Taking a room from lovely to show stopping 05/18/2009
This weekend I added the last finishing touches to my client's home. Below are the before and after photos showing how the right details can take a room from lovely to show stopping. The design of this room started with using furnishings that are classic, simple and tailored. I then layered sophisticated elements like the silver leafing on the cocktail table, basket weave pattern on the rug, and luxurious velvet fabric on the chair and pillows. By using a neutral color palette, the room has versatility and flexibility. Here I used a painting above the sofa in lovely pastel tones that make the space feel fresh, bright and youthful while still keeping it sophisticated.   Above the desk, I hung a collection of prints which resemble beautiful script letters with a postage stamp in the center. The prints are delicate but when hung as a group, they become bold, fun and impactful.   In the dining area, I hung an oversized mirror 60 x 48 in antique silver with a lovely beaded detail. The large scale of the mirror opens up the small 8x8' space making it feel larger and elegant. It also reflects the natural light from the window making this small dining alcove bright and inviting.   I love mixing modern pieces in all spaces from transitional, contemporary to eclectic interiors. Modern pieces offer clean lines, simplicity and versatility.  Nogochi Cocktail Table at Room and Board $1349. I've found an identical replica of this iconic, sculptural piece at Advanced Interior Designs for $440.  Eileen Gray side table at DWR $550 Over Stock has a limited quantity for $149. Less that dinner for two and truly priceless.  Magino lucite cocktail table by Karim Rashid at Umbra for $700 Target's similar version is priced at $420.99  Design Within Reach Platner Side Table for $662  Ethan Allen offers a similar more affordable version. Check out the Wire Form table for $419. Plus they offer free shipping, now that's smart shopping! Tips for Decorating with Art & Photographs 05/14/2009
 Art Shelves allow you to display all of your favorite framed art and photos as a collection without damaging your walls. Narrow art shelves are easy to build and install -- or purchase one online or at an art store. This room shows one terrific way to display a big collection of family photos on two long display tracks. Vary the sizes of the pictures, but keep the frames harmonized in color (black and silver, for example) so focus remains on the art. Art shelves and ledges are inexpensive and can be found is styles from Modern to Traditional. Here are a few links of my favorite art ledges to help you get your art wall started. Pottery Barn Room & Board West Elm Brocade Home This years Design on a Dime benefit was a huge success. I had the honor and opportunity to volunteer at the benefit and help raise money for their mission to help the homeless living with HIV.  Me and my friend Bonnie Fox photographed by guest of a guest. Check out their website for more pics on the event and attendees.  A paparazzi moment with Paker Posy  Designer Elizabeth Bauer's room. Additional photos and details on these rooms can be seen on apartment therapy            If you liked my post last friday on inexpensive ways to add a little glamour to your home, you're going to love these additional items.  Z Gallerie Borghese End Table $349, would work great as a night table, next to a cozy reading chair or at the end of a long hallway with an arrangement of fresh flowers.  I found an almost identical option at Horchow for almost $100 less- Mirrored End Table Sale price $269.90  Horchow Ava Mirrored End Table $559. To show off it's sexy legs, I'd pair it next to an armless sofa or modern chaise.  Pier 1 Hayworth Night Stand $199.95. A great alternative to Horchow's table at less than half the price.  Horchow Mirrored Buffet Console on Sale for $1339.90. This piece is such a show stopper, don't limit it to a dining room, It will also look great in an entryway, as a room divider behind a sofa or as a TV console in a formal family room.  Z Gallerie Borghese Buffet $1099. And here's is an even better price. I love hunting for a bargain!  Horchow Tall Aluminium Table $459. This little table can go virtually any where. I'd use it between a pair of chairs or in a master bathroom topped with your favorite candle and fresh flowers.  Brocade Home Turned Metal Pedestal Table $299. This option is just as pretty with an irresistible price. Tomorrow and Thursday I'll be volunteering at the Design on a Dime/Housing Works event. A great organization that helps homeless people with HIV.  I had the honor of being interviewed by OFifteen Magazine. If you ever wanted to know what my crazy life is all about, here it goes, as real as it gets-  Great start to the weekend! 05/02/2009
I received an email from Sherry of This Young House this morning. I'm featured on her blog. There are wonderful comments on the room redo. I've been compared to Candice Olson, can you believe it? How awesome is that!  The Look for Less - Going Glam on a Budget 05/01/2009
I feel that every girl needs a little glamour in her life. Mirrored pieces definitely crank up a space with sophistication, elegance and complete chicness. Here are my Look for Less picks of the week.  Horchow Mirrored Vanity $699.90. This piece is currently on sale which is way the price is already great.  Pier 1 Hayworth Vanity $349.95. I went a step further and found this vanity for half the price. Total score! This weekend I staged a New York City apartment that lacked interest and sophistication. Within 4 hours my talented crew and myself transformed this space making it inviting, chic and appealing wide range of home buyers. Living Room  Before:   After: Bedroom Before:  After: |
