The architecture is the starting point of our homes - bricks, mortar, beams, windows, doorways, surfaces…  The way these elements come together can determine whether spaces “work” — or not.  Layered on that are furnishings, fabrics and textures and and, of course, personal possessions that transform a physical space into a home. 

This thinking is at the core of my business and my upcoming book, Living – A Back-to-Basics Guide to a More Balanced Lifestyle, due out on November 12^th.  Words spoken by Winston Churchill sum it up best:  “We shape our dwellings, and afterwards, our dwellings shape us.” 

My clients are people who are renovating, building or living in existing living spaces. Their goal is to shape them to encourage comfort, well-being, growth and community. I have discovered the power of what I call Campfires, centers of energy that draw people in for meaningful experiences.  Campfires encourage togetherness and intimacy, but more important, they are personally meaningful.  Here are some comments from a client who was in the early stages of a major renovation, bordering on new construction:

“I really appreciate your help with the floor plans.  In fact, we have implemented some of your ideas and it has DEFINITELY made a difference!  We lowered the ceiling of the family room and put in wing walls to “separate” it from the rest of the kitchen.  We also put in one door to the sunroom across from one set of French doors on the other side of the family room for a straight axis into the gardens on either side!  We also removed the post in the covered porch to give a better view from the playroom and moved the fireplace to the other end.  You made some terrific suggestions that have really improved the layout.” 

My goal, as a professional and an author is to help people live better.  I guide them as they create physical spaces and routines that resonate to them and the people who live with them. Architecture plays a key role, but there are many, many opportunities along the way to shine a brighter light on the things that matter most to you.

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