Footnotes Tip: {ATTENTION TO DETAIL}

Mies Van der Rohe exclaimed ‚ “God is in the details.” This famous architect knew that what separates the sublime from the mundane is the attention to detail that an artisan expresses in their work. Using materials known to function for one purpose and then employed as another underlies the origins of creativity and attention to detail. .  Something as common as a doorknob can become a work of art if the one chosen is of superior quality and design.  As small an element as the cord or trim on a chair or pillow can speak volumes in separating it from the mass produced.  

{Abby’s Footnotes}

The Standard Hotel, NYC

Thoughtful artistic details express the personality of the artist. Antique artisans always added decoration to their architectural projects. Whimsical details were always seen on ceilings, floors, columns, and gates to name a few.The Parisian ceiling detail in the first pic reminds me of calligraphy. Gorgeous. Below, the ceiling of the elevator bank in the Standard Hotel, NYC is treated in pure black, then adorned with circular Lucite rods and lit with soft gold bulbs-very sultry. Both architects treated attention to detail in very different ways and the Standard’s ceiling proves that modern design and decorated details can coexist.

master plan: {always begin with one!}

To begin, a great master plan illustrates “flow,” the seductive movement of circulation within and through space. As David Estreich of David Estreich, Architects suggests, “The plan dictates a well-fitting relationship between rooms, incorporating a seamless integration of architecture and decoration.” Like the bespoke suit, walking through a luxe home feels right. It is an elegant movement that glides one though each room, while taking in the grace and largesse of a space. It’s not the size or style that matters; it’s the overall composition, and how the rooms interplay.

{Abby's Footnotes}

via interiordesign.net

As Gail mentioned above, the flow and circulation of a room can dictate the atmosphere’s mood and ambience. Even in a loft, which usually one open room, a master plan should be designed to promote organization, function and combine a pleasing aesthetic in the space. This painter’s studio in Greenwich Village was renovated into an open airy loft with a Parisian flair. The organization of the space is centered around a 65-foot wood library that serves as a place to house a daybed and create privacy in such a vast place. Very clever!

entry foyers: {for creating superb flow and drama}

Perhaps, the most overlooked yet most important room of the home is the Entry Foyer. This oftentimes ignored area sets the feel and flow for the entire residence. It is one’s first and lasting impression upon entering and leaving their home. And, it is here where one is made to feel either welcomed or disoriented.  In effect, it sets the prelude of what’s to follow. By carving out this space, an illusion of depth is created, giving an illusion of grandeur.  It is a transition area of circulation and surprise. Whether small or large, foyers are grand areas. They express the largesse of space from which other rooms radiate.

{Abby's Footnotes}

Happy Entry Foyer=Happy Home

Don't be afraid to go bold and express your personality with your foyer. Your foyer is the first room that your guest enters and can provoke an overall mood and tone within your home. A happy foyer equates a happy home. How fun is that white ceramic giraffe in Jonathan Adler's pink foyer? Wouldn't you love to put on your shoes on that plush purple tufted bench in the second pic? Your foyer should shut out the problems of your day and create an oasis full of personal expression.

tricks of the trade: {magical tips}

NICHES:  We are finally not talking about marketing, but design.  Here, the focus is narrow, literally.  A niche is negative space which is carved out of a plane, whether that be a wall of sheetrock, cabinetry, stone or other material.  Niches make spaces look larger and more interesting by creating a sense of something lying beyond.  They add a magical depth of space.  In addition, niches can be almost any shape: round, square, rectangle, etc.  These shallow recesses are usually ornamental, meaning they are oftentimes dressed with detailed plasterwork and carvings.   Niches usually display objet d'arts: vases, sculpture, or art.  Sometimes, they are just beautiful unto themselves, creating architectural interest.


 www.GailGreenInteriors.com

{Abby's Footnotes}

NICHES:  I love unexpected Niches, such as a bed tucked away under a stairwell in the photo above. The placement creates a cozy room within a room and the monochromatic color scheme gives off a calming and soothing effect. Oh, how I would love to sleep here!