My Design Secrets

Even thought One Kings Lane only exists on the Web, this is its virtual home.

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70% off on gorgeous high-end furnishings for your home….now I have your attention!

One Kings Lane is an wonderful  site that offers a limted number of designer deals each and every day.  Furniture, art, accessories, it’s all there.  Today there are 10 vendors listed with everything from high-end bean bag chairs to hand-crafted candle flowers that could pass for the real deal.  The sales start at 8AM Pacific Time every day (the founders are Manhattanites turned West Coasters) and feature at least 3 brand new vendors.  There’s a schedule listed for easy reference plus you’ll receive an email each day announcing the sales.

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An adult sized bean bag chair is relaxation and luxury rolled in one. This shade of orange is the perfect accent for any room. (Retails for $250, their price $149)

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If you recommend a friend who makes a purchase they give you a $25 credit which is a nice little perk.  On Saturday’s they have the Tastemaker Tag Sales that feature “curated selections from leading interior designers.” This weekend they are featuring Vintage Print Gallery and I am excited to see what they offer since some of their artwork hangs in my clients’ homes.  Check it out and see what you think!

If you have not entered our Rejuvenation Giveaway, make sure you take a look.

You could win a $300 light just for stopping by!

Enter Here!

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This giveaway has ended!

For those of you receiving this entry by email, please visit our website for the full story and photos.  There were so many lovely shots that I have posted 2 slideshows for your viewing pleasure!

Wild Birds is just one series of pieces you can choose from!

Lonesomeville -A curious name that sounds sweet and melancholy at the same time.  Here’s the story… It all started with a farm house built in the late 19th century and a group of people who could not bear to see it torn down.  So what did they do?  They bought it!  And over the last 20 years the owners have brought the house and the lovely grounds it is nestled on back to life!   From the cabinetry, furniture and tableware to the railings and gingerbread, no detail is overlooked by their artisans. And so, Lonesomeville was born.

But that’s just the beginning of the story.  Danny, one of the homeowners, happened to be an accomplished potter.  Soon thereafter, the home and grounds became the birthplace of Lonesomeville Pottery Company.  Really, it’s a campus of sorts with a lovely home, garden, and studio that all provide endless inspiration and comfort for those that reside there.

As you browse through the website you will see that each piece is inspired by nature.  Leaves, insects, flowers and birds are lovingly integrated into the designs.  As you click on each motif, there is a wide offering of shapes and sizes. Maybe something for your end table or mantel… dining room or kitchen?  It’s all there and it’s beautiful.

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Would YOU like to Win your choice of

Beautiful Lonesomeville Pottery worth $150.00?

This is how to enter:

Step 1:  Visit Lonesomeville Pottery and shop around.

Step 2:  Leave me a comment below telling me which piece would be on the Top of Your Wish List and Why. You can choose any piece up to a value of $150!  If you are receiving this via email, go back to the site to enter.  Replies by email will not be accepted.

One entry per person.  You have until 11:59PM EST on Wednesday, May 26th to enter.  One random winner will be chosen and announced soon after.

Good Luck!

~Lorrie

P.S.   And remember, you can be the first to hear about Lonesomville news and the latest designs by signing up to receive their Newsletter or becoming a fan on Facebook!

This mirror from Carver's Guild has just the right touch of whimsy.

So you’ve got a fantastic foyer table but you’re stuck when it comes to selecting a mirror.  I understand why.  There is a dizzying array of shapes, sizes and styles but just like Goldilocks, choosing the right one takes some careful consideration; neither too large or too small, the perfect mirror should be ”just right.”   If you need some help, you’ve come to the right place. Just pick your preferred shape and then follow these simple rules: 

Rectangular or Oval 

A classic choice that you can pair with almost any style and size table.  Most foyer tables are about 30-36″ high so the mirror should be around the same height give or take 6″.  If you have high ceilings and want to add drama, go with one that’s extra tall.  Also, consider the width of your console table and choose a mirror that is about 50-75% of the width.  So if you are table is 36″ wide, your mirror should be 18-27″ wide.

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This mirror listed on 1st Dibs is made from antique bamboo and adds a nice bold modern or exotic touch.

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Square

Square mirrors with large frames and smooth finishes are a safe choice for almost any interior but getting the scale correct an be a bit tricky.  Follow the height guidelines above  but bear in mind that the mirror will look heavier than a rectangular shaped one so they generally look better with furniture that is larger in scale.  Square mirrors work very well above long consoles that are 48″ or more or a chest of drawers.

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A starburst mirror is lovely as a piece of art but not a good choice for a foyer where practicality is key.

A nice alternative to the starburst. Simliar effect, much more useful.

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Round 

This one can be tricky but if done properly can add a great “wow” factor to your foyer.  Just like the square mirror, the size will be dictated by the height needed.  You don’t want a small mirror (20″ or less)  for a couple of reasons:  1) it will give you the feeling of a porthole in your foyer; and 2) the hanging height that looks good with the table may not be a practical viewing height for gazing.  You only want a few inches between the top fo the console and the bottom of the mirror.  A star-burst mirror is lovely but if the mirror itself is quite small or convex, then it’s not the right choice for your foyer. Those are better suited as artwork on other parts of your home. 

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What’s Your Style?

Select a style and finish that’s a bit of a contrast with your foyer table.  If your foyer table is carved wood, you might want to look for a gilded mirror or one with a tile frame.   If your foyer table is metal, then warm it up with a exotic wood frame.  Don’t be tempted by table and mirror matched sets, they are unimaginative and sterile.  If you get the scale right, the style options are endless and you might be suprised by an unlikely combination.  A stunning mirror is one of the best ways to welcome your guests and brighter up this small space. So take out your tape mesaure and jump in!

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Great little piece in the New York Times on using throw blankets to add some color to your room.  Designer Brad Ford shares some of his own tips.  For a small investment you can make a chair look brand new, a den look super cozy and a give a monchromatic bedroom a colorful lift! 

Wrapping It Up

Here are some of my favorite sources for Throws.  Some for the prices, others for the selection…

Dash & Albert

Jonathan Adler

Pillows & Throws

And if you Join My Secret Database you will find wonderful new sources for anything you need for Your Home!

Have a good weekend:-)

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* Inspired by Grayson Handy’s worldwide travels, Flowers For The Home presents over 100 simple and stylish floral arrangements for both everyday and special occasions. 

* Congratulations to Shari D. from Ontario for winning the Flowers For The Home book giveaway!

Handy’s floral designs draw on the cultures and traditions of China, Japan, India, and Morocco; the enchanting French and English countrysides; the diverse terrain of Mexico; the lush tropical rain forest; and the always charming American South. 

Handy discusses the basic floral design principles from each of the nine featured locales – ranging from color palettes to indigenous materials – and provides step-by-step instructions and tips for assembling many of the eye-popping displays.  The specially commissioned photography will encourage the reader to create many of these delightful bouquets, now and for years to come.

* Courtesy of Rizzoli International Publications (With a special thanks to Jessica!) 

About the Authors/PhotographerGrayson Handy is the creative director of New York’s Prudence Designs and Events. Handy and Arturo Quintero’s renowned flower shop, specializing in event planning, caters to top magazines and celebrity clients. Paulette Cole is the CEO and creative director of ABC Home, a New York–based store that carries sustainable-designed furnishings. Ellen Silverman’s photographs have appeared in many cookbooks, including Neiman Marcus Taste, as well as in numerous magazines. Tracey Zabar is the author of Charmed Bracelets.

Would you like to win a copy of Flowers For The Home? 

To Enter Simply…

1. Tell me about your favorite flower.
2. If you are receiving this via email, go back to the site to enter.  Replies by email will not be accepted. 
3. One entry per person.  You have until 11:59PM EST on Wednesday, December 16th to enter.  One random winner will be chosen and announced soon after.   

This Classic Glass Hurricane from Williams Sonoma features hand blown glass from Poland and can be personalized with your initials. ($68.00)

I like the idea of accessories that pull double duty.  A personal favorite in my home are my Hurricane Lamps.  Sure, they make it possible to eat outdoors on a breezy night, but they can serve many other useful purposes.  So, today I would like to share some of my favorite sources for Hurricane Lamps as well as ways you can use them to spruce up your home for any holiday or as an accessory all year long.

The Hurricane Glass Bowl from Target is a nice option. The low height makes it easy to see people sitting across the table. I would fill it with water and aqua candles.($29.99)

The Londoner Hurricane is a cool modern option from Crate & Barrel. Looks great with some simple ornaments inside or out. Two sizes ($29.95 & $39.95)

Some Tips on Accessorizing your Hurricane Lamps:

• Fill them with Pine Cones for your Mountain Retreat or Sea Shells in your Beach House.
• Put sea salt in the bottom with some holly on top for the look of fresh snow.  Finish it off with a large pillar candle.
• Fill them with colored or clear marbles for a modern look.
• Arrange seasonal fruits and veggies: Lemons, pomegranates, green apples, artichokes and gourds look great.
• Decorate around the hurricane with greenery, flowers or garland.

If you do want to use candles, stock up on different colors so you can coordinate the color with linens.  Just remember that these beautiful accessories can be used as a showcase for anything special; no candle is required.  With a little imagination your table will always look fresh and fun.

Bargain Alert - These Green Glass Hurricanes from Pier 1 Imports are made with recycled glass and look great in multiples. ($10 & $18)

Another great option from Crate & Barrel. The Piazza Hurricane features a square design and stainless steel frame. ($34.95)

One of my favorite prints is Ocean Breezes. A more classic take on the brown and blue combo with both colors having a gently worn feeling.

My Design Secrets is the perfect outlet for my obsessive habit of collecting decorating sources.  Even with a busy design practice, and the homes of my friends and family, I still have overflowing amounts of advice and sources that are here for the taking!  Today I stumbled onto a site that makes me giddy.  Saffron Marigold carries exotic, handmade, eco-friendly bedding and linens that are bursting with gorgeous colors and good Karma to boot! 

A versatile tablecloth that goes from everyday to festive and then just throw it in the wash.

This black and white shower curtain lends some modern flair to this traditional paisley.

The owner, Anisha, is a girl after my own heart.  She has a Masters degree in Human Resources but her love of Indian Textiles was so overwhelming  that it led her to create Saffron Marigold.   It’s a small business run out of Petaluma, California that has a large heart that extends over the Indian Ocean and into Pune, India where the magic happens.  All of their products are hand-crafted according to traditional block printing techniques and each piece is an original work of art distinguished by the work of the artisan, the particular lot of dye, and even varying weather conditions.  They work with a couple of artisan studios with whom they have a close relationship.  They visit the studios to make sure they follow Fair Trade practices that Saffron Marigold values, as well as helping the craftspeople become more economically self-sufficient.

These white lace curtain panels are perfect for a soft touch that's a bit more sophisticated than most country curtains.

A 17" x 17" pillow cover is only $19.99. This is the most stylish sofa makeover bargain you are going to get!

With a broad selection of bedding, shower curtains, table linens, pillow covers, and sheer curtains you are sure to find something to spice up your home.  Cool blue and turquoise, spicy saffron and cinnamon, and breezy white on white. You can shop by the item or by prints with names like Lavender Dreams, Paisley Au Lait or Memories of Shalimar.  You will enjoy browsing the site and the fantastic prices are a wonderful bonus.

Enjoy!

~Lorrie

The impressionistic landscape design of the Sedona vase is begun by sifting on many layers of glass powder. We then use multiple colors of glass in a variety of forms, powder, custom mixes of frit, and stringer. The design is embedded in the surface of the glass during the blowing process to creates a highly textured piece. The final step is to softly iridize the surface with a technique adopted from the studios of the early 1900's. $300.00

The Artful Home does a tremendous job of attracting gifted artists from around the world and making their extraordinary creations available to you at home.  Now, the artists can spend more time on their craft while someone else promotes them.  Brilliant!  I have bought many, many pieces from The Artful Home and my clients have always been delighted.  You can easily own original artwork for your home with prices to fit everyone’s budget.  And it’s not limited to paintings, there are immensely gifted people designing furniture, tile, glass, rugs, sculptures and many more items.  You can search by style, color, price range and artist.  The listings are detailed and clear with shipping times and charges so decisions are easy.  I have bought a number of birthday and holiday gifts here as well.  There is something for everyone.  You will have a blast just browsing through.

"Bougainvillea" - A giclee print of a mixed media painting, signed ,open edition. $150

Matted pigment print of a scanned black-and-white negative that has been digitally toned and painted. Printed on archival Hahnemuhle fine art paper. Limited edition of 15. Signed and numbered on print. Save 60% off this item. Ends April 30th. Was $310.00 Now $124.00

"Straight-Carved Yellow Urchin" - Hand-thrown, carved, porcelain vessel with hand-thrown/built, porcelain lid. Glazed by hand and fired at 2300 degrees. $385

"Tree Study" - This wire and glass sculpture is inspired by the beauty of multiple curves of tree branches. $1100.00

Are you following me on twitter?  You should be!

Have a great day!

~ Lorrie

The intriguing photo above is a little hint as to what we have in store for you today!  It’s time for me to unveil another one of  My Design Secrets and you are going to love this one.  Not too long ago I received a postcard in the mail introducing White Lotus Collection.  I visited their website and was immediately taken in by the fantastic selection of lovely Asian furnishings. When I visited their 6,000 square foot warehouse I was completely in awe.  So if you are in South Florida, you must pay them a visit….but don’t despair if you live further away.  Manager Michael Sullivan is there to help.  Just give him an idea of what you are looking for and he can send you photos and details lickity-split! 

~Lorrie

P.S.  If you happen to live in South Florida, they are hosting a Free Fung Shui Event with expert Chriss Barr on April 29th.  So mark it on your calender and learn more about feng shui while enjoying a private viewing of the collection.

WHITE LOTUS COLLECTION, today’s giveaway sponsor, sells some of the most beautiful hand-crafted Asian furnishings and accessories.  Hand-selected from rural China and Indonesia, each piece has been chosen individually for its fine quality, attention to detail, and simplicity of design.  The collection, equally at home in contemporary and traditional homes, offers a sophisticated alternative to many of the furnishings available today.

WHITE LOTUS COLLECTION was inspired by the peace, elegance and tranquility that the white lotus flower evokes. A water flower that grows in fresh water lakes and ponds, the white lotus is symbolic of a total state of purity and spiritual perfection in the Buddhist tradition. These unique furnishings are intended to bring this type of serenity and sophistication to the most treasured spaces; both inside and outside of your home.

Today, thanks to WHITE LOTUS COLLECTION, we are very happy to offer this hand painted Tibetan Groom’s Box.  Per Chinese Wedding tradition, the grooms family prepares a gift of food for the bride-to-be and places it in this decorative box.

   The box has a retail value of $290.00! 

This beautiful box could be used to store special treasures or as a lovely accessory. 18L x 11 ¾D x 11 ½H

Would you like to win this Hand Painted Tibetan Grooms box ($290.00)?

Simply Enter Here…

1. Visit WHITE LOTUS COLLECTION and have a look around.
2.  Leave me one comment below telling me what is your favorite product from their website.

If you are receiving this via email, go back to the site to enter.  Replies by email will not be accepted. 

One entry per person.  You have until 11:59PM EST on Wednesday, April 29th to enter.  Two random winners will be chosen and announced soon after.

Good Luck!

~Lorrie

If you love color and exotic decor, these trays from Peru are just the thing. Reverse painted glass makes for easy clean up. ($24.99)

In the interest of spreading the “tray love” I selected a few different styles for you.  I kept the price point and maintenance low so bathroom and kitchen use are fair game.  So pick up a couple and start herding all the little items that cover your countertops.  You can thank me later. 

The Samba Tray from Crate & Barrel has a cool, sleek look in high gloss green. ($24.95)

These are my favorites and the ones that adorn my kitchen and bathroom. Bamboo is sustainable and easy to clean. Plus I love all the different sizes! ($3.99 to $6.99)

You can customize this tray from Overstock.com with your favorite photos and images. ($19.99)

Win this Gorgeous $32o Lamp!