering Maison Margaux are immersed in an environment designed to stimulate their senses, transforming a meal into a destination experience. Chef David Fhima's dedication to his craft, combined with his embrace of art, demonstrates how culinary excellence and artistic expression can be harmoniously paired, enriching the overall dining experience. #ArtForwardExperiences #RestaurantDesign #StephanieDillon #DavidFhima #MaisonMargaux #InteriorDesign #ArtIntegration #DiningExperience #MinneapolisDining

The FOG Design + Art fair, held annually in late January at Fort Mason Center in San Francisco, showcased its 11th edition with a diverse array of contemporary art and design objects. This event, known for bridging the local San Francisco Bay Area community with international talent, featured 59 exhibitors from global cities like Paris, Hong Kong, and South Africa, alongside those from San Francisco, Los Angeles, and New York. The fair, which spanned two piers, allowed attendees to explore a wide range of artistic expressions and innovative designs. FOG FOCUS, an extended section on a neighboring pier, highlighted emerging designers and galleries. New York’s Superhouse presented an installation by Belgian-Congolese designer Kim Mupangilaï, whose three-piece seating set drew inspiration from the cross-cultural connections between Art Nouveau and the Congo. Accompanying Mupangilaï’s furniture was a fiber artwork by Maris Van Vlack, reminiscent of stained-glass windows, characterized by its unraveling and transparent qualities. Municipal Bonds, one of San Francisco’s representatives at FOG FOCUS, featured a solo exhibition by Oakland artist and designer Yvonne Mouser. Mouser’s work explored the intersection of function and artistic expression through wall-hangings and furniture pieces. Her designs often balanced delicacy with sturdiness, incorporating solid forms with moments of fragility, as seen in her Janus Spiritus cabinet with its sumi ink-painted oak flaps. From OCHI, a gallery with outposts in Los Angeles and Ketchum, Idaho, artist Sam Shoemaker captivated visitors with fungi-inspired ceramic sculptures. A mycologist himself, Shoemaker's works were derived from actual mushrooms he cultivated in his studio, featuring organic outgrowths that evoked natural formations like sea anemones. The FOG MRKT, a new addition to the fair, offered artisan-made products and crafts. Blunk Space, a Bay Area gallery influenced by craft legend JB Blunk, stood out with pieces by Mexico City artist Alana Burns. Burns showcased shell-inspired jewelry and tableware, emphasizing whimsical designs that often began with shells. London’s Sarah Myerscough Gallery presented an exhibition titled "Raw Edges," focusing on wood in its various forms, textures, and colors. The gallery showcased works by international designers including Nic Webb, Eleanor Lakelin, and Julian Watts, exploring wood’s potential as a sustainable material and celebrating its inherent beauty. Galerie Maria Wettergren, a Paris-based gallery established 15 years ago to champion contemporary Scandinavian artists, made its West Coast debut. The exhibit featured colorful works that blurred the lines between art and design, such as a digitally-composed woven wall hanging by Danish textile artist Grethe Sørensen and an ombre mirrored bench by Boris Berlin and Germans Ermics. AGO Projects, a Mexico City studio, created an inviting and vibrant booth displaying furniture, textiles, lamps, and mirrors, primarily by Latin American artists. Their presentation included monumental mahogany pieces with wax and bronze inlays by Brazilian furniture maker Rafael Triboli and a full-length mirror by Guatemala’s Agnes Studio, adorned with ceramic figurines. Hostler Burrows featured Danish artist Ane Lykke’s see-through light box, which functioned as a screen with contrasting views through its grid. This gallery, representing an international set of artists, showcased a range of designs that captured attention. Casemore Gallery highlighted local Bay Area artists like Lindsey White, Raymond Saunders, and Sonya Rapoport, alongside Finnish artist Henna Vainio’s ceramic word sculptures, which conveyed profound aphorisms through their 'smooshed' forms. Sean McFarland’s cyanotype "Cloud Book," created without a camera, prompted reflections on photography and representation. Tina Kim Gallery presented textile works by Korean artist Lee ShinJa, dating from the 1960s to the 1990s. Lee ShinJa was among the first artists to introduce textiles into fine art in Korea, and her intricate, abstract wall-hangings, often inspired by her childhood landscapes, were a significant highlight. #FOGDesignArtFair #ContemporaryArt #DesignExhibition #SanFrancisco #EmergingDesigners #TextileArt #FurnitureDesign #CeramicSculpture #WoodArt #InternationalArtists

Dana Toledo's journey began in Los Angeles, where she established her career as a hospitality interior designer. She relocated to LA from Atlanta in 2014 and developed a strong connection to the city, building her chosen family and professional network. In the summer of 2021, after a 5-month layoff due to the pandemic from a respected design firm, she experienced a pivotal shift. This period, while challenging due to reduced staff and increased workload, offered invaluable creative and professional growth and mentorship opportunities. The shift to remote work in March 2020 freed up commute time, allowing Toledo to rediscover metalsmithing, a craft she had recently picked up. Her enjoyment in interior design involved material curation during the concept phase, appreciating the process of combining diverse materials like metals, fabrics, stone, glass, wood, and wallpaper to form cohesive palettes. This tactile satisfaction translated into metalsmithing, where she found flow and could spend hours filing, sawing, and hammering metal to create jewelry. Upon being laid off, Toledo launched a collection of ten rings, selling seven within 48 hours, suggesting a potential livelihood as an independent artist. However, a mutual decision to end her relationship with her partner put her jewelry plans on hold as she prioritized finding new housing. Initially set on staying in LA, the financial strain of zero income made living alone daunting. She quickly pivoted, signing a lease for a loft in Atlanta three weeks before her LA lease ended. With limited funds and no clear job prospects, she left LA, a city she loved, to return to Atlanta, a place she had previously vowed never to revisit. The initial months in Atlanta were challenging. The city had changed significantly, and she was starting anew, compounded by personal losses earlier that year. Despite anxiety from unemployment and limited resources, perseverance eventually led to positive changes. She secured a website design client, leveraging a bootcamp course she had taken, and received a call for a remote, part-time position from her first interior design job in LA. Toledo credits this turnaround to the principle of starting with what one has and doing what one can. Moving back to Atlanta, though impulsive, proved transformative. She rejected the option of moving in with her mother in Texas, fearing complacency, as her ambitious nature required a catalyst to pursue her dreams of becoming a successful multidisciplinary artist and creative entrepreneur. Toledo later launched Medjo Rebelde, translating to “A Little Rebellious” in Tagalog, a brand born from years of self-discovery and challenging cultural expectations within her Filipino upbringing. Despite early artistic inclinations, her father discouraged art, labeling it “useless,” which led her to abandon art for 15 years. Coming from a family of medical professionals, she pursued a science-oriented academic path, moving from pre-pharmacy to IT, then Exercise Science, ultimately graduating with a B.S. in Exercise & Health Science, aiming for a doctorate in Physical Therapy. Her interest in interior design was initially rejected by SCAD. A year into living in LA, inspired by the city's diverse creative influences, she reconsidered grad school and enrolled in UCLA’s Interior Design & Architecture program, simultaneously starting her career as a hospitality interior designer. This marked LA as a place that allowed her to embrace her creative identity, while Atlanta facilitated its full adoption. The decision to return to school for interior design at 24 was daunting, fueled by fear of family disapproval. After exploring various options, including sports marketing, she found a Craigslist job that launched her interior design career, confirming her path. Interior design became her entry into the creative world, leading her to explore metalsmithing, painting, and eventually apparel design with Medjo Rebelde. This passion project, developed during her transition from LA to Atlanta, emphasizes stepping out of comfort zones and pursuing passions, irrespective of societal expectations, while respecting heritage. She aims to empower Filipinos and Filipino-Americans to break away from traditional mindsets, encouraging self-expression and permission to live authentically, fostering a “little rebellious” spirit. Toledo acknowledges the bumpy but rewarding path to thriving as a creative entrepreneur and building stronger family relationships through living her truth. Toledo finds the creative process itself most rewarding, entering a state of flow where time ceases to exist. Working primarily with her hands in metalsmithing or painting, she values the direct transfer of ideas to a medium. The satisfaction of seeing thoughts materialize into a unique, personal expression, open to interpretation, is a core motivator. To foster a supportive environment for artists, Toledo advocates for active engagement and open-mindedness. Learning about the artist, being present with their work, and recognizing the significant thought and effort invested in concept development and presentation are crucial. She emphasizes that artistic creations, whether by a painter, musician, baker, or architect, are carefully curated and deliberately planned, resulting from extensive repetition and experimentation. Financial support is acknowledged as vital for sustaining artistic endeavors, akin to any business. Beyond financial contributions, she encourages continued engagement, sharing artists’ work with others, and fostering deeper connections through repeated interactions. #DanaToledo #CreativeJourney #InteriorDesign #Metalsmithing #Entrepreneurship #MedjoRebelde #FilipinoCulture #CareerTransition #ArtistSupport

In 1967, fiber artist Sheila Hicks collaborated with architect Warren Platner to design two linen-and-silk wall panels for the Ford Foundation headquarters in New York City. Platner was responsible for the interiors of the 12-story modernist landmark, designed by Kevin Roche John Dinkeloo and Associates. Hicks's original wall panels, which featured rosettes threaded around metal discs, suffered significant damage over the years due to an attempted fire retardation treatment in the 1980s, the abrasion from Eames executive chairs in the conference room, and cigarette smoke in the auditorium. Recognizing the historical and artistic importance of these pieces, Ford Foundation President Darren Walker, appointed in 2013, initiated their replacement. He commissioned Hicks to recreate the murals. Hicks accepted the project without an artist's fee, underscoring her commitment to the foundation and her artwork. The re-installation took place in August 2014, with Hicks overseeing the process. This reprisal of her work for the Ford Foundation coincided with a broader resurgence of interest in Hicks's art, marked by other large-scale public commissions, including a yearlong exhibition at the Palais de Tokyo in Paris, and a general renewal of appreciation for weaving as an art form. The modern tapestry was produced in smaller, modular sections by Enrico Martignoni, the chief installer, and project leader Dominique Pastor. This modular approach was adopted to facilitate easier replacement if any section were to be damaged in the future. Crucially, the new silk-blend threads will not undergo the same caustic chemical fire-proofing treatment that damaged the original works. Additionally, the new panels are more cost-effective, utilizing a silk-blend thread and plastic discs in place of the original metal components. The article also touches upon the broader design elements of the Ford Foundation building. Warren Platner, known for his opulent modernist style, integrated bold metallics into his interiors, such as the gold-plated, floor-to-ceiling doors leading to the subterranean auditorium. The landscape designer Dan Kiley, celebrated for his work on projects like the Miller House and the St. Louis Arch, created the lush indoor urban garden within the Ford Foundation. Architects Kevin Roche and John Dinkeloo designed the headquarters with the employee in mind, reversing the traditional skyscraper layout to ensure every office had exterior views or overlooked the indoor park within the ten-story glass atrium. Skylights at the top of the atrium, framed in Cor-Ten steel, allow natural daylight to flood the space. Even the executive chairs, modified by Charles and Ray Eames, featured brown leather upholstery and brass accents to complement Platner's design, and notably, still included pull-out ashtrays. #SheilaHicks #FordFoundation #TextileArt #ModernistDesign #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalRenovation #ArtInstallation #WarrenPlatner #KevinRocheJohnDinkeloo

Artist Stephanie Dillon and her husband, Reilly, were captivated by a model home in Eden Prairie, which boasted a blend of whitewashed shiplap and shakes on its exterior, creating a timeless and airy aesthetic. The interior featured light-filled communal spaces, each with a distinct character, moving away from conventional floorplans. The color scheme ranged from calming charcoals and pale neutrals to deep greens and rich terra-cotta, evoking a European atmosphere. Kelli Fontana Vogelgesang, owner of West Bay Homes and the designer behind the model, drew inspiration from her travels to Paris, characterizing the style as French contemporary farmhouse. She envisioned the kitchen as a French pastry shop, integrating multiple layers of meticulously detailed materials throughout the 5,000-square-foot residence. The kitchen's design incorporates three types of glazed tiles for the backsplashes, with a small hexagonal tile chosen for its light-reflecting properties, contributing to an elevated visual experience. Dillon, an acrylic and mixed-media artist known for painting her emotions, found a kindred spirit in Vogelgesang, whose design philosophy also prioritized passion and feeling. Dillon retained Vogelgesang to complete the interior design of their new home. The designer expressed enthusiasm for incorporating Dillon's extensive rug collection. Elements like shiplap and painted charcoal, seen on the exterior, were repeated inside on the basement's fireplace wall and the vaulted ceiling of a lounge area adjacent to the kitchen, along with charcoal-colored square tiles extending from counter to ceiling in the kitchen backsplash. This repetition of color ensures cohesiveness and a holistic progression throughout the home, where all environmental elements relate to one another. Vogelgesang skillfully managed the abundance of materials, preventing a busy or cluttered appearance, much like Dillon blends colors on her canvases. Some design choices stand out, others recede, and some shimmer, collectively defining the mood of each space. The materials coalesce into a balanced and proportionate composition, resulting in a home tailored for an artist. Vogelgesang aims to create spaces that are timeless and elegant without being overly delicate or cost-prohibitive. The lower-level bar area features charcoal shiplap around the fireplace, painted in Sherwin-Williams’s Dorian Gray, and steps down into a sunken media room, showcasing the designer’s preferred brass and gray combination. Brass hardware also adorns the front entry doors. Light fixtures, including those from Mitzi on the library ladder, were strategically chosen. The unexpected entry leads to a "dining hall" that functions as a grand foyer, as described by Vogelgesang. This space features nine-inch-wide-plank white oak floors laid in a herringbone pattern, with ceiling beams bisecting its soaring height, allowing ample natural light. The built-in bar features a backsplash of alternating light and dark neutral tiles, custom cabinetry with dental molding, and a marble sink skirt. Open shelving in the kitchen displays two sizes of backsplash tiles from The Tile Shop, with custom alder wood cabinetry finished with a clear whitewashed stain and brass hardware for an enhanced shimmer. The kitchen, inspired by Parisian pastry shops, includes two islands for ease of navigation, with only one housing a sink to allow for uninterrupted dining on the other. The mudroom boasts large-format heated tiles combined with white oak cabinetry, finished in a whitewash stain, offering an industrial concrete look harmonized with French country cabinetry. A basement guest bath incorporates vibrant color through whimsical floral tiles from The Tile Shop on one wall and Sherwin-Williams’s Perfect Periwinkle on the adjacent wall. The library features a bold mix of Sherwin-Williams paints: Canyon Clay on the walls and Gauntlet Gray in a high-gloss enamel finish on the moldings and doors, complemented by chartreuse chairs. A wide-plank whitewashed cedar wall on the rear deck provides privacy. The prep kitchen off the mudroom embraces color with Waverly Classics wallpaper by York, cabinets painted in Sherwin-Williams’s Green Onyx, and a hammered copper sink, showcasing how personal touches can enhance practical areas. The powder room dazzles with an antiqued mirrored glass tile wall from The Tile Shop, a custom white oak vanity with a marble shelf, and Savoy House sconces. The floors throughout the home incorporate patterned ceramic tiles from The Tile Shop. The home's floor plan, while a traditional rambler, diverges into an unconventional layout where the front entry opens into a vaulted foyer and dining room, serving as a pass-through to the kitchen and great room. #HomeStyle #InteriorDesign #HomeTours #FrenchContemporaryFarmhouse #CustomCabinetry #TileDesign #ArtisticHome #ArchitecturalDetails #EuropeanInfluence

Houston-based designer Nina Magon draws inspiration from fine jewelry to curate a mood board that emphasizes timeless luxury and sophisticated elegance in interior design. Her approach integrates statement-making elements and pearlescent finishes, mirroring the enduring appeal of precious stones. Magon begins her design process with foundational pieces that offer a neutral, warm base, such as a plush, hand-tufted Tai Ping rug featuring a hazy gray background and minimalist graphic motifs, which she considers her equivalent of a classic little black dress. To complement this, Magon incorporates simple yet opulent staples like stonewashed linen bedding, which softens with use and maintains an appealing wrinkled texture, and velvety chenille curtains, selected for their durability and elegant drape. These choices anchor the overall palette in natural tones, reflecting her belief that neutrals are perennially stylish. The scheme is further enriched with contemporary, refined designs, including dichroic glass samples that exhibit color changes with varying light and perspectives, and fluted violet-veined marble tiles. These elements collectively celebrate a luxurious aesthetic that transcends fleeting trends. Nina Magon details each component of her curated selection, providing insights into their intended use and aesthetic contribution. Her selection includes the Satori Stonewash Fabric in Linen by Mokum at James Dunlop Textiles, valued for its comfort and natural texture in bedding. The Tension 1 Rug by Tai Ping is chosen for its luxurious feel and visual artistry, adding sophistication to any room. Schumacher Hospitality’s London Linen Fabric is envisioned for upholstered pieces like a bed-end bench due to its soft color and high durability. For wall treatments, the Aspen Wallcovering in Oatmeal by Carlisle & Co. offers a subtle yet chic vibe, ideal for spaces like powder rooms. Personal jewelry, including heirloom pieces and designer items from Cartier and Bulgari, serves as a direct source of inspiration for her lighting collection with Studio M, embodying her desire to create designs with timeless elegance. Dichroic glass from 3Form, admired for its dynamic color-changing properties, also inspired the cover of her book, 'Evoke.' The Pinnacle Bianco Dolomiti Dolomite Dimensional Tile by Artistic Tile is selected for its edgy appeal, perfect for creating a sleek and bold fireplace surround. Donghia’s Great Basin Fabric in Ivory is chosen for curtains to introduce softness and effectively block light in living rooms or bedrooms. Dekton surfaces, specifically Lucid and Stonika Bergen by Cosentino, are highlighted for their sophisticated appearance and versatility in applications such as kitchen countertops and backsplashes, due to their neutral tones and organic veining. The Bamboo Silk Rug in 1086 by Henzel Studio is included for its inherent beauty, comfort, and lustrous sheen. Flute Lilac Marble Dimensional Tile by Artistic Tile, with its fluting and subtle veining, is deemed perfect for creating a focal point on kitchen islands. Kyle Bunting’s Hair-On-Hide Rug in Chrome is valued for its customization options and distinctive texture. Finally, Xtone Sintered Stone in Invisible White by Porcelanosa is chosen for its striking veining, which creates an artistic effect suitable for bathroom vanities. This comprehensive selection reflects Magon’s philosophy of blending timeless elements with contemporary flair, always with an eye for luxurious and enduring design. #NinaMagon #InteriorDesign #LuxuryInteriors #MoodBoard #TimelessDesign #HighEndFabric #MarbleTile #IridescentFinishes #TextileDesign #SurfaceMaterials

Amy Mitchell, a New Hampshire-based interior designer and owner of Home Glow Design, discusses her unconventional path into the design industry and her unique business approach centered around the concept of a 'forever home.' Initially pursuing a career as an opera singer, Mitchell transitioned through PR and marketing before discovering her passion for interior design, inspired by her childhood home's emphasis on quality and lasting design. Her parents, despite a blue-collar budget, invested in well-made furniture, instilling in her a belief that one's environment significantly impacts emotional well-being and that thoughtful purchases should endure. Mitchell's personal journey of decorating her own 'forever home' in New Hampshire highlighted a gap in the market: clients who desire quality and character in their interiors but aren't looking to spend exorbitant amounts or engage in frequent, trendy makeovers. She observed that many homeowners, particularly those in their 30s and 40s in her region, become disillusioned with disposable furniture as their families grow. These clients are ready to invest wisely but often lack the guidance to create cohesive, high-quality spaces. This realization led her to establish Home Glow Design, catering to this mid-priced market segment. Her services are designed to help clients make informed, long-term decisions about their homes. One notable offering is the 'Forever Home Road Map,' an online consultation service. This program helps clients align their personal style with their home's architectural style, especially when the two might seem disparate. It also addresses budget constraints by assisting clients in prioritizing spaces and creating a multi-year spending plan to achieve their design goals without feeling overwhelmed. This approach reflects Mitchell's own experience of renovating her home room by room over several years, guided by a clear vision. The Road Map aims to provide clients with a solid foundation and initial ideas for their priority spaces, enabling them to confidently tackle subsequent rooms. Mitchell also offers 'Forever Room Design Master Plans,' which she describes as a more personalized version of e-design, moving beyond the 'cookie-cutter' aesthetic often associated with such services. She emphasizes sourcing from a diverse range of suppliers, including trade brands and online resources, and provides detailed presentations and source lists. For clients who prefer hands-on project management, this service offers comprehensive guidance. For those seeking a fully managed experience, her 'Full-Service Design' option handles all aspects of a project. Operating in a rural New Hampshire setting presents unique challenges, such as limited access to design centers and manufacturer representatives. Mitchell compensates for this by relying on self-education, networking with metropolitan designers, and her blog, 'The Saturday Blog.' The blog, which she consistently updated for four years, has been instrumental in establishing her authority, sharing tips on investing in quality, and fostering a 'forever mentality' among readers. She uses it to address common homeowner dilemmas, such as updating knotty pine paneling without erasing a home's history, encouraging readers to balance personal style with architectural integrity. Mitchell also navigates the local 'Yankee frugality' mindset, where people often prioritize cost-saving over quality or aesthetic appeal. She combats this by emphasizing the long-term value of investing in durable, well-designed pieces and the positive impact a thoughtfully curated home has on emotional well-being. She advises clients to overcome 'money guilt' associated with discarding old, unloved items, viewing such decisions as sunk costs that free them to create a home they truly enjoy. Her pricing model, involving an hourly rate and a markup on products, is explained as a way to provide clients with high-quality results within their budget, while also covering the inherent risks and administrative efforts involved in sourcing and managing design elements. She reflects on her personal growth, prioritizing her family life and client satisfaction over an endless pursuit of more credentials or industry accolades, finding contentment in helping clients create homes they love. #InteriorDesign #HomeGlowDesign #ForeverHome #NewHampshireDesign #DesignBusiness #Edesign #HomeRenovation #YankeeFrugality

Anna Hackathorn, an interior designer with almost 20 years of experience, shares insights into her journey and the development of her new venture, PLAN + ELEVATE. She explains that PLAN + ELEVATE was conceptualized during the 2020 quarantine as a sister company to her existing interior design business. The primary goal of PLAN + ELEVATE is to democratize interior design, making professional-quality design accessible to individuals who desire a beautifully decorated home but may not have the financial means to hire a full-service professional. Hackathorn identified a significant gap in the online marketplace for resources that empower individuals to undertake interior design projects for their own homes. Many prospective DIY designers feel overwhelmed by the vast array of choices, are uncertain about design principles, and fear making costly mistakes. To address these challenges, PLAN + ELEVATE offers a structured, step-by-step approach through a series of concise video lessons and a wealth of downloadable resources. These resources include worksheets, checklists, and example furniture layouts, guiding users from the initiation of a home decor or renovation project through its completion, culminating in the final touches that create a cohesive and intentional aesthetic. In addition to the self-guided resources, Hackathorn provides one-on-one video consultations. These personalized sessions allow clients to receive direct feedback, explore their design ideas with a professional, hear customized suggestions, and get answers to specific questions about challenging areas of their homes or the general design process. This blend of accessible online learning and personalized support aims to build confidence and competence in individuals tackling their home design projects. Hackathorn also offers a glimpse into her personal recommendations for experiencing Los Angeles, suggesting an itinerary for a week-long visit. Her favored activities include spending a day at Terranea Resort in Palos Verdes, known for its hiking trails, scenic walking paths along the cliffs, and the spectacular views from Nelson’s bar and restaurant. Another recommendation is renting bikes to ride along the beach strand from Redondo Beach to Santa Monica, exploring the distinct personalities and attractions of various beach towns and their piers. She also suggests dedicating a day to Abbot Kinney Blvd in Venice for its unique boutiques, diverse dining options, and vibrant atmosphere. For a day or weekend trip, she recommends taking a ferry to Catalina Island, highlighting the charming town and the relaxing experience at Descanso Beach Club, complete with water activities and beachfront dining. Finally, she mentions her enjoyment of Sunday morning flea markets like the Rose Bowl and Long Beach for sourcing vintage art and decor. Hackathorn extends her gratitude to two key groups: her past clients and her network of local interior designer friends. She acknowledges her clients for trusting her with their home designs and for openly sharing their anxieties, which helped her recognize recurring concerns across diverse budgets, styles, and home types. This understanding underscored the universal need for proper tools and guidance in home design, debunking the notion that only professionals can achieve beautiful spaces. She also credits her fellow small business owners in the interior design industry for their shared support, encouragement, and understanding of the profession's demands, which can often be misperceived as an easy job. #AnnaHackathorn #InteriorDesign #PLANandELEVATE #HomeDecor #DesignConsulting #Entrepreneurship #LosAngelesTravel #SmallBusiness #CreativeProfessionals

Dana Harel, a San Francisco-based Israeli designer, has launched her inaugural lighting collection under her studio, White Dirt. Harel's career trajectory showcases a diverse artistic exploration, starting with architecture and extending into ceramics and line art before her current venture into luminaires. The new collection, dubbed "Ora," comprises three tented table lamps—Ora I, II, and III—and a suspended, trapeze-like floor lamp, Ora IV. These pieces draw inspiration from Harel’s existing body of work, particularly her vases and vessels, which inform their hand-carved sculptural aesthetic. The lamps are crafted using a combination of gypsum cement, muslin, and brass, materials that contribute to their unique visual and tactile qualities. The design intentionally evokes the imagery of draped wedding gowns, suggesting moments of concealed intimacy and exploring the delicate balance between revealing and hiding forms. This interplay of materials and forms allows the collection to convey a sense of fluidity and softness, a departure from more rigid sculptural traditions. Harel describes the process of working with fabric—folding, pleating, and draping—as a refreshing experience, contrasting with her previous work that often involved tools like chisels and hammers. This shift towards softer, more pliable materials allowed her to experiment with light in a new way, focusing on how textiles interact with illumination to create ambiance and shape. The collection's design ethos embraces a certain spontaneity, reflecting Harel’s approach to her creative process. Each piece in the Ora collection stands as a testament to her evolving artistic language and her ability to translate diverse inspirations into functional art. A notable and unconventional source of inspiration for Harel was a scene from the HBO series *Succession*, where characters Tom Wambsgans and Cousin Greg consume a rare delicacy with napkins tented over their heads. This seemingly obscure reference underscores Harel's willingness to draw from unexpected cultural moments, transforming them into artistic concepts. The designer interprets this act of "masking shame" or "heightening pleasure" as a metaphor for the lamps' ability to create intimate, almost cloistered, environments through their draped forms. The sculptural swagger of the lamps is deeply rooted in these varied influences, bridging architectural precision with textile softness and cultural anecdotes. The collection as a whole is an exploration of form, light, and material, reflecting Harel's multidisciplinary background and her continuous quest for new creative expressions. #DanaHarel #LightingCollection #SculpturalLighting #InteriorDesign #WhiteDirtStudio #ProductDesign #TextileArt #ContemporaryDesign

The article discusses the collaboration between Joanna Gaines and KILZ, a prominent coatings company, to create the Magnolia paint line. This partnership, initiated in 2016, aimed to offer classic color palettes inspired by Gaines' signature style, appealing to fans of her show, "Fixer Upper." Joanna Gaines emphasized the transformative power of paint, noting its ability to dramatically change a space. The initial collection featured creamy hues such as Shiplap and Ella Rose. Since then, two more collections have been introduced: The Lakehouse Collection, with nature-inspired colors like Remote Trail and Wooded Acre, and The Castle Collection, offering richer shades such as Conservatory and Moody Fig. The success of these acrylic formulas is significantly attributed to KILZ, known as a leading stain blocker, commanding over 50% of all primer purchases and garnering thousands of five-star reviews. KILZ is a brand under Masco, a parent company that also owns other popular brands like Behr and Delta Faucets. The KILZ brand itself was established in 1974 by Melvin Caldwell. Caldwell dedicated years to developing the KILZ formula through his company, Masterchem, initially using a 50-gallon dough mixer from a bakery to expand his manufacturing process as the product gained popularity. After more than four decades of research, development, and substantial growth, Masco acquired Masterchem and the KILZ brand, solidifying its position as a favored primer in America. The article draws parallels between the entrepreneurial journeys of Melvin Caldwell and Joanna Gaines, both of whom built global brands from humble beginnings. Joanna Gaines started "The Little Shop on Bosque," a small 1,400 square-foot store, in 2003, a decade before "Fixer Upper" became a television sensation and Magnolia Market expanded into a five-acre retail complex. The Magnolia Home collections integrate KILZ paint and primer, designed to cover stains in fewer coats. A notable health benefit highlighted is the inclusion of EPA-registered ingredients in KILZ paints, which provide mildew resistance and feature low VOC (volatile organic compounds), potentially contributing to a healthier home environment. In addition to interior, exterior, cabinetry, and chalk paint options, the collections offer various wood stains in colors like Rain Barrel and Spanish Cedar. Consumers can choose from matte, eggshell, and satin sheens to achieve the desired paint finish for their homes. The products are designed for durability, supported by KILZ's limited lifetime warranty. The Magnolia Home collections are widely available through retailers such as Amazon, Ace Hardware, Lowe's, and Magnolia. Joanna Gaines has publicly endorsed the durability of the paint, stating in KILZ scrub tests and resin strength test videos that the products are designed to last for years on walls, emphasizing their quality and longevity. #JoannaGaines #KILZ #MagnoliaHome #FixerUpper #PaintCollections #HomeImprovement #InteriorDesign #KILZPrimer #Masco

Austin's design landscape, traditionally celebrated for its architectural prowess with influences from Texas Rangers architects and contemporary figures like Craig Dykers, James Dodson, and Michael Hsu, is now experiencing a flourishing furniture design scene. This resurgence is fueled by the city's innovative environment, attracting creatives, particularly those with backgrounds in architecture and traditional design, to explore smaller-scale, more intimate projects. This article delves into the practices of three distinct furniture design companies—Muhly, Yucca Stuff, and Maček Furniture—to offer a comprehensive understanding of Austin's dynamic furniture design community. Muhly, established in 2021 by lifelong friends Ann Edgerton and Megan Carney, exemplifies contemporary design with a focus on both aesthetics and functionality. Their work, such as the Lindheimer Credenza, reinterprets classic pieces through modern lenses, showcasing natural wood grains and cross-sections. While primarily working with wood, Muhly also experiments with materials like steel for outdoor furniture, as seen in their powder-coated Lineage Bench and stainless steel Flecto Fire Pit. Their iterative design process, involving extensive hand drawings, has resulted in creations that have attracted significant public and professional interest, including collaborations with interior designers like Kelly Wearstler and commercial clients such as La Condesa restaurant. Yucca Stuff, founded by Daniel Morrison, embraces a Texas-centric sensibility, blending domestic hardwoods with unique materials like limestone. Morrison, an architect by training and a self-taught woodworker, explores the harmonious integration of contrasting materials. His design philosophy centers on finding the most aesthetically pleasing way for different materials to interact, evident in pieces like the Odessa Coffee Table and the Concho Table. These designs ingeniously resolve the interface between porous limestone and hardwood through innovative joinery. Yucca Stuff's success led to a collaboration with Design Within Reach in 2022 and features in DIOR's flagship New York store and across East Asia and the Middle East, highlighting the brand's global appeal and Morrison's continuous exploration of new materials, including Mexican lava stone. Maček Furniture, led by Mark Maček, boasts 28 years of experience, producing high-quality custom furniture. Maček, also initially from an architectural background, discovered a passion for the tangible nature of woodworking. His design ethos is rooted in functionality, which has evolved through years of custom work, yet he maintains a distinct level of craftsmanship. Collaborations with architects and designers, such as the Kathleen Desk created with Ann Tucker, demonstrate his ability to adapt his design language while retaining his signature style. Maček also dedicates time to academia, teaching wood design at The University of Texas School of Architecture (UTSOA), where he mentors young designers and imparts both the theoretical and practical skills of woodworking. A significant factor contributing to Austin's thriving furniture design scene is The Splinter Group, a large communal maker space in East Austin. This workshop accommodates 25 tenants and 40 artisans, serving as a hub for the region's leading furniture designers, including Muhly, Yucca Stuff, and Maček Furniture. The Splinter Group fosters an inspiring environment characterized by a free exchange of ideas and experiences. Mark Maček, as one of the wood shop’s three managers, emphasizes the critical importance of such affordable and collective spaces for woodworkers, metalworkers, and ceramicists. He highlights that craftsmanship is inherently communal, with designers relying on a local network of makers, suppliers, and enthusiasts to push the industry forward. #AustinDesign #FurnitureDesign #Woodworking #CustomFurniture #MaterialInnovation #DesignCommunity #Craftsmanship #InteriorDesign #TexasDesign

The article explores the home of artist Dana Gibson, known for her vibrant and large-scale designs in her eponymous collection of fabrics, wallpaper, lighting, home accessories, and furniture. Surprisingly, Gibson's personal West End home is characterized by a more subdued aesthetic, where color is used as an accent rather than a dominant feature. She emphasizes restraint with color, aiming for a relaxing home environment after spending her days in a studio filled with vivid hues. Gibson's design philosophy centers on creating approachable elegance, with updated classic motifs that feel both fresh and familiar. The narrative highlights Gibson's significant presence in the national design scene. Her collection, launched with Stroheim, a prominent American wallpaper and fabric company, features bold, graphic designs from her archives in a variety of color combinations, including bright and neutral palettes. Gibson expresses surprise at the collection's widespread success, attributing it to its affordability, constant availability, and colorful nature. She has incorporated her own designs into her home, such as the 'Peregrine' bird print wallpaper in her entry and the damask-like 'Nouveau Palazzo' in her dining room, complemented by chairs upholstered in coordinating fabrics from her collection. Additionally, Gibson debuted a furniture collection for The MT Company at the High Point Furniture Market, featuring her Stroheim fabrics alongside brightly colored leathers and solids, which she describes as a 'pop of color' that still demonstrates restraint. The article delves into Gibson's artistic background, noting her lineage from Charles Dana Gibson, creator of the Gibson Girl, and her mother, Casa Bacot, also an artist. Growing up in a creatively rich household, she developed an early appreciation for the arts. Initially, Gibson gravitated towards applied arts rather than fine art, focusing on creating functional items people could live with. Her career began in the early 1990s with porcelain pieces, including soup tureens, vases, and platters, which were sold in upscale retailers like Henri Bendel, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Neiman Marcus. As the economy shifted, she adapted her business model by designing a line of tole wastebaskets and having them manufactured in China, allowing her to reduce prices and broaden accessibility to her designs. Gibson's home, shared with her husband Mark Longenderfer and two sons, is a 1957 split-level that has undergone significant improvements over eight years. Facing challenges such as limited natural light and architectural detail, they have made additions and remodels, including the living room, kitchen, and master suite. Gibson's goal is to create an airy, open, serene, and interesting space with charming details. She strategically uses pattern, texture, and color to add interest without overwhelming the senses. Art, particularly works by her great-grandfather and mother, is central to the home's decor. The living room features paneled walls and a citron-painted band, while the master bedroom is described as serene yet engaging, with beautiful textiles and painted furniture. Gibson embraces mixing old with new, and rustic with refined, believing that contrasts add intrigue and drama. She acknowledges that her home, much like her design career, has evolved, and she continues to seek opportunities to expand her scope and impact the design world. #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #DanaGibson #Wallpaper #FurnitureDesign #TextileDesign #HomeStyling #ArtistProfile #DesignEvolution

Gala Magriñá, an interior designer, shares her journey from film and television studies at New York University to founding her eponymous design firm in 2018. Initially, Magriñá worked for Diesel, creating window and in-store displays, and later launched her own production agency, orchestrating events for high-profile companies. A pivotal moment in her career was the discovery of Vedic meditation, which led her to redefine her professional purpose and shift from temporary event spaces to permanent interiors. This newfound passion for mindfulness became a cornerstone of her design philosophy, aiming to create spaces that merge aesthetic appeal with holistic well-being. Her Westchester, New York-based firm, which is women-led, undertakes both commercial and residential projects globally. Magriñá's design approach focuses on balancing diverse elements to create environments that inspire and uplift the energy of their occupants. She values the support and guidance of her mentors and fellow interior designers, often collaborating and seeking feedback to enrich her creative process. Despite a demanding schedule, she prioritizes meditation to maintain her well-being and productivity, especially when feeling fatigued in the afternoon. In her "Friday Five" feature, Magriñá identifies five key sources of inspiration. Travel is her primary muse; she finds visiting diverse cities like Rishikesh, Hong Kong, Dubai, and Tokyo particularly transformative. She enjoys planning visits to museums, stores, and restaurants in new cities but also embraces spontaneity, allowing herself to wander and discover hidden gems. Art and objects are another significant source of inspiration. She frequently attends art and design fairs, such as Art Basel and Design Miami, documenting ideas for future projects. These outings, often shared with designer friends, serve as essential breaks from routine work, fostering creativity and camaraderie. Interior architectural and design details consistently capture her attention. Magriñá often photographs elements like door handles and moldings, particularly noting European design for its simple yet modern aesthetics, which she integrates into her projects in the United States. Nature provides another profound source of inspiration and peace. Daily walks in the park, regardless of weather, help her find mental clarity and generate new ideas, as the vastness of nature helps put her problems into perspective. Finally, her hometown, New York City, remains a constant wellspring of creativity. The city's energy, people, fashion, and architecture, from the bustling streets to the iconic Chrysler Building, continually stimulate her imagination. She resonates with artist Marina Abramovic's sentiment that Manhattan's bedrock amplifies its energy, a feeling Magriñá experiences every time she steps into the city. The article also showcases several projects by Gala Magriñá Design, illustrating her aesthetic. The Design Studio Office in Long Island City, a 4,000-square-foot headquarters for a creative agency, blends mid-century modern with industrial flair, featuring hybrid meeting rooms and collaborative spaces tailored for a post-COVID work environment. The Irvington, NY Residence involved transforming a 1929 colonial-style home by preserving original details, using soothing off-white palettes, and incorporating pops of color through furniture, abstract art, and curated accessories. The West 67th Street Apartment, a two-bedroom unit with New York City views, underwent a full remodel emphasizing soft tones, natural woods, and textures to create a "sanctuary" feel, with notable features like a dark blue grasscloth wallpaper in the primary bedroom. The Postlight 5th Avenue Office was reimagined as a Soho House-inspired space, featuring curated lounge areas, custom wallpaper, and a 24-foot TV wall, designed for both employees and clients. Lastly, the Yousician NYC Office, located in a loft-style building in the Meatpacking district, incorporates the company's signature green, converting a space into a music-inspired hangout room with a bar and record player, embracing a "resimercial" concept for a fun and informal setting. #InteriorDesign #GalaMagrina #DesignInspiration #NewYorkCity #MindfulDesign #CommercialDesign #ResidentialDesign #TravelInspiration #ArtAndDesign

Jasmine Roth, an HGTV star known for her shows like 'Rock the Block' and 'Hidden Potential,' transitioned into the design business unexpectedly and has since developed a passion for assisting individuals with home redecoration. She frequently uses social media to engage with her audience, viewing it as a vital communication tool that helps her connect with people who share similar experiences and design challenges. Roth emphasizes that social media has been instrumental in her career, offering a platform to share her design projects, such as decorating her outdoor space, and receive feedback from followers. Operating in a predominantly male-dominated industry like construction, Roth has been positively received and strives to empower other women and individuals who may feel apprehensive about construction and home design. She values the genuine relationships she has built with her followers through social media, appreciating their feedback and shared experiences. This interaction allows her to understand her audience better and witness how they adapt and evolve her design ideas, further reinforcing the impact of her work. Roth describes her career's rapid growth as surreal, expressing gratitude for the opportunities she encounters daily. She recently added 'author' to her accomplishments with the upcoming release of her book, 'House Story,' on September 28. Despite her professional achievements, Roth finds contentment in her personal life, particularly enjoying time at home with her husband, Brett Roth, and their daughter, Hazel. During her summer plans, Roth focused on redecorating her outdoor patio, a project she detailed as part of her partnership with Marshalls. She highlights the importance of selecting a consistent accent color in design to create a cohesive look, demonstrating this by incorporating yellow into her patio decor. This collaboration with Marshalls allowed her to fully design her outdoor space, showcasing her practical approach to home renovation and design. Through her various platforms, Roth continues to inspire and guide those interested in construction and home design, making it more accessible and less intimidating for a broader audience. #JasmineRoth #HGTVStar #HomeDesign #ConstructionAdvice #SocialMediaEngagement #MarshallsPartnership #InteriorDesign #FemaleEmpowerment #OutdoorSpaceDesign