This is a close up of the console table that was featured in my previous post. The table is a turn of the century oak console. The table’s fluted feet inspired the additional artistic human feet, which inspired the hands holding a banana leaf hammock, which inspired the ear on the lower part of the leg and the nose on the opposite leg.

I am a big proponent of repurposing. I did it before it was even called that. More than ever, repurposing furniture continues to be a satisfying  and cost effective way to create a new look or function from existing items. In my next few blog entries,  I would like to share some of the repurposed furnishings I have used in my own home and in others’.

Repurposed console table

Happy New Year!

As another example of good design, I thought this simple bar of soap incorporates a full bathing experience. The bumps are to provide exfoliation and massage and the unique shape is organic and easier to hold.

Example 1: Examples of good design can be found almost anywhere. I recently stayed at a hotel, and this sleek, well designed trashcan was in the bathroom.

Example 2: The trash can has a slim profile, so that it fits easily in tight spaces such as between the toilet and the vanity.

Example 3: Inside the trashcan sits a plastic liner with handles that allows easy removal of trash without removing or even touching the outside can.

I only have to walk out my door to Bells Mill in Bethesda to see these beautiful colors of red, orange, yellow, and green with touches of blue and black peeping through. We are so lucky to experience these brilliant inspirations of fall foliage! In a wink, after a big wind, or a heavy rain, they will be gone, but the memories of them serve as wonderful and exciting inspirations for project design in rooms, in clothing, in foods, and so many other things where visual impact is one of the main ingredients. Enjoy them while they are here, and take them with you to your next project.

An artist painting the mountains surrounding Telluride.

Every year that I can, I trek off to Colorado for the Telluride Film Festival, to see amazing films and lessen my angst associated with the end of summer. This year Telluride was spectacular with views that inspired my heart and films that challenged my brain. Amidst the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains and the clear blue skies  stood the colorful painted Victorian homes and interesting filmgoers and filmmakers from here and abroad. Among the favorite films this year that will surely get released were “Argo”, directed by, presented by, and starring Ben Afflec , and “Hyde Park on Hudson” presented by and starring Laura Linney and Bill Murray. There were many other thought provoking foreign films, and watching 15 films, most with subtitles, in less than 4 days with little sleep, is a daunting task that I look forward to year after year. What a way to say goodbye to summer and usher in autumn!

Before I started my “design house home atelier” project, I researched a few famous real ones to discover how they were done. This fabulous studio belonged to Jean-Loup-Doraux. It was sent to me in an email by decorative artist  Kami Tremblay, whom I have contracted in the past for some unique projects for my clients. www.kamitremblaydesign.com/

This wonderful studio belonged to Norman Rockwell. It is a masterpiece of organization,  just like his work. My atelier was to showcase the delightful, whimsical and colorful art of Susan Finsen. http://www.susanfinsen.com .This is Susan’s actual studio at the Torpedo Factory in Alexandria, Virginia.

For Susan’s “design house atelier”,  I selected this industrial console from Dovetail.  I think it’s a unique  vehicle for her to store her paints as well as  fabrics for collages and other art supplies. http://www.dovetailfurniture.info/ (available through designers). And her industrial work table, also from Dovetail. Imagine it splattered with paint. This 4′  x 2′ recycled wood light fixture is ample enough to light up her work table, and interesting enough to contribute to the atelier mood. and this beautiful easel from Plaza Art Supplies in Bethesda and Rockville would surely inspire her work. http://www.plazaart.com/

Speaking of inspiration, Susan gave me this quote from artist Pat Steir that actually does inspire her: “Because I don’t plan my work I don’t know when it’s not going according to plan. For me, a bad day is when I’m too controlled…”

In my opinion the difference between art and design is also a paradoxical relationship between the two:  Artists are free to be chaotic whereas designers need a plan and control to make the design work.  Having said that, some of my favorite designs have that je ne sais quoi.  The design of an atelier represents ne plus ultra in “controlled chaos.”