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At first glance, a well-designed bedroom allows you to  just settle into the whole space.  The colors, the furniture and the tiny details all work togehter harmoniously.  Ahhhh, the cohesive loveliness!  But as a designer, my next step is to start breaking it all down… the bed, the pillows, the window treatments and lamp.  Why does it all work and how can I learn from this?  I want to help you develop the same critical eye because this is the difference between a so-so decorating job and a room that comes alive.

I designed the room above for two teenage girls about 10 years ago.  They liked feminine details but were growing up and did not want anything too cute.  They loved horses but did not want the whole room to go “horsey”.  It’s always a balancing act between “this” and “that.” So these are the steps I took to pull together this great little design without breaking the bank. 

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Color – We went with a warm peach because it was feminine, bright and fun.  It’s a more complex color than pink or purple which spoke to their sophisticated tastes (yes teenagers now have sophisticated taste!)

Beds – These iron beds are classic and budget-friendly.  The choice of many finishes allowed us to select one that tied in our coral, ivory and green palette.  (I don’t usually recommend iron beds for master bedrooms but for kids or guest rooms they do the job at a great price.)

Bedding- Custom bed-skirts and shams echo the colors with a designer look but we saved some money by using a matelasse coverlets.  These could easily be replace by down comforters and duvets when it gets cold.

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Some Ladder Tape options from Smith + Noble. Simple wood blinds step up the style with this designer touch.

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Windows - Simple 2″ wood blinds.  The big slats work with the scale of the large windows.  A color-coordinated ladder tape covers the strings that hold the blinds together (the ladder).  Now instead of plain old blinds that control light they ARE the window treatment.  Plus Ladder Tapes cover route holes so sunlight won’t poke through when blinds are closed.

Chair – We bought this wicker chair new but any old wicker chair can be painted for an instant face-lift.  You can also just wrap the fabric around the cushions and safety pin them on the back if you are a not a seamstress.

Lamps – Two simple and affordable lamps that could be found at a local home store.

Artwork – I love to use colorful and interesting artwork in kids rooms and posters are an easy answer. The pieces in this room are prints of famous horse paintings.  By going with more modern art, it gives the room a more updated feel and the white frames are simple and fresh.

I hope this helps you see, once again, that good design results is more than the sum of its parts.  Consider the look you want and then approach it one step at a time patiently and thoughtfully!

Let me know if I can help you with any design dilemmas by commenting below or contacting me here!

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Turquoise!  

Pantone, the world’s leading authority on color trends just unveiled this year’s pick!  This will lead us to a sea of turquoise sweaters, pillows and bicycles.  But that’s fine by me.  I can easily incorporate shades of turquoise into my color palette if my clients are on board.  It has so many beautiful hues and easily works with other colors.  Last year’s color was “Mimosa” and while it was a pretty color, it was not one I saw making it’s way into my projects anytime soon. 

Here is their take on this luscious color:

“Combining the serene qualities of blue and the invigorating aspects of green, Turquoise inspires thoughts of soothing, tropical waters and a comforting escape from the everyday troubles of the world, while at the same time restoring our sense of well-being…..With both warm and cool undertones, Turquoise pairs nicely with any other color in the spectrum. Turquoise adds a splash of excitement to neutrals and browns, complements reds and pinks, creates a classic maritime look with deep blues, livens up all other greens, and is especially trend-setting with yellow-greens.”

If you love the many shades of Turquoise, here are some great ways to add it to your home:

• Pillows & Throws
• Lamps
• Turquoise Stones
• Rugs
• Artwork

This is a wonderful way to to give your home a New Year’s lift and add some bright, happy hues to the long, cold days and nights of winter.  If you’d like some more wonderful turquoise interior inspiration, visit Erin’s blog, House of Turquoise.  Right now she has posted some lovely holiday decorations and she also maintains a group of sites dedicated to different colors.  So no matter what color is your favorite, you’ll find you’re in good company!

Happy Holidays!

Seedling Modern Pillow from Inhabit Living

 

The Glass Zinnia knob from Anthropologie would brighten up any bathroom or dresser.

 

 

 

 

Flamingo Porcelain Lamp in Turquoise from Cottage & Bungalow

  

 

Spa Organic Bed Blanket from Ralph Lauren

1" Penny Glass mosaic tile from Ann Sacks in Water Matte.

]]> http://www.mydesignsecrets.com/2009/12/22/the-2010-color-of-the-year-is/feed/ 0 http://www.mydesignsecrets.com/2009/12/03/flowers-for-the-home-book-giveaway/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=flowers-for-the-home-book-giveaway http://www.mydesignsecrets.com/2009/12/03/flowers-for-the-home-book-giveaway/#comments Thu, 03 Dec 2009 16:47:59 +0000 tim http://www.mydesignsecrets.com/?p=8017 * 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 is a great ensemble for the blue lovers out there. Some might be tempted to paint the walls a light blue, but the natural tone shown is classic and really allows the bedding to take center stage.

Your bedroom is a great place to use your favorite colors and to change them up periodically.  Because most bedrooms are primarily casegoods (beds, dressers, tables), most times the color is brought in with bedding, window treatments and paint.  Since there are so many great ready-made bedding sets, this gives you so many different options!

This room features subtle bedding and a rich wall color that balance each other out. The paint color is Valley Forge Brown, a Benjamin Moore Historical Color. This is my favorite collection of colors.

As a designer, I create interiors that have a pleasing color flow by spending time creating a great color palette and then working from there.  Now this doesn’t mean you cannot use bright accents or deep, rich tones in some rooms.  I just don’t want to walk in a room and be bowled over by the color (minus kid’s rooms, which get special treatment).  

The coral and aqua tones in this bedding are beautiful, but not meant to be on the walls. The buttery walls are the perfect backdrop.

So how do you get the designer look without going too far?  It’s pretty easy but you have to make a choice.  Are you going to bring in the color with the bedding or the walls?  By making this choice early in the process you will help yourself in a number of different ways:

1. You will have a clear direction when choosing bedding and paint.
2. You will achieve a look that is much more cohesive and has a polished designer look.
3. You will make it easier to change just the paint or the bedding down the line for a whole new room.

Even in this modern nursery, the bold green walls pair perfectly with the lighter bedding.

Where are you going to use color?

Walls - If you go with the walls, then go subtle with the bedding.  Choose white, ivory or pastel shades.  Neutral patterns are great; reserve colorful patterns for smaller areas on pillows or the bed-skirt (no bedspreads please).

Bedding- If you find a colorful bedding collection that just pulls you in, then go for it.  Keep the walls subtle with neutral earth tones or whites that have a slight colored hue.  Don’t go bright white, the contrast with the bedding will be too harsh.

Take a look at the photos I have included here and you will get the gist.  Many times the hallmark of great design is knowing how to pull back a little and not using every decorating idea you ever had in one room. 

If you are proud of the design you have created in your own bedroom, please send us a photo (questions@mydesignsecrets.com) so we can all see!

~Lorrie

 

Win this Gorgeous $32o Lamp!

Today I am happy to welcome guest blogger and interior designer, Jeani Ziering, to My Design Secrets.  This is Jeani’s second contribution to our website.  Jeani is the owner and lead designer of Ziering Interiors in New York.  She has been designing interiors for residential, corporate, and hospitality projects for over 20 years.  She has also has written for and edited design magazines and publishes the Dr. Decorator Series on her site. 

Enjoy!  ~ Lorrie

We are all weary from the stressors of today’s economic climate.  Bad news seems to be all around us.  In troubled times like these, finding sanctuary in your home becomes more important than ever.  And when money is tight, we have the creative challenge of figuring out how to enhance our home décor without breaking the budget.  The use of color provides an easy solution to this problem.  Color is one of the best decorating bargains available.  The power of paint allows us to transform our living environments at minimal expense. Your paint brush is your decorating magic wand. Change the color of your walls and you can create a new room without changing any of your furnishings.

In the beige wall version the room is calm and classical.

Take a tired room with a huge beige sofa, beige rug and beige accessories.  Paint the room a contrasting color and… Viola!  You will feel like you are living in a brand new place.  For the slightly more adventurous home enthusiasts, the use of a boldly colored contrast wall will make your furnishings “pop” and give your place instant drama.  This is illustrated in the photos above and below.  The art deco styled sitting room designed by Jeani Ziering and Jennifer Huson of Ziering Interiors shows how the same room looks with different wall colors.  Same space.  Same furniture.  Different color.  Different mood.  The only thing that changed is the wall color.  Neither color is right or wrong; they are just different.

In the red wall version the room becomes bold and dramatic.

Color can also be used to camouflage architectural problems. Dark colors protrude and light colors recede.  Take a long narrow room and paint the end wall a dark color and you will create the illusion of a wider space. If a ceiling is too high, it can be visually lowered by painting it a darker color than the walls.  Conversely, if the ceiling is too low, it can be made to feel higher by painting it a lighter color. A trick for small rooms is to paint the walls and the ceiling the same color so that the space will visually expand. In rooms with angled ceilings, the use of the same color on ceilings and walls will make the angles disappear.  Paint can be used to make a small space feel larger or to make a large space feel cozier.

White and black are not colors. White is the presence of color and black is the absence of color.  However, black and white are important decorative tones. They add drama and definition and enhance the colors around them. White trim and ceilings are a decorating constant. Touches of black are a popular decorative element regardless of the decorative style. The combo of black and white provides decorative drama and always tells an exciting design story. When mixed with a colorful background or accent colors such as bright yellow, lime green, lilac, pale blue, or other tones, this high contrast design combo is always a sure fire decorative hit.

Silver is not a color but a metallic tone. Black is not a color but the absence of color. The mix of non-colors of black and white as well as the use of metallic tones create very potent design schemes. This is illustrated in the headboard and night table by Andre Originals where black and silver are combined for a very dramatic visual effect.

Color Trends are tricky.  Fashion-wise I play it safe.  Whether it’s leopard spots or shades of purple, I pick a few key accessories, pair them with my old classics and I am good to go.  But colors for home decorating can make your head spin.  The words “long term investment” and “short-term love affair” come to mind.

I just popped around to a few websites to see what the experts are saying and the predictions are often contradictory.  One “expert” says that greys, blues and greens are going to make us feel safe and grounded during uncertain times.  Another chimes in that red is the “go to” color and Pantone claims that the color Mimosa ”Embodies Hopefulness and Reassurance in a Climate of Change.”  I don’t know about you but a Mimosa is a brunch drink not the color of my walls

This pouf (ottoman) from West Elm is the perfect accent to this room. The bright color and soft look are a great pairing.

All of these predictions and forecasts are interesting and help us develop new color palettes.  But they are certainly not the hallmark of good decorating taste which brings us to my simple advice when it comes to color trends…

The colors that embrace you, inspire you and charm you are the ones you should use in your home.

So, what’s the best way to use color trends to your advantage?  I have one word and it’s… ACCESSORIZE!  This is especially good news because it’s an economical approach to freshening up a room.  Think of some of your favorite “off beat” wardrobe items that you only wear on special occasions; the red beaded necklace, the emerald green clutch or your patent-leather pumps and apply the same principles to your room.  Small thoughtful touches of color and texture in a room are a great way to freshen the look with lasting results.

Gourd lamps have a retro look that has been popular for a few years. The updated colors make them the perfect way to update your palette.

How to Punch Up Your Color Palette with the Latest Trends

A color palette is a range or scheme of colors used on a particular project or in a room.  So you can replace one color in your palette or completely start over.  But first a few tips:

• If want an accent color to stand out use warm and cool colors in your palette. (Red & Green, Blue & Yellow)
• Use what you have.  An old chair is an old chair, until you paint it white and add great upholstery :-)  See some great Before and After’s here.
• Be bold in the living room.  Let a colorful ottoman replace an outdated coffee table.
• Artwork allows you to bring color and favorite themes into a room.
• Lamps in the latest shapes and colors update a room instantly.

It’s fun to bring a new color into your home and color forecasts are great sources of inspiration.  But on the whole, give the most consideration to the colors you feel comfortable with each and every day and caustiously approach those that are developed by high-paid marketing teams.  After all, you know what’s best for your nest

~Lorrie

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These eco-friendly wall panels by Inhabit are a cinch to install and are removable. Instant texture and drama in a snap.

Today I am dedicating my post to those of you who had your first dusting of snow this week.  I know it’s bittersweet; so pretty and peaceful but also the beginning of the truly cold weather.  I used to live up North so I can sympathize.  So in the interest of optimism, let’s celebrate winter with a glimpse of beautiful items all dressed in white.  They are modern, crisp and beautiful any time of year but small accents can freshen up the interior of your home, where you are bound to be spending a good bit of time in the next few months…

I love these White Birch Branches from Nettleton Hollow. A cool new way to decorate for any holiday. Three branches for $12.50.

This marble top end table from Layla Grace is a French antique reproduction that would make itself at home in the bedroom or living room. On Sale for $475.

The Amelie Pillow from Blissliving Home is not pure white but I could not resist the misty forest image.

Le Klint pendant light from Lightology. Made of white PVC, it glows like a wonderful ball of ribbons. Don't be a afraid to throw a little mid-century modern in with your traditional pieces!

Remember that white adds great contrast to any color and a small dose brightens up any room.  A little dab will do ya!  Enjoy your weekend:-)

~Lorrie

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I have seen many chests that are "all mirror." I like the balance of combining the painted finish with the mirror. Neiman Marcus $1589.

A little bit of Silver adds some sparkle and life to most any room in your home.  Dressers, light fixtures, accessories and mirrors all fit the bill; and this is not a passing fancy.  Silver furnishings have been featured prominently in well-designed interiors for many years.  Antiques and originals can cost a pretty penny but there are also many companies producing pieces that are affordable and eye-catching.  

Gilded Twisted Ball Finials & Rod in Silver Leaf from Restoration Hardware - They are on sale right now starting at $7.99.

This Lilac and Silver Chain Stitched Pillow from Beautiful Pillows and Home would make a lovely accent on an ivory sofa. $184

Some simple tips:

• Re-frame a favorite piece of artwork with a silver frame.  Go with polished silver for a contemporary look or antique silver for something more traditional.
• Change the knobs on your dresser with something sparkly.  It’s an easy fix with a lot of impact.
• Choose a silver drapery pole and rings which draws more attention than stained wood. 
• Accent tables are meant to be just that, accents!  Why not select one that stands out?

These gilded bamboo look nesting tables from 1st Dibs are beautiful and would surely come in handy. $720

These coral prints from Shades of Light with mirrored frames achieve a great balance of simplicity and old-world charm. $248 for 4.

This wall sconce is based on a design from Federal times. The mirrored back reflects and multiples the light. From Shades of light $189.

Keep it subtle and don’t overdo it; all it takes is a small dose.   Maybe it’s time to find some room in your home for a Sliver of Silver:-)  Shop My Secret Database!

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The violet Calvin Klein duvet cover in this bedroom I designed works really well with neutral beiges as well as sage green, cream and gold.

Purple is a big color in fashion this year.  From purses and belts to shoes and scarves.  This means that you will see a lot more purple in home fashions next year.  If you want to be ahead of the curve and add a regal touch to your home, then consider adding a little purple to your palette.  Small, thoughtful touches of color (a rug, a lamp or just a throw on your sofa) are what makes and interior really come to life.   Here are some purple picks.

1. Cone II Mini-pendent in Purple from Lightology – $164 
2. Delphinium Table in Violet from The Artful Home – $875
3. 21″ Butter Border Blossoms from Altamira Lighting – $400
4. Purple Linen Pillow with Ivory Embroidery from Beautitful Pillows &  Home – $220
5. Jill Dining Chair from Maine Cottage in China Blue Luxe Yuri – $1,290
6. Petunia, 1925 – Poster by Georigia O’Keefe from AllPosters.com – $31.99
7. Feather in Plum and Cream Rug by Thomas Paul from Design Public 5′x8′ – $680

Shop for great accessories in your favorite colors in My Secret Database!

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~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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