It's All in the Details!

For me, a trip into my closet to pull together a chic outfit isn't all that different from how I begin designing a room. The color combinations are endless...Couture details are such a critical part of my design aesthetic...No outfit or room is ever completely finished without great accessories, whether it be a statement piece of jewelry or an opulent chandelier. It always surprises me how many possibilities you can derive from mixing fashion and interior design.

When vacationing in Nantucket, I came across the work of Peter Gee, renowned colorist. I was visiting a good friend, Vanessa
Noel, owner of Cafe V and her namesake Hotel, and she had many of his pieces displayed. This particular piece reminded me so much of my 'Day Dream Believer' Showhouse room.

I just love this color combination! These refreshing sorbet-esque splashes layered with this soft neutral ground create a livable and inspiring space! And isn't that what we are all looking for at the end of a tough day? Elements of good design are attainable at any price point...Pick up an issue of Vogue for the fashion inspirations that can carry over into reviving that sanctuary that we all call home!

Summertime and the Livin' is Easy!

Since I've been vacationing here on Nantucket, I am finding it harder and harder to come indoors at the end of a perfect day. There is such a peace and tranquility about lazy summer days, I just never want to give them up! I wanted to create that feeling here in the Florida Keys in this lovely outdoor living space. In a place like Ocean Reef, the lines are blurred between outdoor and indoor living. These homeowners are known to have a party at a moments notice and this space allows them to do just that! Its flexible floor plan is conducive to both intimate gatherings or lavish affairs!

My absolute, favorite room in my home is my sun-porch! Even though we can't use it 12 months a year...it only makes it that much more enjoyable when those beautiful days do start appearing. I incorporated my signature color throughout the cushions and used the same care I would in designing any other room in my house. The sun-porch is a perfect place for morning coffee, an afternoon nap, and or sharing a cocktail with friends in the evening!

Light Up Your Life!!

Here in Nantucket my favorite time of day is just before sunset....It's calming and serene and just magical! It has proved to be my best time for reflecting and organizing my creative thoughts. Part of the reason I love sunset has to do with the lighting and how it affects the play of colors on one another.

I designed the interior for this high-end vintage clothing boutique, but the project just wasn't complete until I added this dramatic, customized chandelier. By introducing this sexy fixture, complimented by the added sheer shade, an element of glamour was established and center stage was created.

All aspects of lighting were taken into consideration while updating this quaint Tudor home. In the dining room both natural and enhanced lighting interplay with one another. The balance between streaming sunshine from the garden beyond and the flattering glow radiating from the chandelier and accent lamp, make this the perfect setting for intimate dinner parties! The reflection of light from both the mirror and the metallic finish on the side-board offer an extension of light and airy perspective into the room.

What's Your Color Story?

The EKB Look.......unexpected color stories that are sophisticated and stylish. I translate traditional and modern styling, with classic and vintage design, and weaving them together creates an intriguing visual story.

I love how this color story incorporates so many natural elements...the sky blues, grass greens, and earthy textures all working in perfect harmony!

Crisp black and whites, striking graphics, always a light-hearted splash of PETA-friendly animal print, and a fashion forward pop of sexy hot pink....are sure to satisfy the tastes of a young, sophisticated family.

This design project has a serious WOW factor, yet remains inviting and easy to come home to! I would like to think that all my projects have that level of depth as well as livability....What good is design if you can't live and grow in it?

Flower Power

For me, inspiration often comes from Mother Nature's unique color stories. She hits me on the way into my shop with gorgeous lavender-mist petunias spilling out of their flower boxes.

I love being surrounded by the soft whimsy of hydrangeas... which are usually scattered throughout my home and the EKB Shop!

And the most exciting part of working with beautiful fabrics, like those from Romo, is that they can be enjoyed all year long! The patterns are intriguing and unexpected because of their magnificent scale and vibrant hues....I'm even incorporating them into my own home to freshen things up.

For my most recent Designer Showhouse, I came up with my color concept from a vintage shirt I basically lived in while studying in Paris. I replicated the image on a canvas and used it as my starting point for all other color selections in the room!