Designer Insight

March 12, 2009 | Link This | Email this | Comments (0)

For me, the most important thing I've done in this economy has been to identify and align my business with other businesses that seem to be weathering the storm. After almost 20 years in this industry, I've been blessed to have worked with a broad range of businesses that continue to provide me with advice, experience and examples of what to do, but better yet, what not to do and whom not to do it with. This is one of those times where losing any amount of money could be the catalyst that brings your business to its knees. Honest and open communication (even though sometimes depressing) with peers has given me confidence to continue building a healthier business and a better brand. The key is identifying the safest and most cost effective solution. It is sad to see your peers and friends struggle, but he good thing about any bottom is that it can only get better. --Greg O'Neal

February 18, 2009 | Link This | Email this | Comments (0)

For me, and my clients, it goes back to the basics of smarter living and necessities. So many great things can be done on a budget, without a budgeted look. Here's where I'd spend my money in order to create an (affordable) renewed look and cohesive design:

1) I would save immediate cash by re-upholstering and revamping the sofa. Great neutral durable fabrics can be purchased from any neighborhood vendor, but when re-upholstering focus on the details: contrasting welts, covered/tufted buttons, nailhead trim. These details give new life to “old, tired and dated.” Then, purchase a pair of new occasional chairs to complement your new sofa -- they cost less than a new sofa, plus they can be moved when you are ready for a change.
2) Purchase new occasional tables for beside the sofa and between conversational chairs. Small accent tables cost less t...Read More

December 3, 2008 | Link This | Email this | Comments (0)

November 17, 2008 | Link This | Email this | Comments (0)

Like most busy young families in 2008, I am sure the Obamas want spaces that are warm and comfortable for both adults and children, and easy to maintain. I would begin by reserving first choice for the selection of the antiques and rugs within the White House. As a designer, I love to blur the lines between contemporary and ornate. I would begin this task by painting the rooms so that they have a warm, yet monochromatic feel. The color palette would vary by room -- grayish browns, grayish blues and a variety of cream colors from light to dark. All ornate molding would get a fresh coat of ultra-pure white enamel paint to provide contrast, keep it contemporary and bring attention to carvings, moldings and trimwork. The key is a color palette that will complement a variety of wood tones,&n...Read More

October 25, 2008 | Link This | Email this | Comments (0)

I hope that the Olympics "show" reminded the world how contemporary and fashion-forward the ancient Chinese culture is. Living in Texas, I’ve experienced, quite often, a southern city’s tendency to resist Asian influenced design. Unlike the east and west coasts of the U.S. where Asian style has always been included in decor, southern states tend to be less interested. I hope that the Olympics have broadened the view for those who think the Chinese only brought red lacquer and paper lanterns to the design world. My personal favorites for the U.S. consumer: pure white ginger jars grouped in various sizes, Tang pottery, antique ancestral chairs with custom box cushions, celadon vessels and architectural fragments on custom made metal and acrylic art stands. --Greg O'Neal