Interior Concepts by Wanda

Pretty Office Design For Life’s Taxing Moments

2012-01-30T11:54:00.001-05:00

Generally speaking, I like to walk on the sunshiny side of life. When it comes to the shorter winter days and tax season, I think if I took a poll, not too many people would say, “Loving it”. I’ve been working on my tax prep and about the only thing I can say I enjoy about the process is getting it checked off my list. May I share a big “Blech”?!

(A great send off for those spreadsheets! Origami birds - Etsy )

Meanwhile, even while performing the most mundane of tasks, I do think we should make sure we’re immersed in “pretty”. Humor also helps. It might just put the glow back into our cheeks!

Who wouldn’t feel like the CEO of the House while perched at the Adagio desk from Scott Thomas Furniture? I think I would get paperwork done in a jiffy just to view the beautifully burled top!

Being chained to a desk, isn’t so bad if it’s going to be in a comfy chair. The buttery, leather swivel chair, from the Seven Seas Collection – Hooker Furniture Company, makes for a softer landing.

A crystal lamp from Wildwood might bring those numbers into clearer focus. Don’t like what your return is showing? Turn off the light and enjoy this beautiful piece of desk sculpture!

I’m swooning over this gorgeous sofa fabric from Harlequin – Etienne toile pattern. I’m hoping I won’t do the same after my accountant gets back to me! It would bring new meaning to the term, “fainting couch”.

Oh, and remember the part about keeping a little humor in the process?

A coffee table with a hand crank lets you take out your frustration on all of those defunct documents. (Note of caution, check with your tax advisor, first!) Source

Well, I’m going to log off to get ready for the accountant’s visit. I’ve got to place a bottle of aspirin and a box of Kleenex on a pretty little tray. I’m not sure who’s going to need which one, first!

Snapshots: An Interior Design Project Process

2012-01-27T19:31:00.001-05:00

I would love to have the time to sit down for a nice fireside chat . . . Oh, and I do mean I would LOVE that! Meanwhile, I’m going through a checklist and photos from a project with an impending deadline.

You may remember me referring to the merry Cotswold-style project in Charlotte, NC.

Every now and then, right in the middle of the city, there is a special enclave where you can be transported to another place and time. Here’s a photo I took of the home on a misty/foggy day. My clients and I worked on this project about ten years ago, when the home was constructed. Brent Zande, of Zande Custom Homes, was their contractor and we’re so pleased he’s available for this go-round, too! (Did I mention my clients had a “little” flood? Mold is never a pretty addition to a home!)

(The landscape has been nicely developed around McMullen Creek, which runs across the property, below. With the recent rains, it looks like a lovely fishing stream. The creek, by the way, didn’t cause the flood. A pesky water filter burst!)

The gentleman of the home has claimed his spot on the screened porch off of the master bedroom. As a busy attorney, it’s a welcome respite from an uptown office building. Due to our southern heat and humidity, we want to allow him to enjoy it even more so. The wall between the master bedroom and this small porch will be opened and it will become an airy sunroom/sitting space. Brent coined the idea of an “inglenook”, which is a clever description of the concept. Of course, the window walls will open on the days a welcome breeze decides to visit. While the term Man Cave is way up there on searches in Google, I think I like Wikipedia's alternate word – Mantuary, better. This will be such a spot!

While all of that activity is getting ready to take place, the master bath will be getting a little enhancement from a new counter. Back in the day, ten years ago, there were not as many selections available in stone. This lovely piece of Crema Bordeaux has been marked for sinks and splashes. The imbedded amethyst crystals play up a favorite color of the lady of the home. I think it looks like a beautiful work of art inspired by their exterior view, don’t you?

Here I am snapping a shot in the master closet before it’s to be gutted for some custom cabinetry. I cropped the closet out because things are upside down with all of the work being done. I promised my clients I would not do a reveal of that ‘before’! (Yes, I’m a blue jeans gal on construction sites during brisk days. No Manolos for me!)

Since it had been a few years from the original construction, I took field measurements and laid out the areas as well as created detailed notes. Sometimes measuring around furniture makes it a challenge so I wanted to be sure to check some of the details on the return visit. Measure twice, cut once is a good rule to follow. I just won’t do a project without being allowed to get proper dimensions. It’s the road map to keep things on course.

Here is the plan with a few less distractions and some furniture added to help me ponder the wall elevation.

Remember this design concept from a previous post? My clients were so happy they clapped when they saw it! The wife said I should have just Photoshopped her husband in the chair, reading. I love it when I hit one out of the ballpark!

Well, we almost had that fireside chat. Come back in a few posts from now and I’ll be sure to share more “glowing” reports!

Mastering A Bedroom Design

2012-01-23T01:06:00.001-05:00

I’ve really been burning the midnight oil, as of late! Great things happening on the project front, as well as some exciting opportunities for writing, a ribbon-cutting for the community shelter is coming, and I’ve got a couple of speaking engagements lined up. (I’ll share more details as they come.)

Meanwhile, I need to get some beauty sleep so that I’ll be bright-eyed for a project I mentioned in a previous post. I’m back to the “Cotswolds”, in Charlotte, in the am. Even the address sounds perfectly British . . . Tottenham Road. We’re reviewing some options for opening up a wall between the master bedroom and a currently screened-in porch. There are challenges with the opening. You know, structural kinds of things. The house was also built on the side of a hill so it’s not so easy to blow it out without affecting the lower level. I’ve been scratching my head on this one.

(Though not in the master bedroom, I just had to share a glimpse of one of the lovely details in this home. The owners had a pair of windows stashed away from a trip to England and they now divide the dining room from the living area. I get heart flutters every time I see them!)

The ultimate goal, for the master bedroom, is to bring in more light as well as to allow for views of the breathtaking gardens which have unfolded, below, during the past ten years since the house was first constructed. One concept was to do an arched opening between the two spaces. Pretty but not really working in the area of function. The porch is not that deep. I got a little giddy, this evening, when the cogwheels started turning! I just had to do a rendering to help the concept translate into a better visual sense for my clients.

Due to the supports needed, I decided to create a way to let tons of sunlight in, while specifying some remote-controlled, room-darkening shades in the windows for privacy for weekend napping. I love the idea of creating a division as there is going to be a need to use tile on the flooring on the existing porch. (Too many details to explain so just trust me on that decision.) We’re moving storage into a closet being reworked so there won’t be a lot of furniture. The built-in bookcase base is a perfect focal point, kind of like a fireplace, to cozy up to. The bed will be facing this view so I wanted it to be a lovely one. (We’re taking out a door, on the right, for added egress as well as to add windows.) We’ll repurpose a pair of antique chairs and a table, in this option.

Here’s the same layout but with a different setting. An existing chair and ottoman would be jazzed up with a pillow to match a wallpaper from Schumacher, backing the bookcase’s interior. I would move the other chairs in front of another window to the side. (Not shown.) We also have a challenge with the layout of the exterior windows. There may not be a way to make any opening fall in line. Sometimes we designers can cleverly divert attention with placement of furnishings and accessories.

I’m sure we’ll be tweaking away but a project always has to start somewhere, right?

Need a “master plan”? I’m happy to chat!

Fluff and Fold ~ Laundry Style

2012-01-21T10:20:00.001-05:00

I wonder how many washers and dryers are spinning, cycling, and whirring this weekend? Sounds like a great workout, yes?

I’ve got a client whose ho-hum laundry space needs a little more “hum” in it so I’ve been perusing pics to share with her for inspiration. Certainly not all of these details can be applied to one space but I think I may marry bits and pieces together.

This is a case where a “hidden agenda” is all good. No need to distract the eye from the beautiful, sunny space with appliances showing. (Image: The Inspired Room)

If there is enough space available, why not bring in the light? Who says laundry day has to be dreary? I love it that this opens to the exterior. Perhaps a potting room/laundry combo? (Image: Nest Egg)

La Lessive Petits – aka – The Small Laundry. Smart design for a tiny space. (Image: Young House Love)

You never know what goes on behind closed doors . . . but in this case, I think it deserves a peek! That tile is va-voom! (Image: Decor Pad)

Some lucky person will soon be doing laundry in this sleek space when they win the HGTV 2012 Dream Home!

Don’t you think laundry day goes by faster with help from a friend? Love the Dutch doors and the whole cottage feel of this space. (Image: Crush Cul De Sac)

I absolutely must get Whitney Gray to provide her photography magic for a previous laundry room project I completed. It’s a combo mud/laundry area and the cabinetry details are receiving rave reviews! (Image: Wanda S. Horton Interior Design )

And of course, a reminder to get back to my basket . . .

Happy fluffing and folding!

The Marilyn Effect ~Interiors Lust

2012-01-18T13:27:00.001-05:00

I’m not so much a winter person during the daylight hours. It tends to be gray and cold and as I glance at the bare garden spots, I wistfully think of the dormant blooms to unfold in the spring. Then . . . nightfall comes and the warm glow of light, a flicker from the fireplace or a nearby candle, and I welcome the chance to cocoon. Textures and tactile experiences become even more important. I imagine myself being surrounded by the luxury of it.

While snuggled in, one evening, the Golden Globes honored great talents and even though I had not seen the movie, “My Week with Marilyn”, the clips had me searching for trailers.

Michelle Williams received the Golden Globe for Best Actress in a Musical or Comedy with her portrayal as Marilyn. (Image: ClutchMTV.com) Uncanny resemblance, isn’t it?

Ms Monroe wrapped in a white fur. (Image: Pinterest)

One of my recent purchases at the Atlanta market. Don’t summon PETA, it’s a fab faux fur throw. (Image: Wanda S. Horton)

A bedroom fit for the divine Ms ‘M’. (Via – www.sterlingstyle.net)

A few throw pillows, like the one in the center, are coming with the Atlanta order. Spoken for but can be reordered! (Image: Cynthia Smiley)

As it’s often said, “life imitates art”. After observing a few “lean” years in design, I believe we’ll see rooms become a bit more fleshed out with a hint of Hollywood. What do you think?

Bouncing Around Atlanta Market

2012-01-17T10:28:00.001-05:00

Please pardon me while I get my blogging brain back in order! Between popping down to Atlanta for a quick twirl around Americasmart and Monday’s Martin Luther King holiday, I feel as if my social skills need a bit of polishing. (And not to mention that I took a nice, long break for Christmas.) I feel a “baptism by fire” kind of week coming on. Full blazing speed ahead!

(My downtown Atlanta view from one of the crossover bridges at the mart.)

First, let me share a future tip with those of you who book downtown rooms so that you can be closer to the hub of activity. My friend Beth and I found a lovely Sheraton, right at the Perimeter Center Mall area with easy access to 285 so no traffic clogs on the way in and out of town. Marta was just five minutes away by car and our hotel shuttled us back and forth in such a fashion that we felt like Queen Bees. They even drove Beth by her car to get her gloves so that she wouldn’t be cold! Lovely rooms, breakfast included, goodies on the Club Level, and all for a very affordable price. Nurture and nesting when away from the home front!

(The High Design Wing was opened at the 2011 January market. This shot was taken in the morning before the crowd poured in.)

In speaking of nesting . . . I did bounce around the market to gather sources for my interior design projects. I totally missed Thursday because of a bout of one of those 24 hour “situations” so maybe ‘bouncing’ isn’t exactly what I did. I did have to make up for lost time on Friday, though. The market plan went out of the window, with the exception of the Christmas decor I had to purchase for a client. To save you from reading my version of the Dead Sea Scroll, I think you might just enjoy browsing through the photo album, below. I just decided to go with the flow and to see where my feet took me.

View Full Album

There are permanent showrooms, which are open in between markets, and then there are temporary showrooms which are open only during the show and on certain days. I always try to plan my visits around the days the temporaries are open so that I might discover some new, up-and-coming vendors. Often the minimum opening orders are smaller so it’s nice to be able to “test” a few things without a major investment. It’s not only about the product, it’s about the shipping dates and if the vendor can meet them, as well as the freight rates and customer service follow-up. I want to have a great vendor experience so that I can offer up the products to my clients, nary a cringe factor attached. (We all know what that cringe factor means!)

There definitely was the magical feeling of the holidays still intact at the market. In fact, there was so much to see, I almost got lost in the glittering forests of trees! I took note of how the trees were not only layered with ornaments, but also in how they were fleshed out with extra ‘greens’ to give them a full-bodied texture. (Just a little hint for your 2012 decorating.)

By the way, the wise old owl was seen roosting all over the different showrooms. Even had them in the holiday displays.

Maybe 2012 will be the “Year of the Owl”. We could certainly all benefit from a little extra wisdom and foresight.

There was even time to squeeze in a session with Mary McDonald and Nathan Turner. My apologies for my photography but there was a lot of movement and heads in the way. They had a great turn out from fans of the Million Dollar Decorators Bravo TV show.

Here are some of my tweets from their presentation:

Wanda Horton @WandaSHorton 13 Jan

“Nathan Turner reminds designers to style for photo shoots even if project seems good.”

“Mary McDonald - Take your own camera shots before pros to control best angles or see what needs tweaking.”

“Even Million Dollar Decorators have challenges with getting clients to finish design details. #ATLMart”

“Mary McDonald loves oversized urns. Makes simple areas grand.”

“Five elements provide interest without overdoing space. #ATLMart”

“Sometimes #interiordesigners have to take risks on their own dime to create the right look for the room. #ATLMart”

“Mary refers to Bohemian style project for affluent as "hippy deluxe". #ATLMart”

(Look over and around the head to see some of the lovely stylings of Nathan Turner and Mary McDonald. Sigh!)

To be honest, the impression from their show left me feeling some of the designers were a bit snarky and provided fodder for the stereotype I try to avoid. (Yes, I know that it’s supposed to make for entertaining TV but I don’t like rewarding bad behavior, even if it’s to make things “interesting”.) Mary showed her witty but softer side, at the event, and I can see that Nathan is her perfect foil.

(I did find a great source for fab, fake furs! Guess who ordered a couple, along with some awesome pillows? After watching the Golden Globes, I think we’ll be seeing the influence of “My Week with Marilyn Monroe”.)

By Saturday morning, it was time to wrap up the trip and head home. Americasmart is a great place to source if you have a gift/home decor shop. I enjoyed checking it out after a few years of being absent from the show. It’s absolutely a place where there is something for everyone and I do mean everyone! (Dancing life-sized polar bears would have appeared in my pics if they didn’t have a “no photos allowed” policy.) For this interiors gal, I do have to say, I’ll still be spending more time at the High Point show. Don’t get me wrong, Atlanta is a happening town and this is a huge market with massive amounts of vendors . . . simply a different side trip from my regular sources.

And that’s just my humble opinion.

Designing Across The Pond – Sort Of

2012-01-04T19:46:00.001-05:00

Just before Christmas, one of my previous clients had a not so happy event. A leaking water filter created a flood and it caused quite a bit of damage. In fact, they had to move out of the house to have the necessary repairs done. I was so pleased they contacted me to come back to the project, not only to help during the process of the repair work, but to also consider reconfiguring some areas to better suit their current lifestyle needs and aesthetics.

(I think this is what would would be called a “pretty puddle”. My clients didn’t think as much of theirs. Image from Pinterest )

This was one of my favorite new construction projects as the home was built with a heavy influence of English Cotswold design and the setting was so fitting for it . . . at the quiet end of a road and with a hilly overlook. There are two antique leaded glass windows that were installed between the living space and the dining room, on either side of the opening. The homeowners brought them back from a trip and they had been in storage for years! They fit perfectly in their current spot.

(Taking a trip to merry old England? Be sure to take your camera along. Lots to see and document! Image via the web.)

Back in the day, my camera was not the best so original pictures are not to be found. I think I even used a Polaroid! Gads! I’ll be sure to remedy that, as I’ll be revisiting this project, tomorrow, and my trusty Canon G12 will be coming with. I’ll share the winter view and then I’ll capture it with the spring flowers, too. Yes, it will be an ongoing project. :)

(There’s nothing prettier than an English garden. My client wants to get back into her home before the spring as she loves seeing her beds in bloom. As a fellow gardener, I can share in that sentiment. Image via the web.)

The original construction took place about ten years ago. We did a few interior things but most folks have found, after all is said and done, a lot of the funds become allocated towards the permanent items and landscaping. The design budget was spread a little thin around several areas. The house certainly looked nice but I knew we could have done so much more. We also repurposed some family pieces to fill in the gaps.

(Not exactly their design but just an idea for the scale of the pair of encased leaded glass windows. Image from Etsy )

(Thinking of the Manhattan sofa style by Thomas Pheasant for Baker. My clients like to mix it up a bit.)

Even though we’ve previously worked together on this project, it feels like it will be a brand new beginning. A lot has changed in ten years! My processes are always being honed, both by technology and by some tweaks to my operating procedures. Not to mention the level of experience gained by being challenged creatively. My clients also have a different outlook on how they want this home to live and feel. Yes, we’ll have some familiar touchstones placed throughout, but we’ll also bring in some fresh ideas.

Fresh as an English garden, that is!

Gazing Into 2012

2011-12-31T13:57:00.001-05:00

As the Waterford crystal ball drops into Times Square to usher in 2012, I’m wondering what the New Year will hold in store. What a wondrous crystal ball it would be if we could really see into the future!

“The Times Square ball drop has been the highlight of New Year’s celebrations in New York City for more than a hundred years. Since New Year’s Eve 2000, the iconic ball has been created by Waterford Crystal, and the company will ring in 2012 with a new crystal design theme to mark the “Year of Friendship.” ~ Time Online

Amazing, isn’t it?

Stuart Haygarth's Chandelier

Schonbek’s Da Vinci Collection

Checkolite’s Eight Light Crystal Chandelier

Bidding adieu to number 11.

And saying “hello” to our new friend, 2012!

Wishing you much love, health, happiness, prosperity, clarity, joy, peace, wonderment, beauty, contentment, and a sparkly good life in The New Year!

Heading Down The Atlanta Highway!

2011-12-29T15:10:00.001-05:00

Almost time to get ready for a road trip! It’s been a few years since I’ve been to the Americasmart and I’ve been wondering what I’ve been missing. Well, I’m about to find out. When my friend, Beth, asked if I wanted to come along for the ride . . . my arm didn’t need to be twisted!

(Okay, I don’t think I’ll be wearing a black tulle skirt or turquoise heels or packing pink luggage in a vintage car, but I’ll bet the B-52’s anthem will be buzzing in my head! I might even be singing it. Poor Beth!)

I’ve tended to write a lot more about my visits to the High Point Market, in previous posts. High Point is definitely the place to go for home furnishings. Just about every major manufacturer is represented at this show. And it’s very big. Huge, in fact! There are times; however, when a different venue can bring different sources. That’s where the Americasmart comes in. They overlap categories from gift to home to garden to seasonal to rugs to florals to fashion – and more. In fact, the Americasmart towers are dedicated to different categories, including the floors on which a showroom might be located.

A big, lofty space with great goals for the New Year!

While it might appear to be a bit overwhelming, at first, the towers of the Americasmart buildings are easily accessible by crosswalks, elevators, and escalators. The last time I was there, there were masseuses stationed near the escalators for a little back and foot relief! Hope they’re still around!

Some vendors show in both High Point and Atlanta. Depending on their market’s focus, they may have a bigger presence in one than the other. Others only exhibit in Atlanta. Either way, I’m sure to enjoy a plethora of beautiful sources!

(Gabby Home)

(Anali)

(Sullivan’s – Yes, I’m already pre-shopping for clients’ holiday decorations, this year!)

There are also great events and seminars. Here are just a few on the list . . .

HD Home Preview Party – Thursday, January 12th, (2-6pm)

Besties Mary McDonald and Nathan Turner will be presenting on Friday, January 13th (3-4pm), “Our Life in Design”

Husband and wife design team, Steve and Brooke Giannetti, of Velvet & Linen, will share: “Patina Style: Experiencing Design in Person and Online” – Saturday, January 14th (11am – 12:30pm)

For a full list of events, click on: Home, Rug, & Gift Events

Fortunately, for resting after the end of a busy day, we found comfy lodgings in the Perimeter Mall area. (Who knows? We might not be too tired to shop after all of our walking. Yes, Beth, I can feel your eyes rolling!) Lots of great restaurants and easy access to the Marta station for coming and going to the downtown area, as well as getting in and out of Atlanta’s notorious traffic.

Our hotel has a nice fireplace to cozy up to at the end of a blustery day. I’ve also read the reviews and they get a big thumbs up for customer service, cleanliness, and excellent bedding. All big deals for me.

Woo hoo! First road trip of 2012! A great way to welcome in the New Year!

Planning A Perfect New Year?

2011-12-27T10:47:00.001-05:00

So . . . Is it already that time of year when our thoughts are heading towards resolutions, goals, and getting back-on-track if we missed the mark on some of our best laid plans for 2011? Totally time to get serious, right? No more procrastination, lollygagging, dawdling, or side-stepping around it? Time to see if we can get our proverbial houses in order – either literally or figuratively – to make for a perfect New Year?

Perfection:

~ a quality, trait, or feature of the highest degree of excellence.

~ the highest degree of proficiency, skill, or excellence, as in some art.

Aspiring words for certain!

(Hmmm. If only life fit into a well-organized set of envelopes with each activity planned for in advance.)

I’m in great admiration of those who have already set in motion their upcoming lists. Admittedly, I’m right there with them on the: getting healthier, loosing weight, move more, breathe more, create more balance in life, get-rid-of-stuff-that-gets-in-the-way, etc., etc., etc. You see, I tend to be a list maker and even a bit of a perfectionist. Good for those who hire me to do their projects but not always good for me in terms of allowing a bit more of “me” time.

(Of course, making a checklist for some things is good for more “me” time. Keeping this one in view for a new “me” year.)

“Life” also comes along and muddies the waters of momentum. Some things are out of our control . . . major events which alter our lives such as: death, divorce, illness . . . . There are also instances where perhaps we’ve given up our decision-making to others; producing end results which would have been in our best interest to say, “no” so that we could say “yes” to the things that would support not only our goals but the inner core of who we are and that of which we want to give. Many of us could raise our hands to attest to walking on this path, at some point or the other.

(Sometimes you do have to make on-the-spot decisions. Practicing a little “what if I’m faced with _______?” can be a huge help.)

(And if you haven’t walked a particular path before, there are always lessons or take-a-ways to be gathered for the next time.)

Rather than trying to “perfect” a “perfect” set of resolutions, I’ve decided to be a work in progress – an evolution of sorts. Even when setting goals, there are many little steps to be made towards achieving them. The “experts” tend to concur we’re more apt to be successful if we take each one as it comes, rather than trying to make a huge leap. We have to decide if we’re doing it for ourselves or to impress someone else with big, lofty ideas.

Talk less, do more.

I’m always amazed how one little change can lead to big results!

Always share gratitude and appreciation. It never gets old.

A setback or a bump along the way doesn’t define the final destination.

Amen. Amen! And A Happy New Year!

Warm Holiday Wishes From Wanda

2011-12-22T12:46:00.001-05:00

The office light has been dimmed and the fireplace is all aglow. The virtual one, that is. It’s a little too warm in NC to have the real thing!

Wherever you may be and however you may be celebrating your holiday . . . Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanza, Winter Solstice . . . I send you all my best for the season and with many good wishes for the upcoming year.

(You can click on this video to expand it to full screen, if you like. It’s an oldie but a goodie!)

Last Minute Holiday Decorating?

2011-12-21T10:02:00.001-05:00

So, are you feeling the heart fluctuations of procrastination when it comes to making things merry and bright? I think a little rush of adrenaline isn’t so bad, in getting us moving forward towards the finish line, but I also know a full blown coronary arrest isn’t a good holiday tiding!

At this point, I like to think of using things that can be carried forward into the New Year and will be more about “winter” decorations. Even when the tree comes down . . . granting that you’ve put one up . . . there will be some lovely things to enjoy as we move into the early part of winter solstice.

Sometimes, the best things are saved for last. Fresh arrangements are happier that way!

Here is a bedside table setting that I created for my recent Hooker Furniture blog post. (It shared with my readers how to create sugar plum dreams in a guest room.) Simple greens and apples made my antique compote bowl sparkle.)

I loved this idea from Sally Page’s book, “The Flower Shop Christmas”. The first step is to tie ribbon, as shown, around a square vase.

Then, you just pop in short stems of flowers and berries. Even if the local florist is out or may be up to their ears in orders, many of the grocery chains, such as The Fresh Market or even Costco have pretty good bunches of flowers you can snip.

A lovely entry from Country Living shows how to “plant” branches in a vase, anchored with some fresh greens, and then decorated with some tiny glass ornaments. The poinsettias are a lovely pop of color. Be sure to keep them properly watered . . . not too much and not too dry. They do need TLC during the time when most of us have our thermostats heating up.

Let’s just say you’re really short on time . . . No time to head out for any extra supplies. Start putting on the thinking cap. I’ll bet you can find a few items to jingle things up a bit!

If you’re a patron of plaid, gather up up some of your favs and place them in order of plaid perfection. I found this on Pinterest and the clever simplicity, plus the retro lunchbox, grabbed my attention for a front porch welcome.

Yes - simple is as simple does. If this seems a little to rustic for you, grab a can of metallic paint or your glitter and have at it with the pots! Gold metallic dresses up just about anything. (Also from “The Flower Shop Christmas”.) For those who celebrate Hanukkah, it would be easy to align these on a tabletop and change the bows to blue.

(Image: Pottery Barn)

No time to hang the ornaments on your tree? Pull out the most special ones and group them in a container. In having done decorating for my own clients’ homes for the holidays, I’ve found there are many stories behind the favorites. Those memories warm our hearts and make great conversations to share with loved ones and friends.

From my home to yours . . .

Recapping 2011 – A Little Design Wit & Wisdom

2011-12-18T14:43:00.001-05:00

Okay, I know we haven’t even celebrated Christmas and I’m already attempting to summarize the year of 2011. My mind just works that way. It must be years of advance planning for design project deadlines. In many cases, I’ve already “seen” the room in my head before everything is installed in a client’s home.

(Oh, if only clicking my heels made it happen!)

But, as usual, I digress. You see, try as I might, after adding notes to Christmas Cards and sending out my last 2011 newsletter, (plus putting on finishing touches to some interiors), my creative writing skills have taken a bit of a leave of absence. I thought I would recap the year with some fun word visuals. Yes, it’s cheating but in a good way! (Etsy and Pinterest are the places to go when you need help.)

I do try to keep everything upbeat and positive and people say I have a way of keeping everything calm. They always wonder what would happen if I pulled off the filter. Ooooh! It’s never pretty to pull off the filter!

Yes, I do better when I can get my 7 hours in. Give me 8 and I’m an angel! I’ve recently said I’ll sleep after Christmas.

I do think a few miracles have been pulled off, this year. You had to be behind the scenes to know this.

The part about miracles? It all had to do with hunting down either the product or the people who could make the process happen. It’s all about availability in the world of interior design. Including scheduling.

I think I’ve already shared this one but it’s worth repeating. Custom design is not a “snap of your fingers HGTV 30 minute show style approach”, at least not by my firm. My team and I certainly do everything we can to make things go as smooth as possible but it takes time. I’m a huge paperwork queen. Plan to prevent problems. Measure twice, cut once. But . . . there is always that character called, “Mr. Murphy” and he likes to crash the party every now and then.

(So - he also may be called “Mayhem” on the commercial, but they kind of resemble one another, don’t you think?)

(From the mouths of babes.)

Who would you rather have steering your ship when the waves whip up?

I’ve got a great appreciation for clients who step out of their comfort zone. It helps me to be a better designer and they get some pretty great results, too!

It’s all about creating a balance with a dose of common sense. These four items cover so much territory. I’ve added my translations, below:

672 – Be true to yourself and good to others.
673 – Editing goes a long way. Don’t over think.
674 – Have realistic expectations and communicate them. No mind reading allowed.
675 – Planning and preparation go a long way and keeps the journey and people a bit more comfortable on the way to the final destination.

I believe cookies and cupcakes are allowed for medicinal purposes. In moderation, of course.

Contrary to popular belief, all interior designers do not get to vacation in Bora Bora – but if you’ve got a vacation home that needs some work . . . .

When you have two of them, it’s even better. Love my office buddies!

And mine ARE the best!

Thanks for dropping by as I’m literally wrapping up the year and presents, too! Just a few more days and the lights on the office will be dimmed until after the New Year. I’ll probably put in one more quick post and then I’ll be offline for a while.

If I don’t have time to share it beforehand, thank you SO MUCH for making my blog a drop-in destination. I know there are lots of them available to you and my goal is to keep improving this one to make it worth your while.

Tiny Trimmings

2011-12-15T12:08:00.001-05:00

“Never worry about the size of your Christmas tree. In the eyes of children, they are all 30 feet tall.” ~ Larry Wilde

With just a few days left to finish the holiday trimmings, take a deep breath, take off the pressure, and focus on just a few special areas in your home that you can enjoy even through the New Year. I’m a big fan of being able to leave a few pieces behind, even if I’m ready to take down the Christmas tree to reclaim some space. It makes the winter blahs just a little less ‘blah’!

This morning, I scooped up a birch bark container and popped in my blooming Amaryllis bulb, which had been potted a few weeks earlier. Many of the florists and garden spots still have some of these beauties, if you’ve not had time to get one going. Notice that I’ve got a second bud coming up? Yes! More cheer after Christmas has come and gone!

Notice the extra texture at the base? All from my yard and garden! That’s right . . . I found a few cones from our white pines, snipped some evergreen pieces – like Leyland Cypress, clipped Nandina berries and leaves, and put a small branch in the center to support the growing stalk. I had previously purchased some sheet moss and I soaked it in water to brighten up the color as well as to provide a moist blanket to keep things fresh, longer. The assembly took me all of about twenty minutes, from clipping to arranging.

I snuggled in a few of my favorite Christmas books, topped with a bow and berries.

My “Papa” Santa. I love his vintage charm.

If you don’t have a garden or holiday sprigs, I’ll bet a neighbor would be happy to share!

I can’t tell you how many years I’ve had these candles. They are carefully packed away, each year, in the anticipation of their next Christmas season. Hope springs eternal. :)

Still making merry at the Horton home!

Making Merry With Meaning – Holiday at Home

2011-12-10T14:03:00.001-05:00

It’s been a lovely week of decorating several homes for the holidays. Each year I try to set aside some time to help clients, who are having holiday events, spruce up their garlands, add “fluffitude” to their wreaths, (thanks to Beth for that verbiage), and sprinkle seasonal cheer throughout their homes. Each year I’m reminded how much better off a few preemptive yoga classes might stave off stiff and sore muscles, too! In the end, I hope my efforts bring a bit more merriment to the season.

An array of Sugar Pine Cones and Leyland Cypress adorn my client’s mantel and crown her stocking collection.

Evening photography isn’t my area of expertise, but hopefully you can see the handiwork in this entry foyer. PS – The Thibaut wallcovering is so much prettier than my picture. The handrails were previously painted and rubbed for an ebonized effect.

A table setting in preparation for a granddaughter’s December birthday party. Theme? Visions of sugarplums, of course!

As an aside, this living room will be completed with more layers to come, before a party. It has been totally redesigned to mesh with an adjacent family room. We went ahead with the Christmas decor.

Working on a tabletop concept. Pineapples are the proverbial way to roll out the welcome mat! I’m mixing small moss pots of poinsettias and ivy to soften the edges.

A different home, a different color palette. I love to mix texture and glitz.

A snowy tablescape for a future dinner. This saves my client from having to maintain flowers, even though a few blossoms could be inserted, later. I think I’ll add some crystal balls, too.

And this tree! We’ve been “friends” for three years, now!

In fact, you may recognize it from posts of Christmas past. Even without the lights on, it twinkles in the grand hall.

I love using pieces from client’s collections, in a different installation. The little copper lusterware creamers nest between fresh greens and ornaments.

We did a little shopping, yesterday, at Creative By Nature, and added some lovely, glass acorns to her mantel setting. We also took time to have lunch and to catch up. Clients, over time, become friends. Design is my business but my design is also personal. I love it when my clients feel as if I’m so in-tune that I can jump in, sleeves rolled-up and get the project done because I know them so well.

We added some brass candlesticks she had tucked away. BTW- I hope you didn’t send all of your brass pieces to consignment. You know the old saying about things recycling in design. Brass is back!

A rose medallion jar dresses up the end of the display.

A new gingerbread house ornament is the backdrop to one of the very first ornaments my client every received. She has one of these raspberry cones and so does her brother. It was a gift from their mother and it’s about 75 years old. Precious memories and connections live on in this tree.

We ended the day with glowing smiles. It’s so true how everyone, including the house, looks better in a little candelight.

I’m almost finished with the holiday decorating season. This little elf couldn’t have done all of this alone. I’m so appreciative of my friend, and great design talent, Beth Swanson, for keeping me entertained while digging in along side of me. She had her own helpers man her shop, Oldetyme Marketplace, as well as all of the other holiday decorating she does for others. You are The Woman, Beth! Anthony Davis, my installer extraordinaire, and of whom I fondly refer to as, The Big Guy, (you should see 5’1” of me next to 6’5” of him), not only helps me to reach greater heights, *wink*, but has an eye and knack for the perfection of placement. I might still be hanging off a ledge without Anthony!

Thank you to my clients, who continually ask me to help you bring some extra holiday sparkle to your homes. You are the meaning behind the merriment and the reason I put on a different hat, come December. This “decorating elf” loves sharing the season with you! (And what a treat to open a box from one of you, to find my own elf inside!)

Merry, Merry to You!

Jingling Along

2011-12-07T00:33:00.001-05:00

Last year, I somehow managed to write a blog post for a thirty day Christmas Countdown. It seems just like yesterday, and yet, it seems like a distant memory, too! Being that we’re already into the first full week of December . . . and with the list of “to-do’s” still mounting . . . it’s highly unlikely I’ll rise to the occasion. After this week, I’ll be happy to rise out of a chair! You see, I’ve got Christmas decorating projects in full throttle, as well as a kitchen facelift and several rooms being readied for the holiday entertaining season. I’ll be lucky to remember how to spell my name, much less, post daily tips.

I hope you don’t mind, but I’ve been busy tossing around a little pixie dust.

My fairy godmother, Beth, has been right along by my side, sprinkling away, too!

I’ll have to get back to you in a few. I promise it will be before the clock strikes midnight in 2012!

Picking Perfect Presents? Practically A Winning Two-Fer!

2011-12-03T12:07:00.001-05:00

As the Christmas and holidays countdown have begun, I have visions not only of sugarplums dancing in my head, but of the list of people for whom I still need to buy gifts. Yes, I know I only have 364 days to think about this, from last year’s Big Day, but you know how we creatives can be . . . always trying to think of the “perfect” present. It takes time, you know?

(I sure love the idea of creating personal gifts. I also love the idea of having time to enjoy the season. This year, I’m going to more parties and home tours. Things I miss when I’ve put too much on my plate. Thanks, HGTV, for the idea, though. *wink*)

I’ve decided to take some of the pressure off. Instead of spending days fixating on the latest trending gift or deciding if a leopard patterned bag will fit Sally Sue’s personality, I’m going the practical route. There, I said it, the “P” word. It seems as if, in the world of design, that’s almost like cursing! (I could stand for a few fashion-forward folks to use it as a substitute descriptive for their public exclamations. Just think - “That’s practically awesome!” or what about, “Practically amazing!” )

Okay, I digress. There’s also another motivation for heading in this direction. My local community shelter is stuffing stockings and they’ve requested thirty adult stockings for the shelter residents and ten children’s stockings, (3-9 years), ten tween/teen stockings, (11-17 yrs). The request also listed many useful items. Of course, this got the cogwheels turning. Why not focus on double-duty shopping? Who needs one more Tchotchke or impulse gift? I can personally attest that I’m trying to capture more space by editing a bit more. If I don’t love it, if it’s not useful – buh bye!

So, while I’m shopping for stocking stuffers for my shelter, I’m going to be duplicating some purchases for others. A winning two-fer, as it were.

Practically perfect, don’t you think?

What Makes a Design Expert?

2011-11-28T08:51:00.001-05:00

“An expert is someone who knows a lot about the past.” ~ Tom Hopkins

Over the Thanksgiving holiday, I was sharing with family members about being asked to help a few clients with their holiday decorations. (I have to share that my main business is more inclined towards the interiors portion of readying homes for the generations to gather. I’ve completed projects from nurseries to retirement nests, and everything in between.) My brother-in-law was fascinated by the fact that someone would actually hire me to “deck the halls”, so to speak. It’s not that he didn’t recognize my design capabilities, but I think the idea was totally lost on him that my clients have come to also see me as a trusted advisor and as a translator of their style leanings . . . even to the point of bringing it home for the holidays. I’ve become their ‘go-to’ person - to include being their lifestyle ‘expert’. It’s a confidence and trust I don’t take lightly.

(One of my upcoming Christmas decorating projects. I feel like I know this house like the back of my hand. I was with the client from the blueprint stages and through all of the finishing touches. Coming back each year, for holiday decorating, is like catching up with an old friend.)

(A cart full of fresh trimmings for another client. It will be held at the greenhouse until I’m ready to place them. My client trusts, through previous experience, I have the best resources available.)

(If you notice, the first few photos are so-so because they were taken by moi – an amateur photog at best. In this shot, Whitney Gray, a talented area photographer, captures my work in the best light. It might be fine to share some of my “home grown” shots with you for quick points of reference, but when it comes to putting my best foot forward for my website and marketing materials, she’s the person I call on to bring it all together. Do-It-Yourself may provide a close approximation but an expert provides polish, acumen, and focus.)

As an interior designer, offering boutique-type services, there is an expectation that I should be “The Expert”. It doesn’t mean that my clients aren’t free to be involved in the process or to collaborate. It simply means they appreciate that I’ve got the education, background, and past experience to be able to take their style preferences to a different level. I bring a concierge offering of services to include many of the little details, which added together, make up the sum of a completed project.

My brother-in-law is often inspired to be creative. He believes he is not only an expert in his chosen technical field, but that he brings a certain “something” to his home that no one else can.

And to that I can attest. (Bless his heart!)

Shopping Around Town & Country

2011-11-25T14:31:00.001-05:00

By now, most of us have had our fill of turkey and treats. If we’ve been lucky enough to have a long weekend, there are activities galore from enjoying extended family visits to hitting the pavement as we get some holiday shopping and decorating under way. I’m taking today “off” to move out some accumulated “stuff” so that the remainder of the year will offer me a bit more calm and order. Later on; however, I’ll be joining in to help stimulate the economy. (smile)

I’ll have to share that I’m not a huge fan of all of the Black Friday hoopla. It’s not that I don’t wish the larger business concerns well . . . they employee a lot of folks. I just know there are also a lot of small businesses who need the extra boost of our dollars, and being a small business owner, myself, I’m more than happy to bring my list to them.

(Even though this is a campaign created by a major brand, I support the concept of it, wholeheartedly – and not just on one day, too! You can click on the logo for more details.)

I’ll be sharing some of my favorite spots, as well as some I’d like to stop by. Be sure to check back for updated photos and finds. Of course, I can’t share all of my shopping secrets. Someone may be peeking in and I don’t want to spoil their surprise!

Town

(A great place for interior finds in Charlotte, Alexander Scott is one of the new multi-merchant additions to the city. They just recently had their grand opening!)

& Country

(I’ve featured my friend, Beth Swanson’s shop, Oldetyme Marketplace, several times before. If you haven’t made the trip, you should put this on your destination when in the Charlotte area. It’s more than a shop, it’s an experience you don’t want to miss!)

Town

(A true arbiter of style, LaDonna Harris has offered the Charlotte area fabulous finds. Even Charlotte Moss made a special visit, when in town! While the shop is très chic, LaDonna makes every visitor feel like an old friend.)

& Country

(While tooling around at Beth’s shop, I might have to stop in Stegall’s to see if it’s really true they’re out of country ham! Their website says it’s so! Surely they have some tucked away for the local folks. It would be such a treat to have country ham biscuits on Christmas morning.)

Town

(Good things do come in small packages. A museum pass will be an unforgettable gift to the recipient, especially at the Bechtler Museum in Charlotte! This is Cascade, created by Jean Tinguely (1925-1991), a Swiss painter and sculptor. Tinguely's art satirized the mindless overproduction of material goods in advanced industrial society. Mmmm . . . I don’t think this installation would fit in my foyer.)

& Country

(One of my stops will be at King’s Greenhouse, just outside of the Charlotte city limits. They have gorgeous amaryllis, flowering Christmas cactus, paperwhites, greenery, and some of the most beautiful poinsettias! They grow many of their own plants, too. I love a fresh holiday centerpiece, don’t you?)

One of the joys I find in shopping small, local businesses is that I don’t always need a specific something on my list. There are so many unique and often hand-crafted items and I love waiting to see if something “speaks to me” for the perfect present for that special someone. I kind of like knowing that my gift will not likely be found on the web pages of an end-of-the-season-clearance-sale.

Stop back by. I hope to post updates, soon!

Delicious Thanksgiving Dining

2011-11-20T15:42:00.001-05:00

Since I’m in the midst of preparing for the big turkey day ahead, I thought I would share a repost of my latest article for the Hooker Furniture Blog. It was exciting to learn this has been syndicated and featured on several other sites! In the interest of time, I hope you don’t mind if I share it again with you.

Here you go!

Even the most seasoned of hosts can experience heart flutters when several holidays seem to merge into one extended party. It’s the time of year, where we not only welcome family and friends; we also have the consideration of the many traditions attached to our gatherings. Adding in for the possibility of overnight guests . . . well, those flutters might turn into full-fledged palpitations! I’ll share some of my key ingredients for creating a delicious experience for you and your guests.

(Layers of texture and candlelight warm the center of my holiday dining table. One of my go-to sources for table settings is “A Passion for Flowers” by Carolyne Roehm)

Whether this is your first event or you have the makings of a celebrity event planner, it’s always a great idea to have a checklist of ‘go-to’ sources for tabletop ideas, inspired room settings, and tested recipes. Having a practice run makes for a more relaxed and fun time for everyone.

Comfort is first and foremost on my entertainment list. Have you noticed how often people tend to linger around the dining table? They’ve enjoyed a great meal and are in the throes of lively conversation. I love a chair that wraps itself around a guest’s shoulders. It’s like giving them a big hug! Topping my list is the Spindle Back Arm Chair, from Hooker Furniture’s Sanctuary Collection. After recently spotting it in their High Point Market showroom, I can tell you I’m in love! I can visualize it transitioning from an American Classic home to a European Manor House.

A ‘go-to’ source for furnishings? Hooker Furniture Company, of course! Spindle Back Arm Chair – The Sanctuary Collection - Drift and Dune Finish

(The Spindle Back Arm Chair in another finish option: Ebony)

It’s fun to consider mixing it up when it comes to planning your menus. There are always favorite recipes, handed down from generation to generation, but it’s nice to offer a few twists by including a new dish, too. Depending on the occasion, everyone may be pitching in by bringing their house specialty. Wouldn’t it be a treat to have a swap of beautiful recipe cards? Variety is the spice of life!

(I found these Letterpress cards on Etsy. A fabulous site for handmade goods.)

(Scalloped Sweet Potatoes - A “yum-yum” from my friend, Amy Johnson’s blog, “She Wears Many Hats”. She’s one of my ‘go-to’ sources for family friendly food. Find complete instructions on the Tasty Kitchen link.)

Your Thanksgiving guests will feel most special just because you’ve included them around your table. I think that’s what really makes for a delicious dining experience, don’t you?

Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours!

Powder Room Suite = Déjà Wu

2011-11-11T16:40:00.001-05:00

It’s the end of the week and I’m going to break all of the rules of blogging! A little longer post than “usual” as it’s a holiday weekend. Just desserts for a busy week.

This “little” powder bath post has several parts so just plump up some beautiful pillows and nest in to enjoy a vision of loveliness, peppered with a few musings and stories.

(via Pinterest - A powder bath treasure chest.)

First, let me share how some late night Twitter conversations have produced lots of fodder for future design posts. I’ve got to bestow a huge thanks to @citypassion for providing inspiring thought threads for twists on future topics. She prodded me on to provide more deeply-layered posts; to include aspirational design. (Just when I was beginning to wonder if most consumers were looking only for DIY ideas.) We also both have an affinity for Garden and Gun Magazine. Their stories and photography have a rich, sensual appeal as they refer to the magazine as representing “the soul of the south”. It’s a publication where even “good ole boys” are given the respect of their blue-blooded brethren. But I digress.

(via Pinterest – Shimmering black, crystal, silver, candelabra – a true jewel-box!)

Back to the powder bath . . . I had several posts in que, with bits and pieces of content. Nothing awe-inspiring, I must admit. Then, an email reminder came regarding a press release for Jason Wu’s latest creations for Brizo, the company offering plumbing fixtures designed to be the jeweled touches for your home. Brizo encapsulates fashion branding for everyday objects by making them much more than, well, everyday. That’s where Mr. Wu puts the proverbial “pedal to the metal” in moving them, runway-forward.

(Jason Wu Runway Show)

I was delighted to still be kept in the loop, as you see, I was asked to be Brizo’s guest, during Mercedes Benz New York Fashion Week, along with about eighteen other designers and design bloggers from across the country. (Thank you, again, Nick Lovelady, for thinking of me.) There would be brainstorming sessions, delightful dinners, and the pièce de résistance???? Attending Jason Wu’s runway show! Alas, family health matters kept me grounded so I missed making the journey; however, as a designer, I’ve got an active imagination! I could live vicariously through posted experiences and gorgeous photography.

Low and behold, the email offered up plenty to share and his powder bath line tied it all together!

(Jason Wu - Shape, form, fabulous!)

Introducing Jason Wu for Brizo – Powder Room Suite – A bold combination of Scandinavian clean lines and delicate, Baroque accenting.

(Jason Wu Accessories: Wastebasket and Drawer Knob)

Jason Wu for Brizo – Odin Faucet

Press Release Excerpt: Odin faucet is an exclusive temperature control technology featuring a new temperature sensing indicator. A LED light display built into the base of the faucet uses shades of light, from blue to magenta to red, to indicate actual water temperature. The electronic valve built into the lavatory faucet also monitors the mixture of hot and cold water to help provide a consistent temperature for the user, while its high temperature limit stop offers an added degree of safety.

The Jason Wu for Brizo Odin faucet meets WaterSense standards. Additionally, water does not come in contact with metal surfaces once inside the faucet, meeting all current and upcoming state and national legislation. Also, all items in the collection will be packaged using 100 percent recyclable materials.

(Miss Wu – Jason Wu)

( Brizo Label Luxury Limited Editions)

Don’t you think Thibaut’s Earth Vine would provide the perfect backdrop to the Jason Wu Powder Bath Collection?

(Jason Wu – Behind the scenes, Spring 2012 show.)

Great design is an aspiration and it isn’t always just about a name or a brand, unless that designer and brand have risen to the occasion to bring us their best. It’s a topic many of us are chatting up these days. Choose what you love and do it wisely. It’s our passion and we hope it will be yours, too!

Tastefully Tacky

2011-11-05T08:48:00.001-04:00

While there has been a collective sigh of relief to hear that excessive tasseling, fringing, and gobs of “frou-frou” were not the focus of design details, at the recent High Point Furniture Market, there was definitely one accent item still making for a good run. Nailheads, furniture tacks, and the like, provided a little more oomph to the classically current, simple lines of furniture design.

Linen Love from C.R. Laine – Nailheads coming and going!

Tapping tacks into twill tape. Can you say that really fast? C.R. Laine High Point showroom.

A perfect pairing for a more relaxed look – tacks and texture.

It’s all about the fabric combination, too. Loved this wrap wing sofa from Sam Moore.

You need some serious skills and patience to do this. (And for an amateur, probably some tough finger tips and a First Aid kit on hand!)

A comfy settee from Parker Southern showcased jet black nailhead accents. This little gem will be going to a client’s home to create a cozy breakfast table setting, personalized in one of my fabric selections, of course!

A little closer look-see.

My friend, Elaine Williamson, captured another friend’s, (Julie Browning Bova), fantastic ottoman detail at the Stanford Showroom. Elevates equine “tack talk” to a whole new level!

Of course, this detail was not lost on casegoods, screens, headboards, and other interior treasures. I’ve used nailheads on doors and under crown molding for an architectural embellishment.

It’s all in good taste, don’t you think?

A Mélange From Market

2011-11-01T11:23:00.001-04:00

I’m back at the work piles, upon my return from the High Point Furniture Market, and as always, my head is so full of inspiration and information, it takes a few days to put the pieces and categories back together!

Style Spotting

This market had the added honor and focus of my having been anointed a Style Spotter by the Market Authority . . . a spotter of trends in design, as it were. I’ve set up a page on Pinterest and I welcome you to drop by for a visit. Just go to: Wanda Horton - #HPMkt for my Board. (There’s a contest for the designer who gets the most ‘likes’ and ‘re-pins’, so if it possesses you to do so, it would be an honor. Not being one for shameless plugs, I just hope you’ll enjoy the show!) Many thanks to Cheminne Taylor-Smith for bestowing this opportunity for me to delve deeper into my market experience and for the chance to share it with others!

Style Spotting might seem to be a breeze. Let me tell you, there was so much to see and with the showrooms being spread all over the place, I had to make determinations knowing I couldn’t sprint back to revisit all that I had seen with an award tag. Perhaps if I had a market-sized scooter! One of the other spotters shared her tip for the specially fitted Dr. Scholl’s shoe inserts. I can now say I know how the stylistas navigated so many steps in mile-high heels!

One of the benefits of being a “Spotter” was the laser focus I had to conjure as I looked at market designs. Did I think they were trendy? Would the trend be a flash-in-the-pan? Were classics, while not evoking an instant “whoa!”, still the best way to go for providing timeless beauty and quality for a client’s investment? Were the price points crazy or would they meet the needs for today’s market? How many multipurpose options did furniture pieces offer? Notice how I said, “laser focus”? It didn’t mean I sailed through and planted a tag in five seconds! Loved the depth and dimension on the Elaine Smith pillows, above. They’re not only detailed in design, they’re also made for indoor/outdoor use. No worries about Fido, the kiddies, or Mr.. Sun making them feel too precious for everyday use!

Events and Parties!

Along with sourcing for clients, there were all kinds of soirees, events, and luncheons. Some were educational – proud to say I received .2 CEU’s - (continuing education units). Many were like reunions between friends, both old and new. I was on the invitation list for the Architectural Digest party and it was fun to see several designers who are considered celebrities by both laypersons and peers. I should have taken some pictures but it seemed a bit “touristy” to do so. It was a short visit as there were more parties to attend and then dinner, afterwards. (I did accomplish some work, too. I really did!)

A few instantly recognizable attendees at the AD party – Eddie Ross, Margaret Russell – Editor and Chief of Architectural Digest, and from Million Dollar Decorators, Martyn Lawrence Bullard. I spent the evening mostly chatting it up with people of whom I’ve got real life connections. Apologies for no party pics. I suppose I wouldn’t be a success as a member of the paparazzi or a celebrity stalker!

Designers Philip Gorrivan and Eileen Boyd, as well as furniture maker Edward-Ferrell’s President Jobi Blachy, provided a panel discussion that looks at designer business models, manufacturers’ pricing and the “hot button” issue of pricing transparency. When you have a nationwide/international audience, it’s a great way to get feedback. I’d say it was confirmed that designers all still providing services and fees, in our own unique ways, and what feels to be best for our clients.

An “Interesting” Shopping Experience

While Style Spotting, I had a very “interesting” showroom experience. First, I must share, I absolutely adored this product line. The reception? Not so much. You know how you get the feeling when you enter any shop or store that it’s only about taking your dollars? Well, I know it is called a “business” for a reason; however, don’t you want to buy from someone you like, and more importantly, feel a sense of trust that they’ve got your back? After spending at least forty minutes in this showroom, and at least another ten trying to explain the concept of Style Spotting, they reluctantly let me place my card at a designer’s product, telling me all the while that said designer was so “important” they would let him decide if it was okay for this product to be featured. Some nonsense about “controlling his brand”. What? In my sweet little southern way, I shared that his product had already been pinned all over Pinterest and on countless blogs and that he might want to figure out another avenue of “control”. (Thinking all the while - “Does he really want his product to sell?”) That wasn’t the kicker, though. A designer/store owner came in to discuss her dissatisfaction with her freight rate and rather than take her aside for the conversation, they had it out right in the middle of the showroom . . . and literally less than three feet of my earshot, plus others. She really had a need to be heard about her issue and he had a need to be “right” with a very intense message delivery. In the end, he pointed to the hallway and told her she could “take a walk”! That’s right. Heard it all, saw it all. Jaw-dropping experience. (And yes, I took my Style Spotter card back. It’s about my brand, too, you know?)

My question became, even though I loved the product line, what was my feeling about the process of buying from this company? Would they support me when challenges were presented with orders and would they stand behind their product so that I could optimally service my clients? I thought about how easy it would have been for that buyer to just walk away from this line, without every letting them know the reason, but she must have desired to still buy in that she made the trip to the showroom to see if she could find someone in charge to help her solve her issue. That “someone” in charge apparently set the tone for the entire organization. I don’t know the scale of the orders this company receives, but I think in the times we’re in, every order should count for something. And, really, it shouldn’t be related to the times we’re in. Good service is good service. Now, why should I return to their showroom or spec them? I’m sure the disgruntled buyer will be glad to share her experience with whomever will listen. After all, they had a great opportunity to become her hero and they blew it, in my humble opinion. Even if they were “right” about the freight issue, they missed the boat in how it was handled. It also reminded me of how it’s very important to set forth realistic expectations and to cover the details for smooth projects and happy, long-term relationships.

Happy Showroom Experiences

(While Jonathan Charles may be better known for the traditional English character of his pieces, this part of the showroom showcased a modern twist and with the emphasis on lots of brushed gold tones. Viva la glam!)

Hands-down, one of the showroom groups who really rolled out the welcome mat, as far as a huge product offering and hospitality? Jonathan Charles, Wildwood, Frederick Cooper, and Chelsea House. Although they are different vendors, they’ve joined together to give interior designers an opportunity for a one-stop-shopping venue, while providing many different styles. You’ll never feel as if your designer ordered everything from one catalog! I’m going to write a separate post to cover this tour, as there was so much to see and this post is already running pretty long! :)

(One of the lovely Wildwood Lamps, from the background of the upper photo. A traditional design meets a more modern drum shade.)

Another vendor combination who offered a fabulous tour? Hooker Furniture, along with their Sam Moore upholstery line. For those who don’t know, I happen to be one of their contributing bloggers, so it was with great anticipation that I could personally see some of the new introductions of which I had been receiving teasers! I’ll be writing more posts to cover this visit, both on my own blog as well as to share upcoming topics on: Holiday Entertaining, Making Guests Feel Welcome, and several other incubating ideas. Be sure to drop by the Hooker Furniture Blog to see what we’ve got cooking. Each week provides something new!

Sam Moore had their finger on the pulse of color and pattern! Grillwork designs are still going strong and a touch of mustard paint brings spice to the palette of yellow.

And to all good things, there must come a close . . .

Can you see that I only shared the tip of the iceberg, regarding my market visit? (And you probably feel as if you were there the whole week, too!) Seriously, there is no way to see every showroom, every rep, every event, and all that comprises the market. I have to edit, edit, edit my schedule and hope that I can find beautiful solutions for client projects. If I don’t get it all done? That’s the beauty of other designers writing blogs, posting on Pinterest, and the market updates which dust my email box, on a regular basis. And . . . some of my clients come to me with pictures of their inspirations, as well!

I hope you’ve enjoyed this Mélange From Market. I promise, some of my next posts will be a little shorter. ‘Tis the holiday design push and I’ve got a lot to get done!

PS – Now booking appointments in 2012! Let’s chat about yours!

A Room For Family

2011-10-27T20:25:00.001-04:00

As I traveled through the High Point Market, this past week, I marveled at how many pieces of furniture had been gathered into literally millions of square feet of showroom space. It also gave me pause to reflect on a project I’m creating for a family.

via

In this particular case, I have no budget, because there is no budget. That’ right - nadda, zilch, zippo! Why on earth, then, would I agree to take on this project? I mean, didn’t I just attend several luncheons where the value of an interior designer and their services were acknowledged, many times over? And of course, we all reminded ourselves, as much as we love our work, it has to be more than a hobby. There are times; however, when our gifts must be shared with others and without the expectation of monetary reward. Of course, we all know, we usually receive more than we give.

Yes, I’m creating a room for a family, as temporary as it might be for them. The family is comprised of folks who are still finding their way, are on their way, or have just arrived. I hope it inspires them to want to make a home for themselves, when the time and resources are available.

With the upcoming holiday season, I hope to partner with some furniture manufacturers, vendors, or retail outlets who can help me make this space come together.

My goal is to find sturdy, comfortable, and new or close-to-new pieces for this space. There will be a lot of activity in the area so it needs to last a while. The layout is just a suggestion for the pieces and can be tweaked as offerings come through. There does need to be ample seating and I would love to have a cohesive look. I know I’m asking for a lot for those who ask for so little.

Feel free to contact me for more information and thank you for keeping this project in mind!

“The family you come from isn't as important as the family you're going to have.” Ring Lardner

A Sweet Time At The High Point Market

2011-10-26T18:21:00.001-04:00

While I’m taking a minute to rub down some sore feet, download photos, and remember all of the showrooms I visited, I can’t help but to reflect on the wonderful people I’ve met and the relationships that have been forged by sharing the experience of a love of design and the creative process. Everyone has a story to be shared and I’ve so enjoyed the moments, albeit brief ones, to learn more about their sources for inspiration, their history, and their lives.

The market is about to wrap up and the showrooms will soon be empty. I’ll be sharing posts of market finds, along with a few of the conversations I’ve shared along the way.

Thanks to everyone who made this visit an extra sweet and special one!

(C.R. Laine’s showroom offered more than eye candy! They had cupcakes, too!)

PS – I would be so honored if you would check out my High Point Market Pinterest page and either like or re-pin any of the trend shots. They are counted as a vote for me to win a return visit to the High Point Market, in the spring!

1981 Rocked My World

2011-10-15T19:04:00.001-04:00

In 1981, I attended my very first High Point Furniture Market with my interior design class from East Carolina University. I almost remember it like it was yesterday . . . notice I said “almost”. Sigh! Has it really been 30 years? I would love to say I began college when I was 12, just to shave off a few years, but I wouldn’t give up the knowledge gained for all of the world. It was a giddy, grown-up experience to be touring the market! I’m sure the vendors received us with the most open arms they could extend, given it was the last day and they were more than exhausted. I wonder how many of them looked at us as future buyers . . . designers or movers and shakers in the world of interiors?

(Can you guess what was the hot color story when I was in design school? Oh how I wish my desk area had remotely resembled this space from Martha Stewart!)

At that time, the market was no where the size that it currently covers. We spent most of our time in the “big building” – aka – IHFC. (At 3,500,000 square feet, it’s now 14 times more than it’s original size when it was built in 1921 as the Southern Furniture Exposition Building. That’s a lot of walking!) I remember being in awe of the fantastic showroom design and the massive amount of time and energy it must have taken to pull the show together. I was also enthralled how this tiny NC town attracted buyers from across the globe. It’s now the largest home furnishings trade show in the world, with over 11 million square feet of showroom space!

Thirty years later, I still have that giddy feeling when I crack open my market book . . . well, I actually now go online to do the preview. (Considering computers took up an entire room . . . how far we have come!)

In 1981, one of my favorite artists, Pat Benatar catapulted up the charts. She was a formidable female in what was a male-dominated music world. She paved the way for the future Pinks and Gwen Stefani’s. She’s still rocking us with her music and style. Come on, Pat, hit us with your best shot!

Love the House Beautiful October 2011Issue. I can close my eyes and picture this room a few decades earlier. (By the way, this issue is a must read! Join Editor-In-Chief, Newell Turner, for a great video review of this issue. The stories go beyond the surface of design. Real life accounts, with open recaps of downsizing, getting past home tragedies, and well, real world design. Click for - VIDEO)

Did you know Hancock & Moore was started in 1981 by master craftsman, Jimmy Moore? They’re well-known for bringing some of the finest leather and fabric upholstery goods to market. Happy Anniversary to a fine company!

The Police – 1981. Who could forget their hit, “De Do Do Do, De Da Da Da”?

Thank goodness age improves many things. Just add in some wisdom and a little yoga.

If it’s true that history repeats itself, I’ll be in style, again! :)

Need a little trend wisdom from an experienced designer? I’m a phone call or email away!

Keeping An Eye On Design

2011-10-06T13:52:00.001-04:00

About a month ago I was contacted to participate, along with a group of fantastic interior designers and design bloggers, in an effort to help spot some of our favorite products and trends at the upcoming Fall 2011 High Point Furniture Market. What an honor to be included with this illustrious group of women! Not that I think this was meant to be an “all girl’s club”, but I do believe the market will be host to a huge, feminine influence in shapes, color palettes, and well, “womanly wiles”. Of course, I’m keeping an open mind for everyone!

The picture is a little fuzzy so here’s the link to read more about our task at hand and to see my fellow Style Spotters: http://www.highpointmarket.org/stylespotters/

Now, I know trends can come and go as well as outstay their welcome. We all love something new and fresh so we jump on the “fan-wagon” and apply every trend or love them literally “til death do us part”. It’s kind of like elevating them to teenage idol status and then we’re on to the next dreamy contender.

I hope to share my selections, with a discerning eye, as well as to share designs that have stood the test of time. After all, in the times we’re living, we have to make wise design decisions. That’s why I think/hope the folks in High Point asked me to do this . . . to be the best design guide I can be while honoring you, the consumer!

I’ll keep you posted on my blog and on Pinterest. If you haven’t joined Pinterest, you’re missing a wonderful source for inspiration! Hmmm . . . I think it’s time for me to get back to pinning!

PS – Be sure to also follow my Twitter feed – http://twitter.com/#!/WandaSHorton/ and watch for the hashtag - #HPMkt. I’ll be sharing the market with you!

A Case Of The Warm Fuzzies – As In Peach

2011-10-05T12:50:00.001-04:00

As autumn settles in, I always find myself drawn towards russet/orange tones. They’re a cozy and comforting addition to any decor and allows your interior to beckon the visitor to stay for awhile. There’s another translation to this palette, which offers some of the same gregarious intention while being just a few lighter steps above the color strip. You might call it ‘clay’, ‘blush’, ‘peche’, ‘wheat’, or ‘terra’ but it’s definitely somewhere in the peach family.

When I was in design school, in the 80’s, this color was used in great abundance, being coupled with blue and teal. Yes, I even did a design board for a project showing this major trend! While I may have shivered at the notion of a return to that design decade, I’m rethinking how beautiful some of the various tints of this hue can be!

Martin Senour Paints - Walls -1017-C Cloudy Peach, Floor - Country Brown (Package Color) and MSW-2 White

Royal Design Studio - 3035 Kimono Allover Stencil

Sferra Fine Linens – Ophelia Pillow

Miu Miu

Anna French – Wild Flora Pattern for Thibaut

Martha Stewart calls this ‘wheat’.

Oh, and an added bonus: Martha Stewart provides an excellent suggestion for organizing paint swatches!

Peach . . . Does it give you the warm fuzzies?

Interiors for Ta-Ta’s

2011-09-29T13:02:00.001-04:00

Let me just share, while growing up in a ‘proper’ southern household, the discussion of body parts and functions were relegated to quiet, private chats with my mother who was a nurse. My father was definitely a bit squirmy when the advent of female-related commercials began to let it all “hang out”. He’s somewhat mellowed out as he’s been witness to too many friends and loved-ones experience loss because of ‘taboo talk’ which might have saved their lives.

I think he would be totally okay that I’m sharing a post about ‘buppies’, ‘ta-ta’s’, and ‘the girls’. :)

(I created a custom lamp from Mottega to benefit the cure. Click on the lamp to create your own design, using the color petal. Your purchase in pink will generate a 10% donation to the Susan G.Komen Foundation!)

There are a lot of wonderful design vendors who are stepping up with beautiful products to provide support for “the girls”, as they are donating part of their sales to the Susan G. Komen for the Cure fund, as well as other avenues in the race to cure breast cancer. Each year, important strides are being made in research. Research needs to be funded. Simply said.

One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. (And some men will be diagnosed, too.)

I think that’s appropriate fodder for “ta-ta” talk, don’t you?

Classically Curated Room Design

2011-09-24T15:37:00.001-04:00

curated: past participle, past tense of cu·rate

verb: Select, organize, and look after the items in (a collection or exhibition).

Have you been noticing the great frequency of the term, ‘curated’, in reference to interior design? As in any great phrase, it’s important not to overuse it or it can become passé without that being the intention. Remember the days of ‘eclectic’? It became the catchall when a style wasn’t so easily defined.

I do tend to incorporate many of the principles of a ‘curated’ process in my interior applications. I do love a well-organized design and room! I also actively participate in the search for selections with my clients. And . . . while never wanting anyone to feel as if they are living in a museum, I do like procuring items which indicate they are to be treasured, or looked after, long when the room has been completed. It goes against my design sensibilities to suggest fly-by-night selections to be tossed in a just a few short months. Layered, collected, loved, and “special additions” are also phrases which describe the way I design.

What do you envision when you hear the term, curated interiors? I’ll give you an example of mine:

Nothing stodgy about this space! A beginning point could be an inherited family antique. I find it’s often the biggest concern many people have . . . how to incorporate something from Grandma without it looking forced. I saw the vignette photo on Pinterest and it had my creative sparks flying on how to pair it with other elements for a classically, beautiful look.

Here’s what ended up on my design board:

Love this luscious embroidered silk from Stroheim? It can be ordered just for you! I would use it for pillows, panels, shades, or even stretched as a canvas for wall art.

Blown glass balls on this Currey & Company Chandelier are a different twist on a crystal version. The modern, silver-leaf finish captures the glow, brilliantly! I’ll be visiting their showroom in High Point while I’m attending the upcoming fall market.

Lee Industry’s elegant but not overly formal loveseat. As we say in entertaining with our china, “Use the good stuff”!

(A group of my Twitter & friends are attending the London Design Festival! Their first stop? An afternoon tea at the Victoria and Albert Museum. Sigh and ‘cheerio’ to them!)

You don’t have to live in a museum to appreciated a finely curated design style. Chances are, you may already have some special pieces just needing to be refined and reworked into the right space. It simply takes a trained eye to help bring them back to life!

What do YOU think?

Has Color Gone To The Dogs?

2011-09-20T13:56:00.001-04:00

Trends are a constant in this interior designer’s world. I have to keep my eyes and ears open as to what’s coming down the pike. There always seems to be a lot of interest in trends as people want to keep their homes looking fresh and updated while trying to be careful not to go too crazy in the process. I can attest that I don’t have too many clients who subscribe to the Betsey Johnson school of design. *wink* (Not dissing Ms Betsey . . . She dives into her own world of design with pure glee!)

Etsy - (The Duchess)

Meanwhile, the next time someone asks me what going to be ‘hot’ in the world of interiors, I can honestly reply, “I think color will be going to the dogs”. If you don’t believe me, check out swatch number 5, from the top down. I just can’t wait to suggest the prefect shade of “Dachshund”!

(via Apartment Therapy)

(via Pinterest)

(via House Beautiful)

(via Martha Stewart)

My Magnum and Freckles give it a big “paws” up!

Falling Into Bed

2011-09-17T16:19:00.001-04:00

The daylight hours are becoming shorter and I don’t know about you, but that only means one thing for me . . . the eyes go half mast a bit earlier than when they’re flooded with sunshine! Honestly, sometimes when I’ve been pushing through fourteen and fifteen hour work days, (as I tend to work more when I have the extra light), fall can be a welcome respite of “calling it a day”, just a little earlier!

Even while the season of holiday entertaining is almost upon us, the bedroom seeks our attention if for nothing else than a cozy sanctuary to end the day with a soft landing. (And don’t forget about those guests or family members who might be sleeping over when sharing a visit!)

By the time the fall season has arrived, it becomes tight in scheduling for a lot of custom accoutrements. In that event, my local go-to source is DeWoolfson Fine Linens, in Charlotte, NC. I’ve previously written about them but a reminder never hurts! They also ship across the country.

I recently stopped in for a visit to see what’s new as well as to look through tried-and-true products. I thought I would share some pics of my discoveries.

I had a nice chat with Sally Southern, their store manager, and I shared how I’ve loved the quality of their products, as well as the variety of value ranges they offer. Yes, a good set of bedding may set you back a few dollars, but I can tell you, I’ve got sheets that have lasted me for over five years! They just get silkier and more refined, rather than pilling or wearing through.

I like to consider quality bedding as a category where I’ll spend less dollars, in the long run, when I take the time to collect the proper foundation “garments”, such as a good mattress cover, special pillows, and of course, the coverings. As I need to update these items, I invest a little more for the long haul. The folks at DeWoolfson also appreciate that their customers have different comfort needs and preferences. DeWoolfson makes their own pillows and they will happily adjust yours, whether if it’s to plump them with more filling or to take a bit extra out.

The displays at DeWoolfson are divine! Inspiration awaits with “real life” settings.

Here are a few helpful tips to consider when buying bedding:

The life of a down/feather pillow is about 5-10 years, depending on the care and quality, while a good foam or synthetic pillow should be disposed of after 2-3 years.
Silk pillow covers are good for the complexion. Dermatologists say silk includes the essential amino acids that we often find in moisturizers and hair care products. Silk pillows are hypoallergenic, too.
Save a little energy by generating your own. A down-filled duvet will hold in body heat when the thermostat has been set lower. The down doesn’t lump together as much as a synthetic fill; therefore, eliminating cold spots. Of course, construction should be considered, as well as if feathers have been added.

Since the holidays are coming, soon, I’d like to add one more tip . . . Shop your local stores! I’m fortunate to be close enough to stop by to see Sally to pick up a “surcie” or two for friends and family. It spares me the mall traffic, too.

If you do reside in the Charlotte area, I understand DeWoolfson will be providing some bedding for the upcoming March Of Dimes 2011 Designer Showhouse. Can’t wait for a walk-through of what looks to be a grand estate!

516 Museum Drive

Charlotte, NC 28207

October 7, 8, 9 and October 14, 15, 16

Friday & Saturday: 10 - 6; Sunday 1-6

Admission: $15 at the door

Proceeds from tickets and portion of design sales benefit March of Dimes

For event information, please call 704-377-2009

Look out for the showhouse on Living Social...tickets will be available 2 for 1!

Here’s to falling into bed in comfort and style!

Too Cool For School Furniture & Design Ideas

2011-09-13T13:10:00.001-04:00

Just in case you’ve been busy with getting all of the kiddies back to school and have missed checking out some fab contests, I thought I would share my recent guest post for Hooker Furniture. They have some adorable pieces with lots of great function and design potential.

Here’s the redeux without further adieu!:

What Mom or Dad hasn’t felt the tug at their heartstrings while preparing a child to get ready for back-to-school days? Whether it’s packing them up for their first venture or watching them advance to the next level, it’s probably easy to reflect back on a time, not so long ago, when they were taking their first steps!

(via)

Of course, when it’s time for your child to move up to their “big person’s” room, you may also be deciding on how to redesign their space to accommodate a different function. A trundle bed can allow for newly-made friends to feel welcome without taking up a lot of extra space. I’ve also discovered one of the pieces often needed to accommodate schoolwork is a new desk. This furniture addition can be equally useful for creating crafts or for working on a favorite hobby. For the young ladies, it can double as a vanity.

(Opus Designs For Hooker Furniture – Lily Computer Desk)

I’m totally in love with the Lily Computer Desk from Hooker Furniture’s youth division, Opus Designs! I’m always looking for pieces that my clients’ children can grow into . . . perhaps even to see them off to that other milestone of higher education. I’ve been with some of my clients long enough to watch their little ones go from changing tables to tween rooms to the experience of their children becoming parents, too! That’s why it’s so important to find furniture with multiple uses and classic shapes. All it takes is a simple color palette change and you have a whole new space! Speaking of which, did you know the Lily Desk features removable color accent panels? Four color panels, with a total of eight color choices, are stored inside the drawer fronts. Simply remove the knob and you can slide the panels in and out to create an array of color schemes. This option is also available on many other Lily Collection pieces. How cool is that?

(Change the personality of the Lily Collection by swapping out the color panels!)

(Way cool colors, don’t you think?)

As if there isn’t enough to be excited about, with the Lily Collection, Hooker Furniture has created a give-a-way contest where you can register to win one of these fabulous desks! The only catch is, if you win it, you have to bestow it upon your daughter. I can see how it might be tempting to find a spot in a grown-up’s corner, too!

Click below to see how to register to win. The contest ends on September 20th so you still have time to enter!

Good luck to you!

Let There Be Light

2011-09-09T19:58:00.001-04:00

“The hero is the one who kindles a great light in the world, who sets up blazing torches in the dark streets of life for men to see by. The saint is the man who walks through the dark paths of the world, himself a light.” ~Felix Adler

Honoring both the heroes and saints of 911.

Top These Tables!

2011-09-08T22:14:00.001-04:00

As the peak entertaining season is about to embark, I’m on the lookout for accent tables to help complete and to complement rooms under ‘construction’. There is always the need to find a good nesting spot for a light source, an area to safely position a cocktail or teacup, or a place to rest the latest novel or tablet.

Here are four, fine little pieces that have caught my eye:

It’s always serendipitous when I can find great pieces in stock. Don’t we all love immediate gratification? If you are looking for something special to grace your living quarters, before the main events begin to challenge your calendars, keep in mind it can take 12-14 weeks for some of these beauties to arrive from special ordering. Of course, good things do come to those who wait. Just don’t wait too long!

Digging Indigenous Design – Part 1

2011-09-01T12:01:00.001-04:00

In simple terms, indigenous design is “by the people, for the people”, including a culture or tribe and the original inhabitants of a region. These people created what I think of as ‘functional art’. Everyday items: vessels, blankets, rugs, and furnishings, were designed from local materials and were embellished to showcase their skills as crafters and artisans. Often, historians can determine the age and points of origin by these designs and materials. Over periods of time, there has been an evolution or an adaptation which melded design motifs into other cultures or geographic areas.

(Peruvian textile designs harkens back to pre-Hispanic days.)

(Preparing yarns, with natural dye pigments, for blankets in Mexico.)

As we embrace what we believe to be modern trends coming forth in the design world, we should pay homage to its derivation and the early creators. Think you’re seeing something totally new? Perhaps if you’re a time traveler from hundreds of years ago!

Sharing a little “blast from the past” and totally today – Chevron Style!

While certain designs may not be totally original, the way an artist or designer interprets their application or use can be! More often than not, creativity is generated from a combination of knowledge, experience, and tackling a project with the resources we uncover. It’s kind of like being on an archeological dig. Sometimes you have an idea of what you’re looking for and other times, it can be a delightful surprise!

I think it worked well for our predecessors, don’t you?

Standing Still In Time

2011-08-31T10:34:00.001-04:00

In an often fast-paced world, there are times when we must stop the clock. It’s not by choice but by life that we must do it. I’ve been trying to muddle through a week where there is no muddling through. We lost a family matriarch - my husband’s mother - on Sunday.

(via Ms New Boots)

When someone has had a lengthy illness, the realization comes that you have already gone through much of the process of losing them. There is a continuous flow of adrenaline in averting or addressing the next health scare. Waiting for the call to come and not knowing what the call will be. There is the struggle to sustain a balance between crisis and care, work and play, duty and devotion, energy and exhaustion, and having those around you understand that this is not the ‘normal’ path you are used to walking. It’s a bit like tossing a dart at the board, on any given day, and figuring out where you’ll land. It’s an understanding that we don’t have all of the answers, the ability to define our expectations for others, much less, for ourselves.

There are many people who have walked this path, before, and others who are just taking their first steps on the journey. As much as we might like to make it a sprint or a run so as to not feel the effects too deeply, there will be moments where our feet will be weighed to the ground, where every bump in the road and every stumble will remind us that this is also a part of living.

For these moments, we stand still in time - so we’ll remember.

Everything changed the day he figured out there was exactly enough time for the important things in his life.
~ Brian Andreas, Storypeople

Trust in Design, Trust in the Process

2011-08-24T10:38:00.001-04:00

So . . . today’s post is going to be short and sweet. I’m reviewing notes from an all-day meeting with truly a favorite client and I’ve got a large list to tackle. I’m not saying she’s a favorite client because I know she reads my blog posts or to butter her up to any of my upcoming ideas. We’ve been working together for almost eight years, (second round of projects), so I’m pretty sure, by now, we’ve moved past the ‘courting phase’. (smile) If you noticed, I said we spent an entire day together. It moved by like lightening because we were so in sync and were having the best time!

(If this doesn’t describe the process of design . . . )

Well, even though ‘fun’ is definitely what the process of design should include, that’s not the big topic of conversation, here. Trust is the biggest factor in my designer’s book. You’ve got to trust me and I’ve got to trust you. It’s a simple and yet complex concept. The only way to make it happen is through open communication. That part sounds easy but it’s amazing how omissions can lead to that yucky feeling of not being on the same page. Then the trust factor starts to diminish.

(My client has been through a couple of remodels so she knows this mantra very well!)

Thankfully, while never taking a sacred relationship for granted . . . (I do create paperwork to foster that trust – working drawings, project scope lists, etc.) . . . I can get more accomplished with this favorite client because we are on the same page. If we wasted energy constantly second-guessing our working relationship or the information being shared, we would never be able to move forward. This is not to say we don’t ever re-imagine or re-visit a couple of our ideas, but because we do it together, it makes all of the difference in the outcome.

(A glimpse of her laundry cabinets, after a compete re-do)

I also recognize a referral as the other ultimate vote of trust. My client shared one had been passed on, yesterday, because she wanted someone else to have the same experience we share.

Oh! How I love pixie dust!

Thank you, dear *client, for your faith and trust. You are truly appreciated!

(*privacy being honored)

“Bamboo-zled”

2011-08-19T23:11:00.001-04:00

At any given period of time, certain design motifs or elements become prominent in interiors, and even though they may wax and wane, they never completely disappear from view. Because so many folks seem to be attracted to an Asian influence, as well as a bit of a 1960’s flair, one such motif, bamboo, appears to be staying strong.

In the Victorian period, there was a fascination with the East. Bedsteads, armoires, tables, shelves, and many other furniture pieces incorporated a bamboo profile. A lot of these were designed with a natural tone or they had a tortoiseshell finished effect. It’s not uncommon to see today’s trending accents to be painted with a bright, glossy finish. (I would only suggest this for the 1960’s pieces, rather than the Victorian antiques. I’m purist when it comes to covering up the lovingly mottled finishes!)

The creative juices began to flow when I perused the pages of catalogs and the internet screen! There’s something so delightful in adding the organic touch of bamboo to everything from modern, French, or even rustic cottage decors, taking care not to over-fill the room with too much of a good thing. That’s why we can tire of certain elements. It’s easy to go to the “theme extreme”!

I’ve created an editorial of possibilities. I would love to know your favorites!

Feeling “bamboozled” by all of the choices? I sure hope so!

Giving For Gallons

2011-08-15T22:09:00.001-04:00

We all know how much a fresh coat of paint can transform a dull and dingy room. It’s just natural for surfaces to take bumps and scrapes, over a period of time, and a little TLC goes a long way. Now . . . imagine what your walls and trim might look like after over ten years of wear and tear, not to mention hundreds of visits a day from many different guests. Not such a pretty picture, right?

(A great example of how paint and some new, simple pieces of furniture were used in a teacher’s lounge makeover – via Casa Sugar and Brian Patrick Flynn. There’s no reason for functional spaces to be stark, old, and cold!)

I know how much it means to my personal clients when I help them to transform their rooms or homes. It brightens their outlook and creates an environment where they feel more positive, more productive, and a brings a greater sense of pride. Now . . . imagine, due to many different circumstances, there is no home to call your own and the only place you have to rest your head is on a bunk bed or a cot in a dining hall with those ten-year-old, scuffed-up walls staring back at you. Life can be tough but there can be a softer place to land. I’m absolutely sure of it!

(Can you spare a donation for a gallon of paint? $25 will help us to cover 400 square feet! The Union County Community Shelter is a 501-C3 non-profit organization so your PayPal donation will be tax-deductible. Just be sure to specify your donation under ‘Special Projects Fund’ and you can also make a note for this to be applied to ‘Giving For Gallons’.)

I had previously written a blog post regarding a desire to donate my design services to my local community shelter, in Union County, NC. We were in the beginning stages of figuring out what to do to get the wheels of change and shelter updates turning. Well, that train finally has its engine tuned and it’s rolling down the track! Pretty soon, it will be time for a paint crew to dip their brushes into some fresh paint. The thing is, we really need the paint and supplies!

We’ve spoken to many different vendors and no one has been able to offer us the 100+ gallons we need to move on with the project so the next best thing is to ask if any of you would consider making a dollar donation, equivalent to one gallon. Twenty-five dollars to be exact! Even if that’s a bit steep for your pockets, right now, we’ll be happy to take whatever you can give.

Thank you, in advance, for helping the shelter with reaching this goal. If you’ve made a donation because of this post, be sure to let me know! I want to personally thank each and every one of you!

Dream Walls

2011-08-08T12:42:00.001-04:00

Just last week, I had a meeting with a client about updating a guestroom and an adjacent bathroom. Her bedding is still gooorgeous and in fine condition. We just had the room re-carpeted and we also wanted to re-paint the armoire. (A follow-up post on chalk paint to come.) Well, one thing always leads to the other and then we discussed repainting the whole room and the bath. I always liken this to a woman deciding to get a facelift and doing only the right side of her face, without the other. You can’t leave the left one still sagging!

Back to design! Even though we could have considered doing a wallcovering in the bath, she has some unusual ceiling corners which clip into the tub area. We also had color specs to address and neutrals can really be tough, due to undertones. There was no question this should be a custom job so I called in my expert, Whitney Bayer, for a consult. I just cringe to use the term, ‘faux finishing’, because, over the years, it’s been overdone and sometimes quite poorly. It takes the restraint of application and a practiced hand to carry it off. I’m so lucky to have Whitney as my go-to person. She’s also trained in the fine arts and I think this allows her to bring a different eye to each project. Whitney also carefully chooses which projects she’ll take on, as well as the designers with whom she’ll collaborate. Not snooty at all – just smart. I’m lucky to be one of them!

Of course, I had to grab my camera and snap some of her latest sample boards! It wouldn’t be right not to share them with you!

Oh dear Lord, please let me use this one in a client’s home . . . it would truly be dreamy! Amen.

Flickr Tags: Interior Design Trends

Draping the Dining Table

2011-08-06T22:19:00.001-04:00

Often, while I’m designing interior dining spaces, I’ll be asked about some of the accoutrements and accents which might be needed when a client decides to entertain. I don’t know about your area, but it can be a challenge to find the perfect tablecloth and napkins to compliment certain dining decor. There are a few options in department stores, but they aren’t always the best size or the materials might be a little on the “shiny” side. Also, if the main focus is on seasonal decor, but let’s say, your home isn’t resplendent in those colors, you may find your search to be limited. In those cases, I’ll turn my attention to creating a custom cloth.

Dining alfresco in elegance. The cloth emphasizes the seating and tableware hues. via Traditional Home

Country Living features my preference for a longer table cloth. In order to keep the corners from free-floating on the floor, a kick pleat with corner gussets will bring everything under control.

A fun and casual cover, from Anthropology, does offer a little more pizzazz with the sewn-on ruffling. Do pay attention to the draping of corners. You don’t want a guest to trip on them when exiting the table.

I love how this rounded cover has cording to provide a tailored, dressmaker touch. It should fit over the top, just like a cap!

Sometimes it just works better to use a table runner for color when you’re not worried about protecting the surface. They’re often easy to create, even if you’re not an expert seamstress. William Sonoma provides their interpretation of an Ikat pattern in ink blue.

Don’t be afraid to pull out the placemats! It’s all about layering for visual interest. As you can see from this Veranda article, (via designer Michelle Nussbaumer), what might have looked to be pretty casual in the store, takes on a whole new look. Think of how we love our sea grass and sisal rugs placed in a more formal setting.

Lace has made a comeback in all things interior! Bring out those family, vintage treasures. If they were left off your inheritance list, there are many antique shops and vendors who will be happy to add a bit of history. Although not vintage, H&M has one that’s a real beauty.

If you’re ever confounded about how to determine the correct tablecloth size, I usually go by the rule-of-thumb of taking the table measurement and I will add 14” - 15” to each side for the cover’s width and length. For example, a 44” x 72” table would need at least a 72” x 100” cover and you might have to adjust a little in order to find a ready made one. It’s important not to have the cloth draping too deeply in someone’s lap. The other option is to go full length, which means your table will be at least 29”- 30” high, so you would add that all the way around in order for it to drop to the floor. Here’s a handy link to convert centimeters to inches.

The chart below offers a little “cheat sheet” of most pre-fab sizes and will give you an idea of how many people will be seated at the table.

Seats (Persons)	Tablecloth Shape	Tablecloth Size Width x Length (Net sizes are 2 inches smaller)
2 - 4		36x36" Round
2 - 4		36x36" Square
4 - 6		45x45" Round
4 - 6		45x45" Square
4 - 6		54x54" Square
4 - 6		54x72" Oblong
6 - 8		72x72" Round
6 - 8		72x90" Oblong
8 - 10		72x108" Oblong
8 - 10		72x126" Oblong
8 - 12		72x144" Oblong
12 - 16		72x162" Oblong
16 - 18		72x180" Oblong
18 - 24		72X216" Oblong
12 - 16		108x108" Round
14 - 18		108x108" Square
14 - 18		126x126" Round

How do you drape your table? I would love to hear your ideas!

Natural Beauties

2011-07-31T12:51:00.001-04:00

I can always tell when I’ve been behind the desk too much! I’m not really complaining . . . I actually am one of those odd interior designers who happens to enjoy the planning and organizational process of projects; however, all work and no design play makes Wanda yearn for getting out and about to source lovely pieces. I’m so thrilled that this week will be filled with seeing some favorite clients and that we also get to spend some time searching for the layers that make a room special.

As I was leafing through my client binders, I could see the profound influence nature has on some of my designs. I certainly can do more stark interiors but being a gardener probably has me connected to the things of the earth. I consider Mother Nature a ‘BFF’ and a partner in design.

I think she might approve of what’s on the schedule for this week:

Next . . . .

Of course, each client is different and has their own set of preferences. Still, I do think designers attract people with similar interests or aspirations for a particular look and feel. Words like: pretty, timeless, collected, layered, classic, tailored, casually elegant, comfortable, and even “wow” are words which have resonated in my client’s vocabulary. I’d like to think they have become the hallmarks of my work.

Time to get a few more pointers from my “design partner”. She’s an expert colorist!

Update:

The plate rack is happily filled!

Flickr Tags: Interior Design Trends

Building The Classic Bath

2011-07-21T15:28:00.001-04:00

I just had a nice phone visit with one of my favorite clients! As we’re moving along to other home design projects, we discussed completing an upper level family space, adjacent to a recently remodeled guest bathroom. Bless her! This is the third bathroom in which we’ve interrupted some of the daily function – not counting a powder bath! I think, with each settling of the dust clouds, she and her family members feel they’ve received a newly refreshed space for, well, refreshing!

The connected upper living level was not yet under consideration at the time of the bath remodel. Also, next to this bath was a bedroom dedicated to hosting precious little granddaughters who frequently visit. It had been designed in pink and green. My design concept for the bath was to keep it classic, a little retro, and with open options for future colors and accents. (As an aside . . . in the midst of the remodel, one of the granddaughters announced she was ready to give up her green and pink phase for blue! I’m expecting purple won’t be too far down the road.) A designer’s challenge, for certain! :)

Here is the completed bath, sans a few accents. It’s all clean, fresh, and ready for any color of the rainbow!

Retro tile, clean cabinet lines, and lots of crisp white surrounds. I had my decorative painter add several bands of pearlized paint to prevent a sterile look and to add a dramatic backdrop without it becoming too static.

A little curve juxtaposed with soft angles. Yin and Yang. I just couldn’t picture an oval sink bowl in the counter.

The bath has a shower, only. I’ll get better pics to share when we’re totally done with accents. This is the close-up of the plumbing fixture style.

I can’t help but to think of a honeycomb with this tile design. We used a charcoal-colored grout to make maintenance a breeze!

The shower wall received a brick lay, subway design. We added an architectural style tile molding for depth. It was also done in white.

Our inspiration for the cabinet base was a simple, Shaker design panel. It’s a great transition between a modern and traditional design.

The vanity lights were also influenced by a marriage of angles and curves. In a well-designed room, it’s important to pay attention to how shapes complement one another. In a small bath, don’t go overboard with too many elements. Your eye won’t know where to land as there will be too much visual information to process. The idea is to create a flow and perception of space.

Moving right along . . . I suspect we might have a little more dust in the future! I like to call it “pixie dust”!

Sprinkling designer magic your way! ~ Wanda

Child’s Play

2011-07-16T10:04:00.001-04:00

Every now and then, when the design phone rings . . .

. . . I get asked to come out and play! Less desk time and more fun!

Recently, I’ve had the great joy of working on not one, not two, but three rooms for children and all in the same household! We’re in the process of flip-flopping spaces, updating a couple of bathrooms, repurposing existing furniture and adding new pieces as we bring each child into their next stage of growth.

Oh, and just a side note: Through my years of design experience, I’ve come to expect that the life of a design trend or the “freshness” of a room is about five to seven years. After that, it’s time to revisit and renew the space. A little design nip and tuck, as it were.

This room is being created for the cutest little four-year-old redhead. If you’re familiar with the Eloise series, you know the main character is the bubbly and whip-smart little girl who lives in a "room on the tippy-top floor" of the Plaza Hotel in New York with her Nanny, her pug dog Weenie, and her turtle Skipperdee. Take away the NYC residence and the pets, you still have a client who’s totally in character to keep you entertained!

I’ve also caught on that we’re not looking at a child who is going to be a frilly sort. I think we tend to think four-year-olds should have ruffles and bows, but with a bit of tomboy added into the mix, I think there’s still a way to create a feminine balance.

Here is her current space. As you can see, we’ve got some perfectly good starting points. A cute clock, window treatments, and a furniture piece. These are all going to be reworked into a different room and with some of the added pop I’ve presented in her color board, above.

Of course, I always begin with laying out the room to scale and then create a space plan according to function and balance. I can have a better view of what’s needed to fill in or to enhance the area. I can jot in reminder notes and develop the plan for more of the layered details.

We’re going for a bit more immediate gratification so it was important to begin with deciding on the main leading pattern. This pattern might be a bit bolder than her mother imagined so she’s going to ponder over it a bit. Whether my client is four or forty, I do like to incorporate their personalities. It’s all about reflecting who they are so they’ll receive the spirit of “happy”, each time they enter. I think this design fits a spunky little one, while adding a practical touch. (Remember I mentioned a bit of a tomboy leaning?)

Even though we’ve selected some ‘off-of-the-rack’ product, I always like to add custom touches. The shapes of these fabric blossoms are a perfect compliment to the design. Jackie Von Tobel shared them in one of her latest posts, Diane Gilleland, Kanzashi In Bloom.

Two copies are now on order. One for me and one for the workroom!

My four-year-old client’s room won’t be a replica of a catalog, even though I’ll be pulling in a few pieces from one of those stores. I’m honoring a request to consider working with a bit of ‘ready-to-wear’ while making it a more personal and unique statement. My clients are planning a move, in a couple of short years, so we are also being practical about the idea that a new home will bring more space options. A twin bed may become an accessory item to the room, rather than the major focus.

Of course, we don’t have to be four to have fun with design. Whimsy lives on at any stage! Don’t you agree?

Playfully yours! ~ Wanda

Best of A Design Show – Part I

2011-07-12T20:54:00.001-04:00

The registration reminder for the upcoming fall High Point Furniture Market just dusted my mailbox. It’s not until October but it’s definitely worth putting on my calendar as a “must attend” event. During the spring market, I took photos of bits and pieces of collections and I realized I had not shared many of them with you. How forgetful of me!

It’s always fun to see how spot on my observations of what was trending then is still fast forwarding now. It often takes six months, or until the next market, for new items to be available to ship. For consumers, it’s brand new excitement. For designers, it’s the excitement of finally being able to get our hands on what first enticed us.

So much affects home product design. Most certainly, the current runway fashions play an important aspect and theater or film can make an impact, too. There is also the consumer directive for function and for capturing lifestyle modes. It’s a world where fantasy and the familiar collide into a choice for almost anything you could desire!

Here is Part I – Best of A Design Show:

Why care about trends? It’s good to have an idea if you’re following a short-lived fluke or creating a course for many years of appreciation. If you are able to re-do your home, year after year, it’s a fun form of design entertainment. If you need to be more cautious with your investments, you’ll want to have an idea of the longevity of your selections.

If you noticed, most of the items in this post might be considered neutral. Some are polished while others are loved by time.

Coming next? Color!

All my best! ~ Wanda

An Interior “Staycation”

2011-07-10T13:56:00.001-04:00

Even though I’ve been on “vacation”, since before the weekend of July 4th, my mind never completely stops. I’ve always got about fifty irons in the fire. *smile*

Just in case you have a few minutes to share, here is a quick recap of my “staycation”. Nothing like the French Riviera or a wilderness adventure, but it was just my cup of tea!

I did get a little writing in. Hooker Furniture published my post: “How to Vacation at Home”

I was inspired by one of my favorite nearby escapes, Kiawah Island, SC. Time to think about heading back!

I took this photo, a couple of years ago. Whenever I feel a bit stressed, I pull it up and imagine the salt-breezes. Ahhh! It always makes me feel refreshed!

I managed to pop in a post at my other blog, Villas and Bungalows. Thinking of writing pillow workorders prompted my desire for “Pillow Gratification”. Pop on over and you’ll see why!

I also took a little time to look for practical flooring solutions for the Union County Community Shelter Project. Trying to find it at reasonable pricing and with a durable finish, while keeping it warm and inviting has been a good challenge for this designer. (Have to be mindful of messy weather and lots of foot traffic, while being easy to maintain.) The good news is that things are moving along and the shelter is getting great support from our community. There has been a PayPal account set up so if you would like to make a donation, you can sidemark it for “shelter updating”. Go to www.unionshelter.org for more info. Eventually, we’ll also need some strong helpers to move furniture, as well as some steady hands for painting. More to come on that!

The garden got a little extra attention. Magnum, one of our standard dachshunds, decided to monitor my progress!

Except for the heat, I could just lose myself in the garden. Early mornings are my ‘sanctuary’ time. Even then, textures and colors inspire me for design projects.

(My favorite toy? My Canon G-12)

I tried to learn a bit more about using my camera. Some pics were pretty good . . . others . . . well let’s just say my photographer, Whitney Gray, has nothing to worry about!

(After many tries with setting ISO, aperture, etc., etc. Where’s that manual, again?)

I just love how Whitney captures images and settings. In browsing through some of her shots, it made me realize how fast the seasons come and go. Wistful moments.

Early summer on her family farm. Magnificent!

Just a couple of more months and we’ll be hanging up the beach towels.

Football season - Coming soon to a hometown near you.

The holidays will be around the corner before we know it!

Why is it, when we’ve got temps in the ‘melting’ range, we dream of future days of the frosty stuff?

I agree with Whitney’s dog, Petey . . . Enough all ready! There are still more summer days and naps ahead.

Hope you’re having a wonderful time! ~ Wanda

A Divine Divide For Room Design

2011-07-07T18:11:00.001-04:00

Oh how we love the feeling of open space! That is until we need to find a little nook or corner for privacy. An overscaled room can sometimes lack the feeling of intimacy. In some cases, the area may not be terribly large, as in loft style living, so it’s even more important to define pockets for function or activity. Corners would also benefit with some sort of backdrop or softening.

What’s your solution? Consider a room divider or screen! They have always been a great design solution and they add an element of unique style, while an playing off other furnishings.

I prefer to custom-create designs for my clients so a perfect fit will be achieved, as well as the finishes and patterns. Scale, color, texture, and style are all important when incorporating large accents into a room. Your options are only limited by the imagination.

Here are some inspirational interior images and sources:

Mary Ann Jones Antiques - Black Wood Room Divider/Screen

Pure confection from Joss & Main!

Assemblage – 1960’s Rattan 3 Panel Divider- 1stdibs

A great idea! Hinging doors gives a weighted presence and allows for light to flow. I’ll bet you could find something similar at your local Habitat ReStore location. I would probably paint mine in orange or red! (Image – Pinterest)

Pierre Anthony – Pair of 1940’s Fruitwood & Ebony Room Dividers – 1stdibs

I loved this upholstered screen shown on the Calico Corners’ site! It’s also a great example of how a layered room should be completed in total. If you cover up the screen and take away the rug, imagine your disappointment if a designer delivered just the furniture and window treatments. It would be a nice area but the major ‘pop’ would be lacking. I can almost 100% guarantee more money would be eventually spent on tsotchkes in effort to make up for the one or two magnificent pieces that could properly flesh out the space. The moral to this story? Focus your design dollars where they will count the most.

Need help “dividing and conquering” in your home? I’m a phone call away!

All my best!

Wanda

Design Dreaming – Midnight In Paris

2011-07-05T10:53:00.001-04:00

So . . . I’m supposed to be taking a little time away from the business of interior design. You know - doing things like: gardening, reorganizing closets, pondering life at the half-way point of the year, reading, and slipping in to see a few summer movies. I’m pretty proud that I’ve checked a few of those things off from my list. The garden has been revitalized and some closets are looking pretty good. I even have managed to fit in a movie and it’s only day four of my ten day break!

Since I’m not a movie critic, I’ll spare you a lengthy and cerebral review of Woody Allen’s latest release, “Midnight In Paris”. The movie is definitely worth considering and you couldn’t ask for more of a visual feast. I only wish I had additional movie clips to share!

Owen Wilson’s character, Gil Pender, plays a Hollywood writer who dreams of creating a legitimate piece of literature and is swept away by the 1920’s era of ex-patriots and romantic notions of living in Paris. His fiancé, Inez, portrayed by Rachel McAdams, wants nothing further than to return to the states, as she’s more attracted to the affluence of his current position and lifestyle. I’ll share that it’s not your typical romantic comedy and much like Gil’s character, it does tend to wander a bit, but if you love architecture, art, and a bit of clever wit, it will be a sweet little escape.

Speaking of escapes . . . let’s meander . . .

Gil and Inez go shopping for furniture. The chair she’s holding onto is $18,000. Gil politely questions if there might be something a little more reasonable . His designer mother-in-law, (not seen in this photo), chirps, “Cheap is cheap”. A cringe-worthy moment for this interior designer. No discussion of any value, the provenance, etc. I know it’s just a movie, but I wish the stereotype would be given a rest!

In what the audience would imagine to be a dream segment in the movie, a fine collection of literati and artists, including Zelda Fitzgerald, (on the far left), appear from the past. In a midnight car ride from a street corner, we are transported to 1920’s Paris and Gil’s journey begins. As an aside - If movies and fashion translate to interiors, do you think we’ll be seeing even more Art Deco in design?

During the movie, several scenes revolved around a trip to St. Ouen, an area just outside of Paris and home to fabulous ‘flea market’ finds!

In the ‘Roaring Twenties’, women wanted to rid themselves from the constraints of corsets and big hats. They cut their hair, exposed their legs, and adopted an elegant, slim silhouette. Some of greatest fashion designers emerged, as in Jean Patou, Jeanne Lanvin, Paul Poiret, and Coco Chanel. (Sketch courtesy of The Paris Apartment Blog)

This stairway, in a 1920’s French apartment building, echoes the same slender, vertical shaping. Dramatically simple and elegant.

For some travelers, staying in a hotel might seem to be more comfortable. After all, you can check their ratings and perhaps feel as if you’re in a familiar cocoon. For those who prefer to be a bit more immersed in the local culture, there are several options in short-term luxury villas or apartments. It’s doubtful you would feel less pampered, as personal services can be arranged during your stay. I was particularly impressed by ‘Haven in Paris’ and ‘Paris Perfect’, aptly suggested by The Paris Apartment. Visitors have also shared their reviews and you can check to see if air-conditioning is available. (I would think that’s a must during the summer season!)

An apartment on the Champs-Elysées.

A tiny balcony but oh what a view!

Think of all of the US cities and architectural structures which have benefitted from the influences of French iron craftsmanship.

Oh, yes, and did I say, “What a view?!”

Not only do you have a photographed preview into the apartments or villas, a charming floorplan is included, as well.

Modern kitchens and appliances are provided for your personal chef or cooking lessons. Bon appétit!

Superbe!

Rachel McAdams at the movie’s premiere.

A pair of antique French tambour net lace curtain panels – Cheryl’s Fascinating Finds

Did I lose you along the way? Then I might suggest another movie. If, on the other hand, you enjoyed the side trips in the journey of this post, make it a date. Zelda, Scott and “Papa” will be waiting for you!

Au Revoir! ~ Wanda

Happy Birthday, USA!

2011-07-01T03:52:00.001-04:00

“Where liberty dwells, there is my country.” ~ Benjamin Franklin

(All images from Pinterest)

Have a safe and happy one! ~ Wanda

The Apple Green of My Eye

2011-06-23T21:02:00.001-04:00

There’s nothing like taking a bite out of a crisp, Granny Smith apple. My mouth just puckers up at the mere thought of it.

There’s also nothing like walking into a room bathed in this hue. It’s pure happiness!

Lately, I’ve had clients with preferences for more subdued palettes. I’m going to say a little prayer for someone to let me go a little crazy with color! Please?

Better Homes and Gardens features layers of stripes and checks for a cottage relief.

Hello Apple Betty! A turn-of-the-century, (20th), painted door is connected by the striped rug. (Pinterest)

All that’s missing are a few friends and some cocktails. Appletini anyone? (Design Sponge)

I covet Hooker Furniture’s Candy Green Accent Table! At 19” in diameter and 26-1/2”high, it meets my need for versatility and can fit in any room in the house.

Another great room featured in Better Homes and Gardens. I must be in a full-blown cottage mode! This one is a seaside escape in Nantucket. I love the mix of aqua.

I don’t know why but doors and gates fascinate me. I guess I’m always wondering what surprise might be behind them. The ironwork, at the top, gives a glimpse into a garden spot. (Pretty Picture)

And lest you think this is all about “cute” . . . Pretty sexy, yes? (House-to-Home)

Okay, I’m bowing my head and sending this out to those of you who adore something a little more ‘tart’!

Ring me, okay? ~ Wanda

Making A Better Home

2011-06-20T12:23:00.001-04:00

Today, I’m working on client spaces in order to wrap them in the emotion or the experience of their homes. For everyone, the idea of what constitutes ‘home’ is a bit different. It goes without saying I do address the function, first. It would be silly to move forward without capturing that as a part of the design process. If most people really think about it, though, they’re looking for a much deeper meaning. For many, it’s a soulful experience.

This afternoon, I’m working on finding resources to help make a better home for those who don’t have one. < Click for story. To say the least, the budget is tight, but I’m not letting that limit my imagination. The words, above, are my inspiration.

I’m hoping to rely on my design community and vendors to share what they can.

“Home is not where you live, but where they understand you” ~ Christian Morgenstern

Thanks for your help! ~ Wanda

PS – Really need gallons of untinted, white base latex flat paint. So far, no national mfr. has stepped forward. Got inside connections?

Journeys – An Interior Designer’s Mind & Week

2011-06-18T10:49:00.001-04:00

Oh what a week! - - And it’s all been good, I should add. I realize I’ve been dropping back from my usually prolific blog postings, to catching up with: writing, paperwork, design, and gardening on the weekends. I do promise to share more details of some projects, some gardening, and a few ideas I’m popping into my upcoming newsletter.

Meanwhile it’s Saturday morning and it’s time for a wee break, some long put off shopping, and a quick visit to the garden. I’m just going to write as it flows and let the words and thoughts take us where they will.

Join me on the journey of my rambling mind. I promise we’ll come back, full circle!

My friend, Beth Swanson, had her Shopkeeper’s Sunday at Oldtyme Marketplace, which is her fabulous store in Marshville, NC. As I was perusing through her treasures, I noticed she had added a few sweet new bedding items. (I’ve got a whole future post to write about her store and the little town of Marshville, in my other blog, Villas and Bungalows.) I promised I would play the roving reporter and I’ve totally wandered off the path from that. Coming Soon!

Mmmm. Somehow those pillow labels, (color, shape, pattern), reminded me to follow-up on marketing materials. Aimee O’Boyle, my trusted designer of all things logo’ish and paper’ish is sending me a “goodie package” with more biz cards, note cards, and marketing bits and pieces. I’ve also been working on some clever ways to share what I do. Top secret, for now!

As I was checking Aimee’s paper good items off of my list, (bearing in mind I was thinking of correspondence) . . . Good heavens! It occurred that my next newsletter needed to be finished as July 4th is around the corner and I didn’t want to miss the boat on sharing holiday-worthy ideas. These paper pinwheels, from Martha Stewart, came to mind as a jumping off point. Loved the idea of a fabric story tie in.

So . . . here’s the fabric/pattern tie-in. Even with all of the mix, not too busy and a fab room concept for a boy’s retreat. (Pinterest folks have the greatest pics for helping to illustrate a design point.) A very cool Americana/nautical vibe.

Did I say nautical? A reminder that I’m working on updating a bath off of a boy’s room – which we’re also redesigning. He’s more of a fan of earthy colors so the red, white and blue theme doesn’t have a thing to do with the price of eggs in China, but I’ve got to select a new faucet and tub/shower fittings. This American Standard design, Moments Monoblock, would offer a streamlined approach to filling his sink.

Oh, and did I mention “streamlining”?

By mid-week, I was working with clients who are scaling back on the size of their living quarters, but not pulling back at all on the details of their design plan. They are keeping some of their favorite pieces of art, such as the hand-colored botanicals, below.

This couple wanted to lighten their load of responsibilities, travel more, and enjoy an open living concept. Open floor concepts do take a little extra consideration, in tying all of the elements together. I think we figured out how to multipurpose the furniture pieces, pretty well.

All of my clients’ furniture ponderings catapulted the inspiration for a blog story for Hooker Furniture . . .

“Keep The ‘Wow’ Factor in Small Living Spaces”

I featured their new Moccato Collection Buffet and Hutch. Be sure to click on the article’s link, above, to read the rest of the story. You can also register to win an ingenious multi-functional cocktail table! It’s so exciting to be among a team of talented folks, as we share clever ways to incorporate the HF Collection into your homes. Pretty soon, I’ll be asking some of my talented interior designer friends to share their favorite pieces, too!

At the end of the week, I met with Kathy Bragg, the Executive Director of the Union County Community Shelter. (I wrote a previous post – “Giving Shelter”, if you would like to learn more about this project.) We, along with some staff members, visited a local building supply company, in order to see what resources might be available, as well as to gather financial data to share in an upcoming committee meeting.

Based on some stock cabinetry and materials, I did a quick schematic of how we might take the current kitchen to this:

From this:

We’ve got a long wish list but we also know - “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” (Laozi)

Eventually, I think we’ll come full circle.

Have the best weekend! I’m off to the garden! ~ Wanda

Desk Dreams – Living Simple

2011-06-11T12:37:00.001-04:00

“They” say a messy desk is the sign of a busy person.

(Pinterest)

Or is it more pointed that a cluttered desk is the sign of a cluttered mind?

(Image from Design Sponge article)

And then there is the concept of organized chaos.

(Image – Mr. Boddington Ship To Shore)

Hello, is anyone really home?

(Image: Pinterest via Milk tooth’s rain.)

“The trouble with simple living is that, though it can be joyful, rich, and creative, it isn't simple.” ~Doris Janzen Longacre

I think she’s got a point!

Simply saying ~ Wanda

Outdoor Living – Navigating Navy

2011-06-06T13:06:00.001-04:00

When the mercury begins climbing, it’s time to reach for something cool in the color palette. Shades of blue are always a great place to start.

Imagine my delight when I received a note from B. Berger,today, with clippings of their latest Terraces Indoor-Outdoor Collection. It’s called Bella Dura and the seven new exclusive patterns are: stain resistant, water repellant, bleach cleanable, and antimicrobial . . . a nice way of saying they won’t become “grody” after many seasons of outdoor living.

Of course, if you prefer your hues of blue to be a bit deeper than the sky, navy makes for a good diving off point. Even the name, ‘navy’, evokes nautical images. To prevent that concept from taking your imagination down a theme-park path, take a look at my inspiration collage for some other ways to consider:

Chic, cool, and right on course.

See you portside! ~ Wanda