Virginia Sin Balances Tension + Tenderness in Her Latest Clay Creations

Vivian Xu, a London-based potter, specializes in crafting unique ceramic homewares designed to provide comfort and aesthetic appeal. Her collection ranges from elegant vases to distinctive kitchen accessories, catering to individuals seeking original pieces for their homes. Xu's journey with pottery began at the tender age of six, when she first experienced throwing clay on a wheel. This early encounter fostered a lifelong passion, with a vase she created at that age still proudly displayed in her parents' home. She finds the process of pottery inherently soothing and therapeutic, captivated by the transformation of raw clay into functional and beautiful objects. Xu focuses on creating functional pottery and original art for the home, with some pieces being tailor-made for specific requests or designed as anniversary gifts. The experience of lockdown profoundly influenced her perspective, highlighting how well-chosen home accessories can significantly uplift one's mood. This insight drives her mission to infuse her work with a sense of comfort for others, particularly during challenging times. As the festive season approaches, a typically busy period for small businesses, Xu admits that a recent house move has impacted her preparedness. Despite this, she is actively fulfilling custom orders for personalized gifts and prioritizing the creation of more mugs, recognizing the seasonal appeal of a warm beverage. For the festive season, Xu describes her home preparations as encompassing Christmas trees, aromatic scents, candles, rugs, board games, and moments of cuddling. She views this period as a time for celebration, reunion, rest, and indulging in good food. To support her small business, Xu encourages potential customers to follow her work on Instagram and reach out with unique gifting ideas for their loved ones. She expresses genuine joy in crafting pottery that serves a purpose for others. Looking ahead, Xu plans to host an exhibition next year to showcase her more unconventional and experimental ceramic creations. The article also highlights several of her popular items available for purchase, including the Relaxed Bowl, Mixed Olive Green set, Balloon Vase, and Rimless Plate, detailing their prices and providing links to her online shop. The piece concludes by emphasizing the importance of supporting small businesses, especially during the holiday season. #VivianXu #Pottery #Ceramics #Homewares #SmallBusiness #LondonDesigner #HandmadeDecor #FestiveSeason #HomeAccessories

The online tile retailer clé has unveiled its new Artist Cement Collection, a series of handmade encaustic cement tiles. This collection is a collaborative effort, featuring designs from eleven artist studios spanning Europe, South America, and the United States. The curated group of artists, architects, designers, and sculptors includes ALT for Living, Boris Aldridge, Coletivo Muda, Deborah Osburn, Erica Tanov, Gachot Studios, John Whitmarsh, Michelle Weinberg, Ruan Hoffmann, Sarah & Ruby, and Smink Things. The Artist Cement Collection showcases a diverse range of aesthetic styles, moving from bold, graphic geometric patterns to motifs inspired by nature, and even incorporating typography. Each tile is available in 8-inch by 8-inch square and hexagonal formats, offering flexibility in design application. A key feature of these tiles is their pre-polished and pre-sealed finish, which enhances their durability and versatility. This treatment makes them suitable for a wide array of applications, both indoors and outdoors, and for installation on either walls or floors, expanding their potential use in various architectural and interior design projects. Among the featured designs, Coletivo Muda contributes the 'Lagoa' tile, which appears multiple times in the illustrations, highlighting its distinct appeal. Michelle Weinberg's contributions include 'Pattern 1' and 'Pattern 2,' demonstrating a varied artistic approach. Smink Things presents several designs that bear its studio name, indicating a unique and recognizable style. Ruan Hoffmann offers a selection of patterns, including 'Amsterdam Express,' 'Arrow Dynamic,' and 'Bio Circuit,' each bringing a different visual narrative to the collection. Deborah Osburn's 'Manuscript Letters' introduces a textual element, adding another dimension to the tile offerings. Boris Aldridge provides 'Pattern 4' and 'Pattern 5,' showcasing his design philosophy. Gachot Studios also features 'Pattern 4,' suggesting a potentially different interpretation or variation from Aldridge's similarly named pattern. Erica Tanov presents 'Baccio' and 'Jacobson,' contributing unique artistic expressions. Finally, Sarah and Ruby's 'Pattern 5' completes the selection of artists and their designs, ensuring a rich and diverse collection for consumers and designers. The collection emphasizes both artistic expression and practical application. The use of cement as a medium for these artistic designs provides a tactile and durable surface, while the handcrafted nature of the tiles ensures uniqueness in each piece. The curated selection of artists from various global locations brings a wide spectrum of cultural and artistic influences to the collection, allowing for a broad appeal across different design preferences and styles. The collection aims to provide distinctive and high-quality options for residential and commercial spaces, allowing for personalization and artistic flair in surface design. #CementTiles #ArtistDesigned #EncausticTiles #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #TileCollection #ArchitecturalSurfaces #HandmadeTiles #GlobalArtists

The article highlights the growing trend of using dramatically veined, exotic marble in home design, particularly in kitchens and bathrooms, and showcases Ann Sacks as a leading supplier in this niche. Ann Sacks, a Portland, Oregon-based company, is expanding its retail presence with new slab galleries and showrooms, including recent openings in Nashville and Dallas, and an upcoming location in Long Island City, Queens, New York, in September 2023. These showrooms are designed to allow designers and clients to hand-select large segments of natural stone, emphasizing a personalized and immersive shopping experience. DeeDee Gundberg, Ann Sacks' chief designer, explains that the company curates its marble from various global sources like Italy, Greece, Portugal, and India, focusing on premium varieties such as Carrara and Calacatta that appeal to luxury clients and align with current interior design trends. Unlike competitors who might offer manufactured quartz, Ann Sacks prioritizes natural marble, treating each slab as a piece of art due to its unique patterns and balance. This approach aims to create a 'wow factor' in residential spaces, moving beyond traditional all-white aesthetics to embrace richer colorways and striking veining. The article features two designers who have successfully incorporated Ann Sacks marble into their projects. Nikki Chu, for her Dallas home, selected Calacatta Viola—an Italian marble with deep eggplant purple, maroon brown, and warm gold veining—for her kitchen backsplash and island. Chu transformed her 1969 bungalow into an open-plan space with high ceilings, making the marble island the focal point, complemented by a 9-foot-wide Lindsey Adelman chandelier that enhances the veining's movement. Her design challenges the traditional Dallas aesthetic, creating a dynamic and sophisticated kitchen that has garnered many compliments. Jean Stoffer, another designer, used a cooler-toned Turkish marble with a subtle lilac hue for a colonial home in Cedar Rapids, Michigan. She ingeniously used unlacquered brass strips to delineate seams between slabs on the kitchen backsplash, creating an illusion of continuous veining and adding a touch of glamour. Stoffer also opted for a honed finish, preferring its ability to display the marble's nuances without glare, a choice facilitated by Ann Sacks offering both honed and polished options. She acknowledges that while marble is beautiful, it can show wear over time, but embraces this as part of a home's unique history, advocating for regular sealing to protect the stone. The new retail model adopted by Ann Sacks combines showroom and warehouse functions, offering an enhanced experience. The forthcoming Queens location, for instance, will feature a slab gallery alongside a merchandised presentation of samples, lighting, bathroom vanities and mirrors from Robern, and faucets from Kallista. This holistic approach aims to provide designers with a comprehensive resource for their projects, allowing them to collaborate, select materials, and even enjoy amenities like coffee in a scullery kitchen. The immersive environment, as described by Chu, transforms the shopping experience into a global tour of geological beauty, reinforcing the idea that each marble slab is a 'slice of heaven,' unique to its region and reflective of the earth's dynamics. #AnnSacks #MarbleDesign #InteriorDesign #LuxuryInteriors #KitchenDesign #BathroomDesign #NaturalStone #RetailExperience #DesignTrends

Ghislaine Viñas, a New York-based designer known for her unconventional approach to design, shares a mood board inspired by a custom floral wallcovering she created for Wolf-Gordon. Her current inspiration showcases a blend of bold prints, timeless materials, and striking color combinations, demonstrating her signature style of thinking outside the box. Viñas describes the mood as soft, kind, and nonaggressive, maintaining a gentle quality without being overly cute, and presenting a genderless palette through its tone combinations. The design incorporates a diverse mix of graphic shapes and scales, including faceted grid-patterned tile and heavily veined polished marble, which add an element of intrigue. The overall aesthetic is unified by cool, pastel-leaning tones, though unexpected bursts of sulfur yellow and black introduce disruption and depth to the palette. Viñas meticulously details each element contributing to this unique design vision. The selection includes the 'Ms. Quilty 2.0 Fabric in Pure' by Ghislaine Viñas for HBF Textiles, chosen for its high performance, bleach-cleanable properties, and suitability for both indoor and outdoor use, while maintaining a sophisticated appearance. For a plush touch, the 'Baird Fabric in 123' by Fabricut, a plum velvet with FibreGuard stain treatment, is selected for its durability and comfort. The foundational piece, the 'Blooma Wallcovering in Custom Colorway' by Ghislaine Viñas for Wolf-Gordon, is a modern interpretation of a classic floral print that has captivated the designer for years. The mood board also features the 'Calyon Fabric in Iris' by Jane Churchill at Cowtan & Tout, valued for its appealing texture, emphasizing the power of blending similar hues with varied textures. A custom maplewood finish sample in 'Blazing Orange' by Scott James Furniture & Design is highlighted as a vibrant and unexpected element, specifically crafted for a four-poster bed in an Aspen project to inject a surprising color. The 'Rosso Luana Polished Marble' by Stone Source is chosen for its alluring flow and moody, impactful presence, recommended for liberal use due to its unforgettable effect. Ceramic and tile selections further enrich the composition: a glaze sample in matte blue by Entler, celebrated for its organic and otherworldly beauty in light fixtures; the 'Diva 14 Ceramic Tile in Emerald' by Nemo Tile + Stone, a lush deep green that is a recurring favorite; and the 'Soap Tile in Green Glossy' by Kaufmann Keramik, which creates a mesmerizing wavelike pattern on walls, offering elegance and a bold statement. The color palette is extended with 'Nurture Green Paint' by Sherwin-Williams, a calming and uplifting minty green shade, and 'Mocca' faucet finish samples by Vola, marking a resurgence of chocolate brown in Viñas's palette after a long hiatus. Custom elements play a significant role, including custom tiles by Durat, praised for their extensive color options and design flexibility for terrazzo effects or matte countertops. 'Custom Cigarette Tile in Pink' by BDDW, named for its whimsical resemblance to a pink ashtray, is particularly endeared by Viñas for its delicate hue juxtaposed with a playful concept. Hardware like the 'Tortoise 01 Pull in Polished Brass Unlacquered' by Nest Studio provides a touch of 'bling' with its unique and bespoke craftsmanship. Textiles include 'Reflex Fabric in 0639' by Raf Simons for Kvadrat, a long-standing favorite for its vibrant color combination and seamless textural transition. A 'Mohair Rug in Lavender' by Marc Phillips is noted for its luxurious quality and mesmerizing color, functioning as a versatile neutral. The 'Clay Tile in NUD-02' by Clayworks offers a delicately feminine texture and a comforting color palette. Flooring is represented by 'Glaze Engineered Wood Flooring in Light European Oak' by Hakwood, essential for creating a Scandinavian feel. A custom green silk rug by Mark Nelson Designs, with its natural heathering and patina, adds authenticity and warmth. Finally, concrete samples in mint and teal by Nood Co. are featured for their breathtaking colors and exquisite organic concrete sinks, alongside 'Prism Matte Tile in Emerald' by Atlas Concorde, a versatile porcelain tile for accent walls beyond typical bathroom applications. #GhislaineVinas #InteriorDesign #MoodBoard #ColorPalette #MaterialSelection #HomeDecor #TextileDesign #TileDesign #CustomDesign

Brooklyn-based ceramicist Devin Wilde, whose work is characterized by geometric forms and influences from classicism, Art Deco, and postmodernism, has rapidly gained recognition since establishing his practice in 2023. Wilde's journey into ceramics was preceded by studies in architecture at Stanford University, followed by roles in digital and user experience design, and woodworking. This diverse background informs his sculptural approach, which he describes as a deeply personal and humanistic process, embracing the inherent fallibility of clay. He states that working with clay helps him appreciate the beauty in imperfection, contributing to his personal growth. His debut collection features vessels and side tables that subtly incorporate structural principles from his architectural and design past. Wilde's creations draw on a rich tapestry of artistic and design movements, imbuing his pieces with a sense of timelessness. This unique aesthetic has attracted significant attention, leading to partnerships with prominent retailers such as Lawson-Fenning and Spartan Shop, and commissions from architects and designers for various projects. Wilde’s artistic method involves the compelling and often delicate arrangement of geometric shapes, serving both ornamental and functional purposes. Many of his vessels, for instance, showcase expansive cylindrical or semicircular containers precariously balanced on small circular discs or coiled feet. These feet are the starting points for elaborate ribs that ascend the sides of the pieces, forming a decorative and structural scaffold. The high relief of these ribs is intentionally designed to interact with light, creating dynamic patterns of light and shadow that enhance the dynamism of each piece. The patterns evident in Wilde’s works echo the rhythmic repetitions found in classical architecture. However, the exaggerated proportions in his designs simultaneously nod to postmodernism, a significant source of inspiration for his visual language. Wilde finds postmodernism's 'cheeky' nature appealing, appreciating its ability to honor classical forms while playfully departing from their strictures. In specific pieces, such as ‘Vessel No. I’ and ‘Vessel No. XI’, his aesthetic transcends postmodern exaggeration, moving towards the serene, almost poetic simplicity reminiscent of sculptures by Constantin Brâncuşi and Isamu Noguchi. He admires the 'alive' quality and biomorphism inherent in their work. Growing up in Brooklyn’s Park Slope neighborhood, Wilde is now developing his second collection, which takes inspiration from the architectural details of Brooklyn brownstones. He captures the unique patterns and elements of these townhouses—such as sawtooth-patterned architraves or crenellated cornices—through photography, focusing on how sunlight interacts with their façades and wrought-iron features. His aim is to blend these local architectural motifs with an even more maximalist Art Deco sensibility. He sees Art Deco as possessing a modern yet detail-rich quality that is both ancient and futuristic. Wilde’s studio, located in Red Hook, Brooklyn, is where he hand-builds his pieces using clay enriched with 'grog,' a granular material that provides structural integrity and a rustic texture. He works with glazes rich in oxides, which achieve an aged, metallic appearance, evoking a sense of antiquity. The studio, described as an extension of his personality and childhood, is a vibrant space where natural light plays a crucial role in his sculpting process, guiding his work as he rarely uses artificial lights during the day. The studio also serves as a hub for stylists and interior designers, fostering a collaborative and social environment. #CeramicArt #DevinWilde #GeometricDesign #ArchitecturalInfluence #Postmodernism #ArtDeco #BrooklynArt #StudioPractice #HandmadeCeramics

Award-winning Milanese architect and designer Cristina Celestino, also the creative director of Fornace Brioni, has introduced two new collections of ceramic tiles: Araldica and Fluviale. These collections fuse a handmade aesthetic with factory-made technical ceramic tiles, showcasing Celestino’s talent for marrying industrial production with artisanal design. The Araldica collection features two distinct geometric patterns: Ducato and Corte. Ducato is characterized by its parallelogram-like shape, while Corte is circular. Both patterns incorporate white terra-cotta alongside Fornace Brioni’s signature variegato clay, resulting in rich, earthy tones. The design inspiration for Araldica comes from the intricate 12th-century mosaic work of the Cosmati family, renowned for their tessellations found throughout Rome. These tiles evoke Euclidean geometry through their complex arrangements. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, the Araldica tiles are noted for their durability and suitability for outdoor use, including exposure to water, making them a versatile choice for various applications. In contrast, the Fluviale series draws inspiration from nature, specifically the meeting of land and water, and nature's brushstrokes. This collection delves into tonal variations and layered textures. Within the Fluviale series, two patterns are highlighted: Alveo and Golena. Alveo is distinguished by its dense coloration, offering a strong visual presence. Golena, while also exploring tonal and textural nuances, contributes to the series' overall theme of natural fluidity. Both Alveo and Golena aim to capture the organic beauty and subtle complexities found in natural landscapes. Celestino’s approach in both collections emphasizes a sophisticated balance between modern manufacturing techniques and traditional artistic craftsmanship. By integrating a handmade feel into industrial products, she ensures that the tiles not only meet contemporary standards for durability and performance but also carry a unique, artistic character. The use of variegato clay, with its inherent variations, further enhances the artisanal quality of the tiles, ensuring that each piece contributes to a distinctive overall look. These collections are designed to add visual depth and sophistication to a wide range of interior and exterior spaces, reflecting Celestino’s vision for contemporary surface design. #CristinaCelestino #FornaceBrioni #CeramicTiles #GeometricPatterns #Tessellations #ArchitecturalDesign #InteriorDesign #ProductDesign

French designer Inga Sempé has collaborated with Italian tile manufacturer Mutina to launch a new collection of graphic tiles called Tratti. This collection stands out for its patterns that evoke a hand-drawn or hand-painted aesthetic, designed to be seamlessly integrated and allow for personalized arrangements. The Tratti collection includes three foundational base color tiles: white, beige, and grey. Complementing these are eight distinct single-patterned tiles, providing flexibility for designers and homeowners to mix and match according to their preferences. In addition to individual patterns, the collection also features three different pre-composed mixes, which consist of various patterns presented in white, grey, and dark grey color palettes. The tiles themselves are crafted from porcelain, each measuring 4 inches by 4 inches (10cm x 10cm). A key technical aspect of the Tratti tiles is their digital printing process, which applies a glaze to achieve the desired muted designs. This digital printing method allows for precision and consistency in reproducing the intricate patterns, while the glaze provides a protective layer and contributes to the tile's aesthetic finish. The material choice and manufacturing process ensure the tiles are durable and suitable for a wide range of applications. They are designed for both floor and wall installations, making them versatile for various interior and exterior spaces. This durability and adaptability mean they can withstand different environmental conditions, expanding their potential use in both residential and commercial settings. The article showcases several patterns from the Tratti collection, detailing their individual names and how they combine with the base colors. For instance, the "Triple" pattern is shown alongside the "Bianco" base color, demonstrating a clean and modern look. The "Tiers" pattern is highlighted, indicating another unique design option. The combination patterns "Aqua" and "Feutre" are displayed together, illustrating how different graphic elements can harmonize within the collection. The "Croisée" pattern is featured twice, emphasizing its visual impact and potential for repetition or variation. The "Epi" and "Croix" patterns further exemplify the diverse graphic language of the collection. The article also presents the pre-composed mixes in greater detail. The "Chiaro" mix is shown in two different images, providing examples of its appearance when installed. Similarly, the "Grigio" mix and the "Scuro" mix are presented, each offering a distinct combination of patterns and colors that are curated for ease of use while maintaining the collection's cohesive design philosophy. The overall approach of the Tratti collection emphasizes user creativity, allowing individuals to act as designers by combining different elements to create unique surfaces that reflect personal style and design sensibilities. The collaboration between Inga Sempé and Mutina brings together artistic vision with manufacturing expertise to produce a tile line that is both aesthetically pleasing and functionally robust. All photographic illustrations for the article were provided by Alessandro Paderni/EYE studio, ensuring a professional and detailed representation of the tile collection. This visual documentation effectively conveys the texture, patterns, and overall aesthetic of the Tratti tiles, offering readers a comprehensive view of the product's design and potential applications in various settings. The article serves as an introduction to this new product line, highlighting its innovative design and practical features for the home design and decoration market. #IngaSempé #MutinaTiles #GraphicTiles #TileDesign #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #PorcelainTiles #ContemporaryDesign #ArchitecturalSurfaces

Finnish designer Hanna Anonen introduces her new Bouclé Collection, a series of modular wall hangers that reinterprets the tactile qualities of bouclé fabric using solid walnut and painted wood. This collection blends functional design with wall art, aiming to serve as both a practical coat rack and a decorative element in various settings. Anonen's intention was to create an object that encourages interaction with living spaces, suitable for entryways, hallways, public areas, and bedrooms. The Bouclé Collection is characterized by its lattice structure crafted from rich walnut, which is intersected by painted circular "knots." These circular elements are a clever design choice, referencing the texture and rhythmic pattern found in traditional bouclé textiles. The circular knots also serve as functional hanging points, forming a distinct polka-dot like pattern that is visually graphic yet harmonious. The design allows for scalability in size and layout, making the pieces adaptable to different spatial requirements and design aesthetics. Each piece in the collection is available in four sizes, providing versatility for integration into diverse interiors. The use of wood to mimic a fabric texture is a central theme, transforming the soft, looped appearance of bouclé into a hard, sculptural form. This design approach highlights the designer's ability to translate material properties across different mediums, offering a unique take on familiar textures in a new context. Hanna Anonen debuted the Bouclé Collection at Launch Pad by WantedDesign earlier this year. This presentation was supported by several organizations, including the Finnish Cultural Foundation, the Finnish Cultural Institute in New York, and the New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA). These supports underscore the cultural and artistic significance of Anonen's work within the design community. The collection is not merely functional but also carries an artistic dimension, as emphasized by Anonen. It invites viewers to appreciate the subtle design cues and the reimagination of a textile texture in timber. The visual impact of the pieces, with their precise forms and material contrasts, makes them stand out as both utility items and contemporary art installations. The Bouclé Collection offers a sophisticated and playful addition to modern interiors, demonstrating how material reinterpretation can create innovative and engaging design solutions. #HannaAnonen #BoucléCollection #WallHooks #FinnishDesign #ModularDesign #WoodFurniture #TextileInspired #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor

Richter USA, Inc. has introduced a novel product line called Stone-Veneer, which revolutionizes the use of natural stone in woodworking, furniture making, and cabinet making. This innovation allows for the application of paper-thin real stone surfaces onto wood panels, a process previously considered unfeasible. The Stone-Veneer product is crafted from sheets of Indian slate rock, meticulously selected from various geographical quarries to provide a diverse palette of natural colorations. This approach ensures that each sheet offers a unique aesthetic derived from the stone's inherent characteristics. The Stone-Veneer line is designed to be lightweight, flexible, and ultra-thin, making it highly adaptable for a range of applications. The natural three-dimensional texture of real stone results in a varying thickness for each sheet, typically ranging from 1mm to 3.5mm. This characteristic not only preserves the authentic feel of stone but also contributes to the product's overall aesthetic appeal. A key advantage of Stone-Veneer is its compatibility with standard woodworking equipment, allowing for easy cutting and integration into various designs. Its versatility makes it suitable for both residential and commercial projects, including flooring, wall coverings, and furniture accents. Richter's Stone-Veneer product line encompasses four distinct groups, each offering specific features and aesthetic options. The core "Stone-Veneer" group is available with three backing options: Glass Reinforced Polyester (GRP) as the standard, and Fleece and Peel & Stick as alternatives. This group offers seven distinct colors, including Autumn, Autumn White, Autumn Rustic, Multi Color, Terra Red, Black Slate, and Black Line, providing a wide array of choices to match diverse design preferences. The "Quartzite" group, also featuring the same three backing options, comes in four colors: Copper, Jerra Green, Ocean Green, and Silver Shine, known for their metallic luster and unique patterns. The "Sandstone, Sahara" group is derived from sand pits in Northern Germany, composed of approximately 90% pure quartz. The sand is vertically bonded with thermoplastic binders onto large textile fleece sheets, preserving the natural color variations that range from white quartz to dark brown. The fabric mesh backing of this group enhances flexibility, enabling three-dimensional shaping when heat is applied, which is ideal for curved surfaces and intricate designs. Finally, "NanoStone" represents a natural Stone-Veneer without the GRP backing, instead utilizing a water-jet impregnated and tightened fleece backing. An optional backing for NanoStone includes 100% recycled natural fibers, promoting sustainability. NanoStone is available in six colors: Autumn, Autumn White, Autumn Rustic, Multi Color, Terra Red, Black Slate, and Black Line. In terms of cost, the average price for Stone-Veneer is approximately $7.20 per square foot. While the initial material cost may not present a significant saving compared to traditional slate tiles, Richter highlights that the overall project cost can be considerably reduced when factors such as weight, installation time, and the elimination of mortar are considered. A detailed comparison sheet provided by Richter illustrates these potential savings, positioning Stone-Veneer as a cost-effective and aesthetically appealing alternative for a wide range of design and construction applications. #StoneVeneer #Woodworking #FurnitureMaking #CabinetMaking #NaturalStone #DesignMaterials #ArchitecturalMillwork #RichterUSA

Dutch artist Suzan Drummen is renowned for her expansive and intricate art installations that feature thousands of glittering crystals and other reflective elements. These installations, often forming elaborate textile and mandala-like designs, are a testament to Drummen's spontaneous and site-specific artistic process. She does not pre-plan her designs but rather allows the unique characteristics of each location to guide her creative decisions. Factors such as the available light, the anticipated movement of visitors, existing color palettes, and the height of the space all contribute to the evolving nature of her artwork. Each installation, therefore, is distinct and slowly takes shape in response to its environment. Drummen's primary objective with her art is to create an overwhelming visual experience for the observer. From a distance, her installations present as clear and organized patterns. However, upon closer inspection, the sheer volume of details and visual stimuli can disorient the viewer. This dynamic interplay between order and chaos, between the ability to grasp the entirety of the artwork and being overwhelmed by its intricacies, is a central theme in her work. Through this intentional challenge to visual perception, Drummen aims to intensify and requisition the viewer's sensory experience. Her chosen materials include a diverse array of shiny objects such as pins for affixing crystals, chrome-plated metal, various precious stones, mirrors, and optical glass. While some of these materials are used to adorn walls, a significant portion is laid freely on the ground, allowing for fluid, unconstrained patterns. This method of arrangement contributes to the organic development of her designs. The kaleidoscopic effect achieved through the interplay of light and these numerous reflective surfaces is a hallmark of her artistic style. Drummen's work draws viewers into a vibrant world of color and sparkle, where the traditional boundaries of art are expanded to encompass entire spaces. Her installations transform ordinary floors, walls, and even people into canvases for her dazzling geometric patterns. This approach blurs the line between art and environment, inviting viewers to not just observe but also to immerse themselves in the dazzling visual landscapes she meticulously constructs. #SuzanDrummen #MandalaArt #CrystalArt #InstallationArt #KaleidoscopicDesigns #SiteSpecificArt #GemstoneArt #VisualPerception #DutchArtist

Shea Soucie and Martin Horner, the principals of Soucie Horner, a multidisciplinary design firm, have recently completed a project in Naples, Florida, where they heavily featured the color blue. This project, which falls under their 'What I Love' series, showcases a textural interplay of diverse materials and patterns, all unified by various shades of blue, including Delft, aquamarine, and azure. The designers emphasize that this approach, while unconventional, creates an interesting and cohesive aesthetic. The clients, a couple with five grown sons, have a long-standing relationship with Soucie Horner, having previously worked on homes in Chicago, Michigan, and Maine. Unlike their previous, more subdued projects, this new waterfront home in Florida provided an opportunity to incorporate more vibrant and bright elements. The masculine-coded blue serves as an anchor color for the family, with feminine undertones introduced through patterns and whimsical shapes, such as a Murano glass chandelier. Occasional touches of pink, like those found in an Osborne & Little zigzag embroidery fabric, were also incorporated at the client's request. A significant element in the design is the client's extensive collection of tramp art. This art form, characterized by its intricate patterns created from everyday materials like wooden cigar boxes and shipping crates, adds dimensionality and a rustic warmth to the blue-centric scheme. The designers highlight the craft-focused nature of tramp art, noting that the client's collection is one of the largest in the United States. The mood board for the project includes several key selections. The 'Damascus Rug in Blue' by Shiir Rugs features a traditional damask pattern with an ethnic feel and a textured, exposed foundation contrasted with dark blue silk knots. A 'Murano Glass Chandelier in Aquamarine' by Barbini at 1stDibs provides an elegant silhouette and allows sunsets to filter through its blue glass, reflecting the client's desire for a 'grown-up house.' The 'Dune Fabric in Buxton Blue' by Romo, a brushed cotton, acts as a textural neutral, balancing the more intricate elements. For surfaces, 'Cristallo Quartzite in Blue' from UMI Stone, injected with cobalt blue dye for dramatic veining, was chosen for its striking appearance, with a slightly less bright version used for kitchen countertops to maintain balance. 'Artisan Oak Flooring' by Apex Wood Floors, with its rich wood and hand-hewn graining, provides a contrasting dark backdrop to the light and blue elements, reminiscent of the clients' northern homes and serving as a foundation for the tramp art gallery. The 'Zouina Embroidery Stripe Fabric' by Osborne & Little, with its masculine stripe and feminine palette, adds texture and introduces additional colors beyond blue. An 'Handmade Wooden Bone Inlay Table' by BBCreativesdesigners, in black and white, serves as a focal point in the center hall, showcasing intricate patterns against laser-cut marble flooring. Two other Shiir Rugs, the 'Nimbus Rug in Nocturne' and the 'Kett Rug in Bay,' contribute different textures and patterns; Nimbus features an ikat-influenced design with an exposed foundation, while Kett introduces a geometric plaid. Antique Victorian-era andirons from Iconic Snob Galeries add personality to the fireplace. Finally, a custom 'MJ Blue Blazingstar Marble Tile' by Soho Studio brightens the foyer with a marble mosaic, and 'Granite Gorge Fabric in Delft' by Scalamandré, with its vertical and horizontal striations, ties the dining room chairs to the living room's color scheme, particularly the Damascus rug. #InteriorDesign #LuxuryHome #ColorPalette #TexturalDesign #CustomRugs #TrampArt #MaterialSelection #SoucieHorner

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

Boulder-based mixed media painter Kristen Abbott is showcasing her solo exhibition, "The Language of Leaves," at the New Local’s Annex, running through October 8. The exhibition features more than 24 cyanotypes, a photographic printing process that uses ultraviolet light to create images in a striking cyan blue. Abbott's work captures the beauty of Colorado's foliage, particularly the Front Range's native plants, without requiring visitors to venture into the mountains. Abbott's artistic process begins with coating canvases, typically made of linen, silk, or cotton, with a cyanotype emulsion. These prepared canvases are then taken outdoors, where she meticulously arranges gathered leaves and stems onto their surfaces. To complete the process, she places cut glass on top and allows the Colorado sun to act as a secondary artist, cooking the pieces and shaping the final cyanotype through the intensity of the sun's rays. After the sun has done its work, Abbott sometimes enhances her cyanotypes with water-based inks and pastel colors. She employs earthy shades of emerald, cerulean, and rust to create a soothing color palette, adding another layer of depth to her nature-inspired compositions. The artist's selection of native plants for this exhibit is deeply rooted in their symbolic meanings. Abbott explores how leaves have historically been associated with various emotions and concepts, ranging from sadness and mourning to connection, tolerance, and beauty. For example, ivy leaves symbolize fidelity and long-term relationships, while willow leaves are often linked with grief. Through these symbolic interpretations, Abbott aims to highlight the balance and rhythm of the changing seasons and to reflect the unpredictability of life itself. Abbott's journey into cyanotype began in the summer of 2020 when she ordered a kit to experiment with her two daughters during the pandemic. This initial exploration ignited a passion for the medium, leading her to set up a darkroom in her garage. Her inspiration for sourcing leaves comes from various locations, including her South Boulder yard, South Boulder Creek, and Sunshine Canyon, especially during October when the foliage turns golden. The artist often engages in plein-air painting sessions in Sunshine Canyon, further connecting with the natural environment that inspires her work. Abbott's artwork is designed to evoke a sense of calm, respite, and beauty, intending to bring these qualities into the homes of collectors. She expresses a desire for her pieces to be something viewers can continually discover new aspects within. Following the close of her solo exhibition, many of Abbott's pieces will continue to be available for purchase at the New Local’s main outpost on Pearl Street. This all-female nonprofit gallery, which houses works from over 60 local women artists, also provides studio space and hosts workshops, fostering a vibrant creative community. Abbott values the creative energy and sense of shared purpose that being part of The New Local provides, describing it as a contagious environment where creative women pursue their diverse artistic endeavors. #BoulderArt #KristenAbbott #Cyanotypes #TheLanguageOfLeaves #ColoradoFoliage #MixedMediaArt #NatureInspiredArt #ArtExhibition #TheNewLocal

Brittany Hakimfar, founder of Philadelphia's Far Studio, emphasizes the importance of natural materials in her interior designs, allowing their tactile textures and organic motifs to define her earthy yet elegant aesthetic. Her current design inspiration stems from richly veined marbles, specifically lavender-hued Calacatta Viola and black-and-white Nero Marquina. These stones serve as the foundational palette, guiding the selection of complementary fabrics and finishes to create a cohesive and visually captivating scheme. Hakimfar's design incorporates a variety of natural elements, including honey-hued zellige tile and dark brass counter stools, all chosen to celebrate the raw beauty of nature. The resulting palette aims for organic refinement while subtly introducing glamour. Key elements contributing to this sophisticated blend include vintage black beads, which add an eclectic touch, and Farrow & Ball's Brinjal paint, a rich, deep purple hue that acts as a strong statement color and can create a special mood, especially when used in a lacquered finish for cabinetry. One-of-a-kind ceramic pieces and found objects, such as a vintage ceramic dish and bud vases, are integral to adding unique character to spaces. Custom wood furniture from Faithful Roots, known for its top-tier finishes and craftsmanship, is frequently incorporated, demonstrating versatility in blending with various marble types. Hardware and metal finishes are carefully selected; for instance, the Luxe Gold finish by Brizo is favored for its subtle brass tone without yellow undertones, ensuring compatibility with diverse wood and marble schemes. For custom stools, Thomas Hayes Studio's dark patina brass finish is preferred for its seamless integration into Hakimfar's interiors. Fabric choices are crucial for texture and color, with materials like Verellen's emerald mohair and Donghia's Bordeaux velvet (Covet fabric) being highlighted. The Bordeaux velvet was specifically chosen for armchairs to complement Calacatta Viola marble, while Jiun Ho's Linyati velvet in Lion adds interest and shine to custom banquets. Zellige tiles from Riad Tile, in honey and forest green, are valued for their natural, handmade quality and unique colors. Marbles, such as Calacatta Viola and Nero Marquina from Stone Tech Fabrication, are selected for their dramatic veining and grounding natural materiality, often used for striking features like a full bar wall or fireplace surrounds. Additionally, natural limestone in Paris Grey by François & Co. is anticipated for its ability to introduce texture and a timeless feel to kitchens. Wallcoverings play a significant role in adding depth and character; Phillip Jeffries' vinyl plastered wallcovering in Fresca offers a textured plaster look, while their vinyl abaca wallcovering in Fern creates a subtle layer in dining spaces. The Venetian plaster wallcovering in Espresso Brown by Phillip Jeffries is praised for closely mimicking real plaster, lending a moody ambiance. Finally, the Thisby rug in Ivory by Sacco Carpet provides luxurious texture and a neutral tone, grounding primary bedrooms and creating a calming environment. Styling elements like vintage zen stones, along with sheer and neutral window treatments from Stout Textiles, complete the curated design approach, emphasizing a harmonious blend of natural materials and refined aesthetics. #InteriorDesign #MaterialSelection #LuxuryInteriors #NaturalMaterials #ColorPalette #DesignInspiration #HomeDecor #TexturalDesign #MarbleInteriors

Brittany Hakimfar, the founder of Philadelphia's Far Studio, emphasizes the importance of natural materials and tactile textures in her interior designs, allowing them to take center stage. Her design philosophy centers on the inherent sophistication of organic elements, which she believes always shine through in an arrangement. For her current flat lay, Hakimfar drew inspiration from richly veined marbles, specifically Calacatta Viola with its lavender hues and Nero Marquina with its bold black-and-white patterns. These marble selections guided her choice of fabrics and finishes, resulting in a cohesive and visually captivating scheme. The final palette, as described by Hakimfar, exudes organic refinement with a touch of glamour. She incorporates eye-catching all-natural pieces, such as honey-hued zellige tile and dark brass counter stools, to celebrate nature's raw beauty. Key elements in her design breakdown include vintage black beads, which infuse an eclectic vibe, and Brinjal paint by Farrow & Ball, chosen for its rich, deep purple hue that acts as a statement color and creates a special mood when used in a lacquered finish for cabinetry. Hakimfar frequently uses one-of-a-kind ceramic pieces and found objects, such as vintage ceramic dishes and bud vases, to add unique qualities to spaces. For custom wood furniture, she relies on Faithful Roots, praising their craftsmanship and natural oak finishes, which she notes can be seamlessly mixed with marble. Brizo's Brilliance finish in Luxe Gold is her preferred choice for subtle brass, as it lacks yellow undertones and complements various wood tones and marbles. For custom stools, Thomas Hayes Studio's dark patina brass finish is favored for its ability to blend with her interiors. Fabric selections play a crucial role in adding texture and color. Verellen's Nevada fabric in Emerald mohair is highlighted for its perfect color and texture. Donghia at Kravet's Covet fabric in Bordeaux velvet was used to complement the Calacatta Viola veins of a marble fireplace, offering a luxurious and soft feel. Jiun Ho's Linyati fabric in Lion velvet adds interest and shine, particularly when used for pillows. For tiling, Riad Tile's zellige tiles in Honey and Forest Green are appreciated for their beautiful mustard tones and unique, natural, handmade quality. Marble selections from Stone Tech Fabrication include Calacatta Viola for its dramatic swirling veining and grounded natural materiality, and Nero Marquina for its subtle yet dramatic mix, often used for book-matched applications. Marble Systems' Chester Plaid marble mosaic in Britannia Light, Snow White, and Black Honed is destined for a bathroom project, promising a mix of pattern and neutral colors. François & Co.'s natural limestone in Paris Grey is anticipated to add texture and a timeless feel to upcoming kitchen projects. Wallcoverings include Phillip Jeffries' vinyl plastered wallcovering in Fresca, which mimics a textured plaster look, and vinyl abaca wallcovering in Fern, chosen for its texture and color. Phillip Jeffries' Venetian plaster wallcoverings in Espresso Brown are noted for their moody vibe and realistic resemblance to authentic plaster. Finally, Sacco Carpet's Thisby rug in Ivory offers luxurious texture in a neutral tone, grounding spaces like primary bedrooms, while Stout Textiles' Emory fabric in Toast is used for window treatments due to its sheer texture and neutral colors. Vintage zen stones are also incorporated as simple, sculptural, and tactile styling elements. #InteriorDesign #NaturalMaterials #BrittanyHakimfar #FarStudio #Marble #TextileDesign #HomeDecor #DesignInspiration #LuxuryInteriors

Jenelle Lovings, a St. Louis–based designer, favors bold patterns over vibrant colors, utilizing graphic, high-contrast motifs in muted tones to create impactful statements without overwhelming a space. She emphasizes that "moody, desaturated hues can be just as impactful as bright, cheery ones." When developing her mood board, Lovings focused on a classic black and white color scheme, laying a foundation with a black-and-white carpet and then incorporating elements that echoed its curved patterns. She strategically introduced subtle pops of sophisticated color, such as powdery pink tile and rich camel-colored leather, to anchor the overall composition. The resulting flat lay demonstrates a blend of geometric prints, striking silhouettes, and organic textures. Lovings notes that many of her chosen materials feature curves or linear elements, contributing to a "free-flowing and natural" scheme where similar shapes, particularly arches, are discernible upon closer inspection. She provides a detailed breakdown of the selected materials, which range from outdoor-friendly velvet upholstery to two-toned wood flooring. Key selections include the "Gem by Kelly Wearstler Elope Field Tile in Ebony by Ann Sacks," chosen for its bold black and white design, and the "Gem by Kelly Wearstler Mode Field Tile in Rose by Ann Sacks," appreciated for its geometric patterns, muted colors, and the designer's influence. For acoustic solutions, Lovings highlights the "Luxury Smoked Oak Acoustic Slat Wood Wall Panels by The Wood Veneer Hub" as a versatile product that elevates walls and absorbs sound. For countertops, she recommends "Calacatta Luccia Quartz Countertop by MSI" as a durable, man-made alternative to natural marble, suitable for commercial projects. Textural elements are introduced through the "Waves Nero Marquina Black Fluted 3D Honed Marble Tile by Tilebar," which features irregular ridge sizes for an unexpected twist on a classical look, and the "Terrazzo Renata Fluted Field Tile in Black by Ann Sacks," combining a classical aesthetic with a contemporary honed terrazzo base. Fabrics include "Heather Fabric in Snow by Designtex," selected for its menswear-inspired look and feel, and "Silicone Element Fabric in Vellum by Designtex," a faux leather available in a wide array of colors. For luxury and durability, she suggests "Lutra Velvet in Fig by Brentano," an outdoor-rated velvet, and "Plushy Fabric in Ash by Perennials," an outdoor-rated fabric that mimics the softness of mohair. Leather options feature "Avion Leather in Sesame by Garrett Leather," praised for its timeless appeal and richness, and "Hide Society Leather in Blush by Jerry Pair Leather," known for its extensive color range and quality. Patterned elements include the "Swerve Area Rug in High by Shawcontract," a practical and fun black and white design. Wallcoverings from the Forbes Masters collaboration with Mitchell Black are also prominent: "Nomolanga Wallpaper in Mocha & Black" for its African-inspired pattern and sophisticated color elevation, "Sade Wallpaper in Black" for its illusion of woven fabric, and "Zaire Wallpaper in White" for its blend of neutrals and patterns. Flooring is represented by "Swoop Oak Wood Tile in Black Onyx and Pickled Pearl by Jamie Beckwith Collection," recognized for its unique patterns and customization options. Accessories include the "Brass Love Object by West Elm." Lovings's curated selection showcases a cohesive design philosophy centered on graphic patterns, muted tones, and a sophisticated interplay of textures and forms. #JenelleLovings #InteriorDesign #MoodBoard #GraphicPatterns #MutedTones #BlackAndWhiteDesign #MaterialSelection #TexturalElements #TileDesign #FabricSelection #Wallcoverings

This article features Jennie Bishop, co-founder of Chicago-based Studio Gild, as she shares her current design inspirations through a mood board. Bishop is known for her bold use of hues and patterns, approaching each project with striking shapes, graphic prints, and bright colors. Her personal design philosophy is rooted in creating positivity, beauty, and visual comfort to counteract life's chaos. The central inspiration for Bishop's mood board is a pale pink underwater-themed silk wall mural by Eskayel, which sets a fresh, spring-like tone. She describes this palette as symbolizing renewal, growth, and a fresh outlook on life, imagining crisp, dewy scents and the gentle emergence of flowers and greenery. To anchor this vibrant theme, Bishop integrates warm earth tones and organic finishes, such as terra-cotta-colored chenille velvet and red travertine. She highlights how these materials, combined with bright citrus accents, distinctive marbles, and a blend of vintage and modern pieces, contribute to a lively yet grounded aesthetic. Bishop meticulously details 33 items that compose her mood board, each contributing to the overarching spring theme. Among these are custom ceramic plates and espresso cups from Three Seven Paris, valued for their handmade delicate strength. Key tassels in Sienna and Lilac from Samuel & Sons are mentioned as charming additions for cabinet hardware. Vintage marble vessels from local Chicago favorites Redefined Décor and CKS Collective are chosen for their unique character. Lighting selections include a 28T Table Lamp in deep crimson red by Bocci, praised for its warm glow, and a Twin 4.0 Pendant in mint green/pastel green by Sklo, noted for its color-changing properties. The mood board also incorporates various textiles and wallcoverings. An Armadillo Meadow Rug in Brick is selected for its plush wool pile, while Ribbit Wallpaper by Lambert McGuire Design for Voutsa evokes green fields. More Is More Fabric in Noir Jais by Dedar adds a touch of sparkle with silver and gold boucle, and Chalk Stripe Fabric by Rosemary Hallgarten brings a "chunky, confetti-colored" feel. Freddo Fabric in Terracotta by Fadini Borghi at Pierre Frey provides a soft, plush texture. Geometric prints like Custom Matsu Fabric in Rust by Zak+Fox and Kiss Cross Fabric in Brown by Studio Atkinson are also included. Tile selections feature Kannon Field Tile in Canela Twist by Ann Sacks for its moody depth, flower-shaped tile in Azul Claro by Lofa for its whimsical nature, and a fresh combination of Persian Red Travertine Honed Stone by Artistic Tile and Painted Sky Tile by Fireclay Tile. Marble pieces like Ceppo Rosso Venetian Marble and Indigo Green Marble from ABC Stone are chosen for their versatility and natural beauty. Custom elements play a significant role, including marbleized concrete cabinet knobs by Concrete Cat, known for their unique color combinations, and a custom bronze handrail by Tim Thompson covered in Edelman leather. Custom glass finish samples from Atelier Barrois are envisioned for partitions, while custom antique bronze finish samples by Carson Maddox Studios offer a timeless patina. Furniture elements include black walnut, copper, and resin finishes from Wüd, and a Shayd Table Lamp in Sand by Sin for a handmade touch. Art and literary pieces round out the mood board, with a vintage statuette from Redefined Décor, a "bust in every vignette" philosophy, and a 'Table #4' print by Lawrence Brice Jr. from Weinstein Hammons Gallery. Books such as ‘You Had Better Make Some Noise: Words to Change the World’ and ‘The Japanese Garden’ by Phaidon are selected for their graphic covers and visual interest. Ceramic sculptures by Amanda Gentry and Chris Heck at Alma Gallery are highlighted for their tactile and artistic qualities, with Gentry’s mini pillows even being installed in grids and circular arrangements. A custom woven rug from F.J. Hakimian is noted for its sweet lavender woven into ivory boucle, serving as a perfect backdrop for the palette. Finally, Eskayel's Atoll Wallpaper in Coral is praised for its mesmerizing drawings and soft yet edgy color combinations, appealing to a broad range of clients. #InteriorDesign #JennieBishop #StudioGild #MoodBoard #SpringPalette #HomeDecor #DesignInspiration #TextileDesign #MaterialSelection