Where to Save & Splurge When Decorating Your Home
Where to Save & Splurge When Decorating Your Home
Behind the Design: Andrea Marino Design
We are thrilled to highlight the talented designer, Andrea Marino, in this month’s Behind the Design guest feature! Based out of Dallas, Andrea combines a traditional aesthetic with a fresh approach - and functionality is always top of mind.
Andrea started her business after spending eight years in hospitality design. She loves her work for so many reasons but above all, she loves the fact that aside from the process, no two projects are ever the same. Andrea is also a fellow lover of mixing old & new, a pretty floral pattern, & a timeless stripe. Antiques and found pieces that tell a story are her favorite way to give a project that "lived in" feel, which you will be able to tell from her beautiful work below.
I’ve loved getting to know Andrea & feel like we became quick friends after our Q&A! Check out the interview & additional images from her portfolio below - I’m certain you’ll become a fan!
“I really try to encourage clients to buy original pieces when possible.”
Q&A with Andrea Marino Design
We had so much fun interviewing Andrea & can’t wait to share her expert advice with you when it comes to selecting artwork for your home & what to save and splurge on when decorating your house!
CZ: How would you describe your style in 3 words?
AMD: Classic, Edited, Chic
CZ: I couldn’t agree more! Where do you find your inspiration?
AMD: I love this question. I find inspiration through simple everyday ventures, walks in nature, travel, art, fashion, even music! I love old English antiques and their attention to subtle detail. I also love flipping through design books and magazines– I’ve always been more impacted when viewing something on paper. There is so much talent to be seen and inspired by!
CZ: That’s exactly how I feel when it comes to finding inspiration for my artwork. Where do you start when taking on a new project or starting to design a new space?
AMD: I always start with a floorplan – the layout is always crafted after a series of detailed questions to our clients to better understand their lifestyle and how they live. From there, the layout informs the design. It is important to make sure the foundation checks all of the boxes in regards to form and function before we dive into selections.
CZ: A lot of our readers are decorating their first homes - do you have any advice for areas to save and splurge as they discover their style?
AMD: Yes! Always splurge on upholstery – invest in pieces you love! A quality piece of upholstery can be recovered time and time again. I would also venture to say splurge on window treatments, (in my opinion, custom drapery is worth every penny) but do something classic that will be versatile should you want to change things up. Save on lighting and case goods – if you like pieces with character, thrift at local antique stores, you will be surprised at the treasures and deals you can find!
CZ: I’m a big thrifter when it comes to antiquing! Are there any design rules that you think are made to be broken? Which ones do you follow?
AMD: I personally don’t think there are any true “rules” – sure, sometimes certain guidelines yield a better result, but I think that is the beauty of design, anything goes! I don’t pay attention to rules or trends, I mainly always go off instinct.
CZ: What great advice! What do you look for when buying art for a client?
AMD: I look for something that breathes life into space or that tells a story. I really try to encourage clients to buy original pieces when possible. I love working with local artists! For me, it is about connecting with a subject and adding in that extra layer.
CZ: Do you have a favorite piece of artwork in your own home?
AMD: Yes! I inherited a piece from my grandfather that I loved from the moment I saw it – it is an abstract painting of a bird. The colors are so vibrant and amazing. He purchased it at Neiman-Marcus’ Fortnight Gala in 1957 hosted at the Downtown Dallas location, celebrating French influence and the store’s 50th anniversary. I have had it reframed over the years and will treasure it forever!
CZ: What a special piece with great meaning. What's your favorite thing about what you do?
AMD: I love the people and families I get to know in a more personal way – their stories, how they live, the things they do when they gather, entertain, and unwind after a busy day! I love knowing that I am creating something beyond a beautiful space. I want someone to look back at their home and say to themselves “I loved that house, the way it made me feel, and the memories made there” and I hope that I can be a small piece of that!
CZ: Best piece of advice you've received about design?
AMD: There is truly no such thing as a design “emergency” – no one has ever died from a bad color scheme (that I know of)! Ha! But in all seriousness, while I always aim to hande every project with the utmost care and attention to detail, I think it is also equally just as important to not make the process too serious – there should always be a level of fun and joy in creating a space! After all, the design is the fun part!
CZ: Last but not least, what's your favorite dessert to serve (or enjoy!) on Thanksgiving?
AMD: It is a family tradition that we serve chocolate cappuccino pie for the holidays! It is my absolute favorite – a delicious three-layer pie with oreo cookie crust, coffee ice cream in the middle, and a dark chocolate sauce on top!
Well, now my mouth is watering, and I wish had asked Andrea for her family recipe. It was such a delight chatting & getting to know you, Andrea. Thank you so much for your expert advice! Follow Andrea on Instagram here & be sure to check out her website & portfolio here.
Stay tuned for our next guest feature soon!
Until next time,
Know an interior designer that should be featured on ‘Behind the Design’? Please shoot us a message us at hello@cocozentner.com, as we’d love to connect!
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