Archive for Design
Design Tips to Borrow
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I just returned from a wonderful week in Santa Monica, CA visiting our son Jake and his wife, Elif. Little did I know the weekend would become a design adventure. Knowing that Paul and Jake had plenty to do with two motorcycles handy, the girls set off to visit the 2013 Pasadena Showcase House of Design.
The setting of this year’s event was a beautiful estate built-in 1941 in Arcadia, CA. The show house was gracefully restored with modern amenities and conveniences with attention to details that reflected the period.
The photographs shown here were all taken from the Showcase guide. The design firms for each area are noted on the pictures. There were so many special spaces and so many wonderful details. I selected the following to point out design tips that could be recreated in any setting.
Front Stairwell
The walls of the beautiful vaulted front entry stairwell were covered with winter wheat colored fabric that provided an understated neutral palette to lead the way to the incredible rooms to come. The glass chandelier was amazing!
Design tip: The details of the stairway runner. It was bound in leather and tacked down with larger upholstery nail heads. The nail heads do not show in this photo. This look could easily be re-created by binding the runner in a wide fabric binding and adding the nail heads.
Powder Room
From the designer’s perspective the powder room was designed to recall your first jewelry box full of wonder and magic. It was wonderfully executed with the stone chevron detail of the mirror, the gold accents and the skirted vanity.
Design tip: The chevron detail could be recreated with the use of fabric or paint. The tailored skirt detail could be applied to any countertop surface to create a feel of elegance.
Family Room
The owners requested the space be expanded to incorporate the bar with lighted green glass details that was installed in 2000 Designer Showcase. A wall was removed and left two different ceiling heights.
In order to draw attention away from this the ceiling was embellished with intricate patterned molding, textured wallpaper and dramatic lighting.
Design tip: Don’t forget the ceiling. It does not have to be this elaborate. You can achieve an amazing effect by adding some well design molding detail, texture with paint or paper and/or the right lighting… remember attention to details.
Master Bedroom
Soft, serene color palettes were used throughout the house. Here in the master bedroom soft blues and gold set the mood.
Design tip: Find the right color that appeals to you and create a master space that allows for restful, blissful sleep.
Teenage Daughter’s Room
What teenage girl would not die for a room like this? There were feminine touches everywhere with varying shades of lavender and wonderful details.
Design tip: The existing bookcases flanking the sides of the bed were turned into creative niches to hold accessories, trinkets and baubles of any teen’s fancy. This could be applied to any bookcase by designing a plan to convert the bookcase interior with shelving boards.
Guest Room
This guest room was designed to incorporate the eves and slopes of the ceiling. Many built-ins provided ample storage and some hidden details.
Design tip: The TV was recessed in the wall and hidden by a hinged piece of art. The small TV was mounted in the recessed area on a swivel-tilt wall mount so it could be positioned to suit the guest’s viewing needs.
Guest Reading Suite
This space was originally the servant’s quarters. It has been transformed into a space to work, converse, relax and sleep. The textured wall, molding details, fabrics and accessories set the tone.
Design tip: A queen size bed was turned horizontal and tuck up against the wall to create a lavish day bed. This could be done with a twin or double bed as well. It definitely achieved the designer’s goal of a multi use relaxing space.
Office Bath
There were many lavish baths throughout the house but this smaller scale space contained some wonderful details. The blue painted cabinet with slab inset doors and simple but interesting hardware blends seamlessly with the white marble countertop and adjacent shower wall. I love how the glass shower wall just seems to float on the white wall. The tile details were very subtle but tied the entire space together.
Design tip: Simple details like the door pulls can add so much. The tile border place high and low is a great placement and creates a feeling of more height in the shower. Think about creative ways to use an interesting tile accent in a different way.
Guest Room
This room included the use of lots of different textures… on the wall, bed and floor. I love this mingle of tactile fabrics to make you want to reach out and touch every detail. The very tall headboard was a little over scaled for the space but the reading nook was very creative.
Design tip: The reading nook was formerly a closet. What a great adaptation of a small space. You may not have an extra closet to give up but think outside the box when confronted with a use for a small difficult space.
Garage
What an amazing makeover of the original three car garage! The guys from the firm Garage Envy incorporated so many interesting details into this space. This is certainly not your usual “man cave”.
Design tip: You may not have that three care garage space to work with but garage organization can be done in many ways. Take cues from the pros by including storage, entertainment, border floor detail, lighting and seating in your garage makeover.
Our outing to the Designer Showcase was so worth while. It is something I don’t always take time to do. Throughout this country there are so many talented designers with thousands of creative ideas. They invest their time and talents to create beautiful show house spaces. After writing this blog I will always take a closer look at the details. The things that can really make the difference in the overall design. We all can take away a piece of some of these fabulous show house rooms by taking in the details and recreating them in your home.
For more information about the Pasadena Showcase House of Design events: http://www.pasadenashowcase.org/#
Mary
Mary Sherwood Lake Living – working with you to create your lifestyle!
Mom Memories
Posted by: | CommentsIt’s ironic how, as mothers, we strive so hard to make the big moments monumental, but it’s the smallest things that seem to make the biggest impressions. This past Saturday at our Annual Mother’s Day Brunch Event, we asked our moms to share their favorite mom memory. Below are some of our faves:
“Even though my mama died over 40 years ago, when I was a new bride, I still remember her telling me how to do something (clean the floor, make a cake, help a neighbor). Her love lives on in my memory and in my life.” ~ Melinda Harris
“Our mother-daughter weekends, plus just about any time we spend together.” ~ Paula Greene
“My favorite memory of my mother is when she surprised me at school with balloons on my birthday. Then she took me out to dinner when I was 7. I love my mom!” ~ Victoria Fahnestock
“When my son was small, we would take him out on the boat and he would go to sleep. So Peaceful!” ~ Sharon Lubbers
“My daughter told my husband’s boss that I always parked in handicapped and returned milk we drank. The truth…I had foot surgery and parked in handicapped and the milk I had bought was sour.” ~ Linda Webb
“I loved how my mom used to dirty every pot, pan and dish in the kitchen and my sister and I always had clean-up duty!” ~ Kathy Hayes
In addition to our customer’s favorite memories, we have memorable moments of our own.
“I will always remember waiting to the last minute to do a paper or a project in school, and my mom continuously supplying a list of “howabouts” to help get me motivated!” ~ Michelle Saunders
“There are so many amazing moments with my mom and how inspirational she has been, but a big one that comes to mind is how she broke her leg while chaperoning a school roller skating party. I begged her to get out and skate, not thinking about how she wasn’t wearing the appropriate socks. Panty hose and skates are not a good combo! Thanks mom for always being there, good times and bad!” ~ Autumn Wenger
“My mom was such an inspiration to all. My brother would say she never met a stranger. Even into her nineties she still made friends (i.e. flirted) with the life guard at the pool or the check out guy at the grocery store. Everyone was her friend! I am so lucky to have had a loving, generous, happy woman as my role model and mom. Miss you Mom!” ~Mary Sherwood
God bless all the moms in our lives!
Mary Sherwood Lake Living – working with you to create your lifestyle!
The Guests are Coming, The Guests are COMING!
Posted by: | CommentsMemorial Day Weekend is fast approaching, along with many occasions to welcome house guests. Are you ready? Here are tips to make your guest room a welcome retreat. And they’re easy – some can be done in advance and some can be done in a pinch.
Pillows and Blankets - This may seem like a no-brainer, but be sure to have plenty of blankets of different weights. You never know how cold or hot your guest may be, so give them options. Pillow options are appreciated also. While you’re at it, toss the pillow inserts in the dryer for a few minutes with a dryer sheet to add fluff and a fresh scent.
Robe and/or Slippers – This is especially nice when your guest bath isn’t adjoining the guest bedroom. Even a few steps out in the hall can be an awkward jump if you forgot something in your suitcase. This touch will remind your guests of a resort. Make it even cushier with fluffy slippers!
“Welcome Center”
Desk/Writing Space - Although it seems so many of us primarily use our smart phones and other devises to communicate, a hand written note or card from a vacation is a classic touch. Include a small space complete with stationary, pens/pencils, and postage. If you don’t have room for a desk, reserve a space on a night stand/dresser/tray for your “Welcome Center” (see picture).
Water Glasses and Pitcher – This is another nice touch for the “Welcome Center”. Give your guests this convenience so they don’t have to stumble around your kitchen in the middle of the night for a glass of water. Especially nice if they take medications. Depending on your space, a Coffee Bar is also very appreciate.
Personal Touches - Send the perfect message with fresh-cut flowers. They say “Welcome”, “Good Morning”, and “Thank You!” all at once. This soft touch really makes a stay memorable. Books can be a nice addition. Think about the guests and what might interest them. I like including classic children’s books – works for kids and the young at heart. And don’t forget the very personal items, back-up toiletry items. It’s nice to have a toothbrush, hand lotion, etc. just in case.
Space for Luggage – Finally, baggage (whether physical or emotional) always come with guests. Guest rooms are often the catch-all space for things you don’t use that often or just don’t have a better home. Be careful not to consume too much storage space. Leave a few drawers empty for your guests (complete with a scented sachet) and space in the closet for hanging. And don’t forget the bags – a folding luggage rack takes little space and is a valuable luxury instead of having to hunch over your suitcase on the floor.
~Think about your favorite vacations and what made them special. You can recreate those memories in your guest room with these tips. You may love it so much, you can be a guest in your own home!
Mary Sherwood Lake Living – working with you to create your lifestyle!
From Rustic to Shiny…2013 Market Trends
Posted by: | CommentsOnce again, we ventured to High Point, North Carolina to get a taste of the newest trends in home decor. With sensible shoes in tow, we trekked through showroom after showroom eyeing innovative designs with fresh spins on tried and true styles.
We noticed quite a few trends became apparent throughout our three-day journey:
Details, Details, Details – Whether it was contrasting welts, decorative trims, tufting, or nailhead features, designers paid close attention to the details.
Grey-0logy – By now, we’ve all heard of the fifty shades of grey, but market illustrated the many shades of grey mixed with pops of color!
Flower Power – Although the weather didn’t quite hold up its end of the bargain, Spring had definitely sprung at market. Their were florals to be seen on bedding, chairs, rugs, and in artwork.
Lacquer is Back – The presence of lacquer was evident in numerous showrooms this year! It’s amazing how a coat of high gloss paint can reinvent a piece of furniture.
Old World Rustic – We saw color and shine in many corners of market, but it seemed one of the most predominant trends this Spring was Old World Rustic. There were muted wood tones on traditional frames combined with neutral linens.
So whether your taste is traditional, contemporary, or even a tad eclectic, do not fear! There is definitely something in the marketplace to appeal to you! We can show you what’s new at Mary Sherwood Lake Living!
Michelle
Mary Sherwood Lake Living – working with you to create your lifestyle!
To market, to market to spot the new trends!
Posted by: | CommentsIt’s that time of year again… We’re heading to High Point for the Spring Furniture Market to scout for the latest trends in home fashion. One of my favorites is seeing the new colors, textures and prints of the textiles applied to new and interesting furniture frames.
Can’t wait for the new? Here are some of our October finds.
Our search begins here…
What will we find…
Company C is always the hot spot for new color!!!
Libby Langdon’s furniture line at Braxton Culler showroom was a great find!
Four Seasons, our comfy slipcover line, showed off bigger scale seating.
Global Views is one of the best merchandised showrooms at market-full of fabulous accessories.
Your market team will report it’s finds!
Mary, Autumn and Michelle- to market, to market we go!
Mary Sherwood Lake Living - working with you to create your lifestyle!
10 Steps to Easy Living Indoors and Out this Summer
Posted by: | CommentsSummer is quickly approaching and we will be spending more time outdoors around beautiful Lake Gaston. With some pre-planning and these quick tips, you can be ready to play and enjoy all your outdoor time:
- Take In A Breath of Fresh Air: On warm spring days (before or after pollen season) open your windows, air out your house. Clean and repair screens to enjoy the greatest benefits from the warm breezes.
Blue Porch Ceiling
- Clean out the cobwebs: Clean the ceiling fan blades of dust and cobwebs. Check that the blades are rotating counter-clockwise for summer air circulation. In years past, front porch ceilings were painted blue to keep the spiders away. Last summer, we painted our screened porch ceiling sky blue and our spider population really decreased. There is an interesting interview on NPR that talks about blue porch ceilings.
Folklore or not, it is worth a try.
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Comfortable Outdoor Furniture
Comfy Furniture: To enjoy your leisure time outdoors make sure your furniture is comfortable. If you can’t invest in the best, start with inexpensive plastic furniture and cushions that you can easily replace when the budget allows. I invested in our porch furniture over twenty years ago. Every five to seven years, I have re-covered or replaced the cushions. Most of our guests say our porch seating is the best seating in the house!
- Prep the Grill: Summertime is barbecue time! Clean your grill, check the gas ports, fill the propane tank and empty the grease traps.
Grow Your Own
- Grow Your Own: Whether you have limited space or a large plot, consider growing your own produce. It can save money, help you eat healthy, limit the pesticides in food and help our planet. If you are new to vegetable gardening, tomatoes, basil, herbs and lettuce are a few easy veggies to start with.
Outdoor Lighting
- Illuminate the Dark: For safety’s sake, illuminate all outdoor paths and stairs. There are many new LED lighting options to efficiently do the job.
- Lighten up your Closet: Move the heavier, darker clothes and boots of winter to the back or far side of your closet. Make room for the sundresses, flip-flops and bathing suits.
- Freshen Up Your Guest Rooms: Fluff up your bedding and replace your pillows or give them a spin in the dryer on air dry with a fabric dryer sheet. Add a value priced duvet cover or matelasse coverlet to give a fresh look to the room.
- Pump It Up: Inflate all the water toys and check for leaks. It’s no fun having the kids all ready for a ride and not have use of their favorite floating vehicle.
- Get Your Lounge On! Put on your shorts or favorite swimsuit, head to the deck or pier and “get your lounge on”. Enjoy!!!
What do you look forward to most about summer at the lake? Tell us and maybe we can help you enjoy it even more!
Mary Sherwood Lake Living - working with you to create your lifestyle!
Ever ask yourself where something is in your kitchen? What you should be asking is “Where should it be?”.
Here’s a video that demonstrates some great organization tools, but also discusses the thought that should go into kitchen work areas.
Every cook is different, so there are many different ways to organize a kitchen. ”What do you use most?” and “Where are you going to use it?” are key questions to ask when organizing your space.
Tools like roll-out trays are wonderful anywhere in the kitchen but can also be very valuable in laundry rooms or bathrooms. What about the pull-out spice cabinet in a vanity space for your make-up bottles and hairspray. Be creative for the most rewarding results.
How could you use some help in the organization department?
Thanks! – Autumn
Mary Sherwood Lake Living - working with you to create your lifestyle!
What’s Going On Your Gallery Wall?
Posted by: | CommentsArt in a home is a personal element and a reflection of the homeowners. Rather than using one specific statement piece, why not highlight a multitude of items that reflect your style using a gallery wall?
The possibilities for a gallery wall are endless. You can use a variety of frames, sizes, and mat colors unified with a central theme to create one large focal point like these framed maps.
If you’re not quite this eclectic, you can use matching frame colors, styles, and mats in a random pattern to create unity between varied themes. This gives the eye a place to rest between images.
If you’re a little OCD like myself, you can also use varied imagery placed in a linear pattern to make the gallery appear more symmetrical.
If you’re a fan of color, remember that painting the wall behind your gallery with a great color or even highlighting one specific piece of art within your arrangement can make a huge impact.
And if you’re noncommittal and can’t decide what to put in your gallery, using picture ledges is the perfect option. It allows you to easily display your current faves, while giving you the flexibility to move them around or replace them on the spur of the moment.
No matter your design style, a gallery wall is an ideal solution to show off who you are and what makes you smile!
What’s going on your gallery wall?
Michelle
Mary Sherwood Lake Living - working with you to create your lifestyle!
A Kitchen with the Sophistication of a Black Tie Event and the Spice of a Fiesta!
Posted by: | CommentsCheck out this video of a recent kitchen project! Stay tuned for the bloopers at the end! It’s my favorite part!
This kitchen is a beautiful example of using a neutral color palette with a pop of color. We developed the plan for this kitchen based on these three goals:
- Improve the style and layout of the space.
- Update the appliances and fixtures.
- Enhance the appearance and function for casual dining.
The neutral color palette developed around the Cold Spring granite countertops. The perimeter cabinet finish of Polar White w/Slate Glaze and the island finish of Black were the perfect compliments for this granite.
Once the kitchen construction was complete we added decorative glass accessories to the lighted upper cabinets for the pop of red to spice up the room.
We hope you enjoyed the video!
Let us know if we can work with you to add some updating and spice to your space!!!
Mary
Mary Sherwood Lake Living - working with you to create your lifestyle!
A Breath of Spring
Posted by: | CommentsWith spring just around the corner we are all ready to dust off the cobwebs and let some sunshine into our homes. Try freshening up your space with accessories that can be swapped out for different seasons.
In these two photos we used the same soft, moss green Company C sofa. (Yes, even green can act as a neutral backdrop.) Here is a collection of orange and red pillows, an area rug, and accessories that give you a feeling of warmth and comfort. But don’t forget an element of fun like the funky owl.
Now watch as we take the same green sofa and liven it up with a Spring-inspired arrangement. The chevron design of this geometric rug is really in keeping with the trend this year and sets the color pallet. We’ve added a bit of whimsy with the ice cream cone pillow and the joyful pink flower. Also, remember that you can swap out your family pictures seasonally. What a great time to pull out the pictures of the little ones at an Easter egg hunt!
You may have everything you need in your home to make the seasonal swap. Try pieces you may not have used in a while. Clear glass jars can be filled with colorful items like beads, buttons, ribbons, marbles, and even Easter eggs for spring. Candles can be another inexpensive boost of color. Trade accessories from one room to another. A small vase makes a great toothbrush holder! A mug can become a flower pot. The possibilities are limitless!
Mary Sherwood Lake Living…working with you to create your lifestyle!
