One of my favorite projects to work on was conceptualizing, planning and executing a Showcase Window every six months in a 1,100 square foot space, for a MN based furniture store. Once created, the space remained "locked down" and undisturbed for three months. (Visual alternated this space with the design team every three months.)

This store designed their 175,000 sq. ft. showroom around 10-14 lifestyles, so I choose this foundation when I created a new "character" for each installation. (See the breakdown of lifestyle characteristics to the left.)

The layout (to the right) was the basic shape of the area and I could build anything I wanted to, within these walls, within a small budget. I often choose vintage architectural pieces, such a doors or windows, to add interesting elements to each space. Of course, paint, wallpaper, custom made faux fireplaces, custom designed window treatments and "windows" were also fun ways to add drama. The goal was to create unique, show-stopping windows that would stop people in their tracks and then bring them into the store. And I always wanted to go for unexpected drama!

Often times, I found my inspiration for each character from a specific furniture piece and as time went on, the character would build in depth and personality. Until, eventually, I had a new Showcase Window.

Now, let me introduce you to Max. A retired architect. Intellectual. Slightly scattered. Logically sentimental. Well travelled. Collector. Always has a couple days of growth on his face. Enjoys an old fashion with an occasional cigar. Long winded when he starts to tell a tale, otherwise more of an observer of life. Never married & no children.

Next...Pierre and Dawn. They are a young, unmarried couple that don't actually believe in marriage. Their style is organic coastal. Textures. Comfort. Minimal. Lux. They are budding furniture designers that are slowly making their mark. They are casually sophisticated. Enjoy socializing with friends at the latest trendy scenes. Easy. Chic.

Finally, Great Aunt Greta. Great Aunt Greta is loved by all, especially her family. She has been a baker her entire life. And as a grandma, she loves to bake for her grandchildren. She is warm. Kind. Loves to garden and grow her own herbs. She loves sweet, pretty things. She loves to read and relaxes with needlepoint. Her heart is huge and her home is inviting. There is nothing more meaningful to Great Aunt Great than family.

Creating something out of nothing is an awesome experience. Watching the project evolve, ebb and flow and move, until what you've been seeing in your mind, finally comes to fruition. The key is to just find your inspiration, trust your instincts, take risks and thoroughly plan ahead.

Besos,

Michelle

ps: Please disregard the pixelated images. They were taken with an actual camera, printed on paper almost ten years ago, photographed with my iPhone and edited. Whew! It's amazing they turned out this good!