The simple definition of hue is a shade or color. Color is a large aspect of any interior design project, and sets the tone for the overall combination of elements. As a designer, I must take into account color theory, color psychology, balance, harmony, tonality, intensity and many other technical principles when developing color palettes for a client. Wherever you look, there should be a balance to the specified color palette. Using my talent, knowledge and experience are important, however, in the end, it is a client’s preferences and feeling toward the color or colors in their home or office.
A client’s positive response to certain colors or color combinations help navigate the design development process. The proportions of each color, as well as light absorption & reflectance, in combination, assist in the overall perception and ambiance of a space. Sometimes by just modifying the amount of one color in the palette changes the look completely. Soft, bold, muted or intense color evoke a different emotion and dynamic response. The color around us communicates who we are and how we want to be surrounded to enhance our living environments.
Whether you choose to live or work in an Achromatic (white, grey and black only), monochromatic (varying shades of one color or neutral), or a combination of neutral and color, it is purely a personal preference. I look at each project with an open eye to develop the best palette for my clients. I feel that the color palettes in a project should enhance a client’s positive outlook and happiness. We all respond to color differently, and sometimes certain colors evoke great memories from our past or give us a sense of comfort. Listening carefully to a client’s wishes is vital to developing the proper color harmonies.
Lighting design is key to keeping the proper “temperature” of a space. Warm, cool or neutral in your lamping can change the perception of all materials. Sometimes by the simple act of replacing bulbs in fixtures and recessed lighting to a different temperature modifies a room or area to the anticipated projection of that space. Designing illumination for task, ambiance, and accent applications, in the correct outputs, ties all elements together toward the anticipated color palette and client’s needs.
Although color can be a very technical aspect of a project, the successful outcome relies on the feeling and positive response from my clients. Once we establish the personalized color palette, taking into account the livability of the spaces, all the pieces come together for the right fit.
Ballroom and Latin Dancing has many positive physical and mental health benefits. I have loved partaking in lessons for many years, and find it to be an invigorating part of my week. Dancing is a passionate and artistic expression set to music much like Interior Design. Interior Design may not be set to music, but the focus on planning, detailing and specifications can be harmonic at times with a unifying force between Designer and Client.
Passion is defined as an intense enthusiasm of something; and I feel it every day at my Design Firm. I enjoy the involvement with my clients in learning about their lives, needs and wishes. I can then tailor a design program for their personal or professional spaces. I love my job, and convey a positive and enthusiastic approach to my work. I value all the relationships that I have developed over the years, and look forward to the collaboration with clients, vendors, and contractors. I truly want to make the world a more beautiful place, not only with tangible details and products, but in maintaining those professional relationships for years. I awake every morning with a “can-do” approach to my projects, and the creative work that lies ahead.
In my many years as a licensed Interior Designer, I have not stopped the wheels from turning. I love to learn something new every day, and have seen many innovative changes in my field that are very exciting. Of course, as with any business, there are challenges that can occur at any stage of a project. However, I forge ahead with each one to become part of the solution with our common goal of project completion; on time and within the set budget. It is about keeping my clients happy, and overcoming any obstacles that approach our design journey. My happiness level soars when clients move into their newly built or renovated homes/offices and love spending time there. Our living and working environments should reflect who we are, provide functional lifestyle, feel comfortable, and look beautiful. All these elements form a seamless string of movement, detailing and coordination (possibly with some background music?).
Much like the Argentinean Tango, each programmed and rehearsed “step” of the design process must focus on the connection of planning, detailing and specifications with the passionate vision of my client’s dreams. I am very grateful for the opportunity to work with wonderful clients, and look forward to many more years of design dancing in the future!
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