Every room in your home deserves a wow factor. Sandra Domina Furlong is helping clients achieve that with her meticulous eye for design and knack for color. The latter is her specialty.
Born in Brazil, she was long inspired by the rich palette of São Paulo and the elegant mix of Brazilian, European and South American design. Exquisite textiles also surrounded her because her maternal family owned silk screening factories in Como, Italy. It was only natural for her to launch Roslyn-based Domina Interior Designs in 1993 to use her passion and knowledge to revamp living spaces.
“I have a deep respect for my clients’ needs, wants and vision and take great pride in the process of truly understanding their agenda and curating the perfect environment that they can call home,” she said.
Furlong, a charismatic and experienced interior designer, works closely with clients from start to finish. She determines their likes and dislikes, their sensibility to color and style preferences. She opens clients’ eyes to options they haven’t considered and introduces them to color palettes that lead to striking transformations. “The ultimate goal is to achieve gorgeous, stylish, livable and elegant spaces.”
The expert dished on this year’s color trends and how she’s helping clients incorporate them into their homes.
image: domina interior designs
What is a top concern you hear from clients?
Clients often experience a certain fear factor in committing to color and how it can be incorporated into their homes. It is not uncommon for even the most decisive people to become paralyzed when it comes to color.
How can color make or break a home?
I often find when clients are unhappy with their current interior design, it’s because they are victims of a bad color scheme. Color affects the mood and the depth, and it is the backdrop for all the other elements to be layered and featured. My expertise is in creating a color palette that harmoniously connects every aspect of the design. If a room is small, the right color can transform the space and make it feel larger, or conversely the wrong color can make it appear smaller. It’s true that blue is soothing and red is energizing but these only apply when specific hues are used. A deep blue might feel cold instead of soothing. The wrong black in an entire room might create the sensation of entrapment rather than expanse. Color is the secret ingredient that determines the difference between OK and wow!
image: domina interior designs
What colors have you specifically incorporated into your design?
Clearly the most powerful change for color is evident in the selection of wall color. Vibrant shades of blue can also make a bold statement and add serenity. Blue is the most well liked color. In today’s chaotic world, a blue room can provide a sanctuary, a place to disconnect and create a calm therapeutic environment.
Charcoal/black is sexy and sleek; it can produce a sophisticated palette for art and furnishings.
What are the hottest color trends this year?
Everyone is talking about vibrant, edgy hues. Pantone has selected ultraviolet as 2018 “Color of the Year.” Color adds a little bit of magic to any space, so it’s no wonder why it’s a critical factor in design. I encourage my clients not to be overwhelmed by choice of color. The reward will be an energizing transformation of their space.
image: domina interior designs
What are the options for a client who is not comfortable being so bold?
Fabric, carpet and upholstery would be softer elements of color to add to your decor. 2018 is all about warm and rich yellows. Try a splash of yellow to add an unexpected and refreshing vibe to your space.
Drapes and window coverings can also offer a subtle touch of color to a design. Of course art and accessories are also a fabulous way to add a little dose of color pop.
What are some other trends people need to know about this year?
Pink is not just for women anymore…Even a little dose can be powerful and sweeten a space.
Metallics are considered the new neutrals. Mirrors, wallpaper, brass, silver, bronze or gold-framed furniture will add a bit of shiny pop, depth, texture and drama. Metallics are easy to introduce and provide a soft wow factor.
image: domina interior designs
What is a warm weather trend you love and why?
Warm weather gives us license to spread our wings and expand our domain outside. There is nothing more alluring than living and dining al fresco with friends and family. I love creating lounging areas. Brightly colored indoor/outdoor carpets, pillows, umbrellas, surrounded by lush platters of blooming annual flowers and shrubs are all alluring elements that will draw people close. Nature provides us with the most exquisite colors.