AS WE CLOSE in on a year of living claustrophobically, Americans continue to look for strategies that can quiet the jittersand dont involve thousands of calories. One solution: calming decor. To help you out, we asked hundreds of designers what they consider the most soothing interior paint colors.

Nature-inspired palettes of pale blue and olive green were mentioned often. Notably absent? Pigments such as fire-engine red and neon green, which the experts view as invigorating at best and anxiety-inducing at worst. "As a rule of thumb, the more saturated and pigmented the color, the more it is associated with excitement and stimulation," explained Palo Alto, Calif., architect Mary Maydan.

Here are the four specific paint colors that were most frequently cited by our expert panel, followed by four hues that designers generally agreed jangle the nerves.

THE MOST-PACIFYING PIGMENTS

Borrowed Light No. 235

Shades that call to mind sea and sky work on us like an aesthetic chill pill. "These colors connect us to the natural world, which does wonders for our stress levels," said New York designer Ariel Okin, who singled out Borrowed Light. Chicago designer Kelly Hurliman said of the hue, "It feels as though it has been magically mixed with sunlight." From $110 a gallon, farrow-ball.com

More:How to Design a Stylish TV Room

Alabaster OC-129

"Relaxing at the spa." So Brooklyn designer Shelby Girard described the mood this white evokes, especially when paired with natural materials like rattan and jute, she said. The hue never reads yellow or pink, said New York designer Nate Berkus. "Alabaster is a chalky, warm, almost plaster-like white," he said. "I like an environment that is a study in neutrals, which Ive always found soothing and peaceful." $80 a gallon, benjaminmoore.com

Graceland

Bringing natural tones indoors "plays to our most primal inner senses," said Barrington, Ill., designer Katie Wozniak of shades on the green spectrum. Portolas Graceland is a pleasantly muddy and muted green that Los Angeles designer Erick Garcia calls "earthy." He would use it in a bedroom, living room or master bedroom. "It has a sense of peace and optimism." From $64 a gallon, portolapaints.com

Shark PPG1006-2

Philadelphia designer Joe Berkowitz compares Shark to a cloudy day that mellows the psyche. The light gray shade with brown undertones is "easy on the eyes." Kara Mann used Shark in a clients bedroom. "It works with both warm and cool tones," said the Chicago designer, "but what makes it soothing is the way it subtly changes throughout the days light." From $36 a gallon, ppgpaints.com

THE MOST-DISCONCERTING COLORS

From Penta:Wine Picks to Get Through Winter

Orange

While pretty poolside, the bright and bold citrus-y hues we embrace on tropical vacations translate poorly into paint colors at home, said New York designer Mikel Welch. "Orange tones on entire walls typically have a florescent quality that burns the eye, so to speak," he said. "The effect is similar to staring at the sun." Jean Stoffer, a designer in Grand Rapids, Mich., refers to these tones as "huge punctuation marks of color." Punctuation should not be huge.

Red

Why do we often see bright red dcor in fast-dining establishments, la McDonalds? Because the business model relies upon our not wanting to hang around, explained Los Angeles designer Kevin Isbell. "Red packs a fiery punch that makes it difficult to relax," he said. New York designer Rayman Boozer finds bright red hues vibrant and exciting but also challenging to incorporate into a soothing design. "It is a great color for lipstick but not my pick for relaxing home dcor," he said.

More:Curating Your Kitchen With Open Shelving

Hot Pink

Color-loving San Francisco designer Homan Rajai describes pigments such as fuchsia as "aggressive, graphic and blunt." Primary and non-complex colors, like those in a 12-pack of Crayola markers, will always read as least-soothing, confirmed Atlanta designer Lauren Lowe. Said Ms. Maydan, "Being surrounded by colors like this for too long can actually heighten stress and anxiety."

Vivid Yellow

In a space meant to soothe, aggressive yellows will accomplish the opposite. "For me, a bright yellow is very stimulating," said Chicago interior designer Alexandra Kaehler. "Its exciting in a powder room or closet that you dont necessarily visit for a respite. It just doesnt offer that calming effect." And steer totally clear of yellows of an acidic or highlighter-like nature, which Los Angeles designer Greg Roth describes as having an "energy and buzz to them that works great for motivating the troops or getting you up and dancing but, for getting ready for bed, maybe not so much."

The Wall Street Journal is not compensated by retailers listed in its articles as outlets for products. Listed retailers frequently are not the sole retail outlets.

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The Mostand LeastSoothing Paint Colors, According to Interior Design Pros - Mansion Global

A single scented candle might not change the world, but it might change the way you feel about being cooped up for the past year. And adding some bright yellow patterned throw pillows to your living room/home gym/office/day care space might not erase the fact that its freezing and dreary outside, but maybe you can trick your brain into thinking your home is a cozy and romantic oasis, instead of the same walls youve been staring at since last winter. Winter can be rough under the best of circumstances, but after a year of redesigning and rethinking our homes for efficiency, being stuck inside may feel like more of a bummer than usual. Now that you've got your home office all set, here are some expert suggestions on how to upgrade your home to improve your mood.

Paint is the first line of defense, says Iantha Carley, a D.C.-based designer who mixes timeless pieces with a little bit of whimsy. Like many people, she moved her office home in 2020, so she had plenty of time to look around and notice what was, and wasnt, working. This is a good time to reevaluate how youre living, she says, recommending lighter wall colors that brighten the space, with furnishings or accents in autumnal colors. I love rusts and oranges and greens, she says. Bright walls dont mean stark white. Ivory or bone or muted grays can be a softer way to elevate the mood of a room, and trick your mind into thinking its not 32 degrees outside.

Like Iantha, Los Angelesbased designer and Mass Studio owner Safura Salek got rid of her office in 2020 and brought everything home to her apartment. I had to reconfigure my space to allow for a cleaner, more simplified office area, she says. Her walls were already light and bright, but she added more mirrors to reflect that light and open things up. She also detoxified the space, getting rid of excess clutter, and created a respite area to contrast with her work area. You can throw nice, colorful pillows on the floor or put a chair next to a window with a lamp for reading or listening to music or just looking outside and taking a break, she says.

When youre finished creating your nook for recharging, you can always switch up the art on your walls to give your eyes and your brain something new to stare at while youre waiting for the next Zoom to begin. Iantha had several of her old design school projects framed, and Safura says that adding some colorful wallpaper is a simple way to inject whimsey into a room, plus its something you can do yourself. Hints of bright colors make you feel less depressed to be locked down, she says.

Besides decluttering and brightening the space, New Yorkbased designer Charlie Ferrer suggests what he calls seasonal intervention candles. Splurging on some gorgeous scents is a solid way to bring some coziness and romance to a room without breaking the bank. After all, a nice candle is cheaper than a full-on reno. Charlie is partial to scents from brands like Mad et Len or Perfumer H. You can mix scents to create complex smells that signal to your brain that youre home, he says. The scent becomes a marker of home.

Charlie also loves a big vessel jam-packed with roses in the middle of winter, and the older the roses get, the better. I love it when roses are on their last legs, and theyre open and poetic and the petals are falling off. It makes me happy. If roses arent your thing, he suggests bright peonies or ranunculus as a simple mood lifter, especially around Valentines Day.

You can also add some softer lighting by changing out bulbs (Iantha likes Philips Hue bulbs and Safura recommends 2700-Kelvin LED lighting), or throw up sheer, diaphanous curtains for some winter romance. The light play as the sun passes through is beautiful, Charlie says. It also creates beautiful textures at night. Lighting is key when it comes to mood, and using floor or table lamps instead of harsher overhead lights is a good move. If you have any fluorescent lighting, get it the hell out of your space, Safura says. It makes everything look ugly. Especially on Zoom; we cant have that.

Whether you purge your fluorescents or simply add some new art or an antique lamp, small changes can help shake that feeling that the winter days are endless, and short, and cold. If you add personal and unique touches, says Charlie, Youre going to be a lot happier. One can never have enough candles or art, especially in a COVID winter.

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Interior Design Tips to Help Brighten Up Your Space and Mood - Architectural Digest

Everybody who is anybody is head to toe in brown this season. From Alexa Chung to Bella Hadid, the most admired stylish symbols of SS21 are glazing the streets with every combination of this tanned and tawny color. Though, as some of our most admired interior designers argue, why should street style have all the fun? It's time we bring this underrated color into our homes.

If you want to understand the true power of brown, then firstly, remember this: even the acclaimed advocate of vibrant colors, Eva Sonaike is a self-proclaimed lover of brown. In fact, despite its neutral connotations, her home is a haven of brown furniture, which she uses to compliment her kaleidoscopic decor.

'I am an ambassador for color but love to integrate brown though selected furniture pieces,' Eva confessed. 'I have a large antique French wooden dining table, which is surrounded by bright orange, upholstered mid-century chairs. The brown brings a sense of calm and tranquility into the vibrant space.'

If youre inspired by Evas combination of shades, you can learn how to choose cool color combinations for your home.'

(Image credit: Wallpaper, New Bond Street in Hide 97 per roll, Wall: Chocolate Colour 124 48.50 for 2.5L Absolute Matt Emulsion, Fireplace: True Taupe 240 68 for 2.5L Intelligent Eggshell by Little Greene.)

Just as wearing brown takes a little more planning and coordination, brown decor requires preparation. As the interior designer, Minnie Kemp, explains, the key is not to overly satisfy your desire for darker decor.

'Flourless smooth chocolate cake, deep nutty brown hues of heaven, served with a dusting of powdered sugar, almost impossible to enjoy just one slice. Just like using the color brown in an interior space, practice restraint, resist the temptation to overindulge as you will end up being sick. Nobody wants Bruce Bogtrotter round for afternoon tea.'

Minnie continues: 'Personally, I like to keep my brown's natural. Wycliffe Stutchbury's studies in the narrative beauty of wood, hanging on the wall, David Krynauw Haywire lighting in Wenge or copper finish over the dining table, which is, of course, Maarten Baas, Sculpt Veneer Table in Walnut Veneer.

(Image credit: Upper Wall, Light Bronze Green 123 and Highlight Stripe, Nether Red 315 in Intelligent Matt Emulsion 53 for 2.5L and Splashback, Elysian Ground 320 in Intelligent Eggshell 68 for 2.5L by Little Greene. )

A solid natural finish grounds a space and gives one a sense of calm. Especially in these times of isolation, it brings the outside indoors. For upholstery: C&C Milano 'Miguel' in Chocolate or biscuit, this is soft yet hard-wearing, and sumptuous perfect for a sofa or a big cozy armchair,' Minnie shared, before adding:

'The first thing that comes to mind when I think of the color brown is a contrasting happy blue. Paolo Moschino and Philip Vergeylen are the masters of this combination; just feast your eyes upon the spare bedroom in their Sussex farmhouse, delicate details and small servings of nut brittle, a small taste that always leaves one wanting more.'

(Image credit: Upper Wall, Light Bronze Green 123 and Highlight Stripe, Nether Red 315 in Intelligent Matt Emulsion 53 for 2.5L and Splashback, Elysian Ground 320 in Intelligent Eggshell 68 for 2.5L by Little Greene. )

Furthermore, if anybody knows about discovering the precise balance of brown in your home, it is the luxury paint company, Little Greene, who have a selection of pristine browns amid their current color collection. This is, however, unsurprising, when you also consider the calming qualities of brown, at a time when we all look to unwind in the homes we rarely leave. As Ruth Mottershead, Creative Director at Little Greene, emphasizes:

'It's not just warm neutrals that create a sense of calm and comfort; darker shades have a soothing quality too. Sumptuous, deep brown colors provide a luxurious, nurturing feel, emulating a sense of intimacy and creating a sanctuary. Using deep, dark shades in living spaces creates a dramatic, intimate, and cocooning feel. Dark colors like 'Elysian Ground' and' Scullery' make a real statement when used all-over, as they have an innate warmth that creates a space inviting and enveloping without feeling heavy and imposing.'

(Image credit: Walls: Chocolate Colour 124 in Intelligent Matt Emulsion 53 for 2.5L, Woodwork: Chocolate Colour 124 in Intelligent Eggshell 68 for 2.5L by Little Greene.)

'If you're looking to incorporate brown alongside a more neutral palette consider creating a focal point through color blocking using neutrals to frame bolder,; she adds. 'Consider deeper browns or pair woodwork in 'Chocolate Color' with a deep green such as 'Dark Brunswick Green' to create a real design statement.'

Looking for more ways to make your home a more tranquil, neutral sanctuary? Browse our 27 stylish ideas for a calm and restful bedroom scheme.

See the article here:
Interior designers reveal why brown is the color you need to bring into your home this year - LivingEtc

Looking to become a professional designer? As with any higher education decision, you always want to do your researchespecially if you already know what field you want to go into. If you have your sights set on a career in interior design, there are plenty of stellar schools to choose from. Here are some of the best ones to consider in the United Statesmany of which are recognized by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA), meaning they meet the highest standards for interior design education.

As a university thats completely dedicated to interior design, NYSID is committed to an education focused on innovative, immersive, and transformative spaces. It offers CIDA-accredited undergraduate programs that blend an interior design curriculum with the liberal arts. Graduate programs allow those with their bachelors degree in interior design or architecture to specialize in areas like lighting or sustainability. Its Manhattan location allows for easy access to internships and making professional connections through the school's vast network.

Standout graduates include Rose Tarlow.

From architecture and design for sustainability to art history and animation, this southern school offers a range of art and design-based programs. The CIDA-accredited interior design program allows students to explore a wide range of career paths. They learn "to maximize health, wellness, style, and sustainable practices across corporate, residential, retail, and hospitality design," according to the school's website. SCAD is also ideal for students who want to focus on interior design while engaging with other creative fields through the more than 75 minors or certificates the university offers. Bonus: The Georgia school has campuses in Atlanta and Lacoste, France for those who want to start the program in one place and finish in another.

Standout graduates include Christian Sottile.

Recognized as one of the top-ranked schools for architecture and interior design, George Washington University prides itself on its ability to help students make connections and land jobs. The Washington, D.C-based school offers students opportunities for cross-collaboration, letting them work on studio projects to design new spaces across the university. The school's interior architecture program is CIDA-accredited. The school describes the program as one that fosters "creativity and pushes the boundaries of design with an emphasis on conceptual thinking and the design process."

Standout graduates include Brittany Watson Jepsen.

Syracuses environmental and interior design program focuses on challenging and rethinking the built environment. Located in upstate New York, the CIDA-accredited program centers on promoting positive change through design in a constantly evolving global context. Students explore the art and architecture of environmental design and work with faculty in a studio setting thats similar to operating in a professional office. Mixed with a broad liberal arts education, students are taught sustainable design practices, an understanding of the business of design, and to value the concerns of people.

Standout graduates include Thom Filicia and Ian Schrager.

In 1906, Parsons launched the very first interior design curriculum in the U.S. The famed school in New York City takes a research-oriented approach to designing physical spaces. Students work in small groups to design a range of interiors, and graduates leave ready to enter the workforcewhether its to join an established architecture studio or open their own design practice. The program is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art & Design (NASAD) and offers a range of career focuses including set design, consulting, sustainable design, historic preservation, and more.

Standout graduates include Jamie Drake and Albert Hadley.

The interior architecture program at RISD centers on the reuse and alteration of existing buildings. Students learn how to recommend design modifications and renovations that breathe new life into interior structures through an understanding of buildings from the inside out. A vast range of approaches are exploredincluding domestic, retail design, theater/production design, and conservationin a studio setting. The four-year program requires students to take a foundational year that involves drawing, design, art history, literature, and spacial dynamics courses. To graduate, students complete a final studio project that shows the major concepts theyve learned and expertise in their chosen specialization.

Standout graduates include Brian Chesky and Joe Gebbia.

At FIT, the CIDA-accredited interior design program emphasizes practical skills students need to get design projects done. It combines the history and theory of interior design with hands-on studios to ensure students graduate with the ability to envision stunning spaces and know how to build them. Students are taught by and collaborate with design experts in New York City. With sustainability and user safety at the forefront, students learn all about drafting techniques, computer modeling, lighting, and materials and methods. A great deal of spaces are coveredincluding residences, hotels, restaurants, retail spaces, historic settings, hospitals, and supportive housing.

Standout graduates include Jesse Carrier and Mara Miller.

The University of Cincinnatis interior design program teaches students problem-solving and formal design skills along with essential historical and technical knowledge. The five-year program in Ohio includes a required co-op with firms from all over the world. It's CIDA-accredited and has strong links to the schools architecture program with the first three semesters of both featuring a common curriculum.

Standout graduates include Eva Maddox and Kevin Roche.

The design an environmental analysis program at Cornell is centered around design innovation and strategy, sustainable futures, and health and well-being. In the STEM-certified, CIDA-accredited programlocated in Ithaca, New Yorkstudents take common foundation classes and build their expertise with a number of courses from within the schools College of Human Ecology. The curriculum combines studio-based training, field experience, and applied research to give students a substantive design education.

Standout graduates include Art Gensler.

At Kansas State University, the interior design program centers on how interior environments affect well-being. In it, students explore human ecological theory, design theory, and interior design practice. K-State prides itself on being the only four-year interior design program in Kansas thats CIDA-accredited. Its graduates go on to work in multidisciplinary offices on planning and design teams. Others go in a more specialized direction with a career in lighting, kitchen and bath design, or residential design.

Standout graduates include Jo Staffelbach Heinz.

Located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Drexel University boasts an interior design program with a focus on sustainability, professional preparation, human experience, and exploring the uses of materials. It combines interior design with art, art history, and general education requirements. Students engage in problem-solving design studios and cooperative employment throughout the four-year program thats both CIDA and NASAD-accredited.

Standout graduates include Douglas Ellington and Maxfield Parrish.

With a reputation as one of the best art schools in the country, Pratt Institute also boasts a CIDA-accredited interior design program. Based in Brooklyn, the program centers on what the school describes as deep philosophical and theoretical explorations to produce varied aesthetic expressions, while considering ethical responsibility and practical applications in line with professional standards. Students must create a professional portfolio and thesis in order to graduate.

Standout graduates include Annabelle Selldorf and Peter Zumthor.

Auburns CIDA-accredited interior design program emphasizes critical and creative thinking. The Alabama-based program prepares emerging professionals to find and organize information, solve problems, relate to people, uncover needs, and ultimately shape the environment to enhance the quality of life. It includes design studios and foundational business coursework. Plus, the school encourages students to create a professional portfolio before graduating.

Standout graduates include Ashley Gilbreath.

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13 of the Best Schools for an Interior Design Education - HouseBeautiful.com

Here, we ask designers to take a selfie and give us an inside look at their life.

Age: 42

Occupation: Interior and product designer.

Instagram: @liljencrantzdesign, @veermakers, @grandrelations

Hometown: Stockholm.

Studio location: Stockholm.

Describe what you make: Im a designer of products for our new brand, Veermakers, as well as Liljencrantz x K.F.K Master Cabinet Makers. Im also an interior designer for Liljencrantz Design, where I work with a wide range of clients creating bespoke and luxurious interiors for residences, retail, and hospitality. We focus on long-lasting natural materials and good craftsmanship and pay great attention to every detail in the process. We want to honor location and architecture while balancing mid-century modern influences with a contemporary design language. The results are multi-layered, elegant, and timeless.

The most important thing youve designed to date: The design concepts Ive created together with K.F.K Cabinet Makers, a collaboration that started in 2017. Together weve created Liljencrantz x K.F.K Master Cabinet Makers and Veermakers, two distinguished furniture brands that wont compromise on production, material, or design.

Describe the problem your work solves: I aim to transform the passion, emotions, and unspoken codes that a person radiates into something physical. I create environments that make you feel at ease, the balance between objects and materials are the key to everything.

Describe the project you are working on now: Were designing a new house in the beautiful suburban Djursholm, located by the water in Stockholm. Weve made it classical to blend in this particular area, but yet with a simple and brutal touch to it. The house is about 800 square meters (8,611 square feet) and includes an indoor spa and gym, wine cellar, and an atelier with a five-meter high window for the daylight to make its magic.

A new or forthcoming project we should know about: During Stockholm Design Week 2021, were launching a new design brand, Veermakers, at the magical space of Grand Relations atelier. Veermakers is a high-quality furniture and accessories brand producing well-crafted objects with a strong presence. Every piece is designed and produced with a firm belief in quality, using honest materials and responsible production methods. Our first collection will be showcased in a curated exhibition (opening Feb. 8th) in collaboration with the leading Scandinavian PR agency Grand Relations founded by Hans Hjelmqvist and Tove Regnander. The interior concept of their atelier was developed by me with handcrafted woodworks specially designed for the atelier in exclusive walnut.

What you absolutely must have in your studio: We always have music onthe playlist depends on our mood and what were making, but when we have meetings we play the classical piano or slow jazz. The coffee pot is always on, and once a month we invite some friends/colleagues for late-night workshops with snacks and vino.

What you do when youre not working: Spending time with family and friends mostly at our country house in Stockholms archipelago. And I just love watching TV series for hours and hours.

Sources of creative envy: Carlo Scarpa, Jean-Michel Frank, Donald Judd, Piero Portaluppi.

The distraction you want to eliminate: The fire in my head when things dont go exactly as planned.

Concrete or marble? Marble.

High-rise or townhouse? High-rise.

Remember or forget? Remember.

Aliens or ghosts? Ghosts.

Dark or light? In-between.

View post:
Designer of the Day: Louise Liljencrantz - Surface Magazine

Email submissions to [emailprotected]

Holly Cerasano has joined GreeneHurlocker as an associate in the business law practice. She has degrees from the University of Richmond and Georgetown University Law Center.

Tom Ministri has joined United Real Estate.

Joining Long & Foster Real Estate:

Karim Somjee has joined the Village of Midlothian office.

Karen Price has joined the Innsbrook office.

Daniel Rogers has been appointed vice president, Richmond, with Mutual of America. He had been associate account executive.

Cody Santmyer has joined Agili as a portfolio/investment administrator. He is a graduate of Virginia Tech.

Heritage Wealth Advisors reports the following promotions:

Sarah Remo Simmer is a client services operations manager.

Cary Baronian is director of research.

James Romanik is the director of development for The Doorways. He had been at St. Michaels Episcopal School.

Keith Hartman is regional executive for Virginia Council of CEOs.

At Art 180:

Maurice Jackson is director of atlas programs and artist development.

Vaughn Garland is director of community programs and partnerships.

Eric Tomlin is communications and marketing specialist.

The board officers and new board members of the Community Foundation: chair, Austin Brockenbrough IV with Lowe, Brockenbrough & Co.; vice chair, Jennifer Hunter with Altria Client Services; treasurer, Michael Beall with Davenport & Co.; and secretary, Kristen Hager with McGuireWoods. New members: Tom Barkin with the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond; Sheryl Garland with VCU Health System; Terrell Harrigan; and Paula Pando with Reynolds Community College.

The 2021 board of directors for Startup Virginia: chair, Maria Pahuja with Vayas; Karen Booth Adams with Hot Technology Holdings; Bryan Bostic with Visual Workforce; Brad Cummings with Trolley Venture Partners; Krissy Gathright; Will Loving with Servos; Carrie Roth with Activation Capital; and Jay Sanne with Capital One. Joining the board: Anne Wilson with McKesson Medical Surgical and Jershon Jones with Harris Williams.

At Shamin Hotels:

Jonathan Bishop and Mitul Patel are project managers.

Eileen Ferreira is an interior designer.

Michael Gundlach is controller.

Joining Kinsale Insurance Co.:

Ryan Bush is an associate underwriter inland marine.

Patrick McDaniel is an associate underwriter commercial property.

Russell Ramsey and Jason Couch are product owners IT.

Craig Williams is a portfolio manager IT.

Becky Anderson, Kelsey Gavlick and Jordan Tiamson are claims examiners.

Brendon Guss, Brian Kilpatrick and Parth Patel are software developers.

Chris Carr is an associate underwriter construction.

Donald Hart is an associate underwriter excess casualty.

Sherry Gill is a services assistant in human resources.

Brian Pulsifer has joined HG Design Studio as assistant director of business development.

At InfraMap Corp.:

Jimmy Stewart has been promoted to southern regional director.

Melinda Connally Caricofe has been promoted to operations specialist.

Kristin Rodriguez is operations administrator.

At Draper Aden Associates:

B. Scott Gresham is the geotechnical construction services team leader. He had been with ECS Limited.

Kent Lindamood is the geotechnical team leader. He had been with Tunstall Engineering Group.

W. Charles Kreye II was promoted to principal in charge of regional growth.

Leisa Wright Weatherford was promoted to survey team leader.

Joining Dotted Line:

Jason Anderson is creative director.

Mitchell Jordan is an associate creative director.

Kyra Newman is senior technical writer.

More:
The Herd: New hires, promotions & departures for 2.9.21 - RichmondBizSense

It's that time of year again, interior designers... dust off your favorite projects completed between May 1, 2019 and December 31, 2020, to enter the Interior Design Society'sDesigner of the Year Awards.

It's time! The 2021 Designer of the Year Awards are now open for submissions. And, from now until March 3rd, you will get 20 percentoff each entry.

Winning a Designer of the Year Award can propel your business in an unimaginable way. There are over 30 categories to enter in residential design, including Recreational Spaces & Wine Cellars, Window Treatments, and Outdoor Spaces.

Due to unique challenges surrounding COVID-19, we've extended the project completion dates. This year, your project must have been completed between May 1, 2019 and December 31, 2020. This also means that if you entered a project last year (and didn't win) that falls into the required completion date range, you may enter it again this year.

All entries must be submitted through the IDSsubmissions portal. To access the portal, click the link below. If you have submitted in the past you may use your same login information. If you are new to the awards program, you will need tocreate an account.

Some rules:

Questions? Direct them to [emailprotected]

Visit link:
Interior Design Society Opens Submissions for 2021 Designer of the Year Awards - Furniture Lighting & Decor

West Chin is the founder of West Chin Architects & Interior Designers, a high-end architecture, interior design, and decorating firm with locations in New York City, East Hampton, and now Westport, Connecticut. Mr. Chin and his team are also set to open their New York City showroom in 2021.

Mr. Chin, 52, founded a design/build firm in 1992, which later became the foundation for WCA. His work includes high-end commercial spaces and residential projects across New York City and the Hamptons, from Tribeca to Montauk.

We caught up with Mr. Chin to discuss changing client demands, which Covid-related trends are here to stay, and more.

More: With a Focus on Comfort at Home, Bold and Warm Colors Are Back, Says Interior Designer

Mansion Global: How have things changed for your business since Covid-19 started?

West Chin: The home has become the nucleus of the family, its no longer just a rest stop on the highway. With that, weve noticed people take a lot more interest in the home, whether theyre entertaining or theyre in solitude.

We design a lot of kitchens, and we see more people spending time there actually cooking. Now clients are sincerely answering questions about how they shop, cook and entertain so that their home suits their lifestyles.

Early Covid was scary, but Id say mid-lockdown, around May, we started to see some sparks in the fire. People started to feel antsy, realizing that homes were feeling small and it could be going on for a while. By June, as things opened up, we were in a good place. We had a location in the Hamptons, and now have one in Westport, Connecticut, too.

More: London-Based Interior Designer on Creating Luxury Layouts

MG: What made you want to open a space in Connecticut amid the pandemic?

WC: I had been looking at Connecticut for about two years. Wed almost pulled the trigger before, but we decided to do it now. Similarly to the Hamptons, in Connecticut, modern wasnt always part of the vocabulary, but its changed, as New Yorkers go there and want that aestheticit gets more of a downtown vibe.

MG: What has been your biggest surprise when it comes to Covid and your clients' demands?

WC: Its an interesting dichotomy of family integration and family separation. They want a dining room where they can be together, but at the same time when they have three Zoom meetings at the same time, and theres a separation thats needed for that. Its a really interesting mix of doing both.

More: London-Based New Development Expert Says Builders Need to Offer More

MG: Do you expect current trends to stick around post-Covid?

WC: Home offices with technology will still be important, especially with 5G becoming active. Will work-from-home be here to stay seven days a week? Probably not. There will probably be some combination. The desire for indoor-outdoor living was here before, but Covid made it even more desirable. I am fortunate enough to have a terrace, and I was on Amazon all the time getting plants and vegetables for it. People will continue with that, but might not be harvesting their own vegetables as much.

The reintroduction of the kitchen as the center of the house is here to stay. Now, the heart of the house is coming back as being a major focus. And the dining room will likely continue to be used for its original purpose againto eat all together.

I think home cooking, private chefs and entertaining at home is here to stay, though people will return to restaurants, too.

From Penta: Good Company: Is Room & Boards Urban Wood Project the Future of Furniture?

MG: Do you expect city living to change drastically?

WC: From a developers point of view, I think theyre going to reconsideror consider for the first timemore outdoor space. You want enough communal space. People who can afford it are going to want larger apartments.

MG: How can a home create a sense of calm?

WC: For me, its about being surrounded by nature, whether thats plants, or even just fruits in a basket, that can feel more nurturing. Its about having places in your home where you feel safe and comfortable. To make all those things better, we really focus on lighting.

MG: What's your idea of luxury?

WC: I dont like to be alone. For me, its having a home thats big enough to entertain friends and family, both indoors and outdoors. I also want room to cook.

More: Luxury Is About Good Construction, Not Just Your Individual Apartment

MG: How would you describe your dream home?

WC: Itcould be in the south of Spain, St. Barths, in the south of France, in the Hamptons, New York, or Connecticut. It could be anywhere.

Outdoor space to me is most important. Im the person who likes to harvest their own vegetables. I like a place where I can harvest vegetables, cook and entertain. If I could be near the ocean and catch my own fish, that would be even better.

Ideally, I want lots of glass so I could see the inside/outside. I really dont love [air conditioning]A/C, so I like something with lots of cross ventilation. A fireplace or many would be nice. I prefer clean, simple features.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

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It hasn't all been smooth riding for Rajeev Misra, the 63-year-old former Deutsche Bank credit trader who is CEO of SoftBank Investment Advisors. Yesterday, however, Misra was basking in a glow of reflected glory.

Misra's name doesn't appear to have featuredin SoftBank CEO Mayoshi Son's presentationto investors, but the Vision Fund that he runs was mentioned nearly 60 times in what amounted to a glowing vindication of hisstrategy. "Just about a year ago, many mass medias were actually saying that we are only laying rotten eggs," said Son of 2020's criticisms of the Vision Fund. "So many people criticized, but I never doubted," he added, claiming that the Vision Fund is now laying golden eggs at high speed andwith increasing frequency. A slideof a golden goose laying golden eggs underscored the point.

Given that the Vision Fund made gains of $13bn in the three months to December alone (admittedly after $17 billion investment loss forthe year ended March 2020), and that it employs fewer than 500 people, this surely makes Misra one of the best placed employees in all finance. Rajeev Misrareceives a salary of $15m a year, but this is inconsequential alongside his carried interestand investment gains. - TheFinancial Timesnotedlast week that Misrawas last yearloaned $250m by SoftBank to buy shares that have since rallied and are now worth $1bn.

How does Misra spend his enormous wealth? We know that he likes to fly around by private jet and that he likes to go barefoot.But we also know what it's like inside his north London home by virtue of his wife, Shalini Misra, an interior designer and architect who likes to show it off.

In the past year, photographers appear to have been to Misra's "intimate yet spacious" Victorian London house at least four times, and Google is replete with images of its interiors.The house reportedly "had no character" when the Misras moved in 17 years ago, but has since been transformed. There's the floor from a 400 year-old Indian palace on a ceiling, a marble staircase, a Brazilian azul stone bath, vintage chandeliers and a television in a wardrobe. "Most things have a wow factor. We like to impress. If its not beautiful, or related to wellness, I dont have it in my home," Shalini Misra told Elle last year. The couple also have a "lush estate" of four acres in Chattarpur, Indiawhich is equally filled with artworks.Not since the Mughals has so much craft work been commissioned from all over India, Rajeev told India's architectural digest magazine in January...

Separately, while some Robinhood traders count their winnings, the Wall Street Journal reports on a darker side to the trading app. Alex Kearns, a 20 year-old student, took his life after initiating a trade for which he thought the loss was capped at $10k. One weekend last June, the WSJ says Robinhood emailed Alex to say that he needed to deposit $178k in his account to rectify a negative balance of $730k. Alex tried to get in contact with Robinhood three times overnight, but received only automated email responses that omitted to say that the $730k balance referred to only one leg of his trade which would be offset by later ones. He wrote a note to his family and killed himself. The family have filed a lawsuit against Robinhood, claimingthat it by reckless conduct directly and proximately caused the death of one of its victims.

Meanwhile...

Deutsche Bank's reduction of illiquid assets in its capital release unit isn't going to plan. 'The 4bn of capital freed up by selling assets and winding down trades has essentially been wiped out by the more than 4bn of losses racked up by the unit since mid-2019.' It nowexpects the leverage exposure to remain above 50bn into 2023, and that about half the portfolio will be structurally challenging or inefficient to exit. (IFRE)

Brexit-hiring is picking up in the EU.Currently, the focus is on mid-level hiring within large investment banks, which has picked up in recent weeks, but the effect of Brexit will be seen over the next three to five years...Were anticipating an extra 2,500-3,500 banking jobs in Germany over that period. (Financial News)

Rachel Lord, the new head of BlackRock's APAC operations, says Hong Kong will remain an important financial centre. "Infrastructure is very hard to move. Its less about politics and more about the way the ecosystem is set up and I dont see any sign that Hong Kong loses its pre-eminence. Lord will oversee BlackRock's expansion in China from Hong Kong. (Financial Times)

5,000 people have signed an online petition from a BlackRock employee that calls upon the firm to addressharassment and discrimination allegations. (Business Insider)

It's not easy being a short seller. Maven Capital's Gabe Plotkin recently hired security following threats to his family.I could probably have more economic success doing something else, but I think that what we do serves a social purpose, said one portfolio manager. (New York Times)

In most Zoom calls I had to bring my kids with me during the call. Can you imagine taking your kids to a work conference and you dont know when your kids will throw a tantrum? It is simply impossible to look after kids while [working]. I feel constant guilt for my kids and also for work. I shout a lot more [at her children] than before and get frustrated. (Financial Times)

If Robinhood-inspired cases are brought against Citadel Securities and Ken Griffin doesnt settle, he could be forced to open the companys black box. (Chicago Business)

Have a confidential story, tip, or comment youd like to share? Contact:sbutcher@efinancialcareers.comin the first instance. Whatsapp/Signal/Telegram also available. Bear with us if you leave a comment at the bottom of this article: all our comments are moderated by human beings. Sometimes these humans might be asleep, or away from their desks, so it may take a while for your comment to appear. Eventually it will unless its offensive or libelous (in which case it wont.)

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Inside the life of the most golden employee in finance - eFinancialCareers

CB2 is kicking off 2021 by releasing its first ever Next in Design report, a comprehensive projection of the interior design trends that will shape the home over the next year. The brand surveyed more than 900 interior designers from its Design Trade program to gather insight into what products and materials are most in demand from their clients.

The report found four major design trends based on internal expertise and designer responses: bold, maximalist statement pieces; a desire for stylish outdoor furniture; mineral-inspired color palettes; and a demand for more organic, sustainable materials. Were always looking ahead to whats next, which is why the trends surfacing this year are things that have been informing not only our current collection but whats to come throughout the year, says Samie Barr, vice president of marketing at CB2. The materials, colors, silhouettes and influences are reflected in the products we have available to shop right now, and this trend report serves as our exclusive behind-the-scenes peek at our ever-evolving inspiration.

CB2 predicts that outdoor furniture will continue to be important to consumers.Courtesy of CB2

Theres a fine line between chasing trends and valuable market researchand CB2 president Ryan Turf is keenly aware of that. Truthfully, Im not big on trends, he writes in the letter that opens the report. I like to push my team toward a continuous state of evolution. For us, that means digging in, uncovering the now, and challenging ourselves to instead do what's next.

The report reflects that sensibility, compiling consumer behavior and designer insights as well as whats inspiring the CB2 product development team. Its a world thats just as heavily influenced by vintage style, pop culture and a famous Miami hotel as by whats technically trending, adds Turf.

Some of the survey results, like the increased interest in outfitting outdoor spaces, mirrored what CB2 had seen in its own sales data over the past year. Sara Khodja, product development lead at CB2, says that the surge in demand for outdoor furniture spurred the brand to place an emphasis on the enduring quality of their outdoor pieces, which now feature finishes in polished stainless steel and teak as well as performance fabrics from Sunbrella. Weve really leveled up the quality of both the designs and the materials in our spring outdoor collection, she says.

A vignette from CB2s collectionCourtesy of CB2

The CB2 team attributes many of the findings to the impact of the pandemic. The survey pointed to a shift away from open-concept floor plans, demonstrating a renewed appreciation for dedicated spaces like dining rooms and home offices. It also showed increasing interest in more energetic color palettesa welcome development after years of neutral tones dominating retail. Across the board in our new product introductions, were leaning into this newfound embrace of mineral-inspired tones, says Khodja. Energetic colors are a way to speak to optimism, which is something were excited to address in 2021.

This story is a paid promotion and was created in partnership with CB2. To access the Next in Design report, click here. To shop CB2s latest collections, click here.

Homepage photo: CB2s recent debuts include the Outline sofa in camel and the Discus round marble side table. | Courtesy of CB2

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How CB2 tapped internal experts and interior designers to predict 2021 home trends - Business of Home