Design Insights Courtesy of Candice
Enjoy today’s post from our Design Editor, Susan Rayner. Susan is our guest on the next episode of the Power Up Living radio show, and we’re talking residential interior design trends! Join us to listen in, or subscribe on iTunes to catch the replay. ~KG
~ By Susan Rayner ~
If you’re an HGTV fan (Home and Garden Television for those who aren’t) and you hear the name Candice you know who I’m talking about – Candice Olson, star of Divine Design and Candice Tells All. But she’s not just a TV star – she’s a savvy businesswoman who has run her own interior design firm for several decades and has multiple product lines- fabrics, lighting, wallpaper, even appliances.
She visited the Chicago Merchandise Mart last month to promote her second fabric line for Kravet as well as share her design perspectives and delightfully endearing sense of humor with a roomful of fellow (although less famous) designers. I was lucky enough to be one of them so thought I’d share some of the highlights with you:
Contrast brings excitement and comfort and makes a space more livable.
The blue-gray wall on left, the charcoal banquette on right combined with dark floors and dark wood tables create contrast with the white walls and ceiling as well as the pale rug, sectional and fireplace surround.
The wood wall unit and leather upholstery soften the sharp edges of the metal drawers and furniture bases. Pillows, throws and an Oriental rug also increase the comfort factor.
Contemporary doesn’t mean cold and sterile.
Contemporary can get a bad rap from people who feel that only traditional decor can be warm and inviting. This converted attic space has some traditional elements – the Oriental carpet and skirted sectional – in a primarily contemporary space. The color scheme, modern coffee table and accessories keep the room current. Note the use of paisley, a traditional element – enlarging it and placing it randomly on the wall updates it.
Lighting, lighting, lighting – what and where is key to a great room. The right lighting can make $3/yard curtains look like $300/yard per Candice.
Every light has a purpose, no matter what the room. And multiple light sources allow for the greatest flexibility in brightness and functionality. In this kitchen pendants light the island, a small chandelier brightens the window seat and the whole room is lined with recessed and under-the-cabinet lights.
The same is true in this living room. Note the use of can lights, sconces, a chandelier and a floor lamp. Most likely all are on dimmers and separate controls to allow for the greatest flexibility.
A well-designed room should last 10 – 15 years.
And I would argue that the beautiful dining room below definitely fits that criteria:
Yes, those who know me know that I’ve had a few quibbles with Candice’s frequent use of crystal chandeliers and icy blue but you can’t argue with success. Or with the beauty of her rooms. I hope to continue to see her around – and debate her designs – for many years to come.
Owner of Susan Rayner Interiors, Susan’s aesthetic is clean and classic, whether the style is modern, traditional or somewhere in between. She is passionate about creating positive change for her clients while allowing them to control their costs. Susan has a friendly, collaborative approach that allows her clients to enjoy the design process. This ensures they will love the end result – a house they enjoy coming home to!
Visit Susan at SusanRayner.com.