Tastemaker Tuesday Archives | Page 3 of 3 |
We’re so excited to share this month’s Tastemaker feature for the blog for steve mckenzie’s – Jennifer Boles, who, for many of you may need to introduction… She’s the classic design maven behind the wildly popular blog, “The Peak of Chic“, and has also authored two fabulous books, House Beautiful Fabrics for Your Home and In with the Old: Classic Decor from A to Z. Please join us in welcoming, Jennifer Boles, as the latest Tastemaker for steve mckenzie’s:
Jennifer Boles
Jennifer Boles was born and raised in Atlanta, GA. Upon obtaining her bachelor’s degree in history from University of the South (Sewanee, TN), Jennifer returned to Atlanta to pursue a career in business and finance. After ten years spent in the business sector, Jennifer decided to pursue her passion for interior design and the decorative arts. With an intense interest in design history and a love of writing, Jennifer started her design blog “The Peak of Chic” in the Fall of 2006. Her website-read by design devotees from around the world- focuses on design trends, historical homes, history of design, and all things design related. Recently named “blogosphere darling” by Departures magazine, Jennifer has been featured in numerous publications including The New York Times, Town & Country, Elle Décor, and Wall Street Journal. In 2007, Jennifer became a contributing editor to House Beautiful, and more recently, she was named contributing editor to Veranda. When she’s not writing, reading, or thinking about design, Jennifer spends her time traveling, collecting antique and vintage ceramics, and buying far too many books.
1. Three words that describe your aesthetic?
Classic; Confident; Personal
2. Would you please share a little about your favorite space/project to date?
My favorite space is my own home because it’s furnished with things I love.
Door by Dorothy Draper
3. What’s the source(s) of your inspiration?
The work of design legends such as Dorothy Draper, Albert Hadley, and Syrie Maugham.
4. Name three people (alive or dead) you’d invite to your dream dinner party…
Cole Porter; Billy Baldwin; Bobby Short
Sitting room by Syrie Maugham
5. A piece of/type of furniture you couldn’t live without?
A clean-lined sofa.
6. Do you follow a particular set of rules when mixing textures, finishes, etc. – how do they work for you?
Variety in texture and finish, for example, adds interest to a room. That being said, you also need balance.
7. Trending… What is something you are currently “into” and something you are “over?”
Into: Subtlety. It’s a lost art, one which I hope people rediscover.
I’m over the kitchen-sink approach to decorating. You can’t just throw a random mix of styles and pieces into a room and expect the room to look pulled-together.
8. How does artwork fit into your designs?
It’s important, but it has to reflect the taste and interest of the homeowner, not the designer.
9. What would be the one thing you would have if you were stranded on a deserted island?
My dog, Alfie.
10. Please share a piece of advice you’d offer to someone looking to break into the interior design industry.
Learn about the history of design. You’ll never be at a loss for inspiration if you know about design history and those designers who influenced the art of decorating.
We so appreciate that last bit – about the history of design. This is a passion of both Steve and Jill’s and something they look to often when working with clients to create new designs.
A BIG shout out to the gracious Ms Boles for agreeing to participate in our Tastemaker Tuesday blog feature, she’s such a peach, and if you aren’t already an avid follower, we encourage you to add “The Peak of Chic” to your list of blogs to read – it is sure to become an instant favorite!
A breath of fresh air… That’s what we think of when we think of Allison Paladino and her fabulous interiors and products. And if you don’t know her already, we think you’ll think the same thing when you meet Allison, who’s our latest Tastemaker here on the blog for steve mckenzie’s!
Allison Paladino
Based in Palm Beach, Allison Paladino is as well known for her exquisite residential and commercial interiors, award-winning licensed products and art as she is her fun-loving, outgoing personality that brings clients from around the globe to work with her. More often then not, these clients become close friends of Allison, her team and her husband Dave. When the economy crashed in 2008, Allison had to lay off 6 employees and close her shop on Worth Avenue – it was at that point, she turned her main focus to her love of interior design. She found relaxation in sketching and soon formulated her first licensed furniture collection with EJ Victor. Now, nine years later, she’s added a hand-tufted custom rug collection with New River Artisans, based in North Carolina. Most recently, she’s launched an art line showcasing her photography from around the world, as well as graphic art, with Wendover Art Group in Largo, Florida.
- What are three words that describe your aesthetic?
Tailored, Classic, Comfortable
2. Would you please share a little about your favorite space/project to date?
My favorite space is a kitchen/family room/breakfast room space contemporary home in Palm Beach we gutted and re-space planned. The house had amazing bones, it just needed an update from its original 1980’s décor. White glossy formica kitchen with the usual pastel trim – yikes! Also the most popular room in everyone’s house is typically the kitchen! What was really great about this project was the more informal type of clientele in Palm Beach that’s recently been surfacing. They wanted an open floor plan with no formal dining room and adjacent to the kitchen as well as the family room. We took down the walls of the kitchen and it made an enormous difference. The style of the kitchen is dramatic with a combination of textured black, white glass and stainless cabinets. The counter tops are white Caesar stone and a 7” thick oak bar ebonized and cerused. The family room features one of my favorite sectionals by Donghia in an outdoor velvet. My Key rug design echoes the geometrics in the room and offers a wonderful tactile contrast between the wool loop and the cut silk. I love the sculpted Holly Hunt swivel chairs and organic tables. The dining area has a lot of style but super comfortable. My Post Modern rug softens the space.
3. What’s the source of your inspiration? I can honestly say one of my favorite spaces is the Holly Hunt showroom in Miami. Their architect Alison Spear’s is so good at what she does! We took the client there and she was equally impressed. We selected some key pieces from there and the overall feeling of the showroom with all the light that pours in communicated very well with the client’s home! The more structured lines definitely related to the contemporary atmosphere of the home.
4. Name three people (alive or dead) you’d invite to your dream dinner party… I would love to have dinner with the well know, French Art Deco designer, Emile Jacques Ruhlmann, because I am crazy about his work. I would invite Thomas Pheasant not only because he is my mentor and I adore his work, but because he loves Rulmann too! Lastly, I would invite Barbara Barry because from the time that I was in design school I have admired her work! My first cocktail table and nightstands were from Barbara! Now that I am a product designer, I admire her even more and the huge empire she has created! If I could invite four, I’d add Frank Lloyd Wright because I admire his work… But, as rumor has it he wasn’t very friendly anyway!!!! 5. What’s a piece of/type of furniture you couldn’t live without? I love this custom table I designed for my living room! It is a combination of a parchment color carved panel with a Deco motif, walnut supports with carved polished nickel brick supports and a thick glass top! It makes me smile every time I pass that room in my home! 6. Do you follow a particular set of rules when mixing textures, finishes, etc. – how do they work for you? I think balance is the key. In other words, if you have a luscious chenille sofa you might want to do a lighter linen on chairs so the room doesn’t feel heavy. We’ve been using a lot of Perennials outdoor fabrics because they offer linen-looking fabrics that wear like nails! I don’t mind mixing finishes as long as they are complementary to one another. 7. Trending… What is something you are currently “into” and something you are “over?” I love to have a little sparkle or “bling” in a room. I went through a real organic phase which I still love but a little silver or gold leaf gives a nice relief to woods and upholstery! I am not a big fan of mid century modern! I much prefer French Art Deco! 8. How does artwork fit into your designs? I absolutely love art, whether it is a painting, print or photo. If a client has a strong art collection we are extremely cognoscente of this from the beginning. The color palette tends to be neutral which allows the art to be the main focal point. I developed an inexpensive line of art with Wendover Art Group. Part of the collection is more graphic in nature and you can customize the color combinations, mat and frame. I also have photography that can printed on acrylic, matted and framed or printed on canvas. Most clients don’t want to spend a fortune in secondary areas and initially that is why I created this collection that is customizable. Photography has now become a hobby and I really enjoy it! Allison introducing her art lint at High Point with her husband.
9. What would be the one thing you would have if you were stranded on a deserted island? A chef and plenty of food! Oh and a babe (meaning my husband of course!!!) Ha! Oops that is two! 10. Please share a piece of advice you’d offer to someone looking to break into the interior design industry… Run fast and hard!!! Don’t go toward the light!!! All kidding aside, it is a great profession and extremely rewarding! There is nothing like seeing your creativity come to reality and making a client happy! I think it is a misconception that all an interior designer does is fun and creative 24-7! It is a business and the creative part is probably 20% of the job! I love my job because everyday is different!
A great, big THANK YOU to Allison Paladino for being such a fun Tastemaker to feature in our series! We love her work and her licensed products are certainly impressive. She’s got a fantastic eye for design that certainly goes beyond just creating a pretty space. Steve first met Eddie Ross back when Eddie was working for House Beautiful and Steve was working for Larson-Juhl. Over the years, they were able to collaborate on many design projects and, together with Jill and Eddie’s partner Jaithan, they formed a close friendship. Steve and Jill both value the rare moments they’re able to spend with Eddie and Jaithan, and we’re so pleased to finally have an opportunity to feature Eddie as a Tastemaker here, on the blog for steve mckenzie’s! Back in March of 2013, Eddie was named East Coast Producer/Editor for Print and Digital for Better Homes and Gardens magazine. In this role, Eddie produces home, decorating, DIY and entertaining stories for print, digital and video. Prior to his role with BH&G, Eddie was Editorial Director of Rue La La, where he produced content across multiple channels, including online, mobile, and tablet. Ross has been a design, decorating, and food editor for Martha Stewart Living, House Beautiful, and Food Network. In addition to his print work, which has been featured in Elle Decor, Domino, Lonny and The New York Times. Ross has appeared in numerous TV specials for Martha Stewart, HGTV and Bravo. Ross graduated from the Culinary Institute of America. Eddie Ross
1. What are three words that describe your aesthetic?
Eclectic, Colorful, Lived-in
2. Would you please share a little about your favorite space/project to date?
As an editor at BH&G, I get to work with a top-knotch crew, inspiring readers with real-life stories about people living in beautiful, comfortable homes that express their personal style. I feel so lucky to be able to do something for my job that I truly, honestly love! In addition to this, I’m loving working on a book with Jaithan, which will be coming out in the Summer of 2015. 3. What are the sources of your inspiration? I’m constantly inspired by flea markets, tag sales, thrift shops–anywhere you can go and find beautiful, affordable things. I’ve seen a lot of high-end homes in my career, but I love being able to look to flea markets and create spaces that look magazine-worthy on a budget. I’m all about mixing high and low – buy a nice sofa, then mix things up with an Ikea table. It’s like wearing a really good pair of jeans and with an H&M top. 4. Name three people (alive or dead) you’d invite to your dream dinner party…
I would definitely invite Julia Child, Yves Saint Laurent, who has such fashion style, and to round out the party, let’s thrown in a Lindsay Lohan, because everyone needs a little hot mess here and there to add flavor!
5. What’s a piece of/type of furniture you couldn’t live without?
I would say my favorite piece of furniture is an antique pharmaceutical cabinet I found painted yellow at a junk shop for $50. My grandfather stripped it – and we found it was lined with zinc, and that all the hardware is solid copper and brass. I love it for it’s versatility – I’ve schlepped it to every apartment I’ve lived in and so far, it’s lived as a china cabinet, a linen closet, a medicine cabinet and now it’s in the library with books and magazines.
6. Do you follow a particular set of rules when mixing textures, finishes, etc. – how do they work for you?
I don’t think there’s a right or wrong way of doing a mix for someone’s own personal style. I don’t feel as if I can tell someone they have to mix stripes and florals or to just mix solids with a graphic pattern. In our place, the more pattern the better! I always pay attention to color and mix patterns with abandon. The sofa at our NYC apartment features a mix of leopard, tribal cloth, needlepoint, quilted pillows, all from different time periods. It all has to do with finding your own personal taste and style. If something makes you smile, it’s right.
7. Trending… What is something you are currently “into” and something you are “over?” I’m into one of a kind/vintage. I’m totally obsessed with vintage fabric; like chintz and out-of-print patterns… For me, it’s all about being one of a kind. These are the kinds of pieces that really make a home. You could have all the money in the world, but if your house looks like a brand new showroom, it’s totally impersonal and that’s not me. I’m over chevron, trellis patterns in kelly green, and plain black and white spaces. There’s so many beautiful colors in the world, and I love waking up to color, it’s just happy.
8. How does artwork fit into your designs? I think artwork is so important – it makes a room. I am a true believer that art needs to speak to the person who is going to live with it. Right now, I’m obsessed with LA-based artist Anna Ullman of A.E.U. Studio. Her paintings, monoprints and glittered wonders are fantastic! If you can afford it, investing in art is key. But for someone starting off, you can find lots of great things at a tag sale – just pop it out of the old frame, and surround it with a more modern frame. Once you get more settled in your career, then you can consider investing. I love all of my art – from the pieces I found when I was younger to the ones I’m collecting now. It adds to the overall, decorated look. Personally, I love Steve’s paintings; they’re colorful, beautiful, livable and add a modern take on traditional artwork.
9. What would be the one thing you would have if you were stranded on a deserted island? Sour patch kids. I LOVE Sour Patch Kids. I literally couldn’t live without them. (Oh, and Jaithan too :-)) 10. Please share a piece of advice you’d offer to someone looking to break into the interior design industry. Get ready for a lot of hard work. You really need to put yourself out there. Build relationships, do internships and be prepared to work for free. If you love it and are passionate about it, it’ll pay off in the long run.
That’s great advice Eddie – and such a fantastic interview; thank you! We’re so grateful to call Eddie a friend, and now a Tastemaker for our blog!
We’re absolutely thrilled to have an opportunity to share the latest Tastemaker in our Tastemaker Tuesday blog series with you! Willem Stear, of Tonic Design Studio, has so graciously agreed to let us pick his brain and ask him those questions we’re so anxious to learn his responses to… With a distinctive eye for international style, Willem Stear’s designs have been something of a vacation for our senses and we’re excited for you all to be able to experience this as well through this installment of our Tastemaker Tuesday series on the blog for steve mckenzie’s:
Willem Stear
Born in South Africa, Willem Stear, owner of Tonic Design Studio, studied at the Calder School of Interior Design in Johannesburg after which he worked with several well-established South African designers. Prior to relocating to the US in 2008, Willem worked on projects in London, Paris, Switzerland, Israel, Dubai, Boston MA, Johannesburg and Cape Town. Since working in the US, he has successfully completed projects in Atlanta, San Francisco and Healdsburg (Sonoma, CA).
Blending classic and contemporary styles, Tonic Design Studio features European and African design influences to create an eclectic mix. A unique atmosphere that compliments the client is created by juxtaposing the rough and the smooth, the grand and the humble, the high-tech and the handmade.Tonic Design Studio brings a fresh, energetic approach to a traditional sense of luxury. Color, texture and form blend to create a comfortable sense of elegance, seamlessly balancing function and style.
1. What are three words that describe your aesthetic?
Eclectic, Comfortable, Timeless
2. Would you please share a little about your favorite space/project to date?
I’m currently in the process of renovating/restoring my home, which is a 1970’s modern in Buckhead. Designed and built by Joseph Amisano, who was a well known Atlanta architect (Toombs Amisano Wells), who designed the original Fernbank building, Peachtree MARTA station and the original Lenox Square (now Lenox Mall). The home was built for him and his family and is a fantastic example of modern architecture. Designing for myself is both exciting and a challenge, but I know that eventually the outcome will be spectacular.
3. What’s the source of your inspiration?
Really anything inspires me. Food, art, music – something as simple as a photograph or piece of fabric. Inspiration is everywhere!
4. Name three people (alive or dead) you’d invite to your dream dinner party…
Wow, that’s a tough one. Frank Lloyd Wright because he was a genius way ahead of his time, and would make for great dinner conversation. Meryl Streep just because she seems like a fun person to have a cocktail with and I adore her. Martha Stewart can make us dinner!
Chloe Bear & Leo Lover
5. What’s a piece of/type of furniture you couldn’t live without?
My dogs, Chole Bear and Leo Lover. Technically they’re not furniture, but Leo weighs as much as a sofa!
6. Do you follow a particular set of rules when mixing textures, finishes, etc. – how do they work for you?
I never try to match anything. I try to create tension and something a little unexpected. Mixing old with new, sophisticated with organic. It’s all about how it feels. 7. Trending… What is something you are currently “into” and something you are “over?”
I’m into beautiful, organic furniture like live edge tables, or tree root table bases and hand carved wooden stools. These pieces mixed with very sleek, streamlined items gives a very sophisticated look.
I’m over cookie cutter interiors with no soul or depth.
8. How does artwork fit into your designs?
Artwork is the most important part of a design. It elevates a space. That said, art is very subjective and is a real representation of the owner’s personality.
9. What would be the one thing you would have if you were stranded on a deserted island?
Just one? I would have to have my iPod and maybe a case of good champagne. If I’m going to be stranded, I’d at least want to have a party!
10. Please share a piece of advice you’d offer to someone looking to break into the interior design industry…
Be passionate – love what you do! Get involved in the design community. Networking and personal relationships are just as, if not more, important than a good education.
Ahhhh… Now you see what we mean when we talk about an international flare through interior design?!? A vacation for the senses indeed. Many thanks to Willem for his candid responses – we’ve loved learning more about you and your work!
Our May Tastemaker on the blog for steve mckenzie’s really needs no introduction… We’re thrilled to have the opportunity to share Matthew Patrick Smyth as our latest featured interior designer for our Tastemaker Tuesday blog series! Matthew’s stunning, traditional interiors offer an updated twist on classic design. His refreshing style showcases an unparalleled attention to detail that is evident in all he does. His book, “Living Traditions: Interiors by Matthew Patrick Smyth” offers a glimpse into some of his most memorable projects and has become an instant classic.
We hope you enjoy learning about this supremely talented interior designer, Matthew Patrick Smyth, in the newest installment of steve mckenzie’s Tastemaker Tuesday series:
Matthew Patrick Smyth
After studying interior design at the Fashion Institute of Technology and working with David Easton for six years, Matthew Smyth launched his own firm in 1988. He gives careful consideration to blending classic style with comfort and values long-lasting client relationships. In fact, many of Matthew’s clients are on their second, third, and fourth projects with Matthew Patrick Smyth Inc. Clients say the key to these long-term relationships is Matthew’s straightforward and easy manner. In addition to participating in a number of designer showhouses and charity projects, Matthew has branched out into product design. Patterson Flynn Martin produces two Matthew Patrick Smyth carpet collections. A Matthew Smyth line of fabrics was introduced by F. Schumacher and a line of wallcovering designs soon followed. Matthew has been consistently listed as one of the top designers in publications such as Traditional Home, New York Magazine and New York Spaces.
1. What are three words that describe your aesthetic?
Appropriate…. Comfortable…… Quality
A NY Mets themed room for Ronald McDonald House by Matthew Smyth.
2. Would you please share a little about your favorite space/project to date?
I just did a room for the Ronald McDonald House in Long Island. I was given the NY METS room and ran with it. I had the best time and what was most rewarding was that it is permanent for use by the patients and their families. It is such a good cause. The kids were thrilled and so was I!
3. What’s the source of your inspiration?
Paris…. It never stops amazing me. Every time I go, I discover something new and what I’ve seen a hundred times still pleases me. I always feel recharged when I come back from Paris.
4. Name three people (alive or dead) you’d invite to your dream dinner party…
Gloria Vanderbilt, Billy Baldwin and Emma Thompson.
5. What’s a piece of/type of furniture you couldn’t live without?
The daybed in my library in Sharon Ct. I spend rainy Saturdays there with my books, music and Ipad. It’s my favorite spot!
6. Do you follow a particular set of rules when mixing textures, finishes, etc. – how do they work for you?
I was given some great, simple advice in Design School from the late Stanley Barrrows who taught Mario Buatta, Angelo Donghia etc… He said “Never match… blend” I still repeat it in my mind and to my assistants. I think BLEND AND BALANCE are the key words in my design process. 7. Trending… What is something you are currently “into” and something you are “over?”
I’m now loving Amsterdam and anything Dutch inspired… Colors, antiques and attitude.
I think the Moroccan theme has been played out way too long, but I’m still attracted to it.
A living room space by Matthew Patrick Smyth.
8. How does artwork fit into your designs?
Artwork is the finishing touch. I enjoy putting a room together and then having the art bring it all to another level.
9. What would be the one thing you would have if you were stranded on a deserted island?
My iPad downloaded with all my favorite music, movies and episodes of Homeland, as long as I also have a solar charger!
10. Please share a piece of advice you’d offer to someone looking to break into the interior design industry…
Take your time and work for someone before starting your own business. Too often a young person fast tracks it and then eventually it all crashes and burns. It’s one thing to get a project, but it’s another to finalize it to the client’s satisfaction. There are no shortcuts in this industry! Learn all you can before you head out there on your own. There’s plenty of time! Do it right and get as much experience as you can! Keep in mind that design is actually only 10 percent of the business. The rest is paperwork and navigation. It does not matter how good your design is if you cannot deliver it. Get experience and embrace the paperwork and logistics.
Thank you so much to Matthew Patrick Smyth for agreeing to participate in our Tastemaker Tuesday series! A glimpse into his beautifully designed and curated spaces is always such an inspiration and a treat!
This month we’re shaking things up a bit here on the blog for steve mckenzie’s by featuring a design editor as our Tastemaker, and it’s not just any editor we’re lucky enough to share with you… It’s Design Editor for Traditional Home magazine, Tori Mellott!
Not only does Tori have class and style to spare (hence her profession), she’s also one of the nicest people we’ve had the opportunity to work with! Steve first met Tori during his time with Larson-Juhl, where art and framing were the hot topic. Since then, we’ve been fortunate enough to expand our discussions to design as a whole, among other things…
Tori has darling twin girls, Franny and Lucy, and it’s been so fun seeing her tackle motherhood just as enthusiastically as she’s conquered the world of home shelter pubs! We think you’ll love Tori just as much as we do, especially after learning more about her in this Tastemaker Tuesday feature:
Tori Mellott
1. What are three words that describe your style?
I would describe my style as preppy, tailored, and girlie.
2. Would you please share a little about a favorite space of yours?
Really, my favorite space in the entire world is the house I grew up in located in a sub-suburban neighborhood 20 miles north of Pittsburgh. I was raised by my grandparents and my grandmother really loved pastels. One bathroom was entirely salmon pink and I mean ENTIRELY. The sink, the tub, the toilet, the floor tiles. And the bathroom I shared with my sister was entirely mint green and again, I mean ENTIRELY. The sink, the tub, the toilet, the floor tiles. I just loved those bathrooms!
And my grandmother was a huge wallpaper lover. We must have changed the wallpaper in our hallway every 3 to 5 years. When I was very young it was this wild, white, green, and silver foil paper that had bamboo trees printed on the ground. Then it changed to this adorable navy blue floral – it was very elegant. Then one year it was a red “Tree of Life” pattern. It was always changing – my poor Grandfather! He was the one who had to paper the walls!
One year my grandmother allowed my sister and I to decorate the entire upstairs portion of the house. A play area, two bedrooms, and a bathroom. It was so much fun. I choose a pink and white stripe for my bedroom (which still remains there today) and a small, dense, floral pattern that is reminiscent of a Liberty print for the bathroom.
3. What’s the source(s) of your inspiration?
So many things inspire me. Especially the past. I’m such a romantic – I love decaying, rotten, nearly-forgotten ideas, structures, and gardens.
There is such a powerful sense of mystery and loss when you see a crumbling ruin or a path in the forest that is nearly grown over.
I’m especially inspired by classic architecture and I’m a sucker for any Victorian building as well and recently I’ve been on an Art Deco kick.
As for my sense of color, I’m inspired by flowers – the blooms, the variegated patterns, and the intense hues.
4. Name three people (alive or dead) you’d invite to your dream dinner party…
– Chris Rock (because he is the funniest human alive or dead)
– Idina Menzel (because I am hoping she will burst out into song)
– Julia Child (because I don’t cook and I would want the food to be good)
5. What’s a piece of/type of furniture you couldn’t live without?
I could not live without a comfortable sofa. Uncomfortable sofas, even if they are the most beautiful-looking sofa in the world, are useless and pointless. If design isn’t comfortable, then it’s really not design, it’s art and I don’t want to get cozy on a piece of art.
6. Do you recommend people follow a particular set of rules when mixing textures, finishes, etc.?
I wouldn’t say there are hard and fast “rules” but I definitely think a mix of textures is necessary in designing a cozy space. If everything has the same texture, it might look boring, or too fancy, or too casual. I think a good mix of textures lends charm to a room.
7. Trending… What is something you are currently “into” and something you are “over?”
I’m really into floral chintz and animal prints! I cannot get enough. I want to swath every surface of my apartment in head-to-toe chintz.
I want every room tented, and every wall upholstered. It would be incredibly impractical, considering I have 2 year old twins, but I daydream about it all the time.
I’m so, so, so over gallery walls. I think they look messy and cluttered. One large piece of art will do.
8. How does artwork typically work within your favorite spaces/any advice on incorporating art into a room?
Artwork is critically important. It adds personality to a room and visual interest.
9. What would be the one thing you would have if you were stranded on a deserted island?
That is so easy. Pizza.
10. Please share a piece of advice you’d offer to someone looking to break into the interior design industry.
Be nice to everyone and try not to copy other people’s work. While other’s designs can serve as an inspiration, and even a jumping off point, try to maintain an original point-of-view.
A huge THANK YOU to Tori for allowing us to feature her as a steve mckenzie’s Tastemaker – you’re always a joy and charm to be with, and we know our readers will experience that same sense of warmth as they enjoy this segment.
Happy Tastemaker Tuesday everyone!
We’re honored to have the opportunity to share the latest designer to participate in our Tastemaker Tuesday blog series – the brilliant Michael Devine! Not only is Michael an amazingly talented designer, his fabric collection is to die for, and he’s now an author! In fact, we carry Michael’s brand new book, An Invitation to the Garden, at steve mckenzie’s… So be sure to check it out next time you visit the showroom!
Now, we’re thrilled to share Michael’s Tastemaker Tuesday responses with you:
Michael Devine
Michael Devine was raised in Illinois, where his passion for all aspects of design was nurtured. He studied art history at the Ecole du Louvre, French at the Sorbonne and cooking at the Ritz Escoffier. It was during his two years of living in Paris that honed his eye and continues to inspire his work. He returned to New York and spent over six years as a style and party editor at HFN Magazine where he covered the glittering design world on both sides of the Atlantic. It was this experience that gave him the drive to create his bespoke fabric collection of modern traditional hand prints, which are known for their desirable chic hand crafted look. Michael left the magazine world in 2006 to pursue his design passion full time. He found a charming property in the upstate village of Kinderhook, New York where he continues to refine his aesthetic and craft in his studio.
1. What are three words that describe your aesthetic?
Layered, contemporary and classic
2. Would you please share a little about your favorite space/project to date?
My favorite project has to be my new book, An Invitation to the Garden. I really enjoyed the entire process, as well as the freedom to be totally creative. It was a rare opportunity to have to have so much latitude, which I owe to my amazing Editor Sandy Gilbert, and publisher Rizzoli International.
3. What’s the source of your inspiration?
My imagination.
4. Name three people (alive or dead) you’d invite to your dream dinner party…
Aerin Lauder, I love her style, Jennifer Boles of The Peak of Chic, her wit and charm make her an ideal guest, and Marion McEvoy, she is a constant inspiration and so much fun.
5. What’s a piece of/type of furniture you couldn’t live without?
A good bed- without a decent nights sleep the next day is a waste.
6. Do you follow a particular set of rules when mixing textures, finishes, etc. – how do they work for you?
No, I just do whatever seems right at the time.
7. Trending… What is something you are currently “into” and something you are “over?”
I am into the very classic, haute French cuisine that nobody does anymore. The complexities of creating it are fascinating.
I am over Kale. Enough already with the kale. It tastes like rubber.
8. How does artwork fit into your designs?
I spend a lot of time in museums and am in constant in awe of the complex color combinations I find in the 17th and 18th century paintings.
9. What would be the one thing you would have if you were stranded on a deserted island?
The complete works of Balzac.
10. Please share a piece of advice you’d offer to someone looking to break into the interior design industry…
Find a mentor. Their support and guidance are invaluable.
We’re so grateful to Michael for taking part in our Tastemaker Tuesday series – we’re sure our readers will find you as fascinating as we do. And to those readers, come in and check out Michael’s new book… The inspiration it provides is absolutely endless!
We’re thrilled to feature another fabulous designer, and dear friend, Kerry Howard, of KMH Interiors, to continue our “Tastemaker Tuesday” blog series! We’ve been working with Kerry for years – in fact, he worked to curate our own home, which has since been featured in Traditional Home. In addition to being an all-around wonderful person, Kerry’s fresh perspective on design is second to none. Lucky for us, he agreed to participate in our Tastemaker Tuesday blog series, where he answered a number of questions we think you’ll be interested to learn his responses to. Here’s to Tastemaker, Kerry Howard:
Kerry Howard
A true Southern boy, raised in South Carolina, Kerry’s design style is clean, eccentric, and transitional. You may recognize Kerry from Bravo TV’s Top Design, season 2, where he was one of 14 hot designers selected to compete for the title of the nation’s Top Designer. Kerry believes the key to good design is to design a space around things you love; things that inspire you. He loves to shop at thrift stores where he can find old, ordinary pieces and transform them into works of art. Kerry is a master at combining high quality, timeless pieces with more trendy decorative items to create spaces that WOW! Learn more about Kerry here.
1. What are three words that describe your aesthetic?
My aesthetic can be described very simply. Clean, Classic, and Casual.
2. Would you please share a little about your favorite space/project to date?
I would have to say my condo, that I just sold In October, was my favorite project to date. I know it’s my personal home, but it just felt so easy to design for myself. I didn’t have involve anyone except me, myself and I. It was the perfect definition of who I am as designer. A combination of old and new, that felt like home!
3. What’s the source of your inspiration?
I draw a lot of inspiration from lighting. When I walk into a room I envision what the lighting would be and design the room around that. It’s like finding the perfect piece of jewelry to complement that beautiful gown.
4. Name three people (alive or dead) you’d invite to your dream dinner party…
If I were to throw my dream party I would want to be surrounded by my family and friends. I draw so much inspiration from them. After all they are the ones that have made me part of the man I am today.
5. What’s a piece of/type of furniture you couldn’t live without?
I have 3 very large over scaled church windows that I had mirrored years ago. They are my most prized possession. When I see them they are my past, present and my future. I’ve designed every home I’ve had around them.
6. Do you follow a particular set of rules when mixing textures, finishes, etc. – how do they work for you?
I don’t have a particular set of rules when mixing textures, etc. It’s visually something that just feels good to me when I put it all together. I really go with my gut feeling when something doesn’t feel right, I change around until I get that perfect balance. It doesn’t mean I always get it right, but I always learn from my mistakes.
7. Trending… What is something you are currently “into” and something you are “over?”
-Presently, I am “over” the lime washed and reclaimed look. Every big box store in town has a field day trying to knock each other off. -I’ve never been really into anything floral, but my new obsession is a large over scaled floral prints in a very bright modern colors. 8. How does artwork fit into your designs? I think artwork is really important and personnel to a design. Sometimes you get lucky and a client has a collection of amazing artwork, and on the extreme end you start a design from ground zero. This can also be beneficial in educating the client on the importance of the artwork completing the design of a space. “There’s always a special place for artwork in a home” 9. Please share a piece of advice you’d offer to someone looking to break into the interior design industry… For anyone wanting to break into the ID industry, I would suggest hiring a great accountant, bookkeeper, and learning as much on the business end of design. I have learned from the school of hard knocks how to run a business, and wish I would have taken more business classes.
A BIG thank you to Kerry Howard for participating in our Tastemaker Tuesday series – we’re excited to see what the future holds for you!
We’re honored to feature the incomparable Michel Boyd, of SMITHBOYD Interiors, for our first-ever Tastemaker Tuesday post! This blog series will highlight a member of the interior design industry, whom we’re drawn to here at steve mckenzie’s, and share a bit about them in just ten short questions. As for why we asked Michel to participate in this series, besides being charming, and quite debonair, we enjoy his use of luxurious fabrics and textiles and cool art that’s unexpected for the space. Michel creates very chic spaces that are still inviting and comfortable. Enjoy!
Michel Boyd
With an initial interest in architecture, Michel Boyd, an Art Institute graduate, realized his love for fashion, textiles, and furniture was a perfect foundation for pursuing a career in interior design. The Louisiana born designer’s first influences were in the rich French history of New Orleans, living in New York City and extensive European holidays. Elements of each of these cultures and experiences can be detected in the layers of design found in each space he transforms. While still fairly new to the industry, Boyd is quickly making an impact and has created a niche of building “boutique bedrooms.” His philosophy is that bedrooms should be the ultimate hotel suites, therefore destinations for his clients. Learn more about Michel here.
Without further ado, Tastemaker, Michel Boyd:
1. What are three words that describe your aesthetic?
Thoughtful – Layered – Luxury
2. Would you please share a little about your favorite space/project to date?
My favorite project to date is one where I was a part of the design process from its conception. Over the years, the homeowners’ and my taste level/aesthetic grew exponentially, and they gave me license to design accordingly. The icing on the cake was when the lady of the house said that old furniture doesn’t work in new houses. In my head I heard choirs of angels. Priceless!!
3. What’s the source of your inspiration?
I feel really fortunate that I find inspiration just about everywhere. Fashion is by far my favorite because of my obsession with textiles and the clear points of view of the designers. The opportunity to help develop/execute a client’s authentic point of view is one of my favorite aspects of this job. When we are successful at delivering a project that is a true reflection of our clients, they are in turn inspired. Mission accomplished.
4. Name three people (alive or dead) you’d invite to your dream dinner party…
My dream dinner party consists of Langston Hughes, Tom Ford ( or maybe Cocoa Chanel?), and David Sedaris for humor. Perhaps Kelly Wearstler would set the table?
5. What’s a piece of/type of furniture you couldn’t live without?
How do I pick one piece of furniture that I can’t live without? I’m a designer, therefore indulgent by nature! I MUST have a sofa or lounge in every bedroom, however, I am obsessed with lighting. Chandeliers and lamps are room jewelry!
6. Do you follow a particular set of rules when mixing textures, finishes, etc. – how do they work for you?
Mixing textures doesn’t have to be a standard recipe, however it must be a balanced one. A leather sofa requires a velvet chair with equal parts woven ottomans, peppered with complimentary prints and just a sprinkle of silk drapes. Your room is like a salad, and all lettuce does NOT a salad make.
7. Trending… What is something you are currently “into” and something you are “over?”
-My favorite current trend is jewel toned walls. Those deep, moody hues are a great foundations for rich interiors.
-The trend that I’m over is blatant design plagiarism. Social media and design magazines are great sources of inspiration, even platforms for new ideas- not for taking credit for another’s work. Design integrity is paramount.
8. How does artwork fit into your designs?
A great piece of artwork anchors a room and can inspire an entire home. Adding to our clients’ art collections is always fun, but I’m really excited when they already have one that they’re passionate about. That passion is contagious and translates into the design process.
9. What would be the one thing you would have if you were stranded on a deserted island?
If I was stranded on a deserted island I would need room service! Seriously, I’d need a sketch pad to jot down/design all the ideas that I’d never have time to….unless I were stranded in a deserted island.
10. Please share a piece of advice you’d offer to someone looking to break into the interior design industry…
My advice to anyone breaking into this business; Building relationships in your design community is as important as your education and talent. Hiring a designer is a luxury, however BEING one is an even bigger luxury. Let’s treat the privilege with the respect it deserves.
Thank you Michel for allowing us to feature you as a Tastemaker for our new blog series, we’re excited to continue following your work!
*Michel is currently a finalist in Architectural Digest’s Before + After Closet Showcase – check it out and vote for his (Atlanta, GA) fantastic closet makeover!
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