Cathy Lee | |
| of self-study and on-the-job learning, complete with false starts, beginner's mistakes and mind-numbing work. The result—a lush Island/Eclectic house with movie theater, meditation room and floor-to-ceiling views of the surrounding Hawaiian mountains—caught the attention of the design world. Homescape magazine featured her home on its Fall 2003 cover with an 11-page spread inside. Cathy continued to develop her unique style with numerous luxury homes she purchased, remodeled, decorated and sold. She developed a following among design-challenged homeowners seeking advice and organized Invitation to Design workshops to meet demand. She cites mixing styles and textures, making bold statements in relaxing spaces and avoiding matchy-matchy elements as key style signatures. The inspiration she draws from movies, magazines and travels with her husband and their 8-year-old daughter is evident in Cathy's signature look: tropical touches, clean urban lines, exotic Mediterranean and Asian accents. This year Cathy turns her passion for home design and décor to the Internet with the launch of RSVPstyle.com. The interactive website hosts a community of online enthusiasts who sign up for free help in developing their own eye for design. Users view style tips and video clips from Cathy and a range of experts, post photos of their own projects, and get feedback and inspiration from each other. The site is anchored by Cathy's expertise and her dangerously addictive if-I-can-do-it-so-can-you attitude. A hands-on mom, Cathy involves herself in school and community activities. She has brought her fresh ideas and energy to fundraising for the American Heart Association, American Diabetes Association, American Red Cross and Make-A-Wish Foundation. Her philosophy is that as with creating and learning, giving back should be fun. | |