PRESIDENTIALLY YOURS: A NEW DESIGNER-IN-CHIEF FOR THE WHITE HOUSE

Today we gained a new President of the United States, First Lady, VP and Cabinet. We also gained a new White House interior designer, Michael S. Smith.

(Photo from Dominomag.com)

"I am delighted to work with the Obamas as they bring their own energy and style to the residence at the White House," Smith is quoted on his publisher's home page. Last April, he told Domino Magazine, "The family's casual style, their interest in featuring 20th Century American artists and utilizing affordable brands and products will serve as our guiding principles as we make the residence feel like their home."

Smith may be new to Washington and the American public, but he’s no stranger to the design world. The 44-year old Californian has been named to Architectural Digest’s prestigious AD 100 list of top designers twice, and named a Designer of the Year by Elle Décor. His projects have been published in those magazines and others, and in two coffee tables books by Rizzoli Publishing.

He’s got lines of fabrics, furniture, carpets, tile, bath fixtures and other products that could very well find their way into the Obama White House. He'll probably also be pulling items from some very familiar spots, too.

Click here for a Today Show video on the Obamas' decorating plans with Elle Decor editor Margaret Russell. She cites Restoration Hardware, Pottery Barn, Wisteria and Anthropologie, some of my own favorite sources, as potential suppliers to the residence's rooms.

Here's a video from Domino Magazine featuring Michael Smith giving viewers a tour of his own Bel Air home. In it, he also shares his philosophies on designing that may very well carry into the White House. Here are some of my favorite Smith rooms from past projects:

I can see Sasha and Malia enjoying a bathroom like this one, with separate sinks for each girl and a large built-in to store all their goodies.

(Photo from Dominomag.com)

This bedroom looks incredibly soothing and relaxing. It could be the perfect spot for the presidential Grandmother after a day helping the girls with homework and life at the White House.

(Photo from Dominomag.com)

The slipcovers make this dining room a practical, as well as stylish, space for a family with young children.

(Photo from Dominomag.com)

What a perfect spot for enjoying a book or a game. I can definitely see the First Family relaxing in a room like this one!

(Photo from Elle Decor)

This tailored guest room would be an ideal spot to welcome Obama friends and family to the White House. It's opulent but comfortable at the same time. I'd love to check in!

(Photo from Architectural Digest)