Kitchen Design Luxury Homes: my work

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Those fine 'Fine Paints of Europe'

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjabVg3ADI9v2oixwSYFq6Gc6AQL71locgmxCaJaveIcJxOhBq4ZooZh2nyPfuD8Ma9gulx70xxrJu5Y6chDrkJ5lYj76KUWkhmrEL8kMiTLOURm_qoYOByEBZ4aRZNczCea0DhXZuyWu4/s1600/front+of+house.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjabVg3ADI9v2oixwSYFq6Gc6AQL71locgmxCaJaveIcJxOhBq4ZooZh2nyPfuD8Ma9gulx70xxrJu5Y6chDrkJ5lYj76KUWkhmrEL8kMiTLOURm_qoYOByEBZ4aRZNczCea0DhXZuyWu4/s1600/front+of+house.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>As an architect you constantly find yourself specifying interesting and beautiful products but how does one get to make an educated decision over which products to use? I decided to try one out myself - <a href="http://www.finepaintsofeurope.com/">Fine Paints of Europe</a>. Fine Paints of Europe, or FPE as I'll call it in this post, is an oil based paint renowned for its glossy, almost glass-like appearance. To achieve this shine a rather detailed process is involved and on a recent project I decided to try it myself rather than leave it to the painters so that I could really get to understand the process.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimoc7Mcy1dEq4tmU6xupP3EiY9zh6tmoFyugbPdPuoivX3QC_Ql7kYvZkYUU1VLavJVFB0zTqcnrMn4fto3fEX5O6Tmvu4bPscpLDduuXqt7XF0NdtqBrqbvYqhwANpxdz7zmPahc4D_o/s1600/house+before.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimoc7Mcy1dEq4tmU6xupP3EiY9zh6tmoFyugbPdPuoivX3QC_Ql7kYvZkYUU1VLavJVFB0zTqcnrMn4fto3fEX5O6Tmvu4bPscpLDduuXqt7XF0NdtqBrqbvYqhwANpxdz7zmPahc4D_o/s1600/house+before.jpg" width="282" /></a></div>Lets start at the very beginning shall we?  The project was an old and rather, lets say, 'dated' townhouse in Georgetown.  Above you can see the 100 year old door forlornly hidden behind an ugly security gate and layers of pink paint.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcsUFEDKWwKvJxFcvJQZ8ikaftvndvbcgRiCjZfKDL-J4C8tW9XGWeRWfJgwLXfsjhyudIFHY3ZQD8RY-HwhaAClPmjHiGObV-UlcdVN5bNp1FnZBh6-883od_9aK9C9nN73K-AeWEcgg/s1600/white+door.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcsUFEDKWwKvJxFcvJQZ8ikaftvndvbcgRiCjZfKDL-J4C8tW9XGWeRWfJgwLXfsjhyudIFHY3ZQD8RY-HwhaAClPmjHiGObV-UlcdVN5bNp1FnZBh6-883od_9aK9C9nN73K-AeWEcgg/s1600/white+door.jpg" width="298" /></a></div>The first step was to get the house right. Painters were brought in to banish the pink and white scheme and new landscaping was installed. Dated storm doors in the city? No thanks, rip that out! Much better already, no?  After the long missing shutters were re-installed the only thing remaining on the street front was how to make that front door a focal point. It had to be something really special I felt - a bold color - and a shiny finish would be the finishing touch. Rather than a traditional red or green accent door, purple was decided upon. Yes - PURPLE. If you're gonna go for it - <i><u>GO FOR IT</u></i>!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmaOK8Hx3K7n3gYld34iX7jpiHajWeFJIGg9KN24rzObYjEFp9VedFBF4MCNWyV9U5tbRtLvIoCvEHGjW9GSpc3eErgzucA2ayPci_YIj5jRQC6MfDmyBGfM03JofZfx1KCQLCAhUvlqE/s1600/first+coat.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmaOK8Hx3K7n3gYld34iX7jpiHajWeFJIGg9KN24rzObYjEFp9VedFBF4MCNWyV9U5tbRtLvIoCvEHGjW9GSpc3eErgzucA2ayPci_YIj5jRQC6MfDmyBGfM03JofZfx1KCQLCAhUvlqE/s1600/first+coat.JPG" width="298" /></a></div>Picking up my paint brush I was careful to follow the FPE instructions. After removing all of the brass hardware (to be thoroughly polished) and sanding the door (a very important step as the high gloss would show any imperfection), a specialty primer by FPE was used. This primer was so thick and rigid, like super glue, that it created a smooth surface to work on; not an easy feat on a rough old Victorian door! This took about 3 HOURS!! The 3 day holiday weekend was a perfect time for this as it took an entire day for the door to be sanded, primed, and then dry. The 2nd day was the 1st coat of paint.  The paint was also thick, although not as rigid as the primer. It went on smoothly and after very careful brush strokes, miraculously produced a perfect glossy surface!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirQZNVnV-stGRLFoYxu4iidRfHnJFRUHjvBzzfVKx3eYmWvB5RRNHoOgL5upXk2vuv4Khunuh2GrpZxHf_3TZnCoMIRST5ktDT41FfzezyQjPKM9kM1pLdCDzcHvtda2yk80fkhEPGDYc/s1600/door.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirQZNVnV-stGRLFoYxu4iidRfHnJFRUHjvBzzfVKx3eYmWvB5RRNHoOgL5upXk2vuv4Khunuh2GrpZxHf_3TZnCoMIRST5ktDT41FfzezyQjPKM9kM1pLdCDzcHvtda2yk80fkhEPGDYc/s1600/door.JPG" width="298" /></a></div>The first coat dried perfectly and I was tempted to leave well enough alone but the directions said to apply a second coat. So the 3rd day I woke up early and did as directed. The 2nd coat was somewhat difficult as the paint dries as glossy as it is while wet so making sure I was achieving even coverage was a bit of a chore (viewing the door sideways helped). After drying for 12 hours I was able to re-install the now gleaming brass hardware and voila!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR045jYJpgAcVnTcDVkrVLbyN7JZwuFEHLRuR2AIhwBaA0gyLLgGy6dV-3XGI3SxK3rdh6M_X8x1m0XspbH13D8vGhDAzaGyFSAAXWjiu_w77WB4c47IZ9tVrIETcEAUQ-bSV2UHYBISc/s1600/front+of+house.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR045jYJpgAcVnTcDVkrVLbyN7JZwuFEHLRuR2AIhwBaA0gyLLgGy6dV-3XGI3SxK3rdh6M_X8x1m0XspbH13D8vGhDAzaGyFSAAXWjiu_w77WB4c47IZ9tVrIETcEAUQ-bSV2UHYBISc/s1600/front+of+house.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>I was so happy with the end result and think it puts the finishing touch on this lovely Georgetown townhouse. On future projects I'll now be able to instruct painters with assurance having tried the product myself.  Lesson learned: follow the directions, they're there for a reason!<br /><i>I received no compensation for this post but rather I wanted to share my experience with a great product!</i>

Those fine 'Fine Paints of Europe'

As an architect you constantly find yourself specifying interesting and beautiful products but how does one get to make an educated decision...

5:38 AM

Let there be light

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6Xb7clDXx8HSnWHt9y37fYST5vilIvLjITUZTVIGSbWOnMWz09-AnYjMrfzpFlpFRv7pta0xG4o65-dx3ktn27MVHuEtO5lyOhnjd8sCRZzzFyWTVG3IATVWaQow14al8Q5_R3sTJaTg/s1600/sconce+on+bookcase.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6Xb7clDXx8HSnWHt9y37fYST5vilIvLjITUZTVIGSbWOnMWz09-AnYjMrfzpFlpFRv7pta0xG4o65-dx3ktn27MVHuEtO5lyOhnjd8sCRZzzFyWTVG3IATVWaQow14al8Q5_R3sTJaTg/s1600/sconce+on+bookcase.JPG" width="298" /></a></div>One of the most underrated light fixtures in my humble opinion is the sconce. Mounted at eye level sconces create flattering light unlike the shadow lines created on ones' face from overhead lighting. Also, they don't take up precious table space like lamps or clutter a room like floorlamps.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxA73YiVJM4av2BuuKnOnzA2Eqq-Kl6YdGyKp_RdqEwvLT8jwTEprU-Xi6UoXIIbZnOBupdpM7wheMNe0ko_6nykOuCXr2Ggsv6WEy6RoJ-jXTuYpV76n2U6WAm3cywzkQMsFpYeGX8xA/s1600/library+lighting.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxA73YiVJM4av2BuuKnOnzA2Eqq-Kl6YdGyKp_RdqEwvLT8jwTEprU-Xi6UoXIIbZnOBupdpM7wheMNe0ko_6nykOuCXr2Ggsv6WEy6RoJ-jXTuYpV76n2U6WAm3cywzkQMsFpYeGX8xA/s1600/library+lighting.JPG" width="297" /></a></div>This weekend I helped a friend install some antique sconces we had picked out at<a href="http://www.artisanlamp.com/"> Artisan Lamp</a> (my favorite lighting source here in DC) onto some existing built-in bookshelves in his den. The effect is magical particularly in this small room without any existing lighting!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXCJKKiZQLLcAelbneRQQiG2VjmRl0O5PWegW-b3-NKhd-85UJIGHnrr_Z9MMYLwz8Q9J_dNyKuTC-jM0rnZP7Cwk4fYySf4hR-TcGruFuDlJ4_0K0xO9oRbP9IIpczdLNS28o-ZFpYcY/s1600/sconces.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXCJKKiZQLLcAelbneRQQiG2VjmRl0O5PWegW-b3-NKhd-85UJIGHnrr_Z9MMYLwz8Q9J_dNyKuTC-jM0rnZP7Cwk4fYySf4hR-TcGruFuDlJ4_0K0xO9oRbP9IIpczdLNS28o-ZFpYcY/s1600/sconces.JPG" width="298" /></a></div>Not only are they the jewels of the room, the warm light cast by them is ultimately flattering and practical. Don't forget sconces in your next project!

Let there be light

One of the most underrated light fixtures in my humble opinion is the sconce. Mounted at eye level sconces create flattering light unlike th...

7:10 AM

Nesting in my apartment

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg84XmHDAP93CVuGRwi18olZha4czOvcLCu1f_KcF3JeXeqfaOEBaXysE5BM7pTZCU-Oe5_h_8_nNGWYad0W05iHZwFeT_ePYqDXNpGrRxaLhcw0uFSLQyQeczG6fsyXeoTpW4lnmh9ckI/s1600/chair+and+rug+-+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg84XmHDAP93CVuGRwi18olZha4czOvcLCu1f_KcF3JeXeqfaOEBaXysE5BM7pTZCU-Oe5_h_8_nNGWYad0W05iHZwFeT_ePYqDXNpGrRxaLhcw0uFSLQyQeczG6fsyXeoTpW4lnmh9ckI/s1600/chair+and+rug+-+1.JPG" width="298" /></a></div>I've had a lot of changes in my apartment recently which is strange because aren't we meant to nest in preparation for winter and not spring? Regardless I thought I'd share some of these upgrades as they're really quite exciting for me!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiji1invwiswIXDaCH-cruefBGLqdbCDf8C6SveE85I5bt2Gqbl2pb7tuPNw2RHyJSjqR8H4mRGoaP5lhXfxMuLbAnzfeEkiUKY2M0rU9H11e5FeFxZzZY2syJ937J7RopWbudb_AMPaNY/s1600/chair+before.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="296" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiji1invwiswIXDaCH-cruefBGLqdbCDf8C6SveE85I5bt2Gqbl2pb7tuPNw2RHyJSjqR8H4mRGoaP5lhXfxMuLbAnzfeEkiUKY2M0rU9H11e5FeFxZzZY2syJ937J7RopWbudb_AMPaNY/s1600/chair+before.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>A few months ago I purchased this antique armchair from an estate sale which had last been upholstered in the early 1960s.  While the fabric was nice in its own way (an embroidered silk) it was not quite to my taste and rather dirty.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheeYTC3abaQY1krtgdnQms9ldoFer3qHCs4eopib94dv6Da6cvqutn_3wJAnEZVlOJtH_X4zCgXJDvsFwSR5-VDwUZftmqL8YzLUR6g8tYhIhhyix_Vb22qkegFqgWH2bFkvn96_7okwU/s1600/chair+with+new+fabric.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheeYTC3abaQY1krtgdnQms9ldoFer3qHCs4eopib94dv6Da6cvqutn_3wJAnEZVlOJtH_X4zCgXJDvsFwSR5-VDwUZftmqL8YzLUR6g8tYhIhhyix_Vb22qkegFqgWH2bFkvn96_7okwU/s1600/chair+with+new+fabric.JPG" width="298" /></a></div>Upon the recommendation of my friend Michele from the blog <a href="http://www.mynottinghill.blogspot.com/">My Notting Hill</a> I checked out <a href="http://mynottinghill.blogspot.com/2013/05/haute-fabrics-now-in-arlington-big-sale.html">Haute Fabrics</a> in Ballston, Virginia (a DC suburb). There I found this lovely hand printed linen with a subtle paisley fabric that I just loved. I also found <a href="http://urbancastlesolutions.com/">Urban Castle Interior Solutions</a> who proved to be an excellent upholsterer after my last one had sadly retired. I worried it would perhaps be a little bland but I have such a random assortment of things that I love in this room that I thought the neutral tones would tie everything together.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMLhP0mXxNIjjCExf68ts-v-E56zbyxPgJnTycHOKDF3iOJQpxLFFaBvTlHNphT5wt_8ftdbUBCvbcFydB6qivbd2SdtAXzbQQONJjU_lhTGD6JC8KSVV-qFzIyMPnEW8nrvenvB9Ebt8/s1600/safavieh+rug.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMLhP0mXxNIjjCExf68ts-v-E56zbyxPgJnTycHOKDF3iOJQpxLFFaBvTlHNphT5wt_8ftdbUBCvbcFydB6qivbd2SdtAXzbQQONJjU_lhTGD6JC8KSVV-qFzIyMPnEW8nrvenvB9Ebt8/s1600/safavieh+rug.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>At the same time I purchased this lovely <a href="http://safavieh.com/">Safavieh</a> rug which really anchors the space. This is my living room in a 1 bedroom apartment so I really LIVE in here!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiryBvHlrCkJYVkrBV10D6SLNxVQ2EAperV_z7wODzXJfmFGJaQu_sN5Xsz6GJe9XTstHTTma9IFMefSDaWTvbH6B43YwGVqQZcMsagdUMxnfYyblIqoHtJesR6-IzWacBpnhZdyLAapqc/s1600/chair+after.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="295" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiryBvHlrCkJYVkrBV10D6SLNxVQ2EAperV_z7wODzXJfmFGJaQu_sN5Xsz6GJe9XTstHTTma9IFMefSDaWTvbH6B43YwGVqQZcMsagdUMxnfYyblIqoHtJesR6-IzWacBpnhZdyLAapqc/s1600/chair+after.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>Now I have a comfy chair in which to read and relax which anchors this corner of the room- just what I always wanted! Now I just have to start looking for the perfect sofa to replace my underscaled loveseat (so no comments about that!).<br /><i>I received no compensation for this post -just sharing some excellent resources! Picture quality is lacking because these were taken with my phone.</i>

Nesting in my apartment

I've had a lot of changes in my apartment recently which is strange because aren't we meant to nest in preparation for winter and no...

8:43 AM

That touch of black

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzvqcmtfkUGHUFw6RkdfkGMCr8LZ8rFLOxEAu8xIbq-tb5n-QYB7HuuWzk-l2c3U-Nt-XqXk9p28GMmcPngdc75hbndJ97qVc_3T6oPfZ8HAkLsnxxQkh4kl1V3VF0yefZM7DDoLcj3B0/s1600/georgetown+fireplace+after.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="316" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzvqcmtfkUGHUFw6RkdfkGMCr8LZ8rFLOxEAu8xIbq-tb5n-QYB7HuuWzk-l2c3U-Nt-XqXk9p28GMmcPngdc75hbndJ97qVc_3T6oPfZ8HAkLsnxxQkh4kl1V3VF0yefZM7DDoLcj3B0/s400/georgetown+fireplace+after.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>I'm a firm believer in the design principal that every room needs to have a touch of black; it grounds the space. Recently I helped a friend add a touch of black to his own living room in one of my favorite spots - the fireplace surround.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKAzT1_PwvrLvR70hN3VGCBceMsyyK97Zk53jaNEx6peTe4zgcQk1dB57vUNygQFGs66o6uquNfijM8tr9ievt8UfNxSY_sjAwQEnb_Ue4Ty0Lk6awhyphenhyphen83_Y-tiVl7SamD2bplmL6ZQCQ/s1600/fireplace+before.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKAzT1_PwvrLvR70hN3VGCBceMsyyK97Zk53jaNEx6peTe4zgcQk1dB57vUNygQFGs66o6uquNfijM8tr9ievt8UfNxSY_sjAwQEnb_Ue4Ty0Lk6awhyphenhyphen83_Y-tiVl7SamD2bplmL6ZQCQ/s400/fireplace+before.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>Before the fireplace lacked presence in the room. It also unfortunately had been rebuilt at some point and featured a very new, ugly brick surround in contrast to the original antique brick hearth (floor). Ignore the unpainted trim to the right, I also helped redesign the trim throughout the room and it hasn't been painted yet!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkCC_Yj8IJ1cvc7zhXellFk-zAIR3Nkj_jedTFFc0oY798I9BpsRl1BnXeqixRUF7iVXkKyilIIqzMqnhh44Kw2oA1_qjRBsanJQ3XQ5yKhMXaLWfNZ-gZPj053YdwDNIxDljpDJRxXlo/s1600/painted+fireplace+surround.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="337" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkCC_Yj8IJ1cvc7zhXellFk-zAIR3Nkj_jedTFFc0oY798I9BpsRl1BnXeqixRUF7iVXkKyilIIqzMqnhh44Kw2oA1_qjRBsanJQ3XQ5yKhMXaLWfNZ-gZPj053YdwDNIxDljpDJRxXlo/s400/painted+fireplace+surround.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">While my cell phone snaps don't do it justice, the new painted brick surround is a great focal point, won't show soot stains if the fire smokes, and now pairs nicely with the untouched antique brick hearth. Small changes can make such a large difference. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVoikH3XhAW23zZ_gPIvt8AProkYsslaGVcdERBZ_OoJxHQ_SaqGBrUXeNSQxueDh5r3p8yEWkzVi8kstbApjoT50zmaLV24ppa3pdfjwzu_Gx5sutzim95bVn5YMLaHuBvnyzLjsk8GY/s1600/architectdesign+fireplace.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVoikH3XhAW23zZ_gPIvt8AProkYsslaGVcdERBZ_OoJxHQ_SaqGBrUXeNSQxueDh5r3p8yEWkzVi8kstbApjoT50zmaLV24ppa3pdfjwzu_Gx5sutzim95bVn5YMLaHuBvnyzLjsk8GY/s400/architectdesign+fireplace.JPG" width="298" /></a></div>I did the same in my own home. The fireplaces in my old COOP building are no longer functioning for insurance reasons but the fireplace remains a focal point in my living room. Above you can see how I painted the interior and the surround black.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaZiafCLnmhf4EDlZUQ1aDES-ZZ-uNYdDQ5G_Msk-hBxjQVX21nNJZVEn0BekvweU8d6dmAiLmbuEmuT2TI_RP9un0zkG_9CQbF1eHSmRPNxxqju8PD8OPQ7D5aqe9o_janekhgz1yy2E/s1600/apartment+fireplace+before.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaZiafCLnmhf4EDlZUQ1aDES-ZZ-uNYdDQ5G_Msk-hBxjQVX21nNJZVEn0BekvweU8d6dmAiLmbuEmuT2TI_RP9un0zkG_9CQbF1eHSmRPNxxqju8PD8OPQ7D5aqe9o_janekhgz1yy2E/s400/apartment+fireplace+before.jpg" width="391" /></a></div>Before (on a walk through with my Realtor before purchasing the apartment) you can see the surround painted white with no contrast to the mantel (and the hideously old wall to wall carpeting). What do you think of adding a touch of black to a space?

That touch of black

I'm a firm believer in the design principal that every room needs to have a touch of black; it grounds the space. Recently I helped a fr...

8:49 AM

Recent work: Dramatic before and after

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhav6VULVjFdyZndLV96wUpiuoV86bmj4hRSJ92upqMAAv1EsBCXNmZw2QGUORH6fSVjzHL3Ju2Vj4I-ob7TApLWF1huIn9My_h-KTC7ioRy7H1EDCyrqKBMKOfKqcMkO7ld5qwxAMxj3bS/s1600/bathroom+realtor+Stefan+Hurray+architectdesign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhav6VULVjFdyZndLV96wUpiuoV86bmj4hRSJ92upqMAAv1EsBCXNmZw2QGUORH6fSVjzHL3Ju2Vj4I-ob7TApLWF1huIn9My_h-KTC7ioRy7H1EDCyrqKBMKOfKqcMkO7ld5qwxAMxj3bS/s400/bathroom+realtor+Stefan+Hurray+architectdesign.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Reading and writing blog posts everyday I can sometimes forget to mention I'm more than a blogger: I also work in the design industry!  I thought I would share the design process with you on a recent project, a renovated master suite (above is a finished teaser of the bath).<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXN8SM4lWQNY9PzBMGihyphenhypheno7BbbzYVyndn34BBu-KWOWd-RV8rax0Xn6iVni63ZPmJqJCddcs1Ze6I-r9Mpi8mZL3HdeGiQWnDZ8q0Z9Tll912gGPd4-hlOmXjGAqDTwSG_MA9jvrl4JWAZ/s1600/bathroom+before.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXN8SM4lWQNY9PzBMGihyphenhypheno7BbbzYVyndn34BBu-KWOWd-RV8rax0Xn6iVni63ZPmJqJCddcs1Ze6I-r9Mpi8mZL3HdeGiQWnDZ8q0Z9Tll912gGPd4-hlOmXjGAqDTwSG_MA9jvrl4JWAZ/s400/bathroom+before.jpg" width="267" /></a></div>Lets get the ugly stuff out of the way first. My friend had a vintage 1920s house in the lovely Cleveland Park neighborhood of DC (you may remember a built-in I completed for him in the family room <a href="http://interior-design-pictures.blogspot.com/2013/02/a-recent-small-project-built-in.html">HERE</a>). Old houses are great, I think we can all agree there, but old bathrooms are NOT so great - just look at it above!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbZWN5zSV9g719KQPXrJlejBDFJn23G8OeifIEgdYrM6jOn2fJlvDJFHcxm3SG9iw6TJ9ZkqdZR7DF4yQXIW9f4GHqyjbxX8EJbA0iXVYaBW3IQPQfKkJdD-8Ut8nGvdsFK32gzxBSpRak/s1600/before+plan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="312" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbZWN5zSV9g719KQPXrJlejBDFJn23G8OeifIEgdYrM6jOn2fJlvDJFHcxm3SG9iw6TJ9ZkqdZR7DF4yQXIW9f4GHqyjbxX8EJbA0iXVYaBW3IQPQfKkJdD-8Ut8nGvdsFK32gzxBSpRak/s400/before+plan.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Above the partial floorplan shows the original layout of the area I worked on which had great potential but didn't work for the client. A small, worn hall bath serviced the master bedroom as well as a small bedroom which my friend used as a dressing room as closet space was inadequate. The front half of the plan not shown on the left had the formerly renovated master suite which had been turned into another hall bathroom, separate laundry room, and a large bedroom facing the street.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9aHc8iDqg5p8PHdzQmikekUJ3mNbBaSK5bkwkm8lMiErHhykdkVIW1VFN4vJmlYB9EM39P3pGRChjqXsQ3A3qde2kNj3c_iZmoN3SP8dJQ3CNew5tyA1KKuee-S9ks5V581Nsh7NZOB_2/s1600/Hallway+before+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9aHc8iDqg5p8PHdzQmikekUJ3mNbBaSK5bkwkm8lMiErHhykdkVIW1VFN4vJmlYB9EM39P3pGRChjqXsQ3A3qde2kNj3c_iZmoN3SP8dJQ3CNew5tyA1KKuee-S9ks5V581Nsh7NZOB_2/s400/Hallway+before+1.jpg" width="267" /></a></div>Previously one came up the staircase and was confronted with the L shaped hallway seen here (remember, this is the BEFORE!).<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhQiHaMdOaj9TNItb2cUgEADy1NSVDnMwxksv4ceKeyiRBR-CwRrrJS7KJMgrJGEhyphenhyphenyjHLoOPHu1Y9wXsnuINZ4TUPJI4nWuCer7QLLiQLOtR3-EGH6kmbe_Kx59IbpmJGcCAKQiGchjNO/s1600/Hallway+before+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhQiHaMdOaj9TNItb2cUgEADy1NSVDnMwxksv4ceKeyiRBR-CwRrrJS7KJMgrJGEhyphenhyphenyjHLoOPHu1Y9wXsnuINZ4TUPJI4nWuCer7QLLiQLOtR3-EGH6kmbe_Kx59IbpmJGcCAKQiGchjNO/s400/Hallway+before+3.jpg" width="267" /></a></div>Lots of square footage was wasted on the hallway in the tight plan and I had to come up with a way to best utilize the space.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZftgAA8GVXn1-Wh3lcOdzYqKKn29opaa0Mo2n6FYdRoGCJIynL53wV7ClBn7x9JWZUqbYApvM3pVeYa3VRlx8zl4M53vN5lNG4nlFoQwHx3Y_pofCZMZ7_UIMsvYEeaJwZ4GW5Ec7lFHn/s1600/master+bedroom+before.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZftgAA8GVXn1-Wh3lcOdzYqKKn29opaa0Mo2n6FYdRoGCJIynL53wV7ClBn7x9JWZUqbYApvM3pVeYa3VRlx8zl4M53vN5lNG4nlFoQwHx3Y_pofCZMZ7_UIMsvYEeaJwZ4GW5Ec7lFHn/s400/master+bedroom+before.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>The criteria was for a gracious master bedroom suite complete with en-suite bathroom, separate generous dressing room with loads of storage, and a separate sitting room.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX8U885RZS2B8RHd2xbK79_xeiTBk9zffLu2o-sGvaAHMwIyLTQbrO6Nq3Rgtp9xUuRQo_U7SioHAjPScYeOvk-oIRUowaJmiOqwmQDRn49rJVwp_rwec8CtF0dmS12izFVUdr7aqXkFMu/s1600/sunroom+before.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX8U885RZS2B8RHd2xbK79_xeiTBk9zffLu2o-sGvaAHMwIyLTQbrO6Nq3Rgtp9xUuRQo_U7SioHAjPScYeOvk-oIRUowaJmiOqwmQDRn49rJVwp_rwec8CtF0dmS12izFVUdr7aqXkFMu/s400/sunroom+before.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>The bones were all there but how best to reconfigure the space while respecting the vintage charm of the house?  Another piece of the puzzle was leaving the exterior of the house untouched as it lies within a historic district where exterior changes are hard to get approved.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaDuWulPAShBwC2lymu5B64uDDR_yUBIlwebBk4wW4oBho8cWKDAW6DoByjKBEyHjvi72-Jrbc1-cEvNm6ar-g-4wi5hVUw3YJGOT83EH5rB8KsYwb-hNJDecSTDsf6SxJSu5lJ52Xli42/s1600/demo+plan+-+stefan+hurray+architectdesign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaDuWulPAShBwC2lymu5B64uDDR_yUBIlwebBk4wW4oBho8cWKDAW6DoByjKBEyHjvi72-Jrbc1-cEvNm6ar-g-4wi5hVUw3YJGOT83EH5rB8KsYwb-hNJDecSTDsf6SxJSu5lJ52Xli42/s400/demo+plan+-+stefan+hurray+architectdesign.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>I decided to claim the 2nd hall closet and a fair amount of the hallway itself to enlarge the bathroom and provide all of the amenities one expects today in a house of this caliber.  Above you see the 'demo' plan and how I was going to accomplish this.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZUlASw9bT1lJS6qLqkWDiBePxqxJe2lrkB94yKsINH_I2QnxNBwVNpViBtVls3m_vqLh8ML9yobie4Dm7sDtHvVyit-0eDZdailVDvz9OZatiJ1ql59Y8nn0spkOzsy43YMBG201593HB/s1600/Master+suite+plan+-+stefan+hurray+architectdesign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZUlASw9bT1lJS6qLqkWDiBePxqxJe2lrkB94yKsINH_I2QnxNBwVNpViBtVls3m_vqLh8ML9yobie4Dm7sDtHvVyit-0eDZdailVDvz9OZatiJ1ql59Y8nn0spkOzsy43YMBG201593HB/s400/Master+suite+plan+-+stefan+hurray+architectdesign.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>The plan worked out nicely. Instead of coming up into a vast L shaped hallway, a more compact hall was created with a flush wall great for art at the head of the stairway. The master suite is now entered through a private vestibule which separates the bedroom from a dressing room.  The opening between the dressing room and sunny sitting room was filled in to allow for more storage in the closet and a built-in bookcase in the sitting room.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUv4Uh0atreaof1ztDZxiWpI45nnowmW3v9ighNPF3RriLY1XIoO5smJ-y3LETp3C8QVq-EzR5fzGAbbdaIzHyHZQS3DRRwtuh6Jqx_8avLHGrVsZTA8rxkbvveZMlUvYVifzaC86SCSkD/s1600/ELEVATIONS+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUv4Uh0atreaof1ztDZxiWpI45nnowmW3v9ighNPF3RriLY1XIoO5smJ-y3LETp3C8QVq-EzR5fzGAbbdaIzHyHZQS3DRRwtuh6Jqx_8avLHGrVsZTA8rxkbvveZMlUvYVifzaC86SCSkD/s400/ELEVATIONS+1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>The bathroom walls were completely removed to both insulate the exterior walls as well as reclaim any space we could find which previously housed ductwork and pipes which could easily be moved out of the way. Our contractor was a great help here!  I decided to panel the walls with wide beadboard which added a vintage charm to the bath of the 1920s time period while also providing a 'warm' environment.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyf1LsC6lSDBf8FsBoO0vDy-5AjLF62bAHQNLNzl-AmygbLv2wiSB1glt5Swyz5SN_vyHksT9krjCd5nFJQH8c44rClxAY8i2nXZn45v4zKdyd3TJlP_acjCpcuMb83EmWr8ugjiADkAjZ/s1600/ELEVATIONS+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyf1LsC6lSDBf8FsBoO0vDy-5AjLF62bAHQNLNzl-AmygbLv2wiSB1glt5Swyz5SN_vyHksT9krjCd5nFJQH8c44rClxAY8i2nXZn45v4zKdyd3TJlP_acjCpcuMb83EmWr8ugjiADkAjZ/s400/ELEVATIONS+2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>A separate soaking tub and large shower were added as well as an additional sink thanks to the space gained from the hallway.  Now lets see how it turned out!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW2rxJLiqAGpdJbR6fD4bYgpupHHVi2NsV5QspSIA3iI57RMquU2yr4E7yyMGqP61WE1WU7sAiiubXv1C3aPN-dU289Eha6_qx9j8-GC1WfTQTOsCFY8f74jP56hyphenhyphenDQ0TISF8vcRezqCsu/s1600/hallway+after+-+stefan+hurray+architectdesign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW2rxJLiqAGpdJbR6fD4bYgpupHHVi2NsV5QspSIA3iI57RMquU2yr4E7yyMGqP61WE1WU7sAiiubXv1C3aPN-dU289Eha6_qx9j8-GC1WfTQTOsCFY8f74jP56hyphenhyphenDQ0TISF8vcRezqCsu/s400/hallway+after+-+stefan+hurray+architectdesign.jpg" width="253" /></a></div>The hallway is still a generous size and makes sense for the house. Two bedrooms are left on this floor with a 3rd on the floor above. In the photo above you are looking into the new vestibule (painted the same purple as the bedroom) lit by an antique sconce found at my favorite lighting source just down the street in Cleveland Park, <a href="http://interior-design-pictures.blogspot.com/2012/11/shopping-for-antique-lighting_9.html">Artisan lighting</a>.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXyrNwEiVtpRJAMc_banmIaKSkp8xLGN9hd108xSp2cO_QauIVo8MgwZxS8XCe2vkHZ26sPhCOadxygEwfdSAgN_MrMzfUDsto5T99Q89qw7hz4FfHsurErhzqOIzoSJMya2Khbx9t6N9X/s1600/master+bedroom+towards+bath+-+stefan+hurray+architectdesign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="272" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXyrNwEiVtpRJAMc_banmIaKSkp8xLGN9hd108xSp2cO_QauIVo8MgwZxS8XCe2vkHZ26sPhCOadxygEwfdSAgN_MrMzfUDsto5T99Q89qw7hz4FfHsurErhzqOIzoSJMya2Khbx9t6N9X/s400/master+bedroom+towards+bath+-+stefan+hurray+architectdesign.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Another antique frosted glass ceiling fixture was found at <a href="http://www.artisanlamp.com/">Artisan Lamp</a> for the bedroom, on  a dimmer switch for ambiance of course! You can see through the former closet door into the newly enlarged master bathroom.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUg5nZnzAwskEyTHM-FrSFYAOC4GrBqYimdRLPP7N6eetjKk9yYQf0Kh5u1b8BpX4pUBfY0x40cEKBS03BlTJM-V5MTpZxl9D_RJ-O4pMXVosuZtQuEpkvQofW7bJsS8yBfvTcmFCXiADY/s1600/master+bedroom+towards+sitting+-+stefan+hurray+architectdesign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="261" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUg5nZnzAwskEyTHM-FrSFYAOC4GrBqYimdRLPP7N6eetjKk9yYQf0Kh5u1b8BpX4pUBfY0x40cEKBS03BlTJM-V5MTpZxl9D_RJ-O4pMXVosuZtQuEpkvQofW7bJsS8yBfvTcmFCXiADY/s400/master+bedroom+towards+sitting+-+stefan+hurray+architectdesign.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Looking the other direction one can see into the sunroom sitting area.  The natural linen curtains lining the wall hide an off-center window as well as provide a focal point for the bed.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlTlj4T7cUwTgdNyYnLuPxfk7TWCRATGrmy7MvhEf6kyC2HP0dnyWUmUSxr3XYmOAYoz6ssQVqcXf-ETLbllpf1mP2HVKGvdsE6Pck8XPjnEvDc_WXcJ7VaW52WZDzgdwBi4_UocKgwwPK/s1600/master+dressing+room+after+-+stefan+hurray+architectdesign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="271" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlTlj4T7cUwTgdNyYnLuPxfk7TWCRATGrmy7MvhEf6kyC2HP0dnyWUmUSxr3XYmOAYoz6ssQVqcXf-ETLbllpf1mP2HVKGvdsE6Pck8XPjnEvDc_WXcJ7VaW52WZDzgdwBi4_UocKgwwPK/s400/master+dressing+room+after+-+stefan+hurray+architectdesign.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>The small bedroom became a proper dressing room with ample storage. Double hanging rods fill one entire wall while a large dresser sits opposite.  The antique lamp on the dresser is also from Artisan - you can tell I love to shop there! The closet of this former bedroom was lined with cedar to become storage for sweaters and other off-season items.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFeBbVDnQiVZhCw12-ZbQjY7W-O2dE76d_ej5iU6v9isL9Vm3su60P9h-nPQOFTVIHHgmOsp3iYlWS3DjdVN2iN6jQGGQesXlSNR4CDGaL0Ou-OWhVZlxQLG0SLjn9zs114fK9cLlF_v25/s1600/sunroom+after++-+stefan+hurray+architectdesign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFeBbVDnQiVZhCw12-ZbQjY7W-O2dE76d_ej5iU6v9isL9Vm3su60P9h-nPQOFTVIHHgmOsp3iYlWS3DjdVN2iN6jQGGQesXlSNR4CDGaL0Ou-OWhVZlxQLG0SLjn9zs114fK9cLlF_v25/s400/sunroom+after++-+stefan+hurray+architectdesign.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>The sitting room received a fresh coat of sage green paint as well as a major clean-up. An odd closet was ripped out of the corner as well as an unnecessary non-working but extremely HEAVY radiator.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxFhXXpwwoigvHtfi0uM_Evb0eHLryeB7sQUwvJrLDYfQW96uFzwXCpJFjM_5oGESjDgQgq4qhKA1pBVx73D1mPpjzJyw7rvAhTfYChfwBUvuSd2TeyCe31syN3KdRK-CazrdnxmvLRH8b/s1600/bathroom+end+wall+-+Stefan+Hurray+architectdesign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxFhXXpwwoigvHtfi0uM_Evb0eHLryeB7sQUwvJrLDYfQW96uFzwXCpJFjM_5oGESjDgQgq4qhKA1pBVx73D1mPpjzJyw7rvAhTfYChfwBUvuSd2TeyCe31syN3KdRK-CazrdnxmvLRH8b/s400/bathroom+end+wall+-+Stefan+Hurray+architectdesign.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>However the <i>piece de resistance</i> is surely the newly created master bathroom. Wide 6" painted wood paneling was installed rather than drywall or tile as it created a warm, vintage feeling environment.  Foam insulation was blown into all of the walls for sound isolation as well as temperature control.  The window received a cafe height plantation shutter for privacy and a new marble sill perfect for additional storage. Antique neoclassical sconces were found at Artisan which really become the jewelry of the space.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit05JRDJnS4wxTxROMTgqr179mB0ps1tUmgcO0BHsFNjf2OsHuVVHIdAl_ynotgkSopDbmQAqEtvMZY7rA2LhUYlvHGyYX9_96a7Y9QW4k4Z8oSiGMeCbmjaWJgpIqKEmbOwzy7C1igkTA/s1600/bathroom+realtor+Stefan+Hurray+architectdesign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit05JRDJnS4wxTxROMTgqr179mB0ps1tUmgcO0BHsFNjf2OsHuVVHIdAl_ynotgkSopDbmQAqEtvMZY7rA2LhUYlvHGyYX9_96a7Y9QW4k4Z8oSiGMeCbmjaWJgpIqKEmbOwzy7C1igkTA/s400/bathroom+realtor+Stefan+Hurray+architectdesign.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>As the brass and black enameled sconces are really focal points I didn't feel the other finishes needed to match and they were all spec'd in a polished nickel finish sourced from the <a href="http://www.waterworks.com/collections/studio">Waterworks studio line</a> ( a wonderful lower priced line which still has the great quality and heft of other <a href="http://www.waterworks.com/">Waterworks</a> fixtures). The tile also came from Waterworks. I used a large format dark stone-like porcelain tile for the floor and the coordinating 2x2 tile for the shower floor. The shower walls were lined with a miniature subway tile and a long niche was created for soaps and shampoo. I love the industrial exposed surface-mounted shower fixtures from Waterworks! In-floor radiant heating was installed which can be controlled with the thermostat by the door for warm feet in the cold winter.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6Y0cjsUprsa_oinQ5Ur4blYOBgUIoVGyzDPyi6-mlvb63U2mB3HyB9Uag6iFdAgW05Tb342_9rlKkR5PyEKz_3MzEgyCVh_Q24WHteUWwOxBlF1HBjIVkiWQmXP-To4W8q6wIOUKST5wU/s1600/bathroom+towards+window+-+stefan+hurray+architectdesign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6Y0cjsUprsa_oinQ5Ur4blYOBgUIoVGyzDPyi6-mlvb63U2mB3HyB9Uag6iFdAgW05Tb342_9rlKkR5PyEKz_3MzEgyCVh_Q24WHteUWwOxBlF1HBjIVkiWQmXP-To4W8q6wIOUKST5wU/s400/bathroom+towards+window+-+stefan+hurray+architectdesign.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>The same Italian Crema marble from the <a href="http://www.restorationhardware.com/catalog/category/products.jsp?link=GramercyMetal&categoryId=cat1539071">Restoration Hardware Gramercy</a> vanity was used for the window sill, shower curb & surround, as well as to line the shower niche. I know you're wondering why I selected an open vanity as opposed to one with storage but I was worried the bathroom would feel tight when it lost that visual space below the sinks. Large medicine cabinets provide tons of storage. The freestanding bathtub from Victoria & Albert was clean lined while still having the appearance of an old Victorian soaker tub (seen best in my drawing earlier in this post).   I'm very pleased with the entire renovation and more importantly so was my friend!  What do you think?<br /><i>Special thanks to my fantastic photographer friend Bill Bramble who provided the before and after pictures!</i>

Recent work: Dramatic before and after

Reading and writing blog posts everyday I can sometimes forget to mention I'm more than a blogger: I also work in the design industry! ...

3:05 AM

My dining room

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSxxzhU501GXwCZeadxQ_93UATob_guOWCWm1qXEkoer4strMudyQTY8ImVGroORhlKJt93j53fOaF2zwbL_P3Q2Ay-XwzVtIbfadotxackdepuNHEXyqt6M4_ipL1UCMgLleGKUEUyhnO/s1600/antique+chair.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSxxzhU501GXwCZeadxQ_93UATob_guOWCWm1qXEkoer4strMudyQTY8ImVGroORhlKJt93j53fOaF2zwbL_P3Q2Ay-XwzVtIbfadotxackdepuNHEXyqt6M4_ipL1UCMgLleGKUEUyhnO/s400/antique+chair.jpg" width="271" /></a></div>May I apologize for my recent lack of posts but show you what I've been up to? As you may know I moved a few months ago into an older 'fixer upper' Coop apartment. I left downtown for the Cleveland Park neighborhood for numerous reasons, one of which was the need for more space and specifically a dining room.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW7xP8LUaPiHW84Ypb2fbW3vOdYBDiFaThYUBy6vTwMSGLHlH-qmVCPc_wd8TyqVklaXuHXX2YiyhPbEj7JMdKo_hIqa7cPr6-wzmuALbsXMoH9lW95BQk_koA-i3tQ_nMjOFRDxiQYETt/s1600/dining+room+before.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW7xP8LUaPiHW84Ypb2fbW3vOdYBDiFaThYUBy6vTwMSGLHlH-qmVCPc_wd8TyqVklaXuHXX2YiyhPbEj7JMdKo_hIqa7cPr6-wzmuALbsXMoH9lW95BQk_koA-i3tQ_nMjOFRDxiQYETt/s400/dining+room+before.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>Before I moved in the dining room had an ugly chandelier and wood shutters.  Heavy wool wall to wall carpeting was throughout. That was a few months of some hard work ripping it all out!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMEF5NfliE0FbmdI2sZm9B_RAfl8jYAILynWrbEFF6hIye_WjH9OjJKXvom3qQLoq6MfAR0Ssv0nTu_7f1__UgEENxRKc8dkVo1pAW_1TXrXrmSA0lqrK33tWyfQihQaL_Wta_GUXBvfRH/s1600/dining+room.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMEF5NfliE0FbmdI2sZm9B_RAfl8jYAILynWrbEFF6hIye_WjH9OjJKXvom3qQLoq6MfAR0Ssv0nTu_7f1__UgEENxRKc8dkVo1pAW_1TXrXrmSA0lqrK33tWyfQihQaL_Wta_GUXBvfRH/s400/dining+room.jpg" width="290" /></a></div>You may recognize a lot of these pieces if you've been reading my blog for awhile; they're just finally coming together in their proper space. The chair in the top picture is one of my '<a href="http://interior-design-pictures.blogspot.com/2012/11/my-haunted-chairs-fabric-advice.html">haunted chairs</a>' which I decided to upholster in the Ralph Lauren plaid. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip_pGaoIE5mRUMv3JmI4hYnsIMmx9PDDH6cNRhCIinnkFruZlnQ-6x-ku5VZxqe-MJFQjnjSp44TRrdV59c_FTaVoaD-G0vmhTDLQZhQSGpo75jtjeJ4eD7YR7M4ZYaSrTvH9hNAI2febl/s1600/dining+room+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip_pGaoIE5mRUMv3JmI4hYnsIMmx9PDDH6cNRhCIinnkFruZlnQ-6x-ku5VZxqe-MJFQjnjSp44TRrdV59c_FTaVoaD-G0vmhTDLQZhQSGpo75jtjeJ4eD7YR7M4ZYaSrTvH9hNAI2febl/s400/dining+room+1.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>The <a href="http://interior-design-pictures.blogspot.com/2009/03/thank-you-apartment-therapy.html">large pastel drawing</a> above the bookcase has been with me for a few moves now and I never feel at home without it. This room contains many of my favorite objects but probably the most beautiful is my Capri decanter from Baccarat beneath the drawing, I just love the classic lines..<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXQEMQmQ4haOz-MmV4fYPCdIurjbtwEmHBlvfypP2GT57hbE4o9RXNCfx6GeuVGad9rFFZigArVOfiqxKb3pPRO35B6nX7XU0hs0Acl_x2Q9wywHQ-BTypR1xciWxP6Uxj-RpjAIxpMc28/s1600/bookshelf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXQEMQmQ4haOz-MmV4fYPCdIurjbtwEmHBlvfypP2GT57hbE4o9RXNCfx6GeuVGad9rFFZigArVOfiqxKb3pPRO35B6nX7XU0hs0Acl_x2Q9wywHQ-BTypR1xciWxP6Uxj-RpjAIxpMc28/s400/bookshelf.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>I love having books here in the dining room which I use not only for every meal but also to spread out and study the latest magazines. Probably the largest project I tackled myself (other than the reconfiguration of the walls for which I hired a contractor) was painting the window sashes black to match my <a href="http://interior-design-pictures.blogspot.com/2013/01/my-black-doors.html">doors</a>. I love how they turned out!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih6wC981gehQmT8Rx7EQysgivsxGL95CQMqubELMST2gZZjtbnLTllQDACr_vG_kEzPCatPji9i_6Eg9HULSv2rijmW_pekmvXZmboiHVkch4YI6BEW5ArX-1FigeFHaEibTI_GgWRjAxK/s1600/towards+foyer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih6wC981gehQmT8Rx7EQysgivsxGL95CQMqubELMST2gZZjtbnLTllQDACr_vG_kEzPCatPji9i_6Eg9HULSv2rijmW_pekmvXZmboiHVkch4YI6BEW5ArX-1FigeFHaEibTI_GgWRjAxK/s320/towards+foyer.jpg" width="230" /></a></div>The view through the archway into my foyer shows a sneak peak of some more of the apartment. I know many of you like seeing table settings and here is one below from a little housewarming dinner party I put together after finally pulling the room together.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKRVpKOExHzpgiR1iYcW39IGlIfAdBw3hXanSw3mYiPC0a78m8xA1okf7xtLrK-gl3CevU52RbEBKF9FqJ2yPG4aje2TqktLsqv81xbFp5v38vOFAI0Oz6IsFPWfx1HbLt_uyLu1ANInU5/s1600/china+setting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKRVpKOExHzpgiR1iYcW39IGlIfAdBw3hXanSw3mYiPC0a78m8xA1okf7xtLrK-gl3CevU52RbEBKF9FqJ2yPG4aje2TqktLsqv81xbFp5v38vOFAI0Oz6IsFPWfx1HbLt_uyLu1ANInU5/s320/china+setting.jpg" width="232" /></a></div>I already have a pair of bamboo shades I was contemplating hanging in the windows for a layered look behind the curtains.  What do you think, do I need them? Practically speaking, as the window receives a lot of light I thought it might help with glare particularly in the summer. I suppose I could always take them down if they look too cluttered.  Thanks for visiting and let me know what you think about the blinds!

My dining room

May I apologize for my recent lack of posts but show you what I've been up to? As you may know I moved a few months ago into an older ...

3:00 AM

A recent project

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjqOKb2fGzMaP2Zdw1osAq42fcKmLRxNEwpHIhk2A9llVl0Xoc5hmqI03QdazZW0hhrKquAVFKyUIdJ1X8dZTQqrfUW2TI9kydRZ-Y3yy-VTbw_LKiSH7ahxKIhcfBKixHA4Ltr9ESSbwk/s1600/bookcase.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjqOKb2fGzMaP2Zdw1osAq42fcKmLRxNEwpHIhk2A9llVl0Xoc5hmqI03QdazZW0hhrKquAVFKyUIdJ1X8dZTQqrfUW2TI9kydRZ-Y3yy-VTbw_LKiSH7ahxKIhcfBKixHA4Ltr9ESSbwk/s400/bookcase.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>I recently finished helping design and install a custom built-in for a friend's family room and thought I would share it with all of you. My friend Bob has a beautiful house with an oddly shaped, small family room. The goal here was to help house an extensive book collection and a tv with all of the media equipment and make some sense of the awkward space.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqxwO0PRiJrGav8OtPW5vtaOyLKf4V0YgVLFEEInJVaLxUJtjK4xsHLvMKrwPl0cdG5eFcdw_nZhu_FzjwdVaA1VXk3pu9Yx-XYVddC_gCcdov5VCxtUqxdU37QXt6GmxMbteVwKTWGNcz/s1600/BUILT-IN-elevation.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="185" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqxwO0PRiJrGav8OtPW5vtaOyLKf4V0YgVLFEEInJVaLxUJtjK4xsHLvMKrwPl0cdG5eFcdw_nZhu_FzjwdVaA1VXk3pu9Yx-XYVddC_gCcdov5VCxtUqxdU37QXt6GmxMbteVwKTWGNcz/s400/BUILT-IN-elevation.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>After carefully measuring the room and wall in question, I hit the paper (well, my computer) and started to play with what this might look like.  As the room is tight I wanted to minimize the floorspace taken up by the piece but still house the deep 20" sound equipment (dvd player, cable box, sound system, etc.).<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiyCtwEYZ9bp3H8YGAzd48gWoo8WD4SX_yIf7kef4LTOPgRMJhAytnYS2PQ7qZXU0ETFLicgQMN8QDnCBYce4BypRzOSRHmhv90mP6dsjZVstbcTSi4IWKRotG98fnBn8DmcFwDIgQwYzI/s1600/BUILT-IN-plan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="235" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiyCtwEYZ9bp3H8YGAzd48gWoo8WD4SX_yIf7kef4LTOPgRMJhAytnYS2PQ7qZXU0ETFLicgQMN8QDnCBYce4BypRzOSRHmhv90mP6dsjZVstbcTSi4IWKRotG98fnBn8DmcFwDIgQwYzI/s400/BUILT-IN-plan.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Luckily I was able to disguise the existing niche (formerly an unused opening into the dining room) and run  speaker wire and electrical cords through it with a false beadboard front that matches details found elsewhere in the room. The bracket for the tv was then mounted to this front.  The lower 4 shelves on the right hand side were able to be deep enough to house the equipment while the rest of the built-in appears to be a standard 11" bookshelf. I think the drawing above helps explain what I came up with. I didn't put any doors on the lower half so that these shelves could be their full depth.  Plus one could use remotes on the equipment without having to constantly open and close doors to access them.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq5b_afvtw_qpyKsnO4MS7eIkKZsxF3wxZr_OASvFleWIc0E9UGdQJxRlBHR5lZIYwPChRRtywy4GRDV3mGcD80c3n1I4WorDrtiSDx8nCqB6roNOh1Oi9pmG0pwIbY-6GKcCBFAhfLl1q/s1600/built-in+delivery.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq5b_afvtw_qpyKsnO4MS7eIkKZsxF3wxZr_OASvFleWIc0E9UGdQJxRlBHR5lZIYwPChRRtywy4GRDV3mGcD80c3n1I4WorDrtiSDx8nCqB6roNOh1Oi9pmG0pwIbY-6GKcCBFAhfLl1q/s320/built-in+delivery.JPG" width="239" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Finding a good contractor to build the piece was the next step. After pricing the drawing through a few talented finish carpenters, I went with Jozsa Woodworks out of Woodbridge, VA who I know through my work. They were a joy to deal with!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA4b6F-c2iW2oJMedij374A6k86mKKok8YhPjBxeBFe6lkmu4pH7fgRncAl_y0PjTuSEiBdy9PN3t98oU6cayrMVdthGFts2EESH-luqkrgb4q1qD_ICIWZ_72ZE7hLmcqCcYicE6YT2bW/s1600/installation.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA4b6F-c2iW2oJMedij374A6k86mKKok8YhPjBxeBFe6lkmu4pH7fgRncAl_y0PjTuSEiBdy9PN3t98oU6cayrMVdthGFts2EESH-luqkrgb4q1qD_ICIWZ_72ZE7hLmcqCcYicE6YT2bW/s320/installation.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The day of installation was exciting. The crew of 3 plus an electrician showed up right on time (impressive and something you don't always find in this line of work) and began to make sure the pre-built pieces fit exactly and prep the wall for installation.  They spent hours making sure that the piece fit in perfectly and their attention to detail was astounding. I could go on and on, can you tell I was impressed?!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUuCDQCCmmq4JeF4_Ljvr-ULISFsh4sPWHPfwN_QO4f76Ns5aVVkFHJqA0uDDmSm_F4EK5g6Gn2Lg-ooAEk44LnztceMQsb3CcQ2d8YUYSuR_2SdwCVV4xDhKZNgFivWvK3T_uwJ23FXzD/s1600/installed+built-in.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUuCDQCCmmq4JeF4_Ljvr-ULISFsh4sPWHPfwN_QO4f76Ns5aVVkFHJqA0uDDmSm_F4EK5g6Gn2Lg-ooAEk44LnztceMQsb3CcQ2d8YUYSuR_2SdwCVV4xDhKZNgFivWvK3T_uwJ23FXzD/s320/installed+built-in.JPG" style="cursor: move;" width="239" /></a></div>After installation the piece looked great but they would be back in a few days to finish off the last little pieces, fill and paint dents, etc.  The large black square is the tv mounting bracket.  I would have preferred a contrasting back to the shelves but as Bob's house is currently on the market I decided to leave the accent color to any possible buyer. The entire piece was painted the same white as the trim found throughout the room.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVK2jijpzfe6QjtRzJ1TrVSwFrnfaoGCxzn_K9FfSdKYLe1OWMW4lrjKgFkRPF9J1BPRuviufkRny1KARMP-8G5AOjgZmhYgs7tGLwNLluSvAwCsIoKgOGK8izP0cIW-ofPtDFDl2nNrGb/s1600/family+room+bookcase.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVK2jijpzfe6QjtRzJ1TrVSwFrnfaoGCxzn_K9FfSdKYLe1OWMW4lrjKgFkRPF9J1BPRuviufkRny1KARMP-8G5AOjgZmhYgs7tGLwNLluSvAwCsIoKgOGK8izP0cIW-ofPtDFDl2nNrGb/s320/family+room+bookcase.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Once everything was in place (with the exception of the tv on the bracket which just is left on the shelf for now) you would never know the hidden niche exists but I used it to our best advantage; It looks like a typical built-in bookshelf. The piece really makes the room feel much bigger and is a beautiful focal point for the tv and all of Bob's books and objects. Who knew such a small thing could make such a difference to the feeling of a room!<br /><i>Please excuse the bad photos from my iphone!</i>

A recent project

I recently finished helping design and install a custom built-in for a friend's family room and thought I would share it with all of you...

10:07 AM

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