This month, we’re featuring a weekly series of interviews with influential design experts to find out what good design means to them and how they get inspired.

Today, meet Angela Elias, editor of the inspiring home design website CasaSugar.com. She still can’t believe that tackling DIY projects, trolling flea markets, and meeting some of the industry’s top talent is part of her job. When she isn’t indulging in design whims, Angela enjoys testing out new recipes and being outdoors.

1) What does good design mean to you?

To me, good design should be provocative but timeless.

2) What do you see in your daily life that inspires your sense of design?

While I still look forward to flipping through my favorite glossies each month, I’m especially inspired by the abundance of personal design blogs and online magazines we have access to now. Even visually-driven social media apps like Instagram and Pinterest have really changed the way that I organize and share my design ideas.

3) What’s your favorite trend in home design right now?

I can’t stop reaching for metallic accents – especially rosier versions that are becoming a popular alternative, like copper.

4) How does your own home design reflect your aesthetic?

I gravitate towards classic silhouettes but always need a splash of color, a graphic pattern, and at least one bold accessory.

5) What’s the one piece of advice you’d give readers for designing their home?

Create visual interest with contrast.

It sounds ridiculously basic, but pairing colors from different ends of the spectrum, layering different textures, or mixing streamlined pieces with something more ornate can make all the difference.

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I can relate to Angela’s design preferences for metallic accents and playing with color and texture to make an impact.

Here are some of my favorite California Closets designs that illustrate some of these principles.

Which are your favorites?

If you’ve found this article helpful or inspiring, please share it with your friends and family!

 

Ginny Snook Scott is the chief design officer at California Closets. She has over 25 years experience with California Closets and has helped over 1,000 clients create custom closets and organize their home. Connect with Ginny on Google+.