Lighting Archives - McKenzie Interior Design

The Top THREE Ways to Spruce Up Your Home for Holiday Guests

Published on November 16, 2017November 16, 2017 by McKenzie Interior DesignLeave a comment

Hosting holiday guests may seem daunting, but we’ve got three easy ways to refresh your home for guests – and they’re all 30% OFF right now, at steve mckenzie’s, so they won’t break the bank!

Pillows. New pillows can instantly- and beautifully – update any sofa, chair, bed, chaise, settee, etc…. you get the picture. And has steve mckenzie’s got a fantastic selection for you! Here are a few of our current favorites:

This “Southern Toile” design, by Adam Trest, is an absolute stunner in person and available at a fantastic price point – especially given our current promotion! And it’s offered in a range of colorways, including this delicious cranberry red, ideal for the holidays.

Add a touch of sparkle with this sequin and linen pillow in a greek-key inspired design. A design like this will go with just about any decor and will be a memorable touch for guests!

These polka dot linen pillows, based off of Steve’s fine art, will add a sense of fun a whimsy to a space!

Lamps. Not only will a new lamp help brighten a dim space, they can provide a bit of sparkle in a room, jewelry for your current home decor ensemble, if you will. A fantastic lamp can also provide a stunning sculptural element and add needed height on tables which may be lacking. But, a good lamp can be hard to come by. Good thing you have access to the experts, and a glorious selection at steve mckenzie’s; including these:

Blue and white is a timeless combination for interiors and when done in the chinoiserie style, looks effortlessly stylish!

A desk lamp perfectly placed in a guest room offers such a warm, thoughtful touch. And the gracious lines of this lamp are sure to add a designer touch!

Throws. Much like pillows, a new blanket or throw can do so much for a space. It can add the perfect pop of color to your bedding, offer loads of texture when draped over the corner of a sofa or provide softness and warmth set over the back of your Adirondack chairs near the fire pit. Here are a few fabulous options currently in stock:

And remember, all of these – plus SO many more – are available at steve mckenzie’s, 30% off now, through the end of the holidays! Please stop in today for best selection and let one of our team members help make selections both you, and your holiday guests will adore.

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A Tropical Transformation: McKenzie Design’s 2017 Historic Macon Showhouse Dining Room

Published on June 19, 2017June 19, 2017 by McKenzie Interior Design2 Comments

Our space in this year’s Design, Wine & Dine Showhouse, supporting the Historic Macon Foundation is finally complete! While we’re delighted with the way the dining room by McKenzie Design turned out, we’re even more thrilled to have been in the company of such talented designers from throughout Middle-Georgia, including Lisa Bellwin, Tracy Benton, Sally Draughon, Valerie Garrett, Judy Hodgens, Terry Holland, Carolyn Reichert, Carrie Robinson and Katherine Walden.

Most recently, our design team has been inspired by the all the lush, tropical motifs, which seem to be popping up everywhere! While we wanted to ensure we respected the history of the fantastic Porter House – moved to Weslyan University‘s campus – we also wanted to present our take with an updated sense of tradition. We’re so pleased with the results of our design plan, and are lucky to have had the opportunity to partner with some truly terrific manufacturers and artisans to help us realize our space…

We fell in love with Sherwin Williams’ “Iverness” and opted to use this luxurious hue throughout the dining room. The brass Pagoda light fixture by Currey & Company was a true jewel in the space! The cerused oak dining table, from Grange Furniture, was an ideal backdrop for our tablescape.

We had a ball with all of the fabulous Thibaut Design textiles used in the dining room – the “Tropical Fantasy” design from their Biscayne collection was the jumping off point and we went from there. Drape 98 provided all drapery fabrication for our space. As evidenced by the McKenzie Design showhouse dining space, we fell in love with the tropical, yet classic, design of our primary textile, featuring large leaves, colorful ginger jars and exotic animals.

The lush texture of the Moss colored velvet, paired with Selamat’s Sheridan wingback chair offered a smart juxtaposition of textures, and offers a natural element. These dramatic chairs, act as the “head” of our dining table, while the Sika Rossini chairs, act as the side chairs. Our showhouse dining space is anchored with a stunning, hand-knotted rug by Laura Walker for Verde Home.

This beautiful settee is by Bjork Studio, who provided all our upholstery. The settee, in bold animal print (Amur from the Menagerie Collection by Thibaut) is a highlight in the space and was the most talked about piece opening night – by far.

The hand finished mirror situated above the fireplace cannot go unnoticed. It’s by artist Stacy Milburn, and added needed contemporary element, which offers an exciting energy.

To set the table, we paired pieces from the new Jardins Extraordinaire collection by Gien with the classic handmade Chartreuse dinner plate by R Wood Studios. The exciting and fresh “Pebble in Blush” napkin, hand printed in India, by Collier Rose Ink, completes a memorable place setting.

Recently, we acquired six vintage pieces of glass from an old Midwest factory that still had the papers attached. Framed in these stunning steel frames, they make for an interesting, contemporary addition to the space, yet share a storied past. We love using pieces with a bit of history in our designs!

This glimpse of our showhouse tabletop is one of our favorite moments. We dubbed this little guy “Otis,” after Otis Redding, who was from Macon. He is by Avala International. In the background is the beautiful oyster vase, by Vine Garden Market, and a crystal votive from Harmonious Living by Tish Mills.

We hope you have enjoyed this little tour of our showhouse dining room! If you’d like to learn more about any of the products used, please plan a visit to our showroom or reach out via e-mail or phone.

We urge you to plan a trip to Macon to visit the showroom – the house, as well as all related Design, Wine & Dine events are absolutely worth the short drive! Please reach out to us for restaurant recommendations and be prepared to be inspired by this historic city. Visit the Macon, GA website for other fun excursions to enjoy while there. But, keep in mind, the showhouse will only be open through the 25th – you can see more details here.

Thanks again for joining us on this tour – please let us know your thoughts!

All photos in this post are courtesy of Marc Mauldin Photography except the photo of the Porter House from Historic Macon Foundation

Tastemaker Tuesday – Owen Masterson & Christine Anthony of Anthony-Masterson

Published on April 4, 2017March 28, 2017 by McKenzie Interior Design2 Comments

We have a treat for you all today! We’re thrilled to feature the husband-wife team that is Anthony-Masterson. This dynamite team specialize in photography and filmmaking. And their work is almost as fantastic as they are… Steve and Jill have gotten to know Owen and Christine by working with them on a number of design projects and have found such like-mindedness, as they’re also a couple that do just about everything together. We believe you’ll thoroughly enjoy this fun little conversation/interview and are so pleased to introduce you to the latest Tastemakers for the blog for steve mckenzie’s, Owen Masterson and Christine Anthony:

Christine & Owen of Anthony-Masterson Photography

We began shooting sixteen years ago determined to combine our individual talents. Before that Owen was working with some of the best cinematographers in Los Angeles as an actor and Christine was an in-demand food stylist. We had both spent a lot of time on sets observing what it took to get a great shot. Inspired, we picked up a camera and a bunch of film and began shooting. We started with food. Shortly after that a new stock agency dedicated to food photography began licensing our images. In 2001 we shot our first job. Since moving to Atlanta in 2005 we have been shooting Interiors, Food and Travel.

In 2008 we acted on a long held desire to make our pictures move and began experimenting with filmmaking. This led to a number of short films and two award winning feature length documentaries.

Working in both mediums provides great balance plus we get to travel a lot and work with some extraordinarily talented and interesting people.

1. Three words that describe your aesthetic?

Owen: Do we each get 3 words?

Christine: What have you got?

Owen: Fast, edgy and dangerous.

Christine: I think that describes you more than the aesthetic.

Owen: Okay, what have you got?

Christine: How about balanced, uncluttered and provocative?

Owen: That’s why I love you.

2. Would you please share a little about your favorite space/project to date?

Owen: You go first.

Christine: I always go first.

Owen: Ok. Plaza Towers 25^th floor, stunning pied-a-terre, killer view of Atlanta skyline.

Christine: And the rich tones in the living room. What about the first interior project we ever shot? That beautiful home on the coast in Malibu owned by the Fluxus artist Van Schley and his wife.

Owen: Wow that was so long ago and we shot it on film!

Christine: And we hardly knew what we were doing.

Owen: The challenge was the light bouncing off of the Pacific Ocean into practically every room in the house. But we figured it out.

Christine: Speaking of the coast… what about the light in the house at Wrightsville Beach?

Owen: Love.

3. What’s the source(s) of your inspiration?

Owen: Christine. That was an easy one.

Christine: I guess I better say Owen. But really, it is Owen. When you live and work together 24/7 as a team you each bring something different to the party so it’s essential to be inspired by your partner’s vision – or madness.

Owen: I always know I’m in for something challenging when Christine says “Tell me if you think this is a crazy idea.” But we don’t live in a bubble so there’s the things we see and the people we meet in our travels that influence and inspire us as well.

4. Name three people (alive or dead) you’d invite to your dream dinner party…

Christine: That’s tricky. Only three?

Owen: John Lennon, the Pope, and it might get fun if say, Amy Winehouse comes.

Christine: The Pope choice seems off unless it’s Alexander Pope.

Owen: Okay, how about Jimi Hendrix, Jackson Pollock and Howard Finster?

Christine: Better. But I’d really like to cook for Joan Didion so one has to go.

Owen: Wait a minute, don’t we each get three?

Christine: We could be here all day… how about we move on?

5. A favorite type of space or even a favorite type of object/setting to photograph?

Owen: We love the skill set of shooting interiors. It’s so exacting, like a high wire act.

Christine: The placement and balance of objects.

Owen: The play of shadows and light.

Christine: The vignettes.

Owen: Capturing the more intimate moments that really express the personality of the room.

Christine: But there’s also a freedom to shooting the travel stories that we enjoy. Being out and about, anticipating, keeping an eye out for the shot.

Owen: Because we shoot so many different things: interiors, food, people, travel, and then there are the videos too, it’s like cross training. It keeps our imaginations limber and eyes fresh.

6. Do you follow a particular set of rules when mixing textures, finishes, etc. – how do they work for you?

Owen and Christine: See it. Love it. Shoot it!

Christine: That’s been our motto from day one.

Owen: Of course our clients’ needs come first but we always try to take the shots further than they had imagined; the angle, the frame, the composition.

Christine: And then there’s the lighting. We shoot primarily with natural light and Owen is the master of light and shadow so we like to wow our clients with the lighting.

7. Trending… What is something you are currently “into” and something you are “over?”

Owen: Playing records

Christine: Owen is the house DJ, he spins, I cook. I love long hours at the dinner table or on the deck with close friends.

Owen: Christine is a great cook so the dinners are always good. And then there’s the wine and the conversation.

Christine: It’s like the exact opposite of social media.

Owen: Which is anti-social

Christine: So you’d say social media is over?

Owen: Definitely over. And out.

8. What would be the one thing you would have if you were stranded on a deserted island?

Christine: Do we each get one thing?

Owen: Fire.

Christine: That way I could cook. So maybe I’d bring a knife.

9. Please share a piece of advice you’d offer to someone looking to break into the photography design industry.

Owen: I’d give the same advice we were given when we started. Just do it!

Christine: It’s a process and you have to work at it to find your eye. Just make sure you understand the business end of it. That can be the most difficult part for creatives.

Owen: Find your passion. It’s an art form even if you’re shooting plumbing supplies. It’s a journey and you should have adventures doing it.

Christine: Oh, the places we’ve been…

Okay, so that was a lot of fun, right?! We need to find more dynamic duos to feature in our Tastemaker series! At least ones with such wonderful senses of humor… And isn’t their work divine. The way they work with lighting – it’s magical. And they make our spaces look absolutely phenomenal. We’re fans of Owen and Christine’s and are willing to bet that after reading this post you are too!

Pinspiring… Loft Living

Published on April 7, 2016April 6, 2016 by McKenzie Interior DesignLeave a comment

Earlier this year, we shared a bit about how we use Pinterest – both professionally and personally – to inspire our designs and lifestyle.

We had so much fun revisiting our pinboards for that post, we thought we’d bring it back and focus on our “Loft Living” board for another Pinspiring post.

Loft living is such a desirable concept for so many. But, in reality creating a space that’s both beautiful and functional within an open loft space can be quite a challenge. When revisiting our “Loft Living” Pinterest board, we discovered quite a few common threads that were weaved throughout some of our favorite images…

Natural Light

A huge perk of loft living are amazing, oversize windows and/or skylights. However, these windows may only be along one wall in the loft space. Make the most of those industrial windows by using light and airy colors in the largest components of the space – like the ceilings, walls and floors.

Amazing Staircases

Staircases are another element that can really be played up in a loft space. Think of it as a sculptural feature, which often have multiple purposes. Sure, they’re a means to an end. But, they can also act as storage, a room divider, and so much more. Don’t settle for something basic when this one element can be made in to something truly amazing.

Textures

Traditional lofts can feel cold and sterile with their copious amounts of concrete and exposed piping and duct work, but vintage elements, such as exposed brick walls and hundred year old wood beams offer loads of warmth. If your space doesn’t already offer those components, add them! And then add those necessary soft items – a vintage rug and fun floor poufs (extra seating!) will be oh-so-inviting for your guests.

Although there’s so much more to designing a fantastic loft space, hopefully these tidbits will provide a bit of inspiration – or should we say Pinspiration – to your dreams of living the loft lifestyle.

If we can help you achieve your design dreams, be it in a loft space, Tudor home, or modern condo, please reach out to the steve mckenzie’s design team today!

Product Spotlight: Rablabs

Published on October 30, 2014October 29, 2014 by McKenzie Interior DesignLeave a comment

With the gift-giving season gearing up, we’d like to take a moment and introduce you to Rablabs, beautiful, nature-inspired accessories that are sure to be a hit with just about anyone on your list this holiday season.

With stunning products, ranging from classic coaster sets to agate adorned lamps, and even jewelry, Rablabs are all one of a kind – each equally beautiful in their own unique way.

Designer Anna Rabinowicz launched her first home collection for RabLabs in 2002, creating objects inspired by nature which fuse ancient, precious materials with cutting-edge design.

She uses a luxurious palette of materials, layering semiprecious gems including agate and crystal with the finishing touches of pure gold and sterling silver.

Anna has a long history of looking at nature for inspiration. Having designed such intricate objects as prosthetic knees and devices for cardiac surgery, she brings her experience and understanding of biology and nature to the design of elegant objects for the home.

Working with skilled artisans in the United States and Brazil, her hand-crafted designs provide a much needed natural component to both modern and traditional interiors.

The team here at steve mckenzie’s are especially excited about the gift-giving possibilities these fabulous gemstone rings offer… And the Rablabs agate photo frames are a guaranteed winner this holiday season!

Stop by the showroom today to take a look at these amazing pieces in person, and start your holiday wish list with Rablabs!

Adding Spunk with a Sputnik

Published on March 4, 2014March 4, 2014 by McKenzie Interior DesignLeave a comment

A Sputnik chandelier always makes a statement.

A vibrant orange Sputnik chandelier always makes a BIG statement.

And that’s exactly what Steve McKenzie was going for when he had this especially funky Sputnik chandelier installed above the main gathering space in the outdoor living room he was charged with in the recent Holiday Showhouse for Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles.

Believe it or not, this spunky light fixture has a place in just about any style space. Check out the “Sputnik Love” board on the Pinterest page for steve mckenzie’s, just to get an idea of all the ways these astonishing pieces can be used.

Here at steve mckenzie’s we love using a Sputnik to offer a modern element and provide some creative tension with otherwise classical and traditional style. They’re especially beautiful over a classic round pedestal table in a foyer or even grouped at different heights in a soaring entry! Sputniks are fabulous over a dining table because of the openness it provides – never impeding sight lines. In a bedroom they are great over the bed, and depending on the style can really bring an element of fun (bright colors) or of luxury with crystal bulbs.

The biggest pitfall to watch out for when using a Sputnik to always keep scale in mind. If using a Sputnik over a dining table, make the longest arms 2/3 of the width of the table. Likewise, when scaled too small, they can look silly especially in a grand room. If you need more of a statement, group them!

Our friends at Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles also have a love for the Sputnik! They picked the chandelier, selected by Steve for the outdoor living space, as one of the noteworthy items from their Holiday Showhouse, and highlighted it in their “New + Next” feature in the February 2014 issue!

In fact, a half-page spread was devoted to the statement made by a good Sputnik. Steve McKenzie was quoted in this piece, sharing…

“Lighting is to interiors what jewelry is to fashion; a statement piece that can set the tone for the room. A Sputnik chandelier adds instant energy, texture and a sculptural element – without overpowering a space.

So, have you been turned on to finding the perfect Sputnik for your space yet?!? Or, if you’re lucky enough to already have your home bedazzled by your very own Sputnik, please share what you love most about it!

Here’s to the jewelry that is fabulous lighting and the timelessness of the Sputnik chandelier!

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