A Matter Of….SHAPE!!!!

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abstract, air, Alexander Calder, art work, bar, bathroom, circle, circle of life, communication, decor, decorating, design, earth, edges, effects, elements, emotion, emotions, expression, exterior, eyes, feng shui, fire, free form, geometric, interior, life, lines, lives, living, love triangle, peace, POOL, room, round table, Sabrina Alexis, see, seen, shape, shapes, soft, square, square one, style, Susan Lachance, triangle, triangular, visual, water, waves, wind, Winston Churchill, yang, yin, yinyang

Shaping Our Lives!!!

 

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

 

“We Shape our buildings; therefore they shape us.”  Winston Churchill

 

Shape Up:

Each day we are amongst many different shapes, which come in a variety of sizes and colors. Rarely do we even notice how every factor in our life has a shape and belongs in the category of shapes. From the furniture we choose to the decor we hang on our walls we are emotionally connecting with the shapes. The architecture of a structure comes to existence through shapes. These lines, curves, squiggles are all around us shaping us every day.

The building blocks and foundation of design is to clearly state visually.  This means the visual effect is the personality of a given space.  Shapes have an impact in ways that colors cannot.  Not all shapes have boarders or are confined.  Some are free –form blobs that are flowing.  They come in come in all sizes and are not limited to being simple.  Whereas, complex shapes derive from a combination of simple ones.   Attributes of shapes are both positive and negative.  They can also be attributed to being masculine and feminine.  Yet are a neutral in part.

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

 Every shape communicates meaning and conveys emotion.  These figures set the mood.  Furniture and décor are shapes that fill a room.  Our eyes present shapes that translate to feelings in our minds.  Movement, texture, depth is produced by shapes, lines, curves, etc.  Direct points of interest are enhanced and/or achieved by the “shape” in the given area.

 

Square One:

Squared with straight lines and edges produce a stabilizing effect to design. Hence, a feeling of home. The square is sturdy and stable.  However, sometimes the opposite may be true as the straight lines could be viewed as harsh and too bold. The four lines connecting at ninety degree angles make it one of a kind.  The square represents the four elements: fire, earth, water, and air.  On the other hand when dealing with feng shui squares are part of the wood element.

 

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

 

Circle of Life…Circling:

The circle has neither beginning nor an ending. It is round and promotes movement.  A representation of a cycle, unity, a safety, a community, and a wholeness that is familiar. A round a round we go into a place of oneness, with boundaries. It denotes a separation with the solitude of peace.  Two symbols that are signified in a circle are the peace sign and Yin Yang.  In addition, the Yin Yang represents two opposites coexisting within one confined circle of peace.

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

According to Feng Shui, “round” is an expression of the mental element.  It conveys energy of clarity and freshness.  Another example to refer to is the “Round Table”.  Many designers and corporations suggest using round tables as it generates equality to the table and the members or people who be sitting around the table.  Using this same theory interior designers do their best to create a circular seating arrangement when placing the furniture in living rooms as well as family rooms.  This strategy promotes communication and insinuates equal conversation.

 

Love Triangle:

The triangle is a shape with many meanings that can be interpreted. The direction pointer of all the shapes. It’s strong when standing on its base pointing upward vertically showing an active Yang energy.  When the point of the triangle is pointing downward, it has more of a passive Yin energy.  No matter what the direction, the triangle is a set of three coming together at a point that corresponds to dynamic action.  When applied with feng shui triangular shapes belong to the fire element.  One way of applying feng shui with use of a triangular shape is through light fixtures that are shaped like stars.

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

 

Free To Be:

Free of form and restriction creative “blobs” or unconventional straight lines in combination with curved ones are shapes that are abstract.  These unique designs are flowing unraveling waves of adventure. They promote creativity and individuality. In addition they are the language to the vision giving communication without words.  Abstract shapes such as curves are very fluid.  Using them in your home signifies a water element which is graceful and flowing.

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

 

“I paint with shapes.”  Alexander Calder

 

 

Now you’re in “shape” with a few “matters of facts” on the visual communication of design.

 

Stay Styled With Design,

Sabrina Alexis

 

Trick…Treat…And… Design!!!!

Tags

bar, bars, bathroom, bathrooms, black, design, designs, ford, halloween, home, interior, orange, sinatra, trend

Spooktacular Colors!!!!!!

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

Spirit of Orange and Black

In the spirit of Halloween there’s no better time for orange and black color design.  Orange being a huge trend recently in home décor and black being the classic, these two colors although opposite bring a fresh and exciting vibe.

The second most commercially successful holiday in The United States is Halloween.  The Snickers candy bar is the number one choice or popular candy.  With candy revenue of over two billion dollars annually in the United States, we understand why it is the second most celebrated holiday.

“There is no blue without yellow and without orange.”- Vincent Van Gogh

“Orange is the happiest color” – Frank Sinatra

According to feng shui specialist, the two energies are opposite in spectrums however both have powerful meanings and promote an energy that is creative.

Warmth, bright, lively, fire, sun, are all words that are used to describe the color orange typically. Much of the same descriptions or meanings are the symbolism of this color. In combination of red and yellow the color orange is associated with enthusiasm, sunshine, joy, happiness, determination, encouragement, etc.  The color is very hot especially to the human eye, and translates to the brain as a motivator that increases the oxygen and stimulates the mental state.

 

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

The “orange” scented crayon that was released by Binney and Smith Inc in 1994 was part of their ‘Magic Scent Crayons’ and was actually retired as too many children had been reported as eating the scented crayon.  Later the scented crayon “orange” had a name change and was then called “tulip” as a way of keeping the product but limit the consumption by the consumer.

Throughout the world the color orange is used for safety and to grab the attentions of civilians.  In China the color orange actually holds meaning to symbolize love and happiness.  In the Netherlands’ it represents the national color and the Dutch War of Independence and rebel Prince of Orange, whom was Protestant English king and Dutch Stadholder.  In the United States the color is used both in construction as well as national security.  In compliance with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, it is required that particular construction equipment be painted orange for safety, and is also used to set things apart such as traffic cones, zoning devices, etc.

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

“People can have the Model T in any color- so long as it’s black.” – Henry Ford

Considered the unknown, black actually has a lot regarding it to be known.  A color of power, formality, mystery, elegance, yet classical and full of possibility, Evoking strong emotions the color black is authoritative and assertive.  The prestigious color gives depth as well as plays with perception.  In fashion wearing the color black can improve the appearance of an individual by making them look “thinner”.  Other times when one wears a black suit they are considered more powerful or successful.

A contrast to all other colors black stands out and is special.  Black is unique as it goes with all colors of the color wheel.  Combination of the color accents dimensions.  Another powerful term in the design industry is the saying, “the new black”.  Many times in fashion of all sorts a new hot color or trendy color is considered the “new black” of its time.

Dating back to in history to at least the Roman Empire in the West, the color black was worn for times of mourning.  The Aztec culture due to the black obsidian glass that was used to cut the edge of battle swords the color now signifies war.  Priests would dress only in black as a symbol of religion.  China holds the color black meaning to a variety of things.  Black is associated with winter, the north, and water.  Traditional apparel worn by boys was black.

Black also has a prestige to it and gives definition to an event by dress code, “Black Tie.”

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

Black however also has meaning or symbolism to it in which some may interpret as negative.  The color can be known to represent emptiness, voids, emptiness, or the feeling of inconspicuous.  Yet all of this relates back to the mystery that is evoked by the color black and the unknown possibility that darkness that can be known as fear.

This color really makes us appreciate the empowerment it embodies with elegance.

The masculine yet sophisticated black in combination with the hot and vibrant orange add statement with swagger.  This usage of colors together isn’t just for the fall harvest or spooky night, but is a great combo for the home year round.

Not so “black and white”…Orange and Black develop harmony with excitement drawing the eye directly; catching the attention with a bold statement.

Happy Halloween!!!

Style and Design,

Sabrina Alexis

The “Heeling”…. Purple!!!!

Tags

bathroom, decor, design, fashion, heels, painting, purple, room, rooms, throw

Purple Fashion!!!!!!

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN 

Purple Wonders:

Purple is a combination of two primary colors on the color wheel: blue and red.  This is unique because the two colors actually are opposites yet when mixed they blend into a beautiful radiant color that is actually considered artificial in nature, as it is very rare.  Only a few flowers contain the color purple naturally.

 The association to this color falls under the categories of: royalty, wisdom, mystery, magic, creativity, dignity, and independence.  This spiritual color symbolizes: power, nobility, luxury, ambition, and conveys wealth.  There’s no doubt this color is a powerful blend.

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

Purple uses the cooling attributes of blue and the energy of red to make itself a color that is always noticed.  When worn, purple stands out the most compared to other colors, again, this could be related back to the fact that it was considered artificial.

Throughout history, nobles of the past and the wealthy wore purple robes and or clothed themselves and their beds with purple.  Origination of the word to describe this color came from Tyrian purple or sometimes known as imperial purple.  Which was derived from mollusc , an animal with no backbone and a shell that lived on the coast of Tyre located in ancient Phoenicia we know this as Lebanon today.

Did you know that there is actually a phobia that purple is associated with?  There is, it is called porphyrophobia.  This is a fear of the color purple.

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN 

Purple brings fashion to the bedroom with this fabulous room.  The fashion silhouette dances on the walls in a purple toned dress kicking up her heels.  The espresso brown background of the painting ties together the décor of the room.

This bedroom brings purple to all different hues accented with darker browns.  The plum suede walls behind the bed set the perfect backdrop for the lighter grey toned purple bed.  The faux mink throw blanket adds to the fashion and wild side.  Looking at the window drapes you can clearly see the illusion that the white stripe brings.

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN 

Changing it up the purple doesn’t stop here; this tailoring bathroom has modern sophistication that does the jive.  The purple glass bowl stands on the vanity under the faucet.  Shelves built into the bath tub storage for towels and more.  Tiles of rich purple line the walls of the shower; a glass door opens the room and reflects the light.  The fan that hangs is a smart touch, eliminating humidity and heat after the shower.

Fashion incorporated in design paints this purple picture.

 

Style & Design,

Sabrina Alexis

 

The “Private”….Place!!!!

Tags

bathroom, decor, design, light, place, room, rooms, sink, toilet

Fantastic things come in small spaces!!!!!

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

Did you know:  The “Powder Room” also known as, the “half-bath” originally got its name in the late 18^th century as it was a small space for “re-powdering” ones wig.  Even though much has changed since then, one main “usage” remains: it’s a small room used mostly by visitors.

In fashion, an accessory adds “oomph” to your outfit; so does this “petite room” tucked inside your home.  It is the room where you don’t always have to follow the rules or stick to one type of styled design.

A space that is open to creative expression, and where it is okay not to “match” the theme of decor.  “Powder rooms” are a separate entity of their own.

“Good things come in small packages”-(Proverb), is the best way to describe a space of this size.  It is commonly visited more than any other room by your friends.

Small in size as far as square footage goes, this is the one room where you control everything inside.  What your guests sees, relates, etc without having your eyes on them or theirs on you.

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

Couture describes this best.  Lighting by sconces gives the “powder room” a dramatic effect, enhancing the designs on the mirror.  The marble resting on glass legs distributes elegance that is timeless with a traditional flair.  Chandelier centers the room, textured illusion wall coverings enhances a cozy yet hip notion.

Décor restricts by, the owner‘s digression; letting or giving the visitor only what they want to be viewed.  In addition for the visitor, it is the one place where it registers the creative suggestion with impression.

Frequently used, it’s no wonder why subconsciously we make the “powder room” the jewel of the Nile, delivers a certain feeling to the one inside.

Exuding in specialty, the “half bath” is usually unique in design filled with detail; containing: a commode, a sink, and a mirror.  The “powder room” holds far more value than what’s listed.  A showcase on display contains décor that’s expressive, with a certain message.

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

Converting furniture into a vanity is another way to make your “half-bath” distinctive.  The dresser marble-topped vanity as displayed here, along with the gold accented faucets impress tradition mixed with titanic proportions.  Unusual pieces placed where you least expect them is always accepted and complimented.  Brocade wall paper in gold hues sets the mood.

The “powder room” is truly the one “private” place that is respected when the door is shut.

Considered the getaway for freshening one’s self, it’s no surprise; it’s where we let our guard down the most.  Customarily used for washing, refreshing, styling, brushing, scrubbing, etc; evolves into the ultimate “personal” place.

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

Floral walls dictate the playful mood of this “half-bath”.  The square vessel sink brings contemporary structure to the open sky vibe.

This little space is worth a lot.  A home containing a “half-bath” or “Powder Room” adds value to the investment you made in a home according to National Association of Home Builders.  With this said, it’s no wonder how these “wash rooms” are on display.  The “powder room” is considered stimuli for advertisement and a conversation.

All public bathrooms are essentially “half-baths” as they do not contain a shower, bath etc.  Now with this in mind, how many times have you commented about what the bathroom was like inside?  We all have and remember.  Therefore, the same thought process should be prevalent when designing the “powder room” in your home.

Next time you “powder your nose” you’ll notice how “powder rooms” really are in a design league of their own.

Style and Design,

Sabrina Alexis