Design Between the Lines

Maison de Luxe

2011-12-16T19:12:00.000-08:00

I relish the opportunity to experience the work of fellow designers whenever the opportunity arises. I mean really, there are simply not enough glossy magazines on the market to publicly showcase the work of the many talented designers on the scene today. Luckily, LUXE magazine and the city of Beverly Hills realized this and brought to us "Maison de Luxe" - a designer show house featuring many of my favorite designers.

Martyn Lawrence Bullard's Morrocan inspired bedroom was a lesson in style and masculinity. Featuring many of his own fabrics, the space was simply stunning. Barclay Butera delivered his signature all- american contempoary style in the second floor family room with class and sophistication. Sheldon Harte and John Henry Kaufman remain ahead of the curve bringing drama and a mysterious glamour to the first floor lounge.

My favorite? Nathan Turner turned out the rec. room with timeless style and impeccable global detail.

Barry Dixon's wrap around drapes and clever layering of furnishings - brilliant! It's a TIE.

For more images visit "the peak of chic" blog where I conveniently borrowed mine from. Apparently they did not get the same reprimand I did when I tried to snap a few photos for my own blog.

Design Gives Back

2011-11-05T18:09:00.000-07:00

What a pleasure to feature these amazing and generous interior designers in my Home Trends Guide for Beverly Hills Lifestyle Magazine this FALL.

Luxury furniture manufacturer Jonathan Franc has collaborated with top interior designers as part of a philanthropic effort to promote design through giving. Brothers John and Frank Bossone, owners of Jonathan Franc, extended a very special invitation to some of the biggest names in interior design to sketch a custom piece of furniture for this unique opportunity, then turned to their amazing design team to realize each designer’s vision into the “Design Gives Back” collection.

Benefitting organizations such as American Cancer Society, amFAR, and Autism Speaks, just to to name a few - this very exciting opportunity to support and give back is at the top of our list of holiday gift giving recommendations. To view the entire collection pick up the FALL ISSUE of Beverly Hills Lifestyle Magazine at select booksellers.

DRESS CODE Strictly Enforced

2011-09-18T19:48:00.000-07:00

I'm obsessed with the new Dress Code furniture collection from Italy, making its US debut at Cantoni. Inlaid horn, coplanar doors, mirrored glass, lacquer and chrome accents, and oversized seating are just a few of the distinguishing marks of this elegant and refined furniture line.

Robi Melerba and his family have worked with Cantoni founder Michael Wikkov for years. They have conceived and crafted this new luxury line to add to the others they produce at their Itlaian factory.

I can not wait to visit my favorite Cantino Showroom in Irvine to experience this sexy and sophisticated line of modern furniture.

Designer CRUSH

2011-08-12T21:28:00.000-07:00

I have a confession to make - I have a little crush. You know, the 8th grade kinda' crush that makes you want to give up your lunch money and carry her books to class. Her name is Kelly and she's fantastic! Some days I find myself staring into space and imagining the two of us frolicking through a flea market gathering vintage finds together. Other days I imagine us jetting across the globe from one exotic destination to the next designing beautiful spaces together. There is something about her unapologetic design style that has me smitten along with literally thousands of others. The glamour, the texture, the unexpected, and the TAUPE. I simply love it.

In all seriousness, it was such a pleasure to feature Kelly Hoppen in the designer profile section of the Summer issue of Beverly Hills Lifestyle Magazine. Her brand is a household name around the globe and is synonymous with luxury, glamour, and sophistication. Hmmm, sounds like a magazine I know. Pick up the latest issue of Beverly Hills Lifestyle Magazine at select booksellers now to enjoy the full feature story. To tour Kelly's most recent design collaborations with Regal Homes click here.

Dear Windsor, thanks for sharing...

2011-07-15T18:56:00.000-07:00

While all of Southern California was buzzing about this weekend's freeway closure and the havoc that it will inevitably bestow upon commuters, my attention was focused with laser beam precision on one thing and one thing only - The House of Windsor (and seeing it before access is squelched to anyone south of the greater L.A. area).

With only one day to spare before the tour concluded (the final day to tour is actualy the 17th but for anyone on four wheels - your chances are slim). I navigated my "carmageddon" equipped Mercedes Benz directlyto the gates of the exquisite ranch style home where the real journey began. Distracted at every turn by shiny baubles and vintage finds I was forced to retreat, collect myself, and refer to the provided floor plan to gain a sense of flow for the sprawling yet cozy compound.

As I strolled from room to room I felt "at home" in my surroundings. I especially aprreciated that for every "oooh ahhh" moment there was a "hmmm, will you look at that" moment around the corner. Windsor and her team of designer pals really talked this one through and the result was a truly cohesive and engaging tour. I could go on and on but I think that the designers themselves explain the experience best in their promo videos on Veranda's Online You Tube Channel starting with an overview from Windsor Smith herself and related video interviews from the participating designers.

In the mean time - here are a few promo pics to hold you over until the 360 tour is available online in September on the Veranda Unveils website. The entire home will be featured in the October issue of Veranda on sale September 20th.

Art & Light

2011-06-22T10:07:00.000-07:00

This sexy light sculpture stopped me in my tracks and I could not wait to share it! Designed by Lindsey Adelman, "Burst" combines hand blown glass and brass evoking a cool nautical theme with a chic post modern vibe. The trend of light as art is gaining popularity in residential and commercial design adding a layer of visual interest to the all important aspect of light and space. For more inspiration check out LindseyAdelman.com

Inspiration in The Windy City

2011-05-21T07:32:00.000-07:00

An impromptu trip to Chicago this week has turned into a trip filled with design inspiration and a first hand look at the diversity of art, design, and architecture that makes being a designer so exhilarating and fulfilling. My visit to The Merchandise Mart had me zig zagging from one amazing showroom to another but ultimately landing at their version of our California Design Showcase House. Conveniently located on the main floor of the Mart, this long term but temporary installation featured 9 of Chicago's top interior designers and some of the newest and most innovative design styles, techniques, and products.

If you find yourself in the greater Chicago area now through December 9th (yes, the virtual home is on display for 7 months) I highly recommend a visit. You can also tour the dream HOME online where you can read designer profiles and obtain product information from the comfort of your own dream home. Here are a few pics of my FAVORITE spaces...enjoy.

Foyer: By Buckingham Interiors + Design

Bedroom: By Michael Abrams Limited

Kitchen: By SNAIDERO and Shawna Dillon, ASID

MODERN VISIONARY

2011-04-05T14:16:00.000-07:00

Every now and then the most unique opportunities present themselves, and for design visionary Steve Hermann such opportunities often manifest in the form or striking architecture and an all encompassing style of living. When faced with a 3.5 acre piece of land surrounded by oak trees in the California coastal enclave of Montecito, Hermann instinctively knew that this was an opportunity unlike any other. Enveloped in total privacy, the land beckoned for a space that connected seamlessly with it's surroundings.

Read more about this amazing residence in the new SPRING Issue of Beverly Hills Lifestyle Magazine, page 36. be sure to also check out my Luxury Kitchen & Bath feature on page 44-45.

What's a WINNOW?

2011-03-13T14:02:00.000-07:00

The term originates from the process of separating the usable portion of the wheat kernel from the not so useful straw and chaff. The folks at WINNOW Gallery & Goods have cleverly integrated this concept into a Home Boutique filled with "usable" home goods and original art.

My introduction to this lovely boutique just off of PCH & Tustin Avenue in Newport Beach just happened to coincide with an artists reception which meant a full house of fans and faithful customers. I can see why devotees have made WINNOW their go-to place for gifts and the occasional self indulgence. Owners Linda, Brad, and Jamie could not have been more pleasant and before I knew it I had a glass of wine in one hand and a few unique finds in the other.

Some of my favorite finds: MUD Australian Dinnerware, Hand Made Soaps, Colorful Canvas Totes, Garden Accessories, and one of a kind Vintage Items. This is one of those places that you don't want to tell your friends about because all future gifts will come from here, then upon further consideration you realize that "sharing" this gem of a boutique is the responsible thing to do.

Do the right thing... share and enjoy.

Why we LOVE Newport Beach

2011-03-13T13:43:00.000-07:00

Principal Designer, Rick Campos of Christopher Tracy Interiors is featured in the current issue of Newport Beach Magazine where we share what we love about Newport Beach along with a few Interior Design tips and trends to help make your home the very best that it can be. Click here to view the entire feature, page 20-21.

Luxury Twist

2011-02-18T16:45:00.000-08:00

A recent visit to B&C Select at the Laguna Design Center seemed more like a visit to Rodeo Drive when they shared the exquisite line of faucets, knobs, and door handles by THG. Known for their use of precious metals, stones, and Lalique crystal, these jewels are right at home in the most luxurious baths in the world, mega yachts, and private aircrafts.

To add some serious BLING to your next high end kitchen or bath project visit the folks at B&C Select to view the entire THG line. The entire collection can also be viewed at www.thgusa.com

For the love of DOG

2011-02-18T16:14:00.000-08:00

I'm guilty of having two of the most pampered pooches in the OC and I am constantly on the look out for great new pet products and design trends to spoil not only my own hounds but also those of my design clients. From kitty condos to puppy compounds the sky is the limit and just when I thought I had seen it all I stumbled across this...

The folks at Bradco Stainless Products re-create cluttered drawers into organized storage for everything from aluminum wrap to k-9 cuisine. This clever pet feeding drawer keeps clean bowls and kibble at the ready and they will even engrave fido's name on the lid. Integration is the key to an organized and efficient kitchen so ditch the tupperware and add this slick functional pet feeding drawer to your list of kitchen improvements. See more stainless steel integrated drawer solutions at www.bradcoonline.com

Elements of STYLE

2011-02-12T17:37:00.000-08:00

Artist Allison Berger uses age old glass blowing techniques to create one of a kind pendants for her custom chandelier installations. Etched by hand, each pendant is an artistic interpretation inspired by the translated text from Leonardo Da Vinci's sketch books. Groupings can be arranged in a multitude of configurations, creating a truly custom contemporary crystal chandelier.

See more Elements of STYLE in my current Home Trends Guide for Beverly Hills Lifestyle Magazine http://www.bhlmag.com/winter11 page 42.

ROOM WITH A VIEW

2011-02-12T17:30:00.000-08:00

Nestled in the foothills of Phoienix, AZ is a study of harmony between nature and structure. Designed by Chen + Suchart Studio as an homage to the iconic Camelback Mountain beyond, their innovative design combines architectural vision and a commanding view to achieve this contemporary masterpiece.

It was such a pleasure working on this architectural feature for Beverly Hills Lifestyle Magazine. See more at http://www.bhlmag.com/winter11 page 34.

Gift for the Senses

2010-12-16T10:38:00.000-08:00

I've experienced just about every luxury candle out there and I admit to having a very short list of favorites. There is a new addition to my closely guarded list and I am excited to share it with you!

Baroness Monica Von Neumann introduces a truly extraordinary line of luxury candles inspired by her very own travels around the globe. Think earthy sandalwood, soothing jasmine, and exotic red amber. (You won't find a french vanilla or apple cinnamon scnet in this collection.) The complex and sophisticated fragrances spoil the senses and the elegant packaging is absolutely gorgeous making them a wonderful gift for the holidays and a staple for your gift closet.

Baroness Monica Von Neumann is no stranger to luxury and is considered an authority on fine living. Described as "one part Martha Stewart and another part Wendy Williams" this aristocrat-turned-lifestyle-expert lives her life with the utmost elegance and just a touch of Detroit Soul. My kinda' gal!

Order online at http://www.baronessmonicavonneumann.com/
Retail: $38.50 each - I recommend the set of four for $154.00

A few of my favorite things...

2010-11-21T12:14:00.000-08:00

Over the next few weeks I will be channeling my inner Oprah by sharing some of my favorite things for gift giving and to spruce up your home for the holidays.

First on my list of things to buy and share is a sophisticated new take on the traditional dog bed by my pals at Fleabag Beds. Designers and co-founders Sabina Vavra and Chelsea Hernandez are the minds behind the swanky new line of dog beds that will wow even the most discriminating urban hound. Out with the boring old plaid and fleece and in with fresh new designer fabrics by Kelly Wearstler, Windsor Smith, and Trina Turk to name a few.

Washable and durable, the beds come in a variety of shapes and sizes ranging from $68.00 to $108.00. Shop online at http://www.fleabagbed.com/

Next up - You don't have to be a fan of Barbra Streisand (but who isn't?) to appreciate the tremendous amount of energy and meticulous detail invested in the design of her 3 acre coastal estate consisting of four seperate structures which she describes as "the mill house, the barn, grandma's house, and the main house". Beautifully illustrated in her new book "My Passion for Design" this exclusive tour of the sprawling retreat can be appreciated by fans and design enthusiasts alike making it a perfect gift for the holidays.

Purchase a copy from your favorite on-line retailer or local bookseller. A portion of the proceeds from Barbra's book benefits women's cardiovascular research. Barbra will match the contributions of others, dollar for dollar up to $5 million. To learn more about The Barbra Streisand Women's Cardiovascular Research and Education Program at Cedars Sinai Medical Center visit http://www.blogger.com/www.crowdrise.com/barbra

When the worlds of Fashion and Interior Design collide, beautiful things happen.

2010-09-22T17:27:00.000-07:00

Check out my latest editorial contributions from the current FALL issue of Beverly Hills Magazine on newstands now. Also available on line at http://www.bhlmag.com/fall10/

The following story can be found on page 40 and my "Global Views - Design Guide" can be found on page 30-31.

Iconic Claridge’s Hotel has collaborated with legendary fashion designer Diane von Furstenberg to bring her signature style and elegance to a series of guestrooms and suites. For more than a century, Claridge’s, considered the Art Deco jewel of Mayfair, has stood as an emblem of timeless elegance in London. Von Furstenberg, one of the world’s most celebrated designers, is the namesake to a global luxury lifestyle brand and is no stranger to the importance of tradition, preservation, and sophistication. All key elements in the design process which transcends fashion and interiors.

A loyal guest over the past three decades, von Furstenberg has a very personal connection with Claridge’s which has played a large role in her design vision for the project. DVF’s exclusive textile collection sets a contemporary yet refined tone for each room. Hand made campaign style furniture and Murano glass light fixtures pair seamlessly with animal prints and bold colorful patterns creating a chic yet timeless space filled with inspiration. Creating a modern day aesthetic while preserving the Art Deco heritage of the hotel requires a delicate balance of creativity and restraint. “Claridge’s is the most glamorous hotel in the world, “says von Furstenberg, “hotels like this don’t exist anymore and the legacy must be respected.”

Interior designers have credited the fashion industry for years as a catalyst for inspiration and there is without a doubt a crossover that occurs between the two arts. This is more than fashion inspired interior but rather an homage to design. The stars have aligned and the results are stunning.

Rick Campos for Beverly Hills Lifestyle Magazine

Designing for a Cause

2010-07-29T16:52:00.000-07:00

Many of you recall my recent blog post about the ASID Community Services project benefitting Girls Hope Orange County. Being the chairman for such a wonderful design / community service project was truly an honor and a blessing.

We recently re-dedicated the house with the help of HomeAid Orange County and we were pleased to share the day with contributing vendors, donors, volunteers, and local press. Here is a little video footage of the days events: http://fullertonstories.com/2010/06/

Beat the Heat with these amazing Designer Resources in Palm Springs

2010-07-15T17:02:00.000-07:00

A recent trip to Palm Springs turned into an unexpected shopping experience filled with hip modern, post-modern, and vintage finds.

My journey started at 20 First Modern & Vintage Furnishings – 1117 N Palm Canyon Drive. The bright orange iron chairs perched curbside stopped me in my tracks. I snagged a free parking spot in the ample parking lot behind the store (so not L.A.) and inside I found the most amazing collection of vintage table lamps, in pairs no less! Every sofa, chair, and case good (whether vintage or new) were in showroom quality condition and ready for delivery. Service is taken to a whole new level in sunny Palm Springs. Upon sharing a tile design dilemma with owner Glenn Clarke, I was quickly referred to a neighboring showroom without hesitation. I love this town!

Stepping into Modern Home – 2500 Palm Canyon Drive, is like stepping into a candy store for interior designers. This is not your average tile showroom. Only the most unique and sophisticated products are featured in this hyper organized showroom which is truly a treat for the senses. My favorite thing – their textured mdf wall panels in a variety of exotic textures and finishes. This product is my new secret weapon and is manufactured exclusively for Modern Home allowing for a variety of customization options and more importantly, local quality assurance. Showroom manager Brett Davis was an absolute pleasure to work with and I will not hesitate to return to the desert to source cutting edge materials for future design jobs. http://www.shopmodernhomes.com/

The K-9 greeters at HOUSE 849 – 849 N Palm Canyon Drive, won me over the moment I walked through the door. Nothing says welcome like a wet nose and a belly rub. HOUSE 849 is best described as a warehouse size maze of meticulous vignettes that vary from antique to modern and everything in between. The one stop shop offers up to the minute designs by Christopher Guy, vintage art-deco, asian inspired, post modern, and an amazing collection of art & sculpture. I recommend shopping on a Friday before the weekend warriors hit the strip. I shopped on a Monday and the store (as well as others) was littered with sold tags attached to amazing finds waiting for pick up. True to form, the staff was friendly and readily available for questions without hovering. http://www.house849.com/

The next time you're in Palm Springs make time to shop and be sure to check out these and the many other design and home furnishings showrooms. Remember, it's cooler inside the stores!

Beverly Hills + Life + Style

2010-06-19T16:00:00.000-07:00

Check out the sculptural form of the Croissant Sofa by Janus Et Cie and a whole lot more of what's HOT this summer for outdoor living and entertaining in the new Summer Issue of Beverly Hills Lifestyle Magazine. http://www.bhlmag.com/summer10/ Pg. 32-33

Entertaining has officially moved out of doors and the key to sophisticated outdoor style is a seamless blend of form and function which flows from the indoors out. Every aspect of living has been reinterpreted for outdoor living and entertaining including stylish seating options, designer fabrics, chef’s kitchens in all of their stainless steel splendor, and even flat screen televisions that are virtually impervious to moisture. From retro-chic to contemporary modern, the options are endless.

Rick Campos - for Beverly Hills Lifestyle Magazine

Christopher Guy brings X-appeal to Beverly Hills

2010-05-07T18:40:00.000-07:00

Check out my latest contribution to Beverly Hills Lifestyle Magazine - the hottest new luxury lifestyle publication on the market. View the entire issue online at www.bhlmag.com/spring10/ and be sure to read my Hollywood Glamour Guide on page 44-45.

The allure of classic Hollywood glamour continues to intrigue and inspire an ever growing league of innovative interior designers. Their distinctive styles resonate among the mass of designers clamoring to make their mark in the industry with a branding iron. For decades, Christopher Guy has embraced the essence of glamour and sophistication in his line of exquisite home furnishings. The trade secret is out and this line of extraordinary furnishings is now at home in the heart of Beverly Hills in a breathtaking 2400 square foot showroom filled with Christopher Guy classics and brand new signature creations.

Born in Britain, raised in Spain and France, and now living in Singapore, Christopher Guy is a lesson in international style and appeal. His trans-continental flair is evident in every line and curve of his flamboyant line of furnishings. Defined by the singular design philosophy of timeless elegance, every piece evokes the glitz and sex appeal we’ve come to know as Hollywood Glamour.

Christopher Guy is all about scale and proportion. The rules are respected and embellished upon to create captivating silhouettes which define his signature look. High back chairs and massive wall mirrors provide no apologies drama. Curvy tables and his signature Chris-X (kris-kros) legs are in a word, sexy. Try as you may, Christopher Guy can not be placed in a box. A favorite among celebrity designers and high end resort hotels, the brand transcends class and culture.
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Labor of love and HOPE

2010-04-22T17:46:00.000-07:00

After months of planning and fundraising the ASID Orange County Community Services Team began an 11 day renovation and installation at the Girls HOPE house in Fullerton which acts as a safe haven away from home for 6 displaced high school girls allowing them to focus on education and their future impact on society. After learning about this amazing program I knew that this is

the home I wanted to work with as the 2010-2011 ASID OC Community Services Chairman. In September of 2009 I quickly assembled my dream team committee of design associates (most of whom are also fellow IDI Alumni) and we began our journey to improve the quality of life for the very deserving and talented young ladies at Girls HOPE.

Partnering with HomeAid Orange County was our first step in planning a successful project. With their help we were able to connect with NAWIC (National Association of Women Independent Contractors) who worked on the house ten years ago. They were pleased to participate in our plan to renovate the house and they provided much of the contract work necessary to achieve our vision.

Our next step was to reach out to all of our favorite design industry partners, artists, and associates. As a result, a tremendous amount of furnishings, fabric, and accessories were donated to the project. Next, my committee of 8 began calling in favors and soliciting donations to the tune of over ten thousand dollars in a matter of weeks.

On April 1st we began demo while the girls left for Spring Break. We had 11 days to fulfill our vision which included full bathroom renovations, kitchen renovations, electrical enhancements, tile, countertops, carpet, paint, artistic murals, artistic plaster finishes, and two truckloads of furniture and accessories. It was the most intense 11 days of my design career... filled with sweat, anxiety, and emotion.

On April 11th I high fived my team and I literally wept on the drive home. We left a camcorder for the staff to record the girls reactions and watching that video changed my life. There has been a shift in my attitude and my approach to life has forever changed. I've said it before and I will say it again... "everyone deserves the luxury of interior design" and I mean everyone.

Thank you to all of the vendors, donors, and volunteers that helped make this project come to fruition. To see more images of the project from start to finish please join our facebook fan page "asid orange county community services"

The PR and media exposure has already begun, most recently with a video clip from one of our vendors Hart Concrete Design who documented the production process of an amazing custom dining table exclusively for Girls HOPE. To view the video click the following link http://vimeo.com/11097033

RINEK Wallcovering - not for the faint of heart.

2010-02-26T17:41:00.000-08:00

This amazingly artistic line of wallcovering is my new secret weapon for that unique client who is willing to take a risk. Dana Agamalian and John Rinek have created an eclectic line of photographic wallpaper bringing ordinary walls to life with the uncanny realism of barbed wire, peacock feathers, fish eyes, and beds of roses. What, were you expecting me to say bed of nails? They have that too.

To call the line avant-garde is an understatement. Dana and John describe their venture as an opportunity to “challenge the interior design industry with endless originality”. I accept that challenge.

If the fish eyes don’t stop you in your tracks, the Andalucia Collection will. The graphic quality of this print tile collection brings color, texture, and sophistication to any room making it my favorite of the various collections.

Check out the entire collection at http://www.rinekwall.com

Go directly to Finca Home, do not pass go....

2010-02-07T16:54:00.000-08:00

In a time when we are seeing more and more of our favorite little home stores and boutiques closing up shop, it is in a word “refreshing” to see a new storefront filled with beautiful furnishings, art, and home accessories. Now some of you may be asking yourself “is he really promoting somebody else’s home boutique when he has one of his own?” Well, the answer is yes because after a two year run I have retired the retail aspect of my business and I am focusing strictly on interior design. My new go-to hot spot for instant gratification is FINCA HOME in the Newport Plaza Shopping Center. The meticulously edited display of goods can be summed up in four words: Modern, Minimal, Rustic, Revival. On a recent visit I spied a chic persimmon wing chair, modern striped throw pillows, my favorite VOLUSPA candle (Baltic Amber), and my associate literally had to pry the new Louis Vuitton collector’s coffee table book from my hands. As much as I would like to keep this little trade secret to myself I am compelled to share this one with my friends and associates because I know that Maria and the rest of the staff at Finca Home will undoubtedly greet you with the warmth and gratitude that we have all come to expect from our favorite little boutiques. While it pains me to say “out with the old and in with the new”, welcome to the neighborhood Finca Home.

Finca Home is located at 1000 Bristol Street in Newport Beach between Jamboree and Birch. P: 949-863-1900 For more information visit http://www.fincadesign.com

"must haves" for 2010

2009-12-31T14:27:00.000-08:00

As we all know, 2010 is going to be an entirely different year filled with design opportunity and a literal windfall of new trends and fresh ideas. Here is a sneak peek at some of my favorite design elements which will undoubtedly find a place in my design repertoire and that of every hot OC/LA designer in the coming year.

Anything “concrete” by Hart Concrete Design (HCD)
The durability and eco-responsibility screams urban chic. Owner and artist Kyle has found a way to cleverly integrate concrete and aggregate into just about every design element you can imagine. Island counters, lavatory sinks, fireplace surrounds, dining tables, accent tables, and even flower pots have all become examples of Kyle’s handy work. To the delight of interior designers, every piece is made to order and can be customized making the line not only unique but versatile. Be prepared to see a lot more of HCD in all the right places in 2010. http://www.harteconcretedesign.com/

Designer Lighting from Lightopia
If it’s modern, urban, retro-chic, or dripping with crystals you will find it here. The folks at Lightopia have gathered all things cool and placed them under one roof making them “thee” lighting destination / resource for designers and savvy consumers. My lighting pick for 2010… hand blown crystal sconces and pendants by Caleb Siemon. In a word: sexy. http://www.lightopiaonline.com/

Please give wall covering a second chance!
There is no better way to add texture and visual interest to a room than with “wallcovering”, formerly know as wallpaper. From grass cloth and leather to flocked damask, wallcovering can instantly transform a room from drab to fab! My pick or 2010 is silk screened grasscloth by Phillip Jeffries. A perfect balance of texture and pattern makes it perfect for feature walls, bedrooms, and powder rooms. http://www.phiilipjefriesltd.com/

These are just a few items on my never ending list of design tips to make your home all that it can be. I hope they will intrigue and inspired you to begin a new design project in 2010.

Tis' the Season

2009-12-26T13:22:00.000-08:00

It was such a pleasure learning about one of my favorite celebity interior designer Nate Berkus for a recent contribution to Beverly Hills Lifestyle Magazine. The latest (winter 2009) issue is all about giving...just in time for the holidays. check it out at http://www.bhlmag.com/winter10/

Catching Up with Nate Berkus
Author: Rick Campos

The life of Nate Berkus is a delicate balancing act of television appearances, meetings, and interviews. He completely defines the term “multi-tasking” as he juggles a myriad of design projects, the production of his signature line of home furnishings for HSN, and impromptu appearances with the queen of television for awe inspiring home makeovers and design interventions. Somehow in the midst of all of this, Nate also makes time to support a variety of local, national and even global charity organizations.

Nate’s generosity knows no boundaries. When a local Chicago public school needed a new kitchen, Nate was on it. When a homeless shelter reached out, Nate responded with hundreds of sheet sets from his HSN line to make sure that every home the organization provided for the homeless was outfitted with new bedding. His philanthropy extends to those of the four legged variety as well. “I’m a total dog person and both my dogs Henry and Emma, were rescues so I find myself drawn to animal related charities. One no-kill shelter that is especially close to my heart is PAWS in Chicago.” When asked what other charities and organizations he supports Nate responds, “I just follow my heart and do what I can, where I can”.

No stranger to the camera, Nate has spent countless hours transforming celebrity digs into luxurious retreats and fulfilling the dreams of victims of tragedy with a place to call home and a renewed chance at life. His ability to affect the lives of others at such a level is one that he credits his good friend Oprah. “As I made over that first small space in Boston, I realized the power and reach of what Oprah has created.” Nate simply showed up to do his job as a designer. Little did he know that his job, his life’s work, was about to be re-defined. This journey has proven to be as fulfilling for Nate as it is for those whose lives he has touched. “I’m working at a job that I love. I get to be creative. I get to dream. I get to feel inspired every day. When you feel fulfilled, it means you’re able to be there for others and your joy rubs off on them. Being a designer has been and continues to be one of my greatest joys.”

When asked if he agrees that with every milestone in business and life, we are given the opportunity to give back Nate responds, “not just every milestone…but setback too. All these life lessons inform who we are, make us stronger, and give us more reason to be gracious and share the best part of ourselves.” I couldn’t agree more. I believe that every act of giving is a sign of hope. Without it, the balancing act will crumble. #

Note: Thank you Nate for taking the time to intrigue and inspire me and our BHL readers. Also, thank you to Erin at AllMoxie PR for all of your help connecting with Nate.

Welcome to my BLOG

2009-12-14T17:35:00.000-08:00

Well, the time has finally come. I am overwhelmed with ideas, resources, and opinions to share so I have joined the bandwagon and have started my own blog. It is here that I will critique, inquire, and shamelessly plug all things "Interior Design" related.

The folks at Beverly Hills Lifestyle Magazine have dubbed me an authority on the topic of Interior Design and related subjects. I accept that challenge and I plan to deliver insider information and thought provoking contributions to every issue in an effort to satisfy the thirst of their exclusive readership. View past and current contributions here or on the BHL website http://www.bhlmag.com/

Past, current, and future clients who wish to remain in the loop with my design intrests will find inspiration here. Industry partners and associates can view my opinion on products and design trends.

Anyone who knows me also knows that I maintain a constant philosophy with regards to my fellow design associates. I consider my colleagues in the design industry allies, not competitors. I believe in sharing resources and experiences in an effort to better the industry as a whole. If you want trash talk and drama, this is not the blog for you.

Thanks for following and I look forward to being a resourse, authority, or at the very least an intriguing distraction.

Rick Campos - Allied Member, ASID

Luxury Linens for the Modern Boudoir

2009-12-13T17:20:00.000-08:00

My latest contribution to Beverly Hills Lifestyle Magazine...
http://www.bhlmag.com/winter10/

While the thought of turning down a bed piled high with quilts, shams, duvets, and pillows may seem daunting, I find the process quite therapeutic. Like a ceremony, each meticulously pressed layer unfolding to reveal another. A well appointed bed requires meticulous attention to detail and military precision. When done correctly, the result is nothing short of luxurious.

With Italian fabrication and a pedigree dating back to 1860, FRETTE is the crème de la crème of luxury bed linens. Five Star Hotels around the world rely on FRETTE to pamper their guests and ensure a good nights sleep. The world’s leading interior designers rely on FRETTE to bring a same five star experience to the homes of royalty, dignitaries, and their most discriminating clientele.

A recent visit to the South Coast Plaza Boutique culminated in a therapy worthy spree of all things FRETTE. In addition to their classic traditional bedding, FRETTE offers a chic line of contemporary printed bedding, bath linens, table linens, outerwear, and accessories. My own personal vision of a five star bedroom starts with the HOTEL Collection. Classic white with black piping and signature monogram speaks volumes in both traditional and contemporary sleeping quarters. Bath robe, towels, and slippers? Yes please. A leather embossed valet for keys and wallet, check. Is that a beach towel and matching canvas tote? Well, you don’t want to displace your monogrammed terries. Two beach towels please. While my associate shopped next door for her next trophy hand bag, I kept it all about me.
Consider such an indulgence an investment in yourself. Relish the sense of privilege when climbing into bed and enjoy the luxury that envelopes you. I guarantee you’ll find yourself turning in just a little earlier and sleeping in just a little later. And for the record, although stylish and incredibly comfortable, the sateen pajamas make a better fashion statement within the confines of home rather than the corner coffee stop. However, if you must I recommend completing the ensemble with their cotton robe and cashmere slippers.

Organic Elements infuse warmth, style, and sophistication into your home.

2009-12-13T15:34:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite things to do is share amazing resources and talented artists with fellow designers. I was recently approched by a lifestyle magazine to contribute and share some of my favorites things with their readers. This article was featured in the FALL Issue of Beverly Hills Lifestyle Magazine. http://www.bhlmag.com/

Designers around the globe have added a new design technique to their overflowing bag of tricks. These days no room is ready for the pages of a glossy home magazine without an organic element. Displacing the requisite white orchid into second place is the teak stump side table on which it rests upon.

The word “organic” is referred to in the design industry as simply an earthly element. There is much room left for interpretation, unlike when used in the context of our local farmer’s market. The infusion of stone, concrete, and re-claimed wood is creating a new transitional palette rich with warmth, style, and sophistication.

For years artist Tony Clark of Clark Functional Art has created one of a kind pieces for luxury residences and high end commercial applications. His coral like root coffee tables and enormous free edge dining tables are focal points in designer living spaces from Laguna Beach to Napa Valley. Tony collects re-claimed slabs and tree stumps from around the globe to create his works or art. The wood species lean more toward the exotic varieties such as teak, rosewood, and Honduras mahogany.

It seems no matter how traditional, contemporary, or modern a space is, the inclusion of organic elements such as re-claimed wood brings a sense of humanity and responsibility to the scene. For a cool urban look I recommend pairing the natural unrefined dining table with sleek Lucite dining chairs. In a more traditional setting surround a chunky root coffee table with four oversized wing back chairs to create a classic conversation area with a unique focal point.

Clark Functional Art is available to the trade at Gina B & Company in the Laguna Design Center
www.clarkfuntionalart.com