My Life in Design

Designer Spotlight - Made in the USA

2012-02-07T11:15:00.000-08:00

I was hoping to update you on my Client's selection of light fixtures from my Gold Standard post, but that meeting has been rescheduled, so we are all going to have to wait a few more days!

In the meantime, I thought I'd spotlight two Designers of a different sort ...Local Design Celebrities Dunes & Duchess and Mally Skok Designs making products in the USA, and more specifically, Locally in the USA! (They are also friends that I'm happy to know and support!)

Dunes and Duchess
Stacy Kunstel and Michael Partenio make up this dynamic duo of Dunes and Duchess making products so unique to the marketplace, you can see they truly are a labor of love. This creative pair started out with one fabulous candleabra and has grown their offerings with so many amazing new products: sconces, side tables and even a chair! Their company is barely two years old and already they're represented by Barneys, what a thrill....not to mention many amazing local (and not so local) stores and showrooms...check out the listing on their home page for a shop near you. I can't wait to place their pieces in a project soon, please check out their latest offerings from the NYIGF show 2012 in fabulous new colors and get yourself some Dunes and Duchess now!!

Dunes finishing a single sconce

Duchy making finishing touches

Sconces in an array of colors

Fabulous new Lake House chairs!

Great new Drink Drop table with Hitching Post lamp in new No Scurvy Lemon color

Mally Skok
Where to begin with Mally? She is a talented Interior Designer who also creates a line of fabrics influenced by her homeland of South Africa and her time spent traveling abroad. Her fabrics are locally crafted in Western Massachusetts by Peter Fasano, so she's able to work closely with him on the colors and quality. I love that she creates an inspirational sketch for the design process to begin, a true artisanal process! Her fabric line was started in 2009 and is now represented in showrooms across the USA and abroad. Her fabrics are also available in a coordinating wallcovering and they look fabulous together. Her personality really shines through in her fabrics...colorful, lively and unique! She is truly one of a kind and I think you'll agree, so are her fabrics. Check out the showroom listings for one near you and call your Designer now for some samples! See below for images from her latest Africa Collection. I'm looking at the Zig Zag pattern for my boys room, so I'll be calling you soon for my samples Mally!

My visit to Mally's Fabric Room

My favorite new fabrics & colorways from the Africa Collection

Mally's new colorway sketch

Loving this Zig Zag!

Beautiful coordinating colors of fabric and wallpaper

Love the matching fabric and wallpaper

The Gold Standard

2012-01-30T11:07:00.000-08:00

I am really in love with gold lately, it has definitely made a comeback in Interiors and Fashion. (OK, so maybe one of the items is shiny brass, but you get what I mean.) I'm working on a project right now that has a Dining Room in need of some serious warming up! One of the tricks I'm using is recommending warm metals in the light fixtures to add that glow of sunshine, giving the feel of a cozy warm room. I also used some colorful grass cloth wall coverings, warm woods and coordinating rugs. Either way they choose, it'll be a win-win, all of these lights are gorgeous!

Vintage Italian Murano chandelier with gold & clear glass finish

Malagola pendant fixture with lovely gold leaf finish

available through Casa Design in Boston

Tom Dixon's Etch light (grouping of 3)

available through Montage in Boston

I'll find out next week which one my clients choose and I'll share that, along with the presentation board for you to see the complete package. Which light fixture is your favorite?

Animal Print with a new eye

2012-01-19T17:14:00.000-08:00

I love animal prints in interiors, they can really add pop and sophistication to a room. They are so versatile, they can be used in very traditional rooms as well as modern rooms. I do try to look at things with a new eye to see if we can add a new spin to it. It's so easy to go the tried and true route with finishes we become comfortable with, so I'll always try and push outside of those comfort zones and see if we can discover a great new look.

Recently, I saw these rugs at the Boston Design Center. They take away the strong contrasting colors we're so used to in these prints and really focus on the pattern by making it neutral tone on tone. It's like a whisper, but makes a strong statement.

and exaggerating the pattern to suggest an animal print but creating a new pattern, as shown below, can be really interesting

Adding color to animal prints puts a fun twist on the fabric. It's fun and fresh and gives you the best of both worlds.

In unexpected places, it can be a nice surprise

It can add subtle beauty to an Entry Foyer that doesn't have a lot of room for color & pattern

But in the hands of the wrong person, it can go terribly wrong...you know who you are...If one is good, twenty are better? I'm talking to you...step away from the animal print...NOW.

Trust me, a little bit goes a long way.

The Cozy Library

2012-01-11T18:28:00.000-08:00

In the winter, we all turn to more inside activities, none so relaxing as reading. I have many clients who ask for rooms with more bookcases or spaces for quiet contemplation. I'm working on a project right now where we're turning the front room of a home into a beautiful library for everyone in the family to enjoy, but mostly for the adults after a long day of work or on the weekends when they have a 'smidgen' of free time on sunday morning.

Whatever that means to you, I think curling up with a book and a cup of tea in the evening on a cold night is such a nice way to unwind (if you can find the time!).

Room with a view

Dining Room and Library space

Sitting Room and Library space

Libraries don't always have to be dark and musty!

you'll be seeing a version of these ottomans in the new library project soon!

I love how you can see the books from another room

Whether it's Modern, Traditional or somewhere in between, Libraries are wonderful spaces in the home to unwind, read or spend some quality time with your family. And in most homes today, they're functioning as more than just a place for books.

Do you have a Library space in your home or are you dreaming of having one? Let me know what you think!

Designer Spot Light - Martyn Lawrence Bullard

2012-01-03T17:56:00.000-08:00

OK, I'm giving full disclosure on why I picked MLB as my designer for the spotlight...he's a great hugger.   Now I don't mean a nice hug with a pat on the back...I mean a real, bear hug kind of warm you all over, enveloping hug (as pictured below).   I could have stayed in that hug all day, but life has a way of getting in the way!   I did have a lovely chat with him alone and he signed my book, what more could a girl ask for?

I was pleasantly surprised at how sweet and genuine he is, and more importantly, how talented he is.   Over the years of designing homes for celebrities, he expanded into his own eponymous line of fabrics and furniture and was recently asked to design a line for Schumacher.   It took several years of development, but the line reflects his unique style of world design, influenced by his travels and real life experiences.

Layering his colorful patterns and textures makes his interiors stand out.   It's no wonder he has been named one of Architectural Digest's "AD100 - Today's greatest talents in Architecture & Design" for 2011 and Elle Decor's "A" List of the Worlds Top Designers.    His book "Live, Love, Decorate" is full of gorgeous interiors done by Martyn for his amazing roster of clients, definitely worth picking up.   I nominate him for Most Charming Designer!

Schumacher Fabric Line

Gorgeous, timeless designs.

Picking light fixtures is no easy task!

2011-12-21T17:49:00.000-08:00

Recently, I ran into Jennifer Driscoll, the Editor in Chief of Perspective Magazine as I was leaving the Design Center.   "Would I be interested in making some lighting selections for her magazine, oh yes, and we need it in 2 days?!" I broke out into a sweat thinking of the other deadlines I was heading back to, but said "Of course, I would try!"

Before I got to my car, I had 5 or 6 fixtures already in mind that I wanted to share.   I knew I could squeeze this article out because as a designer, I always have my favorite "go to" lights and the ones I'd like to work with on a project "someday".   Light fixtures were swirling in my head... now to narrow it down.

I sent Jennifer 2 selections for each category the next day with my thought process for selecting lights in my interiors, and then I waited.   A few days later her digital magazine was in my inbox and I couldn't wait to see the finished article.   It was definitely a wow moment, I couldn't be happier at how well Perspective Magazine had put my selections and thoughts down and made them look so amazing!

Here are a few pages from the article to whet your appetite, but I highly recommend you take a look at the whole magazine.    The current issue is full of great articles, with some focusing on Holiday Decor that you will definitely want to read about!

Let me know what fixture is your favorite!

Getting a head start on the New Year!

2011-12-15T18:08:00.000-08:00

I was asked to participate in the First Annual Holiday House Tour for the Concord Museum, in historic Concord, Massachusetts. I will not lie, it was an exhausting project, with the house tour taking place on one day only. There was a lot of work leading up to the tour and then it all came down in one day.

I chose New Years Eve, because I knew there would be plenty of Christmas themed homes to see on the tour...and I know how much everyone loves a great New Years Eve party!

The house I was given to decorate was a historic Queen Ann home, with beautiful millwork and lots of antiques. I always tend to do things on the modern side, but I was excited to show how well the old and the new can go together. It was such a rewarding project made all the better by so many wonderful complements. I used foods of color to convey the accents "lime green and eggplant" inspired by my Bernardaud China used in the Dining Room along with the silver and gold foundation colors. It was important to show decorations that you could do yourself, think outside the box and have fun with! Love to hear your feedback, let me know what you think!

Loved the soft gold tree we got from our partner Mahoney's Garden Center in Concord!

Happy New Years!
May your 2012 be filled with Family, Friends and a beautiful home!

My how clever!

2011-12-12T19:01:00.000-08:00

Wallpaper is really making a comeback and I've started getting requests to use it in my projects a lot lately. Here's a really fun example of a wallcovering from Tracy Kendall, a London based wallpaper designer with a flair for clever designs. In Boston, it's available through Webster & Co. in the Boston Design Center. Look at how absolutely fabulous this looks, I love it!

"The wallpapers convey their design integrity without overwhelming the space" Take a look for yourself and tell me what you think...

Close up

hand stitched curves, subtle beauty

almost don't notice they're plates

Very Girlie! would love this in my closet...

Love these paperback books

Support the Arts

2011-11-29T11:08:00.001-08:00

Anyone who is a follower of my blog knows that I am a huge Fan/Supporter/Enthusiast for the Arts, I just can't get enough!   So I'm writing once again, as I did last year, to encourage everyone in the Boston area to attend the School of the Museum of Fine Arts Annual Sale being held December 8th-11th.

The sale started in 1979 to help raise funds to help complete construction of the School. Since then the sale has grown tremendously, and the proceeds now support student scholarships.   The sale showcases works from their current students, Faculty, Affiliated artists and acclaimed artists such as Mike + Doug Starn, Lalla Essaydi, Rachel PerryWelty and Ellen Gallagher. There are pieces for all budgets and styles, traditional to modern, photography to oils...whatever you're looking for, they will probably have something for you. The works are all over the walls of the galleries and around the school entry on large racks. If you see an Artist's work that you like, you can ask to see other pieces by that artist that they may not have on display.    There are many wonderful volunteers on hand to help guide you if you're feeling overwhelmed!

I will be at the Opening Night event on December 6th and will be sending out images via Twitter (for those of you who follow me on Twitter).

Here are some images from last year's sale to whet your appetite!

Designer Spot Light - Kelly Wearstler

2011-11-20T17:38:00.001-08:00

I have always seen Kelly Wearstler's design work in books and online and found it intriguing, she has such a singular and unique style. Certainly not for everyone, but she has an eye for the glamorous and the vintage. Her designs always look like they're from the 70's with a present day twist. I didn't fully come to appreciate her style, until I stayed at the Viceroy in Miami and got to experience it first hand. I have to say, it was truly inspiring.

As soon as you walk in the lobby, you're transported visually and mentally. The Lobby is a feast for the eyes with amazing iconic pieces and gorgeous custom furniture, it sets the tone for the rest of the hotel. The drapes are on windows and walls and has beautiful custom imagery as a backdrop to the sumptuous furniture. The art work throughout is not your ordinary hotel art either, it's been created to help carry through on the rest of the design.

Ribbon chairs to envelope you while you're waiting

How can you think about your normal day to day while lounging on this day bed?!

The elevator lobby is understated and layered,
so chic.

The Entry to the restaurant has elegant chairs with a great color pop.

The rooms didn't disappoint either, designed with all the great "Kelly" touches that make her designs fabulous. Take a look at the uber sized lamp base and the great pattern that wrapped the bureau, finished off with a bright green lacquer interior - wow, amazing. The closet doors repeated the simple graphic pattern seen in the main lobby with a stained wood and mirrored trellis effect, I'm definitely tucking this all away for future work!

So if you're a brave soul, looking to add some glamour to your home, call me...I will channel my inner Kelly. You CAN get livable glamour and love your home!

The Rug Company

2011-11-09T17:46:00.000-08:00

It has been a crazy fall for us with work, and I wouldn't change a thing, I just find I get short on time to blog as frequently as I'd like. I have lots coming up to tell you about in the coming weeks, but first need to share pictures of our visit with the Rug Company at our office.

I had seen their many ads in the Design magazines and made sure they were one of my stops while in the Miami Design District to see their rugs in person. Once I saw them, I knew I needed to get their line in my office for my clients right away! Their products are fresh, fun and innovative and they've partnered with some fabulous Designers who have created rug lines that add to their already amazing product line.

Henry needs to test out all rug samples. He definitely approves of the sculpted rugs!

This rug takes pieces of vintage and antique rugs and puts them together to create this amazing quilt like effect. So unique and one of a kind.

Part of the Kelly Wearstler Collection - very glamourous!

(more on Kelly in a later post)

Retro fun flat weave

Sneak Peek at a new flat weave rug by Alexander McQueen. The colors in the Hummingbird are stunning - so beautiful and saturated. The finished piece has birds all over it. I can't wait to see this full size rug in person.

Joss and Main - 2 more days!!

2011-11-09T07:52:00.000-08:00

I'm so thrilled the picks I've made for the Curated Collection on Joss & Main are some of your favorites too, there are so many pieces I've used that can be added to your home with your current furnishings. Here are a couple of items I've used in my client's homes to show you how they can work for you too!

Here's the Jonathon Adler lamp listed in my collection and below is this same lamp in my clients' home, look at that gorgeous green! It adds a subtle color pop to the rest of the room.

https://www.jossandmain.com/Jonathan-Adler-Capri-Table-Lamp~OUC1052~E40.html

Here's the Kartell Louis Ghost chair by Phillipe Starck in my collection and below is an image of it in my clients' home paired with a fabulous McCobb desk & chair.

https://www.jossandmain.com/Louis-Ghost-Chair~OUC1034~E40.html

check out the other items in my Curated Collection and see if there's something you can add to your interiors

to make it go from good to great!

Happy Shopping!

Joss & Main excitement

2011-11-07T13:16:00.000-08:00

So the past few weeks have been a flurry of fun activity around here and this is one of the reasons why...I've been working with Joss & Main to help curate one of their "sales".   For those of you not familiar, Joss & Main is an amazing home shopping site that has endless amounts of products for the home...you name it, they've got it.   When I was asked to help curate, I was completely flattered that they wanted me as one of their Guest Designers and that my selections would create a sale worthy of their followers!   I figured, why not, it would be a way for me to showcase my taste to the faithful followers and it's what I do every day!

I have to say it was such a fun experience, I want to do it again and again...the design ideas are endless for these sales!   Please check out the site on November 8th when my sale goes live and I hope you find something you like!

Happy Shopping!

I (HEART) Miami Design District

2011-10-12T09:51:00.000-07:00

I just spent a wonderful weekend in Miami and had an afternoon to go to the Design District to check out this vibrant neighborhood of design showrooms. The Design District in Miami is comprised of several blocks of buildings that house all the varied showrooms a person could need for their home project (and fabulous clothing stores too!). There are furniture, carpet, tile, art and fabric showrooms of different styles and budgets. The showrooms are open to the public to come in and shop, as well as serving as a resource for Designers.

It's fun to explore different cities and venues so I can bring new pieces into my repertoire that are outside my normal realm. I'm constantly on the look out for fresh new ideas to bring back to my clients, so it was truly a fun day going from showroom to showroom and discovering new things!Here are a few pics from my tour...

Ti amo too Miami!

Always time for Art

2011-09-28T10:13:00.000-07:00

Today I had some time after my morning meeting to run into Gallery NAGA, one of my favorite galleries, to see their latest show before they take it down for their next exhibit. The artist I was most interested in seeing was Nelson DaCosta and his latest works. I've been following him ever since I went to his show a couple of years ago and became a collector. I love the new colors he's using and added text, it's brilliant. Nelson's work has deeply personal imagery from his life in Angola and the struggles he's lived through, as well as his new life here in the US. It is moving to read his story and see how it's translated in his artwork.

I was pleasantly surprised to discover another artist's work that is also part of this show, Reese Inman. Reese's work is subtle in its graphic use of raised colored dots graduating from one color to the next. Her pieces seem to move as you study them. She uses absolutely gorgeous colors that blend from one to the next and the artwork changes when viewed from different angles.

If you're on Newbury Street (at the corner of Berkely Street), do stop in to Gallery NAGA before the last day of the show this saturday. If you miss it, don't worry, anyone at Gallery NAGA will be happy to show you whatever pieces you might be interested in. Check out their website for other artists they represent and future show announcements.

New work by Nelson Da Costa

Nelson Da Costa 2009

Reese Inman

Close up of Reese Inman work

The Wonder of White

2011-09-22T11:34:00.000-07:00

I just received the latest issue of Elle Decor in the mail and there is a great article on what Designers love about the color white and how they like to use it. Their answers are all very similar, with the most important factor being they want the artwork & furnishings to stand out, or there's an architectural detail that comes to life by being painted in shades of white.

As many of you know, I love color on the walls, but I do like to use white in my Clients' homes to set off the artwork and furnishings, or make a calming backdrop to a beautiful outdoor vista. There are so many wonderful paint companies to choose from, but the color I have used most often is Benjamin Moore, Affinity colors collection, Mascarpone AF-20. There is such a wonderful warmth to this white and everything seems to really shine when placed on or near it, the art work just pops. Below are a few examples of my projects using this color, you can see how different the color looks from home to home. Check out the article in Elle Decor to see what other paint colors are used and the beautiful images the other Designers show for inspiration.

Missoni Madness

2011-09-14T18:40:00.000-07:00

I have been a huge fan of Missoni for many, many years...I have placed A LOT of their rugs in my projects in the early 90's and own some of their beautiful clothing. I was so excited when I heard Missoni was collaborating for a home line with Target, I just can't get enough of that wild flame stitch pattern and color combinations in their clothing and home goods... much to my dismay, so was most of the world.

I popped over to Target before I started work and discovered many other shoppers before me who had the same idea. With expectations low, I went in and was surprised to find there were still some pieces left that I actually wanted in the Home Goods section. I found the melamine plates and tumblers that I was looking for...so happy with what I got!

I have never gone shopping at Target for any of their other Designer collaborations, but I can guarantee this will probably be my last. My bonus score was getting an umbrella that I desperately needed. Yea, for small victories!

LOVE my flame stitch tumblers!!

Gorgeous red interior on the bowl

Underside of bowl ...love it

OK, it can rain now!

Keep summer going!

2011-09-02T07:05:00.000-07:00

My town has an amazing Farmer's Market on Saturday mornings with food from local farms and businesses. I like to bring my kids there, because it helps them connect the dots on where their food really comes from and then we get to eat amazing fresh food in its true season. They have fun picking out what we're going to eat during the week too.

The natural colors in the produce are so saturated they almost look painted and I am truly inspired when I go. I can imagine some very beautiful color palettes with accents of strong saturated colors. Everything just seems to be bursting off the page. I hope you have the opportunity to visit a farmers market or stop at a roadside farm stand, you'll be so glad you did.

I've selected some furnishings and finishes that were inspired by these amazing colors to keep summer year round in your home. Don't be afraid to inject some color in your surroundings, one piece can really finish off a room! You can see how I infused color into my clients homes on my website.

Yummy colors, bold and delicious!

Inspiring nature

2011-08-22T19:18:00.000-07:00

I'm ending a relaxing vacation with my family in Vermont. We took advantage of all the wonderful things Vermont is known for during our week there...Swimming, biking, eating fresh foods, antiquing and of course hiking. While out on our hike, I was very inspired by the amazing colors that we came upon, the landscape seemed to offer color palettes at every turn...Enjoy.

Art among us

2011-08-09T18:23:00.000-07:00

While in the Fort Point neighborhood today, I came upon this artist's work currently on display at Front. Her name is Eunju Kang and her small works use encaustic, collage, found materials and bits of cut stationary; her larger pieces are monoprints. The feeling from each one is different...while some seem ethereal and whisper like, others are bold and colorful. The monoprints are crisp, colorful and graphic and are more beautiful in person than my camera phone pictures! You must stop in and take a look for yourself, these pics do not do justice to these amazing pieces.

Too cool for school

2011-08-04T16:45:00.000-07:00

I have to share this really fun wallpaper we just installed in a clients' home for one of their children. At first glance, it looks like a fun polka dot paper, but on closer inspection it has this fantastic 3D quality to it of a paint splat. It really adds great color to the room without being too cutsey. The rest of the room as you can see, has some really colorful furniture that does not look "baby-ish". Perfect for the kid on the verge of those teen years, it will definitely be a room they can grow into.

It's a shore thing...

2011-07-25T10:03:00.000-07:00

I was at the south shore of Boston for a new project with one of my long time clients (and dear friend) to give a "face lift" to her family's summer cottage. I got there early and had some time to check out the surroundings, so beautiful and inspiring, there were amazing color pallettes everywhere. Some vistas looked like a still life without even trying. I brought my boys along who frolicked in the surf with my friend's kids... we all enjoyed a glorious summer morning!

See below how the images I took inspired a color pallette...I hope it inspires you to take a second look and to be inspired too.

Red, White & Blue summer

2011-07-11T08:51:00.000-07:00

My family and I are ending our wonderful summer holiday in the northern New York region where I've spent my summers since childhood. It's a beautiful, unspoiled place where you can truly relax and enjoy the scenery. there's swimming in the crystal clear river that is so refreshing in the hot summer sun. There's nothing like it...and in its natural beauty, color abounds to influence any color palette...it reveals itself as I look back on pictures I"ve taken and study them.

There's amazing colors to help incorporate into any summer home if you're looking to make some changes...crisp blues with white, red accents, warm woods, soft yellows and oranges, pale blues...it's endless.

hope you're all enjoying your summer!

not so Common

2011-07-05T17:56:00.000-07:00

I wanted to share some pics of a photo shoot I was a part of for Boston Common magazine - their current summer issue. They did an article on "rising stars" in the residential interiors world in Boston. What an honor & thrill to be included.

I switched from corporate design to residential design in 2000 and have been building my business ever since, so it's nice to be recognized for all the hard work I've done! The shoot was so fun...with hair, make up and a stylist... I felt like a celebrity and wish I could get ready like that every day! When you click on the link for the digital edition, you will find the article "Household Names" on page 97.

I feel fortunate to be doing what I love, so thank you to my wonderful clients who allow me to work in a profession I have great passion for!

check out the article to see the final picture!

photography by: Eric Levin

Vintage love.

2011-06-29T15:02:00.000-07:00

I have to admit, I love all things modern and classic, if it's not mid century modern...it's something from a european manufacturer. So when I go to a vintage store my heart races and I want to buy everything I see. I was just in the Hampton's to check out two beautiful Dunbar sofas for a client that I found online (at a vintage store I hadn't heard of). I needed to see the sofas in person to confirm they were as beautiful "in the flesh" as they were on the website. As expected, the sofas were amazing, and with a nice steam clean, the original cream fabric will look stunning in the new living room. I cannot wait to see them in place! The owners of the store couldn't have been more gracious and I'm excited to have made new friends. Please stop by Stellar Union in Southampton the next time you're in that neck of the woods, you'll probably find something irresistible or at the very least, you'll be inspired. I know I'll be back there again soon.

LOVE the green color!

Stunning bamboo lamps and mirror!
and more...

Perfection!

Royal designs

2011-04-27T14:21:00.000-07:00

So much is in the news and other media outlets about the Royal Wedding, I thought I'd put my own design spin on it! It's all in fun, but certainly there are those of you who do desire that special piece to make you feel like a Royal.

There's a wonderful chair that could be your very own special "throne" by capellini, it's a classic design that's been in the line since 1978, designed by Alessandro Mendini called "Proust" and comes in 2 different finishes. I've always loved the look of this chair because it's so over the top and it's so different from all the very streamlined pieces in their collection. It can look beautiful in the right setting.

You can wallpaper your room (which your new thrones are now in) with this special paper from Graham & Brown called "Crowns & Coronets". As an option, you can get the special stick on "gems" to add more flair if you like!

If you don't go for the wallpaper, you can always add a chandelier silhouette like this one from Elephannie on Etsy, to make your room look more elegant without the price tag of a real crystal chandelier. I love the look and it can add some artistic flair to a room that might need something on the wall to finish it off!

These elements can really work in a space without the tongue & cheek fun that I'm presenting them in. I do love all of these great designs individually. Just have fun, enjoy the wedding and after all the fanfare on Friday, we can all get back to life as normal! Okay, I might need to get these plates too!...

The Arco Lamp

2011-03-21T19:05:00.000-07:00

Selecting the right floor lamp has always been a challenge in finding the right balance for a room. One light that has a timeless look and refuses to be pigeon holed for only one room is the classic Arco lamp. I love the simplicity of the lamp and the fresh current style. It's even more incredible when you learn that the lamp was designed in 1962 by Piero Castiglioni and his brother Achille Castiglioni. The design uses classic carrara marble as the base, a 3 piece metal arm to position it out into the room and a metal "shade" that slides on a perforated metal top to help direct the light...just genius! In 2002, to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Arco lamp, Flos designed 3000 limited edition lamps with a black marble base and signed by Achille Castiglioni. The original design is now part of the collection at the Museum of Modern Art in New York.

There have been many companies who have made arc lamps in the following years, but few that have had the success as the classic Arco. It is versatile enough to be used in Living Rooms, Dining Rooms, Offices...you name it. It is one of my favorites and definitely worth owning!

in a Living Room setting

in my South End loft project

another view of the South End loft

I want to go there!

Dining Arco

Ready for its close up

Ready for some color!

2011-02-13T16:36:00.000-08:00

I don't know about the rest of you, but after living through January in the Northeast this year, I am relieved that they've predicted an early spring. I do love snow, especially when it's falling and we're cozy at home by the fire or out having an amazing day skiing...it's the aftermath I don't love. I've had enough of record snow fall that has turned into petrified iceburgs along the side of the road...it's no longer pretty and causes headaches trying to park in the city! The lack of sun doesn't help either, and a weeks holiday at some caribbean island is fleeting, so let's talk about things we can do to add color to our homes and make them bright and cheery. The investment will last much longer and will carry you over to the predicted early spring!

Easy additions you can make to add color are new throw pillows, new lamps, paint color or a piece of art. They don't have to cost an arm and a leg either and you'll have fun looking.

The piece of photography above the chair is intense and adds just the right pop of color. The blue wall in the background is brilliant and bright, matching the intensity of the art piece. Other pictures from this apartment are here.

The pillow on the chair has just the right amount of pattern and color to bring the colors of the room together, the lamp is an amazing color of green that picks up the green pillow on the sofa. The art work in the background also pulls from the colors in the room and adds some other colors too. Other pictures from this home are here.

Below are some pieces from Room & Board, an online home goods store that you can use to add some color & warmth to your home and make it look like it was professionally done!:

Have fun and think sun!

Holiday gift giving

2010-12-17T13:55:00.000-08:00

Don't run screaming! I know, it's stressful trying to figure out a good gift for those people on your list. Especially when they are new acquaintances (like your new amour's mother) or a Hostess gift...it's tough, but who wouldn't want a lovely orchid?! A wonderful gift that is easy to give and to receive is a plant....Orchids, Succulents or Herb plants are easy to care for, beautiful and not overwhelmingly fragrant (which can be off-putting for some people - like the guy with too much cologne). If that person you know loves to cook, give them a Rosemary plant, not only do they smell nice but they can be used for cooking, how clever you'll look! There are also the wonderful seasonal Paperwhites or red Amaryllus which add so much to the holiday decor.

So make it easy on yourself, you won't have to worry about sizes or dietary restrictions with a plant and you'll look so thoughtful. Enjoy the holidays and relax!

Happy New Year!

Art is still in the air...

2010-11-19T09:25:00.000-08:00

I recently attended an event for the Museum School in Boston called the Museum School Art Sale, now in it's 30th year. The sale started in 1979 to help raise funds to help complete construction of the School. Since then the sale has grown tremendously, and the proceeds now support student scholarships.

The sale showcases works from their current students, Faculty, Affiliated artists and acclaimed artists such as Mike + Doug Starn, Lalla Essaydi, Rachel PerryWelty and Ellen Gallagher. There are pieces for all budgets and styles, traditional to modern, photography to oils...whatever you're looking for, they will probably have something for you. The works are all over the walls of the galleries and around the school entry on large racks. If you see an Artist's work that you like, you can ask to see other pieces by that artist that they may not have on display.

Here are a few examples of art work that I viewed while I was there:

I hope you will go and support the School...and who knows, you may come home with an unknown artist or a David Hockney that will be in your family for years to come!

Another annual art show that is taking place this weekend is the Boston International Fine Arts Show at the Cyclorama (Boston Center for the Arts) in the South End, now in its 14th year. The Gala event on Thursday raises money for the Boston Symphony. There are 40 galleries from the United States and Europe that display works of all mediums and styles. If you're looking to add to your art collection or just start collecting, again I say, they will most definitely have something you're looking for! I attended the show last year and was amazed at the variety and selection.

If you around the show this Friday evening, try to stop in for a panel discussion titled "Art in your Home" that I will be on, it starts at 7pm. It is sponsored by 99.5 AllClassical radio and will be moderated by Laura Carlo, with the proceeds of the event going to 99.5. It is sure to be an interesting evening with 2 other interior designers, Paula Daher and William Gregory, and a lighting designer, Lana Nathe on the panel with me. Please come by and say hello! I hope to see you there.

Erwin Hauer

2010-09-20T11:29:00.000-07:00

Summer is ending and we are in the throes of the fall season making its presence known! I hope you enjoyed the beautiful summer weather as I did and am now turning towards fall activities. One of my favorite things to do in the cooler weather is to visit a Museum.

We are lucky in the city of Boston to have the largest museum project in the nation at The Museum of Fine Arts. It was designed by the prestigious architecture firm Fosters and Partners from the United Kingdom. Another designer whose contribution is equally as significant, but may not be as widely recognized, or touted, is Erwin Hauer. He has designed and is installing his trademark Continua screen which you can see from the exterior of the new addition.

Erwin's work is most notable in its austere simplicity, but reveals itself as a complicated sculptural piece. The more you study his designs, the more you are drawn into their graceful elegance and never ending journey. The way each piece diffuses the light and throws patterns across the spaces they inhabit is captivating. The formula to come up with his designs is complex in its geometry, yet the end result is beautiful and entrancing.

Erwin started his work in the 1950's and did the majority of his installations between 1950 and 1959. He had installations for other prominent mid-century peers, such as Florence Knoll and Philip Johnson among many. His pieces were used as light diffusing partitions and room dividers, and his work was recognized in 1955 in a book Solar Control and Shading Devices. His installations look as fresh today as they did when he designed them, a true measure of many Mid Century designs that are still used today.

In recent years, Erwin has been very selective with the installations he is still creating, so we are very fortunate in Boston to house one of the few installations he has chosen. I encourage you to look for the Erwin Hauer screens at the Museum of Fine Arts new Art of the Americas Wing, it officially opens in November or go to his website to learn more about this immensely talented and genius artist.

Continua Screen

Continua screen at Knoll

Continua Screen at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston

Wall decals...The WOW moment (part 2) !

2010-06-27T08:45:00.000-07:00

If you're looking for an interesting and fun way to dress up your walls with the ability to easily change it (whether for selling purposes or change in function of the room) then vinyl wall decals are for you. I"m in the midst of two projects that I used wall decals for in two very distinctly different ways and I think you'll agree it really transforms the space!

The first project is the Master Bedroom in the condo of a young, professional client. Because this is not her long term residence, she wanted a way to decorate without having the full blown wallpaper investment. In addition to the decal, we also painted the wall a deep, blue accent color (see previous Blog entry) to further enhance the "mood" of the bedroom. It is so beautiful and she's so happy to be leaving the world of "white walls" behnd her. Her room is now a haven for relaxation and lounging.

after!

before

The second project is the basement playspace of another client's home for preschool ages kids. The homeowner wanted the space to be bright, cheery and welcoming for creative and imaginative play. They also wanted the ability to change it when their children get older and are in to "bigger kid" stuff. In addition to the vinyl wall decal, I used carpet tiles from Flor as another way to be flexible with changing the space when the time comes. It's such a colorful room now and really transforms it into a space they won't want to leave.

after!

before

It's incredible to see how versatile the wall decals can be...sophisticated and urban in one instance - colorful and kid friendly in another. For both projects, I did have a professional decorative painter apply the vinyl wall decals, but if you're daring enough, you can do it too!

As always, have fun and happy decal-ing!

Painting - the "WOW" moment

2010-06-23T13:55:00.000-07:00

Everyone wants that WOW moment, but it seems the one thing people have the most trouble with is picking paints. Painting is the easiest way to achieve this whether you do straight painting or decorative painting. Everyone seems reluctant to pick a color and if they do, they're never sure where to apply it to get the biggest impact. Sometimes less is more, whether in application or in the shade of color you choose. I help my clients get the biggest "wow" without it feeling over the top or busy.

Here's a before and after shot from a condo I'm currently working on at the Battery Wharf building in the North End. You'll see an amazing transformation from just a simple application of decorative painting.

I love how painting one wall created a cozy feeling in the living area in the simplest way.

Here are some other examples of transformative painting - decorative and straight.

You can check out more projects from my portfolio to see different applications of paints at KRid. So have fun and get out the paints!

Bob's Your Uncle!

2010-06-09T13:04:00.000-07:00

I know we live in an age where paper is (supposedly) becoming obsolete, but I will never wane from my love of wonderful notebooks, notecards and calender books! Especially ones that make me happy just by looking at them...in particular the products made by Bob's Your Uncle. They are bold, clever and so funny! I swore I'd never tell a soul about this place for fear my products would run out when I needed them, but I was assured by the wonderful proprietor, Michele Yeeles, that they always have a good supply coming in to refill the shelves!

I use their date books, notebooks, lists and journals with names like "Note to self...", "Off the Grid" and "Soup to Nuts" they make every day tasks fun and will make you feel very hip and "together"...and who doesn't love that feeling?! (It also helps that these products are derived from responsibly managed forests and use soy based inks)

They also carry products (by other brilliant artists) such as yoga mats with graphics like grass with a snake in it, a linoleum floor with spilled pills or a wood floor with a dropped muffin on it - plus wonderful totes for those yoga mats that could double as a beach tote. You can find all of these wonderful products (and more) at the store Front, a hidden gem in Fort Point Channel. So please stop in and say hello, you'll leave with a smile on your face!

Gift cards

Datebooks, Notebooks, Journals

Yoga bag and yoga mat

Yoga mats!

Spring time in NYC

2010-05-25T17:56:00.000-07:00

I had the opportunity a couple of weeks ago to travel to NYC for a few days. There is a great Trade show I hadn't been to in a while and I wanted to check out the new emerging artists and craftspeople, as well as catch up with Vendors I've done business with over the years. I was able to walk around Soho one afternoon and pop in to some home goods stores and of course indulge in my favorite past time...fashion! NYC has really courageous artists who test the waters when it comes to creating new things, some good - some not so much...

I like to push my clients a little bit out of their comfort zone, or show them different things they wouldn't normally have access to, if I think it's something that will really enhance the overall design. the results have been positive and although it may have been hard for them, they're happy they took the leap of faith.

It's important to look at everything with an open mind, because the littlest thing can have the biggest impact. I guess that's what makes design so great, it's so subjective. As the saying goes, one man's trash is another man's treasure...as you'll see below!

Porcelain Squirrel figures can be interesting placed with other items.

Squirrel Sconce?! oh no they di'ent!!

Happy Spring!...summer is just around the corner!

Reuse and Recycle!

2010-05-17T08:07:00.000-07:00

Many of my clients look for ways to reuse and recycle old furniture whether to keep a piece "in the family", save on budget or to try to be "green".   I've reused an old dresser by giving it a makeover and giving it a new life, I've reupholstered sofas and chairs to extend it's usefulness. I've attached an example of a dresser I had refinished to give it a second life .   This old dresser was a family piece and my clients wanted to reuse it in their new home for their daughter's bedroom. We gave the dresser new life by painting it in a new color and finish to protect it.   Before the dresser was painted, the cracks were sealed and the exterior of the dresser now looks brand new.

I'm finishing up a project where we've done this same thing to a console piece and are reupholstering a sofa and several chairs.   I'll share pictures with you when they're all complete.

My clients were thrilled with the results and their daughter is so happy to have a piece that reflects her!   So look in your basement or storage, pull out those old pieces of furniture and think of the possibilities.

Before and After

Form or Function?

2010-05-06T11:00:00.000-07:00

This past week I had the opportunity to go to an event at lekker home in Boston showcasing John Derian's amazing work and meet the Artist himself. I'm a modern girl at heart, but there was something really textured and rich that each piece added to the space it was in. He has mastered the art of decoupage and makes wonderfully expressive glassware. The thing I love about John's pieces is, you can use them as plates, platters and trays or hang them on the wall as art. The images John uses for his decoupage are "found artwork" from 18th & 19th century books that he has collected over the years. Check out John Derian's great website or go to John's store the next time you're in NYC and be prepared to be overwhelmed! I ended up walking out of there with a few treasures and have hung them up on the wall, I love them! If going to NYC isn't in your near future, try to stop into lekker to see for yourself how beautiful and original these pieces are.

Display wall at lekker

clean, simple designs.

a new home for the whale.

By the soaking tub...

Hi... welcome to my Blog!!

2010-05-04T16:57:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited to be posting my first entry on the KRid blog!   I never thought I'd be doing this, but I've been asked by a lot of people to "share", so I'm jumping in.    I'll be writing about all things interior design...people, places and objects that inspire me.   So although I've been working in the design field for many years, I'm constantly researching and learning new things to keep my designs fresh and unique for my current and returning clients..and now I'll share with you.   Inspiring others in design is one of my greatest pleasures, like being asked to participate in Mentor Night at our Elementary school for a 4th grade student interested in Interior Design.   She was so passionate and earnest about it, which thrilled me to no end!   She'll be a bright star someday.

I started KRid a year ago, times were shaky but it couldn't have been better timing for me. I'm extremely fortunate to be working with some amazing clients who really embrace design as being important to their lives and lifestyle.    When it came time to design my website, I put the same attention to detail and passion for design into it as I do for my clients.   I love a clean, modern aesthetic, infused with warmth and character.  Collaboratng with my website designer was a new and fun experience - from the text, to the colors, to the presentation of my work.   I wanted my passion and personal style for design to shine through so I could reach out to whoever was stopping in for a quick view.

I will love if something you see here influences you to try something new...I'm so thrilled when someone takes an idea I've thrown out there and runs with it.   One of the greatest complements I could get is seeing another design blog copy the linen background from the KRid website...I guess it resonated with their style and I'm thrilled...imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, right?   I want to impart the same attention to detail/design for my blog in a more personal format than I can achieve with my website.   Enjoy and leave a comment if you like!

New logo!