I flip via lots of dwelling design books on this job. Frankly, most run collectively. Betsy Wentz’s “Design Glad ─ Colourful Houses for the Trendy Household” (accessible Feb. 21, Gibbs Smith Publishing) stands out because the exception.
All of the interiors featured within the e book’s photo-filled 224 pages bounce out for his or her vibrant, unapologetic use of colour.
“You are able to do that?” I believed.
Sure, you may. Properly, no less than Wentz can.
Wentz, 49, grew up working alongside her mom, an inside designer who ran a design store out of the household dwelling. Wentz pursued a profession in psychology and after working as a counselor, got here again and partnered along with her mentor mother in 2001. When her mom retired 10 years later, Wentz rebranded and launched her personal studio close to Pittsburgh.
A designer educated as a counselor. This makes excellent sense.
However again to the e book. Of all of the traits I love in designers, artistic braveness tops my checklist, and Wentz has this present in (paint) buckets.
I imply, this girl didn’t pause earlier than overlaying an heirloom vintage wood grandfather clock ─ which let’s face it, few folks really need of their properties anymore ─ with vibrant yellow citron lacquer paint, which made everybody within the household fall in love with it.
So, I referred to as Wentz, who, proved simply as colourful in dialog:
Q. You have got a grasp’s diploma in counseling psychology and have been a behavioral therapist earlier than beginning a design agency. How do these two worlds relate?
A. At first, I didn’t suppose there was any correlation, however in truth, I exploit that diploma daily. Designing somebody’s dwelling turns into very private. From the second you begin working with somebody, constructing that relationship is crucial, as a result of that individuals piece is what makes a challenge click on. I feel each designer ought to have this diploma.
Q. Did the title “Design Glad” spring out of your remedy background?
A. Sure, in a way. I prefer to suppose the widespread thread if you look via these interiors is they’re completely happy environments. We needed a title that will get throughout that this e book is about having enjoyable with colour, design and sample. Your environment have an effect on your temper and your high quality of life. I inform purchasers let’s begin with colours you’re snug with, then let’s add one that you’re a little uncomfortable with.
Q. Of all the colours in your interiors, intense blue, particularly deep turquoise, appears to be the widespread denominator. Why?
A. Let me begin by saying there’s not a colour I don’t like. However blue! I’ve by no means met anybody who doesn’t like blue. I attempt to discover a colour mixture that’s distinctive to every consumer and of their bandwidth. If a consumer actually needs impartial, I am going excessive distinction. I put white with aubergine. Nevertheless, a medium vibrant palette is my favourite.
Q. Due to their colourful interiors, the properties in your e book look as if they’re all in vibrant sunny locations. However many are close to you in Pennsylvania, and others are in Ohio and Maine. Discuss to me about colour and geography.
A. {That a} dwelling in an space not saturated in pure colour can’t be colourful is a mistaken stereotype. I dwell in Pittsburgh. In the present day it’s very grey and drab out. The bushes don’t have any leaves, however my dwelling is stuffed with colour. Simply because it’s Maine, doesn’t imply it’s important to embellish in darkish inexperienced. I see a spot for colour all over the place. Don’t ignore your setting, however do add splashes of colour.
Q. Inform me about your signature contact.
A. For me, it’s a twist. It may be an surprising sample on sample, or having the nerve to place two patterns or colours collectively that most individuals wouldn’t. I exploit lots of colourful classic rugs. You must watch out to not cross the road of “an excessive amount of,” however the longer I do that, the extra permission I give myself.
Q. What makes you cringe if you stroll into somebody’s dwelling?
A. Round rugs — I don’t know why. Vertical blinds, basically. Poor lighting, significantly a fixture that’s too small for the area. You may virtually by no means go flawed with an enormous mild. Ceiling followers with built-in lights are by no means okay. We name them fandeliers. Simply get a plain fan and add recessed lights.
Q. For those who had one phrase of design recommendation for these of us attempting to brighten up our properties, what wouldn’t it be?
A. Go for what you want. Most individuals know what they like, however are afraid to take an opportunity on an amazing colour or sample as a result of, they are saying, “I’m afraid I’m going to get uninterested in it.” That’s no enjoyable in any respect. For those who love one thing personal it and do it. That’s additionally a metaphor for all times. Don’t be afraid.
Marni Jameson is the writer of six dwelling and life-style books. Attain her at www.marnijameson.com.