My Design Secrets

I started My Design Secrets more than a year ago with one goal in mind:  Help people who love home decorating by giving them professional advice and easy access to the best online interior decorating sources.  After receiving a lot of wonderful feedback and learning that close to 100,000 people visted the database last year, I realized that My Secret Database was the answer to many of your decorating prayers!  So, I  was determined to continue sharing my interior design advice and resources.

A couple of months ago, I announced that we would be making some upgrades to the website.  Now, the time has come!  We wanted to make My Design Secrets even more useful, interesting, and fun for all of you decorating enthusiasts. (And for those of you who don’t know, my husband, Tim,  is the what turns “me” into “we”.)

So, here is what’s in store…

Improvements to My Secret Database *

The new database is PHENOMENAL.  When it comes to home decorating, My Secret Database blows any search engine out of the water.  Take that Google!  Here’s why: 

• Search through hundreds of online retailers for the product(s) you need and in the specific style you want.
• View a wide assortment of photos of specific products from the vendors in My Secrets Database. 
• Check out the the handy $-$$-$$$!  These icons will help you stay within your home decorating budget.

*While we wanted to keep doing all this for free, a girl has got to make a living!   With all these great new features, we are confident that you will recognize what a great value it is.  So starting this Wednesday at noon, My Secret Database is going to become a membership only site.  We are sure you will agree that the nominal charge of $9.95 per month is a fair price for access to this incredibly valuable, time-saving database.

Hot New Topics and Inside Tips in the Blog (Free)

The blog will continue to be free of charge and will offer my professional design tips as well as introductions to some of the hottest new decorating sources on the web.  I have lots of great ideas for new topics and, as always, you are welcome to make suggestions.  Feel free to search my existing blog entries covering over 350 decorating topics!

Great New Giveaways

We know you all love a Great Giveaway, so those are definitely going to continue.  We have some great ones lined up for high quality paint, gorgeous home furnishings, and fabulous interior decorating/design books.  And remember, your paid membership will automatically enter you into the giveaways.

Thank You…Thank You…Thank You

I have appreciated your support over the last year and sincerely hope that you will find these upgrades very helpful as you continue to put your personal decorating stamp on your home.

~ Lorrie

This hand-painted balcony window would look great framing a bedroom window or mirror.

Have you ever been to an architectural salvage yard?  Whether you are just curious, a treasure seeker or a serious renovator, you should give it a try.  My first visit was to a local spot, Adam & Eve, in West Palm Beach, Florida.  It’s one of those places that catches your eye as you drive past, because let’s face it - How many times do you see 100 toilets lined up like an army inside a chain-linked fence?  They have fantastic items from porcelain pedestal sinks and crystal chandeliers to intricately carved doors and hand-made ironwork.  Plus there are basics like reclaimed wood flooring and beams.  With so many classic homes being demolished to make room for cookie cutter communities, architectural salvage companies are overstocked with unbelievable treasures.

These vintage Majolica tiles would add a custom touch to your backsplash.

If you are going with a painted mantel, then purchase an antique one with great details as your starting point.

Many of the companies have gone online and they are posting new items daily and are always willing to arrange delivery for you.  If you want to hunt around on foot, then look in the Yellow Pages to find a dealer near you. Make sure to bring your camera because you are bound to find something you never knew you needed but now cannot live without.  Take a photo, some measurements and then check it out at home.  I promise it will be a fun afternoon.  And when you are ready to purchase, don’t be afraid to haggle.  They always want to make room for new stock.

This re-glazed claw foot tub would work well in a bathroom that mixes old and new.

If you are looking to add some personality to your home or replace a missing item, this is the place to look.  You will find hand made architectural elements and details at a fraction of the cost of new.  And the kicker is that these are not reproductions, they are the real deal.

Search for Architectural Elements in My Secret Database!

Click to Win Great Prizes!

Ask A Free Design Question!

This classic fireplace has a brick hearth and surround, topped off with a herringbone patterned wood mantel.

As you walk your dog on a chilly night you may have a wee bit of envy as the aroma of your neighbor’s fireplace wafts in the air.  If only your home had a fireplace, you would curl up with a book and your pup at your feet, or toast marshmallows with the kids.  Well, the prospect of adding a fireplace to your home is not near as complicated or expensive as you might suspect.  There are lots of options out there, so let’s find the one that suits your situation and style by reviewing what’s available.

Traditional Wood Burning Fireplace 

The Basics: This installation is possible during construction or renovation.  The fireplace needs a chimney as well as a firebox made of brick or concrete.  The fireplace will need to be cleaned and ashes removed.  Hardwood is often the best and it should be dried out over the course of the year whether you buy it or chop it yourself. 

Design Considerations: The design choices are endless including prefabricated or custom mantels made of wood, stone, tile or any combination of those.  Use a fireplace screen to prevent embers from jumping out and add some style.

Cost: Because there is construction involved, you can expect to start at about $2,000 and go up from there.

This direct vent fireplace has a crisp traditional look and can be ordered with natural gas or propane option. ($1,178)

Direct Vent Fireplace

The Basics: You can add this type of fireplace to your existing home with a moderate amount of expense.  The fireplace can vent up a traditional chimney or you can have it vent directly horizonatally through the wall or up through the roof.  It is fueled by natural gas so it is very clean burning.  If you are very handy, you may be able to install one yourself but I would recommend a professional for most people.

Design Considerations: They come with a fixed tempered glass window for safety that you cannot remove.  The radiant heat comes through but you may not like the look.  Log sets are very realistic and hide the gas jet.  They can be operated from a switch or remote control.

Cost:  The cost of the a fireplace and mantel combination will start at about $500 and go up to more than $4,000. You can also purchase the direct vent mechanism and design a custom mantel.

This modern design is fueled by ethanol; providing a smoke-free and eco-friendly fire. ($1,460)

Vent-Free Fireplaces

The Basics: These fireplaces give you a lot of options because no vent is required.  Why?  Because the heat production is low enough and the burn clean enough that it’s not necessary.  They can use propane or natural gas. 

Design Considerations: There are many styles available.  No electricity required.  They give off a bit of heat so this is not the best option for warmer climates.  Also, because of atmospheric pressure, the pilot may go out in altitudes above 4,500 feet.

Cost:  Small and simple designs start at $250 and go up from there.  You will also have to hook it up to the gas line.

A great complement to a living room with a formal design. It has a 13-function remote control including an air purifier and optional heat. ($2,199)

Electric Fireplaces

The Basics: This is a great option for people on a tight budget, apartment dwellers or those who want instant gratification.  You plug it in and you are ready to go. Take it with you when you move.

Design Considerations:  There are a variety of styles available.  Some are just designed for appearance and others are constructed with heaters. 

Cost:  There are a variety styles available starting at about $200.

Creative Solution

If you have a fireplace in an apartment or older home that is no longer functional, then there is a safe yet attractive solution that will still give you the fireplace effect.  Real Flame Gel – It comes in a can and burns clean.  It’s made from premium grade isopropyl alcohol and thickeners and one can burns for about 3 hours.  You can buy stone cast logs to get the “real” feel.  These are also perfect for warm weather climates because they don’t emit any heat. 

All of these options can also work for an outdoor application or for 2 or 3-sided fireplaces.  Many of you are super handy but for those of you who are not, it’s always smart to hire a professional to help you.  Safety should always be your top priority.  I hope you find a solution that works for your home so you can enjoy it this winter!

Shop for Fireplaces, Mantels and Fireplace Accessories in My Secret Database!

Click to Win Great Prizes!

Ask A Design Question!

This solid brass grille, with a low-luster lacquered finish, comes in many sizes and features a beautiful Gothic design.

Chilly weather has descended on Florida.  Stop laughing, 50 degrees is cold for us and that’s what it was when I was wandering around in the dark this morning!  (Is anyone else ready for the time change?)  Anyway, I actually turned on the heat just to get the house up to 70 and that’s when my mind turned to vents and the grilles that cover them.  Are you ready replace the ones in your home that have five coats of paint and louvers that won’t budge?  The problem is that many people don’t know that there is a vast selection of great grilles to choose from and that’s where I come in.  Since I always say that good design is in the details, I will show you some grilles with intricate designs and fantastic finishes that are worth a second glance.

This Resin Venetian Rope Grill is offered in 30 finishes, including a primer if you want to do your own. It would have a modern look in black or metallic silver.

This Contemporary Brass Floor Register with Louvers is available in 6 finishes and many sizes. It has a 5 year finish warranty.

This round over wood grille provides a good transition to the floor and is available in 100 wood species to match your floor.

Find the Grille of your Dreams in My Secret Database!

Click to Win Great Prizes!

Ask A Design Question!

We are happy to announce that the winner of the $100 Gift Certificate to Bed, Bath & Beyond is Mildred from Knoxville, Tennessee.  She was very excited to get the good news and her prize is on its way.  If you want to be the next Big Winner, then be sure to Enter our latest Giveway for a $100 gift card to The Company Store!

Many people work tirelessly on their interior decorating projects only to lose momentum when it comes to the front door.  This is an important place to focus your attention for many reasons.  It allows you to show off your taste and style before guests enter your home.  Plus, you deserve to come home to a welcoming front door!  The good news is that giving your front door a face lift is easily achieved in 3 simple steps.

1. The Door – Choose a front door that reflects the style and personality of your home and paint it or stain it in a contrasting color to make it a focal point.  My favorite colors?  Red, Black & stained finishes.
2. The Accessories- Just like any other room in the house, the accessories are the finishing touch and there are quite a few to consider:  door hardware, house numbers, door knockers, door bells, mailboxes, doormats, lighting and plants.  Since it’s a small space, try to keep finishes and styles similar.
3. A Commitment – Keep the area neat and clean.  A simple sweeping up and wiping down will usually do.  Flowers & plants are a bonus.  It brightens up the area and shows others that you take pride in your nest.

Modern Accessories

1. Stone Door Knocker from Chiasso- $98
2. Midnight Wall Sconce from Lightology – $43.20
3. Grey Fiberstone Planterfrom Smtih & Hawken – $58.99
4. Solaris mailbox  from Chiasso - $198
5. Sausalito house number 3 from Chiasso – $18 each
6. hi there doormat from Chiasso -$38

Mountain Retreat Accessories

1. 5″ Twig & Vine House Numbers from Atlas Homewares- $12.60 each
2. Post Wood Vented Mailbox from Rustic Connection- $194.95
3. Faux Brambleberry Wreath from Smith and Hawken - $99.00
4. Summer Striped Doormatfrom Smith and Hawken – $31.00
5. Panel Doorbell Button with Pinecone from Rustic Connection – $55.95
6. Sunset Ranch Outdoor Wall Light from Bellacor – $156.33

I hope you are inspired to dig in and makeover your front door.  Remember, it only takes a few details to create a warm and welcoming entrance!  You can always find what you need in My Secret Database!

~Lorrie

Did you enter our Free Giveaway today?

Decorative glass may conjure up images of stained glass windows in churches and Victorian mansions.  And while they can be quite beautiful, this often does not translate into an architectural detail you would use in your own home.  Well, after I tell you about Stained Glass Overlay, you may change your mind.  Advances in the technology used to make glass as well as creative alternatives open up a whole new world.

Not just limited to windows, decorative glass can be used in a variety of locations throughout your home:  shower doors, front doors, room dividers or simply as a piece of art.  Windows that require privacy or those where window treatments are awkward are prime candidates for this stylish solution that allows you to keep the natural light coming in.  If you are building or renovating and would like to replace a clear window with something special then SGO can make carved glass, textured glass or create custom images if you have something specific in mind.  

Now if would like to spruce up an existing window and keep the budget lower, Stained Glass Overaly is a great alternative.  It allows you to put an overlay directly onto your existing glass to create the look of an art glass window.   They also have a product called SGO Iron Art, that gives you the look of wrought iron at a fraction of the cost.

Take a look at the incredible designs featured SGO and consider adding fantastic architectural detail to your windows and doors!

Find SGO Glass and other great Architectural Elements in My Secret Database!