Jonathan Ringel Studios Specializes In
Initial Consultations, Interior Design, Site Scouting, General Contracting, Project Management, Layout Design, Architectural Restoration, Art Curating, Architectural Detailing, Custom Furniture Design
About Jonathan Ringel
Designing interiors has evolved for me into an artistic expression, bringing my clients’ desires to life using the elements of space, form and materials. For me, the most successful results begin with intensive consultations with my clients. Following this crucial step, I often work with my clients through every stage from design through general contracting through art curating.
A somewhat winding path to interior design taught me many different things, all of which helped me to assume the many roles I now enjoy in my work.
After earning my undergraduate degree in fine arts from Bradley University in Illinois, I returned to New York City to pursue a Masters degree in art at NYU. While in graduate school, I was employed in a designer showroom to the trade and to oversee their factory in Brooklyn. There I learned about reading plans, developing specifications and building custom furniture, finishing and upholstery. Acting as a liaison among the designer, client and workmen provided invaluable hands-on training. I soon began designing home interiors, marrying each client's vision to its desired execution. This developed into what has become a 30-year career, spanning all phases of architectural detailing and interior design for both residential and commercial properties.
Jonathan currently resides in New York City and Bridgehampton.
Ideas to fill any space: January 2025
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Ideas on lighting
Make sure you have multiple light sources in every room and keep all controls on dimmers.
LED bulbs is the way to go. Avoid halogen bulbs and fixtures: They get very hot and are costly to keep running.
It’s always nice to have the option to use wall sconces — they add balance to a room or a hallway.
Ty to avoid using too much track lighting unless you have a concrete ceiling and have no other solution. As an option, install cove lighting and down lighting, which create architectural interest and a soothing ambience.
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Ideas on proportion and scale
Always have a layout and / or a floor plan — not only to make sure the pieces you’re buying fit the room, but also so they can be delivered via your doorways, stairs or elevator.
No matter how large or compact a room’s dimensions are, it’s important to have a good flow — or walking pattern — throughout the space.
Some pieces look striking oversized. Caution: Make sure everything in the room is proportionate.
Try to see and sit in the furniture you’re buying, especially before ordering it from a catalogue or online. Things often appear differently in a photo.
If you’re not using a designer, make sure you have a scaled floor plan (usually to the foot) and cut-out furniture so you can see what it will look and feel like. This takes a lot of the guesswork out of the process — and anxiety while waiting for the pieces to be delivered.
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Ideas on bathrooms
The long and short of it: Bathrooms are costly to renovate so when picking your tiles, patterns and color, make sure they’re not trendy.
Most of the cost is in the trades who will be performing the work (for example, the tile installer, plumber and electrician). Therefore, it pays to select good materials. They’re usually the least costly part of the project.
Make sure your bathroom works for your lifestyle and isn’t just a room to showcase. It must be functional and have style. Use your powder room since it’s usually reserved for guests.
To have or not to have a Jacuzzi? Most people use them when they’re first installed — and then the novelty wears off.
If you have a large enough area, wall off the toilet for privacy.
Always have multiple sources of lighting in the ceiling, medicine cabinet and sconces if possible.
Make sure you have all the storage you need — medicine cabinet, linen closet, vanities. Install outlets in as many locations as you need for your electric devices.
Place the toilet paper holder discreetly. It doesn’t need to be a focal point — however, it must be easy to reach.
Spend the money on a great shower head and always use a temperature balanced single lever control shower body.
If you have small children, avoid glass shower doors. They can be cumbersome, especially when bathing young children.
I’d love the opportunity to discuss your next home or workspace with you.
Contact
P: 1.212.924.9691 E: jr@jonathanringelstudios.com
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