My Design Secrets

Have you ever wished that you could instantly change your decor?  Using an all-white living room set as their canvas, the Dutch lighting team of Mo Assem and Ruben van Esterik (a.k.a. Mr. Beam) make the impossible… possible.

Enjoy!

As a designer, one of my ongoing challenges is finding the perfect lamp and I bet it’s not easy for you either.  Lots of people have sad, non-committal lamps that they bought because they would “go with everything”.  But the right lamp is such a critical accessory. So I am proposing that you consider making an investment in a lamp that you love.  Nothing crazy or outlandish, just a beautifully balanced lamp with good bones and a little bit of wow factor.  This type of lamp will be around for years to come so here’s how to find one…

Lamp Basics

Size & Shape

• To keep things proportionate, your total lamp height (including shade) should be approximately the same height as the table it is sitting on.
• Tall and thin tend to be more modern. Wider, bulbous shapes are more traditional.

Shades

• Your shade height will be about 3/4 the height of a traditional lamp base.
• Shades for modern lamps are more extreme and may be as small as 1/2 the height or as large as 2x the height of the lamp base.

Color & Pattern

• I tend to favor solid color lamps in everything from ivory to fuchsia.  Use pattern on the shade for a change.
• Base patterns are great but don’t try to match your fabric. Go for a smaller or larger pattern.  Texture is always nice too.

And the shape of your shade will change the look dramatically so you may want to consider buying them separately.  Either way, I think it’s time you bought a lamp that you love and will hold onto for years to come!

Here are some of my favorite online lamp stores:

Mottega – Design your own lamp and receive it 2 weeks.  Sleek styles and bold colors.

Layla Grace carries Jamie Young lamps. Very hip and wonderful shade options.

Candelabra has a wonderful selection of modern and earthy Arteriors Lamps.

During the month of October, we are all keenly aware of how Breast Cancer has touched so many of our lives.  While breast cancer is a serious illness, celebrating the recovery of many and gaining an awareness of others is how a Cure is going to be found.  When I think of anyone fighting breast cancer, I think of their surroundings. Do they have a home, a room or cozy spot  that makes them feel nurtured, calm and content?

When it comes down to it, all women, no matter where they are in their lives, need a room (corner, space, niche or nook) that they can call their own.  It’s a wonderful respite on good days and bad.  A place to sip a cup of tea, meditate, knit, or read a book.  Tim knows my spot.  Early in the morning, I curl up on the sofa with a book, my tea and our dog, Roxie.  It gives me comfort and helps me start off the day on the right foot.  For you, evening may be your time.  The kids are in bed, the hubby is watching TV and those tranquil moments are yours alone.

Whether you have a whole room or a little spot, decorate it in a way that pleases you.  It’s a place you can reflect, pray, scheme and dream. It’s all up to you.

Carving Out Your Quiet Space

• Choose colors that soothe you, whether it’s cool blues and greens or warm peaches and golds.
• Add textures that embrace you.  A chenille or cashmere blanket and soft down pillow will help you snuggle in.
• Add a candle, a statue and a photo or two.  Personalize your space.
• Music always helps me relax.  I use the Pandora app on my iTouch for a great mix and no commercials.  Two stations I love….George Winston & Calm Meditation.
• Ask everyone in your family to “respect the space” and allow you to have some time alone.  I know it’s a tall order but they actually might listen.

Enjoy your space.

.

.

Sources in photos above:

Woodrow Swivel Chair in Sun Tweet Suite from Maine Cottage

Clockwise starting with Rug:

Spectrum Clover Wool Rug from Company C

Eliza nickel-plated Frame from Crate & Barrel

Rectangular Flanged Pillow in Zinnia-Sun Luxe Waffle from Maine Cottage

Set of 3 Scented Square Candles from Crate & Barrel

Solid Cashmere Throw from Williams Sonoma Home

Lucille End Table in Smootie from Maine Cottage

Zinnia Ball Lamp from Maine Cottage

.

the lovely details of this this French Directoire style dresser from Wisteria are highlighted by the white wash.

.

Do you remember a couple of years ago when dark woods were all the rage?  Whether they called it “Java” or “Wenge”, it seemed that they just could not make the finishes dark enough.  Well, just like fashion, politics and anything else we gossip about, when things swing to one extreme it seems inevitable that they’ll swing in the opposite direction sometime soon.  That’s why we are seeing worn and washed woods popping up all over the place.  Worn finishes have a nice earthy matte look that is soft to the touch and easy on the eyes.  A white wash can take that same piece and really brighten it up while highlighting the natural wood grain.  Because of this, a grainy wood like pine is the perfect candidate.

.

The Simplicity Chandelier from Currey & Co. Need I say more?

.

I like washed finishes for a number of reason, not the least of which is their time-worn look.  Furniture just has more character when it looks likes like it’s been around the block.  But the beauty of these weathered pieces is their ability to fit perfectly into so many designs such as:

• As a counterpoint to a room full of medium or dark toned antiques, it’s a great solution.
• If you are going for a light, beachy look with lots of white and painted finishes but crave some natural warmth, it also works.
• And if you love modern pieces but still want to inject a little history, they fit the bill there too.

So if you are stuck on when selecting that last piece for your living room, take a look at some of these well-worn pieces.  They are interesting, beautiful and instantly bring a little history into your space!
.

A classic and comfortable x-back cafe chair. Perfect as an accent piece or an extra seat for an unexpected guest.

This cute little desk lamp is so charming that it was recently reproduced by a major lighting company, but the new ones don't capture the authentic character of the originals. $300

.

Whether your taste is traditional or modern, you just can’t knock a good antique.  Most designs you see today take their cues from days past and lighting is no exception.  And that, my friends, is a big fat hint at the fantastic giveaway we have for you today!

Rejuvenation (my favorite source for classic lighting) has expanded its online antique lighting assortment with a collection of vintage industrial lights spanning the 1890s through the 1940s.  It’s called Antique Industrial.  They have also added a few new collections with antique style where you can customize ’till your heart’s content!  So let me tell you a little bit about them…

.

The Ford's Mill makes an excellent bathroom or hallway light.

..

Rejuvenation’s current offering consists of lights that originally illuminated movie theaters, garment factories, machine shops, schools, warehouses store display windows and New York City Subways. Minimal refinishing work has been done to these lights to maintain their rustic beauty and original patinas. When more extensive restoration was necessary, original period appropriate parts were used whenever possible.

.

The McCoy is from around 1900 and you can customize it with blue, green & red shades as well as some metal options.

In addition to these wonderful originals, they have also added some classic fixtures where you get classic style and your choice of finishes, shades and light bulbs.  The Ford’s Mill makes an excellent bathroom or hallway light.  The Menlo, McCoy and Wiley are fantastic pendant lights for any space.  Think hallways, dining areas or kitchens. (That’s where I  have mine!)  So jump out of the box (or the Big Box Store) and select a unique light with lots of charm.  You will be amazed at how many people will notice. .

.

This is how to enter:

Step 1:  Visit Rejuvenation and shop around.

Step 2:  Leave me a comment below telling me which item would be on the Top of Your Wish List and Why. 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, July 7th to enter.  One random winner will be chosen and announced soon after.

Good Luck!

~Lorrie

Arteriors makes great affordable lamps with designer details. This one features a crackle finish and hemmed edge on the shade. Get a pair for the bedside. ($278)

.

You need a new table lamp but have been putting it off for ages.  Why?  You have two other lamps in the room and simply don’t know how they’ll all work together. 

I have a tip for you:  Sometimes the best choice is white or clear glass lamp. 

They look crisp and clean and provide a wonderful contrast to stained and painted furniture.  Plus their light and bright look provides a breath of fresh air into darker rooms. You can find them in many styles from highly contemporary to totally traditional.  Look for interesting shapes and  finishes from crackle to textures.  Plus if you want to add a shot of color you can always change out the lamp shade!

.

A great little lamp from Crate & Barrel. Love the textured diamond pattern. Makes a great accent lamp at 20" high. ($129)

If you are up for an investment piece, Tracey Glover makes gorgeous blown glass lamps. All the styles can be ordered in a variety of colors. The one shown here is the Veronese Lamp in White Lace. ($663)

Simple, Affordable & Flexible. At 30" high this clear glass lamp with brushed chrome accents works with any style. ($119)

.

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. 

.

.

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.

.

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

.

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!

.

The most successful renovations include interesting details and wonderful style:  a classic light fixture, period hardware, the perfect claw-foot tub…you get the idea.  But enduring your renovation is not enough, careful planning helps you create a space that is useful and beautiful down to every last detail.  So my friends at Rejuvenation Lighting want to see what you have been up to and reward you for your efforts with their Second Annual “Make Your Home Your Own” Contest.

It’s really quite simple…

Share your makeover masterpiece. Whether you’ve simply upgraded lighting fixtures or fashioned a complete room remodel, they want to hear your story, see your photos – and share them with other folks.

So hop on the website and show ‘em your stuff.  There will be a $1,000 prize given for the People’s Choice, another $1,000 prize given by a panel of industry experts and a $500 prize given by the employees of Rejuvenation.  So tell your story, send some photos (they even give you some tips on the entry page for taking great photos) and I will keep my fingers crossed that one of our wonderful readers will be a big winner!    You have until April 29th to enter and if you do, please post a comment below so we can all follow your road to glory!

I know you’re out there.  Home lovers who tirelessly Redecorate & Renovate.  Now it’s time to Rejuvenate!

Enter to Win $1,000!

And if you are just getting started on a Renovation, make sure to visit Rejuvenation.  They will help you find gorgeous affordable options for all your lighting and hardware needs!

Last week, our friend, Richard Sexton, at Carolina Rustica was nice enough to give us some tips for selecting a chandelier.  This week he’s giving one away!

Last year, Sheila Hickman was extremely happy when she wone a $440 Emerson Ceiling Fan.  This time, you can win the gorgeous Hawthorn Collection Chandelier shown above (Retail Value – $244.80).  I’ve said it before and I will say it again, Carolina Rustica is one of the most diverse vendors in My Secret Database.  And besides that, their one of my favorites too!  Keep reading! 

Carolina Rustica has one of the most extensive collections of chandeliers, sconces, and other fixtures available online. From the very highest-end lighting manufacturers like Fine Art Lamps, Currey & Company, and Hinkley Lighting to hand-forged lighting like Northeast Lanterns, Arroyo, and Hubbardton Forge, you can find something for every room, style and budget.  And right now… All Lighting and Ceiling Fans Ship Free!

…

Look stylish and be good to the planet with this Energy Star wall sconce! Hubbardton Forge has created an iron and glass sconce that is striking in its simplicity, with flowing forged reeds originating on the lower left of the light fixture.

…

Would you like to find a great deal on furniture, lighting, or home accents and save Big Money $$$?  Then you have to visit Carolina Rustica’s Clearance section.  This is a great opportunity to pick up brand-name lighting or furniture items at a huge percentage off list retail.  Look what I found below!

…

This Liz Claiborne Arbor Hill Rectangular Cocktail Table is on clearance right now. Was $899.00 NOW $475.00

… 

Do YOU want to Win this Beautiful Hawthorn Collection Chandelier – $244.80?

This is how to enter:

Step 1:  Visit Carolina Rustica and shop around.

Step 2:  Leave me a comment below telling me which 2 products would be on the Top of Your Wish List and Why.  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 14th 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 Carolina Rustica’s new arrivals, exclusive promotions and decorating trends by signing up to receive their Newsletter Specials.  Just by signing up, you’ll receive $10 off your first purchase!

This Currey & Company chandelier has a hint of formality, but the washed wood would work well in beachy, casual interiors too.

Carolina Rustica is one of the many wonderful vendors I have included in My Secret Database.  They carry a fantastic selection of lighting and furniture and their customer service is top notch.  Today, Richard Sexton, the owner of Carolina Rustica, is here to offer some tips on selecting a suitable chandelier for your room!  And please keep your eyes peeled because next week Carolina Rustica is sponsoring a fantastic giveaway here at My Design Secrets!

Enjoy!  Lorrie

______________________________________________________________

 One frequent question we hear from our customers here at Carolina Rustica  is “What Size Chandelier Will Work For My Room?” Most homeowners are concerned that the size of their room is the only thing that determines the dimensions of a chandelier.

Nothing could be further from the truth.  

 There are many factors that determine the appropriate chandelier for a given room, but one of the most important is:  Do You Like the Chandelier?  After all, you are the one who is going to live with it! 

So, first it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with what’s out there.  We offer chandeliers from 25 different vendors so we are sure there is something for everyone.  So browse through and see which companies catch your eye. 

 Here are some other factors to consider when choosing a chandelier:

Room Considerations

• Room Dimensions
• How high is the Ceiling?
• How much natural light is available?
• What is the décor of the room?  (heavy furniture, light contemporary, etc…)

Lifestyle Considerations

Lanterns look great in your foyer, kitchen, or just about anywhere!

.

Some “Suggestions”

Next, it’s a good idea to figure out how large your chandelier should be.  There are, of course, many rules of thumb available to those homeowners who are more mathematically inclined.  Since we don’t like to be limited by design rules, we will call them suggestions:

Suggestion #1

In an 8’ x 10’ room, take the sum of the width and depth (18) and that is the approximate size in inches for the diameter of the chandelier.  So in this example, we would have an 18” diameter chandelier.

Suggestion #2 (For Dining Rooms)

Chandeliers should be hung about 30” above the surface of the dining room table.  This is a pretty good rule, but again, the height will really depend on the style of the chandelier.  If the 30” measures to the bottom of a crystal, hanging it a little lower may not make a difference.

Suggestion #3 (For Dining Rooms)

A very general suggestion for the dining room is to size the chandelier to about 75% of the width of the table.  Again, this will depend on the style, configuration, and number of lights on the chandelier.   Other designers suggest that the chandelier should be about 12″ narrower than the total width of the table.

 Carolina Rustica has thousands of chandeliers from some of the best-known names in the lighting, such as Currey and Company, Hubbardton Forge, and Hinkley Lighting.  

You can begin shopping for the perfectly sized Chandelier by clicking here!

.

Win a Great Book Here!

.