Design Your Happy Place

Chana Wasserman is a designer who lives life like an open book, champions radical honesty and authenticity, who’s bio line reads “Design. Decorate. Style. Mother. Wife. Designer. Daughter. Gardener. Blogger. Changing my Narrative.” So it’s unsurprising that the central tenant of her practice is focused on representation and fostering human connection.

We connected with Chana and asked her some questions about her design practice CW Design, her current projects and how to develop your taste, and create interest in your home at every step of your journey.

How long have you been designing and decorating?

I have been designing / decorating for almost 9 years ! Thank Gd.

What first attracted you to interior design and decoration?

I’ve wanted to design as long as I could remember. I studied interior design at the Art Institute in Fort Lauderdale, then I started designing in New York before moving back to Miami.

My first memory of being interested in interior design is as a 7 year old. My family and I moved from Miami to Sydney, Australia when I was 6 and I remember anxiously waiting for my dollhouse to arrive. And while I waited I attempted to make one out of paper. I made three floors with windows, it was exhilarating.  

And when I was 14, I used to sketch out Monica’s apartment from Friends in my notebook over and over again; the glow and design of that space really inspired me.

What does interior design and decoration mean to you?

Interior design and decoration means a way of living your life with a full heart. I am such a strong believer in creating a space that reflects who you are and your story. When one is in an environment that reflects who they are, they are in alignment with themselves.

Where do you start in the design process?

I always start by searching and looking for a piece or a color or a texture that inspires me. And then from there, it unravels.

Do you follow any rules?

Contrast. I find opposing elements in a room to add interest and depth. No matter what.

Do you have any preferred colors to work with? Why?

I love neutrals- they are classic, timeless and can transition so well. If I am going for something more bold, I like to mix blues and greens.

Do you have any tips or tricks to share for creating warmth in the home?

In order to create warmth in your home, you need to focus in on the small moments. So for example,  a scented candle, a vase of flowers, a frame with a picture of something or someone you love, objects from places you've been, your favorite books. To bring warmth into your home, you need to bring yourself into your home.

Do you have a favorite space in your home? Can you tell us why it’s your favorite? 

My favorite space in my home - right now - is my living room. There's an armchair that I sit on every morning to have my coffee. I have art, plants, vases and paintings that I love and surrounded by. 

Can you share any of your favorite projects with us? 

I have so many, a master bedroom, a girls bedroom where I used a big floral print and wicker swings, an office space with earthy elements.  I'm working on a home now that's definitely on top of my list of favorites!

What is your average project budget? 

My services and projects vary and can range anywhere from $50k to $250k (US dollars)

Can you play a little word association with us? What do you think of when you hear…

Pattern- mixed feelings

Ocean- love

Pink- soft

Rustic- my soul sister

Simplicity- serene

Bohemian- hell yes!

Playful- fun

Eclectic- combination

Luxe- has it's place

Kitsch- no comment

Scandinavian- strong feminine

Myth or not: Can you confirm or dispel the following myths…

Myth 1: Eclectic is too busy.

That's a myth. Any style executed with a cohesive element will not feel too busy. 

Myth 2: Stone is cold

Myth; Stone is a natural element that can be warmed up using layers and contrast

Myth 3: You can’t do glam on budget

Myth. You can do anything on a budget. 

Myth 4: The rule of 3 is above all (60:30:10)

Myth. Do whatever the hell you want.

Myth 5: Red and green must never be seen

I'm not a fan of that color combination in it's primary elements. But a jade and a peach – beautiful. 

Myth 6: Minimal is always cool

True!

Myth 7: Every space needs a statement

True.

We can’t stress the happy place we find ourselves in when scrolling through Chana’s feed. With daily shares that invite you into her world, provide you with fantastic design ideas or offer you vignettes of her work in progress, we find everything she does inspires. You too can follow her on Instagram, or reach her here at CWDesign.