Tobasco Fabric

There’s something just a little bit odd about working on a project in Miami after trudging through the snow to get to my studio (even my four wheel drive didn’t have a chance). Yes, it’s cold here and Seattle has been crippled once again by a few inches of the white stuff.

Considering our unusually cold winter this Miami project couldn’t have appeared at a more welcome time. A good client of mine, Maria, has asked me to help with her oceanfront condominium, her directive – COLOR! And she means it….. We’ve done a sophisticated, somewhat subdued palette in her Redding, California residence but down south she is looking for something with some real POP.

Now I’m no stranger to Miami; I’ve worked on a couple projects there and have enjoyed several vacations on South Beach. Bright colors work in Florida and if you’ve got that aquamarine Atlantic right outside your window why not? The “Tabasco” fabric that you see above is muy caliente for sure, we’re using it on Maria’s dining chairs. Though I love the bright palette she prefers for this home, there is also a limit to just how much the eye can take.

The architectural envelope itself is a warm neutral. The stone floors are a mix of sandy tones, the painted walls spread more of this color around the space, and that conveys a calming serenity. The larger pieces: an oval rug, the sofa, and drapes continue this approach. But watch out! Smaller chairs, artworks, pillows, and accessories all deliver the corals, turquoises, and oranges that Maria craves.

I must admit that on this dreary slush-covered day, this palette has me dreaming about the opposite corner of the US of A and I’m counting the days till I’ll be down there installing this tropical oasis!