{Maison Classique}

{Inspiration Room} Italianate Bathroom

j steinberg — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 10:42:55 -0700

Some beloved family friends just completed the construction of their gorgeous Italianate house (more photos to come). Mr. Wonderful and I were married on the grounds of one of their other estates of Neoclassic style. They just build beautiful things! Its a joy to tour their homes when they are finished and all moved in. Here are a few shots of the Master Bathroom. Enjoy!

Antique mirror and cast concrete columns, a streamlined version reminicent of Bernini's Baldacchino in Saint Peter's Basilica. All of the baseboards, crown mouldings, casings, and cobels throughout the estate are custom cast concrete commissioned especially for this project.

A cast stone soaking tub. Bliss! Out that window is a vista of lush, green rolling hills.

The window threw off the lighting in this photo, so I had to convert it to B+W. Notice the smooth barrel vaulting. Just gorgeous.

All photos are property of J Steinberg Design and may not be used or reproduced without permission. Thank you.

{Arch Style} Houses by Jack Arnold

j steinberg — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 13:00:20 -0700

Do you remember my post on Jack Arnold houses and folio books? If not, click here to read it (prepare to be delighted). It was recently brought to my attention that there is a new feature on the Jack Arnold site. Its a "Homeowner Scrapbook". Real photos from real people that have built real Jack Arnold houses. If Jack's portfolio photos aren't enough (which, I'm sure they aren't), be sure to check it out! To visit, click here.

{The 411} Annual Floral Park Walking Tour!

j steinberg — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 10:30:35 -0700

Its that time again...the Annual Floral Park Home and Garden Walking Tour! This is one of the most gorgeous neighborhoods in all of Orange County. Boasting homes on the Historic Registry, many different architectural styles, and that old Americana feel of fully grown trees and white picket fences. A must see for locals interested in fine architecture and home design.

Tickets are $30 at the door. Sat and Sun April 25-26, 2009. Click here for more info on how to purchase tickets and where to park. Click here for the PDF booklet of featured homes and gardens for this years tour. I am going with my mother on Sunday- see you there!

Photo: Federalist style home in Floral Park.

{Editorial} The List, No.1

j steinberg — Sat, 21 Mar 2009 13:17:30 -0700

I am stating the eleven-part editorial feature on The List of the top ten things to invest in when starting your interiors in a new place (whether you are paying rent to the bank or the landlord) or a new stage in life. See this post for the full preface. I would also like to state that, even though I am listing these one through ten, some of them are equally important. Its best to think of all ten as items of A-1 importance.

No. 1: Good Bones

Everyone says this...but what does it really mean? I will speak for classic designers everywhere and say that good bones means great architectural features. Great architectural features include baseboards, crown mouldings, an interesting ceiling treatment (such as beams or coffers), wainscot paneling or bead board, chair rails, framed-out passages, wall niches, great banister and balustrades, tread caps, window casings, door casings, great fireplace mantles, good cabinetry...pretty much all the woodwork and trimming. Also included in "good bones" are good windows, quality doors, good flooring (natural stone or wood plank), good counters in non-dated materials, etc. Things that qualify as bones are permanent and attached and require demolition of some sort to remove.

Good Bones means that you don't have to invest or address the envelope much (or at all) before you start to fill the room with fabulous things. If these foundational "good bones" elements are absent, need repair, or need replacing/restoration due to an outdated style or finish, then you need to put some of your budget here before anything else. When I start a project, if the home already has great architectural features- it saves the client a lot of money because that layer of design is already taken care of. Do it first thing.

If you are a homewoner- go for the whole nine yards. I am a self procliamed "trim junkie"- so you really can't overdo it. The style of what you are doing should coincide with your architecture (for example- don't do Arts and Crafts details in a Federalist style home). Invest in really great, high quality base boards and crown moulding. You can always add wainscotting and an architectural ceiling later. Also keep in mind that good and appropriate architectural features increase the value of a home and help it sell faster.

If you are renting, and you have moulidngs (as typical in older buildings on the east coast, mid-west and other major cities of the west- such as Denver, for instance), put in the elbow grease to renovate them. If there are no moulidngs (as typical in "newer" buildings here on the west coast where building is all about making it cheap and fast and selling it at a premium), decide how long you will be in the space. If its over two or three years, go for a few upgrades- base and crown, for sure. Ask your landlord if they would be willing to match your improvements, you would be surprised how many landlords would agree. At the very least, paint. And paint the entire place- make it home. If your rental has those old acoustic "pop corn" ceilings- that's a great thing to match your landlord on. Get them professionally scraped and re-textured. Apartments and condos only need a few upgrades to become a "wow" space- and they are generally a lot smaller than a house, so your dollar really goes far and covers a lot of ground.

Just because you don't own your rental doesn't mean you can't take pride in where and how you live. The years you spend renting are years of your life that you won't suddenly get back when you decided to carry a mortgage one day. Good design knows not if you rent from the bank or the landlord.

{Arch Style} Jack Arnold, Architect

j steinberg — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 16:41:03 -0800

Do you know about Jack Arnold? Have you seen his work? He's a residential architect that has carved out a little niche for himself in the French County and Olde World style architecture arena...and I am a huge fan. I've noticed (for awhile now) he is running more and more ads in shelter publications, and he also has a few product lines out- so I'm sure Arch_ID minded people are catching the fever. If you remember back about a year, his personal home was featured in Veranda, too. I have the spread somewhere in my files (which I am noting to myself to go and find!).

After viewing many of his houses online and from his folio books of plans (see photos below), I honestly can't pick The One I like best. The hardest part of being an interior designer is "committing" to a home style for us (sorry, Mr. Wonderful- what I say goes!). Its hard to make a final style decision (both exterior and interior) when there are so many lovely choices for everything! Its easy to do for clients, but for me- when I can feel my emotional response to so many different styles- its really hard to pick just one (currently, we are stuck between American Federalist and Jacobean Tudor Revival w/ a bit of French Normandy flare). I want them all- even the stark modern spaces. I love them all.

Anyways, I digress. I do not know Jack Arnold, but maybe our two worlds will bring us together one day. Or maybe I will hire him as my architect one day, purchase an antique from his wife (I'm pretty sure she has a shoppe and does interior decor) or at least purchase his plans (and of course tweak them a little...I am pretty particular and I feel mass produced plans can only take someone so far, especially a classically trained designer who rocks space planning). But oh how I love his work. The character really jumps out at you...the rustic stone, the brick, chimney pots, shutters, and other details...enough to make a (very picky) designer like me very happy- even just to look. I heart Jack Arnold. Jack...if you are out there- I love your work! Consider me a patron in waiting. (I also say this about Derek Gores, the artist responsible for amazing collage portraits).

Go here to see his photo gallery. Really- go, now!

Go here to see his product line for architectural chimney pots.

Go here to see the house plan portfolios he offers....or, walk through the ones I have received as gifts from my mom- who is equally (well, okay, not equally) enamored with interiors and design.

The plan books come in different styles. Each folder has two components: a look book of each plan, and loose plans that relate to the look book. You get a rendering, photographs/details and the actual floor plan (not to scale) of each house. Really fun!

{What Say You} What's Your Favorite Residential Architectural Style?

j steinberg — Sun, 15 Feb 2009 12:55:38 -0800

{Arch Style} Storybook, a Romantic Revival

j steinberg — Wed, 04 Feb 2009 10:50:22 -0800

I am quite sure this is the most charming residential architecture style of all time. Its called Storybook...and doesn't it evoke that childhood fantasy of Princesses (I don't know about you- but I think of Snow White in the enchanted forrest) and, possibly, Hansel and Gretel?! I've adored this style as a young person ever since a Storybook style roofline struck me as different (of course, I didn't know it was called Storybook style then!). This style was hot during all the Romantic Revivals in the 1920's, which explains why there are so many of them (well, relatively speaking- its not like there are entire neighborhoods of nothing but this style!) out here in the suburbs of Los Angeles. Just adorable.

This is a house in my grandparent's neighborhood (which is chalk full of revivals of all types- I love their neighborhood!). Its recently received a facelift and of course, I made a note to photograph it when it was completed! I love the roof, which also happens to (typically) be the most defininig element in Storybook architecture. Here is a close up:

How cool and intricate and amazing. This Storybook roof is more detailed than the norm.

I'm not sure if the photo is coming through all that well- but there are metal components in addition to the various size and shapes of the shingles. Just amazing.

Edited on June 14, 2010 to note that Steve Fuller of Storybook Roofs did this work. Isn't it great?! He contacted me after coming across this blog post. Im so glad he did....because now I know who to hire if I ever need his specialty service! He is the go-to "storybook roof man"! Click here to view more of his work on his website.

And, here is a book you may be interested in! I've had this one since design school- what a great addition to your library! I highly recommend it if you love revival style residential architecture (and, if you are here on Maison Classique...I would assume you do!). Book info: "Storybook Style, America's Whimsical Homes of the Twenties" by Arrol Gellner and Douglas Keister, Penguin Books, 2001.

A fun Link to check out if you want to learn more and some designer jargon regarding this style: StoryBookers.com

Resource for the go-to storybook roof contractor: Steve Fuller of Storybook Roofs

Bi-Monthly Editorial: Green for Everyone

j steinberg — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 23:27:36 -0800

Unless you have been living in a cave for the last few years- you know what "Green" is (its been elevated out of mere colorhood). Green is literally everywhere. Its in magazines and commercials. Its slathered on every imaginable household product. Its the topic of conversation and news sources from here to high heaven (Mea culpa, by the way). Its the pet subject of the Architecture and Design field. Green is what you should be. Its what you should be buying. Its what you should be doing.

I think that Sustainability and Green platforms are very valid. However, with so much media saturation- it can be really hard for the average person to navigate this new world of green and white (rather than shades of gray, we now have shades of mint green and sea mist). What most people don't know, is that there are a lot of bona fide ways to institute green practices and purchases when building and designing a home. Here are ways that everyone can be green. These considerations are things that anyone can integrate into a construction or design project, regardless of style preferences (its not just for the modern folks!).

-Buy Quality Products. When you purchase something of great quality, you increase the longevity of that item. When you purchase an item that will become dated or wear out in a few short years, you increase waste by throwing out the old and you increase consumption by buying new again. Buying for the long term is earth friendly. In the long run, you also end up spend less on great quality because you don't have to replace it time and time again. Consider purchasing the best quality seating, carpet/rugs, and case goods your budget allows for.

-Use quality materials with longevity. When you are selecting surface materials, think longevity and quality. Use materials that are durable and will stand the test of time. Consider materials that won't look dated in the future. Not everything needs to be made from recycled materials to be considered green (in fact, a lot of the hottest "green" materials of today will look dated in the not too distant future). Using and properly maintaining natural stone for counter tops and flooring is, indeed, a green practice.

-Use Green building materials and systems. This is attainable when involved with new construction and additions. When you start a project, tell the architect or designer that you care about the siting and natural heating and cooling of your home. Also ask them to specify green materials (such as formaldehyde free plywood, recycled insulation materials, etc.) and green systems (HVAC vent placement, lighting, window planning, solar panels, etc.) . Green design features that are laid out in planning and green materials that are utilized during construction can be applied to ANY home style. Green building materials are also better for your health (one very important component to the Green movement).

-Buy a built home. When you can, strive to buy an already built home. It is estimated that for every new home, 2.5 tons of construction waste and materials are used. If you buy an already built home, you reduce waste and evade using new resources. This option is not always desirable, but its worth heavy consideration when you are planning on buying a home.

-Buy antique and vintage furnishings. This goes hand in hand with buying an already built structure. By buying vintage and antique furnishings, you prevent using new resources and also prevent the waste associated with producing new furniture. Become familiar with local antique shops, tell them what you are looking for. If you are intimidated, hire a designer to walk you through the ins and outs of buying antiques. Its nothing to be afraid of! (Warning- it can become addicting!). Even people with modern tastes can think about integrating Bauhaus, Mid Century Modern, Art Deco or Post Modern vintage finds.

-Refrain from buying products that use endangered resources. Look for products that use reclaimed wood or other reclaimed materials. Avoid products that use endangered or rare species of wood, stone or metal. The definition of Sustainable is: "to provide for present needs without detracting from tomorrow". Use products that source not only from sustainable materials, but forests as well (contrary to popular thought, not EVERYTHING has to be bamboo!).

-Use low or no Volatile Organic Omissions (VOC) paint. Everyone uses paint. May as well use the healthiest option. See an archived blog about paint brands to learn about Benjamin Moore's line of green paint.

-Use natural cleaning products. Stop buying household brand cleaning products and laundry detergent. They are slowly degrading you and your family's health. Use basic cleaning methods and natural, fragrance-free products. Just because something has a little green logo or "seal of approval" doesn't mean its green. Read the ingredients. Do some homework. Go here for Green Cleaning tips.

-For more Green information for the home, visit these links:

U.S. Green Buliding Council

Green Building Supply

The Green Home Guide

Healthy House Institute

Local Holiday Home Tours

j steinberg — Sat, 15 Nov 2008 00:05:46 -0800

Its the holidays- and that means its holiday home tour season! Holiday home tours are a great way for the community to come together and enjoy the holiday spirit and residential design together. As an addded bonus, many tours are associated with local charities or community organizations. Your ticket and gift purchases helps strenghten our local Southern California communities, so pick a tour and mark your calanders! Click each link for complete details and purhasing information.

Pasadena Holiday Look-In Home Tour: Saturday & Sunday December 6-7, 9:30-4:30 pm, $30-$35 ticket.

Balboa Island Walking Holiday Tour : Sunday December 7, 11-4:00 pm, $20 ticket.

Capistrano Valley Christmas Home Tour: Sunday December 7, 11-5:00 pm, $25-$35 ticket.

Redlands Home Tour: Sunday December 7, 9:30-4:30 pm, $25-$30 ticket.

Vista Holiday Homes Tour. Sunday December 7, 10-4:00 pm, $20-25

If you would like your Holiday Home Tour added to this list, please email the informatin and a web link to janelle@jsteinbergdesign.com.

Beautiful Classic Libraries From Around the World

j steinberg — Sun, 09 Nov 2008 22:47:09 -0800

I just came upon a fantastic blog post highlighting beautiful Classic libraries from around the world. To view the compilation, click here. Enjoy!

-Janelle Steinberg BA, ASID Allied

Principal and Director of Design

J Steinberh Design

Hennessey + Ingalls SALE!

j steinberg — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 06:26:48 -0700

Where: Hennessey + Ingalls Art and Architecture Bookstore

214 Wilshire Boulevard - Santa Monica, CA - 90401

When: November 1-11

What: Annual 20% off EVERYTHING sale!

Why: Unsurpassed selection of architecture, interior design, art and graphic design books and magazines. Plan to spend at least an hour in this gem of a store. After, stop for lunch at Houston's then walk down 3rd street to window shop and trend spot. Park in nearby parking garages or take change for the meters.

I just got my postcard and thought everyone should know!

Along with whatever strikes your fancy, check out some of my favorites from my personal arch/ID library:

-Janelle Steinberg BA, ASID Allied

Principal and Director of Design

J Steinberg Design

Weekly Editorial: The Grande Gesture

j steinberg — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 07:09:30 -0700

A knockout interior design encompasses many, many different components. From the floor plan to the lighting, finishes and accessories- everything must work in unison in order to create a memorable space. Its not enough to address one aspect of design and expect to achieve that "wow" factor. Every layer must work together. Every layer must be calculated, skillfully planned and designed or positioned on purpose. Even when great interiors look effortless- there is a huge amount of thought and reason behind every aspect of a finely finished space.

Enter the Grande Gesture. The Grande Gesture of a space is very important. Its developed by the interior designer via intuition and by information gathered from the client and their lifestyle. (In commercial design, the client's target market, business culture, product or a combination of these factors determine the Grande Gesture.)

Simply put, the Grande Gesture is the style, theme or concept of a design. Everything stems from the Grande Gesture. It must be carried out to the smallest detail and tastefully integrated into the large components of a design. Its one of those "hard to put your finger on it" definitions. And, when you hit the Grande Gesture jackpot, its also one of those "when you know, you know" feelings.

Great design must speak to the Grande Gesture at every level. Whether the Grande Gesture originates from the exterior architecture, the client's personality or the established design direction- it must be present at every turn. The best example is that of a focal point. We designers use focal points to draw attention, to feature something and, ultimately, to "wow". Everything else is supportive of that focal point, holds it up and reinforces that main feature. Its a balancing act resulting in design harmony.

Without a Grande Gesture, elements seem unrelated and choppy. Spaces may contradict themselves. A home will not flow. Styles will not blend or vibrate correctly. Lack of a Grande Gesture feels a little hollow, incomplete and half baked.

Go for the Grande Gesture. Figure out what you want to say by helping your designer when they (hopefully) ask you tons of questions and (hopefully) take tons of notes and (hopefully) think deeply about your project (a great interior designer will do these things!). A powerful Grande Gesture should be stated boldly and quietly repeated in the details to create a truly finished "wow" space.

-Janelle Steinberg BA, ASID Allied

Principal and Director of Design

J Steinberg Design

NRDC Green Building Tour

j steinberg — Thu, 01 May 2008 21:12:00 -0700

I was privileged to attend a private tour of the national Natural Resources Defense Council offices in Santa Monica, California on Wednesday, April 30. The NRDC, located on 2nd Street near the famous 3rd Street Promenade, is the nation's "greenest" building. Platinum LEED Certified, the building uses sustainable building materials, systems and design theories from the basement to the rooftop. The "Green" movement spans many issues: health, environmental concerns, natural resource use, sustainability and animal & people protection. There are many ways for interior designers and architects to "go green", or at least incorporate green concepts and materials into their work. The NRDC building is an outstanding example of innovation and commitment to green systems.

To visit the NRDC Building in Santa Monica, click here.