Designer Spotlight: Philip Gorrivan

Philip Gorrivan has quickly become one of my favorite designers of today. I've seen his work before, but after browsing through his project portfolio, I've grown to love his style and approach to design even more! He has an amazing way of layering different textures, patterns and colors without overwhelming a space. And he definitely has an eye for color - notice all of the beautiful color combinations in every space he creates! Gorrivan was interviewed and featured on Decorati this week and I wanted to share a few of the Q & A's with you. What do you think about his work? Are you loving it too?! {Click here to read the entire interview}.

How would you describe your design style?
I see my style as classic, but through a modern lens. A lot of my clients say I can take a look they may have grown up with, that they are used to, but make it feel very relevant to the way we live today through tailored fabrics and furnishings, elegant surfaces, clean lines, unexpected colors.

What do you feel are lasting, timeless palettes that still feel fresh and up-to-the-minute?
There is nothing more lasting or timeless than the colors from nature, and nature is never wrong.

Is there a classic—a staple—that is always a part of your design…sort of a signature?
I love introducing shiny lacquered surfaces to my projects, whether its walls, ceilings or trim….I believe every surface is free game for embellishment and lacquer transcends time and place, whether for houses in LA, apartments in Manhattan or vacation homes on the sea….it elevates a space.

IMAGE & INTERVIEW QUESTION CREDITS: DECORATI & PHILIP GORRIVAN DESIGN

Interview with Maxwell Gillingham-Ryan of Apartment Therapy

Maxwell Gillingham-Ryan and ApartmentTherapy.com have teamed up with Duracell for a campaign to “Tackle Techorating.” Maxwell defines “techorating” as how to design/decorate your home WITH technology or AROUND technology such as flat screen TVs, computers, phones, and all sorts of consumer electronics. I was given the opportunity to interview Maxwell on this topic, which was very exciting! My (3) interview are listed below. Click the Play button on the video to hear Maxwell's helpful answers and solutions!
 (1) The cables and cords from beneath my desk are an absolute disaster! Most of them connect to my computer, along with cords to the phone, speakers, etc. How can I keep all of these cords from turning into a tangled mess?
(2) How do you feel about hanging a flat screen TV above the fireplace? I’m an interior designer and my clients seem to have mixed feelings about the way this looks.
(3) My husband is a movie-junkie and we have tons of DVDS stacked in a bookcase in our bedroom, which looks cluttered and overwhelms the space. Do you have any suggestions on how to organize DVD cases to look stylish and/or ways to conceal them?

VIDEO CLIP COURTESY OF DURACELL & APARTMENTTHERAPY.COM

Happy Design

I am a huge fan of Jonathan Adler. I adore his quirky ceramic accessories, lighting and home decor. And he has such a fun, unique approach to interior design and always manages to create stunning interiors with a sense of humor and a certain level of comfort. His designs are never stuffy, over-the-top or too serious. I came across an interview with him on purecontemporary.com and had to share a few of his fun answers with you...

PC: People actually get scared when they're trying to make choices for their homes. What's the best way to encourage us to stop worrying we're breaking some design rule and do something fun?

JA: I would encourage people to think about how much of a bummer safe design is. When you look back at your life, you will remember the patterned lampshades and novelty pillows, not the boring beige carpet.

PC: How can you introduce a fun, campy or kitsch vibe into a home without going overboard?

JA: Carefully. I believe that design should be chic and happy at the same time. I think the key is to strive for a classical foundation--good proportions, timeless sofas, furniture you won't get sick of--and then add a layer of playful punctuation with accessories.

PC: Are there certain elements you try to include in all of your work?

JA:Yes. Hanging chairs, orange, and ping pong tables--these are the three fundamental building blocks for happy homes.

PC: What do you think is the biggest mistake people make in decoration their homes?

JA: Decorating for the neighbors rather than themselves.

To read the rest of the interview, click here!

New from his pillow collections...such fun designs!

Beautiful furniture pieces and lighting - I want that chandelier!

PHOTO CREDITS: JONATHANADLER.COM