Randomness and a Little Break

Happy Friday, all.  The last few days the weather has been totally marvelous with tons of sunshine and mild temperatures.  It truly feels like Spring is here and just in time for Spring Break!  My kiddos are on break next week, so I am taking some time off the blog to spend as much time with them as possible.  Never fear current clients, I'm still going to be working on your design plans, just not taking any consults next week.  

My son recently turn 13, and I had a jolt of reality - he'll be driving in three years and out of my house in five years.  So, I'm making a conscious effort to spend more time with my children as this precious time is fleeting. 

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 It's truly a matter of priorities in life and this is a very important one that I don't want to look back on and have regrets.  

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So, I say all this to say - I'm taking next week off from the blog!  A little break for Spring. 

In the meantime, I have to show you some things I stumbled upon over the last few weeks.  Since I'm constantly sourcing items for design plans, I rarely see things totally different and new.  When I do, they tend to stop me dead in my tracks and I start thinking of ways to include them in my designs.    Some may be too edgy for mainstream consumption, but all are interesting and get my wheels turning.  

The Ghostly Host

A slipcovered ghost chair!  These are totally intriguing to me.  They have a balance between modern and french traditional that I adore.  I will have to find the perfect space in incorporate one or two! 

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Careful - Your Lacquer's Showing

Most of you have seen lacquered walls like this. . . 

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Lacquered walls can be totally stunning and dramatic.  They have an equally impressive Wow factor to wallpaper but with an understated nod.   But, it's a game changer when you consider it on the front door!

Even in a safe traditional color, it's a Wow . . . 

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But, you are truly taking it to a whole new place with a pop of color.  

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If you've ever wondered how to achieve this look, it starts with the paint - Fine Paints of Europe to be exact.  Not to mention a painter who knows what they're doing.  This paint has a very special application - consider yourself warned.  As an aside, I think this paint could even make that 1970's door something special.  It would be embracing it and making a statement with it.

J.A. Meets J.C.

Have you heard all the rumblings about Jonathan Adler creating a home decor line for JC Penney?  It's true.  Borrowing the phrase "Happy Chic" from his oh so fabulous book, Mr. Adler is bringing it to Penney's (of all places?!).  

The website says coming March 2013, but it has yet to go live.  And yes, confessions, I have been checking the website like a 15 year old who just tried out for cheerleader checks for the team list!  If any of you find out it's live, please send me an email.  I would love a bit of jump on the selections.  

Clever DIY
OK, everybody knows what a sucker I am for a good DIY.  I saw this leather/brass pull on Pinterest and a world of opportunities flooded my brain on where I could use this.

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You could freshen up a piece of furniture with these pulls, cabinetry in a bathroom (like my son's that is in desperate need of a freshen up), or even a simple detail on an upholstered piece like the sides of an ottoman.  

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Again, endless applications.  Remember, the devil's in the details and they can make a space.

Invitation for a Roast

Lastly, I enjoyed this entertaining post from one of the editor's at Houzz and just had to share it.  The article is entitled, "What is your Designer's Attitude Type?" and it's illustrated in a very funny way!    So, for those of you who have worked with me on spaces, I invite you to share your thoughts on my type.  I do realize I'm completely opening myself up here.  After all, it's healthy to be able to laugh at one's self.  Right?!  Here's the article - What is Your Designer's Attitude Type? 

Happy Spring! M.

A Kitchen Freshen Up

I've been working with a client on a quick kitchen freshen up.  We have selected a lighter wall color to go with their fabulous glazed cabinets.  Then we decided to tweak it a bit more with new lighting in the breakfast area and over the island as well as new hardware for the cabinets.  Here are the options I sent them . . . 

I love to give my clients options for their space.  The best part is they really can't go wrong with any of the picks!  It takes the pressure off and allows the client to truly be part of the process. 

This couple already pulled the trigger on one of the options.  When they are completely finished implementing the plan, I'll show you the results!! 

Any guesses on which option they chose? M.

If I Were Handy . . .

I would zip over to IKEA and pick up this for $299.00 . . . 

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Then I would order some chalk paint which is very forgiving and easy to work with.  I would get it in this color . . . 

Paris Grey

Then I would sand off a bit of the paint on the edges to let the original color show through like this . . . 

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Then I would change the hardware to these ($4.76 each) . . . 

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And get a very similar look to this for a fraction of the cost . . . 

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This stunning piece retails for $1,500.00 and is on sale for $699.00 at Kings Lane this week.  

Artwork Tip: If you are in the Birmingham area and want to check out some amazing original artwork, my talented friend Ashley Terrell is in town showing off her work.  You can see and purchase her pieces on Thursday, September 29th from 10am-7pm at the home of Betts and Lauten Johnson (2201 Shades Crest Road). Ashley's calling the show "Art with Reach" which is so appropriately titled given her affordable prices!    Have a great day.  M.

House Bling - Ring my Bell

It's the little details that create a fantastic first impression. Why not update your doorbell plate and add some character to your front entrance.

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Not into the electric version?  How about a good ole fashion knocker . . .

This one even has a cool peep door.

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Also, I think a large collection of door knockers on a wall in your home would make the most interesting art installation.  There would be a story behind every single one!

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The example below can be customized with your name in the large center area, or left plain for a sleek simple look.

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This one is the bomb!  I can see it on a modern style home that includes lots of traditional touches inside.

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Talk about a modern take.

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My husband has an Aunt who has this twist style at her house.  When we go to visit, my kids wear it out.  I keep thinking they'll grow out of the urge, but at 11 and 9 yrs old, it hasn't happened yet.   It must make her crazy, but she never lets on.
The twist style so charming and vintage (at least when we're not in town)!

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And if you have a beach house . . .

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Or a mountain house . . . 

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Let people know you're home in style! M.

House Bling - Front Door

Since every door needs a little glam . . .

Starting with my favorite - hard to believe door hardware can make me swoon!  I  just adore the look of this one.

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All these offerings are from Rocky Mountain Hardware.  And sadly, I'm not being paid to show them off! But, they are simply too beautiful not to share with you.
Notice the rope/beading detail around the plate and the ornate pull of this one.

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 This one reminds me of "The Other Boleyn Girl."  The deadbolt alone would make a stunning dinner ring.

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I love how this one has a hand worn look to it, like this door has been opened so many times that the handle is smooth to the touch. 

 
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More beading and an oval plate - so elegant.

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This one reminds me of a mountain resort, maybe the Ritz at Bachelor's Gulch.

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Don't forgot the door knocker!

Here's a modern version.

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And one perfect for a rustic cottage.

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Don't let the door hit you on the way out today! M.