Building Techniques in India

I recently returned from a trip to India and wanted to share some insight into the building techniques in an absolutely amazingly resourceful country To my surprise, the nicest homes and hotels I have ever been in were in India, counterbalanced by small shacks with tin & rocks for roofs. My brain tried to make… Continue reading Building Techniques in India

Backsplash 101

Are you working on a kitchen renovation? If so, you are probably working out what to do with your backsplash. Fundamentally, you need a backsplash to keep water and other spills from ruining the drywall behind your counter. You have two choices: A standard 4” backsplash that is the same material as your countertop. This… Continue reading Backsplash 101

How to Transform Your Home with a Truss Roof

Does your home need a significant renovation? When I was hired for this “Ranch Renovation” the existing 1952 home was in desperate need of updating! To begin, the ceiling height was very low at only 7’6” high, which meant that the height of the windows were hung too low. All the windows were single pane… Continue reading How to Transform Your Home with a Truss Roof

Why Architecture is an Important Part of Design Inspirations

When I design, the beauty of buildings inspires me. From the very simplistic to the extremely intricate, I appreciate what Architects – both current and historic – have created. With these in mind, I designed a line of fabric. My graphic line of fabric is inspired by architecture. This line has a very defined and… Continue reading Why Architecture is an Important Part of Design Inspirations

Where Old Meets New

We do a lot of additions and renovations! And they are fun! Why…? I love the renovation challenge and no two homes are alike. I love taking an old home with old floor / ceiling joists and pushing the design to adjust to modern dimensions and building codes. Existing foundations and stair codes are rarely met… Continue reading Where Old Meets New

Reality Hits When a Backhoe Shows Up in Your Front Yard

Do you have a backhoe in your front yard? Most people are really excited the day that the backhoe shows up and construction begins… then they are even happier when the contractor’s truck pulls away at the end of a project. The beginning part of a project is not only exciting for homeowners; it is… Continue reading Reality Hits When a Backhoe Shows Up in Your Front Yard

The Benefits of a “Whole Home Design” Approach

Why a holistic strategy delivers the best in architecture, interior design, and landscape for a connected whole home design When I’m starting a new whole home design project it feels like Christmas Eve – every time I am SO excited! There are so many possibilities, each more thrilling than the next. These beginnings are always… Continue reading The Benefits of a “Whole Home Design” Approach

Blending and Translating Design Styles

From Each Client’s Vision through the Mind’s-Eye of a Professional Designer As clients embark on the process of working with a professional designer, I am often asked what my process involves, in order to assure that the resulting design is comprehensive, cohesive and professional, while at the same time genuinely reflecting the preferences, personality and… Continue reading Blending and Translating Design Styles

How to Design the Best Floor Plan for Modern Living

Are you considering a renovation or building a new home? If so, I’m sure you are wondering how to design the best floor plan for modern living. Or at least I hope you are! In order to know how to design the best floor plan for modern living, here are FIVE Key Elements to consider:… Continue reading How to Design the Best Floor Plan for Modern Living

How To Set Your Thanksgiving Table

Do you have Thanksgiving on your mind? Food, festivities, family, friends – what could be better? Thanksgiving marks the official kick-off to the Holiday Season (we have been ignoring the Christmas commercials so far, right?).  So here are a few suggestions as we move away from the Fall decorations and wholeheartedly into the Holiday  decorations… 1.… Continue reading How To Set Your Thanksgiving Table