Is it wise to invest money in your home during these economic times? Part 3/3

Thank you again for your continued support. Today I am posting the final part of these series.

Iván Meade - What are a home’s major selling points?

Brenda Russell - Location. Presentation. Price.

Roger Jones - Location is most critical - you can change finishes easily enough, add on or even go so far as to tear a home down and rebuild, but you can not create the overall setting and proximity to the amenities you enjoy that the right neighbourhood provides.

Tony Joe - Location, condition, tidiness and features which set it above the direct competition. Did I mention location?

Before & After Marifield – Meade Design Group

Iván Meade - Do you find homes sell better when furnished or vacant?

Brenda Russell - If the home shows well then furnished is best. If the home is very dated as well as the furnishing...then vacant.

Roger Jones - Definitely when well furnished.

Tony Joe - Seems most prospective buyers believe they can envision what a vacant house would look like furnished but in reality this is seldom the case. Oftentimes, lack of furniture or belongings can over accentuate weak points such as smaller living spaces or poorly placed structural elements.

Before & After Spring Bay – Meade Design Group

Iván Meade - Is it wise to sell your home with window treatments throughout?

Brenda Russell - Absolutely yes. Buyer's are calculating if they have to also buy blinds or drapes for all their windows. If the window treatments are very old, worn or doesn't help the room look fabulous then I would suggest removing them entirely or replace them with a modern blind.

Roger Jones - Most prospective buyers appreciate the value of quality window treatments in a home - this is an area in which help from your designer would be particularly beneficial.

Tony Joe - Window treatments can very much be a matter of personal taste. I cannot recall ever losing a deal or having a seller sell for less based solely on the inclusion/exclusion of window treatments. If you plan to keep them, just be certain to clarify this in the purchase contract as they are generally deemed to be included as part of the sale.

Before & After Spring Bay – Meade Design Group

Iván Meade - What would you tell someone who is asking about the benefits of hiring an interior designer for their home?

Brenda Russell - A designer is always an asset. They bring a trained and talented eye (assuming you hire a trained and talented designer of course) and an unbiased opinion of what a room or area or home needs or could use. To what extent their suggestions or services are used is a personal choice of course but often just hearing an opinion can be of enlightening.

Roger Jones - Enlisting the help of a professional who's expertise you feel confident in is always the best way to get a job done in the shortest amount of time and with the least complication!

Tony Joe - Do not hire a designer based on low price. Select someone with a proven track record, practical knowledge, a portfolio of recent work and a list of glowing testimonials. In other words, hire Ivan Meade!

Before & After Spring Bay – Meade Design Group

Brenda Russell

www.brendarussell.ca

Roger Jones

www.jonescompany.net

Tony Joe

www.tonyjoe.ca

Is it wise to invest money in your home during these economic times? Part 2/3

I feel really encouraged after reading the comments from our readers in the first portion of this post. The comments definitely reflect the reality of our industry and where we are now as a society.

Here is the second part of the entry.

Iván Meade - Does colour play an important part when buyers are viewing your home?

Brenda Russell - Absolutely. Human beings have colour vision and they respond to the colours around them. The colours in a room can make you happy, uncomfortable, relaxed or jumpy as well as making the room seem larger or smaller or open or closed.

Roger Jones - Definitely - certain colours can be completely off-putting to a prospective buyer while others create an environment in which the buyer can envision their own lifestyle.

Tony Joe - Yes. Bold colours can often lead to distraction from the other positive attributes of the home so selecting a palate which is current and tasteful yet neutral are important. Remember to play for a large audience, not a small one.

Before & After Wilson Penthouse – Meade Design Group

Iván Meade - What is the most popular architectural and interior design styles in homes right now?

Brenda Russell - Eco - consciousness. Modular. Interiors are clean lined and uncluttered. On the other hand, there are places like Oak Bay where there are still a great many traditional style homes with comfy and inviting interiors.

Roger Jones - Clean, uncluttered lines and quality finishes and fixtures are always in style - the richness of dark wood (flooring and cabinetry) continues to be popular.

Tony Joe - Angular surfaces, glass elements in back splashes and counters, industrial themed lighting and plumbing fixtures. Owners and builders are incorporating more and more sustainable green aspects to homes today.

Before & After Shoal Point – Meade Design Group

Iván Meade - Do you think they will have longevity?

Brenda Russell - Well, the Buddhists say that nothing lasts so in the larger philosophical sense I guess that is the way of all things but Traditional is called that for a reason and the planet is demanding that we pay attention to the environment so I think they are here to stay. As for interior designs, comfort, simplicity and style always dictate. Luckily just how to do that seems to know no bounds in terms of creativity so we can always spruce up the cave.

Roger Jones - With the trends toward more streamlined living spaces and greater quality, well organized and uncluttered interior spaces will stand the test of time. As far as flooring and other materials, we should continue to see all kinds of great new sustainable products for the home which are both good for the environment and help to promote a healthy home environment.

Tony Joe - Since there appears to be some degree of ‘retro’ in texture and shapes, I believe so. It’s amazing how the architectural designs and construction of the 80s and early 90s have not aged well at all.

Before & After Meade Design Group Studio

Iván Meade - When is it the right decision to improve rather than move and vice versa? Whether it be adding square footage, the ability to rent space or just changing materials.

Brenda Russell - There is no formula unless you are a developer or something. For regular citizens a home is a very complex emotional center as well as often being the largest asset and liability a person has. As a home it gives you safety and security and warmth and comfort and history. Dealing with it takes money and a bank and business thinking. Living in it takes love.

Roger Jones - A home owner basically must consider what investment is required in order to make the necessary improvements to the property and then determine realistically whether the end result will justify that investment. Will the home be worth the sum of the current market value plus renovation costs? Are you able to increase the usable living space of the home by enough to warrant an addition or significant renovation? Does the rest of the neighbourhood justify the type of improvements being considered?

Tony Joe - Location here is key. Oftentimes a move cannot replicate a fantastic location so renovation in such cases is beneficial. Just be careful not to improve beyond what can be sustained in the immediate vicinity.
Increasing square footage is traditionally the only true way to add value to a home.

Before & After Wessex – Meade Design Group

Please stay tuned for part 3 coming soon.

Brenda Russell

www.brendarussell.ca

Roger Jones

www.jonescompany.net

Tony Joe

www.tonyjoe.ca

Is it wise to invest money in your home during these economic times? Part 1/3

As principal designer of Meade Design Group I am often asked how certain choices my clients make for their homes will affect their home’s value. I always try to stay up-to-date with changes in the real estate market and popular trends with homeowners.

I decided homeowners such as my blog followers may be interested in this information as well; and during a time of economic uncertainty it is always good to know that the money you are investing in your home will be a wise choice.

I wanted to take my questions to the experts so I asked my favourite local realtors in Victoria B.C. Canada to give me their insight on the relationship between designers and the housing market. Our panel includes:

Brenda Russell

Brenda has been a realtor since 1990, specializing in the Fairfield/Oak Bay area and is also a registered relocation specialist. The proof is in her sales: she has been the recipient of the Award of Excellence 5 out of 7 consecutive years, this award means that she is in the top percentile of sales within Vancouver Island, Royal LePage. She is not only accessible, but she is the most pleasant and warm individual one can imagine, we were so pleased to help her create her new image in 2007.

http://www.brendarussell.ca/

Roger Jones

Roger's career as a Real Estate Salesperson began in 2000 and has been driven almost exclusively by repeat and referral based business. Being a consistent MLS sales award winner and having grown up in Victoria, he has the local market expertise to help facilitate his clients' real estate related goals. Roger understands that every buyer or seller is unique and recognizes the importance of providing highly responsive service in building ongoing relationships with his clientele.

http://www.jonescompany.net/

Tony Joe

A very active member of the Victoria Real Estate Board, Tony was born and raised in Victoria and knows his market well. A multiple award winner with RE/MAX, Tony has been practicing real estate since 1991 and has the sales and testimonials to prove his knowledge and success. Tony’s professionalism and easy-going personality makes each client’s real estate transaction a breeze. We were lucky enough to work with Tony on the interior design of his own home in 2006.

http://www.tonyjoe.ca/

Iván Meade - Do you feel that any money a client invests in their homes is money well spent?

Brenda Russell - This is a difficult question because it depends so much on where and when the money is spent so I would have to say that my answer would be no.

Roger Jones - There are definitely rules that determine where money ought to be spent - consider local market factors (an outdoor swimming pool or air conditioning might be considered to add little value or even to be a liability in a climate such as ours, yet it is considered essential by many prospective buyers in Palm Springs). Also consider whether the renovation is strictly for resale or whether it is to increase your own enjoyment during your ownership of the property - most people will likely find that their position lies somewhere in between.

Tony Joe - This depends where. Swimming pools and other lifestyle upgrades are poor investments, as are overly unique or expensive fixtures. An owner cannot expect to upgrade certain items, enjoy them and hope that a prospective buyer has the same appreciation for them.

Before & After Kona Residence - Meade Design Group

Iván Meade - If your answer is no, where do you think it is most important to invest or upgrade?

Brenda Russell - Buyers like to see all the latest trends such as granite counter tops in the kitchen or a spa tub in the bath or the latest wall colours or flooring. To what extent is a matter of budget and the times. A lovingly cared for home shows stability and good maintenance, a bit of style gives it taste and pizzazz and comfort.

Roger Jones - Fresh paint, wood flooring and kitchens and bathrooms (whether a complete renovation or a simple 'face lift') continue to be the higher return areas of the home from an investment point of view.

Tony Joe - Sound investments are increasing liveable area, kitchens and baths, flooring and colours.

Before & After Maple Bay - Meade Design Group

Iván Meade - Do you see value in bringing an interior designer into one of your clients homes for resale purposes?

Brenda Russell - I have upon several occasions seen the aesthetic value in using a designer to make even a few minor changes which have resulted in making a noticeable difference in the look and feel of a place. Even when it's something simple like a matter of un-cluttering or a photo grouping or furniture placement or a throw pillow here and there, the liveability of a room or area or house is suddenly highlighted and its potential is easier for a buyer to see.

Roger Jones - Definitely - particularly in a strong buyer's market such as we are currently experiencing. There is a lot of inventory for prospective buyers to choose from, so any way in which a homeowner can differentiate their property and make it really stand out (in a good way, of course!) could be of significant benefit.

Tony Joe - Most definitely, I recommend it often. Homes are very personal in nature and oftentimes a seller may be attached to themes or tones which may detract from the selling process, thereby resulting in either an extended or lower value sale.

Before & After Maple Bay - Meade Design Group

Iván Meade - What are the 3 biggest changes a designer can help your clients do to improve the value of your home?

Brenda Russell - A theme. A style. A specialness.

Roger Jones
1. Helping to create a consistent look throughout the home
2. Helping with organization and the elimination of 'clutter'
3. Assisting with appropriate colour selections.

Tony Joe
1. Colours. Having an expert help with colour selection is an excellent idea and often inexpensive relative to other upgrades
2. Kitchen and baths. Unfortunately pricey renovations but here’s where the money goes a long way. Don’t renovate them to sell- you should at least enjoy them for a while before moving.
3. Exterior approach. There’s nothing like ownership pride when pulling up the driveway of your own home. Very helpful during resale as well.

Before & After Shoal Point - Meade Design Group

Please stay tuned for parts 2 and 3 coming soon.

In Conversation with Joost van Bleiswijk

Joost van Bleiswijk

Joost Van Bleiswijk has a great eye for shape and form, he designs pieces with a great respect for traditional techniques and craftsmanship. Joost shares a studio with our previous interviewee, Kiki Van Eijk in the Netherlands where they share ideas that form beautifully created pieces of furniture, art and accessories. Kiki and Joost both graduated from the Design Academy Eindhoven in 2001.

Joost's website www.projectjoost.com is full of fabulous works of art as well as information about the designer and a great news section. To learn more please see our interview below...

Iván Meade - What was your first experience with design?

Joost van Bleiswijk – My father, Dick van Bleiswijk, was an arts teacher at a high school in my hometown Delft.

I remember going to the school with him in the weekends and pickup or arrange something. The smell of the workshop and the whole atmosphere of creativity was intoxicating to me. At home me and my brothers were encouraged to be creative in all kind of ways. We had a special room where we could work with wood, clay etc.

Later when I went to the design academy in Eindhoven, I was able to use my skills in making, and solving problems in a technical way because of all these years of handicraft, laying with lego and building huts in the woods.

I think my designs are a logical step after all this previous things, still a boy playing and making.

Joost van Bleiswijk - High Cabinet XL -Polished Stainless Steel - No Screw No Glue

Iván Meade - Who or what has influenced your style?

Joost van Bleiswijk - I’m mainly influenced by the history of architecture and design ( or crafts and art pieces) from the earliest time till about the beginning of previous century. I never look to what other designer do, to what trends are or what is said to be cool.

I try to be original in the source of inspiration and therefore I prefer a book about the treasures of Tsar Peter the Great, than the newest flashy design book.

Joost van Bleiswijk - Steel Desk - Polished Stainless Steel - No Screw No Glue

Iván Meade - How would you describe your style?

Joost van Bleiswijk - I don’t like to describe my style. I don’t design in styles, but in dogmas of creation. The compose project are just block of wood, fixed in place by pewter. This results in a limitation of possibilities. Also the single-cut vases where I draw a vase shape on a piece of cardboard, where I fold this line after, is a dogmatic way of getting to shape. Probably the most well-known is the no screw no glue method, where sometimes hundreds of little parts slot in one and other without welds, screws etc, is just a way of designing, in witch I force myself to stretch the method to limits.

Where I don’t care about stule, It’s other described as art deco, modern classics etc.

Personally I don’t really care.

Joost van Bleiswijk - Jars – Ceramic

Iván Meade - I love your quote "The greatest trend should be the absence of a trend", could you please elaborate on this concept?

Joost van Bleiswijk - If you would design following trends, you would be to late, not original and it would be boring for yourself.

If you would decorate your house according to the latest trend, you would have to change it each year.

If you come up with a trend, you just tell people what they should buy because money has to be made.

If we would all design, create and buy in a personal and original way, a more sustainable, ecologic and personal world arises.

Just like in the old days where people had their dresser made by the carpenter for life….

Joost van Bleiswijk - Game Table – Macassar Ebony Veneer

Iván Meade - What books are currently on your bedside or coffee table?

Joost van Bleiswijk - An original Russian pocket encyclopedia with beautiful drawings, from the early fifties, and the large version of Taschen’s ‘from the library of Sir William Hamilton’ . In this book, beautiful fold outs, technical drawings etc of classical vases and amphora's can be found….

Joost van Bleiswijk - Vases - Hand Polished Stainless Steel

Iván Meade - What are you excited about right now in the world of design? Are there any new materials that you can't wait to work with?

Joost van Bleiswijk - In this crises period i\I would like in the contrast. I’m planning to work with 24k gold plating, but also with concrete.

I don’t get so much inspired with materials, but each project asks for a specific approach and finish.

Joost van Bleiswijk -Steel Chair - Polished Stainless Steel - No Screw No Glue

Iván Meade - What project has given you the most satisfaction?

Joost van Bleiswijk - To slowly create a large collection, and keep on adding more pieces. I try to approach design as telling stories about my fascinations, and ways of working. Not in a teaching way, but in natural and evolutionary way. I only design to finish the ideas in my head. The advantage of being a self producing designer, is that very rarely I have to please anyone. In this way, I can be expressive as I want. Having earned credits for the outcome of this way of working, I’m now asked to come up with surprising and uncompromising designs….

Joost van Bleiswijk - Compose Amphora - Polished Pewter, Solid Wenge

Iván Meade - What would be your dream project?

Joost van Bleiswijk - I think that’s also a matter of evolution of the process, more projects etc.

By the time a large projects has been finished, you might already feel different about it..

But for now I would say the dream project would involve more architecture, more autonomy, and a larger scale.

I think scale is a very important aspect of design.

Joost van Bleiswijk - "My 15 Minutes of Fame "- Polished Stainless Steel + Hour Glass

Iván Meade - What is your next design venture?

Joost van Bleiswijk - Keep checking my news section.

First the opening of our new studio in February (a giant old Philips factory transferred into the ideal design studio)

Joost van Bleiswijk - Nothing Studio

Milan fair (no solo this year, but on more than one place you’ll find new works) Rotterdam, Rome, Osaka Japan, Paris at Gallery Revolts (it’s new, you should check it out)

And I think I forget a lot.

Iván Meade - Lastly, you have already created a stunning body of work with many mediums and styles. What would you like your legacy to be?

Joost van Bleiswijk - That the works I create now, are not been thrown away by the time I die, and maybe long after….

Joost van Bleiswijk - With Me - Candle Holder XL - Polished Stainless Steel

Eye Candy of the Week - Set of 2 Bookends by Andrée Putman

PRODUCT
Set of 2 Bookends

SERIES
Vertigo

DESIGNER
Andrée Putman

MANUFACTURE
Christofle Paris

MATERIAL
Sterling Silver

DESCRIPTION
Silver sculptures that embrace your most prized literary works.

YUMMY FACTOR
C'est exquis !

The Best Patterned Silks

Today I am excited to feature my favourite selections for one of the most luxurious textiles known to mankind - silk. One of my personal mantras is that natural materials will never go out of style and will always look elegant and lavish. Silk is no exception. God bless the little worms that work their little non-existent bums off to give us this beautiful, natural fabric!

All fabrics are available through Meade Design Group - Purchase during the month of March, 2009 and save 20% on your order.

Which one is your favourite?

SILK REFLECTIONS - PERSIMMON
Multi-Purpose
Kravet Couture
100% SILK FACE, 100% COTTON BACK
INDIA
Sold by the YARD

QUIET PLACE - AQUA
Multipurpose
Kravet Couture
100% SILK
INDIA
Sold by the YARD

SILK FOREST - MOSS/GARNET
Multipurpose
Kravet Couture
100% SILK
INDIA
Sold by the YARD

LEMON DROP- LEMON

Multipurpose
Kravet Couture
100% SILK *steamed*
INDIA
Sold by the YARD

KUTANI- JADE

Multipurpose
Kravet Couture
100% SILK
INDIA
Sold by the YARD

LIFE DEFINED - BLACKSAND
Multipurpose
Kravet Couture
52% SILK, 48% Cotton *softened, steamed*
INDIA
Sold by the YARD

PASSAGE - BLUESTONE
Multipurpose
Kravet Couture
73% SILK, 27% WOOL *softened, steamed*
INDIA
Sold by the YARD

CALM - GREYSTONE
Multipurpose
Kravet Couture
61% COTTON, 39% SILK
INDIA
Sold by the YARD

SILKEN LEAVES - TRUFFLE
Multipurpose
Kravet Couture
55% COTTON, 45% SILK *softened, steamed*
INDIA
Sold by the YARD

89052 - 30
Multipurpose
Duralee
100% SILK
Sold by the YARD

OLD WORLD - SCARLET
Multipurpose
Barbara Barry for Kravet Collections
100% SILK *steamed*
INDIA
Sold by the YARD

CRACKED ICE - MIST
Multipurpose
Barbara Barry for Kravet Collections
100% SILK
INDIA
Sold by the YARD


QUILTED - SHELL
Multipurpose
Barbara Barry for Kravet Collections
100% SILK *knit backed*
INDIA
Sold by the YARD


DESERT FLOWER - PARCHMENT
Multipurpose
Allegra Hicks for Groundworks
100% SILK
INDIA
Sold by the YARD


WAVES - DEEP PURPLE
Multipurpose
Allegra Hicks for Groundworks
100% SILK
INDIA
Sold by the YARD

MIMOSA - POPPY

Multipurpose
J. Ennis
100% SILK
Sold by the YARD

PONT MIRABEAU - TOFFEE

Multipurpose
Beacon Hill
100% SILK GROUND
INDIA
Sold by the YARD

In Conversation with Kiki van Eijk

Kiki van Eijk
Photograph by Marjan Holmer

Kiki van Eijk began working in design in 2001 after graduating Cum Laude from the Design Academy Eindhoven, her work has been published and sold internationally and she is well respected amongst her peers. She has an excellent way of infusing fun and playfulness into her designs while maintaining a strong balance of the elements and principles of design. I find her work beautiful, original and inspiring.

Please read on to learn more about this talented designer from the Netherlands…

Iván Meade – What was your first experience with design?

Kiki van Eijk – first reaction; I don’t remember… I guess via my cousin, who is a graphic designer. I must say I knew more about arts at a younger age.

Domestic Jewels - High Bench - 2008
Kiki van Eijk

Iván Meade – Who or what has influenced your style?

Kiki van Eijk – The small things in life around us that we often tend to forget.

Chaise Lounge - 2008
Kiki van Eijk

Iván Meade – How would you describe your style?

Kiki van Eijk – Personal, intuitive and vivid/ frivolous

Patchwork Cabinet 01 l 02 - 2008
Kiki van Eijk

Iván Meade – What do you consider to be your greatest strength and your greatest weakness?

Kiki van Eijk – That’s 2 things at the same time; that my range of work and materials is extremely broad.

Quilt Chair - 2007
Kiki van Eijk

Quilt Stool - 2007
Kiki van Eijk

Iván Meade – What has been your greatest collaboration?

Kiki van Eijk – Uptill now this my collaboration with my partner in life and designer Joost van Bleiswijk. We don’t really work together, but we dicuss our works together which keeps us both very sharp. I think you can call that a collaboration as well.

Lightbox - Kiki van Eijk

Iván Meade – What books are currently on your bedside or coffee table?

Kiki Van Eijk – Garden of Eden, Taschen

Iván Meade – What are you excited about right now in the world of design? Are there any new materials that you can’t wait to work with?

Kiki Van Eijk – I can’t wait to work with any material! We’re in a big removal to our new studio were we’ll have all the space of the world to work with any material.

Rose Lace - Carpet
Kiki van Eijk

Iván Meade – What project has given you the most satisfaction?

Kiki Van Eijk – I can’t choose one, but my latest project the whole range of domestic jewels was a very interesting research for me.

Knick Knack Pot - Ceramic
Kiki van Eijk

Iván Meade – What would be your dream project?

Kiki Van Eijk – An interior for a hotel or embassy

Porcelain Silverware - Kiki van Eijk

Iván Meade – What is your next design venture?

Kiki Van Eijk – I’m going to make a very exclusive and personal series in wood combined with brass which really reflects my world of ideas and it represents furniture in a new way. That’s all I can say!

Also I’ve designed a lot of new products for a new Italian label which will be presented in Milan at the Salone del Mobile this year.

And many more… but still secret unfortunately. And of coarse: the renovation of our new studio!!

Iván Meade – Lastly, you have already created a stunning body of work with many mediums and styles. What would you like your legacy to be?

Kiki van Eijk - I guess I don’t understand the question completely, can you put in in other words?

Thanks, best Kiki

Kiki van Eijk - Sketches

I invite to visit Kiki's website and enjoy her creativity...

Kiki van Eijk

Eye Candy of the Week - Crystal Candy Set by Jaime Hayon

Pina Passion Vase

PRODUCT
Crystal Candy Set Collection for Baccarat

DESIGNER
Jaime Hayon

MATERIAL
Crystal

DESCRIPTION

The opportunity to research and exercise creative possibilities along with Baccarat led to the creation of the Crystal Candy Set.

The approach was guided by the search for exquisite color and material combinations. With these pieces, Hayon wanted to replicate the richness of fresh tropical fruit using crystal and other materials, such as ceramics.

Using a variety of textures and thicknesses, a new game of reflection has been accomplished with each of the 9 characters that make up the collection. Diverse crystal cutting techniques can be appreciated throughout the collection. They result in a series of soft, feminine shapes with touch of humor. Fruity inspirations are mixed with gem-like features: pineapples, pomegranates, golf balls and water drops are some of the ideas explored.

The pieces are a limited edition of 25.

CONTACT INFORMATION

Baccarat
11, place des Etats-Unis 75116 Paris

thais.boissy@baccarat.fr

YUMMY FACTOR
Sweet! ... Really Sweet!

Jaime Hayon

Sketches from Jaime Hayon

Weekend in Tofino, British Columbia

Last weekend I left snowy Victoria to stay up island at the Wickaninnish Inn in Tofino B.C.

The Wickaninnish Inn, has become a landmark - the rustic beauty of this critically acclaimed destination has become a must-see for anyone traveling to the west coast. Guests can be sure to enjoy excellent service not only at the resort itself but also within all of the amenities. The Inn is also recognized with a Relais & Chateaux accreditation.

The Wickaninnish Inn

After enjoying a fantastic meal at The Pointe Restaurant and a relaxing massage at The Ancient Cedars Spa I went to explore the beauty of the Pacific Rim and it inspired me to take some photographs of the sand formations and mother nature.

Views from my room

Up close and personal with Mother Nature





Sand Formations

The Best Bold Colour Outdoor Fabrics

As promised, here are my favourite bold colour outdoor fabrics for those of you planning your new patios and decks for the spring/summer season. Just in case the snow is depressing you!

Any one of these fabrics, or even a combination, would look great paired with any of the selections from our previous entry.

- The Best Black and White Outdoor Fabrics

All fabrics are available through Meade Design Group - Purchase during the month of March, 2009 and save 20% on your order.

Which one is your favourite?

SHORE PAISLEY - SKY
Multi-Purpose
Outdoor
Ralph Lauren
100% ACRYLIC, Soil/Oil Repellent
USA
Sold by the YARD


NEPTUNE STRIPE - TANGERINE
Multi-Purpose
Outdoor
Ralph Lauren
100% POLYESTER, Stain/Water Repellent w/Mildew Resistance
FRANCE
Sold by the YARD


TERRYBROOK - AVOCADO
Upholstery
Outdoor
Robert Allen - Al Fresco
USA
Sold by the YARD


GAZEBO - TOMATO
All Purpose
J. Ennis Villa Collection
100% SUNBRELLA ACRYLIC
Sold by the YARD


PEBBLE - 012
Upholstery
Check/Houndstooth
100% SOLUTION DYED ACRYLIC
AVANT GARDE
Sold by the YARD


MASAI MARA - PINK
Upholstery/Drapery
Groundworks Solarium
100% ACRYLIC
USA
Sold by the YARD


MNYAMA CHENILLE - COCOA
Upholstery/Drapery
Groundworks Solarium
61% ACRYLIC, 39% Polyester
USA
Sold by the YARD


MNYAMA CHENILLE - BLUE
Upholstery/Drapery
Groundworks Solarium
100% ACRYLIC
FRANCE
Sold by the YARD


KALAHARI PLAID - PINK
Upholstery/Drapery
Groundworks Solarium
100% ACRYLIC
FRANCE
Sold by the YARD


CANE - PARROT
Upholstery
Kravet Soleil
100% SOLUTION DYED ACRYLIC
USA
Sold by the YARD


SOLEIL CANVAS - 405
Multipurpose
Kravet Design
100% SOLUTION DYED ACRYLIC
USA
Sold by the YARD


RUMRUNNER STRIPE - PETAL
Upholstery
Lee Jofa
100% ACRYLIC
FRANCE
Sold by the YARD


SOLARTE - TANGERINE
Upholstery
Kravet Soleil
61% ACRYLIC, 39% POLYESTER
USA
Sold by the YARD


ESCHER - GRASS
Upholstery
Kravet Soleil
55% ACRYLIC, 45% POLYESTER
USA
Sold by the YARD

In Conversation with Brad Ford

Brad Ford is one of the most well-recognized up-and-coming young designers. His work has been published in House Beautiful, the New York Times,  as well as a number of other respected publications.

Brad Ford

He is able to uphold a signature, clean look while tackling various styles and colour palettes. Brad also maintains a great blog [ Design Therapy ] with posts about everything from projects to products to politics. With over 10 years of experience, an amazing portfolio and two degrees behind him he is most certainly going places! In my personal opinion Brad Ford is one of the coolest designers out there.

Iván Meade – What was your first experience with design?

Brad Ford –When I was around 10 years old, my mom decided it was time for me and my brother to each have our own bedroom. So she put up a dividing wall in the room we shared and told us we could each pick out our own wallpaper and furniture and decorate it any way we like. My room ended up being about an 8' sq. box and I picked out this psychedelic, over-scaled, leather belt wallpaper. The belts ran horizontally and vertically forming a giant plaid pattern, but the best part was the belt buckles! They were actually made of gold metallic mylar and I remember thinking it was so modern. I even had the wallpaper hanger put it on the ceiling. It was pretty insane, but I loved it and I knew then I loved design!



Iván Meade – Who or what has influenced your style?

Brad Ford –Probably one of my biggest influences has been nature. I'm originally from Arkansas and growing up I was surrounded by the most beautiful natural resources. We were always out on the lake, down by the river or up in the mountains. The forms and the textures and the colors in those landscapes have always had a huge influence in my design approach.

Photograph courtesy of Brad Ford

Iván Meade – How would you describe your style?

Brad Ford –Organic, earthy, modern, warm and soulful.

Photograph courtesy of Brad Ford

Iván Meade – What do you consider to be your greatest strength and your greatest weakness?

Brad Ford –I think I have a pretty good eye, but in this business patience counts for a lot. The design process is just that...a process. Whether it's decision making, lead times, vendors, contractors, scheduling, clients-this business requires a great deal of patience and I think I have a fair amount (.... sometimes.) This could also be looked at as a weakness, at least from a business perspective. If we're looking for a vintage piece of furniture or an interesting design element, I'll often tell my clients we should wait until the right piece comes along as opposed to getting something just to have it. Eventually we'll find the right thing, and the client ends up appreciating it in the end.

Photograph courtesy of Brad Ford

Iván Meade – What books are currently on your bedside or coffee table?

Brad Ford –On my bedside table is "My Life In France" by Julia Child...it is so charming and inspiring! On my coffee table is "LaLanne(s)" by Daniel Abadie and it features the work of husband and wife sculptors Francois-Xavier and Claude LaLanne. Their work is absolutely stunning and clever at the same time. It's a must have for any design enthusiast.

Photograph courtesy of Brad Ford

Iván Meade – What are you excited about right now in the world of design?

Brad Ford –Right now I'm excited about technology and it's impact on design. There are computer programs out there that are capable of figuring out certain engineering aspects in a design that might normally have taken a huge amount of time or manpower. A perfect example is the artist/designer Joris Laarman. He used software created by car manufacturer GM to create the Bone Chair which as far as I'm concerned is a technological and design masterpiece. Another example is Frank Gehry's new IAC building here in New York. The shapes and forms and how they relate to each other would have been a 2-dimensional nightmare on paper, but with computers they were able to create an incredibly complex structure! These advances really open up all sorts of creative possibilities and I'm hoping they'll trickle down to the designs of even the most mundane objects, whether it's a pencil or a coffee cup.

Photograph courtesy of Brad Ford

Iván Meade – On the day of Obama’s inauguration you posted 2 very patriotic entries. Are you excited with the recent American political change? How do you think this will affect our industry?

Brad Ford –I honestly can't imagine anyone not being excited about the political change. I feel like as soon as President Obama put his hand on that bible the United States regained instant credibilty from around the world. We're in a brand new century and I feel like it's time for everyone to start thinking in a forward manner. President Obama seems to have grasped that philosophy and I think it's beyond exciting. I know it's a bit unsettling right now with the economy, but history has proven that in times of great despair, great things happen. You don't have to look too far back to remember the industrial revolution. I think we're headed into a "technological revolution."

Photograph courtesy of Brad Ford

Iván Meade – What project has given you the most satisfaction?

Brad Ford –Definitely the mudroom I designed for the Hamptons Cottages and Garden show-house with the insects!

Photograph courtesy of Brad Ford

Iván Meade – In one of your projects you used a really interesting insect theme wallpaper – I found this selection really intriguing – what is the story behind this project?

Brad Ford -When they approached me to be a part of the show-house they said "how about the mudroom?" I jumped at the opportunity. I just loved the idea of trying to do something special with this often overlooked space. However, knowing it was the smallest room in the house, I knew I had to kick it up a notch in order to make it worth my time. I kept thinking about the function of a mudroom and how it's supposed to "protect" the rest of the house from outdoor elements. I thought why not bring in some of those outside elements and make them part of the design. Long story short .... I ended up attaching thousands of actual insects onto hand-printed wallpaper and I remember thinking to myself before anyone else saw it ...."This is either going to be the coolest thing I've ever done or the dumbest....I mean who puts dead bugs on the walls of a house in the Hamptons?" Luckily, it got a great reaction and really ended up putting my name on the map.

Photograph courtesy of Brad Ford

Iván Meade – What would be your dream project?

Brad Ford –Honestly....my dream project would be to design my very own house on a lake in a remote wooded area back home in the south, and then retire! All I have ever wanted is a house on the lake. I don't want it to be huge and I don't want it to be over the top. I just want a couple of fireplaces, stone floors and lots of windows. THAT is my dream project.

Photograph courtesy of Brad Ford

Iván Meade – What is your next design venture?

Brad Ford –I'm not exactly sure. To be honest, I'm still trying to figure that out. That's one of the reason's I started the blog [ Design Therapy ], to talk about things that interest me and to see if anything sticks. I love the idea of a small product line that includes a few pieces of furniture, possibly some tabletop accessories and lighting. I'd also love to write a book one day. And I love music and would love to do something related to that field. Sometimes I even find myself daydreaming about making a movie. I just think it would be the perfect format to combine a lot of my passions. Do you have any connections?

Photograph courtesy of Brad Ford

Iván Meade – Lastly, you have already created a stunning body of work with many mediums and styles. What would you like your legacy to be?

Brad Ford –Authentic.

I invite you to see more of Brad's work at:

WEBSITE

www.bradfordid.com

BLOG
www.designtherapy.com

Eye Candy of the Week - Sculptures by Matthew Chambers

Sculptures by Matthew Chambers
Photograph by Steve Thearle


Sculptures by Matthew Chambers
Photograph by Steve Thearle


Sculptures by Matthew Chambers
Photograph by Steve Thearle

PRODUCT
Slant Sculptures

DESIGNER
Matthew Chambers

MATERIAL
Fired Clay

DESCRIPTION

Complex pieces combining traditional processes and contemporary form that test the limitations of fired clay. - Matthew Chambers Website

STATEMENT

The ceramic works of Matthew Chambers are born from a love of geometric and constructivist art, architecture, and design.

Each piece is a constructed abstract exploration of shape and form combining traditional processes and contemporary form, designed to create a visual and tactile beauty and intrigue.

Minimalist yet complex objects built from layering many circular sections within a single form. - Matthew Chambers Website

YUMMY FACTOR
Full Bodied!

The Best Black and White Outdoor Fabrics

Here are my favourite black and white outdoor fabrics for those of you planning your new patios and decks for the spring/summer season. Just in case the sunshine is inspiring you. I have always felt that outdoor furniture looks stunning in black and white with a bold accent colour. Stay tuned next week for my bold outdoor fabric selections to correspond with these fabrics.

All fabrics are available through Meade Design Group - Purchase durning the month of March, 2009 and save 20% in your order.

Which one is your favourite?

CORAL BAY - BLACK
Upholstery
Outdoor
Tropical
Kravet Soleil
100% SOLUTION DYED ACRYLIC
U.S.A.
Sold by the YARD

SPOTLIGHT - EBONY
Upholstery
Outdoor
Kravet Soleil
100% SOLUTION DYED ACRYLIC
U.S.A.
Sold by the YARD

KALYPSO - BLACK

Upholstery
Outdoor
Stripes
Kravet Soleil
U.S.A.
Sold by the YARD

FOUR POINT - JET
Upholstery
Check/Houndstooth
Kravet Soleil
U.S.A.
Sold by the YARD

SHADOWS - EBONY
Upholstery
Kravet Soleil
100% POLYPROPYLENE
USA
Sold by the YARD

BAY ISLAND - BLACK
All Purpose
Ralph Lauren
100% ACRYLIC, Soil/Oil Repellent
USA
Sold by the YARD


GAZEBO - ONYX
All Purpose
J. Ennis Villa Collection
100% SUNBRELLA ACRYLIC
Sold by the YARD


14980 - 295
Upholstery
Duralee Pavillion
68% POLYPROPYLENE, 32% POLYESTER
USA
Sold by the YARD


14962 - 295
Multipurpose
Duralee Pavillion
100% ACRYLIC
FRANCE
Sold by the YARD


14963 - 295
Multipurpose
Duralee Pavillion
100% ACRYLIC
FRANCE
Sold by the YARD


14964 - 295
Multipurpose
Duralee Pavillion
100% ACRYLIC
FRANCE
Sold by the YARD


14971 - 295
Multipurpose
Duralee Pavillion
100% OLEFIN
USA
Sold by the YARD


72013 - 295
Multipurpose
Duralee Pavillion
100% SPUN POLYESTER
USA
Sold by the YARD


72014 - 295
Multipurpose
Duralee Pavillion
100% SPUN POLYESTER
USA
Sold by the YARD

Everybody has a mission this Thursday!

Two good friends of mine are having their openings and exhibiting their art this Thursday - I will have a busy evening this Thursday I have to attend two exhibits and a Typography conference. Busy day for a busy bee, so everybody has a mission to come and support these artists with me.

Matthew Politano is a great friend, colleague and a very talented photographer. He is really excited to have his first solo exhibition at Dales Gallery in China Town.

Matthew Politano

Side Streets and Roads Less Travelled

An Exhibition of Photography

March 5 to April 1, 2009
Opening March 5, from 7 to 9 pm

Dales Gallery (537 Fisgard St., Victoria)
Monday - Friday 10 - 5 / Saturday 11 - 4

Please visit imageart.ca for more information

The second exhibit is for Brad Pasutti another talented young artist from Victoria. Brad's forte is usually the use of pastel and oils. His art pieces are a contemporary kaleidoscope of images from the past and from the present.

Brad Pasutti

Brad Pasutti- New Works


March 5 - 31, 2009
Opening March 5, from 7 to 9 pm

Winchester Galleries (1010 Broad Street, Victoria)

Brad will be in attendance
www.bradpasutti.ca

In Conversation with Liz Mackay

Liz Mackay - Ambiance Consulting Inc

As seen in SNAP VICTORIA - March 2009 - "Design Feature"

Liz Mackay is the principal at Ambiance Consulting Inc. – the most reputable staging company in Victoria B.C. Liz has searched far and wide to acquire a unique international inventory of art, furniture and accessories. Ambiance Consulting Inc. recognized the need to provide an exclusive, full package to investors and owners of high-end properties. The result? In one single day Liz and her team are able to transform an empty home into a luxurious, elegant and contemporary property for sale, dramatically increasing the value of the property.

I had the pleasure of meeting Liz a couple of years ago when she approached Meade Design Group to create the graphic identity for her new venture as a Residential Stager. Since then we have shared a friendship and a common interest in interior design. I have always admired the energy and professionalism that Liz brings to any of her projects.

Iván Meade – "What is your favourite design find? Where did you get this item – how long have you had it?"

Liz Mackay – The Mies Van Der Rohe black Barcelona chair which I fell in love with the instant I saw it. It became part of our inventory 2 years ago.

Natures Gate Residence
Photograph courtesy of Ambiance Consulting Inc

Iván Meade – "Why is it inspirational to you?"

Liz Mackay – Because it is elegant, classic and contemporary, adding glamour to any space.

Natures Gate Residence
Photograph courtesy of Ambiance Consulting Inc

Iván Meade - How does this item reflect upon your personal design philosophy?

Liz Mackay – it’s fabulous, and as you know, Ivan, “we only do fabulous”! That’s our mantra as we work our magic on properties for sale.

Chocolate Lilly Lane Residence
Photograph courtesy of Ambiance Consulting Inc

Iván Meade – "Can you tell me what is new and “fabulous” with Ambiance Consulting ?

Liz Mackay – The recent acquisition of a faux zebra rug allowed us to create a stunning library in the round, complete with the Barcelona chairs and Le Courbusier pieces, for an architectural photo shoot. The client’s response: “It’s straight out of Architectural Digest!”

Bear Mountain Residence
Photograph courtesy of Ambiance Consulting Inc

Ivan Meade - Can you tell me more about Ambiance Consulting Inc.’s services and how they may be beneficial to our readers?

Liz Mackay - We began almost 2 years ago by offering a custom, high-end staging service for vacant properties needing enhancement for marketing purposes, transforming them “from vacant place to fabulous space”™ in just 2 or 3 days. Staging is relatively new to Victoria, but is now the norm in larger cities across Canada, the USA, and throughout Europe, where real estate owners & investors recognize that it can make a significant difference in the outcome of their property’s sale.

Residential Stylist Susan Hargraves is a valued member of my team and we spend at least 3 to 4 hours doing on-site planning for each project. We truly believe as Charles Eames said, “the details are not details, they make the design”.

By owning our entire staging inventory, we can deliver on our promise of/guarantee “fabulous” results. Over 2 years have been spent shopping, sourcing & collecting for the Ambiance Consulting inventory. Of course it’s an ongoing process, and so much fun.. my dream is to spend a month in Milan and shop, shop, shop!

We have recently added to our available services and are now offering staging for architectural photo shoots. So often a designer’s project is photographed empty at the conclusion of the project, prior to the clients’ furnishings being installed – now it can have added impact and appeal for the purposes of portfolio or award submissions.

We also offer a “revamp” service using clients’ existing furnishings where possible, and adding style and elegance with rental accessories, art, and plants.

In February we began offering our inventory for rent to a select group of other stagers we work closely with.

Photograph courtesy of Ambiance Consulting Inc

Iván Meade – What was your first experience with design?

Liz Mackay - When I was in my late teens, in my native England, I did a hands-on conversion of an old rectory into six fully furnished suites, as a joint project with my father. Not only did this involve project design, but also scouring the local auctions weekly for just the right pieces, travelling to the wholesale fabric and rug warehouses in Manchester, and colour coordinating every suite. Over a period of several months, I created fitted, piped slipcovers, draperies, bedspreads and cushions for each unit. I loved every minute of it and was hooked for life!

Penthouse Suite
Photograph courtesy of Ambiance Consulting Inc

Iván Meade – What are you most excited about right now in the world of design and real estate?

Liz Mackay - That Victoria is becoming more of a cosmopolitan city with residents coming from all over the world. Many could afford to live anywhere on the planet, but have chosen Victoria as their home. Not just retirees, but also a younger demographic, these new residents have brought an injection of new energy, life and vitality to our city.

This has resulted in our local design and retail scene now boasting some unique and world-class sources that could not have survived in the “traditional, conservative” Victoria of 10 or 20 years ago. The revitalization of the downtown core with the higher densities and elegant apartments now being completed ensures that we will have a more vibrant and exciting city to enjoy. When I am ready to leave my present single-family home near the University of Victoria, I will definitely be heading in the inner city direction!

Photograph courtesy of Ambiance Consulting Inc

Iván Meade – Who or what are your greatest design influences?

Liz Mackay - The mid-century modern furniture designers .. like Charles Eames, Euro Saarinen, Anne Jacobsen, and Miles van der Rohe I love their lines - sleek, uncluttered, and clean. They are timeless.

I also adore Italian design – especially their lighting.

Photograph courtesy of Ambiance Consulting Inc

Iván Meade – What is your design philosophy?

Liz Mackay - “We only do fabulous!” That came about when I kept getting asked what style we did.. it just sort of popped out, and now has become my company mantra!

Iván Meade – You are known for your great taste and for enjoying the finer things in life (and of course, your mantra – “we only do fabulous”). How do you bring this philosophy into Ambiance Consulting Inc.’s projects and why is this so important?

Liz Mackay - Fine Italian bedding, Robert Allen designer cushions, contemporary Villeroy Boch tableware, and sumptuous wool rugs and throws are just some of the items I adore.. gorgeous coffee table books, fresh flowers and relaxing jazz or classical music are others.. who doesn’t want to be surrounded with the best they can afford?

“Aspirational Decorating” is our favourite term for it. It’s about creating the lifestyle that the buyer aspires to, an environment that draws on visual and emotional references to appeal to the widest array of potential buyers. Staging is a temporary art form, a creative endeavour that Is the perfect outlet for my passion about design.

We frequently get feedback from clients and real estate professional that our properties “don’t look staged” which we consider to be high praise. This is probably due to the fact that each project we do is individually planned and unique, and that all the finer details are present – the carefully chosen books, fresh flowers and plants, music and my favourite part – the artwork.

These are what bring the space to life.

Photograph courtesy of Ambiance Consulting Inc

Iván Meade – One of the most unique and superior facets about your company is your own background. How do you feel that your background in real estate and marketing have affected Ambiance Consulting Inc.?

Liz Mackay - Empathy for both the seller and the realtor, and the certain knowledge that empty homes sell for less, and take longer to generate an offer. It provided me with the knowledge of how important presentation is.

Those first 2 or 3 minutes a buyer spends in the home are usually the point where the buying decision is made. I used to stage my clients homes in the mid-80’s and early 90’s, using items from my personal collection of art, music, books and furnishings. Over the years I have also helped many friends and family in the same way. So in reality I have been staging for over 20 years! I just didn’t know what it was called!

It’s important to me that we create the most beautiful spaces possible, to ensure the client is thrilled with the results, and will derive the most benefit from the marketing tool of distinctive, elegant staging.

We’ve come a long way from the “baking cookies” way of selling homes!

Photograph courtesy of Ambiance Consulting Inc

Iván Meade – Lastly, you have created a stunning body of work in many mediums and styles, what would you like your legacy to be?

Liz Mackay - For the company, I’d like to think that Ambiance has taken staging in Victoria to a whole new level, and has helped our clients to maximize their property’s value and sale price.
On a personal level, to have had a positive effect on the lives of others.

I invite you to visit Ambiance Consulting Inc's website to see more of Liz's work and to learn more about her and her business.

Ambiance Consulting Inc

Ivan Meade is a local designer and principal of Meade Design Group, a multidisciplinary interior and graphic design studio in the heart of downtown Victoria – www.themeadegroup.com

Calling all Students!!!

Samsung Canada and House & Home Media seek Summer Style Intern

WHAT: Samsung Canada and House & Home Media — two of Canada’s most innovative companies — kick off their search for a Summer Style Intern. One talented individual will be selected for a three-month paid internship, from June through August, where they will learn all facets of magazine publishing, lifestyle branding, marketing and advertising.

The successful applicant will be put up in a fully-furnished, all expenses paid suite in a trendy Toronto neighbourhood, including an incredible line-up of Samsung technology. The intern will be featured in a Canadian House & Home Magazine advertorial, which will highlight their experience and time at both Samsung and House & Home Media, and will document his or her experience with weekly blog posts at Houseandhome.com.

WHO: College, university or trade-school students – or recent graduates who have completed their studies within the last three years – with a flare for media, design and technology.

WHEN: Applications accepted now through March 27, 2009.

HOW: Applicants need to submit at least one of the following to explain what makes them innovative:

- A written essay (250 words or less)
- A video (3 minutes maximum)
- An illustrated or photo essay

A judging panel will narrow applications down to three semi-finalists whose submissions will be posted on Houseandhome.com. Members of the public will then be asked to vote for their favourite semi-finalist and the individual with the most votes will be awarded the internship position.

WHERE: Apply online at www.houseandhome.com/innovate