Not for the "color phobic"!

I am creating a room design for a client who is not afraid of color. We are starting with a burnt orange sectional and modern glass top coffee table and end tables.

The rest is evolving as follows:

The color scheme for the walls and fireplace: Ben Moore's Blue Echo on walls, Anjou Pear on fireplace brick and Vapor for trim and ceiling. All three of these colors are represented in this photo:

For the rug Company C:

Pillows to tie the color scheme together ;

A box valance window treatment hung over cream shutters or bamboo shades. Box valance will be made using this awsome buttery fabric from Company C:

Two armless swivel chairs will anchor the sectional covered in this fabric which coordinates with the window treatments:

http://www.ballarddesigns.com/comShop/customProdAction.do%3Faction%3DinitCustom?ruleID=2357&itemID=10377&itemType=PRODUCT&path=1%2C2%2C1443%2C1475%2C1691&iProduct

Two Ottoman cubes flanking the flat screen tv hung over a rustic cabinet will be covered in this fabric which coordinates with the window treatment fabric:

I can't wait to show the final photos! Thank you Timmie for loving color. More to follow soon....

Creating a Serene Home

Close your eyes and try to conjure the most peacful setting you can imagine - an ocean, beach, or a glowing sunset, a chapel or a nursery with a sleeping child. Let your imagination carry you away. Since that is how you picture serenity, use the mood of that place - the colors, sounds, smells, textures, tastes, or furnishings - as the inspiration in creating your serene home.

Wine Country Here We Come!

My husband and I are planning and gearing up to celebrate our 15th wedding anniversary in beautiful Napa Valley this fall. I'm craving a glass of cabernet just thinking about it. Here is the breathtaking Meadowood Resort where we will be spending our well deserved quite time. We can't wait ! More photos from our trip when we get back....

Check out this cool cottage! In room dining arranged by your personal Sommelier and concierge. The honey comes from their own hives and the olives from their own orchards. Delightful!

Cozy lounge


Poolside - ahhhhh, and a Romantic hiking trail

The Restaurant

My Newest Design Obsession - Imperial Trellis

I love this pattern and can't get enough of it. Schumacher's Imperial Trellis Wallpaper and fabric. I am about to redecorate my powder room and will be using Imperial Trellis in Citrus on my walls. Stay tuned - I will post before and after photos. I think it will be quite stunning if I may say so myself. Let me know what you think of the progress along the way. Here are some photos that may have you suffering from Imperial Trellis fever! It's HOT and current. Enjoy...

My Defining Style...

This really is my favorite way to procrastinate! I have to say I love talking about design almost as much as I love creating it. I have so many ideas to share. I came across these two rooms which truly reflect my style. I challenge each of my readers to post your style inspiration. It makes for great conversation and I have to say you can really tell a lot about a person by seeing what defines the style that inspires them. I tend to feel best in a uncluttered space with fresh colors and unexpected elements!

I love the grey walls which appear to have a venitian plaster finish. The mirror really sets off the enormously high ceiling. The room is so balanced and soothing.

The modern furniture is a nice mix with the more traditional rug and side tables. A clever mix of elements and color. The hue of the blue and green combination is heavenly.

Well. As you can see. I couldn't really decide. Although these rooms were both designed by Jan Showers. I love her sense of color and balance. They both portray a classic appeal with modern elements in the beautifully blended mix. Thank you Jan Showers for your design inspiration!

Quatrefoils Are Back!

Quatrefoil is a design element that was made popular during the Gothic revival period used in architecture and traditional Christian symbolism. Quatrefoil means four leaf. Quatrefoils are being used more and more by designers today in everything from mirrors to beds. Take a look at some current uses of this timeless design element. I love it!

Maharam Pillow :: Quatrefoil Pink by Alexander Girard

Jewelsfile.com, Quatrefoil pendent Barry Dixon's Roseann Chair

Paul Marra's Dyed Parchment Quatrefoil Mirror
Price: $2,100

Remains Lighting - Madeline Sconce

Thomas Pheasant for Baker - Gothic Lantern with quatrefoil pattern

Ironies.com - Lattice Table

Niermann Weeks - Quatrefoil Armoire

Ballard's Belerma Rug

Lucky Clover: Basil Flush Mount and Quatrefoil Floor Lamp