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

 

Stairway to…HEAVEN!!!

Tags

Alegbra, Angles, China, Construction, decor, Degree, design, Designer Staircase, designs, Down, Downstairs, Dr. Wayne Dyer, Dr.Seuss, Flight, Geometry, Goal, Heart Chair, Heaven, interior, Level, Levels, life, marble, Math, Mount Niesen, Riser, Society, Spiral, Stair, Staircase, Stairs, Stairway, Stairway to Heaven, Stairwell, Step, Steps, style, Styles, Susan Lachance, Tread, Up, Upstairs

Flight Information: “Steps” Connection With “Stairs”… is ON TIME!!!!

 

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

“Step with care and great tact,
and remember that Life’s a Great Balancing Act.” Dr. Seuss

 

Departure:

Welcome to “flight: Steps with connection to Stairs”.  In order to elevate to the next level we must first simply go over the “tread” and “riser”.  Please understand the construction and purpose of the “flight”.

Vertical distances are bridged together allowing travel to be completed between floors.  This link is better known as, a staircase.  Which are two or more straight pieces that connect at angles or by taking a step and repeating the previous one(s) just slightly different.  The tread is the part where the floor meets your feet; as it is the actual flooring that is stepped on.  The vertical part creating space between each tread is the riser.

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

Take Off:

Next in line for takeoff is “nosing” which is the part in which sticks out over the riser yet is also an element of the tread.  With every step that is taken there is distance that is being achieved vertically.  An easy way of counting steps is by counting the number of risers.  Overall, the stairway is a mathematical enchantment of geometry, algebra, in conjunction with measurement.  When combined in the proper manner, the design of the staircase is developed.

There are many different styles when it comes to the steps in which we take.  Some are to be said floating when the riser is invisible, others twist and turn in a delight giving a ninety degree rotation from start to finish.  Other types are simple and straight, these are most common in high traffic areas.  The stair is complicated and simple but full of detail.

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

The creation of stairs and the architecture styles is endless; especially today with all the creative and innovative advancements in construction partnered with technology.  Staircases are works of art that complete two motions: up and down, yet all in one structural component.  However, there is still only one purpose that remains despite all the changes in designs, that is: the stairs or steps are a connector to one level to another.  They are the links that allow access on a vertical plane.

Spiral and helical stairs are characterized by the number of turns that are made. Another direction changer would be the winder, it permits for multiple variations.  The staircase has become a stylish element in the interior and exterior of homes, buildings, and structures.  They add emotion to the décor on many scales.  Stairs have become the accent piece or backdrop for many pictures throughout life.

Interestingly, the ergonomic relationship was first established by a man named Nicholas-Francois Blondel.  He noted in his Cours d’architecture of 1675-1683 that the two times the riser plus the tread would equal the step length.  (2 x riser + tread=Step length).  This equation is still used today.

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

In Flight Entertainment:

Uniquely, over six thousand years ago the first stairs are believed to be those of wooden tree trunks which were fixed together.  A symbol of religious power, the first granite stairs made a debut in China.  Mount Niesen in the Swiss Alps is the home of the longest staircase in the world.  The steps come to a total sum of: 11,674.  The first steps at the White House in Washington, DC, USA weren’t installed until 1948.  Before then there were ramps, pulleys, winches, and ladders.

In most castles you will find that the stairs that are spiral always lead clockwise. It has been believed the purpose for the clockwise rotation is because of the knights being right-handed and that would be the hand in which they would hold their sword, leaving the left hand to grab the railing or wall for balance.

The earliest temple to have spiral staircase was in Greece and dates back to 480-470BC.

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

Landing:

Prepare for landing as we come to back to the first floor.  Society has used references to steps in metaphors or analogies referring how to live each day.  The relation to ascension or the movement of going upward towards is used as measure of success; by the extent of the steps in which it took to get there.  Or define the status of one’s position in the world.

From the time we are learning to walk we are told to “watch our step” or “one step at a time”.  These guidelines to fulfilling a certain goal or purpose are defined by the steps or actions that need to be taken in order to achieve the ultimate goal.  Sometimes, there are setbacks, and we may fall back a few steps before we can even think of leaping forward, yet this process always takes us to the next level despite the downfall.

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

Cardiovascular exercise has been achieved by walking upstairs.  Most people today would say that by skipping a step it burns additional calories however, it has been proven that taking it step by step and time spent on each step has a greater effect and uses more energy.  Downstairs have benefits that are not as exhausting.   This direction works, tones, and utilize muscles, tendons, joints, etc that are different from the ones used when traveling upward.  It doesn’t matter what way you are moving, there are many positive attributes to taking the stairs.

A mis-step is estimated to occur once in 7,398 times and injury on stairs happens once in 63,000 uses.

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

Skipping steps has a notion of being negative.  If you skip a step you’re not following the rules.  But maybe it should be looked at as bouncing on or over each step.  Comparatively like a child skipping. By using the term “skipping” as an action of joy, we really are experiencing life more.  It removes the edge by taking the focus off the lack of something or the mistake and allows for another opportunity to fix what didn’t work.

 

“When you dance, your purpose is not to get to a certain place on the floor.
It’s to enjoy each step along the way.” Dr. Wayne Dyer

 

 

Embrace each step you take and remember it’s all part of the staircase of life. . We hope you enjoyed your “flight”.

Style and Design,

Sabrina Alexis

 

 

 

Wet & Wild Outback!!

Tags

BACKYARD, color, decor, design, interior, LOUNGE, OUTDOOR, POOL, RESORT, SPLASH, style, SWIM, SWIMMING

Jump Into ..Pool Of Personal Resort!!!

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

Take a dip in these oasis and resort inspired backyards!  One look and the eye can see that crisp, cooling, energy surrounds with a touch of warmth.  The outback area of homes is the place where most choose to make their homes feel like a resort or tranquil spa.

Simple straight lines with geometric formality are a modern yet tradition in the patio or outdoor furniture style.  Using a pop of color adds depth and spice to the usual natural tones.  A great inspiration for color is the nature that surrounds or is influences the outdoor space.  Enhancing on every level.

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

Backstroke in time:

Located in modern day Pakistan is where the first pool also known as the “Great Bath” at the site of Mohenjo-Daro, it was the first swimming pool that is known and was lined with bricks and a tar based sealant sometime in the third millennium BC.

During the fourth century BC many pools were decorated with many steps, scrolling designs, mosaics, and potted lights.  Today, we are seeing this indulgent décor once again in the latest of outdoor pools, spas, etc.

Swimming forward in time, the first vessel or ocean liner to contain a pool was in 1907 on the White Star Line’s Adriatic .

 

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

Today most pools are heated but the first pool that was heated was built by Gaius Maecenas of Rome in the first century BC.

Splash of trivia:

San Alfonso del Mar in Algarrobo, Chile, holds the world’s largest man made pool.  This wonder cost over Two Billion Dollars to build and an additional Four Million to maintain per year.  It stretches over eighty acres and is one thousand and thirteen meters long.  The deep end is deep with a depth of one hundred and fifteen feet.  Technology also plays its part in this pool out of this world, as the suction and filtration system is pumped on a continual basis with water from the ocean; resulting in the crystal clear water that is controlled all by a computer system.  It takes sixty-six million gallons of ocean water to fill this enormous pool.

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

 Greater Latitudes:

The intersecting lines on the semicircular wall make this balcony spectacular.  The use of shapes intertwined with the horizon makes the outdoor space seem grander than life.  The sky bed or canopy bed that was converted into a “bunk-bed” style lounging area is another way of creating more space and leads the attention of the eye upward.  This unique piece of furniture serves as a twilight delight to feel suspended in the sky and be closer to the stars when laying on it at night.

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

Candles that are flame-less add an extra touch of glam and ambiance. From the minute you look at this picture one can definitely feel like they are being pampered.

 INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

Astroturf or synthetic grass is trending now in many homes and commercial spaces.  The added bonus is the minimal maintenance of the grass as well as the veneer appearance.

Freestyle in strokes, and flagged, you can tap on the fact that these outdoor spaces make you feel like you can float on water.

Style and 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 Golden…Touch!!!!

Tags

art, au, color, design, designs, gold, history, interior, room, rooms, space, star, sun

Gold…Rush!!!!!

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

Gold is always in close relation to the sun that shines above us, giving meaning that represent:  success, warmth, happiness, attainment, close truthful friendships, and prosperity.  Overall, the color brightens all things and has a character that is optimistic.  Divinity has also been connected with the color Gold.

Regal in genre, gold is perceived as the color of and the credibility of financial well-being.  Not only a symbol of riches and lavishness, gold is also represented as the highest monumental achievement award; i.e. gold mental.

Gold is a variety of orange, yellow, and brown tones blended together to give the color its elemental appearance.

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

Gold Mine in Time:

Tutankhamun’s mask was made of gold.  Gold was also first recorded as a word to describe the color in 1400 in the English language.  The Crayola crayon color gold was first introduced in 1958.  A symbol of monarchy for the British Empire would be the golden lions.  Byzantine art often used metallic gold.

Throughout history, Gold (Au) has been the element that is the standard of all value pertaining to monetary currencies.  The standard economic unit of an account was measured by the weight in gold and is the only standard monetary system or policy as it is always measured in weight which is fixed.

The Golden Age also known as the Utopian Lifestyle was a past era in which the highest quality of artwork would be produced.

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

According to the American Society of Civil Engineers; The Golden Gate Bridge is considered and cited as one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World.  California was also considered the Golden State as it was best known for the Gold Rush that began in 1849.

When it comes to décor, Gold has been the color of choice by many royalties.  However the most famous known for the usage of the color gold would be the bedchamber of the Queen in the Versailles Palace.  The main reception or ceremonial hall as well as the throne were called the “Chrysotriklinos” which translated means Golden Reception Hall.  The bedchamber of the grand apartment in Versailles Palace is also decorated and themed in gold, this would also be the room in which the wife of King Louis XVI of France slept, Marie Antoinette.

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

Gold is unique in décor as it truly does conform and match any other color in a palette. No matter what the trend or color scheme is of your décor, gold adds accent and grace with a touch of sparkle and glamour.  The color also can be related or considered an earth tone as it is a blend of the earth tones.

Another special attribute about gold is that it looks great in any and all rooms.  It is not limited by a destination or space, but rather universally appealing for all spaces.  It doesn’t matter if it’s a wall of a hallway, a bedroom, a bathroom, or kitchen, the color gold embraces the beauty, enhancing a variety of rooms in your home.

The extravagance that leads by gold will shine in all tones, leaving you feeling that you’ve got the pot of gold in your home and have found the gold mine.  In conclusion we give the color gold a ‘gold star’!!

 

Style and Design,

Sabrina Alexis

The… “GREEN”…Room!!!!

Tags

decor, design, environment, green, history, interior, nature, room, rooms, symbolism

Green Light!!!

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN 

Green Affects:

Interior design uses green often as it is the color that surrounds us most when we are outside or with nature.  This common familiarity to the color makes it the perfect backdrop or theme to be used inside the home as it stimulates protective energies.  It has been said that when asked what someone’s favorite color is green is second in the response; blue has been noted to be the first favorite color.  The apparel industry has a superstition in relation to the color green; which is, it brings bad luck to the designers or design house if used and sewed with on the eve of a fashion show.

The history of the word green derives from the Latin word “viridis” which means green or to grow.  The word also comes from the Old English words grene or groeni.  Circa 700AD the term was recorded as the word for the color term.  Lust and love have also been known to represent this color in Medieval times.

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

Green is not a primary color according to the primary colors however it is considered to be an additive primary color.  Green is evoked by light and perception in the subtractive color system.  The association with the color is due to its close relation to nature and chlorophyll that gives plants the green color.

Green is a refreshing balance of the cool blue and warm yellow.  This has a tranquil and refreshing effect on the emotions.

Environmentalism is represented by the color green and has become the symbol because of its association with nature, health and growth.  Sprouting recently in the past ten years has been the environmental “green party” which is in relation to more environmentally friendly products and usage of things.  The commonly known phrase to describe a person who is gifted in growing plants is “Green thumb”.  Vegetables that are green are known usually having high nutritional value.

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

The color itself has many meanings, some of which are contradictory to each other.  Symbolism meaning:  harmony, freshness, fertility, growth, knowledge, safety, medical products, healing, ambition, relaxation, hope, stability, etc.  This is a leading reason as to why many hospitals contain green walls.  Green also has meaning to the lights in which direct the traffic flow, announcing “to go” when green.  However, globally this color is the universal meaning of safety.

Green on the contrary to the positive meanings or symbolism above has been also identified with: jealousy, greed, sickness, cowardice, discord, and jealousy.

The spectrum visible to the human eye has green as the most occupied space, and has been known to enhance or improve one’s vision.  Night vision goggles uses the color green as it the eye is most responsive to the color and able to detect variety of shades or hues of green.

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

The color also is very persuasive in the natural world.  Green physically effect has been known to assist in the healing of depression.  The Heart Chakra or Anahata is represented by the color green and promotes openness allowing a person to love more, have compassion, and empathize.  The traditional color of hunters as it camouflages them into the nature.

Countries and Civilizations Around the World:

Countries and Civilizations have been known for the different meanings that they believe Green represents.  The Aztec culture, believed green to be royal.  In Ireland it represents the “emerald Isle” and is known for the color especially on St. Patrick’s Day.  In Japan, the color represents eternal life.  As the color of hope, Portugal considers it to represent the season spring.  China considers it to be beauty virtue as it is the color of Jade.  Green represents the color of honor when apparel is worn in Scotland.  According to Islamist ideology green is the traditional color and presently represents Islam in the flags of: Mauritania, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Iran.  Many religions connect the color closely to resurrection and regeneration.

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

There are ONE HUNDRED AND THIRTY THREE countries that have the color Green in their flag.

America’s first president George Washington’s favorite color was actually green.  As the tallest living thing known the tree brings relation to Judo as the color green represents the highest belt attained.  In auto racing a green flag is waved to start or continuation of a race.

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

Many brands and companies have used this color as the signature or main theme in their logo.  To name a few:  Kermit the frog, Heineken, Starbucks, Rolling Rock, John Deere, The Masters Golf Tournament, and Garnier Fructis.

The temperament of green really is significant when using it as the environment of designing the interior in a home.

Style & Design,

Sabrina Alexis

Window…Life!!!!!

Tags

coverings, decor, design, drapes, inside, interior, light, outside, room, rooms, window

Light Up…The Room!!!

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

These interiors bring the outdoors inside with floor to ceiling windows. One look at these amazing interiors and you can see how the best of the outside is used as art on the inside.  By using floor to ceiling windows it gives the room or space a grander feel as well as allows natural sun light to come in which improves by giving the illusion of a larger scaled space.

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

Horizontal and vertical lines depict the masculine line of this elegant dining room. The ice-cold floors and accent pieces are joined with the natural warmth of the beauty of the trees both inside and out. By combining these diverse elements, one can create incredible force and allow the viewer to imagine the room as they want to see it.  The natural beauty of the outside, combined with man created beauty of the inside, frame a perfect picture and present a victory for the designer and an incredible dining room for the home owner. It is the classic example of designing for the view and natural elements.

This room is illuminated by the elongated windows and enhanced by the white walls and floors.  The natural light makes this white boxed room shine with a pure and natural reflection.

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

Please note how the designer has elected to highlight the draperies rather than try to have them drop and disappear. By bringing you to the power of the window treatments, the occupant and or viewer has no choice but to be enthralled by the natural beauty of the outside elements. The room smells of both warmth and excitement, as the outside hypnotize us to the tranquility, but at night the excitement of the enclosure can show off the boldness of the design. A great example of how you can design for day and night.

The drapery used gives geometric shape to the décor.  By using the circles or dots on the window treatments it becomes a visual delight.  Another usage of these blinds was to give an optical illusion of the height and pronounced tones of highlighted design.

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

True design is the ability to orient the room so that the line of sight of the inhabitants is always directed as the designer has viewed the room in their creative stage.  Here you have a square box of a room that is clearly directed to the natural beauty of the outside. Notice the careful placement of the sculpture and light fixture to quickly grab you attention and slowly lead you to the peaceful setting outside. The perfect room, for the owners or guests to relax in, and enjoy Florida’s beauty.

The sky blue carpet brings the blue skies inside and the floors the color of clouds.  It is as if you are walking on air and dreaming on clouds.  Ambient light is accomplished by using the clear glass panes with no film or tint to reflect interior light at a more powerful level.  By hanging the whimsical drapes above the window sills adds length and illusion of the size of the windows, adding strength to the room.

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

Overall the usage of floor to ceiling windows makes any room seem larger and more spacious.  The perspective to the eye creates the feeling and physical reaction of enhanced space.  These windows really are like a well-tailored article of clothing, they fit just right as well as enhance whatever space they occupy.

 Style & Design,

Sabrina Alexis

In the…BUFF!!!

Tags

beige, black, couch, cream, decor, design, grey, ice, interior, ocean, table, wood

Zoned…Neutral

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN 

So NOT Vanilla or bland:

Beige and tones of creamy white clothes are often accessorized the same way that sofas and sitting places are. The usage of plants adds accent bringing life to the living areas.  By using neutral  color sofas it opens the opportunity to possibility to transforms the interior with the times.  Your interior designer can always update with inspiration changes when you have a neutral canvas.

One way to think of the creamy color sofa is like an ice cream cone.  You get to put all the toppings you want on it.  The toppings can be colorful like sprinkles, simple like chocolate chips, either way; the color is always on top.

No longer considered drab, grey has become a new trend in the pallet of design.  This color brings contemporary, chic, relaxing vibrations to any room.  With calming attributes this room brings sophistication with stainless steel accents on the lamp, bar stools, sconces, as well as the wall art sculpture.  The rhythm of the room makes it fresh, inviting, and gives a spirit of infinity.

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

The striking window drapery adds a dramatic touch along with tying in the pattern on the silk and wool area rug.  The squares don’t stop here; they continue to be the main focus of the room, from the coffee tables, the chairs, shape of the couch, the wall décor, and the outline of the windows.  The trees that stand on either side of the wall table, brings the outdoors in and shows the relationship to the plants on the other side of the window.

Marble that matches the color of the sofas is another way of using this neutral base.  The espresso brown end tables, coffee tables, sculpture, and planter contrasting in color brings scale and balance to the room.  The ying and yang of décor.  This room displays a warm contemporary style with a touch of tradition.  The exotic zebra wood used at the back of the room brings your eye to the TV placed on wall.

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN 

The candle sticks add height to the room drawing your eye up to the T & G ceiling.  The leather reclining chairs almost give you a nautical feeling on a yacht just setting sail off Palm Beach. The throw pillows tie this room ties together every element of color.

Electronic automated window coverings bring shade when need be but maintains the nature of the space.

Beige or other tones of white represent eloquence and hidden harmony.  Why this color is special, simple, because it consists of undertones of every color on the color wheel pending the shades you select to go with it.

Understated, but a statement, and noticed by all.  Beige is the new “Black” in interiors full of flavor entices the senses!  BUFF the color of nudity could… possibly be!

Style and Design,

Sabrina Alexis & Susan Lachance

The… “WHITE” life!!!

Tags

circle, contemporary, decor, design, interior, life, plants, room, rooms, white

Swirls and… Life!!!!!!!!!!

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN 

Just like a “night out” in town, this hallway brings excitement, curiosity, and adventure to all walks of “life”.

The mystery of “White” makes this come “alive” through, brightness compared to its surroundings; resulting in a complex “vision” to the human “eye”.

With attributes symbolizing: simplicity and complexity of “life’s circles”. Keeps your “eye” on the “illusions” craving to “see” more.

The color “white” is unique as it is the only color that; reflects, defines space, while inducing stimulation that is bright yet infinite.

Complexity with simplification tricks your “eye” when you first “glance” at this hallway. It really does relate to the concept of “life” and how depending on our “outlook”,   is how it will transform into our reality.

As you walk down the hall, the reminder of “life” surrounds.

The elements of “Earth” greet you with each step.  The “plants” bring “life” to the stroll with color and smell. The watering system provides that “white” noise that is pleasant to hear, relaxes the soul.  “Rocks” nestled in the “plants” outer banks gives dimension and foundation of strength.

Looking up the “sky lights” glimmer the days “embrace”.

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

Bored?? Fixate on the walls where you’re given a new “twist”!

“Circles”, “swirl” you around making you tap your feet on the floor. Spatially, “going with the flow”.

Now for the “pop of champagne”!   Toasting to color brings it all together!  Breaking any thoughts of going insane!

The “design”……“Life’s circles” aren’t always all “WHITE”!!

Style and Design,

Sabrina Alexis

Setting…. The Bar!

Tags

bar, decor, design, drinks, interior, Setting, shapes, square

Setting the ‘Bar’ with: Geometric Shapes and Accessories!

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

Taking contemporary design from the 80’s and making it Sooo 2011!!!

Basic design with a little ‘twist’!

It’s all about having geometric shapes or ‘cut outs’ in the bar stools, and using one solid shape as the theme for the entire bar area.  Notice the added touches in the glass blocks under the counter top, the square cabinets, and the wall art design. Keeping in the theme of squares and straight lines.

Now for the added ‘twist’….Color the bar with accessories, or as I call it: “candy for the counter tops”. This is best accomplished with tones of reds, steel, and copper. Making it hard to “pass the bar”!

Simple yet striking!

Style & Design,

Sabrina Alexis