Modern Man Nursery

The little guy that occupies this room has been hanging around for a few months now and he is very excited to share these pictures with you! His mom wanted a cool, calm, and modern room to hang with the Modern Man so we kept all the colors tranquil.  I hope you enjoy the images!

Punches of color were added in the tree decal and the fun lumbar pillow.  Mixing warm textures in a cool color keeps the room clean and fresh but with an inviting feel.  We painted the focal wall a shade darker than the rest to make the white crib pop.  Fun accessories like the white animal pottery and mini ghost chair add a playful touch.

Mom wanted to re-purpose an existing chest for a changing table and for storage.  It was painted white and received new clear drawer pulls.  Family art is always a nice touch in a personal space, so there is a small collection hung over the changing station.

Impulse Accessorizing

Most of the time there isn't enough money in the budget for a complete overhaul of a home or room and most of the time people would like a little something new to keep their spaces fresh and evolving.  A few new accessories on a console, mantle or side table can breath new life into a room without being cost prohibitive.

From time to time I come across a piece that I would categorize as an "impulse accessory."  It has to be under $100 dollars (so it doesn't require any major savings or a family discussion) but also it needs just enough style to make an impact.

Next Installment: Gold Coaster

A set of 4 fabulous textured coasters would add a bit of pizaazz to any coffee table. These would also be fantastic framed in shadow boxes and displayed on the wall as a series.  On sale on One Kings Lane for $59 these won't last long!

Pull Up A Seat... The Dining Room is Complete

 The Hip Family Dining Room is complete and I am so excited to share the pictures with you!   It is an elegant and fresh space where the family can entertain and a jaw dropping first impression since it is the first room you see upon arriving to the home.  I kept the color scheme monochromatic using different shades of silver but in a variety of textures to keep it special.  By introducing pops of color in the art, center piece, and flower arrangements the room gets a little spunk.  

Thank you Andrew Slaton Photography for the great shots!

 The polished table top and metal tones contrast beautifully with the rich velvet and silk tones to keep your eye interested.  

 The drapery tassel is the beautiful chain I salvaged from the decorative light fixtures!  Since the ceiling height is 8 feet, it couldn't be used.  Instead they were re-purposed as an unexpected element in the space.  For the center piece and art I added a little bit of fun and punchy color to keep the space from feeling too serious.  After all this is a REAL family and it needed to reflect the hip youthfulness they exude!

The family wanted a space they could use without worrying about the occasional spill, so everything had to be durable and cleanable.  The table top is made out of white quartz which is completely stain/maintenance free and the chairs are covered in a stain resistant fabric that has a rich texture.

Another great pop of color is added with a floral arrangement standing out against the elegant collection of silver, crystal and wood candlesticks.  A beautiful multifaceted mirror sets the perfect backdrop while reflecting more light into the space.

Fashionable Fall: Ethnic Pattern

The weather is finally changing! More so in other parts of the country but we are slowly cooling off in Dallas.  With that comes the opportunity to spice up your wardrobe with some new fall trends.  You don't have to look hard through a magazine or out shopping to see that, as usual, home and fashion trends are falling in line with each other. 

Fashion Inspiration: Ethnic Pattern

One of my favorite trends is ethnic patterns.  So, when you grab your new patterned cardigan to spice up your wardrobe, grab some of these fun home accessories too!

Home Accessory

Fun letterpress coasters are an easy way to add a cozy sweater vibe. Shop on Etsy for these guys.

Nothing says "Winter" like stock piled fire wood in a chic container....Whether you actually burn said fire wood is totally up to you.... West Elm

Fab 5 on Five: Faux Doe

Everyone has favorites.  The "go to" places or things that are always the right fit for their sensibilities.  Designers are no different!  If asked, they have a list of favorites for any category in design, whether it's their favorite show stopping sofas or their most coveted accessories. 

Below is another installment of a monthly "Fab 5 on Five", a compilation of my favorite things on the fifth of each month.   In honor of the opening day of hunting season, this month it's faux animal heads.  No rifle required. 

Faux Doe Installment:

 One: Cozy sweater deer by Artist Rachel Denny

Two: Ok, this isn't a deer, but I found it during shark week.

Three: Glass illuminated "trophy"

Number Four: Wire coat hanger from Gretel Home



Number Five: Cardboard cut outs from Cardbard Safari



Impulse Accessorizing III

Most of the time there isn't enough money in the budget for a complete overhaul of a home or room and most of the time people would like a little something new to keep their spaces fresh and evolving.  A few new accessories on a console, mantle or side table can breath new life into a room without being cost prohibitive.

From time to time I come across a piece that I would categorize as an "impulse accessory."  It has to be under $100 dollars (so it doesn't require any major savings or a family discussion) but also it needs just enough style to make an impact.

Third Installment: Retro Tray

This would be great for a funky kitchen on a display shelf or in the family room on an ottoman/coffee table.  These are available in a few different colors and shapes, but I think the sunshiny yellow is happy and lends to the retro feel. Gretel Home has these priced $43.00 plus tax... at that price you could get more than one!

Fab Five on 5: Grey Paint

Everyone has favorites.  The "go to" places or things that are always the right fit for their sensibilities.  Designers are no different!  If asked, they have a list of favorites for any category in design, whether it's their favorite show stopping sofas or their most coveted accessories. 

Below is another installment of my monthly "Fab 5 on Five", a compilation of my favorite things on the fifth of each month.   Painting rooms with grey is really current, but if you get the wrong shade you can end up with a color that appears anywhere from baby blue to baby poo.

Grey Paints: Solved.

1) Silver tone that you can actually see: SW 0055 Light French Grey

2)Warm grey that doesn't go pink: Sherwin Williams SW6017 Popular Grey

3) Cool grey that doesn't go blue: SW 7649 Silver Plate

 

4) Light grey that is inviting and barely there: SW 7671 On The Rocks

5) Darker grey that is great for accenting: SW 7650 Ellie Gray 

Get Your Thrift On

The idea of a safe and cozy home is something that most of us count among the blessings of our life.  While it may not be totally "finished" (with all of the fancy details we could hope for), we are lucky to have a personal space that can perk us up and welcome us home each day.  That is precisely why Lisa Robison founded "Dwell with Dignity" in 2009! Along with co-founder Kim Turner, they decided to pursue their mission of helping families escape poverty and homelessness through design. One household at a time.

Sounds like something you can really get behind, huh? Here's the best part: you can support the cause in a fun and fabulous way!  Every quarter Dwell with Dignity is opening a "Pop Up Thrift Store," and the first grand opening is this Saturday, October 1st!  Want to feel extra posh?  Come tonight for a sneak peak party. All you have to do is donate $25 for the entry fee.  Need to spice up your space?  Come shop until Oct 29th and if you want some EXTRA fun, be sure to stop by on Saturday October 15 from 1-5.  That's when this fancy designer will be volunteering at the store.

Dwell "Thrift" Studio is located at: 1616 Hi Line Dallas Design District Dallas, TX  75207. Open Saturday October 1-Saturday October 29; M-F 10am-5pm

Check out the website for other great ways to get involved http://dwellwithdignity.org/

Got a Light?

Save your clunky Maglight for the campsite and upgrade your exterior experience to include sleek and modern lamps.  Wireless fixtures from Live. Anywhere designer Linda Allen add the warm finishing touch to any exterior living space that only a lamp can produce.  Once charged these table and floor lamps can last on low for about 140 hours!  On second thought, since they are available in chic colors like Khaki, Ivory and Mink with weather proof shades,  I see no need for the mag-light; take these camping too!

For more information, ask you Interior Designer to contact  David Sutherland Showroom.

Fab 5 on Five : Exterior Spaces

Everyone has favorites.  The "go to" places or things that are always the right fit for their sensibilities.  Designers are no different!  If asked, they have a list of favorites for any category in design, whether it's their favorite show stopping sofas or their most coveted accessories. 

Below is my second installment of a monthly "Fab 5 on Five", a compilation of my favorite things on the fifth of each month.   This month it's exterior spaces because the weather is cooling down so it's time to be outside. 

Second Installment: Exterior Spaces

What is great about this setting is that it won't break the bank to achieve!  Inviting and classic butterfly chairs urge you to gather 'round the fire with friends! 

This space is romantic with the worn wooden doors, low rock wall, and the curved glass structure.  I imagine a starlit dinner party or a beautiful brunch. Either way you cut it; I want this in my backyard!

Everything about this sings relaxing after an awesome day outdoors.  I love the idea of an outdoor shower and this particular shower can be closed for year-round use.

Advances in exterior products make this scene completely doable without constantly taking furniture inside and out.  Frames could be fabricated from powder coated metal or teak and upholstered in a beautiful exterior fabric. 

Even an image without man-made things like furniture or lighting can still be really inspiring!  A manicured drive like this one is great in a neighborhood or for a private entry.

Impulse Accessorizing II

Most of the time there isn't enough money in the budget for a complete overhaul of a home or room and most of the time people would like a little something new to keep their spaces fresh and evolving.  A few new accessories on a console, mantle or side table can breath new life into a room without being cost prohibitive.

From time to time I come across a piece that I would categorize as an "impulse accessory."  It has to be under $100 dollars (so it doesn't require any major savings or a family discussion) but also it needs just enough style to make an impact.

Second Installment: Indonesian Tin Boxes

I came across these boxes while looking around the Serena and Lily website.  I love almost everything they sell; they keep their colors current and their products fresh.  These pressed tin boxes come in a set of 5, are on sale for $47.00 and would add a great ethnic vibe to a space!  It's a great buy because they could be used in so many different ways.  I love the idea of using them together stacked on a side table or separated for smaller spots like a guest bathroom for cotton balls and other amenities. Whether you use them together or spread them around, you are definitely getting your money's worth.

Fab 5 on Five: Modern Trimming

Everyone has favorites.  The "go to" places or things that are always the right fit for their sensibilities.  Designers are no different!  If asked, they have a list of favorites for any category in design, whether it's their favorite show stopping sofas or their most coveted accessories. 

Below is my first installment of a monthly "Fab 5 on Five", a compilation of my favorite things on the fifth of each month.

Installment: Modern Trim

No. 1 Warm Leather Welt Cord by Holly Hunt: Can be used to edge pillows or in between seams on upholstery.  What I think is so great about the leather is that it doesn't have to be rustic; it can feel tailored and modern.

No. 2 Edgy Metal Bouillon Fringe by Kravet Couture: This trim is a modern interpretation of an old school style.  Used along the bottom of a sofa gives a floating feel.

No. 3 Elegant Satin Tape Trim by Calvin Klein: The contrast of sheen and tasteful color is what I love about this trim.  Added as a detail to anything in a master bedroom would be tranquil and stunning.

No. 4 Fanciful Feather Fringe by Kravet Couture: This is definitely not for everyone but if you have a little edge to your taste this would be stunning as a top treatment on drapery.

No. 5 Classic Embroidered Tape Trim by Samuel & Sons: The overall feel of the materials is casual but there is an elegance to the pattern that I love.  The combination of textures is really special too.  I think using this as a detail on drapery or on upholstery would be great. 

Appe-teaser

Installation is getting close to completion at the Hip Young Family dining room!  Everything is coming together nicely and it is finally starting to look like a real room. We are still waiting on the table base and dining chairs…which is a little funny since it’s a dining room but these things are being special ordered and custom made so they take a little more time.  You can’t rush perfection.
To get you excited without giving away ALL of the surprises, here is ONE progress shot!  We are draping the entire wall that separates the dining room from the “kids table” in the adjacent room.  To add a dramatic punch of color to the tonal room, I framed two intensely colored photographs and “floated” them in front of the drapery.  It adds a lot of interest and an extra layer to the space.  I’m in love with it, so I had to share!

Opening the FLOR

Last night FLOR Carpet  rolled out the Red Carpet Tiles to showcase their newest showroom right here in Dallas!  Located in the Knox/Henderson "retail design district" with a wide selection of colors, patterns and texture they are sure to thrive.  How can you use FLOR tiles? Modular carpeting is perfect for any room that receives frequent abuse but still needs a stylish expression on the floor.  If a tile gets damaged or if you want to change the look you can easily change them out with new ones!

Check out these great options: 

A little nautical when done in blue and white.

Faux Bois in understated colors is classic and whimsical.



Elaborate patterns like this one can add a lot of personality to a basic space.

Fantastic Finds

One of the best parts about my job is sourcing objects for people's spaces because I get to pop into great stores in Dallas to peruse their latest wares.  I always snap pictures of my favorite objects with my cell camera so that I can share quickly!  These are some top Finds:
For the Eclectic:

Hip drapery tie backs from Dedar:  Could be used with any modern drapery treatment for a more youthful take.



Hounds tooth "Hide" rug from Johnathan Adler: Could be appropriate for a fun playroom or anywhere a little whimsy is on the agenda.




Batik wood block stamps from Wooden House: Great on a table top alone or in a grouping hung on the wall! 




Woven horse hair and horn wall sconce from Ochre: Unique materials make this a conversation piece for any space.




Deep blue lacquer Chinese horseshoe chairs at Again and Again: Available in a set of four so it could be great around a game table or in a breakfast room.




Funky metallic "Peacock" mirror from Wisteria Outlet: Put this show stopping piece on any large wall for a dramatic punch of fun. 



Impulse Accessorizing

Most of the time there isn't enough money in the budget for a complete overhaul of a home or room and most of the time people would like a little something new to keep their spaces fresh and evolving.  A few new accessories on a console, mantle or side table can breath new life into a room without being cost prohibitive.

From time to time I come across a piece that I would categorize as an "impulse accessory."  It has to be under $100 dollars (so it doesn't require any major savings or a family discussion) but also it needs just enough style to make an impact.

First installment:

Calligraphy Brushes - Wisteria.com - $69.30 for set of 3!

Hang these in a row on a small wall to create a sculptural focal point, or lay them atop books for an extra layer of texture.

Stands are also available to raise these as a great backdrop in a grouping of accessories or as an anchor on a mantel.

Flipped It Good!

So, the house that I helped flip is officially on the market!  To me that is officially job done, and when it sells... officially job WELL done!  I won't take all the credit for the success of this remodel... after all Jim is the mastermind and I just make sure it all looks great!  Check out these before and after pictures!  Prepare to be amazed!  .... Well hopefully anyway!


Front Facade Before: Outdated with fussy iron detail and oversized easter basket.



Front Facade After:  I selected a paint for the brick that would tone down the color of the roof. Jim cleaned up the landscaping and updated the hard scape to modernize the home.

Entry Before: Low ceilings make the space feel cramped.

Entry After:  With the ceiling raised and a decorative niche this is a much better first impression.

Family Room Before: Dated and worn out finishes.

Family Room After:  Clean and fresh are the words that come to mind for this updated space.  We got rid of the tacky red wet bar, and cleaned up the fireplace surround.  

Formal Living Before: Closed off and old fashioned.

Great Room After: Jim completely opened up the room between the formal living room and the kitchen.  To me this is now the Great Room... Perfect for entertaining in current times.

Kitchen Before: Pink oven! and closed off.

Kitchen After:  Close up to the modern design.  Glass tile back splash with a white counter top, dark stained cabinetry, and multi colored glass tile back splash.  Great contrast and totally updated!

Hall Bath Before: Patriotism? Or just plain bad taste?

Hall Bath After:  Does this even need a description?  Totally updated and a place you'd be proud for your guests to see.

Master Bath Before: Metallic butterfly wall paper and cramped.

Master Bath After:  Shower and Bath combo. An excellent solution for the tight spaces of an older home.  We used a great neutral and simple porcelain tile with a clean blue glass accent tile.

Master Bath After:  Double sink and storage... something every master bath needs!

Mater Bath After: Beautiful light glazing the walls make the master shower extra special!