Posted on Wed, Jun 23, 2010
I recently attended a fun event at Decorative Materials in Edwards. I love visiting their showroom, which is conveniently located right across the street from our studio. Not only is their staff friendly, informative and helpful, but they also have gorgeous kitchen and bath displays.
Here I am with Marilyn Smith Heaney (she's been with Slifer Designs since 1985 and is one of our top designers) and Tab Bonidy of TAB Architects.
Barbara from Decorative Materials, who hosted the event in conjunction with Smart Shop, has helped me design many kitchens and bathrooms over the years. She is a valuable resource to my team at Slifer Designs.
Earlier this year at their showroom, I was in a more serious mode, perusing selections to consider for a client's home. There were so many beautiful choices and new products I discovered, that I couldn't go wrong with my decisions. Barb's advice was invaluable.
Many homeowners find the task of re-doing a kitchen or bathroom daunting, but by working closely with knowledgeable professionals, the end result is something you can be proud of.
We'd love to help you with your kitchen or bathroom remodel, and with resources nearby like Decorative Materials, I am confident we can design a new room that would make you proud.
Best,
Yvonne Jacobs
yvonne@sliferdesigns.com
Posted on Fri, May 14, 2010
Mountain Living magazine recently included us in their Women In Design story. As one of Colorado's Top Women Owned companies, Beth Slifer's influence on this industry has been enormous. It is nice to see her efforts recognized in this beautiful magazine.
Also this week, Amy Casey won an ASID first place award in the vacation home category for a home she designed in The Chalet's in Vail Village. The soft, pretty feel of Amy's home reminds me of some new fabrics I just saw during a Bergamo presentation by John Brooks.
One of the new Bergamo lines is offered through Sahco and is designed by Lori Weitzner. The inspiration for her new Byzantine line is from the Hajia Sophia Catherdral in Istanbul built around 500 A.D. The architecture, mosaic patterns and gold used throughout the historic church when translated by Weitzner evoke a romantic and harmonious feel that would look great in any home.
At the end of this work week, I find myself flying back to Vail from South Dakota after putting the finishing touches on the Liberty National Bank in South Dakota (here's our presentation board for the project) that I mentioned in an earlier blog.
As of right now, I can now say that Slifer Designs has designed a bank!
Best,
Yvonne Jacobs
yvonne@sliferdesigns.com
Posted on Thu, Apr 29, 2010
It's important to remember what inspires us to do good work. Sorting through the highs and lows of a "week in the life," these recent events standout for me as inspirational.
I was reading the current issue of Luxe magazine, a publication that is thriving under the helm of the very talented editor, Michael Wollaeger and it's publisher, Sandow Media. It's so refreshing to see this magazine grow and improve, especially during a time when a record number of shelter magazines are folding (Domino, Met Home and Conde Nast House and Garden to name a few).
Wollaeger, formerly the editor and co-founder of Western Interiors magazine, has a keen eye for interiors that work. The current issue is crisp and features several spectactular homes that are sure to impress their readers. Sandow Media has also recently bought Interior Design magazine, our industry's bible, so we're thrilled to know they are in good hands and will survive this media storm of the printed page.
As I looked through Luxe's pages, I unexpectedly noticed a private residence in Telluride that we completed a few years ago. Andrea Georgopolis, Project Manager and veteran designer at Slifer Designs, and Kellye O'Kelly, Interior Designer, upon seeing their design work published, call it the "ultimate compliment." The eclectic home draws it's inspiration from the local mining history, and is evident in the architecture, the building materials and the furnishings. It's an excellent example of how the various elements of a home can blend to convey a theme. Congratulations to the team that worked on this with Andrea and Kellye including Jodie Shike Wright of one architects and Pete deLuca of deLuca Construction.
My second inspiring "event" was attending Berry Creek Middle School's Career Fair. With many at-risk students attending this local school, it was heart-warming to share my background with them and let them know what it takes to be a designer. As we looked over floor plans, furniture cut-outs and fabric samples, the students were inquisitive, thoughtful and enthusiastic. They loved looking at the finished photos of our projects, especially some of the "tween" bedrooms we've designed over the last few years. I was asked many questions including what type of schooling was necessary, what skills are needed and what opportunities exist in the field of interior design. Regarding this last one, the sky is the limit, which leads me to my next inspiring event....
Lavender and lime green continue to be "in." Even though Slifer Designs is firmly "anti-trend" I find myself admiring some of these new textiles as they arrive in our Resource library daily (Schumacher, Osborne and Little, Manuel Canovas, and Designer Guild to name a few). These new sumptuous velvets, texturals, appliques, embroidery and crewels are irresistable to me. I can't wait to show some of my clients how these shades and patterns could work in their home.
Lastly, I loved hearing back from Sarah Carr and Sloan Pressly who attended a lighting seminar in Orange County, California (hosted by The Helius Lighting Group). I learned that light can affect taste, in particular red light makes wine taste fruitier.
Above: Red lights in the wine room at the Dancing Bear in Aspen - designed by Slifer Designs.
The lights can actually be adjusted to different tones of color, affecting the tastings that will take place in this beautiful room for members only. I can't wait to share this fun tidbit with friends over dinner...and some wine, this weekend!
What has inspired you lately?
Best,
Yvonne Jacobs
yvonne@sliferdesigns.com
Posted on Tue, Apr 06, 2010
Hard to believe that we are still enjoying powder days here in Vail (Beaver Creek reported 13 new inches of snow this morning, and Vail had 11!). Many people's mindset is moving beyond ski season though, and how best to enjoy their leisure time after the snow melts. Whether it's thinking about golf, vacations or a family reunion, there's no doubt that we are nearing the season that most locals say they moved here for - summer.
Holly Hunt Outdoor Furniture Collection
We've seen a new trend with our clients toward the "outdoor room," complete with indoor styled furniture (treated for inclement weather) and all the luxuries that go with a finished room, such as lighting, a rug, accessories and artwork. I created a covered outdoor room, complete with an outdoor kitchen, for a client in West Vail who incorporated a beautiful outdoor fireplace into their home's design:
If your patio or deck space is cozy, furniture placement becomes a top priority. Below, I arranged the furnishings to take advantage of the gorgeous views of Beaver Creek Mountain and Mount of the Holy Cross. There's also an bar area with an island for serving drinks.
An outdoor space need not be complicated, as in this Telluride home's back deck. Who wants to compete with the gorgeous backdrop of San Juan Range? Once again, placement creates symmetry and balance, and a place to gather with friends and family. And, the red chairs add bright color to the surrounding natural landscape. An antique mining wagon serves as a perfect coffee table for drinks and snacks. The wagon also adds charm and is in keeping with Telluride's mining history.
For added warmth consider adding a fire pit, as we did with this home in Los Cabos. Built-in semi-circular seating is fun and original. The bright red cushions are lively and comfortable as well. (We recently came across a cool company called Jatex who custom designs copper fire pits).
You'd be surprised at the fabric selection available for outdoor furniture. Andrea Georgopolis, Slifer Designs Interior Designer and Project Manager at Slifer Designs, along with Interior Designer Kellye O'Kelly, had fun with this outdoor deck overlooking the Pacific in Malibu. They chose NOMI fabric for the Summer Classics furniture, "High Couture for the Home," which is made with 100% solution dyed acrylic that is sophisticated enough for indoor use as well. The umbrella is key for shade on a sunny day.
Fleur Pool outdoor fabric by NOMI
Here are a few more NOMI outdoor fabric choices that should inspire to begin planning your outdoor space. Take a look...they might surprise you.....
Abigail Oyster Alladin Terra
Arabesque Ice Fleur Jungle
Below are our favorites from the Holly Hunt Outdoor Furniture Collection. Timeless and luxurious selections that are sure to inspire you:
Investing in your outdoor spaces by making it a comfortable room will bring years of enjoyment. Why not make it beautiful too? We think it's smart design. I look forward to helping you design your outdoor room....before summer starts.
Best,
Yvonne Jacobs
yvonne@sliferdesigns.com
Posted on Fri, Mar 19, 2010
What better time than spring to consider giving your home a fresh new look? Interior design inspirations come naturally to homeowners during this time of year as we de-clutter, clean up and simply take a new look at everything around us.
I can't think of a better time, and that is why our showroom is offering incentives to get you to think and act -- twice. If you purchase a certain amount, our fabulous showroom will reward you with a gift certificate toward a future purchase.
Wow!
Here is our ad that is running in the local newspapers:
So, don't hesitate to drop in. The promotion starts immediately!! The showroom features beautiful vignettes displayed exactly how they will look in your home. Our award winning team of merchandisers work tirelessly to display many different looks also, so you will definitely see something to suit your tastes. And, to top it off, our showroom changes merchandise weekly with new products so that every time you visit, it offers new inspirations!
The Slifer Designs showroom features products from Hickory Chair, Ralph Lauren, Henredon, Thom Filicia, Vanguard, Century, Environment and many other vendors that are known for their quality, comfort and timeless designs. If you see something that you love the way it feels, but don't love the fabric, we can custom order the item to your liking. We have a huge resource library with all the different selections available to you, and are happy to walk you through the process.
In addition to furniture, we sell beautiful art, accessories, lighting and bedding. Our out-of-town customers tell us they wish they had a store like this back home, so we know we are unique.
I'll look forward to seeing you in our store. We are located in Edwards, Colorado right next to Starbucks in the Riverwalk at Edwards.
Best,
Yvonne Jacobs
yvonne@sliferdesigns.com
Posted on Thu, Mar 18, 2010
We received one of our best compliments a couple weeks ago from a client, whose home we are designing in Edwards, Colorado. The client praised Kim Toms, one of our veteran designers, Project Managers, and LEED AP, for her hard work and attention to detail.
"I just wanted to follow up with a short note to let you know how much we appreciated working with you on our Jackman Ranch Rd. project (see above photo). The more I get into the design manual and specification book that you created for us, the more impressed I am. Throughout this project you did exactly what you said you would do when you said you would do it, which is almost unheard of these days. Despite some of our own indecision, you always had a clear and, as it turns out, an accurate vision for this house based on our discussions. What you intuitively understood about our project took a trip to Europe in order for me to fully comprehend. You were always prepared for meetings with sample products, concept imagery, and carefully considered ideas. We couldn't have done this without you. Thank you for all your hard work, professionalism, and obvious talent. I look forward to working with you again in the future."
--Ted Leach, a Vail Valley homeowner
I'm so proud of Kim and the progress that has been made on this project, but also of our client who appreciates the process. Our field is often misunderstood, and many think they can "do it themselves." Perhaps this is true in some situations. In other situations, we are often called in to re-do mistakes that have been made.
We love being a part of the project from the inception. We truly dot our "i's" and our "t's" and think of things that the client will never think of - that's our job! We collaborate with the builder, architect, electrician, plumber - the entire team. Frequent site visits ensure the success of a project and a smooth outcome.
Sarah Carr, Project Manager, inspects the jacuzzi tub at Arrabelle Spa in 2008.
Making our clients happy - one at a time - is our top mission at Slifer Designs. As we like to say - "we're not happy, until you are." In today's world, we think this sets us above and beyond the competition.
Best,
Yvonne Jacobs
yvonne@sliferdesigns.com
Posted on Mon, Mar 15, 2010
There are so many design elements that make up a beautiful interior, but off the top of my head, here are five of my recent favorites:
1. The color magenta - Not purple and not pink, magenta evokes an immediate attraction for me. It's brilliance stands out in whatever setting - whether it's the world of fashion, or in a home. I love it's sense of beauty and ability to call attention to itself. When you need a "pop" of color, think of magenta first!
2. Asian artifacts - We have a cute little shop in our town that I love to browse and choose objects d'art for my clients. There's an ethnic authenticity found in Asian accessories that brings an electic personality and sense of adventure and travel into a room.
3. Symmetry -A room that is designed with symmetry in mind is a classic. Balance and harmony can be achieved with good design as in this bathroom Slifer Designs designed for an Aspen penthouse condominium. The design has a rhythm an balance to it that reminds me of classical Greek architecture.
4. A great rug -Last week I visited the Scarab -our favorite rug store - and saw the beautiful Rex Ray collection. Once back at the office I was thrilled to learn we have chosen one of his rugs for the new Ritz Carlton Vail model. Here's one of his designs - the Isis Charcoal - that is a particular favorite of mine.
5. An organic touch - Reminders of nature can bring an organic element into the interior design of a room. See below - the semi-precious Citrine stone tea light brightens this living room with a touch of nature.
Best,
Yvonne Jacobs
yvonne@sliferdesigns.com
Posted on Fri, Feb 19, 2010
I love the Olympics. There's such a magical feeling in the air and it's so nice to see the athletes have their day in the spotlight, some more than others, of course.
It reminds me of our own design team and of all the hospitality and residential projects that we choose to enter into the various award competitions in the world of interior design.
Currently, we are finalists for the private residence club, Dancing Bear Aspen, in the American Resort Development Association (ARDA) competition for the New Resort Unit category. We'll find out if we win at their annual Gala, taking place in Las Vegas in March, 2010.
And, we are patiently waiting to see what awards, if any, that we might receive at the upcoming ASID Annual Gala for the Colorado Chapter.
The bottom line is, just like all the Olympic athletes who are competing, I wish all of our designers could get recognized with an award. Like a dedicated athlete who strives to be the best at his or her discipline, our design team works passionately on each and every job, day in, and day out, throughout the year. Always looking for new inspirations, whether it's a new paisley fabric, or vinyl wallcovering, it's often a quest for perfection. Just like the Olympic athlete.
Speaking of the Olympics, Beth Slifer is enjoying time away in Vancouver with her family. I can't wait to hear about which events she liked best and how the magic of Whistler has inspired her.
In the meantime, I had the pleasure of traveling to the desert of California where I dined at the Viceroy Palm Springs and met with KSL Resorts. The Viceroy reminded me of the Spa at Balfour, a project we recently submitted to the ASID Colorado Chapter award competition.
The yellow, black and white color scheme in the Lafayette spa is mixed with a lot of lively patterns, sleek black lacquer, crystal clear Lucite and shiny white patent leather. It is definitely one of our favorite and most unique hospitality spaces designed to date. Our client, who vacations at the Viceroy frequently, was very inspired by the turn-of-the-century Draper effect. Armed with her vision, we had fun with our translation for an Assisted Living Center in the foothills of Colorado.
While I 'm on the topic of awards, though, I have to mention that our good friend and owner of RKD Architects, Jack Snow, has been recognized with an award from Sub-Zero/Wolf's kitchen competition for a project he designed in Canyon Point. Genesis Innovations, a partner with us on Dancing Bear Aspen, was also a winner along with Jack, as they worked together on the project. Kudos to them both! We are thrilled to be working with Jack on a home in Lake Tahoe.
Who knows? That could be our next year's submittal and with Jack's touch combined with ours, a winning entry! I'll keep you posted in between our design "workouts" as we strive for the top of the podium in the design world.
Best,
Yvonne Jacobs
yvonne@sliferdesigns.com
Posted on Mon, Feb 01, 2010
With all the chatter about the iPad in the late night talkshows and blogosphere last week, this new gadget is simply on my mind. I already have an iPhone and a MacBook, and now have an email into our IT guy to see if an iPad is necessary to help me design "urPad."
(iPad photo credit: Apple)
All laughing aside, it is our internal systems and technology that helps us stay ahead of the competition. When we design a home, or a "pad," we approach it with a creative mindset combined with a business approach.
This strategy started over 25 years ago when Beth Slifer, armed with her MBA from the University of Chicago, created a mantra for her design firm to always be on-time, and on-budget.
Currently, we are upgrading our in-house custom software so that all of the information for our clients and vendors is one click away. Streamlining our internal communications will better enable us to select an item, with the Slifer Designs stamp of approval, at the best price available -- all for urPad. The softest faux fur? Click. The quickest and most reliable upholsterer? Click. The most dependable and talented trim carpenter? Click.
I hear that the feature most loved in the iPad is the touch interface. Similarly, what people love most about our homes is how they feel. This tactile approach to both technology and home living is an interesting connection. Perhaps we should start working on a custom design for the ideal iPad table? (See below for some ideas from our showroom).
I'm looking forward to hearing from you and how Slifer Designs can help with urPad.
Best,
Yvonne Jacobs
yvonne@sliferdesigns.com
Posted on Tue, Jan 26, 2010
Besides the good news of 19 inches of new snow in the past two days on Vail Mountain, I keep hearing about positive action in the once stagnant real estate market. Homes that have been for sale for months are starting to sell, and homeowners are starting to buy new homes as a result. Light at the end of the tunnel is the first thing that comes to mind, something we've been waiting for (like the snow!) and are jumping on whatever opportunities come our way.
With all this movement of home sales occuring, our timing was ideal last week when we presented to a local group of realtors about the benefits of working with Slifer Designs. The theme of our PowerPoint focused on "three myths about Slifer Designs." The myths are that all of our homes look the same, we can't design modern interiors and that we are the most expensive firm in town.
Leading the presentation slide by slide to this powerful group of realtors, some of whom are the most succesful in the nation, I pointed out that we do design a variety of looks, can definitely design modern (see below) and are priced very competitively with other decorators our area.
The issue of cost is a sensitive topic for everyone (especially in this time of uncertainty), but our research shows that we are slightly less as when compared to a cost plus 25% job. But the bottom line is that cost should not be the only factor when choosing a designer. Reputation, experience and added value are more important factors, areas where Slifer Designs is poised to beat out the competition every time.
Since our main focus is customer service I can't help but applaud Rob Katz' presentation to the Vail Town Council last week communicating the virtues of Ever Vail. Sustainability and parking are probably the two most vital and helpful to our community. I applaud them for moving forward, even in a down economy, because companies that stand still will be left behind. Innovation is key during these times and it's tricky with limited budgets. But those that can rise to this occasion will do well.
Speaking of innovation, at the latest Colorado Council of the Arts meeting I attended, we brainstormed in break out session various action plans and strategies for growing Colorado's creative economy. The opportunities for growth are enormous and with our landscape's natural beauty and strong leadership nurturing this movement, I believe we'll see Colorado on the map in 3-5 years and known as the Creative Capital of our nation.
In the meantime, the ASID award submissions are due in two days and we are busy compiling various entries for the judges to consider. We chose a variety of projects to submit including a remodel in Vail Village, a two private residence clubs - one based in Alberta, Canada (right near picturesque Lake Louise) called Silver Tip, and the other in chic Aspen, called Dancing Bear (see photos below of deatils in one of the residential suites). Keep your fingers crossed!
Speaking of Aspen, I'm off to scheme a new interior for a long time client of mine who has made the move from Beaver Creek to Aspen. I love working with this client as she is fun, knows what she likes and dislikes, and is full of great ideas.
Best,
Yvonne Jacobs
yvonne@sliferdesigns.com