I was recently introduced to the company Smart Films International SFI. They develop and manufacture Smart Film and Smart Glass products for Privacy and Solar Control (Energy Efficiency) solutions. Smart Films International SFI supplies to both the architecture and automotive industries. I found it interesting for use in interiors to provide flexibility in glass treatments and being able to switch from transparent to opaque.

For Installers, Architects, Interior Designers, Property Owners they offer a full package of Self-Adhesive Switchable Smart Film ready to apply on existing glasses.​

Los Angeles is a city that represents many various styles of architecture. I have a great appreciation for its historical architecture, especially buildings from the 1920’s. Currently, I am working with a property investor on a 1922 built Mediterranean revival apartment building. It’s had several past owners and granted, not always the best maintenance nor improvements. However, I’m happy to be working with a real estate investment company that intends to preserve the building, with the goal of renovating the exterior to an updated version of it’s original and for the interiors, maintaining much of the original aesthetics with a contemporary remodeled kitchen and bathroom (as neither exist to what was original). I met with the clients for a property walk through just prior to our current quarantine. Since our initial meeting, I’ve been able to start working on the design planning process in anticipation of the future renovation. Wanted to share the process from concept ideas to design drawings and finish selections.

I always begin projects by putting together concept boards with images to help define the ideas and direction with notes to convey to the client. These are the ideas for the exterior paint colors and wrought iron details.

Some ideas for the exterior landscape, including the client’s request for drought resistant vegetation.

Ideas for the interiors incorporating much of the existing aesthetics.

The kitchen will be completely gutted and brought up to date. These ideas reflect a whole new look.

Like the kitchen, the bathroom will be completely renovated with the exception of preserving a dressing area that includes built-in cabinets.

The concept board with fixture and finish selections.

Elevation drawings for the kitchen.

Plan drawing and electrical for the new kitchen layout.

A concept board for the bathroom materials and selections.

The elevation drawings for the bathroom.

A plan and electrical plan for the bathroom remodel.

A concept board featuring the exterior and interior paint colors and all the finish materials together.

As an interior designer, sourcing for projects online has always been a part of my business. I find that it is an efficient model to do research, a time saving means for clients, and as I become more familiar with finds, I increase my to go to resources. Considering today’s market and the current need for shopping online, it’s advantageous to build a relationship with a source for artwork since I include art selections in every project that I do. Art Habit is an online boutique gallery showcasing original paintings for sale from all over the world. Having a go to online shop curating art finds that I can incorporate into my projects is a really beneficial source.

The founder of Art Habit has an entrepreneurial background and has been involved previously in companies serving niche markets such as luxury ground transportation and private aviation. Their management understands the nuances of bringing a luxury product to market and filling an essential need for an appropriate client base.

I truly believe Art Habit will have longevity in this industry as their showcase is second-to-none and they truly have revolutionized a very traditional method of buying / sourcing art in a way that even the most novice collector can access.

In addition to the online sourcing site, you can find Art Habit on both Instagram and Facebook.

Our current situation is leading us to take our business online more than ever before. The power of social media marketing is an important tool in all of this, too. I have long been providing online design; since the early days of 2006. However, it’s always been a balance of local in person clients along with online services. Recently, as with many of us, the in person relationship has had to transition to a completely virtual world. Many businesses, such as showrooms and stores have had to adapt to a completely digital world.

Embello Inc has published a great article regarding our current economic situation and the adaptability business’s have taken to maintain an online presence. Happy to be mentioned in this feature about the ways I’m including online design services to my clients.

Check out the entire post here on the Embello site.