“Signs of life are good design elements”, says Daryll Carter in his book The New Traditional. It can be a challenge in our high-tech society to find a human trace. I think it’s always important to bring any design idea back to the basics, put pencil to paper, use your senses and work with what inspires you.

Carter also makes a statement that rang true with me regarding client relationships. “I always know when my clients and I have reached the defining moment in our relationship. As in any relationship, you have to feel out your partner…. What a relief it is when everyone finally gets comfortable. Nothing is more liberating than truthful, fluid dialogue. The first time a client says ‘I hate it’, I know there is trust. Nothing is more counterproductive than gratuitous deference.”

I think the fireplace treatment above (scanned from “The New Traditional”) is a concept worthy of a new home or a clever way to cover up an unsightly existing fireplace. I’d like a firewood nook to go with it, please.