Berkeley

My client’s nook was an awkward space; a table set in the middle blocked the traffic flow to the terrace.  I suggested an l-shaped, custom-sized banquette seat with storage, cushions and decorative pillows which also serve as a comfortable backrest. Because sun exposure and privacy were not issues in this space, windows treatments were not necessary. It’s now a favorite spot in the morning with a steaming cup of coffee and a little bit of sunlight.   And who would want to obstruct such a view?

This timeless kitchen only needed one thing: functioning and classic window treatments.  While we opted for plantation shutters on every other window which made for an especially sharp look from the street on this fetching Cape Cod, the location of the faucet precluded that option here.  Simple wood blinds are elevated with the addition of java-colored fabric tapes. They impart more structure and interest than tape-less blinds.

This client appreciates special details and finely-made, artisanal-quality goods.  A writer and avid reader, he boasts a collection of fine books and accesses them daily.  I suggested we treat them specially and install brass library lights. They wash the books with a soft glow beautifully.  It’s these special touches that impart such a feeling of satisfaction and well-being in a space.

Bedrooms are a chance to create a retreat-like getaway.  An abundance of soft surfaces can be just the salve to soothe and soften the edges of our hectic and harried lifestyles.  Here, I let the client’s keen interest in fabrics with rich texture, pattern and color guide the way. A store-bought duvet and coverlet are a good foil for the set of custom pillows.  The Vervain linen floral, along with the trim is repeated in the draperies, which soften the structure of the shutters.

This Ralph Lauren wall paper is perfect in this distinctive bath.  The effect: tailored, snappy and handsome.

We wanted a special wall treatment to grace the entrance and stairwell of this charming and historic home.  This Ralph Lauren wallcovering is something special; neither paper, nor fabric, it’s constructed of embroidery-like threads with the subtlest of sheens.  The pure pleasure of living with such an artistic product was well worth the investment.

This dining room called for special drapes and the client requested something rich and colorful.  Because the “colorful box” was already checked by way of the wall color and the gorgeous Chinese, silk rug, I suggested a Texture fabric whose color and pattern supported those elements.  Too much of a good thing is usually just too much and that good thing becomes obscured. A simple iron rod lets the fabric play the star.