What’s the first thing you do after you’re hired for a job? I research and do a design study. This involves drawing and gathering samples—colors, textiles, finishes, lighting—to come up with a scheme.
What trend have you hung onto despite the fact that it may not necessarily be trendy at the moment? Why does it work for you? I love black-and-white and may never let it go. It’s a classic combination that’s both sophisticated and has high drama. Things get so much more interesting when you have contrast. I’m not sure black-and-white will ever truly go away.
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How do you incorporate plants into your design projects? Greenery softens lines and adds depth and texture. Provided there’s adequate light, I like using plants in a corner of a living or dining room, or even on a beautiful central table in an entryway.
Thinking back, what has been your biggest design challenge and what did you learn from it? Recently, I worked on a boutique modern art hotel in Davenport, Iowa. Pulling
all the right art together for 140 rooms and making sure all the pieces were representative of the design intent of the hotel was an enormous challenge. Considering all the public spaces as well, we’re talking hundreds of artworks. It ended up coming together beautifully and I think it was because I trusted my gut. When you start to question, that’s when things go wrong. I learned that one’s first instinct is almost always correct and leads to a more organic process.
What is your favorite paint color to use on projects? I like Light Pewter by Benjamin Moore. It’s white with a gray base. I use it for windows, trims and doors. For a strong color: Westcott Navy, also by Benjamin Moore.
