The importance and history of floor and ceiling design can be traced all the way back to the Middle ages when Italian floors were ornately decorated with marble and other hand-made decorative tiles. It was during the 12th and 13th centuries when the Pope had a direct influence on the tiling industry. As a result marble-tiled decorative flooring was a chief feature of the papal city.

Specific designs were created and applied to various locations. From geometric designs in churches to herringbone and a classic brick wall arrangement, artistic expression soared. The beauty from this era still lives on and provides a magical setting and a tangible piece of history that set the scene for much to come.

After being captivated by the stunning floors and ceilings, I discovered another visual element, which presented itself in a fascinating way. What I find most intriguing about the use of stripes is the subliminal message. For example, a horizontal line would be used to evoke a sense of calmness. Like the horizon, horizontal stripes broaden the space and also create an illusion of something being shorter than it actually is, thus less overwhelming and more peaceful. On the contrary, vertical lines heighten, extend, and narrow a room, thus creating a more formal atmosphere.

In Tuscany I had a private tour of the Castello di Brolio which dominates the southern Chianti Classico countryside and has done so for over ten centuries. Located on top of an isolated hill, the castle has Lombardic origins and has been property of the Ricasoli family since1141.

On the grounds was a small chapel with a fascinating reference to horizontal stripes, and also the most beautiful compilation of patterns that I have ever seen. I am really looking forward to incorporating these special elements in my work and transforming a space with this powerful visual tool.

Above all unique and artistic floors and ceilings, and the imaginative and powerful use of stripes lies the most important, all encompassing detail, which is artisan work and history combined. Yes, a floor can be beautiful and appealing, but the story of it is what I find most special. An Italian floor in one’s home comes with a past and comes rich with history. It provides an opportunity to keep centuries of traditional artisan work alive and breathe new life into something that may otherwise have been forgotten. The thought of re-purposing something so special that was made with raw talent and craftsmanship is a truly special act.

Taking these strong elements into my world of design and applying them in clients’ homes is where the ultimate reward lies.

Savior Vivre…. this phrase can be loosely translated as the knowledge of life. The French word, savoir, means “know” and vivre means “life.”

While the definition of “savoir vivre” is rather simple, its meaning is much more romantic and thoughtful. It does not simply mean one knows how to live. Rather, it means one knows how to live well, get the most joy out of life, and live life to the fullest.

I love this theory so very much because it is something that has to be attained; it does not come without effort. I have grown to practice this joy of life through learning about myself and my environment, and I have found a place where I am comfortable and happy in who I am and what I create.

When I decided to embark on this blog journey, I felt that the most powerful place to begin would be where I come from and where I learned how to live life to the fullest and to find joy in the things that surrounded me. This place is Rio. Rio is embedded in my soul and shapes the visions I have on a daily basis. Without that foundation, I know that my aesthetic would be completely different.

Our living spaces affect us deeply-- the colors, shapes,textures,lighting, and materials reveal the sacred landscapes of our souls ... our truths! What I do, how I feel, what I see, and what I create comes from a place deep within that has been cultivated over time through my experiences.

From a birds eye view, my hometown is a series of patterns and shapes. Its individual pieces play off one another to become a whole entity, which is the pattern that for so long surrounded my life. The Burle Marx sidewalks along the beach in Rio are laid out in famous patterns that are etched in my mind.

The combination of gray, blue and white will always be inspiring to me. The juxtaposition of all of these elements has helped me understand balance and composition.

Rio, with its abundant natural beauty and implemented style has shaped who I am today and what I love to do most. Interior Design.