Dining By Design 2008

I attended DIFFA's kick-off cocktail party for Dining by Design last night, at the Hilton Anatole. What a fantastic event! The tablescapes were gorgeous, the food and drinks were delicious, and the DJ (Paul Paredes) was totally fun. I met some of the designers, and mingled with some of Dallas' most hip & fabulous. A night of inspiring design, great music and new friends-could a designer ask for more? I can't wait for next year...maybe I'll design a table!

MTV Cribs

MTV called the studio yesterday! They found my website, and invited me to be featured on the show MTV Cribs! Unfortunately, the work they were interested in came from model homes, not from private residences so we couldn't make it happen. I certainly hope they call again!

Paint Colors?

The most common request I get is "I need to pick a paint color." Selecting a color that you like from a fan deck won't guarantee that the furnishings you select later will coordinate. The best way to tackle the decision, is to first find an inspiration piece, like a fabric, or a rug, or artwork. Then you can easily coordinate all of the other elements, and choose your colors. Taking the time to think through your project as a whole, and selecting an inspiration piece will make the project come together perfectly.

Keller Master Bath

Renovating this master bathroom centers around converting the unused jacuuzi tub into a large luxurious shower and turning the old shower into an extended closet. The natural light from the glass block window will shine through the privacy glass shower enclosure. Classic style white subway tile and bright chrome fixtures make a traditional, timeless statement.

Dallas Wedding

ABR as Wedding Planner!
The bride and groom are considering this beautiful park location for a romantic winter wedding. Simple Elegance is the theme for this sophisticated, athletic couple.

Austin Remodel

This traditional 1930's cottage is doubling it's square footage with a complete 2nd floor addition. Working within Austin's strict McMansion Ordinance, the finished home will maintain the character of the old neighborhood while becoming functional for the modern family.

Plano Kitchen Update

Plano Update--Emerging from the 1980's, this kitchen will be transformed into a timeless centerpiece for this Plano home. The earthy colors and natural materials bring a warmth and beauty to the space.

The Nuance of Neutral

Neutrals almost always lean warm or cool, having undertones of reds or blues or yellows. Plain old beiges and boring old whites are actually fairly complex colors. Select neutrals with care!

Ownership

My goal when I work with a client is to involve them in each step of design. I want them to have a real feeling of ownership when the project is finished. Many designers still want that sense of mystery behind the design, but I feel like design should be about the person who inhabits it, not the designer's personal style.

Wow Factor

I get many requests for that "Wow Factor." It boils down to a focal point, an inspiration. Find your absolute favorite piece, be it art, fabric, wall paper, whatever. Find the spot where it looks best and build your room around it. Group similar items and select coordinating and complimentary colors to surround it. I promise your friends will say "Wow!"