As a Las Vegas native, interior decorator and stylist Lisa Escobar has a wide ranging portfolio. She has consulted and managed high-end residential and commercial spaces involving custom furnishings and decorating, new home designs, on-the-strip condo transformations and even restaurant construction. Influenced by the glamour of Las Vegas, Lisa adds flair and high-style comfort with her every touch. She is a finalist in HGTV’s Fresh Faces of Design contest, which highlights up-and-coming designers in variety of categories. Working with men has taught me well what makes them feel at home. And Lexington offers the elements to create perfect men’s spaces.
As most people, I’ve been surrounded by men in the workplace my entire career. Spending eight (sometimes up to 12) hours a day in Las Vegas’ greatest resorts, nightclubs and lounges gave me tremendous insight to a male behavior.
When I started my design business in 2012, I thought I was changing spheres; maybe my feminine aesthetic would come out. But male influence remained strong and at the core of my design aesthetic. Coincidentally, men dominate my client list, which dictates how I curate spaces.
First off, it’s important to look at where men place value. My clients consistently request superior quality, high-end finishes, classic color
palettes, relatable scale, custom touches, functionality and a bit of technology. That sounds like a lot to ask for, and sometimes it can be. But when you know your product and audience well, the creative process can be a cakewalk. My tried-and-true formula for designing for men follows five simple principles:
1. Compose a space rich with mature color schemes.
Think sophisticated navy, aubergine, and graphite. Lexington’s Carrera Collection is a top pick; even the name evokes masculinity.
2. Use luxe materials (finishes and textiles) in the furnishings, wall coverings, and décor.
This is where feminine qualities sneak in; after all we need to create some balance. Does mahogany, burl wood or weathered leather speak to you the way it does me?
3. Incorporate metallic elements.
Subtle touches in hardware or strong influences make big statements. The Bel Aire Collection’s gold leaf detail is design perfection.
4. Give him an ultra cool accent chair.
What better place to relax than in a club chair or classic wingback? Accent chairs can be both stylish and masculine without compromising comfort. One of my favorites is the Balance leather chair.
5. Introduce at least one techy object.
An understated example would be the infrared SmartEye wireless controller on the Quantum Media Console. If he’s more daring, showcase his dream gadget as an art piece. Gallery-framed black-and-white photos add a classic touch if the gadget is too large to feature.
