I’m really excited to introduce Albertina Cisneros from Mimosa Lane to you. I find her life story so intriguing, and I’m in love with her design flair and fab personality. (P.S. Not to mention her life purpose is humbling… read on…)

Q: This stunning design work is not your main job, you run The Child Brain Foundation, which is incredible, what drew you to his organization?

I’m married to a scientist and child neurologist so after hearing so many stories about such terrible childhood diseases I felt like I had to help the cause and help raise awareness about the importance of basic brain research. There is still so little that is known today about the brain and how it works so I’m just adding my little grain of sand.

Q: To add to your list, you also have a shop where you sell these fabulous pillows. What was the inspiration for this job?

I adore patterns… all kinds. So, I began to try and design my own and convert them to bright happy pillows. And I just love that something so simple can add so much personality to a space.  I believe we should live in joyful places that energize us.

Q: Where do you find your inspirations? Other designers, bloggers, magazines or your surroundings?

Inspiration is everywhere if you look at things with an open mind…books, blogs, magazines, nature….even back alleys sometimes.

Q: Your home is amazing! How would you describe your style?

I think I would call my style classic modern as I love mixing classic and modern pieces.  I really love the elegance of the classic pieces contrasted with the lighter more modern pieces. I think this combination keeps things fresh.

Q: Do you design work for others?

I don’t currently, but I may start to! I have helped some friends with ideas and sources to update their homes and really enjoy it. I keep getting requests so maybe it will turn into something more formal? I’m undecided, but what I do know is that I’m really enjoying it.

Q: You recently finished the ORC– what would you say was your biggest challenge?

The biggest challenge was finding a room concept that fit several needs in one. The room needed to be relaxed and comfortable so we could hang out as a family. It needed to be durable for everyday use, yet sophisticated so we could entertain friends. The family room also needed to match our kitchen (since it shares an open space) so it would feel like a harmonious space. Also, the timing itself was a challenge. Since we only had 6 weeks I really needed to be organized in terms of factoring in delivery lead times.  It’s all about planning and allowing for extra time for those unexpected events.

Q: What would you say was your favorite part of the ORC

I have been such a fan of the ORC and of its collaborators that I was just so thrilled to have been a part of it this time around. I loved the camaraderie and networking with such amazing and talented bloggers and designers. Linda, who is such a gracious host, does such an amazing job organizing this challenge, promoting it, and managing it. She has worked so hard to build this exciting, fun and productive enterprise. Also, I loved the fact that I had the time pressure to actually finish a room…I have never finished a room in 6 weeks! This was quite an accomplishment.

Q: What would you say your go to or favorite color is to use in your projects?

I’m such a color person that I don’t have one go to color. I feel comfortable with all of them, believe it or not. I have used yellows and purples, browns and blues….It depends on the space and the type of mood I want to create. I’m not afraid of color and will work with any of them.

Q: Getting personal, I understand you like to cook? What is your favorite meal to make?

It’s so relaxing! And I just love cooking in our new kitchen. And I love inviting friends over and pampering them with a delicious home cooked meal. I love making desserts especially…but a good protein is up there as well…. This spinach and strawberry salad is the best thing on earth. And this flourless chocolate cake– heaven!

Q: You have a day off, a day completely to yourself, what would you do?

Whoa! that is so rare. I would sleep in, have a leisurely breakfast while I read some magazines by the pool, take a looooong shower, meet friends for lunch and then take a leisurely walk. I would maybe even escape to see a movie in the middle of the afternoon. And then I would curl up with a good book in bed and read for hours.

Thank you so much Krystine for having me! I’m honored to be here.