Welcome to the Studio!

In January of this year I took a leap of faith--moving my business out of my apartment and into a studio space in Baltimore. Months before the move, I began collecting pictures of other spaces and places that inspired me (as I have all my clients do before we create a space or party for them) and began the design process.  I selected a honey-colored sisal carpet throughout the space and a neutral color palette of warm grays, cream, and crisp white trim.

Next on my list were the furnishings...a low sofa, ceramic table, chic accessories, and plenty of fashion and design books to help add visual interest and texture to the design.  I knew the final detail was going to be the art and I knew that selecting a "the perfect image" was going to be challenging.

With that being said, I decided to bring in a professional and commission a custom piece, made especially for me -- a reflection of what I love.  I had the pleasure of working with the talented Kristen Scotto Di Frega when I commissioned her for another client project months before and knew she was the perfect person for the job.

Here's a peek at the process and the "design file" I shared with her...

The paint colors I selected were all from Benjamin Moore.

LOVE this room design by the talented Kelly Weartler -- so chic and glamorous.  This picture of Sarah Jessica Parker (one of our very favorite fashion icons) and Chris North was featured in the June 2008 issue of VOGUE and has been hanging in my bedroom for years.  I love the gown, the sofa, the carpet and of course the leading man isn't bad to look at either.

These starburst shapes have always been a favorite of mine as well as these amazing glass chandeliers.  They are a reminder of how much we love a great party. Kristen incorporated them all into the work!

Some of the rough sketches Kristen did...with her eyes closed.

Below is the piece "in progress" in Kristen's studio.  As part of her process, she placed individual hand sanded, hand painted, tiles onto the canvas(s) prior to transferring her sketches using a projector.

Drum roll please...

The finished product, is, in one word...STUNNING! It is an intimate reflection of my style and the things that inspire me.  It now hangs in the design studio sitting room and is the piece that greets guests upon their arrival into our creative work space.  Every day I find some new detail that captivates me, makes me smile, and inspires me to continue creating beautiful things each and every day.  

xo, stephanie

P.S. I am so in love with my painting that I've commissioned Kristen to do another piece, this time for my bedroom. I can hardly wait to see how it turns out! I will keep you posted on the progress...