Nested Interiors

One HOT Bookcase!

2011-11-11T06:54:00.004-05:00

I am salivating over this new beauty from PolArt! This is by far the hottest bookcase I have ever seen.

Simply stunning...bottom line!!

2010-04-17T07:00:00.002-04:00

It's Market time again! Hip, Hip, Hooray! Leaving today and can't wait to blog about some fabulous finds and hot new trends! Stay tuned...

Pulley Light Debut

2010-04-13T14:45:00.014-04:00

I am LOVING this new pulley light designed by Architects & Heroes Interiors for Four Hands that will be introduced during Market this weekend! A&H are the leading designers of counter balanced pulley lights and I can't wait to see their entire collection!

Ask the Designer: Lofting it!

2010-04-07T23:21:00.003-04:00

Ok Tracy, this one's for you and thanks for asking such great questions!

Here's the questions I received:

1. How to decorate for an open loft space, where decisions need to be considered holistically

and keeping in mind...

2. Decorating rental spaces (i.e., not painting the white walls, but making them feel less generic (and less bare!)

1- Keep your furniture lines similar throughout the loft. Meaning, if you have modern furniture, then keep the same look in each section of the space. This will make the area look larger and your eye will flow throughout the room instead of halt from piece to piece which becomes too jarring and breaks the space up too much.

2- In keeping with similar furniture lines, you should maintain the same color palette throughout the loft. However, you can mix it up a bit so it doesn't look too much alike. For instance, if you have a grey sofa and you pop in some purple and yellow pillows, then you could use purple bed linens with varying purple and grey tones as bedroom accents.

3- Add long window treatments, either straight panels or curtains. Window treatments add so much depth, warmth, and height to a space. It is always good to keep the same window treatment fabric throughout the loft. This will make the flowing rooms look cleaner and feel larger.

4- Fake a window(s) by adding curtains or a shoji-type window flat panel system (Ikea makes some great panel curtain systems) on a plain wall. This adds depth and color to the room without adding a lot of artwork and clutter. It also takes up some the "dead" wall space that is often in lofts and shhhh! no one will look behind them :). Another great look is a large floor mirror. A mirror will add more light throughout the space (with light bouncing off the mirror) and will give the illusion that the room is larger.

5- Wrap a colorful fabric around canvas stretchers and make either a series of small 12"x12" boxes or just one large 48"x36" piece. Even a series of tall 60"x24"' panels would be fun. This is an inexpensive but creative way you can coordinate the colors in your fabric with your palette throughout your loft decor.

6- Add separate rugs (even if you have carpet) to each area (i.e., eating area, living room, study, bedroom). The rugs can either be the same pattern but in varying sizes and shapes, or different patterns from the same color-way (different rugs from one manufacturer all with the same color tones). This will break up the spaces enough but will also add color and depth to your space. I can't stress enough to make sure to keep some constant feature (colors or patterns) throughout all the rugs in order to maintain flow.

7- Use "removable" wall decals on your walls to add a graphic as well as depth without adding nail holes. I love Blik wall sticks and Etsy has some great finds too!! You can choose from many different colors but can get very creative. Add them to your walls, kitchen cabinets, hardwood floors, mirrors, windows and furniture.

8- To keep nail holes to a minimum, use 3M wall hooks and picture hangers. They are easy to install and removable without any wall damage.

Hope this helps! Good luck and please let me know if you need anything else!

Ask the Designer...

2010-04-06T15:46:00.000-04:00

I am starting an "Ask the Designer" Wednesday blog. If you have any questions about your house and/or decor and want free advice, please let me know. I will select the questions in the order I receive them and will blog about them on Wednesdays.

Please ask, I am here to help!!!

Tip Tuesday: Trim Colors

2010-04-06T14:11:00.010-04:00

Everyone thinks that choosing your paint colors will change your whole room, and to some degree, they are right. However, selecting the proper trim color is extremely important as well (and no, all whites and ivories aren't the same)! Picking a trim color is very difficult because some have grey, pink, yellow, green or blue undertones. There are many, so called "whites" out there that it becomes overwhelming.

The most important thing to remember is that you shouldn't just slap up the painters white on your trim. You want to choose a trim that will compliment your paint colors. So, I am going to try and ease your selections by giving you my three favorite Sherwin Williams trim colors.

My tendency is to avoid using the traditional painters bright white and to select a softer ivory tone instead. It will still stand out against your walls (except if your walls are white) but it just doesn't glare at you like some of the whites out there. You want the trim to be an accessory in your room and not the focal point.

These trim colors I am sharing with you also compliment many paint colors that you may choose for your walls.

1- Decor White

SW 7559

2- Roman Column

SW 7562

3-Dover White

SW 6385

I prefer using a semi-gloss or glossy finish for the trims so they clean well and make a little "pop" around your rooms.

Quote Of The Day...

2010-01-11T19:02:00.002-05:00

"I'm all about exuberance. We only have one short life to live, and we shouldn't waste it being tasteful."

-- Isaac Mizrahi, fashion designer

Happy Birthday To Me!

2009-12-17T09:21:00.006-05:00

Well, my birthday was actually yesterday but I think I am allowed to celebrate all week, right?

So, I wanted to share the awesome gift my husband gave me... The Modern Glamour, The Art of Unexpected Style by Kelly Wearstler.

If you don't know already, Kelly Wearstler is my absolute favorite designer right now. I truly admire her vision and talent. It is out there and bold and that is the way I like it! :)

I have been glued to this book with my mouth open and drooling. I am also giddy with delight that I have several items in this book in my own house as well as in some of my clients' homes and I never knew it!

Color Personality

2009-12-09T23:57:00.015-05:00

I've got color on my mind. So, here's a little color psychology with tips for where to use these colors in your house or work space. I've added some additional commentary and ideas to the references below, but I want to thank Michele Bernhardt for her 'Color Personality' article in House Beautiful which I used as the base analysis for the color references listed below.

What color defines you?

Pink= LOVE: Opens The Heart

Pink is gentle and soothing (hence why it is the universal color for a baby girl). It promotes tenderness and is a comfort in times of emotional transition. Use pink in a room when you are trying to increase receptivity and understanding.

Bright Red= ENERGY: Will Fortify You

Red is a stimulant. It promotes courage and fearlessness. Use this color when you want to increase self-confidence. However, too much red can make you feel overly excited or agitated. You would generally want to avoid the use of red in a child's bedroom, classroom, or fitness center.

Paired with yellow, red also helps to stimulate hunger. Which is why it is used in dining areas or fast food restaurants that have some sort of yellow or red in their signs and logos.

Dark/Deep Red (Blood Red/Maroon)= SENSUALITY: Inspires Passion

Deep red helps awaken the libido. Use this color to move you through inhibitions and emotional blocks that prevent you from expressing your self. This color will remind you to live life fully and to love your body.

Orange= CREATIVITY: Expands Your Thinking

Orange reduces self-consciousness and allows you to express yourself with confidence. Use orange in your home when you want to feel younger. It is the color of laughter and celebration and is a great choice for creative office spaces or play areas.

Yellow= CONCENTRATION: Increases Your Focus

Yellow is known for enhancing intelligence and mental agility. It can help stimulate conversation and clarify thoughts.

Light Green (Sage/Lime Green)=PROSPERITY: Increases Wealth

Green is the primary color in nature, it corresponds with life's riches. It is the color of fresh starts and growth. Lighter shades of green will encourage you to honor your unique talents and manifest them in the material world.

Dark Green (Hunter Green/Kelly Green)= HEALTH: Color Of Healing

Green also represents nourishment and helps steady the body, balancing your equilibrium and encouraging stability. Use a darker shade of green to rejuvenate yourself, to promote physical and emotional well-being. A great use of this color would be in a small reading nook or sitting area that you use for reflection and rejuvenation.

Aqua= REST: Inspires Trust

Aqua is the color to use when you need to relax. Wear or surround yourself with it if you have difficulty sleeping, dreaming, or meditating. This is why there has been an increase of the "aqua and brown" color palette in spas and master bedrooms.

Light Blue= CALM: Sense Of Peace

Light blue dissolves tension and promotes tranquility. It especially brings ease into the home and harmony into relationships. Wearing or surrounding yourself with light blue, helps calm aggressive tendencies and eliminates discord.

Dark/Deep Blue (Navy/Midnight Blue)= ORDER: Encourages Efficiency

Deep Blue will purify your thinking, so you can cut through the clutter and discover what is most important in your life. It helps you integrate the big picture with the little picture. Wear dark blue when you need to make a decision. Areas surrounding a desk or workspace that you often use for task-oriented work are a good choice for using this color.

Light Purple (Violet)= SPIRITUALITY

Light purple will help you connect to a higher plane. Purple encourages a fresh perspective on emotional issues. By reminding you that we are all connected, it will deepen your sense of humanity. Use light purple in your home to enhance compassion and to experience friends and family.

Dark/Deep Purple (Amethyst/Plum)= BALANCE

Deep purple is often associated with luxury, wealth and sophistication. However, it also helps balance the body and mind as well as suppresses hunger. This color brings peace and combats fears. Use purple in rooms to increase creativity and imagination and to provide a touch of glamour and elegance.

Fit For A King

2009-11-25T14:02:00.007-05:00

I would love to have these Crystallized Henry VIII chairs in my dining room for our Thanksgiving feast! These spectacular "Tudors" chairs were designed by Martin Albert Interiors for Metropolitan Home's Showtime House. Each chair is hand painted on linen and then Swarovski crystals are precisely applied as they drip down Henry VIII's portrait and then added to his wives' jewelry and head pieces.

Eat like a king tomorrow! Happy Thanksgiving!!

Tip Tuesday: Easy Holiday Decor Change

2009-11-24T08:55:00.025-05:00

Want an inexpensive instant decor change before the holidays? You can have a completely different look by just changing and adding a few minor items in your room. Just pick a color(s) and go for it! For example, all you need to do to successfully change your look in your living room is change the following...

1- Accent Pillows

2- Lamp or Lamp Shades

3- Throw/Blanket

4- Accessories

5- Accent Rug

I guarantee it will give you a completely different look and everyone will think you redecorated your whole room!

Here's an example of this strategy using the color green.

Add a fun tray on a side table or your ottoman:

If you can't find the perfect color for a lamp, you can always add a different shade or decorative trim to the shade.

Also, you can change the look of your lamps by putting them on top of a charger (round or square) or a square placemat. It adds instant color and focus to your lamps. Chargers and placemats aren't just for your table settings!!!

Or add a fun table runner across your media console, coffee table, or sofa table:

Your pillows don't have to be a solid color they just need a little bit of your chosen color in them like these:

Put a bunch of these in a glass bowl or apothecary glass container. There are also lots of fun colored decorative balls out there that would look great in glass containers or jars.

Just add a few small decorative items around the room keeping with the same color tones.

If you need extra seating for the holidays, these are great to use as side chairs from Target and they also stack for storage. Put some small rectangular back pillows in them for a dresser look.

Put a fabric or leather basket/box in your room and fill with books, magazines or wood logs:

Candles are an easy way to throw in a new color:

Festive starters! Trees are coming out in lots of colors and materials this year!

Magazine of the Month

2009-11-23T22:24:00.005-05:00

My magazine choice of the month would have to be Metropolitan Home.

You must grab this December issue because it will sadly be the last issue they publish. Nonetheless, they are definitely leaving with a bang! It is a wonderfully beautiful issue with some delicious eye candy that will make you say, oohhh!

So sad to see you go, Met Home. Hopefully some day you will return! Bon Voyage, you will be much missed!

White Coco Twigs

2009-11-23T22:03:00.006-05:00

I am in love with anything white! Found these beautiful whitewashed coco twigs that would look fantastic as a holiday centerpiece, across a mantle, or grouped in a vase in the corner of a room.

Etsy Find Fridays: Gobble, Gobble!

2009-11-20T15:27:00.013-05:00

Here are some "unusual" Etsy Thanksgiving finds that truly make me laugh out loud!!! These are quite hilarious to me, and for anyone wondering, you won't be finding these gems in my house for the holidays!

Bless these artists' hearts!!!

Enjoy!

Tom Turkey 3D Pillow: Oh my!

Everlasting Turkey Gel Candle Centerpiece:

Panda Bear Turkey Centerpiece:

Autumn Harvest Placemats and Napkins:

Tom Turkey:

Rollie Turkey: Never knew turkeys smiled!

Turkey Pillow Covers:

Peanut Gobblers: Too funny!

Oven Roasted Turkey: HILARIOUS!!

Real Simple Gift Guide Favorites

2009-11-18T07:07:00.006-05:00

Of course you probably know my love for magazines and the December Real Simple gift guide (50 Gifts For Under $50) is truly my favorite issue of the year. I get so giddy when I receive it in the mail and can't wait to see what they have selected. So, here are my faves that I just adore this year...

How awesome would these Berkley Illustration Prints be in a children's room or a series of them down your hallway!

Ponoko Silhouetted Wood Coasters

Fun!!! Framed Alphabet Prints

Of course I am crazy about these white Ceramic Nuts! I have previously purchased them for accessories in one of my homes!

How beautiful are these Penguin Hardcover Classic Books ! Books that you can finally display proudly!

Love, Love, Love these Crumpled Porcelain Shakers by Xie Dong! Hope I am getting these from Santa this year :)!

Tip Tuesday: Pronounce the word "CHAISE LONGUE"

2009-11-16T08:44:00.036-05:00

This is probably one of my recent pet peeves (and for all of my friends and family who have recently used this word, please take no offense to this post). Yes, I know it sounds silly but the word "chaise" is so commonly and regularly mispronounced that I thought I could spread the word a little, or spread the correct pronunciation of the word that is. :)

(If some of you don't know what I am talking about when I say "chaise", the following definition will help give you some insight. (Chaise Longue/Lounge): is a long chair, with or without arms, for reclining, having a seat lengthened to form a complete leg rest and sometimes an adjustable back.)

This wonderful piece of furniture has made a huge comeback into the design world as well as many of my homes recently so I thought it's proper origin and pronunciation deserved some blog time. I know I am not a linguistics specialist nor do I try to be one, however, when possible, I try to pronounce design words as best I can when their origin is known. Funny enough I still giggle a bit when I hear designers and trade professional mispronounce it!

From my studies in design school and history I know the word 'chaise longue' originates from the French, meaning, long chair. For fun I did some more research on this topic and read that the mispronunciation of this as a 'chase lounge' or 'lounge chair' began in America as early as the early-1800s. Referring to the 'chaise longue' as a 'lounge' or a 'chase' is more a false/folk etymology or eggcorn and is the result of 'americanizing' the word more than anything else.

The general thought is that since early writers didn't know how to spell or pronounce the French word, the term "chase lounge" makes some sense given that you do in fact, lounge on this long chair. Thus, instead of keeping to the true origin and correct pronunciation, the American interpretation of the chair's 'usefulness' hung around.

So, if you want to impress your design friends, or correct a sales person at a retailer, or just sound super smart at your next dinner party, listen to this clip of chaise and start practicing!

chaise longue

[sheyz lawng, cheyz; Fr. shez lawng]

–noun, plural chaise longues, French. chaises longues [shezlawng]

a chair, with or without arms, for reclining, having a seat lengthened to form a complete leg rest and sometimes an adjustable back.

Also, chaise lounge [sheyz lounj, cheyz]

Origin: 1790–1800; <>chaise lounge by folk etym.

chaise (shāz) n.

Any of various light open carriages, often with a collapsible hood, especially a two-wheeled carriage drawn by one horse.
A post chaise.
A chaise longue.

[French, chair, variant of Old French chaiere; see chair.]

The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition Copyright © 2009 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.
Cite This Source

Examples of chaise longues:

Etsy Find Fridays: Hand Made Napkins

2009-11-12T21:57:00.018-05:00

Tis' the season for selecting some great napkins that speak for themselves when your guests sit around your table during the holidays. Let them be your conversation pieces!

Navy Poppy Napkins:

Animal Napkins:

Acid Green Urban Letterpress Napkins:

Linen Napkins:

Gray Peacock Napkins:

Cherry Sneezy Sheets: (they are listed as "handkerchiefs" but are so cute that they can be used as napkins)

Eco-Friendly Linen Napkins:

Tina the Llama Napkins:

Halcyon Napkins:

Grenade Napkins:

Rose and Radish is back!

2009-11-11T14:54:00.002-05:00

One of my favorite boutiques, Rose and Radish, is back online now after moving to a new location. Based out of San Francisco, their motto is that 'living with objects you love makes you happy.'

This makes me happy too, and I'm excited they're back!

You can always count on their store to have some elegant and edgy objects that no one else offers. Plus, they're extremely friendly to designers, artists, and manufacturers that produce unique, well crafted goods.

Yeah! Be sure to check out their 'Motley' collection, it's one of my favs.

Tip Tuesday: Buying Giclee Prints

2009-11-10T15:48:00.005-05:00

A common issue I run across with my clients is helping them find original art that is both affordable and large (over 36"-72"). Options for original art in this size range are costly and difficult to find because the time and artistic skill required to create pieces this large result in fewer artists working at this size. Oil paintings and photography in this range often run well over $1000 in addition to $300 or more to frame the piece. Multiply this price by the 3-5 pieces we all want in ours homes, and the cost for purchasing original art can add up quickly.

There are ways you can get around this cost or give the illusion of art occupying more wall space. Some options include:
1. Buying smaller pieces as sets and grouping them together to form one larger collection
2. Purchasing textiles and either wrapping them around a canvas stretcher or hanging them as a piece of art
3. Creating a 48" or larger piece by framing a smaller piece (in the 24-36" range) with oversize mats and frames

However, none of these can accurately reproduce the scale, texture, and dramatic statement that a single 60" oil painting on canvas brings to a space. Reproductions are an option, but most mass-produced reproductions are of such poor quality and lose much of their depth and texture when reproduced on paper. There is also little control or restrictions placed on the number of reproductions created, so there is little benefit in owning a reproduced piece in terms of originality.

However, there is another option that is gaining momentum...giclee printing.

Giclee prints (pronounced zhee-clay) are reproductions using high resolution digital scans of original paintings printed directly on canvas using archival quality inks. Recent technological improvements in the printmaking process allows 8-12 color ink-jet printers to create reproductions that surpass traditional silver-halide and gelatin printing processes. If you are skeptical about the quality, don't worry, several museums, including the Met and MoMA have giclee prints in their collection and some artists are selling giclee prints of their work for $10K-20K.

The main advantage to giclee prints are that they can be reproduced at almost any size to fit your budget for under half the cost of an original oil painting. And, since they are printed on canvas and at such high quality that the texture and depth of the original oil is still evident.

Other nice aspects of giclee prints is that many galleries offer gallery wrapping, small edition runs, and artist embellishments (this involves the artist painting oil on top of the giclee print giving further texture and originality to the print). Since the artist embellishes each print uniquely each giclee print is technically an original piece of art. This process is similar to the artist starting each painting with the same base coat or image and then adding new elements that customize each specific print. Besides the cost, this aspect of originality is one of the biggest selling points for giclee prints.

So, if you are trying to save a little bit of money but would like a piece of art that has texture, originality, and size, giclee prints are a great alternative.

Hot Item Purchased... Steal of a Deal!!

2009-11-09T14:18:00.006-05:00

Found this awesome retro Flip Clock by Innovative Technology from Urban Outfitters on our adventures in Charlottesville, VA this weekend for only $9.99! It is going to be a nice little addition to a new bachelor pad I am designing in Richmond, VA.

See, you don't have to spend a lot of moola on some funky accessories that are both fun and functional!

Brings me back in time...

Etsy Find Friday: ACORNS!

2009-11-06T06:48:00.000-05:00

With the fall season in full effect, I thought it would be fun to peruse Etsy for some seasonal trinkets and art work. In my case, fall means making wonderful comfort food recipes, trips to the mountains, and the sound of little acorns bouncing on our roof every few minutes. Depending on your perspective, our yard is either a playground or a danger zone of fat little squirrels running around piles of yellow leaves hoarding their winter stash of acorns.

With that being said, November is one of my favorite times of year and I am excited to bring some Etsy finds that mirror other people's enjoyment of this season too!

Enjoy...

Day 5: Market Favorite Designer/Collection

2009-11-05T07:52:00.000-05:00

Gus Design Group. Simple forms and honest materials make for good modern furniture.

In contrast to many of my 'bam and glam' affinities, I do have a healthy respect and admiration for designers who understand the basic needs we have for designs that use carefully considered materials to create simple and elegant forms. Gus Design Group fits that mold perfectly as evident in their strong line of modernist furniture and material choices. Mirroring the tenets and principles of high modernism their furniture is accessible and gentle and they seem to have avoided the pitfall of only copying modern forms rather than interpreting them.

As a team, they were generous, responsive, and invested in pushing their design philosophy to a broader audience. What I appreciate about them is that they are designers first, retailers second, and this is evident in the care they put into their work.

From their 2010 line:

Day 4: Market Favorite Designers/Collections

2009-11-04T13:10:00.000-05:00

Made Goods. Mirrors that make you go, 'Yum!'

We stumbled across a small studio called Made Goods who's motto is to create mirrors that are design focal points. These mirrors range from the super clean to the super organic. Glamorous and bold, all are unique and inspired from strong antique forms or natural elements. Best suited as pieces of art or hung in a space which allows it to breathe, these pieces have a timeless presence which is really stunning. Getting to view these pieces in person was a nice treat. I can't wait to add one of these to someone's house soon!

Here are some of my favorites...

Tip Tuesday: Decorative Bathroom Mirrors

2009-11-03T05:13:00.013-05:00

Unless you've designed or have plans to replace the hardware, tile, flooring, and fixtures in your bathroom, homeowners are left with a simple few elements to personalize this space. Replacing your standard contractor lighting is one relatively cheap and effective approach. Bath textiles such as towels, shower curtains, and window treatments are also cost-effective ways to add some boldness to a bathroom...but these don't have to be your only options.

One option I often ask clients to consider is replacing their standard frameless mirror with a decorative mirror. Bathrooms might be utilitarian in their purpose, but it doesn't mean they can't have some elements of artistry and weight as well.

It is true that textiles are simple and offer a huge range of choices and styles, but what if you have a shower stall with a glass door or you don't want to bring that much attention to a tub area? Why not pull the focus away from these elements and over to the more intimate space of your vanity?

Here's a few tips or ideas for adding a decorative mirror to your bathroom, but be sure to check back tomorrow when I highlight a design studio that specializes in beautiful, artistic decorative mirrors.

Tips:

1. Shape matters
Rectangular mirrors will fill the space fully and give a clean, tight, classic appearance to your vanity. In terms of use, they are also the most economical in the square inches they provide. Circular mirrors hang on the wall like a piece of art and require a more surrounding space to breathe. They offer less square inches but make a bold, contemporary statement to the room. Oval shapes give a soft effect, feel light, and regal. They're a great choice if you want more square inches than a circular mirror but want to soften the hard lines of the rest of the room. Choose a shape that makes the most sense for the look you want to achieve and the space available.

2. Go DIY
One super easy solution for this space is to go to a local framing store and choose from one of their custom wood frames. With the range of stains and finishes (including a nice shiny lacquer, yeah!) you have a wide variety of options to fit your existing bathroom motif.
Call a glass dealer in your area to have the mirror made for the frame and you have a great, custom mirror for less than a few hundred dollars.

Another DIY option is to hit the flea market or yard sales to find an older frame you can reuse. Just remove the old artwork, add a mirror and any additional hardware needed for support.

3. Buy the right size
If you want the mirror to have some punch, it needs space on the wall to breathe. Allow ample, and preferably equal room around the mirror edges if the mirror is near side walls. If the mirror hugs the vanity and vanity light too tight but leaves too much space around the mirror sides, it will feel cramped and forced. Remember, you're trying to bring the focal point to the mirror itself, so give it some room to pop.

4. Simple design ideas

If you have a small bathroom, choose a shower curtain to match or coordinate with the color of your wall paint. This will de-emphasize the space around the tub which will allow you to really make a statement with a unique mirror (especially if the mirror frame is a punchy color).
Think about taking the mirror all the way up to the ceiling. Coupled with a unique vanity light, this can be a very dramatic approach that adds some depth and height to the room. It will require some custom cutting and drilling to accommodate your vanity light, but with some assistance, this is a super chic look.
For long, double sink vanity mirrors, consider mounting two uniquely shaped mirrors above each sink with a sconce or other vertical wall element in between. This will help break up the long stretch of the vanity top and bring vertical focus/alignment to the vanity light, mirror, sink, and hardware.

Day 3: Market Favorite Designers/Collections

2009-10-28T15:27:00.013-04:00

So, on our last day of Market we were eagerly looking forward to visiting BoBo Intriguing Objects (BoBo= Bourgeois Bohemian). When we entered this eclectic attic of curiosities, peculiars, casegoods, and bohemian furniture we were definitely intrigued. It felt like we were traveling through a century of design objects accumulated and inspire from century old European residences and factories. We saw everything from a 125 year old vintage picture box of beetle species to hand carved wooden factory gears to their new line of handmade furniture and casegoods. I've been to a lot of antique dealers and collectors, but the craft and quality of their reproductions were some of the best I've seen.

During our visit, we also got to meet the owners Marc Sage and Rudi Nijssen. We really enjoyed getting to spend a few minutes chatting with them because we got to hear about their design processes, inspirations, and a bit of their history. Designers are a funny breed so you never know what to expect when you meet them, but these guys have an honesty and hospitable nature that is truly genuine.

However, the amusing part was that after we left them my husband realized that he recognized the two of them from somewhere but couldn't remember where. For some reason one of the recent covers of Restoration Hardware popped in our heads but we weren't sure. I wanted to go back and confirm this, but Jason totally chickened out. Sure enough, we should have gone back and chatted with them more because we got home and confirmed that they were one of the artisans highlighted in the latest Restoration Hardware campaign. Go figure!

So without any more stories, welcome to the land of BoBo Intriguing Objects...

Day 2: Market Favorite Designers/Collections

2009-10-27T15:50:00.034-04:00

Phillips Collection is one of my new favorites because they do a great job of mixing high art and glam with organic shapes and forms. They've got a great line and they're reasonably affordable. Here's a few of the reasons why I loved the Phillips Collection...YUMMMM!

Gold Tooth Crocodile Skull:

Saber Tooth Tiger Skull: (bling-ed out!)

Broken Egg Bowl:

Stella Doll Sculptures: Love these!!!

Black Sheep: baa-baa, full scale!

Pebble Coffee/Side Table: Available in silver, gold or black

Coffee Tables:

Resin Wedge Cocktail Table:

Chamcha Wood Chunk Freeform Coffee Table:

Console/Buffet Table:

Marble Dining Table:

Table Lamps:

Teak Wood Sculpture: 104"l x 22"w x 100"h

Galvanized Wall Art:

Seatbelt Furniture Collection: Dining Chair, Rocker, Lounge Chair, Ottoman, & Stool

It is actually VERY comfortable!!

Day 1: Market Favorite Designers/Collections

2009-10-26T07:00:00.002-04:00

I will do my best to feature a different designer/collection that peaked my interest during Market this season every day this week. There was A LOT to see and so much eye candy that I just wanted to start all over with my house... again :). However, there was only about 7 or 8 collections that truly stood out and captured my interest.

Of the many lines that we saw this season, I definitely had two favorites, Christopher Guy and Phillips Collection. Of course they are of two different extremes and are ranked among my top favorites for completely different reasons. Nonetheless, they are both wonderfully unique and creatively crafted.

And so I begin with Christopher Guy.

I honestly have to say that I was breathless when we entered his absolutely chic showroom. The sales reps were extremely kind, sincere and professional. You could immediately tell that they loved and believed in their beautiful products. We truly felt royally treated as if we were in a King's Palace our entire stay (and I must add that it looked like a King's Palace as well).

ALL of Christopher Guy's pieces just simply spoke for themselves. Every piece he creates is individually handcarved from mahogany and every chandelier is crafted from handblown glass. It was truly a breathtaking experience and I wished you could have all come with me!

You may have noticed his signature "x" leg before but if you haven't, you won't forget it after this. Also, take a look at the cover of the November issue of Metropolitan Home, you will immediately recognize his beautiful signature "x" chairs.

"When CRAFTSMANSHIP takes your breath away. When DESIGN opens your mind. When CREATIVITY draws your acclaim. That is when you know it's MAGIC."

- Christopher Guy

Stools/Ottomans:

Desks:

Buffet/Console:

Screens/Dividers:

Mirrors:

Table Lamps:

Chandeliers:

Stay tuned for the Phillips Collection...

We are back!

2009-10-17T22:56:00.006-04:00

Yes, we are still in business!! (very much so I might add)

I have to start out by saying that I am sorry for not blogging recently and sharing my love and thoughts with you. I can't complain because I have been super busy with my clients and have had to give all my attention to them. I hope you understand, but we should be back in full swing this week...just in time for Market!

That being said, I am going to give you a little something to wet your taste buds from our LONG adventure today. My little piggies are killing me and my design brain is jammed packed tonight. But TRUST ME, you will want to see what we discovered today. Our journey continues tomorrow and we will post our fabulous finds all throughout the week.

I don't know what was more eye catching, the furniture or the people. :)

It was a great show!!

What's your favorite?

2009-09-16T20:30:00.001-04:00

I'm currently selecting some fabrics that will be used to create custom bed linens, pillows, and window treatments for a client's master bedroom. I thought it would be fun to share the comps I'm considering, so take a look at the combinations below and let me know which one is your favorite. I'll tell you mine after you tell me yours :)!

Comp 1

Comp 2

Comp 3

Comp 4

Comp 5

Comp 6

Mini Interior Design

2009-09-15T07:04:00.010-04:00

Meet Michael Williams...he's a graphic designer, photographer, and fashion doll collector who creates amazingly detailed and rich dioramas to photograph for magazines and his own amusement.

In one of his latest endeavors called, Haute Dollhouse, he took inspiration from Jonathan Adler's catalog and meticulously crafted mini-Adler objects and interiors for his dioramas. The result is a set of beautiful rooms crafted with precision that makes you question whether these are full scale rooms or miniatures.

Using beads, vintage materials, customized Barbie accessories, RE-MENTS, and his own ink-jet printer, Michael has shot doll house design into the stratosphere.

Per his site, here is a comment from Michael about this project:

Many of the pieces in the feature come from either bargain vintage finds on ebay (the centerpiece red corduroy sofa set cost only $15)or IKEA's line of doll house furniture that closely match Adler's lacquer-finished end tables, along with items like the wall screen from Barbie's My Scene and Fashion Fever line, accessorized with many simple and easy handmade projects like the Adler-inspired pillows (printed onto ink-jet friendly fabric), star burst mirrors of painted toothpicks and foam core, a George Nelson clock made of pins and paper, vases and lamps from fluted metal beads that closely resemble the gourd-inspired signature pottery of Adler, and an Adler place mat that doubles as an area rug.

Michael's photographs from his Flickr portfolio:

Nested Interiors mentioned on Carrington Court's Blog

2009-09-14T22:29:00.002-04:00

The kind owners of Carrington Court took the time to blog about our recent collaboration and Nested Interiors. They mention the inspiration I had for the dining chair and their inclusion of it in their permanent collection. I feel fortunate for the opportunity to work with them and for the kind thoughts they posted on our collaboration. Read the full blog post here.

Expensive Crayons

2009-09-10T19:00:00.003-04:00

Who knew crayons would be used for something other than coloring and also be so artistically expensive! Love it!

Yes, the following sculptures are purely made from Crayola Crayons. The Nashville, TN artist, Herb Williams, creates original sculptures out of individual crayons that may require as many as hundreds of thousands. He also casts the completed crayon sculptures in a silicone jacket mold with a two-part epoxy resin and then paints the resin sculpture to look like the original, occasionally producing a small edition. The cast sculptures have been placed in public arenas, such as children’s hospitals, corporate lobbies, and museum walls.

Bull Sculpture $14,000.00

Skull Sculpture $3,600.00

Dog Sculpture $18,000.00

Flower Sculpture $4,800.00

Rabbit Sculpture $12,000.00

Tip Tuesday

2009-09-08T19:00:00.002-04:00

Smart Paint for Your Child's Room

Just thought I would share a fantastic and smart tip if you are planning on painting your child's room or playroom at some point in the near future. Use Sherwin Williams Duration Home Interior Acrylic Latex Paint.

This paint formula is extremely durable, washable and can withstand any scrubbing that a child's playroom and/or room usually needs (e.g., crayons, markers, paint...need I say more). However, it should be easy on the elbows because Sherwin Williams states that this magic formula only needs a simple wipe down with water and mild soap.

Another major benefit to this paint is that it is a low VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) and low odor formula as well as an antimicrobial formula that resists mildew growth.

Also, you don't have to limit the use of it in your children's rooms, you could also use Duration Home in your hallways and kitchen. No worries because it is available in all the Sherwin Williams colors and sheens.

Pick your leg

2009-09-07T20:00:00.000-04:00

During my search today for a cottage style dining table, I came across the Coastal Living Collection from Stanley Furniture. Rarely do you ever get the chance to choose from 13 different paint/color choices for your dining room or kitchen table legs. This way you can either perfectly coordinate your table with your decor or mix-it up a little and have some fun!

Color choices to pick from: (left to right)

Beach Cruiser, Conch, Deepwater, High Tide, Lemon Twist, Morning Sky, Navy, Sand Dollar, Sea Grass, Sea Mist, Shell, Twilight, Wave

The Rectangular Gathering Table:

The Round Leg Table:

The Round Pedestal Table:

Take a look at the entire Coastal Living Collection. You can customize the paint color of your bedroom furniture to your accent tables in your living room.

Etsy Find Friday: Vintage Zodiac Posters

2009-09-04T21:57:00.007-04:00

I stumbled upon these vintage poster gems by Simboli Designs and need someone to put a set of them in their home. The colors are fantastic, the illustration work is graphic and bold, and they have a timeless quality about them that really gives them life.

Per their store "in 1969, Poster Prints commissioned Simboli Design to create a line of very graphically strong and colorful zodiac posters, which were were sold worldwide.

A few years ago, Paul Smith Ltd., a leading fashion designer based in the UK, found the posters on a website in California. They were used for a line of casual clothing and were featured on the Neiman Marcus website, as well as in a NM catalog."

I've included a few images of my favorites, but check their Etsy store for the full set. Super fun idea for a new baby gift, a birthday, or an anniversary.

Tip Tuesday: Starting a Collection

2009-08-31T22:19:00.012-04:00

As an extension of yesterday's post about the 'New Vintage' I thought it would be beneficial to list a few tips about starting your own collection. I believe that many people have a desire to collect vintage objects and ephemera but are just scared because they just don't know where to even begin with a collection.

So, if you're someone who thinks collecting figural Victorian bottles, or taxidermy, or vintage panorama photographs, or paper ephemera, or Pez dispensers, or vintage cameras, or anything that is old and beautiful and has a story or history, then here are some tips to help you get started.

1. Collect what interests you not what you think other people find interesting.
What's the point in collecting objects you don't love or find fascinating? It doesn't matter what they are, you can always make their presentation interesting once you build a larger collection.

2. Get educated with some preliminary research.
Hit up a Google image search to see what strange items pop up. Look up existing prices and ranges of items on Ebay. Go to flickr and see images of other peoples collections that they've photographed. If nothing else, try to find social networks centered around your interest or websites dedicated to your quirky collection interest. Your ultimate goal is to get a general idea on the differences between common objects and those that are rare, including common pricing structures. You also want to be educated on prices so you know what to pay when you do find your objects.

3. Limit your scope.
You must limit the scope to a specific subset of objects. Trying to collect everything is not only frustrating but unachievable. If you like paper ephemera, start by narrowing it down to a few specific types, like pre-war postcards or 1950s food adverts. If you like mid-century vases, only collect vases in a Sungold yellow color. Limiting scope will not only allow you to discover the small differences between common objects and rare finds, but it will make the experience of searching all the more intriguing.

4. Don't reach for the sky initially.
Buy a few common, but good quality pieces that will help build your set. Have patience in letting the set build organically and naturally. It will take more time, but you will ultimately be happier with a smaller, but quality collection than a large, mediocre collection.

5. Hit the streets.
Unique pieces aren't always going to show up on Ebay and other related websites. Yard sales, surplus stores, flea markets, estate sales, and smaller, quirky vintage and antique shops around town are your best bets for finding something unique. Don't get frustrated if you don't find what you're looking for. Again, patience and determination is your friend. Frequent these places and try to build relationships with people who may have what you want. If you can get people looking for you and contacting you before it's even put up for sale, you'll find some great, rare pieces.

Happy collecting! Just for fun, I've included a few of my favorite collections that I found from Flickr for inspiration. (all the images link back to their Flickr set)

The New Vintage

2009-08-31T14:00:00.000-04:00

Those of you who know me and read this blog know that I wouldn't be able to resist expressing my love for 'designer collectors' who revel in obtaining beautiful 19th-early 20th century relics. I'm no where near becoming a collector of this magnitude yet, but I'd like to think I'm on my way.

For me, the key to any type of collecting is patience. Collections don't just appear overnight and if you are interested in true vintage relics, you must be determined in your searches, but patient in obtainment. I see so many people want their spaces to look both vintage but complete in a matter of days or weeks; and, while this can be feasible, truly unique spaces take time to grow and evolve. (I'll post more on this in tomorrow's Tip Tuesday)

This is the true joy in collecting. Nothing is more enjoyable than adding new items to a space and watching it take on a new shape and meaning. There can be a certain joy in creating a simple, minimal space that is a statement in itself...but for me, the life that an evolving collection of objects and accouterments bring to a space is the most rewarding.

So, with that said, check out this wonderful gallery of 'new vintage' spaces posted in the New York Times.

Etsy Find Friday: Handcrafted Tables

2009-08-28T20:21:00.004-04:00

The beauty of Etsy is that local craftsmen are able to sell their work to a much broader audience. Etsy isn't just for smaller handmade crafts and paper goods but for beautifully crafted furniture as well. So, in my search for a 'one of a kind' table for a client, I got the inspiration to do a post on some beautiful Etsy tables that I discovered along the way. Enjoy!

Jordan Goodman claims a love of two things: heavy machinery and legos. Enough said.

Michael Arras has an eye for wonderful mid-century inspired pieces that are both affordable and crafted with quality.

I love this vintage cutting board. Who's doing this anymore?

This isn't your standard folding card table.

As an ottoman, side table, or stool, this laser-cut, powder coated steel is a super versatile furniture piece.

Design that make me smile...

2009-08-24T18:00:00.001-04:00

In my quest to find a hip side table for one of my clients I ran across these nifty yet functional mushroom tables by Thomas Wold. Go ahead, you can smile too!

Etsy Find Fridays

2009-08-21T15:28:00.006-04:00

Porcelain Pillows by Stepanka Ceramics

Love these 3D pieces of art! And no, they aren't for sleeping on.

Each of these uniquely crafted wall hangings were hand built using slabs, with an original drawing etched into the clay, glazed in some parts and fired in a gas kiln.

forever- wall pillow $185.00

stepi xo- wall pillow $63.00

pick your number- wall pillow $280.00

look ahead- wall pillow $65.00

narrow path- wall pillow $165.00

New Interiors Books

2009-08-20T13:46:00.016-04:00

If you need a little "umph" to your decor or some creative ideas for that next home project then, check out these great Interior Design/Decorating books that were released this year:

The Find by Stan Williams

Sometimes you’re looking for it, sometimes it just finds you...

Treasures of home decor abound at flea markets, thrift shops, and garage sales. But how do you know a find when you find it? This book will show you not just what to look for, but also how to look at an object to identify a great piece. The trick is to see beyond nicks and wobbles, color and intended purpose and to focus on potential.

Feathering the Nest: Tracy Hutson's Earth Friendly-Guide to Decorating Your Baby's Room

by Tracy Hutson

The title says it all for this book. If you have a little one on the way or helping someone decorate their nursery, you really should check out this book. It is full of creatively cute decor themes that are earth friendly as well.

For any of you Feng Shui believers and followers, here's a wonderful book for you...

Feng Shui Style, The Asian Art of Gracious Living

by Stephen Skinner

This book discusses various common themes of feng shui such as; water, alignments, mountains and wind. The author helps you to understand this art form by demonstrating these concepts in 26 houses, restaurants and galleries in London, Hong Kong and Malaysia.

Wallpaper Projects: 50 Craft And Design Ideas For Your Home, From Accents To Art

by Derek Fagerstrom

This book helps you step out of your box with wallpaper and take the old faux pas' away that "wallpaper is so 80's". Your walls become works of art with these unique, fun wallpapers. You don't necessarily have to put wallpaper on every wall, just add it to one wall, on the ceiling or add it in picture frames for some fun artwork. With all the different wallpapers out today, the possibilities are endless!

Flip! for Decorating: A Page-by-Page, Piece-by-Piece, Room-by-Room Guide to Transforming Your Home

by Elizabeth Mayhew

This awesome book gives you insider tips for 'quickly' making any room/space stylish and unique. It shows you how to redecorate using what you already have and also gives you simple advice on new purchases to help you create the room you have always wanted. It is easy to read with step-by-step instructions for each room in your house, wall color, window treatments, art and more. A must read!!

Tip Tuesday

2009-08-18T16:33:00.017-04:00

Shade Size

I've compiled some buying tips for finding that perfect shade size for your table lamps...

Match the Base - Think Size, Shape, Style, Color. Larger lamp bases require larger shades. Square bases may look better with a square shade. Victorian bases will probably look better with a Victorian shade, etc. Your goal is to match the “mood” of the base. Or if you want to mix up a style, purposefully put a modern round or square shade with a traditional or antique lamp base.
Compliment the Base - A shade should make the base look better without competing with it for attention. Decide if the lamp base will be an accessory, or a main focal piece in your room. If your base is really unique, choose a simple shade to draw attention to the special features of the lamp. Or, if your base is plain and simple, choose a patterned, painted, or leather (textured) shade to add some flare to your lamp.
Hide the Switch - Your shade should just barely cover the switch. Try different sized harps or add a shade riser to fine-tune your shade fit.
Sizing Rules of Thumb-
- Shade height should be about 3/4 the height of the base.
- The bottom of the shade should be wider than the widest part of the base.
- Shade width should approximately equal the height from bottom of base to socket.
Consider the Use - Reading lamps need a wider shade to provide plenty of light. Smaller, darker, or shades made of less transparent material are better for mood lighting.
Consider the Room - What is the color and style of your room? Will the lamp have a decor impact or just compliment its surroundings?
Consider the Bulb - Be sure you have 3 inches separation from bulb to shade, especially for higher wattage bulbs. Be sure the top opening is wide enough to vent the heat. Compact Fluorescent bulbs are great for most lamps because they burn cooler, but you may need larger harp since CFL's are taller than standard light bulbs.

Here are some great examples of table lamp shades of proper size and shape for their bases:

Gems that add sparkle to your decor

2009-08-17T21:00:00.002-04:00

I am just expanding on the new "color" of the season, amethyst, since it has been launched into my view so much in the past week. I found these gems (literally) during my search and thought I would share. You could always add these beauties to your decor without over doing the purple theme. I have to admit, these are strikingly gorgeous!

Amethyst Love Flower by Lisa Fremont: $8820.00

Oval Amethyst Geode by The Crystal Connection: $2200.00

Round Amethyst Geode by The Crystal Connection: $625.00

Large Rock Amethyst Bowl by McCoy Design: $1050.00

Etsy Find Friday: HEALTHY DECOR!

2009-08-14T07:12:00.014-04:00

What better way to keep you in tip-top shape than with this clever, 'Apple a Day' letterpress poster on Etsy by Vik designs. This poster scoffs at online interactions by reminding us of one of our favorite elementary school day interactions...slapping a sticker on a chart.

Letterpressed on 130# Strathmore stock with a tone varnish, this poster can be a DIY work of art in your kitchen or office. Each day (if you're heeding the advice of your doctor) you just peel the sticker off your apple and post it in one of the boxes on the chart. Benefits of making this purchase are: never being sick again, branching out to eat new types of apples, and having a snazzy, unique poster to impress your friends with.

That's healthy decor.

"THE" Chair

2009-08-13T09:00:00.003-04:00

I can honestly say that I have never seen anything quite like this before...

The Fin Armchair by Tshuka can be purchased through Vivre for a mere $7000.00

And the color is...

2009-08-12T19:00:00.002-04:00

As I am sure most of you know by now, because it is plastered all over the decor magazines out there, the color of the season is...Amethyst (also known as Violet).

Amethyst, Violet, or some sort of jewel toned purple always comes back around about every two-three years to start the Fall collection. I am not exactly sure why, but it has been selected again. If it is in the interiors' world then it will be showing up in the fashion world as well. So get ready.

Even though Amethyst/Purple is not my favorite color to use, here's a few yummy patterned fabrics this season:

You can also add a little pizzaz with some of these wallpapers. And yes, wallpaper IS BACK and in full swing! Don't be scared!

Now for my color choice of the season...

It is a tie between Sherwin Williams: Sea Serpent 7615 and Seaworthy 7620. All I need to say is "mmmmmmmm..."!!! (this picture absolutely doesn't do them justice - you can't match web display colors to the real thing!!) And for you cyber-art nerds out there, I also included the RGB values for each swatch.

Seaworthy: (on left) Sea Serpent: (on right)

r:66 g:89 b:99 r: 76 g:88 b:96

Tip Tuesday

2009-08-12T09:45:00.005-04:00

Oh, I know, today is Wednesday and I hope you will forgive me for sending this a day late. I had to put my clients first yesterday but while meeting with them, it gave me my tip...

INSPIRATION!

Yes, such a loaded word with such great vastness and depth. So hears my tip...

Step out of your funk or your box, which ever, and grab a helpful tool for some inspiration. May it be a magazine, book, HGTV, internet, blogs (I know, a shameless plug for my blog as well!) , friend's homes, stores, etc. All of these creative ideas are out there, you just have to plug them together to create your own inspiration. If there is something that just strikes you, use it and go with it. That is why all of these things are out there...for INSPIRATION. I am constantly looking through magazines and my husband, a graphic designer, is constantly ready and researching books. Why? For inspiration! You never want to "copy" anyone's work, you just want to get ideas that will give your mind and creativity a trigger or jump start.

All the new magazine editions came out last week for September and there are some visually stimulating ideas floating out there. So, go grab a few or pick up a book and get started!!!

My favorite magazine edition for this month is House Beautiful. I love the; dramatic use of colors through the issue, headboard feature, rug feature and color feature.

What's yours? I would love to hear from my readers what has given you an inspiration recently or which magazine or book you like the best this month. Inspire us all!

Furniture you can see through

2009-08-10T10:58:00.011-04:00

I know lucite/acrylic made it's huge breakthrough/comeback about 5 years ago but there are still some hot pieces out there that could make a great statement in your house.

I have had my eye on this acrylic chest for several years now from Plexi-Craft and am still in love with it. Just imagine what you could display inside...

Istanbul Side Table by Spectrum:

Phnom Penh Desk by Spectrum:

'Baroque' chairs from Acrila:

Marie Louise Lamp by Buro Vormkrigers:

And for the finale...

For those of you that need a little Hollywood glam in your bedroom you can purchase this acrylic bed, also by Spectrum:

Check out this artist...

2009-08-06T13:40:00.017-04:00

I discovered Jennifer Khoshbin today for the first time and am amazed and in love...

Check out her wonderfully creative artwork. You can instantly tell she has lots of patience when it comes to her work. These are just a taste of the treats she has created...

"transformations":

Paper Covered Resin Animal Heads and Bugs

"manipulations":

"illustrations":

You can also purchase some of her lovelies on Etsy as well.

New Digs from IKEA

2009-08-05T23:18:00.015-04:00

Some of you may have gotten your email today about the new 2010 IKEA catalog. My friend, Jennifer, graciously reminded me and I thought I would post some of my favorite new items (these are just a few of them). Check out the new catalog for yourself!

Love this Engan bedroom collection!

Nice tailored slipcovered bed frame!

Vanvik Bed Frame: Full $379/Queen $399

Great idea for organization!

Hemnes shoe cabinet with 4 compartments for $99.

Such a cute lamp!

Brasa Table Lamp $79.99

Tip Tuesday

2009-08-04T15:55:00.013-04:00

Shower Curtains...

Yes, I know it sounds like a boring topic, but it could seriously make or break your bathroom (for those of you who have shower bathtubs).

If you don't have the money or time to have your shower curtains custom designed or you just need a quick fix, then here is an easy alternative that will give you the same look. Instead of those standard 70"x72" shower curtains use two standard sized window curtains 54"x84". By doing this, the curtains will add the following to your bathroom:

height= because they are longer and you have to install the rod closer to the ceiling, your eye focus gets drawn upward
warmth= because two draperies total 108" width (rather than 72"), they add more fullness to the space, which in return, adds more warmth (and fluff) to the room
tailored appearance= the rod and rings can be hidden which creates an elegant/clean look
custom appearance= since there is a larger variety in curtains to chose from, there is more options to coordinate with your decor/theme

Don't forget that you can always add trim to these window treatments in your bathroom to give an even more custom appearance to your shower curtains.

Also, keep in mind that when selecting your curtains, look for ones with at least a 3" rod pocket (the larger the better). That way the standard curtain rods will fit through the rod pockets and you will be able to slide the curtain back and forth more easily. Another idea is to hang your curtain from a custom wooden rod using rings/clips or find a curtain with grommet holes. If you do pursue this idea, keep in mind that you will need to put an additional rod behind your curtain for the shower curtain liner or you can use drapery pins to attach the liner to the curtain (instructions and images below).

Drapery Pin Instructions:

Stick the sharp end (right side of image below) into the back of your curtain but not so far that you can see it through the front. Then, slide the hook (left side of image below) through the holes of the shower liner.

Beach collection

2009-08-03T19:00:00.000-04:00

...and we are back from a much needed vacation.

Of course I couldn't dare go to the beach without spending time collecting something. So here's my 4-day specimen sheet of shark teeth finds (and don't think these aren't going to pop up somewhere in my decor!).

Bon Voyage! We're on vacation.

2009-07-28T08:43:00.003-04:00

Nested Interiors will be on vacation this week. Thanks for following us and be sure to check back next week for some new posts. Take care!

Weekend Flea Market Finds

2009-07-26T21:36:00.012-04:00

Say it with some hands...

In case you needed them, it was a hot "hand" day at the Flea Market this weekend. Here's the collection I found: $1 mannequin hands, a lot of vintage resin hands used in factories as glove molds, and some gorgeous 1940's porcelain hand sculptures. All the hands were unique in their own way - some were beautiful in their current state and some needed a little t.l.c.

Get creative...just by adding a few touch ups and paint (I am thinking glossy paint!), these hands could turn into some great sculptural pieces to add to your vintage collection or to create a conversational piece in your home. They could also be used for fun practical reasons such as: place card holders on your dining table for that big holiday meal or party, for holding jewelry; attaching them to your walls as decorative hooks to hang a jacket or towel; or as shelf brackets holding a piece of glass. The possibilities are endless!

Etsy Find Fridays

2009-07-24T07:28:00.004-04:00

I guess I had the beach on my mind when I spotted this Etsy Find and you can purchase this gem for only $2500. All you need is some sand and sea shells and then glue them onto a chair and viola, you can sell items for $2500!!

I think we will try this next week when we go to the beach.....j/k! Seriously though, it is a pretty good DIY project and you must have lots of patience to put each shell on. However, you really have to have some true artistic skill in order to create a unique piece that doesn't look like it was dipped in the ocean and then try and sell it for $2500.

Etsy:

Now, here is true craftsmanship of shells and coral - J Covington sold this piece out of his store for $8100. I think it is beautiful, but you can decide if this is well worth your money. More pictures of his shell lighting here.

The Pouffe is back!

2009-07-23T16:07:00.011-04:00

No, I don't mean the 80's hairdo either! Check out these very affordable, multipurpose pouffes. Either use them as a side table, stool, ottoman or just as an accessory to add a little texture and/or a flash of color in your room.

West Elm: $189-$349 (also available in other fabrics)

Urban Outfitters: Rattan=$88/Velvet=$89 (also available in other fabrics)

Ikea: Red=$149/Cowhide=$279 (also available in other fabrics)

Anthropologie: [ON SALE] Yellow (large)= $149.95/Green (small)=$99.95

Or, for those of you with knitting skills and a DIY spirit, you can crochet a pouffe using this pattern.

New Flor patterns

2009-07-22T15:24:00.007-04:00

Mouth dropping new Flor tile patterns...

Tip Tuesday

2009-07-21T14:31:00.016-04:00

Down vs. Polyester

Have you ever sat on someones sofa with a pillow behind your back and you were almost falling off because the pillow was taking up too much room or you weren't comfortable with the piece of foam behind you (literally)? No matter how beautiful the fabric is on decorative pillows, pillow density is important.

There are usually two different types of pillow forms when you are selecting decorative pillows: down feathered pillows and polyester pillows. Down pillows are soft and fluffy, considered the "cream of the crop," and are more luxurious. Polyester pillow forms are more sponge-like and feel 'bouncy'.

Another advantage to down pillows over poly is that down forms to your body when you sit so the pillows don't take up as much space on sofa's or chairs. There is more 'give' to a down pillow whereas a poly form has none. Therefore, they add just the right amount of comfort for your body.

The main reason down is more expensive is that it is a sustainable filling that is produced from ducks and geese. Down is also a three dimensional 'cluster' which is extremely soft and light. To ensure it's softness, a down pillow by law has to have 75% or more down clusters within it. The remaining percentages may include more down, down fibers, and/or small feathers.

In the long run, you are paying for durability as well when you buy down pillows. The lifespan of down pillow forms should last up to 5-7 years while the polyester forms may only last 2-3 years.

If you are custom designing your own pillows and you choose down, you can expect to pay anywhere from $6-$10 more than the standard poly filled forms. If you are looking for a pre-made decorative pillows you're in luck with pricing since down is making it's comeback. There are more choices in the retail world that are the exact same price as the polyester filled pillows. The bottom line is that you will pay more for the luxury in down but it is definitely well worth it.

So the winner by a long slide is...choose down filled pillows!!! Wouldn't you prefer to select the comfort and luxury over a hard sponge??

**As a final caveat, there are certain cases in which poly filled pillows can be used. Those cases are typically when you "need" to add visual or necessary thickness and/or depth. Examples are:

1-beds

2-furniture that has a deep seat - over 20" (your feet should touch the ground when sitting on any piece of furniture)

This ain't your grandma's porcelain

2009-07-20T22:30:00.019-04:00

While your grandma's porcelain might still be around, there is a new wave of porcelain artists emerging to challenge the convention that porcelain is so 'yesterday'. These artist's attention to minute details, organic forms, and lovely shapes has made porcelain cool once again. Here's a sampling of some objects I adore...

Nymphenburg Figures

Acorns by Coe&Waito. Wall tiles and pears by Heather Knight. Keys from The Curiosity Shoppe. Mushrooms by Roost. Ornaments by Milos Nemec.

Miscellaneous vessels

I know this fish tail is resin, but I just couldn't resist adding it.

Weekend Flea Market Find

2009-07-19T07:48:00.006-04:00

Found this set of mid-century tables yesterday at the flea market. $165 was the steal deal for the set. Love the bamboo detailing and the size. Can't you see these with some high-gloss enamel and an antiqued mirror top! Definitely a way to glam up your place for under $250.

Interestingly enough, the guy selling these was from Venice, FL, and claims he got these out of the estate of Gunther Gebel-Williams, the renowned tiger trainer for the Barnum and Bailey circus. I know a lot of people will tell you anything to try to sell something, but I think this guy had nothing to hide. If nothing else, it's a conversation starter.

Etsy Find Fridays

2009-07-17T16:27:00.004-04:00

Stumbled upon this artist's gorgeous work on Etsy today while looking for some art for a new client. I can't tell you how much I love these pieces and hope someone wants it in their house soon so I can purchase one of them. Anytime I see a mix of fashion and fine art my heart flutters.

Jewelry For Your Kitchen

2009-07-16T09:24:00.007-04:00

Who ever said that a room couldn't wear jewelry?

Well actually, it is the most common missed and looked over accessory in kitchens (and bathrooms as well). When I say "jewelry", I am talking about the hardware. It is the accessory that could pull the room together, add a little touch of glamor, give a completely different look to the room, etc. It IS important!! You have put all that money into your beautiful cabinets, counter tops and flooring why not accessorize to compliment them. Or, if your kitchen isn't new and just needs a little updating, why not update/change the hardware first for a different look. It will definitely help!

There are so many different fun options out there that could turn your hardware into little pieces of art. Explore and don't be afraid to step out of the box! Think about how careful some of you are when selecting your jewelry for an outfit...take the same motto with your hardware in your kitchen and around your house.

And while I know everyone is thinking budget, paying an extra $4-5 more per piece of hardware for 20 pieces amounts to less than $100 for an upgrade that will definitely get people gazing.

Here are some yummy pieces I compiled for some inspiration...

Gold and Metal:

Bone and Glass:

Bling, Bling:

Entry in Architectural Digest Viewer's Choice Contest

2009-07-15T23:06:00.007-04:00

This small town girl is in a big town contest. I submitted one of my designs to Architectural Digests first Viewer's Choice contest and made it to their voting rounds. They do the voting in groups of 10 and I am the first entry in the second group. So, you will need to vote for your favorite design in the first group of 10 before it will let you vote for my group. The image they compressed doesn't look great (it looks much better on my website), but I'm glad to be in the contest nonetheless. So, I'd appreciate it if you could vote for me to see if I can make the final round!

Tip Tuesday: Hanging Artwork

2009-07-13T23:31:00.013-04:00

And the appropriate picture hanging center height is...5'1"- 5'4".

Correct picture heights is one of the most frequent questions I encounter. Your pictures/artwork should act as focal points to move your eyes consistently around the room. Having the center of artwork hung at a uniform height will ground each piece together and will balance the room.

So, before you start hanging those pictures, here's some designer insight and helpful tips to use:

Center all pictures at the same height. You want your eye to flow around the room when you enter, and the best way to achieve this is to have a consistent focal points. Even when pictures are of different sizes you will maintain motion in the room by having a uniform focal point.
Remember not everyone is as tall or short as you. A general rule of thumb is that the average eye height is around 5'-3.5" so you the center of all your artwork should be be in this range ( 5'1"-5'4"). Lastly, I recommend that you not center your artwork any lower than 5' nor higher than 5'6" (unless doing collages or hanging above furniture, etc- but that is for another post...)
For each picture you need to hang in a room, do the following:
- Make a mark on the wall 5'-2" above the floor (or anywhere between 5'-1" and 5'-4" as long as you use this same height for each picture you hang).
- Measure the distance from the top of the picture hanger to the center of the picture.
- Find the mark you made on the wall and measure up this same distance.
- Place your nail or screw at this point.
- Repeat for each picture.
If you need to place two pieces next to one another that are similar but not exactly the same size you should still align their center points. Aligning the tops of the frames will actually make their slight size different more apparent. (Rather than your eye noticing a 2" difference at the bottom of one picture, it's better to split the difference and leave an 1" on the top and bottom. Your eye won't perceive this difference as much.)

Happy picture hanging!

Hail to King Gator

2009-07-13T22:01:00.008-04:00

I mean, who couldn't love this crowned gator! Awesome stationary by New Orleanian, Alexa Pulitzer.

Ibride hotness!

2009-07-09T17:13:00.003-04:00

I heart ibride!

I know these have been out for some time now however, I just have to shout out loud that I love, love, love, the creativity of Ibride products! It all seems so artistically "fairy tale-landish" but so beautifully and intricately created.

Some Ibride background...

Ibride, pronounced "e-breed," is created by 3 members of the same French family. The artistic inspiration for each item is combined and inspired from both their local environment as well as their and travels around the world. The word 'ibride' itself is a play on words in French meaning 'hybrid', and many of the pieces can be used for several different functionalities and purposes but definitely conversational pieces.

These are just a few of the intricate trays they design. They are constructed of high-pressure laminate with a pre-recycled wood core.

Below is the Diva Ostrich Console Table and the Zelda Basset Stool. They are constructed of high-pressure laminate with a pre-recycled wood core.

My Chair Creation

2009-07-08T15:21:00.003-04:00

A little bragging rights is ok....right? Or a little design credit would be better?

I love Carrington Court chairs and would recommend them to everyone. The price is unbelievable for the hand-made pieces and the craftsmanship is one of a kind. The sales people are wonderful and have made all of my purchases a great experience.

I designed the following dining chair for one of my clients in Nov. 2008. I put together this creation from picking out my own leg style, chair style, skirt style and by carefully researching and selecting my own fabric (including the contrast piping). Carrington Court decided that they liked the design so well that they permanently added it to their collection and website. However, they are not supplying the fabric I chose and ordered, which I am very grateful for.

Check it out and also check out Carrington Court.

Here's the chair I designed that Carrington Court added to their collection.

Chair in my clients house:

Ironically, this chair creation came out from Ballard Designs four months ago (3 months "after" my chairs had been crafted, delivered and installed from Carrington Court). Who knows.....kind of funny though but a little odd to me. Maybe I am just ahead of the design curve and I have no idea???? Just a little too coincidental. Actually, their similar chair (which they call the Gramercy Chair) in the exact same fabric I spec'd (which they now carry and call Daphne) was on the cover of the Ballard Designs catalog without the skirt.

Ballard Designs Gramercy Chair: in Dafne Fabric (the actual Gramercy Chair doesn't have a skirt on it however, you can add one.)

As a sidenote, the actual name of the fabric I ordered and used is Kravet, Lutron Storm Linen:

Welcome to my love

2009-07-07T23:48:00.005-04:00

The love of Natural Curiosities...

I am starting out with the crazy love that inspires me the most.....Natural Curiosities. I don't know where it began and why it is so strong but, God's creatures are very curious and absolutely beautiful to me. It is art that can't ever be replaced or recreated...everyone/thing is uniquely one of a kind.

Take a look at this collection of the most amazing (kind of eerie) wonders of the world in a store called Deyrolle, located in France. It was founded by the well known entomologist, Emille Deyrolle, in 1831. It is a collector's and taxidermist's dream/love story. It holds purveyors of curiosities and wonder cabinets full of natural beings which I consider art. It was originally a Parisian Institution, a cabinet des curiosities, and part of the collective memory of generations of French school children.

It sadly caught on fire in February 2007 but has made a remarkable and stunning come back due to it's many admirers and followers.

You must visit this amazing store if you are ever in France! It is located at 46 rue du Bac, 75007 Paris.