Did it look like there was a type-o in our email header? GOTCHA! While I may not be on the distinguished Crain’s 40 under 40 list (typically reserved for those in the business world)….I am taking some time as I approach my 40th birthday to share a few personal and professional tidbits.
When it comes to area rugs – go big or go home. Area rugs that are too small will immediately make a room look ‘off’.
Mixing metal finishes in a space is OK – just stick to 2 different finishes max.
My favorite rooms to design are children’s spaces. When I was younger, I thought I would own a firm that ONLY designed for children….so when I get the opportunity to do so – it’s a real treat!
Did you know how to spell the word ‘zhush’? I just learned a few years ago.
My top recommended components for an ultra luxe Primary Bathroom: enclosed WC with a robot toilet (aka washlet or bidet seat), heated floors, oversized steam shower, heated towel bar, and large tub (freestanding preferred).
I’ve never consumed a full cup of coffee, and I’m not mad about it.
Dark walls do NOT make a space feel small, but ill-proportioned furnishings sure will.
I am a Benjamin Moore girly through and through – Bruton White is my go-to greige, and Decorator’s White is my favorite white for trim, ceilings etc
You might see me with a multi-color manicure. It’s not because I’m indecisive – it’s because I view this as another opportunity to create a color palette.
If you’re on a budget on a bathroom design – invest in the plumbing fixtures and you can go more wallet-friendly on things like mirrors, wall accessories, and even some tile!
If you’re not having fun with your Powder Room design….what are you even doing??
Controversial opinion, but I think there’s a time and place for Quartz.
If you have kids, pets, or are a generally messy human – let me introduce you to faux leather for upholstery. It looks pretty darn close to the real thing, and will save your sanity.
Thank me later.
2700K is my preferred color temperature for lighting. I’ll also accept 3000K – but anything higher starts to feel like an operating room.
The Frame TV is the great compromise for clients when one wants size and the other wants not-a-giant-black-TV-on-the-wall.
At my first design job in NYC, we had custom pillows made out of actual SKUNK hides. It was my job to let them air-out outside….but I forgot to bring them in before I went home. Of course, we got a monsoon the next morning. I was terrified I’d be fired.Spoiler alert: I wasn’t fired and I now know how to blow-dry skunk hides like a pro.
The best salad in Chicago is the Brussels Sprouts Salad (with crispy chicken) from Doc B’s. I will die on this hill.
I am pro Microwave Drawer (despite its slightly smaller interior height) – the convenient location outweighs any other benefit IMHO
I’m over the all-bright-white Kitchens. Not sure I was ever into them?
Invest in the pieces that need to perform. Spending a bit more on a good quality area rug that can be serviced will save you in the long run.
The best Diet Coke comes from the McDonald’s soda fountain.
I love wallpapering a ceiling #fifthwall
Some days I’m an all-star at work; Some days I’m the most patient Mom; Some days I’m a super thoughtful wife. These three modes RARELY coincide. Maybe 2 out of 3 do once in a blue moon…..
The most unique project I’ve ever worked on was a $45M, 180’ sailing yacht being built in Amsterdam. I was a Junior Designer at David Easton’s office in New York, and the client had very niche interests (antique war canons and jazz music performance). Boat design has all sorts of considerations and regulations we don’t have to think about in our typical projects. And all of the drafting had to be done in millimeters!
Spindrift is hands-down the superior sparkling water.
Grapefruit is my fave.
In my world, blue is a neutral (all shades)
There are more shades of white and gray paint colors than you think. While choosing a paint color, keep in mind your surrounding finishes (mainly, flooring). If you have really yellow / warm floors….a gray color with blue undertones will look BABY BLUE.
Moral of the story: when in doubt – SWATCH IT OUT!
I love me a dark glossy tile with a crisp, light grout. Don’t come at me with that ‘oh it will make the [shower] feel too small’ nonsense!
I treat my personal style like interiors (and vice versa). I like to invest in staple pieces that have staying power (handbags, shoes, denim, jackets) and go more affordable on tops, dresses where the trends and needs change more often.
Plants and Greenery (real or good-faux) are my favorite styling layer.
Heated Floors in a Primary Bathroom should be mandatory – esp. in Chicago!
Custom-made window treatments are always worth the investment. They’re one of the last things installed and they make SUCH a difference.
I’ve always wanted to do interior design. From a young age, I would draw floor plans and no shoebox entering the Metcalfe household was safe from becoming a diorama!
This custom Dog Bowl Area we incorporated into a Kitchen recently brings me a lot of secondhand joy
I like to view items like cabinet hardware, lighting, and plumbing fixtures as the “jewelry” of the space. So just like actual jewelry – this can be for fashion or it can be more classic.
I love to knit – it relaxes me. Sadly, I haven’t knit since 2019 right before Natalie was born. I need to change this! (pictured: one of my first projects – a knit, hooded poncho for my niece Olivia in 2012)
As an interior designer and a Mom, I am never not schlepping something. It’s unnerving to leave the house with anything less than one bag per limb.
I might be turning 40, but I still appreciate a good rainbow. This shower installation remains one of my favorite transformations.
Foods I do not like (and have no interest in trying to like): coconut, olives, horseradish, black pepper.
Last, but not least….I’m so proud of the work our OI team is creating out in the world, lucky to have trusting and supportive Clients, and blessed by my special little family. Cheers to 40 & beyond!
I have a very busy professional life running a company that involves frequent travel and social commitments. The design of my condo just kind of fell to the wayside. Working with Laura allowed me the freedom to live my life,
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