For the inaugural edition of our Designers You Should Know series, we wanted to showcase a design house we have had the pleasure of working with on a number of projects. Partners Carol & Dawn of MAS Design have cultivated a unique aesthetic and a successful brand in the Bay Area. MAS Design partners, Dawn Carlson & Carol Perry.Photo by Jen Siska WHO/WHAT IS MAS DESIGN? MAS (Mood and Space) Design is an interior design firm in the Bay Area, California. What we try to create in our work is a mashup of space and style. We believe that your space should be an expression of who you are, and our focus is creating sophisticated spaces that allow our clients to live, relax and...
For some DIYers lighting can seem like a last step, an afterthought to a design project. “Just stick a lamp in the corner and voila!” On the contrary! Most designers will tell you that lighting is one of the most important design elements in any space, the jewelry of the room. You may have coordinated the wall color with your vintage area rugs perfectly, but if you can’t see any of it- no one will ever know. The key to a well-lit design is knowing the different types of lighting and understanding how to combine these in your space. A good lighting plan for your space will combine general, task, and accent lighting. General and task lighting will lend their...
Great design is all about making smart choices. While selecting the right design elements may help you achieve your desired aesthetic; it has also become increasingly important to consider the environment while making these key decisions.From choosing a finish that will help you breath a little easier to making sure your lumber wasn't illegally clear-cut from a protected rain forest- Eco-friendly alternatives abound. Our guide to Easy Eco-Alternatives for Every Interior Design Project will help you navigate an at times confusing Eco Design industry, and prove that not all "Eco-Friendly" products are created equal. 1. FINISHES Say no to toxic fumes. (Source) HARMFUL OPTION: Lacquer and Oil Based Finishes Lacquers contain chemicals that are harmful to your health if ingested, inhaled, or come into contact...
The do's and don'ts of design are always evolving. In the design field the advent of new technologies offer creators and designers a steady stream of new materials and methods to experiment with. Shifting values will inevitably shock the hardcore traditionalist. Operating within a modern global market allows ideas and innovation to circulate around the world at the speed of light. 2016 will be a big year for green and bold design but also the rebirth of a few classic styles. Here is our list of design trends to look for in 2016: 1. Quality Craftsmanship Over Quantity "Buy Local" and "Buy Hand Made" are not passing fads in design. Now more then ever- understanding sourcing practices are vital if you want quality and sustainability. In a generation where...
Adorning the walls of your favorite hip bar are all of the things that are out for 2015. Cute mason jar lights? Out. Taxidermy mounts? Gone. Chalkboards,amateur DIY, and mid-century modern? See ya. 1. Matte Black is Back Don’t be afraid of deep, dark, lush paint. This year is about mood — make sure the room you design is bathed in it. Look toward muddled tones and mix subtle shades of dark tones to create a sexy, cozy vibe. Don’t go gothic tough — we’re not talking stark whites & blacks. You’ll want rooms to contain more than three shades of dark colors to create the effect. Don’t be afraid of the dark, revel in it (source) 2. Nautical Rope with a Twist Anchor...
