Each interior designer has their own "look."

We recently returned from a one-month sabbatical as we enter into our 7th year of work and ministry in the (920) area. A sabbatical is traditionally offered in the education sector, but sabbaticals are increasingly common in the private sector for mental and academic inspiration. Upon returning, we were able to refresh and reset for the next year. One of our stops was in Santorini, Greece. Anyone seen “Mamma Mia 1 or 2”? It was certainly a "Wow!" destination. I was deeply inspired by the bright blue hue covering the roofs of pure white stucco'd buildings that housed shops, Airbnbs and homes. 

I wanted to use a few pieces from Greece to refresh and revive my drab, off-white bathroom. I quickly found a local handmade table runner to drape across a bench in my master bathroom and from that came the inspiration for an $80 design re-do. I knew I had bright blue jars and vases at home already and ultimately only needed to purchase a couple of items from Greece. 

I have much more in store for future design projects where I will bring a fusion of Greek, Mediterranean and Modern together. Fusion is my favorite type of interior design. The Exchange Coffee, Mercantile & Eatery is evidence of that. I found inspiration in old neighborhoods and pubs in Dublin and Cork, Ireland and mixed it with the ornate beauty of libraries in Oxford, England. I was even moved by the stout richness of historical Washington D.C. This all came together with additions of thick, rough wood, real leather and a touch of blue which is thought to be a fashion faux pas.  

The push against the “faux pas” is what drove me to paint a blue wall against many black lacquered wood walls. Cow rugs and feathers don't seem to match unless you think FUSION. Fusion is what sets your home or business apart from all others. Fusion is what can mix the past places that inspired you, your own personality, and the modern looks of today and create a space and place of peace and inspiration.