Under the umbrella of ARTFUL LIVING, I have been serving clients for over 18 years, primarily in Marin and throughout the Bay area, from Hillsborough & San Mateo, lofts in San Francisco and throughout Sonoma up to homes in Sea Ranch. Prior to Berlin, I was the Advertising Director for the Patagonia Co. I helped develop colors for the Kid’s Line and worked comprehensively with the art dept to creat
e powerful ads. As you know Patagonia is known for bringing color to the outdoor clothing industry. I ran a 3 dimensional gallery for 5 years. I also studied through the Wagner School of Color, took courses in Sundance re. Feng Shui and Color and continue to stay updated on local and global trends and green products through Benjamin Moore and Pantone classes. I frequent the Design Center for my clients and my own inspiration and trek to eclectic destinations like San Leandro Flea Market to uncover unusual and soulful items that can make a space personal and unique to my clients. I was exposed to Feng Shui while in an architectural book store in NYC and moved to SF to study with Prof Linn. I also trained for 2 weeks at the Western School of Feng Shui in San Diego. After time, I came a bit disillusioned with clients wanting quick fixes and found myself using color to integrate, ground and uplift a space. It seemed to have more impact than some of the other tools I used. All good design is good Feng Shui when it optimizes the space, is fluid and energizing to the client and lastly, stays within budget. I can still dowse a space if needed. I continue to study through the Berkeley Design Program but find that travel is one of my most powerful sources of inspiration. I continue to love to support local artists by exposing their work to my clients
and find constant inspiration in my kayak, bike or on the trails, soaking up the incredible palette of nature that surrounds me here in beautiful Marin. Through the Berkeley Interior Design Program, and various workshops put on by Pantone and Benjamin Moore I have continued to expand my knowledge base of design and color so that I am also aware of global trends and regional and cultural impacts on the American palette. I also prefer to work with sustainable products that have low or no VOC’s (volatile organic compounds).
