5 minute read

Second Chances

Provided by Monique Breaux, POSH Exclusive Interiors

Interior spaces deserve to be fabulous and often need a second chance, with a seasoned design eye. Some of my dearest design projects are transforming a space that was once tired and used up into something classically modern and timeless. Every space, regardless of the size, deserves to be spectacular. Finding the perfect appointments for that space requires both time and focus.

Classic modern interiors are the hallmark of my design code; they stand the test of time and when executed properly they will outlast trends and fads. Furniture silhouettes are clean and polished, patterns are kept to a minimum and when used appropriately make a bold statement. Highcontrast combinations can be sophisticated and dramatic and can add that needed interest to a basic space, regardless of its size. A classic modern color ingredient can be strikingly

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POSH EXCLUSIVE INTERIORS CHIPPER HATTER PHOTOGRAPHY

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represented in tones of neutral, tan, gray, dark chocolate, white, or black. Color is always important, and, when bold color is used, its choice should be used with caution.

A touch of modern is a must in my interior appointments, regardless of how traditional a space may lean. Mixing the unexpected adds increased interest and conversation to the space. Minimalistic is often the key to a fresh look, while the days of chachkies are long gone. Area rugs and carpet are important in completing a desired look. You either build the design around a fabulous rug pattern or the rug must remain controlled in color and design. Less is always more in design. The ultimate goal is to add less into the space while being certain that everything you add is needed to make the design better. Tailored interiors tend to be the most timeless of all. They are gender neutral and always lean toward the sophisticated. Wall coverings are a must in totally transforming a space and the varied offerings are spectacular. Often, I select a very high-end covering for a feature wall that will totally transform the space while remaining within budget.

My final word of advice, always take a picture of the space and review it carefully. If it looks too busy in the picture, edit out items; if it looks perfect, then you listened!!! Cheers!!!

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Monique delaHoussaye-Breaux

Passion, innate creativity, and tireless excitement for creating refined spaces fuel Monique delaHoussaye-Breaux, president and principal designer of Lafayette, Louisiana’s POSH Exclusive Interiors, an award-winning concierge firm that guides clients from concept to completion of interior and exterior designs, regardless of the size or scope or budget of the project. Attention to detail and true personal interest in homeowners’ styles are hallmarks of the unique service that clients have come to appreciate from the entire POSH Exclusive Interiors team.

From the moment Breaux steps into a room, the walls become a canvas, the floor becomes a stage, and the artistry begins. Considering countless design variables at once—but always with the homeowners’ dreams and lifestyles in mind—Monique creates sophisticated settings perfect for any occasion, celebration, or simply elegant everyday living.

Her extensive portfolio of homes from the French Quarter to Park Avenue showcases her ability to create well-balanced, thoughtful spaces that dazzle the eye while simultaneously assuring comfortable living. Her designs are expressive, dynamic, and refined, with an air of simple elegance. That elegant style extends to her bespoke furniture line inspired by the vibrant personalities of her clients and the challenges of working in smaller urban spaces.

With roots in southwest Louisiana, her great grandparents were from Sulphur and later, her grandmother temporarily resided in Lake Charles, Breaux considers Louisiana to be her “home base” and feels a special connection to her clientele here. POSH Exclusive Interiors design firm is located in Lafayette where she lives with her husband of 26 years and their two sons.

With degrees from Louisiana State University and the acclaimed

Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City, the contagious passion Breaux has for reinventing sophisticated settings has earned the attention of prominent New Yorkers and international power brokers who frequently desire turn-key service. The award-winning designer captured the attention of Architectural Digest and the Wall Street Journal for one of her Manhattan masterpieces for Trump International Realty. The 4,200-square-foot residence, in Trump Park Avenue, sold for a cool $14 million just two weeks after her design completion. Monique Breaux Other projects for the Trump organization have included a stunning 8,000-square-foot apartment with a price tag of $35 million. Breaux also fashioned a chic abode in Manhattan for President Donald Trump’s daughter, Tiffany. “It’s her first apartment in the city, and it has amazing views,” she says. “It was in the renovation stage. We worked directly with Tiffany, and decorated it with our custom furniture, while utilizing a cleansed, light color palette.” Working on various projects for the Trump Organization for several years, Breaux’s affiliation with the first family began well before the presidential election. Breaux’s ongoing projects for the Trumps have included working with clients worldwide; the most recent completed project features “The Estates at Mar a Lago” in Palm Beach, Florida. Monique’s work has been lauded by publications such as Teen Vogue, Haute Living, Hampton’s Magazine, New Orleans Magazine, and The Robb Report. Her designs were also featured in the books Visions of Design and Luxurious Interiors, and on multiple HGTV shows. POSH Exclusive Interiors was voted the #1 Design Firm of 2015 by the Times of Acadiana, and Monique has been named as one of the People to Watch by New Orleans Magazine and Best Interior Designer in New Orleans on BuildDirect.com. “Monique’s attention to detail and unending creativity are among the best in the field. Her designs reflect her dedication to making people’s lives better and more functional. Just like Monique herself, they’re a delight!” Megan Winkler, Editor Luxurious Interior.

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