Obamas choose interior designer for White House

By LISA TOLIN, Associated Press Writer

WASHINGTON – The White House private quarters will be getting a Hollywood-style makeover.

Los Angeles-based designer Michael Smith has been chosen by first lady Michelle Obama to decorate the private quarters of the executive mansion, transition officials said Tuesday.

Michelle Obama said Laura Bush had been a "wonderful steward" of the White House and that the family looked forward to making the East Wing home.

"Michael shares my vision for creating a family-friendly feel to our new home and incorporating some new perspectives from some of America's greatest artists and designers," she said in a statement.

Smith has designed the homes of director Steven Spielberg, actors Dustin Hoffman and Michelle Pfeiffer, model Cindy Crawford and mogul Rupert Murdoch. He's known for using antiques in a way that feels modern and airy.
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