About
I am D/FW's original Color Consultant, having trained for 7 years in the paint industry, and studied the basic concepts of colorimetry with famed color strategist, Lori Sawaya.
Since 2001, I've assisted customers with every type of color palette and home style, from late 1800s historic homes to Mid-Century Modern and traditional new construction. I use a combination of color science, customer preference, and harmony with existing materials to make targeted recommendations on color for your home - inside or out.
I love when I'm able to make suggestions that help people to better enjoy their home. I'm a strong believer that our surroundings influence our state of mind - and that by using the correct hues you can transform a space into something closer to the homeowner's ideal. Depending on the customer's request, sometimes my job is to tone down, and other times, to turn up the energy. In some instances, I've prevented a homeowner from making an expensive mistake - even though it was "just a neutral", it would have been the wrong neutral.
Highlights
Photos and videos
Reviews
Debbie G.
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
I will want to know the nature of the project - interior or exterior? Just repainting, or is this part of a larger remodel? If the latter, what other materials will be chosen, and do you have samples of those on hand?
Depending on the answers to those questions, I am typically able to schedule a visit quickly- within a few days. I will do my best to help you meet any deadlines.
I bring large samples of many popular colors, bigger pieces than you can see at the paint store. This makes potential color selection much easier. During the visit, I will make suggestions based on your goals and any of the materials in place that won't change (tile, a couch or rug, major art, etc). At the end of the visit, you will receive a copy of everything we discussed, plus a tip card on how to test your sample colors. So many people use an incorrect approach to testing colors, which may end up confusing them even more. Follow-up advice via phone or email is free.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Paint industry training and worked as a customer matcher for 7 years;
Completed basic training in colorimetry from certified color strategist, Lori Sawaya
Yearly online education in Color Trend Forecasting
Over 15 years total experience as a color consultant
Two full remodels of vintage homes, inside and out.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your services? If so, please share the details here.
Price is by the hour, based on distance from Dallas. That rate starts at $70/hour, and increases to $100/hour for distant areas such as Keller.
How did you get started in this business?
An eye for color runs in the family; I've always been fascinated by it. When I tired of the advertising industry, I decided to explore the world of color.
What types of customers have you worked with?
Homeowners, dentist and doctors' offices, restaurants, apartment and condo buildings.
What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a pro in your area of expertise?
Look at photos of other homes they've worked on, and get a feel for their personality by speaking to them on the phone. Do they seem professional, yet down-to-earth, so they'll be easy to work with? Also, someone who has done this job for a longer period of time will typically have a better grasp of how to fix a given problem. Beware of "free consultations" that some stores offer - often, you'll end up having to hire a pro anyway, and just be that much further behind in the process.
What questions should customers think through before talking to pros about their needs?
If you can't answer the question, "how do you want this space to be different", then not even the best color genius in the country can help you. As I like to say, there's usually more than one way a room can be beautiful.
You don't have to suggest specific colors (that's my job!) but at least be able to give input like "it's always felt so dark in here to me", or "I would love to introduce a little color somewhere" or "this feels too traditional and I'd like it to look more modern (or vice-versa)". Another helpful tool is saving photos of rooms you like, and showing those to the consultant. That will give him or her a better feel for what might appeal to you.