Sunset Marquis Hotel & Villas
A Hidden Gem in the Heart of the Sunset Strip
classic design elements in my projects too. I also love traveling and taking photos. You never know when you may draw inspiration from a photo that you took previously. Fashion is a great inspiration too. A lot of interior design trends follow fashion.
Have there been any unexpected shifts in luxury design in home building that have taken you by surprise?
Surprise is what keeps things interesting! That’s another thing that I love about this industry; things are always changing and two days are never alike. I will say the “tiny house” trend did take me by surprise. I’m not sure that I could do that. I have too many sentimental things that I like to have around me, and I love entertaining too.
What would your dream home look like?
I have spent my whole life around the water, so my dream home would have to be on the water. It brings me such peace and serenity. My dream home would have a “collected” feeling. I love unusual pieces that you don’t see everywhere, especially those that you pick up from travels, or have sentimental value. The color pallet would be soft neutral colors with lots of textures. It would be filled with the things that I love, and have space for entertaining family and friends.
What role do you think technology plays in providing the next level in luxury home design?
I think technology is very important and is going to be incorporated into every home in some form or fashion. Homeowners are looking for security and peace of mind. They love being able to look on their phones and see what the kids are doing or who is at their front door. They also love the endless possibilities with music and television. This industry changes almost daily, there is always something new and exciting on the horizon.
Do you think luxury and eco or energy efficiency can coincide?
Yes, I do. This too is always evolving. There are new products emerging constantly, and it’s exciting to incorporate them into new designs. We have to think about future generations and try to use the sustainable resources that we have.
How would you describe your design style?
I would say that personally I’m more “eclectic.” I don’t box myself into one design style. I tend to incorporate several different design styles into my personal home. Again, I love using things from travels, or things collected over the years. I want my home to evoke a sense of family, love, and travels. In my professional career, I enjoy working in different styles too. I have done everything from French and English, to Mediterranean and Italian Renaissance, and even more transitional designs.
Architect or design mentors?
I love the classic architects like Phillip Johnson and Frank Lloyd Wright. Their designs are so timeless and still relevant today. One of my favorite buildings in New York City is Johnson’s AT&T Building that was built in the 80s. It’s post-modern design with the Chippendale pediment at the top is so classic.
As far as Interior Designers, I truly enjoy looking at other designers’ work. I think you can draw some sort of inspiration from so many of them.