Congratulations to Drew McGukin Interiors for the great job they did creating an exceptional room for the Ronald McDonald Long Island Project. Drew and his team created a room that is as fun, energetic and zany as he is. I can say that – I raised him. 🙂 Drew loves life and it shows in his lively choices of colors, textures, and fabrics.
Drew and his team were able to accomplish this charitable task with the help of financial and material support from family, friends and industry peers. Hopefully, this playful interior will help lift the spirits of the deserving families who will be comforted by a stay in this room.
Beautifully featured in the room are inspiring artworks contributed by two notable NYC artists – Hunt Slonem and Bobby Genalo. “Commute” is an interactive piece of art as the children can move the ropes around to imagine their own subway commute.
In true #DMcStyle, Drew evoked an inviting style for living as he enjoyed designing the furnishings of the room. These creative designs are practical, functional and minimalistic in form, yet pleasing to the eye.
Knowing that cards and notes of encouragement are vital to the wellness of patients and their families, Drew installed a cork board interior to the room entrance that can be used to post personal items. This special room’s very first guests will be met by a warm welcome of handmade cards from students of Sarah Smith School in Atlanta. These thoughtful kindergarteners are the students of Drew’s sister, Shea McGukin Baker.
Having grown up with a family flower shop, Drew knows the importance of flowers. When we enjoy flowers in our living spaces we feel happier. In fact, according to Rutgers research – “Flowers bring about positive emotional feelings in those who enter a room,” said Dr. Haviland-Jones. “They make the space more welcoming and create a sharing atmosphere.”
Drew’s final touch to the room was to add vases of Pincushion Protea. These simple arrangements of bright, energetic, and long-lasting flowers were the perfect complement to this warm, kid-loving space.
FLOWER-SAVVY DESIGN TIP –  When creating a warm and welcoming space for yourself or others – don’t forget the flowers! Research shows that the beauty and fragrance of flowers encourage personal creativity and a positive sense of well-being.