A Chair In A Room

8th Annual Paper Fashion Show

2012-02-12T11:00:00.000-08:00

The Art Directors Club Denver’s Paper Fashion Show is the largest paper fashion show in the nation with over 50 design teams registered for the 2012 show. The 8th Annual Paper Fashion Show will be held on March 15, 2012 at The Denver Center for Performing Arts.

Designers create fashions from paper donated by xpedx®. These fashions are showcased at our grand runway show, and voted on by a panel of judges. The event includes a fully stocked cash bar.

Part of the proceeds and auctioned fashion designs from the Paper Fashion Show benefit Downtown Aurora Visual Arts (DAVA), a local community organization that provides after-school arts programs for at-risk youth.

My team of 3 is participating this year for the ADCD 8th Annual Paper Fashion Show. Concept is ready, Construction about to start......Here is out concept

Kids Room Inspiration

2012-01-31T11:21:00.000-08:00

When designing children's room, there are lots of essentials things to consider. Room needs to be safe and comfortable and accommodate various activities; Homework/ creative activities, it needs to be comfortable for sleeping and some quiet time like reading, there needs to be enough storage, space for sleepovers and play dates.

When all that is accomplished I like to throw in some customized and fun ideas

Choose a favorite photo of your child/ children and turn it into fun wall mural behind the desk, add some creative lighting and voila, doing homework, not so boring anymore (click on the images to enlarge them)

Think about storage. A combination of closed and open storage is a great idea. Open shelving encourages children to create displays with their favorite toys and items.
You can add a pop of color to storage by using crate shelves with wallpaper offcuts.

Are you thinking about remodeling your kids room/ play room? Contact me to schedule an initial free consultation.

(photo courtesy: Living etc)

Creative Problem Solving

2012-01-27T09:48:00.000-08:00

I love the contrasts... concrete against soft textiles, a glass chandelier in a minimalistic environment. But what really caught my attention is how the electrical cables have bee worked into the design instead of attempting to hide them. (click on the image to enlarge)

News From RE.DZINE - Issue 01/ January 2012

2012-01-25T10:45:00.000-08:00

My Latest Newsletter is out. Read it HERE

DIA is getting hip !!

2012-01-19T08:57:00.000-08:00

It was so much fun to see in person this art happening last night!
World renown artists Sam Flores, David Choe and Highraff are in Denver from January 12th -21st to each paint an 8’ tall 100’ long mural on moveable 4’ sections that will become the first Kinetic Mural art show to be seen at a major International airport. This is all part of Terminal Kings is 10 days and 10 nights of World Class Street Art, music, performance and energy presented by the University of Denver in a proud partnership with Denver International Airport (DIA) .
I only wish I've had a real camera with me. My iPhone takes bad photos

My Favorite!!

What to do with the leftover Packing Tape

2012-01-05T13:11:00.000-08:00

Spotted on the wall of Posh Home Decor on Larimer Square, Denver

On The Boards - Sushi Bar Concept

2011-12-30T00:27:00.000-08:00

See more here

Airbnb’s Amazing Office Space in San Francisco

2011-12-29T23:54:00.000-08:00

I am so inspired by this unique office space designed by Michaels Garcia and farid Tamijidi for Airbnb

I love the clean line, modern Vitra pieces against more traditional pieces, the Injections of humor and the clever incorporation of their actual listings throughout the space from Hong Kong, Berlin etc...

Merry Christmas to you and yours !!!

2011-12-24T07:47:00.001-08:00

Window Display concept for Flower Boutique by RE.DZINE

2011-12-24T07:44:00.000-08:00

Here is a concept for a Floral Boutique I have been working on (click on the images to enlarge)

A Trinity Bellwoods Town Homes - Toronto

2011-12-19T07:25:00.000-08:00

A collaborative effort of two prominent builders and two award winning design firms. This fantastic mix of residential spaces, retail spaces, entertainment venues, galleries and parks will make this an ideal location for any urbanite or city-loving family.

I love this model unit by by Cecconi Simone with the color palette of white, black, walnut and yellow, custom millwork, with alternating closed and open storage and horizontal composition of solids and voids.

Decanter Fixtures - Creative and Eco friendly light fixtures

2011-12-08T14:06:00.000-08:00

These elegant fixtures were designed by Lee Broom for a London Bar, Coquine. You can make these yourself. Remove the bottom of the decanter and place in a simple hanging bulb. The decanters you can find from antiques store and vintage stores

"7 Days of Madrid" - Day 6

2011-12-08T12:58:00.000-08:00

My husband Dave had his big presentation at the near by Intercontinental hotel for the AIMS International. Meanwhile Siena and I took a metro to downtown for some shopping and lunch.

Later that night we had dinner with AIMS group at Real Café Bernabéu, with view to the field in an innovative space. Too bad there was no game that night.

.......and on the 7th Day we rested at the hotel before the long flight........

Gracias Madrid !

" 7 Days Of Madrid" - Day 5

2011-12-08T11:03:00.000-08:00

On the 5th Day we took a taxi to Palacio Real De Madrid, because "Siena wanted to meet the Spanish Princess" :-))))) Of course now a day The palace is only used for state ceremonies as the Royal Family lives in Palacio de la Zarzuela on the outskirts of Madrid.

There was no photography allowed inside the palace, so this picture of the "Throne Room" is from internet:

After touring the palace we proceeded to it's beautiful garden, Jardines del Palacio Real where we ran into a local celebrity and I should say personality, Carmen Diaz and her two fabulous rescue chihuahuas, Anakin Skywalker and Darth Vader x-D. I first noticed Annakins fabulous ensamble, it's custom made outfit. That, and the fact that it is on her contract that she is allowed to bring her dogs to work, is all I needed to know about Carmen to like her immediately.
She gave us the whole story about the dogs and how she named them (a Spanish Star Wars enthusiastic), and how she organized the Madrid premier for "Beverly Hills Chihuahua". This is on a video tape which I hope to post soon. Dave promised her to send this video to George Lucas's staff (he knows some of the staff members). I believe meeting this Trio was the highlight for us all that day. What a charming lady. We chatted at least for an hour.

As for dinner, we had some Tapas at a lovely Midnight Rose Restaurant located inside the ME Hotel

Christmas Calendar: - Dec 7th DIY

2011-12-08T06:24:00.000-08:00

My favorite part of "Christmas presents" is wrapping the gifts. Here are some fun ideas for gift wrapping:

Happy Birthday Finland!

2011-12-06T04:57:00.000-08:00

Thank you to all the veterans for everything you did, so My Family and I can enjoy a land of free :-)

Swedish people have a habit of making fun of my beloved beautiful language, Finnish, saying it's ugly and rough, ....really?!...have you ever heard what Swedish sounds like....not so lovely and smooth either , so we decided, once and for all ,to have an International Jury decide which one of these two languages is prettier. The Jury formed a very simple English sentence to be translated to both languages.
Here it is: "Island, island, grassy island; grassy island's maiden." In Finnish: "Saari, saari, heinäsaari; heinäsaaren neito." And in Swedish: "Ö, ö, hö ö; hö ö mö" .
We are still waiting for the results because the Jury hasn't stopped laughing ;-P

and here is a link to a fun episode of my favorite program "Big Bang Theory" in which Sheldon is attempting, and if I may say so is doing pretty good, to learn Finnish.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Opw6e7ItInc&feature=share

Lovely Industrial style house in Sao Paolo

2011-12-06T04:13:00.000-08:00

Loft conversion of old industrial building into residential housing has been becoming more and more popular benefiting from large space and convenient locations. This beautiful recently finished 100 m2 industrial loft was designed by Diego Revolla, interior designer and architect from Sao Paolo, Brazil. (click on the images to enlarge)

Source: Modern Architecture & Design News

Christmas Calendar: - Dec 6th : Free Printable Gift Tags from sass & peril

2011-12-06T03:47:00.000-08:00

Download PDF here

Christmas Calendar: - Dec 5th DIY : Paper Bowls for your Christmas Table

2011-12-05T13:34:00.000-08:00

Is your Christmas table short of bowls? Do them yourself of paper pulp

What you need:

- slivers of paper

- wallpaper paste

- round plastic bowl

How to:

1. Prepare the wallpaper paste.

2. Turn the plastic bowl upside down. Apply the paste and paper alternately. Place the paper tightly on the bowl. A few layers of paper is enough. Leave the edge uneven.

3. The paper bowl dries and comes off of the plastic bowl by itself.

4. Use the bowls for dry food only. If the food is warm or greasy, add a piece of baking paper inside the bowl.

source: scandinavian deko

" 7 Days of Madrid " - Day 4

2011-12-03T10:44:00.000-08:00

In the morning I kissed Dave and Siena farewell and sent them for some father - daughter time and took a metro to Chueca, a popular area for Madrid's gay community. Chueca is very lively, with many street cafes and boutique shops; Lonely Planet describes it as "Lively young, and always inclusive."
....and this was pretty much the first building greeting me in the area...
Exterior of Oscar Hotel which is part of the room-mate hotell chain
(click on the images to enlarge)

...and the hotel lobby:

My next stop was Isolée, great place for fashion, food and drinks. My Café con leche was as soothing for my taste buds as the interior was for my style buds.

Designer Teresa Sapey created parallel lines coloured in different hues of grey to cover the walls from both floors. In order to visually separate the areas, she used two different materials on the floor, wood for the store and black ceramic for the bar.

My next stop was Teatriz , an old Beatriz Theatre turned it into an spectacular, avant-garde restaurant by Philippe Starck.

Before heading back to the hotel, I had late lunch at UDON noodle bar (in the corner of Gran Via) , a little change for all the Tapas I had consumed for past few days....ok, fine....I picked it for the fabulous architectural ceiling ;-P The restaurant was completed by architects Quim Girbau & Neus Mateu. For the design of the ceiling architects consulted Medio design and LAN for the implementation of parametric design and digital fabrication.

After a bit of research I found a link to some images of the construction of this ceiling:

"7 days of Madrid" - Day 3

2011-12-03T08:26:00.000-08:00

On our third day it was Miss Siena Blue's turn to choose the destination for the day, so after having light breakfast we took a metro and headed to the Madrid Zoo & Aquarium. It is one of the last places in the world where you can still see the Iberian lynx. The Zoo takes part in many international breeding programmes and is considered to be one of the worlds leaders for certain species. The animals were very active, so we got to see fun interaction from monkeys, bears, pandas, and Siena even got to be a part of parrot show :-)

We spent most of the day there and then had a great Tapas dinner at La Gabinoteca right around the corner from our hotel. I really liked the funky interior and the food was great.

La Gabinoteca: Calle de Fernández de la Hoz 53, 28003 Madrid.

"7 days of Madrid" - Day 2

2011-12-02T18:00:00.000-08:00

We woke up to a brisk but sunny morning and decided to visit Mercado De San Migel for some breakafast & treats. What ever your heart desires, they have. It is a traditional market for the 21st century, with purveyors hawking everything from produce to fish, fresh pastas to pastries, cookbooks to cooking utensils to beers, wines and tapas.
(click the images to enlarge them)

We also did some shopping at Zara, Mango and my very favorite Desigual

then ended the night at Corral de la Moreria, best Tablao Flamenco in a world, located in the center of Madrid - next to the Royal Palace, in the main historic quarters of the city -, its decoration, the arabic corbels and streetlamps dating from the 18th and 19th C recreate a setting reminiscent of the original tablao flamenco, that takes you back in time. Corral de la Moreria has been in a Michelin Guide 5 years in a row and also has been selected in a book "1000 places to see before you die"

This establishment is frequently visited by well-known celebrities around the world visiting Madrid.

Christmas Calendar: - Dec 3rd DIY : Christmas ornaments made of white cardboard.

2011-12-02T16:13:00.000-08:00

What you need:

- thin cardboard

- glue

- pencil

- scissors

- yarn

To do this:

1. Draw the patterns on the cardboard and cut them off.

2. Fold by the dotted lines.

3. Glue the yarn to the desired place.

4. Spread glue on the vanes and fold them inside.

5. Let the decorations dry.

Christmas Calendar: - Dec 2nd DIY : Christmas ornaments of wooden blocks

2011-12-02T00:12:00.000-08:00

Create a modern christmas ornament by decorating wooden blocks with letters.

What you need:

- waste wood

- white paint

- different types of letter stencils

- a permanent marker

To do this:

1. Saw the blocks from the waste wood or use ready-made wooden blocks for children.

2. Hone the blocks and paint them white.

3. Use the stencils and the marker to draw the letters to the blocks.

4. Arrange the blocks to create words.

Source: Scandinavian Deko

"7 days of Madrid" - Day 1

2011-12-02T00:04:00.000-08:00

My husband was invited to Madrid to speak and present and he kindly brought me and our little daughter Siena Blue along.

We arrived to our Hotel, Hesperia Madrid, around 5 pm on Sunday 11-27. Hesperia Madrid is one of the city’s leading contemporary luxury hotels with 3 great restaurants (Hikari Sushi Bar, La Manzana and Santceloni, which has 2 Michellin stars.

We were quite tired from the long flight but decided to take a taxi to central area and do an improvised stroll in the city. Christmas lights were stunning against the historic buildings. We had prepared a whole list of restaurants we wanted to try, but decided to play by ear the first night. We stumbled upon "Kitchen Stories" right next to the Plaza Mayor. Not your traditional Spanish food at all, but I liked the interiors, I was very hungry and the sign by the entrance "Hemingway Never Ate Here" made me laugh out loud. Afterall, we have 6 days for Tapas and Paella, so why not.

(click the images to enlarge)

Plaza Major

Kitchen Stories
C/ Cuchilleros, 3
28005 Madrid

Hotel Hesperia Madrid
Paseo de la Castellana, 57. 28046 Madrid (Spain)

Christmas Calendar: - Dec 1st DIY - Button Ornaments

2011-12-01T04:25:00.000-08:00

"The basic technique for all the ornaments is the same. Bend a pipe cleaner in half and twist once at the top for a loop. Slide buttons over pipe cleaner ends, slipping one end into each hole (if the button has four holes, use two diagonal ones). Use larger buttons for bellies and hat brims. When finished, twist ends of pipe cleaner to secure, and trim. For reindeer legs and antlers and for Santa's arms, bend 2-inch pieces of pipe cleaner in half, slip on between buttons, and twist. Glue on felt for Santa's beard and the snowman's nose. To hang the reindeer, loop a thread around its middle and tie."

source: Martha Stewart

SUSHI BAR CONCEPT DESIGN

2011-11-25T09:15:00.000-08:00

On The Boards: Sushi Bar Concept - Dining Area...very preliminary stage (click on the image to enlarge) More coming soon

My Top 10 - November 2011

2011-11-22T20:18:00.000-08:00

(click on the images to enlarge them)

1) Anne Kyyro Quinn’s decorative acoustic wall panels made of luxurious and natural felts and fabrics. Each panel is made by hand. http://www.annekyyroquinn.com/

2) plywood chair W_01 by Portuguese company Branca

3) Glass Ball Chandeliers by Bocci

4) Babylonstoren in South Africa is a stylish luxury hotel and a working farm at once, where guests can enjoy the pleasure of hand-picking their own crops and experience how it feels to be a "chic farmer".

5) Very cool hidden pantry and wine storage

6) Goodbye utilitarian, boring bathrooms – Hello amazing bathtubs! The Ocean Wave and the Ocean Wing bathtubs are a collaboration of German designer Manuel Dreesmann and Swiss bathroom brand Bagno Sasso.

7) The Concrete Wall collection is the result of transposing Norway photographer Tom Haga's pictures of raw and refined concrete walls, raw cinder block, and even grafitti photographs, onto high-quality vinyl wallpaper. No pattern is ever repeated, so each order of this washable and UV-resistant product is unique.

8) Spa ESPA Istanbul
VIP TREATMENT LOUNGE The VIP suite is decorated with patterned leather floors and smoked onyx walls, where couples can unwind in the oversize bathtub, steam shower, and unique relaxation bed suspended from the ceiling.

9) Joker of Love - Really fun piece from Modani. The expansion possibilities are limitless . build it has high and as wide as you can dream. Perfect for a wall unit, a display, a room divider, a showcase and more. Six different color options make it possible to mix and match cubes to achieve any combination of available colors. Made in Italy from a rotational mold, the cube is a durable piece of furniture made entirely of recyclable linear polyethylene.

10) Office of Horizon Media, New York. – I love how this the open space manages to be industrial yet warm at the same time.

Fresh Look for a small Spa waiting room

2011-11-19T13:10:00.000-08:00

This spa is located in a small town. It has a lovely Victorian style exterior, but the interior is in need of a lot of work. I took a small waiting area upstairs and transformed it into something that matched the outside better, with a little playful and nouveau twist.
I had a budget of $500, so I had to prioritize very carefully, where that money needs to go and then find creative solutions for the rest.
I found most of the furniture from a lovely store called "The Barn", Cowhide rug is from Ikea, and it gives a bit of a modern twist for the space. The owner previously had benches in the room, but the rule of thumb in any public space is that people who do not know each other, do not typically like to sit too close to one another, so I chose 4 chairs with cute accent pillows. Previously the room did not have any table surface, so I though a nice, small coffee table would be appropriate addition. This way people have a surface to put their coffee or tea, offered at the spa, on. I also picked a side table and mirror more scaled to the space and a cute little table lamp to provide soft light for the room. The mirror reads "Hello Beautiful" in hopes to put smile on the face of each person glancing on it. We all should be reminded how beautiful we are every day. The flower installation on the fall is made of paper doilies and thumbtacks. It gives a little interest on the walls and hides the damaged cost by lots of nail holes. (click on the images to enlarge)

BEFORE

AFTER

Somebody's trash is someone else's treasure

2011-11-19T13:05:00.000-08:00

Couldn't be more true when looking at these storage solutions. It takes a creative mind to see the hidden potential.
(click on the images to enlarge them)

BEFORE:

AFTER:

Green Cube to Win BAR Award

2011-11-19T13:00:00.000-08:00

Green Cube / Architectural Workshop, just won 'best architectural design custom home under3,000 finished square feet' (BAR awards by HBA.) I am very proud to have been one of the Interior Designers of this project. Congratulations to Architectural Workshop, well deserved award.
Green Cube was also a finalist for a "Best Green Home" !!

Thinking Outside the Cube: Artwork Network joins forces with “Green Cube” Interior Designer Heidi Mendoza

2011-11-19T12:57:00.000-08:00

I am exited to announce a partnership with Denver's Artwork Network.

Merritt Design Photo

2011-11-19T12:56:00.000-08:00

I like to hire Jennifer Koskinen from Merritt Design photo to take photos of my projects. Her works is phenomenal. She is a former Architect which explains her ability to capture spatial quality, detail and warmth, and I love how she uses natural light to really capture the beauty of each project or object she shoots.
My most recent project, Green Cube was featured among other great projects and events in her latest Newsletter

Modern Kitchen in Colorado Springs - Progress

2011-11-19T12:53:00.000-08:00

ALMOST done. Few more days and a little tweaking. Here is a progress photo of a modern kitchen I recently designed for a client in Colorado Springs.
We teared down the old nonfunctional kitchen and I designed a more modern and functional kitchen for my client and it was build in Texas by two fabulous designers Fabrizio and Fabio of Arte Design. They both are originally from Italy which you can not only tell by their accent and how they like to talk with their hands, but also by their fabulous craftsman skills.

The old kitchen had a very unpractical island that was short but very deep. The top was made of tiny mosaic tiles. Refrigerator was in an angle taking way too much space and the butlers pantry was just a tiny dark area.

We decided to change the layout to make the kitchen more functional, knock out one of the walls between kitchen and butlers pantry to bring in more light and add counter space.
I designed an entirely new island that was longer but narrower , has a fun floating bar height eating area made out of darker drift wood for contrast. At the one end of the island we added shelving for clients large cook book collection. For the little nook Arte Design made a low bench with storage and little side tables.

Here is the kitchen BEFORE & CONCEPT & IN PROGRESS. Professional Photos of finished Kitchen coming soon: (click on the images to enlarge them)

BEFORE

CONCEPT:

IN PROGRESS:

Colorado Springs Remodel - Progress / Loft & Media Wall

2011-11-19T12:39:00.000-08:00

Dramatic Lighting for staircase:

Sometimes details are what makes the space stand out. This staircase in my clients house travels from 2nd floor through 1st floor all the way to the media room downstairs, and we are installing this beautiful Bubble fixture there. It will be 20 feet long extending from the 2nd floor ceiling to almost to the floor in the basement (click on the images to enlarge)

BEFORE & CONCEPT

AFTER:

MEDIA WALL Progress:

BEFORE & CONCEPT:

PROGRESS:

Colorado Springs Remodel - Progress / Great Room

2011-11-19T12:22:00.000-08:00

1st and 2nd Floor are almost finished, which is great because the clients are moving in in a week. Paint is done, Tiles and Flooring will be finished tomorrow. Kitchen cabinets are up, countertops will go in on Monday as will carpeting. Backsplash for kitchen will be installed on Thursday. Light fixtures will be installed early next week. All the furniture pieces have been ordered, some have arrived, some we are still waiting for, like this dining set below. We had issues with the Minotaur Table we originally wanted so I had to go back to drafting table and the result is this gorgeous Tokyo Dining Table with beautiful white crocodile leather seats currently being made in Italy. (click on the images to enlarge them)

Here are some progress images as well as renderings of the 1st Floor Great Room, Still lot to do, but progress is good:

Great Room:

BEFORE

CONCEPT

IN PROGRESS

Stockmann Sushi Bar - Helsinki, Finland

2011-11-19T12:09:00.000-08:00

I ran into this beautiful sushi bar recently. It is located in my native Finland in Stockmann. Stockmann is a large Finnish department store established in 1862. Finnish Design Studio " Muotohiomo " designed a Sushi Bar concept for the renovated deli area located on the first floor. I understand that the highchair concept is not for everyone, but I do love the overall concept and materials used. I will for sure try some sushi here in November while visiting home. (click on the images to enlarge them)

Sibu Wall Panels

2011-11-19T12:06:00.000-08:00

I love SIBU wall panels. There are so many ways to add them into your space. These wall panels can be used in retail spaces, offices, residential interiors, and they can be used for a virtually unlimited range of application; an accent wall installation, on cabinetry doors, bar counters, backsplash etc. I am currently creating a wall installation for my client using these panels (from IDS2go - Denver) (click on the images to enlarge them)

Green Cube Show Home

2011-09-07T15:34:00.000-07:00

Finally got the professional photographs from my latest project, Green Cube.

See all the beautiful photos HERE

Photos by Merritt Design Photo

Wynwood Kitchen & Bar

2011-09-04T16:59:00.000-07:00

Wynwood Kitchen & Bar in Miami is one of the most visually striking restaurants I have seen. I just love this warehouse-style restaurant with the deco ambiance. am so inspired by the bold graphics! The massive mural above the bar is by Shepard Fairey.

Source: Interior Design
Photography: Mark Roskams

It's a Bird...It's a Table....It's Minotaur....

2011-08-16T08:24:00.000-07:00

I am so blessed to have this client. They are a super fun couple and they have basically given me free hands to do my thing. Lot's of custom design which I most enjoy (built-ins, custom lighting ). The husband has a very modern taste and this house mostly reflects that, Wife's taste is a bit more "transitional" at times traditional....and in the dining room I wanted to bring them both together. We were really struggling to find the right dining table....and then I found Minotaur :-D....It started as a bit of a joke (I love the table but I though it would be too much for them). I e-mailed my client the picture and said : "Here it is...half modern, half traditional" ....and what do you know....they loved it, so we are ordering it and pairing it with two Silver Croco Arm chairs at the end of the tables and 4 Philippe Starck's Ghost Chairs. I am so exited!

The Green Cube Opening Night

2011-08-13T20:23:00.000-07:00

Denver’s first LEED Platinum single-family home, the Green Cube Show Home, had it's opening Gala August 11th.
I am one of the designers and here are few snapshot images of some of the interior spaces. Stay tuned for some professional photographs in few weeks.

(click on the images to enlarge)

Green Cube exterior + super cute Mini Green Cube Dog House

Loft Home Office

Master Bedroom

Master Bath

Green Wall between Living & Dining Room

Kitchen

Powder Room

My TOP 10 Favorites of August 2011

2011-08-09T04:46:00.000-07:00

Every month I feature my favorite designs (interior, architecture, products, fashion). Here is my selection for August

(click on the image to enlarge it)

1. How fun is this bookshelf with a "swing-elevator"!!!

2. mode:lina Architektura & Consulting completed the Quotel apartment designed for guests visiting the Poznan International Fair. The design challenge was to create a space for a transient individual while still making them feel at home.

3. The board of an investment group in capital stock wanted to have a self-called “power office.” i29 interior architects and Eckhardt & Leeuwenstein,
two offices which collaborated during this project,
created this by placing every board member in the spotlight on a playful way.

4. Like tiny round space ships in rainbow of colors,
the Solar Balls by Poketo are one of the best ways to bring some color to both exteriors and interiors

5. Fashion Store, Aspen, CO
While visiting in Aspen few weeks ago I saw this fun store. i really love the display and the funky chandelier.

6. Eilersen sofa

7. Media Wall by www.pescarollo.it

8. Jory Brigham Design
I loooove these benches and credenzas by Jory Brigham, California based designer.
I hope I get to use them in one of my projects

9. A picnic table and bench combo by Extremis

10.Glass Mosaic Tiles for Pools by Sicis

The Green Cube Show Home - Progress

2011-08-09T04:00:00.000-07:00

We are only few days from opening and people are working 24/7 to get everything done by Thursday for the opening.....including me

The Loft Home office panels went up on Saturday

HERE you can see some project progress photos

A Custom Media Wall Sollution

2011-08-02T10:00:00.000-07:00

(click on the image to enlarge it)

I designed this media wall installation for my residential client. I am not sure what was the reason the Architect did not build one large window on just one of the walls, and leave the other wall alone, instead of these 4 ridiculous small windows that make the only 2 walls in the loft basically unusable. But thankfully I like a little challenge ;-)

To work around the small linear windows and to play with the asymmetry, this wall installation will be constructed from 2 x 4's that are various lengths and depths and have floating shelves attached and light strips under shelves to provide some cool lighting.

Design for a Hat Store – Phase One

2011-07-24T01:36:00.000-07:00

Working closely with The[Object]Shop, we are at the beginning stages of design for a hat store opening later this year. Our concept draws inspiration from old attics and steamer trunks with a little modern twist. Main element in the space is wall with missing wood planks exposing grid that serves as a product display.

Concept #1
(click on the images to enlarge them)

A wall partition divides the space between showroom and private areas such as storage and restrooms.
Three custom-made steamer trunks nest back to back in the center of the shop. Each trunk is outfitted with shelves, drawers, and a mirror to give shoppers the experience of rummaging through another person's closet.

Steamer trunks are on the raised floor, surrounded by seating adding to the playful idea of dress up

Concept # 2

In a second concept check-out desk is located in the center of the space and the wall structure of displays is broken by nooks where you can try on hats in front of the mirror

Green Cube featured in Modern in Denver Magazine

2011-07-20T12:04:00.000-07:00

One of the projects I'm currently working on got some great coverage online from Modern In Denver.

Read the full article and see more photos here

Drift Wall Flats

2011-07-20T12:01:00.000-07:00

In one of my projects I am using these Drift Wall Flats from Inhabit - These lightweight dimensional wall tiles are a fun and easy way to create an accent wall for your space. Molded from bagasse, one of the world's most renewable resources, they are durable, sustainable and biodegradable. They are also paintable.

Project Progress - Colorado Springs Residence

2011-07-13T12:15:00.000-07:00

Demolition is underway.........Demoing is the way to get out with the old in with the new, but it is also a way to find out hidden surprises.
In this particular case I had to go back to drafting table and collaborate closely with the builder, fireplace installer and Media installer to make sure we get what we need and meet the codes. So we had to give up the fabulous Xtreme Fireplace with Aspen drunk installation in it. Just because the fireplace you see outside seems very slender and fitting perfectly the wall does not mean that the box going inside the wall will fit.
So we had to pick a slightly different fireplace. Not what we originally wanted but still very beautiful Red60. Now we can also fit the TV on that wall on ideal height, so you can comfortably view both the fireplace and the TV. The major challenge was not only fitting both, but also that we need to make a nook for the TV so that a pull down panel will hide it when it's not in use.

Here is the final renderings for the great room (click on the images to enlarge them). Stay tuned for more renderings for Kitchen, Dining Room, Loft and Home Office in the next few days

A former garment factory turned into 1 bedroom loft

2011-07-13T11:36:00.000-07:00

This 2,000 sqf apartment, that used to be a garment factory, is located in Lower East Side, New York,and was renovated by the studio Anima in 2008.

The open space layout consist of public areas such as dining, kitchen and living space. The private areas, bathroom and bedroom are separated from the public area with sliding wooden walls.

I love the mix of the industrial rustic style and the modern white surfaces

My Top 10 favorites of July 2011

2011-07-09T09:40:00.000-07:00

Every month I feature my favorite designs (interior, architecture, products, fashion). Here is my selection for July

(click on the image to enlarge it)

From drab to dramatic.

2011-06-30T12:16:00.000-07:00

Sometimes details are what makes the space stand out. This staircase in my clients house travels from 2nd floor through 1st floor all the way to the media room downstairs, and we are installing this beautiful Bubble fixture there. It will be 20 feet long extending from the 2nd floor ceiling to almost to the floor in the basement..... (I am also exited to take out that terrible carpet!!)

another fun lighting fixture about to happen, is a fun clutter of Nelson pendants that will be hanging in the great room in that same house. This room is 19'2" high so it need a bit more than your average pendant

Domes Elounda - Crete, Greece

2011-06-04T19:50:00.000-07:00

There has a been a bit of a silence in my blog for the past few weeks. I took some time of from my hectic schedule to celebrate my 10th Anniversary to a handsome and wonderful Mr. Mendoza.

We traveled to a small village in Crete called Elounda, where no one is familiar with a word deadline ;-)
Although we did few trips in our cute little Fiat Panda to nearby towns such as Heraklion and Agios Nicholaus, we mostly stayed locally in Elounda and Plaka. There was no reason to venture out much as both had what we needed; the essence of the Mediterranean, the culture, the cuisine, the temperament, the architecture,and most importantly the tranquility, all this holistically captured in the form of a luxury resort. This wonderful resort we had a pleasure in staying for 8 days is called Domes of Elounda. It consists only suites & villas that provide a small number of exclusive guests with all the amenities of a resort, while offering a abundance of living space, privacy and extraordinary service.

as described on the website of the haven :"Minimally interfering with the natural habitat and harmonically blended with their surroundings, domed structures with breathtaking ocean views emerge from the ground, respecting its natural contours and creating a Mediterranean settlement on a hillside of flower gardens, stone pathways, and olive groves just a stone’s throw away from the Venetian castle on the island of Spinalonga, the setting for Victoria Hislop’s bestselling novel “The Island”

......This book was my vacation read. I loved the fact that as I lowered the book, as I laid in my beach-side hammock, I could see the island clearly in front of my eyes.

...."inviting the senses to feast on sights, scents and tastes from the rich outdoors through large windows, and spacious verandas that capture sea breezes and provide the perfect setting for the ultimate fantasy getaway. We invite you to experience... Domes of Elounda."

Visual Diary from my trip:

The Resort

Elounda, Plaka & Spinalonga Island

Colorado Springs Residence

2011-05-22T14:15:00.000-07:00

One of the projects I am working on, is this wonderful 6,000 + sqf home in Colorado Springs. It was part of 2010 Parade of Homes, but has since gone through some "rough times" and is in need of all the new surfaces and materials and finishes as well as some new furnishings. New owners also have modern taste, so many of the previous designers selections won't work for them.

The client wants to move in by the end of July so I have to do the design in stages in order to get things moving faster.
Here are some very early stage concept renderings I did for the client for the Great room and kitchen, plus the before pictures (click on the images to enlarge them). Keep in mind that we are just finalizing some of the material choices, so everything you see in the renderings (including furniture) is generic.

In Great room I am changing the color palette to a more sophisticated and modern one. Cool grays in different tones. I am also extending the fireplace wall all the way up the wall, adding 6 feet long linear fireplace with stainless steel trim, lowering TV for a more comfortable viewing level and hiding it behind a panel matching the fireplace material. The wall is over 27" thick so we have some room for display shelving and above it to display some of the great art pieces of the new owner. Furniture displayed in rendering is generic, but we are definitely considering the Nelson pendant arrangement above the seating area.

BEFORE

CONCEPT

In Kitchen... well....everything must go. I'm selecting new finishes, designing a new island and seating area around it. Since there is already a separate dining room and a bar area in the kitchen , kitchen nook becomes unnecessary. I am adding more surface and cabinetry space there. Previous designer had the refrigerator in an angle, which makes sense regarding the better angle for opening the doors, but at the same time it breaks the perfect horizontal line of the surfaces and cabinetry. I am moving the fridge to another location (seen in the rendering), while still keeping it in the "triangle". The double oven is now where the refrigerator was, and since I have added more surface space at the nook, we can now replace the surface ,that was too far to be functional, with a missing pantry.. The existing coffee maker is too high and will be moved inside the butlers pantry between kitchen and dining room/

BEFORE

CONCEPT

I am currently working on some modifications. For instance I will move the dining height eating area in front of the island to secure better circulation around the island, This way I can also make the Island longer, which add room for the food preparation.

Stay tuned for more progress images.

Home of Two Creative Minds

2011-05-13T22:57:00.000-07:00

Have you ever wondered what does British designer Jimmie Martins home look like?
Wonder no more.

Jimmie and his photographer partner Rick Schultz live in this magnificent 670-sq. ft. apartment in a Georgian building in Bayswater, London.
I love the dark-gray walls which provide the perfect background for the color explosions of the furniture, objects and art around the house. I love the mix of Ikea, Dwell and unique antique pieces.

Vita pendant by designer Brian Rasmussen

2011-05-13T22:38:00.000-07:00

This modern wire pendant lamp by Lucente has a scale that matches its style! The oversized Vita pendant by designer Brian Rasmussen commands attention in any space, with its whimsical, wrapped-wire design described by its creator as “the source of light at the center of the lamp is the hub from which everything radiates and takes life ... the decor is designed for geometric and ordered to appear from certain points of view and random other.” This striking pendant would be fabulous in the two-story Great Room.

IKEA Hackers

2011-05-13T22:30:00.000-07:00

Don't we all just love IKEA, which is btw finally coming to Colorado!!

Just found this fun website.
They hack, personalize and repurpose IKEA products

Some of my favorite revamped stuff:

Ikea Vikare bed become a Jeep

Dog butt coat rack

Dress Boys

Inspired by a design from Laphoeff, two second-hand Ikea Bertil chairs and made them into dress boys.

Mini Bench Coffee Table from Frosta Stool

The Playground - Fashionable Kitchen Designs by Elmar

2011-05-13T22:02:00.000-07:00

Combining work and play in an artful way The Playground kitchen designs include a number of different modular components with plenty of storage space, which can be arranged to suit your space and your style. This kitchen comes in a wide variety of colors and finishes, so you can truly customize it to give it your own personal flair. Elmar says it best: it’s a kitchen where “you invent the rules.” For more information on these fashionable kitchens, visit Elmar.

Luxury House Design – The Hurtado Residence by Mark Tracy

2011-04-26T23:20:00.000-07:00

This Hurtado Residence is designed by designer Mark Tracy. It is located in The Ridges, an upscale custom home community to the west of Las Vegas nearing Red Rock Canyon. The intent of this design was to create a modern, art-gallery-style space. The gorgeous aluminum front door opens to striped Italian floor tile. The three-story elevator tower is surrounded with custom art, and a floating staircase trimmed with stainless steel. The primary feature in the kitchen and living space is a 14-foot wide fireplace and accompanied by Scavolini cabinets and metallic silver hardwood floors. Blue LED lighting glows around the second tier ceiling which extends from the kitchen and down the media wall and fireplace.

Fun DIY Projects

2011-04-21T20:10:00.000-07:00

1. Fun scrap wood coat rack

2. Accent wall made of round wood pieces

3. Get some paint and wallpaper and refurbish old shelves and storage pieces

4. paint old pallets and reupholster mattress, add some fun pillows and voila.....you have a funky lounge

Urbio Urban Vertical Garden

2011-04-20T00:16:00.000-07:00

While researching for my Green home project, I run into this very cool project.

For urban dwellers, it can be difficult to find space to exercise the green thumb. Urbio is a magnetic system that will help you transform any wall or ferrous surface into a beautiful vertical garden.

Each pot is made of eco-plastic and is equipped with large neodymium magnets that are strong enough to hold almost anything to the wall. The wall plates are modular, and can easily be mounted to any wall. Mount just one Urbio pot, or fill your wall with them.

Why Not Together - Marimekko in Milan

2011-04-19T07:00:00.000-07:00

A social project with over 32.000 fans invited to share what we can make together with Marimekko fabrics.
Selected ideas were presented during the Milan Furniture Fair in April 2011.

See event
Video

Event archive

Photos: Max Rommel

New Projects

2011-04-13T07:22:00.000-07:00

Two new projects that I am currently working on

Green Cube Show Home

LEED Platinum single family home to be built in the NW Denver’s Highland neighborhood. “The Green Cube Showhome” has received a LEED Platinum level classification from the US Green Building Council, the highest level of green sustainable building.

Colorado Springs Residence

This beautiful house is in need of lot of work and I am happy to help :-)

Spaceplanning gone wrong

2011-04-12T23:11:00.000-07:00

...and this is what happens, if you don't hire professional ;-P

Spacious Studio Apartment

Original ad:
Hello. I am a responsible young professional looking to sublet a studio or 1 br apt in or around East village. I am looking to move in on Mar 15. 2000/mo is my budget. Thanks

From Me to **********@********.org:

Hey,

I am leaving for London on business and need to sublet my studio apartment immediately. It is a beautiful spacious apartment in the East Village (near Tompkins Square Park). Rent is $1750/month and you can move in as soon as February 25th. Please let me know if you are interested.

Regards,

Mike

From Ari ****** to Me:

Hi Mike thanks for responding. A few questions: how big is the apt? how long can is the lease til? do you have any pics or a floor plan? I want to move in on mar 15- is that ok?

From Me to Ari ******:

March 15th is fine with me. The apartment is 370 square feet. I don't have any pictures, but I have included a floor plan to give you an idea of the layout of the apartment. The lease is up in November 2011, but you have the option to renew if you wish. Please let me know if you have any more questions about the apartment.

Mike

From Ari ****** to Me:

Mike did you send me the wrong plan or is there really a pool in your apartment.

From Me to Ari ******:

Oh, yes. I should have mentioned the pool. I had an exercise pool installed in the apartment because I was training for a swimming marathon. It is a really nice pool. It is 39 inches deep with powerful jets and a vinyl liner. The pool is great if you like to swim.

Mike

From Ari ****** to Me:

Thats a pretty important thing to forget to mention, doncha think?! It takes up the whole f-ing apartment! How is there no bathroom?? Where am I supposed to shower and sleep?

From Me to Ari ******:

I know, it is a really nice pool. I usually use the kitchen as the bathroom. You can either pee in the sink, or out the window. The window overlooks an alley behind 5th St, and most of the time nobody walks below you. Even if you do piss on someone, you are on the 7th floor so they will probably have no idea where it came from. By the time it hits them, you will most likely be zipped up and have the window shut. The sink has a garbage disposal in case you need to take a dump.

Showering? You don't need to shower - you have a pool! Just go for a swim any time you are trying to wash off.

Sleep? I've got that covered too. I have an extremely comfortable pool raft I sleep on. It is like sleeping on a waterbed! It has a couple of cup holders you can put your phone/keys/beer/whatever in. I'll include this with the apartment for an extra $10.

I am free tomorrow if you want to check the place out and fill out the sublet papers.

Mike

From Ari ****** to Me:

Hmm well yes that does sound nice, but I am looking for a place where I dont have to shit in my sink and sleep in a goddamn pool. Come on man! Good luck finding someone to rent you'll need it!

From Me to Ari ******:

You don't have to shit in the sink, it is just an option. You can also shit out the window, or shit in a bucket next to the window and dump it out the window. There is an Indian restaurant that backs up to the alley, so it already smells like shit down there.

(this is where I was rolling on the floor dying in laughter)

At least come over and try my raft before you decide that sleeping in a pool is a bad thing. I'll even throw in a couple of pool noodles for free.

Mike

From Ari ****** to Me:

Stop trying to sell me your POS apartment, if you can even call it that. You know what makes an apartment an apartment? A bed. Bathroom. Furnature. NOT A FUCKING POOL.

Why am I arguing with you? This is fucking ridiculous. Conversation over.

From Me to Ari ******:

Why are you so afraid of sleeping in this pool? Be honest, do you not know how to swim? If so, I can give you the number of a good lifeguard I know.

From Ari ****** to Me:

Shut the hell up. I hope you drown in your pool!

Source: DontEvenReply.com
E - m a i l s f r o m a n a s s h o l e

Creative CoLab+ at The 7th Annual Paper Fashion Show in Denver

2011-03-28T11:11:00.000-07:00

The 7th Annual Paper Fashion Show, organized by Art Directors Club Denver and sponsored by several local firms including my Creative CoLab+, on Thursday night was a huge success. It drew 1,000 patrons to witness the jaw-dropping wearable art!! You can see the Photo Gallery Here

I designed and built the award trophies with another designer, Snow Galvin. This was the first year that winners got a trophie, and we were very exited to be the sponsors for this.

Here are some images of the process:

The final concept

Jigs & tools & the process to create the trophies

The 5 trophies we created for 7th annual Paper Fashion Show

Kids Store Window Displays

2011-03-22T23:26:00.000-07:00

I am working on a concept for kids store window display and here are few ideas so far:

wallpapered backdrop and a tree shelving I designed to showcase some of the merchandising items in a playful way.

backdrop in this concept has an attached print of winter scene,
that can be changed based on season / holiday. Seats of the swings are
covered in cotton mimicin clouds.

My TOP 10 favorites – March 2011

2011-03-14T09:06:00.000-07:00

1. The Savana collection by Italian company Petracer

These authentic-looking and textured croc-skin pattern tiles come in various fabulous colors

2. Funky Wardrobe designed by Kia designs

3. Creative Shower Screen – Romancing Designs by Antoni Lupi

4. Kara chair designed by Marc Sadler

5. Decorative wood panels for walls by Klaus Wangen Design.
Give your space an earthy, natural look with contemporary flair.

6. Stiletto by Splinter Works

7. DIY ruler mirror by Karen Johnston

8. True Blue furniture by Ypsilon.
The Doll bathroom collection is a modern take on a nautical theme, featuring an aqua-inspired blue contrasting the bright-white countertops, legs and details.

9. Three dimensional Rug (Esquire ) by Top Floor
Art under your feet!!

10. Rebecca sofa by Bizzotto

Design Advice – Small Industrial Kitchen for a handy renter

2011-03-13T23:50:00.000-07:00

Have a design dilemma?
Creative CoLab ladies, Heidi & Snow, are offering their expertise in a semimonthly advice column addressing your design uncertainties.
Submit your project for review at: info@creativecolab.net
at Creative CoLab

First project submitted for review for our Design Advice Column is up. This one is from Mary G.

Dear Creative CoLab design team,

I need advice on my disastrous kitchen. First off, you should know that I rent, so I am not looking to remodel, but need tips to make the kitchen look more stylish and make better use of the space.

Here are the main problems:
1.) I have virtually no counter space.
2.) The Jolly Green Giant must have install my kitchen cabinets because I have to use a step ladder to access their contents. Plus, the cabinets themselves are super outdated.
3.) There's an old school washer and dryer in the kitchen that can't be moved.
4.) There's dead space to the left of the refrigerator I can't figure out what to do with.
5.) Linoleum floors...yikes.

I don't know that I can peg down my style except that it's modern-eclectic-50's industrial-funky. I'm beginning to cook again and entertain small groups, so I need to address the bar situation (it's the diamond plate cabinet next to the window). You should know that I'm very handy and don't mind sweating a little to make improvements, although I don't have much money to spend. Let's say $500 for the whole room.

Thanks,
Mary G.

click on the images to enlarge them....

Our response......

Dear Mary G,

First of all, thank you for submitting your design dilemma for our review. We are happy to help you tackle some of your problems.

Let's start with the corner area with microwave and window.

to add more storage we suggest an "L" shaped walnut and black pipe shelving for a nice and clean industrial look

Next we address the wall with washer/dryer & sink. You mentioned that the washer and dryer can not be moved. We also noticed few other problems with this area; the overhead cabinets cross into the washer-dryer area and the washer/dryer juts out too far to make open shelving above that can be accessed easily. Also from the photo it looks like one of the appliances is top loading and the other one is front loading.

There are couple of ways to address this problem:

You can completely box the washer/dryer out, make doors framed in wood with steel-blue fabric, or stained wood panels or, like on the picture below, covers made out of fine-gauge screen material hooked on rings, which creates a very raw "pasta factory feel".
...or you can create additional counter space and have the counter surface a lid with hinge to access the appliance that is top loading

use open shelving above the washer/dryer with aesthetically consistent boxes or crates for storage or you could use that area to display art or a fun herb garden as pictured below

you could also build-out the area floor to ceiling and hide the washer and dryer with floor-to-ceiling door that hang from wall-mounted barn-door track as below

Next problem area on your list is the appliance wall. Appliances are old and don't have the integrated feel. There is also a dead space to the left of the refrigerator that houses the vacuum and mop/broom, and another dead space on top of the fridge.

For this area you could frame the refrigerator and build a cabinet for extra storage and also a cabinet or shelving above the refrigerator.

Next area : the sink area. not sure how much changes you can and are willing to make. You could simply refinish the cabinets to match the rest of the built-ins or you could replace the upper cabinetry with open shelving or as below partly open shelving with sliding panels on rail. This is also something you can take with you when/ if you move.

on the wall to the left of the doorway and adjacent to the kitchen sink where you currently have a map you could make a walnut, drop down shelf with industrial hinges to give you more counter space. Another option is to add some industrial shelving or this fun Industrial wall storage by Danish company House Doctor

Other great storage options for a great industrial look could be this Industrial Shelving with individual metal bins taking the place of drawers , as well as this set of ASKER containers, suspension rails & hooks from IKEA ($ 3.99 - $7.99)

any of this retro light fixtures would look great in your kitchen

If you are interested in painting the walls here is a suggestion:

The kitchen in the picture below has been painted in a stormy grey to create a cool industrial-chic feel.It can be livened up for instance by yellow accessories shown here, orange or lime green. Your kitchen is very small so you can use lighter gray, or make one accent wall with darker gray while rest of the walls could be lighter gray.

If replacing the Linoleum floors doesn't sound appealing we suggest you to check out FLOR
Their carpet squares let you create custom design to fit your space.

We hope you find our suggestions helpful! Please send us "After" photos when you have completed the project

Best,

Snow & Heidi

My Trip to NYC - Part 1 - Visual Merchandising

2011-02-25T13:20:00.000-08:00

I recently returned from a trip to NYC. My dear friend from Finland, Eeva, was visiting the city and I though it was the perfect way to combine seeing her and one of my favorite cities in the world.

I brought home with me wonderful memories and tons of photos that I'm currently organizing. Here are some window display and visual merchandising pictures I took during my little 5 day vacation.

Anthropologie always has the most amazing window displays

and the displays inside are equally impressive in their creativity

This is a paper lantern (in various sizes) that has origami shapes glued onto it forming this beautiful flower light fixture. Leaves are thin cardboard. I will have to try and make one myself. It is so delicious!

I saw some other gorgeous window displays as well and luckuly carried my camera with me.

Here is a Bergdorf Goodman window

I will take these images with me to Village In pancake breakfast tomorrow morning and ask the balloon-lady, if she can make me one of these ;-P

This one was in meatpacking district

Beatrice and Woodsley - a culinary and aesthetic love affair:

2011-02-25T11:08:00.000-08:00

Beatrice & Woodsley equals exquisite decor, sumptuous wines and delicious food in the heart of Denver.

A Restaurant inspired and based on the imaginary love story of two lovebirds: Beatrice, the life-loving daughter of a French wine-making family who relocated to California in the early 1800s to create a small vineyard. And Woodsley, the handsome and crafty son of a lumberjack family turned coopers to support the fledgling wine industry.

Whether this back story appeals to you or not, you will love the food.

I will say that this is definitely my kind of place.....trees in dining room & ridiculous menu (turtle soup, frog's legs for breakfast and faux-Fig Newtons for dinner)

Cool home for sale in central Stockholm, Sweden

2011-02-17T22:23:00.000-08:00

Anyone? ;-)

This is an amazing apartment with high ceilings and deep window seats. Love it. Let's go!?

ReStore Designers' Challenge - Part 2 - Design Presentation

2011-02-14T13:42:00.000-08:00

We had our presentation for the client on Wednesday. We presented few different options regarding front entry space planning, signage, restrooms and exterior.

My team is in charge of the front entry area, and here are our proposals regarding that area:

Here is what the front entry / cash register area currently looks like

Currently the biggest problem for ReStore is the clutter.It's one big open space and all the products are placed all over the floor. Mission Statement and inspirational images are also randomly placed wherever there is free wall space. When you walk in you are overwhelmed, and our biggest challenge was the space planning and organization.

Here is how we approached these problems.

Layout #1
(click on the images to enlarge them)

This is the less expensive option, keeping the cash register where it currently is, only framing it and lowering it to meet the ADA requirements. Behind it we designed a built out wall and shelving to house the little Habitat Houses as well as the plasma TV to show slide images of Habitat projects.
Built out wall is painted Blue which is one of the two colors on Habitat for Humanity Logo (blue & green).

Next to Entry, there is another built out wall with images of Past Builds, Mission Statement, Customer Inspired Images, and the amount of houses Built.

Opposite cashier desk on the other side of the isle we designed a storage for shopping carts.Back of this storage also offers a vertical surface to store some of the products like tiles and stones that are in boxes. Keeping them on floor level makes it easier for customers to place them on platform carts.

Custom pendant fixture that I designed are made of reclaimed wood,painted either blue or green inside. They use LEDs which provide high quality light
with low-heat emission and low-energy consumption.

Layout #2

On the second layout option we placed the checkout desk in the middle and added one more cash register for better flow. People with small purchases can exit through the main entrance and people with larger purchases needing a platform cart can exit through garage on the other side of the checkout desk. There is also space between the checkout desk and built out wall that gives people access to see the Habitat Houses more closely as well as video's shown on TV.

Above shopping cart storage you can find the ReStore Map either lowered from the ceiling or attached to the wall.

Other problem areas we tackled were the back wall with restrooms, and the industrial shelving.

There is absolutely no privacy for the restroom area, so I came up with an idea of a privacy wall that also serves as storage area. On the backside are inspirational images of completed Habitat houses and events.

I also proposed this concept for the pegboard on back wall.Shapes or inspirational slogans painted to match logo colors.

To give more organized and aesthetic look for the long and tall industrial shelving throughout the space, I proposed closing the end of the shelving with panels for added signage.

Here are the 3 different concepts:

Currently the client is reviewing the options and deciding on the direction. I'm looking forward to being part of the implementation portion of the project both in the form of supervising and hands on, and I will keep you posted on the progress.

Creative CoLab - Design Advice Column & Colorado Art + Design Event Calendar

2011-02-10T12:02:00.000-08:00

My Team, Creative CoLab is a multi-disciplinary design collaborative that understands the importance of community and the value of sharing ideas.

And with the community in mind we offer two free resources at our website:

Design Advice Column

Have a project on the to-do list but aren't sure where to start? Have you hit a wall (figuratively) in your DIY remodel? Heidi Mendoza, interior design maven, and Snow Galvin, industrial designer/maker/doer, are offering their expertise in a semimonthly advice column addressing your design uncertainties. And in the spirit of collaboration, we encourage others to participate in the process by leaving their perspective in the comments.
Submit your project for review at: info@creativecolab.net

Colorado Art + Design Event Calendar

We continually update our calendar with noteworthy events culled from our large pool of online resources and industry connections. Our calendar differentiates itself from other local calendars by focusing on events which educate, encourage dialog within the arts community, and reflect a level of professionalism and enthusiasm that is propelling Denver's upward trajectory as a destination for design. Event categories include: art + design events, community development + volunteer opportunities, lectures + workshops, competitions + call for entries.

Get involved. Start a dialog. Do good work. Hope to see you around town!

Creative CoLab to Design & Make Awards for Denver Paper Fashion Show

2011-02-09T13:49:00.000-08:00

We are absolutely thrilled to be working with the Art Directors Club of Denver and everyone involved with this year's Denver Paper Fashion Show being held at Denver's newest venue, City Hall, on March 24, 2011.

My partner Snow and I had a blast collaborating on the design for this year's award show and are happy to be showing you our contribution.

We'll be posting more about the project as we move into the studio to get these pretty ladies made.
Stay tuned!

ReStore Designers' Challenge - Colorado Springs

2011-02-03T07:46:00.000-08:00

I am currently part of a group of designers assigned to give a little face lift for The ReStore located in Colorado Springs.
The Pikes Peak Habitat for Humanity ReStore, LLC has been established as a self-sustaining fund raising entity to benefit Pikes Peak Habitat for Humanity. Their vision is to convert charitable donations of building materials into cash for use by Pikes Peak Habitat for Humanity to construct simple, decent, affordable homes.
Two fabulous designers from Colorado Springs, Colleen Stiles and Sandie Trowbridge, decided that this would be a great opportunity to bring together design students from Pikes Peak Community College and the SOCO Design Community.

The objective of this project is to improve the overall function and aesthetic appeal of the ReStore entrance and foyer while infusing the connection and mission of Pikes Peak Habitat for Humanity

I have wanted to participate in Habitat for Humanity project for a long time, and was so exited when I received the initial e-mail from Colleen regarding this project.
This is such a great opportunity to collaborate with other local, talented designers, and designers to be. I love team work, and this really is team work at it’s best; designers of various experience levels and design backgrounds collaborating for a great cause.

We are divided into 4 groups

1. Promoting The Habitat Story and mission ,includes interior signage including directional signage and a map of the store
2. Exterior front entry and product pick up area
3. Bathrooms including update tile, counters, fixtures and sink
4. Design and space planning from Front Entry Area extending to shelving.

I am leading the group # 4 along with April Fullman from Design materials.

We will be designing and space planning Front Entry Area, including front desk (needs to be ADA accessible), shelving and storage for shopping carts.

Even though there are four projects, everyone will still work collaboratively and my
team will be especially working very closely with Team #1 as there are some overlapping on the areas we are both designing.

Our entire budget (for all groups) is $1,000 which means that we will have to be extra creative and try to use ReStore materials as much as possible.

Here are some pictures of what the ReStore Front Area currently looks like:

Our initial meeting as a group was January 11 to review the scope and details of the project. In this kick-off meeting we also met the ReStore manager John Veteto and Nikki Richardsson from Habitat for Humanity who both gave us a brief overview of the ReStore. After that the students and designers met to discuss the action plan.

We met again on January 25th to go over the concept ideas that each team had come up for their specific area. It was so wonderful to see all the ideas that everyone had come up with, present mine, and then see the layout for a new space coming together.

Our presentation is next week, after which I will post some concept images.

I will, however post a picture of a concept for front desk and a pendant fixture I have designed for the front entry area. They are made utilizing reclaimed wood found from ReStore .

This is early development of in-store fixtures and pendant lighting. Most likely, we will be using LEDs which provide high quality light with low-heat emission and low-energy consumption.

My Top 10 Favorite Things - January

2011-01-26T11:37:00.000-08:00

1. Funky Interiors

I love the combo of bluestone and the orange/gray swirly wallpaper, that extends to the ceiling, and the well planned furnishings; the Marcia Zia & Paul Priven chandelier above the vintage fiberglass table and the orange bicycle.

2 Toybox by modmomfurniture/ Etsy

3. Round Stool from Vivavi

Price: 360.00
Hand-woven water hyacinth is wrapped tightly around a durable rattan frame to create this unique home furnishing. Water hyacinth is a highly renewable natural fiber that grows so quickly in parts of Asia that it is often considered an environmental nuisance. Here it is used to magnificent effect.

4. recycled custom wood pallet table and beautiful wall painting

5. Feather Dome Pendant by Benjamin Noriega-Ortiz and Steven Wine

6. Bamboo Ottoman with updated hemp upholstery by Bettencourt

Price: 1,200.00
Products in the Bettencourt collection are made with non-toxic adhesives and finished with non-VOC Danish Oil.

7. Yuen Table Lamp made from recycled bamboo chopsticks.
www.2ols.com
Price: 48.00

Even chopsticks deserve second chance!

8. Recycled airplane wing desk

9. Scaffold Bookcase

10. Designer Radiators by Irsap

Starting The New Year For Creative CoLab with a Bang! by Snow

2011-01-22T10:42:00.000-08:00

My design partner's (Snow) take on Collaboration. She really captures the idea behind collaboration. The idea that I had little over year ago, idea that is finally coming into reality :-) you can read it here

Snow & Heidi at Douglas County Diva's 1-year Anniversary party

New Year, New Look, New Direction for Creative CoLab

2011-01-17T12:49:00.001-08:00

Creative CoLab+ starts the New Year with a new direction and new look. Snow Galvin and Heidi Mendoza have decided to move forward as a focused duo, collaborating to produce work with a smart, inclusive approach. Our goal is to embrace like-minded creative professionals and expand our network of artists, designers, makers, and doers so that we may be an ever better conduit for original work.

There is the new website:

New Mission Statement:

and new Business Card & Postcard

and instead of being a separate site, our Blog is now incorporated on our website.
you can also follow us on Facebook and Twitter

Geometrical Apartment Interiors

2011-01-14T09:39:00.000-08:00

This apartment, in the heart of Paris, belongs to an advertising executive. His passion is collecting comic books, so it's only appropriate that they get highlighted in his home.
Before H2O Architects came on board this was a 60sq meter apartment consisting of 6 rooms and tons of doors.

I love the continuous open space with built-in shelving and storage in various angles

Design: H2O Architects
Photos by : Julien Attard

Paper Fashion Show Returns to Denver, Seeks Designers - UnBeige

2011-01-10T10:45:00.000-08:00

Watch the fabulous video
Paper Fashion Show Returns to Denver, Seeks Designers - UnBeige

Here is a link to my post from last years show

Siloetten

2011-01-04T09:03:00.000-08:00

Siloetten - Loegten, Denmark
A project by: C. F. Møller Architects

Many towns in Denmark have centrally located industrial silos; most are no longer in use, but continue to visually dominate the local skyline. This is also the case in the town of Loegten north of Aarhus, where the former silo complex has been transformed into 21 high-quality residences. The actual silo contains staircases and lifts, and provides the base of a common roof terrace. Around the tower, the apartments are built up upon a steel structure in eye-catching forms which protrude out into the light and the landscape ? a bit like Lego bricks. This unusual structure with its protrusions and displacements provides all of the apartments with a view of Aarhus Bay

Source: Architizer

Our Retail & Hospitality Services - Learn More about how

2010-12-31T00:06:00.000-08:00

http://www.creativecolab.net/PDFs/Retail_Brochure.pdf

Ring in New Year with style

2010-12-30T22:12:00.000-08:00

While Christmas may be over, the holidays are anything but! Just as you are getting rid of the Christmas wrappings and bows and boxes, it is time to think about how to decorate your home to celebrate the arrival of the New Year.

You don't have to get rid of all your Christmas décor, just make a few changes, and add some touches of glitter and glamour for your New Year festivities.

Here are some simple tips & tricks:

- Remove all the red or green candles and replace them with silver or gold candles.
- Tie silver or gold bows on candlesticks.
- Remove red or Christmas design ribbons from garlands, railings, mirrors, swags, or anywhere else and replace them with silver or gold ones
-Place silver or gold pillar candles on silver plates or platters.
- Get out any white or clear dishes you might have. If you have to buy dishes for the party, consider inexpensive disposable tableware.
- Use silver serving pieces for the party.
- Use table linens in white, black, silver, or gold.
- Tie napkins in sparkling wired silver or gold twists or ribbons.
-sparkly and festive centerpieces are great vocal points, but if you are planning a sit down dinner, avoid having tall centerpieces.
and although silver and gold are festive colors and thus suitable for New Years celebration, there are other great colors you can use as well.

and here are some sample images of New year's decor (click on the images to enlarge them)

I really like this more modern take on New Years decor. Not a lot of sparkle, but very stylish and creative.

You can achieve the festive mood with both subtle & simple and sparkly and elaborate.
I really love the hanging clock collection!

Blue and gold is very festive color scheme.....or go with pink, silver and clear glass

I love how the clock/time scheme is incorporated throughout the space

simple clear bottle candleholders and gold/silver ornaments in a glass can create a lovely atmospehere

all clear glass, but in various scale creates a lovely centerpiece

Fun idea of hand made popcorn containers from festive paper

Make the centerpiece an interesting vocal point

Happy New Year!

For 2011 I resolve to be more organized

2010-12-30T11:25:00.001-08:00

....and maybe this year it will actually happen, with some help of these very cute products from Etsy.

2-in-1 Sustainable Desk Calendar 2011, plan-table with display easel

my jewelry collection could really use some help from The j.a.r. collection

...stop and smell the flowers while placing my keys somewhere where I can easily find them the next time I need them. by OldNew Again

no things piled on top of my desk, randomly scattered around...

Surreal Sustainable Kitchen by IKEA: SURREALISTIKA Sculpture

2010-12-29T10:59:00.001-08:00

As I am waiting for IKEA finally opening it's store here in CO, in FALL 2011.....

“SURREALISTIKA” is IKEA’s artistic homage to their futuristic vision that intertwines design, usability and sustainability- for the one room in our home, the kitchen, where creativity, inspiration, and the joys of home life and family are centered."

The Silver Birch was chosen because it has always been a source of inspiration for Swedish designers and artists. It is also a wood believed to have mystical qualities of its own, protecting people against evil spirits as well as symbolizing love and fertility.

Beltgens Fashon Shop for Men

2010-12-29T10:14:00.000-08:00

Location: Sint Amorsplein 14, Maastricht, Netherlands

A project by: Wiel Arets Architects

This fashion shop for men is constructed mainly out of glass and steel panels encased in concrete walls. The 1.70 m high wall accentuates the horizontal inner courtyard. It contains stainless steel display cases, and is interrupted by three changing cubicles. Thethe façade is made open by a window and door that measure
1.7 m and 3.40 m in height.

toy packaging by men vs. toy packaging by Women

2010-12-25T16:02:00.000-08:00

Toy Packaging by women.....

Toy Packaging by men.......

...it's freaking tornado proof!!!

...after "breaking the codes" to a 20+ toys, and gluing 86 stickers on a Barbi airplane I need an eggnog with some of that Christmas "spirit" mixed in it

cheers,

Heidi

Gift wrapping Extravaganza

2010-12-25T15:28:00.000-08:00

I love giving gifts, and even more wrapping gifts. As every year, I started with great enthusiasm......
(clck on the images to enlarge them)

....but, just like all fun things come to an end, so did my enthusiasm.
2 hours and 1/2 Sangria bottle later...

and in less than 24 hours, all that was left, was this.....

....but we all know I will do it again next Christmas ;-)

I hope you had a great one :-)