Sabrina Soto discusses new book, approach to home design

Sabrina Soto Home DesignSabrina Soto is a total-package type with the beauty, brains, presence and personality to make it in the competitive world of home design television. Her scrappy ability to create wow-factor spaces without a knock-out budget has made her a reliable expert as the host of HGTV's “Get it Sold, Real Estate Intervention” and “The High-Low Project.”

Soto, who also reaches a multitude of quality-conscious bargain hunters as Target's style expert for home, has a new book. In “Sabrina Soto Home Design,” she demystifies the do-it-yourself decorating process by breaking up a project into eight sequential layers. Starting with an evaluation of the space and what can't be changed about it – good or bad – Soto moves the reader through a discussion of color; surface treatments – walls, floors, countertops; storage and organization; furniture; textiles; lighting; and accents.

Soto, who lives in a small but luxurious Manhattan apartment took some time out of her schedule to answer my w questions about her approach to design in the following Q&A. Read on for more insight.

Q. Your book simplifies the design process with the idea of decorating in layers. For someone working on a budget, to which of the eight layers would you suggest paying the most attention or resources? Do you believe there’s any one area that's going to give you more bang for your buck?

A. Color plays an important role on the mood and feel of any space. A color scheme allows for all of the room’s elements and layers to fall into place. Color can provide a guideline to ultimately bring the room together. A good rule to follow is the system of trios, something I talk about in my book. It simplifies your color selections by allowing you to choose three colors in a proportionate relationship to each other. Furniture and accessory selections also play an important part in your space. It’s ok to splurge on the larger furniture pieces as they’re meant to last longer. Cut back a bit on accessories and smaller pieces. If you want a small redesign, it’s more cost effective to switch out your accessories than it is your furniture.

Q. What advice would you have for younger decorators on the use of antique and vintage pieces in decorating? They are often an affordable option, but if one's tastes are more modern, how can antique and vintage pieces be worked into a room effectively?

A. It's all about accessorizing! A vintage piece placed next to another vintage piece still appears vintage. But a vintage piece placed next to a contemporary piece creates for a different feel and adds some visual diversity. Try mixing and matching patterns and shapes and incorporate pops of color by accessorizing. You’ll be surprised at the many beautiful furniture relationships you can achieve.

 Q. Can you share any examples of how you have used antiques or collectibles in your projects?

A. Pairing antiques or collectibles with modern furniture pieces is a great way to make those personal pieces stand out. My own NY apartment is VERY modern, but in each room you will find at least one antique. In my living room, I have a collection of vintage fans and in my dining space, I have an old 1950's radio.

Q. Considering your work with Target and your television projects that recreate affordable rooms inspired by more high-end designs, do you have any shopping tips for finding value-priced pieces that look more expensive than they are?

A. Stores advertise through various media. Check your local newspapers and emails. Check online for in-store printable coupons. You’ll often find sale and clearance events with just one click of the mouse. Ask a store associate about discounts on floor samples. Garage sales and thrift stores often carry high end pieces in excellent to like new condition at low prices. Ask around and do some research. You’ll be surprised at the steals you can find!

Q. Your book has several beautiful room shots that show how flooring can be a very important design element in a room. How can an amateur decorator make the most of a new floor as a decorative element, particularly an expensive hardwood floor with details such as decorative inlays? How does one make a floor a focal point?

A. A fresh floor can instantly transform a room. Consider where on your floor the decorative inlays are placed. Then consider the main function of the room. If you have a central floor detail, sometimes it’s best to arrange your furniture around the inlays. If your inlays make up the floor pattern, use the pattern as your guide to follow through in your furniture placement.  

Q. I love your outfit on the book's cover. It makes me think of how different patterns in the same color family can work well together - a tailored sofa with classic upholstery, softened by a pretty floral throw pillow. Can our personal style - the way we dress and accessorize ourselves - help with decisions on how we dress our homes?

A. Thanks! In the same way that you dress or “layer” yourself, you can layer your home. Fashion and interior design often fall hand in hand. The styles we see on the runways are often reflected in the patterns, textures, and colors we see in our homes. Your personality should definitely reflect in your space! After all, your home is where you live; it’s your own personal little universe.

Q. You've said your second passion is cooking. Does that influence your work with kitchen design in any way?

A. Of course! A kitchen needs to be functional, inviting and stylish. Everything needs to be planned to perfection! My kitchen is the smallest space in my apartment, yet I spend the most time in there than any other room in the house. I think that's the case in every home. It's the hub of the house. 

Q. Any fresh ideas for decorating a student dormitory?

A. Organization and the use of space is something students are often challenged with when moving into their dorms. Try purchasing multifunctional pieces like storage ottomans which act as both seating and storage pieces. Most schools don’t permit painting walls. Wall decals provide a fun alternative, they’re easy to apply and simple to remove once the school years ends. Floating shelves provide display spaces for books and picture frames while keeping your floors clutter free. Add some color! Show off your personality by purchasing fun textured pillows, patterned linens, and blankets. A double hang organizer will keep your closets neat and tidy while providing extra hang space!

Q. Can we expect any food-related work from you in the future?

A. Fingers crossed! I'm currently putting together all of my family recipes for a Cuban cookbook! 

Q. What tips would you offer aspiring interior designers?

A. Work in layers and have a design plan in mind. Taking on any project can easily get complicated and overwhelming. Understand the space and work towards a goal until all the pieces finally fall into place. Don’t be afraid to work a little outside the box, mix and match colors and patterns. Reflect your personality in your design. Let your imagination take control once in a while and see what beautiful designs you can come up with!

Q. What would you consider to be the biggest inspiration for your design work?

A. My inspiration can come from numerous places, whether it be from traveling or the current runway shows. Fashion magazines are great as they have the latest design trends. If I’m designing for a client, I get to know them, what they like, what they dislike and then I try to create a space based on their preferences. Design inspiration can come from anywhere, from anything sitting around you to your very own imagination.

Q. One of my co-workers has had a serious crush on you for years. He wants to know if you are involved with anyone. (Note, he's safely married and we can leave this question out if you'd like. However, I'm sure he's not the only one wondering!)

That's hilarious!!! I am not married, but am currently dating someone. :)

 Interview by Kimberly L. Jackson