Designer Dee Patnoe helps homeowners pull together customized and stylized interiors and exteriors

Having lived on the Space Coast for the past 27 years, and having worked in the field of interior design for the past 16 years, Dee Patnoe is no stranger to interior and exterior design styles that truly convey the preferences of local residents. “As part of the Florida lifestyle, homeowners want their interior living spaces to reflect their outdoor spaces. So, I start by helping to bring exterior colors and elements indoors,” she says.

Having lived on the Space Coast for the past 27 years, and having worked in the field of interior design for the past 16 years, Dee Patnoe is no stranger to interior and exterior design styles that truly convey the preferences of local residents. “As part of the Florida lifestyle, homeowners want their interior living spaces to reflect their outdoor spaces. So, I start by helping to bring exterior colors and elements indoors,” she says.

Patnoe is the owner of Dee.Cor in Palm Bay. Last year, she joined the team at Stanley Homes, Inc. to assist the homebuilder’s clients with selecting color schemes, flooring, furniture and finishes, custom drapery and bedding, accessories and art. Each Stanley Homes’ client is offered a four-hour complimentary consultation with Patnoe at the builder’s design studio to help make the best choices.

“It’s very important for me to help bring out a homeowner’s style, guiding them toward their goals and wishes,” says Patnoe. “It is their home, and I want it to reflect their taste. I oftentimes work with homeowners to mix their existing pieces with new pieces to create an entirely
different space – working within their budget.”

“It’s very important for me to help bring out a homeowner’s style, guiding them toward their goals and wishes,” says Patnoe. “It is their home, and I want it to reflect their taste. I oftentimes work with homeowners to mix their existing pieces with new pieces to create an entirely
different space – working within their budget.”

TRENDS TO TRY

If you’re building a new home or simply want to freshen up your current one, Patnoe offers tips and advice on various spaces and elements that need careful consideration.

1. THE FIFTH WALL

Ceilings are a major focal point of a home, she says. In essence, they’re the fifth wall. Patnoe suggests adding interest to tray ceilings with paint, trim and depth. She also warns to not overlook home details, like crown molding and chair rails, which also can add visual intrigue.

2. THE HUB OF THE HOME

Kitchens are oftentimes considered the most important room of the home. Cabinetry selections and details; countertops and stove hood finishes, such as stone, glass or wood; wine storage centers; and the right mix of colors and finishes to pull the entire kitchen together, are all things that must be examined.

In Stanley Homes’ Veranda Place Palm Coast model home in Melbourne, for instance, Patnoe used smoke-colored cabinets in the kitchen that perfectly contrast with a soft white island and burlap-and-linen textured lighting fixtures.

3. LIGHT UP YOUR LIFE

From under-cabinet to recessed to pendent, lighting can easily add personality to a room. While Stanley Homes offers basic lighting packages, Patnoe encourages clients to upgrade to lighting fixtures that reflect their personal style.

4. FABULOUS FLOORS

An appropriate mix of flooring can add another dimension to a home. Patnoe is witnessing a trend toward tile that resembles the look of wood. This type of tile can offer the best of both worlds — the appearance of wood coupled with the ease of tile — which is perfect for Florida living.

5. BEAUTIFUL BATHROOMS

Using decorative mirrors in bathrooms gives a custom look. Vessel sinks, meanwhile, make an impact in a powder bathroom, setting it apart from other bathrooms.

 

6. THE FINISHING TOUCHES

Many of today’s homeowners are opting for cleaner lines and organic products, says Patnoe. And with options like marble, granite, slate, glass and weathered wood, incorporating a variety of finishes throughout the home can truly add a custom touch.

All homes pictured are of Stanley Homes’ Veranda Place Palm Coast model. Dee Patnoe is the owner of Dee.Cor and is a design consultant for Stanley Homes, Inc., a Brevard County custom homebuilder who builds in various neighborhoods in Viera, Melbourne, Suntree and elsewhere throughout Brevard County. For more information, visit StanleyHomesInc.com.