Ask Eloise
by Eloise Kubli, ASID
Quotables
What our clients say about us...
I am grateful and honored to have retained Eloise Kubli as my designer. With over 40 years of experience, Eloise took on my major remodeling project and treated me as her #1 client. She and her professional team spent countless hours turning this major project into a stunning contemporary designer showcase. Her passion and wisdom for design truly resonates in my home. I look forward to many more projects with Eloise as I now call her my dear friend. Thank you Eloise.
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Eloise and her team are exceptional from start to finish. Eloise took a bare house and turned it into a masterpiece. Every detail was very thought out and executed perfectly. Eloise took care of our every need like a true professional. We love our home and would highly recommend Eloise to create your masterpiece. -
To Whom It May Concern:
Eloise Kubli has been our trusted artistic and design advisor for the past decade having managed the total transformation of our home, from infrastructure to finishing touches. Mark is an engineer, and he can attest for Eloise’s eye for detail, item selection, project implementation, and prudent decision making.
Serge Gharakhanian has completed several projects in our home. Of particular note is his work on our kitchen and den. His extraordinary craftsman skills and work ethic is beyond compare.
We have never embarked on a home project without their counsel, and never will. Together they have made our home into a showpiece of contemporary design standards. They are simply the best in the business and we are grateful to have found them!
They come with our highest recommendation. -
“Eloise posses the unique ability to translate a vision into reality. Approachable, professional and nationally recognized, I cannot imagine working with anyone else to achieve well executed, detail oriented simply stunning spaces.”
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Re: Eloise Kubli, Designer and Collective Construction & Design
Dear Prospective Client,
We have engaged Eloise Kubli, an award-winning Designer, and Collective Construction and Design to assist us in the design, procurement and installation of wall and floor finishes and coverings, furniture, built-in furnishings, curtains and window treatments, and accessories for both the renovation of our Florida home and for a recently completed North Carolina newly-built mountain home. A true professional, Eloise’s design skill with scale, color and texture coordination, and integration of all design elements with (and sometimes improvements to) architectural and structural designs allowed for a remarkably seamless completion of both projects. Her breadth of knowledge and experience with quality manufacturers and suppliers as well as skilled installers assured us of a high quality installation. Her attention to detail and suggestions for improvements along the way resulted in both cases in a better outcome than expected or even imagined at the start.
We highly recommend her and the team at Collective Construction and Design for any project where the design challenge includes integrating style, form and function into an exciting, flowing, and pleasing living environment.
Respectfully Yours,
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“I thoroughly enjoyed working with Eloise Kubli, ASID, to design my award-winning new office space for Durée & Company. I highly recommend working with a licensed and experienced interior designer for commercial spaces. I was lucky enough to get the opportunity to work with Eloise once again when we expanded and bought the unit next door and combined both units together. From the attention to detail to space planning, every single thing was thoughtfully designed and orchestrated by Eloise. Look no further as I highly recommend Eloise!
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“I was not introduced to Eloise’s work sitting around a table piled high with fabric swatches. I was introduced to her work when I toured the spec house we purchased in 2008.
At that time I had no idea who was responsible for producing the incredible interior. All I saw was that someone with amazing vision and insight had picked out every light fixture, every faucet, every mirror, every sink, every appliance, every paint color and wall covering, and had the audacity to cover entire walls in shimmering glass tile, to my absolute liking. It felt like this someone knew what I loved before I did.
Transitioning from a 3,000 square foot home in the Northeast to one more than double in size in Florida was overwhelming, to say the least. The pallet of the walls and other exquisite details begged to be furnished but, with my limitations, I finally concluded who better to ask to continue the vision than the artist herself. That’s when I met Eloise.
The end result was a beautiful melding of furnishings which reflect and complement the existing beauty of the surrounding walls. Eloise, always observant of what I found attractive but also vigil to potential mistakes, expertly guided me through the entire process which resulted in a seamless convergence of beauty and tranquility that, ten years later, still pleases me every time I come home.
Without hesitation, I highly recommend Eloise and her professional team at Collective Construction and Design for any decorating need, large or small. As consummate professionals, she and her team never tried to insinuate their expertise nor coerce me with their opinions. Instead, I was taken on a delightful experience of discovering the beauty of color, texture and comfort.”
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“I was fortunate enough to retain Eloise Kubli and her company, Collective Construction & Design Inc. to oversee the renovation and redesign of my house. I am truly amazed by her natural gift for spacial relations and her exquisite taste. Aside from these outstanding qualities she’s extremely prompt and truly a go getter.
I highly recommend her and her team to anyone in need of an interior designer and or contractor. In addition, I have been truly impressed by many of her projects. In my opinion her versatility combined with her talents make her a very strong asset for anyone.“
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“Eloise, I am not kidding you when I say I stare at the most intricate or simple parts of the house and daydream and smile about how lucky we are and think about how much hard work and soul went into every detail. #thankful”
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“Left up to me we’d have a pull out couch in the living room and dining room furniture the size of Barbie’s. But when I saw the amazing appointments of our home I knew I needed to deal with that artist and professional, aka — You!”
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“Today we had a call from The Gant with someone requesting our amazing Eloise-designed condo in Aspen for two weeks this summer. They enjoyed the unit so much last summer after the renovation that they’re already requesting it. You are the absolute best in the biz! Worth every penny and more. xoxo”
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“Congratulations Elosie and team! I know why you won… [a 2016 ASID Design Excellence Award] …it’s evident in the beautiful home that we live in and that all of you had a hand designing. We truly enjoy our home and we receive compliments on it all the time.
Great job!”
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“Eloise and her staff are one of the best in the interior design and decorations industry. Her customer service and & integrity are exceptional. I recommend her without reservation.”
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“Congratulations! (for 2015 ASID Design Excellence Award) Wow you are simply an amazing, talented lady! So happy to have you in my circle of friends, and the one responsible for transforming my home. Love you!”
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“Eloise & Kaitlyn:
Thank you for your awesome customer service and high integrity in responding to our situation the way you did. You have a customer and champion for life as you treated us exactly the way we would expect to be treated: with respect and understanding. Let us know when we can ever give testament to your work and or integrity (the latter being more important than the former.)”
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“Eloise, you are in my home and in my heart every day!”
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“I am so grateful for your help on this project! I cannot tell you how appreciative I am. I would be lamenting about each and every decision if it were not for you. I have such profound respect for what you do and your expertise!”
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“Great job. Go to sleep with a smile and know that we are all so happy with the beautiful home you helped create!”
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“To Whom It May Concern:
It is with great pleasure that we write this letter of recommendation for Eloise Kubli of Collective Construction and Design. It is truly meaningful to express the satisfaction and gratitude... read more
Sincerely,” -
“It is with great pleasure that I write this reference letter for Eloise and Arthur Kubli of Collective Construction and Design.
We have known the Kubli's and their company for thirty years. We have worked with them numerous times... read more
Sincerely,” -
“Art,
I received two very positive messages regarding your recently completed project in Columbus, GA. Thanks for doing such a good job.
Tom used the term ‘excellent’ to describe the quality of the room renovation. He does not do that very much.
Thanks for your efforts on this project.
Regards,” -
“I love [the new draperies]!!! Just as I love everything in my house that you have had a hand in!! The hardware is fabulous and the fabric could not coordinate better... You are amazing!
Thanks to [Design Assistant] Linda too for her help selecting the tie back tassels -- they look great:) Have a nice weekend!” -
From a client who has been with us for 28 years, from the beginning. We have done four homes and several offices for the family during this time span, and they have become dear friends as well:
”You have always done an amazing job, and it keeps getting better. Thank you so much!“
“I can't thank you enough for all of your efforts to make this house feel like a home. It truly exceeds all of my dreams. I will never be able to express the gratitude for making our dream a reality. When I am there, I feel completely relaxed, like I don't have a care in the world.” -
“Outrageous, Amazing, Spectacular!!!” -
“Fascinated with your efforts you made on our vacation home, had our doubts - so glad to make the final decision. Every corner, we really love it, love it all. You have so much taste, we have so much happiness. It’s an understatement to say ‘Thank you’.” -
“You’re so talented it’s almost scary. Each house is better than the next." -
Again, huge thanks to u for ur incredible talent!!! Not a day goes by in this house that we don’t have wonderful thoughts of you. U have made it a paradise for us and we are grateful every day!!” -
“You ’re a gem! - People are lucky to work with you. I hate to leave our home." -
“We are delighted. It took his breath away, beyond beautiful.” -
“Excellent, you are a blessing." -
“It’s magnificent. It’s hard to make me happy, but you did.” -
“Sorry, I’m now so spoiled, don’t even call to say how perfect it is, take it for granted how great it all looks.” -
“Congratulations! I had no idea the family room would look so beautiful. Exceed our expectations. We’re really very pleased." -
“You’re perfect. The living room is perfect, looks perfect. It makes me feel great. Whatever it is you do, keep doing it.” -
“We’re the happiest family in all of Florida… and so happy you’re our designer. My husband is “out of his mind” happy. It’s magic what you do.” -
Comfortable & Clean SpacesBack to top
Organize and Systemize
Professional Organizer Jennifer Alman has explored organizing methods for homes and offices. Her company has developed proven solutions that will work against clutter and chaos forever. Contact: (954) 328-8052
Koverroos Custom Covers
Outdoor furniture covers need to breathe so that moisture can escape, keeping mold and mildew from developing under the cover. KoverRoos use technologically advanced materials that are one-way breathable - moisture leaves, but dust and dirt can't get in. Water resistant and breathable, these covers are truly unique and the best that you'll find to protect fine outdoor furniture.
Caring for Fine Finishes, Fabrics & FlooringBack to top
My clients are always asking how to care for the fine finishes throughout their homes. These tips cover the most often asked questions and also suggest reliable contacts in the South Florida area. Professionals in furniture repair and restoration have helped me to compile the following hints and maintenance information.
Shedding
“Why is my wool rug shedding?”
Finish & Furniture Pros
Ron "Dr. Spot" from Fiberseal, is a professional whose specialty is sealing and maintaining fabrics, rugs and carpet. Ron can be reached at (561) 735-0718.
Acosta's Leather refinishes, repairs, cleans and protects your fine leather. Service area: Broward to Vero Beach. Contact them at (561) 969-3905.
Floor Amor, Inc. specializes in high quality floor & fiber care including carpet, wood, stone. tile & grout. Contact Jaime at (954) 347-8545
Professional TipsBack to top
Crystal Chandeliers & Bath Fixtures
Dawn® dishwashing liquid is a great mild detergent and a marvelous cleaning and caring product for crystal chandeliers and crystal bath fixtures. Mixing a few drops of the detergent and some warm water, make a solution in a plastic bucket or bowl. Immerse and then wring out a soft, absorbent cotton cloth to carefully apply the solution and remove any dirt, dust, or splash marks. Have another container with fresh clear water handy, and use a clean wet cloth to rinse the crystal. You may also want to use a soft towel or chamois to dry the items to prevent water marks.
High Gloss Wood Finish
Use a soft cloth or feather duster for regular dusting and cleaning. Polish once every three months using a white cream polish such as Guardsman or OZ. Apply the polish with a soft cotton cloth. Wait a few seconds and polish with another soft cotton cloth to a high gloss finish. NOTE: Do not use Pledge.
Fine Wood Finish
Use a soft cloth with Antiquax wax polish.
Wood Cracking
This problem only occurs with real wood and never particleboard or MDF.Apply Boiled Linseed Oil to the back or underside of the furniture where possible. Use a paint brush to apply a generous amount of Boiled Linseed Oil to the underside, bottom or back of the piece. The goal here is to get to the unfinished part of the wood. Don't try this on a finely finished piece of wood. If the wood is finished on all sides, forget about using the linseed oil. If the front is finished and the back is not, you may apply the boiled linseed oil to the unfinished areas. The linseed oil penetrates the wood and helps to keep it from drying out. There are two types of linseed oil; boiled and raw. Use the boiled variety because it dries quicker than the raw.
Butcher Block - Oak - Or Any Oiled Finish
Use a soft cloth or a feather duster for regular dusting and cleaning. Once a month use plain beeswax or lemon oil for light finishes and a dark scratch polish for dark finishes. Blot up spills with dry cloth or paper towel. For removing dirt, use a damp soft cloth. NOTE: Do not use Pledge.
High Gloss Polyester Lacquer
For dusting, use a soft cotton cloth or feather duster. To clean, use a soft cotton cloth with a small amount of mineral spirits. Once a month, polish with Guardsman or OZ. Once every three months, polish with a car wax such as Turtle Wax. Polish exactly as you would a car.For scratches, use a very fine rubbing compound like Dupont #7 (Purchase at any auto store). Apply sparingly then rub entire table in a circular motion. When dry (haze will appear) wipe off with a soft cloth and apply Guardsman or OZ to a high gloss finish. NOTE: Do not use Pledge.
Pine Wood
Clean with feather duster. Polish with lemon oil once a month to avoid cracking . NOTE: Do not use Pledge.
Leather
Use professional-grade leather cleaner. Using a soft cloth test the cleaner in an area that is not visible. Spray cleaner on cloth and then wipedown furniture. After cleaning use a professional-grade leather conditioner to condition the leather. You should clean the furniture monthly and condition it every three months. Cleaners we suggest: Tannery Brand or Armor All Cleaner & Protectant. Lighter colors need cleaning and conditioning more often than dark colors.
Vinyl
Use same procedures and products as leather. For leather and vinyl, blot up spills with a cloth or paper towel. Clean entire area, not just area where spill occurred. For example, if the spill occurred on a seat cushion, clean entire seat. If a spill occurs on an arm, clean the entire arm.
Marble
Clean with mineral spirits. To polish, use a good grade auto polish. Follow directions on product. Apply with soft clean cloth, wait for haze to appear and wipe off with another clean soft cloth. Polish to a high gloss with another white soft cloth. For best protection, marble should be resealed every 12 months. Marble Life is an excellent service. Call Bill at (954) 520-1093.
Marble/wood Floors
Standard issue nylon glides should be changed to felt glides to protect the finish of your floors. It also sounds so much nicer.
Mirrors And Glass
Use any glass cleaner without ammonia. Apply cleaner to cloth and then clean glass or mirror. Never spray directly on mirror or framed image.
Aluminum And Glass Windows & Doors
Please read these aluminum and glass cleaning tips from Palm Aluminum. Homeowners should perform these on a regular basis to keep windows and door looking and working like new.
Polished Brass Or Chrome
For dusting or general cleaning, use a soft cloth or feather duster. Do not use abrasive cleansers. On all polished brass pieces use a good grade of car wax and follow instructions on can. Apply with soft cloth, wait for a haze to appear and wipe off with another soft cloth. No special care is required for polished brass trim. Clean with the same product you use on the rest of the piece. NOTE: Do not use Pledge.
Stainless Steel
Contrary to popular belief, stainless steel can rust. Here are some tips on how to clean and care for stainless steel. When using abrasives, always rub in the directions of the “grain” or polishing marks.
NOTE: Chlorine will react with some stainless steels, causing them to stain or even oxidize. Always wipe and dry stainless steel surfaces when they are exposed to chlorinated water indoors and out. Water from traditional- and salt-system chlorinated pools can also react with stainless steel. Please see the applications and products below for ways to treat and clean stainless steel.
Routine cleaning
Use soap and water, ammonia and water, or detergent and water. Sponge the surface with a cloth, then rinse with clear water and wipe dry.
Smears & fingerprints
Use O'Cedar Cream Polish or Stainless Shine. Rub the surface with a cloth as directed on the package.
Stubborn spots, stains & other light discolorations
Use Highlite Cooper's Stainless Steel Cleaner or Revere Stainless Steel Cleaner. Apply with a damp sponge or cloth. Then rinse with clear water and wipe dry.
Heat tint or heavy discoloration
Use Penny-Brite, Copper Brite, Paste Nu-Steel, Dubois Temp, or Tarnite, and rub onto surface with a dry cloth.
You can also use Revere Stainless Steel Cleaner, Allen Polish, or Steel Bright. For these cleansers, apply with a damp sponge or cloth, rinse thoroughly and wipe dry.
Tenacious deposits, rust discoloration, industrial atmospheric stains
Use Oakite #33 Dilac, Texo NY, Flash-Klenz, Caddy Cleaner, Turco Scale 4368, or Permag 57. Swab and soak with a clean cloth. Let stand 15 minutes or more according to directions on package. Then rinse and wipe dry.
Rust discoloration or corrosion caused by bleach or muriatic acid
Use 3M Scotch Bright Pad, type A Grade "Fine". Clean off the surface soil using cleaning methods above. Then rub discolored or corroded areas lightly with dry pad.
Faux Stone
For dusting or general cleaning, use soft cloth or feather duster. To remove stains or dirt, use mineral spirits on a soft cloth. Test the material for reactions first by applying the mineral spirits to a small part of the 'stone' that is out of sight.
Upholstered Furniture
When cleaning upholstered furniture that has had fabric protection applied, read the directions on the manufacturer's warranty. In most cases, use the fabric protectant on a white cloth to remove soil or stains. If you are cleaning upholstered furniture that has not had fabric protection, use VM&P Naptha on a soft white cloth. Wipe stain from center out. It may be necessary to clean entire piece. For example: If the stain is on a cushion, clean the entire cushion. If you don’t, you could leave a ring. To avoid this, clean the entire cushion — if there is a ring it will appear on the edge where it won’t be seen. Call Ron “Dr. Spot” from Fiberseal at (561) 735-0718 to handle the more difficult problems. Or better yet, call him to prtect your fine fabrics before a problem occurs.
Area Rugs
For pet stains, apply club soda on spot and blot dry. This method can also be used for coffee, tea or wine. Clean to center of stain. For food stains or dirt, use a combination of Woolite or any commercial cleaner. Follow instructions on container. As above, call Ron “Dr. Spot” from Fiberseal at (561) 735-0718 for tougher problems.
Cleaners And Polishes
Guardsman, OZ, Naptha, mineral spirits, lemon oil, scratch polish, Woolite, Old English Scratch Cover, counter top magic, non-ammonia glass cleaner and leather cleaner can be purchased at most grocery stores or home improvements stores. Expensive investment quality furniture should be looked at, and services performed by, a professional furniture repair person.
Our Environment
Please, remember to recycle and to think about your water usage. Did you know that plastic six-pack holders are nearly transparent underwater? They are invisible to marine wildlife; thousands of animals become tangled in them each year. Take a moment to snip the plastic loops with scissors. We can make difference every day!
