LA-based interior designer Kenneth Brown has spent years creating relaxing environments for his clients. His trick? Mixing Southern comfort with the trends of Tinseltown. Born and raised in Louisiana, Brown moved to LA upon graduating from Louisiana State with a degree in interior design. Since 2001 he has owned his own business, attracting clients like soccer star Mia Hamm and actors Vanessa Hudgens and Zac Efron. Brown shared some of his tips on decorating, so read on to get his take on stylish, yet cozy spaces.
The Foundation
"Color is the language of design," Brown says. "If you have no color, you have no voice." In this kitchen, which has a very muted palette with white walls and cabinets and stainless steel appliances, Brown incorporated color by choosing bright chairs.
Enlarge a Small Room
When it comes to making a small room appear bigger, believe it or not Brown suggests filling it with furniture. The catch? Use fewer pieces of larger scale furniture. In addition, he loves big, canvas paintings. "They act as additional windows and work to extend the eye beyond the room," he says.
Lighten Up a Dark Room
For rooms that get little natural light, start with the plane on which everything sits. "It's all about flooring material," Brown says. "Brighten up the floor by using a light-colored area rug. It adds an instant lightness to a room."
Unconventional Updates
Perhaps the most dramatic way to change the look and feel of a room is with the lighting. A huge fan of chandeliers, Brown often includes them in rooms where you wouldn't normally find them. "They bring a certain character to a space," he says. "I'm so tired of recessed lighting; it can make a room like a football field."
Balance
Despite his Los Angeles-based clientele, Brown embraces his Southern roots, and considers his ability to blend both aesthetics an asset. "I have a rich color palette. I love mossy greens, terra cotta and browns, all very romantic colors."
But be careful not to overdo it. With this room, the rug and throw provide the pop of color, which highlights the speckled brightness of the wallpaper. To balance the color and avoid busyness, the bed, lamp and side table are monochromatic with simpler lines.
Or, see what other designers have to say on the At Home section.
Happy decorating!
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A Successful Blend
LA-based interior designer Kenneth Brown has spent years creating relaxing environments for his clients. His trick? Mixing Southern comfort with the trends of Tinseltown. Born and raised in Louisiana, Brown moved to LA upon graduating from Louisiana State with a degree in interior design. Since 2001 he has owned his own business, attracting clients like soccer star Mia Hamm and actors Vanessa Hudgens and Zac Efron. Brown shared some of his tips on decorating, so read on to get his take on stylish, yet cozy spaces.
