eTTa designs's Profile

gorgeous! i love it when design and function merge so beautifully!

thanks to thecatsnotebook for your comment - i love gone rural and only discovered them thanks to you because of this wonderful re-nest community! i posted a photo from the luxury collection (highlighting how handmade artisan crafts have a place in the luxury marketplace) with info about it at http://www.facebook.com/eTTadesigns. and thanks robynthegeek for your comment too! i love that colorful jewelry and the organization behind bead for life!

great photos! the window displays were a ton of fun to view and i especially enjoyed oliver furth's clever use of architectural blue prints overlapped as wallpaper and shredded documents to represent a shag carpet!

i'm a designer and agree with some of the prior comments that the initial meeting with a potential client is simply an opportunity for both parties to get acquainted with each other as well allow for the designer to learn the scope of the project. this really isn't a time for measuring, taking photos and offering ideas or sources. in my opinion, it isn't compensated either. it is what is necessary before a designer can submit a proposal and there is no obligation to proceed. however, if you are not interested in the client's proposal, it is a good idea to let the designer know what your concerns are about the proposal in case they can address them. perhaps the scope is missing something or includes something that is not important to you. this is an opportunity for both parties to reach an agreement rather than just giving up and moving on. even if you absolutely aren't interested in working with the designer, please drop them a quick email to let them know.

there are also some great resources noted above to help you find the right designer and contract.

i'm surprised at the comment about the 2 designers who were not in favor of keeping some existing pieces. there are usually so many great ways to incorporate existing pieces including refinishing and reupholstering. it's a great way to be eco-friendly and avoid spending unecessary money.

another thing to consider is that a designer's personal style preference shouldn't even be part of the discussion. their job is to design a space that will fit the client's needs and preferences, but done in the best and most beautiful way. for example, i may prefer a modern look that is organic and warm but my client may want a modern look that is slick, hip and cool with black, white and chrome. i may offer options of achieving that look in ways that the client didn't think of before but ultimately it will still be a cool, mod place. my job is to create a balanced, innovative, tastefully appointed and functional space in the aesthetic the client likes.

with that said, it's possible that a designer may feel they can't do a good job with a tuscan theme, for example, since they are more of a modernist. in that case, the designer should kindly explain that and perhaps recommend another designer. there is no need for a designer to look down on someone's taste and/or belongings. it is part of our job to help enhance someone's space and introduce them to new ways of looking at design.

i wish you all the best with your project.

THANKS FOR THE WONDERFUL COMMENTS...
....SOME ANSWERS TO YOUR QUESTIONS
*the dining table is marked with the name "burke" who did most of the mod furniture in star trek, etc
*since it's wall-to-wall carpet, the bookshelves (which were designed to sit vertically actually) wouldn't stand up straight or be secure unless they were against a wall.
*great point about the dining area not being next to the kitcen...i tried that initially but works best by the windows...the sofa works best in the center with the desk behind it
*i actually work out of this tiny space, too...using the desk and sketching on the white table
*i keep hobby stuff in some closets in the kitchen and off the bedroom (behind the white curtain in the long shot) and my bike is in the foyer so it's a bit tight entering the apartment
*i bet my grandparents are smiling at all the fuss over the new life of some of their treasures

thank you for helping to promote and celebrate small living spaces...especially in cities like LA where small spaces may not be as accepted as with NYC!