Starting Fresh.

2016 was full of changes and 2017 is setting itself up to continue that trend.  Both in my personal life and in my design.  As you most know, I am a traditionalist at heart ... but love keeping it fresh and bold with color and pattern.  As anyone would, who is exposed to more and more design styles on an hourly basis, I have found myself loving the clean crisp feel of modern spaces.  Last year I had the opportunity to work with a client who was eager to "clean" out, minimalize and create a little drama in his home, a 1950's ranch where he grew up as one of 6 children.  He kept the house after his parents passed away and very little changed over the years.  It was time to re-imagine the space! 

The plan was to bring a little "urban" edge to this suburban home ... And it all started with this charcoal drawing ...

Last February KMI moved into a warehouse studio space and not only did it allow me a true design space, it introduced me to some new creatives!  One in particular, an artist Mary Spencer. She did this fantastic charcoal which became the inspiration for my client's living room.  I am so in awe of the local artists I have met, and try to include their work wherever I can.  

We kept some of the original pieces of furniture, reupholstered them and then brought in fresh modern pops and art to create a new feel for the home.

My client's hobby (serious hobby!) is photography.  I loved his collection of photos, this particular collection had an "edge" that I thought mixed in well with the vibe we were going for!  

It makes my day when clients allow me to use their items and mix with new ... and this large piece of art balances the gallery wall across the room.

One of the most fun aspects of my job is working with different personalities and being able to make their vision come to life.  I learn so much every day from my clients. 

"You'll never know everything about anything, ESPECIALLY something you love."

Julia Child

All photographs by Emily O'Brien Photography

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