Designer Spotlight: LMK Interiors
A self-proclaimed “passionate colorista” with a background in textile and clothing design, Leslie Kalish loves color. So when she launched LMK Interiors 15 years ago, color became the cornerstone of her design philosophy. “It’s the universal language that connects architecture to your house, your house to the earth, and ultimately you to your home,” Leslie explains.
Leslie and her business partner Gayle Leksan are both certified color experts with a deep understanding of how colors and textures can be paired to create specific emotional effects. But the use of color in their design work is surprisingly – and deceptively — subtle. Close scrutiny of a recent kitchen remodel reveals three colors used in the cabinetry alone. while the collective effect is an overall feeling of calmness and serenity. Says Leslie, “The color itself is not the issue. What matters most is how well it plays with others.”
The kitchen and dining area in a Mediterranean home recently updated by LMK Interiors. Over the kitchen island hangs a triptych of Elllisse Optic Blown Glass pendants. A Parallel curved linear suspension floats over the dining table.
A closer look at the dining area. The Parallel linear suspension features clear granite kiln-fused glass fabricated in Hammerton’s glass shop.
In the entry hall: two Parallel ring chandeliers.
Leslie and Gayle are equally intentional about selecting superior quality fixtures and furnishings. Most recently, the LMK team selected a series of clean-lined LED fixtures from the Hammerton Studio Parallel collection to update a Mediterranean home. “When it comes to lighting, Hammerton has been a longstanding favorite,” admits Leslie. “We use Hammerton to elevate all kinds of spaces — traditional, transitional, contemporary, luxury. Their designs are unique, their finishes and glass are breathtaking, and their service is exceptional.”
“Our clients demand beautiful interiors that uniquely reflect their own style,” she adds. “So when a client says ‘you made it look like me, just better!’ I know we’ve nailed it.”
Another LMK project with a breezy dining area open to the outdoors. A Downtown Mesh linear suspension floats above the table.
“Quality is always remembered long after the project stress has ended. That’s why we partner with companies like Hammerton.”
Above and below: A remodeled Napa, CA farmhouse with Ovo blown glass pendants above the kitchen and Uptown Mesh fixtures in the dining area and entry.
An LMK client opted to switch out a dining area for this festive Tequila bar. On the wall: Parallel LED sconces.
A Tempest drum draws the eye upward in this clean-lined office.
LMK partners Gayle Leksan and Leslie Kalish…