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.”

Quaternary Celtic Knot This door was designed with the objective of universal appeal; a unique and beautiful element to sell to potential home buyers, commissioned by architect Cheri Belz in Boulder, Colorado. Raleigh Renfree chose to draw on the ancient rhythms of Celtic design, and expand those same ideas into a modern home. These Celtic knots have ubiquitous appeal because they are intrinsically recognized symbols of eternity as well as quaternary patterns found in all life and history. The closed loop of the knot has neither beginning nor end, though four distinct motions are created, which in turn create further motion. By grouping these knots into a pattern of three, Raleigh also balanced masculine and feminine elements, enriching the door’s universal appeal yet again. To harmonize the ancient heartbeat of these knot patterns with the modern flair of the architectural style of the home, Raleigh included a very skillfully inlaid pattern of slate. The geometric slate not only mirrors the curves and edges of the home’s exterior, it also tells a story of geometric creation only found through balancing the masculine with the feminine. The circle as mother, the triangle as father, and the square as child, all joined in harmony to create a flow of energy through all aspects of the self. In truly brilliant fashion, Raleigh expressed timeless knowledge harmonizing two rather diverse styles, and eased this entryway into a truly inviting and appealing “welcome home” for any buyer.

Chipper Hatter Photography
Transitional l-shaped medium tone wood floor open concept kitchen photo in Sacramento with an undermount sink, recessed-panel cabinets, medium tone wood cabinets, glass tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances and an island

This client expressed to me that he had talked to several people that call their self pergola designers and I was the 1st one to come up with something that met his needs and wants. please note the holes in the concrete were the posts are setting. By putting the post in the ground we stabilize the structure immensely and today those holes are being used as planters for vines to grow out of.

The marble mosaic tile 'rug' defines the space between the two vanities. The floating shelves on either end of the tub do dual duty of providing a landing space for wine glasses as well as offering the homeowners a place for decorative self expression. Photos by A Kitchen That Works LLC

The Hamptons Collection boasts clean, modern lines, reminiscent of the yachts that sail off the coast of this group's namesake. Celebrate brisk Long Island Americanism with this comfortably versatile collection. Versatility and understated elegance means the Hamptons Collection is easily adaptable to multiple room and decor styles. Self-expression is also a crucial feature of this collection; free-standing sectional units can be configured as a continuous seating arrangement or moved about to create intimate conversation nooks.

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 Bertazzoni Collezione Metalli Decor sets turn an elegant stainless steel design into a personalized look. Explore Bertazzoni's 2021 Kitchen Trends and learn from our experts how to elevate your kitchen from a purely functional mandate through style and self-expression.

Just as art is a form of self-expression, so is the process of its selection. Composing your own gallery is not about following rules, it’s about following your heart to imagery you love. Begin the search in store or online at livingspaces.com and discover paintings and pictures that will resonate with you and bring joy to any room.

The Petal & Poppy Home is a vibrant, collected family residence defined by bold color, layered pattern, and a confident sense of personality. Designed over several years as the young family grew, the home reflects an evolving story rooted in warmth, creativity, and a love of expressive interiors. Color guided the design from the outset. A blue grasscloth dining room and an existing pink Persian rug in the formal living room became the foundation for a palette that unfolded organically throughout the home. With clients eager to mix patterns and embrace saturated hues, the design process focused on contrast, cohesion, and joyful self-expression. The entry makes an immediate statement with a playful spotted stair runner, oversized artwork, and a high-gloss black handrail that introduces graphic contrast. The formal living room, designed for entertaining, is the moodiest space in the home. Dark garnet walls and a commissioned piece by local artist Carrie Gillen create a dramatic backdrop, while pink tweed swivel chairs and a tailored charcoal sofa complete a space designed for lingering. Beyond French doors, the home office is an immersive mix of pattern and color, with wallpaper wrapping both walls and ceiling. A leopard carpet and modern crystal chandelier add a touch of glamour, resulting in a space that feels energizing and personal. The dining room continues the confident use of blue, layering patterns around a custom round pedestal table designed for everyday meals and gatherings alike. At the heart of the home, the family room was designed for togetherness. A bright blue sectional anchors the space, complemented by custom ottomans on hidden casters and softened with tailored throw pillows. Existing bookshelves are refreshed with a Peter Fasano wallcovering, creating a collected, lived-in backdrop. Upstairs, the primary suite offers a softer expression of color, blending blues, oranges, and pinks, while built-in window benches add moments of comfort. The children’s bedrooms balance playfulness with longevity, layered with color and texture designed to grow alongside them. The Petal & Poppy Home is a celebration of color, creativity, and family life—an interior that feels intentionally layered, expressive, and deeply personal, designed to evolve over time.

Armen Living Mad Hatter Dining Chair in Black Use this regal chair in the dining room or the living room. The deep black velvet color suites many settings. Armen Living is the quintessential modern-day furniture designer and manufacturer. With flexibility and speed to market, Armen Living exceeds the customer’s expectations at every level of interaction. Armen Living not only delivers sensational products of exceptional quality, but also offers extraordinarily powerful reliability and capability only limited by the imagination. The client relationships are fully supported and sustained by a stellar name, legendary history, and enduring reputation. The groundbreaking new Armen Living line represents a refreshingly innovative creative collaboration with top designers in the home furnishings industry. The result is a uniquely modern collection gorgeously enhanced by sophisticated retro aesthetics. Armen Living celebrates bold individuality, vibrant youthfulness, sensual refinement, and expert craftsmanship at fiscally sensible price points. Each piece conveys pleasure and exudes self expression while resonating with the contemporary chic lifestyle.

Some families measure a life well-lived not in possessions, but in moments. Elevé Studios is the physical expression of that conviction. Set within a private equestrian property in Silver Creek in Park City, this 5,000 square foot accessory studio was designed to serve as the experiential heart of the estate. Vitruvius Built was engaged to deliver a structure that is equal parts athlete's retreat, entertainer's sanctuary, and private resort, built to the same precision and permanence as the main residence it supports. The program is unapologetically experiential: a regulation heated pickleball court, a private pilates and yoga studio, a professional golf simulator, and an expansive garage occupy the main volume, while a self-contained ADU provides accommodations for guests or extended family. Each element was specified and constructed to perform at the highest level, because for this family, investing in how you spend time is the only investment that compounds without limit. A 45-kilowatt solar installation with integrated EV charging reflects the same philosophy extended outward. The land that frames this property is part of what makes it extraordinary, and the family's commitment to preserving it is built into the structure itself. Elevé Studios is a testament to what becomes possible when a family knows exactly what it values, and partners with a builder who understands how to make it permanent. Architecture & Interiors: AD Architects

Our Custom Table Program allows you to choose your style, your finish, the size of the table to the inch and how you want the grain of the top surface to run. That's a lot of opportunity for self-expression. Custom Finishes Available. Sherrill CTH

The Petal & Poppy Home is a vibrant, collected family residence defined by bold color, layered pattern, and a confident sense of personality. Designed over several years as the young family grew, the home reflects an evolving story rooted in warmth, creativity, and a love of expressive interiors. Color guided the design from the outset. A blue grasscloth dining room and an existing pink Persian rug in the formal living room became the foundation for a palette that unfolded organically throughout the home. With clients eager to mix patterns and embrace saturated hues, the design process focused on contrast, cohesion, and joyful self-expression. The entry makes an immediate statement with a playful spotted stair runner, oversized artwork, and a high-gloss black handrail that introduces graphic contrast. The formal living room, designed for entertaining, is the moodiest space in the home. Dark garnet walls and a commissioned piece by local artist Carrie Gillen create a dramatic backdrop, while pink tweed swivel chairs and a tailored charcoal sofa complete a space designed for lingering. Beyond French doors, the home office is an immersive mix of pattern and color, with wallpaper wrapping both walls and ceiling. A leopard carpet and modern crystal chandelier add a touch of glamour, resulting in a space that feels energizing and personal. The dining room continues the confident use of blue, layering patterns around a custom round pedestal table designed for everyday meals and gatherings alike. At the heart of the home, the family room was designed for togetherness. A bright blue sectional anchors the space, complemented by custom ottomans on hidden casters and softened with tailored throw pillows. Existing bookshelves are refreshed with a Peter Fasano wallcovering, creating a collected, lived-in backdrop. Upstairs, the primary suite offers a softer expression of color, blending blues, oranges, and pinks, while built-in window benches add moments of comfort. The children’s bedrooms balance playfulness with longevity, layered with color and texture designed to grow alongside them. The Petal & Poppy Home is a celebration of color, creativity, and family life—an interior that feels intentionally layered, expressive, and deeply personal, designed to evolve over time.

In a cozy suburban home nestled beneath the sprawling oak trees, a bathroom transformation was underway. A man named Jon Cancellino had embarked on a journey to create his dream bathroom, a space that would exude a unique blend of elegance and functionality. The first step in Jon's custom bathroom adventure was revamping the walls. To add a touch of character, he chose exquisite mosaic tiles that sparkled with a medley of colors, reflecting his vibrant personality. These tiles created a captivating canvas, covering the bathroom walls from floor to ceiling. To enhance the natural lighting, Jon decided to install window blinds and shutters. These practical yet stylish additions allowed him to control the amount of sunlight streaming into the room while adding a layer of privacy. The tile flooring he chose was a rich, dark brown, which contrasted beautifully with the mosaic walls. As Jon stepped onto it, he could feel the cool, smooth surface beneath his feet. But the real showstopper in his bathroom was the custom shower kit. With sleek, modern fixtures that included a rainforest-like roof shower and a wall-mounted acrylic photo frame, this shower was not just a place to get clean—it was a sanctuary of relaxation and self-expression. The wall shower was a stunning addition, adding to the sense of luxury. Adjacent to the shower, the bathroom sink and tap, both with a contemporary design, were placed atop a bathroom cabinet. The cabinet provided storage space for all of Jon's bathroom essentials, neatly tucked away behind stylish cabinet doors. A towel hanger hung conveniently on one of the walls, ready to embrace freshly washed towels. Nearby, a wall-mounted photo frame held a cherished memory—a moment captured in time—a testament to Jon's personal touch in designing this space. For a finishing touch, a wall mirror adorned one side of the bathroom, reflecting the beauty of the room and creating an illusion of spaciousness. Next to the mirror, a hanger was mounted for Jon to hang his robes and clothing, maintaining the bathroom's clean and organized appearance. As he gazed around his custom bathroom, Jon marveled at how each element came together to create a space that was both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Every morning, he would step into his oasis, bask in the glow of the mosaic tiles, and let the water from his custom shower kit wash away the stresses of the day. This bathroom, carefully curated with love and attention to detail, was a testament to Jon's unique personality and the comfort he sought in his home.

Elevate your design with bold and bright colors. The signature colors of a Bertazzoni Professional Series range emphasize style and self-expression while offering versatility to seamlessly integrate into your kitchen suite. Learn more about the Bertazzoni Professional series, as seen in our new Casa Bertazzoni experience center in San Francisco. (Photo: David Livingston)

Bathroom - mid-sized coastal master beige tile and porcelain tile porcelain tile bathroom idea in New Orleans with an undermount sink, recessed-panel cabinets, white cabinets, quartz countertops, a two-piece toilet and blue walls

Express your distinct vision with custom made leather furniture. Endless choices of leather and finishes to give a statement of self expression that will last for generations.

Craft rooms are creative sanctuaries designed to inspire and facilitate artistic endeavors. These spaces are dedicated to nurturing hobbies like crafting, sewing, painting, and other DIY projects. Craft rooms typically feature ample storage with organized bins, shelves, and drawers for materials, ensuring a clutter-free and efficient workspace. A well-lit environment is crucial, often achieved with task lighting or natural light to enhance visibility during detailed work. Customized workstations, such as spacious tables and comfortable seating, provide the ideal setting for creative exploration. Craft rooms are not just about functionality; they're a haven for self-expression, where individuals can let their imagination run wild and turn ideas into tangible works of art.