Rachelle is absolutely fabulous! She has an eye for picking vibrant colors that are warm and inviting. Her talent is something that can't be learned or taught. Spare yourself the frustration of accidentally creating an overpriced DIY mess. Rachelle will create a space for you that is fluid, beautiful, and makes your life better in every way. She isn't some designer who reads a few magazines and thinks she knows all about color and design. She is a trained, educated, and experienced professional full of creative talents. She looks at your space and design choices from a global perspective and selects colors that seamlessly tie your areas together, to balance your cabinets or floors or tile or throw pillows or drawer hardware, etc. She truly takes all of your interior elements into consideration so that the design becomes a flawless backdrop for your life. It's funny, you don't notice the actual elements when it's done, you just see how lovely the "space" is, because her colors and layout choices will enhance and accent your interiors or exteriors so fluidly. Rachelle has an endless cache of design ideas and offers consulting as well. Just being around her will have you racing for a pen to capture the creative ideas that spill out of her so fast. So be ready and have a writing instrument and paper at all times! If you are looking for consultation for any type of project, from the exterior of your house, to interior rooms, to furnishings, fixtures, etc., working with Rachelle is the best investment you can make. read more

We connected with Rachelle through a referral from our architect, as we were embarking on a fast paced renovation and expansion of our home. I honestly do not know how we would have made it through without her help. There are 1000 decisions to make from tile to cabinets and paint, along with all of the finishes. Rachelle had excellent recommendations for high quality options that stayed within our budget. She helped us meet our contractor's deadlines, so we stayed on track to finish the project within 4 months. Everything came out so beautiful! She really listened and paid attention to what each of us liked to help us find our shared style. We are so grateful for her expertise and vast rolodex of resources and hidden gems. read more

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Rachelle made very demeaning remarks regarding mine and my housemates disabilities. She spread lies to other contract workers and sent intense and inappropriate texts to my housemate and the person who referred us to her. She was very hostile and I did not feel safe associating with her. I just want to make sure people know to be careful with selecting businesses to work with. This is not a compassionate (or even remotely kind) company and I do not recommend using them if you part of a minority / targeted community. read more

Rachelle came highly recommended. I contacted her for a consultation related to our garage ADU design. In a two hour conversation we accomplished so much. I went from feeling overwhelmed and somewhat clueless about the project to feeling more empowered and clear and what was needed. She helped me with space planning, kitchen design, and bathroom design. She was quick and skilled at thinking through measurements, and knew what kind of furniture/accessories would work just right for a small space. I also really appreciate that she gave input on what I could find used/salvaged vs. what to buy new. And, she informed me of next steps to take. Highly recommend working with Rachelle! read more

We just finished a major addition on our home, and I was at a loss for how to choose colors, flooring, and finishes, especially for the bathroom. The number of design options was baffling to me -- bamboo vs carpet? Subway tile vs mosaics? And how to avoid painting every wall my go-to green? I found Rachelle online, and told her what I was looking for: someone who could show me how to approach these design choices, steer me towards some good local resources, and be around to validate or challenge my decisions. And, who could help us stay within our tight budget. I wanted to do the legwork, but I needed someone to show me the ropes. Rachelle was completely game to consult with us as needed, charging us an hourly rate for her services. Rachelle provided great guidance on how to approach design decisions, giving me the "homework" of reviewing lots of design blogs and magazines and keeping a file of design ideas I liked. When I had honed my vision for the bathroom design, she joined me at Import Tile and EcoHome, piecing together the color motif and tile layout. She even lent us a book about tile-setting so that we could do the work ourselves. The result is a bathroom that is cohesive and stylish, with a killer tile shower. Rachelle's flexibility and ability to understand our needs to provide solid guidance made her a great partner. read more

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Rachelle has worked with my business for many years and I am very happy to recommend her to anyone looking for an interior designer. Many of our clients comment on how she "get's them" and compliment her ability to pull disparate elements of a room together. She has an eclectic style of her own, does not shy away from using bold colors and patterns, but she does that without ever losing sight of the fact that the result has to work for her client and not for a fancy design photograph. read more

Rachelle helped me with an extensive remodel of a duplex apartment. We had a wonderful time working together and she really made the project come alive. I was going for a very modern look, keeping things minimal but also wanted it to feel warm and inviting. Rachelle spent oodles of time with me and showed me the ropes of picking out colors that could complement each other and not distract. I learned so much by working with her. She also had lots of advice for me on managing the team as I was trying to be the general contractor. What a learning experience that was. I didn't take all of her advice but I wish I had, since it turned out her concerns were right with some of the choices I made in setting up contracts and schedules. I couldn't have done the project without her as she was also a moral support and encouragement to me when unexpected issues came up that threatened my peace of mind. She had been through it before and was able to remind me that things would be ok and we'd get through it. In the end the apartment looked amazing, and the transformation went way beyond what I would have imagined on my own. Talk to Rachelle and see what she can do for your project, big or small. I learned it's never too early to engage her interior design services, especially if you're doing any structural changes first. By letting your interior designer consider the end product from the beginning, you can integrate design and finish features better, avoid rework, and improve final aesthetics and usability. Thank you Rachelle!! read more

Rachelle was a pleasure to work with. We remodeled the kitchen and two bathrooms. Rachelle helped us choose tile, paint, and finishes for all three rooms, plus helped us choose paint colors for the interior of the whole house and helped with some of the furnishings. We had to make decisions very quickly, and Rachelle made the time to respond to questions that need quick answers. She was easy to get ahold of and very responsive via email, phone, and text. Most importantly, she has a great eye for color. We have gotten many compliments on the paint colors and the tile we chose. Rachelle knows how to use different colors and textures in a way that I wouldn't have been able to come up with all on my own. Working with our contractor was sometimes very frustrating, but Rachelle was always there to provide support (emotionally and practically). I felt that her fees were very reasonable give the type of help she provides. She can either point you in the right direction or provide you with the royal full service treatment. (We did a little of each.) I have nothing but great things to say about Rachelle and would use her again in a heartbeat! read more

Synthesis designer Rachelle knows her shtuff! She helped me with an irregular space that needed figuring out in order to transform it from a raw funky cavern into a sweet multi-purpose bedroom / man cave. She's a good listener and has a good eye for color, natural materials and simple solutions that won't break the bank, and is pretty chill and easy to work with. I'll definitely hire her again when i save up for my mansion (ha!). read more

Rachelle came in just when we needed help on our remodel. We were lost in tile and backsplash color and design choices. She carefully listened to our basic ideas, took what we had and made some brilliant suggestions which got us moving towards completion. I think it is better to work with a colorist/designer who has experience rather than wing the whole thing yourself. The orchestration of floor, wall, counters, backsplash, lighting and cabinets is overwhelming. We are glad we gave Synthesis I&C a call. read more

I was desperately in need of help and advice from a color consultant. I knew I couldn't afford $180/hr that most experienced consultants were charging and as luck would have it I found Rachelle to help me with my project. I had no referral for her and didn't know what to expect. I did know I needed someone fast. Rachelle was at my house the next day. She asked me if she could see any art work or fabrics that were going to be displayed. This was a bit tricky as most my things were in boxes due to a major remodel that I was going through. I managed to take out a few art pieces and pillows as well as an area rug. Moments later she was able to see a pattern of colors that tied together. She then created a family of colors and asked me to take out anything I truly didn't like. Our session was over in about two hours. The colors are absolutely awesome. My artwork has never looked so beautiful. The colors make everything "Pop". Everyone who visits my house comments on how great the colors are. One person even asked me if I used a famous color consultant that has been working in Berkeley for years! (name omitted on purpose- you don't need that person...you need Rachelle! Her hourly rate is extremely reasonable for the service that she provides). Rachelle is brilliant as a color consultant and I am sure the other services she offers are just as good as her skills at picking out paint colors. You can't go wrong with Synthesis Interiors & Color. read more

I work as a professional organizer and have collaborated with Rachelle while my clients were working on getting their homes organized before or during their remodels. Being an organizer, I know the importance of a well-designed space. People don't often factor this in, but being in a well organized, well-designed space can save you time and have positive emotional and psychological effects on the entire family. Rachelle brings dream remodels to life, she can do it all; kitchen and bathroom remodels, color consulting and decorating design. She is dependable, an excellent communicator and very responsive to clients. My clients have loved working with her because she takes what can sometimes feel like an overwhelming project and make it fun and enjoyable. She also values and respects her client's time. I have had several clients comment that it was refreshing to work with someone who always showed up on time and never canceled at the last minute. Having someone you can depend on to do the job well and go above and beyond for a client is priceless. Synthesis Interiors and Color will make your life easy and your home beautiful. read more

Rachelle has helped me with two office moves. She has a special knack for seeing solutions to problems that seem untenable. She's helped me mitigate weird lighting situations, weird furniture situations and weird room layouts. She has a very special eye for the best colors to create the mood and look you're seeking. Not to mention her ability to pull together fabrics, images and objects that complete a space. Does your office need some freshening? She'll make you and your clients fall in love with the space... read more

Rachelle took the time to truly understand my vision and personality, which led to exciting and unique selections. She is knowledgeable and a master of her craft. I'm very pleased with the final product of a custom coffee table on an organic, fair trade rug that really ties the room together. Add the hand sculpted metal wall art from a local artist as the exclamation point. My place transformed from a bachelor pad to a grown up, mature apartment that impresses all that visit. Rachelle's rate is fair and worth every penny as both a designer and decorator. Ask about her tile work. It's extraordinary. read more

I have worked with Rachelle for about 9 years now. I refer her to my kitchen design clients who want extra help with color and tile design. She is caring, patient, and talented with color. She really listens to her clients and is there to make their home a beautiful and wonderful place to be. I love that Rachelle, unlike many interior designers, does not push her clients to choose the latest trends, but rather, helps them use what makes them happy in the most aesthetically pleasing way. She also has extensive knowledge of products that are healthy for the home and better for the earth. read more

I was struggling with my kitchen because it felt smaller than it should have considering the size. Rachelle saw how to fix the chi in the room and saved me from doing a bigger kitchen remodel, plus she recommended new lighting that helped more than I expected. She also helped me with tile design and layout which I'm looking forward to using when I get the budget saved up. read more

I just remodeled my bathroom and painted my study and they came out great due to Rachelle Padgett. She really helped me make the final selections for the plumbing and lighting fixtures, pedestal sink, tile for the floor, and even the shower curtain. Her input was invaluable and I appreciated that she could push me into a direction I might not have thought about or taken. Rachelle has an excellent eye for color. She has the ability to know what colors will work in your room and with the rest of the house. She did a great job selecting the right colors for the bathroom and study. Rachelle is a very good listener, patient, and conscientious. She is pleasant to work with, professional, and her rates are reasonable. I would highly recommend Rachelle to help you on any remodeling or interior design project for your house. read more

Life? Changed. I was stumbling over my belongings in a very small but sweet space in Marin County. After reaching the limits of my own space planning, I finally hired Rachelle to help. Please, help! She transformed a tight, annoying, claustrophobic mess, into a light, functional, free-flowing space. I wish I had the money for a full kitchen remodel, but this did the trick! I no longer think I'm an armchair expert of interior design, and will leave the decorating to professionals like Rachelle from here on out. Some of the classic benefits of this investment are: not splattering oil on my things every time I cook, being able to get up at night and walk to the bathroom without wrecking a toe on the kitchen island, having a space for a guest to sit and be comfortable, getting natural light from the no longer blocked window where the tv was clumsily configured, not staring at routers and cables for my whole life, and the list goes on. Honestly, I didn't even know how many ridiculous choices I had made until she did her voodoo. Asking for help can be hard, but DO IT! read more

Synthesis Interiors and Color is a wonderful combination between beautiful design and healthy living. I knew I wanted a home that would be healthy for my family but couldn't find an interior designer who knew about sustainable design. That is until I met Rachelle. Rachelle is a pleasure to work with and knows her stuff ! She helped me create a home that I love living in. read more

Great to work with, Rachelle is a passionate advocate for the people and products she believes in. She's trying harder to find local, healthier, beautiful materials. Our business uses urban trees, and Rachelle often calls to find the latest and greatest. We appreciate her attention to every last detail. read more

Rachelle is easy to work with, a great communicator and decisive about what she thinks will work in your space. I called her up needing a quick consultation on colors and materials and she was at my house within a week giving me great advice and new ideas. She's definitely the best bang for your buck in this area. read more

Synthesis guided me through converting my man cave of a smallish San Francisco apartment into a rockin' bachelor pad in short time. Mostly all materials were high quality and eco-friendly-- the overall project was oddly well below budget and far above expectations. Synthesis provided overall vision and general direction, and then was highly adaptable to suit my personal tastes. I did most of the "work" myself, but it all would have been for naught without first planning it all out with an expert. I even learned a thing or two along the way! read more

One more update- I continue to get compliments on my paint colors, which was probably Rachelle's top strength as far as my home was concerned. She also pointed me to a great resource for eco-friendly tiles, which I used for a DIY project. read more

Having had the pleasure of not only seeing the finished work for multiple of Rachelle's clients, but also seeing how she personally decorated her own home, there is NO ONE else in the Bay Area I would ever trust to handle my interior design needs. Rachelle had the perfect combination for my office design needs, blending creativity and professionalism into one environment that I could not be more thrilled to now spend my days in. I look forward to having her some day do my home as well. read more

Rachelle is the house whisperer! She has a calm, grounded and confident demeanor. She helped us to see color options for our bedrooms that we'd never even thought of before, and took into consideration our budget when making her recommendations. She gave us leads to different local businesses we might need, such as an eco paint store, and a cabinet store to change out knobs on our dressers (her suggestion). She even went that extra mile, making herself available by text and in person at the last minute when the painters were already in the house and issues came up about colors, where we had to make last minute decisions! And her fee is very reasonable too! You're in good hands with Synthesis Interiors & Color! read more

Spare yourself the frustration of accidentally creating an overpriced DIY mess. Rachelle will create a space for you that is fluid, beautiful, and makes your life better in every way. She isn't some designer who reads a few magazines and thinks she knows all about color and design. She is a trained, educated, and experienced professional full of creative talents. She looks at your space and design choices from a global perspective and selects colors that seamlessly tie your areas together, to balance your cabinets or floors or tile or throw pillows or drawer hardware, etc. Her talent is something that just can't be taught. She has an eye for picking vibrant colors that are warm and inviting. She truly takes all of your interior elements into consideration so that the design becomes a flawless backdrop for your life. It's funny, you don't notice the actual elements when it's done, you just see how lovely the "space" is, because her colors and layout choices will enhance and accent your interiors or exteriors so fluidly. Rachelle has an endless cache of design ideas and offers consulting as well. Just being around her will have you racing for a pen to capture the creative ideas that spill out of her so fast. So be ready and have a writing instrument and paper at all times! If you are looking for consultation for any type of project, from the exterior of your house, to interior rooms, to furnishings, fixtures, etc., working with Rachelle is the best investment you can make. read more

Fantastic! Rachelle is a smart, efficient interior designer who has practical solutions for spaces, and is a wealth of resources of where to get furniture, eco -friendly carpeting, etc. She helped us design a therapy office, as well as our house, and her suggestions were easy to implenment, and made our house feel warmer, cozier, and prettier. She is spot on with color recommendations, and just made us think about space in a different way. I highly recommend her, she is affordable for both someone just wanting a few ideas on how to design their, as well as for people who want to do a whole remodel. She can do it all! read more

Rachelle is wonderful! She is very professional, very skilled and very resourceful. Rachelle assisted me with a major kitchen remodel, a new bath addition and a remodel of a second bathroom. She does it all including major remodel projects, tile design, lighting design and color consulting. She was involved with my project from its inception while I was in the design phase with my architect. She totally respects the client's personal taste and aesthetic preferences and can work with any budget. A major remodel project can be very stressful. Having Rachelle's assistance from the design phase through to the finish paint was an invaluable resource for me. Lastly her fees are reasonable and appropriate for her professional skills and knowledge. read more

We worked with Rachelle to redesign our farmhouse kitchen. She was recommended thru Eco homes who we worked with for the custom made cabinets. They wholeheartedly recommended working with Rachelle for color and design ideas. We're so glad we did! She has bold vision and out- of- the- box ideas that made our kitchen come alive! We ended up knocking down an entire wall that opened up our kitchen to amazing views we have , that we were missing out on. We would never have thought of this! Rachelle's vision opens you to ideas you might never have envisioned. She supported and encouraged us to go for it with color that was a little bold, but we really wanted to try. She helped us transform a rather dull modern country farmhouse kitchen into a really magnificent work of art. She facilitated coordination of the various team components; tile work, paint, raw edge handcrafted wood shelves, contractor...and let us be as involved as we wanted to in that process. She's got great vision , ideas, communication skills, and brings creativity and warmth to the project. read more

I love the charm of old houses, but they present the challenge of how to make the space yours while maintaining the character of what's there. When I moved into my mock Tudor, the millwork felt both stodgy and stately. Rachelle helped me navigate how to respect the bones of the house and create an environment for my more modern design leanings. She even helped me pick out some fixtures that did wonders to elevate the space. Prompt, professional, and polite, Rachelle perfectly marries the creative and the practical aspects of consulting. Highly recommended read more

We just bought a new home and had a completely blank canvas. After spending hours on our own looking at hundreds of paint chips, we had no idea where to begin and couldn't decide on colors. We found Rachelle on Yelp. Her schedule was flexible and although she was completely booked, she fit us into her schedule easily. Other color consultants were less available and charge a lot more. Not only does Rachelle offer her services at a reasonable rate, she's EXCELLENT at what she does. She came in with a few different paint brand options and color wheels - we were immediately drawn to the Benjamin Moore Aura line. It took less than an 2 hours and she had our colors picked for us!! AND we LOVE them!!! Also, she put us in touch with an amazing paint company MoonDance Painting (Steve and Angel were AWESOME, friendly, reasonable and professional). Rachelle is friendly, professional, and quite talented with an eye for design and color. We highly recommend her. read more

Rachelle came to my house for an hour's consultation as I needed another set of eyes before making additional living room purchases. The hour was incredibly helpful as Rachelle made a number of great suggestions. She has a wonderful eye for color as well as a feeling for details that make all the difference in pulling together a room. She was delightful to work with, asked a very fair price, and really made a difference in my buying decisions. Highly highly recommended! read more

I was referred to Rachelle by EcoHome Improvements is Berkeley. I could not have been more pleased with her timely response and her knowledgeable, professional yet down to earth manner. I needed help with some new flooring choices, a repair item and some placement decisions. She was just great and helped me so much in a short period of time. Rachelle's talents are a treasure and I will be calling upon her again and again for projects big and small. read more