A Touch of the Unexpected?

By Nancy August 5th, 2009

In every project, we look for a way to add something with a “touch of the unexpected”. We use this phrase on our business cards and other materials; it’s part of our philosophy. But what do we mean?

I read something this morning that sums up the meaning of that phrase. It was an article about creating magical moments and finding opportunities to create joy. One sentence summed it up: “Magic doesn’t require a genie in a bottle – it requires awareness.”

Routine items like cabinet hardware or lamp finials or soap dispensers don’t have to just be routine items. By making a conscious choice to add a “touch of the unexpected”, we can create magical moments and find opportunities to add joy.

A “touch of the unexpected” for one of our recent clients meant using the Emenee Silver Screen popcorn hardware on the new pantry cabinet. Four fun cabinet knobs that convey a special meaning to that family and that will create a bit of joy every time they reach for a snack. It was a simple, inexpensive way to add a unique element into their new kitchen. Every client is different, and most likely we’ll never again use these knobs as the “unexpected” piece of a design. Not knowing at the start of a project what the unexpected element will be and then helping the homeowner to discover it is truly a part of our work that brings us joy every day.