With all of the entertaining that goes on over the holidays it can be a busy and stressful time for many people. Everyone wants their house to look festive but might not have the time or ideas on how to do this. I have put together a bunch of pictures and some tips on how to make your home look festive and inviting.
1. Everyone knows I love flowers and am the first person to display them on a table. If you are entertaining more than once over the holidays and don’t want to have to keep buying fresh flowers you can use a non- floral center piece such as a bowl of crab apples, a ginger bread house or ornaments in a glass bowl. These are all elements that will last over time and will look great and are not too expensive for your table.
2. Don’t overdue color on your table. Try to stick to two or three colors. I would suggest using neutral linens with two accent colors on the table or visa versa using colored linens with neutral elements in the center piece.
3. Fresh greens are a wonderful holiday decoration. They have a wonderful scent that is not too strong and are easy to work with. You can wrap it around a banister with Christmas lights or add some bows for color.
4. Some of the best table settings are right in your back yard. I love skinny branches with berries, pine cones, leaves and fruit. I have attached many pictures of how you can utilize these items.
5. Lastly I suggest you keep it simple and streamlined. If you decide that you want to use gourds and small apples on your small table then don’t use twigs and leaves too. If you over clutter a table or a mantle it will just look busy and not festive.
Take a look at the photo album below. There are tons of great ideas for wreaths, center pieces, decorations and much more. Enjoy the decorating for the holidays!
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Some Staging Tips
Are you trying to sell your home, apartment or condo? Here are some simple ways to stage yourself and hopefully help you sell at the price you are looking for!
1. Remove the Photos:
People can be very photogenic, but many clients are distracted by portraits of the sellers, and miss out on key selling points of the home. Try displaying art without people in it. No matter how nice the display, personal photos are just that: too personal. I was recently in a loft in Denver which was covered in artwork and it was very vibrant artwork. It had been on the market for over a year! Though it might be your taste it might not be the taste of the buyer. Try to tone down your walls.
2. Accentuate the Positive:
Most sellers usually know what they like best about their home. It's usually what they saw that made them want to buy, or it's something that they added to make the home particularly special. Whether it is a staircase, a view or even just a room, do something to make the buyers notice that space as well.
3. Smells Like Home:
Something as simple as a strong sent can turn a buyer away. Things to stay away from are strong scented candles, cigarette scents and stuffy mildew smells. Try baking or setting a fire the night before you are to have an open house. It will make the space feel homey and natural rather than overwhelming.
4. Clean Up:
If you are selling your house, cleaning is a no-brainer. And clutter will kill you. Get a head start on packing, and begin boxing up extras that are taking up space on your mantel, table surfaces, etc. Clutter makes a house look smaller, and if you have a small house, it makes it feel claustrophobic.
5. Painting:
A coat or two of paint is always a good investment. If you decide to make the effort, consider flat paint in areas for resting and relaxing. You can add some colors, but neutral is always best. Satin paint is great for common areas and places where there is a bit more action taking place.
6. Pet-Proof:
If you have pets, especially indoor pets, make sure that during your listing period, you are particularly careful about cleaning up after them. Some buyers may have allergies so you want all pet hair, toys, crates etc. hidden or put in storage.
1. Remove the Photos:
People can be very photogenic, but many clients are distracted by portraits of the sellers, and miss out on key selling points of the home. Try displaying art without people in it. No matter how nice the display, personal photos are just that: too personal. I was recently in a loft in Denver which was covered in artwork and it was very vibrant artwork. It had been on the market for over a year! Though it might be your taste it might not be the taste of the buyer. Try to tone down your walls.
2. Accentuate the Positive:
Most sellers usually know what they like best about their home. It's usually what they saw that made them want to buy, or it's something that they added to make the home particularly special. Whether it is a staircase, a view or even just a room, do something to make the buyers notice that space as well.
3. Smells Like Home:
Something as simple as a strong sent can turn a buyer away. Things to stay away from are strong scented candles, cigarette scents and stuffy mildew smells. Try baking or setting a fire the night before you are to have an open house. It will make the space feel homey and natural rather than overwhelming.
4. Clean Up:
If you are selling your house, cleaning is a no-brainer. And clutter will kill you. Get a head start on packing, and begin boxing up extras that are taking up space on your mantel, table surfaces, etc. Clutter makes a house look smaller, and if you have a small house, it makes it feel claustrophobic.
5. Painting:
A coat or two of paint is always a good investment. If you decide to make the effort, consider flat paint in areas for resting and relaxing. You can add some colors, but neutral is always best. Satin paint is great for common areas and places where there is a bit more action taking place.
6. Pet-Proof:
If you have pets, especially indoor pets, make sure that during your listing period, you are particularly careful about cleaning up after them. Some buyers may have allergies so you want all pet hair, toys, crates etc. hidden or put in storage.
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Different Styles for Everyone
It can be very confusing when someone asks you what your interior “style” is. Some people know that they are 100% traditional or contemporary but for the rest of you who can’t be quite so clear there is some ambiguity in determining what exactly it is your like. To make it easy for you I thought I would put together a glossary of what a handful of different styles are and it will hopefully help you narrow down what it is your prefer.
Contemporary: Contemporary style encompasses a range of styles developed late in the 20th century. Pieces feature softened and rounded lines, as opposed to the stark lines seen in modern design. Interiors contain neutral elements and bold color and focus on the basics of line, shape and form. Contemporary interiors feature tone-on-tone color palettes which are predominantly brown, taupe, cream and pure white. Accent colors can be found on one wall, on a rug or artwork.
Traditional: Traditional furnishings roots come from England in the 18th century, the French countryside, or even the exotic lands of the East. There are a variety of traditional styles and some of the most popular styles today are 18th-century English, 19th-century neoclassic, French country, and British Colonial revival. The colors you will see most are peach and green tones which are balanced with aubergine and tan for a slightly floral but unfussy palette. The colors are enhanced with bronze accents and warm wood tones for an inviting, comforting interior. On window treatments you will see a lot of swags with fringe and tassels. Two items you will almost always find in a traditional interior are chandeliers and oil paints.
Transitional: Transitional style is a marriage of traditional and contemporary furniture, finishes, materials and fabrics bringing a classic, timeless design. Furniture lines are simple yet sophisticated featuring either straight lines or rounded profiles. Fabric can range from graphic patterns on overstuffed sofas to textures on sleek wood frames. Accessories are limited in transitional interior. You might see potted orchids or glass vases. Most importantly you select items that blend with the interiors and do not call too much attention.
A few other styles worth mentioning but are not as frequently used as the three mentioned above are French country and cottage. French country furniture is left in their natural state with a handcrafted flair. Chairs feature caning for the backs and seats instead of heavy upholstery. Typical colors used in French country are deep and rich: Mediterranean blue, sunny yellow, terra-cotta red and green. Natural materials like stone and terra-cotta are used abundantly, in addition to wire and wrought iron. Cottage is a colorful, comfortable look characterized by painted and/or decorated furniture with graceful lines, textural elements like baskets, beadboard walls and natural fiber rugs and window shades, weathered finishes and colors taken straight from a lush flower garden.
Contemporary: Contemporary style encompasses a range of styles developed late in the 20th century. Pieces feature softened and rounded lines, as opposed to the stark lines seen in modern design. Interiors contain neutral elements and bold color and focus on the basics of line, shape and form. Contemporary interiors feature tone-on-tone color palettes which are predominantly brown, taupe, cream and pure white. Accent colors can be found on one wall, on a rug or artwork.
Traditional: Traditional furnishings roots come from England in the 18th century, the French countryside, or even the exotic lands of the East. There are a variety of traditional styles and some of the most popular styles today are 18th-century English, 19th-century neoclassic, French country, and British Colonial revival. The colors you will see most are peach and green tones which are balanced with aubergine and tan for a slightly floral but unfussy palette. The colors are enhanced with bronze accents and warm wood tones for an inviting, comforting interior. On window treatments you will see a lot of swags with fringe and tassels. Two items you will almost always find in a traditional interior are chandeliers and oil paints.
Transitional: Transitional style is a marriage of traditional and contemporary furniture, finishes, materials and fabrics bringing a classic, timeless design. Furniture lines are simple yet sophisticated featuring either straight lines or rounded profiles. Fabric can range from graphic patterns on overstuffed sofas to textures on sleek wood frames. Accessories are limited in transitional interior. You might see potted orchids or glass vases. Most importantly you select items that blend with the interiors and do not call too much attention.
A few other styles worth mentioning but are not as frequently used as the three mentioned above are French country and cottage. French country furniture is left in their natural state with a handcrafted flair. Chairs feature caning for the backs and seats instead of heavy upholstery. Typical colors used in French country are deep and rich: Mediterranean blue, sunny yellow, terra-cotta red and green. Natural materials like stone and terra-cotta are used abundantly, in addition to wire and wrought iron. Cottage is a colorful, comfortable look characterized by painted and/or decorated furniture with graceful lines, textural elements like baskets, beadboard walls and natural fiber rugs and window shades, weathered finishes and colors taken straight from a lush flower garden.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
What Countertop is Best for You?
We expect a lot from our countertops. They need to be durable yet easy to care for, stylish and timeless-looking. There are a number of factors to consider in your decision. Some surfaces, such as engineered stone and stainless steel, are sturdy and practically maintenance-free. Others, such as Carrara marble, are as elegant as it gets but trickier to care for. Budget and the style of your home also play a large role in the decision making ie. butcher block looks great in a country kitchen but may not work in a modern space. The good news is that there are more choices than ever to select from. Since there are so many types of countertops I narrowed it down to what are my favorites. In addition to the (4) below you can choose from metal, plastic laminate, recycled materials and concrete. I can understand why making a decision can be so difficult but hopefully this abbreviated guide will help you out in the future.
Stone
It’s no secret that natural stone has become the new countertop material of choice. But there is more to selecting a stone countertop than considering color and vein pattern. Granite and marble are the most popular options, but are very different when it comes to durability. Granite is extremely dense and wears well. Years after it is installed it will still look like new. Marble is a different story because it’s much more porous. Most manufacturers recommend using a sealer, but even then acids such as citrus juice, vinegar, and wine can etch the surface. Some people actually really like the patina look of marble. To reduce the appearance of etching (stains), you can get a dull, honed finish rather than a polished finish when buying marble. Prices vary widely depending on the material chosen, but most basic stones run from about $90 to $130 per square foot, installed.
Engineered Stone
Engineered stone countertops such as CaesarStone, Zodiaq, and Silestone combine natural quartz with a resin binder to make extremely hard and durable countertop. They have many of the same characteristics as granite and are nonporous, scratch resistant, and heat resistant. They also require next to no maintenance and will look new for years. Engineered stone also offers great consistency of color and detail, both across a single piece and from countertop to countertop. Engineered stone countertops typically cost about $60 to $80 per square foot, installed.
Solid Surface
One of the big advantages of solid-surface countertops like Corian and Wilsonart is their versatility. Made from acrylic and other plastics, they can be easily shaped and routed, and individual pieces can be seamlessly bonded together. It also is available in tons of colors and patterns. Solid-surface countertops are also nonporous and require no sealer, so they’re really easy to keep up If you get a scratch all you have to do is have it buffed out. Solid surfacing ranges from about $40 to $80 per square foot, installed.
Wood
Wood countertops have stood the test of time and remain a favorite option for homeowners looking to add a little warmth to the kitchen. When selecting a wood counter top the two things you need to consider are the type of wood and the orientation of the wood. Maintenance requirements vary widely for the different types. For end-grain countertops that will be used as food prep surfaces, a monthly coating of mineral oil is recommended. Other wood counters can be sealed and given a hard waterproof finish with polyurethane. The average wood countertop costs about $120 to $150 per square foot.
We expect a lot from our countertops. They need to be durable yet easy to care for, stylish and timeless-looking. There are a number of factors to consider in your decision. Some surfaces, such as engineered stone and stainless steel, are sturdy and practically maintenance-free. Others, such as Carrara marble, are as elegant as it gets but trickier to care for. Budget and the style of your home also play a large role in the decision making ie. butcher block looks great in a country kitchen but may not work in a modern space. The good news is that there are more choices than ever to select from. Since there are so many types of countertops I narrowed it down to what are my favorites. In addition to the (4) below you can choose from metal, plastic laminate, recycled materials and concrete. I can understand why making a decision can be so difficult but hopefully this abbreviated guide will help you out in the future.
Stone
It’s no secret that natural stone has become the new countertop material of choice. But there is more to selecting a stone countertop than considering color and vein pattern. Granite and marble are the most popular options, but are very different when it comes to durability. Granite is extremely dense and wears well. Years after it is installed it will still look like new. Marble is a different story because it’s much more porous. Most manufacturers recommend using a sealer, but even then acids such as citrus juice, vinegar, and wine can etch the surface. Some people actually really like the patina look of marble. To reduce the appearance of etching (stains), you can get a dull, honed finish rather than a polished finish when buying marble. Prices vary widely depending on the material chosen, but most basic stones run from about $90 to $130 per square foot, installed.
Engineered Stone
Engineered stone countertops such as CaesarStone, Zodiaq, and Silestone combine natural quartz with a resin binder to make extremely hard and durable countertop. They have many of the same characteristics as granite and are nonporous, scratch resistant, and heat resistant. They also require next to no maintenance and will look new for years. Engineered stone also offers great consistency of color and detail, both across a single piece and from countertop to countertop. Engineered stone countertops typically cost about $60 to $80 per square foot, installed.
Solid Surface
One of the big advantages of solid-surface countertops like Corian and Wilsonart is their versatility. Made from acrylic and other plastics, they can be easily shaped and routed, and individual pieces can be seamlessly bonded together. It also is available in tons of colors and patterns. Solid-surface countertops are also nonporous and require no sealer, so they’re really easy to keep up If you get a scratch all you have to do is have it buffed out. Solid surfacing ranges from about $40 to $80 per square foot, installed.
Wood
Wood countertops have stood the test of time and remain a favorite option for homeowners looking to add a little warmth to the kitchen. When selecting a wood counter top the two things you need to consider are the type of wood and the orientation of the wood. Maintenance requirements vary widely for the different types. For end-grain countertops that will be used as food prep surfaces, a monthly coating of mineral oil is recommended. Other wood counters can be sealed and given a hard waterproof finish with polyurethane. The average wood countertop costs about $120 to $150 per square foot.
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
My Love of Wallpaper
If you are one of the many people who think wallpaper is a thing of the past you are terribly wrong. As a designer, I still cannot think of a better way to complete a small space than using one of the amazing textured or patterned papers that are on the market today. I noticed recently that ads for homes on the market actually advertise that all wallpaper has been removed and that walls have a fresh coat of paint, most likely Benjamin Moore Navajo white. In some cases I can agree with them (old outdated and overly ornate paper), but generally speaking I think wallpaper gets a bad reputation. With the vast array of choices out there, there’s no reason why you can’t find great wallpaper that you’ll love so much you will have it up for many years to come.
I love using wallpapers, especially in powder rooms and dining rooms or feature walls. From natural woven textures to papers that shimmer because they contain tiny glass beads throughout, how could you not find that more exciting than paint?! Trust me, there’s something out there to suit everyone. Some of my favorite vendors to check out are: Osborne and Little, Schumacher, Thibaut and Nina Cambell.
I love using wallpapers, especially in powder rooms and dining rooms or feature walls. From natural woven textures to papers that shimmer because they contain tiny glass beads throughout, how could you not find that more exciting than paint?! Trust me, there’s something out there to suit everyone. Some of my favorite vendors to check out are: Osborne and Little, Schumacher, Thibaut and Nina Cambell.
Monday, April 5, 2010
Spring Flowers
The crocuses and tulips are blooming and it is time to brighten up your homes with these Spring Flowers. After a long winter of snow and frigid temperatures there is no better way to bring the warmth and sunshine into our homes than with cut flowers.
According to Home and Garden these are the most used cut spring flowers to use this season:
Spring
• Pussy willow (Salix discolor), yellow tulips, and blue hyacinths. Dynamic yellow and blue flowers mixed with a touch of the fuzzies boldly herald the arrival of warmer days.
• Bridal wreath and lilac is Soft and sweet. This white-and-purple duo is deliciously fragrant, too.
• Chinese forget-me-not yellow Heliopsis, and white fever few. Petite blue, yellow, and white posies that will make you smile.
If you are lucky enough to have a yard and pick your own flowers that is wonderful but if not I suggest hitting up farmers markets. They typically have good prices and the flowers are fresh. Another great spot for fresh flowers is Whole Foods. Remember that arrangements can be simple and understated. You don’t need to over do the arrangements with too many types of flowers or scents. I have included some great vases for you to use as inspirations. Happy Spring!
According to Home and Garden these are the most used cut spring flowers to use this season:
Spring
• Pussy willow (Salix discolor), yellow tulips, and blue hyacinths. Dynamic yellow and blue flowers mixed with a touch of the fuzzies boldly herald the arrival of warmer days.
• Bridal wreath and lilac is Soft and sweet. This white-and-purple duo is deliciously fragrant, too.
• Chinese forget-me-not yellow Heliopsis, and white fever few. Petite blue, yellow, and white posies that will make you smile.
If you are lucky enough to have a yard and pick your own flowers that is wonderful but if not I suggest hitting up farmers markets. They typically have good prices and the flowers are fresh. Another great spot for fresh flowers is Whole Foods. Remember that arrangements can be simple and understated. You don’t need to over do the arrangements with too many types of flowers or scents. I have included some great vases for you to use as inspirations. Happy Spring!
Sunday, March 7, 2010
Tufting
When you ladies are in discussions with your significant others about what type of furniture to get I have found the perfect option. It is both feminine and masculine at the same time…Tufting! You can use it on so many different types of applications and it is an easy project that you can even do at home yourself.
Tufting is classic, it’s elegant and it can add personality to even plain furnishings. Tufted chairs, tufted headboards, tufted ottomans and tufted daybeds, to name a few: tufting works wonders on almost any upholstered or leather piece when it comes to upping its chic ness factor. Whether it has a lot of covered buttons, just a few, or rows of indented stitches that pull at the fabric, solid tufted fabric always looks special and catches the eye.
Here’s a simple way to tuft a sofa pillow:
1. Get 4 very large, matching buttons (the size of half-dollars) that coordinate with your color scheme.
2. Take a pair of relatively soft, flat decorative pillows and sew two of the buttons back to back in the center, with heavy thread, until taut. This should create one center indentation on each side, if the buttons are well secured. Repeat with the second pillow and you’re done.
Enjoy the Project!
Tufting is classic, it’s elegant and it can add personality to even plain furnishings. Tufted chairs, tufted headboards, tufted ottomans and tufted daybeds, to name a few: tufting works wonders on almost any upholstered or leather piece when it comes to upping its chic ness factor. Whether it has a lot of covered buttons, just a few, or rows of indented stitches that pull at the fabric, solid tufted fabric always looks special and catches the eye.
Here’s a simple way to tuft a sofa pillow:
1. Get 4 very large, matching buttons (the size of half-dollars) that coordinate with your color scheme.
2. Take a pair of relatively soft, flat decorative pillows and sew two of the buttons back to back in the center, with heavy thread, until taut. This should create one center indentation on each side, if the buttons are well secured. Repeat with the second pillow and you’re done.
Enjoy the Project!
Monday, February 22, 2010
Power of Pink
In the spirit of the recently passed Valentines Day I wanted to take the opportunity to tell you about the power of my favorite color…PINK.
There are so many different shade of pink: Salmon, coral, hot pink, fuchsia, blush, flesh and rose. All of these shades provide feelings of caring, tenderness, self-worth and acceptance. This description can also be attributes for a room. A pink room will be a peaceful and calm environment.
Studies have shown that the color pink calms heart-rates, making it difficult for one to get upset in its presence. It has even been used in opposing team locker rooms and prison cells. The softer the shade the more delicate the feeling the room will convey. All shades of pink become more sophisticated looking when combined with black, grey and shades of blue.
Even though pink is often labeled a girlish color, the several rooms in the pictures below show how warm and sophisticated a pink room can be. Don’t be afraid to give it a shot!
There are so many different shade of pink: Salmon, coral, hot pink, fuchsia, blush, flesh and rose. All of these shades provide feelings of caring, tenderness, self-worth and acceptance. This description can also be attributes for a room. A pink room will be a peaceful and calm environment.
Studies have shown that the color pink calms heart-rates, making it difficult for one to get upset in its presence. It has even been used in opposing team locker rooms and prison cells. The softer the shade the more delicate the feeling the room will convey. All shades of pink become more sophisticated looking when combined with black, grey and shades of blue.
Even though pink is often labeled a girlish color, the several rooms in the pictures below show how warm and sophisticated a pink room can be. Don’t be afraid to give it a shot!
Monday, February 8, 2010
How to Make a Small Space Feel Larger
Lots of people live in a small home, a small room, or just a small space. Not only can small be beautiful but it is also easy and practical. Regardless of your reason for living in a small space you will have to make some compromises in your décor in order to not feel cramped.
Here are some simple suggestions to make a space feel larger.
Clear out the Clutter: Nothing makes a space feel smaller than having too much stuff. Organize what you need and get rid of what you don’t. With things neat and organized the space will definitely feel much larger.
Choose Soft Light Colors: Dark rich colors make a space feel cozy and intimate where light cool colors make a space feel open and airy. Light blues and greens are great options.
Coordinate Wall and Furniture Colors: When you contrast colors it has a tendency to break up the space and make it feel choppy. Your eye will wander from one piece of furniture to the next rather than the room as a whole. In a small room this makes the space feel even smaller.
Lighten up the Space: Any room will look larger if it is well lit. You can accomplish this by getting rid of heavy window treatments and by adding more lighting.
Even if you just choose to do one of the four I promise you that your small cramped apartment will feel larger in no time. Good Luck.
Here are some simple suggestions to make a space feel larger.
Clear out the Clutter: Nothing makes a space feel smaller than having too much stuff. Organize what you need and get rid of what you don’t. With things neat and organized the space will definitely feel much larger.
Choose Soft Light Colors: Dark rich colors make a space feel cozy and intimate where light cool colors make a space feel open and airy. Light blues and greens are great options.
Coordinate Wall and Furniture Colors: When you contrast colors it has a tendency to break up the space and make it feel choppy. Your eye will wander from one piece of furniture to the next rather than the room as a whole. In a small room this makes the space feel even smaller.
Lighten up the Space: Any room will look larger if it is well lit. You can accomplish this by getting rid of heavy window treatments and by adding more lighting.
Even if you just choose to do one of the four I promise you that your small cramped apartment will feel larger in no time. Good Luck.
Monday, February 1, 2010
Magic of Candlelight
When you are designing a room one of your main objectives may be to create a warm environment where people feel comfortable and at ease. Sometimes this is not so easy if you have a very cool space with minimal textures and lighting. Even in the coolest rooms or on the snowiest of days, you can always create warmth by lighting candles which will give off a warm amber glow.
Candles can be used in casual, sophisticated, practical, fun and elegant applications. They are also very cost effective in comparison to flowers. Almost any type of candle can be used in a centerpiece, and you don't need to stick with only one style at a time. They can be mixed and matched in whatever pattern or freeform design you'd like. Try using some different types: Pillars, votives, tea lights, floating candles, jar candles and tapers. Also don’t be scared to mix colors. In the right application this could be very attractive. I do suggest staying away from scented candles. The strong smells can easily overpower what you are serving and may unpleasant to some.
If you are using candles as a centerpiece on a long table, an easy way to create depth and extra light is by placing a mirror underneath the different size pillar candles. The light from the candles will reflect in the mirror and give a really nice warm sophisticated ambiance. Water is also a great reflector of light and looks great when you float candles in a hurricane or bowl. Going back to last weeks post you can always get personalized candles. These are great for weddings; perhaps in the bathrooms.
If you are hosting an outdoor summer party or a wedding at the beach, luminaries are a simple and cost effective way of creating a dramatic entrance or pathway. If you are worried about fires you can also now purchase battery powered votives that set off great light.
Candles can be used in casual, sophisticated, practical, fun and elegant applications. They are also very cost effective in comparison to flowers. Almost any type of candle can be used in a centerpiece, and you don't need to stick with only one style at a time. They can be mixed and matched in whatever pattern or freeform design you'd like. Try using some different types: Pillars, votives, tea lights, floating candles, jar candles and tapers. Also don’t be scared to mix colors. In the right application this could be very attractive. I do suggest staying away from scented candles. The strong smells can easily overpower what you are serving and may unpleasant to some.
If you are using candles as a centerpiece on a long table, an easy way to create depth and extra light is by placing a mirror underneath the different size pillar candles. The light from the candles will reflect in the mirror and give a really nice warm sophisticated ambiance. Water is also a great reflector of light and looks great when you float candles in a hurricane or bowl. Going back to last weeks post you can always get personalized candles. These are great for weddings; perhaps in the bathrooms.
If you are hosting an outdoor summer party or a wedding at the beach, luminaries are a simple and cost effective way of creating a dramatic entrance or pathway. If you are worried about fires you can also now purchase battery powered votives that set off great light.
Friday, January 22, 2010
To Monogram or Not to Monogram?
Most people recognize a monogram as initials or a set of letters combined to make one sign of identity. A monogram was first used as a royal signature and was originally seen on coins and artwork to identify people of importance. During the Victorian era members of high class society started adopting the monogram to be used as a symbol that represented their place in society.
Female monograms had the first initial on the left, middle initial on the right, and last initial embroidered larger in the middle. That is hardly the case anymore. Now a days you will find monograms on just about everything: bags, belts, shoes, sheets, pillows, towels, car seats and stationery. You will see playful, whimsical, traditional, understated and elegant monograms these days. Not to mention a monogram can now be a whole name rather than just initials.
In regards to interiors I think that you should have no reason not to monogram towels, bedding, accessories and kitchen goods but just use it in moderation. If you decide to get monogrammed towels then hold off on the monogrammed sheets or lamp shades. If you choose to monogram your glasses then pair them with non-monogrammed flatware. Monogramming is an easy way to make a room or accessories look clean, crisp and elegant, be careful however because you can easily over do it and need to know when enough is enough.
Female monograms had the first initial on the left, middle initial on the right, and last initial embroidered larger in the middle. That is hardly the case anymore. Now a days you will find monograms on just about everything: bags, belts, shoes, sheets, pillows, towels, car seats and stationery. You will see playful, whimsical, traditional, understated and elegant monograms these days. Not to mention a monogram can now be a whole name rather than just initials.
In regards to interiors I think that you should have no reason not to monogram towels, bedding, accessories and kitchen goods but just use it in moderation. If you decide to get monogrammed towels then hold off on the monogrammed sheets or lamp shades. If you choose to monogram your glasses then pair them with non-monogrammed flatware. Monogramming is an easy way to make a room or accessories look clean, crisp and elegant, be careful however because you can easily over do it and need to know when enough is enough.
Friday, January 15, 2010
Picture Frame Wall
Do you have a wall in your home or apartment that is either small or awkward and not in such great shape? You would love to put up some artwork but nothing ever seems to fit quite right? Have you ever considered a frame collection? They are perfect for that small awkward niche that might normally be overlooked or you can take it to the other extreme and make it into the focal point of a room on a larger wall.
Your first step is to decide if you would prefer something more grid like and structured or free flowing and organic. Grid layouts work really well when you have multiple frame sizes. Whether you are hanging in a group or a row, just make sure each frame edge will line up with the frame next to it. Pay attention to where the hanging height of the frame will be because not all frames are the same. It is a good idea to have your largest and most noticeable frame in the middle and let the other frames branch out off of it. A good distance between the frames is 2-4 inches. For the smaller frames stay closer to the 2 inches and the 4 inches for the larger.
If you are using all black frames it could be a bit startling on a white wall. If the wall is not too large you might want to consider painting the wall a dark color. Two great options are a dark grey and a cerulean blue. Both will leave you with a very sophisticated look.
Good Luck Hanging!
Your first step is to decide if you would prefer something more grid like and structured or free flowing and organic. Grid layouts work really well when you have multiple frame sizes. Whether you are hanging in a group or a row, just make sure each frame edge will line up with the frame next to it. Pay attention to where the hanging height of the frame will be because not all frames are the same. It is a good idea to have your largest and most noticeable frame in the middle and let the other frames branch out off of it. A good distance between the frames is 2-4 inches. For the smaller frames stay closer to the 2 inches and the 4 inches for the larger.
If you are using all black frames it could be a bit startling on a white wall. If the wall is not too large you might want to consider painting the wall a dark color. Two great options are a dark grey and a cerulean blue. Both will leave you with a very sophisticated look.
Good Luck Hanging!
Saturday, January 9, 2010
The 2010 Color of the year is TURQUOISE
It is in...the 2010 pantone color of the year is turquoise. Turquoise represents deep compassion and healing and is also the color of faith and hope. How appropriate is that for 2010? The color is influenced by the sky and water and for many represents the idea of an escape. Many people are craving escapism after a tough year and what better to put in your house than a color that reminds you of a resort destination.
So how can we use turquoise in our homes? Turquoise works really well with most colors in the spectrum. It adds stimulation to neutrals and browns, complements reds and pinks, creates a nautical look with deep blues, livens up greens and is trendy with yellows.
Turquoise can be used in both formal and informal applications.
It can easily look both elegant on dressy silks or casual on linens and cottons. Being that it is such a versatile color it works well as a accent color in a room rather than the dominant color. Turquoise works very well in powder rooms and bedrooms. It adds warmth and excitement to any cool space. It is also a great accent color in a kitchen being used on tiles, table linens or appliances to create some vibrancy in the room.
"Turquoise is universally appealing. It puts everyone in the same state of mind- on vacation." Says Jane Shoenborn of Lilly Pulitzer.
So how can we use turquoise in our homes? Turquoise works really well with most colors in the spectrum. It adds stimulation to neutrals and browns, complements reds and pinks, creates a nautical look with deep blues, livens up greens and is trendy with yellows.
Turquoise can be used in both formal and informal applications.
It can easily look both elegant on dressy silks or casual on linens and cottons. Being that it is such a versatile color it works well as a accent color in a room rather than the dominant color. Turquoise works very well in powder rooms and bedrooms. It adds warmth and excitement to any cool space. It is also a great accent color in a kitchen being used on tiles, table linens or appliances to create some vibrancy in the room.
"Turquoise is universally appealing. It puts everyone in the same state of mind- on vacation." Says Jane Shoenborn of Lilly Pulitzer.
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