Gunkelmans Interior Design Blog

I love the idea of using textured and opaque glass in areas where you want the light to shine in but want to obscure the view.  Here are a couple of installations by GF.

Instead of having anyone who walked up to the front door have a view in, a decorative leaded glass window treatment was installed over the existing glass on the doors.

Here a textured glass added a little privacy between the Master Bedroom and Sitting Room.

Here is a great solution for a window above a bathtub, privacy but the light still filters in.

A window peeking into a wine seller lets outside light in as well as makes a beautiful statement.

submitted by: Karen McKay

One of  the things I love about New York is the exposure to new things.  I'm constantly seeing things that spark my creativity and broaden my horizons.   Recently, I've been noticing art more because one of my projects is in the finishing phase and they need a lot of art.  

In my opinion, an art collection should be varied.  What I mean by that is that one never wants to have a collection that consists of all one medium, subject matter, style, or time period.  Just like a great interior, one's art collection should reflect the personality of the person who lives there, and nobody likes someone who has a one track mind!

Years ago, we placed a beautiful and very collectible Chagall tapestry in a project that we worked on for a client in her Napa Valley home.  I had forgotten about it until I received a postcard in the mail that renewed my interest in tapestries.   It made me think of them in a different way again.   I believe that most people, when they hear the word tapestry think of some dusty, 16th century, Italian wall hangings that depict images of a "pretty landscape".  Possibly they might include wildlife flora and fauna and/or people in  very formal period clothing.  Not that there is anything wrong with that kind of tapestry, or that they don't have their place, but they're typically just not for me.   When I received this postcard from Vojtech Blau in Manhattan, it reminded me to consider the modern/abstract tapestry again. 

Hopefully some of these images will allow you to re-think the way you perceive them too.

Submitted by Andrew Flesher

Image credits:  Vojtech Blau

I've created a set of remodeling guidelines to help you with a remodel as small as a bathroom to gutting a three story home.

Before

After

Establish an "Idea" File

The minute you have merely the thought of changing your kitchen or tearing down a wall to create one wonderful space between the living and dining room, begin collecting ideas from your favorite magazines and blogs.   I appreciate when a client hands me a raff of pages at our initial meeting.   Circle the specific object you like or write directly on the page…"love this color…Master Bedroom"?  Let your imagination fly; there IS a connection in all those torn out pages!  Your designer will help you to see it.

Assemble a Team

Peruse your local magazines and newspapers to see current work by local architects, builders and interior designers.  Go on tours; this can help you see updated concepts and learn about local talent.  Probably the most important source of talent is to ask for referrals from people you trust and admire.  There is nothing better than good words about good work.

Regarding a team approach, many of us feel we are losing control over a space when consulting with a design professional.  I see it as a logical and exciting concept!   Consider the advice given often to business managers to try and hire talented people more skilled at certain tasks than they are themselves; this is valuable when tackling your renovation.   Good design professionals will listen well and help you achieve your vision, and have fun along the way!

Before

After  

Manage the Budget

It's OK to make compromises in order to think about a completely finished space when you are projecting your bottom line.   In addition to budgeting the new wall, plumbing fixtures and paint, be sure to include a portion for furnishings and art.  It is discouraging to have beautiful "bones" and no chair to sit on or lamp to light the newspaper you are trying to read.   Having said this, I will also advise to invest in something special.  It may be a piece of art that makes you tingle; it may be beautiful slabs of marble running up an entire fireplace wall soaring to the ceiling.  It will cause a stir in you every time you walk into your home.

Move Out!

When one is completely demolishing the daily routine, confusion ensues day after day after day.  Many of my clients who have spent this time in a rented space speak of it as a very "freeing" and special time.   A simple time and a little peace in the midst of chaos.

A successful renovation is such a wonderful feeling!   Your daily life is affected in a beautiful way.  Now that is a worthy accomplishment for 2010!

Submitted by Mary Hickey