Lighting - The Jewelry of A Room

While lighting serves a very practical purpose in a space, it can also add tons of subtle interest.  In addition to determining the proper lighting for a space (i.e., table/floor lamps, sconces and/or chandeliers), you really need to think about the style of lighting.  This is what creates the WOW in a room.  Just as jewelry is to a great outfit, so is lighting to a great space.

Here are some fantastic examples of true room jewelry - lighting available here. I love the trick below for over a sofa.  If you have a smallish piece of artwork that is not quite to scale to go over your sofa, add a pair of wall sconces for interest and to make the artwork "read" larger.  Works every time.

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I love this clever idea - consider pendants in bedrooms rather than a table lamp.  The unexpected is what really makes a room feel special.  Love all the texture these pendants are adding to the space.  When you create a monochromatic color scheme, you have to ramp things up with texture.

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Again, wall sconces over a sofa, but I just love the use of the library style lamps in this spot.  Again, the unexpected style makes this grouping sing!

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I had to include this image - I love the play on styles here.  The very traditional room calls for a more traditionally styled chandelier.  But notice, the citrine velvet chairs add a pop of modern flare and to repeat this juxtaposition, the silver tones of the chandy are more modern.  Very clever, yet subtle.

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This is just completely yummy.  Period.  These table lamps are artwork in and of themselves. 

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Don't forget about using lighting for a punch of color.  I love this over sized floor lamp in paprika! 

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Another great example of using lighting as the jewelry of a space.  Rather than basic cans lights, this designer used low profile overhead lighting in a super current brass tone for some Wow.  When your ceiling does not have tons of architectural interest, this is a clever option.

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Lastly, repetition can create a Wow.  Consider pendants over a dining table, rather than the more expect chandelier.  This is just downright cool! 

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So, when considering lighting for a space, really think about adding something special to the room.  You will be stunned what a little jewelry can add!  Have a marvelous day.  M.

Disclaimer: I have received compensation in return for publishing this article. 

Eye on Artwork Series - Donna Ruff

While sourcing items online for a design board, I ran across an image that stopped me in my tracks . . . 

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As most of you know, I'm online quite a bit sourcing furnishing, accessories and artwork (always start your interior design search online, it will save tons of time and in my case, it saves my client's money when pulling a room together). So, it's rare for me to see something completely new and unique.  It's even more rare NOT to find that other artists have created similar pieces or DIY versions.  Well, this is it.  I was not able to find any takes on this very original artwork.

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So, I had to find out more about the artist, Donna Ruff and her work.  After contacting Donna, she graciously agreed to an interview!   

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I asked Donna a couple of questions, and her answers were quite surprising.

When did you discover you were an artist?

 I was always the artist in school and I suppose enjoyed the attention. My parents sent me to art classes but also to singing and dancing and baton twirling (!) classes with my cousins. But when I was six, I announced that I wanted to be an artist. This will show my age for sure but the movie "Annie Get Your Gun" was being released and the producers sponsored a contest to draw your favorite toy, and the prize was an Annie Oakley doll. At that time Madame Alexander dolls were a big deal, like American Girl dolls are now, and I had collected a few. I was very cagey, because I decided to draw an Annie Oakley doll, even though I didn't have one (the dolls were released when the movie came out.) And I won the contest, and that sealed my fate as far as I was concerned.
While the artwork was never returned to Donna, she still has her beloved prize! 

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My parents thought it was fine that I was talented, but they certainly didn't encourage art as a career. Quite the opposite. A series of circumstances brought me to doing illustration, and then my family got on board, since I was making some decent money. I grew tired of the business though and wanted to make my own work, so I went to graduate school in 1998 when I had some financial resources to do it.  The style of my illustration work was kind of a soft realism, using airbrush and pastels. When I went to grad school I was introduced to printmaking and papermaking, along with a lot of theory.

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I wanted to leave illustration behind so I really didn't do much representational work. I got interested in the idea of series and my experience with books (designing and illustrating) stayed with me. I still enjoyed drawing and gesture and I applied that to printmaking and installation. My MFA thesis show employed linoleum prints on Japanese gampi paper, affixed to a large arc shaped skeletal wood wall. 

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What inspires you when creating your artwork?

The things that inspire me often have something to do with language and comprehension- in the sense that our own experiences determine how we comprehend things. I like to play with the idea of completion- most of my work seems fragmented, like time has passed and something is wearing away.

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 In the past few years as the world has become more volatile, as important monuments and artifacts have been destroyed, not to mention entire communities, I have thought a lot more about fragmentation and violence. 

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So the burn drawings are a form of violence to the paper, but they are also meant to be beautiful and elegant. When I see ancient books that show the effects of age, or mosaics, or buildings, I think about how they might have looked when they were new, but more importantly, these things carry the weight of history, and there is beauty and interest in that. 

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 Thank you, Donna, for the insight into your work! If you are interested in having one of these unique pieces in your home, contact Donna here.

Wallpaper - Thinking outside the box

I am constantly thinking of ways to save my clients money while still delivering a very high end, unique look.  Since wallpaper is making a huge comeback, I have lots of clients asking me for ideas on affordable wallpapers.  Well, the truth is, most of the really fabulous wallpapers are very expensive.  They are gorgeous and once you see them in person, you realize there is a huge difference in the quality and feel of the more expensive papers.  For example, the nubby texture of a Phillip Jefferies mettallic grass clothe is simply unmatched by some of the lesser priced grass clothes.  Period.   

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Sometimes, when you are trying to get a high end look on a budget, you are better off thinking about the elements a certain product (like wallpaper) provides and looking for these in other places.  Rather than trying to find an exact match for less.  That's the trick - to come up with something unique and different to give you just as much nubby texture, but for less.

In this case, the solution is fabric.

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Did you know you can use any fabric to wallpaper your walls?  And no, just because you are using fabric, the walls do not have to be padded for an upholstered look (although this can be stunning).  You can simply have your wallpaper hanger (they do need to know what they're doing), paste and hang the fabric on your walls.  Additionally, there are even some DIY versions that are actually temporary allowing you to change things up without the commitment.

So, with this in mind, here are a few fabrics that can give you some great texture for much less than you would pay for wallpaper.

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The options here are truly endless and can really make a unique statement in a space!  Hope your week is off to a great start. M.

It's Finally Friday!

Not sure how you are feeling on this marvelous Friday, but I for one am completely grateful the first week of school is behind us! There was a whole lot of this going on this week . . . 

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I'm not sure I would have made it through the week if one more thing had been added to my plate.  I will be recharging this weekend! M.

Redesigning My Office Space

So, while relaxing at the beach this summer, I started thinking about my "back to school" plan.  I find if I don't do this during the calm of the second half of summer, the back to school transition completely rocks my world.  Then, I'll wake up sometime mid October and think, "What happened to September?"  So, I like to get a mental plan!  If I can visualize some order to our weeks, then it will be so.  One task on my "Fall Bucket List" is more organization of my work space.

Many of you will be surprised to hear this, but I don't have a dedicated office space for my business.  That is about to change!!  The busier I get, the more I find I'm craving this kind of space.  So, I'm thinking about where my office needs to be in our home including a proper desk.   And I thought a little inspiration was in order!

Just look at this stunning dedicated office by Traci Roads Interiors.  

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I'm totally drawn to this one too - I think it's the Bengal fabric and that cowhide rug that's speaking to me.

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Location, Location, Location

When working from home, office space needs to be in a place you enjoy being - since you are not punching a clock, it needs to draw you in - call to you!  If the space feels depressing, you will NEVER spend any time there.  You will end up at the kitchen island (which has been my spot of choice for far too long!).  I think for office space to really work, it needs to be in a convenient, pleasant place in your home.

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If you need peace and quiet in your office or you are a messy worker (smile!), consider a guest bedroom or your own bedroom for your office.

On the other hand, if you are a multi-tasker and like to have lots going on while you work, then a main living space office may be the perfect spot for you.  Do you see that stunning office space behind the sofa?

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Here's a closer look - it's actually two separate stations!

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Also, consider those transition spots in your home that may have some "dead space."  These are the perfect place to tuck a small office which will be very conveniently located.

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Function is Foremost
Once you've decided on the perfect spot in your home,  you need to evaluate your office needs.  What type of computer do you have (is there a large hard drive attached or is it simply a laptop), do you have a printer, what type of filing/storage do you anticipate needing, does your desk double as a charging station/catch all for keys and mail?  All these items need to be considered when selecting the perfect desk.

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Also if you are a messy multi-tasker (smile here!) with an office area in your main living space - you may want to think about a desk that can work with your tendencies while still looking stylish in your space.  With an armoire style desk, you can simply close the doors on all that productivity at the end of the day.

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I love this more modern version of an armoire by Habitat Desk which can totally make a space.

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Just look how amazing this desk could be in a space.

Traditional Home Office by San Francisco Interior Designers & Decorators Brian Dittmar Design, Inc.

Materials To Consider

I adore the look of wooden desks because wood always adds warmth to a space.  Also, you need to think about the style of the desk and making sure it compliments the other pieces in your home.  I am totally in love with the idea of adding a hint of modern style to an otherwise traditional space, like this writing desk.

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To get this kind of look when paired with the more traditional desk chair and accessories.

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Like all organization, it only works if you use it.  I often tell clients that every day items need a home that is easily accessible.  You are more likely to put it away if it has a home, and the home is convenient.  My plan is to get my own office space established before school starts.  And of course, I'll share pictures of it with you when I'm done! M.



Disclaimer: I have received compensation in return for publishing this article.

The Cottage Journal

As I recently mentioned, one of my projects has been featured in The Cottage Journal for their Fall issue!  Here's my original post on the announcement.  I'm just over the moon about it!  

The issue is now available on newsstands, and I've already gotten a couple of questions about some of the furnishings from readers - like the semi-custom barstools (which I will discuss later)!  If you are not familiar with this wonderful magazine, here's your chance.  Their website offers you a sneak peek of what they provide in every single issue (let me just say, they are bringin' it).  Click here for a sneak peek.

Since the article on my project really focuses on the kitchen/breakfast area of the space, you will have to grab a copy of the magazine to see the details there.  But, I thought it would be fun to give you some details on the family room space which was also part of the overall project.

Here's the original design layout . . .

FYI, my design layout software has changed a great deal since I did this plan.  But, it will at least give you the general idea on the space.

And here are a few pictures of the space taken during the photo shoot.  When my client called me to help her she had already ordered the rustic custom table for the space and wanted to reuse the artwork seen over the mantel.  So, I got busy selecting the other pieces for the space to blend the two styles.  

Here's a shot of the space from another angle.  As you can see it is a large, light filled space with a tray ceiling.   On a side note, we added a pair of these rustic chandeliers to the space.  I just love them.  They are a knock off of a very expensive chandelier.  These were a fraction of the originals, and I found them here - Old World Chandy (they are heavy and look amazing in person).  Also, remember, if you are thinking of adding a chandy, you need to be sure it will fit - Measuring for a Chandelier.

Here's the reading nook in the far corner of the space.  A perfect place to sit and surf the net.

Here's a close up the accent fabric we used to add pop to the otherwise neutral space. 

I hope you'll pick up a copy of the issue.  It is simply overflowing with Fall inspiration.  I promise it will definitely get you in the mood for the upcoming season! M.

Width Decorative Tapes

Just pulled these fabulous new decorative tapes for a project I'm working on at the moment - at least two of them will be making their way into a design plan for one lucky client!   All those shown below are brand new for Fabricut.  Just loving the widths of them and the color options.  Very yummy! 

Here's a close up of the color detail in one example . . .

All are available through Mandi Smith T Interiors, and I'm happy to ship them any where in the U.S.   Feel free to contact me, if you're interested in pricing!  Enjoy your Thursday. M.  

A Couple of Affordable Finds of the Day

Well, the countdown for back to school has officially begun at our house.  This is our last week of freedom, and my kiddos are trying hard to enjoy the last few days.  Secretly, I think they're ready for some routine and to see their friends.  I know I am!!  I'm really craving some normalcy and routine.  So,  with that in mind, here's an installment of my "Finds of the Day" series.  I wanted to show you a couple of wonderful things I've found lately.  Both are super affordable and perfect gift ideas.

The Southern Cook

First, a great friend/mentor of mine, Margaret Agnew, has just published a new cookbook - The Southern Cook.   Margaret worked for Southern Living for years as a cookbook author, and then took a break to raise her son.  Now, she is back in the swing of things with a brand new cookbook.  I'm told this cookbook includes lots of traditional southern recipes like Hoppin Johns and Spoonbread as well as my "go to" recipe for Christmas Eve - Shrimp and Grits.  I've ordered my copy and can't wait to see what it includes.  No doubt it's going to be a wonderful addition to my cookbook library.   Also, it is the perfect price point for Christmas gifts for all your girlfriends.  Do something different this year and give your friends something they can use.  Who knows?  They may even invite you for dinner!

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Sweet Home Sewn

I spotted these precious dishtowels this summer and instantly fell in love with them! 

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Paige Willcut started her business when she was desperate to find some cute, simple teacher and neighbor gifts on the market.  After looking around, she decided to make her own!  Once friends saw them, they all started asking her to make them for their friends, and so the business began.   These dish towels are NOT monogrammed which Paige says is hard for some to overcome!  But rather they are truly Southern from the flour sack dish towels that all Southerners KNOW are the best dish towels! With the 7mm block lettering reminiscent of hand stitching.  The wording and embellishments are all customizable. Keeping the design simple is key to being able to keep the price low. Plus sometimes simple is better!  

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She has more than just the state of Alabama - she does fish with the name of your lake house and even holiday themed towels.  These make the perfect hostess gift and since they are customizable, they really show you were thoughtful in the gift you selected for your hosts! 

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If you are local, you can run by and pick these up at Marguerite's Conceits in Mountain Brook Village, A Little Something in Cahaba Heights, 3rd Street Promenade in Cullman, Homewood Antiques in Homewood, and The Paisley Pig in Bessemer.  Also, she has shops in other areas carry them - Moxii in Auburn, Freshfully in Avondale and even Ocala Traditions in Ocala, Florida!

I hope you have a marvelous Monday! M.