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Tell us a bit about you and your style.
I dabble in quite a few creative pursuits from art, graphic design, fashion design, to interiors. But the unifying factors in all my work is my love of color, vintage design, and making a bold statement.
How do you find inspiration?
Inspiration is all over! I keep a running list on my phone because ideas will hit me at random. Sometimes a graphic design can be inspired by a piece of furniture, sometimes an interior can be inspired by a piece of art. My main sources of inspiration are vintage design and following fellow creatives who I admire. Finding inspiration from others is wonderful, you just have to make sure to also make it yours. [IMAGE] Image Credit: Amee Chandelier. Design: Dani Nagel.
When did you first know that you were destined to design? Was it something you always knew or was it more spontaneous?
I have been drawn to art and design since I was a child. I come from a very creative family that always fostered our artistic pursuits. When I was younger, I was torn between wanting to be a fashion designer, artist, or interior designer. I had no idea I would eventually pursue all three and am so grateful I never limited myself.
Was there a particular experience or piece of advice that helped shape the way you think about design?
I think time and experience are the biggest factors in discovering and establishing your artistic style. I remember struggling early in my design career to feel like my work was consistent and had its own voice. It made me question if I was even cut out to be a designer. Looking back, the piece of advice I would give my younger self would be not to worry so much and give yourself space and time to explore.
What’s your favorite room in your house right now?
I have both a spanish style penthouse apartment in the Hollywood Hills and Mid-century modern Palm Springs vacation home. In the desert house, my favorite has to be our brightly wallpapered living room with a striking gallery wall filled with original artwork by my late grandmother.
At what point in the design process do you begin to think about lighting?
As a graphic designer turned interior designer, I digitally mock up all my ideas before committing to decisions. Choosing lighting is done very early in the process because sometimes a room can be built around a statement pendant or chandelier. I love working with Mitzi because there are so many options you can find to easily suit any room!
How would you advise readers to think about lighting and how it affects a space?
I am a firm believer that lighting can truly transform a space. Especially in a rental which often comes with less-than-ideal lighting. Lights are surprisingly easy to switch out and make a massive impact without having to do any actual construction.
Do you have any tips for choosing the right lighting fixture for a space?
I like to consider these three things. Era/style: Lighting looks change drastically by era and style. If you are going for a specific theme in a room or space, I would get lighting that matches that vibe. Our penthouse is super art deco, so there’s funky brass and heavy glass pieces. Metallics: I generally try to keep metals within the same family when possible. If I do have to mix metals due to something I can’t change, I try and equally incorporate both so it feels intentional. In our desert house, I can’t swap out the silver handles of our original vintage oven, but I really wanted to add a new brass faucet and handles. I decided on a multi-metal lighting fixture that unified both silver and brass! Light output/tone: Of course the decorative aspect of lighting is important, but at the end of the day they have a very functional job to do. I try to pay attention to the wattage and amount of light a fixture will put out and how that will fit into a space. Some places you may want a moody vibe, like a dining room, and some places you may need it bright, like a kitchen or art studio.
I love the Amee Chandelier so much that I have one in both my penthouse and art studio.
The Ashleigh Chandelier, the centerpiece of our bold and bright yellow bedroom!
Paige Linear - this cutie is in our pink kitchen and I find it absolutely charming. The scalloped edges are adorable.
Willow Chandelier - I put this one in my client’s space, Almost 30 Podcast, and it’s just fabulous. It feels like a practical piece of art.
Athena Table Lamp in burnt orange. It was practically made for our bright orange Mid-century home. Such a playful and colorful piece that makes me smile.