Finding Design Inspiration, wherever we are

Walking on the beach this morning, I noticed the dark mineral deposits streaking through the sand. The soft waves kept coasting across the marble-like veins, and it brought a smile to my face. I knew this was our team's inspiration for the bar top at Common Quarter.  That gorgeous stone top is one of the biggest design statements in their renovation and was inspired by Local Three's 4th partner, Chris Talley, who grew up on the beaches of St. Simon's Island.

The patterns of the mineral deposits had me thinking of the many sources of inspiration we have in design and especially patterning. Having been an Interior Designer for almost 20 years, I've heard many, many stories from sales reps of the exotic travels of textile designers and how their travels inspired their latest collection of patterns.

But here I am again on the Florida panhandle, enjoying the beach where we've always vacationed with my son, and I'm admiring all the subtle beach textures.  Not particularly exotic, but it was worth snapping a few shots. You never know when it will inspire something new....

Stem Wine Bar & Common Quarter: Final touches before opening

We installed furniture yesterday in Chef Doug Turbush's new endeavor, Stem Wine Bar. Located next door to Seed Kitchen & Bar, the design concept is very different from Seed with it's rich, dark wood finishes and upholsteries.  But with Seed's smashing success, we think the neighbors will embrace this cozy wine bar for a slightly different dining experience as well as it's before & after dinner appeal.

We're setting the LED lights tonight (the green @ the glass racks)

Once all the wine glasses are hung, the back-lighting will create a large chandelier for the space

Just down the road in the Woodlawn Shopping Center, the team of Chef Chris Hall, Ryan Turner, Chef Todd Mussman, and Chris Talley will be opening Common Quarter. We see from Talley's Facebook page that Tuesday, October 8th is the official date.
Inspired by the southern coast and the familiar drives we all take through the southern farm lands, the design has many unique touches.

Lobster cage inspired bar shelving

Installed shelving with shutter canopy over the bar


The new bar top is a Bianco Ondulare stone whose veining reminds us of the mineral deposits in the sand when the water recedes on the Georgia coast. 

The private dining room is enclosed by board and batten ceiling and walls with an abstracted charcoal & white, gingham patterned curtain.  The featured artwork above the banquette is a nautical chart of the St. Simon's Island and Tybee Island areas, where Co-Owner Chris Talley grew up.

PDR privacy curtain  

Nautical Chart of St. Simon's Island and Tybee Island