Call me a fan of the standard headboard. They give a nice focal point to a room, and upholstered ones offer a pleasant cushion for reading, too. They aren't the only way to adorn the head of the bed, though. Read on for some great--and unexpected--alternatives.
Read MoreSCD in Oakland Magazine: how to update an old home
I'm happy to announce that I'll be writing regularly for Oakland Magazine--and its sister publication Alameda Magazine--on issues of interior design and style.
For my first piece, I tackle the issue of updating older homes. How can you get modern functionality while maintaining classic styling? Read the article to find out!
Read MoreDeck the walls: photography by Rachel Hulin
I'm thrilled to share with you the work of my friend Rachel Hulin. She's the photographer behind the wildly popular Flying Henry series that made the media rounds a couple years back. She's also the artist who did a beautiful job shooting my wedding, and the creator of a lot of the pieces that deck my own walls. We spoke recently to discuss her career trajectory, her sources of inspiration, and the direction of her newest work.
Read MoreVaulted ceilings are looking up
As someone who's spent much of my life living in small surroundings, I can vouch for the importance of ceiling height. They give you the feeling of space without additional square footage. So if you can't expand outward, one option is go up, by vaulting your ceilings.
Read MoreMy favorite storage solution
In Latin, pax means peace. In Swedish, I'm pretty sure it means: totally brilliant, extremely versatile and wonderfully affordable cabinet. Yes, the Ikea Pax is a great solution to many a storage woe, and the one I turn to when a client's budget doesn't allow for custom built wardrobes.
Read MorePerfect in plaid
A reporter asked me recently what I thought the next big trend in pattern would be. I think my answer surprised her: plaid. Yep, that same preppy, masculine, and--dare I say old-fashioned--pattern is definitely having a moment. Here's why: despite its density, it plays surprisingly well with others. It's great in a mountain cabin, of course, or a manly den. But it is also pleasingly fresh in less rugged surroundings. Unconvinced? Let me show you what I mean.
Read MoreDesigner chat back: Ryan Feerer
I'm excited to share with you the work of my friend Ryan Feerer. We met in New York City, where he worked as a graphic designer and illustrator for the same digital firm as my husband. Cut to several years later, and Ryan has expanded his career to include interiors. His first major project: Abi-Haus, his own restaurant, in his hometown of Abilene, Texas. We spoke recently to discuss how this opportunity developed, his process and inspirations, and how designing for spaces differs from doing work in 2-D.
Read MoreHow to pair a dining table and chairs
When it comes to a dining table and chairs, I love to mix and match. I find it's often more chic--and certainly more interesting--than doing a perfect set. That being said, not every chair will look good with every table, and not every grouping will work in every home. There are a few guidelines to work with here. Let me walk you through them.
Read More