Kay Hansen Design

07/20/2015

It was great to work on the transformation to this Del Mar beach condo. A wonderful location for this young male professional client, however it needed a great deal of updating. I managed both the renovation and the design and these before/after photos show how the once dated interior was transformed into a modern, masculine and comfortable space. The new owner loves to cook, so the kitchen was prioritized. The old cabinets were replaced with Spanish-designed cabinetry in clean white, with a high lacquer finish to add dimension and light. Grey slate tile then offsets the cabinets for warmth. The bathrooms were also completely reconstructed, the once cramped spaces are now open and bright with porcelain tile, white cabinets. In the living room, the banister and flooring needed to remain, so I made sure to integrate the lines in the current construction with the furnishings and balance the design elements with the light wood flooring. Continuing with the neutral, modern palette, masculine grey and black, with artwork and cream accents to slightly soften the aesthetic.

05/07/2014

Art is a passion of mine. I adore helping clients curate art to complement their interior design needs. A space really isn't complete without art of some description. In my prior life in Australia, I co-owned art galleries; representing incredibly talented Australian and international artists. And what I learned most valuable about assisting others in aquiring art pieces, was that it is purely subjective and very personal. My advice is to select art that reflects your personal style and is meaningful to you. If you select a quality piece, it may increase in value--however this shouldn't be your primary factor in the selection of the piece (unless, of course, you're an art collector). I've included two photos taken in my own home to show you how art can either subtley complement a space (on left), or it can be the primary focus and really make a statement (on right). Both are personal pieces to me, and so very different.

03/07/2014

This is one of my favorite projects. This home epitomizes comfortable Southern Californian living, with a sophisticated Spanish/Mediterranean influence. The space is grand with vaulted ceilings--it took the right furniture and palate to create warmth. With many hard surfaces, esp the wonderful wood floors, the rugs were key to tying the space together as well as adding interesting texture and color to what is quite a neutral palate. The comfort under foot is also important in spaces that you want to truly live in--i.e. throw off your shoes and read a book by the fireplace.

02/27/2014

When I return home from being in Australia, I find I feel more youthful. Australia has an edge of freshness; that’s the only way I can describe it. Australians are in love with their lifestyle and deeply connected to their country's natural surroundings, and it can be seen in all they create … food, wine, music, architecture, interior spaces...
Throw your inhibitions to the wind, and get into your own surroundings. A fabulous picnic in a field anyone? Whether simple or elaborate, get amongst it and feel vibrant and alive!

02/11/2014

Change is healthy! And the easiest way (and often most cost-effective way) to make a quick change to your living environment is with flowers/plants, art, a rug, or a throw pillow. Refresh your home with color -- seasonal color, or something more perennial. Pick a room, such as your living room, and switch out your pillows. Don’t over-think it; simply make a statement for today and see how you love living with it.

01/29/2014

Let's talk about color...grey is an infinitely nuanced neutral that can transcend all place and time. In just the right shade, it says Scandinavia. With a little more blue tone, we are in the South of France. And a hint of yellow, suggests a touch of Spain. Timeless, fresh and calming. It also presents an incredible opportunity to add punches of fabulous color without the shocking contrast that white or black creates. Try it in the kitchen, bathroom, bedroom...really anywhere. You should see what I've just done in my bathroom. I promise a photo soon!

01/14/2014

Happy New Year (belated, of course)! I can't believe it's really been so long since I updated you all. I had a long and incredible visit back to my Australia. During my visit, I oversaw a photo shoot of my latest project in Sydney, on Macquarie St. Attached are three of my favorite shots, showcasing my client's traditional style accented with details that pay homage to his Greek heritage. Clients know my philosophy is about designing to one’s personal style and taste, and ensuring that you feel the space is a part of you, and vice-versa. No one's home should feel that they're walking into a showroom -- there's nothing personal about that.

11/13/2013

09/04/2013

Thank you for all your support. Having my own space and business is exciting and liberating! My website is under development, and I will announce the launch of that as soon as possible.