GOOD DESIGN DOES NOT HAVE TO BE EXPENSIVE
…I’m sure I’m not the first to say it. The Target store was a welcoming beacon to this sentiment, along with many, many clothing companies (H & M, Forever 21, etc.) that sell stylish goods for an affordable price. In a previous blog, I wrote about the three main goals of any project…Budget, Schedule and Quality and the fact that we’re lucky to get just one but aim for two. The goal not selected will have to suffer.
Below is our latest project for a family friend that chose Quality and Budget as their goals. It took a year to achieve (so the Schedule had to be flexible) but the results are as fine an example of Good Design as can be found. Our assignment was to create a peaceful sanctuary and we’re told we’ve exceeded their expectations.
I titled this message VISION for a reason. Professional Interior Designers need to know how to interpret a client’s wishes into reality. Hendler Design prides itself on being able to bring to fruition space that reflects the character and identity of our clients. Some designers are selling “a look” or “a brand” and repeat versions of that over and over and the client that appeals to is not our client. Our clients want their homes to fit like a glove, custom made just for them. We never repeat a design. When we first saw the existing space and heard the goals, it was our vision to know exactly what needed to be done and what materials would combine to achieve the effect. We knew what details and elements would “sing in the chorus”, meaning we could spend less money there, and which ones would “star in the show,” proving that good design does not need to be expensive.
Please enjoy this presentation of “before and after” and keep us in mind if you would like our vision to focus on you.
FIREPLACE ELEVATION
With no longer a need to house the video screen above the fireplace, our client selected this magnificent, iridescent stone to be the main feature of the room. Flanked on either side by ceruse oak lighted display cabinets, the combination is restful and meditative. A perfect setting to enjoy the fire or read a book or have a one-on-one conversation without distraction.
BEFORE
DINING BAR
The client does not entertain at a traditional dining table. That allowed us to incorporate the dining function into an extension of the kitchen, which works as a link between the living room and the kitchen. With the wall removed the two rooms create a loft feeling and doubles the feeling of spaciousness.
BEFORE
AFTER
GUEST BATHROOM
This room acts as a powder room, guest bathroom and spa lounge with the addition of a soaking tub instead of the existing shower. Without the shower and its enclosure, the room feels spacious and allows for a tranquil setting to while away the hours getting lost in the patterns of beautiful stone.
BEFORE
AFTER
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AFTER
MASTER BEDROOM
Peaceful and serene were the goals for this room. The large, custom designed bureau provides additional clothes storage, A/V screen and glass display cases, all in a pleasant medley of walnut burl, maple and ebony. This piece was brought into the space in seven separate sections due to the elevator size and assembled on site.
BEFORE
AFTER
AFTER
MASTER BATHROOM
Warm grey stone is the perfect background to enhance skin color. Using it consistently in both the vanity area and the shower room link the two and give the feeling of expanded space. The two side mirrors at the vanity conceal large, deep medicine cabinets for maximum storage.
BEFORE
AFTER
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AFTER
KITCHEN
At Hendler Design we know how to cook! Function. Function. Function. Those are the paramount factors that guide our kitchen designs. Durable surfaces, attention to storage and layouts that support the many aspects of food preparation are carefully studied. When all those elements are satisfied, only then do we make it beautiful.
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AFTER
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AFTER
LIVING ROOM
Understanding how space will be used is critical to the design of any space. This room used to orient completely to the fireplace, which is typically the main focus of a room. However, after determining the video screen was better suited to the other side of the room, we were able to divide the room into two focal points, one for socializing and movie viewing and one for more intimate lounging at the fireplace.
