MY ADVICE:

• My favorite way to use the top shelves in a closet is use fabric storage boxes instead of your typical plastic tubs. It’s an opportunity to add a color pop and function when storing seasonal clothing.

• When designing a “girly” space, I love adding glass or decorative knobs to the jewelry drawer.

• For a high end look on a budget, consider mixing materials. Build the panels, shelving and drawer boxes in melamine. The trim, drawer faces and doors in a more expensive painted or stained wood.

“I’ve been working with Debra for the past few years and she has been such a joy to work with. She is creative and patient with our clients, which Pahlisch Homes is very appreciative of. I would recommend Debra to anyone that is looking for superior closet design.”

– Nancy Cherry-Haskin, Custom Homes Regional Manager, Pahlisch Homes

“I have collaborated with Debra on several closet and Murphy bed projects, and I can’t recommend her enough! She has an eye for design, along with a great technical knowledge of her product. Her communication from design to installation is superior, and the product is always installed beautifully. She is my go-to subcontractor for upcoming projects of this kind.”

– Roloff Construction Inc., Portland, Oregon

MY FAQ’s:

 “How do you first approach a space? In other words, what’s the first thing you think about when you first see a client’s closet space/storage problem?”

 “What is the biggest design obstacle you’ve overcome? i.e. awkwardly angled walls, electrical sockets in bizarre places, big collections in small spaces.”

Where to start?? Electrical panel, attic and crawl space access, water shut off valve, outlets and a gun safe all in one space! I’m working on a job with sloped ceilings in an attic. I’ve designed many of these projects in Portland. The cabinets will be built into the ceiling slope but still gives the client the vertical length they need for hanging.

 “Since collaboration is such an integral part of the design process, how do you like to engage or connect with clients in order to help them realize their vision for a space?”

I love to look at inspiration pictures. I share my personal portfolio and ask my clients if they have any pictures saved on Houzz, Pinterest or Instagram. This way we can begin to collaborate and use ideas to design their vision for the space.

 “How are you inspired by a home’s existing décor? Is there anything specific that you look for during an in-home consultation?”

 “What are some ways a custom designed home office can improve productivity? In other words, how does the right type of home office help people do business?”

Home office design has changed as technology has changed. I’m seeing smaller desks with convertible space like pull out desks that can be hidden when not in use. The key to a successful home office is making sure it works with the home décor. You’ll be more productive in an environment you want to spend time in.

 “What are some modern organizational trends, or what’s a trend you’re looking for?”

The trend toward a more “merchandised” design look that is horizontal in style. It’s a style you might see in your local clothing boutique.