The Elephant in the Room | Designing Around Awkward Spaces
I’m in the process of designing a House Call for The Washington Post and have run into a challenge I most openly welcome. You see, the home in question is a 1930′s Sears Kit Home located in Silver Spring Maryland. It is an itty bitty cottage that’s as cute as a button. The floor plan of the living room, true to it’s 1930′s roots, is a layout you’d typically see for the period. The front door opens into the center of the living room, effectively dividing the space in two. And while I’m all for charm (perhaps why I love being an Interior Designer in Baltimore / Charm City) the layout presents some challenges with regard to furniture placement and circulation. Stay tuned for the final design…
Just for kicks, here are some other non-square or other wise architecturally unique interiors that pose their own design dilemmas. With skill and thoughtful planning, what could have been an eyesore is now a wonderful complement to the overall design.
Design is in the Details | Steel Windows
If you have never seen (or recognized) steel windows there is an entire element of your architectural life that has yet to be fulfilled. You can thank me later. What’s so special about steel windows? Well, because the steel is inherently stronger than other window types, wood, vinyl, etc. this allows the mullions to be pencil thin and delicate while supporting vast amounts of glazing (or glass), at a ratio far greater than the other window types. What does this mean? More natural light! Natural light is everything when it comes to design. Take an empty white room, flank it with a wall of floor to ceiling windows with natural light pouring in – suddenly you have a hip loft, a gallery space, a ballroom, an office? With a few pieces of furniture it could be anything. Life happens with natural light.
I submit for your consideration, the 8th wonder of the world … steel windows. You’re welcome.
