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Design inspiration can come from anywhere, but it often comes from what we see. And now that spring has arrived, we see color everywhere! From the lush green of new growth to the vibrant hues of flowers and delicate blossoms on flowering trees, nature is putting on a spectacular show!
So let’s have a little fun and look at some of our favorite, most colorful designs. These colorful rooms are in full bloom and they always put a smile on our faces. We hope they do the same for you!

Modern Moroccan

A mosaic fireplace surround and hand-blown rondels in shades of blue, orange and gold conjure images of blue skies and sunshine. Colorful accents, distinctive lighting and a plush shag rug add to the room’s cheerful, but exotic mood.

Inviting Entry

A custom hand-tufted wool rug, with a pattern that mimics the shape of the rising sun, is a welcoming sight in this entrance hall. Landscape paintings in bold, vibrant colors bring further warmth to the space.

Traditional Living

Gold armchairs in a large floral print bring instant cheer to this family-friendly room. Drapery and throw pillows in a mixture of patterns add texture, and accessories in the shape of large game pieces create a fun vibe.

Colorful Home Office

Leaf motifs, floral patterns and geometric shapes mix beautifully in this colorful and feminine home office. A vase of tulips and framed artwork by the clients’ children complete the space.

Contemporary Cabana

A cool color palette of grays and blues with pops of yellow creates an airy, fresh room. Sheer draperies provide privacy without blocking light, while flower-shaped wall plates say it’s time for fun!
Happy spring!

There’s no rule that says workplaces must be designed with drab furnishings, bleak cubicles and florescent lighting, yet that’s the norm. We don’t know how this trend got started, but we know it should end! We love color and encourage our clients to embrace it, even if it means stepping outside their comfort zone…just a little.
We could cite numerous studies on workplace environment and productivity (and there are many), but who needs a study to tell them inspiring surroundings make them feel better? Robert Propst, the inventor of the Action Office which evolved into cubicles, even said, “The cubiclizing of people in modern corporations is monolithic insanity.”
We love designing commercial spaces just as much as designing homes, and we recently completed a contemporary commercial design. Our clients wanted a fresh space with pops of color that feels more like a home than an office. Check out the finished space!

Custom metallic block plates and a modern aviator mirror welcome employees and visitors to the office, while a faux leather bench provides a comfortable seat.

One-of-kind, triptych paintings, hung horizontally instead of vertically, provide color and life to the entry hall.

A vibrant painting on canvas by artist George Jones features three feisty horses and brings unexpected fun to the conference room. Modern accessories in complementary colors add further texture and surprising details to the space.

Framed deep blue geodes and abstract prints give the hallway a modern edge.

A large giclee and set of contemporary framed prints provide cheerful, but serene views. A custom guest chair echoes the coral hue and pattern of the wall art, and says this is NOT a stuffy workplace!

Few things are more relaxing than lounging by a pool on a warm sunny day, except perhaps lounging in a poolside cabana on a warm sunny day! And this dreary weather has us dreaming of sunshine.
Today we’re saying goodbye to winter and HELLO to spring, even if the weather isn’t cooperating. And we’re bringing you with us by touring a refreshing poolside cabana we recently designed. So sit back, relax and join us for all the details!

Our client desired an airy and comfortable space, with generous seating for family and friends, that made the most of the poolside view. We chose a cool color palette of grays and blues with pops of yellow, and selected seating that allowed full view of the wall-to-wall glass doors and swimming pool beyond.

Sheer draperies give privacy without blocking light and can easily be pulled back when desired to enjoy the cabana’s view. A large custom sectional provides comfortable seating or napping, while a corner swivel chair can be maneuvered for conversing with friends or viewing the pool. A faux leather ottoman serves as a table or extra seating.

Sunlight shimmers off a geometric, beaded wall covering which offers a playful backdrop for iridescent wall plates and a champagne metallic floor lamp. Geometric throw pillows echo the design and the playful mood of the room.

Porcelain tile in a gorgeous herringbone pattern provides the look of wood, but the durability of tile in a potentially wet space. An original work of wax art in vibrant shades of teal hangs above a white coral-esque console table. Yellow vases offer further pops of color and join the two spaces.

A small kitchenette houses refreshments and makes entertaining easy. We chose an opalescent glass tile backsplash and elegant quartzite counter to blend beautifully with the surrounding space.

A full bathroom with a frameless glass door shower completes the cabana and continues the sophisticated color palette. The shower’s basketweave tile floor, field subway tile and vertical band of glass mosaic accent tile adorn the space with beautiful form and function.
We feel warmer and more relaxed already! How about you?

You often visit faraway places in your dreams, but why limit yourself to rare occasions when your home’s design can whisk you away every day? Creating a relaxing master bedroom that speaks to your senses is one of the best and most enduring ways to treat yourself.
We were recently asked to lighten and freshen up a Moroccan-styled master bedroom and the details made all the difference. Here’s the transformation!

The room already had a good foundation with many beautiful pieces, but our client desired a brighter and more cheerful master retreat.

The room’s new color palette was inspired by a handmade ceiling panel that included a rich jade green. This elegant green hue, combined with a vibrant chartreuse, sets the tone for the room. Custom bedding was designed using fabrics in both colors with a variety of textures and patterns. A pale cream-colored duvet cover with jade trim provides the perfect backdrop for the bold colors.

A custom upholstered bench at the foot of the bed completes the bedding ensemble and offers a spot to sit while dressing. The black wood finish also provides contrast in the room’s furnishings.

Dark nightstands were replaced with white, mirrored-front pieces to reflect light and brighten the space. The room’s existing lamp bases were reused, but the shades were replaced with lighter, more simplified versions. These details alone made a huge difference in the mood created.

Lastly, a vibrant painting paired with equally colorful accessories finished the room by further adding color and another form of texture.
Our client is thrilled with the transformation and we couldn’t be happier!

We recently revealed how we brought fresh life to a somewhat dark and somber kitchen and dining room in Modern Meets Moroccan. Now it’s time to showcase the home’s masculine Moroccan study – one of our favorite rooms. And like the rest of the home, it’s full of enchantments!

Before, an excessive amount of dark stained wood overshadowed the room’s details. Heavy drapes and window treatments darkened the room further, blocking light.

Paint alone brightened the room and visually increased the size of the space. Pale blue-grey walls contrast beautifully with the rich warmth of the hard wood floors and provide the perfect backdrop for darker furnishings. A simple orb pendant light, crafted of iron and mirrors, reflects light and echoes the room’s circular shape.

A custom club chair with a geometric pattern and silver nailhead trim adds a modern element to the home office. A hexagon side table continues the room’s geometric design, while a custom-made, circular wool rug in dove grey offers soft footing.

A built-in bookcase, once lost in the room’s monochromatic color scheme, is accentuated when painted a dark blue-grey and backed with a metallic grasscloth wallcovering. LED accent lighting gleams off the grasscloth and showcases personal treasures acquired from our client’s travels. And grey and cream-colored window shades with a subtle geometric pattern provide privacy and lightness to the space.

The room’s crown jewel, the exquisite Moroccan desk formerly lost in a sea of brown, is now properly showcased. The dark, stately piece sits in stark contrast to its fresh and airy surroundings. Custom art panels with a metallic finish were crafted to complement the room’s color scheme and further the otherworldly ambiance.
Want more? We still have much to reveal! Check back soon for Moroccan Nights – the master bedroom.

Few, if any, design styles whisk you away to another time and place more than Moroccan decor. Taking its roots from Moorish architecture, the style is rich, mysterious and exotic, conjuring a romance all its own.
But while arches, domes and mosaics are a feast for the senses, they also carry a weight that needs to be countered to embrace today’s lifestyle. And we were recently asked to do just that – bring fresh life to a Moroccan-styled home. Here’s what happens when modern meets Moroccan!

To provide a dramatic entrance into the home, a stunning slab of quartzite was chosen as wall art for the breakfast area which is viewed from the front door. A fluted glass chandelier illuminates the quartzite, while adding glamour to the room. And a sideboard inlaid with mother of pearl completes the space.

Formerly outfitted with dark stained wood cabinetry and a metal vent hood, the kitchen is now bright and vibrant with simple white shaker cabinets and glass uppers to allow for accent lighting. The walls and ceiling were painted a lighter shade to create the perfect backdrop for colorful accents and a custom ceiling panel previously overlooked due to its dark surroundings.

Custom hand-blown glass pendant lights were crafted in shades of amber and blue to match the room’s color scheme and further draw the eye to the exquisite ceiling panel above. The undulating pattern of the glass provides a sense of movement and varies the light diffused.

Dining room chairs with a unique geometric design were chosen and upholstered in a shade of blue similar to the Mediterranean Sea off the coast of Morocco. A floral arrangement serves as the table’s centerpiece and green hurricanes with a circular pattern continue the geometric design of the space.

A frequently used nook located between the kitchen and the breakfast room was made more functional and appealing by adding custom seat and back cushions. The area’s wall art, a captivating piece painted by our client’s uncle, inspired the color scheme. Throw pillows were added in shades to complement the painting, further highlighting the treasured piece. The nook is now the perfect spot for reading or browsing the Internet.
Can’t get enough Moroccan style? Check back soon as we reveal more of the house’s transformation!

They don’t call them magic carpets for nothing! When it comes to transforming a room, rugs pack one powerful punch. Area rugs anchor a room, define a space, add visual interest with color and texture, absorb noise and protect flooring. But how do you go about selecting rugs for your home?

Consider Existing Décor

When selecting rugs, try to coordinate with existing paint, furniture, bedding or window treatments. Or if you are starting from scratch, choose a rug first and build the room’s color scheme and style around the new rug.

Consider Lifestyle and Budget

Rugs are made from a variety of materials. If you like to change your decor frequently or have a small budget, synthetic rugs, made from polypropylene or nylon, are a good choice. Synthetic rugs provide water and UV-resistance at low prices and are good at hiding dirt. Nylon is the higher quality of the two because of its greater bulk and ability to hold color well. Cotton rugs are even more affordable, but they can stain and wear out quickly.
Looking for great texture and something eco-friendly? Plant-based fibers such as sisal, jute and bamboo are biodegradable and made from renewable sources. They are also relatively inexpensive, but they are difficult to clean and may only last a few years with heavy use. They are a good choice for short-term use, outdoor rooms or light-traffic areas.
Looking for high-quality and durability? Wool rugs are naturally stain-resistant, don’t flatten easily, are soft to the touch and can last for decades with good care. They are stylish, family friendly and excellent for high-traffic areas. But, of course, their quality is reflected in their price. Wool rugs are more costly than other options, but are worth the extra cost if maintained and enjoyed for many years.

Select the Right Size

Area rugs create a focal point. If the rug is too large, this benefit is lost and the rug simply looks like wall-to-wall carpeting. If the rug is too small, it fails to draw the eye and provide the desired impact. But what is too large or too small? Here are some general guidelines.

In the family room, select a size that covers at least the length and width of your furniture. A 5′ x 8′ or 6′ x 9′ rug is a good size to cluster furniture around for an intimate area; or select a larger size that outlines the furniture to expand the space. Furniture with the front feet only on the rug creates a casual look, while furniture entirely on or off is more formal.

In the dining room, the rug should be large enough to allow space for chairs even when pulled away from the table. Measure your table and add approximately two feet. Any surrounding furniture, such as a china cabinet or serving pieces, should be on the floor, not on the rug.

In the bedroom, the rug may serve as an accent at the foot of the bed (with the footboard on the rug) or next to the bed. Or, the bed may rest entirely on top of the rug to provide both style and comfort. Allow at least 18 inches from the edge of the bed if the bed will rest on top of the rug.
In all cases, try to have at least 18 to 24 inches of uncovered flooring around the perimeter of the room. And when in doubt, use painter’s tape to outline the size rug you are considering. This will help you visualize the rug better and determine if you like the look.
Up next: The Power of Accessories!

Image Source: Barbara Gilbert Interiors

You’re about to ring in the New Year and make a resolution or two. Then what? How about giving your home a fresh start, too? It’s not as difficult or expensive as you may think. There are several quick, easy and inexpensive ways to transform a room.
Today’s blog is the first in a series called New Year, New Home, and we hope you find the ideas inspiring. First up is one of the best ways to clean and brighten a space: paint. Painting is easy, relatively inexpensive and a perfect do-it-yourself project. But selecting paint colors can be difficult. What color do you choose to transform your space?

Avoid bright colors, neon shades or colors that are very dark. Gray is currently the hottest neutral, while shades of blue and green are also trending. Neutrals have universal appeal and are best when trying to sell a home. But if you’re not planning to sell anytime soon, you’re free to experiment and find the colors that make YOU happy.

Consider the mood of the room. If you’d like the room to have a soothing mood, choose soft, cool colors and neutrals. Looking for a little drama? Use stronger colors. Want a social space that stimulates conversation? Warmer, contrasting colors create a social atmosphere. And while you might be drawn to bright colors for a child’s room, avoid intense hues. Some brighter colors can over stimulate and lead to unrest and irritability.

Look for inspiration and sample colors. If you’re not sure where to start, select a favorite color from a piece of art, a rug, throw pillow or accessory in the room as the wall color. Sample variations of the color by painting a white poster board and propping it against the wall. Observe the paint during morning and evening hours to see how the colors change with the light throughout the day; and live with the colors for a few days before selecting one. This will help you determine if you truly like the color in the space before painting the entire room.

Consider the color from an adjacent room. How will the color you’ve chosen interact with adjoining rooms? You will see portions of the room from other areas of your home and an easy flow from room to room is desirable. Clashing colors will create a startling and tense mood, while colors than transition smoothly will create a serene and inviting home.
Ready to start painting? No? No problem. There are other simple ways to transform your home! Next up: how to reinvent and revitalize with rugs.

Source of Images: Barbara Gilbert Interiors

Christmas is almost here, which means house guests will soon be arriving as well. If you’re hosting family or friends this year, make the most of their stay and alleviate your stress by being prepared. Here are tips for designing a guest room that makes guests comfortable and welcomes them in style!
Clear the Clutter. Your guests will need room to place their things, from clothing and shoes to jewelry and toiletries. Clear countertops and floor space, empty dresser drawers if possible or provide a luggage rack if space is available.
Remember the Essentials. A lamp to read by, a motion-sensing night light, a hand mirror and an alarm clock are all nice touches. Not everyone needs them, but guests will appreciate the thought and courtesy.
Stay a Spell. The best way to find out what a room needs is to spend time in it. Read a book, watch TV and lie down on the bed to view the room from the same vantage point your guests will experience. You’ll quickly discover anything needed, from further cleaning to new light bulbs or batteries.
Freshen Your Linens. Clean sheets, extra blankets, pillows and towels are the most basic needs of any house guest. Launder them close to your guest’s arrival and you’ll also freshen your home without using allergy-causing air fresheners, candles or potpourri.
Don’t Leave Them Hanging. Purchase an inexpensive over-the-door hook and hangers that can provide storage for hanging clothes. An extra hook in the bathroom is also appreciated for guest towels and robes.
Provide Toiletries. Few things are more appreciated by guests in a hotel room than complimentary toiletries and the same is true for guests in your home. Items are often forgotten in the rush of holiday packing and your guests will be extremely grateful to find you’ve provided for them. A small basket filled with sample-sized shampoo, conditioner, lotion and similar items is a welcomed gift by any house guest.

How many people does it take to hang a slab of quartzite on the wall? It sounds like a joke, but it’s actually no laughing matter and was recently all in a day’s work. But how did we end up using quartzite art in the first place? We blame the nature of art, and possibly Pablo Picasso.
Picasso once said, “The purpose of art is washing the dust of daily life off our souls.” A beautiful sentiment, but no simple task! Few things are more personal or challenging to select than art – especially when choosing for another.
Many factors must be considered when selecting artwork for a client, from the client’s tastes and desires to the room’s style and design. And customary works of art often won’t do. Something bigger, grander and unusual is often required to fit the space and stir the soul.
This was the case recently when we designed the breakfast room of a stately Moroccan-inspired estate. The home was already striking, but our client wanted a fresh color scheme, an updated design and a “wow ” factor to every room. This had to be no ordinary breakfast room and no ordinary artwork would do!
Enter the slab of quartzite and the answer to the opening question. It takes thirteen men to hang a 1,200 pound slab of quartzite. Thirteen very strong, patient and competent men and one very nervous interior designer!
Wall preparation quartzite art
But first the wall must be prepped, brackets installed and anchored, scaffolding brought in and a special stone epoxy applied to further adhere the quartzite to the wall.
Quartzite Art Installation
Next, the praying begins. Seriously. And the quartzite art is gently kissed by many of the men before they begin lifting and securing it to the wall. Deep breaths are taken, more prayers are said and finally sighs of relief can be heard, which are quickly replaced with inspired oohs and ahhs.
Quartzite art on wall
The slab is now secure and simply breathtaking. Our client is thrilled and so are we! And although there was dust throughout the room that day, we’re guessing Picasso would say our souls were spotless.