Check out this article in today’s on-line edition of Michigan Avenue magazine:
Q&A: Interior Designers of Cannon Frank
We chat with one half of the dynamic interior designer duo to discuss what’s hot for homes.
March 06, 2013
Winning out over nine other local talents earlier this year, design team John Cannon and Cary Frank took the title of Chicago Interior Designer of the Year at the awards presented by The Design Center at The Merchandise Mart. Here, Cannon talks about what works in city spaces, his favorite elements of home design, and more.
What is trending in interior design right now, or what of-the-moment concepts do you love?
JOHN CANNON: We don’t follow color, fabric, or furnishings trends that much; we try to avoid fads and things that will be tired in a few years. The only trend we follow today is technology, and the introduction of new concepts in Smart Homes.
So on the opposite end, what are some classic elements you have always loved and used in your spaces, and always will?
JC: I love natural materials: stone, wood, and metals such as hammered nickel and bronze. I love a balance in textiles—not everything textured or everything shiny—[and] a blend of textures. Some shine, some pizzazz, some drama, some luxury, some earthiness. I think it makes for a more timeless interior and one that will fit any occasion.
Living in the city, many Chicagoans have tight spaces to deal with. How do you incorporate great design into a small space?
JC: I first consider our clients’ storage needs—I make sure there is always enough room to hide what they don’t want to be seen but need easy access to. We focus on the use of the space in our furnishing plans, and always consider scale so a smaller home does not feel cramped. The worst feeling [is when] you have spent a lot of money and tire of your home because you don’t have enough space.
What is your favorite room in the house to design? To spend time in?
JC: I am a creative person and I love to cook, so I always prefer to design the kitchen first—this is where most of the family time is spent. I like to fuss in the kitchen, but I don’t do the clean up! I end up sharing the space with my partner, Cary Frank, so it is extremely necessary that we have the capability to be in the kitchen without interfering with each other and our tasks. My second favorite space is anywhere we entertain, then my closets and bath—they all run a very close race since this is [where] I spend my time.
—Elle Eichinger
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