France, 2008

I was very lucky to spend a month in the Dordogne last year and was so overwhelmed by the beauty of the buildings I came upon. How could you not be inspired when you see these windows and doors. I love that the actual pieces haven't been messed with... they've aged wonderfully and, to me, look better than they would have when they were brand new.
I grew up in England, so have always been surrounded by beautiful architecture, I especially love Georgian buildings, but I really enjoyed viewing the houses in France. They seem more organic somehow, I love the colours too.... Argh, wish I was there now sampling the local wines and cheeses and buying hot, fresh bread daily... now that's a nice lifestyle!

It's all in the detail

I absolutely love detail. As an interior designer it's my job to notice these intricate details and to highlight them within the design scheme. I particularly like to mix different textures, especially natural elements - e.g., placing a wicker backet/tray on a wooden table or softening the harsh lines of a cupboard with a silk drapery tie-back.

I especially like to add a little of the unexpected in my designs - like the floral door bracket with it's worn patina - I placed this beautiful object in an out of the way laundry room as I think every room is special.

Inspiration everywhere

Although I am not the best gardener, I still appreciate nature's beauty and the inspiration it provides and the joy it brings.

I took these photos of our garden in April (2009) and love that it's just waking up and coming alive.... the blossom on our apple tree, the lemons and the statue we inherited - I love that he is missing the one thing he is supposed to be holding - a bird-bath maybe???

In September, 2008 I was asked to redesign a split level apartment in Pacific Heights and it was with the seasons in mind, that I came up with a total scheme based on Autumn and its beautiful hues. I promise to post photos of the home soon.

Rustic entryway

I love using vintage pieces within a design - pieces of furniture that are not too precious and can stand the test of time.

In this entryway I used a vintage Asian console. I added the stool which is covered in burlap - I really enjoy using natural elements and think they really look great together with the wood tones and wall colour in this scheme. I picked up the curtain pulls (used on the drawer handles) at a market in Stoke-on-Trent a few years ago for a few pennies!

I really like to use quirky items too - like this stair basket... great to keep items tidy until they are carried upstairs! I found this basket in Half Moon Bay whilst shopping for Christmas gifts. I always seem to do the "one present for you, one present for me"....!!! Oops.

The Feng Shui compass was bought in Tiberon, a while ago... and the gorgeous Mother & Baby statue is from London.

Newbie

Hello! This is my first time of blogging. I've set up my profile and added a photo, all I need now is to get writing.

Let me introduce myself - I'm Val Wills. I was born in the U.K. I am an interior designer, living and working in San Francisco. I moved here from London 12 years ago.... but more of my fabulous London life later...

Please be patient with me while I work out how to upload photos, etc.

I'm truly crazy about design and really love working with clients and transforming their spaces.

Thanks.