Congratulations to the winners of the Dream Home Opportunity Drawing:

• Loews Package: Ken Vick
• Capital Grille Dinner: Debi Barish
• Roger's Gardens Gift Certificate: LaVonne Cahill
• Palm Island Package: Rick Cook
• Dream by Comfort Mattress Basket: Eve Fowey
• Royal Caribbean Cruise: Jodi Most

Thank you to everybody who participated in the Dream Home Opportunity Drawing and who supported the Dream Home Tour!

Final Week of the Lecture Series, Don't Miss Out! This week's focus: Infants & Seniors

Saturday March 24 from 11am to 3pm

Dubbed “The Healthy Home Dream Team”, Ron & Lisa Beres know a thing or two about home toxins, their effects on our children, and how to rid your home of them. Joined by Giselle Baturay of Granola Babies, this panel of experts will provide valuable insight about children’s toys, their environment, and OURS. Presentation begins at 11am.

Our very own Dream Home was inspired by the concept of multi generational living and the synergy between infants, adults, and seniors living together under one roof. At 1pm Celeste Jardine-Haug and Judy Aprile will elaborate on “the Secrets of Successful Aging" and "How Fitness plays a role in Adult Wellness.? Don’t let the title fool you - this is a valuable presentation for all ages.

Week three of our lecture series attracts food experts from around the globe

Saturday March 17 from 11am to 3pm

The day begins with a host of food experts sharing their knowledge of everything from third wave coffee and extra virgin olive oil to extra savory spices and all things cheese. Presenters Jeff Duggan of Portola Coffee, Phil Brooks of WE Olive & Wine Bar, Susan Carter of The Savory Spice Shop and Dawn Mednick of The Cheese Shop bring their extensive knowledge “to the table” for our enjoyment beginning at 11am. Special encore presentation at 2:00pm.

At 12:30pm join Anna Getty for a discussion on “Cooking and Eating for the 21st Century” - book signing to follow.

We're gearing up for week two of lecture presentations with an emphasis on Outdoor Design

Saturday March 10 from 11am to 3pm
Known for landscaping some of the most charming and elegant homes along the OC coast, Molly Wood of Molly Wood Garden Design will share her expertise on “How to Create Your Outdoor Paradise”. You’ve seen Molly’s work in the pages of some of our favorite local and regional home magazines and now Molly will share her tips on how to make those pages come to life in your very own backyard! Molly will begin her presentation at 11am then a special presentation by Tanya Fuqua and Mark Cleveland of Avanti Cafe will follow. The duo’s presentation will feature organic ingredients from the Amazing Bounty of South Coast Farms in San Juan Capistrano. Molly will return at 1pm to present “Ways to Introduce Color to your Outdoor Space from Plants to Accessories”.

Dream Home welcomes BRIZO as a BRONZE Sponsor!

Brizo is proof positive that form and function are one and beautifully the same. The premium faucet brand promises distinctive design and inventive products that are both stylish and functional. ASID California Orange county and the Multiple Sclerosis Society welcomes BRIZO as a Dream Home Sponsor.

Many of the BRIZO faucets, like the Charlotte Collection shown, feature lever handles and SmartTouchPlus hands-free operation. A convenient and functional feature for multi-generational living.

The Solna Kitchen Collection takes efficiency and convenience to a whole new level.  MagneDock Technology makes operating the pull down spray wand a snap and their innovative SmartTouchPlus feature keeps temperature controlled water at your fingertips, literally.

For more information visit www.brizo.com

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

Designer Profiles: Veronica Lawrence

When did you become interested in interior design?

I've always been interested in interior design and having my home function well. I love color and fabrics and enjoy putting together color palettes that offer self expression. I graduated with an associates degree in interior design early 2007 from IDI in Newport Beach. While at college I worked for Ethan Allen as a designer, completing 100s of projects for clients, many of these clients are still with me today.

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

I really don't believe in "niche" deisgning but I can say that I don't relate to very formal traditional styles - why would you want to live in an environment that belongs in past centurys? Today's scheduled and busy lifestyles look to interior design to provide well functioning and livable spaces that can adapt to the growing or aging family . Rooms that are more comfortable and show some personality with texture and color. Some traditional furnishing could work in such an environment and give a depth and dimention to the room.

What is your style mantra?

The complete room, a room that makes you smile as you enter, you'll love being there.

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

I responded to the call for designers by going to the first meeting. I felt it was a wonderful opportunity to design a room with my own concept and ideas. Usually when working with a client I will discover what they want in a design and create the concept around their design asthetic.

How are you incorporating universal design into your room?

I'm very much in favor of universal design as it's clear that clients plan to live in their homes for many years - boomers don't want to give up their independance and move to communities for the aged. They are more inclined to adapt their home through re-model to accommodate their needs as they age. The master bedroom has a good flow and function, it's a retreat for the couple. I've incorporated comfort and ease of use - the window shades and lighting are remote controlled, with a push of a button, the shades open or close and the light fixtures can be turned off/on/dimmed. The floors are level and firm to allow for easy walking/wheelchair/non slip. Chairs and sofa are custom made for easy rise to accommodate someone with limited strength.

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

For me, inspiration can come from many things. The color palette was a given for this project but in a broad sense. I searched first for fabrics to design the custom bedding, it's like a color and texture puzzle (designing bedding) and this gave me inspiration. The grays and greens of the palette started to come together - silver emerged as a strong accent for the room. I woke up one night thinking of a wall covering for the bed wall, that morning I was so excited to go searching for the pattern I wanted, I found it! I want the room to be calm and scerene but also cheerful...so I brought in accents of fuschia to lift the colors.

What is your best design tip?

For clients wanting to redesign their home, work on one room and complete the room before moving to the next space. Many time people thing a new sofa and chairs will change the room but these pieces are the foundation of the design. The secret is in the accents and investing in the complete room design.

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

Recently a worked with a client on the re-model of his kitchen. Things were going smoothly, all the contractors were on board and I wanted to put together a timeline for installations. I soon discovered the cabinetry vendor stalling on their given timeline. My general contractor hired/recommended the cabinetry vendor and he also began to avoid my calls. I visited the cabinet vendor without an appointment to discover the problem - they had too much work to meet their deadline. We came to a compromize to help out the client for the short term by building a temporary sink in his unfinished kitchen. I stayed on top of the situation and communicated effectively with the client. Once back on track, all installations were done smoothly and the client gave me a bonus 50% additionl fee for handling the problems in a professional way.

What is your proudest moment to date?

My proudest moment in design happens when the design I've visualized and created comes together and is complete... and looks great! It's very fulfilling and the client is so happy. I worked with a client a couple of years ago to remodel his business office space, he was both inspired and inspiring to work with and gave me freedom to explore, the result is so great that I visit from time to time, just to get another look. Oh how I love that office!

A

Any advice to aspiring designers?ny advice to aspiring designers?

Listen to your clients, ask questions to discover what they really want. Most times they don't know so you must ask good questions of both husband and wife - they never think alike! Design for the client not yourself.

Anything else you'd like to add?

Never leave a client unhappy, resolve all issues that come up during the project as quickly and professionally as possible. If you intend managing your own business, be sure to understand the business side of Interior Design - making a profit is important to growing your business. Create a business plan as a living working document, it's the "road map" for growing your business.

You can find and contact Veronica here:

http://www.veronicalawrenceinteriordesign.com/

Designer Profile: Adriel Cogdal

Adriel Cogdal of Adriel Designs is heading up the committee of designers selected for the MS Dream Home. A longtime practitioner of interior design and former ASID chapter president, her firm is also known for yacht design. Adriel will be designing the intermediate foyer this year for the Dream Home.When did you become interested in interior design?
Without knowing it as a child. Always loved looking at beautiful furniture and houses with my mother. Seriously as an adult after my husband died and my family pressured me to find a career. Like a lighting bolt it occurred to me that interior design fulfilled all my career requirements. So I went to school and have never looked back.

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

What ever the client wants. I do not impart my style onto anyone. My niche is Universal Design and Yacht interiors along with residential. Still love houses.

What is your style mantra?

Just enough.

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

I am the chair person. I took this on this year because we were doing something completely different than in years past. I believe ASID should be in the forefront of design, and this presented a unique opportunity for me in a leadership position.

How are you incorporating universal design into your room?
My tiny vestibule is a pathway between two rooms. The dark floor and bright walls are sharply contrasted for dimming eye sight. There is enough room to turn around in a wheel chair and go the opposite direction. There is room at the desk for a wheel chair to pull up to it and actually use, though the room is designed to really pass through.

My tiny vestibule is a pathway between two rooms. The dark floor and bright walls are sharply contrasted for dimming eye sight. There is enough room to turn around in a wheel chair and go the opposite direction. There is room at the desk for a wheel chair to pull up to it and actually use, though the room is designed to really pass through.Where do you look for inspiration, whether it be design or style?

My clients inspire me. But I get inspiration from books, fashion, movies, art anything and any where can bring inspiration if you're open to it.

What is your best design tip?

Hire a professional. And cry once. Spend the money for quality and assistance and you'll save a bunch of money by not having to go back and correct your mistakes or re-buying the same item over and over.

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

When trying to install medicine cabinets in a master bathroom we discovered there were pipes behind the wall that prevented us placing them centered over the sink, where we wanted them. We could have moved the pipe, but it would have been very expensive. We redesigned the area and placed the cabinets on the side walls and covered the doors with the wallpaper so you couldn't tell they were there.

What is your proudest moment to date?

Heading this team of interior designers through the design house process.

Any advice to aspiring designers?

Stay true to your dreams. If you truly love what you do it will not be like working, it will be a joy.

You can find and contact Adriel here:

http://adrieldesigns.com/

Universal Design: Design for All

Universal design means just that: design that allows for people of all physical abilities or life stage to comfortably use the designed space without compromising aesthetics or function. While the commercial design world has been operating with these requirements for many years, universal design for homes is quickly becoming the benchmark for good design as well. Everyone: old, young, able bodied or not, can benefit from a thoughtfully designed space. As designers, when we infuse aesthetics with the functional needs of a client, we create spaces that are both beautiful and efficient. These design changes can be as small as installing grab bars in home bathtubs or roll out bins in kitchen cabinetry and as large scale as installing ramps and elevators.

1. Equitable use – The home’s design should make it equally usable by everyone. Ideally, the means by which people use the home should be the same (e.g., providing one means of entry to the building that works well for everyone)tors in an entire home for wheelchair access. The 7 basic principles of Universal Design are:

2. Flexibility in use - The home’s design should allow people to use its design features in more than one prescribed way (e.g., providing a countertop that is usable from either a seated or standing position)

3. Simple and intuitive - The home should make it easy for everyone to understand the purpose of each design feature and how to use it.

4. Perceptible information- The home should provide all essential information in a variety of modes to ensure effective communication with all users regardless of their sensory abilities.

5. Tolerance for error - Ideally, the home’s design should eliminate, isolate or shield any design features that could prove hazardous or inconvenient to any user.

6. Low physical effort – little to no physical force necessary to operate (e.g., replacing a traditional doorknob with a lever handle that does not require the ability to grasp and turn the wrist)

7. Size and Space for Approach and Use - A home’s design needs to be arranged to provide a clear path of travel to and from important design features for all users.

When we consider the needs of all potential users of a space, we create spaces that will continue to function long past the original client and won’t need to be adapted to each individual. In the coming years, as the baby boomer generation enters retirement age, universal design will continue to pick up speed in our homes.

Designer Profiles: Eve Lowey

When did you become interested in interior design?
My father was an architect so there was always an inherent interest. When I was in junior high, my art teacher told me about a bedroom design contest. I entered and won an honorable mention! That project sparked my love for design and the rest is history.

What would you say is your design style? Your niche?
Style is about changing, staying ahead of what's going on, being a chameleon. I don't like to keep doing the same thing over and over, so Chameleon Design is always looking to turn the page on the styles we are doing. We are always thinking about what the next up and coming styles are going to be.

What is your style mantra?

We do something unique every day.

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

As a professional member, I like to support the organization and their efforts. I'm flattered and very excited to be a part of the Dream Home.

How are you incorporating universal design into your room?

We've left a path of egress open. Also, the way you get into the room and move around within it is all very open. Seating is accessible and comfortable.

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

We look at everything for inspiration: magazines, design shows, catalogs, retail stores, wholesale sources, showrooms. We are a very informed team because we intentionally keep ourselves exposed to a wide range of design.

What is your best design tip?

Keep it clean! Simplify, edit down. When you buy new things for the home, get rid of older things.

We all run into problems doing design work. Can you tell me about a headache you had and how you resolved it?
The first thing that comes to mind is clients second-guessing or questioning our direction and ideas. When this happens we simply find another right answer. As a design pro, it's important to remember that we are there to support. With commercial design, we are there to support the marketing team and help sell the properties, and with residential design we are there to support the family and their lifestyle. It's all about flexibility.

Who are your style icons and why?

Michael Taylor is an icon and inspiration of mine. Although he passed away long ago, his designs are still very relevant today. He was innovative and extraordinary with everything he did.

What is your proudest moment to date?
My kids. They've shaped the person I am and I love watching them grow up and into themselves. Raising kids is a creative effort and a true test of flexibility!

Any advice to aspiring designers?
Don't' be afraid to roll up your sleeves!

You can find and contact Eve and her team here:

http://www.studiochameleon.com/

Designer Profiles: Alix Flamm

Alix Flamm of Alix Flamm Design "grew up in design," as she herself says; her father was an artist. Being exposed to design at such an early age has helped shape her aesthetic from the very beginning. Alix has also participated in 3 previous ASID design houses; she will be designing the Grandparent's Suite for the Dream Home

When did you become interested in interior design?I started off in another career, and I always wanted to do something creative. After watching HGTV I decided that I really wanted to be an Interior Designer.

What would you say is your design style? Your niche?I really have an appreciation for all styles. Client's have their own take on a certain style. So every style comes out differently based on what they want. The most fun is doing different styles, and doing the research and finding out something new.

What is your style mantra?Put your personality into your style. Your hobbies, collections, colors that you love. Make it your own.

What inspired you to be a part of the ASID Dream Home? Coming up with my own design concept and going through the design process. Being part of the design community,and contributing to MS.

How are you incorporating universal design into your room?
Following the ADA guidelines for space requirements and furniture heights for people with disabilities. It' a wonderful learning experience, and one that will stay with me.

Where do you look for inspiration, whether it be design or style?
Everywhere. Art, travel, nature are good places to start.

What is your best design tip?
Color, experiment, use your favorite colors.

We all run into problems doing design work. Can you tell me about a headache you had and how you resolved it?
Well things happen. I take a little time to think through the options. Asking other Designers how they handle a same situation is always good. They can put your mind at rest, and come up with things you might not of thought of.

Who are your style icons and why?
Ralph Lauren is an American Style Icon. He takes classic American looks and makes them fresh and unique. Also, love Diane Von Furstenburg she just keeps coming up with very bold designs that are fun yet accessible. I enjoy many different fashion designers, as well. Fashion is a big influence on home design.

What is your proudest moment to date?
Becoming an Interior Designer. Having the courage to follow my dream.

Any advice to aspiring designers?
Get out as much as you can to events and meeting people, and doing the ASID Dream Home to showcase your work.  Be yourself, and help others.

You can find and contact Alix and her team here:

http://alixflammdesigns.com/

Designers Have Been Selected!

After many hours of preparation and presentations, we are excited to announce the selected ASID Orange County designers who will showcase their design talents this coming March in the ASID Dream Home @ SOCO benefitting the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.

• Main Foyer
  Amanda Malson, , Allied Member ASID
  Domicile Interior Design


• Powder Room
  Rejoy Geehan, Allied Member ASID
  Rejoy Interiors


• Living Room
  Eve Lowey, ASID
  Chameleon Design


• Grandparents Bath
  Ronni Whitman
  The Art Institute of California - Orange County


• Grandparents Suite
  Kimberly Franzen, Allied Member ASID
  Franzen Interiors
  Alix Flamm, Alliied Member ASID
  Alix Flamm Designs


• Intermediate Foyer
  Adriel Cogdal, ASID
  Adriel Designs


• Nursery
  Julia Caro, Allied Member ASID
  Julia Caro Interior Design


• Master Bedroom
  Veronica Lawrence, Allied Member ASID
  Veronica Lawrence Interiors


• Master Bathroom
  Laura Yorba, Allied Member ASID
  LCY Designs
  Monica Olson, Allied Member ASID
  Casafina Interior Design


• Teen Bedroom
  Sue Rexroth, Allied Member ASID
  Sue Rexroth Interiors


• Guest Bath
  Tamara Shermer, Allied Member ASID
  O.C. Interiors


• Retreat
  Rick Campos, Allied Member ASID
  Christopher Tracy Interiors


• Kitchen
  Stephanie Cook, Allied Member ASID
  Plural Interior Design


• Outdoor Area
  Tamra Mundia, Allied Member ASID
  Concept Design, Inc.


• Laundry
  Saddleback College


• Gift Shop
  The Art Institute of California - Orange County


• Lobby
  Interior Designers Institute