Impulse Accessorising: Kisses

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.

Since its almost Valentines Day, I thought we should get a little romantic.  Don't get the wrong idea... I already have a handsome Valentine.  I'm talking accessories and particularly these fantastic place card holders.  They are created by Dallas' own F is for Frank and are perfect for a romantic night in. With different types of kisses called out on the tag, you are sure to let your Valentine know what type of action you are anticipating. (anything from "Eskimo" to "French")  They will only set you back $35 a piece!  That deserves a Smooch.

Fab 5 on Five: Raising the Bar

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 (or around..) the fifth of each month.   I've been asked by another designer recently to help him concept a new bar/restaurant space.  We worked together in the past and right now his plate is FULL.  In honor of this great rekindling here are my Top 5 Dallas Restaurant Designs.  How could I pick with the surplus of amazing options? Well, based on the designs ability to create an atmosphere that gets you excited for the food experience!

Dallas Amuse Bouche Installment:

No. 1: Hattie's in Bishop Art.  Fried green tomatoes are served elegantly in the monochromatic space.  The room is sun shiny, elegant and crisp.. which partners nicely with some low-country shrimp and grits.

No. 2: Medina Oven and Bar in Victory Park. You would never wonder if the food was bland in a space with this much vibrancy and I'll assure you it is anything but.  The furnishing layout is just as cozy as their sharable small plates.. you just might make new friends at the next table.

No. 3: The Oak in the Design District. Tailored and cozy with plenty of understated "Oak" references, you know this is the place to be fabulous while enjoying bites like Duo of Kobe Beef or Celery Root Fries.

No. 4 Bolsa in Bishop Arts.  Locally sourced and honest food are what you'll get at Bolsa.  The restaurant says to me, "Hey we are hip, but down to earth." Mixing materials in warm hues and exposing the ceiling let you know its time to kick back and enjoy some goat cheese from Dallas Farmers.

 

No 5: Rise No. 1. on Lovers. The idea of a souffle is light and whimsical.  So is Rise. The table is set with antique linen used as napkins, paired with french silver and re-purposed wine bottles as drinking glasses.  With this sort of attention to detail, you know your souffle will not "flop!"  (check out Hedda Dowd's other en devour, an antique business which sources fantastic tableware pieces from French Chateaus.)

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!

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!

Concept Dining

I've been working the last few weeks to get a solid concept for the Hip Family Dining Room.  We've looked high and low for pieces that not only look fabulous together but can stand the test of time.  This couple knows their style, so they are excited to acquire things that can live happily ever after with them for years to come.  Durability and timelessness are at the front of our minds when we are making selections and we've been able to pull some great items together.  Take a look at our process:

First Things First! Laying out the floor plan is crucial in making sure everything is going to fit and function.  This room will seat 8 people very comfortably at a custom stone table and it has extra storage in a console along the wall.  A little drama is added with two pendants over the dining table, decorative wall scones, and potted plants!  A large area rug finishes everything off by added texture and warmth.



While I'm making selections, I create a concept page so everything is in one spot.... because eventually everything WILL be in one spot. It is critical to continually see everything together, for me and for the client.

We want this space to be elegant, clean and transitional! We are keeping it pretty monochromatic, using tones of silver, white and grey.  For youthful interest we are adding punches of color around the room in the form of art and accessories.  Texture, contrast and light will also play a huge roll in making this space special. 





I sketched a perspective for this space because I wanted the client to see how I planned  for everything to come together!    



We've had the contractor busy at work adding light switches! Moving plugs! Adding junction boxes in the ceiling and wall! Painting! Adding moulding to the ceiling! So.... things are really coming together!!  When we get a little further along I'll post some progress shots!