If you are looking for twice your normal bath experience, look no more. This master bath has plenty of room for two with double the storage, double the mirrors, sinks and faucets, and bathing is done two-way. The colors are warm and inviting, but it’s the subtle patterning that caught my eye. The overall effect is of a soft wash, yet on closer examination, the striations travel across the walls and criss-cross on the floor. This expansive vanity was created with our homeowner’s needs in mind. Each “side” has a bank of drawers and under sink cabinet storage. A large undermount sink dips below the gorgeous stone counter top. Gently arching faucets in brushed nickel adorn each sink with a framed mirror above for reflection. Individual task lighting shine upon each sink and is reflected back into the room. For additional storage and to keep elbows from connecting, a large shared bank of drawers separate the two areas. The vanities are rich with color and texture, from the swirling grain of the wood, to the raised panels and beading. The subtle beading is repeated on the drawers for a custom look. Our wood color is a deeper, more intense tone of the colors in our tiling. Whether in a hurry or needing to relax and unwind, this bath can do both. Despite having two substantial pieces in the same area, the open glass panel that separate leaves each feeling open and airy. This tub was made for soaking. The sides and back gently mold into arm and neck support for a truly relaxing experience. The lineal movement in the tile backsplash lend a long and lean feeling. For easy reach, toiletries are stored in a niche with accent multicolored mosaics. On the other side of the half wall a roomy shower awaits. The long tiles were installed in a brick pattern with striations of color wrapping the walls. The oversized tiles reduce the amount of grout, for a cleaner look. Here too we added a niche for maximum storage and a sprinkle more of the accenting mosaic. We capped the half wall and the generous bench with our vanity’s stone for a rich contrast. We installed the tile up to the ceiling, which adds to the visual height of the room. We went with clean simple controls and showerhead, enhanced in a brushed nickel finish. So as to not obscure the view, we went frameless on our shower door and panels, using brushed nickel hinges and a simple handle. At the end of our vanity, a half wall adds backsplash on the vanity side and a bit of privacy on the other. A simple toilet in crisp white is out of sight but functional in its own “alcove”. Despite all the patterning, there is nothing busy about the room. For the floor we decided to change things up, using a large square version of the wall tiles. To keep the room from feeling too long, we installed them on the diagonal and then criss-crossed the lines for a dramatic look. This bath is twice as nice and ready to be shared! http://www.designsbyskill.com/ http://www.rjkconstructioninc.com/

Watermark Residence was conceived as a “downsizing” project for Owners looking to transition from the home where they raised their family to a simpler lifestyle. The footprint and exterior massing of the single family condo was prescribed, but MMA wove new details into these constraints and was urged by the Owner to completely reinvent the interior experience. From the exterior, the home sits subtly on a corner lot, referencing the neighborhood in its style, but with a warmth and crispness that speaks also to the interiors. The primary goal of the project was to provide an open, inviting atmosphere of connected spaces that allowed natural light into all areas of the home. Upon entry, there is an immediate involvement in the daily activities with the living and dining rooms being the focal point, and a more intimate kitchen slightly out of view. Throughout the home, the idea of privacy and transparency plays an important role in the organization of spaces and materials chosen. More private corridors lead to intimate bedroom spaces and functional laundry and mudrooms. A two-floor, semi-transparent slat wall shields direct visibility from the street, while also providing connection between the entertaining spaces of the home. Combined with the white oak, open staircase, the movement between levels feels intuitive and inviting. A simple palette of materials, understated in their appearance but detailed in their execution, are threaded throughout the home. Gathering spaces are represented with open slats, grounding brick, white oak, and bright walls. Movement deeper into the house brings refined slat panels with integrated hardware at kitchen millwork, softly painted cabinetry, and warm tones of walnut in furniture elements. The most private spaces of the home further extrude the slat element into fluted panels, painted in deeper colors.

For many, professional interior design is a luxury. Whether your home’s design project is large or small, having the ability to transform your house, apartment or condo into a beautiful, unique space is a wonderful opportunity for self-expression. Even if it is a just simple accent wall painted in a color that speaks to you, or a complete renovation of your cabinets to achieve the kitchen of your dreams, interior design allows you to create an environment that is both personal and comfortable. That is exactly how interior designer and founder of Design Exchange Sean Carlson Perry feels about what he does for a living. “The reason that I love designing spaces, and value the impact of space design on people, is the way the spaces make us feel, the visceral appeal of good design. Good design should stimulate the senses and generate an emotionally engaging experience. As a designer, I get to massage and sculpt people’s experience of space!” Perry shared with us. In late 2017, the Paintzen team connected with Perry regarding a very special design project he was working on. Design Exchange was renovating, redesigning and re-furnishing The Ali Forney Center. The Ali Forney Center, based in New York City, is the largest and most comprehensive organization dedicated to housing homeless LGBTQ youth. Nearly 40% of the homeless youth population is LGBTQ. Homeless LGBTQ youth are eight times more likely to experience violence, discrimination, and suicide. AFC houses 124 youths each night and provides services to over 1,400 homeless young people per year. Although the organization does an incredible job to provide safety and shelter to homeless youth, Perry and his team felt the space itself could use some updating and could feel more welcoming. Rooms were dark, cold, and lacked proper storage. Furniture was in poor shape and didn’t work. The rooms were being under-utilized; overall, there was so much more that could be done within the walls of the AFC that could be improved using interior design & paint! We at Paintzen were excited to partner with Design Exchange to do our part in this transformation. The dark, paneled walls were re-painted white. This entirely opened up the space, making it brighter, warmer and more welcoming. The white walls also served as a much better backdrop for smart lighting, as well as for the furniture, wall decor, and new flooring. Beyond painting, Perry and his team used FLOR carpet tiles for durability in a bright Fuchsia shade for a pop of color. They created a more functional layout to maximize the space and make better use of its architectural details and added new furniture including lamps, tables, throws, a sofa, a TV and a Roku to make the space beautiful, and even fun. “Design increases connection and community,” Perry told us. “When we revamp a shelter space, history tells us that the residents spend more time in the space, more time with their peers, building connections and community; a greater sense of home.” Perry’s goal was to create an environment that set its residents up for success by improving their quality of life, outlook and self-esteem. “This isn’t extreme home makeover (although I wish I had that budget!). It’s about improving the aesthetics of the space to create a better environment and experience for people who are going through challenging times. I’ve been lucky enough to have an amount of work that allows me to donate a portion of profits to Design Exchange Projects.” Sean Carlson Perry founded Design Exchange as a way to use his talent, passion, and skills to help those who are struggling, or in a place of immediate need. He was searching to bring deeper meaning and a humanitarian component to his work. Perry has worked with clients in New York, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. “Good design—functionally, aesthetically and ergonomically—promotes a better quality of life.” This is a mantra that describes why Perry does what he does through Design Exchange, working to help the underserved of New York City and other cities across the country. “I grew up gay in Nebraska, and have gone through some hard times when I was younger, but I can’t imagine going through what these kids go through – rejection from family, being kicked out of the house for being who they are, homeless and having nowhere else to turn,” said Perry. “Luckily, there is The Ali Forney Center. Doing these projects for AFC strikes close to home for me, so they are extra special and close to my heart.”

The existing kitchen layout was flipped in order to provide a better traffic flow into and out of the space. With the refrigerator now sitting flush with the wall depth, the kitchen is more streamlined and visually less bulky. . The relocation of the peninsula allowed for deeper base cabinets for more storage, as well as a more spacious seating area. The full-height wall cabinet next to the peninsula features hidden storage spaces for the client’s crystals, while visually balancing out the refrigerator wall on the other side.

The original kitchen had an odd small island that was 2 levels. Upper cabinets that were short making the room feel small. The new design brings full height cabinets and backsplash-significant larger island, more cabinets and additional counter space. A very efficient kitchen to use made by utilizing a dead corner for the hood, drop in cooktop and wall oven center. The microwave in below the counter on the island. We could still use rich deeper espresso wood cabinets and the room feels much larger than before. We removed a stub wall near the refrigerator and a relocated a switch bank and then added a finish end panel to the refrigerator further connecting the kitchen br island to the living area. The natural stone backsplash is so subtle and a beautiful backdrop for the finish cabinetry.

Watermark Residence was conceived as a “downsizing” project for Owners looking to transition from the home where they raised their family to a simpler lifestyle. The footprint and exterior massing of the single family condo was prescribed, but MMA wove new details into these constraints and was urged by the Owner to completely reinvent the interior experience. From the exterior, the home sits subtly on a corner lot, referencing the neighborhood in its style, but with a warmth and crispness that speaks also to the interiors. The primary goal of the project was to provide an open, inviting atmosphere of connected spaces that allowed natural light into all areas of the home. Upon entry, there is an immediate involvement in the daily activities with the living and dining rooms being the focal point, and a more intimate kitchen slightly out of view. Throughout the home, the idea of privacy and transparency plays an important role in the organization of spaces and materials chosen. More private corridors lead to intimate bedroom spaces and functional laundry and mudrooms. A two-floor, semi-transparent slat wall shields direct visibility from the street, while also providing connection between the entertaining spaces of the home. Combined with the white oak, open staircase, the movement between levels feels intuitive and inviting. A simple palette of materials, understated in their appearance but detailed in their execution, are threaded throughout the home. Gathering spaces are represented with open slats, grounding brick, white oak, and bright walls. Movement deeper into the house brings refined slat panels with integrated hardware at kitchen millwork, softly painted cabinetry, and warm tones of walnut in furniture elements. The most private spaces of the home further extrude the slat element into fluted panels, painted in deeper colors.

For many, professional interior design is a luxury. Whether your home’s design project is large or small, having the ability to transform your house, apartment or condo into a beautiful, unique space is a wonderful opportunity for self-expression. Even if it is a just simple accent wall painted in a color that speaks to you, or a complete renovation of your cabinets to achieve the kitchen of your dreams, interior design allows you to create an environment that is both personal and comfortable. That is exactly how interior designer and founder of Design Exchange Sean Carlson Perry feels about what he does for a living. “The reason that I love designing spaces, and value the impact of space design on people, is the way the spaces make us feel, the visceral appeal of good design. Good design should stimulate the senses and generate an emotionally engaging experience. As a designer, I get to massage and sculpt people’s experience of space!” Perry shared with us. In late 2017, the Paintzen team connected with Perry regarding a very special design project he was working on. Design Exchange was renovating, redesigning and re-furnishing The Ali Forney Center. The Ali Forney Center, based in New York City, is the largest and most comprehensive organization dedicated to housing homeless LGBTQ youth. Nearly 40% of the homeless youth population is LGBTQ. Homeless LGBTQ youth are eight times more likely to experience violence, discrimination, and suicide. AFC houses 124 youths each night and provides services to over 1,400 homeless young people per year. Although the organization does an incredible job to provide safety and shelter to homeless youth, Perry and his team felt the space itself could use some updating and could feel more welcoming. Rooms were dark, cold, and lacked proper storage. Furniture was in poor shape and didn’t work. The rooms were being under-utilized; overall, there was so much more that could be done within the walls of the AFC that could be improved using interior design & paint! We at Paintzen were excited to partner with Design Exchange to do our part in this transformation. The dark, paneled walls were re-painted white. This entirely opened up the space, making it brighter, warmer and more welcoming. The white walls also served as a much better backdrop for smart lighting, as well as for the furniture, wall decor, and new flooring. Beyond painting, Perry and his team used FLOR carpet tiles for durability in a bright Fuchsia shade for a pop of color. They created a more functional layout to maximize the space and make better use of its architectural details and added new furniture including lamps, tables, throws, a sofa, a TV and a Roku to make the space beautiful, and even fun. “Design increases connection and community,” Perry told us. “When we revamp a shelter space, history tells us that the residents spend more time in the space, more time with their peers, building connections and community; a greater sense of home.” Perry’s goal was to create an environment that set its residents up for success by improving their quality of life, outlook and self-esteem. “This isn’t extreme home makeover (although I wish I had that budget!). It’s about improving the aesthetics of the space to create a better environment and experience for people who are going through challenging times. I’ve been lucky enough to have an amount of work that allows me to donate a portion of profits to Design Exchange Projects.” Sean Carlson Perry founded Design Exchange as a way to use his talent, passion, and skills to help those who are struggling, or in a place of immediate need. He was searching to bring deeper meaning and a humanitarian component to his work. Perry has worked with clients in New York, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. “Good design—functionally, aesthetically and ergonomically—promotes a better quality of life.” This is a mantra that describes why Perry does what he does through Design Exchange, working to help the underserved of New York City and other cities across the country. “I grew up gay in Nebraska, and have gone through some hard times when I was younger, but I can’t imagine going through what these kids go through – rejection from family, being kicked out of the house for being who they are, homeless and having nowhere else to turn,” said Perry. “Luckily, there is The Ali Forney Center. Doing these projects for AFC strikes close to home for me, so they are extra special and close to my heart.”

The homeowners wanted to transform their dining room into a more open, functional, and visually connected space while honoring the home’s modern, mid-century style. Their main goals included removing the massive wall of rough-textured cabinetry, adding a view of the backyard from the front door, creating a serving area with multiple outlets for small appliances, incorporating deep drawers for linens, and adding display space. They also wanted quarter sawn oak cabinetry with hardware instead of the nail breaking routed pocket pulls, black accents, and a backsplash tile in a fun color or shape. Originally, the wall separating the dining room from the kitchen was slated for removal, but engineering requirements made this cost prohibitive. Instead, we collaborated with an architect and engineer to design a passthrough that maintained structural integrity. During construction, hidden HVAC was discovered, prompting us to build the wall out further, resulting in a deeper 16" passthrough; a happy accident that created an ideal display area with puck lighting. The cabinetry features Crystal Cabinet Works’ Encore frameless line in Quarter Sawn White Oak with a Natural matte finish, paired with matte black ladder shelves for display. A tiled, extra-deep toekick covered in matching floor tile gives the appearance of floating cabinetry while ensuring easy, mop-friendly maintenance. The wall is finished in matte square Nemo tile with glossy accents, adding vibrant color and texture. Cambria’s Smithfield quartz countertops provide a durable serving surface, while black floor tile with a metallic finish grounds the design. Now, the dining room serves as a hub for entertaining, with ample space for serving dishes, convenient power access, and a direct sightline from the kitchen to the backyard. Ready for a dining space that serves looks as well as dinner? Pull up a chair and let’s talk.

Watermark Residence was conceived as a “downsizing” project for Owners looking to transition from the home where they raised their family to a simpler lifestyle. The footprint and exterior massing of the single family condo was prescribed, but MMA wove new details into these constraints and was urged by the Owner to completely reinvent the interior experience. From the exterior, the home sits subtly on a corner lot, referencing the neighborhood in its style, but with a warmth and crispness that speaks also to the interiors. The primary goal of the project was to provide an open, inviting atmosphere of connected spaces that allowed natural light into all areas of the home. Upon entry, there is an immediate involvement in the daily activities with the living and dining rooms being the focal point, and a more intimate kitchen slightly out of view. Throughout the home, the idea of privacy and transparency plays an important role in the organization of spaces and materials chosen. More private corridors lead to intimate bedroom spaces and functional laundry and mudrooms. A two-floor, semi-transparent slat wall shields direct visibility from the street, while also providing connection between the entertaining spaces of the home. Combined with the white oak, open staircase, the movement between levels feels intuitive and inviting. A simple palette of materials, understated in their appearance but detailed in their execution, are threaded throughout the home. Gathering spaces are represented with open slats, grounding brick, white oak, and bright walls. Movement deeper into the house brings refined slat panels with integrated hardware at kitchen millwork, softly painted cabinetry, and warm tones of walnut in furniture elements. The most private spaces of the home further extrude the slat element into fluted panels, painted in deeper colors.

THE MAKEOVER: The sunny easterly interior of the residence received a specialty seven-coat faux wall paint-out mixed with differing sheens to subtly reflect natural flooded sunlight. The kitchen was removed and replaced with Lilly white painted custom painted cabinetry with drawer & pot systems, ample pantry pullouts and a coffee/tea station. A very special waterjet cut partridge backsplash was selected for its uniqueness and ocean reflective colors. A Viking 7th gen column refrigerator and freezer (which also act as an air purifier) were used and a Thermador professional gas range & hood system were installed. A waterfall Cambria quartz countertop was installed for practical longevity along with new lighting and trims and an expansion of the passthrough viewing of the den media room. Trims and mouldings were refitted or replaced and the travertine floor repaired and polished. We kept the original wet bar design and refinished the cabinetry, added lighting and a unique coconut hull countertop. CONTRACTOR's note: Not everyone looks for a deeper connection with their designer & contractor; but we feel genuine care comes from working to please our clients and friendships develop that last far beyond the work. - Matthew Winchenbach LOCATION: OMNI AMELIA ISLAND PLANTATION/FERNANDINA BEACH FL

Photo of a landscaping in Phoenix.

Laundry room - coastal laundry room idea in Austin

Bluestone patio, bluestone porch and a bluestone and limestone table are all handsomely connected as unifying elements. Ransom keeps watch from behind the seasonal container.

The homeowners wanted to transform their dining room into a more open, functional, and visually connected space while honoring the home’s modern, mid-century style. Their main goals included removing the massive wall of rough-textured cabinetry, adding a view of the backyard from the front door, creating a serving area with multiple outlets for small appliances, incorporating deep drawers for linens, and adding display space. They also wanted quarter sawn oak cabinetry with hardware instead of the nail breaking routed pocket pulls, black accents, and a backsplash tile in a fun color or shape. Originally, the wall separating the dining room from the kitchen was slated for removal, but engineering requirements made this cost prohibitive. Instead, we collaborated with an architect and engineer to design a passthrough that maintained structural integrity. During construction, hidden HVAC was discovered, prompting us to build the wall out further, resulting in a deeper 16" passthrough; a happy accident that created an ideal display area with puck lighting. The cabinetry features Crystal Cabinet Works’ Encore frameless line in Quarter Sawn White Oak with a Natural matte finish, paired with matte black ladder shelves for display. A tiled, extra-deep toekick covered in matching floor tile gives the appearance of floating cabinetry while ensuring easy, mop-friendly maintenance. The wall is finished in matte square Nemo tile with glossy accents, adding vibrant color and texture. Cambria’s Smithfield quartz countertops provide a durable serving surface, while black floor tile with a metallic finish grounds the design. Now, the dining room serves as a hub for entertaining, with ample space for serving dishes, convenient power access, and a direct sightline from the kitchen to the backyard. Ready for a dining space that serves looks as well as dinner? Pull up a chair and let’s talk.

Watermark Residence was conceived as a “downsizing” project for Owners looking to transition from the home where they raised their family to a simpler lifestyle. The footprint and exterior massing of the single family condo was prescribed, but MMA wove new details into these constraints and was urged by the Owner to completely reinvent the interior experience. From the exterior, the home sits subtly on a corner lot, referencing the neighborhood in its style, but with a warmth and crispness that speaks also to the interiors. The primary goal of the project was to provide an open, inviting atmosphere of connected spaces that allowed natural light into all areas of the home. Upon entry, there is an immediate involvement in the daily activities with the living and dining rooms being the focal point, and a more intimate kitchen slightly out of view. Throughout the home, the idea of privacy and transparency plays an important role in the organization of spaces and materials chosen. More private corridors lead to intimate bedroom spaces and functional laundry and mudrooms. A two-floor, semi-transparent slat wall shields direct visibility from the street, while also providing connection between the entertaining spaces of the home. Combined with the white oak, open staircase, the movement between levels feels intuitive and inviting. A simple palette of materials, understated in their appearance but detailed in their execution, are threaded throughout the home. Gathering spaces are represented with open slats, grounding brick, white oak, and bright walls. Movement deeper into the house brings refined slat panels with integrated hardware at kitchen millwork, softly painted cabinetry, and warm tones of walnut in furniture elements. The most private spaces of the home further extrude the slat element into fluted panels, painted in deeper colors.

For many, professional interior design is a luxury. Whether your home’s design project is large or small, having the ability to transform your house, apartment or condo into a beautiful, unique space is a wonderful opportunity for self-expression. Even if it is a just simple accent wall painted in a color that speaks to you, or a complete renovation of your cabinets to achieve the kitchen of your dreams, interior design allows you to create an environment that is both personal and comfortable. That is exactly how interior designer and founder of Design Exchange Sean Carlson Perry feels about what he does for a living. “The reason that I love designing spaces, and value the impact of space design on people, is the way the spaces make us feel, the visceral appeal of good design. Good design should stimulate the senses and generate an emotionally engaging experience. As a designer, I get to massage and sculpt people’s experience of space!” Perry shared with us. In late 2017, the Paintzen team connected with Perry regarding a very special design project he was working on. Design Exchange was renovating, redesigning and re-furnishing The Ali Forney Center. The Ali Forney Center, based in New York City, is the largest and most comprehensive organization dedicated to housing homeless LGBTQ youth. Nearly 40% of the homeless youth population is LGBTQ. Homeless LGBTQ youth are eight times more likely to experience violence, discrimination, and suicide. AFC houses 124 youths each night and provides services to over 1,400 homeless young people per year. Although the organization does an incredible job to provide safety and shelter to homeless youth, Perry and his team felt the space itself could use some updating and could feel more welcoming. Rooms were dark, cold, and lacked proper storage. Furniture was in poor shape and didn’t work. The rooms were being under-utilized; overall, there was so much more that could be done within the walls of the AFC that could be improved using interior design & paint! We at Paintzen were excited to partner with Design Exchange to do our part in this transformation. The dark, paneled walls were re-painted white. This entirely opened up the space, making it brighter, warmer and more welcoming. The white walls also served as a much better backdrop for smart lighting, as well as for the furniture, wall decor, and new flooring. Beyond painting, Perry and his team used FLOR carpet tiles for durability in a bright Fuchsia shade for a pop of color. They created a more functional layout to maximize the space and make better use of its architectural details and added new furniture including lamps, tables, throws, a sofa, a TV and a Roku to make the space beautiful, and even fun. “Design increases connection and community,” Perry told us. “When we revamp a shelter space, history tells us that the residents spend more time in the space, more time with their peers, building connections and community; a greater sense of home.” Perry’s goal was to create an environment that set its residents up for success by improving their quality of life, outlook and self-esteem. “This isn’t extreme home makeover (although I wish I had that budget!). It’s about improving the aesthetics of the space to create a better environment and experience for people who are going through challenging times. I’ve been lucky enough to have an amount of work that allows me to donate a portion of profits to Design Exchange Projects.” Sean Carlson Perry founded Design Exchange as a way to use his talent, passion, and skills to help those who are struggling, or in a place of immediate need. He was searching to bring deeper meaning and a humanitarian component to his work. Perry has worked with clients in New York, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. “Good design—functionally, aesthetically and ergonomically—promotes a better quality of life.” This is a mantra that describes why Perry does what he does through Design Exchange, working to help the underserved of New York City and other cities across the country. “I grew up gay in Nebraska, and have gone through some hard times when I was younger, but I can’t imagine going through what these kids go through – rejection from family, being kicked out of the house for being who they are, homeless and having nowhere else to turn,” said Perry. “Luckily, there is The Ali Forney Center. Doing these projects for AFC strikes close to home for me, so they are extra special and close to my heart.”

The existing kitchen layout was flipped in order to provide a better traffic flow into and out of the space. With the refrigerator now sitting flush with the wall depth, the kitchen is more streamlined and visually less bulky. . The relocation of the peninsula allowed for deeper base cabinets for more storage, as well as a more spacious seating area. The full-height wall cabinet next to the peninsula features hidden storage spaces for the client’s crystals, while visually balancing out the refrigerator wall on the other side.

For many, professional interior design is a luxury. Whether your home’s design project is large or small, having the ability to transform your house, apartment or condo into a beautiful, unique space is a wonderful opportunity for self-expression. Even if it is a just simple accent wall painted in a color that speaks to you, or a complete renovation of your cabinets to achieve the kitchen of your dreams, interior design allows you to create an environment that is both personal and comfortable. That is exactly how interior designer and founder of Design Exchange Sean Carlson Perry feels about what he does for a living. “The reason that I love designing spaces, and value the impact of space design on people, is the way the spaces make us feel, the visceral appeal of good design. Good design should stimulate the senses and generate an emotionally engaging experience. As a designer, I get to massage and sculpt people’s experience of space!” Perry shared with us. In late 2017, the Paintzen team connected with Perry regarding a very special design project he was working on. Design Exchange was renovating, redesigning and re-furnishing The Ali Forney Center. The Ali Forney Center, based in New York City, is the largest and most comprehensive organization dedicated to housing homeless LGBTQ youth. Nearly 40% of the homeless youth population is LGBTQ. Homeless LGBTQ youth are eight times more likely to experience violence, discrimination, and suicide. AFC houses 124 youths each night and provides services to over 1,400 homeless young people per year. Although the organization does an incredible job to provide safety and shelter to homeless youth, Perry and his team felt the space itself could use some updating and could feel more welcoming. Rooms were dark, cold, and lacked proper storage. Furniture was in poor shape and didn’t work. The rooms were being under-utilized; overall, there was so much more that could be done within the walls of the AFC that could be improved using interior design & paint! We at Paintzen were excited to partner with Design Exchange to do our part in this transformation. The dark, paneled walls were re-painted white. This entirely opened up the space, making it brighter, warmer and more welcoming. The white walls also served as a much better backdrop for smart lighting, as well as for the furniture, wall decor, and new flooring. Beyond painting, Perry and his team used FLOR carpet tiles for durability in a bright Fuchsia shade for a pop of color. They created a more functional layout to maximize the space and make better use of its architectural details and added new furniture including lamps, tables, throws, a sofa, a TV and a Roku to make the space beautiful, and even fun. “Design increases connection and community,” Perry told us. “When we revamp a shelter space, history tells us that the residents spend more time in the space, more time with their peers, building connections and community; a greater sense of home.” Perry’s goal was to create an environment that set its residents up for success by improving their quality of life, outlook and self-esteem. “This isn’t extreme home makeover (although I wish I had that budget!). It’s about improving the aesthetics of the space to create a better environment and experience for people who are going through challenging times. I’ve been lucky enough to have an amount of work that allows me to donate a portion of profits to Design Exchange Projects.” Sean Carlson Perry founded Design Exchange as a way to use his talent, passion, and skills to help those who are struggling, or in a place of immediate need. He was searching to bring deeper meaning and a humanitarian component to his work. Perry has worked with clients in New York, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. “Good design—functionally, aesthetically and ergonomically—promotes a better quality of life.” This is a mantra that describes why Perry does what he does through Design Exchange, working to help the underserved of New York City and other cities across the country. “I grew up gay in Nebraska, and have gone through some hard times when I was younger, but I can’t imagine going through what these kids go through – rejection from family, being kicked out of the house for being who they are, homeless and having nowhere else to turn,” said Perry. “Luckily, there is The Ali Forney Center. Doing these projects for AFC strikes close to home for me, so they are extra special and close to my heart.”

Objectives · 55+ living with future aging in place requirements · One bathroom on this level of home for both guests and clients · Lots of storage and lighting Design Challenges · This room was a bedroom, all mechanicals needed to be moved or added. The soil stack could only be in one location. Could not move the window · Client wanted a large roll in shower · Contemporary styling with walnut , white and marble Design Solutions · 2-Pocket doors were added, from hallway and to master bedroom. this also helped with floor space and door swing with aging-in place · Large curb less shower with trench drain, bench, 2-grab bars, heated tile floor, niche, hand-held shower head and heavy clear glass shower door. Everything accessible for aging-in-place · Long vanity with 2 sinks. Height of vanity was to be under the window trim. Taller and deeper toe kicks for better wheelchair access. Vanity looks like all drawers-but the 2 sink cabinets are doors. · Ample Storage: each drawer has a drawer with in the drawer (extra 6 drawers), wall cabinets next to each vanity, 3 recess medicine cabinets, tall linen cabinet (open shelves below because the doors would hit the toilet and a place to store scale on bottom) · Toilet has a washlet to help with clean-up in the future and grab paper holder Special Features · Heated towel bar · Heated floors · Marble tile on floor and walls of shower and vanity mirror surround · Niche under recess medicine cabinets Lighting: Thin wall sconces, decorative ceiling fan and puck light