Todd R.

About Todd:

Originally from northern Maine; as a child, its distinct four seasons quickly instilled in me a love of nature and fascination with all the colors and textures they brought. During this time, my interest in drawing, crafting and creating began to take shape. I entered numerous contests to display my talents, and took many wins home. I visited Arizona in 1983, and after serving time in the Air Force, I decided to return to the Grand Canyon State. Actually, the sunshine and the desert’s exotic beauty had me sold from the git-go.

So from aspirations of wanting to be an architect, my artistic journey soon spread into other avenues – dance, hairdressing, photography, floral design, voice, landscaping and much more; all which helped to keep my creative energies flowing.

What was your inspiration to pursue your furniture/design career?

Because of my interest in the arts, my eyes are always drawn to shapes, forms, textures and patterns. As this relates to furniture, since I’m one who enjoys working with my hands, the craftsmanship of “period” pieces are most interesting to me. I will add, though, as one who loves chair styles, there are some very interesting contemporary types which also rank high with their sculptural appeal to me.

I suppose, in adding more to my inspirations relating to design, my first magazine subscription was Architectural Digest when I was a junior in high school. And let’s not forget the television show, Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous, which was a must-see for me. In the early 2000’s, I enjoyed working as an in-home designer for a national company.

What’s your favorite design tip?

Initiate your design concept by playing in 3’s. Three colors, three textures and three sizes. Let the room say something of YOURSELF and not that of general common acceptance.

How would you describe your personal design style?

I’d say my style is an interesting mix; Mid-Century Modern for its edginess, Bauhaus because it is artsy and colorful, Spanish Colonial Revival for its rustic intricacies and a tad bit of Rococo for playful flamboyance.

What do you like most about helping peole design and furnish their home?

I like the idea in sharing of the Possibilities…I enjoy the excitement of the Finds…I love the emotion that comes from Full Fruition.

What is your favorite project that you’ve worked on here at Norwood?

My favorite design project was with a couple, who after visiting Norwood, the wife sent me a couple sincere e-mails a few months later. Within her writing was request that I help with a vision she had for a new master bedroom. After researching designers she told me about, and delving into her “inspiration” photos, a game plan was underway. In the end, the bedroom became a “vintage charmer” with a collaboration of transitional and “older-looking” furniture pieces mixed with bold paint colors, and other fun items. Five months later, another letter was sent. “We need a new living room!”