In the winter months, it’s even more important to create a homey, warm space for family and guests. What is your top advice for designing a cozy, inviting living space?

We are fortunate to be located in the Caribbean. The climate in the Turks & Caicos Islands is so moderate, people are not looking for the warmth of a crackling fire, but rather the calming sound of a lapping sea on the beach. Our homes focus on outdoor living night and day.  The beach on Provo at Christmas can make for an unforgettable experience.

Holiday décor can easily enter the realm of ‘hokey’ or contrived. What are some important tips to keep in mind when decorating a sophisticated interior for the holidays?

Our homes live outdoors. Xmas lights on the exterior radiate the spirit of the holiday season and in my opinion entering the realm of hokey or contrived makes it even better.  Under all other circumstances, we do not miss snow, but overindulgence in Xmas lights helps fill the void of the northern climates.  Find the tallest Xmas tree you can find and load it up with lights on your beach deck.  Magical after dark!

If you could change one element of a room to improve people’s first impression of the space, what would it be? Why? 

In all my designs, I strive to present an element of surprise on entering a new space; something that immediately catches your attention and cannot be overlooked. In the majority of cases, I use the exterior beyond the space.  In the tropics it is easy to create unusual exterior features. The difficulty is effectively connecting it seamlessly to the interior.

Are there any design trends you’d like to see disappear as quickly as they came?

Home Theaters / Media Rooms. Technology is allowing us to transform ordinary living space into awesome A/V experiences without the need to dedicate it to a special purpose room.  We are having a lot of fun with “outdoor home theaters."

Learn more about R.A. Shaw Designs by visiting their website and Haute Residence profile.

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If your contemporary space needs a pick-me-up, fear no more. Slowly but surely, bold wallpapers are coming back into the mix as a haute design trend for 2013. What might look unsightly in paint is easily achieved with the right wallpaper, so get adventurous.

Depending on your personal style, wallpaper can be an excellent option for a bedroom statement wall. Bold patterns may also complement a creative home office or library space, helping to keep the vibe positive and great ideas flowing.

We don’t recommend using wallpaper in bathrooms (as much as you might want to add some further visual interest to your primping space) due to the moisture that may accumulate from steamy showers, but it’s a fabulous and versatile option for other homey spaces that need some spiffing up!

Check out wallpaper creatives like Flavor Paper, Shi Yuan and Surrealian

For more on the latest and greatest in design news, visit Haute Design Network on Facebook!

Photos courtesy of Houzz

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Interior design trends have reflected the appearance of exotic prints and patterns on the runway in 2013, and we’re here to show you how to make it work in your luxurious abode. Colorful, rich fabrics are popping up in the upholstery of cozy library chairs, headboards, and plush benches, and many are using similarly patterned wallpapers to spruce up a dull room.

Be careful though—it’s easy to overdo it, so pick one or two pieces to keep it classy. If you’re inspired by Pantone’s Emerald trend, consider incorporating a patterned statement piece that features the color to summon a bohemian vibe. If new furniture feels like too big a step, try incorporating an Indian-inspired rug for a pop of color that is easily removed.

If you haven’t had the opportunity to travel lately but you’re craving international flare, use bright, detailed prints for a great statement in any room. Get inspired by faraway destinations with a unique headboard by John Robshaw that nods to classic Indian architecture or silk-hemp wallpapers by Raoul Textiles.

Photos courtesy of Elle Decor

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Clients should expect to spend some time letting me know how they live and what they like, whether it's visual or not. Getting to know my clients and how they want to live is always the starting point for me.

What characteristics does your dream client have? 

My dream client is trusting, kind, fun, smart, and has a willingness to try new things.

Where do you find inspiration for your designs?  

I find inspiration in my everyday life. I love taking hikes in our local mountains. There are so many fantastic colors, shapes and combinations in nature. I think inspiration presents itself every day as long as you are looking for it.

Are you looking forward to following any new designs trends this year? 

I always love watching the new fabrics come out each season; it's always fun to create visual and tactile interest with them. I love mixing color, pattern and texture for depth of experience. I also think that technology as it applies to interior design will remain important in the coming years.

Looking to learn more about Sara Ingrassia? Find her Haute Design Network Profile Here.

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