RICHARD BANKS

OWNER, Design Solutions

EXPERIENCE Over my three decades as an Interior Designer and Consultant; I have worked within a wide range of styles and budgetary constraints. My work has been primarily residential with focus on kitchen and baths, renovation and remodeling, full scope projects but has also included executive offices, boutiques, and restaurants. My academic training was in Western European decorative arts from the seventeenth through twentieth centuries as well as in interior design and design theory. My forte is true eclectic design: a juxtaposition of diverse elements coming together that "work" together with a dash of whimsy. I am known for layering colour and pattern. EXPERTISE Space Planning, colour, selection and arrangement of furnishings, materials, art, accessories, lighting, detailing Project management in renovation and remodeling of entire residence with primary focus in kitchens and baths. Acting as a liaison for my client between architect, contractor, vendors; I visualize, coordinate and personally oversee minute details of the entire project from conception to completion and beyond. Visualization - my approach is developing an overall design concept within a budget context which then is phased into projects that are then clearly detailed and executed. I do long range, master planning. DESIGN SOLUTIONS - I do problem solving. By separating aesthetics or personal taste from design one can approach difficult situations through rational design theory recognizing that one's taste influences but does not dictate good design.