TRANSFORMATION

The Art of Transformation

Great design is about transformation. A well-designed space doesn’t just look different; it functions better, enhances the way people experience it, and even elevates the way they feel within it. At Marie Fisher Interior Design, we specialize in crafting spaces that not only solve design challenges but also redefine the way our clients live, work, and interact with their environments.

Understanding the Problem

Every project begins with a challenge. Whether it’s an outdated multifamily amenity space that lacks appeal, a home that no longer meets a client’s lifestyle needs, or a commercial space that doesn’t reflect a brand’s identity, the key to transformation starts with understanding the root problem.

That’s why we begin every project by listening. Through in-depth conversations, we identify the frustrations and aspirations behind a space. What’s not working? How do you want to feel when you walk in? How do you want others to experience it? These questions guide our approach, ensuring that every decision we make aligns with the ultimate vision.

Designing with Purpose

Transformation isn’t just about replacing old with new; it’s about creating a space that is intuitive, functional, and inspiring. Our design process is rooted in strategy—each material, color, and layout decision is made with purpose.

• Functionality – We optimize layouts to improve flow, usability, and comfort. A space should work as beautifully as it looks.

• Elevated Aesthetic – From bold statement pieces to subtle design details, we craft environments that feel sophisticated, inviting, and uniquely suited to the client.

• Emotional Connection – Great design evokes feeling. Whether it’s a warm and welcoming leasing office that attracts residents or a high-end residence that exudes confidence and style, we ensure that the transformation resonates on a personal level.

The End Result

When a project is complete, the transformation extends beyond the physical space—it changes how people live, interact, and present themselves. For multifamily developments, this means creating desirable environments that attract residents and elevate the property’s value. For homeowners, it’s about crafting a space that not only meets their needs but enhances their lifestyle and confidence.

At Marie Fisher Interior Design, we don’t just design—we create meaningful transformations. From the first conversation to the final reveal, we guide our clients through every step, ensuring the journey is seamless and the result is extraordinary.

The Power of Specificity

In interior design, success lies in the details. The phrase "it’s in the details" is more than a catchphrase—it’s a fundamental principle that separates good design from great design. One of the most critical aspects of achieving excellent results is specificity. From conceptualization to execution, being precise in your design intent and documentation ensures that your vision becomes reality.

Clear Communication

Designers work with a range of professionals, including contractors, builders, and installers. Each of these stakeholders relies on clear design intent and instructions to bring a design to life. If a designer’s direction is vague or open to interpretation, the final result may not align with the original vision. The more specific you are in your design descriptions, the fewer surprises you’ll encounter during installation.

Detailed Drawings

Verbal and written descriptions alone are not enough—drawings and specifications are essential. Comprehensive construction documents, including elevations, sections, detailed millwork drawings and renderings, reduce guesswork and misinterpretation.

By providing a level of this detail, designers empower contractors to execute with precision, reducing costly mistakes and revisions.

Follow Up and Follow Through

Specificity doesn’t end with the initial documentation. Following up during the construction and installation phases ensures that the design is executed as intended. Regular site visits, clear communication with tradespeople, and quick problem-solving maintain design integrity. Even the most detailed plans can be misinterpreted or adjusted in the field, so staying engaged throughout the process is essential.

The Results

When specificity is prioritized, the result is a design that exceeds expectations. The spaces function as intended, finishes align seamlessly, and the overall aesthetic remains true to the original vision.

By being specific, following up, and following through, interior designers ensure that the projects reflect the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship. Resulting in exceptional spaces and happy clients.

Design Is Universal

Are you overwhelmed and don’t know where to start your remodel? Do you want to make sure your home looks timeless and works for your family’s needs?

Designing a timeless Bay Area home is about more than picking finishes—it’s about creating a space that fits your lifestyle and feels effortlessly stylish. We specialize in taking the stress out of the process while delivering a design you’ll love for years to come.

We work on multi-family projects. How does that help with residential design?

Designing multi-family spaces teaches us how to balance beauty and practicality, which is perfect for homes too. Here’s how:

• Efficient Use of Space: Space is precious especially in areas where space is limited such as the Bay Area. We know how to maximize it, whether through smart storage or open, functional layouts.

• Durable Yet Beautiful Materials: Multi-family projects require materials that last without compromising on style—perfect for busy households.

• Cohesive Design: Just like in a multi-family building, your home should tell a unified design story, so every room feels connected.

You’re worried about managing your budget and how to prioritize?

That’s something we do in every project! We help you focus on high-impact areas, like kitchens and living rooms, where smart investments make the biggest difference. Then, we can find cost-effective solutions for secondary spaces to stretch your budget.

What’s our process like?

Simple and stress-free:

1. We Listen First: We start by understanding your vision, needs, and priorities.

2. We Keep Things Clear: You’ll always know what’s happening with transparent timelines and budgets.

3. We Handle the Details: From sourcing materials to coordinating contractors, we take care of the heavy lifting.

How you know the design will last?

Timeless design isn’t about following trends—it’s about creating spaces that feel effortlessly personal. With durable materials, thoughtful layouts, and an eye for detail, we create homes you’ll love today and for years to come.

Does this sound like what you need? Below are the next steps.

Let’s start the conversation! Reach out today to schedule a consultation. We’ll help you turn your home into a space that’s not only beautiful but designed for the way you live.

Use the Contact Page to reach out or learn more about our Services and Process.

A SEAMLESS TRANSITION OF DESIGN TYPES

INTERIOR DESIGN OF Multi-Family Spaces to Luxury Residential Design: A Seamless Transition

At our boutique interior design firm, we pride ourselves on crafting high-end, impactful designs that resonate with the people who inhabit them. With years of experience specializing in multi-family amenity spaces across the Bay Area, we've honed an approach that blends functionality, aesthetic appeal, and a deep understanding of the end user's needs. These qualities make our transition into high-end residential design not just natural but a perfect extension of our expertise.

Expertise in Designing for Communities

Designing for multi-family spaces requires a unique skill set: understanding the diverse needs of a community while maintaining a cohesive, elevated design standard. Whether it’s a welcoming lobby, a state-of-the-art fitness center, or a cozy co-working nook, these spaces are designed to foster connection, comfort, and a sense of belonging.

This community-focused mindset translates beautifully into residential design. A home is, at its core, a personal sanctuary. By applying our knowledge of creating engaging and functional shared spaces, we can design residences that are both livable and luxurious—spaces that bring joy, inspiration, and comfort to individuals and families alike.

Balancing Functionality and Aesthetics

Multi-family design demands a meticulous balance of form and function. High-traffic areas must withstand wear and tear while remaining visually stunning. Similarly, residential spaces require thoughtful layouts and materials that not only elevate daily living but also reflect the homeowner’s personality and lifestyle.

For example, our experience working with durable yet sophisticated materials in multi-family projects allows us to bring those same principles to residential design. Whether it’s sourcing the perfect marble for a kitchen island or selecting textiles that are as family-friendly as they are chic, we ensure every detail serves both beauty and purpose.

Collaboration with Developers and Homeowners

In multi-family projects, collaboration with developers is key. We’ve developed a strong ability to listen, adapt, and deliver designs that align with project goals and market demands. This collaborative approach seamlessly extends to working with residential clients. By truly understanding our clients’ visions, we’re able to translate their dreams into a home that exceeds expectations.

Why Choose Us for Residential Design

Our work in multi-family spaces has taught us to think big while focusing on the details that matter. Whether we’re designing a 5,000-square-foot amenity space or a bespoke living room, our process remains the same:

1. Client-Centered Approach: We prioritize your unique needs and aspirations, ensuring your home reflects your lifestyle.

2. Timeless Design: Our projects are informed by current trends but always grounded in enduring style.

3. Agility and Innovation: With experience navigating complex multi-family projects, we bring the same adaptability and creativity to your residential design.

Looking Ahead

As we continue to specialize in multi-family projects across the Bay Area, we’re excited to expand our portfolio into high-end residential design in both the Bay Area and Austin, Texas. By leveraging our proven expertise, we aim to redefine what luxury living means for our clients—whether they’re developers creating spaces for many or homeowners crafting a haven for a few.

Ready to transform your home? Let’s design something extraordinary together.

Contact Us Today

THE ART OF FURNITURE

Selecting furniture might seem straightforward—pick something you like, and you're done, right? Not quite. Furniture selection is a nuanced process that combines aesthetics, functionality, and technical considerations. Here’s why it’s more complicated than you might realize and how working with an experienced interior design team can save you time (and sanity).

1. Endless Options and Decisions

Furniture isn’t just about style. Each piece involves a myriad of choices:

Fabric & Material: Is it durable? Easy to clean? Does it match the other materials in the room?

Size & Scale: Will it fit the space proportionally? Does it leave enough room for flow and functionality?

Features: Adjustable arms, edge finishes, leg glides, or customizations—there are countless details to consider.

Ergonomics: Especially for workspaces or seating, comfort is just as important as appearance.

Each decision contributes to creating a cohesive and functional space, but these details can quickly become overwhelming.

2. Compatibility Matters

Furniture doesn’t exist in a vacuum. It needs to complement the overall design, including color schemes, flooring, lighting, and architectural features. For instance:

The wrong shade of wood can clash with cabinetry.

A fabric choice might not hold up in high-traffic areas.

Proportions that look fine on paper might feel cramped or oversized in real life.

3. The Hidden Logistics

Furniture selection often involves navigating lead times, customizations, shipping constraints, and assembly requirements. Missing one small detail could result in delivery delays or incompatibilities that throw off the entire project timeline.

Why a Design Team Saves You Time

With an interior design team by your side, the complexity is no longer your burden. Here's how we make the process easier:

Expert Guidance: We curate options that align with your aesthetic, functional needs, and budget, so you don’t have to sift through thousands of choices.

Cohesion: By considering the full design picture, we ensure your furniture selections are harmonious with the rest of your space.

Stress Reduction: From sourcing to ordering, tracking, and troubleshooting, we handle the logistics for you.

Decision Confidence: Our expertise helps narrow choices, giving you confidence that your selections will work beautifully.

Furniture selection doesn’t have to be a headache. Partnering with a design team like ours allows you to enjoy the process and focus on the exciting parts of transforming your space. After all, your time is valuable, and your space deserves thoughtful attention to every detail.

LIGHTING CONSIDERATIONS

Let there be light! The type of lighting really makes all the difference. Whether it’s vibrant and decorative, subdued and subtle, or a sculptural statement, each kind of light adds its own magic. Lighting can be art, decor, or set the perfect mood.

When selecting lighting types, here are some key tips we consider for a well-rounded and cohesive lighting scheme:

Purpose & Function: Think about the primary function of the light. For task lighting (like in kitchens or offices), choose brighter, more focused lighting. For ambient or mood lighting, softer, diffused sources work best.

Layering: Use layers to create depth in a room. Combine ambient, task, and accent lighting to ensure the space feels balanced and versatile. This allows for different moods and flexibility depending on the time of day or activity.

Dimming Options: Install dimmer switches to control light intensity. Dimming can transition a space from bright and functional to warm and intimate with ease, perfect for multipurpose areas.

Color Temperature: Consider the color temperature of each light source. Warmer tones (around 2700K) are cozy and inviting, while cooler tones (4000K+) are great for energizing and clarity, like in bathrooms or workspaces.

Fixture Style & Placement: Choose fixtures that complement the design of the space and fit well with the room’s function. For instance, pendants work well over dining tables, while sconces can frame a bathroom mirror beautifully.

Energy Efficiency: Look for energy-efficient bulbs (like LEDs) that not only reduce energy costs but also have a long lifespan. LEDs are available in many styles and color temperatures, making them versatile for nearly any setting.

By considering these elements, you'll achieve a lighting scheme that enhances both the function and aesthetics.

ACOUSTICS MATTER

The Sound of Design: Why Acoustics Matter in Interior Spaces

When it comes to interior design, aesthetics are often the primary focus, but sound plays a crucial role in shaping how a space feels and functions. Poor acoustics can lead to discomfort and distraction, impacting the user experience whether in an office, restaurant, or home. Acoustics are essential in interior design, below we discuss how we approach this important element.

Good acoustics make a space more comfortable. In environments like open-plan offices, schools, or restaurants, managing sound levels can help reduce stress, improve concentration, and create a welcoming atmosphere. By incorporating acoustic elements into the design, we can control noise and enhance comfort without sacrificing style. In past projects we have added sound-absorbing materials like fabric wall panels, acoustic walls and acoustic ceiling treatments to significantly dampen noise, creating a quieter environment.

In areas where communication is key like meeting or living rooms—effective sound control allows for clearer conversation and less auditory strain. Sound that bounces off hard surfaces can create an echo effect, making it difficult to hear and focus. Strategic use of materials such as acoustic panels, rugs, and even specific furniture arrangements can prevent sound from reflecting excessively, making communication effortless and improving the functionality of the space.

Acoustic solutions are an opportunity to blend functionality with aesthetics. Acoustic materials have evolved to offer a wide range of stylish options, from textured wall panels to sound-absorbing fabrics, special acoustic assemblies and geometric ceiling tiles. These elements enhance the visual appeal of a room while also providing effective sound control, making acoustics an integrated part of the design story rather than an afterthought.

In many public or shared spaces, privacy is a critical consideration. Controlling sound contributes to a sense of security and privacy. By placing acoustic panels in small rooms or installing rugs in lobbies it can help to prevent sound from traveling, giving each user a greater sense of personal space and comfort.

Incorporating acoustics into a design doesn’t have to mean sacrificing style. Options like perforated wood panels, suspended ceiling baffles, and textured fabric wall coverings add both character and function. Today’s acoustic design solutions blend seamlessly with a room’s decor, making acoustics a key consideration for designers looking to create spaces that feel as good as they look.

Acoustics should be a priority in any well-designed space. By considering sound dynamics alongside visuals, we create interiors that not only look beautiful but also feel comfortable and functional. So, whether you have a bustling café or a peaceful home office, don’t underestimate the importance of sound—it's the subtle detail that makes a space truly complete.

The Power of Texture in Design

Why Add Texture to Interior Spaces?

When it comes to creating dynamic and visually interesting interiors, texture plays a key role. While color and layout are often the first things people think of in design, texture adds a tactile and emotional layer that truly transforms a space. From soft fabrics to rough stone walls, texture can evoke feelings of warmth, elegance, or coziness, depending on the materials you choose. But why is texture so important, and how can you incorporate it into your interiors?

The Importance of Texture in Interior Design

1. Adds Depth and Interest

Texture gives a space depth and dimension, making it feel more layered and complex. A room filled with flat, smooth surfaces can come off as cold or uninspiring. By mixing textures—like a plush velvet sofa with a rustic wooden table—you introduce contrasts that keep the eye engaged and create a visually stimulating environment.

2. Creates Emotional Impact

Texture not only influences how a space looks but also how it feels. A soft rug underfoot or smooth, cool marble countertops can change your emotional response to a room. Rough textures like exposed brick or woven baskets bring an earthy, grounded feeling, while smooth, glossy surfaces like polished metals or glass add sophistication and modernity.

3. Enhances the Overall Aesthetic

Texture helps enhance and reinforce the style you're going for. A minimalistic space might rely on sleek, smooth finishes like polished concrete and glass, while a rustic or bohemian room would embrace woven textiles, natural wood, and layered fabrics. Using the right textures can solidify the design narrative of a room.

How we add texture to Interior Spaces

1. Incorporate Layered Fabrics

One of the simplest ways to add texture is through fabrics. Consider layering rugs, throw blankets, and pillows in different materials—like linen, wool, or velvet. These soft textures create warmth and coziness, making your space feel more inviting.

2. The use of Natural Materials

Stone, wood, and metal each bring a distinct textural element to a room. For a sophisticated, organic look, integrate natural materials like marble countertops, wooden beams, or stone accent walls. These elements provide contrast against softer fabrics or smoother finishes, making the room feel more balanced.

3. Wall Treatments

Textured walls are a bold way to make an impact. Consider options like brick, shiplap, or wallpaper with a tactile surface. Even paint can provide texture when applied with techniques like sponging or using textured rollers. Adding a feature wall with texture can completely change the atmosphere of a room.

4. Textured Furniture

Furniture pieces themselves can add texture. A wicker chair, a velvet sofa, or a reclaimed wood coffee table can serve as textural focal points in your design. Try mixing and matching furniture materials to create a dynamic, multi-dimensional look.

5. Lighting and Shadows

Don’t underestimate the power of lighting in enhancing texture. The way light hits textured surfaces, like a textured wall or woven fabric, can create beautiful shadows and emphasize depth. Consider using accent lighting to highlight certain textured elements in your space.

6. Mixing Textures for Contrast

The magic of texture often comes from contrast. Pair rough surfaces with smooth ones, or glossy finishes with matte. This opposition in materials creates a dynamic balance that keeps the design visually interesting and engaging.

Texture is often the unsung hero of interior design. It adds the tactile experience that connects people emotionally to the space, making it feel comfortable, luxurious, or grounded. By carefully selecting and combining textures, we transform rooms into visually stimulating and emotionally engaging environments. Whether we’re aiming for a cozy retreat or a sleek modern look, texture is the secret weapon in bringing depth and personality to a design.

We are continually experimenting with different materials, layering them thoughtfully to create a balanced and cohesive spaces that feel alive and dynamic.

Trends and Timeless Design

Balancing Trends and Timeless Design

When designing a space, one of the key goals for our team is to create something that feels cohesive and timeless. But what exactly makes a design timeless, and how do you navigate the ever-changing landscape of trends while still creating a space that won’t feel outdated in a few years?

Explore with us what makes a space cohesive and how you can embrace trends without losing sight of a timeless foundation.

What Makes a Space Cohesive?

A cohesive space feels harmonious—everything works together rather than competing for attention. Here are a few elements we take into consideration when designing a cohesive interior:

1. Color Palette: A unified color palette creates connection throughout a space. Whether you’re using soft neutrals or bold colors, consistency across rooms ensures the design feels intentional. This doesn’t mean you need the same color everywhere, but shades should complement one another rather than clash.

2. Balance of Materials: Mixing materials like wood, stone, metal, and fabric can add depth to a design. However, it’s essential to find balance. Too many competing textures can make a space feel chaotic, while a limited but thoughtful selection brings a sense of harmony.

3. Consistent Style: Choose a design style that aligns with the architecture of the building and your personal taste. Whether it’s modern, mid-century, or industrial, consistency helps maintain cohesion. A hodgepodge of competing styles can lead to a confusing, fragmented space. You can learn more about how to determine your interior style on our blog post “What is your Design Style?”.

4. Functionality: A well-designed space is functional. Cohesion isn’t just about looks; it’s about ensuring the space works for how you live or use it daily. Thoughtful layouts and attention to the purpose of the space keep it feeling grounded.

WHAT MAKES A SPACE Timeless?

Timeless design is all about longevity. It’s design that looks just as good in 10 or 20 years as it does today. Here’s how we achieve that:

1. Focus on Quality: Timeless design prioritizes quality materials and craftsmanship. Invest in well-made furniture and materials that will stand the test of time, both in durability and aesthetic.

2. Simplicity Over Complexity: Often, timeless spaces are built on the principle that “less is more.” Instead of overloading your home with intricate details that may feel overwhelming over time, stick to clean lines, neutral tones, and subtle textures that offer visual interest without feeling overbearing.

3. Classic Elements: Incorporating classic design elements—like subway tiles, marble countertops, or hardwood floors—ensures that your space won’t be tied to a specific trend or time period.

The Role of Trends in design

Trends can be exciting! They introduce new ideas, colors, and technologies into the design world. Embracing trends in small doses is an excellent way to keep your space feeling fresh and current. Here’s why they can be helpful:

1. Experimentation: Trends allow you to play with new ideas without committing to a complete overhaul. This could be adding a trendy color through accent pillows, using statement lighting, or trying out an interesting wallpaper on an accent wall.

2. Keeping the Space Current: Incorporating trends in small ways keeps your design feeling up-to-date without sacrificing timelessness. It’s a way to let your space evolve and feel modern without losing its core essence.

Why It’s Not Always Good to Follow Trends

While trends offer excitement, they can also be risky if overdone. Here’s why you might want to approach them cautiously:

1. They Can Feel Dated: What’s trendy today might be out tomorrow. Bold trends, especially ones tied to specific time periods (like the all-gray interiors trend of the late 2010s), may quickly feel dated, leaving you with a space that no longer feels fresh.

2. They’re Not Always Practical: Trends can sometimes prioritize aesthetics over function. For instance, while open shelving in kitchens became wildly popular, it’s not always practical for those who prefer to hide clutter.

3. Expensive to Redo: Large-scale trends, like installing terrazzo floors or painting all your cabinetry in the color of the year, may require significant investment to change once the trend fades.

How to Balance Trends in Design

Use Trends Sparingly: Incorporate trends in easily changeable ways, like with textiles, accessories, or small décor items. This allows you to refresh the space as trends come and go without the need for major renovations.

Focus on Timeless Foundations: Keep the larger, more expensive items (like sofas, built-in furniture, and countertops) in neutral tones and classic materials. These foundations will stand the test of time, allowing the smaller trendy accents to take center stage without overwhelming the space.

Stick to What You Love: Trends may come and go, but your personal style will endure. Choose designs, colors, and materials that resonate with you and reflect your personality rather than simply following what’s popular.

Creating a cohesive and timeless space doesn’t mean you have to ignore trends. Instead, it’s about finding a balance between what’s current and what has lasting power. By focusing on high-quality materials, maintaining consistency throughout your space, and choosing trends that resonate with your personal style, a home can feel fresh and modern for years to come.

ORDINARY TURNED INTO EXTRAORDINARY

How to See Ordinary Objects as Art

Art is often thought of as paintings, sculptures, and carefully crafted installations, but there's an entire world of potential art in our everyday surroundings. When we change the way we look at common objects, we can uncover their aesthetic, emotional, and cultural value. In doing so, we invite creativity and appreciation into our daily lives.

Here are some of the ways to look at ordinary objects as art, for seeing beauty and inspiration in the items we interact with every day.

1. Change Your Perspective

Seeing everyday objects as art requires a shift in perspective. Often, we look at objects only for their utility: a chair is for sitting, a mug for drinking. But by focusing on an object’s form, color, and design, we can appreciate it in a new light. Observe an object from various angles, or imagine it separated from its function. A teapot’s curves, for example, might remind you of a sculpture. Likewise, the woven pattern on a basket may resemble intricate artistry.

2. Consider Historical and Cultural Context

Many everyday objects have stories behind them—design histories that add another layer of appreciation. Think of a vintage rotary phone or an antique vase: both are tied to a specific era and culture. This narrative elevates the object from a simple item to a piece of living history, reminding us of the past and connecting us to broader human experiences.

3. Focus on Texture and Material

The materials used in everyday items can be incredibly diverse and interesting. Wood, metal, glass, clay, and fabric all bring their unique visual and tactile qualities. Looking closely at the texture of an object—its smoothness, roughness, warmth, or coldness—reveals a lot about its purpose and craftsmanship.

4. Think About Composition and Placement

An object’s placement and relationship with other items in its environment can transform it from something ordinary into an element of a larger composition. A row of bottles lined up in a kitchen window can act as a pop of color, while a group of different-sized bowls on a table creates interesting depth and visual rhythm. Try rearranging items you already have in your space, thinking of them as parts of an art installation.

5. Embrace Light and Shadow

Objects can be transformed by light, with shadows adding depth and drama. Sunlight streaming through a window can cast intricate shadows from an open-weave basket, or make a glass bottle glow with color. Light can transform an ordinary object, making it feel alive and ever-changing.

6. Look for Patterns and Repetition

Repetition and pattern are fundamental elements of art that often go unnoticed in our daily lives. Look around and notice patterns in your surroundings—whether it's the repetitive design of a tiled floor, the rhythm of book spines on a shelf, or the symmetry of a row of chairs. Recognizing patterns can add a sense of harmony and balance to your environment.

7. See Beauty in Functionality

Sometimes, the most beautiful objects are those that seamlessly blend form with function. A well-designed chair or an intricately crafted teapot can bring joy because of the thought and care that went into its creation. Seeing beauty in functionality is about appreciating how an object works as well as how it looks.

Art is in everyday, ordinary objects. By paying closer attention to an item’s design, history, texture, and placement, we gain a fresh appreciation for the objects we use every day. In doing so, we cultivate a mindset of gratitude and creativity, making even the most mundane moments feel more vibrant and intentional. Going a step further, you can change how the object is perceived by placing it on a shelf, wall or frame to show the significance of that object as art.

So the next time you reach for a mug or glance at a lamp, take a moment to look a little closer—you may just find that your world is filled with art in the most unexpected places.