Inspiration in the Studio

We’re thrilled to share that the latest issue of Style + Source is officially LIVE! Inside the first issue of 2021, we highlight a recent Cary project—recognizing the hardworking spaces in your home—and share our current design favorites and must-have products this Winter! You also won’t want to miss our chef highlight, featuring Kate Jackson with Framed Cooks. (Warning: the selected recipe will leave you hungry!)

READ THE FULL ISSUE HERE:

https://issuu.com/southernstudiointeriordesign/docs/final_winter2021__1_?fr=sNzI4NTIyMzkxMDg

Take a peek at some of our favorites finds for keeping your home (and yourself!) comfortable and stylish in 2021!

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The recent time change has us exploring all the additional lighting needed to really illuminate a home! Sconces and picture lighting over bookshelves are two examples of accent lighting that are best incorporated into a home during the construction design phase of a project.

Planning for the proper placement oftentimes requires a multitude of decisions.  For example, determining the placement of sconces in a bathroom, require the exact dimensions of the fixture along with the mirror and vanity selection.

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Lighting selections are an essential piece of the design puzzle in every project. The lighting in a space affects the overall color palette, the mood of the room, and it can be a focal point for making a statement!

Natural light is always preferrable but isn’t necessarily a given in every home or room. You can overcome lighting challenges just by knowing what type of fixture to select for your space. Most rooms rely on a combination of ambient, accent and task lighting for optimal design aesthetic.

Designer tip: for bedside table lamps the shades should not align directly with the headboard height. So take your measurements and plan accordingly!

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This week on our Artisan Spotlight we are pleased to introduce you to Louise Gaskill of Louise Gaskill Company! We admire Louise’s work and even have one of her chandelier’s hanging in our studio. Her one-of-a-kind lamps and pendants are true works of art. As we head to furniture market in High Point this weekend, a stop at Louise’s showroom will certainly be a source of inspiration.

When did you first realize you wanted to pursue your artistic dream?

I spent many years in a software sales position with a weekend interest in refinishing furniture. The refinishing interest introduced me to gold gilding techniques which eventually morphed in light design and construction.  When the software company I worked for consolidated offices back to its Toronto headquarters, I took my hobby full time.

Who are your biggest influences?

I am always inspired by beautiful glass, particularly the vibrant shapes and colors from Mid century Italian designers like Seguso and Barovier.

Describe your creative process.

Glass selection is almost always the starting point for my designs which in turn dictates the style and scale of other components.

What is your favorite medium/material to work with and why?

Without doubt, gold and silver leaf.  I spent a lot of time “perfecting” the application and tone of my finishes.   I think it is one of the most important design elements in my pieces.

What is your proudest accomplishment as an artisan?

Traditional Home did a feature article on me several years ago. Even though it has been several years since the article, I continue to be absolutely thrilled.

Thank you Louise for sharing your beautiful talents with the world!

Today we’re revealing Part II of our Charlotte Charm Project!  This project was another collaboration with New Old Custom Homes in The Bramble, a Southern Living Inspired Home community.

Upon walking through the arched front door, the foyer makes a grand first impression.  The trim detail on the walls and herringbone hardwood flooring are architectural elements that incorporate visual interest into the space.

The open floor plan allows for a flow between the kitchen, dining, and family rooms.  Creating a cohesive look between the three while giving each room it’s individual personality is an opportunity for our creativity to soar.  We love the mixture of fabrics and patterns in the combination of the area rug, custom window panels, blue velvet chairs, and textured weave sofas.

Natural wood in the flooring, sofa console table (notice the live-edge detail), and mantle wall bring warmth to this family room.  These tones, along with brass and gold lighting and accessories, contrast the cool blues and grays of the color scheme.  And check out those windows – bright sunlight is the best accessory!

A powder room with personality!  The patterned wallpaper with a bamboo-framed mirror give this powder room a natural, organic vibe.  The mirrored bamboo sconces round out the look, and the vanity drawers provide a lot of necessary storage.

This round dining table is the perfect place to gather and have great conversation over a family meal.  The dining chairs have a remarkable level of detail thanks to the brass nailhead trim, patterned fabric, and cutout back.

In the kitchen, both the island and the ventilation hood are covered with an unrefined wood paneling (amazing craftsmanship from the New Old team).  Visual interest is achieved through the contrast between the rustic element of wood and the polished look of cabinetry, lighting, and hardware.

An apron-front sink under an oversized window is the ideal place to do the dishes.  There is even a built-in espresso machine for coffee in the morning.  Stay tuned for Part II of the Charlotte Charm Project Reveal!

Builder : New Old

Photography : Dustin Peck Photography