Lecture Series Begins on Saturday!

Saturday March 3rd
11am to 3pm

Join us for our first lecture, where a host of entertaining experts will share their tips and techniques for your own Garden Soiree, Sea Inspired Wedding, and English Tea. Presented by Youngsong Martin of Wildflower Linen, Chris Russom of Christopher Garren’s, and Annie Morgan of Fleurs les Fetes - this journey for the senses is sure to be a crowd pleaser! At noon our fabulous experts will present “Entertaining through the Year” and will share more entertaining tips and trends that will surely make you the hostess with the mostess!

The Beauty of Universal Design & Home Modifications

Rosa was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 1998. Now at the age of 53, Rosa is unable to walk and uses a wheelchair full-time. Her legs cause her great pain as she experiences multiple spasms and foot drop symptoms. Over the past few years, Rosa began to struggle living in her home as it was not accessible for her to be mobile and conduct daily routines.

The National MS Society was able to supply Rosa with a ceiling lift, a machine that helps her make transfers from her wheelchair to other areas in her home. This ceiling lift allows Rosa to do simple things such as take a shower or get into bed without a caregiver. Ultimately, this home modification has allowed Rosa to maintain her independence. “It’s such a relief. I can be at home and in my own environment. I’m very happy,” she stated.

Fundraising events like the ASID Dream Home allow the Society to help those like Rosa maintain their independence while living with multiple sclerosis. In addition, this year the ASID Dream Home is universally designed which means it is completely accessible and allows for people to age in place. Come out and see how universal design can be truly beautiful and support the Society’s efforts to provide home modifications to those in need like Rosa.

Designer Profiles: Stephanie Cook

When did you become interested in interior design? 

When I knew it was a career; growing up I always thought it was only for people on television. I couldn’t believe something that fun could be a real job. Then soon after high school, I found out a friend of my grandmothers was an interior designer and that day I enrolled in school and ended up getting a bachelors degree.

What would you say is your design style? Your niche?

My style is a mix. People ask why did you name your company PLURAL Design and it’s because we do more than one style in one space. I believe to have a really successful design you must have variety. The key is to pull everything together with lines, scale, textures and color. My goal is to give my clients something they could never achieve on their own. Otherwise what’s the point!

What is your style mantra?

Anything comfortable and bright, usually my painted sweats (Due to my love of painting) or a skirt with converse.

What inspired you to be a part of the ASID Dream Home?

Because it was a win win situation. I design because I love it. I get business, because people see it and the National MS Society benefits from it! 

How are you incorporating universal design into your room? 

I wanted my design to be universal and stylish. So I incorporated modern alternatives to otherwise unsightly predecessors. In addition to I also added the main requirements like functional clearances for approach and use of elements and components. Components that do not require tight grasping, pinching or twisting of the wrist, surfaces that are stable, firm, and slip resistant and many others.

.Where do you look for inspiration, whether it be design or style?

I look for inspiration in anything from a vintage purse to the packaging of candy. My phone storage usually fills up within a few months because when I’m out an about, I’m documenting new ideas and storing them away for that perfect client. 

We all run into problems doing design work.  Can you tell me about a headache you had and how you resolved it?

Hmm, well I would say it's patience. Anything that has to do with the construction side can always be worked out and is always fixed. A client once told me, "You have so much patience, how do you do it?" I said discipline, the best way to handle any situation is to not lose it. The hardest moments in my career have been times where it has pushed me mentally. Learning from these moments has prepared me for anything that comes my way. 

Who is your style icon?

This may seem weird but my style icon is my mother! She is a horrible dresser and has no sense of style, haha not really, but she is happy and wears what she loves. No outside influence just things she finds beautiful. I owe my free sprit and own uniqueness to her. ;)

What is your proudest moment to date?

I think I am most proud of the charity design makeovers I have done for the Make-A Wish Foundation and Boys Hope Girls Hope! The proudest moment was the first reveal to Kimberly Tello, she has systemic lupus erythematosis and needed a room that was happy and easy to keep clean. Her reaction had such an impact on my life that it changed me forever. To this day we still speak and I am planning a trip to Disneyland when she is back in town! You can view the video makeovers at http://pluralidpress.blogspot.com/

Any advice to aspiring designers?

Be yourself, stay organized; build yourself a good team of contractors and when this business kicks you down (because it will), remember why you do what you do! Because you love it!

Anything else you'd like to add?

I am a firm believer in getting what you give in life. The same goes for Interior design. If you treat your clients with respect and do the best job you can do, you will have much success and clients will turn into friends. 

You can find and contact Stephanie here:

http://www.pluralid.com/

Designer Profiles: Rick Campos

When did you become interested in interior design?
Way before HGTV. When I was a kid I remember my mom would change up the look of our house on a whim. I would wake up on a Saturday morning and the whole living room would be switched around! While she insists that I did not get my interior design gene from her, she did in all seriousness exhibit to me how a room can function in multiple configurations. The rest is history.

What would you say is your design style? Your niche? I take pride in developing practical design solutions that allow people to live better. I'm not afraid of breaking a few rules in the interest of satisfying my clients and making them feel like the space is functional, stylish, and unique to them.

What is your style mantra?
I believe that good design is a delicate balance of sophistication, charm, mood and attitude - it should evoke emotion. Design is not a competition, it is a privilege.

What inspired you to be a part of the ASID Dream Home?
To share my design vision with the thousands of people who will tour the home and also to collaborate with some of the best designers in Orange County which is truly an honor and a privilege.

How are you incorporating universal design into your room?
A u-shaped configuration will allow for ease of access to the three components of the space. A reverse layout makes the space easy to transition through when it is not in use.

Where do you look for inspiration, whether it be design or style?
I am constantly evaluating my surroundings and what works and what doesn't, then I apply that trial and error into my designs. Nothing beats actually being in a space and experiencing how that space makes you feel. I sweet talk my way into as many people's homes as I possibly can but I never judge - I just observe.

What is your best design tip?
Don't be afraid of color, pattern, or scale. One or a combination of all of these elements is what makes a space personal and unique.

We all run into problems doing design work. Can you tell me about a headache you had and how you resolved it?
Sometimes a paint color or a fabric just does't work after all. I would be lying if I said that I have nailed every project to perfection. I approach every challenge with confidence and authority. I don't stop until the outcome is what I feel it should be for my client.

Any advice to aspiring designers? Interior Design is a huge industry and is serious business. Put down the remote control, go to school, practice, and connect with industry professionals to really learn the many facets of our field.

You can find and contact Rick and his team here:

http://www.christophertracyinteriors.com/

The Dream Home is Making a Difference for Families Affected by MS

Just one of the reasons why the Dream Home makes such a difference...

Back in college, Jim had the sensation of having a foreign object in his eye that caused great pain. Little did he know that the mysterious “eyelash” was the beginning of a lifelong battle with multiple sclerosis, a disease he wouldn’t be diagnosed with for another 15 years.

Over time Jim's mobility worsened and he began to use a scooter to enable his mobility. Eventually MS forced Jim, an engineer, into early retirement where he now spends most days at home. Because he can no longer work his wife Lee, a social worker, is both the family’s sole income provider and his caregiver. However, there were days Lee could not always provide the care Jim needed and there were also days Jim was lonely and disconnected from the world.

Following a friend’s advice, Lee reached out to the National MS Society to provide help and support in this difficult situation. The Pacific South Coast Chapter was able to grant respite care where a caregiver comes into the house a few hours a week to help. Jim enjoys the company of the caregivers as they discuss politics with him and help him with chores around the home. Their assistance also allows Lee to spend her day focused on her work and not having to worry about Jim's physical and emotional needs.

Respite care provides health for the whole family. $300 a month provides a family affected by MS with in-home care that helps maintain independence, well-being, and preserve the family unit. Events such as the ASID Dream Home raise critical funds that allow programs like respite care to be possible. Learn more about other programs the MS Society provides at mspacific.org. Tour the Dream Home this March and help support families in need!

Designer Profiles: Monica Olson

When did you become interested in interior design? 

I've always been interested in design but what inspired me to pursue a career was the experience of building (with ex-husband) our dream home. There were so many elements to consider- floorplan, material selections and coordinating all those elements along with the various trades to ultimately create a very special home that reflected our lifestyle.

What would you say is your design style? Your niche?

I can't say that I have one particular design style- I appreciate most but lean towards a more electic and sophisticated approach without a lot of fuss.

What inspired you to be a part of the ASID Dream Home?

I've always been fascinated with Design Home Tours and have not had the opportunity until now to participate. Love the idea of all the talent represented by such a diverse group of professional designers.

How are you incorporating universal design into your room? My partner and I are incorporating many elements that aide in ease of accessibility to a Master Bath. These include a damless shower with the ability to roll a wheelchair into the space and a bench for everyday use. Grab bars are strategically placed in the shower and toilet alcove. The toilet alcove is large enough to accomodate a walker or wheelchair and we've incorporated a bi-level vanity to assist those who may require handicap accessibility.

.Where do you look for inspiration, whether it be design or style?

There is an abundance of sources that inspire- from traveling abroad to the surrounding environment in my home town. I took a trip to Italy this past summer and was inspired by the history & architecture of the cities I visited. Inspiration for texture and color can be found in a piece of clothing or something as simple as a piece of driftwood. I love the juxtaposition of old and new, creating spaces that are so much more interesting.

We all run into problems doing design work. Can you tell me about a headache you had and how you resolved it?

As all designers know, it's unusual to have a job go perfectly throughout the entire design process- the goal is to be honest with your client regarding any complications and search for solutions. I recently ran into a snafu with a custom hood- the client had envisioned it a bit differently than it turned out and we were able to modify it in a way which she actually liked better than her original concept and did not require us to rebuild the entire hood (which would have been very costly).

Who is your style icon?

There is so much talent in the design field, but I have to admit my favorite is John Saladino. Other designers which I connect with are Thad Hayes, Victoria Hagan, Juan Montoya and Candace Olson, needless to say a very eclectic group!

Any advice to aspiring designers?

Work with a practicing designer for some time before you embark on your own- there is so much to learn and this field is constantly evolving which makes it such a fascinating career choice.

You can find and contact Monica here:

Casafinainteriordesign.com

Designer Profiles: Rejoy Geehan

When did you become interested in interior design? 

I have been interested in design since I was a young girl. I have an aunt with extraordinary taste and so I always LOVED visiting her home. It felt very Ralph Lauren with Blue, Carmel and Cream. She was defiantly an early inspiration.

What would you say is your design style? Your niche?

I do all types of Interior Design projects but I especially love doing Bathroom Remodels.

What is your style mantra?

I create spaces that echo the essence of who you are.

What inspired you to be a part of the ASID Dream Home?

I am crazy about the bold color scheme this year. It's very out of the box...I like that. 

How are you incorporating universal design into your room?
Lower Vanity, Non-Slip Floors, Grab Bars

Where do you look for inspiration, whether it be design or style?
Inspiration is everywhere! You can pull a color scheme from a sunset or the runways of Milan.

What is your best design tip?

Do what feels like "you".

Who is your style icon and whyt?

I love the work of Barry Dixon. His work is very layered and always interesting.

What is your proudest moment to date?

Winning Three Awards at the ASID 2011 Gala this last year.

Any advice to aspiring designers?

If you love it....go for it!

Anything else you'd like to share?

If you love what you do, you will never work a day in your life. I don't work...I create...and that never feels like work.

You can find and contact Rejoy here:

http://rejoyinteriors.com/

Designer Profile: Tamra Mundia

When did you become interested in interior design?
I was truly born with it! The progression was natural beginning with a fort in the eucalyptus trees complete with my own custom designed furniture to a teenage bedroom dressed with a bold navy and white wallpaper print to compliment my all white furniture.

What would you say is your design style? Your niche?
My personal style is a warm contemporary with an organic flavor. My niche is figuring out my clients design tastes and reflecting thier style in the interior I design for them.

What is your style mantra?
To translate my clinets identity into the physical space and help them create the ultimate lifestyle that they have only dreamed about.

What inspired you to be a part of the ASID Dream Home?
It is a fun and innovative idea that I think will create much interest as well as benefit a great cause and I wanted to be a part of it all!

How are you incorporating universal design into your room?
I designed the space to support easy access to all seating and dining. The automated shades are on a remote and the cocktail table is pulled out further from standard to accomodate possible transfer from wheelchair to outdoor furnture.

Where do you look for inspiration, whether it be design or style?
Nature is the ultimate inspiration for me. I live at the beach and watch the colors in the sky during sunset - the ocean tides on a rainy day - and the rock formations on the cliffs.

What is your best design tip?
Call a designer. If you do it yourself at least get a plan from a designer so you don't waste time and money.

We all run into problems doing design work. Can you tell me about a headache you had and how you resolved it?
The biggest mistake I see people make over and over is spending massive amounts of money and not getting what they want. I had a client call me AFTER remodeling. They built a really open floorplan without a space for a television. I designed a custom entertainment peice that floated in the great room with the back side forming a banquette for seating in the dining area. It worked!!

Who are your style icons and why?
Jackie O for her incredible knack in wearing just the right thing. She kept it simple and chic!

What is your proudest moment to date?
I designed a home for a family that was looking for a change in environment and lifestyle. They went away for the summer and returned to the newly remodeled home. During the reveal she cried and said I changed thier life! This was a very rewarding project...:)

Any advice to aspiring designers?
If your passion is with interior design you will always love what you do. It is so rewarding to see the difference you can make through design.

You can find and contact Tamra and her team here:

http://www.conceptdesignoc.com/tamra-mundia

Designer Profile: Amanda Malson

When did you become interested in interior design?

I became interested in art and design at a very early age. Both of my parents are artist and designers. I was raised among all types of artists and designers. My grandmothers were crafters and taught me sew when I was 5 years of age. I have an affinity for "putting things together", structure, materials and fabrics. I grew up spaces planning tents and forts in my backyard. I guess I would say, it's just ingrained in me.

What would you say is your design style? Your niche?

Modern eclectic or vintage modern. Both my business partner and I love to pair classic modern and custom made pieces with vintage or flea market finds. We love utilizing shots of bold color and creating contrast by mixing it with a neutral base or background. Accessorizing is a big part of the success of our interiors.

What is your style mantra?

"Is it appropriate? Always consider the details no matter what!! Design in a way that you love! "

What inspired you to be a part of the ASID Dream Home?

It's always fun to participate in a project within a community where you are all working toward creating new experiences for people to view and enjoy. I am also very passionate about supporting The National MS Society. It's really a treat to be able to design an interior that supports a cure for MS.

How are you incorporating universal design into your room?

I have the Grand Foyer gallery theme is planed in such a way that anyone can easily view the art and motivate gracefully around the room.

Where do you look for inspiration, whether it be design or style?

EVERYWHERE!!!!

What is your best design tip?

Keep things simple. Even the most extravagant interiors have simple methods behind them. Always be editing. Creative accessorizing. Show off your collections and always display the things you love in your home. Keep it organized! Buy bins, baskets or create custom spaces for your "behind the scenes" items. Art makes a huge difference. Consider the placement and size of the pieces. Displaying collections of anything always makes a huge statement.

We all run into problems doing design work. Can you tell me about a headache you had and how you resolved it?

Most all problems are solved through clear communication, responsibility and accountability.

Who are your style icons and why?

For Architecture - Roy McMakin

For Fashion - Paul Smith, Kate Spade, Diane Von Furstenberg.
For Color & Pattern - Kate Spade, Kelly Wearstler & David Hicks
For Juxtaposition of furniture - Vicente Wolf & John Saladino
For Web - The Selby...and SO many more.
For Design & Scenario - Futurist Syd Mead

What is your proudest moment to date?

"Creating my own business and bringing it into existence from nothing with my business partner Jolene.

Having my home published by Traditional Home Magazine. "

Any advice to aspiring designers?

Look at everything! Figure out what the subtle details are. Study why high-end brands work. Master scale and proportion and color. Simplicity simplicity simplicity. Take a business class.

Anything else you'd like to add?

“The role of the designer is that of a very good, thoughtful host anticipating the needs of his guests.” Charles Eames

You can find and contact Amanda and her team here:

http://domicileid.com/domicile/Home.html