I think the use of color, especially bright colors with graphic prints, will continue to be utilized in home furnishings. Although the natural, weathered wood finishes are still prominent, I think we will see them paired with more of the colorful prints and textures instead of just the natural linens that we have seen for a few years now. I believe furniture lines are trending toward a more contemporary design.

What would you like to see as a new design trend?

I would like to see the use of a mixture of styles in homes. To me, a homeowner should feel comfortable using different pieces they have acquired over time, opposed to feeling they need to start over. I encourage my clients to use items they love or those which have meaning for them, along with new and updated furniture, paint colors, accessories etc. It truly makes a house their home.

To learn more about Maria Toczylowski, visit her Haute Design Network profile and website.

The post Maria Toczylowski of Beach Dwellings Design Talks New Design Trends appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

For more information on Maria Toczylowski and Beach Dwellings Design, visit her Haute Design Network profile and personal website.

The post Maria Toczylowski visits with Governor Kim Guadagno appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

I find the inspiration for my designs just about everywhere.  Living and working in a beach environment provides tremendous inspiration. The colors of the water and beach and the way the light reflects them - even in the winter - are amazing. I'm always looking through all types of magazines and the internet. There is inspiration everywhere!

What other designer’s work do you admire?

I admire the work of so many designers. Barclay Butera is one of my favorites, as well Barbara Barry and Kelly Wearstler.

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

As far a design trends for the coming year, I am looking forward to the use of color. I still love to use neutrals as a base, but with pops of color everywhere. So many of the new fabrics I have seen incorporate such beautiful combinations of color.  It makes me excited to get working with them!

How do you intend to take your design expertise to the next level?

I intend to take my design expertise to the next level by keeping up with the newest techniques and products available, and also by continuing to branch out into other areas, specifically the city. I also plan to expand my current body of work with more commercial design, i.e. restaurants and retail stores.

Visit Maria Toczylowski's Haute Design Network profile here.

The post Maria Toczylowski of Beach Dwellings Design Talks New Design Trends, Inspiration, and Design Expertise appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

What do you see as your firm’s greatest successes for 2012?

One of our great successes of 2012 was being chosen as the featured house for the annual Home and Health Show house tour in Avalon, NJ.  It took place in August and was a huge success.  Hundreds of guests toured the home and were very impressed with the design.  Another great success was the invitation to join the Haute Living family!

What do you see as some of the biggest opportunities in the coming year?

One of the biggest opportunities of the coming year will be helping the people who were affected by Hurricane Sandy rebuild and make their homes even better and more beautiful than they were.  Although there was so much devastation, I hope to get them to look at it as an opportunity to rebuild stronger and more customized to their way of living.

What new techniques and/or technology will have the greatest impact on new design concepts for 2013?

I think the iPad continues to make my business so much easier.  To be able to present at a client's home is such a plus.  Having access to all the Internet offers, in a portable vehicle is priceless.  I also think the continued refinement of "all environment" fabrics will impact design.  As they become more suitable for every day indoor use, it begs the question - "why use anything else?" for upholstery.

What is it that sets you and your firm apart from the rest of the field?

I think what sets our firm apart from others is our desire to know our clients and truly understand their needs and the way they live.  This leads to an original design every time.  Every detail is considered, and going the extra mile to please our clients is a must!

What are the most important questions a client should ask themselves before selecting a designer?

The most important questions a client should ask themselves before selecting a designer is - "How do I feel when we are together?" "Am I comfortable and able to truly express my desires?" "Do I trust this person to understand my taste and preferences, and make choices on my behalf if necessary?"  I think the comfort level is most important.

To Learn More: Visit Beach Dwelling Design’s Haute Design Profile

The post Designs on the Year to Come: Beach Dwellings Design’s Maria Toczylowski Looks Ahead to 2013 appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.