A SURPRISE BOCA PROJECT RIGHT ON THE OCEAN

What made this project unique was the story behind it. – My client a gentleman of refined taste, wanted to surprise his wife of over four decades with a stunning condominium right on the ocean.

The project involved a gut renovation encompassing the kitchen, two bedrooms, two bathrooms, floors, and lighting. Every detail was meticulously curated, from the installation of furniture, lighting, and vintage antiques to the careful placement of art and accessories. The entire transformation unfolded over the course of a year.

The grand reveal marked the culmination of many months of hard work, and it was on this day that I had the pleasure of meeting the client's charming wife. The joyous occasion was met with enthusiasm as she expressed her love for every aspect of the project. It was truly a delightful conclusion to a year-long journey, resulting in a project that surpassed expectations.

The new kitchen with Calacutta Verde marble countertops and an ocean view!

A close-up of this new modern kitchen with glass cabinets and stunning ocean views.

The primary bathroom with a mosaic feature wall .

The primary bathroom featuring a leaf mosaic wall.

Lighting plays a big part in every project!

CELEBRATING 21 YEARS of COLLABORATION : A CONTEMPORARY KITCHEN TRANSFORMATION

As an interior designer, some projects hold a special place in your heart. They become more than just assignments; they evolve into remarkable journeys of creativity, trust, and enduring relationships. Such is the story of my 21-year collaboration with a remarkable couple who recently embarked on an exciting new venture - the gut renovation and expansion of their kitchen. What unfolded was nothing short of spectacular, and today, I'm thrilled to share the story of one of my all-time favorite projects.

Our journey began over two decades ago when I first had the pleasure of working with this wonderful couple. From the very beginning, it was clear that they were not just clients; they were partners in a shared vision. We embarked on various projects over the years, each one strengthening our professional relationship and deepening our friendship.

When the idea of renovating their kitchen arose, I was overjoyed. Having known them for so long, I was already attuned to their tastes and preferences. They graciously gave me free rein to explore creative possibilities, which was a testament to the trust we had built over the years.

The day we unveiled the finished kitchen was a moment of pure joy. The looks on their faces, the gasps of amazement, and the tears of happiness were a testament to the success of the project. Every detail, from the carefully chosen color palette to the innovative storage solutions, had come together to create a space that exceeded even our loftiest expectations.
The objective was clear - create a contemporary kitchen that would seamlessly blend modern aesthetics with functionality. We envisioned a space that would not only be the heart of their home but a reflection of their personalities and lifestyles.

The design process was a whirlwind of excitement and inspiration. We carefully selected sleek, minimalist cabinetry and countertops that would provide ample storage while maintaining a clean, uncluttered look. A large central island became the focal point, a place for family gatherings and culinary adventures.

Natural light was optimized, flooding the space through strategically placed windows, High-end appliances were seamlessly integrated into the design, ensuring that the kitchen was as efficient as it was beautiful.
The day we unveiled the finished kitchen was a moment of pure joy. The looks on their faces, and the gasps of amazement, were a testament to the success of the project. Every detail, from the carefully chosen color palette to the innovative storage solutions, had come together to create a space that exceeded even our loftiest expectations.

This project wasn't just about designing a kitchen; it was about celebrating a lasting bond with clients who had become like family. Their trust and willingness to give us creative freedom were the driving forces behind the success of this project. It's a testament to the power of long-term relationships in the world of design.

As I reflect on the journey of the past 21 years and this remarkable kitchen transformation, I am filled with gratitude. Grateful for clients who became friends, for the opportunity to create a space that will bring them joy for years to come, and for the enduring power of trust and collaboration.

This white oak veneered cabinetry set he tone for this modern light and airy kitchen.

This round table and chairs fit perfectly in the space. The chairs feature the same silhouette as the counter stools with a different coordinating wool backing to create added interest.

The integrated cabinetry handles adds a minimalistic feel to this modern kitchen.

The installed mirror above the stove creates the illusion of even more space in this large luxurious kitchen.

Bright and fun colors come together to tie in the artwork, table scape and lighting fixture.

We used two light fixtures installed together to create a large cohesive lighting over the center island.

This styled corner really brings this kitchen to life.

EMBRACE THE COZY ELEGANCE: INTERIOR DESIGN TRENDS FOR FALL 2023

As the leaves begin to change and a crisp chill fills the air, it's the perfect time to refresh your home's interior and embrace the latest design trends for fall 2023. This season, we are seeing a shift towards warmth, comfort, and a touch of sophistication. Here are some of the top interior design trends to inspire your fall home makeover:

• Earthy Color Palettes: This fall, nature-inspired color palettes take center stage. Think deep, earthy tones like rich terracotta, warm olive greens, and muted mustard yellows. These colors evoke a sense of comfort and connection to the outdoors, making your space feel cozier and more inviting.

• Velvet and Bouclé Textures: Luxurious textures are making a comeback this fall. Velvet and bouclé fabrics are in high demand for upholstery and soft furnishings. These materials add depth and tactile appeal to your interior, creating a sense of opulence and comfort.

• Biophilic Design: As our lives become increasingly urbanized, the desire to reconnect with nature within our homes grows stronger. Biophilic design principles, such as incorporating natural materials like wood, stone, and indoor plants, continue to be popular. Large windows and ample natural light also play a significant role in bringing the outdoors in.

• Grandmillennial Style: A mix of traditional and contemporary elements, grandmillennial style is all about embracing the charm of vintage decor with a modern twist. Think floral wallpapers, antique furniture, and heirloom-inspired pieces blended seamlessly with modern accents.

• Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Choices: Sustainability remains a crucial consideration in interior design. Look for eco-friendly materials, such as recycled wood, sustainable textiles, and energy-efficient lighting, to reduce your environmental footprint while staying on-trend.

• Maximalist Decor: Fall 2023 welcomes bold, eclectic interiors. Embrace maximalism by mixing patterns, textures, and colors to create a vibrant and visually stimulating space. Incorporate statement pieces and don't be afraid to showcase your personality through decor.

• Smart Home Integration: Technology is seamlessly merging with design. Smart home features like voice-activated lighting, climate control, and automated window treatments are becoming increasingly popular, offering convenience and efficiency without sacrificing aesthetics.

• Artistic Expression: Personalized art and unique sculptures are gaining prominence in interior design. Showcase your individuality by curating an art collection that speaks to your taste and style, adding a distinctive touch to your space.

• Cozy Nooks and Reading Corners: With the fall season comes a desire to curl up with a good book. Create inviting reading nooks with plush armchairs, soft throws, and ample bookshelves to encourage moments of relaxation and reflection.

• Transitional Spaces: Open-concept living is evolving into more versatile, transitional spaces. Incorporate movable partitions, sliding doors, or furniture that can adapt to changing needs, providing flexibility in your living arrangements.

Fall 2023's interior design trends revolve around the idea of creating a welcoming, harmonious, and eco-conscious environment. Whether you're looking to make small updates or embark on a complete home transformation, these trends offer a roadmap to achieving a stylish and comfortable living space that reflects your unique personality and values. So, get ready to infuse your home with the warmth and elegance of this season's design trends and embrace the coziness of fall.

FEATUREED IN NYC COTTAGES & GARDENS/ TRIBECA PIED-A-TERRE

As we celebrate our 25th year in business, I'm thrilled to reflect on one of our favorite projects. To me, the key to success is establishing a great rapport with clients. When there's mutual trust and positive energy, everything falls into place beautifully.

This project was a true testament to the power of joyful collaboration. The clients, a happy couple who had just become empty nesters after marrying off their children, were looking for a pied-a-terre that would serve as a peaceful retreat in the heart of Tribeca. Since both of their newlywed children lived nearby, they wanted a cozy space where they could all come together, visit and unwind.

The challenge was to create a design that combined bold, exuberant colors with a sophisticated style that conveyed a sense of understated luxury and comfort. The result was a space that radiated joy, happiness, and tranquility, perfectly suited to the client's needs and personalities.

The foyer reflects the owner’s love of color and gives you a glimpse of what’s to come.

This exuberant, colorful living room was designed with the wonderful personalities of the clients in mind.

The living room shines like a jewel. The starting point of the design started with this gorgeous Tibetan Rug! Bold, colorful , fun and alive!

Blues and greens with a splash of exotic Spring flowers add to the drama.

Vintage vessels and vases add soul and character to the space. The linen drapery lets the soft light filter through and defines the space..

Vintage finds and antiques mix with wonderful bold patterns and color, bringing a sense of of harmony to the living room.

Soft grasscloth , a custom bar reflecting light with antique mirror and an ombre ottoman are all married together to form an intimate space.

The kitchen is wide open and serves as a gathering spot for both family and friends.

We kept the textured wall covering, handmade cashmere rug, and drapery soft and soothing to set a tone of utter tranquility.

We added touches of whimsy to keep the mood lighthearted…

Art, soft textures and beautiful patterns all come together to form a sexy oasis in the primary bedroom.

The home office was designed for a sophisticated lady who loves soft muted ombre tones giving this space a dreamlike ambience.

The guest room is sheathed in a soft floral wallpaper where tension is created with the rough texture of this sea grass rug against both the wall covering and the soft velvet of the bed.

EAST HILLS RENOVATION

When wonderful old-time clients were ready to upgrade their old and worn living room and kitchen, we were called upon to do a refresh. We wanted the spaces to feel light, bright, fresh, and airy. We decided white was the overall theme here. BEFORE and AFTER photos tell the whole story!

BEFORE

AFTER

BEFORE

AFTER

BEFORE

AFTER

BEFORE

AFTER

AFTER

SANDS POINT DREAM HOUSE RENOVATION

When one of our wonderful repeat clients called and said they just bought this 1950’s mid-century modern house, we were very excited to get started on the gut renovation

This home sits high on a hill overlooking the Long Island Sound with water views from every room of this 4 Br, 5 Bath retreat on over 2 acres of land In The Heart Of Sands Point.

We came up with a new 21st century modern luxurious architectural plan, updating every room in the house. We worked to make it a forever home with smart technology, energy efficiency, and zen beauty.

We also incorporated a new landscaping plan. and an infinity pool…. What we never expected was building this home in the middle of a pandemic, with all kinds of shutdowns and delays…

After three and a half long years these are the photos of the new house. We might have to wait a couple of more years until all the interior decorating is finalized. So for now, enjoy these photos showing all of our design choices for flooring, moldings, fireplaces, bathrooms, primary closets, and an amazing chef’s kitchen. As they say… “it’s all in the details! “

This house was designed with harmony and tranquility in mind incorporating the beautiful outdoors.

Blackened steel windows, huge stone multi-colored walls, wood siding and copper details were all designed to give this house a sense of 21st century modernism.

The new huge front door is stained a dark blackened brown color , giving a sense of excitement to what lays ahead…

New poured concrete floors, a stainless steel staircase and white oak shiplap ceilings (punctuated with steel) were all part of this modern gut renovation. It’s all in the details!

Poured concrete floors with a blazing fire welcome you into the new living room. We designed this home with a Zen sensibility marrying the inside with the outdoors.

This Arabescato marble fireplace sets the welcoming tone to the living room. The chandelier references the Zen simplicity of the house and the leaves outside.

The round dining room table and comfy leather chairs are conducive to great conversation, the crystal drops on the chandelier reference the water view.

What can be more beautiful than this view overlooking the Long Island Sound over any meal in this house?

This Chef’s kitchen has it all. Italian Walnut hand planed cabinetry, and a stainless and a leather Python marble countertop! Let the cooking begin!

Wall ovens are flanked by hand-planed walnut cabinets that light up all interior shelves. The suspension lights over the island mimic candles when lit in the evening.

The mosaic terrazzo floor was custom made to fit perfectly, The sapphire blue faucet handles and rock crystal sconces add a little bling to the Powder Room!

The new fireplace separates and defines the two distinct areas, the bedroom, and the huge closet. The floors are white oak planks, the bed and nightstands float giving the space a sense of lightness and simplicity.

We carved out a niche for the Primary bed and clad the head board with a sumptuous blush colored leather.

Wonderful bedside table lamps and art and soft sheer window panels will complete this space.

We designed this closet with luxury in mind. The window seat and ottoman are covered in a soft textured blush fabric to keep the area light and airy.

Each closet opens up to lit leather interiors .

The centerpiece of the closet is this gorgeous rock crystal chandelier which will light up the space in the evenings.

We designed the shower wall and floor with this incredible Thassos marble mosaic. The result is a peaceful luxurious oasis to dream in.

Closeup of the soaking tub and Thassos mosaic floors. The tub filler is floor mounted.

We wanted all of the fittings in this Primary bathroom to look like beautiful jewelry !

The fireplace wall was clad with handmade Moroccan tile. This downstairs game room will have a bar with a copper countertop and a copper-colored mirror.

This game room will have a Moroccan theme with a pool table and built- in bar.

This game room leads to the infinity pool and beautiful landscaped gardens.

The cabana bath has porcelain tile that mimics the waves outside in the Long island Sound.

The cabana/mudroom sits just opposite this bathroom with a very detailed wallpaper depiction of fish. Everything here floats just like the water.

Another downstairs bathroom serves as the guest bath. The porcelain tile mimics a grasscloth wallpaper on the floating vanity wall.

The shower walls are clad with a two dimensional tile that fit together like a puzzle.

Textured geometric tile surround this guest shower.

The new exterior of the house faces the infinity pool and the beautiful new landscaping.

The whole exterior was meant to harmonize with the incredible backyard which leads directly to the Long Island Sound. The pool was completely redesigned to flow into the Bacchi Court.

The backyard was designed with many outdoor lights strategically placed to light up the path to the water.

The balconies were designed with the same flooring, staircase and shiplap ceilings to bring the outdoors in . We wanted a continuance of product to make the spaces seamless .

Finally the view from the hill a top this Sands Point modern retreat!

A GRAMERCY CONDO, FULL OF LIGHT, FUN AND FLOWERS…

This light and airy new construction in Gramercy with 14’ ceilings and amazing views of the city was designed for a fun family of four. We know this family pretty well at this point since we designed an apartment in Chelsea and helped with a house in Sag Harbor for them before this project arose. At this point, all the trust is there to make an apartment a dream come true.

The design concept from the very beginning was to make this apartment in the sky a very colorful and happy place for all. After the long pause of Covid and leaving the city for the Hamptons, coming back to this happy place was just what this family needed!

Gramercy Square, a new beginning .

This hand-painted wallpaper sets the tone for the apartment and leads your eye down the long hallway to the gorgeous views of the city lights beyond.

This bedroom was designed for a little girl to grow up in. Colorful flowers and butterflies fill this space with fun and happiness in mind.

We custom designed this tufted toy chest to coordinate with the pink velvet tufted daybed.

Fun, happy and comfy!

A colorful home office with deep blue lacquered walls and an iridescent Murano blue chandelier .

Peonies on the ceiling! Which tween wouldn’t be happy waking up to this?

Close-up of this custom fashion forward girl’s room bed with gold trim.

A place to do homework and dream! Silk Taffeta draperies with a velvet cuff add texture to the room.

Dark taupe Sparkle wall covering adds a touch of luminescence to the Powder Room.

A glam Primary Bedroom with silver leaf hand-painted wallpaper, silk rug, and a rock crystal chandelier. The woven-wool draperies add the final touch!

What can be more fun than a vintage glass fronted dresser with brass fittings?

Detail shot of Primary bedroom showcasing the Carrara marble fireplace we installed for cozy nights in.

Sunny Living Room Drama with 14’ ceilings leads to this amazing view!

Full view of this spacious great room which holds the living room/dining area and kitchen.

This vintage brass light fixture and marble topped dining table make this Dining Area special.

Color pattern and texture set the tone for this close-up of the Great Room.

A GLAMOROUS DINING ROOM FOR ENTERTAINING

We are finally at the point in this awful pandemic where we can see the light at the end of the tunnel. Most people are just dying to reconnect with friends and family in person, these lovely clients are no exception. Timing is everything! We started this renovation quite some time ago and then wound up jumping to other more pressing areas of the house. This dining room was designed to balance the Bar Lounge on the other side of this Center Hall Colonial in a very nice community in West Harrison, NY.

Finally, the formal Dining Room can be utilized! ! My very cool, friendly, popular, warm-hearted clients can now host the dinners they have been so anxiously dreaming about. They can finally socialize again in person as they always did in the past. Family and friends can come over again to eat and celebrate life!

Let the fun begin!

First came the major renovation.

Next we sourced this beautiful handmade rug. Soft blues and silver shimmer.

We wanted a very dramatic wallpaper. These foil leaves did the trick.

Warm and inviting, it’s all about performance velvet.

We needed a beautiful , yet functional dining table. This one did the trick!

Did I mention Glam? This crystal chandelier and sconces certainly fit the bill!

Completed Formal Dining Room

ORGANIZE, ORGANIZE, ORGANIZE .... A GUIDE

There have been many times in my career that I have been complimented on how organized I am. I’m lucky, this comes very naturally to me. It is part of my DNA. I have always been like this. I also have been asked many times for advice on how to be more organized.

This is what I know for sure:

It is very hard to be successful in any career without being organized.

What’s the sense of spending money on your beautiful sanctuary if you can’t see it because it’s a mess?

Organization clears your mind and relieves stress. Being organized saves plenty of time in the long run!

You will be a happier person if you can stay organized. it is very calming…

Autumn, especially this one, where a lot of people are staying at home because of Covid 19, is the perfect time to start.

I will try and suggest a few strategies.

-Make organization a priority, and a new way of life. It takes time, but it is well worth it!

-Start by throwing out (or donating) everything that is non-essential, everything you don’t love or you haven’t needed in two years. You have to understand that no one can be organized if they don’t get rid of stuff.

-Try to only buy new things that you really need or love. Only the essentials!

-Start with simple things like the minute you get out of bed in the morning, make your bed.

-Do not throw your clothes on a chair (or worse) … hang them up immediately

-The key is to never touch anything twice. If you are touching it… JUST PUT IT AWAY.

-I cannot concentrate until my desk is cleaned up. I always leave my desk organized so when I sit down the next day, it is clean. Same with my kitchen.

-Get an old fashioned paper calendar, tape it to the inside of your kitchen cabinet door. Every appointment goes here and on the other calendar on your desk. Then load appointments into your phone calendar. You will never forget an appointment again!

-Make LISTS!!!! (Probably my best advice) Use a steno pad. Every list should be on this ONE pad, keep this pad in one place.

-Once you make this a constant, it will become a habit, you won’t even have to think about it. You won’t be wasting precious hours looking for things you can’t find. Everything must have its own place…a home!

Many people have told me that they find starting this new process very overwhelming! I have the answer to that …

Instead of buying more things you don’t need, hire a professional organizer. It is well worth the splurge, he or she will get you started. You will be on your way to your new less stressful, happier more organized life!

It is never too late!

Please let me know if this BLOG has been helpful :)

I JUST WANTED YOU TO KNOW....

Every summer I try and get to my favorite latest projects and do a professional photoshoot. This past summer (like everything else) that ritual had to be put on hold because of Covid-19. Hopefully, I will be photographing some new projects as soon as possible. CAN’T WAIT!!

Everything in our world (as far as I’m concerned) has been placed upside down since last March. I do not know one person that has not been negatively and personally affected. This has been very hard on all of us in so many different ways. I want to reach out to anyone who has gotten extremely sick or worse yet, lost a loved one.

For you, this has been horrific. I am sending my deepest sympathies.

We are all in this together, and I just wanted you to know that I am still working although differently. (I am doing a lot of Zoom and FaceTime sessions). I am also helping a lot of people (stay happy) by doing a one-hour consultation over the phone. Let’s chat and stay connected!

Since I feel that what I do is always about relating to people, listening to their hopes and dreams, so much more than just design, let’s keep it up! So many of my dear clients have asked, YES! I am available to work.

I would love to work with you this new (hopefully temporary) way. I always feel like a guide, and really care about trying to make people happy. Making your home more beautiful, that’s my passion!! Until we all see one another again, Let’s all keep dreaming of better times!

STAY HAPPY, SAFE & HEALTHY! Evelyn

CONTEMPORARY TRADITIONAL CONDO

Once in a while I get to design a new project that I find really exciting. This was one of them. Usually I work with homeowners that want a very modern sleek approach to design, which is great. However, when I get to do something new and out of the ordinary, I find it exciting and refreshing. This lovely lady wanted a bright, colorful and more traditional space. I was able to implement some of my favorite things - color, pattern, texture, and layering. The result is a condo in the sky that I think turned out quite lovely! It is light filled, fun, airy and happy. And my client feels the same exact way!

Photography by Jonathan Beckerman

In the living room we utilized a fun Paris themed wallpaper, a custom mohair covered traditional sofa , and lots of layered patterns and color. We also incorporated many vintage and antique accessories.

We filled the built-in bookcase with books, personal items and antiques, and styled the books according to color. The vintage mirror brings character and more light to the room.

This rug was the starting point for the room. The geometric pattern plays off of the strie fabric on the club chairs and the linen wrapped parsons coffee table. The Mongolian wool stool brings a fun touch of contrasting texture to the room.

A playful Paris city scene wallpaper contrasts the colorful floral pillows. Crystal table lamps bring a sparkle to the room.

Pattern, stripes and bright color make the dining area sing!

A mid-century modern chandelier casts a warm glow over this intimate dining area.

In the bedroom, the request was to make it light filled, happy and colorful.

French flowers on the wallpaper play against the patterns on the rug, drapery and chair. It’s all about mixing color and pattern. Antique and vintage pieces always add character.

A pop of color draws the eye!

Flowers, flowers everywhere…

It’s all in the details.

A FASHION FORWARD NEW INTERIOR DESIGN PROJECT IN CHELSEA FOR THE NEW FALL SEASON

I love talking about some of my favorite interior design projects.  I just completed a new one in Chelsea, a lovely,  storied NYC neighborhood with a decent amount of newly constructed or adapted modern residences, like this one. What makes this one different from most is that the elevator opens right into the apartment. This fun project for a fantastic client took about a year from start to finish.

This space was conceived for a family with two young children. The only initial directives were to design a welcoming entry with a "wow factor" to set the tone and to transform what was a somewhat boring living / dining room into a cool, colorful, and comfortable space for the whole family and guests to enjoy. 

There are a lot of musicians in this family, the custom wall unit was built to house 5 guitars in addition to a television and bar. In the end, the piano was the only piece left over from the old space. I'm thrilled that this charming musical family is as happy as I am with the outcome of their new open living area! 

The elevator entrance opens to a warm welcome. Lush, textural eggplant hued suede wallcovering was applied to the main entry wall to make the sconces and painting pop. An impossibly soft faux fur covered custom New York Interior Design bench provides the posh perch to take off snow boots or put on a pair of perfect pumps. 

A custom designed glass tile mosaic at the end of the hallway makes this entry sparkle and feel visually larger.

Everything in this living/dining area was designed with the clients in mind. From the bold floral wallpaper (which inspired the entire space) to soft mohair seating and inviting ombre stripes, color & geometric shapes abound. 

With an iridescent pendant chandelier lighting the way with bold pattern and color , dinners will never be boring! 

This wall unit was custom built to fit some amazing musical instruments. We included a mirrored bar to house family heirloom glassware and some antiques from travels around the globe. 

Precious Heirlooms and favorite drinks sparkle against these glass shelves. Hammered metal pulls add the finishing touch .

Color, pattern and metal tones are repeated around the room. Different shapes and scale are used to keep the visual momentum going. 

This snake skin and metal vintage glass side table along with fresh crabtree branches add color and texture.  

There is nothing like fresh Dahlias to bring color and life to a room. These beauties pull in tones from the floral wallpaper.