Dive into my Bohemian-style Edesign enriched with my energy art. Discover layers of fractal art intricately woven into the design, beckoning you towards a heart-centered path. Let the Boho vibes resonate with your true essence and inspire authentic living.

Bohemian Style

The Bohemian style is a radiant dance of earthy hues, metals, and vibrant jewel tones. It’s grounded in neutrals like deep browns and serene grays, then sprinkled with vivacious purples, burning oranges, and brilliant blues.

Those who gravitate towards Bohemian aesthetics are free spirits, unburdened by conventions and always guided by their heart!

Are you captivated by vintage furniture, unique light fixtures, and textiles that tell tales of distant lands? Do you find joy in curating treasures from flea markets, thrift shops, and your travels?

You probably have a penchant for blending luxurious fabrics and glimmering accessories with cherished antiques and eclectic pieces. In the Bohemian realm, if it sparks joy, it has a place. After all, abundance is the essence!

The Bohemian style is the epitome of global design, weaving tales of your adventures and experiences into the fabric of your space. It’s a tapestry of vivid colors, intricate patterns, and diverse textures that echo the arts, crafts, and spirit of different cultures.

Every item narrates a unique story, sparking conversations and memories. 

There’s a free-spirited fluidity in how treasures are showcased, unbound by geographical or thematic constraints. Antiques seamlessly blend with contemporary pieces, while elements from nature—like animal horns, verdant plants, or raw minerals—infuse authenticity and charisma.

Though global design champions eclecticism, you might find yourself particularly captivated by the hues and artifacts of specific regions, letting them take center stage in your space.

See My Saturday Night Live Art Show on this Design

Elements of Bohemian Style

Bohemian style, often referred to as “boho,” is characterized by its eclectic, free-spirited nature. Rooted in artistic expression and unconventional design, boho draws inspiration from different cultures, eras, and personal narratives. Here are some defining elements of Bohemian style:

1. Layered Textiles: Rich, textured fabrics like velvet, silk, suede, and fur are layered upon each other. Think Moroccan rugs, macramé hangings, and chunky knit throws.

2. Eclectic Patterns and Colors: Boho doesn’t shy away from bold, vibrant colors and intricate patterns. Expect paisleys, tribal prints, florals, and other global-inspired motifs.

3. Natural Materials: Incorporate wooden furnishings, wicker, bamboo, and other organic materials for a grounded feel.

4. Plenty of Greenery: Plants, whether potted or hanging, play a crucial role in boho spaces. They introduce a fresh, earthy vibe and often become central features.

5. Vintage and Handmade Items: From flea markets to artisanal craft fairs, boho decor often includes vintage, handmade, or one-of-a-kind pieces, lending the space unique character and charm.

6. Worldly Decor: Artifacts and textiles from travels or different cultures, like Indian tapestries, African baskets, or Tibetan thangkas, give the space a global ambiance.

7. Low-level Seating: Think floor cushions, poufs, low sofas, and tatami mats, promoting a relaxed and informal atmosphere.

8. Unconventional Display: Art and items aren’t just hung on walls. They might be layered, draped, or even placed on the floor. The aim is to create an aesthetically pleasing sense of ‘organized chaos’.

9. A Mix of Styles: Boho often blends elements from various design philosophies—be it mid-century modern, industrial, or even a touch of glamour—into one cohesive look.

10. Personal Touches: Bohemian style is deeply personal. It’s not unusual to find family photos, cherished trinkets, or DIY items that hold sentimental value.

The essence of boho is not strictly adhering to a set formula but embracing the unexpected, celebrating individuality, and letting one’s personality shine through the decor. It’s about creating a space that feels like a true reflection of the self and one’s journey.

Colors of Bohemian Style

Bohemian style is known for its rich and vibrant use of color, drawing inspiration from various cultures and natural elements. While there’s no strict palette that defines boho style, here are some colors commonly associated with it:

1. Earth Tones: Deep browns, greens, and grays often serve as base colors, grounding the space and providing a canvas for brighter tones.

2. Jewel Tones: Saturated purples, fiery oranges, electric blues, and deep magentas are classic boho choices. These rich hues evoke a sense of worldliness and artistic flair.

3. Warm Reds and Pinks: Think of Moroccan or Indian textiles, which often feature warm terracottas, corals, and pinks.

4. Golden Yellows: From mustard to saffron, yellow shades bring warmth and brightness to bohemian spaces.

5. Turquoise and Teal: These colors, reminiscent of gemstones and oceans, add depth and drama.

6. Neutrals: Though boho is known for its color, neutral shades like beiges, creams, and off-whites play a crucial role in balancing out the vibrancy and providing moments of calm.

7. Metallic Accents: While not a color per se, gold, bronze, and other metallics often find their way into boho designs, whether through accessories, trims, or decorative pieces.

8. Natural Greens: Taking inspiration from nature and the emphasis on plants in boho design, various shades of green, from olive to emerald, are often incorporated.

IBohemian style is highly individualistic. While the above colors are commonly associated with boho, it’s more about mixing and matching what resonates personally with your own energy. 

This style is flexible, allowing for personal tastes and influences from different cultures to shine through. So, while these are guiding tones, there’s plenty of room for interpretation and personalization in boho color schemes.

The Energy of Bohemian Style

The energy of Bohemian style is a unique amalgamation of various attributes, emanating a vibe that is both relaxed and vibrant. Here’s a breakdown of the energy associated with Bohemian style:

1. Free-Spirited: At its core, the Bohemian style embodies a sense of freedom and non-conformity. It’s about breaking the mold, rejecting traditional norms, and embracing an eclectic mix that reflects one’s unique personality and experiences.

2. Creative Expression: Bohemian spaces are often filled with handmade items, crafts, and artifacts from around the world. These pieces tell stories, each item a reflection of artistic expression and individual creativity.

3. Warmth and Comfort: With its use of layered textiles, plush cushions, and rugs, Bohemian style exudes warmth and coziness. It’s inviting, making one feel immediately at ease.

4. Connection to Nature: Boho interiors often incorporate natural elements like plants, stones, and wooden items, reflecting a deep-rooted connection to the earth and nature.

5. Worldly and Cultured: The style showcases an appreciation for different cultures, traditions, and crafts from around the world. The energy is one of inclusivity and global appreciation.

6. Sensual and Tactile: With an emphasis on textures and materials, Bohemian style engages the senses. Whether it’s the feel of a soft fabric, the visual appeal of colorful patterns, or the aromatic presence of incense, the style appeals to our sensory experiences.

7. Whimsical and Playful: The eclectic mix often results in unexpected and playful combinations, lending a whimsical energy to Bohemian spaces.

8. Intimate and Personal: Above all, Bohemian style is deeply personal. It reflects the inhabitant’s journey, tastes, memories, and aspirations. It’s intimate, revealing stories and experiences through design elements.

In essence, the energy of Bohemian style is vibrant yet relaxed, worldly yet intimate, and always deeply personal and expressive. It’s a style that resonates with those who value individuality, creativity, and a connection to the world around them.

How to Get the Look

Want to get the look? Whether you’re diving deep into Boho style or just sprinkling some elements into your current decor, here are some tips.

1. Jewel Tones: Add splashes of deep, vibrant colors through cushions, lamps, or artwork.
2. Global Mix: Incorporate items from various countries, blending textures and patterns to evoke a sense of worldly charm.
3. Velvety Touch: Introduce soft fabrics like velvet for an instant luxe feel.
4. Metallic Hints: Blend in metals to provide that eclectic spark.
5. Vintage Meets Modern: Pair your contemporary pieces with vintage finds for an authentic Boho mix.
6. Treasures on Display: Showcase your personal journey – souvenirs, photos, and unique finds that narrate your story.
7. Curate Thoughtfully: While Boho celebrates abundance, give each piece its moment. Create breathing space around standout items for a refined look, which I personally like and think of as elegant Bohemian.

Bohemian is all about expressing your authentic self. Let your space tell your unique story, mixing the old with the new, the near with the far, and the bold with the subtle.

Here are some of the energy art pieces I created for the Bohemian style design in this article you can use to get the look.

Bohemian Style Color Schemes

Bohemian style celebrates warm earthy colors, metals and jewel tones.

Bohemian decor often uses deep browns, greens, grays or other neutral colors for base colors, then accessorizes with saturated colors. 

How is Bohemian Style Different?

Bohemian style, while rooted in global influences, has distinct characteristics that set it apart from other global styles. Here’s a breakdown to highlight the differences:

1. Origin & Influence:

   • Bohemian: The name derives from the French word for ‘gypsy’, and originally referred to the nomadic, spirited lifestyle of the Bohemians. It’s less about a specific culture and more about a free-spirited and eclectic mix of elements.
   • Other Global Styles: Typically, other global styles, like Moroccan, Southwestern, or African, are more region-specific and derive elements directly from those regions’ cultures, histories, and landscapes.

2. Design Philosophy:

   • Bohemian: Emphasizes individuality, freedom, and a disregard for conventions or trends. It’s all about personal expression and creating a space that feels right for the individual, often leading to a mix-and-match approach.
   • Other Global Styles: These often adhere to traditional designs, colors, and patterns from the specific region they originate from.

3. Elements & Decor:

   • Bohemian: Known for its layering. There’s often a mix of vintage with modern, handmade with store-bought, and a blend of different textures and materials. It’s common to see plants, mismatched textiles, and a cluttered yet harmonious look.
   • Other Global Styles: While they might also incorporate mixed textiles and handmade items, they’re typically more cohesive in terms of the cultural motifs, colors, and materials they employ.

4. Colors:

   • Bohemian: Typically vibrant and varied, with a rich mix of jewel tones, earthy colors, and metallics.
   • Other Global Styles: While they can also be vibrant, they often have a more defined and consistent palette, like the rich blues and whites in Greek Mediterranean style or the earthy tones of Southwestern style.

5. Versatility:

   • Bohemian: Highly versatile and adaptive. Since it’s driven by individual choice, it can easily incorporate elements from various global styles.
   • Other Global Styles: While adaptable, they are often more defined and distinct, making them less fluid than Bohemian style.

In summary, while both Bohemian and other global styles are inspired by worldwide influences, Bohemian style is more eclectic, free-spirited, and individualistic, whereas other global styles tend to stay truer to their cultural origins.

Let’s Create Your Global Style Design

Are you ready for your house to go to the next level where your house looks great, feels great and supports you to be great? Imagine that. 

My philosophy of great Interior Design, which I call Aligned Design, considers three key factors; art, science and energy. The intersection of the three is where the magic happens.

Creating a space that envelops you in your vision of beauty and  color, while fine tuning the energy of your space to promote wealth, health, love and perfect self-expression aligns you with the universe, allowing you to live your best life so you can make a positive impact on the world. 

Curious about your Interior Design style? Take the quiz and find out.

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Previously, I showed you how flat lays create endless possibilities for creating a perfect space and three flat lays inspired by bird feathers.

Birds provide endless inspiration for creating beautiful designs with the intricate patterns,  colors, and textures of their feathers!

Flat Lay #1- The Forest

In my article Birds of a Feather- What Birds Can Teach Us About Designing the Perfect Room, I shared a design for the first flat lay, inspired by realistic photo art of Pintail duck and eagle feathers. I designed a room with a calm and earthy feeling that reminds me of being in the forest using the feather art and colors of nature.

Flat Lay #2- Bohemian Meets Hollywood Glam

The second flat lay, evoked a much more glamorous style and feeling, like a cross between Modern Global Style and Hollywood Glam. I developed several ideas capturing the drama and glamour with different color walls.

Flat Lay #3- A Time for Whimsy- Let’s Fly

The third flat lay to me evoked a sense of whimsy and playfulness, filled with color and the sense that you can take flight and soar to any place you want to go.

As in Flat Lay #2, the feathers are stylized rather than realistic, and more colorful and playful than the gold and black feathers. Even though it has a sense of fun and whimsy, it also feels calm and relaxing with the blues and greens.

I designed two living rooms. One uses wallpaper and is more light and airy yet has texture. The deep blue wall adds more drama with the darker, rich blue.

Which is your favorite?

Bird Feathers Are a Great Source of Inspiration!

As you can see, you can use natural elements like bird feathers to inspire earthy, glamorous, and dramatic, or whimsical and playful designs!

Bird feathers can inspire many design styles and are fun to work with. There is a huge amount of variety.

Did you know you can often identify a bird just by the feathers? That is how unique they are. Mother Nature provides endless inspiration. Try your own flat lay and see what it inspires.

Are You Ready to Create Your Perfect Space?

Are you ready to create your perfect space? I assume you are since you are reading my blog post. Let’s tell your unique story and find the alignment of art, science, and energy that makes you happy.  Let me help you take that trip to your perfect space in a Ferrari instead of a stagecoach. Try my Aligned Design consultation and let’s get started.

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A Great Story Makes the Dance

A great dance performance always has a story.

It might be a love story set to a song based on romantic Persian poetry. The Persians really know how to tell a romantic story!

Maybe it’s the story of the love affair between a girl and her drum.

Maybe it is the story of an epic battle between warrior queens.

It can be anything. The key is that there is an interesting journey, with a beginning, middle, and end. The path leads the audience to a final destination, feeling, revelation, or something that moves them in some way.

The choreography is the story and the choreographer is the master storyteller.

The dance has meaning.

It is not just a collection of a dancer’s favorite moves set to music so that it looks pretty and the dancer can show off what they can do.

That’s like someone reading an encyclopedia to you instead of a story. BORING!

Every move has a meaning and all of them together create the magic. There is nothing more or less than needed to tell the perfect story.

A great story is authentic to the storyteller, comes from the heart, and is told so the audience can relate it to their own experience.

Sometimes the story can take on a life of its own if it captures people’s imagination. For example, in the picture above, fellow dancer Doreen Valadez  took this photo in Seward, Alaska next to Resurrection Bay of me in an Afghan folk dance costume, as part of the story for this dance. Somehow it got picked up in Iran by the Ministry of Culture, went a little viral over there, and was noted as an Iranian girl at the Caspian Sea.

Interior Design Lessons from Dance

What does it have to do with Interior Design? A great story is the key to a beautiful dance and room.  This is Part 7 in my revelations from dancing on how to create your perfect space.

The older I get, the more I realize the connections between all things artistic. The same principles apply to making the magic happen in Interior Design or any other art form. You just need to open your eyes, listen, and feel it to notice.

It always seems to come back to the alignment between art (creativity), science (color), and energy (connection) that makes the magic happen. I use this alignment to create both beautiful dance pieces and interiors.

How Does a Great Story Relate to Interior Design?

Just like the perfect dance, a beautiful room has meaning.

It is not just a collection of your favorite decor items put in the same room so it looks pretty, like the dancer showing off their favorite moves without a story.

I often see people trying to create their perfect space by buying all the things they love over time, with no plan,  and hoping for the magic to appear. It rarely turns out well.

As in the dance where every move has a meaning, and there is nothing more or less than needed to tell the perfect story, the same is true for your room.

If you have too many things, the room feels crowded and chaotic, and the star of your room can not shine. Too few things and it feels like something is missing and loses the feeling of comfort and connection.

It is important to start with a plan and figure out first what story you want to tell. That story can be your personal style, the story of your travels, your life, your family, or whatever has special meaning to you.

It’s important to have your beginning, middle, and end. The end is generally your focal point or star of your show as I mentioned in a previous article. The beginning should be an interesting entrance to your space that directs you to the focal point. The middle is all the other pieces of the room that support your story.

A Story of Simplicity and Connection

Greek Interior Design is simple and elegant, inspired by nature, and looks light, bright, airy and clean. The energy of Greek interior design is a blend of serenity, simplicity, reverence for history, and a deep connection to the natural world. It’s an energy that invites introspection while also encouraging communal bonds. The art in this design show motifs, colors and elements that are simple, connected to nature and the ocean, and community.

The Story of Transformation

The design and fractal energy art below were a story of transformation for me, and the series is called “Transformation”.

As the date February 22, 2022 approached, the numbers alone, 2-22-22 predicted a powerful energy day. I started to wonder what the energy would be like at 2:22 pm. I decided to set aside that time to create something and see what would evolve. I had no plan or idea.

Here is what I was inspired to create. Originally, I named it 22222222

Clearly, the number 2 held significance on this day. Upon researching numerology, I learned about its implications.

The number two amplifies intuition, enabling a deep, subconscious understanding. It can sense energies that aren’t visible, only perceptible.

Known as the peacemaker, number two promotes partnerships, balance, and teamwork. It symbolizes grace and diplomacy, harmonizing people, ideas, and elements.

While creating these pieces, I didn’t consciously think about the significance of the number two. I was simply guided by my intuition. I looked up the meaning later.

Originally, I labeled these artworks highlighting “2” in the title. But an observer’s comment, noting their resemblance to “transformation in action”, struck a chord. Over time, I recognized their symbolic essence and renamed them “Transformation”.

Personal growth is much like fire. Sometimes it’s as evident as a raging wildfire, changing our landscape. Other times, it’s subtle, smoldering beneath until it’s ready to surface.

Fire rejuvenates, clearing away the old, making room for new growth. Similarly, as we let go of our past, we pave the way for new beginnings. After a fire, though the land might seem empty, new life eagerly emerges, free from the shadow of what once was. This mirrors our journey, shedding old narratives to truly embrace our potential.

This design tells the story of transformation and is a reminder to celebrate it in yourself, whether it is a slow burn or a dramatic wildfire.

A Story of Prosperity, Hospitality and Protection

The design below is an example of Turkish style,  and it is highlighting energy art of fish which is a sign of prosperity and protection against the evil eye. Turkish style is warm and inviting, earthy and exotic. It is simple, soft and relaxing. It is a great style for feeding and entertaining guests and sharing prosperity yet protecting its inhabitatants. The Nazar Boncuk or evil eye, symbolizes the jealous and envious look of others, which can cause misfortunes to a person or his property. Turkish people believe that this amulet protects its holder from these types of bad energies by absorbing them. This story says to open your home and share your prosperity with others, yet don’t worry as you are protected from jealousy.

A Story of the Great Conjunction

In this room, the story revolves around the synergy of positive energy and alignment with our true selves, and its significance in our lives.

At the heart of the design is my “Great Conjunction” fractal art collection, inspired by the celestial alignment of Jupiter and Saturn on 12-21-20. Delve deeper into the backstory of this piece in my blog, “Do You Need an Alignment?”

Upon entering, this artwork immediately captures your attention. Guided by the rug’s patterns, your gaze is naturally directed towards this centerpiece. Every other element in the room gracefully complements the art, serving as the ensemble cast enriching the primary narrative.

The colors are vibrant, inspiring, and energetic.

The Story of Serenity and Alignment

The story of this office is “serenity”. It was designed for an artist that loves watercolors because the colors and flow of the art make her feel serene. This office was designed with the watercolor mural as the focal point. I designed a series of fractal art prints called “Watercolor” to go with it. The modern global design style is clean and uncluttered and filled with calming blue tones. Learn more in my blog article, Your Office is the Perfect Space to Relax and be Happy.

This energy art inspires you to go with the flow of energy in your life, while staying strong yet fluid, like water. Creating your perfect space matters because it can support you in your journey to BE the person you need to be to live your perfect life.

What is Your Story?

Your story is authentic to you, your life, your style, your energy, and the mood you want to create. Consider the story you want to tell, develop a plan, and think about how you want to tell it to create your perfect space.

Are You Ready to Tell Your Story?

Now that you know some of the elements that work together to create your perfect space, are you ready to take action to make it happen in your home?

Let’s tell your unique story and find the alignment of art, science, and energy that makes you happy.   Try my Aligned Design consultation and let’s get started.

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Call 907-362-0065 today

Curious about your Interior Design style? Take the quiz and find out.

Aligned Design©– All Rights Reserved.

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Prices are subject to change without notice.

Call 907-362-0065 today

Do You Hear What I Hear?

In my drum class, my teacher Amir played a video of a woman singing and a drummer playing with her to a group of people. She was singing in a language we did not know. It was hard to tell from her expression what she was feeling or thinking, other than the song had a serious subject. He asked us after what the song was about and how we felt. Everyone had a different interpretation.

We all hear and feel music differently.

As a dancer, I have often experienced how different dancers all following a choreography to the same piece of music hear it a little bit differently. How they move their body, when they start or finish or how they accent certain notes might all be a little different.

Even with music, while everyone might have the same sheet of music to follow that tells us where the accents should be and what the feeling is sometimes,  there is room for interpretation and each musician adds something of themselves when they play,  because of how they hear it.

Interior Design Lessons from Dance and Music

What does this have to do with Interior Design?

In Interior Design, we also see and feel things differently. There are no hard and fast rules and if there are, feel free to break them.

This is Part 3 in my revelations from lessons learned from dancing and playing music on how to create your perfect space. 

The older I get, the more I realize the connections between all things artistic. The same principles apply to making the magic happen in Interior Design or any other art form. You just need to open your eyes, listen, and feel it to notice.

It always seems to come back to the alignment between art (creativity), science (color), and energy (connection) that makes the magic happen. I use this alignment to create both beautiful dance pieces and interiors.

How Do Our Different Perceptions of Beauty, Color and Energy Affect How We Feel About Our Spaces?

In interior design, the perception of beauty, color, and the energetic feel of a space varies due to a myriad of personal and cultural factors:

1. Cultural Background: Different cultures perceive colors, patterns, and spaces differently. A hue or motif considered beautiful or spiritually significant in one culture might be perceived differently in another.

2. Personal Experiences & Memories: Personal associations can deeply influence how one perceives colors and design elements. A color or object reminiscent of a cherished memory might evoke a sense of warmth and comfort.

3. Psychological Factors: While there’s a general understanding in color psychology (like blue being calming), personal experiences can override these generalizations. Someone with a traumatic experience related to water might not find blue calming at all.

4. Sensory Perception: We don’t all perceive sensory inputs in the same way. Some are more sensitive to tactile sensations, while others might be more attuned to visual or auditory stimuli. This affects how we experience and energetically resonate with a space.

5. Energetic Sensitivity: Some individuals claim to sense the energy of a room more acutely, often termed as being “empathic” or sensitive to the energy of spaces and objects. They might pick up on subtle energies that others may overlook.

6. Personal Aesthetics: Individual exposure to art, design, and different environments throughout life can refine one’s sense of beauty, influencing how they perceive and resonate with different design styles and colors.

7. Emotional & Mental State: Our current emotional and mental states can impact how we perceive spaces. A person in a serene state might find beauty in simplicity, while someone in a tumultuous phase might connect with chaotic, vibrant designs.

8. Physical Conditions: Conditions like color blindness can significantly alter color perception, and other physical conditions might influence sensitivity to certain materials or lighting conditions.

9. Personal Values & Beliefs: Someone who deeply values sustainability might energetically connect better with a space designed using eco-friendly materials, feeling it’s more “authentically beautiful.”

10. Age: As we progress through life, our preferences and perceptions can evolve. Children might be drawn to brighter, varied colors, while adults might appreciate subtler, nuanced palettes.

Ultimately, beauty, color, and energy perception in interior design are deeply subjective. Every individual’s unique tapestry of experiences, beliefs, and sensitivities shapes how they interact with and feel about the spaces they inhabit

How Do You See Bohemian Style?

If I ask you what your style is, if you are like many people, you don’t know or you might say “eclectic” which usually means a mish mash of all your stuff. If you are more specific, you may say something like ‘Bohemian”. But I bet the picture in your mind of what “Bohemian” style is, is different than what I picture and what the next person who likes Bohemian style pictures.

There may be a common theme, as in a piece of music, but we all see it and feel it a little differently in our mind’s eye.

What does that mean? More opportunity for magic! Yes!

After all, if we all had the same exact idea of what Bohemian style means, all our rooms would look the same. If there was a set of rules that said Bohemian style IS THIS, then that might give you guidance but isn’t that just poking you to break that rule and do what you want? I know it is for me!

Examples of Bohemian Style

As an example, many picture Bohemian style as a maximalist style with loads of colors, patterns, plants, and collections from world travels as well as thrift and antique stores.

My vision of Bohemian is that but is more clean, modern and curated. See some examples below.

See how all these rooms are still  different?

What do you picture when you think of Bohemian style? How about other styles?

When we all express our own version of Bohemian the way we see it,  then the room tells our own story, not the story of the Bohemian Style Definition Maker.

The possibilities are endless, as in a dance choreography performed by different dancers, or a beautiful piece of music is played by different musicians.

How Do You Se Color?

Another great example is color. This is one reason color is confusing to so many people.

We all see color differently based on our eyesight and how it is interpreted in our brains.

The lenses of our eyes can change with age, also affecting how we see things. The color is affected by the light when we see it, the surrounding colors, and the context we see the color in.

That is why the term “undertones” as most use it makes no sense. They are just someone’s subjective opinion about what they see at that time and place.  The next person may see it differently.

That same color will look different as soon as you move it to another place, another context, and in a different light.

“Undertones” can’t be measured or repeated, which is why they are so confusing. 

Color makes people feel differently. Blue may make you feel relaxed and serene, yet someone else may have had a horrible experience in a blue room and it stresses them out.

We all see, feel and interpret color differently.  Some generalizations may be made, as in dance and music, but we all walk away with a different idea of how it looks and feels to us.

Of course, that means……you guessed it……more opportunity for magic.

More variety, more interpretations, more layers, more stories, more unique visions, more beauty in the world.  

I’m all in.

Learn More

Did you find this interesting?  Learn more in some of my other articles on this subject.

 Learned to All my Interior Design Problems by Playing Music.

Also, see Part 2, Learned to All my Interior Design Problems by Playing Music- Every Part Must Do Its Part.

You might also enjoy my series on lessons I learned about Interior Design from dancing:

I Learned To Solve All My Interior Design Problems by Dancing: The Magic of Transitions.

I Learned To Solve All My Interior Design Problems by Dancing : Surprise Me.

I Learned To Solve All My Interior Design Problems by Dancing and Learning to Tell a Great Story.

I Learned To Solve All My Interior Design Problems by Dancing- Bring on the Bling.

I Learned to Solve all My Interior Design Problems by Dancing- There Can Only Be One Star.

I Learned to Solve all My Interior Design Problems by Dancing- Be Brave.

I Learned to Solve all My Interior Design Problems by Dancing- Create Drama with Shapes.

I Learned to Solve all My Interior Design Problems by Dancing- Create Drama with a Focal Point.

I Learned to Solve all My Interior Design Problems by Dancing.

Let’s Create Some Magic

You know you want to. Quit procrastinating. Come on, let’s do this thing:)

Curious about your Interior Design style? Take the quiz and find out.

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Precision is Beautiful

Precision equals beauty. I know, it sounds weird. But it’s true!

Today in drum class, as we were practicing our “ornaments” or rolls coming before the main notes, my teacher Amir said, “You are all playing very precisely today. It is very beautiful.

Our ornaments are a series of three notes played with the left hand that lead up to the main note played with the right hand. What makes them precise and beautiful is that each note is clear, evenly spaced, starts with lower volume, and gets higher until the main note is the loudest. At its fastest, it might sound like the whoosh of a car going by, but the goal is to make every note precise, audible, and even so you can hear the beauty of the whole phrase.

It is not as beautiful if you play it fast, unevenly, or too loud, so the notes are muddy rather than standing on their own. 

Of course, I start thinking of Interior Design, haha. 

Precision in the small elements that highlight the main pieces are just as important in design as in music.

Precision and Interior Design

What does this have to do with Interior Design?

The older I get, the more I realize the connections between all things artistic. The same principles apply to making the magic happen in Interior Design or any other art form. You just need to open your eyes, listen, and feel it to notice.

It always seems to come back to the alignment between art (creativity), science (color), and energy (connection) that makes the magic happen. I use this alignment to create both beautiful dance pieces and interiors.

Precision in interior design refines the art, science, and energy of a space by:

1. Art: Ensuring every element is intentionally chosen, enhancing aesthetics and storytelling.
2. Science: Balancing scale, proportion, and functionality for optimal spatial harmony.
3. Energy: Creating purposeful flow and mood through meticulous placement and selection.

In essence, precision harmonizes the aesthetics, color and energy for a beautiful and extraordinary space.

When precision is employed to narrate your story through accentuating art, arranging accessories, or choosing colors, it elevates your space from beautiful to extraordinary.

Precision and the Art of Interior Design

Precision in interior design enhances the art of a space or what makes it beautiful to you by:

Focused Emphasis: It allows you to deliberatly highlighting of key artistic elements to create focal points that captivate and resonate with you. For example, when you arrange accessories to highlight a main element, such as a fireplace, coffee table, or bookshelf, the accessories are like the small notes in the ornament leading to the main note in the music. Perfectly done, all the pieces and the whole are beautiful.

Coordinated Aesthetics: Precision ensures that every design element, from color choices to furniture placement, works in harmony, resulting in a visually pleasing and cohesive environment.

Optimal Balance: It achieves a perfect balance between various design elements, preventing overcrowding or underutilization of space, for a more beautiful and functional room.

Enhanced Personalization: Through precision, I can help you tailor the space to make it more meaningful and beautiful to you.

Intentional Storytelling: It allows the intentional use of design elements to tell your story or convey a specific mood, making your space not just beautiful but also meaningful and engaging.

As in music, the clarity, spacing, and volume of the note is important.

Each piece should stand on its own because it is beautiful and has its own story to tell that relates to the room’s theme.

Attention to Detail: Precision means paying attention to the smallest details, ensuring that nothing disrupts the overall aesthetic, resulting in a more beautiful environment. 

In other words, precision in interior design transforms a space into a work of art, where every element is purposefully chosen and arranged to create a visually stunning and emotionally resonant environment that speaks to your sense of beauty and aesthetics.

Precision and the Color of Interior Design

Precise color is beautiful. It comes from knowing color science and picking perfectly matched and harmonious colors based on their lightness, saturation, or hue angle. 

Precision and the application of color science can have a profound impact on the look and feel of your space:

Color Psychology: Precision in color selection based on color psychology can evoke specific emotions. For example, warm colors like red and orange can create a cozy and inviting atmosphere, while cool colors like blue and green can induce a sense of calm and relaxation.

Visual Perception: Understanding color theory allows for precise manipulation of spatial perception. Light colors can make a room feel more expansive, while dark colors can add coziness and intimacy.

Harmonious Palettes: Applying color science ensures that color palettes are harmonious, with precise combinations of hues, shades, and tints that complement each other, resulting in a more beautiful environment.

Accents and Focal Points: Precision in color placement can draw attention to specific areas or objects in the room, creating focal points.

Mood Enhancement: The precise use of color can create the mood you want in each space. Vibrant and energetic colors can make a room feel lively, while muted and analogous color schemes can create a tranquil atmosphere.

Personalization: By considering your color preferences and the intended function of the space, precision in color choices ensures that the room reflects your tastes and needs.

Cohesion and Flow: A carefully planned color scheme ensures that each room in the space flows seamlessly into the next, creating a cohesive and harmonious feel throughout. It can also be used to create a flow from the exterior to the interior.

In summary, precision and the application of color science in interior design enable the deliberate creation of a space’s look and feel, allowing for the manipulation of emotions, spatial perception, and overall aesthetics to align with the intended purpose and atmosphere of the environment.

Precision and the Energy of Interior Design

Precision in interior design plays a pivotal role in shaping the energy dynamics of a space, influenced by the collective energy emitted from every object:

Harmonious Interactions: Objects in a room emit their own energy based on material, color, and history. Precision ensures these objects resonate harmoniously, fostering a unified and positive ambiance.

Balanced Vibrations: Every piece, from furniture to accessories, emits vibrational energy. Meticulous placement ensures these energies don’t clash, maintaining equilibrium in the room’s overall vibe.

Amplified Intent: Precision emphasizes intentional selections, meaning each item is chosen for a purpose. This clarity and purposefulness enhance the positive energies in the space.

Emotional Resonance: A precisely designed space can evoke specific emotions, be it serenity from a carefully chosen color palette or warmth from strategically placed lighting.

Optimized Flow: Precision avoids energy blockages. A well-thought-out layout ensures energy circulates freely, affecting how open and breathable a room feels.

Elevated Aesthetics: When objects are thoughtfully curated and placed, the beauty is amplified, making the space feel more inviting and uplifting.

In essence, precision in interior design is akin to orchestrating a harmonious symphony where each object’s energy contributes to the room’s collective feel, ensuring it aligns with the desired ambiance and emotional impact.

Learn More

Find this blog interesting? See other articles in this series.

I Learned to All my Interior Design Problems by Playing Music.

I Learned to Solve All My Interior Design Problems by Dancing and Playing Music- Every Part Must Play Its Part.

I Learned to Solve All My Interior Design Problems by Dancing and Playing Music- We all Hear Music Differently.

You might also enjoy my series on lessons I learned about Interior Design from dancing:

I Learned To Solve All My Interior Design Problems by Dancing: The Magic of Transitions.

I Learned To Solve All My Interior Design Problems by Dancing : Surprise Me.

I Learned To Solve All My Interior Design Problems by Dancing and Learning to Tell a Great Story.

I Learned To Solve All My Interior Design Problems by Dancing- Bring on the Bling.

I Learned to Solve all My Interior Design Problems by Dancing- There Can Only Be One Star.

I Learned to Solve all My Interior Design Problems by Dancing- Be Brave.

I Learned to Solve all My Interior Design Problems by Dancing- Create Drama with Shapes.

I Learned to Solve all My Interior Design Problems by Dancing- Create Drama with a Focal Point.

I Learned to Solve all My Interior Design Problems by Dancing.

Are You Ready to Create Your Masterpiece?

Now that you know some of the elements that work together to create your perfect space, are you ready to take action to make it happen in your home? If you knew absolutely for certain that creating a perfect space would create a better life for you, you would do it, wouldn’t you?

Let’s tell your unique story and find the alignment of art, science, and energy that makes you happy.  Let me help you take that trip to your perfect space in a Ferrari instead of a stagecoach. Try my Aligned Design consultation and let’s get started.

Curious about your Interior Design style? Take the quiz and find out.

Aligned Design©– All Rights Reserved.

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Prices are subject to change without notice.

Call 907-362-0065 today

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There Can Only Be One Star in Every Show

There can only be one star in every show.

This one star shines brighter than all the rest.

The audience knows that is the person that will bring the magic to them.

They can’t take their eyes off the star. 

The Star Can Be The Group- If They Dance as One.

But what if there is a group of performers? The star is the group and the unified magical thing they create dancing as one.

 But only if they dance as one.

The whole is better than any individual part.  American Tribal Style dance is a great example. This seemingly choreographed group dance is actually improvised, with each dancer following one leader, perfectly unified. They are dancing for and with each other, rather than the audience.

It’s like watching a flock of birds flying together, creating the illusion of one mythic bird flying. 

Be Like the Great Simorgh

In Persian dance, there is the legend of the Great Simorgh. It is the most beautiful bird in all the world. All the birds have a conference to decide how they can find this amazing bird to be their king They go on a journey together to search for it. The journey is long and arduous. One by one they drop out as they let their egos and weaknesses get the best of them. In the end, they meet a wizard, and he tells them they will find the Great Simorgh over the big lake they see in the distance. At this time there are only 30 birds left. They look and look, but all they see is their own reflection in the lake. They finally realize they are the Great Simorgh. The unity of their flock with all their colors creates the reflection of 1 big beautiful bird. It is the most beautiful in all the world because of the beauty of their unity,  finally working together.

The Simorgh shows the power of unity in creating beauty.

Guess what happens if you have a group of performers that are not unified, and they all want to be the star?

It falls apart.

It feels chaotic. The audience does not know who to give their attention to.

Interior Design Lessons from Dance

I learned to solve all my Interior Design problems by dancing. This is Part 5 on my revelations from dancing on how to create your perfect space.

The older I get, the more I realize the connections between all things artistic. The same principles apply to making the magic happen in Interior Design or any other art form. You just need to open your eyes, listen, and feel it to notice.

It always seems to come back to the alignment between art (creativity), science (color), and energy (connection) that makes the magic happen. I use this alignment to create beautiful dance pieces and interiors.

Learn more in my other four articles:

I Learned to Solve all My Interior Design Problems by Dancing- Be Brave.

I Learned to Solve all My Interior Design Problems by Dancing- Create Drama with Shapes.

I Learned to Solve all My Interior Design Problems by Dancing- Create Drama with a Focal Point.

I Learned to Solve all My Interior Design Problems by Dancing.

How Does Having One Star Relate to Interior Design?

As in dance, it is important to have only one star in the design of your perfect space. Pick one inspiration piece to build your room around and let it shine! All the other parts should be supporting characters in the beauty of your space.

Too many “stars” do not give the eyes a place to rest. The room can feel chaotic and give a sense of dis-harmony, never giving you a sense of peace or relaxation. It’s like too many cooks in a kitchen.

Here are some examples of different inspiration pieces that were the “stars” of some of my edesigns. Each design also gives a list of the star and supporting characters, which contain affiliate links. This means I may earn a small commission if you buy something at no additional cost to you.

Make Art the Star of Your Room

Often, the star of the show is your art. The art can be a mural, paintings, sculpture, textiles, or a variety of things. For it to be the star, it needs to be of a large enough scale to stand out in the room. For example, in the Edesign rendering below, the star is the mural.

Below, the star is the wall mural, which is created from my fractal art, “The Shiny Ones”.

Below, in the office the star of the show is the art. I used my fractal art, from my “Watercolor” collection as the basis of the room, and everything works to support it.  

In the living room below, that star is again the fractal art, from my collection called Great Conjunction. The rest of the room works to highlight the art and harmonize with it.

Make a Great Rug the Star of Your Room

In the room below the star is the beautiful accent rug, which commands your attention.

Make a Unique Piece of Furniture the Star

Below, the star is the amazing hot pink desk. The color alone captures your attention more than anything else. It was selected to harmonize with the outdoor view.

Are You Ready to Create Your Perfect Space?

Let’s tell your unique story and find the alignment of art, science, and energy that makes you happy.  Let me help you take that trip to your perfect space in a Ferrari instead of a stagecoach. Try my Aligned Design consultation and let’s get started.

Curious about your Interior Design style? Take the quiz and find out.

Aligned Design©– All Rights Reserved.

Terms of Service  |  Privacy Policy  |  Disclaimer |  Brochure

Prices are subject to change without notice.

Call 907-362-0065 today

Bravery.

It is a good quality to have, in dancing,  design, and life.

Often, we are afraid to put ourselves out there and be who we really are for fear others will judge us.

Guess what? They will judge us no matter what we do. It is human nature to make meaning of everything.  So, why give others the power to control how we live?

Be yourself. Be brave. Let your uniqueness shine through in your dance or design. It is a beautiful gift you give to yourself and others.

And, bravery makes the magic happen. Read on to learn how.

Through my journey in dance, I’ve discovered profound insights that transcend the world of Interior Design. As I’ve grown older, the web of connections between various forms of art has become increasingly apparent. These revelations hold true whether I’m crafting captivating dance compositions or curating awe-inspiring interiors.

It all centers on a delicate fusion of art (creativity), the science of color, and the energy of connection. This alchemical blend is the place where magic is born. It’s a guiding principle I apply both to choreographing beautiful dance pieces and crafting enchanting living spaces.

Why Bravery Matters

Dancing demands bravery.

Every performance is a dance with vulnerability. Questions whirl around: Will the audience connect with my choreography? Will I falter or forget a step? What if I lose balance during a spin, drop the sword I balance on my head, or suffer a costume mishap? And yes, some of these fears have come true. The blinding stage lights, the unpredictable variables – the list of worries is endless.

But then, clarity strikes: This isn’t about me.

Dancing is a gift I offer the audience, hoping to enrich their experience. They don’t wish for my missteps; they’re there to lose themselves in the art. To overcome this self-imposed barrier, I’ve learned to silence the incessant chatter in my mind.

When this mental blockade lifts, that’s when the enchantment begins. It’s a palpable connection between performer and observer, where emotions are shared, stories resonate, and for those moments, they dance vicariously through me. This profound exchange elevates the performance, making it memorable for both parties.

In the Middle East, this transcendent experience is termed “tarab” – a deep emotional surrender to the music or performance, leading to transformative ecstasy.

If you’ve either danced or been an entranced observer, you’ll recognize the magic of “tarab”.

But remember, this alchemy only ignites when bravery prevails.

Dance with abandon. Silence your doubts, embrace your essence, and let your unique light shine unapologetically.

Bravery in dance can lead to tarab, or emotional transformation of yourself and your audience.

I remember this moment in particular as one of bravery. The Persian dance company I was the Assistant Director for was to be the opening act at an event that was for President Obama’s visit to Anchorage several years ago.

We walked out on stage beforehand to check it out, before the performance. And holy cow, looking at the stadium…there are a lot of seats out there! What was I thinking? OMG. Breath in, Breath out. It will be fine. And it was.

Be brave and tell your story in your dance or your room. Let who you are shine through. Who cares what anyone else thinks. That is none of your business.

Be Brave in Your Space

I take my lesson of bravery into my design world and how I create the magic for people in their spaces. I hope these thoughts will help you open your mind to possibility!

Many people are afraid when it comes to designing their homes, especially when it comes to color.

They play it safe and go neutral, fearing that using color will be “too much” of something.

They pick designs off Pinterest that tell someone else’s story.

Many do not really know what they like so they pick what others tell them they should like.

They design their home by a committee from the opinions of friends and family.

Why not just tell your own story? The important thing is that you walk through your space every day and think “Wow, I love this”. Breathe in, Breathe out. Joy.

Take a chance and try something new. A new approach, a new style, new colors.

You can always change your mind later if you don’t like it or you evolve and want something new. 

Be Brave

In my role as a designer, I often encounter requests for styles or color palettes that differ from my personal preferences. That’s perfectly fine because it’s not about me; it’s about you. However, I infuse a part of myself into each design, enhancing the collaborative process. It’s akin to the profound connection, known as “tarab,” between a performer and their audience.

My personal taste leans towards a curated, elegant Global Style/Bohemian aesthetic, characterized by rich jewel tones, particularly blues, greens, and purples. I’m passionate about bringing the outdoors inside and creating sustainable designs, often featuring my own fractal art home decor.

For this article, I ventured out of my comfort zone, crafting a design that deviates from my usual color palette and style. It serves as an example, encouraging you to fearlessly embrace new ideas. Be courageous, and see where it leads.

I began with an intriguing rug that sparked my interest, even though its colors were a departure from my norm, particularly the dominant shade of orange, which happens to be my least favorite color. The design organically evolved into a mid-century modern style, guided by the rug’s suggestion. The result? A vibrant color scheme featuring orange, purple, and a captivating green. I explored various paint color options, all of which I found appealing. Despite this departure from my usual style, the design still retains elements of Bohemian flair and incorporates my fractal energy art, staying true to my essence.

I love it. How about you? The takeaway is to summon your bravery. Embrace the unknown, and stay open to the wonderful surprises it might bring.

Bravery allows you to be open to creating the perfect space for you, which can support your personal transformation so you can live the life you dream of.

Bravery when designing your space can support your personal transformation to becoming the person you dream of being and living the life you want. 

Are You Ready to Create Your Perfect Space?

Are you ready to tell your unique story and find the alignment of art, science, and energy that makes you happy?  Let me help you take that trip to your perfect space in a Ferrari instead of a stagecoach. Try my Aligned Design consultation and let’s get started.

Curious about your Interior Design style? Take the quiz and find out.

Get Your Free Report

Aligned Design©– All Rights Reserved.

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Prices are subject to change without notice.

Call 907-362-0065 today

I learned to solve all my Interior Design problems by dancing. This is Part 3 on my revelations from dancing, on how to create a drama with shapes

As I mentioned in my first article, it becomes increasingly clear that the threads of artistic expression weave a tapestry that transcends individual disciplines. The principles that animate the magic in Interior Design are akin to those that breathe life into any art form. The key lies in our ability to perceive, to truly see, listen, and feel.

At the heart of this revelation lies a profound alignment—an exquisite dance—between art, science, and energy. Here, art signifies the wellspring of creativity, where the soul’s expression takes form. Science, in the nuanced palette of color, offers the brushstrokes that breathe life into our visions. And energy, the connective force, weaves these elements into harmonious compositions.

This alignment is the crucible from which beauty emerges, both in the graceful movements of dance and in the curated aesthetics of interiors. It’s a testament to the universality of artistic expression, reminding us that the magic is not confined to one domain but is a living, breathing tapestry woven through the human experience.

Create Drama With Shapes

In the world of dance, the stage is our canvas, and every motion crafts a distinct shape. Each sweep of an arm, twist of a leg, or expression on the face traces lines that stretch, not just within the confines of the dancer’s form, but resonate outward into the encompassing space. These movements send forth energy, akin to an artist painting ethereal images in the air. While invisible to the eye, these ‘paintings’ weave a tangible tapestry of emotions palpable to both the performer and the audience.

When props like silk veils come into play, they amplify this visual drama, offering a tangible manifestation of the energy being channeled, extending the dancer’s presence even further.

These lines and shapes we create can be varied: straight or sinuous, brief or elongated, crafting patterns like circles or figure eights, spanning horizontally, vertically, or even diagonally.

It’s crucial for a dancer to utilize the stage’s entirety, ensuring a multi-dimensional dance landscape that traverses height, depth, and breadth. This dynamic spatial exploration is key to capturing an audience’s attention.

However, the beauty lies in balance. While diversity in movements adds intrigue and drama, cohesion is paramount. It’s the delicate dance between variety and unity that captivates. If you’re sketching the air with curvaceous lines, own that narrative. In essence, dance with intent, and let every motion echo the core theme you’ve chosen.

For example, a slow, beautiful dance will likely be filled with curves that move fluidly from one move to the next without stopping. There may be an occasional straight line such as a head slide here and there, but they are just dramatic accents.

Dancing to a drum solo may be filled with both verticle and horizontal lines, with lots of up and down motions and slides of the head, arms, chest, and hips. You might add a chest or hip circle or figure 8 every once in a while, more as a contrast that accentuates the straight lines by comparison.

The shapes help tell your story and give your dance…or your room…. drama, movement, and energy.

Create Drama with Shapes in Your Space

The same concepts apply to Interior Design. Consider what shapes appeal to you. Lots of curves give the room softness, a more feminine look, and are more characteristic of global and vintage styles. Straight lines tend to be more sleek, modern, minimalistic, and masculine.

Straight Lines

Straight lines tend to give a  room a more sleek, modern, and masculine feel. Notice how the lines in the windows create a feeling of movement up and down, yet also create interesting angular shadows.

Below, the straight lines in the rug create a sense of dramatic movement and energy.

Curves

This design uses curves as the theme in the art, lamps, and bed frame details. The room has a more relaxed, feminine, global style look and feel.

Mixing it Up

In this example, I mixed it up by using primarily curved lines in the windows and art but with the addition of straight lines in some of the accents, like the pillows.. While this mixture feels a little more balanced and neutral in terms of masculine and feminine energy to me, it feels more relaxed, with less of a sense of movement that some of the other rooms had. It feels more “still”.

In this Greek Style design with energy art, there are a variety of straight and curved lines in the furniture, art and accessories.

Ultimately, the amount of drama, movement, and excitement you want in your space is personal taste.  The type of lines you draw in space with all the objects in the room affect the energy, and how you will feel using the space.

Other Ways to Create Drama with Shapes

Incorporating various shapes in interior design is a potent tool to infuse drama and transform a room’s energy. Shapes can dictate the mood, flow, and visual interest of a space. Here’s how to harness their power:

1. Play with Scale: Oversized shapes, whether it’s a large round mirror, a massive rectangular artwork, or an expansive oval rug, can instantly become a dramatic focal point in a room.
2. Contrast Shapes: Juxtaposing geometric with organic shapes can create a dynamic tension. A square coffee table against a curvilinear sofa, for instance, offers visual intrigue.
3. Layer Textures: The shape of a texture, like the pattern on a geometric rug layered beneath a circular table, can add depth and energy to a space.
4. Architectural Drama: Consider adding bold architectural elements like archways, dome ceilings, or multi-level platforms.
5. Bold Patterns: Geometric patterns on wallpapers, tiles, or fabrics can bring in vibrancy and movement. Consider herringbone floors or hexagonal backsplashes.
6. 3D Elements: Introduce 3D geometric elements, such as floating hexagonal shelves or sculptural furniture pieces, to break the two-dimensional plane.
7. Varied Lighting: Shapes aren’t just solid objects; the play of light and shadow can form abstract shapes. Using angular pendant lights or spherical lanterns can cast intriguing shadows, adding drama and dimension.
8. Nooks & Dividers: Create nooks or partitions using shapes, like a semi-circular reading nook or triangular alcoves, to break up spaces and add interest.
9. Color Play: Highlight specific shapes using bold colors. A rectangular feature wall in a bold hue or a circular ottoman in a standout fabric can change the room’s energy.
10. Strategic Placement: Positioning shapes in unexpected places can shift energy. Placing triangular shelves at varying heights or a series of circular decals in a cascading pattern can draw the eye and create a sense of movement.
11. Reflective Surfaces: Mirrors, especially in unusual shapes, can transform and expand a space while adding a touch of drama.
12. Transitional Spaces: Utilize unique shapes in transitional areas, like spiral staircases in hallways or round mats in entryways, to change the room’s flow and energy.

In essence, shapes in interior design are more than mere aesthetics. They’re storytellers and mood shifters. By thoughtfully and creatively incorporating them, you can dictate the narrative of a space, imbuing it with drama, energy, and emotion.

Learn More

Learn more in some of my other blog articles in this series.

• I Learned to All my Interior Design Problems by Playing Music.
• I Learned to Solve All My Interior Design Problems by Dancing and Playing Music- Every Part Must Play Its Part.
• I Learned to Solve All My Interior Design Problems by Dancing and Playing Music- We all Hear Music Differently.
• I Learned to Solve All My Interior Design Problems by Dancing and Playing Music- Precision is Beautiful.
• You might also enjoy my series on lessons I learned about Interior Design from dancing:
• I Learned to Solve All My Interior Design Problems by Dancing-Distractions Ruin Everything
• I Learned To Solve All My Interior Design Problems by Dancing: The Magic of Transitions.
• I Learned To Solve All My Interior Design Problems by Dancing : Surprise Me.
• I Learned To Solve All My Interior Design Problems by Dancing and Learning to Tell a Great Story.
• I Learned To Solve All My Interior Design Problems by Dancing- Bring on the Bling.
• I Learned to Solve all My Interior Design Problems by Dancing- There Can Only Be One Star.
• I Learned to Solve all My Interior Design Problems by Dancing- Be Brave.
• I Learned to Solve all My Interior Design Problems by Dancing- Create Drama with Shapes.
• I Learned to Solve all My Interior Design Problems by Dancing- Create Drama with a Focal Point.
• I Learned to Solve all My Interior Design Problems by Dancing.

Are You Ready to Create Your Perfect Space?

Are you ready to tell your unique story and find the alignment of art, science and energy that makes you happy?  Enlist the help of an expert to take that trip to your perfect space in a Ferrari instead of a stagecoach. Try my Aligned Design consultation and let’s get started.

Curious about your Interior Design style? Take the quiz and find out.

Aligned Design©– All Rights Reserved.

Terms of Service  |  Privacy Policy  |  Disclaimer |  Brochure

Prices are subject to change without notice.

Call 907-362-0065 today

Light isn’t merely an illuminating force—it’s a storyteller, a guide, and an artist. In the intricate dance between shadow and glow, there lies the potential to transform any space into an evocative sanctuary of feelings and experiences.

As in my philosophy of Aligned Design, the combination of artistry, science, and energectic connection captivates the power of light.and its ability to spotligh the unique facets of your environment and create an atmosphere of enchantment.

Light Makes the Magic Happen.

I have a love for many forms of art, including one of my favorites, dance. I am always noticing the similarities between what is important in the different art forms I explore.

I had the privilege of attending a dance workshop titled “From Practice to Professional Presentation,” led by the renowned dancer and instructor, Helia Bandeh. This immersive experience delved deep into the nuances of creating a visually captivating stage or backdrop for dance performances, whether live or on video. Helia shed light on crucial aspects such as décor, lighting, and costuming.

It’s astonishing how much it intersects with the principles of Interior Design! In this article, we’ll zoom in on the magic of lighting.

According to Helia, “light is the most important element in your visual presentation and can totally transform the performance or the space”. I agree, whether it is dance or Interior Design.

Light Shapes Perception

The power of light extends beyond mere illumination. It serves as a director, guiding one’s gaze. Whether illuminating an entire auditorium – encompassing both audience and stage – or narrowing down to a singular performer, light dictates where our attention lies.

In our homes and workplaces, strategic lighting can accentuate a piece of art, create a cozy reading nook, illuminate a kitchen countertop, or guide a path. The right play of light can alter our perception of space, both in terms of size and ambiance.

For instance, during a performance, when a specific area is spotlighted, it not only commands focus but can also transform the vastness of a stage or room into a cozy, intimate setting, allowing external distractions to fade into obscurity.

Light is the Master of Color

In the realm of the stage, light serves as a masterful tool for manipulating color, all without altering the physical aspects of the set. Consider, for instance, the transformative effect of various lights on a dancer adorned in a white dress. Colored lighting has the capacity to envelop the backdrop, intensify the hues enveloping the performer, or instill a distinct mood.

Within your interior spaces, the presence of colored light can profoundly impact the perceived warmth or coolness of the surroundings, thereby orchestrating the very essence of your colors. Here, light reigns supreme as it can effortlessly usher in a festive ambiance, as exemplified by the twinkling charm of Christmas lights.

Light is the Maestro of Drama

Sharp, hard light, characterized by its pronounced contrast between luminosity and shadow, isn’t just a source of illumination; it’s a storytelling tool. By carving out a space with stark differences between light and dark, hard light can evoke intense emotions, channel focus, and create a cinematic atmosphere.

Imagine a room bathed in soft, uniform light. Now, introduce a singular beam of hard light, spotlighting a piece of art on the wall or a vintage table in the center. Instantly, that object becomes the room’s protagonist, drawing eyes and sparking intrigue. This interplay isn’t merely about visibility, but about imbuing significance.

Similarly, in the realm of theater and dance, hard lighting can elevate a scene or movement, turning a simple gesture into a moment of raw, emotional power. The way it carves shadows and highlights can echo the intricacies of the human condition – our vulnerabilities, our strengths, our moments of introspection.

In essence, light doesn’t just illuminate; it punctuates, intensifies, and narrates, shaping our experience of any given space or moment.

Light- The Ultimate Designer’s Tool

In the realm of design, light isn’t just an element; it’s the alchemy that metamorphoses a space. “Light stands as the cornerstone of design, wielding the power to wholly redefine an environment.”

As I journey through life, my appreciation deepens for the interwoven tapestry of artistic disciplines. The parallels between Interior Design and other artistic endeavors are striking. At their core, they share foundational principles that breathe life into masterpieces. It requires a keen sense of observation, a discerning ear, and a heart that resonates with the ambient energy to truly discern these connections.

The artistry (innate creativity), melded with the precision of science (understanding of colors), and the profoundness of energy (the emotive connection), orchestrates a harmonious ballet of elements. This trinity of alignment is my guiding compass, allowing me to choreograph exquisite dance performances and craft evocative interior spaces.

Light- The Unspoken Director

Within the canvas of your interior, light is the artist’s brush, poised to highlight key facets of your environment. It possesses the remarkable ability to draw the viewer’s focus with pinpoint precision – whether it’s accentuating a cherished piece of art, carving out a serene reading alcove, illuminating a workspace in your kitchen or office, or gently guiding you along a well-defined pathway.

Moreover, the art of spotlighting and dimming is akin to wielding a magician’s wand. It bestows the power to sculpt how we perceive space, deftly crafting an atmosphere of intimacy and charm. Envision yourself nestled before a flickering fireplace, with the remainder of the room bathed in a soft, subdued glow. Or picture a cozy reading nook or a captivating game corner, bathed in the gentle embrace of selectively dimmed lighting, beckoning you to unwind and lose yourself in the moment. These are the artful manipulations of light that transform mere spaces into immersive experiences.

Light- The Master of Energy

The energy of lighting profoundly influences the energy, or ambiance, of a space through how it affects  our senses, emotions, and perceptions:

1. Emotional Resonance: Different lighting can evoke different feelings. Warm, soft lighting often feels cozy and inviting, evoking feelings of relaxation and warmth. In contrast, cool, bright lighting can energize and invigorate a space, making it feel active and alert.

2. Focus and Perception: Lighting can be used to draw attention to specific elements of a room, guiding one’s gaze and perceptions. By spotlighting a particular object or area, it becomes a focal point, altering how the space is experienced. Conversely, shadows can be used to create depth and mystery, lending a room an air of intimacy or contemplation.

3. Spatial Dynamics: The way light spreads throughout a space can make it feel larger or smaller. Bright, evenly distributed light gives the sensation of openness, making a space feel larger. Dim lighting or selectively illuminated areas can make a space feel cozy, intimate, and more segmented.

4. Temporal Ambiance: The changing nature of lighting, especially natural light, sets the rhythm of our day. Morning light can feel fresh and invigorating, while evening light is often warm and settling. By mimicking these natural transitions, artificial lighting can set the mood or change the energy of a room to align with our circadian rhythms.

5. Color Interaction: Light affects the way we perceive colors. The hue and intensity of light can enhance or mute the colors in a room, thereby changing its overall energy. A room bathed in golden hour light will feel vastly different from the same room illuminated by the bluish light of a cloudy day.

6. Cultural and Personal Associations: Different cultures, and even individuals, might have varying associations with light based on experiences and upbringing. For example, candlelight might evoke feelings of romance, spirituality, or introspection depending on one’s personal experiences.

7. Energetic Flow: In metaphysical terms, light is often associated with positive energy flow. A well-lit space is considered to have good ‘Chi’, encouraging vitality, clarity, and well-being.

In essence, the energy of lighting is intrinsically linked with the energy of a space. It’s more than just visibility; the beauty it creates or its effects on color,  it’s about creating an ambiance, invoking emotions, and influencing the very essence of a space’s character.

Learn More

Learn more about some of the unique lessons I have learned about creating great interiors from dance and music in some of my other blog posts below.

• I Learned to All my Interior Design Problems by Playing Music.
• I Learned to Solve All My Interior Design Problems by Dancing and Playing Music- Every Part Must Play Its Part.
• I Learned to Solve All My Interior Design Problems by Dancing and Playing Music- We all Hear Music Differently.
• I Learned to Solve All My Interior Design Problems by Dancing and Playing Music- Precision is Beautiful.
• You might also enjoy my series on lessons I learned about Interior Design from dancing:
• I Learned to Solve All My Interior Design Problems by Dancing-Distractions Ruin Everything
• I Learned To Solve All My Interior Design Problems by Dancing: The Magic of Transitions.
• I Learned To Solve All My Interior Design Problems by Dancing : Surprise Me.
• I Learned To Solve All My Interior Design Problems by Dancing and Learning to Tell a Great Story.
• I Learned To Solve All My Interior Design Problems by Dancing- Bring on the Bling.
• I Learned to Solve all My Interior Design Problems by Dancing- There Can Only Be One Star.
• I Learned to Solve all My Interior Design Problems by Dancing- Be Brave.
• I Learned to Solve all My Interior Design Problems by Dancing- Create Drama with Shapes.
• I Learned to Solve all My Interior Design Problems by Dancing- Create Drama with a Focal Point.
• I Learned to Solve all My Interior Design Problems by Dancing.

Illuminate Your Space with Aligned Design

Light isn’t merely an illuminating force—it’s a storyteller, a guide, and an artist. In the intricate dance between shadow and glow, there lies the potential to metamorphose any space into an evocative sanctuary of feelings and experiences.

Drawing on the sacred triad of artistry, science, and connection, we invite you to embark on an Aligned Design journey with us. Together, we’ll harness the captivating power of light, spotlighting the unique facets of your environment and crafting an atmosphere of intimacy and enchantment.

Imagine your cherished art pieces bathed in precise illumination, a serene reading nook beckoning you to lose yourself in a book, or a workspace radiant with just the right balance of light, enhancing both functionality and ambiance.

Dive into the transformative world of lighting with our specialized consultation, and let’s co-create spaces that don’t just look good, but feel magical

Curious about your Interior Design style? Take the quiz and find out.

Aligned Design©– All Rights Reserved.

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Prices are subject to change without notice.

Call 907-362-0065 today

The Great Conjunction- Now that’s Alignment!

My philosophy of great Interior Design is called Aligned Design and it aligns three key elements of art, science and energy to create magic in your space.

The “Art”,  is what most of us think of as  “Interior Design”, and includes creating beauty by finding and artfully arranging furnishings, decor and art to look gorgeous and function perfectly with your lifestyle.

The “Science”, is about using color science to take your color to the next level of extraordinary.

The “Energy” is all about connection between ourselves and the energy within and around us so we feel great and are supported to be our best selves.

On December 21, 2020, there was a Great Conjunction.  A great conjunction is a conjunction of the planets Jupiter and Saturn, when the two planets appear closest together in the sky. Great conjunctions occur approximately every 20 years when Jupiter “overtakes” Saturn in its orbit.

During the Great Conjunction, I was inspired to create some beautiful fractal energy art and Interior Design highlighting it’s powerful energy and how it could be used in your space. Even though the Great Conjunction has passed, you can still harnass the powerful energy of that event through this energy art in your space to remind you to stay true to your own alignement with who you are.

A Story of the Great Conjunction

Are you Intrigued?

On 12-21-20, the planets “aligned” from our point of view on Earth and a great conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn occurred. 

They appeared closer to each other than they have for hundreds of years, causing them to almost look like one big planet.

So what’s the big deal? Although Jupiter and Saturn’s positions in the sky align “about once every 20 years,”  they haven’t looked this close to us since March 4, 1226. The next one won’t occur until November 4, 2040.

So how does it affect us energetically? Great conjunctions have inspired some people in the past and present to think of them as “omens”.

Planetary conjunctions or “alignments” have always inspired scholars, astronomers, astrologers, and artists such as Dante and Shakespeare to study them or give them meaning.

Art Inspired by the Great Conjunction

While I could not see the Great Conjunction, because here in Alaska we were having a giant winter storm, I could definitely feel the high energy all day. How about you?

In the evening I was inspired to create this series of fractal art pieces. I named the series Great Conjunction. If you like them they are available in a wide variety of home decor products which you can see  at my store at Society 6.

If you really want to be “Aligned”, line them up like this on your wall.

Get Aligned

So what could you do with these wild and colorful, planetary alignment inspired pieces? Here is an example of an Edesign I created using this art to inspire you:)

Look Great, Feel Great, Be Great

Through Aligned Design, you can harmonize art, science, and energy to fashion a vibrant, inviting home that enriches your life.

When your environment thrives, so do you, and this radiates positivity throughout the world.

A well-designed space exudes beauty, mirrors your identity, and facilitates your aspirations. It enhances your well-being, nurtures your connection to nature, and motivates you to embrace your full potential.

As your space transforms into a haven of inspiration, your life echoes with positivity, health, and productivity. It becomes a sanctuary for growth, offering room for learning, quiet reflection, and self-improvement. The shifts are palpable, fostering a profound sense of well-being and motivating you to shine your brightest.

Imagine how that would feel:)

Create Your Aligned Design

Are you ready for your house to look great, feel great and support you to be great? My Aligned Design consultation considers art, science and energy to give you guidance to create the perfect space for you.

Curious about your Interior Design style? Take the quiz and find out.

Aligned Design©– All Rights Reserved.

Terms of Service  |  Privacy Policy  |  Disclaimer |  Brochure

Prices are subject to change without notice.

Call 907-362-0065 today

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