My sister found an old book, Ladies Home Journal Book of Decorating, last published in 1959. Shethought I would enjoy it and sent it to me. When I first thumbed through thepages a few months ago, I thought it amusing as I looked at the images of whatappeared to be outdated room design. Yet, today, as I carefully read the pages,I realized that classic design never becomes outdated. Indeed, if I compared imagesin the book with any of the current design magazines filling my shelves, Icould easily find similar rooms. 

The advice in the book still holds true as well, start withthe flooring, have fun with textiles, don’t be afraid of bold and exciting color,and the right lighting is essential. But, one bit of advice that I did not find relevant! “…the glass ash tray in your casual room will be quite differentfrom the one in your formal room.” Too funny!!

San Francisco Design Center Student Career Forum

Attending the Forum on Friday March 4th. I entered in the IFDA (Internationl Furnituring and Design Association). competition. The design requirement was to design the lighting for an empty-nest active couple. The 2008 California Title 24 energy regulations have to be incorporated in the lighting design. I design a home that is streamlined, yet sleek and stylish for Morgan and Emily who are recently retired from their high powered professional careers. While their children are away at college, this active couple intends on traveling extensively and downsized their residence seeking a fresh, simplified and hip space. Creating a new space using iconic furnishings and modish textile epitomizes the 20th century vernacular of smart and fun that mimics the flowing graceful character of Morgan and Emily.