5 Ways To Transform Your Space

 We've been focused on process and design planning lately, and wanted to share our thoughts on the most effective implementations for any space.

1. Start with a PLAN
In a world of sensory overload, it's easy to get distracted by all the options. You wouldn't purchase a car or make a big decision without a clear plan first, and interiors shouldn't be any different. We see mistakes made when there isn't an holistic plan in place or budgets set at the onset, and rooms filled with items that don't quite work together or are out of scale for the context. At Relish, we strive to equip our clients with personalized Design Plans that clearly outline the priorities and options for their specific lifestyles.



2. Lighting
Lighting is the biggest mood-setting element for a space. You can have the perfect furniture, wall color, and accessories, but if the lighting isn't right the space can still feel stagnant and sterile. Always create a layered approach by implementing ambient lighting, then adding a combination of
ambient/task/decorative lighting types to create a multi layered look full of interest.

Lighting literally penetrates the psyche, and great lighting can give a space a feeling of intimacy or even vibrancy.
 
3. Color
Color can be as trans-formative as lighting. It can work as a backdrop for art, act as art itself in the form of a features wall, help to facilitate flow and openness, or simply add visual interest through beautiful, saturated colors. Our favorite paint palettes of the moment are Yolo, Farrow and Ball, and Stark paints. Many times, we can even add a complimentary wallpaper as a color accent as well as for depth and texture. 

4. Scale and Proportion
When putting together a furniture and space plan, its important to consider overall scale and proportion of items within the context of the space. Strategic placement can aid in flow and openness, and avoid over furnishing or adding items that simply don't work for the space.

photo: style-files.com

5. Personalization
Your space should always be a reflection of your lifestyle, history, and your personal values. We love helping clients re purpose heirloom items and add personalized touches, to avoid any space simply looking like 'page 26' of the latest catalog. These might include family photos, travel items, picture walls, or even your child's "art" over the years!

We hope you find this listing helpful, and of course, do keep in mind that Relish can help with a simple second opinion to full spaces.

Cheers,
Carey

Dwell On Design 2012 Insider View

I just arrived back from LA's Dwell on Design Conference feeling incredibly inspired and energized by the varying forms of innovation coming into the marketplace.

I was especially struck with the ways in which some of the featured companies are creating incredible space saving solutions. Duravit, for example, has created the OpenSpace Collapsible shower, which folds down complete and out-of-the-way when not in use to a full length mirror, as well as sinks narrow enough for even the smallest of bathroom spaces.

Axor displayed incredible surface mounted faucet systems that make cleaning much easier as well as providing a super clean, minimal look and opportunities for simple horizontal storage.

Lacava showcased a selection of soaking tubs that border artwork in their detailing, the new Sottile option providing a spacious tub with a cantilevered shelf for bath products and other items.

Overall, what I was mostly struck by was the way these companies and more are responding to the need for space saving, unique materiality, and beauty in seemingly super simplistic forms. To me, it further confirmed the idea that simplified minimal design finds it beauty in the minute details and new takes on innovative materials such as ceramic and lucite acrylic in bathroom spaces.

More to come from the show in the coming weeks- stay tuned!

Cheers, Carey

Scrapwood Wallpaper - Simple Wall Accents

When I see this wallpaper I envison my future tiny little cottage on the coast of Nova Scotia- super clean and modern except for this great rustic element on the walls. Check out Scrapwood Wallpaper by famed Dutch designer Piet Hein Eek, mimics scrap wood paneling in a simple, washable format. I'm happy to report we'll soon have these wallpapers available through Relish! Cheers, Carey

Modern Wallpaper...not the same old designs

dear friends, I have to share something embarrassing --- Carey just helped me have my place painted after having a swatch on my wall for about 4 months (well, maybe 5 months even).  This is a classic case of the 'cobblers kids have no shoes' and, as a design store owner for 7 years now and an interior design 'adult' student on the side, this is a shame.  I see more products and materials and vendors in a year than most people see in a decade.  I am also a voracious reader of international design magazines (yes, the kind you hold in your hand and save for inspiration for just that one dog-eared page!).  Well, I chose this paint company for its NO VOC paint-palette and also the fact that they were 'born' locally called Yolo.   Also, I've decided what to do with my little bathroom and hallway --- Ferm Living Wallpaper.   I really wanted some texture and variation, but not too much and not really into trendy things. So, here's to adding color and texture to our lives.    We have all the samples here at relish, so feel free to come by, have a seat and play with us...