Designer tricks of the trade in Carmel

Patrick Schmidt, interior designer with J. Baker Interiors and ASID member, led a workshop for the public at the Indiana Design Center in Carmel that covered everything from finding your color personality, to mixing patterns and design trends.

The workshop was part of the Designer On Call Workshop Series in which the Indiana Design Center has free workshops for the public on the third Tuesday of each month at 10:30 am.

Patrick’s design philosophy is client-driven as he believes in letting the client lead with their own color inspiration and general style preferences.  From there, he provides the right guidance and consult to bring the client’s vision to life.  How do you find your design vision?  Patrick suggests looking inside your closet and taking inspiration from the items you and your family wear.  Or, look to nature for color palettes; a love for the ocean or mountains may inform a color direction for a project.  

Here are 5 “Tricks of the Trade” from Patrick with examples from Around the Indiana Design Center:

Brass, in an antiqued or rubbed finish, is making a comeback.  Look for it in accessories, kitchen and bath fixtures and mixed with other finishes. 

Animal prints, in all colors, add visual interest and are a neutral design element.

Also trending in appliances are ice white, slate and glossy black finishes which differentiate from the popular stainless steel look.

Mix patterns and use accessories on the odd number.

Use outdoor fabrics for interior upholstery, especially in family rooms and kid spaces.

J. Baker Interiors is located in suite 107 at the Indiana Design Center.  For more information about design resources, professionals and trends, visit IndianaDesignCenter.com.