We recently had the privilege of interviewing James Dolenc and Thomas Riker, the design duo behind jamesthomas, for the latest issue of UR Chicago. As is true with all interviews, some great material remained on the cutting room floor.
The one item we eagerly wanted to pick up and dust off is that of design advice. Known for their sophisticated but usable design, any jamesthomas guidance is valuable.
Jump down for some words of wisdom straight from the pros (as well as their original sketch of the 2007 DreamHome bath).
Magnaverde Rule No. 1:
Don't confuse decorating with shopping.
view magnaverde's profile
this year's green is next year's orange (or teal, or magenta). Pick color's you can live with for a long time, don't pick them because they're trendy.
Don't fill a room with designer pieces. Pick one or two as a centerpiece, and work around it with furniture and art work that reflects your own taste.
view josie's profile
Include at least one uber-comfortable piece per room. Design over function is all fine and good, until there's nowhere to sit and appreciate it.
view freneticfloetry's profile
magneverde, you are so right!
view pelicolina's profile
1. To the ones doing their own home: Do not decorate your home for anyone else but yourselves!
2. To decorators: always remember that someone is going to live in that space...
view Stratos's profile
Live in your space for about a year before making any permanent changes to it.
When researching and considering those changes/acquisitions, start at top-of-the line and work down not vice versa, even on the smallest budget.
view John H's profile