Eco Chic: Green Interior Design + Healthy Living

Life Rolls On & Christopher Reeve Foundation: New Culver City Headquarters

2011-11-11T20:52:00.000-08:00

It's been a long road...but we've finally finished the new headquarters of Life Rolls On, a subsidiary of the Christopher Reeve Foundation in Culver City, CA.

This project was inspired by LRO's unique mission of helping people with serious spinal cord injuries surf, skate and ski again!

Using bold colors, graphic signage and streamlined contemporary furnishings we were able to execute an upscale corporate office design on a very tight budget! Special thanks to Art of Board http://www.artofboard.com/ and Chas Metivier Photography http://www.metivierphoto.com/

SARAH BARNARD is a member of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID), is certified by the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA), and is recognized by the International Institute for Bau-Biologie & Ecology as a Building Biology Practitioner (BBP) and by the United States Green Building Council as a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Accredited Professional (LEED AP). She serves on the Santa Monica Conservancy’s board of directors and specializes in green interior design and historic preservation.

Today's Historic Interiors: A New Book Featuring 3 of Sarah Barnard's Historic Home Design Projects

2011-10-06T09:06:00.000-07:00

Just published! Today's Historic Interiors: featuring three of Los Angeles based interior designer, Sarah Barnard's projects. *Please forgive the quality of the scans- they are terrible!

The first project featured is an 1876 Mansion originally belonging to William Hayes Perry. This building currently resides on the grounds of the California Museum, Heritage Square. Leading a team of interior designers, consultants and crafts persons, Barnard prepared the historic home for a one of a kind tour that would be open to the public during the holiday season.

The next project the editors chose to include is a 1927 Spanish Revival Estate in Palos Verdes, California. The owners wanted quality, comfort and a reflection of their personal style. Sarah designed custom rose details through out the home's interior to echo the owner's love of gardening and honor the spirit of the historic underpinnings.

A custom kitchen inspired by what might have been boasts green soapstone counter tops, oak flooring, state of the art appliances, and off-white crackled subway tile. Details like spice niches, espresso maker, garden window and sunken bar make this space ready for entertaining!

The final project included in the historic homes book was also located in Palos Verdes Estates, CA. It is a guest house with an aesthetic reminiscent of Cape Cod. A massive, custom entertainment center made locally by Jones and Binder is the center piece of the family room. A custom wool rug in green crocodile creates a playful punch in an otherwise traditional space.

Both the bathroom and kitchen shine with the illusion of rays from the sun! Golden yellows and butter creams inspire cheer in these upscale traditional interiors.

Residential Space: Inspiration for High Quality Life

2011-09-21T16:41:00.000-07:00

"Residential Space: Inspiration for High Quality Life" is a recently published coffee table book of cutting edge interior designs gathered from international destinations. This edition, published by Design Vision International Publishing Co., Ltd. (HK), features residential design work by green interior designer, Sarah Barnard.

An arrangement of giant Protea flowers creates a dramatic effect in front of a Linsley Lambert painting, which sits atop the mantle of a hand-detailed marble fireplace.

The formal living room is outfitted with natural textiles that convey beauty and grace. The pair of chairs and "monkey" side table were salvaged from the old livingroom and refurbished. The chairs were reupholstered while the table's glass was replaced with a more stately walnut.

The dark wood console (bar counter) was custom-designed by Sarah Barnard to conceal the remaining load-bearing columns and unite the formerly separate spaces.

Throughout the 1913 Palos Verdes Estates home, the decor reflects the homeowners interests in gardening and surfing. In addition, the project was designed to accommodate entertaining everyday family meals and inviting guests.

Locally-made cabinetry and green soapstone countertops pair well with the home's original flooring in the kitchen area. The dining room centers around an amazing antique dining table with winged horses, claw feet, inlay and molding. The homeowners personal collection of meaningful trinkets are displayed on a plaster arch on the rear wall.

A powder bathroom with a locally-made bespoke vanity, marble countertops, and rose-patterned wallpaper shine light on the owners love for roses.

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SARAH BARNARD is a member of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID), is certified by the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA), and is recognized by the International Institute for Bau-Biologie & Ecology as a Building Biology Practitioner (BBP)and by the United States Green Building Council as a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Accredited Professional (LEED AP).She serves on the Santa Monica Conservancy’s board of directors and specializes in green interior design and historic preservation. For more information about Sarah and her practice visit http://www.sarahbarnard.com/

Petit Paris: Shades of Yellow + Small Scale Appliances Upgrade a Cottage Kitchen

2011-08-17T13:24:00.000-07:00

Los Angeles based interior designer, Sarah Barnard + South Bay Architect, Don Thursby re-designed a Palos Verdes Cottage that was featured in the Fall 2011 issue of Small Kitchen Magazine. By re-arranging the walls, using smaller-sized top-of-the-line appliances and some creative space planning, Barnard created a suitable place for the homeowners to live while their main house was being remodeled.

A California Cottage gets an Old World inspired remodel with the use of quality custom cabinetry, "decadent: moldings and details and custom-cast bronze hardware".

The bold use of custom yellow cabinets by Jones and Binder + garden views add to the open feeling of the small kitchen.

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ASID LA DESIGN: New West Hollywood Library

2011-08-12T11:50:00.000-07:00

Red, White and Green: West Hollywood Library
by: Sarah Barnard "Green Editor"
From ASID's LA Design Magazine Summer 2011

“A civil society requires excellence in civic architecture - and it is our opinion that such an aspiration is itself avant-garde” – Steve Johnson, Principal at Johnson Favaro Architecture & Urban Design

Next to City Hall and police & fire stations, the local library is a part of every great American city. It is a place to come together, to exchange knowledge and history, in short, a place to interact as a community. The soon to be completed West Hollywood Public Library is meeting the needs of the community and doing it with a LEED Silver Rating.

As with any civic improvement, the benefits to the community were an important part of this project. Over a five year period, the City of West Hollywood conducted a community needs assessment to obtain residents’ input on a proposed new library, part of a larger project of capitol improvements to honor the city’s 25th anniversary. The result of the assessment was a strong community need for “a better functioning, larger, and more technologically advanced library.” 1

Since the new library complex was to be sited in the middle of the Avenues of Fashion and Design, an innovative and forward looking plan had to be created. “The building is neither ‘modern’ nor ‘traditional’” says Steve Johnson, Principal at Johnson Favaro Architecture & Urban Design. “It neither waxes nostalgic about yesterday nor pretends to determine a future over which we have no control.” His firm designed the three-story, environmentally responsible building, incorporating many of the recommendations from the community assessment:

Addressing Community Needs – There were numerous concerns with the original library, which was built in 1959 and not remodeled. It has 3 tables and a 9 person “reading lounge” for the 36,000 residents of the city; half of the audio-visual collection is currently housed in a storage unit behind the actual library building; inadequate space for children’s story hours, community events and author readings. The new library has remedied these, and other, concerns by including program and exhibit spaces, a children’s theater, a career center, an expanded HIV Information Center, a new City Council chamber and special collections for the LGBT and Russian communities that reside within the city’s borders.

Expanded Space – The new Library building is 6 times larger than the old one, increasing the square footage from 5,200 to over 32,000! It also provides over 500 parking spaces, an additional 2.5 acres of new green space for the city and an open air court linking the indoor and outdoor areas. “The site of the existing library will be transformed into new park land,” Johnson notes. “What was 1½ acres of core park space in West Hollywood Park will be transformed into 5 acres of park land”

Much Needed Technology – The new Library will have 40 new internet-equipped computers, Wi-Fi available to visitors and a video conferencing room. It will also incorporate many Green features including photovoltaic panels and optimized energy performance systems for lighting, heating and ventilation.

The City of West Hollywood’s eco-friendly building standards required an emphasis on sustainability within the project. To meet these standards, rooftop photovoltaic panels, a vegetative roof on the parking garage, locally-produced and renewable materials (90% of the wood used came from renewable sources) were used. Combined, these elements all added to the LEED Silver rating given to the project. Asked about the Green features of the structure, Johnson says, “We are most proud that during most every hour of the day, you can read the page of your book or I-pad anywhere in the library by the natural light of day without one artificial light fixture turned on.” Visitors will also marvel under the 14,000-sq-ft bamboo-carved ceiling on the third floor, resembling “flowers on a vine”

Americana is more than knowing where we came from and feeling nostalgic because of it. It is also about looking forward and seeing how we can achieve something which generations to come will be proud to call their own. By listening to the community and applying sustainable techniques and materials to the project, the West Hollywood Library will be a building that the entire community will be able to call their own for generations to come.

For more information on the West Hollywood Library Park Project, visit http://www.weholibraryfund.org/

For more information on Johnson Favaro Architecture & Urban Design, visit http://www.johnsonfavaro.com/

http://weholibraryfund.org/about/faq

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SARAH BARNARD is a member of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID), is certified by the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA), and is recognized by the International Institute for Bau-Biologie & Ecology as a Building Biology Practitioner (BBP)and by the United States Green Building Council as a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Accredited Professional (LEED AP).She serves on the Santa Monica Conservancy’s board of directors and specializes in green interior design and historic preservation. For more information about Sarah and her practice visit http://www.sarahbarnard.com/

1912 Arts & Crafts Bungalow Restoration Featured in Cottages & Bungalows Magazine

2011-07-13T13:32:00.000-07:00

Cottages & Bungalows November 2010 issue features a project close to interior designer, Sarah Barnard's heart, her parents South Bay residence.

Hometown Treasure: A neglected 1912 bungalow is restored to its former glory.

By Rebecca Ittner

Photography by Mark Tanner

Styled by Sarah Barnard

Max the dog relaxes on the classic Craftsman porch that his owner, Don Barnard, built using salvaged Douglas fir planks. Don uncovered the beautiful wood ceiling after scraping away many layers of paint. Family heirlooms take center stage: one rocker once belonged to Don's grandfather and the other to his wife's grandfather. The table belonged to Don's grandmother.

As with most projects in this home, Don used his vast knowledge and talents to mend this circa 1880 Victorian floor lamp and the armchair upholstered in mauve mohair. Though he had a contractor build the fireplace, Don made the bookcases and mantel using reclaimed Douglas fir.

The early-1900s Winchester rifle once belonged to Louis Zamperini. Don gave it a place of honor above the fireplace. The mantel clock is an original by the Seth Thomas Clock Company, model no. 89, with"eight-day pendulum movement."

A perfect accent to the ceiling lamp, the signed Quezal wall sconce sports "pulled feather" shades. The photos are of the home's most famous resident, Louis Zamperini, as he arrived at the Long Beach, California, airport in 1945 after being a POW in World War II.

Made of walnut wood, the chair once belonged to Don's grandfather. Don and his daughter, Sarah, made the matching ottoman as a project when she was in design school.

A circa 1901 signed Quezal brass ceiling lamp graces the ceiling in the living room. Its shades are in the "pulled feather" design, which can also be seen on the room's sconces.

Bonnie Mae found this circa 1912 Mahogany player piano at a yard sale when her children were young. At the time, it was in dilapidated condition--it had no ivory on the keys and was scratched and dinged. She saved for more than three years to be able to have it fully restored. A 1935 Edison brass blade oscillating fan, antique globe lamp and early-1900s painting create a balanced composition.

This player song roll is just one in the Barnard's collection. The roll includes lyrics so that people can sing along as it plays.

Don and Bonnie Mae purchased this circa 1920 Queen Anne table and chairs from Don's grandmother shortly after they were married, more than 38 years ago.

Part of Bonnie Mae's extensive antique milk glass collection, these pieces feature a grape-and-vine design.

A wedding gift from Bonnie Mae's mother, this vintage Heritage Hall Staffordshire Ironstone sets a beautiful table. On the back of one of the plate is inscription: "A typical home of the "Vieux Carre" district of New Orleans. Genuine hand engraving."

Don designed and made the dining room's built-in buffet of Douglas fir, based on photographs of the original one that had been torn out in one of a series of remodels.

The cheery kitchen holds Bonnie Mae's prized teapot collection as seen on the display rail built by Don. A circa 1900 oak crank wall phone rests above the circa 1869 oval drop leaf table and chairs.

The circa 1880 Victorian love seat in mauve mohair and cut Belgian velvet graces the boxed bay that Don deigned and built. The casement windows were salvaged from a demolition site and, with minimal adjustments, perfectly fit into the original window frames.

A walnut Victorian table topped with a c.1901 signed Quezal lamp and signed Leegras vase turns a plain corner into an artful display.

Vintage lace bedding, a recent thrift-store find, graces the circa 1900 iron Murphy bed.

The claw-foot tub, pedestal sink, toilet and medicine cabinet, all circa 1912, were salvaged from the bungalow court where Don saved many items from going to the landfill. The light fixture is a reproduction.

Don built the grape arbor from redwood trellis. The arbor is visible through the bay windows.

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Easy Design Tips for Chic & Sustainable Summer Decorating!

2011-07-08T20:11:00.000-07:00

Place chairs and conversation areas close to windows to create a visual connection to the outdoors.

Use neutral colors and natural materials to bring the outdoors in and to allow natural light to filter in freely.

Use pops of color from plants, fruit and pillows to liven up spaces.

Use natural materials to add texture! Rattan, wood and neutral colored textiles help to create an atmosphere of relaxation.

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Fabulous Eco-Friendly Bathrooms!

2011-06-22T15:41:00.000-07:00

A sophisticated palette of light and dark marble compliments the bright white plumbing fixtures and sleek track lighting.

A powder bathroom with a locally made bespoke vanity, marble countertop and rose patterned wallpaper.

This former laundry room, now a master bath is transformed into an oasis retreat.

A neutral palette and glass accessories transform this guest bathroom into a tranquil retreat.

Intricate tile patterns allow for maximum impact in this small space.

Modern femininity achieved in oil rubbed bronze and tavertine.

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Sarah Barnard is a member of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID), is certified by the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) and is recognized by the United States Green Building council as a LEED accredited professional. Undertaking a broad range of projects, all of which are grounded in smart design and mindful of healthy living, Sarah’s diverse body of work includes upscale private residences, chic restaurants and impressive corporate headquarters. Her projects have been featured in local and national publications, and have placed prominently in several noted design competitions. For more information please visit http://www.sarahbarnard.com/

What Will Your Kitchen Say About You?

2011-06-08T16:21:00.000-07:00

Beautiful kitchens start with a desire to connect to one another, to create an environment where people can be entertained, share ideas and feelings and come closer to one another. Using non-composite wood products, locally manufactured cabinetry and energy efficient appliance and lighting, the kitchen will also reflect your desire to protect our planet’s resources.

Low and No-VOC finishes, reflective surfaces and natural light all combine to create this warm, inviting space.

A modern Santa Monica kitchen gets an environmentally friendly makeover

Intricately carved spice pull-outs and corbels introduce an oak leaf and acorn motif that can be found throughout the home

Maple cabinets and natural granite pair with stainless stell hardware in this petite modern kitchen

Locally made cabinetry and green soapstone countertops pair well with the home's original flooring and a recycled table

The kitchen has again become the center of home life. It is a point of convergence for gathering, conversation and connection. With a few simple choices, this space can be both beautiful and promote the health of the planet and the people that utilize it.

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Where Preservation and Sustainability Meet

2011-06-01T10:19:00.000-07:00

At the recent California Presentation Foundation Conference at the Fairmont Miramar Hotel and Bungalows Santa Monica, I moderated a session with Brenden McEneaney and John Berley regarding the challenges of designing and remodeling a historic home using Green design. Using some simple principles, a remodel can help improve not only the look of a historic home but the health of the people that dwell inside it.

Bau-Biologie®
In 1987, Helmut Ziehe formed the IBE (International Institute for Bau-Biologie & Ecology), with a mission to raise awareness that buildings can abide by the laws of nature. His principles, which emerged in Germany due to problems with post-war housing construction, are based on the premise that what is healthy for the occupants (biologically compatible) will also be good for the environment (ecologically sustainable). Among his recommendations were:

Providing natural light and using illumination of color in accordance with nature.
Providing protection from noise and vibrations.
Preserving green space.
Supporting building activities and production of materials which do not have adverse side effects of any kind.
Using natural and unadulterated building materials with neutral or pleasant scents.
Use building materials that do not have elevated radioactivity levels.
Minimize A/C fields.
Utilize physiological knowledge in furniture and space design.
Considering harmonic orders and shapes in design.

(For more information on Bau-Biologie®, visit http://buildingbiology.net/)

When we consider our interior environment, two primary things to think about are home health (indoor air quality and chemical free materials) and resource conservation (“saving the planet” by reducing water, energy and material consumption). Take these tips into consideration:

Supporting your local economy is also a great way to help the environment! Choosing cabinetry made of responsible materials, (within 100 miles of your site’s location) rather than shipping bamboo cabinets from china reduces the pollution and damage caused by the amount of fossil fuel needed to get those cabinets to your home.
Look for Energy Star rated appliances. A modern, energy efficient suite of appliances will markedly decrease your home’s overall energy use, which adds up to quantifiable reductions on your monthly electricity bill! http://www.energystar.gov/
Seek Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified wood products. You get the added peace of mind that your kitchen cabinets are “benefiting people and nature around the world”. http://www.fscus.org/

Design Recycling and composting into your kitchen plan! Homeowners who make the switch from a singular trash bin to separated trash, recycling and compost, quickly find that they are able to divert almost all of their household waste from the landfill!
Install Dimmable Fluorescent light fixtures! Dimmable fluorescent fixtures are eco-friendly because, in addition to being fluorescent, they allow you to adjust the light levels to what you need, allowing you to create moods that you wouldn’t be able to with a standard switch.
Avoid vinyl – period. Vinyl flooring, mini blinds, wallpaper or anything else that contains Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC). The harsh truth is that PVC has been shown to cause asthma and poisoning! http://www.greenpeace.org/usa/news/how-to-find-and-avoid-toxic-vi
Use NO VOC natural paints, stains, sealers and adhesives. Anything that has to be applied with a mask and gloves can’t be good for your indoor air quality! Try one of the following alternatives:

American Clay makes Natural Earth Plaster that will transform your home from a place you live into a place with life. http://www.americanclay.com/
Benjamin Moore “Eco Spec” a low VOC acrylic latex paint
Sherwin Williams paints with the “GreenSure” logo. Their line of LEED compatible products include; “Harmony” a NO VOC line of interior paints, as well as “Duration Home” which has low levels of VOC’s but is intended for areas where durability is a concern.
Dunn Edwards currently offers a number of different “earth friendly” solutions, some of which qualify for LEED certification. My favorite is “EcoShield”, which is a line of “low odor, NO VOC” primers and latex paints.
Farrow and Ball makes an incredibly high quality, rich, luxurious paint in four water based, eco-friendly finishes

Remember that Fresh Air and Sunlight are still free! Plan for operable windows and/or skylights to ensure a visual connection to the outdoors and adequate air exchange.
Consider composite products made of agricultural waste, instead of trees!

Kirei (Key’-ray) offers wheat board panels in ½”, ¾” and 1” thicknesses. Sheets are 48”x96” and can be ordered in custom sizes and thicknesses for special applications. Wheat board can be painted or laminated and is a renewable, non-toxic alternative to MDF.

When it rains…
Rain water and irrigation run off can be collected and re-used as part of a sustainable landscape. Install a water catchment system to supplement landscape irrigation and reduce stress on ground water resources. Los Angeles-based “Environmental Concept” offers full service organic landscape design, installation and maintenance. We use Environmental Concept on every project we build. www.envconcept.com

Quiet Time
As we become more aware of how the objects in our home affect indoor air quality, it is only natural to want to start cleaning up the bedroom first. When we consider how much of our lives we spend in our bedrooms, and specifically how our bodies regenerate during sleep, it is easily understood how our mattress and bedding needs to considered.
All conventional mattresses, and even most eco-esque mattresses, are held together with chemical adhesives that will off-gas to some degree. A mattress that is completely natural, void of any synthetic materials and typically with a organic wool cover may pass fire regulations without the use of additive flame retardants (wool has natural fire retardant properties).
Alternative materials are gaining popularity and are becoming easier to find (for quite reasonable prices). One material that is on the rise is kapok. My clients are eager to try a material for bed pillows that is not down or synthetic. Kapok is a fiber that comes from a tree pod and has a natural resistance to dust mites. Kapok pillows are available through interior design professionals and a variety of internet retailers.

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Brenden McEneaney, Green Building Program Advisor for the City of Santa Monica (http://www.smgreen.org/), presented “California’s Green Building Code: What does it mean?” which shed additional light on the CalGreen Building Standards which became mandatory as of 1/1/11. The Standards (contained in Title 24, Part 11) deal with:

Planning and Design
Energy Efficiency
Water Efficiency and Conservation
Material Conservation and Resource Efficiency
Environmental Quality

Additional voluntary tiers (which reside in the appendices) were also established at that time and provide more stringent standards for new buildings and preservation efforts. As written in CalGreen, each Tier adds:

Additional mandatory measures in each section
Electives in each section
Specific percent reductions to existing standards

But beware! Since these tiers are voluntary, local jurisdictions have the option to adopt them as written in CalGreen, adopt only individual measures or create something completely different

But I follow LEED…
While there are similarities between the two, it is important to remember that CalGreen is Code; LEED is a rating system. According to Brendan:

They both will get more stringent, but LEED will always strive to be a leadership standard
Calgreen Tier I is intended for a local adoption, not as a rating system
Meeting LEED should be substantially easier since you have to meet CalGreen
Relative cost of LEED will look lower because of construction costs and documentation

Bottom line…Make sure you do your research before starting your project!

As with any project, the Reuse of Materials can make a huge difference in meeting the new Standards. Materials which can be easily reused include but are not limited to the following:

Lighting and Plumbing fixtures
Doors and trim
Masonry
Electrical Devices and Appliances
Foundations or portions of foundations

The reuse of these items leads to not only meeting the new Standards but to more accurate interiors and more money saved by the project!

Preservation and Green Design
While it may seem like a lot of work, the recent renovation of the Empire State Building in New York addressed some of the most common issues faced when dealing with Historical Preservation including Energy, Adaptation of design, Incorporation of technology, Materials and Reuse. But the results speak for themselves!

Empire State Building Retrofit Findings

$4.4 million annual energy cost savings

Top 10% of commercial buildings in efficiency

38% energy reduced annually

3.1 years payback incremental cost

105,000 metric tons carbon emissions saved over the next 15 years

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According to John Berley’s Presentation, “Green Living For Historic Homes”, half of the buildings in the US are classified as Older or Historic. Adaptive Reuse strategies preserve the materials and original manpower that went into the construction of these buildings.

A little care and observation can go a long way! Look at what features your home has built-in to assist with energy conservation and heating.

Overhanging eaves and porches help provide shade and are excellent outdoor work spaces.
Large trees help shield the exterior from heat
Courtyards provide shaded areas while operable windows allow cross-breezes, ventilation and natural light indoors

What guidelines are available?

LEED for Existing Buildings applies mostly to commercial buildings but contains many standards that can be applied historical homes and buildings.
LEED for New Construction and Major Renovation is also applicable to larger projects.
ReGreen, a joint venture through the USGBC and ASID, also provides guidelines

Note: The USGBC is taking steps to make LEED standards more preservation oriented however, it is not currently preservation-friendly.

The National Trust offers the Weatherization Guide for Older and Historic Buildings that details steps that can be taken to make these buildings more energy efficient.
The BuildIt Green GreenPoint Rated System also provides separate guidelines for new and existing buildings. Among the features of this program are:

Energy retrofitting adds to the amount of character features retained by the property
Partial remodels of a home give partial point credits that can be applied later towards a complete upgrade of the home

Building Science engineers can test the building and point out areas that can be improved and offer suggestions. Additionally, California is looking into a requirement at the sale of a building that a report card of the Energy Performance of the property be provided. Third party certifications including HERS (Home Energy Rating System) will meet this requirement.

Whose responsibility is it?

While many programs and rating systems exist, it is ultimately all of our responsibility to offer information and guidance to our communities that preservation is the most rewarding step towards sustainable living.

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Owners and preservationists of older and historic buildings do not have to give up on the idea of using sustainable products and methods. With a little research, some simple principles and a conscious effort, ANY project can be Green!

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SARAH BARNARD is a member of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID),is certified by the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA), and is recognized by the International Institute for Bau-Biologie & Ecology as a Building Biology Practitioner (BBP)and by the United States Green Building Council as a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Accredited Professional (LEED AP).She serves on the Santa Monica Conservancy’s board of directors and specializes in green interior design and historic preservation. For more information about Sarah and her practice visit http://www.sarahbarnard.com/

Christopher Reeve Foundation & Life Rolls On Get a New Office Design!

2011-05-19T15:32:00.000-07:00

Sarah Barnard Design was recently retained by Life Rolls On, A subsidiary of the Christopher Reeve Foundation to design their new Culver City Offices. With a strong desire to honor her firms commitment to the environment and simultaneously capture the connection to extreme sports present within LRO's brand, Barnard sought out the help of Rich Moorhead from Art of Board. http://www.artofboard.com manufacturers one of a kind tiles from salvaged skateboard decks. Sarah worked closely with Rich to design a custom application that would accommodate the reception desk counter top as well as what would become the showpiece of the conference room. Rich carefully hand selected skateboard decks with logos and graphics that echo LRO's inspirational messages. We couldn't be happier with the results! Thank you Art of Board- you guys are amazing!

California Preservation Foundation Conference Comes to Santa Monica May 2011

2011-05-13T19:43:00.000-07:00

The 2011 California Preservation Conference begins this Sunday! If you haven't yet taken a look at the program, you may be surprised by the wide variety of tours, workshops and special events being offered along with the conference educational sessions. Download the Conference at a Glance for a quick listing, or the Registration Brochure for detailed descriptions and pricing.

The Conference Headquarters, Registration and Exhibitor Booths at the Fairmont Miramar Hotel will be open from noon to 6 PM on Sunday May 15, from 8 AM to 6 PM on Tuesday and Wednesday. Early registration will also be available from 8 AM to noon on Sunday.

The Opening Plenary Session on Monday May 16 (Free) features National Trust President Stephanie Meeks speaking on ‘Sustaining the Future’, the importance of bringing diverse interests into the preservation movement. 9:00 – 11:30 AM at Barnum Hall on the Santa Monica High School Campus. Since the High School is in session, parking is not available on campus; please park at the Civic Center Garage at 4th St and Olympic Way. For a map of campus, click here.

Featured Study Tours, Workshops + Events (Ticketed):

Stewardship at Home. Sunday, May 15 - 9:00 to 12:30 pm $40

Beaches, Boards, & Bungalows. Sunday, May 15 - 1:30 to 5:00 pm $40

Pascual Marquez Historic Cemetery Study Tour. Sunday, May 15 - 1:30 to 5:00 pm $40

Radical Preservation: An Unorthodox Approach Might be the Only Answer. Panel luncheon, Monday May 16, 12:15 – 1:45 pm $40

Three Minute Success Stories: Monday, May 16th 8:00 – 10:30 pm $40 (dessert reception)

Legislative Breakfast, Tuesday, May 17th, 7:30 - 8:45 am $40

The Power of Partnerships, Place, and Preservation, a Workshop at the Annenberg Beach House. Wednesday, May 18: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm $65, lunch included

Trees, Time and Interim Treatments: Avoiding the Cutting Edge? Wednesday, May 18: 1:30–5:00 pm $35

Stewardship at Home Sunday, May 15 - 9:00 to 12:30 pm $40. See three very different historic Santa Monica houses and learn from their owners the particular challenges faced in renovating and restoring to meet the needs of every day life. Among the houses toured will be an 1876 Carpenter Gothic church adapted to a residence. Tour Guides/Homeowners: Deborah Levin, Fiona Mason, Anne Troutman

Beaches, Boards, & Bungalows: Sunday, May 15 - 1:30 to 5:00 pm $40. Experience Santa Monica's beachfront the way locals and visitors have for over a century. We will stroll down the 100-year-old Pier, re-live the famed Muscle Beach and tour the history of the Z-Boys with one of its members. Tour Guides : Margaret Bach, Landmarks Commissioner, City of Santa Monica , Jim Harris, Community Venue Liaison and Pier Historian, Santa Monica Pier Restoration Co. , Nathan Pratt, CEO, Z-BOY® Holdings; Founder, Horizons West® Surfboards, Nelson White

Pascual Marquez Historic Cemetery Study Tour: Sunday, May 15 - 1:30 to 5:00 pm, $40. The Pascual Marquez Cemetery in Santa Monica Canyon, part of the 1839 Mexican Land Grant Rancho Boca de Santa Monica, was the first private cemetery of the Los Angeles region and is seldom open to the public. Its grounds also contain the foundations of the first adobe casa of the Santa Monica area. The study tour is hosted by La Senora Research Institute and Historian Ernest Marquez, great grandson of the recipients of the 1839 Land Grant. Since 2008, the Cemetery has been the focus of La Senora’s research project to rediscover the location of graves whose markers have been lost to time. Their work in collaboration with UCLA’s Cotsen Institute of Archeology and the Geoarcheologal Laboratory won the California Governor’s Award for Historic Conservation.

This is a hands-on workshop during which Drs Dean Goodman and Brian Damiata, Research Associates from The Cotsen, will demonstrate the use of state of the art technologies in ground penetrating radar. Dr. Wendy Teeter, Curator of the Fowler Museum of Archeology, will explore with participants the identification and documentation of the original foundations of the 1839 adobe casa inhabited by Ernest Marquez’ great grandparents. Following the Cemetery investigations, Dr. Teri Brewer, Cotsen Research Associate and La Senora Anthropology Fellow, will lead a walk to La Senora’s Mojica Hacienda where the history of the cemetery will be put in context, including a discussion of the local Tongva communities which preceded the Rancho. Dr. Goodman will present materials on today’s extensive use of geophysical and other new non intrusive technologies in exploring and interpreting local history and archaeology in an area like Santa Monica.

Panel Luncheon: Radical Preservation- An Unorthodox Approach Might be the Only Answer: Monday May 16, 12:15 – 1:45 pm $40 (lunch included). John Ruble of Moore Ruble Yudell, Craig Hodgetts of Hodgetts + Fung Design and Architecture, and Frank Matero Professor at University of Pennsylvania Historic Preservation Program speaking on their personal experiences and the world view on what heritage conservation means today and in the future. Moderated by Ann Gray, Publisher of Balcony Media, (Form Magazine). Location: Santa Monica Bay Woman's Club at 1210 4th Street in Santa Monica.

Three Minute Success Stories: Monday, May 16th 8:00 – 10:30 pm $40 (dessert reception). This evening of lively and entertaining preservation stories has been a California Preservation Foundation tradition stretching back to the 3rd Annual California Preservation Conference in 1978. Don’t miss seeing Conservancy Board Members Sherrill Kushner and Mario Fonda-Bonardi present the story of our Shotgun House project “You Saved That Shack?” Register here. Location: Santa Monica Bay Woman's Club at 1210 4th Street in Santa Monica.

Legislative Breakfast: Tuesday, May 17th, 7:30am - 8:45am $40. Milford Wayne Donaldson, FAIA, chairman of the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation and California State Historic Preservation Officer will discuss federal and state goals for developing renewable energy and the potential issues and opportunities for the preservation of California’s cultural resources. Breakfast is provided.

Location: Fairmont Miramar Hotel

The Power of Partnerships, Place, and Preservation,a Workshop at the Annenberg Beach House: Wednesday, May 18: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm. $65, lunch included. Spend the day at our award-winning Annenberg Community Beach House while learning to think beyond traditional preservation models. Originally constructed in the 1920s as part of actress Marion Davies’ beachfront estate, the Annenberg Community Beach House project encompassed historic restoration, adaptive reuse, new construction, sustainability strategies, and a broad vision of Santa Monica’s coastal cultural landscape. Anchored by two significant Julia Morgan-designed landmarks, the guest house and swimming pool, the site’s recent revitalization as a LEED Gold rated public beach club has received wide acclaim—including a CPF Preservation Design Award.

This daylong workshop, composed of four ninety-minute sessions, features a diverse roster of speakers who will explore the power of cross-sector partnerships, innovative rehabilitation practices, conservation methods employed, and the cultural landscape of Santa Monica's beach history. Moderators: Karen Ginsberg, Community and Cultural Services, City of Santa Monica, Jessica Cusick, Cultural Affairs Manager, City of Santa Monica, Linda Dishman, Executive Director, Los Angeles Conservancy, John Berley, Associate, Frederic Fisher and Partners. Speakers: Leonard Aube, Managing Director, Annenberg Foundation, Frederick Fisher, Principal, Frederick Fisher Partners Architects, Mia Lehrer, Principal, Mia Lehrer and Associates, Richard Stupin, Project Manager, Charles Pankow Builders, Joel Brand, Friends of 415 PCH, Ken Breisch, Director, USC Historic Preservation Program, Ruthann Lehrer, Architectural Historian, Zoltan Pali, Principal, SPF Architects, Christy McAvoy, Principal, Historic Resources Group, John Griswold, Principal, Griswold Conservation Association, Ray Adamyk, Principal, Spectra Company,Peyton Hall, Principal, Historic Resources Group, Charles Kibby, Principal, Preservation Arts, William Rowley, President, Rowley International, Gene Higginbotham, City of Santa Monica , Joseph Coriaty, Principal, Frederick Fisher and Partners Architect.

Trees, Time and Interim Treatments: Avoiding the Cutting Edge? Wednesday, May 18: 1:30–5:00 pm $35. Baldwin Hills Village (now known as Village Green) is a 68-acre, 627-unit “superblock” residential complex closely associated with Clarence Stein and the “Garden City” movement. Designated a National Historic Landmark in 2001, the property’s iconic designed landscape is now in its eighth decade. In this workshop, which combines lecture and discussion with a site visit, we’ll learn how an intrepid volunteer group within the Baldwin Hills Village/Village Green Homeowners Association came forward to work toward the documentation, interpretation, and treatment of this cultural landscape – and to deal (on a nearly daily basis) with interim treatment issues, while awaiting the completion of a cultural landscape report. From theory to practice, you’ll learn many of the issues — and some of the answers! — involving the interim treatment and management of historic cultural landscape elements. Moderator: Noel Vernon, Professor of Landscape Architecture, Cal Poly Pomona. Speakers: Steven Keylon, Baldwin Hills Village/Village Green Landscape Committee, Robert Page, Director, Olmsted Ctr. For Historic Landscape Preservation. Robert Nicolais, Architect, Baldwin Hills Village/Village Green Landscape Committee.

The Santa Monica Conservancy is very pleased to bring this statewide conference to Santa Monica, and thanks the many local partnering organizations, sponsors and volunteers who have made this possible. For more information on all aspects of the conference, see the California Preservation Foundation website http://www.californiapreservation.org/

SANTA MONICA LANDSCAPES - A GARDEN TOUR

2011-04-16T12:12:00.000-07:00

SANTA MONICA CONSERVANCY PRESENTS
SANTA MONICA LANDSCAPES - A GARDEN TOUR.
Sunday, May 1st, 1 – 5 p.m.

Santa Monica Landscapes: A May 1st Garden Tour

2011-03-29T11:38:00.000-07:00

It's Spring and I'm working hard as the chairperson of the Santa Monica Conservancy's upcoming garden tour, Santa Monica Landscapes. This years tour will feature eleven fantastic gardens through out the eclectic neighborhoods of Santa Monica, many of which were designed by eminent landscape designers. We've also teamed up with the Theodore Payne Foundation for a California Native Plant Sale from 1pm-4:30pm. For more information visit www.smconservancy.org

SARAH BARNARD is a member of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID), is certified by the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA), and is recognized by the International Institute for Bau-Biologie & Ecology as aBuilding Biology Practitioner (BBP) and by the United States Green Building Council as a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Accredited Professional (LEED AP). She serves on the Santa Monica Conservancy’sboard of directors and specializes in green interior design and historic preservation.

CA Preservation Foundation Conference May 15th-18th 2011

2011-03-16T10:30:00.000-07:00

California’s historic preservation community is coming to your doorstep! The California Preservation Conference May 15 – 18 is a unique opportunity to participate in special tours, educational workshops, and events exploring preservation and its essential role in sustainability, economic development and community character.

Registration is now open. See the California Preservation Foundation website for all the details. You can select only what appeals to you most or immerse yourself by registering for the whole conference. Early registration discounts apply through April 8 and many Study Tours, Workshops and Events sell out quickly, so don’t delay.

Get an inside look at the Conference: Volunteers are now being recruited for assistance with registration, educational sessions, tours and special events as well as technical support. If you are interested in volunteering, please click here to download the application form and information on the benefits.

Know a high school or middle school student with an interest in film making and preservation? The conference will showcase winners of CPF’s 2^nd Annual Youth Film Competition which this year is partnering with Santa Monica's own Teen Film Festival, SMTFF. Click here to download details on the film competition. The deadline for submissions is Friday April 1 to be considered for both CPF and SMTFF, Thursday April 21 for only the CPF competition.

Have a preservation story you would like to tell? The Three-Minute Success Stories program on Monday night (May 16) is traditionally one of the most popular events of the conference, combining compelling preservation stories with dramatic and amusing presentations. Wrapping preservation narratives in a bit of vaudeville makes for a memorable evening, and the historic Santa Monica Bay Woman’s Club will provide an ideal venue. The deadline for submissions is April 15.
For more information on all aspects of the conference, see the California Preservation Foundation website www.californiapreservation.org or call 415-495-0349.

The Santa Monica Conservancy is very pleased to bring this statewide conference to Santa Monica, and thanks the many local partnering organizations, sponsors and volunteers who have made this possible.

Not yet a member? Join or renew now and support historic preservation in Santa Monica.

Mailing Address:
Santa Monica Conservancy
PO BOX 653
Santa Monica, CA 90406
US

Contact Name: Santa Monica Conservancy
Telephone Number: (310) 496-3146

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Sarah Barnard is a professional interior designer that specializes in green design and historic preservation. Her firm undertakes a broad range of projects, all of which are grounded in smart design and mindful of healthy living. Currently Ms. Barnard serves on the Santa Monica Conservancy's board of directors and is working on the restoration of a handful of historic properties, the design and decoration of private residences throughout Southern California and most recently the new offices of Life Rolls On, a subsidiary of the Christopher Reeve foundation. Ms. Barnard will be speaking at the CPF Conference on May 16th. For more information about Sarah Barnard, visit her website at www.sarahbarnard.com

Green Home Remodeling: ASID & USGBC'S REGREEN

2011-03-11T14:16:00.000-08:00

As interior designers we know that it is our moral and professional responsibility to provide our clients with environments that are healthy to live/work in and respectful to the greater good of our global environment. While many design professionals have achieved Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Accreditation, we often find that our clients aren’t always willing to go the distance required to achieve a LEED rating on their project. Other designers have expressed a readiness to provide their clients with “green” design alternatives but don’t have the time to take on the extensive preparation required for the LEED exam. With exactly these types of challenges in mind, the United States Green Building Council (USGBC) in partnership with the ASID Foundation launched REGREEN in 2008.

What Can REGREEN Do for You?

•REGREEN Residential Remodeling Guidelines. Download (free) 180 pages of green remodeling best practices and case studies organized by project type. Find the tools and tips you need to help your client conserve energy and resources, preserve good indoor air quality and make responsible decisions that impact the environment in a positive way! http://www.regreenprogram.org

•REGREEN Strategy Generator. Can’t bear the thought of browsing 180 pages? You will love this little widget! Just plug in your project type (bathroom, kitchen, bedroom etc), select a sub topic (water conservation, materials and resources etc), and in less than one minute the website will produce a list of tailor made eco-friendly recommendations just for you!

•Green Product Checklist. This two page downloadable document provides valuable questions to ask manufacturers when researching products that are marketed as “eco-friendly”. It also provides a short list of websites that represent “green” vendors. Just keep in mind that not everyone who promises environmental responsibility is actually delivering it- it’s your job to dig deep and choose carefully.

•Green Home Assessment Form. A super in depth, whole home evaluation form for use by design professionals. Covering everything from insulation to artwork, pets and composting this fourteen page worksheet can be used as the starting place to evaluate an existing site.

•Green Home Guide. USGBC’s green home renovation website offers interior designers and other green service providers a chance to join their professional network free! Visit http://greenhomeguide.com

• REGREEN Trained. For design professionals who want to explore green strategies in more detail REGREEN offers a number of webinars, presentations, on-line courses and traditional in-person classes. Designers who complete 35 hours of designated course work are eligible to receive a REGREEN Certificate of Completion.

Sarah Barnard is a professional interior designer that specializes in green design and historic preservation. Her firm undertakes a broad range of projects, all of which are grounded in smart design and mindful of healthy living. Currently Ms. Barnard is working on the restoration of a handful of historic properties, the design and decoration of private residences throughout Southern California and most recently the new offices of Life Rolls On, a subsidiary of the Christopher Reeve foundation. For more information about Sarah Barnard, visit her website at www.sarahbarnard.com

Sarah Barnard is Green Building & Design Magazine's Interior Designer to Watch!

2010-12-20T12:51:00.000-08:00

Green Building and Design (GB&D) Magazine features Sarah Barnard, LEED AP in the December issue as their "Designer to Watch". For LA Designer, historic preservation and green design go hand in hand. By Julie Schaeffer

A daughter of historic preservationists, Sarah Barnard has always been interested in conservation--and now it's become a fundamental part of her interior design career. Barnard, who grew up and studied architecture and interior design in southern California, worked at a number of firms before ending up with Johnny Chao,a noted interior designer with a focus on kitchen and baths. Although Barnard enjoyed her experience with Chao, who remains a mentor and friend, after working with him for a number of years she wanted to expand her scope. "I fancy myself an artist first," says Barnard. "I make compositions and compositions don't end at a doorway."Thus it was in 2003 that Barnard decided to take her career to the next level with the founding of Sarah Barnard Design, a Los Angeles interior design firm that undertakes a broad range of projects, including private residences, offices, restaurants and spas.

All of the firms' work is mindful of healthy living, which to Barnard means not just being respectful of the environment, but also the structure's history and the space's inhabitants. It's something that Barnard learned from an early age, thanks in part to her parents. "My father spent most of his lifetime restoring antique furniture and millwork, and he and my mother started a grass-roots non-profit organization, The Olmstead Preservation Association, which works with their community to preserve and protect its historical resources," Barnard says. "Being around 'old stuff' taught me its value in the fabric of the community. When Barnard founded her own firm, it was only natural for her to take her mindfulness of healthy living to the next level by becoming a LEED AP, as well as an International Institute for Bau-Biologie & Ecology Building Biology Practitioner. "Historic Preservation and green design go hand in hand" says Barnard. "A lot of people don't see it that way, but for me they are fundamentally the same idea, which is making the most of what you have instead of wasting." Today many of Barnard's projects are LEED certified. She's currently working on the remodel of a landmark historic resource preservation center for the Santa Monica Conservancy, a non-profit group dedicated to the preservation of Santa Monica's unique history and architecture. Often however, clients aren't interested in pursuing LEED certification due to the expense--but that doesn't stop Barnard from recommending sustainable features. "Even someone who isn't willing to take their project all the way through LEED certification can still use LEED guidelines, picking and choosing which energy or water saving features to incorporate," she explains.

That's not to say that Barnard won't work with clients who aren't interested in sustainable design; she's happy to. "Some people think sustainability is a marketing ploy and are tired of hearing the word 'green', so I definitely get clients who don't care about incorporating sustainable features." says Barnard. "For those folks, its important to be careful to avoid judging, because the green movement for a lot of people is a guilt movement, where an architect or interior designer comes into your life and tells you how your not living correctly. In those cases, it's my job to make people feel happy with the process, not forced to conform. So I don't present options as green, I present them as healthy living. Some clients may not be interested in recycling water or using solar power, but I bet I can convince them not to put poisonous furnishings in their baby's room." In that way then it's easy to see how Barnard's approach comes full circle. "It's our professional responsibility as designers to design spaces that are not just beautiful, but are also healthy for the people and the planet," she says. "Health and preservation are good places to start and you can branch out from there."

For more information about Sarah and her practice visit http://www.sarahbarnard.com/

Eco-Friendly Holiday Decorating on the Cheap!

2010-12-15T12:12:00.000-08:00

Well it's already the middle of December and you've likely already decorated if you are going to...I have! This year I dragged my live (potted) Christmas tree back indoors, marveled at how it nearly doubled in size and adorned it with all of my collected ornaments from kindergarten until today. It's a bit wonky but it's mine and that is what the holidays are really all about anyway; spending time with family, remembering childhood fantasies and eating like there is no tomorrow.

If you still have some decorating to do, or want to get some ideas for next year check out these Eco-friendly and organic, bargain holiday decorating tips.

Using what you have and enjoying who you’re with never goes out of style. This holiday season, find ways to trim your tree without trimming your bank account, as well as ways to give without taking a lot from our planet’s resources. Don’t think of purchasing less holiday decorations or fewer dinners out as cutting back, think of it as streamlining your healthier happier life!

Holiday Decorations

Holiday decorating (or any decorating) is about expressing your personal style and complimenting your architecture. Don’t be afraid to use found objects or unconventional color schemes in your holiday decor plans.

Fearlessly mix textures within the same tonal range. Similar colors love to play against each other’s unique textures and usually bring out the best in each other. Create an elegant, earth friendly holiday table setting by using a subtle repetition of various hues of burnt orange, berry, and gold. Seek out objects like an organic silk table runner, wool napkins, natural feather napkin rings, handmade fire clay dishes, and blown glass goblets.

For clients who don’t want over-the-top holiday cheer, I integrate seasonal elements from nature to subtly remind us of the elements that surround us. For example, I gathered fallen seedpods, preserving the bright green ones, and painting the brown ones silver. Together in simple bowls, they harmonized with the place settings and will last the whole month long.

Buying less holiday knick knacks means less clutter in your space, and fewer boxes in the garage. Why buy more table top decorations when everyone is going to keep giving them to you anyway?

The Tree

Many homeowners have become uneasy about the idea of “wasting” a tree every year for the sake of tradition. People who care about the environment, and/or just don’t want to haul another dead tree to the curb for trash pick up, are turning to re-usable faux trees. Although most synthetic trees aren’t made with earth friendly ingredients, they do last for years and can also be purchased secondhand. Some vintage Christmas trees are really delightful!

Another way to avoid dead Christmas trees is to purchase a small living tabletop-size tree that you can take outside after the holidays, care for it, watch it grow, and then bring in year after year to decorate it for the holidays. Note: If you buy a tree that is too large to begin with, this method won’t work well.

What do you do if you have collected a wild and crazy assortment of mismatched ornaments? First, give an honest assessment. If you have managed to collect ornaments that you aren’t in love with, it’s okay to let them go. Donate them to a local re-sale shop, church, or school. After this, assemble your remaining ornaments into groups. Once you have a clear picture of what you have, you can begin to prepare a plan. Let’s say that you have Grandma’s classic Victorian ornament collection and you want to modernize it; consider purchasing 2” chrome or teal Christmas balls as a unifying element that will add a fresh, minimalist feel to the mix.
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Sarah Barnard is a member of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID), is certified by the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) and is recognized by the United States Green Building Council as a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Accredited Professional. Undertaking a broad range of projects, all of which are grounded in smart design and mindful of healthy living, Sarah’s diverse body of work includes upscale private residences, chic restaurants and impressive corporate headquarters. Ms. Barnard specializes in green design and historic preservation and is an active member of the Santa Monica and Los Angeles Conservancies. For more information please visit http://www.sarahbarnard.com/

Holiday Snowball Cookie Recipe- Chocolate & Nut

2010-11-29T22:56:00.000-08:00

If you know me, you know I like food- a lot. Growing food, cooking food and baking treats are a big part of my life. Tonight I whipped up some of my favorite holiday cookies before heading off to my Santa Monica Conservancy meeting. The cookies were such a hit that the other ladies in the group made me promise to share the recipe—well here it is!

Holiday Cookie Snowballs Ingredients List

Chocolate

½ cup organic unbleached all purpose flour

¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

½ teaspoon baking powder

½ cup evaporated cane juice or granulated white sugar

2 tablespoons butter

1 egg

1 tablespoon orange juice

Nut

1 ½ cups of the nuts of your choice. I just use whatever I have on hand – almonds, walnuts or pecans usually.

½ cup evaporated cane juice or granulated white sugar

1 ½ tablespoons of ground cinnamon

2 egg whites

Additionally

Powdered sugar (for coating)

Parchment paper

Directions:
1. Heat the oven to 350

2. Line baking sheets with parchment paper

3. Start by making the chocolate dough. In your electric mixing bowl, beat egg

4. Then on “stir” or lowest possible setting, add orange juice, then baking powder, then diced butter

5. Quickly add flour and cocoa and stop mixing as soon as it is just mixed, crumbly texture is okay.

6. Roll into a ball and cover tightly with plastic. Chill for min 30 minutes.

7. This is where I wash my mixing bowl and paddle and then start the nut dough while the chocolate is chilling.

8. In a large plastic bag smash/pound your nuts with the flat side of a meat cleaver or rolling pin. Most textures will work; I usually go for approaching powdery.

9. In your mixer beat the egg whites until approaching stiffness and then add cinnamon, reduce speed to minimum

10. Add the sugar followed quickly by the almonds until just mixed

11. Roll into balls and toss set on to parchment baking sheets. Bake for 15-18 minutes. Let cool completely *Later you will roll these in a bowl of powdered sugar.

12. Once the nut balls are out, Raise the heat of the oven to 400

13. Roll the chocolate dough into balls and thickly coat with powdered sugar by rolling in your prepared bowl.

14. Place the sugared balls on your parchment paper cookie sheets and bake for 9-10 minutes.

15. Let cool completely before removing from cookie sheet.

*So the trick is to sugar the chocolate balls before they bake and the nut balls after they cool.

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Sarah Barnard is a Los Angeles based interior designer and LEED AP who specializes in green design, historic preservation and healthy living. Some of her recent projects include National Geographic Entertainment, the new headquarters of Life Rolls On, a subsidiary of the Christopher Reeve Foundation, the Academy of Country Music Awards, the Teen Choice Awards and countless private residences. For more information about Sarah and her practice visit www.sarahbarnard.com

This Old House Magazine Features Eco-Friendly Laundry Room by Interior Designer Sarah Barnard

2010-10-29T09:32:00.000-07:00

This Old House Magazine is known for historic homes, vintage charm and step by step restoration projects. This month's issue features an Eco-fabulous laundry room designed by yours truly. The home is a tri-level Mediterranean Estate nestled in the hills above Redondo Beach.

The addition of a window made this former closet into a sunny space with ceiling high cabinets for storing everything and a whirlpool sink for washing delicates. The hand made glass mosaic back splash was inspired by Wisteria growing on Lake Como, Italy and the custom purple library ladder makes accessing hard to reach cabinets a snap!

Details, details! A front loading washer and dryer make the counter space above available for folding and saves more energy and water than conventional top loaders. The cats of the house have perfect privacy in their tucked away cat box concealed by a washable curtain. The fold out ironing board completes the space!

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SARAH BARNARD is a Los Angeles based interior designer who specializes in green interior design, historic preservation, healthy living and aging in place. Barnard serves on the Santa Monica Conservancy's board of directors and has completed projects for National Geographic Entertainment, The Teen Choice Awards, the Academy of Country Music Awards, Life Rolls on, a Subsidiary of the Christopher Reeve Foundation, and hundreds of private home owners. For more information about Sarah and her practice visit www.sarahbarnard.com

Santa Monica Conservancy Invites You to Visit Early Modern and Case Study Homes in Santa Monica Canyon + Free Pre-Tour Lecture

2010-10-08T18:17:00.000-07:00

The Santa Monica Conservancy invites you to a very special opportunity to visit excellent examples of the Mid-Century Modern homes that made architectural innovation and modernism world-famous. These early modern and Case Study homes in Santa Monica Canyon are rarely open to the public!

Photos Courtest of Michael Folonis Architects & Santa Monica Conservancy

The Case Study House Program: In 1945, John Entenza, editor and publisher of Arts and Architecture magazine, announced the initiation of one of the country’s most influential post-War architectural experiments, the Case Study House Program. The magazine commissioned the design and construction of affordable and innovative modern homes to serve as prototypes for the housing boom expected as soldiers returned from World War II. The homes were designed by some of the most important architects of the region and the generation, and most were built in Los Angeles. Those that survive are privately owned and rarely open to visitors.

Saturday October 23: Mid Century House Tour from Noon to 5 PM. You will tour John Entenza’s first home in Rustic Canyon (Harwell Hamilton Harris, 1937), a second early modern home by Harris, the Pumphrey House (1939), and the West House (Rodney Walker, 1948, Case Study # 18). Renovation architect Michael Folonis, FAIA, will be at the Pumphrey House for the 1:30, 2:00, and 2:30 tours. Docents will also be at the Charles and Ray Eames Home and Studio (1949, Case Study # 9). Tickets: $50 for SM Conservancy members/$65 for the general public.

For more information, see www.smconservancy.org or leave a message at 310-496-3146.

Saturday October 23: Exclusive Reception from 4 to 6 PM. Enjoy wine and hors d’oeuvres while viewing sculpture by Rodin, Indiana, Graham, and Ernst in the garden at the Bailey House (Richard Neutra, 1948, Case Study # 20). Barbara Lamprecht, an architectural historian specializing in Modernism, will speak on Neutra and her conversations with Dr. Bailey. Tickets: $150 for SM Conservancy members/$175 for the general public.

Thursday, October 14: John Entenza and the Case Study House Program. Ken Breisch, Ph. D., Director of USC’s Historic Preservation Programs will present an illustrated talk at 7:00 PM in the multi-purpose room (2nd floor) of the Santa Monica Main Library, 601 Santa Monica Blvd. Free, reservations not required.

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SARAH BARNARD is a member of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID), is certified by the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA), and is recognized by the International Institute for Bau-Biologie & Ecology as a Building Biology Practitioner (BBP) and by the United States Green Building Council as a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Accredited Professional (LEED AP). She serves on the Santa Monica Conservancy’s board of directors and specializes in green interior design and historic preservation.

Sarah Featured in ASID Membership Campaign.

2010-10-06T23:19:00.000-07:00

I just opened my mail box to find the most peculiar large white envelope from the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID). Inside I would come to find the most delightful (and surprising) note thanking me for "being an ASID spokesperson". It took me a moment (and opening the rest of the contents) to figure out just what had happened.

Surprise! I'm in the new ASID marketing brochure. The large tri-fold piece includes quotes from three ASID members including me. Susan Cozzi from Florida's South Chapter says, "Being a member of ASID has given me and my work an immediate stamp of approval. In me, they know they have a professional with education and proficient skills to complete the job." Marcello A. Luzi, ASID from Pennsylvania's East Chapter says, "I've become well known in the design community due in large part to ASID. One can never underestimate the power of being in the right place at the right time."

And well, you can read what I said...but just in case the print isn't clear-"Some of the most rewarding seminars I have attended have been courtesy of ASID. I've learned marketing techniques which I am still employing today. The education and networking benefits don't end with the lecture."

It's true, my ASID membership has really provided me with a community of my peers, a go-to list of vendors and ample free seminars to boot.

Too bad the spokesperson gig doesn't come with free membership!

For more information about Sarah and her eco-friendly interior design practice visit http://www.sarahbarnard.com/

For more information about ASID visit http://www.asid.org/

Aging in Place: Strategies for Implementing Universal Design Features at Home.

2010-09-28T14:42:00.000-07:00

The builders, developers and designers of The Center for Universal Design at the North Carolina State University created a standard of ideal home accommodations for the aging homeowner in 2001. This set of standards assists architects, interior designers, healthy living consultants and aging in place specialist to provide homeowners the opportunity to age gracefully while staying comfortably and safely in their homes.

The Gold standard is the highest level of aging in place design accommodations. Gold and Silver levels are additive to Bronze level. The Silver level contains all the features of the Bronze level plus those listed under the Silver level. The Gold level includes all the features of the Bronze and Silver levels plus those listed under the Gold level. Homeowners facing mobility issues should focus on Bronze level standards first and continue working towards Gold level compliance as is feasible. Retaining a professional can ease the burden of preparing a home safety strategy, researching materials and implementing the plan.
Bronze Level

Entrances

Stepless Entrances

• At least one stepless entrance is essential; if only one, not through a garage or from a patio or raised deck.

• Level bridges to uphill point.

• Drive and garage elevated to floor level, so vehicles do the climbing.

• Avoid ramps. If ramps are used, integrate into the design.

Other Entrance Features

• One-half inch maximum rise at entrance thresholds.

• Space at entry doors should be a minimum 5’ x 5’ level clear space inside and outside of entry door for maneuvering while opening or closing door.

• Clear door opening width (34” minimum = 36” wide doors), for all entrance doorways.

Decks

• Build deck at same level as house floor
Interior Circulation

• At least one bedroom and accessible bathroom should be located on an accessible ground floor entry level (same level as kitchen, living room, etc.).

• Clear door opening width (32” minimum, 34” - 36” wide doors), for all doorways.

• Clear floor space (18” minimum) beside door on pull side at latch jamb provides space to move out of the way of the door swing when pulling it open.

• Circulation route (42” minimum width) to provide maneuvering room in the hallways and archways.

Vertical Circulation

• Stair handrails placed on both sides of stairs

Bathrooms

At least one bathroom on the accessible level must have one of the following accessible bathing fixtures:

• Minimum 5’ x 3’ (4’ preferred), deep curbless shower.

• Adequate maneuvering space: 60” diameter turning space in the room and 30” x 48” clear floor spaces at each fixture. Spaces may overlap.

• Clear space (3’) in front and to one side of toilet allows for easy maneuvering to and around toilet.

• Toilet centered 18” from any side wall, cabinet or tub.

• Broad blocking in walls around toilet, tub, and shower allows for future placement and relocation of grab bars while assuring adequate load-bearing and eliminates the need to open up wall to add blocking later.

Fixture Controls

• Single-lever water controls at all plumbing fixtures and faucets.

• Mix valve with pressure balancing and hot water limiter prevents scalding people who cannot move out of the way if water temperature and/or pressure changes suddenly.

Kitchens

• Space between face of cabinets and cabinets and walls should be 48” minimum.

• Full-extension, pull-out drawers, shelves and racks in base cabinets for easy reach to all storage space.

• Adjustable height shelves in wall cabinets.

• Pantry storage with easy access pull-out and/or adjustable height shelves for easy reaching of otherwise hard-to-get items.

• Single-lever water controls at all plumbing fixtures and faucets.

Garages

• Power operated overhead doors.

Switches and Controls

• Light switches above floor, 36” - 44” maximum, and thermostats at 48” maximum height.

• Electrical outlets, 18” minimum height, allows easy reach from a sitting position as well as for those who have trouble bending over.

• Electrical panel with top no more than 54” above floor located with a minimum 30” x 48” clear floor space in front.

Silver Level

Stepless Entrances

• More than one stepless entrance is preferred.

Garages And Carports

• Sloping garage floor (with through-the-wall vents at bottom of slope to release fumes, if a garage) in lieu of stepped entrance with ramp from garage to house interior in attached garages.

Other Entrance Features

• Weather protection shelter while unlocking and opening doors, such as porches, stoop with roof, awnings, long roof overhangs, and/or carports.

• Use slatted decking for positive drainage (i.e., a wood trench drain).

• Light for operating at entry doors: focused light on lockset, general illumination for seeing visitors at night, and/or motion detector controls that turn on lights when someone approaches the door to eliminate the problem of dark approaches to home and adds a sense of security.

Interior Circulation

Vertical Circulation

If a two-story dwelling:

• at least one set of stacked closets, pantries, or storage spaces with knock-out floor for later use as an elevator shaft.

Bathrooms

At least one bathroom on the accessible level must have one of the following accessible bathing fixtures:

• Tub with integral seat, water proof floor, and a floor drain.

Additional features for all bathrooms.

• Countertop lavatories preferred with bowl mounted as close to front edge as possible.

• Wall hung lavatories acceptable with appropriate pipe protection.

• Pedestal lavatories are not acceptable.

• Long mirrors should be placed with bottom no more than 36” above finished floor and top at least 72” high. Full-length mirrors are good choices.

• Offset controls in tub/shower with adjacent clear floor space allows for easy access from outside the tub with no inconvenience when inside.

• Integral transfer seat in tub and in 3’ x 3’ shower stall allows people to sit in tub/shower without needing additional equipment.

• Grab bars, if installed, should not be stainless steel or chrome. Use colors to match decor.

Fixture Controls

• Hand-held shower heads in all tubs and showers, in addition to fixed heads, if provided.

Single lever diverter valves if needed.

• Adjustable height, movable hand-held shower head or 60” flexible hose allows easy use by people of all heights.

Kitchens

• Contrasting color border treatment on countertops. Color or contrast difference allows easy recognition of the edges of counters and the different heights to prevent accidental spills.

• Stretches of continuous counter tops for easy sliding of heavy items, particularly between refrigerator, sink, and stove top, for easy one-level food flow.

• Front mounted controls on appliances to facilitate easy reach.

• Cook top with knee space below allows someone to use the appliance from a seated position. May be open knee space or achieved by means of removable base cabinets or fold-back or self-storing doors. Pipe protection panels must be provided to prevent contact with hot or abrasive surfaces.

• Cook top or range with staggered burners and front or side mounted controls to eliminate dangerous reaching over hot burners.

• Glare-free task lighting to illuminate work areas without too much reflectivity.

• Side-by-side refrigerator allows easy reach of otherwise hard-to-get items, particularly if pull-out shelving is provided or

• Use under counter or drawer type refrigerators and install them on raised platforms for optimum access to storage space of 18” - 48” above finished floor.

Laundry Areas

• Front loading washers and dryers, with front controls, raised on platforms to reduce need to bend, stoop, or lean over.

• Clear space 36” wide across full width in front of washer and dryer and extending at least 18” beyond right and left sides. (Extended space can be part of knee space under

counter tops, sink, etc.)

Storage

• 50% of storage to be no more than 54” high.

• Adjustable height closet rods and shelves allow for flexibility of storage options.

Garages And Carports

• Extra length and width inside for circulation around parked cars.

• No ramp in garages.

• Sloping garage floor (with through-the-wall vents at bottom of slope to release fumes) in lieu of stepped entrance with ramp from garage to house interior.

Home Automation

• Motion detector light switches in garages, utility spaces, entrances, and basements.

• Remote controls for selected lights.

• Remote controls for heating and cooling.

• Doorbell intercoms that connect to portable telephones.

• Audible and visual alarms for doorbell, baby monitor, smoke detectors, etc.

Light and Color

• Color contrast between floor surfaces and trim allows easy recognition of the junction of floor surfaces and walls. Avoid glossy surfaces.

• Color contrast difference between treads and risers on stairs.

• Ambient and focused lighting allows lots of light. Lighting that is thoughtful and

variable, emphasizing lighting at stairs, entrances and task lighting

• Contrast between counter tops and front edges or cabinet faces.

Switches and Controls

• Easy-touch rocker or hands free switches. (See Home Automation.)

• Additional electrical outlets at bed locations and desk for equipment, four-plex boxes each side for computer and electronic equipment as well as personal use equipment.

Windows

• Windows for viewing, 36” maximum sill height. Casements, awnings, hoppers, and jalousies are good choices but not essential.

Gold Level

Stepless Entrances

• Make all home entrances stepless.

Other Entrance Features

• View of callers for all people, including children and seated users through sidelights, wide angle viewers, TV monitors, windows in doors, and/or windows nearby.

• A place to put packages while opening doors: built-in shelf, bench or table with knee space below located on the outside next to the door.

• A way for visitors to communicate with residents, such as lighted doorbell at a reachable height, intercom with portable telephone link, and/or hardwired intercom.

• Address/house number should be large, high contrast, located in a prominent place, easy for friends and emergency personnel to locate.

Interior Circulation

• Turning space in all rooms (5’ diameter).

• An open plan design, minimizing hallways and doorways and maximizing sight lines.

• Floor finishes that minimize glare, are slip resistant, and offer low resistance to walking or rolling.

Vertical Circulation

• All stairs to have appropriate width and space at the bottom for later installation of a platform lift, if needed.

Bathrooms

Bathrooms on the second floor should follow guidelines.

At least one bathroom must have one of the following accessible bathing fixtures:

• tub with integral seat, water proof floor, and a floor drain.

• Other bathrooms in the same house may have a tub with an integral seat or a 3’ x 3’transfer shower with “L” shaped folding seat and 1/2” maximum lip (curb) in lieu of fixtures described above. When more than one bathroom has the same type of bathing fixture (a tub, shower, wet area shower), at least one shower should be arranged for lefthand use and one for right.

• Knee space under lavatory (29” high) allows someone to use lavatory from a seated position. May be open knee space or achieved by means of removable vanity or fold-back or self-storing doors. Pipe protection panels must be provided to prevent contact with hot or sharp surfaces.

Kitchens

• Clear knee space under sink (29” high minimum) allows someone to use the sink from a seated position. May be open knee space or achieved by means of removable base cabinets or fold-back, bi-fold (Door Ease), or self-storing doors. Pipe protection panels must be provided to prevent contact with hot or sharp surfaces.

• Adjustable height work surfaces (28” - 42”), electrically powered, continuously

adjustable counter segments, some with cook tops and/or sinks and disposal units (e.g.Adjustable Systems, Inc.)

or

• Mechanically adjustable counter segments, some with sinks and disposal units, some with cook tops, adjustable in 2” increments (28” - 42”) allows in-kitchen work for people of all heights, those with back trouble, people who are seated, and/or children.

• Built-in oven with knee space beside, set for one pull-out oven rack at the same height as adjacent counter top.

• Drop in range with knee space beside, top set at 34” above finished floor.

• Dishwasher raised on a platform or drawer unit, so top rack is level with adjacent

counter top, puts bottom racks within easy reach requiring less bending.

Laundry Areas

• Laundry sink and counter top surface no more than 34” above finished floor with knee space below.

Storage

• Motorized cabinets that raise and lower.

• Power operated clothing carousels.

Garages And Carports

• Door height and headroom clearances (8’ minimum) for tall vehicles or provide

alternative on site outdoor parking space.

Hardware

• Easy to use, requiring little or no strength and flexibility:

lever door handles push plates

loop handle pulls on drawers and cabinet doors—no knobs

touch latches

magnetic latches in lieu of mechanical, keyless locks

Windows

• Crank operated windows.

• Power operators whenever possible.

Sliding Doors

• Exterior sliding doors: - drop frame and threshold into sub floor to reduce

upstanding threshold track, or ramp the finished flooring to top of track on both

sides.

• Interior pocket doors: When fully open door should extend 2” minimum outside door jamb and be equipped with open-loop handles for easy gripping..

• By- passing closet doors - each panel should create an opening at least 32” clear.

Read more about the North Carolina State University’s studies on Universal Design at http://www.ncsu.edu/www/ncsu/design/sod5/cud/pubs_p/docs/GBS.pdf or
http://www.ncsu.edu/www/ncsu/design/sod5/cud/

Sarah Barnard is a professional interior designer that specializes in green design, historic preservation and universal design + aging in place. Her firm undertakes a broad range of projects, all of which are grounded in smart design and mindful of healthy living. Currently Ms. Barnard is working on the restoration of a handful of historic properties, the design and decoration of private residences throughout Southern California and most recently the new corporate offices of National Geographic Entertainment in Beverly Hills.

For more information about Sarah visit www.sarahbarnard.com

Designing for All - The First Steps

2010-09-18T17:00:00.000-07:00

by Leslie Shankman-Cohn, ASID, CAPS and member of the ASID Aging in Place Council

It is important to remember that people age differently or may have different levels and manifestations of the same disability. Just because two people are 80 years old does not mean their flexibility, cognitive skills and physiology are the same. One may be able to ride a bicycle to the store, while the other may not be able to walk down the hallway unassisted. So, be aware that Individuals with seemingly similar issues might need totally different solutions. In addition, accessibility issues are highly specific to each individual’s household and usually depend on the occupant’s degree of independence in daily living. Therefore, you must really do your homework before you start to design!

In order to determine what adaptations are needed to make the home accessible, it is important to conduct an assessment of the person with regard to their physical condition and to evaluate the living space to determine what can and can not be implemented. In addition, it may be necessary to evaluate the condition of the house, asess the level of available family and community assistance, and inquire about financial assets. You will need to gather and organize information about each client by asking questions about their particular strengths and limitations, including their physical conditions, needs and medical prognoses. This may involve conversations with caregivers, healthcare providers and other specialists. Most importantly, you will need to conduct a home audit to identify if there are problems associated with everyday living in specific areas and rooms.

Besides listing and evaluating the actual conditions and layout of the home, other home audit questions might include:

Are there any problems or difficulties associated with unlocking the door or using the doorknob?

Are there any problems or difficulties associated with accessing the mailbox?

Are there any problems or difficulties associated with walking over the threshold?

Are there any problems or difficulties associated with getting in or out of certain pieces of furniture?

Are there any problems or difficulties associated with using the toilet, shower or tub?

Are there any problems or difficulties associated with reaching things in your cabinets?

Are there any problems or difficulties associated with tripping or walking on certain flooring surfaces and rugs?

Once the problem areas have been identified, it is now up to you to be able to decipher what is the most appropriate solution for that individual’s specific needs, now and in the foreseeable future. Define a strategy that uses the assets over time to meet the expected needs, and draft a list of possible solutions. Be prepared to explain and justify the benefits, costs and consequences of the solutions that you are recommending.

Just remember, there are a very large number of products and approaches that can be employed to meet individual needs. You can not simply assume that the same solutions will work across the board for all. Just as abilities vary from person to person, so will the correct solution.

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Sarah Barnard is a professional interior designer that specializes in green design, historic preservation and universal design + aging in place. Her firm undertakes a broad range of projects, all of which are grounded in smart design and mindful of healthy living. Currently Ms. Barnard is working on the restoration of a handful of historic properties, the design and decoration of private residences throughout Southern California and most recently the new corporate offices of National Geographic Entertainment in Beverly Hills.

For more information about Sarah visit www.sarahbarnard.com

Remove Barriers to Improve Quality of Life

2010-09-17T14:00:00.000-07:00

By Christine MacDonell, member of the ASID Aging in Place Council

As interior designers with a passion for assisting those who are aging, it is important that you are aware of barriers and the need to remove them. Barriers can take many forms—attitudinal, communicative, environmental, architectural, etc. A major concern for designers creating spaces used by older persons is any barrier that relates to falls.

Dr.Ernst Wunder, president of the American Health Foundation, said in 1975, “It should be the function of medicine to help people die young as late in life as possible.” Medical science has begun to do this, but a fall injury can undermine even the best medicine. Falls are the leading cause of injury, institutionalization and loss of independence among older adults. Falls are also the leading cause of death from injury in the U.S.

According to the Center for Disease Control, in the United States, one of every three persons age 65 and older falls each year. “Fallers” are two to three times more likely to fall again within six months. The impact on quality of life is dramatic. Elders develop a fear of falling, which for many reduces activity, limits independence and increases social isolation. Removal of barriers is thus an excellent way to have elders age in place without impeding their function or quality of life, whether in a private home, care facility or public space.

The economic impact of injury from falls is substantial. One study determined that the average total cost of a single fall injury in 1998 was nearly $20,000. The U.S. total direct cost of fall injury in 2000 was slightly more than $19 billion, and it is expected to reach $32.4 billion (in current dollars) by 2020. The Medicare cost for hip fractures in 1991 was $3 billion. By 2040, Medicare costs for hip fractures are projected to reach $240 billion dollars.

One third of falls are related to environmental barriers. Designers should review the entire environment to make sure all obstacles are removed and that physical needs are addressed. The removal of barriers means that the environment is converted or adapted to support ongoing independent living by making the performance of daily activities easier and accidents less likely to occur.

As designers you stress the importance of an overarching quality of life, health and wellness for all individuals you work with. This holistic approach is reflected in four key areas that have been shown to reduce the number of falls:

1. Having a regular exercise program

2. Making the home safer

3. Having a health care provider review medicines

4. Having vision checked regularly

Exercise is a critical component of the equation. Strength, balance, coordination and overall quality of life all improve with regular exercise. Many individuals need adequate space to establish exercise programs. Talk with your client to find out where they are in relationship to exercise and how much they do or will want to do. When you are designing a care facility or other public space, it is critical to include accommodations so that those at risk for falling and those who have already fallen also have opportunities for regular exercise.

Safety in an elder’s own home as well as congregate living situations is critical. There are many excellent Checks for Safety forms and systems. These checks could also be used to demonstrate conformance to some of the accessibility standards. A great source is the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control. Staff also can be enlisted to review safety in units of congregate living and other facilities. For example, housekeeping and maintenance workers in units could be tasked with checking the following:

1. Does the resident have to walk around furniture to navigate through a room?

2. Are there throw rugs on the floor?

3. Does the resident have to walk over extension cords or telephone cords?

4. Are items that are used frequently on high shelves?

5. Is the path from the bed to the bathroom lit?

6. Is the light near the bed hard to reach?

Any of these obstacles can become a hazard and result in a fall.

The wrong mix of medications can lead to poor balance, lapsed attention and increased sleepiness—any of which can result in a fall. The barrier in this case is usually communication about medications. On the care provider side, there needs to be a good knowledge base of what medications are being used, both prescribed and over the counter. On the elder patient’s side, having inadequate or unclear information about their medications and their indications, contra-indications and dosages can lead to deadly the results. In addition to talking to clients to find out what medications they may be taking, be sure to provide adequate space and storage to help them organize and regulate their medication regimen.

Poor vision or changing vision is a frequent cause of falls. Annual check ups should be part of the individual’s general health and wellness philosophy. Proper lighting that takes into account the need for additional light as the eye ages, particularly in task areas and where there are steps or stairs, is essential to prevent falls and other injuries.

Many falls and resulting injuries are preventable. A designer’s focus on removing barriers and responding to the changing needs of their customers can make the difference in quality of life for elders. This means reviewing, analyzing and looking at trends of incidents, falls and complaints. The development of action plans and quality improvement plans in the design of the person’s living space will benefit the individuals you are engaged with. Designers make a difference!

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Sarah Barnard is a professional interior designer that specializes in green design, historic preservation and universal design + aging in place. Her firm undertakes a broad range of projects, all of which are grounded in smart design and mindful of healthy living. Currently Ms. Barnard is working on the restoration of a handful of historic properties, the design and decoration of private residences throughout Southern California and most recently the new corporate offices of National Geographic Entertainment in Beverly Hills.

For more information about Sarah visit www.sarahbarnard.com

Designing for Acoustics, Hearing and Aging

2010-09-16T13:50:00.000-07:00

by Samantha McAskill, ASID

Among seniors in the United States, hearing loss is the third most prevalent, but treatable, disabling condition, behind arthritis and hypertension. It has been found that nearly 32 million Americans (10 percent of the total population) now indicate they have a hearing loss. The greatest increase is among baby boomers, due to noise exposure, and among those who are age 75 and older, due to aging.

Hearing problems can make you feel anxious, upset and left out. It’s easy to withdraw from people when you can’t follow what is being said at the dinner table or in a restaurant. Friends and family may think you’re confused, uncaring, or difficult when you’re really having trouble hearing.

There are also health and safety issues associated with the constant exposure to loud noise for the population in general. We run the risk of increased high blood pressure, heart disease, ulcers and headaches. Too much noise at night significantly contributes to sleep disorders. Hearing problems can make it hard to understand and follow a doctor’s advice, to respond to warnings, and to hear doorbells and alarms.

Although hearing aids alone will not meet the needs of older adults with hearing acuity issues, as interior designers, we can help by consciously considering design elements within the interior environment that will assist everyone in maintaining quality of life as we age. Suggestions include:

Use sound absorbing finishes like carpet, fabrics on furniture and draperies.

Avoid overly high ceilings in areas such as dining rooms and other public areas where background noise is difficult to control.

Plan a home’s layout to separate noisy activities from quiet activities.

Remove or reduce background noise from sources such as music, mechanical sounds and noisy air conditioning.

Select quieter appliances.

Don’t combine the switch for the light and the exhaust fan in bathrooms. Use a timer switch for the fan so that it will shut off after the resident leaves the room.

Provide doorbell chimes in more than one location, i.e., walk-in closets, family rooms and on each level of the home.

Install a flashing light to let the resident know someone is at their door or calling on the phone.

Install a motion sensor so the resident will know when someone is approaching a front or back door, which will activate the door chime or flashing light.

Arrange seating in small groups and in sufficient lighting so that everyone can see each other. Many individuals with hearing acuity issues read lips in addition to using their hearing aid.

Consider the use of assistive/adaptive devices such as telephone amplifiers and TV and radio listening systems.

Resources used in writing this article include:

Hearing Loss Web - dedicated to people who have hearing loss, but are not members of the traditional deaf community. This includes people who consider themselves to be hearing impaired, hard of hearing, late deafened and oral deaf.

MedicineNet.com - provides easy-to-read, in-depth, authoritative medical information for consumers

Ohio State University Extension and Ohio Aging Network Professionals Senior Series Fact Sheets: "Have You Heard?: Hearing Loss and Older Adults" (http://ohioline.osu.edu/ss-fact/)

Center of Design for an Aging Society - works to identify solutions which help individuals maximize their abilities as they age

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Sarah Barnard is a professional interior designer, a member of the American Society of Interior Designers, is certified by the National Kitchen and Bath Association and is recognized by the United States Green Building council as a LEED accredited professional. Her firm undertakes a broad range of projects, all of which are grounded in smart design and mindful of healthy living. Currently Ms. Barnard is working on the restoration of a handful of historic properties, the design and decoration of private residences throughout Southern California and most recently the new corporate offices of National Geographic Entertainment in Beverly Hills.

For more information about Sarah and her practice visit http://www.sarahbarnard.com/

Sustainable Design Begins with Universal Design

2010-09-09T13:24:00.000-07:00

By Drue Lawlor, FASID and chair of the ASID Aging in Place Council

“If it’s not universally designed, it’s not sustainable.”

Whether you heard Rosemarie Rossetti make this statement during her keynote speech at INTERIORS 08 in New Orleans or not, stop and think for a moment just what an impact this statement might have on a client’s home, on your parent’s home and even your own home.

How sustainable is a home that, because of its design, forces a person to move out of it when they begin to have trouble climbing the stairs up to the bedrooms and down to the basement laundry room? How sustainable is a home for a stroke victim that forces them to rely on a friend to take them to the community clubhouse several times a week to use the shower because their home tub is too awkward to access? Then there is the homeowner who suffers an unexpected accident and has to remain in the hospital because their home can’t be modified quickly enough for them to be released. What about the patient who comes home to recuperate and does have a bedroom on the main level but it was added as an quick afterthought, has a high window overlooking the neighbor’s brick wall, receives very little sunlight and opens into a bathroom designed to use the toilet, shower and lavatory, all without having to move more than two feet!

All of the examples above might have been designed beautifully, and possibly with the newest “green” materials, but if just one of many common accidents or health challenges occur, suddenly that beautifully designed home becomes an emotional and physical handicap in itself. Why not design for the health of the home and the homeowner and consider the investment in the future of both?

When you think that in many instances the extra costs involved are minimal if they are higher at all, and actually when weighed against the costs of making changes later or of being forced out of one’s home, planning ahead is certainly cost effective and should be sold as such. Changes in the structure can be much less costly when made at the initial time of construction rather than at a time of emergency. In addition, when under emotional and physical stress because of an accident or major health challenge, eliminating the additional stress of trying to plan and design construction changes in a home so as to accommodate the patient is a added health benefit in itself.

A healthy, sustainable home is a home that is designed for all members of the family and that will serve as an inviting home to family and friends, no matter their health challenge. Those health challenges might be one of the “silent” ones, such as allergies or diabetes, or the more visible problems caused by pulmonary disease or stroke, yet the truly sustainable home will “sustain” and thereby support that homeowner and their friends and family, usually as long as they wish to remain in the home. So one could say that a universal home is not only sustainable but also gives the homeowner a sense of independence no matter what physical challenges may occur.

If the homeowner is lucky and lives a long and healthy life, their universal home will prove to be sustainable, as it will not be an impediment to others because of their size, age or infirmity, and it will go on working for generations, no matter who might live there.

Just think, the more homes that are universal, the more homes that will work smarter, work harder and will last longer as they will be designed to meet the needs of the homeowners for as long as they choose to stay. What a sustainable idea!

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Sarah Barnard is a Los Angeles based interior designer that specializes in green design, healthy living and aging in place. To learn more about Sarah and her practice visit www.sarahbarnard.com

Design for Aging and Green Design: They’re More Alike Than You Think!

2010-09-08T12:41:00.000-07:00

By Leslie Shankman-Cohn, ASID, member of the ASID Aging in Place Council

One of the biggest challenges in the next 30 years will be how to meet the demand for quality living environments for the burgeoning population of older adults. Interior design is not just the process of creating functional and beautiful spaces; it’s about designing interiors that bring harmony and a feeling of well-being to the occupants. In the course of every project, designers must consider the materials involved in creating functional, aesthetically pleasing, healthy and affordable places to live, work and interact.

It is commonly thought that sustainable design, green design and urban planning are different disciplines from Universal Design and Aging in Style. Quite honestly, they are all inherently tied to one another and should be treated as such. This synergistic design approach provides a more effective finished product that combines usability with aesthetic appeal, sustainability and urbanism.

Because the basic principles of good design apply to all these fields, there are many aspects of green design that are appropriate to Universal Design and designing for aging in place, and vice versa. Indeed, they are compatible and complimentary.

“Green” designers use the environmentally friendly concepts of reduce, reuse and recycle. In this time of concern about the ecosystem, more consumers want building materials and design products that won't hurt the environment. Universal Design and Aging in Place take these concepts one step further by employing materials and design products that won’t hurt the occupants as well! Cork and bamboo flooring, for example, are not only fast growing and renewable resources, but are also termite resistant, thus eliminating the need for chemicals treatments, which might affect the aged, especially those with respiratory diseases, asthma or even just allergies. Plus, they have the added benefit of being “easy on the joints.”

Energy efficient lighting not only reduces energy waste and the costs associated with that, but the elderly and handicapped additionally benefit from the reduced need for frequent replacement of fixtures. In that same vein, passive solar design helps to reduce energy costs, which is a boon for those on fixed incomes.

Conversely, there are aspects of Universal Design and design for aging that also contribute to green or sustainable design. For instance, front loading washers use about 40 percent less water and half the energy of conventional models, and are recommended for individuals who have difficulty lifting and/or use a wheelchair. Likewise, sensor-activated faucets not only save water and energy, but are helpful for those with limited dexterity.

Moreover, initially designing homes that are adaptable means that occupants will need to do less remodeling later, thus reducing waste and energy associated with remodeling, and thereby “lightening the load” on our landfills. If there is less new building and more reuse and readapting of existing spaces, there will be less impact on our valuable natural resources, including energy consumption, air quality and virgin land, just to name a few. Additionally, there will be less demand on government monies if people are allowed to stay independent for as long as possible.

We need to realize that sometimes design issues fall outside the physical structure itself, as in the case of urban design. For instance, community planning and public transportation issues need to be addressed. Communities should be planned with better support services (such as grocery stores, pharmacies, entertainment venues, greenways, etc.) integrated into neighborhoods within walking distance or easily accessible by public transportation. These features would allow for true independence for those who are unable to drive or who simply do not want to use precious and valuable natural resources unnecessarily. Furthermore, they promote exercise and interaction with others that, in turn, stimulate better physical and emotional health, not to mention stronger ties to and within the community.

Successful design depends on a good fit between the person and the environment, where an individual’s abilities are in balance with his or her surroundings. It is essential that designers continue to learn all they can, not only about environmental issues, but also about age-related changes and social and psychological needs to create better environments for older adults. In addition, we need to broaden our scope of thought, addressing issues that pertain to individuals, communities and the environment alike. We must all understand that no matter what specialties we may practice, good design incorporates aspects of all design approaches that seek to safeguard the health, safety and welfare of the occupants.

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Creating a Sleeping Sanctuary: What You Need to Know About EMF

2010-08-24T11:05:00.000-07:00

So many of my clients and friends give me a puzzled look when I mention the dangers of electromagnetic frequencies, especially in sleeping chambers. I thought it might be useful to share the thoughts of a respected building biologist and electrical engineer, Vicki Warren. This article is originally from http://emf.mercola.com/sites/emf/archive/2009/07/23/creating-a-sleeping-sanctuary.aspx Enjoy!

Why do we need a sleeping sanctuary? It’s about Stress – and “de-stressing”

The human body is an amazing, self-rejuvenating entity that has the ability to repair itself while it sleeps. This is accomplished with its own, internal electrical system that functions with very weak electrical impulses. Electrical impulses are generated by the brain and are used for intercellular communication. This is possible because the body is composed mainly of water with a high mineral content making it highly electrically conductive.

Cells know when to divide by vibrating. Brain cells, nerve cells, bone cells, all vibrate at different rates in order to communicate with one another. Unfortunately, our bodies act like tuning forks. When you vibrate a tuning fork (external electrical influence), any turning fork (like our body) in its vicinity will start vibrating at the same frequency or rate, and therefore will be confused as to how fast to grow. 1

In the typical sleeping area, electrical exposure from external sources (live electrical wiring in ceilings, walls and floors) is thousands of times stronger than the body’s own electrical system. Long-term exposure to these high level electric fields can impair the body’s ability to communicate within itself and impact health. The average person spends approximately 1/3 of their life sleeping. Doesn’t it make sense to reduce exposure to electric fields in our sleeping areas?

Some people develop symptoms when they experience long-term exposure, especially at night, to elevated levels of electricity, such as: headaches, hyperactivity, nightmares, depression, fatigue, eyestrain, and muscle cramps.

Biological problems associated with electromagnetic stressors fall into two major categories2:

Brain (behavioral abnormalities, learning disabilities, altered bio-cycles and stress responses)

Growing tissue (embryos, genetics and cancer)

Research has shown that for a body to properly detoxify during sleep it must be alkaline, and high electromagnetic fields lead to acidity. This is especially true for heavy metal detoxification. 3

5 Easy Steps to Create a Sleeping Sanctuary

Use battery clocks near bed.

Research has shown that exposure to high magnetic fields while sleeping can cause severe long-term illness. Many electric clocks produce high magnetic fields.

Turn off bedroom circuit breakers.

A restful sleep is necessary for health and a strong immune system. Electric fields affect the bio-communication system, keeping you from sleeping soundly.

Eliminate or shield from RF.

Radio frequency (RF) signals from portable phones, cell phones, and wireless devices have been shown to interfere with the body’s immune system.

Use beds without metal.

Metal frames and metal box springs can amplify and distort the earth’s natural magnetic field, which can lead to a non-restful sleep. Use natural materials.

Make sure there are no elevated magnetic fields.

Magnetic fields from appliances and building wiring can penetrate walls into a bedroom and disrupt the body’s communication system.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sources:

1 Oschman, James. Energy Medicine. London: Churchill Livingstone, 2000.

2 Becker, Robert O. Cross Currents. New York: Penguin Group (USA) Inc., 1990.

3 http://www.klinghardt.org/docs/Heavy/Metal/Detox/Clinical/Pearls.pdf [cited Feb 2007] [not online as of July 2009]

Santa Monica Conservancy @ Santa Monica Art Studios

2010-08-17T13:32:00.000-07:00

You may have missed it, but August 15th was the Santa Monica Conservancy's first ever, Adventures in Santa Monica Tour. Several fantastic sites were visited by tour goers across the city. I was the docent at the Santa Monica Airport Art Studios and had the opportunity to meet amazing Santa Monica artist at work.

This is the sculpture garden.

A friendly bowl of moss.

Artist Karen V. Woo paints contemporary interpretations of naturalistic images. Her current work, the Boomer series focuses on plant material that like the human baby boomers, are beginning to show signs of aging. For more information about Karen contact 310-913-0868 or kwoowoo@verizon.net

More sculpture in the garden.

A lovely weather worn chair.

One of the artists I had the pleasure of meeting is named Wendy Edlen, she works at Santa Monica Art Studios Space 5. For more information about Wendy's work, please contact 310-962-8313, or please E-mail to wendypacpal@yahoo.com.

The North Hangar Gallery.

Artist Adrianne Rona with her newest work in her studio. This series suggests figures and movement without definitive notions of coming or going.

Adrianne Rona recently relocated to Santa Monica from New York. For more information visit adriannerona.com, or please contact her at 917-921-8029.

One of the temporary galleries is displaying a fun array of animal imagery.

Artist Gregg Chadwick is inspired by Asia and his travels there. He has an upcoming show in the Netherlands and is located in Studio 15 of the Santa Monica Art Studios. For more information visit http://homepage.mac.com/greggchadwick7. or http://greggchadwick.blogspot.com. He can be reached at 415-533-1165 or greggchadwick@earthlink.net.

The current show SIGNS OF THE FOREST closes August 21st.

Curated by Jean Clad the show is open Wed- Sat 12pm -6pm.

Each work deals with nature in some form.

Artist Ellie Riley in her studio. Please visit www.ellieriley.com or E-mail to berty222@aol.com. You can also reach her at 310-560-5003.

Ellie Riley's work celebrates color, movement and joy!

Artist Mitchell Friedman is a painter and print maker and occupies Studio 27. His phone number is 310-903-7302. Please E-mail to monopress@mac.com or please visit mitchellfriedmanart.com.

Yossi Govrin is one of the studio's founding directors and this is his studio.

One of Govrin's works, Howard Hughes' dog.

More of Govrin's studio.

Govrin's studio 1.

Govrin's painting of horses.

####

Sarah Barnard is a professional interior designer, Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design Accredited Professional (LEED AP) and Building Biology Practitioner. She specializes in green interior design, healthy living and historic preservation. She has been published nationally and internationally and currently serves on the Santa Monica Conservancy's Board of Directors.

Modern Concepts: Interior Enhancements Pushing the Sustainability Envelope

2010-08-10T15:47:00.000-07:00

Green Building & Design is a magazine focusing on innovation and creativity every day when it comes to building healthy, sustainable environments. Profiled in this issue of GB&D you will find some of the most forward-thinking companies in North America, on a national and international level. Please visit http://www.gbdmagazine.com/

The JAX Stool is designed by Los Angeles-based interior designer and LEED AP Sarah Barnard. It's made from recycled steel and is upholstered in non-toxic, non-animal leather.

Los Angeles-based interior designer and LEED AP Sarah Barnard is also a member of the ASID and the NKBA. She serves on the Santa Monica Conservancy's board of directors. For more information about Sarah Barnard, please visit http://www.sarahbarnard.com/

Recycled Skateboards Jump from Passion to Profits

2010-08-10T15:02:00.000-07:00

Los Angeles Interior Designer, Sarah Barnard is working with Art of Board on the new offices of Life Rolls On, a subsidiary of the Christopher Reeve Foundation. This article features Rich Moorhead's eco-friendly material company and offers Sarah's thoughts about the product.

This article is from Key Stone Edge, and it's written by Joel Berg. http://www.keystoneedge.com/features/artofboard0624.aspx

Rich Moorhead is building a business the same way he puts together his product: Some pieces come together by design,others he finds by chance.

For the last seven years, Moorhead has been cutting up broken skateboard decks, sanding the edges and rearranging the pieces in bold, colorful designs that grace walls, tables and mirror frames. The undersides of skateboard decks typically feature graphics ranging from the abstract to the cartoonish.

"I kind of stumbled into this, and it quickly became a passion," says Moorhead, 45, whose workshop is tucked inside the industrial alleyways of Hanover, a small town roughly halfway between York and Gettysburg, just north of the Mason-Dixon line.

Moorhead started small, but this year he is beginning to ramp up production at the one-man company he calls Art of Board. His plans include adding space and an employee or two. He also is expanding the reach of a program he launched to collect broken boards from skate shops. The program is called "I Ride. I Recycle."

Participating shops include Nocturnal in south Philadelphia. Moorhead has been collecting decks from Nocturnal for the last several years, says the shop's owner, Mark Brandstetter. "It's just firewood basically, and he's turning it into amazing works of art."

In return for the boards, Moorhead made a mirror frame for Nocturnal and offered to create a wall design for its new shop at 620 S. 4th St., Brandstetter says. "That just blew me away. That would be so awesome."

Moorhead also is working with a nationally known glass-tile designer, Erin Adams, to sell his designs nationwide. She has helped him hone his production techniques and find a market. "I think that there's huge potential in what he's trying to do, and doing," says Adams, founder and chief executive officer of Erin Adams Design in Albuquerque, N.M.

Adams says she is particularly impressed by the sustainable nature of Moorhead's work, which involves reusing something that usually ends up in the trash. But it's the end results that won her over. "I really love the colors, the patterns, the abstraction that you get," Adams says.

Waste not

Moorhead initially wanted to open a skate shop in Hanover. But given the negative image of "skater kids," he says, he had trouble finding space. Then, he noticed his teenaged nephew had been letting broken decks accumulate. Moorhead took the wood, cut it up and started experimenting with designs made from the pieces.

"You can capture quite a bit in some of the artwork left on a broken deck," says Moorhead, a Pittsburgh native who has lived in Hanover for more than a decade.

Although Moorhead already had a day job in commercial sales, he kept tinkering. The process combines his love of skateboarding and its visuals, his interest in working with his hands, and the admonitions he heard as a child.

"I grew up in a household that didn't like waste," Moorhead says. Stints in construction and carpentry reinforced his preference for conservation. Wasted wood at job sites bothered him. "That just kind of stayed with me," he says

Moorhead's first pieces included framed mirrors that he sold at Hanover's Pennsylvania Dutch festival. When he sold out, he knew was onto something. "That was a good sign," he says.

Squaring Up for Growth

Working nights and weekends, Moorhead started incorporating the designs into larger pieces, including tables. He also refined his approach and his equipment. He started out cutting pieces of all shapes and sizes using a thin scroll saw and sanding them by hand. He now uses a more powerful band saw to cut only squares and rectangles, while an electric belt sander smoothes the edges. Squares and rectangles maximize the amount of wood he can salvage, Moorhead says. And they dovetail with where he sees his market heading: walls and other flat surfaces.

"I realized that it was more than a concept," Moorhead says. "This could work."

Today, the designs take shape on a 4-by-8 sheet of plywood, where Moorhead arranges the pieces by hand. Bins below the table hold pieces sorted by color and look. The finished products, done on a custom basis, are mixtures of chance and purpose.

An example is the kitchen backsplash Moorhead created for the Lofts at Cherokee Studios, an apartment building on the site of a former recording studio in Los Angeles that is aiming for LEED-platinum certification. After learning that Elvis Presley had recorded in the studio, Moorhead found a skateboard deck bearing Presley's image. The design also incorporated a tile with the name Bob, in honor of Moorhead's late father.

Interior designers envisioned a range of uses for Moorhead's designs, from decorating children's rooms to making kitchen countertops. Commercially, the tiles could be used in restaurants, bars or retail stores, designers say.

"This product really excites me because there's only one component, which is the skateboards, and that's 100 percent post-consumer, so there isn't any sort of green-washing happening here," says Sarah Barnard, principal designer for Sarah Barnard Design in Los Angeles. "I think it's a really neat product, very timely."

The story behind the product will only help, says Claire E. Tamburro, principal of Tamburro Interiors in Arlington, Va. "There's a curiosity factor about it," Tamburro says, "where people will see that up in a restaurant and say, 'Oh, I wonder how they made that.'"

Rebels With a Cause: Support Parkinson's Research.

2010-08-03T14:38:00.000-07:00

Sarah Barnard Design is supporting Rebels With a Cause, the charity event for Pakinson's Disease research.

This charity event is hosted by Pellegrino family in honor of Denise's mother, and all other people and family who have been impacted by the Parkinson's Disease. The event tickets will be available soon. Please get out your poodle skirts and saddle shoes for a night of 1950's fun!

Parkinson's disease affect one in 100 people over the age of 60. Recent research indicated that there are at least one million people in the United States who are living with Parkinson's disease. Parkinson's disease was first characterized extensively by an English doctor, James Parkinson, in 1817.

Michael J. Fox Foundation is dedicated to finding a cure for the Parkinson's disease. Please support this foundation for the Parkinson's disease reseach. Your support and help will ensure the development in finding solutions and preventions for Parkinson's disease.

Rebel With a Cause is looking for the event sponsors. Your support is greatly appreciated and 100% tax deductible. Please E-mail to curepd@yahoo.com.

Sarah Barnard Design: EcoChic Interiors is one of the donors in support this charity event. Look out for our auction items at the event.

Please also contact Rebels With a Cause if you have more questions about this event, or if you would like to know more information and participate. Please E-mail to curepd@yahoo.com .

Designed for Living: Reviving a Palos Verdes Classic

2010-07-20T19:16:00.000-07:00

Jumpstarting Your Design Career: All Your Questions Answered

2010-07-02T15:25:00.000-07:00

Over the years, I have received countless e-mails, letters and telephone calls from people; ranging from grade school children asking to interview me for school projects to men and women wanting advice on a career change into the Interior Design field. Although I would love to respond to and help each and every one, there are just not enough hours in the day! As I tried to come up with solutions to answering your questions, I decided the best way was to write a “tell all” blog that might help a broad range of aspiring designers. Here it is!

What I wish someone had told me while I was in school:

1. Take this time to figure out where you really want to be.
There are countless questions to ask: What kind of design career is really for you? What will be your specialty? What skills, education, and experience will you need to land the job you want? Do you want to work as a part of a large team?

There is only one way to answer these questions: try out everything you can! Internships are an amazing opportunity you can really only take advantage of while you are in school. They are how you can test drive dozens of diverse working environments without a long term commitment. Check the ASID job bank for internship opportunities at http://asid.jobcontrolcenter.com/search.cfm

Beginning students who a completed only a few design courses, should look for unpaid internships they can receive course credit for. These internships offer extraordinarily valuable time with accomplished design professionals and provide an introduction to the “business of design.” Through these internships, you might have the opportunity to view client presentations, visit a construction site with a senior designer, and become familiar with the everyday tools of the trade.

Intermediate and advanced students who are closer to graduating can take it to the next level with paid internships. You will have the chance to become a working member of a project team. These internships are actually your first real jobs before you become a design assistant, draftsperson, or junior designer. If you treat these jobs with the same seriousness you would your full time career, not only will you make a lasting impression on your bosses, but you’ll also begin to understand what working in this industry really means.

The key to all internships is to try everything you can in as many different settings as possible. You never know where you might find your perfect fit.

2. Prepare to sell your ideas with words
So much school time is spent honing your visual presentation skills and honing the ways you can articulate a concept graphically. It is easy to forget that it is equally important to be able to defend your visions with language. Are you going to be able to articulate why you designed what you did in a way that resonates? What’s the best way to improve your own ability to convey your unique statement? Start practicing now.

3. Enter every competition you can
Enter every contest that is open to students. You can find student design contest through your school, ASID, IIDA, NKBA, AIA, or a myriad of design magazines who announce contests monthly. Even if “you’re sure you won’t win”, enter anyway; you have nothing to lose! Going through the motions and preparing your entry package will make the next contest that much easier.

After all, school should about more than gathering and storing copious amounts of information; it should be an opportunity to try everything and to discover what the shape of your dream is. What’s the next step? Landing that dream job!

Preparing for your Interviews and Landing your dream job (or close)

1. Be confident but don’t grossly overstate your skills.
Be honest and play up your strengths, but don’t promise what you can’t produce. A lot of employers give applicants that are being seriously considered some kind of practical exam as part of the 2nd interview process.

2. Be realistic about the job you are applying for.

Remember that you are likely to be applying for a support position right out of school. When you speak about your goals for the future, remember to consider the needs of your potential employer right now. You will increase your chances of being hired by demonstrating how your abilities can benefit your potential employer immediately. Do not talk about your plans to use this job as a “stepping stone” to the next great thing.

3. Read the Job posting requirements carefully, show up prepared and don’t make excuses.
If I ask you about your hand drafting, don’t tell me that your program really didn’t focus on hand drafting and so you’re just not very good at it. If you are really lacking the skill that I am searching for, you shouldn’t have applied.

Designing in a Bad Economy:

To keep moving my business forward in a changing economy- I know that I have to continue loving my job and adapt! If you are struggling to keep your design business afloat or are trying to deal with the down time while finding a design job consider -

1. Taking inventory of completed projects, capitalizing on photographer’s willingness to work (just like everyone else) and archiving projects for cheap. Ultimately this leads to a ramped up portfolio.

2. Using photographed projects to pitch story ideas to multiple press outlets, print, web etc.

3. Seeking clients in new arenas. For me this meant opening my mind to opportunities like the design of senior centers, medical spas and less familiar territory.

4. Using social networking + blogging to build your brand.

5. Volunteering, serving on a committee and/or a board- getting involved and forging new professional relationships.

6. Expanding product design projects and making new relationships with manufactures.

7. Taking classes or getting CEU’s to keep your brain fresh and inspired.

8. Hosting a student intern to see the world through a younger designer’s eye again.

9. Re-evaluate all office policies that relate to client intake etc. Modify procedures to fit today’s social climate. I.e. flashy might have been standard before but often tacky today. Basically know your audience.

10. Guest lecture at local colleges and universities, home shows, green conferences etc.

The world of interior design holds boundless opportunities and insanely varied paths that can all lead to your dream. When I began design school, a professor told the class that less than 1% of us would ever succeed in business for ourselves and this discouragement kept me from even considering my own company for years. When I decided to take the risk, I realized that I was finally exactly where I was meant to be. No one can tell you what is best for you. Chart your own course and use these tools to discover and realize your dream.

Small Room Decorating.

2010-06-29T12:59:00.000-07:00

Small Room Decorating features green interior designer Sarah Barnard in the Fall 2010 Issue.

Pros clear the clutter: Wall-mounted faucets save space, and a floating vanity makes a clearly good choice.

The "hidden" home office provides work space but conceals clutter, also, glass enclosures make bathrooms look bigger-and more spa-like.

The sliding doors conserve space;glass panes make rooms look bigger. The built-in headboards/nightstands units save space.

More glamour comes in the form of dentilated molding, acanthus detailing around the hood, big corbels, recessed panels along the peninsula and furniture feet.

iPhone Microscopy

2010-06-13T11:59:00.000-07:00

I recently had the opportunity to spend some time behind a microscope and was inclined to try and capture some images of the plants I was viewing using my iPhone...well it wasn't exactly easy, but you are going to be amazed with what my silly (no zoom, no flash) iPhone was able to capture. Enjoy!

Pacific Design Center's Lecture with Sarah Barnard, Mark Cutler and Christopher Grubb

2010-06-09T14:50:00.000-07:00

A few shots of the interior design experts at the Pacific Design Center panel discussion led by Bobi Leonard. For those of you who missed out, from 11am to 1pm today, we helped interior designers in our community see the light at the end of the recession tunnel and find new ways to build their brands.

Sarah Barnard & Christopher Grubb.

All of us during the Q & A, listening to one of the designer guests.

(L to R) Sarah Barnard, Christopher Grubb, Mark Cutler.

Government Poisoning of Wildlife on Public Lands

2010-06-01T12:43:00.000-07:00

According to a recent National Resources Defense Council (NRDC) article “Wildlife Services, a division of the Department of Agriculture, spends $100 million annually to kill millions of wild animals. As part of that program, toxic poisons are strewn across public wild lands by government agents. They deploy two of the world’s most lethal toxins...” The story also goes on to explain how “traps” are set that routinely kill non-targeted animals and people’s pets. http://www.savebiogems.org/wolves/poisoning

As an animal lover, I was extremely disturbed by the detailed account of how an Oregon woman, Amanda Wood Kingsley was exposed to sodium cyanide while desperately trying to save her dog which had unknowingly stepped on a device which shot out poison. Sparing the gory details, the dog did not survive.

I have a very hard time understanding how senseless killing is required to support agriculture. I am certain there are better ways to protect farms without mass poisonings. I have followed the NRDC’s recommendation and told the Secretary of Agriculture to stop the killing. Now what?
https://secure.nrdconline.org/site/Advocacy?cmd=display&page=UserAction&id=1659&JServSessionIdr004=d5puhfccv5.app303a

Luxury Home Quarterly: Designer Showcase

2010-05-25T13:51:00.000-07:00

Luxury Home Quarterly features Sarah Barnard Design in their May/June 2010 "Designer Showcase" and shares stories about Sarah's background in historic preservation and green interior design.

It's true, I really have always had a deep affection for structures with soul. And not just buildings, I love old furniture, classic car junk yards, construction debris and plants that are so close to death they should be thrown away. I find myself drawn to "saving" them and feel like such a champion when I do.

All the best quality, local materials were used on this Palos Verdes Estates project.

Good interior design is healthy, sustainable interior design.

This project is so California! I love the sophisticated femininity and beachy cool vibe.

This pet friendly home is adorned with many custom rose details including custom embossed leather, subtle rose pattern draperies and a custom limestone fireplace that was dreamed up in my office and fabricated less than five miles away from the site.

Photography by Brad Nicol. http://www.bradnicolphotography.com/

Interior Design in a Bad Economy: A Special PDC Designer Series Lecture

2010-05-24T12:42:00.000-07:00

Join me, Bobi Leonard, Mark Cutler and Christopher Grubb at the Pacific Design Center (PDC) on Wednesday June 8th at 11am for a special (trade only) lecture about surviving the tough economy and restructuring your interior design business for success.

Designing amazing green homes and commercial buildings can be tough in a market where owners don't feel comfortable spending like they used to. Although, I've certainly had to make changes, I've been working hard, shaking things up and landing new projects all over town.

If you are an interior designer, decorator, sustainability consultant, architect or other related trade professional visit us at the PDC and attend this lecture free http://pacificdesigncenter.com/#/programs-events

Luxury Bathroom with Rose Wallpaper featured on Ava Living

2010-05-23T19:16:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite client's homes, a 1920's Spanish Revival in Palos Verdes Estates, is being featured on Ava Living May 24th-30th during their interior design and decorating with wallpaper week. Check out other designer's rooms with wallpaper at www.avaliving.com And/or see more of my green interior design projects at www.sarahbarnard.com/projects

Green Interior Design Goes Global: SBD Featured in Hong Kong's "Casa International"

2010-05-12T15:48:00.000-07:00

Recycled Art: Plastic Lids, Construction Debris and other assorted goodies!

2010-05-02T11:37:00.000-07:00

Making art in my Venice, CA studio helps me to escape the pressures of my "normal" interior designer/ business owner routine and allows me to appreciate the simple things that brought me to the art world in the first place: colors, textures, materials and the joy that comes from making beautiful compositions.

One of my current projects combines my commitment to recycling with my love of perfect circles. I'm using photographs I've taken of my garden and found materials like scraps of wallpaper, leather and textiles left over from interior design projects, salvaged plywood and nails from construction sites.

Gardening one of my great loves, right after green interior design, maybe just above cooking and baking... Plants inspire me every day in all aspects of my work and I really do love them like little children.

I bought this solid wood dining room table from a yard sale when I was in college. It was my original work table in my studio apartment back in 1998 and it has traveled with me everywhere since! Twelve years later it is still awesome.

Although I use assorted blades and other circle cutting tools in my process, for light weight materials like wallpaper and linen, this tool is my favorite!

Work in progress: Non-toxic, water based adhesive joins discarded plastic lids to their decorative coverings. A "rejected" sample pot of bio-shield water based stain was used for the plywood panel.

Some circles don't quite make the grade, end up confined to this jar and wait for the "imperfect circle" project to be born.

Hard at work: contemplating what move to make next!

I think my very first taste of the decorative arts was a visit to my grandmother's sewing room. I have been making things with textiles and thread ever since.

This piece was actually the second work in a series with nails. The wood panel was prepared with assorted colors and sheens of left over interior house paint. I used found debris to build up the texture of the paint and create the rippled and cracked effects.

A photo of me in my studio with the new work.

A detail of the nails. Each one pounded in by hand in a design inspired by under water plant life.

I love the way the tiny heads of finish nails stack neatly together while maintaining personalities each their own.

This is the first art work in the series with nails. This wood panel was prepared similarly to the previous example but with less debris in the paint to afford an aqueous feeling.

Snowy the cat warms herself beneath the vintage lamp.

A forest of nails.

I love the way the wood panel began to break apart from the saturation of nails in a small area. Sometimes the piece participates in the process and gives me even more than I had hoped.

I am experimenting with corks and other types of discarded lids (like metal) and should have other creations in the works soon!

A detail shot of my supply shelf, paint brushes, markers, pencils and more.

Wonderful things collected from walks in the woods.

The garden at my Venice studio has a perfectly shady spot under a Princess Flower Tree that is laden with Tillandsias. I couldn't imagine anywhere else I'd rather be.

For more information about Sarah and her interior design practice visit http://www.sarahbarnard.com/

Special thanks to Joshua Wood at http://www.fluidityproductions.com/

Downtown LA Green Housing Project for Women: Needs Your Help!

2010-04-23T15:55:00.000-07:00

As most of you probably know, I’ve been working on The Downtown Women’s Center project for almost 2 years. This past Tuesday all of the ASID designers on the project met at the site for a walk-through. I’m happy to report that it’s really taking shape!

Although the DWC has secured enough funding to complete the costs associated with construction and move-in, we still need help with the furniture and other necessities needed to help make these homes complete. At this point we’re seeking the collaboration of vendors and individuals who will donate sofas, chairs, tables, lamps, framing, area rugs etc.

The Downtown Women’s Center will provide permanent supportive housing to over 70 women. The DWC specializes in providing housing; medical services to mature age women and disabled women that otherwise have very little hope of entering the job market and sustaining themselves independently.

Of course, the contributions are fully tax-deductible, not to mention that you would help to provide a place that any woman would be proud to call home. Please contact sarah@sarahbarnard.com for more information or to make a donation.

Sustainability, affordable luxury themes of Kitchen and Bath Industry Show

2010-04-21T13:05:00.000-07:00

by Kelsey Bjelland.

Customized refrigeration options are growing strong in kitchens and secondary kitchen areas, according to the National Kitchen and Bath Association.

Innovation, sustainability and high-end amenities were themes of the 2010 Kitchen and Bath Industry Show at McCormick Place Convention Center in Chicago April 16-18. Nearly 700 vendors hawking leading industry brands Dacor, Kohler, GE, Moen and many others presented the latest in kitchen and bathroom trends.

Debuting the latest trends in sophisticated, contemporary designs for the home, exhibitors displayed affordable luxuries as well as products that might be out of reach for the average consumer.

“Consumers are more conscious of where their money goes now,” said Bob Quasius, head of exhibits and displays for Kohler Co. “They come looking for high quality but value as well.”

Cast iron baths with chromatherapy and bubble technology, tankless toilets, etched bronze sinks, undercounter refrigeration units, electric cabinets, water-saving rain shower heads, and mirrors with built in televisions were some of the eye-catching items on display.

Though official attendance figures won’t be available until next week, Wagstaff Worldwide, Inc., public relations for the show, projected a 40 percent increase compared with last year’s show in Atlanta. Brian Pagel, vice president of Kitchen and Bath Group at Nielsen Expositions, the show’s production company, said there was a positive buzz on the show floor.

“We believe that this is a sign that the market has begun to stabilize and hope that it is an indication that market conditions will continue to improve,” Pagel said.

The jump in attendance might be due to more movement towards sustainability in renovation as the economy begins to recover from the recession, according to Sarah Barnard of Sarah Barnard Design, a Los Angeles firm specializing in eco-friendly design.

“In years past, we really had to promote these ideas to the clients and beg them to get on board,” Barnard said. “Now everyone is asking for them.”

Barnard said she is seeing a lot of what she calls “piecemeal” home improvements now, rather than “whole house attacks,” mainly from people who have been in their homes for some time and are finally ready to invest in renovations.

“Frankly, they’re tired of not spending and not having,” Barnard said.

For average consumers, the goal is to buy the best they can afford in a remodeling project, and that creates “a lot of pressure to make the right choice,” according to Barnard.

Although homeowners can sometimes get caught up in that, it’s important to be realistic when making a plan to remodel, she said. Barnard advises consumers to look to shows like this one more for inspiration, and not necessarily splurging on the high-end luxury items displayed. She gave the example of a high-tech toilet with buttons, a heated seat and motion-sensing lid that lifts automatically when someone enters.

“On the show room floor with a smooth-talking salesman, it seems like something that your dream bathroom can’t live without,” Barnard said. “But really, it’s a toilet. You have to keep it in perspective.”

The average household in the Midwest spends about $10,600 on kitchen and bath remodeling jobs, according to a 2009 research report issued by the show's sponsor. However, the Midwest lags behind other regions including the West, where average spending per household tops $18,000.

The same research found that just over 6 percent of households in the region are planning a kitchen and bath remodeling job this year, ranking second only to the Northeast with about 8 percent planning remodels.

“Financing is just not as readily available for new construction, so most people are just upgrading the homes they have,” said Keresa Richardson, national president of Benjamin Franklin Plumbing.

Typically, homeowners can expect their home value to rise by 80 percent to 90 percent of the amount they spend to remodel a kitchen or bathroom, according to Richardson.

“Most people want to know, is it worth the money to remodel my home? And most of the time, it is,” Richardson said.

She went on to say that it's also worthwhile to invest in energy-saving products for the home because they bring a lot of value that people want, including savings on energy and water bills.

Next year’s Kitchen and Bath Industry show will be held in Las Vegas April 26-28. The show was held in Chicago in 2006, 2008 and 2010 and Atlanta in 2009. It was at the Las Vegas Convention Center in 2005 and 2007.

See the original run of the article at http://news.medill.northwestern.edu/chicago/news.aspx?id=163268&terms=kitchen+bath+show

The Complete Guide to Renovating Older Homes- How to Make it Easy & Save Thousands

2010-04-07T17:39:00.000-07:00

Author Jeanne B. Lawson just released her latest edition of "The Complete Guide to Renovating Older Homes"

It opens with a foreword by Emily Burrows of the National Register of Historic Places and then covers just about everything you need to know about renovating a historic home in twelve easy to read chapters. I am a contributor to the first chapter of the book: "Save Money in Your Renovations"

Jeanne focuses pages 29-31 on a case study of Sarah Barnard Design's unique approach helping clients with restoring and renovating older buildings.

You can find the book by searching by ISBN 978-1-60138-242-9

Majestic Mantle: A Redondo Beach Kitchen with Traditional Styling and an Eco-Outlook

2010-04-02T15:17:00.000-07:00

Distinctive Kitchen Solutions Magazine features, green interior designer Sarah Barnard's fabulous Redondo Beach CA kitchen remodeling project.

Eco Conscious Update: Santa Monica Kitchen

2010-04-02T13:54:00.000-07:00

A modern Santa Monica kitchen gets an environmentally friendly makeover courtesy of green interior designer, Sarah Barnard. .