Historic Craftsman Bungalow: Heineken Green Kitchen
This bright bungalow features a custom remodeled kitchen with a collection of handmade elements reflecting the homeowners love of nature and commitment to sustainable materials. Locally made cabinets, countertops made with recycled Heineken bottles, handmade ceramic backsplash tile, and cardboard pendant lamps make for a truly unique space.
This cook's kitchen has a place for everything and everything in its place! Built-in wall shelving provides extra space for storage and creates a cheerful display of dishware and other kitchen utilities.
A hard-working home office tucked away in the corner of the kitchen. Custom designed to fit the compact space perfectly, this corner nook gets plenty of natural light. A countertop made from recycled bowling alley lumber makes the utilitarian space special! Framed artwork by Gwen Samuels adds unique handmade detail atop the desk.
Sarah Barnard designs healthy, happy, personalized spaces that are deeply connected to nature and art.
To learn more about Sarah Barnard Design, please visit www.SarahBarnard.com.
Photos by Chas Metivier
Park View Pied-à-terre: Primary Bedroom
This primary bedroom is perched high above a lush city park. Inspired by antique furnishings, most of the furniture in this home was custom made of sustainable materials by local craftsmen. Pairing contemporary elements, such as the geometric inlaid headboard with antique furnishings and fixtures creates a design both modern classic. Solid bronze drawer pulls made by French artisans compliment the locally made antique reproductions. The vintage Austrian wall sconces (c.1960) add a subtle warmth to the crisp white space.
The French Country stylings are balanced with both rustic and minimalist tendencies giving this primary bedroom a cozy and contemporary feeling. A portrait painted by artist Brian Johnson sits atop a custom desk made in petite proportions. A Himalayan rock salt lamp adds warming illumination to the compact workspace. Elemental accents and organic materials are the basis for this environmentally conscious primary bedroom renovation.
Sarah Barnard designs healthy, happy, personalized spaces that are deeply connected to nature and art.
To learn more about Sarah Barnard Design, please visit www.SarahBarnard.com.
Photos by Chas Metivier
Sustainable Design - An Undeniable Choice
Sustainable interior design has been applied in numerous ways to our lives and is considered to be a reply to our day and age: the age of Information and Ecology. Our need for a sustainable environment is much more of an obligation than a desire, in professional interior design practice. ‘Form follows environment’ - a term addressed by Richard Hyde - is a simplification of this concept. Understood as a relationship between individuals and their current natural environment, its degree of impact depends on the selections of materials, furnishing, and lighting.
Green interior design practice requires addressing several primary issues. First, to decide which are the most reliable and useful sources of knowledge base taking into account the amassment of information available. Second, to engage the clients and users by providing an accurate understanding of the benefits which, in turn, make for more confident in the decision-making process. Third, to find a way to assist and encourage the manufacturers and builders to apply and deliver environmental architecture. As an interior designer, sustainability in design primarily focuses on the specifications of furnishing, fixtures, equipment, and lighting.
One of the criteria for specifying sustainable materials is the aspects of function. A carpet installed in a commercial building must be more durable than the one used in a residential space due to its high traffic. Considering all of the possible contexts and maximizing the potential and longevity of home design materials is of great importance. Additionally, the methods of material production should come into consideration. The energy used in this process is called embodied energy. Each different material has an unusual amount of embodied energy. The manufacturing of natural materials such as wood and stone requires less energy than plastic, concrete or steel. The gas emission throughout the use of the material and its future recycling potential should be considered not only for the sake of the environment but also to ensure a high level of indoor air quality for occupants. Typical examples of sustainable materials are cork, straw, wool or bamboo. Rapidly renewable materials are known to be less energy-intensive to produce. For instance, bark from the cork oak tree can be harvested every nine years. Ultimately reducing the use and depletion of finite raw materials and long-cycle renewable material. Cork is also being used in acoustic and thermal insulation for its sound-proofing quality and is a flexible building material that is less affected by impact and friction.
Interior design by: Sarah Barnard - Photo by: Brad Nicol
A ocean view penthouse with a bird's eye view of the coastline dressed with eco-friendly furnishings, natural textiles, and organic rugs provide a perfect Zen retreat.
Sustainability also can be demonstrated through lighting choices. The use of lighting plays a significant part in the total consumption of electric energy. This choice requires not only clients but also interior designers to consider the possibilities of other alternatives to maximize the light coming into the building without increasing the energy consumption. Providing more light can be achieved either by taking advantage of the natural light source through bringing light into a building interior and distributing it in a way that provides better illumination and considering pleasing, light-friendly interior objects and surfaces as well as flexible light controls; or using products that assure more energy saving than traditional ones.
Interior design by: Sarah Barnard - Photo by: Brad Nicol
Taking advantage of a natural light source by bringing light into a building interior and distributing it in a way that provides better illumination.
Modern technology allows the installation of the light piping system or laser cut panels to carry daylight to the deep interior space of a building, even to the basements. Such advanced techniques like the piping system can provide 25 - 50% (Kadir, A., Ismail, L.H. & Kasim, N) of the workplace illuminance in commercial or office building and overall reduce energy consumption. These light tubes act as a light transport guiding the light into the room, increasing the efficiency without producing extreme warmth. This phenomenon occurs because the design of the tube integrates highly reflective internal surfaces, like aluminum sheeting with a reflectance of about 95 - 99% (Kadir, A., Ismail, L.H. & Kasim, N).
Last but equally important, the furnishing choices have a significant impact on the environment and occupant’s health. Manufacturers can control the emission of volatile organic compounds by limiting the use of solvents in paints, stains, and glues. However, it is also the designers’ role to help their clients be more environmentally conscious with the furniture they choose. Purchasing the FSC certified or reclaimed wood helps to prevent the deforestation of tropical rainforests. Another example is in the choices of mattresses. The concern about what is in a mattress is essential. Not only because you spend a third of your life in bed but also because any product made with synthetic materials carries potential health risks. Because such items like mattresses, furniture cushions, pillows, carpet pad, and clothing, all contain a certain level, if not mainly, of petroleum-based foam, which is known to affect the nervous and immune system and cause illnesses. Therefore, lessening the dependence on petroleum is a commendable attempt. Manufacturers are experimenting with vegetable oils like soybean and latex foam producers are replacing some or all of the synthetic content for natural latex. The easiest way to be a responsible shopper is to choose a mattress that can function for an extended period.
Interior design by: Sarah Barnard - Photo by: Brad Nicol
A primary bedroom outfitted with eco-friendly finishes in leather, rattan, maple, and wool.
Overall, the main objective of choosing and using sustainable products, either under the role of customer or interior designer, is not only to improve the quality of life of the occupants but also to maximize positive impacts on environmental, economic and social systems over the life cycle of a building. These all start from the awareness of the surrounding environment and the availability of eco-friendly choices.
Sarah Barnard designs healthy, happy, personalized spaces that are deeply connected to nature and art.
To learn more about Sarah Barnard Design, please visit www.SarahBarnard.com.
"Ocean Avenue"- Casa International
Beijing's acclaimed interior design magazine features a beautiful five page pictorial on the work of Sarah Barnard Design.
Sustainable design means different things to different people, but at its core, sustainability is the sensibility that objects and materials which are sourced responsibly are also beneficial for our mental and physical well-being, too. For professionals, sustainability is a standard that ensures our spaces are safe, comfortable, and beautiful. Interior designers like Sarah Barnard make decisions throughout the entire process that are geared towards that end: beauty and functionality melded in the healthiest way possible.
Working out of her Los Angeles based studio, Sarah Barnard is intrigued by clients who have unusual requests and lives for a challenge. She hasn’t met one yet that she didn’t like. In this project, the owners wanted an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. They wanted a space conducive to relaxation and meditation.
This space is quite small (under 2000 SF) and so creating a sense of visual expanse was challenging. One strategy Sarah Barnard employed to raise the ceiling height was to paint out the crown molding to match the wall and ceiling color (but not the baseboard).
The media room also functions as a second bedroom with a contemporary sofa that folds out into a comfy guest bed. Also, this penthouse overlooks Ocean Avenue in Santa Monica, California. Anything that needed to go inside the apartment had to fit in the freight elevator. If the item could fit in the freight elevator...it couldn't be a part of the design!
The aesthetic is generally quiet and is a combination of contemporary pieces and vintage items. The living area is intentionally light and bright, encouraging the walls and furnishings to recede so that the ocean views can remain the focus. The master bedroom is intentionally considerably darker to promote sleep, while the horizontal lines of the furnishings and drapery echo the direction of the shoreline. Careful selection of organic natural textiles, non-toxic wall finishes, re-use of on-site materials as was feasible, incorporation of vintage fixtures and furnishings as well as energy efficient appliances and lighting.
This space is amazing! The clients live full time in the San Francisco Bay Area and use this unit as a relaxing retreat. Everyone who visits falls in love with the interior and the views!
Sarah Barnard designs healthy, happy, personalized spaces that are deeply connected to nature and art.
To learn more about Sarah Barnard Design, please visit www.SarahBarnard.com.
Styling your Bookshelves
Bookcases and shelving can display more than just a personal library; well-styled cabinets and shelves add effortless style and interest to any room. Seasonal decorations such as a vase of spring flowers bring life into your home by adding visual interest and texture.
Bookends help create space on a shelf and can be as beautiful and exciting as they are functional. Framed photos or artwork are an instant way to personalize your shelving.
Create height and dimension by placing books in different directions. By adding beautiful and personal items, shelving transforms from utilitarian to an impressive display of your personality.
Sarah Barnard designs healthy, happy, personalized spaces that are deeply connected to nature and art.
To learn more about Sarah Barnard Design, please visit www.SarahBarnard.com.
Award Show Glamour at Home
Award show season is in full swing! Take a peek behind the scenes, and tour this backstage VIP lounge for the Academy of Country Music Awards. In the style of glamour and grandeur for A-list celebrity guests, this lounge conveys the traditional spirit of the event complete with organic decor. Sarah Barnard had the honor of designing this tasteful lounge for the Academy of Country Music Awards and their guests. This stylish yet classic lounge features natural linens and vintage furniture- a perfect example of how sound design and sustainably sourced materials can make a space inviting and enriching.
Sarah chose a palette of warm neutrals garnished with bright colors via plants and luxurious fabrics. This lounge has elegant decor which can inform design and decor in your home.
Bring nature inside. Potted succulents, freshly cut ranunculus stems, and a bold brass pheasant adds interest to this space. Plants and art inspired by nature make areas feel comfortable and natural.
A sofa outfitted in menswear woolens pairs elegantly with the "Dressmaker" lamp from Baker and an antique wooden horse.
These gorgeous vintage art deco chairs and an ebonized oak vintage coffee table by Galerie Sommerlath add the air of refinement and lushness. A brass bar cart demonstrates how recycling can be chic.
A burlwood sculpture and ceramic urchins' physical beauty is forever captivating. The glass lamp by Baker echoes the ocean and subtly provides the natural element.
Natural silk, linen, and wool toss pillows complement the organic linen on this beautiful couch. Choosing a creamy, light fabric like this one is an excellent way to highlight the elegant design of the sofa and make the sitting area more inviting.
We hope you found inspiration in this luxurious lounge outfitted in natural materials and organic decor.
Galerie Sommerlath and Baker generously provided Furniture, art, and lighting for this backstage lounge. silk, linen and wool toss pillows complement the organic linen on this gorgeous sofa. Choosing a creamy, light fabric like this one is an excellent way to highlight the elegant design of the sofa and make the sitting area more inviting.
Sarah Barnard designs healthy, happy, personalized spaces that are deeply connected to nature and art.
To learn more about Sarah Barnard Design, please visit www.SarahBarnard.com.
Living With History: Focus on Antiques
Collecting antiques can quickly become a way of life. Not only are you accumulating one of a kind objects, but you are surrounding yourself with history. When purchasing antique furniture, it's essential to have done your research!
An excellent place to start is by educating yourself on different types of antiques. Did you know that an authentic antique must be over 100 years old? A great place to start is the library. Familiarizing yourself with different styles will make you an educated shopper.
Learn how methods of furniture fabrication have changed throughout the eras. This familiarity will help you distinguish a real antique from a modern day knock off. Keep in mind that imperfections mean that a piece was hand made rather than cut from machinery.
Develop an eye for different types of wood; it will help determine a piece's value. Walnut, for instance, is considered high-end and will appraise the piece at a higher cost.
Once you are familiar, start shopping! Often you can find great deals at garage sales and flea markets. However, if you're looking for something specific it might be a good idea to check with an antique dealer or well connected interior designer.
Sarah Barnard designs healthy, happy, personalized spaces that are deeply connected to nature and art.
To learn more about Sarah Barnard Design, please visit www.SarahBarnard.com.
Party Planning With Style
Dinner parties or other home gatherings can be remarkable when a keen eye for detail and that special finishing touch are involved. When first starting the party planning process, scope out the locations in the home that will provide the space for the event. What appropriate accessories do you already own? How is the lighting? What tasks need completing before space can function? Consider rearranging furniture to create a fresh new look for the room and to open up the space to accommodate guests.
For a Christmas party, your decorated Christmas tree can provide a terrific backdrop. As most holiday accessories are collected over the years, using them to decorate your space is a nice personal touch and can be a conversation starter. Furniture can be rearranged around the tree to create a new lounge-like seating area for guests to occupy before or after dinner.
Small accessories used as accents are great for decorating any space and can help with the theme of your party. Here, a silver-leafed sea shell and starfish can serve a summertime, beach themed soiree.
For the dinner table, centerpieces and table settings genuinely add to the ambiance of the room. In this modern dining room, the pink tinted china adds a pop of color and compliments the nature-inspired centerpiece. Additionally, to set a table correctly can impress guests while adding dimension to the table as the glassware in the photo does.
Lighting can play a significant role home design and in the general atmosphere of your party. Here, a candlelit chandelier gives cozy warmth to the room. Consider having lit candles throughout the rest of the house to continue this warm feel for your party. Natural lighting can also work for your event. In this ocean view penthouse, the floor to ceiling window lights up this entertaining area. For your house, open up those curtains before the sun goes down to enhance any room.
Interiors by: Sarah Barnard
Sarah Barnard designs healthy, happy, personalized spaces that are deeply connected to nature and art.
To learn more about Sarah Barnard Design, please visit www.SarahBarnard.com.
Sexy Spaces
Creating a sexy space is all about the attitude of the area in question. Not only are sensual spaces beautiful, but they are spaces of self-expression. Check out these sexy spaces created by Sarah Barnard Design.
Surfboards painted by youthful members of LRO add interest to the conference room as works of art.
The Teen Choice Celebrity Gift Retreat was designed to be both fun and modern while emphasizing a commitment to sustainable practices.
This coastal penthouse has a bird’s eye view of the Pacific Ocean. Eco-friendly furnishings, natural textiles, and organic rugs provide a perfect Zen retreat.
Vintage rattan coffee table ottomans pair perfectly with a sleeper sofa from Linea and lightweight linen sheer drapery.
A therapeutic bathing tub, heated floor tiles and soothing views of nature enhance the splendor and comfort of this primary bathroom.
Large multi-toned pebbles set the tone for this powder bathroom. This design melds classic Moroccan influences with the contemporary strategy for a delightfully balanced composition.
This former laundry room, now a primary bath, has been transformed into an oasis retreat.
A breathtaking painted wall screen sets the tone for this sumptuous sitting room.
Sarah Barnard designs healthy, happy, personalized spaces that are deeply connected to nature and art.
To learn more about Sarah Barnard Design, please visit www.SarahBarnard.com.