TASTEMAKER
LESLIE SINCLAIR
If artist and businesswoman extraordinaire Leslie Sinclair actually had one of those “old-fashioned” Rolodexes sitting on her desk, it would contain a virtual who’s who of Houston clients—from designers, homeowners, builders and architects. The owner of Segreto Finishes, unintentionally began her business in the hallways of her own Memorial home. Soon her past time attracted mass attention and blossomed into a business that now employs approximately 35 people. The work of Segreto Finishes, a decorative painting and fine finishes company, is often highlighted in Sinclairs’ blog: www. segretosecrets.squarespace.com.
Terracotta hues and a rich, golden metallic stenciled in a baroque Damask pattern transform this powder room into one of glamour. The ceilings are encrusted with gold leaf and aged with an umber glaze. We added gold highlights to the finished cabinet to impart a bit of elegance. (photo by Wade Blissard)
(photo by Megan Thompson Lovoi Photography)
Powder Room Dreams an interview with Leslie
You can really have fun with smaller spaces, since the size generally keeps expenses down. Using painting techniques is easier to replace than wallpaper, plus there are no odd seams to deal with in those out-of-theway spaces usually found in half baths. Think of the of the powder room as being the jewel box of the home.
What are the decorative trends for powder baths? There’s a trend leaning toward cleaner and crisper looks. We’re doing a lot of stenciling for wallpaper effects. Graphic stencils are becoming very popular as well as the quiet sophistication of plaster, which can read Old World or contemporary.
How dramatic can you go in a small full or half bath? Very Dramatic . . . go all out. Murals can enlarge a space, and patterns on the walls or on the cabinets can make a big impact. I typically make the decision of what finish—whether it’s plaster, murals or stenciling—
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