This week I am happy to introduce an immensely talented residential interior designer, Robin Baron.  Robin was a fashion designer for 18 years before she became an interior designer.  She studied fashion and interiors at two very prestigious schools, Parsons School of Design and UCLA.  According to Robin, “fashion is fleeting but home and interior design have a deep impact on people’s lives.”  I could not agree more.  Her fashion sense is immediately apparent in the beautiful designs she creates for clients located around the country.  Today she is a sharing some classic monochromatic designs with us and some tips on how you can achieve this sophisticated look.  I hope you enjoy and are inspired for your own projects!

~Lorrie

The creamy upholstery is a perfect contrast to these exotic carved tables and the natural tones of the drapery fabric.

Here are some professional tips from Robin on creating a monochromatic look:

Color- When doing a monochromatic color scheme it is important that you use the right cast of the color you are working with. There are many casts, or undertones of any color, even within the same color family (some have a yellow undercast, some green, some pink, etc), and you still have to make sure that the colors, fabrics, paints, etc, all work together…there is not just one tan or beige, and every tan or beige does not automatically work with each other.

Another key to working in a monochromatic color palette is to use different shades and tones of the same color, some with a deeper hue, some with a lighter…this will create subtle differences that will help create interest and move your eye through the room.

This large dining area still looks very intimate and inviting because of the warm wood tones that are highligted with the sconces and recessed lights.

Texture - An important element to create visual interest is to use textures. This is crucial in a monochromatic color scheme. The mixing of texture helps give life to the room, and can be used instead of adding prints. You can use prints in a monochromatic room, as I did on the chairs and window treatments, in this living room but they should be very subtle and used sparingly, or you can easily compromise the quiet, warm, nurturing feeling you set out to accomplish by choosing to create a monochromatic room.
Texture can be used in your fabric selection, your rug, as I also did in this living room, as well as the family room (great room), and especially on the walls in the form of decorative paint or wall covering. In these rooms, I used a plaster treatment on the walls, which allowed me to play with the texture, and layer the colors on the walls.

The light-hearted accent colors are an attractive and logical addition to an area adjacent to the kitchen.

Accent Colors- The other key element, one that takes a bit of artistry, and a strong sense of balance in the monochromatic room, is the use of accent colors. This can single-handedly make or break the room. Balance is the operative word here. Using accents colors has nothing to do with symmetry, and everything to do with balance…and less is always more here. See how little of the accent color I used in this living room, and yet how much impact and balance it creates in the room.

You can use accent colors by choosing a different color wood for the furniture, as I did in this dining room, using a very dark brown, making that an integral part of the monochromatic balance. I then used the green of the plants on the dining table to throw in a bit of the unexpected…and to add a little punch…both being the goal in using the accent colors.

To learn more about Robin Baron and to see additional projects, visit her website at www.robinbarondesign.com.

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The entry period to win the $100 Viva Terra Gift Certificate ended today at noon.  We will be announcing the lucky winner tomorrow!

Meanwhile, sign up to win the new prize, which is a $100 gift card to Bed, Bath & Beyond.  The card can be used online as well as in any of their stores.  They have a fantastic selection of items to finish off your home.  Treat yourself to 500 thread count sheets or some luxurious Egyptian cotton towels.  Spoil your “inner chef” with fantastic Calphalon pans.  Electronics, storage, rugs, or window treatments; it’s your choice!

  Our second bit of fantastic news is that we have been nominated for the Divine Caroline “Love This Site” awards in the Home & Food category.  We would really appreciate it if you could jump over to Divine Caroline and give us your support by clicking to vote above.  It will help us get some great exposure in the huge world of the Internet. Happy Labor Day and Good Luck! ~Lorrie

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Sherwin Williams Honeydew (SW6428) - To achieve an analogous color scheme I chose a pastel shade of green. It gives the room a light, airy feeling. This would be a nice look for a breakfast room or child’s room.

Painting is the #1 way to change a room quickly and economically.  The problem is that many people do not take their time in choosing a color and they paint themselves into a corner (I know, corny).  Above all, do not go the paint store until you have given your project some clear consideration.  Choosing colors from a paint chip is not a good idea and rarely results in the look you desire.  Plus, the guy with the orange smock will probably not be much help.

Benjamin Moore Blue Lagoon (2054-40) - This monochromatic look is relaxing but the darker tone adds drama.This combination would work well in a living room or home office.

Before you can start sampling paint on your walls you need to choose a clear direction for your project.  Designers have many methods of choosing paint colors but a great way to start is with your main fabric.  It can be a fantastic jumping off point to get you rolling.  Some questions to ask yourself:

1. Do you want to play it safe with a neutral you can “live with” for a while or do you want to make a bolder choice that expresses your taste and personality?
2. If you change your fabric selections in a couple of years, are you comfortable with re-painting or will the color still work for you?
3. What is the overall feel you are aiming for?  Consider what drew you to that particular fabric.

Relaxed - Consider similar colors that are a shade lighter or darker then the main color in your fabric.

Light-hearted - Look for colors in pastel tones.

Dramatic - Darker colors with more pigment make a bold statement.

Taking your time to thoughtfully consider your desired look will significantly pare down the number of choices and start you on your way.

Sherwin Williams Anjou Pear (SW6381) - To give the room an uplifted feel I chose a yellow-orange color that contrasts well with the green and picks up the tones in the flowers. This is a comfortable combination for a guest room or family room.

To demonstrate I have featured the James Chair from Maine Cottage with Tweet Sweet Porch fabric and three distinct directions you can go with the paint.  As you can see, each color significantly changes the feel of the room.  So get your swatches out and start exploring the possibilities.

~Lorrie

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Notice how arches are used multiple times in this room: the stairs archway and decorative cabinet. The foyer rug and table are subtle tones so as not to compete for attention.

Today I am happy to share a beautiful project and some words of wisdom courtesy of accomplished Interior Designer, Denise Richards.  Denise is a well respected interior designer that has spent the past 30 years building an impressive portfolio of international residential and commercial projects as President of her company, Q Design.  Along with her studio, she owns a retail shop in LA with a collection of gorgeous furnishings which gives you a sense for her impeccable taste for design.   She did a fantastic job with this California Mission Revival home in Rancho Santa Fe, California.  Enjoy!

~Lorrie

Rich warm tones are perfect for a dining area and I love the contrasting fabrics on the chairs.. The scroll work on the doors and ceiling tie in wonderfully.

In Denise’s words: 

“My goal for this project was to return to a true West Coast style, in this case, California Mission Revival. To meet this design criterion I chose specific motifs that were modified and updated to fit to the architectural layout and the client’s needs. Examples of this strategy include interior iron gates (a bulwark of 20s & 30s architecture), deep colors that have been purposefully aged or patinated, the presence of Moorish references throughout, and over-scaled furnishings, fireplaces, and chandeliers. The result is a home that is both dramatic and inviting, while retaining traditional Southern California flavor.

1. Scale all furniture to the size of your space, making sure to use pieces that enhance the size of your space, not minimize it.
2. Use colors that are dark and aged such as deep reds, greens, taupes and ivories.
3. Sprinkle with Moorish detailed pillows, candelabras, art and frames. Be careful to not include too many pieces that are patinated, or they may overwhelm the room.”

The red walls are bold and bring a coziness to a large bedroom. The pattern on the ceiling ties it in and adds interest.

What a place to host a party! Canopies add intimacy and a festive feeling.

Click here to learn more about Denise and Q Design.

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Love the high-end look but not the price tag?  I thought I would put my skills to the test and custom design a living room for under $5,000.  This modern/casual living room has all the basic elements you need with most of your budget going to investment pieces such as uphsoltered furniture, rugs and artwork.  I am open to suggestions for future posts, so lay it on me!

The Rundown:

1. Bellacor Pebble Table Lamp  - Made of shapely ceramic in a pebble finish, this table lamp exudes charm. It is crowned by a paper bag hardback drum shade. - $120
2. “Call” Acrylic Painting from the Artful Home - Created by Amy Bouse - One of a Kind - $350
3. Orange Cased Bowl from Bellacor - $43
4. Martine Sofa from Crate & Barrel - Fabric:  Como-Olive - Eco-Friendly construction - 76.5″Wx36″Dx34.75″H- $1,499
5. Slab Coffee Table from Z Gallerie- Chamcha wood, sourced from the trunks of naturally felled trees in Northern Thailand - 50” x 27-29” x 16.5”H - $549
6. Cira Silk Pillow - Aqua - Shimmering dupioni and mulberry silk combine in a beautiful accent pillow with self-welt finishing - Feather Down Insert - 2@$49.95 each - $99.90
7. Jasper Chair from Room & Board- Dorien/Oatmeal fabric - pre-washed 100% cotton microweave - $799
8. Dandelion Persimmon Rug from Company C - A soft, modern look with incredible texture. Hooked yarns accentuate this tufted rug to create a landscape of color you can actually feel. 100% wool, tufted - 6′x9′ - $1,125
9. Galerie Side Table from Crate & Barrel - Three tiered round side table in Espresso Stain - 23.75″dia.x23.75″H - $199

The Grand Total: $4,783.90

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The Nimbus Ceiling Fan is the epitome of sleek modern with its Matte Nickel Finish

In addition to adding a dose of style, an attractive ceiling fan comfortably circulates air in a room and can help reduce your electric bill.  But it seems to me that many people have a hard time selecting one that is an appropriate size and style.  I see one extreme to the other:  a bodacious, over-sized fan that screams at you when you walk into the room or a boring, small white number from one of the big box stores.  Based on their size alone, they are going to figure prominently in the room so it’s best to choose a style and size that complement your interior.  Let’s review some basics!  Soon you will be enjoying the well circulated air from your beautiful new ceiling fan.

Size - The size of your fan should be your first consideration and is based on the size of your room.  Here are some quick guidelines from Hunter Fan.  The measurement is from blade tip to blade tip.

• Rooms less than 100 square feet (Bathroom, Laundry) - 32″-36″
• Rooms up to 225 square feet (Bedroom, Office) - 42″-48″
• Rooms up to 485 square feet (Master Bedroom, Family Room) - 50″-56″
• Rooms up to 625 square feet (Great Room, Living Room) - 60″+

Style and Finish - While there are a number of basic styles that will meld with a variety of interiors, I feel it’s better to spend a little more money and get something that really complements your room. As a rule:

• Avoid shiny finishes.  Whether it’s brass or a high gloss paint, they are too distracting.
• Take a queue from other finishes in your room.
• Blades often have different finishes on each side which is a nice option to change it up.  Make sure you know what you are getting.
• If you choose a wood blade, make it darker or lighter then the other wood in your room for some contrast.      
• Don’t rule out an outdoor or damp-rated fan just because you need an indoor fan.  They work just as well and may be just the right fit.

The Mission Fan from Casablanca would be at home in a Craftsman Style Bungalow.

Ceiling Height - It’s important to consider the height of your ceiling so the fan it not too high or too low. 

• Ceilings that are less than 8′- Fans called “ceiling huggers” have housing that mounts directly to the ceiling without any down rod. 
• 8′ Ceilings - A standard fan hangs down about 12″ and that puts the bottom of the fan at 7′ above the floor, which is fine in most cases. 
• For ceilings that are higher than 8′ - Consider adding a down rod (purchased separately) which will bring the fan down to a more visually appealing height.  Ideally the fan should be 8′-9′ above the floor.
• You also might want to consider a ceiling medallion for a decorative touch.

Light - Do you need an overhead light?  I prefer not to include a light kit on most fans but sometimes you may need it for general lighting in the room if there are no recessed lights.  If you need one, then make sure you select a fan that accepts light kits.  Secret Tip: If you have recessed lights in your room make sure the fan blades do not come too close to the lights or you will have a disco strobe effect that will drive you crazy.

Fan Control- In a household with multiple people, it’s good to have a remote control for the fan.  The days of changing the speed by yanking on a that little chain are over.  Remotes are affordable and convenient.

Fanimation was the first company to make tropical fans with palm frond blades. They still offer the best quality but there are a lot of copycats out there.

So jump in, cool down and amp up the style with a new ceiling fan that complements your room!

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The Pop Art Mirror from The Artful Home

Have you seen the HGTV show, Double Take,  where a homeowner selects a photo of a room designed by a high-end interior designer and then tries to reproduce the look for less?  They call the original photo, “the Inspiration Room”, and before you know it a $50,000 living room has been imitated for $5,000.  I like the show but feel they leave out some important details because we all know you cannot get something for nothing.  Yesterday, I ran across two similar items and thought this would be the perfect opportunity to help you make informed design decisions. 

The Inspiration:  The “Pop Art Mirror” above is a colorful and striking accent piece that would add a lively conversation piece to any room.  This mirror is featured on the Artful Home website where you can find artistic treasures for your home from artists the world over.  I have purchased a number of pieces from them for my clients and the prices range from quite affordable to very high end.  This particular piece is a 32″x32″ hand made mirror created by the husband and wife team, Mitch and Susie Levin, who use materials of contrasting colors and textures with dramatic results.  Their philosophy is simple: “Art and furniture should be both expressive and timeless. “  The mirror is $1150.

Recycled Tin Mirror from CB2

The Imposter:  The Recycled Tin Mirror from CB2 (Crate and Barrel’s little sister) is going for the same look.  They use international recycled tin sheet packaging in a patchwork design to create a colorful 30″ x 30″ mirror.  The mirror is $99.95. 

CB2

While I know the price difference in this case is huge, and most people are not going to spend $1,000 on a mirror, I do have a good point to make.  The higher end pieces are fine quality furnishings that are made by hand with thoughtfulness, pride and artistic consideration.  The top mirror has a much better distribution and harmony of color.  It almost has a stained glass feeling to me.  Each piece of tin has been nailed by hand to the frame and the small nails form a quilt-like pattern.  The CB2 piece just leaves me kind of flat.  No texture, the color selection is uninspired and it looks like a bunch of poorly designed business cards tacked to a cork-board. 

The Artful Home

So when you are considering pieces of furniture that are look-alikes, make sure the less expensive option is sturdy enough to withstand the slings and arrows of your family and dear enough that you want to pass it on.   For example:  You can purchase one $3,000 sofa that lasts for 5+ years or two $1000 sofas that may last a year each.  While you may be able to get the look for a lot less, you rarely ever get quality for a lot less, so spend your hard-earned money wisely. 

My two cents:-)

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Painted Solid Pine Island from Ballard Designs gives a more built-in look and also provides additional storage for cookbooks.

The kitchen is the heart and soul of your home.  It’s the place you eat, chat, laugh, cry, quibble and makeup.   It’s a hard working room so it deserves an update every now and then.  It may not be in your budget to renovate right now, but there are certainly affordable options for an exciting upgrade.  If you have an L-shaped or U-shaped kitchen, it may be the perfect opportunity to add an island.  Islands offer you much-needed countertop space as well as the opportunity to make a bold style statement.  Here are some of my favorite finds:

With its painted base and butcher block top, this little number is a great focal point and a high quality choice from Sur La Table

This affordable option from Home Decorator's collection is great for apartment living.

With its scalloped apron and distressed finish, this would the perfect addition to a Beach House or Cottage.

My Secret Shopping Tips:

• Only choose tops that are solid surface (Granite, Corian, etc) or solid wood.  Cheaper versions use wood veneers that will deteriorate quickly from moisture and cutting.  Butcher Block is the best.
• Measure your kitchen and make sure you have at least 30″ between countertops.  36″ is optimal but we all know that some kitchens just don’t allow for it.
• The island does not have to “match” your kitchen.  Select a style that is clearly complimentary.  Nothing is worse than a near miss.

Your new island is sure to make meal prep easier and your kitchen a bit more fashionable.  Enjoy!

Shop for Kitchen Islands and other cool stuff for your Kitchen in My Secret Database!

I have walked into countless homes with gorgeous furniture, carefully selected wall colors, eye catching artwork and… NAKED WINDOWS!  What’s going on?  A few of my past posts have taken you step by step through the process of selecting the proper window treatment that enables you to strike the delicate balance of aesthetics and function.  I understand that a multi-step approach is not for everyone, so today let’s attack it from a different angle.  Let’s look at some simple curtains that are very easy to install.  Just measure, choose some hardware and the curtain style, and you are well on your way.

While blinds require precise measurement and mounting, curtains allow you a little more wiggle room.  As long as the curtain covers the window, you are pretty much in the clear.  Here are some measuring tips that will give off-the-shelf curtains a designer look.

Panel Height- If you want to add some drama to your room, choose a curtain panel that is higher than your actual window.  Take advantage of the space between the top of your window and the ceiling.  A few years ago it was difficult to find ready-made panels that were more than 84″ high.  Now I am seeing 108″ regularly and some up 120″.

Panel Width - This is a true designer secret.  To determine the width of your curtains, first take your window width and add at least 3″ to each side.  Then double that number to determine your width.  Ever notice that draperies in magazines never look skimpy?  This formula will give you a nice full, luxurious look. 

Example for a window that is 36″ wide: 

Add 3″ to each side:  36″ + 6″= 42″

Double that number:  42″ x 2 = 84″

So the total width of your drapery panels should be at least 84″ wide.  This is the total width of the pair.

You can take a peek here for some tips on selecting hardware.  And here is a short installation video.  The only thing I would add:  put the rings on the draperies and the draperies on the rod before determining your total height.

So please take down that skimpy, sheer swag and let’s dress up your windows and give them the dignity they deserve:-)

Shop for great curtains in My Secret Database!

Creating an attractive furniture plan that works well for your lifestyle and home is not all smoke and mirrors.  And the eye-catching designs you see in magazines are not pulled together in the blink of an eye.  Most designers will tell you that they take careful consideration and planning.  The challenge is to balance functionality with comfort and design.  If the furniture is too small or too light the furnishings seem to float aimlessly around the room; too heavy or too large for the room and the space closes in on you.  The best way to start is with a solid furniture plan so I have scanned the Internet and found a few easy tools to help you do just that.  They range from tech-savy to paper and pencil.  Choose the method that is most comfortable for you.

Simple Software - Personally, my favorite tool is Icovia Space Planner.  Icovia features web-based software that allows you to custom build your rooms to scale.  You can furnish them complete with a Ferrari in the garage and a dog bed in the family room.  As an interior designer, I have used some pretty complicated design software.  I can assure you that this one is simple.  You can print out the plans or email them to a friend for additional input.  There are only a few functions, so it’s hard to go wrong.  If you sign up on their website, the service is $29 per month. 

***Inside Secret:  A few of the larger retailers (Lane, Thomasville, Storehouse) also use Icovia and you can hop onto their sites to use it for free.  You will be placing their furniture in the rooms but you can easily re-size it to suit your existing furniture or pieces you have in mind. 

Cardboard Cut-outs - For those of you who like to keep it super basic, Design Yourself Interiors is for you.  This company has created life size reusable “footprints” that will replicate the actual size of your sofa, chair or table before you purchase it.  They have kits for every room in the house, including the nursery.  Most rooms run about $30, or you can purchase all 4 for $110.  It’s pretty affordable so I don’t think it’s worth the time it would would take to make them yourself.

The Old Fashioned Way - Many moons ago before computer -aided design (CAD), architects and designers all worked on a drafting board with pencil and paper.  Some of the purists still do!  It’s a simple way to layout your room.  Purchase some graph paper (or print some out here), a ruler and pencil and you’re all set.  Make each square on the graph paper equal to 1 foot or 6 inches depending on the size of your space. 

As you layout your room, a few tips to consider:

• Take inventory of what you have and write down the length and depth of each piece.
• Measure all doorway openings from the front door all the way through to that room.  Finding out a piece of furniture won’t fit through the doorway on delivery day is very frustrating, to say the least.
• Consider the focal point for the room (fireplace, TV, view, etc) and plan accordingly.
• Start with the largest pieces of furniture (sofa, coffee table, armoire).
• Allow for 14-18″ between a coffee table and the sofa.  Too close or too far is awkward.
• Leave room for end tables.  A 7′ long sofa needs substantial end tables.  An 18″ table will look like a slip-up.  Try 24″+.
• The back of a sofa is not the first thing you want to see when you walk in the room.  If you have put something there, the backs of chairs are preferable and will give you better flow.
• Make sure every seat has a table within reasonable reach. 
• Consider the natural traffic pattern to get from one room to the next and do not block it with a large piece of furniture.

Good luck putting together your new furniture plan.  With a bit of planning and patience, it will be a snap!