Often, I am called in when clients have a strangely configured space or room that is tormenting them. It may be an oddly shaped recess or column jutting out in the wall or the way the doors break up the space.  Newer homes seem to suffer from these problems, possibly because builders do not pay […]

In Chicago and the Midwest the saying goes “there are only two seasons; construction and winter”.  Most homeowners plan to take on major remodeling projects during the warmer months as there is inevitably a lot of foot traffic, open doors and maybe exterior walls exposed. Having personally gone through a recent kitchen remodeling process in […]

I am not the Designer who instantly wants to use the latest fashion style in home furnishings. Unfortunately they can soon become ubiquitous; think sunburst mirrors! High Point market is not just THE place to discover what new furniture, lighting and accessories will soon be launched. For the Designer, the showrooms are an invaluable resource to […]

Is your Outdoor Living Space Ready for Summer? Now that we are seeing signs of Spring, it’s a good time to start reviewing the state of your outdoor space and make plans to create or enhance the living space you desire. Whether you design an entirely new space, complete with outdoor kitchen and fireplace, replace […]

In an age where we see so many products for the home looking predictable and recognizable, it is heartening to know that there are small artisanal boutiques making unique painterly textiles in small quantities. This is part of the “made-in-America” revival.  Are you looking for something different and fresh, a world away from time tested design motifs? […]

Attending a presentation in Chicago last week of New Ravenna tile and stone, inspired me to devote this month’s blog post to stunning new designs in tile that are so creative and artistic, I just had to share a few with you!  They reflect new trends in tile and design which I will explain here. I […]

Winter can be pretty gloomy especially in Chicago where I am based.  Waking up in the dark and getting home in the dark doesn’t help.   Light or the lack of it, affects how we feel, our mood and energy levels.  There is even a medical condition called SAD or Seasonal Affective Disorder, which  is caused by the disruption […]

Christmas is a time for celebrating our traditions and honoring memories while gathering with friends and family.  I love to incorporate the old with the new in my holiday table decorating, weaving in vintage pieces which have meaning to my family and recall the past.  I also like to add some element of the outdoors into […]

Are you happy with your fireplace? Is it the focal point of your room?  Whatever the season and whatever the style, a fireplace beckons and draws us in. The fireplace has long been thought of as the heart of a home and a commanding presence in most rooms. This makes it a natural focal point. What exactly is a focal point […]

For this week’s blog post I want to share with you some highlights from my guided tour of a high end custom furniture maker in Chicago.  As a designer I am always interested to know how furniture is made to determine its quality.  It is hard to know what quality of construction lies underneath the fabric […]