Although we consider ourselves something of décor experts here at MyDomaine, it's no secret that we regularly seek out advice from experienced interior designers. Whether we're selecting the best shade of white paint, navigating the latest seasonal trends, or investing in furniture pieces for the long haul, we're always interested in what the experts have to say.
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“Trays are a quintessential accessorizing element,” says Los Angeles-based interior designer Stefani Stein. “I love incorporating them in a contrasting material from the table top.”
A stylish serving tray is a multifunctional décor piece that you can use for a lot more than what its name suggests. “They are also perfectly suited to highlight negative space for an uncluttered, yet layered approach. With the exception of trays incorporated into bar styling, I like to keep the tray rather open and emphasize only an item or two. I typically pair them with a small vase or statement accessory,” suggests Stein.
Read MoreRefinery 29
1. Benjamin Moore Floral White
This hue brings a sense of softness to a bathroom without feeling dated, according to Los Angeles-based interior designer Stefani Stein. "I love using this color from Benjamin Moore's Aura line in a matte finish for washable walls without the sheen," she explains.
As seen on the walls in the lede photo.
"A cross-section of beige and ivory, like the name implies, [this shade] dresses walls with elegance and warmth," offers Stein. "If you aren't ready to stray from bright white walls, this color can add the most subtle contrast when used on millwork or cabinetry."
3. Portola Paints & Glazes Chalet
"For a rustic yet sophisticated touch, this is my top choice," says Stein.
Read MoreDering Hall
Elle Decor
“Incorporating a patterned accent wall is a brilliant way to make a small laundry room feel more open. Here, Stefani Stein Inc. chose a cement tile mosaic to cover a wall above a blue cabinet. An antique hat rack with copper hardware completes the look.”
Domino
The Background Blue
Tending toward traditional, this balanced hue can go coastal cool or inland sophisticate, depending on the materials, fixtures, and other design details you incorporate into the space. In the case of this beachside retreat in Marina del Rey, Stefani Stein invoked the classic laid-back aesthetic of a California rancher by matching the color with a quartzite countertop, a farmhouse sink, and oak floors.
Read MoreCA Home + Design
How did you get your start in design?
I loved interior design from a young age and would design floor plans “for fun” as a child. Interior Design was actually my first major in college, however, my parents didn’t feel it was practical and steered me in a different direction. I regretted not following my passion and when I was nearing 30, I realized life was too short for regrets and decided to pursue what I loved. So, I left my well-paid corporate gig and started over. This was definitely a bit scary. Fortunately, after attending the UCLA Interior Architecture program, I landed a position working with a very talented interior designer. Her attention to every minute detail was inspiring and she opened up my eyes to elements of traditional design that I hadn’t previously appreciated. I feel very fortunate for those couple of years of mentorship.
2. What inspired you to launch your own firm, and what have you learned in the process?In a way, I stumbled into launching my own firm. I had outgrown the role with my mentor and a few friends had asked for interior design assistance all around the same time. It was more than I could take on as a side hustle without my day-job suffering, so I thought, why not give it a try on my own?
The autonomy and creative freedom has been truly rewarding. Although admittedly I wasn’t initially prepared for all of the administrative elements. I hadn’t considered the amount of work that went into details, such as sales tax and payroll and whether or not to incorporate, I was just thrilled to be doing my own projects. I hired a bookkeeper straight away to ensure everything was being handled correctly on the business end. This enabled me to focus my energy on designing.
Each project is different so you learn something new with every client. On one hand, that can be challenging, but I love the variety and uniqueness of each project. There is never a dull day!
Read MoreHouse Beautiful
Pick a Pair
Photo by TESSA NEUSTADT
L.A. designer Stefani Stein advocates giving equal importance to both positive and negative space when arranging art and recommends a more edited approach to displaying wall art. "A single work or diptych imparts a more open feeling [in a space],” she explains. “This more edited approach lends itself well to environments ranging from tailored traditional to modern and even eclectic."
Read MoreAmerican Farmhouse Style
Condé Nast House & Garden
Modern Farmhouse Home & Living
Elle Decor →
Domino
It didn’t take Stefani Stein much more than one step into her clients’ condo to know that it would need a head-to-toe makeover. “It was so dark and so dated,” the designer says. “The colors were intense throughout. It was just too much.”
And though her clients had reached out to her primarily to renovate the kitchen of the 1,430-square-foot condo, located in Marina Del Rey, California, Stein was soon enlisted to overhaul the entire home. The result was a complete transformation from an ultra-traditional, heavy color palette, and ornate everything to one that embodied a simplified, modern, and classic take.
Full article:
Read MoreElle Decor
TRANQUIL PARADISE
A minimalist kitchen by Stefani Stein Inc.lets the materials—marble, tile, and oak—speak for themselves.
Read MoreElle Decor
ORGANIC DESIGN
Against a leaf-printed wallcovering, this lacquered lilac bar cabinet pops in a room designed by Stefani Stein Inc.
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