IN SEARCH OF BEAUTY

 
 

On this week’s show – “In Search Of Beauty” my guest is abstract artist Liz Leggett. Liz Leggett’s art has been exhibited nationally and internationally and she has participated in artist-in-residence programs in Israel, Spain, Nova Scotia and most recently at the Weir Farm in Wilton, CT.

Liz describes her painting as predominantly process-oriented and her canvases serve her as an arena for speed, tension, deconstruction, rebuilding and grappling with expectations of conformity and control. For all of those reasons, I am anxious to talk to Liz!

David starts the show by playing a piece of music that he believes represents visual beauty. David talks about remembering a moment where he saw something so beautiful that he aimed to search for beauty in life every single day. He then goes into how beauty is defined, saying that there is no standard definition for it. David references an intricate base molding he posted on his instagram, and describes this hidden treasure and how it shows the beauty in looking for these kinds of pieces of art. Another example that David mentions are the back alley theaters in Broadway and that they represent that beauty can be anywhere. We should appreciate these things and what makes them beautiful.

David introduces Liz Lagett as she explains what her interpretation of beauty is. Liz states that in order to find out what beauty is we must ask ourselves “What is ugly in the world,” and then look at the opposite. Liz defines beauty as harmony, tolerance and love and aims to put these on her canvas. David explains how that relates to interior design and that he starts off by finding out what his clients don’t like. Liz then goes into the design of her home, describing the older model, the wood floors and the tons of paintings. She especially loves the landscape in her backyard and how this allows her to feel immersed with nature. 

Liz transitions to talking about her own work, and how she ultimately aims to create something beautiful and to celebrate the act of painting. Liz takes risk when she’s painting, which she describes as chaotic accidents. This style of painting allows the piece to tell her where her to go as she progresses. Liz then talks about what inspires her which includes nature and any emotions she’s having. As an abstract artist, Liz is constantly trying to break out of the mold of traditional styles of painting, but at times still feels confined. She’s inspired by artists across the world and this gives her new ideas and approaches to her work. David compares Liz’s art to musician Leonard Bernstein, in that they both layer and build within their work.

You can find more of Liz @lizleggett on Instagram and at Lizleggett.com. Focusing on different interior work at home Liz finds she likes vibrant colors featuring greens and hot pinks very often. The contrast to the white walls is appreciated. Liz plays with an elevated sense of color combination and color harmony. She feels that sometimes she needs to dial it back, but time and time again fails to the allure of joyous, over the top colors. Her process is both based on emotions felt as well as a search for new and interesting concepts. Liz’s art is unpracticed and untested. She will often test colors on a whim for the sheer joy of painting.

Liz and David takes on questions from the listeners. Liz considers herself an abstract artist because she takes on subjects that are important to her like energy, having emotions and being open minded. She doesn’t like to dictate the audience because she wants them to be engaged and create their own interpretation of her artwork. David takes on a question about interior design and he says that collectivism is the closest thing to abstract design. He likes to design for his clients and wants them to have their own style. To find Liz’s artwork you can find it in Connecticut, on her website   Lizleggett.com and even on her Instagram @lizleggett.

BLUE SKIES

 
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On this week’s show – “Blue Skies” my conversation with Color Expert Betsy Karp.

Betsy and I will discuss the color BLUE in our homes, in our work and how BLUE effects our daily emotions and behavior. BLUE is a color often found in nature and for this reason people describe the color BLUE as serene and calm.

But, depending upon the tint, BLUE can be seen as strong and productive as well.

David begins the show by talking about the importance of the color blue, and descriptions he remembers of the color. David talks about the origins of the color blue, and the moments in history when it was or wasn’t mentioned. He brings up the bible, the Iliad, and how often blue wasn’t mentioned because people didn’t know how to describe it. David talks about the rarity of the color blue, how little it appears in nature, and how this is why we are so fascinated by it. David continues about how often blue actually does appear in our world, through song, feeling, and so many material items.

David introduces color coach, Betsy Karp and she gives a personal anecdote about a blue ceramic dish she found while traveling in Santorini. Betsy discusses her emotional meaning of blue which she believes is truth. David shares his idea of blue including faith, and a higher power. Betsy explains why blue might be the most popular color in the world and that it represents levels of communication. Betsy talks about “blue space” which she defines as getting into a peaceful space within yourself, by quieting down the mind. David and Betsy continue about their own feelings towards the color including healing, serene feeling, nostalgia, support and quietness. The two continue about blue’s potential negative side of sadness in art.

David briefly touches on color theory and the complimentary aspect of blue and orange, tints and shades of colors, and transitions into interior design. David explains his neglect to contrast trim when painting a room, as blue, and the use of different tints of blue is more advantageous to creating a voluminous interior. David remarks how and why blue is popular for the bedroom and its power of creating a calm, serene environment conducive to living in the room. Moving from the bedroom to the dining room David talks of a recent dining room he’s done in peacock blue. The concept is the dining room is not just for eating, but socializing and living. Betsy remarks on her distinct choice of painting her kitchen blue as a hunger suppressant. David transitions to a new office in Greenwich painted blue, and how remarkable it was to create the environment for creativity. David brings up “the Blue Woman,” Betsy’s senior thesis, a portrait of a woman in different shades of blue.

David begins the final segment with outside questions starting with David’s favorite examples of blue. Followed by the concept of not seeing the sky as blue. Betsy explains why blue exterior houses are uncommon. David inquires the motive of Betsy behind choosing blue for her “Blue Woman” project. The subject of natural blue dyes, other than indigo, is discussed.

EVERYTHING'S COMING UP ROSES

 
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Everything’s Coming Up Roses” my guest is florist and owner of La Fleur d’Harlem – Louis Gagliano.

Louis is one of those master florist that paints with flowers and uses petals and stems to write poetry. Louis’ goal is to help his clients express themselves, whether the feelings are love, admiration, respect or sympathy; Louis transforms those feelings into breathtaking flower arrangements.

David talks about everything around him being roses. When he sees roses he thinks of hope, his dreams and promises that are being made. He can’t imagine his life without flowers and he says flowers make his life perfect. David enjoys looking into glass shops and witnessing couples receiving flowers with a smile on their faces. When someone gives you a flower it’s to be remembered and flowers should be used in your everyday life for home decorations, to give to your loved ones or for you to smell so you can get a sense of nature.

David introduces his guest Louis and he defines beauty as structure, which comes with organizing and looking at the big picture. Louis discusses his childhood where he grew up in a construction environment called Staten Island. His neighborhood was filled with trees, which made him interested owning his own flower shop. Louis explains how he became a florists and he was inspired by the different experiences he was involved with, such as seeing the different colors in flowers. Louis talks about his florists shop giving the customers a variety of different flowers that they can choose from. Some of the challenges Louis face as a florist, is seeing how long the flowers can last standing without falling down throughout the day.”It’s like building something”Louis says, which goes back to the foundation of structure. Structure is what pushes Louis to go further and try new things that he never done before. He then discusses how the flower arrangements process goes. He would ask the customers what their preference is and from there he takes the lead to develop the final outcome.

David and Louis play a quick flower game discussing different types of flowers. They go into discussion describing the different type of flower seasons and the variety of colors they have. Louis gives flower tips on how to keep the flowers alive. He then describes his favorite flower and color. Louis’ favorite flower is a rose and he likes how the flower opens up beautifully. The color he enjoys the most is yellow. He describes the color yellow being a bright and happy color. In order for the customers to be happy, Louis suggest the customers should give him a layout of what they want, so he can get an idea of how the flowers should look.

Louis tells the listeners how to keep flowers in your home alive. The bacteria in the water kills the flower and if the stem does not have a fresh cut, the stem would not keep the flower alive. Also, you should change the water mostly everyday or every 2 days to keep the flower moist. If the customer is not happy with the flower arrangements, Louis and his florists team would be more than happy to replace the original product. For this not to happen, its up to the customers to give a lot of information to the florist so you can avoid this problem. Flowers should be given to everyone, including men without a problem.

PRELUDE

 
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On this week’s show – “Prelude”, my Guest is Furniture and Lighting Showroom Owner Dennis Miller from Dennis Miller Associates!

Before I see it; Dennis Miller sees it first! Dennis Miller Associates is a trade resource for fine contemporary furniture, lighting, and carpets. The company is dedicated to providing trend-setting, luxurious design created by the best of today’s designers.

David talks about the prelude of design in a furniture store. He then explains what Dennis Miller sees for the future. He then explains the elements on furniture, which is about the layout and interior design. The concept idea of furniture is to explain what’s the future idea for furniture and all the elements that make up interior design.

Dennis explains the beauty of his home. He went on to explain what’s meaningful to him travel and looked for things that were meaningful to him. He studied architecture and realized being an architect is fun, but he wanted to expand his career and in the mid 80s, he developed a furniture showroom full of personality. Dennis explains what inspired him to create the furniture showroom and how it is for interior designers to get an idea of what it’s like to be in that business. Dennis talks about what the showroom represents and how he can keep the creativity alive. He explains how he got into his business and how he grew up around art, which made him follow his passion in architecture.

Dennis talks about how people can see the future in furniture. In his showroom, it displays the past, which you can reflect on in the future. He discusses some past architecture designers artwork that he likes. Dennis explains how some qualities of an artist’s artwork can make the furniture feel special. He explains how he is fascinated with a furniture designers artwork. His company is currently working on a quick ship program for designers. Dennis Miller explains the importance of his showroom, which is the clarity of vision in the world.

Dennis  explains the trade pricing of furniture. He then explains the retail and trade off prices. Dennis explains how his furniture showroom sells products that are not on the showroom floor. He explains how furniture showrooms change their look frequently. Dennis discusses his favorite piece of his showroom and how his company will succeed in the future.

EVERYTHING OLD IS NEW AGAIN

 
 

On This Week’s Show – “Everything Old Is New Again” my conversation with Mary McGowen from Richomme, Inc.

Richomme is the top antique restoration company in the New York metropolitan area and beyond. Mary and I are going to discuss the value of having antiques in our homes! We will talk all about specialized finishes and whether to restore, refinish or touch up important furniture.

And finally, how Richomme can magically build furniture from any period, any style using any material with exacting skill and expert knowledge. 

David starts the show by talking about the idea of our “throw away” mindset today, and how antiques are sustainable. David explains the great value of antique pieces–they last longer, are a way of expression, and show your style. David enjoys that no piece is the same, and that antiques make a house a home with personal value.

David starts this segment by introducing Mary McGowen of Richomme, Inc. Mary and David talk about the meaning of beauty in the home, as well as their history together in the interior design world and Mary’s start in the antique restoration business. Mary talks about her start with Richomme back in 1993, and when it’s worth it to restore a piece. David talks to Mary about the the best finish for all different kinds of projects, and what’s going to add the most value. Mary explains how to care for an antique piece of furniture.

Mary and David begin by discussing the detail of antique furniture and fixing small aspects of older pieces. David talks about specific pieces he has had while Mary talks about pieces she’s worked on, including ivory. Mary tells David about working with clients and focusing on what the client wants or helping them decide. Mary talks about blending unique finishes like shagreen, which is used for anything from trays to inserts on desks. Mary talks about her new transportation service of fine pieces.

Mary and David start to take questions from listeners, and begin with different types of wood and the characteristics of Oak and Mahogany. They move on to answer another question shellac for wood and the importance of it and when to use it. Listeners ask David and Mary about the way you can lime a piece of furniture, what looks best in the same room and if you can create a piece of furniture by using a photo.

COLOR STORIES

 
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My Guest This Week is Color and Design Expert Andrea Magno from Benjamin Moore Paints!

Andrea and I are going to talk all about – how color tells the stories of our life’s and more importantly our homes! We will discuss the vast array of Benjamin Moore’s available paint colors, their color research and what I am excited about discussing color trending from year to year.

I want to discuss quality of paints and what makes Benjamin Moore the leader in fine interior and exterior paints throughout the country.

David talks about the colors of his life and how color has a story and feelings and meanings behind them. He reminisces about memories of his grandfather  and how the color red evokes these memories. He talks about colors being what we remember the most in television and movies . He explains how personality can be determined by the colors  on chooses for themselves and that interior designers look for color cues from their clients.

Andrea tells a personal color story of her own. Andrea talks about Benjamin Moore helping people to transform their home into somewhere they’re comfortable in through the use of color.  David and Andrea discuss people being more open to color ideas and try them out. They talk about understanding color in different light sources and how to determine which color to use in a home.

David and Andrea talk about undertones in colors and how to math them. They play a game to match people with Benjamin Moore colors. David and Andrea talk about what colors they would use to paint a powder room. They talk about the importance of the name of a color.  Andrea talks about finding ways to go bold and use deeper colors in the home.

Andrea talks about Benjamin Moore’s website abilities to pair colors with coordinating colors. She talks about the eco friendly paints available and how healthy the paints Benjamin Moore offers are. Andrea discusses her favorite part of her work. She talks about the best way to approach moving through a house with a color flow.

YOU SAY DECORATOR...

 
 

 “You Say Decorator……”

My Guest This week Interior Designer Ray Martin has had a remarkable career spanning the decades and cross crossing the nation.

Ray and I have had projects in the same neighbor at the same time in San Francisco and Miami. Ray and I are going to talk about the differences between a Decorator and an Interior Designer and I am excited to talk to Ray about his prestigious career, his design vision and his relationships with his clients!

I want to talk about design in Miami and how Ray approaches it differently than in New York or San Francisco for that matter. Finally, Ray and I are going to speak about the changing Interior Design Trade and what the future holds for the Industry.

David talks about the differences between a decorator and an interior designer. He goes on to talk about Sister Parish and the influence she had as a decorator. Jeff talks about Albert Hadley and his influence and the work that he put into his craft as an interior designer. He explains why it’s important to recognize the differences between the two and that “interior designers may decorate but decorators do not interior design.”

Ray talks about what his definition of beauty is and how it inspires you to be who and what you want to be. He continues talking about what the differences are between decorators and interior designers and how it boils down to training. David and Ray talk about their role being dependent upon what the client needs. Ray talks about the designs and styles in his house growing up and how he got involved in interior designing. He talks about where he draws inspiration from when working on projects.

Ray talks about what it’s like having projects throughout the world including in New York, Florida and Dubai. He talks about how the aesthetics that his clients want differ in the different areas. He talks about how he incorporates art and accessories into his projects. David talks about how light differs in different cities and how that goes into interior designing.

Ray talks more about his projects in the Middle East. David and Ray talk about where Ray gets his sourcing from and the aesthetics that his clients look for. They talk about the generational shift and how they balance out their newer clients. They talk about how to mood light a room and what their favorite colors are.

BREAKING GROUND

 
 

Breaking Ground” my conversation with landscape architect Hardy Stecker of Ken Smith Workshop. Hardy’s work is committed to creating landscapes, especially parks and other public spaces, as a way of improving the quality of urban life. Much of the workshop’s work pushes beyond traditional landscape typologies such as plaza, street, or garden, to landscapes that draw on diverse cultural traditions and influences of the contemporary urban landscape. Hardy’s is involved in directing projects of varying scales and types: temporary installations, private residential gardens, public spaces, parks, and commercial projects. With a particular emphasis on projects that explore the symbolic content and expressive power of landscape as an art form,  the Workshop specializes in the investigation of new expressions in landscape design.

David introduces the night’s guests, landscape architect Hardy Stecker. David talks about stars being light years away and how their light shimmering down on us came from light years of the past. He relates this to how much of what we see in design today is from the past. He talks about walking through Central Park and seeing all of the trees and flowers blooming at once and realizing that the park was designed to preserve the countryside of our past.  David questions what makes landscape architecture more important today than ever and how it connects us to the environment and our past.

Hardy talks about beauty being ever changing and how that there is a color in Central Park that is only there in spring and its beauty. She talks about her path into becoming a landscape architect.  David and Hardy discuss the philosophical purpose of landscape architect being about people. They talk about how we often take public spaces for granted and that possibly being because they fit so well into the community because of the landscaping. Hardy talks about some of the projects that she has worked on and how landscape is becoming more of a known thing.

David and Hardy talk about scale and proportion and the challenges of it. Hardy talks about how she makes large public spaces intimate. She talks about the process of landscaping and the thought that goes into creating a project. Hardy talks about what transforms landscape designs into an art and how to integrate physical art into the landscapes.

David and Hardy talk about where the shift from to public spaces has come from. They discuss how public spaces are being used and seem to be working towards their goals. David and Hardy discuss why parks are important and  mean so much to us. Hardy talks about the designing for maintenance in the spaces she landscapes.

A BEAUTIFUL HOME

 
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On Tonight’s Show – “A Beautiful Home” my conversation with Denis Rosenberg from Birch Family Services. It has been my honor to work with Denis and the entire staff at Birch Family Services to create and design homes for adults with Autism. Birch Family Services imagines a world where individuals with autism and developmental disabilities are celebrated for their abilities, uniqueness, and potential.

Dennis and I will talk about the challenges; and there are many, but the rewards are great! Everyone deserves to live in a beautiful home. 

David talks about the importance of love and how it helps to build a beautiful home. He talks about how moved he has been working with Denis and Birch Family Services. David talks about how honored he has been to work with birch Family Service to guide designs for people with autism. He says that Denis knows better knows better the difficulties but they both know the rewards. David says a house is not a home and that the best chance of live starts at home.   

David talks about how working with Birch Family Services taught him a lot about his craft and what he found to be beautiful. Denis discuss the history of Birch Family Services and what they do. David and Denis talk about the founder being a pioneer in launching schools for children with autism and her other works. They discuss Willowbrook State School and its awful medical conditions for those it housed. David and Denis talk about the work they do at Birch Family Services.

David and Denis discuss the process of designing homes for adults with autism. Denis tells David what the motivation was for seeking him out in the first place. They talk about the challenges and things that they don’t use depending on the population of the home. They talk about how they infuse colors into the residences for expression.

David and Denis discuss the similarities and differences in designing homes for high end clients and Birch homes. Denis answers questions about the financial aspects of Birch homes. David explains more about the colors they use in the Birch homes and the vibrations the colors have. David and Denis talk about steps they take to secure residents from harm.

YESTERDAY TO TOMORROW

 
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On This Week’s Show – “Yesterday To Tomorrow” my conversation with gallery owner, designer and mid century style and furniture expert Evan Lobel. Evan established Lobel Modern in NYC in 1998. His vision was to promote important vintage mid- century design that focused on exceptional craftsmanship and materials with an emphasis on furniture that crossed over into art.

Lobel Modern has since become a critical resource for designers, architects, and collectors around the world seeking high-end 20th century modern furniture, lighting, art, and decorative objects.

Evan’s research and scholarship is sought after by numerous projects and publications. He is the foremost expert on the works of the American Furniture Designer Karl Springer and coordinated a retrospective for one of the first modernist designer Harvey Probber.

I remember the early days when Evan had his shop on West 18th. He featured then a magnificent collection of the exuberant Modernist designs by the important 1950’s glass artist Anzolo Fuga. Join us Tuesday Night @8pm for a fascinating conversation.

David introduces interior designer Evan Lobel. David talks about the 50s as the “time before” and it being uniquely positioned between yesterday and tomorrow with its mid century modern designs. He continues about it being the time of new art and a time of new modern interiors and designs.  David goes into well known designers that he and Evan will discuss more on in the next segment.

Evan describes what his definitions of beauties are. He discusses being a collector of beautiful things in his home. David and Evan move into mid century modern design and the two main categories of it. They then move into different designers of the 30s and the radical ideas they had for the time.

David and Evan talk about Karl Springer and the uniqueness of the materials he worked with. Evan mentions his admiration for Karl and how he was always open about his inspiration. He moves into time-lining Karl’s journey of becoming a star in the furniture designer world. David asks Evan to talk about how his taste and style has changed over the years. Evan talks about his line of furniture that he has designed.

David and Evan take questions from listeners. Evan gives his qualifications for what makes something an antique. Evan talks about why mid century is still relevant today. David talks about the first time he noticed the shift in people not wanting responsibility in taking care of their furniture. They discuss how mid century modern paralleled America.

GEOMETRY OF DESIGN

 
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On this week’s show – “Geometry Of Design” my conversation with furniture designer David Khouri from KGBL – unapologetic modern furniture. David and his partners produce pieces that incorporate unique materials and have developed and created a collection not seen in other furniture on the market today or for that matter, in furniture design analogs.

Their credo is – unless it brings something new to the bigger design conversation, it is not worthy to of the collection. And that is exactly why I am excited to talk to David. I want to have the bigger design conversation with one of the finest contemporary furniture designers working today.

David Thiergartner welcomes modern furniture designer and co founder David Khouri of KGBL, “unapologetically modern furniture”. KGBL has taken their design aesthetic into uncharted territory geometric planes with a lightness of form. Khouri talks about beauty and what draws us all to it.

Khouri who went to school for architecture decided to move to furniture design because he preferred the instant gratification of watching something come to life. Khouri describes his design process and in that process asks of himself how can he can design something in a way that hasn’t been thought of before. He draws inspiration from the materials he uses in its natural form and from general observation. Khouri believes good design is about subtraction.

Khouri talks about the name KGBL, which stands for Khouri, Guzman and Bunce which was initially KGB. After receiving negative feedback for the name KGB they decided to change the name to KGBL. Khouri describes how he sees is own furniture. He feels it has a mid-century feel with a visual lightness, furniture that respects the negative space. He describes the concept of reading the architecture around the furniture. He talks about how designing is about iteration and the process of designing a piece is something that involves evolution and change.

David Thiergartner takes questions from listeners. Khouri is asked if KGBL get requests to do custom pieces with custom sizing. Khouri gets asked about the finishes of KGBL designs and how unique they are. Khouri is asked what kind of new pieces KGBL is designing.. Khouri says he always wants to be doing something that’s different otherwise he feels there’s no point in doing it.

PRESERVE, PROTEC AND INSPIRE

 
 

On this week’s show – “Preserve, Protect and Inspire”. My conversation with Preservationist Architect Jon Buono from Howard L. Zimmerman Architects.

Jon is a Senior Project Manager and responsible for the firms prestigious projects such as the The Tuskegee Airman National Historic Site, The Wright Brothers National Memorial Site and as part of our conversation tonight – the luminous Cartier Building on 5th avenue.

I am anxious to talk to Jon about responsible stewardship and the power of Historic Preservation to transform and revitalize our cultural heritage.

David introduces his guest, Jon Buono, preservationist architect. David notes tonight’s music will fit in with tonight’s theme of preservation. David recounts the story of his first move to New York history. He describes New York in the 1980’s and its need for preservation when he first moved there. David uses his early memories of New York to highlight the importance of preserving the culturally and historically significant buildings throughout his home city.

Jon and David begin with a discussion of beauty. Jon describes beauty as something which evokes visceral emotion. Jon explains the importance of preservation and how historical conflicts often were the catalyst for preservation. Jon and David explore the storytelling involved in preserving buildings and the standards in place to establish significance for locations. Jon touches on his approach to a new project and how he determines what work needs to be don to improve a location.

David and Jon delve into the Cartier Building preservation project. Jon traces the history of Cartier as a company and how Cartier’s style informed Jon’s decision making when working on the Cartier Building in New York. They highlight the specific changes made to have the building reflect its original use as a mansion. They pivot to Jon’s U.N. project. Jon encourages people to tour the U.N. building to experience the beautifully redone interiors.    

David and Jon take questions from the listeners. Jon explains the challenges that can occur preserving outdoor locations. Jon goes into some of the best finds he has made when working at older sites. They give tips for homeowners with older homes and how to best preserve historical details within the home.

JUNGLE ARTIST

 
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On this week’s show “Jungle Artist”. My conversation with Sustainable Artist Alexandra Climent

Alexandra’s creative spark with ignited while working for a Marine Construction Company. That spark turned into a passion for woodworking and exotic woods from the rain forest and the jungles of South America.

Sustainable material became her mission and exposing the grain, the the distinctive rare color and the natural beauty became her art. I am fascinated by Alexandra’s journey and anxious to talk about her beautifully turned bowls, her boxes and her furniture designs.

David introduces tonight’s guest Alexandra Climent and her unique artwork. He muses on the origin of inspiration and ponders where creativity originates. He notes how creativity comes from within and his interest in exploring Alexandra’s creativity. David then describes his own creativity and how it has grown throughout his career.

David and Alexandra begin with the idea of beauty. Alexandra talks about the beauty she sees in the objects collected throughout her travels. Alexandra traces her artistic journey beginning in childhood and describes her experiences in the jungles of South America. She details how she collaborates with native cultures to find the trees used in her projects. They touch on how passion and purpose are crucial to artistic expression. They agree showing people things they’ve never seen before is one of the great joys of creating art.    

David and Alexandra delve into the woodworking process. Alexandra discusses the challenges of working with the wood after she brought it back from South America. She elucidates her message of sustainably working with wood to create beautiful art. David expresses how Alexandra’s art demonstrates the importance of sustainable art and preserving rainforests. They touch on the fear of the unknown and how artists can overcome fear to express their creativity.  

David and Alexandra take listener questions. Alexandra offers advice to a listener looking to travel internationally to pursue art. They discuss the wood gathering process and the supplies available. Alexandra shares how she finds inspiration in Coney Island. They conclude with a message about how artists and consumer can be more responsible when sourcing their materials.

KNOCK ON WOOD

 
 

On this week’s show Knock On Wood”. my conversation with Eric Herman from State of the Art Wood Floor Gallery.

Eric and I will discuss aesthetic value of wood flooring. The enormous array of styles, finishes and qualities available today.

We will discuss proper home environmental conditions. Engineered wood flooring vs. Solid wood flooring. Eric is an expert on the state of the art in wood flooring and I am anxious to discuss with him all about it.

David begins with the story of why he often knocks on wood at the beginning of a design project. He introduces tonight’s topic of wood flooring. David then traces the history and development of wood flooring throughout American history.

Eric Herman shares how he sees beauty in his family and he sees beauty in the comfort his home affords him. Eric describes working in New York and how engineered floors have become state of the art in the industry. Eric notes the various techniques used to create unique and lasting flooring. David and Eric describe the technical details of engineered flooring and how it varies from traditional wood flooring. They offer tips on how to make flooring design choices based on your preferences and budget.

David and Eric continue their conversation with the topic of subflooring. Eric discusses the environmental conditions within homes and how wood flooring can be affected by its environment. Eric notes how relative humidity can affect the wood flooring. Eric offers guidelines for what finishes work best in highly trafficked areas of your home or business.

David and Eric take questions from the listeners in tonight’s final segment. They break down the cost differences between carpeting and wood flooring. David and Eric describes the costs and benefits of using wood flooring in your home. Eric notes the social concerns and how companies ensure that wood is harvested correctly without causing environmental damage.

AND SO TO BED...

 
 

On this week’s Show “And So To Bed” My conversation with Gayle Hoffman from Yves Delorme Paris.

Gayle is an expert on all things bedding, including luxurious sheets, towels, pillows, comforters and all the proper ways to sleep well.

We will discuss Yves Delorme’s internationally known bedding fashion and like all the great Parisian Fashion Houses how they set the stage and the trend for bedroom design and style to come.

I’m anxious to discuss the design process, the artistry of their patterns, color and quality. And so to bed we shall go!!

David begins tonight discussing the love he has for his bed at home. He muses about the importance of sleep in our lives and why we should give the bedroom the design priority it deserves. David notes how clients often leave the bedroom for last in design projects. He shares some tips for designing the key elements to a comfortable bed.

David welcomes Gayle and asks her about beauty. Gayle defines beauty as what inspires her senses. Gayle describes the attention to detail and sensibility she sees in Yves Delorme’s work. They discuss how Yves Delorme designs pattern by season to speak to their clients in over 71 countries. Gayle notes what sets Yves Delorme apart as an international company that still maintains its family owned and quality first identity.

David and Gayle continue their conversation by exploring how bedmaking is a personal decision.They offer advice on how to decide what pillows best fit your comfort needs. They describe what to consider beyond just thread count when choosing sheets. Gayle and David describe how Yves Delorme has a goal to create a lifestyle within the home. They encourage listeners to take a similar approach to designing their homes.

David and Gayle take listeners questions. They give recommendation about colors that work well when designing a bedroom.They explain textures and how to layer when making bedding choices. They advise on how to make sheets last longer and to avoid over-drying. They also note how to purchase new patterns and build on current sheet patterns instead of using the same sheets repeatedly.

THE DEVILS IN THE DETAILS

 
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On this week’s show, The Devils In The Details, my conversation with Bob Sherman from the High End Construction Firm – C Square Contracting. Bob and I will discuss custom home building and renovation!

I am anxious to talk with Bob about proper preparation; defining in advance challenges and difficulties facing the design team and the client. He has an innate ability for creative problem solving throughout the home building process.

And because of Bob’s and C Squares’s years of experience and know how we will discuss, the ever present list of details – the thousands of small details that define the character of the home.

David begins the show mentioning the big picture and how he visualizes homes when working on a new project. He notes how interior designers set the visual agenda and determine the style path in newly constructed homes or apartments. He tells how details are critical to any design project. He muses not only about the challenges in the details; but also how the details are where the home emerges to express and define itself.

Bob Sherman joins the show and begins by sharing how he sees beauty in simplicity. He notes how he was inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright and how he applied his simple approach to his own home. David and Bob discuss the importance of a qualified contractor in design projects. Bob tells how thorough planning facilitates successful projects. Bob lists key characteristics that help develop trust between contractors and clients.

Bob and David elucidate the importance of collaboration between designers and contractors. Bob reiterates how planning helps prevent difficulties when working on a project. They discuss some of the challenges they face working in New York City and how they create solutions for their clients. Bob mentions the importance of honesty and open communication in maintaining good client relations especially when unexpected problems arise.  

David and Bob take questions from the listeners in tonight’s final segment. The first question explores blackout shades and how to incorporate them in a home. David and Bob agree that referrals from a satisfied client are key to their business. They reiterate how contractors and designers should be punctual, communicative, and responsive to build client relationships. Bob breaks down what goes into a contractor’s punch list. 

THE TOOLS OF THE TRADE – ARCHITECTURAL GLASS

 
 

On this week’s show “Tools Of The Trade- Architectural Glass” my conversations with Daniel Stewart from Bendheim Glass Co.

Daniel and I will discuss “transparency and reflection” with the use of architectural glass as a material of choice for Designers and Architects. Bendheim Glass has a long and important legacy as a leader and supplier of architectural glass in New York City and beyond.

David introduces tonight’s topic: glass and how we can use it within our homes. David discusses the metaphor of a glass house to show how glass offers beautiful transparency. He mentions the history of glass in architecture. He notes that transparency in a home can illuminate the interior and how glass can create a flow of light throughout a space.

David is joined by Daniel Stewart. Daniel shares how he finds beauty in his bed, in how it exudes both feminine and masculine energies. Daniel describes the process of how glass is laminated to prevent shattering in architectural design. Daniel shares how color and texture contribute to the possibilities available when working with glass. Daniel explains the various ways glass has been used in his past projects.

David and Daniel discuss the new technologies available working with glass. Daniel describes a Texas bar project where they used chicken wire glass as an example of the seemingly endless possibilities when using glass in design projects. They touch on different ways glass can be used to optimize design in a space.  

David and Daniel take questions from the listeners. Daniel responds to the first question by explaining how to manage the amount of sunlight coming in via large windows. The second question deals with the differing thickness in glass and how best to use glass when remodeling cabinets. 

AESTHETIC JOY

 
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On Tonight’s Show my conversation with consummate Interior Designer Gail Shields Miller from Shields & Co. Interiors.

Gail and I will discuss Aesthetic Joy – the value of surrounding yourself with meaningful and thoughtful objects, furniture and art in our homes.

I want to talk to Gail about her joyful interiors and how she uses color and shapes to bring whimsy and delight into her designs. And finally, I want to discuss with Gail the ever changing nature of the Interior Design industry over the years.

David begins tonight describing how he lives his life surrounded by treasures. He lists the treasures in his life and how they reflect how he sees the world. He notes how each piece throughout the home brings aesthetic joy and how each treasure is key to a sense of home. David stresses the importance of the things we keep around us. He encourages us all to live in and enjoy the aesthetic joy that surrounds us in our homes.

David and Gail explore their ideas of beauty. Gail shares how beauty causes her to have an internal reaction and often is unusual or different for her . She expresses the joy of design and in creating unpredictable or unique designs. Gail describes the balance she finds between whimsy, artistic flair, and purpose when design. She notes that the differences in design help maintain enthusiasm for new projects as difference keeps design from being stagnant.

Gail shares her background and how her mother influenced her as a designer. David and Gail then pivot to the changes they have experienced in the design business over the course of their careers. They note how younger clients seem to value practicality and utility instead of aesthetics within their homes. They ponder the future of design and whether interior designers will lose prominence as people seem to value simple and expedited projects over quality.

David and Gail take listener questions. They offer tips on how best to display specific antique items. They describes how to draft a great floor plan for a room and give advice to optimize a floor plan. They then give tips for how to incorporate patterns in a space.

SIMPLY ELEGANT

 
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On this week’s show “Simply Elegant” my conversation with Lighting Designer David Burya, principal at Tirschwell and Co the leading Architectural Lighting Design company throughout the world.

David and I will discuss the elegance of Interior lighting from programming, comprehensive plan making and fixture selections to lighting philosophies and environment aesthetics.

David begins tonight’s show exploring the meaning of elegance. David wonders aloud whether elegance has become harder to come by in our time. He traces how his definition of elegance has changed to mean subtle, appropriate, authentic, and graceful. He notes how technology has allowed us to insert elegance into our homes in the way we design our lighting.    

David T. and David B. being their conversation with their ideas of beauty. David B. finds beauty in simple and appropriate aesthetics. David B. stresses the importance of light and lighting’s potential to evoke emotions. He describes how elegant lighting is a balance and strength and ease. David B. further explains how elegant lighting helps you to focus on the environment of a space rather than simply the light fixtures.

David B. recounts some of his most notable projects for residential and commercial spaces. He details his collaborative process working with architects to ensure his lighting design matches the vision for the space. David B. notes the importance of collaboration, pragmatism, and listening when working to optimize the lighting design to match a client’s vision. They touch on how LED technology offers more options for lighting choices.

David and David take questions from the listeners in the show’s final segment. David B. touches on the ways he works with clients to determine what emotions to evoke with a lighting design and how he advises clients on what is appropriate for a space. They consider the use of colored light and when colored light bulbs could work within a home. 

A HEAD FULL OF DREAMS

 
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On this week’s show, my conversation with Interior Designer Bachman BrownBachman has been featured in the New York Times and Traditional Homes.

I want to explore the power of dreams in the design process and the role of the Interior Designer in making their clients dreams come true!

David starts off the show talking about his dreams that and how most of them in life have come true. He also mentions that dreaming helps with his creativity when it comes to interior designing and that he loves making the clients dreams come true, putting down the belief that no dream is too big. He introduces interior designer, Bachman Brown. Like David, Bachman loves to turn dreams into a reality.

Bachman Brown joins the show. He thinks that without authenticity, there is no beauty and that beauty comes in all shapes and sizes, including his library where he can’t stop looking through his books. Bachman has always been dreaming, especially when he was young and acting out all of his dreams long before becoming an interior designer. He and David talk about dreaming big and how achieving goals step-by-step and being creative can change the thinking of a designer and, ultimately, the lives of clients.

David continues his conversation with Bachman Brown. The guys talk about Bachman’s beginnings as a young designer, including his first job as an assistant to another designer, to his first big project, and finally opening his business. Bachman mentions that he loves his career and still connects very well with his clients. He doesn’t have a particular style, as most of his work is different with every client. Plus, he and David have one thing in common, they both enjoy working on the design sketches for houses. Then, a discussion about books and films. How can reading or watching movies also influence the work of an interior designer?

David and Bachman take questions from listeners. First we find out, how did Bachman get his first name? Also, the guys talk more about dreams, visualizing before putting designs on paper,  imagination and figuring out what is beautiful to you, and can seeing things with the inner eye be natural or self-taught?