Although our work is more contemporary than not, I am in favor of using an antique element or two in most environments. I do not want to recreate a period space. We are not living in Tuscany, it is not the 18th century and we do not have large household staffs any longer. Rather, I …
Role of Photography
Designers should photograph their work as often and as thoroughly as possible. We photograph projects every year using a professional interiors photographer. We also constantly photograph projects on our own as they develop. Before and after shots are wonderful sales tools and a reminder of how much your work has transformed the environment. Remember to …
Decisions, Decisions, Decisions
There are so many things to consider when designing a room-much less an entire home. How to navigate through that process is the subject of this article. It is always good to understand and acknowledge as completely as possible what you have to work with--for better and for worse. This should be done through photography …
Setting the Table
Gracious dining includes many elements; sterling silver, crystal, linen, flowers, candlelight, wonderful food and wine and great company. My favorite silversmiths are Jean Puiforcat and Georg Jensen. Both of their firms offer sterling and silver plate. While it is not possible to see the difference, it is possible to feel the difference. The weight of …
Window Treatments
Clients always want to know what their window coverings are going to look like. The answer is – “great!” First we need to access the issues that require attention. Are we trying to disguise an old metal window? Do we need to filter the view? Do we need privacy? Blackout capability? Is excessive heat an …
Lighting Design
When lighting a residence, it is important first to have a detailed plan of where each piece of furniture and art will be placed, along with accurate dimensions. In many cases, but not all, we are trying to light the room unevenly. We hope to highlight certain elements of the room and let others fall …
Jack Lenor Larsen… A Conversation
Interview by: Michael M Merrill, ASID, CID Jack Lenor Larsen is, quite simply, the single most important textile designer who has ever lived–period. I was recently granted the rare privilege of interviewing Mr. Larsen for SF Design Magazine. His comments were charming, insightful and inspiring. Mr. Larsen was born in 1927 in Seattle, Washington. Initially, …
Art Installation
When hanging art in California, it is important to mount pieces with cleats were feasible. The art will stay level and it will not lean forward from the wall surface. Also remember to use Plexiglas covers instead of glass. With earthquakes always a possibility and with accidents that occasionally happen, Plexiglas will not add to …
The Power of Beauty – Rainer Maria Rilke
The brilliant German poet Rainer Maria Rilke wrote the Sonnets to Orpheus and The Duino Elegies concurrently. In The First Elegy (of ten) Rilke writes, “beauty is the beginning of terror and why we adore it so, is because it serenely disdains to destroy us." For me, this is a powerful affirmation about the power …
Furniture Plans
It is always good to provide the same number of seats in your living room as in your dining room, that way your guests always have a place to sit without rearranging furniture. Another guideline that I like to work with relates to the living room furniture. I normally use a sofa that is 84” …
Michael Merrill Design Blog 