My Design Secrets

Before ~ Dated, drab and choppy.

Recently I pulled off a quick and affordable bathroom makeover that I just love.  My clients purchased a home with a wonderful layout, lots of light and easy indoor/outdoor living.  But many of the details in the home needed updating.  So we prioritized.  Some of the must-have’s…a new kitchen and new flooring throughout.  But then there were details that  just needed a quick face-lift and their master bath was one of them. 

The Good News…it’s a nice size bath with his and hers vanities and beautiful plantation shutters. All the permanent fixtures were in light tones.  

The Bad News…dated vinyl wallpaper and pickled wood cabinets that highlighted the cultured marble counter-tops.  Not my favorite combo.    

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After ~ Serene, cohesive and classic.

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The key here is highlighting the good features (large room & plantation shutters), creating a simple color palette (ivory and blue) and updating the less desirable features (the mirrors and cabinets).  So this is how we did it.

4 Easy Steps to a Quick, Easy & Affordable Bathroom Makeover

Step 1 - Remove the wallpaper and paint the walls a spa-like blue. (See how the soffits virutally disappear?)

Step 2 – Paint the cabinets Benjamin Moore Linen White. (My favorite warm white.)

Step 3 – Replace the knobs with something simple and classic.

Step 4 – Install frames on the existing mirrors to tie in with the cabinets. (I have Excellent Sources for mirror frames in My Secret Database.)

So if you are not happy with your bathroom, really take a good look.  Does it have good bones but just needs a few tweaks?  Chances are you might be able to pull off most of the work yourself and be relaxing in your spa-like bathroom in no time at all.

My Secret Database should be your first stop on your decorating journey!

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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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It’s likely the first and last thing you see when visiting the powder room: the Mirror.  Yet so many people play it safe by using a mirror and light fixture from the same collection.  That is just plain boooooring!  There are so many fantastic mirrors out there of all shapes and sizes, finishes and styles.  So let me give you some tips that will help you select something stylish and unexpected in this great little space. 

Classic, classic, classic. A Chinese Chippendale mirror can be used in the most traditional or eclectic of homes.

This Funky Faux Bois (fake wood) Mirror from Stray Dog Designs is a modern way to bring nature into your room. It's available in 13 colors.

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Powder Room Mirror Selection Guidelines

It can be difficult to select a mirror but if you start with size and shape and move onto style and finish, the process will be a snap. 

Size - Make sure to measure your available space. 

• Side to Side:  Make sure you have an inch or two extra between the mirror and light fixture or the corner. 
• Up and Down:  You want it a couple of inches above the sink or backsplash and under any wall-mounted light fixtures

Shape – Rectangular is the most common choice but octagonal or oval mirror adds some interest.  Round and square mirrors need to be pretty large for the scale to work and you may not have the space.

Style- Give consideration to the style or theme you have created but don’t overdue it.  If other elements of the room are super detailed, then go with a simpler mirror or vice-versa.  Mirrors with chunky frames are dramatic but they often reduce the viewing area substantially.

Finish and Material – Choose a mirror finish that complements your lighting but does not match.  If your lighting is bronze metal, then consider a gold mirror or one with a stained wood finish. 

This lovely mirror is made in Syria and features carved walnut and mother-of-pearl inlay. It's a bargain at $350.

If you are a minimalist, then this one is just up your alley. The addition of the nickel bar and cables elongates the mirror and makes it much more stylish than your typical frameless mirror.

So when it’s time to select a powder room mirror, find something that’s add interest, color and texture to your room.  It will really elevate the look of your powder room. 

~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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You have carefully decorated your master bath retreat with towels, lighting, and the perfect accessories and now that plain Jane mirror looks worse than ever.  For my clients there are two options: tear down the existing mirror; or have a carpenter frame out the mirror with a custom trim and then have my faux painter finish it.  The first option is messy, dangerous and the drywall often has to be repaired.  The second option is fantastic but it’s a costly venture.  So, what’s your alternative?

Well, I have a stylish solution that will bring your mirror from sad to superb.  It’s called Mirror Makeover and it’s an economical solution with designer results.  It’s the brain child of expert framers who thought of a new use for an old product.  Mirror Makeover offers you a selection of 16 frames that can be custom sized to fit your mirror.  They are crystal clear about the pricing and the installation is very easy.  The frame is simply applied directly to your mirror with very strong adhesive tape.  Take a look at their “before and after” gallery as well as the short installation video.

A couple of designer tips:

• Take advantage of their frame samples so you can confidently confirm your selection. 
• Make sure the frame will not interfere with any lighting or switches.
• Consider the finish on  your sink faucets when selecting a frame finish.  They have options in the silver, gold and bronze families.

Visit Mirror Makeover and put a new spin on your bathroom!

Mirrors are such an attractive and valuable accessory.  They add a bit of life to any room and they come in so many different shapes, sizes and styles.  You are sure to find something that suits your own particular Style.  Lately, I have run across some very unusual ones like the porcupine quill mirror above from Horchow.  Surely you can find one that perfectly reflects your personality in My Secret Database.

Lacking Windows? - Mirrors are a great way to bring light and life into a room.  If you live in a small space or are lacking in the window department, they are a great replacement.  Mirrors also help brighten up a long, narrow hallway, making it feel more spacious.

What about Feng Shui? - Think twice before putting a mirror in your bedroom.  Mirrors bounce energy and light around a room so it could cause restlessness and poor sleep.  Also, you should not be able to see yourself in the mirror when you are in the bed, nor should the mirror be at the foot of the bed.  Good energy can be sucked out of the room with poor mirror placement.  (I have simplified the feng shui principles here, but in the future, my friend, Michele, who is a feng shui consultant, will be enlightening us with some feng shui education!)

Can’t find the size you need? – Your local frame shop is an excellent place to get a custom sized mirror.  Most shops have a fantastic selection of frames and you can specify the exact size you need.  This way you avoid shipping costs that can be quite steep if the mirror is heavy.  Not to mention the reduced risk of breakage!

Happy Hunting!

I am not talking about a dog but rather something that could make your home just as warm and inviting.  Stray Dog Designs carries a stellar selection of home furnishings and they have a unique back-story.  Bill Pritchard and Jane Gray were newly-weds in Mexico in 1994 “figuring it out” when they came upon a small, sad looking pup that needed a good home.  They took La Princessa in as their first joint project and things just took off from there.  They started importing pottery to the States and that soon evolved into having a tinsmith bring Jane’s artistic visions to life in the form of lamps, mirrors, urns and other cool stuff.  In 1995 they were very warmly received at the Atlanta Gift Show and the rest, as they say, is history. 

They now live on Lookout Mountain in Tennessee with 3 kids and a houseful of pets which of course includes a former Stray Dog (a Great Dane named Big Girl).  They carry accessories, lighting, furniture and cool holiday stuff.  I would say their style has a Dr. Seusslike quality to it but with a bit of modern polish.  In their words: “Stray Dog Designs’ core design principles are simple: all items are handmade with careful construction from quality and recycled materials, melding quirky charm and true artistry, and providing fair wages for local workers.”  The vivid colors and whimsical shapes are the product of two people who run a company with a lot of heart and soul.

Come Visit Stray Dog Designs on My Design Secrets!

Bamboo is making itself at home everywhere, from your bedroom to your kitchen to your dining room.  We may compare it to wood, but technically bamboo is a grass.  It is the fastest growing woody plant in the world; making it nature’s most sustainable resource.  It can reach maturity in 4 years.  One species has been clocked at growing 47 inches in 24 hours!

The more obvious uses of bamboo are seen in the form of furniture, flooring, drapery rods, blinds and cutting boards.  There are also new items making the scene that incorporate fabric that is made from bamboo.  Examples include supple sheets and towels, fashionable clothing, and light and airy drapery sheers. There are oodles of options.

Let’s not forget that the bamboo motif is ultra attractive and adds an exotic flair to any room.  Chandeliers, mirrors, pillows, wallpaper and chairs look fantastic in a multitude of colors and patterns. 

Bamboo is a double duty design item that can add a terrific twist to your home!

You will find many items with Bamboo motifs in My Secret Database. The Eco-Friendly companies are indicated with this symbol!

I love the Boatwood Mirror from VivaTerra with it’s beautiful washed out beachy hues. This mirror is decorated with wood panels from Thai fishing boats and the re-use of materials makes it eco-friendly. There is a history to that weathered patina and it gives it a lot of character. This would look great in your powder room or a mostly white bedroom that has accents of sea and sand.

I am a big fan of incorporating eco-friendly elements into interior design. I understand that Green and Eco-friendly is coming at you from all directions but I want to share some information with you that you might not be aware of. You know that antique table you inherited from your grandmother? And that cool watercolor painting you grabbed for $3 at the garage sale? What about the TV a friend gave you when they were moving?

I have great news for you, you are being eco-friendly and you did not even know it! Any time we can re-use, pass on, or trade items, we are doing the earth a favor. The name of the game is to avoid putting non-biodegradable items in landfills! If you cannot find a new home for an old item, donate it to Goodwill , The Salvation Army or Freecycle and don’t forget you can find great things there yourself. And it all goes to a good cause.