There is something decidedly Odd Couple about Tim Kempf and Scott Suskowicz. Their lovingly decorated set is DuoHOME in the Gordon Square Arts District, and the script represents a stylish confluence of ideas united by decades of interior design experience.
Kempf leads with a shiningly gregarious personality and sense of humor that carries over to his playful, engaging designs. A soft-spoken, consummate businessman, Suskowicz manages the books, and lends his critical eye to complicated interior projects.
“We have very complementary skill sets,” says Suskowicz, of the working relationship at DuoHome.
“Scott is a sort of a very analytical designer,” says Kempf. “Kitchen and bath design, and not to take anything away from it, is all very mathematical, nuanced and technical.
“I’m much more of a ruffle fluffle kind of guy – I love fabrics, wallpaper and all that side.”
The duo in DuoHOME met while working at the Ohio Design Centre, lending their unique style acumen to the creation of stunning showcases. Years ago, on a visit to current Gordon Square neighbor Terry Shook of Kitsch City, they noticed all the vacant storefronts lining Detroit Avenue. “It started on the street, looking in storefronts, thinking we could do this, we should do this,” recalls Suskowicz. “Three months later we signed the lease.”
Since then, the neighborhood has been extremely supportive, with Suskowicz' nearby residence further ingratiating them into the community. They're fans of Mayor Frank Jackson, applauding his funding of the Detroit Shoreway streetscape finished last summer, and the welcoming of the Gay Games.
“The thing that was most appealing to me about this neighborhood is that it’s a dedicated shopping strip,” says Kempf. “Councilman Zone is amazing, and it doesn’t hurt to have him three doors down as your neighbor.”
Their other neighbors reciprocate with loud voices of approval. “They’re great; they solidified the middle of this block – they’re the other anchor of this block,” says a self-deprecating Marlin Kaplan, chef/owner of Luxe Kitchen and Lounge.
"'The Boys' of DuoHOME – as this is how I lovingly refer to them – are an essential part of the fabric of this great neighborhood,” says Room Service owner Danielle DeBoe. “Not only do they offer great home decorating items at great prices, but their interior design services contribute to the dynamic offerings of it as well.”
Moving into 2010, Kempf and Suskowicz see many design carryovers from the previous year - some good, some bad. “I think lots of people used to really 'throw away,' but we have people now that ask us if their furniture has enough pedigree to consider reupholstering it," says Kempf. "We do lots of what we call refreshes, where we may just re-color a room for someone, rather than take everything out to the Dumpster and start from scratch.”
This type of interior design conservation and not only budget, but also eco-consciousness extends to many facets of the contemporary interior.
“I think, and mercifully so, the world is very in tune to the whole idea of recycle, repurpose, reuse, so the colors associated with the Earth are very fashionable, and will continue to be for a very long time; browns, green and blues for interiors," says Kempf.
As people spend less time and money outside the home, people are investing in warm family spaces. “Kitchens are certainly more of a gathering room than they used to be,” says Suskowicz. “Cabinetry is mixed up now – not just all maple or all oak. To mix it up, people throw in vintage pieces, like an island."
Recycled glass serving tray and olive dish at DuoHOME
Suskowicz finds homeowners bringing the spa home, rather than going to the spa, with bathroom designs that mimic the facilities at their favorite getaway spots. He's seen a rise in requests for bathtubs, including infinity versions, larger shower enclosures with multiple shower heads, lighting therapy units and creative tiling. “Originally, it was just square mosaics, now there’s circles, ovals, and all kinds of shapes of glass tile," he says.
Paint continues to be an easy solution to rejuvenate a space. "I think you can make a bold statement when you use bold colors, but I think it’s a brave client that’s willing to do that,” says Kempf, noting that Pantone has decided that turquoise is the color of the year for 2010. “Pantone and I may have a parting of the ways in 2010,” jokes Kempf.
Functional and stylish light fixtures have the ability to transform a space, and at relatively little cost. “People recognize the value of lighting and how it can affect their mood, and how it can affect the overall vibe of a space," says Suskowicz. “There are some amazing floor lamps that are like sculpture, and they’re made from recycled cardboard."
Contemporary chandelier at DuoHOME
In the DuoHOME storefront, Kempf and Suskowicz carry items reflecting these trends. Everything from chandeliers made from laser-cut acrylic, to colorful tablescapes and kitchen items, to picture frames made from recycled tires.
The pair encourage homeowners to be realistic about their expectations, as home improvement and design TV programs have give viewers unrealistic time frames for real world projects. “Realistically, you can’t physically build a house in seven days – you just can’t, unless you’re Ty Pennington,” jokes Kempf.
So, what's the best trend of the New Year? “A big trend with interior design right now is that you’re allowed to have your own personality again,” says Kempf. “We’re here to gently guide you in the right direction.”
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