Collections

When accessorizing, I'm a big fan of collections. Often my clients will have special, personal things that they've collected over the years that I can highlight in their space.

In one of my most favorite projects yet, my clients had been traveling around the world throughout their lives together, and had therefore amassed a collection of artifacts from India to China to Egypt to South America. When it came time for the accessorizing, I had such an amazing selection to choose from, it was like being the proverbial 'kid in a candy store.'

Most of the time though, that's not the case. Whatever your style may be, if you're stuck on accessories, think in terms of collections. From your walls to your bookshelves, collections could be the key! You could use a bunch of vases, similar colored objects, or old signs. Just find that one thing that you like, and repeat it! Here are some ideas of what I'm talking about.

A collection of simple plates fills a wall, emphasising the cottage feel.

Black and white photos and drawings are a great way to fill a wall with personality

In this entryway, all the bright white accessories pop against the bold blue background.

Collections of crystal can be used to create elegant tablescapes.

Going for a beach theme? Add those beachy touches, like blue-green glass and shells.

This teenage girls room is finished off by the collection of colorful paper lanterns.

And as always, if you're in too deep and need some professional guidance, help is only an email away!

Decorative Tiles

I love tile...wait, let me rephrase...  I love awesome and funky tiles, or tile that is used in new or interesting ways.

I think it all stems back to my first glimpse of Gaudi's tile work in Barcelona.  I'd never before seen tile move that way. Yes, I said move! I know it doesn't really, but part of Gaudi's genius was his ability to transform cold, hard tiles into supple smoothness that you want to touch.

When I see Gaudi's work and I see a serenade... a dance. 

So there you have it. The root of my tile obsession! If you too obsess just a little when you pass a great tile, then you'll love these finds!

These metallic tiles with their softly scored surface are both soothing yet futuristic.

Handmade decorative tiles inset into your tile design will really help to personalize your space.

Wall tiles that add texture can sometimes be all a minimalist space needs.

No idea where I'll use this one yet, but it's just so fab I had to save it!

A super simple kitchen back splash get just that little extra 'Oomph' with a horizontal contrast insert.

Last, but not least, a super cute girls bathroom covered in mini tiles with a floral tile mosaic as the focal point in the glass enclosed shower.

Decorative Hardware

Changing out old knobs and drawer pulls can transform your space. Whether you're modern or a traditionalist, rustic or eclectic, the perfect hardware for your home is out there. Good hunting!

Wallpaper, in modern times

In today's world of designer wallpaper, there are a plethora of options to choose from. You can still have stripes and florals, but now they come in modern colors and patterns too.

Architectural Details

I love how the simple addition of the right architectural details in a space can make all the difference in the world.  From crown moulding to columns to ceiling medallions, there are options out there for any design style.  Here are a few examples of spaces where the architectural details are what set them apart while setting the tone.

Decorative nail heads

For this last week of NaBloPoMo (see my post from July 1, 2010) I'd like to share some of my favorite little surprises that, when used properly, add that special layer to a room. It's the little touches you might not notice at first glance, but without them, the room would lack it's pizazz.

To kick things off, let's start with decorative nail heads! Added to your upholstery or window treatments, from wild to mild, today's nail heads come in all shapes, sizes, and styles.

Here's a few examples of decorative nail heads being used in all the right ways!

While the sofa frame itself has great lines, the nail heads are what give it it's definition.

Antique silver nail heads give definition to this frame, really calling out the sensuous curve of the back, while staying in character for the mood of the space.

What started out as a beat-up, brown chair found at a local flea market is now the central piece in a Moorish/Moroccan styled apartment.

Inspiration Submissions

The reason I started this blog was to share what inspires me with you. My hope is that it will, in turn, inspire you too.

Now I'm reaching out to you...

If you have a space that you feel deserves recognition, please send in your photos. 

Can't wait to see what you all have to share!

Indoor/Outdoor Living

True outdoor/indoor living feels like a natural extension of your home. Here are a few great examples...

 Natural stone and stainless steel come together in this natural mountain setting.

 Outdoor living the way we really live. Who would ever want to venture back inside again?

  

 There are all kinds of things you can do to show off your personality. In this space it's the signs that set the tone. Remove them, and the whole mood of this tropical poolside bar would be irrevocably damaged.

Remember, it doesn't take much. What ever space you have, there is a way to stamp it as yours!

Outside Rugs

Adding an area rug to a room can help to anchor a space and define specific zones. The same trick can now be applied to your outdoor living spaces. And just like the fabrics, outdoor rugs have come a long way.

No matter where you live or what your personal style is, there's a perfect rug (or twenty) out there for you! Here are just a few of my finds... (Yes, they are all designed to be used outdoors!)

As always, I hope you're enjoying the blog so far. And, if you're contemplating taking on a design project of your own, but need a little help to achieve 'the look', browse through my E-Design options.

Bring your outdoor fabrics inside!

I remember what outdoor fabrics used to be. They ...zzzz.... Sorry, where was I? Oh yeah, they were boring. The only options were solids or stripes, and the color options left a lot to be desired. Not anymore!

Today you'll find outdoor fabrics in fuzzy textures, traditional weaves, modern pop prints, and a plethora of colors to choose from. They're so nice, I often spec outdoor fabrics for interior upholstery; a soft outdoor chenille used on a nursery glider, a solid sailcloth wrapping a kitchen banquette, or a fabulous modern print used on a bergere chair in a funky beach house. 

Of course, you can still use them outside too! 

Great collection of indoor/outdoor fabrics from Duralee

All the trimmings - Outside!

Yesterday's post wasn't enough for me when it comes to the indoor/outdoor theme. I wanted to show you fabrics, trims, rugs, even lighting for your patio, but it turns out that's a whole lot for just one post! 

So today, let's talk trim. I'm sure you know all about tassel fringe, decorative cording, gimp and chair-ties. They're some of the little touches that make your space feel extra special.

Well, today there are a number of companies who offer entire lines of indoor/outdoor trims! So, how can you incorporate these trims into your outdoor decor?

Using an interesting rope cord, instead of the standard self-cord, takes your cushions to a whole new level.  Or add a pillow with brush fringe to your current seating. Curtains with a decorative tape applied to the leading edge can be added to a porch or pergola.

Basically, all the things you can do inside are now available outdoors too. So let your imagination (or mine) go wild!

Modern Patio Seating

As a Floridian, outdoor living is a yearlong activity. But as my friends a little farther north know, when you live in a climate where winter always seems to be right around the corner, you must take advantage of every "outdoor living" day you're presented with.

In recognition of summer drawing to an end and the kiddies getting ready to go back to school, I present you with... The outside!!!

Outdoor furniture has come leaps and bounds from your parents vinyl mesh chairs. With the advent of indoor/ outdoor fabrics (and trims!) you really can extend your indoor living right outside.

Any style, from modern to traditional, is now available in outdoor furnishings.  My favorite new website, HomeInfatuation.com, has some fantastic yet funky outdoor finds, all with a modern twist. Here are a few of my favorites. 

Modular seating. The coffee table fits right in the center!