Art Studio

One of my very talented sisters is an illustrator in Northern California (I have another very talented sister who is a photographer ... more about her later!). Deb illustrates for the children's market, including picture books, and also licenses her art on papergoods, ceramics and fabric. This is her with her beloved dog Ernie, who has since passed away. Mack is her new Airedale now. And just like her previous Airedales, he is the love of her life! Check out her artwork at Deb's Art Blog or visit her website and see how animals inspire her work! 

© Deb Melmon

© Deb Melmon

© Deb Melmon

Deb works out of her house and she needed a clean, uncluttered space where she could work. Her studio also needed to function as a dining room on occasion and a place where she could relax and watch TV or even entertain. She also has quite a collection of children's books and needed a place to keep them nearby so she can reference them as she works.

We started with the bookcase (Design Within Reach) - she saw it, loved it, had to have it. That set the tone (in color and style) for the credenza that we purchased next at an inexpensive Danish furniture store. Our inspiration on how to finish the room ultimately came from the furniture that she had in the room previously. It was too bulky to stay but it was a wonderful red leather sofa and chair; a great place to nap (for Deb and her dogs), and had even become part of her illustrations.

© Deb Melmon

So when we spotted the red leather bench (at an inexpensive office store) I knew it was the perfect way to symbolically bring in the red leather sofa and I love that it gave the room that 'library' feel. I placed the red boxes from The Container Store on top of the bookcase to add height and bring in more red (more storage too!).

Storage was a necessity as was having a surface for laying out projects or for entertaining. The credenza ties in perfectly with the bookcase and offers enough storage space to be able to keep invoices & client files and drawing & painting supplies out of sight. The comfortable but small scale chair fits perfectly in the room and can easily be moved out for entertaining & the top of the credenza can be changed without much effort into a drink or appetizer station or even a holiday buffet. (note: we were later able to move the large copier).

Deb's new studio is a refreshing place to work in, relax and watch TV or take an occasional catnap. And when necessary, it is easy to clear it out and bring in the dining table - creating an instant & beautiful dining space!

© Deb Melmon