By Stephanie Graham Special to OnMilwaukee.com Published May 18, 2017 at 11:00 AM

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We love hearing the stories behind our decorators’ redesign projects. Every design project brings homeowners a step closer to achieving the homes of their dreams. Each month, we like to highlight a project and take a closer look at the designer’s vision, and the beautiful results.

This month, we’re featuring Steinhafels Decorating Solutions Interior Designer Ray Buquet. Ray is based in our Kenosha store. She used to work in the high-end residential community of Dallas, at a firm that produced bold, distinctive spaces. She thinks of interior design as both an art and a science.

One of Ray’s most recent projects was a condo in the Waukesha area. It’s a new construction, and the couple (Jon and Janelle) had waited their whole lives to invest in a "dream" home. Their style inspiration was a mixture of Japanese and Swedish culture.

Before

Jon’s priority was to have a leather reclining sofa. Janelle’s main request was to create a beautiful, safe space for the grandkids to play. Taking those priorities into consideration, Ray created a space that everyone could be happy with.

After

Because of the investment in statement rugs and coordinating pillows, this living room and dining room are fun, finished and sophisticated – all while meeting the functional needs of my clients.

Sectional components

This stocked Daniel’s Amish Table set and Canadel Loft bench blend together seamlessly. The accessories further express my client’s love of carnival glass, and the greenery brings life and a finishing touch to an already beautiful space.
I had my eye on this radial glass art once I had sorted through my client’s carnival glass collection. When I saw the blue serving dish in a kitchen store’s window display, I knew it would be a perfect addition to this area.
With a funky rug, feminine accessories and her own unique office chair, this lady den/office is a sweet retreat for my client!
The nook is one of my favorite pictures! It is the place where Jon’s Japanese influence gets a moment to shine. When I found the art piece during a trip to the Madison store, I saw it as an opportunity to incorporate some understated Japanese vibes into a house that was already very colorful – reflecting much of the Swedish influence. The textured vases made this simple nook complete!
The challenge of the bedroom design was to coordinate everything with the sleigh bed that they already owned. This was achieved by choosing nightstands that reflect the wood detailing in the bed frame and lamps that remind me of Janelle’s love of carnival glass.

Ray’s goal

  • Mix masculine and feminine, cozy yet sophisticated.
  • I wanted to make a brand new condo with no paint (per the customer’s wishes) feel warm and homey.

Ray’s favorite items

  • The rugs!!!

Ray explains, "Those rugs make a beautiful foundation for the rest of the space."

You can check out Ray’s entire project HERE!