Advice on interior design is available everywhere—from TV shows and websites to books, magazines and apps. We love seeing people become engaged in design and educated on the wide range of possibilities. But we hope you’ll proceed with caution. It’s not that style errors are a matter of life and death. It’s just that it’s easy to choose designs that aren’t necessarily reflective of your own personality and character. And since you’re typically stuck with your interior design decisions for years, styles that don’t quite fit can tend to grate on you. Interiors that give one person comfort may unleash chaos in someone else. This goes beyond favorite colors or hot trends, right to the heart of interior design, where you find questions of composition, balance, repetition, space and more. The goal is to find that unique combination of design elements that gives you comfort, support and balance. In one home, that perfect balance was struck through the use of symmetry. A pair of comfortable swivel chairs sit beneath matching indigo patterned paintings. Matching bookcases below the paintings contain similar, but not identical, arrangements of books, vases and bowls. Woods and bronzes help warm up the simple white bookcase shelving. Two matching poufs in front of the fireplace provide additional seating. The sofa is accented with a pair of pillows with a blue pattern that echoes the artwork. The effect of the symmetry is to achieve order and simplicity, which I promote at every opportunity. After all, your home interiors should be the setting or the backdrop of your life—not center stage. Antique bronze and blue are complementary colors. Together, they offer a rich palette of richness and depth, which brings out the beauty of wood and stone. In the home office, a unique, whitewash-stained wooden desk rests on metal, Sawhorse-inspired legs for a warm, rustic look. The black leather chair features a contemporary silhouette with an antique brass frame. An adjustable desk lamp has bronze accents. The bookcase combines a sleek, black metal frame with concrete shelves, for another unusual pairing. It’s kept uncluttered for an orderly, peaceful look. Items on the shelves include a bronze-accented lamp and a pair of high gloss-finished wooden bookends. The elegant artwork behind the desk is a simple midnight-blue and bronze with mottled white. Deep blues are again picked up in the rug, which adds a stately vibe with a modern pattern and satisfying texture. Within the framework of symmetry, the living room repeats the blue-and-bronze color scheme. A large midcentury brass clock above the fireplace keeps the natural stone visible, rather than hidden behind a painting or television, while its straight lines and color create a beautiful contrast. The sofa is a soft, neutral blue. The pattern on the round brass side table features echoes the darker blue-patterned rug, as well as the rug in the office, tying the rooms together. Indigo blue books adjacent to bronze vases on the shelves repeat the color scheme. The soapstone-topped coffee table echoes the shape of the fireplace. A pair of tall, matching floor lamps with long wooden bases, brass pulls and simple linen shades combine both the colors and symmetry found throughout the home.

Description: The Plane Cloud is a decorative pendant lamp shaped by the geometric play of 12 identical curls of steam-bent wood - reminiscent of the shaving curls off a well tuned plane. Recognition: The Plane Cloud launched in January 2014 at the Toronto Interior Design Show. It was recognized as one of the top design finds of the show by Sarah Richardson, Blog TO, Livewithculture.ca and GalerieCO of Montreal. It has since been featured in countless design magazines and blogs internationally. Distribution: It is available for purchase at the Storyboard Furniture shop, and Lighting Nelson and Garret in Toronto. We are in talks with retail locations across Canada. Materials: The steam bent strips of wood are salvaged from Toronto’s urban forest. A variety of wood species are used based on availability and suitability. One side of the curl is finished with a Scandinavian traditional soap finish. The other side is coloured with liquitex professional colour fast spray paint, which is available in close to 100 colours. Our production models have white spun metal fittings, 8’ of white wire and a ceiling plate. All lamps are ESA certified.

Office Workstations and Cubicles: The Unsung Heroes of Efficient Team Environments In today's fast-paced business world, the hum of productivity is the sweetest sound an office can produce. But what fuels this symphony of efficiency? While leadership and strategy are crucial, the physical environment in which a team operates plays a role that is just as vital. The debate between open-plan offices and traditional cubicles has raged for years, yet the truth is that a well-designed space incorporating both office workstations cubicles can be the key to unlocking a team's full potential. This isn't just about furniture; it's about creating a habitat for success. The Evolution of the Workspace: Beyond the Beige Box Gone are the days of monotonous rows of identical, soul-crushing cubicles. Modern office design has embraced a more nuanced understanding of worker needs. The contemporary workstation is a far cry from its predecessors, offering flexibility, ergonomic support, and a nod to aesthetic appeal. This evolution recognizes that a one-size-fits-all approach stifles creativity and productivity. Fostering Focus in a Sea of Collaboration While collaboration is a cornerstone of modern business, the need for individual, focused work remains paramount. This is where the modern cubicle shines. It provides a sanctuary from the constant distractions of a completely open office, allowing employees to delve deep into tasks that require concentration. This dedicated space minimizes interruptions, leading to higher quality work and reduced stress levels. The Power of Personalization and Ownership Giving employees a degree of control over their immediate environment can have a profound impact on morale and engagement. Modern workstations and cubicles that allow for personalization be it through adjustable shelving, pinboards for personal items, or even the choice of chair foster a sense of ownership. This small act of empowerment can translate into a greater sense of belonging and commitment to the organization. Ergonomics: The Foundation of Employee Well-being and Productivity A comfortable employee is a productive employee. Ergonomics is not a luxury; it's a fundamental necessity in any office environment. Poorly designed workstations can lead to a host of musculoskeletal issues, from back pain to carpal tunnel syndrome, resulting in increased absenteeism and decreased efficiency. Investing in ergonomic chairs, adjustable-height desks, and properly positioned monitors is an investment in the long-term health and performance of your team. Designing for Synergy: The Strategic office layout design The arrangement of workstations and cubicles is as important as the furniture itself. A strategic office layout design can facilitate seamless communication and collaboration while still providing pockets of privacy for focused work. This involves creating "neighborhoods" for different teams, placing collaborative zones in central, easily accessible areas, and ensuring that high-traffic pathways don't cut through quiet work zones. Breaking Down Barriers with Hybrid Designs The most effective office environments often feature a hybrid approach. This might involve clusters of cubicles for focused work, interspersed with open, collaborative "huddle spaces" equipped with whiteboards and comfortable seating. This variety allows employees to choose the environment that best suits the task at hand, offering the best of both worlds. The Role of Acoustics in a Thriving Workplace Noise is one of the biggest complaints in open-plan offices. Well-designed cubicles with sound-dampening panels can significantly mitigate this issue. Furthermore, incorporating acoustic solutions throughout the office, such as sound-absorbing materials on walls and ceilings, can create a more pleasant and productive auditory environment for everyone. Integrating Technology for a Seamless Workflow In the digital age, technology is the lifeblood of any business. Modern office workstations are designed with this in mind, featuring integrated power and data ports, cable management systems, and ample space for multiple monitors. This seamless integration of technology ensures that employees have the tools they need to work efficiently and without frustration. Choosing the Right Partner for Your Office Environment The task of outfitting an office can be daunting. Partnering with a knowledgeable and reputable Meet&Co commercial furniture supplier is crucial to creating an environment that is both functional and inspiring. A good supplier will not only offer a wide range of high-quality products but will also provide expert advice on space planning and ergonomic best practices, ensuring that your investment yields the best possible return. The Future of the Office: Flexibility and Adaptability The world of work is constantly evolving, and office design must evolve with it. The future lies in creating flexible and adaptable spaces that can be easily reconfigured to meet the changing needs of a business. Modular furniture and movable partitions are key components of this future-proof approach, allowing organizations to scale and adapt without the need for costly and disruptive renovations. Conclusion: A Strategic Investment in Your Greatest Asset Ultimately, the design of your office is a direct reflection of your company's culture and values. By investing in high-quality, ergonomic, and well-designed office workstations and cubicles, you are sending a clear message to your employees: their well-being and productivity matter. This strategic investment in your physical workspace is, in fact, an investment in your most valuable asset your people. The result is a more engaged, efficient, and innovative team, ready to tackle the challenges of tomorrow.

Description: The Plane Cloud is a decorative pendant lamp shaped by the geometric play of 12 identical curls of steam-bent wood - reminiscent of the shaving curls off a well tuned plane. Recognition: The Plane Cloud launched in January 2014 at the Toronto Interior Design Show. It was recognized as one of the top design finds of the show by Sarah Richardson, Blog TO, Livewithculture.ca and GalerieCO of Montreal. It has since been featured in countless design magazines and blogs internationally. Distribution: It is available for purchase at the Storyboard Furniture shop, and Lighting Nelson and Garret in Toronto. We are in talks with retail locations across Canada. Materials: The steam bent strips of wood are salvaged from Toronto’s urban forest. A variety of wood species are used based on availability and suitability. One side of the curl is finished with a Scandinavian traditional soap finish. The other side is coloured with liquitex professional colour fast spray paint, which is available in close to 100 colours. Our production models have white spun metal fittings, 8’ of white wire and a ceiling plate. All lamps are ESA certified.

Martins Avenue is a beautiful, curved staircase made out of steel as the base material. Curved stairs are a challenge because you need to get the soffit (the underside of the staircase) curved and twisted around the base of the stairs to get the nice flowing lines. And because the timber work was outsourced to other builders, we had to work closely alongside them in order to get the soffit curved just right and ensure everything matched the flooring. The other big challenge was that the curved balustrade needed to be an identical match to the staircase and have a nice, smooth, curved line. In order to achieve this, we built both the steel stairs and balustrade in the shop at the same time and match drilled the balustrade through. Therefore when we brought it to site we knew it would fit perfectly. The angle on the bottom of the balustrade was designed to cover the junction or zig zag angle between the steel and the timber. Because of how this staircase had to be designed and built, it was extremely heavy and a challenging install. Additionally, as the walls of the site were all finished, we had to take all the necessary precautions to get the stairs installed without causing any damage or leaving any markings. Afterwards, the builders covered the underside with gib and closed risers to hide the cladding underneath. There was absolutely no room for error with this staircase and we at Stairworks, the builders and the clients are all extremely happy with the end result!

Our Austin studio decided to go bold with this project by ensuring that each space had a unique identity in the Mid-Century Modern style bathroom, butler's pantry, and mudroom. We covered the bathroom walls and flooring with stylish beige and yellow tile that was cleverly installed to look like two different patterns. The mint cabinet and pink vanity reflect the mid-century color palette. The stylish knobs and fittings add an extra splash of fun to the bathroom. The butler's pantry is located right behind the kitchen and serves multiple functions like storage, a study area, and a bar. We went with a moody blue color for the cabinets and included a raw wood open shelf to give depth and warmth to the space. We went with some gorgeous artistic tiles that create a bold, intriguing look in the space. In the mudroom, we used siding materials to create a shiplap effect to create warmth and texture – a homage to the classic Mid-Century Modern design. We used the same blue from the butler's pantry to create a cohesive effect. The large mint cabinets add a lighter touch to the space.

Unabashedly simple and uncluttered, the minimalist interior invites the dramatic alpine views into the home’s visual dialogue. Integrated design features—built-in cabinets and seating as well as a floor-to-ceiling headboard inset into the master bedroom wall—create a seamless merger of architecture and interior design. Unique “rustic-gone-refined” details throughout the home’s interior and exterior allow the covenant-restricted resort community home to retain an individual identity while comfortably fitting into its neighborhood. Photo Credit: Douglas Kahn

Our Austin studio decided to go bold with this project by ensuring that each space had a unique identity in the Mid-Century Modern style bathroom, butler's pantry, and mudroom. We covered the bathroom walls and flooring with stylish beige and yellow tile that was cleverly installed to look like two different patterns. The mint cabinet and pink vanity reflect the mid-century color palette. The stylish knobs and fittings add an extra splash of fun to the bathroom. The butler's pantry is located right behind the kitchen and serves multiple functions like storage, a study area, and a bar. We went with a moody blue color for the cabinets and included a raw wood open shelf to give depth and warmth to the space. We went with some gorgeous artistic tiles that create a bold, intriguing look in the space. In the mudroom, we used siding materials to create a shiplap effect to create warmth and texture – a homage to the classic Mid-Century Modern design. We used the same blue from the butler's pantry to create a cohesive effect. The large mint cabinets add a lighter touch to the space.

This completed jewelry store renovation has transformed a traditional retail space into an elegant, modern, and inviting environment, designed to enhance the customer experience and showcase the store’s high-end collections. The design focuses on blending luxury with functionality, creating a sophisticated atmosphere that highlights both the beauty of the jewelry and the comfort of the shopping experience. The layout has been redesigned to allow for an open and intuitive flow, with carefully placed display cases that ensure each piece is prominently featured. Custom-built cabinetry, glass display cases, and polished lighting create an atmosphere of elegance, making the jewelry the centerpiece of the space. Energy-efficient LED lighting was integrated to highlight the brilliance of the jewels while maintaining a welcoming and warm ambiance. The store's flooring has been updated with high-quality materials like marble or polished wood to complement the luxurious feel, while the walls were adorned with textured finishes and tasteful artwork, adding visual interest without overwhelming the space. The fitting areas were designed for privacy and comfort, providing a relaxed environment for customers to try on pieces. A state-of-the-art security system was also installed to protect the valuable inventory, blending seamlessly into the design. The renovation also included updated plumbing and electrical systems to support the store's operational needs. This jewelry store renovation successfully combines aesthetics with functionality, offering a refined and inviting space that elevates both the customer experience and the overall brand identity. You can read more about our commercial projects on our website - https://santechconstruction.com/commercial/

Martins Avenue is a beautiful, curved staircase made out of steel as the base material. Curved stairs are a challenge because you need to get the soffit (the underside of the staircase) curved and twisted around the base of the stairs to get the nice flowing lines. And because the timber work was outsourced to other builders, we had to work closely alongside them in order to get the soffit curved just right and ensure everything matched the flooring. The other big challenge was that the curved balustrade needed to be an identical match to the staircase and have a nice, smooth, curved line. In order to achieve this, we built both the steel stairs and balustrade in the shop at the same time and match drilled the balustrade through. Therefore when we brought it to site we knew it would fit perfectly. The angle on the bottom of the balustrade was designed to cover the junction or zig zag angle between the steel and the timber. Because of how this staircase had to be designed and built, it was extremely heavy and a challenging install. Additionally, as the walls of the site were all finished, we had to take all the necessary precautions to get the stairs installed without causing any damage or leaving any markings. Afterwards, the builders covered the underside with gib and closed risers to hide the cladding underneath. There was absolutely no room for error with this staircase and we at Stairworks, the builders and the clients are all extremely happy with the end result!

AK4002: "The Pour" Skinny Rain DESCRIPTION: The light installation is a teardrop-shaped chandelier with deliciously unique lights that celebrate the fascinating nature of raindrops, where no drop is the same as the next. Each drop is hand-blown by artisans and intricately engineered to house the lighting strategy for the chandelier. When you see a light sculpture designed to increase the visual appeal of a room and define its luminous character, you stop on your way to admire it. It’s the case of the Raindrop chandelier known as “The Pour”, a modern light sculpture meant to illuminate and beautify its chosen location to create an architectural relationship with space. The drop itself is constructed of two parts: the brass screw cap, which houses the light, and the hand-blown crystal reflecting the light to create puddles on the floor below. To replicate the nature of raindrops, no two drops are blown identical. The name “The Pour” derives from the distinctive shape that the chandelier forms: an exaggeration of the dramatic motion of water pouring out of a carafe. Designed by forming a grid mimicking how puddles ripple outward in concentric circles, each teardrop is hung to brass pipes of varying lengths. Placed strategically on the grid, the teardrops lock into the mirrored base that fits seamlessly between the two existing columns. The mirrored base reflects the teardrops endlessly into the sky above and when lit. The chandelier echoes rain frozen in time with ephemeral puddles overlaid on the floor below. SPECIFICATIONS: Collection: Organic Size: 58” Long x 13” Width x 72” Height (112 Lights) Shape: Rectangular Frame Finish: Patina Dark Bronze Materials: Metal, Glass Extension: 12' feet adjustable wiring available in black or silver Glass: Hand-blown glass Bulbs: 112 Bulbs 110V USA/220V Europe 40 W candelabra bulbs (included) Weight: 135 lbs. (for the 58" L) Assembly: Some Assembly Dimmer Switch Compatible: Optional Rush Order: 4-6 Weeks; 15% added to the total Regular Lead Time: 8-12 Weeks Warranty: 5 Years Full Coverage (includes parts replacement) SIZE OPTIONS: Size: Price: 30” Long x 13” Width x 66” Height (69 Lights) $3,360.00 36” Long x 13” Width x 66” Height (79 Lights) $4,660.00 42” Long x 13” Width x 66” Height (89 Lights) $6,470.00 58” Long x 16” Width x 72” Height (112 Lights) $7,670.00 71” Long x 20" Width x 82” Height (242 Lights) $9,820.00 Custom Sizes, Finishes, Colors Available Upon Request Additional Info- Handblown Glass: 2" Width x 4" Height

Our Austin studio decided to go bold with this project by ensuring that each space had a unique identity in the Mid-Century Modern style bathroom, butler's pantry, and mudroom. We covered the bathroom walls and flooring with stylish beige and yellow tile that was cleverly installed to look like two different patterns. The mint cabinet and pink vanity reflect the mid-century color palette. The stylish knobs and fittings add an extra splash of fun to the bathroom. The butler's pantry is located right behind the kitchen and serves multiple functions like storage, a study area, and a bar. We went with a moody blue color for the cabinets and included a raw wood open shelf to give depth and warmth to the space. We went with some gorgeous artistic tiles that create a bold, intriguing look in the space. In the mudroom, we used siding materials to create a shiplap effect to create warmth and texture – a homage to the classic Mid-Century Modern design. We used the same blue from the butler's pantry to create a cohesive effect. The large mint cabinets add a lighter touch to the space.

On a budget, in a rental property, when your powder room is identical to 1,500 units in the area. Accentuate the fittings you have with simple updates of paint and lights. Easily removed when leave.

Advice on interior design is available everywhere—from TV shows and websites to books, magazines and apps. We love seeing people become engaged in design and educated on the wide range of possibilities. But we hope you’ll proceed with caution. It’s not that style errors are a matter of life and death. It’s just that it’s easy to choose designs that aren’t necessarily reflective of your own personality and character. And since you’re typically stuck with your interior design decisions for years, styles that don’t quite fit can tend to grate on you. Interiors that give one person comfort may unleash chaos in someone else. This goes beyond favorite colors or hot trends, right to the heart of interior design, where you find questions of composition, balance, repetition, space and more. The goal is to find that unique combination of design elements that gives you comfort, support and balance. In one home, that perfect balance was struck through the use of symmetry. A pair of comfortable swivel chairs sit beneath matching indigo patterned paintings. Matching bookcases below the paintings contain similar, but not identical, arrangements of books, vases and bowls. Woods and bronzes help warm up the simple white bookcase shelving. Two matching poufs in front of the fireplace provide additional seating. The sofa is accented with a pair of pillows with a blue pattern that echoes the artwork. The effect of the symmetry is to achieve order and simplicity, which I promote at every opportunity. After all, your home interiors should be the setting or the backdrop of your life—not center stage. Antique bronze and blue are complementary colors. Together, they offer a rich palette of richness and depth, which brings out the beauty of wood and stone. In the home office, a unique, whitewash-stained wooden desk rests on metal, Sawhorse-inspired legs for a warm, rustic look. The black leather chair features a contemporary silhouette with an antique brass frame. An adjustable desk lamp has bronze accents. The bookcase combines a sleek, black metal frame with concrete shelves, for another unusual pairing. It’s kept uncluttered for an orderly, peaceful look. Items on the shelves include a bronze-accented lamp and a pair of high gloss-finished wooden bookends. The elegant artwork behind the desk is a simple midnight-blue and bronze with mottled white. Deep blues are again picked up in the rug, which adds a stately vibe with a modern pattern and satisfying texture. Within the framework of symmetry, the living room repeats the blue-and-bronze color scheme. A large midcentury brass clock above the fireplace keeps the natural stone visible, rather than hidden behind a painting or television, while its straight lines and color create a beautiful contrast. The sofa is a soft, neutral blue. The pattern on the round brass side table features echoes the darker blue-patterned rug, as well as the rug in the office, tying the rooms together. Indigo blue books adjacent to bronze vases on the shelves repeat the color scheme. The soapstone-topped coffee table echoes the shape of the fireplace. A pair of tall, matching floor lamps with long wooden bases, brass pulls and simple linen shades combine both the colors and symmetry found throughout the home.

Advice on interior design is available everywhere—from TV shows and websites to books, magazines and apps. We love seeing people become engaged in design and educated on the wide range of possibilities. But we hope you’ll proceed with caution. It’s not that style errors are a matter of life and death. It’s just that it’s easy to choose designs that aren’t necessarily reflective of your own personality and character. And since you’re typically stuck with your interior design decisions for years, styles that don’t quite fit can tend to grate on you. Interiors that give one person comfort may unleash chaos in someone else. This goes beyond favorite colors or hot trends, right to the heart of interior design, where you find questions of composition, balance, repetition, space and more. The goal is to find that unique combination of design elements that gives you comfort, support and balance. In one home, that perfect balance was struck through the use of symmetry. A pair of comfortable swivel chairs sit beneath matching indigo patterned paintings. Matching bookcases below the paintings contain similar, but not identical, arrangements of books, vases and bowls. Woods and bronzes help warm up the simple white bookcase shelving. Two matching poufs in front of the fireplace provide additional seating. The sofa is accented with a pair of pillows with a blue pattern that echoes the artwork. The effect of the symmetry is to achieve order and simplicity, which I promote at every opportunity. After all, your home interiors should be the setting or the backdrop of your life—not center stage. Antique bronze and blue are complementary colors. Together, they offer a rich palette of richness and depth, which brings out the beauty of wood and stone. In the home office, a unique, whitewash-stained wooden desk rests on metal, Sawhorse-inspired legs for a warm, rustic look. The black leather chair features a contemporary silhouette with an antique brass frame. An adjustable desk lamp has bronze accents. The bookcase combines a sleek, black metal frame with concrete shelves, for another unusual pairing. It’s kept uncluttered for an orderly, peaceful look. Items on the shelves include a bronze-accented lamp and a pair of high gloss-finished wooden bookends. The elegant artwork behind the desk is a simple midnight-blue and bronze with mottled white. Deep blues are again picked up in the rug, which adds a stately vibe with a modern pattern and satisfying texture. Within the framework of symmetry, the living room repeats the blue-and-bronze color scheme. A large midcentury brass clock above the fireplace keeps the natural stone visible, rather than hidden behind a painting or television, while its straight lines and color create a beautiful contrast. The sofa is a soft, neutral blue. The pattern on the round brass side table features echoes the darker blue-patterned rug, as well as the rug in the office, tying the rooms together. Indigo blue books adjacent to bronze vases on the shelves repeat the color scheme. The soapstone-topped coffee table echoes the shape of the fireplace. A pair of tall, matching floor lamps with long wooden bases, brass pulls and simple linen shades combine both the colors and symmetry found throughout the home.

Our Austin studio decided to go bold with this project by ensuring that each space had a unique identity in the Mid-Century Modern style bathroom, butler's pantry, and mudroom. We covered the bathroom walls and flooring with stylish beige and yellow tile that was cleverly installed to look like two different patterns. The mint cabinet and pink vanity reflect the mid-century color palette. The stylish knobs and fittings add an extra splash of fun to the bathroom. The butler's pantry is located right behind the kitchen and serves multiple functions like storage, a study area, and a bar. We went with a moody blue color for the cabinets and included a raw wood open shelf to give depth and warmth to the space. We went with some gorgeous artistic tiles that create a bold, intriguing look in the space. In the mudroom, we used siding materials to create a shiplap effect to create warmth and texture – a homage to the classic Mid-Century Modern design. We used the same blue from the butler's pantry to create a cohesive effect. The large mint cabinets add a lighter touch to the space.

Advice on interior design is available everywhere—from TV shows and websites to books, magazines and apps. We love seeing people become engaged in design and educated on the wide range of possibilities. But we hope you’ll proceed with caution. It’s not that style errors are a matter of life and death. It’s just that it’s easy to choose designs that aren’t necessarily reflective of your own personality and character. And since you’re typically stuck with your interior design decisions for years, styles that don’t quite fit can tend to grate on you. Interiors that give one person comfort may unleash chaos in someone else. This goes beyond favorite colors or hot trends, right to the heart of interior design, where you find questions of composition, balance, repetition, space and more. The goal is to find that unique combination of design elements that gives you comfort, support and balance. In one home, that perfect balance was struck through the use of symmetry. A pair of comfortable swivel chairs sit beneath matching indigo patterned paintings. Matching bookcases below the paintings contain similar, but not identical, arrangements of books, vases and bowls. Woods and bronzes help warm up the simple white bookcase shelving. Two matching poufs in front of the fireplace provide additional seating. The sofa is accented with a pair of pillows with a blue pattern that echoes the artwork. The effect of the symmetry is to achieve order and simplicity, which I promote at every opportunity. After all, your home interiors should be the setting or the backdrop of your life—not center stage. Antique bronze and blue are complementary colors. Together, they offer a rich palette of richness and depth, which brings out the beauty of wood and stone. In the home office, a unique, whitewash-stained wooden desk rests on metal, Sawhorse-inspired legs for a warm, rustic look. The black leather chair features a contemporary silhouette with an antique brass frame. An adjustable desk lamp has bronze accents. The bookcase combines a sleek, black metal frame with concrete shelves, for another unusual pairing. It’s kept uncluttered for an orderly, peaceful look. Items on the shelves include a bronze-accented lamp and a pair of high gloss-finished wooden bookends. The elegant artwork behind the desk is a simple midnight-blue and bronze with mottled white. Deep blues are again picked up in the rug, which adds a stately vibe with a modern pattern and satisfying texture. Within the framework of symmetry, the living room repeats the blue-and-bronze color scheme. A large midcentury brass clock above the fireplace keeps the natural stone visible, rather than hidden behind a painting or television, while its straight lines and color create a beautiful contrast. The sofa is a soft, neutral blue. The pattern on the round brass side table features echoes the darker blue-patterned rug, as well as the rug in the office, tying the rooms together. Indigo blue books adjacent to bronze vases on the shelves repeat the color scheme. The soapstone-topped coffee table echoes the shape of the fireplace. A pair of tall, matching floor lamps with long wooden bases, brass pulls and simple linen shades combine both the colors and symmetry found throughout the home.

With a growing family, the owners of this brick ranch were desperately in need of extra space. The second floor addition provided the needed space while giving the house a totally new identity from the street. A carefully integrated porch with a swooping roof gives the owners a dramatic focal point for the covered entry and a place to sit and watch the kids as they run around the neighborhood. The first floor was totally opened up to give the house a comfortable and contemporary feel, with arches to delineate individual rooms. The second floor has three bedrooms and a generous master suite, as well as a second floor laundry room for convenience. The stucco and timber exterior blends nicely with the existing brick and gives the house unique character while fitting comfortably into the neighborhood.

Advice on interior design is available everywhere—from TV shows and websites to books, magazines and apps. We love seeing people become engaged in design and educated on the wide range of possibilities. But we hope you’ll proceed with caution. It’s not that style errors are a matter of life and death. It’s just that it’s easy to choose designs that aren’t necessarily reflective of your own personality and character. And since you’re typically stuck with your interior design decisions for years, styles that don’t quite fit can tend to grate on you. Interiors that give one person comfort may unleash chaos in someone else. This goes beyond favorite colors or hot trends, right to the heart of interior design, where you find questions of composition, balance, repetition, space and more. The goal is to find that unique combination of design elements that gives you comfort, support and balance. In one home, that perfect balance was struck through the use of symmetry. A pair of comfortable swivel chairs sit beneath matching indigo patterned paintings. Matching bookcases below the paintings contain similar, but not identical, arrangements of books, vases and bowls. Woods and bronzes help warm up the simple white bookcase shelving. Two matching poufs in front of the fireplace provide additional seating. The sofa is accented with a pair of pillows with a blue pattern that echoes the artwork. The effect of the symmetry is to achieve order and simplicity, which I promote at every opportunity. After all, your home interiors should be the setting or the backdrop of your life—not center stage. Antique bronze and blue are complementary colors. Together, they offer a rich palette of richness and depth, which brings out the beauty of wood and stone. In the home office, a unique, whitewash-stained wooden desk rests on metal, Sawhorse-inspired legs for a warm, rustic look. The black leather chair features a contemporary silhouette with an antique brass frame. An adjustable desk lamp has bronze accents. The bookcase combines a sleek, black metal frame with concrete shelves, for another unusual pairing. It’s kept uncluttered for an orderly, peaceful look. Items on the shelves include a bronze-accented lamp and a pair of high gloss-finished wooden bookends. The elegant artwork behind the desk is a simple midnight-blue and bronze with mottled white. Deep blues are again picked up in the rug, which adds a stately vibe with a modern pattern and satisfying texture. Within the framework of symmetry, the living room repeats the blue-and-bronze color scheme. A large midcentury brass clock above the fireplace keeps the natural stone visible, rather than hidden behind a painting or television, while its straight lines and color create a beautiful contrast. The sofa is a soft, neutral blue. The pattern on the round brass side table features echoes the darker blue-patterned rug, as well as the rug in the office, tying the rooms together. Indigo blue books adjacent to bronze vases on the shelves repeat the color scheme. The soapstone-topped coffee table echoes the shape of the fireplace. A pair of tall, matching floor lamps with long wooden bases, brass pulls and simple linen shades combine both the colors and symmetry found throughout the home.