Victoria Dreste Designs

Transformations Or Why I Love Beautiful Fabrics

2012-02-19T15:18:00.000-06:00

For this post I have a series of chair transformations. Using an amazing fabric can do wonders for a chair. The first is in a client's family, a perfectly nice chair. The chair was recovered in an orange toned cut velvet from Designers Guild. Now it is a stunning chair.

Next is the French Wing Chair from Restoration Hardware, a wonderful chair with beautiful lines. Recovering the chair in a printed cotton from Quadrille customized and enhanced the already stunning chair.

Next is a chair I found in the back of a vintage store. I had it recovered in a floral printed linen from Designers Guild. The chair was given a new life.

The chairs above are new. Same style covered in different fabrics. The first is in a Zofffany fabric and used in a sun room. The second is another Designers Guild fabric and it is in a sitting room that is part of a master suite. Same chair, different personalities. What's not to love?

Library Dining Rooms

2012-02-12T18:09:00.001-06:00

I love the idea of a dining room that is also a library, being surrounded by books is very comforting. It's such a natural combination., and it's happening to me. My dining room is being taken over with books and I'm fine with that. I'll have photos of my library dining room another time. For now here are several library dining rooms that are wonderful to look at and a great use of space.

You can see from the photos this design combination works in casual as well as formal settings.

Love the pink chairs.
Would you consider a library dining room in your home?

A Few Favorites

2012-01-31T21:10:00.000-06:00

Love this fabric. China Rose from Designers Guild

Wonderful rug pattern and colors.

Peony light fixture

Saw this blue and white collection in a vintage shop. LOVE

An acrylic table can be the perfect element to finish a room.

Great color combination. The orange makes it all work.

Classic pattern from Osborne & Little

Sofa fabric is amazing. Comes in red, fuchsia orange and green colorways. All are stunning.

Vintage Headboard

2012-01-14T17:03:00.000-06:00

The pink headboard is a vintage piece a friend of mine had purchased at a yard sale. It was hanging out in her basement until she decided what to do with it. Enter me. I was was working on a design for a bedroom in a show house. I asked if she had anything I could use for the bed. She led me to this headboard and although it had seen better days it was still kind of fabulous. I loved it. My friend repainted the frame ( she's quite talented) and I selected a beautiful dark taupe velvet and had it reupholstered. The result is below.
Stunning.

This is one of my all time favorite vintage make overs. I had the room painted a very soft pink and used gorgeous fabrics from Mulberry and Kravet for the bedding. They are beautiful but the stand out piece is the amazing vintage headboard.

Colors Of The Year 2012

2012-01-07T07:52:00.001-06:00

Pantone has named Tangerine Tango has the color of the year for 2012. It is bright, intense, vibrant and vivacious. If you want to be remembered this is your color.

A lot

A little

Vivacious

Beautiful

Sherwin Williams has designated Argyle as their color of the year. Argyle is a jewel like emerald green.

A color that adds depth and stability.

The color of the year for me is Fuchsia. I love this color.

Fuchsia is chic, brilliant and highly mixable.

It works beautifully with cool grey, tan, beige, white, taupe, deep brown, icy blue, cream, soft pink. You get the idea.

Fuchsia can be the main color or used as an accent.

Gorgeous

Stunning.

Fuchsia can be bold or

soft.

If you're feeling particularly adventurous you can mix tango tangerine and fuchsia to create an unforgettable space.
When I find myself drawn to a certain color I decide if this is a color I like for now or is it a color I like/love long range.
Tango Tangerine and Argyle are now colors for me. I will use either in small easily changeable ways.
Fuchsia is a color I always want and like. I can use it just about anyway and be happy with it for a long time.
What colors are you consistently drawn to?

Tangerine Tango Argyle Fuchsia
What is your color of the year?

Classic With A Bit Of Rustic

2011-12-27T17:19:00.000-06:00

What I love about these spaces is they are classic with just a bit of rustic. It adds interest without overwhelming the space.

Beautiful furniture and styling enhanced by the rustic wall paneling, also a great color palette

The rustic fireplace and table are a wonderful contrast to the traditional setting and again a wonderful color palette.

The stone wall and wood slat ceiling complete this other wise sleek modern interior.

Great color and the rustic sliding barn style door is amazing. Love it!
photos 1, 2, 3 from Coastal Living 4 from Architectural Digest

Holiday Color and Inspiration

2011-12-10T20:12:00.000-06:00

I'm really not into the traditional red and green for the Holidays, so I've gathered photos of less typical color and inspiration. Hope you enjoy them as much as I do.

Well maybe a little red and green.

Happy Holidays.

Jaipur Collection From F. Schumacher

2011-12-07T08:31:00.000-06:00

F. Schumacher has created The Jaipur Collection, a group of hand block wallcoverings. The Jaipur Collection is " hand blocked using traditional methods and classic patterns in new interpretations and colorations."

from the F Schumacher website

I love the patterns and colors in this collection. The patterns are versatile, at home in modern, transitional or traditional settings. The colorways range from vibrant to sedate, all are stunning and add sophistication to wherever they are placed.

The Rampura pattern in turquoise makes an elegant background for an entry. It would also make a wonderful focal wall in a bedroom.

Askandra Flower in the pear and water colorway adds interest without overwhelming the space.

Katsura Stripe/Oyster in a beautiful neutral design.

Askara Flower in delft is the perfect back drop for the blue and white grouping.

Depending on how you use it, wallcovering can add elegance, whimsy, sophistication, charm, balance, drama, energy, romance... Which are you looking for?

NYC Loft

2011-12-02T08:22:00.000-06:00

There are a lot of loft looks these days. They are often dark and gloomy. A loft is light filled from tall windows and has wide open spaces with specific areas. When I saw photos of this NYC loft at Vogue I knew it was the real deal. Now this is a loft. It belongs to Vogue staffer, Devon Radziwell and her husband.

This is such a beautiful space, from the sheen of the wood floors to the high ceilings and the series of tall windows, it is all amazing.

The loft is open, functional well designed and decorated.

The brick walls are a great back drop for the the smooth surfaces of the table, chairs, cabinets and counters.

A perfect open table for the living area.

There is plenty of storage in this office for two.

The bedroom is given a softer look by using carpet and bedding that adds charm and comfort to the space.

Loft living may not be for everyone but this space definitively shows it at its best.

Sometimes A Little Goes A Long Way

2011-11-23T10:58:00.000-06:00

Acrylic furniture can be just the right touch in a room. I like to use an acrylic piece in a traditional or transitional design. I can add a traditional detail in a contemporary form or bring an element of modern into the mix. I like the see through-ness of it.

This room is a wonderful mix of traditional, transitional and contemporary. The clean lined acrylic table over the white shag rug is perfect. It fills the space without crowding the space.

The acrylic table and lamps in this setting help to give the space its open, clean design.

Love the clear, smooth window treatment and lamp. They allow the room to not be over decorated.
photos from Homes & Gardens.

The acrylic table I used in my recent show house room was the last piece I added. It was exactly what I needed. It didn't crowd the space and was a jewel of a table.

A great combination with the traditional chairs.
Do remember that a little goes a long way.
table from Acrylicore.

Small Business Saturday

2011-11-16T16:57:00.000-06:00

In the spirit of Shop Local and Small Business Saturday for the next three Saturdays my hourly design consultation fee will be at the 2001 price.

If you need paint colors selected, window treatment problems solved, furniture placed or fabrics chosen I can help.

Contact me for more information. I look forward to hearing from you.

vickidreste@sbcglobal.net

314-308-5759

2001 Design Consultation price for Saturdays Nov 19, 26 and Dec 3 2011

Lighting For The Dining Room

2011-11-08T16:09:00.000-06:00

This time of year we start thinking about and planning for the holidays. The dining room becomes a focal point in the house. A new chandelier or sconces or both are at the top of the" I need this for the holidays" list. Here are a few I have selected for clients and a few that I just love.

The petite Paramour chandelier adds elegance and lots of crystals to a small dining area.. Beautiful.

No surprise here, a pink chandelier. The raspberry pink crystal orbs create a vibrant style on the metal and wood silver finish frame. Stunning.

Another chandelier that isn't afraid of color. Turquoise and jade beads on a bronze frame turn up the volume.
Happy Holidays.

The Sultana pendant in sky blue makes a perfect statement in a dining room without using a single crystal. Modern and wonderful.

Cool, sleek, silver, the Venus chandelier makes a strong contemporary statement. Amazing.

As a designer I'm not much for matching but I would definitely add Venus sconces to a dining room or entry with the Venus chandelier.

Dark coffee bronze and crystal make the Sebastian sconce a smart, sophisticated choice in a dining room.

With a champagne silk shade, wrought iron base and silver granello finish the Pembroke sconce is a modern marvel.
Lighting is important in any room. In a dining room it should make a glorious statement. Whatever your budget is buy a dining room light fixture you love.

Ladue News Show House

2011-10-25T19:56:00.001-05:00

I thoroughly enjoyed transforming the drab reading room at the Ladue News show house into an elegant bohemian salon for reading, conversation or whatever may happen.

It is filled with amazing art and wonderful furniture.

The crystal chandelier is the crown to the room.

The acrylic side table is a stunning compliment to the French styled chairs.

The wood floor received a coat of grey/blue deck stain.

Panels painted with an Art Noveau pattern were added to the closet doors.

The bookcase is filled with books and objects from a well traveled life.

So there it is complete, until the next show house...

Ladue News Show House Part 2

2011-10-16T07:45:00.000-05:00

The show house is open. The rooms have been completely transformed. You will be amazed.
The Mediterranean style home was built in the early 1900's and is located at #15 Washington Terrace in the CWE. You can see more information and purchase tickets here.

As you can see there have been quite a few changes in the Reading Room. Let me know what you think of the show house. I'd love to hear your comments and thoughts. Vicki

Ladue News Show House

2011-10-09T17:31:00.000-05:00

I am participating in a show house this fall. It is in the Central West End, which is a beautiful area of St Louis filled with amazing homes. The room I am designing is the reading room which is on the second floor of the three story home. I am transforming the space into a French style salon, filled with a mix of new and vintage furniture. I am also creating an art wall that showcases the work of local artists.

The reading room was less than impressive when I first saw it, but I knew it had potential.

The design from bland reading room to stunning salon is a work in progress. The window treatment is made from a gorgeous silk plaid from Scalamandre. The French cane chair is a renewed vintage peice. The Paris wing chair covered in a blue Aquataine velvet is also from Scalamandre.

The before of the closet doors.

The doors (and all the trim in the room) have been painted in Granite Peak from Sherwin Williams. I am also adding painted canvas panels with and art noveau design to the center section of the doors.

The room includes this bergere chair covered in a Nina Campbell silk stripe. The chair is placed in front of a vintage table painted by Tricia Heliker specifially for the show house. You can see Tricia's blog here.

The top of the table has been expertly painted in a faux marble finish.

The art wall will be a stunning example of the creativity of local artists.
The Ladue News Show House will be open October 15-30. You can find additional information here.
Hope to see you there.

The Balance of Black and Color

2011-09-30T22:10:00.000-05:00

Dorothy Draper is an iconic interior designer. One of her strengths was understanding the power of using black in her designs.

Black is strong, powerful and can be over whelming. Balance is the key.

Dorothy Draper knew how to use and balance black in her interiors.

The black background of the wall hangings is a wonderful contrast to the rose colored walls. Using dark grey on the sofa instead of black maintains the balance of dark and color.

The black of the window treatment fabric is a stunning contrast to the vivid colors of the flowers.

This grouping of pillows is a beautiful mix of patterns, color and black. Balance.

The black bookcases in this dining room bring depth and character to the room. The light walls and wood toned furniture balance the black bookcases.
Black can be a beautiful addition to a room. It adds depth and elegance when used with the correct balance.

photos from Dorothy Draper and Homes & Gardens

Adding A Bathroom

2011-09-21T07:35:00.000-05:00

I am currently working on the design of a master bath for a client. We are taking what was originally a sun porch off a bedroom and making it into a bathroom. The area isn't particularly large so thoughtful space planning is a priority.

After finalizing the layout I am now in the process of selecting fixtures, faucets, tile, cabinets, counters, mirrors, hardware and paint color.

The style of the room will clean, somewhat contemporary while keeping in mind the bungalow features of the house.

I will post as we go through the process leading to the big reveal.

In the meantime I have gathered a few photos for inspiration.

I love the mix of the white painted pieces with the chrome fixtures and the silver framed mirrors. The storage baskets add a nice bit of texture.

The soft curve of the window balances the rounded edges of the tub creating a peaceful setting.

I love the way color and pattern are used here. Repeating the floor pattern as a wall border and using black as the counter color is perfect.

Serene, calm, peaceful, so beautiful.

Using the same tile on all surfaces creates continuity and gives this bath a look that is both bold and calming.

The Dorothy Draper style in this bathroom is sophisticated and colorful. A nice contrast to the neutral baths.

I like the space planning in this room. Floating the vanity and mirror in front of the window wall adds a whole new dimension.

In some bathrooms the pattern, color and texture of the tile is the main style element. It certainly works here.

This traditional bathroom is well balanced by the strong floor tile pattern, the French cabinet used as a vanity, vintage style fixtures and architectural detail. A stunning design.

Clean lines are enhanced by a curved mirror and strong wall color.

Tiled surfaces are practical and well as a great design statement.

I'll keep you posted on the progress of the bathroom project.

photos from Homes&Gardens, Elle Decor, House Beautiful, Walker Zanger Tile and Ann Sacks Tile

Real Life Renovation

2011-09-08T21:57:00.000-05:00

Last night was the premiere of Real Life Renovations, a reality television show. The show featured a single mom who purchased a home that needed a lot of renovating. I worked with the home owner to help bring it all together keeping in mind her strict budget.

For the show we concentrated on the family room. Using Design & Detail as my resource, I added furniture, lighting, accessories and an area rug.

I added elements that were lighter in color and brought various textures into the room

Before I arrived the room was painted a dark, rich brown. The home owner purchased a comfortable brown leather sofa and brought in tables from a previous home.

The area rug is a large caramel colored sisal with a painted border. The lighter color opened up the room. The rug defined the seating area in the large room. The linen covered chair is from Hickory Chair. It is comfortable, practical and adds a great style to the room. The nail head outline on the chair is a wonderful detail.

Accessories were added to enhance the the old world elegance of the room.

The tall, metal candlesticks bring height and balance to the fireplace wall.

The entry is covered in a chic black and gold damask pattern wall covering. It makes a strong statement as you enter the house. The table is a family piece. The floral arrangement adds the right amount of color and texture.

The daughter's bedroom is, of course, a completely different color palette. The white, pink and green combination is fun, bright and perfect for a happy, busy little girl.

Working on Real Life Renovations was a great experience. It was produced by Dianne Casey of KMOV in St Louis Mo and hosted by Jenny Rausch of Karr Bick Kitchens and Bath. Stay tuned there may be more to come.

The Final Result The St Louis Rep Theatre Apartment Project

2011-09-03T09:56:00.002-05:00

The Rep Apartment project is completed. Fourteen of the twenty apartments have been renovated and designed. Here is the final result of my Apartment, G-2. It happened with the help and donations of many friends and supportive businesses. Thank you.

Arch Framing & Design donated framed prints and posters.

The Scalamamdre zebra wallcovering was the starting point for the design of the space.

Fabrics for the bedroom window treatments, shams and pillows were donated by B Berger Fabrics.

The kitchen is small but functional. All the elements are here. The black cabinets, donated by Beck Allen Cabinetry look great with the glass mosaic tile back splash and the granite counter. If you want to mix color and pattern in a small space keep the color palette close in tone.

The tile and carpet throughout the space was donated by Pro Source.

The fabulous zebra print shower curtain is an outdoor fabric from Scalamandre.

Kohler provided all sinks and faucets.

The opening party was a tremendous success. The apartment was a success with the much appreciated help of Tyler Mahley of Mahley Building Group.

Cary Baumann of HomesForRehab donated furnishings to help complete the apartment. Christy Marshall editor of St Louis At Home Magazine was the force behind this project. Someone I do not have a photo of is Deb Sharn of the St Louis Rep Theatre. She managed this outrageous project and is truly amazing.

Cary with Melinda Klinghammer of Design & Detail who gave support and donations for the apartment.

Christine Renna and Ryan Frank, family is the best support there is.

David Whitehead, Peter Julian of Scalamandre, and Sherrie Whitehead. Your help and generosity is boundless.

Kathy Curotto,always there to help get the job done.

Because of Tony Xenos of Aphrodite Granite the apartment's bathroom has a beautiful travertine vanity top.
Donna Goro,Sondra Singhurse, Carolyn Cecil, Trica Heliker, Lori O'Brien,
Thank you, this couldn't have happened without you.

Rep Theatre Project Part Two

2011-08-23T11:06:00.000-05:00

This Saturday August 27 the Rep Theatre Project apartments will be open as a show house. Here is a sneak peek at the apartment I designed.

The dining area is small but Scalamandre's zebras give it a lot of style and impact.

Hydrangeas make everything better.

The art wall was made with the help of Sherrie Whitehead.

This is going to be a great show house. The information is here.

Rep Theatre Project

2011-08-06T22:43:00.001-05:00

Through this hot, hot summer I have been part of a local community project sponsored by St Louis At Home Magazine. A group of twenty designers are working to renovate and update fourteen apartments for The Repertory Theatre of St Louis. These are the apartments used to house the actors and directors for the Reps productions.

Each apartment has been assigned a designer to complete the transformation. The update includes new kitchen, bath, furnishings, window treatments, the whole nine yards.

My apartment is on the second floor of the mid century structure overlooking the garden area. As you can see work is well underway.

The bathroom was taken down to the studs. As of today the sub floor, dry wall and tub are in. By the end of the week the floor and wall tile as well as the vanity will be installed.
The kitchen is close to being completed. I'll have photos of that soon.

I have chosen to have carpet installed throughout the space. The bedroom window will be covered in a functional treatment made from a camel colored glazed cotton. I'll be ready for the window treatments in about two weeks.

One of the elements I'll be using in my design is the wonderful zebra wallcovering from Scalamandre. It will be on the wall of the dining area.

The chrysanthemum pattern from Osborne & Little will be an accent fabric in the living room.

This zebra patterned outdoor fabric from Scalanmandre will make a bold statement as the bath's shower curtain.
I'll have another update soon.
For information on the show house click here.

A Little Something From Lorca

2011-07-26T17:27:00.000-05:00

Lorca is a gorgeous line of fabrics. The motifs are often floral, the colors are luscious and the fabrics are usually silk. The fabrics shown here are from the Tanjore Collection. They are sumptuous silks inspired by the powerful beauty of India.

The pattern Tanjore features cherries and flowers on a silk ground embellished with appliqued velvet and embroidery.

Radjada is a silk floral designed in a 1930's style.
Gorgeous, luscious, sumptuous, I've already use these words to describe these amazing fabrics. Not much left to say. Get to a designer showroom so you can see them for yourself.

TFA The Future Antiques

2011-07-19T20:35:00.000-05:00

TFA The Future Antiques is a mecca for mid century furniture, lighting, home accessories and clothing. It is, as they call it, A Retro Plex.. I've been visiting and purchasing from TFA for several years.

Recently TFA moved. They are now located in a bright space at 6514 Chippewa St here in St Louis.

I am a fan of buying and using vintage. I like the charm of it, the good lines, the character. I like the reasonable

prices and I like that it is green. Renew Reuse

The space is bright and well lit. The vignettes are well designed and the accessories are fun.

Vibrant color combinations...

Such a great selection of pendant lighting. I love the giant hounds tooth lamp shade.

Modern, colorful, delightful...

The bright yellow seen and favored this summer is available on this retro chair and table.

The tile pattern on the table top is a cool detail.

I love the scale and design of this floor lamp.

Another great wall art collage. Take one or take them all.

Do you collect vintage radios? Would you like to?

Then there is the vintage clothing, starting with this wonderful wall of ladies hats.

Hats for men as well as other great accessories.

And again for the ladies.

TFA is a wonderland of vintage and retro.

This is a vintage chair I purchased from TFA. It is now covered in a Designers Guild fabric and sits in a client's bedroom.

I recovered and used this Milo Baughmanesque chair in a designer show house in 2007. The cut velvet fabric is from Designers Guild.

This chair was a bit of a mess when I found it. After recovering it in another Designers Guild fabric I decided to keep it for myself.

I used an Osborne & Little chenille to recover this low profile chair for a client's living room.

Same living room different chair in a Groundworks fabric.

The bold stripe Schumacher fabric gives this chair a whole new personality.
If you appreciate vintage TFA is a great place to shop. It is filled with all kinds of trinkets and treasures.

Paris Couture Week At The Grand Trianon

2011-07-13T17:55:00.000-05:00

As a finale to Paris Fall 2011 Couture Fashion Week there was a cocktail party and another sort of fashion show in the Grand Trianon at Versailles. Museum curator Olivier Salliard created an exhibit exploring the influence of 18th century style on contemporary designers. The exquisite architecture and beautiful details of the Grand Trianon make a stunning setting for the gorgeous couture fashion

A Versailles cocktail party...a party like no other.The chandeliers, the flowers, the art work, the architecture, it could only be Versailles.

From Christian Dior, this sumptuous red dress could easily have been worn by Madame de Pompadour.

A Versailles-esque group from 1980s Chanel by Karl Lagerfeld.

From the 1998 collection of John Paul Gaultier, something Marie Antoinette could wear when she was feeling a bit Punk.

This group is from Vivienne Westwood and Alexander McQueen. The 18th century looks comfortable in the 21st.

What would Marie Antoinette wear? Maybe something from Vivienne Westwood. It works.

A little something worn at Versailles circa 1785.

The promotional poster for the event. I want to go.

Inspiration Is Everywhere

2011-07-05T13:00:00.000-05:00

I recently did some vintage shopping (hunting) at Junque, located in a building which was part of the International Shoe Company in St Louis. Junque is always filled with treasures from architectural elements to decorative items. It is fascinating. What is also fascinating is the complex of buildings in the area, some are in use some are not.

The building, constructed in the 1860s, was originally part of the Lemp Brewery. International Shoe purchased it in 1922. The building is intact and houses a few small businesses.

The combination of the colors on the bricks, the blue/green shade of paint on the window and door trim and the grey stone details is wonderful. You never know where you will find you next favorite color palette.

I wasn't sure what was through this doorway but I had to go in.

Just inside was this amazing metal spiral staircase.

These metal cogs. wheels and whatever were on the ground outside of the shop.

Color, texture, pattern is everywhere.

A small portion of architectural elements to be found at Junque.

This piece was once part of a conveyor belt. It has such a great sculptural look. Maybe next it will be a wall hanging.

Art Collage Wall

2011-06-24T09:09:00.000-05:00

Arranging art can be an art itself. Balance, scale and proportion are all part of the equation in creating the perfect arrangement of art and accessories.

photo from Rue Magazine The wall sconces are an intricate part of this art collage. The art in the room has been placed to create a balance with the seating area.

photo from Rue Magazine The computer screen and accessories in this office have been arranged to enhance the art.

photo from Rue Magazine Clean white walls and furnishings create a gallery like setting for an art collection.

photo from Rue Magazine Included in the art placement are the fireplace, mantel, chair, tall cabinet and cocktail table. All are used to balance and provide space for the art and accessories.

photo from Habitually Chic In this updated traditional office frames in a variety of shapes and sizes have been carefully placed to create this interesting wall collection.

Designed by Mary McDonald The deep blue wall is a stunning background for this arrangement of art and accessories. Balance, scale and proportion- it's all there.

Designed by Mary McDonald The grouping on the table as well as the wall arrangement of mirror and framed photos create a setting that is harmonious and vivacious.

Designed by Mary McDonald The leopard print covered wall brings together the mix of framed photos and prints.

With contemplation and an eye for design an art collage wall can be created to complete and enhance the style of a room.

Turquoise

2011-06-14T16:22:00.000-05:00

Last week when I posted about Summer Settings there was one color palette that really grabbed me. It was the turquoise with deep brown and accents of fuchsia. Such a beautiful combination. Since I kept thinking about the color turquoise, I've put together a group of photos all featuring it. Even though it's strong, turquoise mixes well with other colors: clean white, tan, brown, cool grey, yellow, pink, orange, it all works.

I've started with the photo from the Summer Settings post. Outdoors or in, turquoise is a vibrant, beautiful color choice.

photo from The House of Turquoise

Harlequin Fabrics and Wallcoverings

Vintage sari fabrics

Summer Settings

2011-06-10T10:52:00.000-05:00

A bright sky, lush green landscape, these are the calls of summer. Sometimes you just have to be outside. Let these outdoor settings inspire and entice you into the great outdoors.

Colorful, bright, comfortable. A great setting. I love the mix of color and pattern on the earthy wicker background.

I am enchanted by blue and white all over again. It's always cool and crisp in a summer setting.

I love how the surrounding green is used to highlight the bright pink flowers on the table. The fabrics are pretty great too.

Its all in the details. The color palette for this outdoor table is perfect. The floral table runners placed across the table makes it all work.

Exotic, pink, breezy. Where is this? I want to go.

The deep brown of the house is a wonderful background for the turquoise, white and fuchsia palette. Inviting and vibrant.

It isn't always about high doses of color. The white and tan create a soft, serene atmosphere.

The soft, cozy hammock setting may actually be better with your eyes closed. Happy Summer
photos from Homes&Gardens

The Serenity Of Neutrals

2011-06-01T14:35:00.000-05:00

I talk and post a lot about color but I also have an appreciation for neutrals. The right combination of similar soft tones make for a beautiful and serene setting.

There is great attention to detail in this neutral room from the pleats of the window treatments to the pattern of the accent pillows.

The contrast of the dark, sleek wood against the light neutral fabric and wallcovering adds to the sophistication of this dining area.

This room I call Edgy Neutrals. I like it!

Cream and white with just enough dark wood to give the room depth.

I like the subtle change in color of the plaid sofa fabric.

There's a lot going on in this room. The neutral palette makes it all work without getting overwhelming.

The chrome, glass and mirrors add a bit of glamour to this neutral room.

A beautiful soft, dreamy neutral bedroom. Strong color isn't necessary to design a stunning room. The right mix of neutrals is truly beautiful.
Photos from Osborne & Little and Homes and Gardens

The Mix Of Modern And Traditional

2011-05-29T20:14:00.001-05:00

I found this photo on the website of the British magazine Homes&Gardens. It takes my breath away. Beautiful furniture in a beautiful setting has that effect on me.

The lines of the furniture are wonderful with the pattern of the wallcovering. The colors blend and unify the design. What I like the most about the setting is the mix of modern and traditional styles. The element that makes the mix work is scale. The balance of shapes and sizes is key to creating this wonderful setting.
Without the proper scale and proportion your design plan is lost. The size of the painting over the sofa is proportionally correct. The scale of the wallpaper pattern works with the scale of the curves on the sofa. It all matters and it all contributes to this beautiful setting.

Color Confidence

2011-05-24T09:06:00.000-05:00

Today's post is a pictorial on color, lot's of it. It's about color and how much color confidence we each have. There is no right or wrong. We all have a color confidence level. Too little color and we feel off balance, too much and we are overwhelmed. Finding the right amount of color brings confidence. Being confident is always good.

photo from Anna Spiro

photo from Scalamamdre

photo from Designers Guild

photo from Worlds Away

Photo from Designers Guild

photo from Elle Decor

fashions from Nanette Lepore

photo from Lorca Fabrics

water color from Muriel Eulich

photo from Osborne & Little

purses from Lulu Guinness

photo from Osborne & Little

How color confident are you?

Mixing Patterns And Finding Your Design Balance

2011-05-19T19:02:00.000-05:00

Elle Decor has an article on their website about mixing patterns.You can find if here. I want to give my own design thoughts on using and mixing patterns in your interiors.

We all have our own level of design balance. What is great for one person will be wrong for the next. I like using patterns. I like mixing patterns. This has to be done with thought, care and a sense of the overall design.

This setting from Elle Decor is a wonderful example of using patterns with the overall design in mind. The colors palette works around the room. The colors and patterns flow throughout the space.

Repeating a large scale pattern, such as a toile, around a room can create a calm, restful design.

In this room adding a bright color to the neutral palette creates pattern. Green with the white of the bookcase creates a pattern for the room's background. The green throw over the ottoman adds color and adds a pattern to the furniture.

A strong intense pattern can be mixed but works best when it remains the focal pattern. I love the small amount of animal print used to break up but not take away from the stripe.

Keeping the color palette in similar tones is an appealing way to use patterns. You can mix several patterns without overwhelming the space. Photo from Coastal Living.

The overall "blueness" of this room is the focal point for me. The neutrals and patterns add interest and work with the blue. What also works is the patterns vary in color but the scale is very similar.

Strong pattern and color can be balanced with clear, solid neutrals. The strong patterns and rich red in this bedroom are toned down by the vibrant white.
Don't hesitate to mix patterns. You just need to find your design balance.

A Sitting Room And More

2011-05-15T18:11:00.000-05:00

A while back I posted about a client's sitting room project in progress. You can see that post here. The room is coming along nicely. Last week the furniture and area rug were delivered. There are a pair of chairs in the room covered in a Designers Guild fabric called Ombrione. It is beautiful to look at and wonderful to touch.

Between the chairs is a French writing desk painted in an aged Taupe. A custom ottoman is covered in a practical, but still beautiful linen from B. Berger. The area rug is from Stark Carpet. It has a ribbed texture and it the softest rug I have ever felt. Perfect for this sitting room off the master bedroom.

I also did a few updates in the living room. Accent pillows were added to the grey velvet sofas, a cushion was made for the window seat and the French styled bench was recovered

The blue bench fabric is a cut velvet from Designers Guild called Fredensborg.

The pillows are covered in Osborne & Little's Wilde Chrysanthemum. This pattern was where the palette for the room started a few years ago.

The walls in the living room are painted a deep, rich brown which is a perfect background for the silver grey sofas.

A custom rug defines the seating area in the room.

The deep trim and mantle in white are a wonderful contrast to the deep brown walls.

Designers Guild pattern Monplasir in red on the window cushion balances the red fabric of the chair and ottoman.

The soft green walls of the entry provide a neutral background for artwork leading to the red walled dining room.

The area rug in the dining room is a custom size and pattern.
The next update will be the window seat in the breakfast area. The cushion is a green wide wale corduroy. The fabric for the new accent pillows is a printed linen from Sanderson. The lively pattern and color palette will be a nice addition to the room.
So stay tuned there's more to come.

Blue and White * Bright * Bold * Beautiful

2011-05-09T20:17:00.000-05:00

Bright, bold, beautiful are all ways to describe using a blue and white palette. Crisp, clean, confident can also be used to describe this powerful duo. Whether you use it for the entire room or as an accent, bold blue and white will lift your rooms decor.

Blue and white, crisp and clean on dinnerware and tiles.

This room's strong blue palette is bright and bold.

The deep blue walls are a strong background to the white furniture and bedding.

A modern take on a blue and white lamp.

The more traditional version.

Adding another strong color can intensify the blue and white combination.
photo from Absolutely Beautiful Things.

An otherwise sedate setting is enlivened with deep blue walls.

Blue and white can bring summer into a room.
photo from Designers Guild

Chic white furniture becomes more vibrant with the contrast of a rich blue wall.

In this bedroom varies shades of blue are unified by the stark white.

I love the bold blue and white stripe on the chair.

This is a gorgeous room. The soft palette accentuated with blue creates a beautiful, inviting setting.

This water color, by Muriel Eulich,is a stunning tribute to the power of blue and white.

Combining Colors

2011-05-05T19:11:00.000-05:00

If you love color and want to go for it selecting the right combination can be a bit daunting. So here are a few photos that I hope will clarify what is best for you.

This vibrant color combination is from Designers Guild. The red, pink and blue work wonderfully with lots of white.

The Iola Rose wallcovering is from Harlequin. I love the black and tan paired with the glorious pinks. The more subtle tan and black keep the pink from overwhelming a space. It's all about color and balance.

This Victorian home has a stunning color palette. The use of black to outline the green and red of the windows and door gives the house a tailored, refined look.

The pillow fabric, designed by Nina Campbell, has great color and balance. The textures of the fabric adds more interest to the setting.

When I started designing this living room and dining room my client wanted to keep the palette neutral. Over time she discovered she wanted more color. So the palette was expanded. Red, blue, green, turquoise and even purple were added as accent colors. The neutral walls, window treatments, sofa and wood floors keep the colors from taking over the rooms.

This series of water colors by Muriel Eulich has repeated colors that are used in each individual painting. The paintings work as a group or on their own. The palette for your interiors should flow through each space but not every color has to be repeated in each room.

Spring Showings From Designer Guild Osborne & Little Zoffany Harlequin

2011-05-02T20:13:00.000-05:00

I was recently presented new fabrics and wallcoverings by rep Jennifer Boschert. Jennifer was showing the latest from Designers Guild, Osborne & Little, Zoffany and Harlequin. It was an amazing collection.

First up, Designers Guild

Rosenholm is a gorgeous pattern pf climbing roses. I love the combination of the blue background with the florals in neutral.

Borgolm is a deep cut velvet with a geometric pattern.

Tistad is a soft linen with a detailed pattern taken from oval frames.

And from Osborne & Little we have Nizam. This is a stunning embroidered paisley pattern. The detail is wonderful.

The Laguna pattern has a Venentian influence that includes birds and island flora.

Kolam is a sophisticated embroidered silk medallion on linen.

Zamindan's silk embroidery shimmers on linen.

Moving on to Zofffany, we have Embroidery Trail, which features couching. Couching is a technique that creates a three dimensional effect. Beautifully done.

This large scale pattern is from Harlequin's Juniper Collection. I like it because it's bold but not over whelming.

Harlequin has wallcovering that is vibrant with a perfect scale. I think these patterns are amazing.

Either of these patterns would make a great feature wall in a bedroom. I would also use them in a dining room on all walls. Gorgeous.

Color Bloom 2011

2011-04-28T16:09:00.000-05:00

The Color Bloom Designer Event was a tremendous success despite a continuing down pour and a closed road (because of the downpour.) The event was to celebrate the colors of the year. Sherwin Williams Paints was a co sponsor of Color Bloom. The colors used were 6855 Dragon Fruit and 6531 Indigo, beautiful colors to work and create with.

Design Speak was a local sponsor and creator of the event. Colt Industries provided a wonderful space. Other contributors were Pottery Barn, Paper Dolls Boutique, Design & Detail, Traveling Tea by Kateri Meyer and Stimulus Baking Company. Beautiful photography is from J Pollack Photography.

One of Color Bloom's elements was creating a Royal Wedding table featuring the colors of the year.

The background for the table was made from showroom length fabric samples. Fabric companies represented are Osborne & Little, Designers Guild, Scalamandre, Zoffany, and Harlequin. The samples were borrowed from Design & Detail.

As a team member of Design Speak my roll in the event included floral arrangements, gift box designs (with the help of Tricia Heliker) and general whatever.

The colors, Dragon Fruit and Indigo were used throughout the space. Gift boxes were made using designer wallcovering samples.

Even the cupcakes were made in the colors of the year.

More of the gorgeous fabrics that were the background for the event.

A fashion show was provided by Paper Dolls Boutique. The colors of the year were stunning on the models.

Color Bloom was a visually beautiful event full of friends, food and fashion. What I found impressive was the way companies and people came together to create this happening. Congratulations to all involved. I am looking forward to the next Color Bloom.

Designer Day Part 2

2011-04-21T16:36:00.000-05:00

This week there was a another wonderful Designer Day at Design & Detail. What I like most about these events is the combination of local artisans with the larger national companies.

Laura Bergmann is a local artisan with a great concept and an amazing talent. Laura believes fabric doesn't have to be flat.

"THE IDEA is simple: Fabric doesn’t have to be flat. In fact, it’s more interesting when it’s not - when it has dimensionality & shape, form & movement. Fashion designers know this. They take great freedoms sewing cloth. They texturize, embellish, inflate, pucker, fold, wave, tuck, puff and reconstruct a flat, supple piece of cloth into something with an entirely different disposition. And the highest forms become masterpieces, haute couture, rarely worn works of art." Laura Bergmann

These colorful pieces are made from soft, smooth leather.

The embellished fabrics can be used for accent pillows, headboards, folding screens, lamp shades or room dividers.

Pleats add dimension and texture.

Simple fabrics are transformed into sculptural elements.

One of Laura's lamp shade creations.

One of the larger companies presenting was Kravet Fabrics, a long time favorite of mine. One of their most intriguing collections was the Modern Group from Kravet Couture. They have cleverly taken traditional designs and modernize them with updated colorways. I liked what I saw.

The colorways take the fabrics in a new direction.

A paisley with a very modern style.

The vibrant colors on this embroidered piece are stunning.

Hickory Chair was also showing new product. This gorgeous piece is the Monroe Sofa. I love the French Moderne influence. Look for this soon in a client's living room. Nice linen fabric, colorful pillows....

Scalamandre At Designer Day

2011-04-15T22:46:00.050-05:00

Spring and fall bring new introductions to fabric and furniture lines. The designer showroom, Design &Detail holds Designer Days in the spring and fall to give designers the opportunity to see the latest from these lines.

This vignette is in the entry of the showroom. Scalamandre's zebra wallcovering in black is a wonderful background for this chic, eclectic setting.

Scalmandre was one of the companies showing their product at Designer Day. Peter Julian, the St Louis area rep and Louis Renzo the CEO of Scalamandre were there to meet with designers and present new additions to the line.

The zebra wallcovering has become an iconic symbol for Scalamandre.

New fabrics were introduced. They include embroideries on both linen and cotton.

Showrooms give a designer the opportunity to see large samples of patterns in all the available colorways.

This large scale plaid fabric is woven in to a silk taffeta. It would make a stunning window treatment.

This beautiful blue linen is printed with a series of detailed sea shells. The colorway gives the traditional motif an updated look.

A classic lampas weave with a soft pink background is an elegant traditional design.

I love a classic, sophisticated silk stripe. This fabric has the look and feel of a ballgown.

One of the colors of the year for 2011,deep blue, is found in this traditional Chinese Dragon print on cotton. This is a wonderful design that goes beyond trends.

There were many other wonderful lines shown at Designer Day. I will share those in the next post. Stay tuned.

New Rug * Beautiful Living Room

2011-04-11T19:10:00.000-05:00

The rug arrived today at my client's home. It is a custom design of hand knotted wool with silk highlights. It is beautiful, if I say so myself. Getting the opportunity to design a rug for a client is such a joy. When the end result is this wonderful it is a dream come true. Thank you Prajol. Your work is amazing.

The rug is 9 X 12. The overall design is a combination of wide stripes with a damask pattern on top. The damask is outlined in silk.

The living room includes this beautiful buffet from Hickory Chair. I love the metal detail on the doors. They give this traditional piece a very current look.

The wide stripes of the rug are tan and silver grey. The damask is a soft shade of blue with a khaki green outline.

The window treatments are a soft strie silk from Kravet.

A Kravet Couture fabric covers this updated wing chair from Hickory Chair.

A French bergere chair, already owned by my client is covered in a Isaac Mizrahi fabric from Fabricut.

The new rug works beautifully with the Custom Kravet sofa covered in a ribbed, grey fabric.

A mix of Designer Guild fabrics cover the dining chairs and sofa pillows. The color palette of the living room flows easily into the dining room. The blue chandelier and red lamps continue the palette through the space.

Worlds Away Lighting

2011-04-10T11:30:00.000-05:00

I've been looking for lighting for a client. I want alternatives to a typical chandelier. I found these at Worlds Away.

The simple pendant has never looked so fun and flirty. Can a light fixture flirt? Adorable.

The star fixture has been around quite awhile but it still can be a bit of a surprise. Unexpected and elegant.

I love the reflective value of this mirrored fixture. It would work in either a traditional or modern setting. Gorgeous

Another floral pendant, I love these. They are a lively, lovely detail to add in a room.

Worlds Away

Victorian Spring

2011-04-06T19:40:00.000-05:00

Lafayette Square, an area in the city of St Louis, is known for its wonderful Victorian architecture. The beautiful painted Victorian homes and town houses are amazing in the spring. The details of the buildings are called out in full color. These colors combined with the brilliant colors of spring are glorious.

This vibrant colors of this town house are stunning at any time. The flowering trees of spring are a wondrous addition.

I love the green, organized garden of this stately home.

The row houses are alike in architecture but each is painted in its own array of color.

The intricate details make each house special and distinct from its neighbors.

Its all in the details and the wonders of a Victorian Spring.

Wallcoverings From Osborne & Little And Harlequin

2011-04-03T20:57:00.002-05:00

I like wallcovering or wallpaper, whatever you want to call it. What I like about these wallcoverings from Osborne & Little and Harlequin is the updated, modern style they have. Even when used in a traditional setting they bring a modern aesthetic. They are all fresh and vibrant.

The Benvarden from O&L is a wonderful combination of pattern and color. It looks great on this wall as an accent.

Kikko Trellis is also from O&L. It brings a sophisticated, modern style and looks beautiful wtih the collection of white ceramics.

This tradtional O&L damask pattern, Ressonico works well in this modern setting.

O&L's Stradivari is a curvaceous wonder. I love the elegance mixed with a bit of glamour.

Wild Chrysanthemum, a pattern from the archives of Osborne & Little looks perfect in today's interiors.

This Harlequin pattern is spirited and lively with the white painted furniture.

An updated floral combined with modern furniture is a stunning look.

Sleek modern furniture with fresh spring flowers creates an inviting setting

This wallcovering is a perfect background to the white and turquoise furniture and accessories.

I love this Harlequin wallcovering as an accent wall in a bedroom. The bright white bedding against the lively floral background is wonderful.

A stylized floral with clean, modern furniture...

Modern style likes wallcovering.

Vibrant, vivacious, glamorous

A sublte neutral color palette is highlighted with a monochromatic large scale floral.

Wallcovering in an entry makes a great first impression.

Another stunning pattern from Harlequin.

The coral in the background allows the neutrals to stand out and make a statement.

A wonderful combination of fabric and wallcovering from Harlequin.

The bold color palette is balanced by the pattern of the wallcovering.

The curved lines of the furniture, the open pattern of the wallcovering, shades of teal and white; these design elements create and elegant, graceful room.

Wallcovering brings an additional layer to a room. Color, pattern, texture can all be added with this one element.
Osborne & Little Harlequin

Put Your Color Where Your Lamp Is

2011-03-23T23:03:00.000-05:00

Table lamps come in a variety of shapes and sizes. They also come in colors and are a great way to bring color to a room. Whether added in pairs or as a single, lamps can bring vibrant color as well as brilliant light.

As a designer, sources I like to go to for colorful lamps are Arteriors, Currey & Co and Worlds Away. These are wholesale companies who sell to designers and specific retailers.

This brilliant blue lamp with a glass base is from Arteriors.

I love the deep citron yellow of the lamp's base.

Tall, lean and green...

This is my new favorite lamp. It is from Currey & Co. and it is about to light up the living room of one of my clients.

The Pink Venus lamp from Worlds Away. Pretty much says it all. I want this lamp for myself.

Grey, lavender... the color of this lamp base is very intriguing and versatile.

Indigo is one of the colors of the year for 2011. It is also a timeless color that works in both traditional and modern settings.

I love both the color and texture on this lamp.

I've added a few room settings so you could see what a colorful lamp can add to a room. The teal lamp base adds contrast and makes quite a statement.

This is one of my favorite entry photos. I love the combination of patterns and colors. The lamps make it all work. The deep,solid fuchsia of the shades adds balance to the surrounding patterns.

I would describe this room as lovely, sophisticated and subtle. The coral lamps shades bring just the right amount of color to a beautiful setting.

Another Work In Progress

2011-03-16T15:18:00.000-05:00

I have another client project to share. This time it is a sitting room that is part of a master suite. It's a wonderful space with two windows, wood floor and French doors that lead to the bedroom. I kept the color palette quiet, neutrals with lots of texture. I wish you could feel the fabrics and area rug. They are soft, comfortable and lovely.

There will be two chairs in the room covered in a cut velvet called Ombrione from Designers Guild.

The chairs have a smooth wood frame in this warm, dark tone. The fabric behind the wood sample is being used to make a double sided window treatment for the French doors. It is from Fabricut and is called Eleganza.

I have designed a custom round ottoman that will be covered in this lightly textured linen from B Berger Fabrics.

The area rug is Ebbe & Flow from Stark. It is predominantly wool with just enough viscose and cotton to give it a silky feel.

I am also updating the living room which was part of a larger project done a few years ago. The room has two Kravet sofas covered in a grey Versailles velvet also from Kravet. The area rug is a custom hand knotted wool design.

Pillows for the sofas are being made in Wide Chrysanthemum, a linen print from Osborne & Little.

The bench shown above will be covered in Fredensborg/Blue from Designers Guild. A window seat not shown in the photo will be in Monplasir/Red a cut velvet also from Designers Guild.

I'll have more to share from this project in a few weeks.

Designers Guild Osborne& Little Stark B Berger Fabricut Kravet

A Work In Progress

2011-03-09T19:18:00.000-06:00

My post today is about a client's house that is a work in progress. It is a beautiful home, a mix of traditional and modern, highlighted by a wonderful collection of art.

Window treatments were installed in the office this week. They are made from a combination of exquisite silks. The main fabric is Scalamandre's Shangri-la in Amsterdam Blue. The border fabric is Clarence House's Raj Silk in Black Cherry.

The fabricator and installer go over the details.

Window treatments are important in a room. They give the space a completed, pulled together look.

In the living room chairs have been recovered in amazing fabrics. My client purchased the French Wing Chair from Restoration Hardware. The fabric chosen to recover the chair is an exuberant cotton print from Quadrille.

A gorgeous combination of furniture, fabric and art.

The two ottomans have been redone in a cut velvet called Mum's The Word from Rodolph.

This is such a great fabric, a perfect combination of tone on tone color, texture and pattern.

The fabric on the desk chair is Clarence House's Spring Garden. Which is a white on tan crewel embroidery. Love it.

There will be future posts about the interiors of this amazing home.

Scalamandre Fabrics Clarence House Rodolph Quadrille

March Inspiration

2011-03-06T17:36:00.000-06:00

I love March. I am inspired by the change of seasons. Spring is on it's way. Inspiration can be found almost anywhere; sunrooms, wallpaper, chandeliers,artwork, room layouts.

This sunroom is full of beautiful elements. I like that the color palette is not typical for a sunroom. The black, red and white create a sophisticated and charming room.

The chair fabric is Scalamandre's Luca, one of my favorites. The curvaceous pattern looks great against the straight lines of the rattan furniture.

In this room I like the simplicity of the furniture, the symmetry of the placement and the vibrant artwork used as the focal point. And the chandelier is kind of amazing too...

This gorgeous wall is made from a Walker Zanger Tile. Stunning. I love the color and the texture. A beautiful combination.

The hand bag and accessory designer, Lulu Guiness is the owner of this charming, perfectly scaled sitting room.

This room is over the top wonderful. It is in the home of the fashion designer, Zang Toi. The curved white furniture against the fur like area rug is a vivacious and sultry choice. The Marie Antoinette styled portraits in the background are amazing. And again, great chandelier.

Scalamandre's zebra wallcovering in this red colorway is a great source of inspiration for me at this time. It is the inspiration for the design I am working on for an apartment at the St Louis Repertory Theater. I am using a palette of black and tan with accents of red.

Black, tan, classic style with a hint of red.

I find inspiration in this sophisticated style. I love the perfectly placed art hanging above the sofa.
Inspiration is all around me. I just need to keep my eyes and mind open.

photos from House Beautiful, Homes and Gardens, Elle Decor, Veranda, Walker Zanger

Orange In The Year Of Pink

2011-02-20T08:20:00.000-06:00

Since Pantone named its Honeysuckle the color of the year, 2011 has become the year of pink. Which is great. I am a big fan of pink but let's not forgot about Orange.

Orange is bold, bright and bodacious. It may not be for everyone but this exuberant color will bring vivaciousness to any room it enters.

The orange walls are just one vibrant element in this beautiful dining room. The combination of bright orange, peacock blue and and dramatic artwork make this a glorious setting.

This softer shade of orange adds color without taking over the room. I love the orange, green and white palette used.

Sometimes a small area of intense color is all you need. This beautiful orange with pink tones makes a wonderful entry statement. Isn't that a great table?

In this sophisticated living room the buttery orange walls are a beautiful background for the neutrals of the furnishings.

I love the combination of orange and deep fuchsia. The orange of the bookcase and bed is a perfect complement to the lively fuchsia walls. Great color balance in this room.

Orange isn't often thought of as a beachy color but this softened shade in combination with white creates a summery, sandy style,

Orange is a vibrant, lovely color. Do you use it in your home's interiors?

all photos from Elle Decor

Its Springtime At Designers Guild

2011-02-11T21:03:00.000-06:00

It may technically not be spring but things are blooming at Designers Guild. Tricia Guild's new collection is influenced by Gustavian interiors in both pattern and palette. Classic motifs, florals and cool colors are all elements of the collection. First the fabrics...

Peonies are featured on the Charlottenborg pattern. The bountiful flowers are printed on a soft cotton ground.

The colorways for Charlottenborg are cobalt, charteuse and peony.

The large scale rose of the Sofienberg pattern takes on a graphic effect.

The pattern creates a modern take on a traditional floral. The colorways are magenta and porcelain.

Mariedal is an all over digital print. Intense and wonderful. The colorways are peony and cobalt.

The inspiration for the pattern Tistad is a classic decorative oval frame. The ground is a textured linen.
The colorways are blossom,charcoal, moss and aqua.

And now the wallcoverings...The first is Bergius, a pattern influenced by late 18th century wall plates. Stunning.

I love the combination of the Bergius wallcovering with the large scaled rose of the Sofienberg fabric. Gorgeous

The Linnaeus wallcovering bring the topiary pattern into the 21st century.

Mariedal as a wallcovering adds a vibrant accent to a setting.

If you are wanting to replicate the look of the distressed walls in The King's Speech the wallcovering Ajanta will accomplish that for you. The textured wallcovering adds a time worn ambiance to a room.
You can see the full collection at Designers Guild.

Sofienberg Collection From Designers Guild

2011-02-03T19:25:00.000-06:00

This week the new Designers Guild collections are being presented in the US. Here is a sneak peak.

The density and colors of the new floral pattern, Mariedal keeps it fresh and modern.

The traditional pattern Tisdal, has a definite modern appeal.

Floral, stripes, texture...I love this room.
I'll have more soon.

Classes I Am Teaching Through STLCC

2011-02-01T18:06:00.000-06:00

I am teaching classes again this semester through St Louis Community College . The first class, Interior Design Resources At Design & Detail, is Feb 15. Students will have the opportunity to see first hand a to the trade showroom. Color trends as well as furniture and fabrics will be discussed.

The second class is Interior Design Inspiration. This is a two part class that will meet March 9 and 16. Design Inspiration will be discussed and explored. Each student will create their own inspiration board. Where do you find design inspiration?

The third class will be on window treatments. Students will learn the fundamentals, function, style,and hardware involved in creating an ideal window treatment.

Information for classes is available at http://www.stlcc.edu/Continuing_Education/

Bedroom Designs That Overcome A Challenge

2011-01-28T17:39:00.002-06:00

Some rooms present challenges by their very nature. This attic room had a few things going against it,such as the huge protruding column dividing a wall. Adding a wallcovering with a print to the wall helps to camouflage the dividing wall support. Instead of the room becoming a quiet, little space it has been designed to be a chic, sophisticated room. The chandelier makes a quite a statement in what started as an attic space.

A bedroom with few interesting details is given a vintage deco design and is transformed into a beautiful, stylish room. Elements added to create this vintage look include sophisticated white bedding. wallcovering with a glamorous sheen, a crystal laden chandelier and dark wood furniture against white walls and light carpet. This beautiful room can be in the simplest of settings.

This bedroom shows that a country setting doesn't mean you have to have a country design. The sleek, modern design is perfectly at home in the country. The low profile of the furniture and the dotted fabric of the window treatment help to create this modern style.

All photos from House To Home

Purses/Totes /Briefcases/ Or Whatever You Want To Call Them

2011-01-25T15:47:00.000-06:00

Because of my love for beautiful fabrics and sometimes I just can't be stopped, I have started designing totes ( purses, briefcases, whatever). I use upholstery weight fabrics and each one is embellished with an chandelier crystal. They are a great size and shape. The dimensions are 15" wide, 13" high, 4"deep and the shoulder strap is 12" high. It works for me. I use one everyday as a purse/briefcase.

This one is a combination of blue cut velvet with a red silk floral lining. There are three pockets and a snap inside each tote.

I just sold this silvery blue tote.

They're practical as well as beautiful. The fabrics are upholstery weight and they have a solid bottom to give them a structure.

If you would like additional information or would like to purchase a tote send me a email.

What Room Will You Update Next?

2011-01-19T15:28:00.000-06:00

Change is good. Right? I think so. Updating your home's interior is a positive change.

Updating your kitchen or bath is great for you and is a good investment in your home.
Cabinets,counters, appliances, plumbing fixtures, wall tile, flooring,lighting... It can be a bit daunting but with careful planning and selections you can have a wonderful outcome.

Updating a dining area doesn't necessarily mean new furniture. Changing window treatments, art, chair fabrics and wall color can give you the look and style you are after.

New furniture, area rug and window treatments will transform a room. Another way to update your living room is to rearrange the furniture,change the wall color and add color with pillows and accessories.

Whether you are wanting strong color or a room that is soft and quiet updating your bedroom isn't all that complicated. Add color with art and lighting. To add soft color and pattern wallcovering will do the job. You can use wallcovering around the room or on a focal wall, usually the wall the bed is on.

Maybe your updates are about getting organized. The first step to organizing is editing. If you don't need it get rid of it. Then its about everything needs a place. If you have a place for it, you will put it away.

Again,change is good. Making changes, updating keeps us motivated. What room will you update next?

photos from Homes and Gardens, Martha Stewart

Upcycled Furniture

2011-01-16T15:37:00.000-06:00

I hear the term upcycled furniture used a lot these days. To clarify its meaning I went to an expert resource. Chris Plaisted of Hammer and Hand has been designing and importing upcycled furniture for years. According to Chris the term upcycled means to take an item such as a vintage door and use it to construct a new piece such as a cabinet. So at Hammer and Hand you will see upcycled furniture.

The majority of the pieces come from the area near Jodhpur, India, which is referred to as The Blue City. Many of the buildings in Jodhpur are painted in shades of blue. In turn much of the furniture from the area has remnants of the blue paint of the city. As old buildings are being demolished to make way for the new elements of the old are salvaged to create new pieces from the vintage.

The large nail heads on the cabinet hold the layers of the doors together. Originally they extended out farther to keep the elephants from leaning in to and wrecking the pieces.

Larger trunks are cut down to a more usable size.

The interiors of trunks are also constructed of vintage woods.

These vintage doors conceal the new mirror behind them.

I like the idea of taking a large trunk and cutting it down to make coffee tables.

Even the smaller items have been upcycled and given new life.

Upcycling creates beautiful new furniture from discarded pieces. To upcylce is to recylce. It is sustainable and green.

Update Your Home With Texture

2011-01-08T17:10:00.000-06:00

Adding texture is a great way to update your interiors. Fabrics with texture can be used as pillows or wall hangings to bring dimension, warmth and interest to your home. Texture is created on fabrics by varying weaves or fibers and by using embroidery or embellishments.

These beautiful pillows are from Tessera and are great examples of how to add texture.

The multiple levels of texture adds interest to this pillow.

Anthropologie always has a selection of pillows with wonderful textures.

I love this stack of embroidered silk pillows from Hammer & Hand .

Hammer & Hand also has finished fabrics that have been constructed from antique saris. The individual pieces are sewn together and include fragments that have been embroidered and embellished. These are gorgeous.

Using an embellished fabric as a wall hanging is a wonderful alternative to using only hard surfaces to decorate your walls.

These details show how the upcycled embellished sari fragments have been sewn together to create a beautiful wall hanging.If you have questions about adding texture to your home leave a comment and I will get back to you.

Tricia Guild Colors, Patterns and Space (Or What I Got For Christmas)

2010-12-30T16:51:00.000-06:00

For Christmas I received the newest book by Tricia Guild: Colors, Patterns and Space. You probably already know what a big fan I am of Designers Guild fabrics and wallcoverings. Tricia Guild is, for me, a rock star.

Colors, Patterns and Space is a beautiful book filled with gorgeous rooms and spaces designed by Tricia Guild. The book's chapters are designated by the project: Coastal Retreat, French Chateau, New York Loft...

Each chapter also names the essence of the projects: Eccentric, Dynamic, Glamorous...

Wonderful design, Beautiful photography, Happy me

Published by Rizzoli New York

Eccentric

Glamorous

Sophisticated

Contemporary

Beautiful

Vintage Charm

Atmospheric

Tranquility

Reflections

Elegance

Modern

Classical

Graphic

Holiday Gold

2010-12-21T13:44:00.000-06:00

Gold accents for the holidays are a bright and spirited choice. Here are a few of my favorites.

Love the gold leaves and packages but the shimmering gold slipcover on the chair is amazing. What a great way to glam up furniture for the holidays. The perfect New Years Eve chair.

The edible? gold leaf pears are charming accessories for a holiday tablescape.

I used this photo in my holiday tablescapes post. I had to use it again because the gold ornaments under glass is such a wonderful and whimsical centerpeice.

The gold leaf wreath actually looks simple and understated. Who would have thought?
photos from Homes and Gardens
Last and certainly not least.... Do ornaments get any better than these? Probably not.
Shoe ornaments from John Lewis.

Happy Holidays

Greta Garbo Art Collector

2010-12-14T17:52:00.003-06:00

I found these photos by Billy Cunningham at Architectural Digest. They show the New York City home of Greta Garbo, where she lived from 1953 until her death in 1990. Her art and antique collections were amazing. For Garbo color was the all important, essential element .

"I love color. With me it's inborn. I just know. I didn't have to learn it." Garbo

The color is wonderful and the scale and proportions are perfect.

The art collection included works by Renoir....

and the Russian Expressionist Jawlensky. The collection was extensive and hung throughout the apartment. As new acquisitions were made Garbo would rearrange her art work, recreating her gallery.

Beautiful and perfect.

This living room setting included a Renoir painting, a Regence parquetry commode and a Louis XV corner chair. Does it get any better? I don't think so.

In the hallway we find a painting by Garbo's brother and an area rug designed by Garbo herself. Her talents seem to be never ending.

This closet/dressing room was the home of the Garbo hat collection and another rug she designed.

And then there's this work of art, the beautiful Garbo herself.

Muriel's Blues

2010-12-13T13:01:00.000-06:00

My friend and amazing artist, Muriel Eulich, has entered the Contemporary Figure Juried Competition. Her usual vibrant colors are contained in a monochromatic scheme, a requirement of the competition. The relaxed shapes and figures she favors have been altered with a much tighter approach.
From Muriel, "These paintings pushed me to do images in a different way."

These paintings are another wonderful version of Muriel's artistic creativity. I'll keep you posted on the outcome of the competition.

Holiday Tablescapes

2010-12-05T19:34:00.000-06:00

Whether casual or formal a beautiful tablescape is the focal point of holiday entertaining. Here are few examples showing how you can create a table that reflects your holiday style.

The combination of fuchsia, silver and clear glass gives this tablescape an elegant and beautiful style. It could be in a dining room that is traditional and formal or a more modern tailored setting.

Silver vases holding roses with dark foliage is a stunning addition to this casual holiday table.

Combining shades of blue used in the ornaments, candles and centerpiece makes this a stylish and bright setting for the holidays.

Gold accents around the room and on the table make this tablescape chic and classic. Stunning. I especially love the soft, ruffled table skirt.

Simple works even at the holidays. It's all in the details.

Rich, opulent, this tablescape has it all. The dark blue walls are the perfect background. The mirror frame and chandelier give the right amount of shine and reflection. Beautiful.
Set the table with your style and enjoy the Holidays.
photos from Homes and Gardens

Design Classes 2011

2010-11-27T18:28:00.002-06:00

In the new year I will be teaching another round of classes through STLCC. In addition to the classes on Resources and Inspiration I will have a class on Window Treatments. The class will focus on the elements of a window treatment. The treatments shown are from client projects or showhouses I have done.

This is a simple treatment. The fabric panels are gathered on a wood pole with decorative finials. The color palette for the room was taken from the fabric.

This elegant living room has silk panels that puddle on the floor. I think of it as the ball gown effect.

Attaching the fabric panel to brackets instead of a rod allows the fabric to drape and fold gracefully.

In this girl's bedroom an extra width of fabric added to the panel creates a full, rich effect as the panel is pulled to the side. The fabric softens the look of the full shutter on the window.

For this treatment a double pole was needed. The metal hardware has two poles, one for the sheers and another for the lined silk panels.

Lined linen panels on small brackets create a soft draped effect in this loft sitting area.

I would like your input. What questions do you have about window treatments? What would you want to learn in this class?

Custom Rugs * It's In the Details

2010-11-20T16:52:00.000-06:00

An area rug is often the element of a room that sets the tone for the design.To make sure a rug is just right I will design the rug myself and have it hand knotted by craftsmen in Nepal. The quality of the rug is outstanding and the pattern and colors are always exactly what I want for my client.

This living room rug was designed in shades of gray with accents of lavender and khaki. It is hand knotted in wool with highlights of silk. A wonderful element in a beautiful room.

The hand knotting creates amazing detail in the pattern.

I designed and had this wool rug crafted for the family room of The Cardinal Glennon Hospital Showhouse.
I call it Flower Power. Since it is a custom design I was able to select and use the exact colors I wanted in the room.

This is a dining room rug in wool. The center lattice pattern has a small floral detail. The custom selected color palette creates a paisley border that is a perfect element in the room.

Attention to detail is what make a design wonderful. Designing a rug gives me the opportunity to take the details and create something amazing.

Lamps: Light and Color

2010-11-12T20:31:00.000-06:00

Lighting is an important element of interior design. When designing a room I often use lamps as a way to add color to the setting. Each of these lamps provide great color as well as light.

This beautiful red lamp brings a rush of color into a room. I recently used a pair on a buffet. The lamps brought stunning color to that area of the dining room.

The deep teal of this lamp base is a gorgeous color.

The deep brown base and its reflections makes this an enchanting lamp.

The blue batik design on this lamp adds beautiful color and pattern to a room.

The yellow green on this lamp is perfect in a mid century design.

The clear aqua glass is cool, colorful and wonderful.

Lamps bring needed light. They can also enhance the color scheme of the room.

Modern Chandeliers

2010-11-09T19:19:00.002-06:00

I am loving this take on a modern chandelier. The polished nickel is stunning. The clear glass beaded drops are an amazing update for the usual crystals on a chandelier. I love everything about it.

Osborne & Little * The Zagaroo Collection

2010-11-06T10:09:00.000-05:00

Zagaroo is a wonderful new children's collection from Osborne & Little. Zagaroo features the original book illustrations of author/artist Quentin Blake. These fabrics and wallcoverings are full of whimsy, spirit and fun. The fabrics are printed on washable cotton. Fun and practical.

Designing rooms for children is a joy. I want to make each room unique and special for that child, that person.The Zagaroo Collection gives me new, wonderful choices to make that happen.

This pattern is Cockatoo. It is bright and fun. It's a wonderful pattern which can be used for a girl or boy. Not everything needs to be gender specific.

Colorways for Cockatoos.

This is skateboarders. I love it because it is about being active. Going out and doing something. And again not gender specific.

Colorways for Skateboarders.

This sweet pattern is Alphabet Tales. Each letter is joyfully illustrated by Quentin Blake in his unique style.

Colorways for Alphabet Tales.

A Pied-'A-Terre In The City

2010-10-31T13:48:00.002-05:00

I am designing a pied-'a-terre for a client. A place in the city she can use as a second home. This particular client loves beautiful fabrics as much as I do. It is a joy to work with her. I have wrapped her home in gorgeous fabrics from Nina Campbell and Calvin Klein.

In the living room I am using Nina Campbell fabrics. The top fabric is Salix, a woven willow stripe for the window treatments. Next is Arboretum a soft linen embroidered and appliqued . It will be used for pillows. The third fabric is Lombardia Chenille which is woven to resemble the bark of a tree. This will cover two chairs.

The Arboretum leaf applique is done in velvet on linen.

Salix, the window treatment fabric is a woven willow stripe with an ombre' effect running through the leaves.

Salix and Arboretum are a wonderful combination.

The fabric for the kitchen window treatment is Delphine. It is a large scale pattern of twin maple leaves printed on a textured woven linen.

The bedroom will have an upholstered headboard covered in a flax colored Belgian linen from the Calvin Klein Collection through Kravet Fabrics.

The window treatment fabric for the bedroom is stunning. It is the Petiole fabric from Nina Campbell. Petiole is a tree of life pattern embroidered on a soft linen ground.

There is more to come on this beautiful and fun project.

Window Treatments * Comfort And Style

2010-10-24T20:00:00.002-05:00

Window treatments are an important element in interior design. We know longer need heavy layers to protect us from cold winds in drafty homes but window treatments still provide comfort and add style to our interiors. In this post I have included various styles of window treatments and details that add to a beautiful design.

The floral print Roman shades in this setting are a wonderful addition. They provide the necessary coverage on the windows and add to the overall charm of the English cottage style.

Although not a window treatment, I chose this photo to show how using coordinating fabrics on each side of a panel created a well designed room divider.

I think this is a beautifully designed room. What I like most about the window treatments is their height. Installing them well above the windows and close to the ceiling emphasizes the height of the room, which is a wonderful detail to show off.

These silk panels are graceful and elegant. Pulling them back higher in the panel allows more light to flood in to the room.

I particularly like the use of color in this room and the way the window treatments are part of the color scheme. The strong colors on the chair and wall are balanced by the light color of the fabric used for the window treatment.The fabric's pattern has the colors that bring the room together.

The window treatments here have a quiet elegance that are part of a neutral background allowing the accent colors used to be the focal point of the room. A stunning design.

The shade and panels of this window treatment provide comfort and style for the room. A beautiful and functional combination.

The Roman shade in this office provides color and pattern in an otherwise neutral room.

Window treatments are often the element that completes the design of a room while providing the necessary comfort.

all photos from http://www.homesandgardens.com/

Designer Finds * New In The Showrooms For Fall

2010-10-15T20:53:00.000-05:00

Designer showrooms are filled with new products being introduced for the fall. This week was Designer Day at Design & Detail and I saw wonderful new product that included fabrics and rugs.

Kravet has an amazing line of area rugs. There are various groups that include custom made hand knotted wools and the new Tufts, which are wool, tufted and gorgeous.

Fabricut's latest offerings include printed cotton fabrics in coordinates of modern florals, graphics and stripes.

The British fabric house, Sanderson, is celebrating its 150th anniversary. To mark the occasion they have reissued classic patterns in updated colorways, charming and current.

Sanderson has also introduced new patterns. A favorite of mine is this cut velvet floral. A beautiful pattern in great colorways.

Designers Guild has produced a collection of digitally printed fabrics. The patterns combine florals and architectural elements with vivid colors and extraordinary detail.

The digital prints are clear,crisp and vibrant. There are amazing new products in the showrooms. If you are a designer go see them now. If you are not a designer find one so you can see what's new and wonderful.

Where Do You Find Inspiration?

2010-10-10T20:11:00.000-05:00

I am in the midst of teaching a class called Inspiration. It is about finding the elements that inspire the interiors of your home, then taking those elements and making them work.
I find inspiration in a lot of different places. Sometimes I find it in the links between fashion and interior design. Inspiration can be found just about anywhere.

This photo of Coco Chanel is a source of inspiration for me. I have it on the inspiration board in my studio. Its very elegant, stylish and the proportions are perfect, like the design of a Chanel dress or suit. When I first saw the chandelier with its miles and miles of pearls it immediately reminded me of the Chanel photo.
These photos were originally ads for Scalamandre' fabrics. I love the strong color, the way traditional and modern are combined and I particularly love the styling done for the photos. On the left the sweater and purse add a touch of fashion to the interiors and on the right the 60's pink phone brings in the mod touch. Great combinations and style ideas.

Overscaled patterns are a wonderful way to add a statement to a room. What I like about these rooms are the color palettes and the the way the patterns are used. In both rooms the patterns add style but do not take over the room. The grey, yellow and white palette is striking and comfortable. The tans and white with accents of pink and fuchsia create a beautiful room.

Color. I find inspiration in the paintings of Matisse. His use of color is extraordinary. Strong colors working together create works of art. Along with the strong colors are areas of light that keep the color from becoming overwhelming. The photo of the sitting area also shows strong color combined with areas of light. The art work, light colors of the fabric pattern and the area rug bring balance to the intense color of the room.
Inspiration is all around us,
Where do you find inspiration?