I remember going to my first Decorator’s Showcase as freshman in high school. My high school’s fundraiser to benefit the scholarship fund, it was larger than life. I remember getting lost in the designer’s vision, creative genius; and in the luscious fabrics, rich details, and inspiration. Deciphering how the designer’s inspiration translated to each and every deliberate detail of their room intrigued me like no other. It still does, even today.
Life has a funny way of coming full circle — if you are patient and wait for it, that is. Over 20 years from the day I graduated from UHS, I found myself again standing in this year’s Decorator’s Showcase House. I was just as in awe — but even more so this time around because the rooms were not just gorgeously designed rooms. They personified the very designers I came to know, and had the pleasure or working with — not in their scope of work, but in mine.
It’s interesting — as I reflect on each of these remarkable women, though in completely unique, distinct ways, they each exemplify an effortless chic. The pleasure of showcasing that uniquely for each designer was the most thrilling part of each experience.
Shelley Cahan (on the left, pictured with Dina Bandman), of Shelley and Co., loves of a modern twist on a classic – in her clothes a that landed us on this DVF sheath dress in a leopard inspired ivory and navy print. The colors not only complimented her 1920’s Shanghai inspired powder room, reflecting the year of the monkey, but the jacquard print added that perfect dash of modernity to compliment the vintage inspired space.
In contrast, Cynthia Spence, of Cynthia Spence Design, brings a regal calm, and sophisticated elegance to her space — and her look. Much like the design of her vestibule, reflecting the turquoise shades found only in the varying water depths of our San Francisco Bay, Cynthia’s personal style also showcases depths and range. She loves bold statement pieces paired with classic silhouettes, all the while mixing and matching subtle and bolder textures and prints.
Their personal styles mirror this aesthetic, which we showcased through their personal styling. While Heather brings an edge to her feminine pieces, Jen prefers classic pieces that have a vintage, feminine throw back feel to them. That’s the beauty of being a dynamic duo – they each bring something so unique to the table, and allow these elements to nest together, literally and figuratively.
Finally, Krista Coupar is bold and beautiful. Principal at Coupar Consulting, a local interior design consulting and design firm, Krista is a full time working mom of six (yes 6 kids!) who enjoys a European flair in her clothes – that is to say, she appreciates an effortless chic and classic lines that go day to night with elegance and grace. The black eyelet top paired with the Iro tasseled jacket, as well as her long sleeve Iro dress were natural choices to showcase her understated elegance. The cobalt blue cocktail dress was a bold, but welcomed departure from her otherwise black repertoire –and she looked as razor sharp as the dress’ neckline.
Five design professionals. Four rooms. The result? Unparalleled talent, each with her own unique point of view, personality, and style that showcases as brilliantly as their respective designs. Come see for yourself at the San Francisco Decorator’s Showcase at 298 Chestnut Street in San Francisco, now through May 30.
