- May 5, 2026
- Martha
I do hope that everyone is enjoying spring after what felt like a long winter.
We had two major winter events here in Winston-Salem. A very unusual situation for us. I have been busy working on spring cleaning, and I am using the “Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning” as inspiration.
I have also been inspired by another book that I read last month: “The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry”. This book greatly inspired me to think long and hard about priorities in my life. Relationships are the key!
Last week I attended the International Furniture Market in High Point. I have been attending this most important trade show for over 30 years. It is still exciting to me. However, my feet and body are not as thrilled anymore. It is a lot of walking over various and uneven surfaces. I will talk more about what I saw later in this newsletter.
The Beauty of Classical Design
I am currently taking an online class/certificate program in neuro-aesthetics from the Science in Design organization. This has long been an area of interest for me. It is the study of how the brain perceives and processes beauty in the natural and built environment.
The latest lesson focuses on patterns and how certain patterns are influential or calming. This area of study has been popular since the ancient Greeks, especially the Greek philosophers. I feel that understanding Neuro-aesthetics will enhance my ability to communicate with my clients and understand their individual needs for their home.
Two Truths and a Lie
- Natural light is not important to the design process
- There are two types of light; warm and cool
- Lighting design is an essential part of a good design
The second and third bullets are true. Light bulbs are either warm or cool in intensity. I prefer a warm light for most projects. We just look better in warm light.
I think we can all remember the harsh cool fluorescent lights that were popular for decades. They made your eyes water. LED bulbs come in either cool or warm. Lighting an interior properly is essential to promoting a safe environment.
Good, layered light design is functional and aesthetically pleasing. There should be task lighting, ambient lighting and accent lighting.
Natural light is essential in providing a pleasing and functional space. We crave natural light. It greatly enhances the appeal of a room
What About Your Home Keeps You Up at Night?
Do you feel that your home looks and feels tired and dated?
- Consider a fresh coat of paint to brighten up your rooms. Paint colors can fade overtime and look dull and dingy. Consider some of the pretty warm neutrals in buttery creams or warm off-whites. Always purchase the best grade of paint and consider paint finishes that reflect light such as an eggshell finish or semi-gloss finish. I am a fan of Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams for their quality and durability.
- Consider adding one of the beautiful new wallpaper choices available. A dramatic paper in a powder room or office can really update your home’s look. Choose papers of good quality with clear colors (not muddy).
The Joy of Being a Designer
The honor of coming into someone’s home and listening to their hopes and dreams for their environment is a great joy. The relationships built with my clients have brought deep meaning to my life. The trust established between designer and client is a special bond.
I find it a great privilege to be invited into someone’s home to make their dreams a reality.
One of My Favorite Quotes:
“Innovation is often the ability to reach into the past and bring back what is good, what is beautiful, what is useful, what is lasting.”
—Sister Parish, Known for Classic American Country Style
