Interior designer to teach color workshops

Suzanne Bach, fine arts coordinator of the 2011 Machetanz Art Festival at Mat-Su College, interviewed Karolyn Spagnolo, interior designer from Pittsburgh, who will offer a workshop titled “Interiors with Color.”

Spagnolo is a member of the American Society of Interior Designers and is a color consultant for Pittsburg Paints. She receives national recognition from architects and interior designers due to her expertise in color.

Spagnolo will teach a half-day workshop at Mat-Su College during the 2011 Machetanz Art Festival at Mat-Su College June 4. Choose from 9 a.m. to noon or 1 to 4 p.m. sessions.

Participants will learn color sense, adding color psychology and “wow” factors while reflecting your personality and global trends. All participants will take home a designer shopping bag and trend color samplers.

Cost is $25. Registration for the Machetanz Art Festival is available online at matsu.alaska.edu or by contacting Student Services at 745-9746.

BACH: What do you see as the trends across country?

SPAGNOLO: The trends are toward editing the way one lives. Most folks are motivated to simplify, organize and lighten up the load. There is so much going on in everyone’s daily adventures of living, that when we do arrive at “home sweet home” we want simplistic, comfortable ways of accomplishing our normal everyday tasks. That way we have more time to enjoy our family and friends.

Also when it comes to color trends, the choices are related to a definite impact that a particular color resonates within the core of who we are. How we accomplish everyday tasks is affected. Sometimes simple inexpensive design and color changes within our homes and offices can uplift our thoughts and actions, and make a difference in how we approach our day. Trends are part of a bigger whole, and I enjoy making unending suggestions to improve the quality of life for my listeners.

BACH: Do you see Alaska as unique in its color choices?

SPAGNOLO: I have to admit that when I first arrived in Alaska, I was a bit surprised about how much color I didn’t see! But, after being there for 10 days, I realized how perfectly natural the color is implemented into everyday life. Beautiful color is surreal in the landscapes, with historical significance. Even the buildings, clothing and other man-made scenery meld into the make up of the surrounding beauty. One can never understand the feeling you get when viewing a glacier for the first time, until you do. The electric blue is gloriously amazing. I felt an overwhelming calmness during my previous visit and could not get enough of the mountain ranges and deep navy waters.

BACH: When making color selections, how many colors do you recommend that you have surround you in one space?

SPAGNOLO: Oh, this is probably going to be the best advice I can give. An empowering rule for everyone is to implement the 60-30-10 Rule. One color is dominant at 60 percent — for example, the walls, floors, etc. Then choose an intermediate color at 30 percent of the space, such as ceiling, cabinets, furniture and fabrics. Next incorporate one or two accent colors at 10 percent of the overall space, such as mounding trim, accent fabrics and accessories.

This rule, when applied to any space, will capture a visual melody. I recommend a website voiceofcolor.com where you can engage in the ColorSense Game to determine your specific color personality. Think about the fact that every space is not just about one color but about five colors and textures. Create a space that embodies a feeling that reflects what you love and who you are.

Those attending my workshop at Mat-Su will receive something extra if you come in and let me know what your specific color personality was, when you engage in the ColorSense Game.

BACH: How would you describe one of your most memorable design jobs and why was it is so special?

SPAGNOLO: Undoubtedly, I can answer this by telling you about the Sewickley Country French Mansion. I simply breathe a fresh sigh when I think of this particular job.

This home gives me a similar feeling as in how much I adore the surreal landscape in Alaska. This perfectly landscaped home positioned at the end of a cul-de-sac in a lovely calming neighborhood, is stone with distressed mortar accented by an inviting enormous front door.

The two-story exaggerated custom designed ceiling features details that embellish, comfort and accent the rooms overall size and exterior views. After designing this detail, I chose an overall flow color that is warm and inviting, yet adding some drama within the furniture, artwork and window design treatments.

At Christmas, these clients call on me to implement with Christmas decor, which is by far one of my all-time favorite designs to do. I will be showing slides of this particular job during my presentation at the Machetanz Art Festival at Mat-Su College. The Sewickley mansion is truly inspirational, and this home has been noted in many publications due to its overall dramatic feel and comfort level.

For more information, contact Suzanne Bach at sbach@matsu.alaska.edu or 745-9755.