Krista Thomas234-208-7674 ~ krista.kylen@gmail.com

The following is a collection of chosen images that represent my style, taste, knowledge, and vision of the basic elements and principles of design. I briefly discuss why each image was selected and how it has informed my process.

The final four sections of this portfolio are amateur level projects that I have had the joy of consulting on. While I say “consulting,” in each project, I was given full autonomy, so I was acting as designer. You will see two residential projects, a product launch event, and a vehicle restoration project. Thank you for your time and consideration!

Here color, one of design’s most powerful elements, is utilized to create a space of order and rejuvenation. The graduated tint of

greens provides a clear visual hierarchy, while still allowing the eyes and mind to wander, peacefully throughout the space.

Green was a masterful, centering choice as it evokes feelings of tranquility and decisiveness. Known for stimulating harmony

in the brain and freshness in the body, the varied greens not only speak to the boldness of the space’s owner and designer, but also

prepare them wholistically to face each day anew with a clear mind and decisional confidence.

The golden and wooden accents grant the - otherwise young and enthusiastic - space a depth and maturity which allows for

balance and sophistication rather than overstimulation which is a possible and quite regular downfall of bold color choices.

Photo credit: La Dolce Vita | Page 26, ladolcevitablog.com

Photo Credit: Emily | Go Haus Go, http://gohausgo.com/2014/11/14/new-house-new-aesthetic/

Texture, referring to the perceived dimensional feeling of a surface, isused expertly here to attract and repel attention to certain areas of the

space in order to sophisticatedly highlight the incredible artistry of thebackground wall.

While the sectional and rug have simple and welcoming textures, they are rightly subjected to the texture of the portraiture, sculpture, and artistic

decay of the accent wall and high arch and pillars. Thus, this space, while designed and decorated in a minimalist style, would not be described as

minimalist, rather romantic. But this due to the emphasis given to the wallby the surrounding, serving textures.

Photo Credit: B a r S a n, barsanworld.tumblr.com

If color, shape, and texture are the paint, then space is the canvas. It is the basic outlay on which the designer will paint design and create atmosphere. Thus it is the element that warrants the greatest consideration and study. The effect and texture of the space should inform - or even determine - much of the design’s colors, shapes, and additional textures.

This image is an example of space being a primary and organizational element in the placement and choices of colors, textures, even wall-hangings and the like. The cross beams create an intoxicating effect utilizing both linear and atmosphere perspectives. This serves to drawthe eye and soul deep into a welcoming and intriguing space.

Photo Credit: Southern Charm, http://southernpiphi.tumblr.com/page/15

This image was chosen because of its bold and varied, yet complementary use of form. While there is use and regularity, even safety, in using form as a marker of

similarity in a design, this space represents a stark variance of form while still creating a whole and sophisticated space.

The cush, pastel chair juxtaposed with the spindly, barely-there floor lamp and coffee table, the oversized, looming mirror dwarfing the rich, charcoal fireplace,

the dainty, circular chandelier challenging the otherwise rectangular design form - all of these contrasts combine to create a space that is at first homey and controlled,

and at second glance, audaciously contrasting piquing interest and curiosity.

Photo Credit: ochre via chic proven

Before: After:

https://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p3945622#photos

A Colorado vacation rental property,designed with a small budget in a

week’s time.

Before: After:

A 1900s Chicago Greystone townhouse, designed on a smallbudget.

Before: After: