On the Horizon

DESIGNER SKETCH Hometown: St. Louis Favorite destination: Florence and Rome Colors that are worth a second look: Hot Pink! It always captures attention. Use it in a small space or as an accent. DESIGNER SKETCH Hometown: St. Louis Favorite destination: Florence and Rome Colors that are worth a second look: Hot Pink! It always captures attention. Use it in a small space or as an accent. Design in St. Louis: We are a very sophisticated design community and have been recognized in national publications on numerous occasions. Favorite artist and/or artistic style: Edgar Degas/Impressionism Website: roserobertsid.com

What are some of the most exciting design trends that you’ve seen in your travels to furniture markets and other cities? Kitchens are so exciting! Very functional, some with two islands for work space and food preparation, large custom-designed cooktop areas, and custom cabinetry resembling furniture pieces mixing two or three painted finishes with wood tones and glazes. State-of-the-art appliances, walk-in wine coolers, and juice bars. Cedar decks have been replaced by more natural “outdoor areas” built of stone or brick and, include fireplaces. Electronics have more bells and whistles, and are ever-advancing.

What’s new on the horizon in terms of color this spring for designing fresh, fabulous spaces? Don’t be afraid of color. Use it to add warmth and drama to any room. Brown has become the new black and mixes with all colors – inky blues to retro aquas, all shades of green, pumpkin, reds and mustard yellow. And wallpaper is back! Use it in smaller or secondary spaces like powder rooms, guest bedrooms and foyers. Use it for texture, pattern and color when paint just isn’t enough.

How does understanding a room’s proportion and balance assist in developing the best design plans? In large spaces with tall windows and high ceilings (sometimes up to 20 feet), small furnishings look insignificant and fail to contribute to the overall composition. Achieve balance with high pieces of furniture and commanding wall decorations or draperies.

Which accessories are making a splash in the home accessorizing market? Rustic Chic! Carved woods as in large bowls, benches, and candlesticks. Natural materials such as fiber, stone, and sea grass. Large glass containers that hold elements of the season, sea ornaments such as shells and pieces of coral, lacquered accent pieces, and iron.

How is St. Louis evolving in regard to blending design styles or adopting new looks?  St. Louis is following closely in green design. Manufacturers of fabrics, flooring, paints, window coverings and more are all promoting products made for green design. Builders are working with green materials to promote new construction. Consumers are asking for products that are eco-friendly.