Design Concepts, Interior Design

Loving it, Lonny

2011-01-14T11:07:00.000-08:00

Having laser-cut envy.
Here.

Down on the Farm with Mary Snowden

2010-11-09T10:23:00.000-08:00

"Down on the Farm"... in San Francisco?

With a chickchick here, a chickchick there...

Yes! The Braunstein/Quay Gallery is presenting an exhibition of novel mixed media by painter Mary Snowden, November 11 through December 11, 2010.

Mary is an extremely talented painter and long-time Chairperson of painting and drawing at California College of Arts in San Francisco.

These charming and beautifully rendered depictions of farm animals are topics near and dear to the artist.

Mary is an old friend from college and our country days.
I'll be at the reception for Mary on November 13, 3-5PM.
See you there!

Artful Living

2010-11-02T15:56:00.000-07:00

The Junior League of Oakland-East Bay Home Tour

November 5 & 6, in Danville & Alamo, CA,

features 5 special homes reflecting unique life-styles.

The one we love is on the poster and website for the Tour.

This home is in Alamo, just 5 minutes from our store,

Design Concepts, and the interiors were designed

by Lea Bartneck of Design Concepts.

The owners have marvelous collections, rugs and

furniture from family and travels and these are

prominently featured throughout the house.

Both the husband and wife are enthusiastic gardeners,

and the grounds, where they spend a lot of their free time,

are a delightful blend of artistry and whimsy.

Happily, California weather extends year-round use of the

decks, patios and greenhouse for all to enjoy.

Travel Plans?

2010-11-02T10:03:00.000-07:00

I have been preoccupied with booking my holiday travel lately. Now that the flights are reserved, I can focus on the details. I know I need a pair of these to keep my tootsies warm on the plane...

Italian wool-blend, with the cute contrasting whip-stitch detail! So cute! I think I need the turquoise/navy. You?

Now for the gloves to match, these ruffled wool with conductive patches on the index finger and thumb so I can still use my iPhone! Genius!

I'll wear all this with jeggings and a baggy cable-knit sweater.

...and I'll carry my passport in one of these (if I were actually travelling abroad, that is).

And I'll bring along this game to keep from being bored... Example: "If you had to obtain $1 million by illegal means, how would you do it?" Everyone runs out of something to talk about a couple of hours into a plane ride, so why not be prepared?!

Now, if I only had a cure for the long lines in security at the airport...Hmmmmm.

(get all these goodies here)

Elle Decor Showhouse

2010-11-01T16:20:00.000-07:00

Elle Decor Showhouse

San Francisco 2010

Living in the Bay Area? You are in luck!

At San Francisco's most stylish address, Elle Decor has come to us!

Their 1st ever Showhouse opens November 4, 2010 in the St. Francis Wood neighborhood of San Francisco. The 1911 home is receiving a fully Green Point rated retrofit, and the interiors will be adorned by a select handful of local designers.

Created in partnership with the Junior League of San Francisco, the Showhouse opens on November 4 with an invitation-only gala. This Showhouse is open to the public every Saturday and Sunday starting this weekend through November 21st

10am - 4pm

(November 6 & 7, 13 & 14, 20 & 21)

Several of us from Design Concepts will be attending to see what the fabulous interiors are featuring now; in new colors, furniture & just plain high style.

Hope you can make it!

When I say "Columns," do you think of these?

2010-10-05T08:50:00.000-07:00

No, I don't either. At least not in the design world. Now the art world on the other hand...

These brilliant little babies are the work of Patrick Walter Siler, shown here at the Ceramics Annual of America. Take a look at the images as they progress around the columns...

Pat Siler and I became friends at UC Berkeley in the 60's. He was a painter, and became a ceramics artist because of the influence of the great Peter Voulkos in the art dept at Berkeley. Pat went on to teach for 30 years at Washington State University in Pullman, WA. Pat's keen and humorous observation of people that he painted, was transferred from canvas to the surfaces of vessels. He is currently showing in Washington, but his work will be installed at the Orinda public library November 1st. Below is a pic of the man himself...

No more gray skies

2010-06-14T17:19:00.000-07:00

...but please gimme some gray in my rooms! I know, I know, gray seems like the hot trend. I am loving it though. Wondering how to use it, but keep it fresh and cheerful? Take note of these fresh palettes.

Fuschia and dove gray is so romantic.

My personal fave, citrine and charcoal.

These fabs are all from Alhambra.

Manuel Canovas injects some life into gray in their new collection!

Gray provides a sophisticated twist to a baby's room, from Dwell Studio.

Horsing around

2010-04-23T12:49:00.000-07:00

Like Horsing around? Get it here.

Lea has been working with old friends, turned clients, on the design and build of their custom home in Mendocino, CA. She's proposing using this fab horse print from an Etsy shop. It's a whopping 3 ft. by 3 ft.!

And in case you are a horse lover, the client, Lari Shea, owns the most amazing horse facility on the Mendo coast, providing rides on the beach and through the redwood forests. Gorgeous, and worth the trip! Here she is in all her horse-riding glory...

2010 Marin Designers Showcase

2010-04-22T13:57:00.000-07:00

I love a good showcase house. You can buy your tickets for this year's Marin Desginers Showcase here, or go to http://www.marindesignersshowcase.org/. Proceeds benefit Center for Volunteer and Nonprofit Leadership's Volunteer Services.

a major upper

2010-04-08T14:34:00.000-07:00

I am still cracking up at these fabulous Jonathan Adler jars. I am now convinced that I need a set on my kitchen counter. Even without the actual contents reflecting the labels, I would still feel like I took an "Upper" after glancing over at them, sitting pretty. Maybe cookies can be an upper?

Join our team!

2010-04-01T09:51:00.000-07:00

We have an office open here at Design Concepts! This only happens once every many years it seems, so now is your chance. If you are a designer, decorator, or architect in the East Bay area, check us out.

We have been in the same space in Alamo since 1977, and are a neighborhood staple (being next to a Starbucks doesn't hurt either). Some of our designers have been here 15+ years. My mom and I bought the business in 2002 from the original partners, and it has been an amazing way to work! We both used to be independents, and you can only make so much money when you're buying through showrooms, etc. We buy direct! Our volume allows us to buy from major furniture makers at dealer prices, and sell at competitive prices to our clients...and we have ALL THE SAMPLES ON SITE! A sweet deal!

Compare and Contrast

2010-03-29T14:55:00.000-07:00

So I received my usual 50 lbs of junk mail today, and amongst the many spring catalogs was a Pottery Barn spring issue. Now, I usually flip very quickly through this one, but the page with the new red coral chandelier caught my eye!

It seems unusual for them to take such risks...I mean to mix and match metal and stone? By Pottery Barn? I must say I am impressed. It's not the coolest fixture I have ever seen, but it definately tips the cool meter into the red.

Remind you of these?...

These were the high-end, and highly fabulous Marjorie Skouras fixtures from my blog here. Now, I much prefer one of these, but at $399, I can actually afford the Pottery Barn one.

...and here's a way to accessorize yourself, if that's what you choose!

Rejuvination Nation

2010-03-18T10:49:00.000-07:00

If you're like most people, you're wondering how the recession will change our nation in the long run. I for one, am trying to figure out how it will apply to my profession, and the way we do business. When I combine the "re-use, recyle, refurbish" mentality with my client's desire to refresh and redesign their environments, I catch a glimpse of the way things will likely stay for a while.

That means I need some new resources! Try Rejuvination. It looks like a great resource for all things hardware related for the home, if you need to inject a period or vintage flavor in small doses. They collect vintage fixtures and hardware, refurbish it, and sell it, in addition to some newly made items. Check out some of my faves...

This quilted mercury glass pendant would look great in a pair or trio over a kitchen island, and the green one in a lodge or beach house kitchen.

I would love this little copper work light clamped on a desk!

Refurbished Studded bronze, antique Broken Leaf, and Eastwood door sets. Gorgeous, and all so different!

Sparkly yellow vintage knobs, antique Aesthetic pulls, vintage Black Glass knobs.

My apologies

2010-02-16T15:55:00.000-08:00

Sorry folks, I have been under the weather. You get worn down after weeks of exposure to pre-school germs, you know? My kids have dragged home every single flu, cold, and cough known to man this winter. I have caught most of them. When my daughter came down with pneumonia (yup, you heard it right) last week, I spent many sleepless nights with her. Of course, a body can only go for so long without sleep, so I managed to catch whatever little bug started the whole pneumonia situation...Now, we are all over it, and healthy once again... AND LOVING THE LAST 2 DAYS IN A ROW OF 69 DEGREE TEMPS AND SUNSHINE!

So, seat me here in this cute blue chair for a cuppa tea, please.

And since the window where I had my tea was so pretty with the arch at top, I thought I would look for more arched tops...

(pics from Veranda March 2010, photos by Tria Giovan, Peter Vitale, Jonn Coolidge)

fearless color

2010-02-04T13:25:00.000-08:00

I spent the day in SF yesterday, at the SF Design Center, attending some design seminars. I feel so lucky to have attended one led by Marjorie Skouras, a Los Angeles interior decorator and product designer. Her career in interior design led her to a client who was willing to fund her experiments with various natural materials, in order to make some truly uniques pieces for his interiors. This experience has morphed into a whole new career for Skouras...one I am very envious of! She's inspirational.

How I would love to dive headlong into experimenting with techniques and materials, and make beautiful, tangible goodies for people to enjoy! As designers, we are usually searching for the perfect piece for a room, but at the mercy of whatever someone else has designed and made for our consumption. What an amazing and talented person Skouras is. Check out my favorite things below...

The chandelier is made of turquoise stones. Not sure what the creamy yellow stones are.

Love this Malachite table!

So, first she invented these red coral drawer pulls...

And it led her to the red coral mirrors...

And then the co-creator of Rock Band hired her, and she made him this totally rock-glam black coral chandelier, which I loooooove.

And I am sure Kelly Wearstler has used these little babies... Skouras uses various stones and crystals to make these chic drawer pulls in various sizes.

And these are made with marble veneers...

These mirrors are piled with clear crystals. So sparkly!

The honeycomb chandelier.

This little baby is available to see in SF, but in a special fab color she did just for the showroom. It's a yummy amber stained glass that just glows warmth.

(room photo: California Homes mag. Feb. 2010, others from Skouras' website)

A beautiful smile

2010-01-20T10:51:00.000-08:00

My wish today, is that everyone who hasn't already, donates what they can to help the people of Haiti. There are so many relief organizations, so pick your favorite. If you don't have a fave, then go for convenience, and text the word HAITI to 90999. You'll get a confirming text that you have to reply YES to. A $10 donation will appear on your next cell phone bill.

This picture makes my heart smile. This 26 year old woman was pulled from the rubble yesterday, smiling and singing. This is who your money will help.

See more photos from the Associated Press here.

the octopus

2010-01-12T11:14:00.000-08:00

I need to merchandise some shelves flanking the fireplace in my house...would you think I was crazy if you walked in and saw this little guy sitting on the edge of one?

Hidden in the attic

2010-01-07T10:11:00.000-08:00

If I had an attic with a dormer window...

I hate to post a pic with unknown origins, but I found this pic that someone had torn out of a magazine. The angles of the wall in this photo remind me of my own attic. I have saved this for a while, dreaming of sheetrocking my attic and painting these fun thistles up the walls. It would make a glorious little hidden reading room in my attic. Now I just to install a window for a bit of natural light...

No Boys Allowed

2010-01-06T12:12:00.000-08:00

The cutest idea ever for a bachelorette party...if you're the outdoorsy type, of course.

(from hennypotter)

Back from the holidays, and back to the future!

2010-01-05T09:45:00.000-08:00

Today, the NY Times ran an article, here, about integrating the online calling/web-cam/chat service Skype into your household television... "On Tuesday, Panasonic and LG Electronics, two of the top television makers, are to announce that they are integrating the free online calling service Skype into their Internet-connected high-definition televisions."

Now for those of you who aren't familiar with Skype, a great deal of it's users subscribe because they can have a live video chat via web-cam. Until now, that was typically done through your computer...Why am I all of a sudden going techno-nerd on you, you wonder (actually, I wonder too)? Well, because I just spent two weeks filled with so many family and friends, and I can't imagine being a long distance from any of them. And, because my beautiful niece, my big brother, and my sister-in-law all live accross the country from me, and I have never been able to spend a Christmas with them. My niece and I decided to start "Skyping" via our laptops, but how cool would it be, to be able to see her smiling face on my 50" TV in my family room? It would feel like she was actually there with us!

I'm not usually a sucker for gadgets (that's my husband's description), but I am sold on this one!

the chair du jour

2009-12-14T12:00:00.000-08:00

I was just sitting here pondering why it is that I have sold five of these chairs in the last couple of months. Now, I love a good club chair like everyone else, but I typically never repeat them like this. Repeats are rare because no two clients are ever the same, of course. It just so happens that I have a few clients who lean toward the traditional classics, so I have been designing some wonderful spaces and furnishings to accomodate those looks. This cozy little number has great dimensions at 33w x 35h x 43d. With that back pillow it's a comfy sit for most women, and without it, it fit the 6'5" hubby of a client perfectly! He ordered a pair of them the minute he sat in it!

Here's the basic furniture arrangement for the pair above. Don't judge...I didn't add in the fireplace, built-ins, window seat, and inlaid angled hardwood flooring under that rug! It's a casual Family Room, with the chairs in a small, woven, chocolate brown geometric print.

Here I used one to the left of the sofa. A formal, traditional room, with the chair in a beautiful fern green lattice pattern.

Here, in this family room, I may use a pair in a saddle brown mohair or antiqued velvet?

If you're looking for the crowd favorite, this is it folks!

Dining or Designing?

2009-12-10T12:26:00.000-08:00

I have been so preoccupied with work lately that I have totally neglected the blog. Sorry to my readers! I close down my office for two weeks every year, at Christmas and New Year. I try my best not to work with clients, and use it as a time to catch up on projects, re-vamp the storefront, paint my office, and spend time with my family. You can imagine how much scrambling there is leading up to the 2 week hiatus. I have to wrap up all the loose ends before we close, and plan our office party at the same time.

On that note, the office party is always a good time! We buy a little giftie for each designer and employee (all the same, or a version of the same thing), and then design our tablescape based on the theme or aesthetic of the gift. Last year we gave beautiful gold artichoke candle holders, and made a tiered gold and green tablescape using natural elements like pine boughs, popped with the gold artichokes.

While I am pondering how to design this year's table, I came accross these images of tablescapes. They're not necessarily holiday themed, but still interesting. I'm still not terribly inspired for the party. Help anyone?

I love the quirky pottery! (by designer Jimmy Shugrue)

Pretty, textural, I love the monochromatic thing...but I feel like the peacock might fly off the buffet at any moment and peck my eyes out! I am now having childhood flashbacks of our evil pet peacock chasing me accross the lawn! Thanks a lot! (This was designed by Monique Lhuilleir, from House Beautiful)

So pretty, but the pile of stuff isn't exactly conducive to a real dinner party, is it? (designer Sally Hilkene, pic from Mrs. Blandings)

Even Colin Cowie couldn't help me. I love it for me, but too tailored for our "pile of gifts" tablescape routine.

Luckily I found one thing that got my creative juices flowing! Some images from the San Francisco Galleria Dining by Design event. Now these are celebratory and eclectic, just like I like it! Sorry, the pics are scanned, but see the real deal here.

Castello di Gabbiano, and Benjamin Moore's tables. Castello designed an environment that made you feel like you are in Napa or even Italy perhaps? Benjamin Moore's table is inside of a giant, tipped over paint can!

Kravet, Inc., and Stolichnaya ELT table designs. Kravet has brightly colored plastic buckets, each with a light inside, to make a symphony of color overhead, and seat cushions, each in a different pattern. Stoli has walls that look a bit like the back side of egg crates in white, white table, and Ghost chairs.

This process to make this table can be seen here. I love the effect of the "floating" taper candles.

The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

2009-12-02T11:13:00.000-08:00

I am a huge fan of Christmas. Everyone says that, I know. I really do mean it though. It seems like all of life's good feelings wrapped up into one meaningful, memorable day of the year. Christmas is the holiday that should make us all stop to take stock of our lives, to redirect them if necessary, and to prioritize those things that are the most important to us....and of course, to decorate!

For me, the gifts, and money, and the material aspect is not important. I feel as though the celebration is the gift. The time spent with family and friends is the gift. The ability to slow down and enjoy it is the gift. That's why I do all my decorating the weekend after Thanksgiving! We can all just sit back and enjoy it for the whole of December. Ahhhhhhh.

Here are some examples of Christmas done right...lovely, lovely, lovely.

Here are some examples of Christmas gone horribly, horribly wrong. Take the time to at least hide the cords, people!

Upside down trees should be illegal. Period.

(photos courtesy of CourierPress- pic by Bob Greenspan, CountryLiving, PotteryBarn, SugarpieFarmhouse)

Some time off

2009-11-22T09:45:00.000-08:00

I have managed to score myself a really nice sinus infection. "Wait, what!?" you say. Yes, you heard me, I'm sick again. Apparently pre-school is just a giant petrie dish of germs and bacteria. The kids don't actually develop much more than a stuffy nose most of the time, but they are so kind to make sure to bring home the foreign germs to mommy and daddy for us to try out. The bright side? I have managed to take a few days off of blogging and work, and not even feel guilty about it. Sorry, hope that doesn't hurt your feelings.

Beam me up

2009-11-10T15:27:00.000-08:00

I love a ceiling with wooden beams. When appropriately used, they can add so much architectural interest and warmth to a space. They're especially dramatic on a high, vaulted ceiling, to add interest to what could have been a cavernous, empty space. How pretty is this round "wheel" of wood box beams?

Rustic, chiseled beams can add charm to a lodge look. Note the nice raw looking floating mantle over the fireplace to coordinate with the ceiling beams.

Love the old beams with the brick wall.

A room with a Spanish flair is finished off perfectly by this ceiling treatment.

A more contemporary twist. Could be Gothic in a dark finish.

This looks a lot like a coffered ceiling with the beams arranged in a grid pattern.

Last, but not least, I usually have a local cabinet maker build the beams for my clients out of whatever wood I specify, when I don't have wonderful reclaimed solid beams to use. He does them for mantles and ceilings for me. He builds hollow boxes with mitered edges so you see no seams whatsoever. They're lighter and easy to install this way. The article above got me excited to go visit this new local resource, a 20,000 square foot warehouse and mill who specialize in wood box beams of all styles. Lucky day!

(pics from mdcustomhomebuilders, artfactory, luxuryhousingtrends, luciapainting, todayshomebayarea)

To cook, or not to cook?

2009-11-05T11:22:00.000-08:00

This could possibly be my personal dream kitchen. I love the wood table-style portion of the island, which overlaps the marble countertops on the white cabinetry. I have been dreaming of a wood-topped island or peninsula, since granite or marble feels so cold to the touch. I can appreciate all styles, but my personal taste trends toward tailored, slightly masculine spaces. My theory is that I decorate all day long for clients, I sleep it, eat it, and breathe it so much, so at home, I lean toward uncluttered, simple spaces. I also am called on by clients to do a clean, traditional style so often, that I like an twist of modern thrown in for an edgier look.

Like the pendants, like the island, like the metallic walls, like the underdecorated style, like it all. Kudos to the designer Tricia Huntley, at Huntley and Company.

I'm not feelin' it

2009-11-04T12:15:00.000-08:00

I'm not feelin' it. They say it's Fall, but I tell you I'm just not feelin' it. Here in California (and I'm not gloating), it has been 80 degrees out every afternoon. I am longing for the East Coast seasons, the fall leaves on the ground, the crisp Autumn air, the need for a coat... Here, we're just putting on some fall colors, but in short sleeves, and pretending it's cold out. ...Alex, can I get a "Fall Season" for $1,000 please?

At least this pretty pic makes me feel Fallish.

(interior design by Ginger Barber, photo by Victoria Pearson, from House Beautiful mag)

ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh

2009-11-03T09:57:00.001-08:00

I think I'll just slip into this cocoon...I mean bathtub...and enjoy this interesting green wall art...I mean tiny windows in a green wall, that look out on the trees outside. Perhaps then I'll draw the curtain for privacy since I'm at the re-designed Dolder Grand Spa in Zurich, and there are so many other cocoons (bathtubs) next to me.

Cool? or Creepy? or Both? You weigh in. I can't decide. I love the exterior though!

(Spa designed by Sylvia Spielli, http://www.thedoldergrand.com/)

Creative and modern

2009-11-03T09:28:00.001-08:00

Most people don't know this about me, but I used to sew. A lot. I mean, really, a lot. In college, since I am built to be self-employed, I started sewing for interior designers to earn spending money. That's really what gave me the courage to follow this career path I'm on.

When I saw this Peacock chair by Italian furniture maker, Cappellini, it immediately reminded me of sewing. It's made of one long piece of felt, folded around a metal frame. It looks like a fabulous brooch you could pin on a dress, or an accent for a pillow! Yummy!

Also ingenious and creative, also Cappellini, are the Knotted Chairs. They are made from knotted fiber cord, with an epoxy and resin finish.

...and the Wooden Chair (I would like to set it in a sunny corner of a city loft with a floor lamp and some books)

...and the Antler Chair (cute and quirky)

(images from www.Cappellini.it)

oink

2009-10-28T14:50:00.000-07:00

So I have been so neglectful of the blog, that I thought I should update and let you all know where on earth I am. I am not lost. I am in swine flu pergatory, that's where! My daughter came down with the flu last Friday, it escalated over the weekend into some scary high temperature territory, and then settled into the 100-101 degree neighborhood where we have been hanging since Monday. Kill me now! Seriously, I have not left the house since Friday! I know it should not be all about me, since she's the one with the flu, but since she's at a safe temp, I feel ok about complaining a bit. It's hard work making sure no one else in the house gets it!

On the work front, I want everyone to realize that by Sunday, it will be November! As insane as that is, I say it for a reason...IF YOU WANT SOMETHING TO ARRIVE BY CHRISTMAS, ORDER IT NOW!!! It is probably already too late, but you stand a slim chance. By next week, anything with a six-week lead-time (like all upholstery) will probably not make it in time. I am feeling so sad for my clients who I know wanted certain things by then, but have not been able to commit in time. Oh well, life goes on. There are worse problems in life to have.

white on white in kitchens

2009-10-20T14:42:00.001-07:00

I love a white cottage-style kitchen. I also always love them with white subway tile backsplashes. I know we have seen them for years, but there is a reason for that! It's so classic, clean, and cozy! The great lanterns from Urban Electric (out of Charleston, SC) are the pop that takes this kitchen from good to great.

White cabs with white subway tiles again...but I love the quirky chalkboard hood over the range, and the ladder on wheels! Oh, and I'll take the dog too.

(photos from Connecticut Cottages and Gardens, and House_and_Home)

Houles Paris Twiggy Collection

2009-10-15T15:24:00.000-07:00

The trims and tie-backs from Houles Paris newest collection, "Twiggy" (named after the famous 60's supermodel), are a fresh spin on the traditional drapery accessory. I swear you could wear the orange "circles" one as a necklace!

(Available to the trade only-call me!)

color me happy: Garnet

2009-10-14T11:48:00.000-07:00

Rebecca Taylor's fall runway showcased this gorgeous hue, which I'll call garnet. I would wear this ruffled cutie with some charcoal gray tights and ankle boots out on the town this fall. Such a fun party dress.

If you need to coordinate your sofa with your outfit (heehee), then the Broderie pillow from http://www.beautifulpillowsandhome.com/ in beet is for you! ($90)
Here's a great shot showing some of the dresses with tights.
(photo by Peter Tsai Photography)
Do I need this for work? Yes, I do.

Oh, and this too.

These boots aren't great for a rainy day, but they are gorgeous!

Thanks Rebecca!

I'm nesting

2009-10-13T11:07:00.000-07:00

I have officially lost my mind. When I'm not at work, or busy with my mommy duties, I am a home-improvement fiend! I do this every fall. My husband should have figured this out by now, and come up with some sort of medication or restraints to control my project cravings. "I am nesting," I tell him, "Now get out of my way!"

This is my dream laundry, from the HGTV website.

Current projects in the works: fireplace (turning it from a hideous pyramid shape of painted brick, to an architectural stacked stone element with modern insert, flanked by built-in floating shelves), paint the kids bath, paint and re-work the master bedroom, paint the laundry room, and on and on). Seriously, I can't stop myself. Now I have these pics to fuel the fire...

This pretty space has a whole table for folding laundry! Can you imagine!?
(from rollercoasterfamilylife blog)

Martha mag showed this easy fix to organize a small laundry space.

Now if this doesn't wake you up and make you fold your clothes quickly, I don't know what will!

(from StacksandStacks)

Decorator vs. Designer

2009-10-08T11:20:00.000-07:00

In this latest issue of Metropolitan Home (which I picked up because I was curious about this house on the cover), there is a section dedicated to the "decoration" of homes. In my industry, I occasionally run accross a discussion of the difference between an interior designer and an interior decorator. Clients needs are all different, but in the end, they all need their homes decorated. Why are designers so gun-shy about being called "decorators," and why does is so often conjure up negative connotations? To be called a "great decorator" should be one of the most flattering things a designer can be offered.

On that note, I wanted to share with you an exerpt from the Editor's Page, by Donna Warner, Editor in Chief of Metropolitan Home Magazine:

"Decorating is obviously the core of any shelter magazine, but I confess it's a word that sometimes makes me uneasy...Could "decorate" imply something superficial? Isn't architecture the serious stuff? But the decorative arts have an amazing history that I so love, and, displayed alongside their "fine art," great museums all over the world have troves of fascinating collections that reflect the way people lived. Great decorating is an art and it resonates, just like an extraordinary painting. It goes straight to the heart....For years we've thought of our homes as jewels, because of their beauty, worth, and comfort...this home/self identity marriage can be good or not: If we keep things the same when they no longer work for us-either financially, practically, stylistically, or emotionally-it's not healthy. Then it's time to move on..."

Viva la decorator!

down pipe 26

2009-10-07T10:44:00.000-07:00

So, I saw this gorgeous color in a blog I follow, www.mynottinghill.blogspot.com. It's Farrow and Ball's Down Pipe 26. I literally gasped when I saw the photos. What a gorgeous foil for bright colors! It seems that everything put against it just pops. I absolutely must try this color! Now, the question is where? I use my own house as a tester for many little design tricks or trends. Now, if I could just start a Down Pipe trend here in the East Bay...

This beyond beautiful dining room is by Jessica Lagrange Interiors, photo for Chicago Home Sept-Oct 2009

The painted stairs kill me! I love the way the cream stairs look so warm and crisp at the same time. Love the banisters painted the same as the wall. (pic from Apartment Therapy)

Pretty bedroom designed by Anna Beth Chao.

The apartment of designer Abigail Ahern.

More of Ahern's apartment. Don't you agree that this color looks equally as well in traditional rooms as it does in contemporary rooms?

leather tiles...add a bit of luxury

2009-10-06T13:47:00.000-07:00

Visit www.ecodomo.com to see an amazing assortment of recycled leather tiles. They can be used as flooring, wall treatments, on doors, as headboards, and more. Only your imagination will limit what you can use these little beauties for. I am dying to use one on my next commercial project!
Top stitched leather tiles in an elevator. Love it!

A restaurant application.

The edge of a desk...Loooooove this.

And my favorite, the Ebony Crocodile floor. *sigh*

Fab find...visit San Francisco

2009-10-01T12:46:00.000-07:00

Next time you're in San Francisco, visit X-21 in the Mission District. Spend some time rooting around to find fun flea market finds, mixed with vintage pieces from important mid-century masters.

I would love to have these for my kitchen!

Spotlight anyone?

To set a drink on?

An old wooden sign from a pharmacy store-front.

Cheers!

2009-10-01T12:18:00.001-07:00

I'm thinking of using this pretty little bar cabinet for a client of mine. The linen covered doors, and beautiful hardware give it so much personality when the doors are closed. It can completely stand on it's own. The sweet surprise occurs when you open it up, and find a sparkling bar inside...how festive! I would love to host a party and serve fabulous drinks from here!

It comes in two finishes...a very dark espresso with a gray wash, and the light oak with a gray wash. (Available to the trade, and through Design Concepts)

idle minds

2009-09-28T11:10:00.000-07:00

Jaques Grange: Interiors

Suzanne Kasler: Inspired Interiors

Glamorous Rooms, the work of Jan Showers

(This dramatic foyer below is a page from the book)

Rooms to Remember: The Classic Interiors of Suzanne Tucker

We all need a little inspiration in our lives. When I can't travel to find inspiration, I turn to books. When I need inspiration for my work, I turn to the work of other designers. I find it challenges me to up my game, and to think outside the box.

These books can all be found on Amazon.com. Perhaps they'll make good Christmas gifts? Hmmmm...

salvaged wood

2009-09-28T10:47:00.000-07:00

I love this look of "naked wood." I'm not sure how it reacts to spills over time, but it's certainly beautiful. In my opinion, a table like this is supposed to look old and well-worn. The more patina, the better.

Restoration Hardware's CEO, Gary Friedman, has spearheaded his company's efforts to create pieces that are made of handcrafted quality, by artisans from around the world. After seeing the market swamped by poor quality, mass-produced imports over the last few years, I am so pleased to see one company take a stand for quality. These aren't the least expensive catalog finds you'll see, but the prices are still very reasonable. Thank you Mr. Friedman.
A very pretty kitchen island.

what's your little happy place?

2009-09-24T13:53:00.000-07:00

...This could be mine

(Image from www.sweethomestyle.tumblr.com)

Quote o' the day

2009-09-15T10:36:00.000-07:00

We all have relatives with this affliction...

iGoogle: "Why is it that our memory is good enough to retain the least triviality that happens to us, and yet not good enough to recollect how often we have told it to the same person?
- Francois de La Rochefoucauld"

Ya feel me?

is it chilly in here?

2009-09-10T12:35:00.001-07:00

Courtesy of www.apartmenttherapy.com, Baltimore's favorite cherry tree has a new sweater! It is emblazoned around the middle with "HUG ME." I'm even chuckling as I type. Apparently this tree gets a new sweater every fall, and every spring it is removed to allow the tree to breathe. If I ever go to Baltimore, I must go and see this!

if I can't wear white after Labor Day

2009-09-10T12:11:00.000-07:00

...then black will have to do.

Acts of Kindness

2009-09-07T11:15:00.000-07:00

A new find for me...Acts of Kindness jewelery by Melissa de la Fuente, available on Etsy. The pieces are so delicate and beautiful. I am now coveting Ellie, the little elephant below.

I also think this pretty little dove is so sweet.

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5123591

kiddos

2009-09-01T14:47:00.000-07:00

My baby brother and his wife are having their first baby today! In honor of that, here is a pic of an adorable kids bedroom that reminds me so much of my son's room. He is my baby, and he just turned three! I'll be signed out for a few days, enjoying my new auntie status. Ttyl!

(unless I am mistaken, this is a kids room at the St. Regis!)

Spice it up

2009-08-26T12:00:00.000-07:00

This could have been a bland room were it not for the use of the spicy orange headboard. It gives the room a little zing.
I love this tailored space. The tufted headboard, sofa, and spread all in the same fabric keep it clean and simple, while the addition of the orange in measured doses adds flair.

(1st photo by Annie Schlechter, 2nd from MyFavoriteAndMyBest blog)

Jeans on a budget? Yes, please!

2009-08-18T10:35:00.000-07:00

The American Eagle "Favorite Boyfriend Jeans" are around $25. Yes, you heard me. $25. Go get 'em!

Just plain beautiful

2009-08-17T15:23:00.001-07:00

(from www.somethingwhite.blogspot.com)

Light Blubs...not a typo

2009-08-14T14:17:00.000-07:00

Pieke Bergmans art/electricity

shelves galore

2009-08-11T11:00:00.000-07:00

I believe these images speak for themselves...everyone should read!

(cool images from the portfolio of Delson or Sherman Architects pc...www.delsonsherman.com)

for the love of ponies

2009-08-10T11:18:00.001-07:00

"Pinto" the pony
"Desi" the mini-horse

These are not baby horses. Everyone is asking, "how big will they get?" Ponies are smaller than horses, and Pinto is full-grown. He is just the right size for my daughter D. The mini is a miniature horse, and is maybe 20 years old. She is the perfect size for my son, C. The kids are turning 5 and 3 in two weeks, and this is their early birthday gift.

This weekend, a sweet, sweet, grandmotherly neighbor of my mom's, gave us the pony and the mini. Her granddaughter outgrew the pony, and is graduating to a full-sized horse. She also gave us the mini to keep the pony company. Horses are social creatures, and need friends. We didn't want to put the pony in with my mom's two horses, for fear that he would get picked on. The pair are quite happy in their new home, and love their new owners, C. and D.

D kissed Pinto goodnight the first night. I am sure they will have many sweet dreams of ponies in the years to come. I can't wait to see them develop into skilled horse-back riders!...they have no idea how long their grandmother has been waiting for grandkids to take riding on the mountain!

Two weeks until the birthday party with pony rides! Yee-haw!

Inspiration

2009-08-04T09:52:00.001-07:00

As a designer, I occasionally pick up a new client who has a "blank slate" for me to work with. This is highly unusual. Most people have a piece of furniture, or a rug or textile they love, and we can use that as the inspiration for the room. My newest client has none of those things in her living room, aside from a black baby grand piano.

One of the first things I do when I am lacking a starting point, combined with a client who has given me carte blanche in the design department, is look at fabrics. I love fabrics, and they alone inspire me. Once I find a combination that I love, I can spin off into the flooring, walls, and furniture.

The cozy office shown above is a photo I found from September's Traditional Home (article by Laura Heller). The traditional furniture style, and fabric patterns and combinations are the type of thing I am looking at for my new client, so I tore this out to hang on my inspiration board. I also snapped some photos of the beginnings of two color-ways I am working on...a soft fern green, and a gold, taupe, and brown combo. We'll see which one evolves into something fabulous to present to the client. I'll keep you posted as this progresses.

If the shoe fits

2009-08-03T11:53:00.000-07:00

I have not been shoe shopping in so long, and I think I am having withdrawls. Then this morning I ran accross the following blog at http://www.frenchessence.blogspot.com/: (P.S.-talk to you later, I am going shopping!)

The Shoe Strategy, or How to Save Money Without Even Trying

Mister: I love your shoes. Are they new (he says with an enquiring look)?

Missus: Yes, my darling aren't they gorgeous. They are the latest 10.5 Divas.

Mister: Yes angel, I can see that they are very beautiful but...

Missus: Don't you think my darling that they make my legs look longer and I just adore the way my ankles seem slimmer and my calves more supple. They are so comfortable, I really can't believe it.

Mister: Your legs do look sensational in those heels I will admit... but angel...I thought we had agreed to put a temporary halt on any discretionary spending for the next few months ...Remember my ange, we thought we might take it easy and spend a little less with the way the economy is, credit crunch and all. We did speak about this...

Missus: (interrupting) Of course my darling I totally understand and that is why I am saving money with these divine darlings.

Mister: Oh how silly of me, I misunderstood you my angel. You mean that you are saving money by buying these shoes?

Missus: Yes my darling, I am saving so much money because these shoes are completely updating last season's wardrobe. I have saved a fortune by buying these - Don't you see? I haven't had to buy any other new outfits - I can wear these babies with all my old clothes. This is like investing in a pension fund my darling - all those savings for the future... you know the 'spend a little save a lot' strategy.

Mister: Of course my angel....Why didn't I think of it like that? Perhaps you should buy two pairs and save even more....

Missus: My darling, I knew you would understand...

If you feel like investing in a little shoe strategy then I highly recommend the following for your portfolio - slightly speculative, relatively new to the market but excellent performers.

Jonathan Kelsey

Alejandro Ingelmo

Bionda Castano

Charlotte Olympia

Camilla Skovgaard

(Images and text from http://www.frenchessence.blogspot.com/)

Color of the day: ORANGE

2009-07-28T11:48:00.000-07:00

I have always loved a pop of orange, coral, rust, or peach. It adds life to a cool color palette.
A set of twin chaises? How cute is that!? The room is two-tone, brown and beige, until the cantelope colored chaises and bird print are added. The zebra pillows are the perfect graphic touch. I love this space.

The room above is my all-time favorite little girls room, to date. The walls are the best shade of dusty coral, and the fuschia details make it come alive. It's a lot of stuff crammed into a small space, but still so comfy. Storage, sleeping arrangements, and a reading nook, all fit in there somehow.

Here's a great shot of the bed, and the paper-maiche lamp. Fabulous, fun, and simple.

The red-orange bed makes a very brown room feel edgy. I want that bed!

(Photos from HGTV's eco-friendly Green Dream Home, 2009)

wooly

2009-07-23T13:26:00.001-07:00

Sheep in interiors? I don't know how I feel about this, but in the following cases, I LOVE it. It's hysterical, and unexpected, and totally wierd. I never mind being surprised, so wierd is OK by me.
Look at these cute little guys parked in the fireplace above.

The room above is totally serious, but has these three sheep parked in there, just hanging out.

Sheep art.

This one belongs to my friend, D.G. It lives in her backyard, and you never know where you'll find him. Today he was here in the flower border, but my favorite is when he's in the middle of the lawn. A pet you don't have to feed! Perfect.

My new wallpaper

2009-07-22T09:57:00.000-07:00

This is my new wallpaper in my powder room. It is so dramatic and fabulous! It has a bit of a retro vibe with the large leaf pattern, and matte silver background, so I paired it with dove gray toilet and pedestal sink, and a stainless, techy spotlight on the wall that washes the paper with light. Very modern and fun. It's an eco-friendly wallpaper, and that always makes me feel good. (From Seabrook's 2009 Eco-Chic book)

San Francisco Concours d'Elegance car show

2009-07-20T11:28:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, the hubby and kids and I toured the SF Concours d'Elegance. The show featured some seriously beautiful cars, from Bentley and Ferrari, to Packards and Cadillacs. The oldest I noted was from 1929, but I am sure some were older than that. A fun time was had by all...I noticed in the Sports Car Digest website that another is scheduled for Palm Springs. Go, go, go!

This black beauty above, looked like it belonged in a stylized gangster film. Loved it!

My son was sure this car could fly (note the "wings" for doors).

drapery hardware to die for

2009-07-16T10:30:00.000-07:00

This new drapery hardware collection by Brimar is so sleek and gorgeous, I can't wait to use it! I already sent it to a girlfriend of mine, who immediately insisted we use it somewhere in her house. Note the flat rods with the oval rings...very cool.

I think I have finally found the perfect rods for the living room drapery panels I have been longing for.

P.S.-the above finial is my fave!

...more close-ups of the other finials in the collection

...it's "the one"

(The hardware is available through Design Concepts...me)

W South Beach

2009-07-15T13:50:00.000-07:00

Guest rooms

The garden lounge has lanterns and sheets of poetry hanging from the tree canopy!

Gold sofa anyone? Looove the walls in this bar lounge. Visit www.starwoodhotels.com to see the new W South Beach. If you have ever stayed at a W hotel, or even just walked through the lobby of one, you know how luxe and modern they are. The new W South Beach has just opened, and here are some photos...perhaps I need a little beach vacation?

The Selby

2009-07-14T09:34:00.000-07:00

http://www.theselby.com/
I want everyone who likes a little twist of the eccentric and urban to check out The Selby. It's a great blog, and I am hooked. I haven't seen anything else like it. I feel like I am getting an inside peek at New York, Sydney, Paris, Madrid, and everywhere else that culture thrives and unique design of all types is born.

The content is basically a photo series of the subject of the day. The author scribbles some fantastic notes in wonderfully messy handwriting to explain or emphasize the content. Not everyone will get it, but if you do, then kudos.

I don't know about you, but I am grateful to live in the burbs near San Francisco, but I have always secretly longed to be a city dweller too. Perhaps someday we'll keep an apartment there?...you never know! I would spend my days stalking the fashion forward design students, peeking in the windows of every art studio I could find, and generally immersing myself in all the culture I could find.

Now, go have an adventure today!
-Brim

Hot Pink

2009-07-09T11:42:00.001-07:00

My pregnant and adorable sis-in-law is loving hot pink for the nursery, and I guess the obsession has transferred to me now... These pink leather chairs are so sassy in this all girls townhouse in Brooklyn. Genius photographer placed those gorgeous flowers on the table and mantle, and the pink wine too.

This is the opposite end of the same space. The stroke of genius here is the mirrored wall behind the sofa. It looks like a doorway or large window, but is really mirror framed with mouldings. It reflects the windows and sunlight to bring light into this seating nook. Love the pink pillow, and the pink gimp with nailheads trimming the white chairs!

Not many have the courage to live with hot pink walls, but a stairwell is a place you pass through...I still don't think I could do it. Love the effect though. Also, note the two coordinating runners. I wish people would always believe me when I tell them that your rugs do NOT have to match!

(Photos by Francesco Lagnese, Interiors by Jonather Berger)

2009-07-08T14:11:00.000-07:00

This beach house in Pacific Palisades, CA makes me feel good all over. How could you sit in this bright, sunny living room and not feel HAPPY? These 2 red wing chairs sit accross from the neutral sofa on a jute rug, in an all white room. The colorful throw pillows, surfboard, and white flower painted on the coffee table inject summer fun and the beach vibe. You could easily swap out the pillows and change the feel completely for the winter. What a versatile space!

I had to scan the next two photos, so I apologize for the wonky angles...I loooove the banquette seating with storage drawers underneath. I covet the chairs and table for my own kitchen. Those are even in my colors! Green and turquoise!

This is their "formal" dining room. While it is quietly elegant all in whites, it feels casual and comfortable too. The bench on one side was an interesting choice, as is the stone table. Those chairs are amazing, with the nailhead cross in the back! Fabulous.

(from May/June 2009 chdmag, photography by John Ellis)

Feels like summer

2009-07-07T10:15:00.000-07:00

These little cuties are inspiring my sister-in-laws baby shower this weekend. Perfect summer party colors!

(found on Daisy Pink Cupcake blog)

Summer Window Fashions Sale

2009-07-06T10:46:00.000-07:00

The Hunter Douglas window fashions sale is on now through August 31, 2009. There are fantastic manufacturer rebates from $20-$100 per unit! Call us if we can help. I know the summer sun is heating up my house, and I am so glad to have good window shades!

The products in the promo are Luminette Privacy Sheers, Skyline Gliding Window Panels, Silhouette Window Shadings, Pirouette Window Shadings, Vignette Modern Roman Shades, Duette Architella Honeycomb Shades.

I Heart Pillows

2009-07-02T12:13:00.000-07:00

I love the ThomasPaul Pillow Collection...

These are just a taste of the collection. They are all graphic prints, mostly traditional subject matter, but with a modern twist to them. Most are done on linen or silk, my two favorite materials, of course!

Red, White, and Blue, Hurrah!

2009-07-01T10:52:00.001-07:00

The 4th of July is one of my favorite holidays...and the images below demonstrate how our beloved red, white, and blue, can be done in a tasteful, lighthearted way. You can feel patriotic every day living in one of these cute little abodes! Enjoy! Mismatched chairs and children's art...precious!

Patriot-fabulous! LOVE the painted floor!!!!

Stripes, stripes, and more stripes.

Blue screen door, red chair, so perfect!

A little fact you may not know about me- I have always wanted a red tin roof! Seriously.

(Images from www.coastalliving.com)

happy wallpaper

2009-06-29T12:47:00.001-07:00

I love this updated lattice patterned wallpaper! It's a modern twist on a traditional pattern.
The wallpaper in this bathroom adds the color and personality to an otherwise plain space. I think the simple bath design allowed the wallpaper to set the tone. You could easily have subsituted the vine pattern for a geometric, stripe, or contemporary pattern in any color. What a great way to show your personal style!

This whimsical, romantic space is alive with color. What a fun guest suite this would be!

The textured crocodile wallpaper is yummy. It screams at me to touch it. Paint could never be that tactile!

This is a sample of a beautiful new, hand-painted wallpaper line we love. The colors, textures, and variety is spectacular...and eco-friendly!

Without the color and pattern on the walls, this would be a very bland space!

(All wallpapers shown are available through Design Concepts)

Quote of the day...

2009-06-28T21:27:00.000-07:00

Good taste is the worst vice ever invented.

-Edith Sitwell

playhouse love

2009-06-24T19:19:00.000-07:00

This is a playhouse. That's right, I said playhouse.

All of these adorable things are to scale for children. How much would I have loved having little wing chairs and a fireplace as a kid?.... As much as I would have loved a red and white checkered floor! Yes, I was obsessed with decorating as a child too.

It may be a bit extreme for the average household (since it's probably bigger than most yards), but couldn't we even do a small version in the average woodshed? Wink, wink.

Found this image online...will have to research where- oops! I know it was built for a charity.

Inspiring Outdoor Spaces

2009-06-22T14:49:00.000-07:00

I love the turquiose wall screen as the pop of color with the black and white painted deck!
Hmmmmmmm...perhaps my own pool yard could use a makeover? I would like to use some of these touches: the hanging lanterns, the pots lining the wall, the floor pillows and sitting area under the umbrella...

I love the bench against the lattice covered wall...is it upholstered in moss or astroturf?

(designed by Miles Redd)

pin-ups

2009-06-18T10:13:00.000-07:00

I love a good bulletin board. This one resides in my office, and serves as the "inspiration board" for my mother's and my design projects. We tuck fabric swatches and paint colors under the ribbons, and pin photos of things we find inspirational. The neutral linen background makes it easy to see the goodies on the board. Our local upholsterer makes these for our clients often.

I would love to put this in a little girl's room. It is a chalkboard and a magnet board, and 3 of the magnets are photo frames...this is available through Design Concepts as well.

This tall chalkboard is 75" high, and I am using it on a current design project in the kitchen. It will lean against the wall in the breakfast nook for the kids to write on, or for grocery or "to do" lists.

I LOVE this space! The crazy white frame holds a magnetic board, also in white, used to pin up photos of all sorts. Note the powder blue leather chairs with the pink and white fabric inset in the backs, and the pink chandelier, all set off by the mocha wall color. (photo from July 2009 House Beautiful, by Francesco Lagnese)

This Color-Story board is in my store, and we change it seasonally. The current board consists of all eco-friendly products, fabrics, wallcoverings, etc.

A lovely weekend with family

2009-06-15T10:32:00.000-07:00

The days just seemed to get away from me this weekend...it was blissful.

First, was my daughter's Pre-K graduation ceremony. Of course we were proud, but the thing that struck me the most, was that she was so proud of herself! If I can raise a daughter in this world, to have a healthy self-esteem, and be conscious of the state of the world around her, I will feel as if I have truly done something good.
That day was followed by a Saturday free concert in the park of our small town. I count my blessings that we are so fortunate to live so near San Francisco and other cultural centers, but also to make our home in such a family-oriented community.

Sunday we made this easy, no-bake pie from the recipe we found in Bon Appetit. It was AMAZING!

Ingredients
7 oz chocolate wafer cookies (about 32), coarsely broken
1/2 cup bittersweet chocolate chips
6 tablespoons (3/4 stick) butter, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
1/4 cup sugar
1 14-ounce can sweetened condensed milk
1/4 cup crème fraîche
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon finely grated lemon peel
2 1/2 cups fresh raspberries (two 6-ounce containers)
Preparation
Place broken cookies in processor. Using on/off turns, process until finely ground. Place chocolate chips, butter, and sugar in microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high at 15-second intervals until melted, stirring occasionally. Add chocolate mixture to processor and blend until combined. Press crumb mixture onto bottom and up sides of 9-inch glass pie dish (do not pack firmly). Chill crust while preparing filling.
Whisk condensed milk, crème fraîche, lemon juice, and lemon peel in large bowl to blend. Add half of raspberries. Stir, pressing gently on some raspberries, until raspberries begin to break apart and filling turns pink. Transfer filling to crust. Chill until filling is set, about 2 hours.
Scatter remaining raspberries over pie. Cut into wedges and serve.

Did I tell you it was amazing?

Art Event to Attend

2009-06-10T14:35:00.000-07:00

Alexander's Fine Art, formerly Alexander's Main Street Gallery...welcomes you to their newly expanded location at 608 Main Street in the heart of downtown Pleasanton
SAVE THE DATE Join us for a Day of Inspiration Saturday, June 13th, 1 - 4 p.m.
REVIVE...REFRESH...REJUVENATE

Where Art and Ideas Come Together...
REVIVE your soul, REFRESH your home, REJUVENATE your senses

Our guest speakers:Interior Designer, Sandy Parbury of Design Concepts; and
Floral Designer, Phyllis Brady of Twigs & Ivy

Exhibiting work by new gallery artistsZhang Xin - Viktor Shvaiko - Robert Bissell - Daniel Gerhartz

If your house wore earrings...

2009-06-10T10:54:00.000-07:00

(by J. Clayton Ltd.)
(by Silhouette Furniture)

(by Lamps by Hilliard)

(by R. Jesse and Company)

(by Lightspann)

If I were a house, these would be my earrings... sparkly, silver, clusters of acrylic flowers. It's a fab pendant light fixture from Ironies. A pendant light can work in many locations in your home...in the foyer, over a dining or breakfast table, and in a living room with high ceilings it can add drama and flair. I am a lover of lighting design, from sconces to chandeliers, from bath lightbars to exterior fixtures. Like earrings do for an outfit, the right light fixture can add personality to your home. I hope you are inspired by some of the pendants, or perhaps you might want to wear them like I do? ;)

Hotel Missoni

2009-06-09T14:58:00.000-07:00

A new must see on the horizon for interior design and fashion-lovers...Hotel Missoni Edinburgh! I have always loved Missoni fashion. Even on my off-days when I am not feeling brave enough to actually wear it, I can always appreciate the textures, the weaves, and bold use of color.

Creative Director Rosita Missoni, together with Gordon McKinnon of Rezidor Hotel Group, designed and executed the first of several Hotel Missoni's to perfection. My fave touches are the Missoni bathrobes, slippers, toiletries, and signature fragrance!

FLOWER POWER

2009-06-09T10:41:00.000-07:00

With so much in bloom in the garden, the farmer's markets, even flowers growing on the side of the country roads, who can resist trying your hand at some original floral arrangements?

Start with a container that has character...one that will carry the theme and "story" your flowers will tell. Such a container might be a basket, wooden box, laquer pot, or terracotta urn. In each case, add oasis foam in a plastic liner to hold the vegetation and protect the container. You can work in other objects such as candles, wooden kitchen utensils, the lid to the container, etc. for interest. Wire them in place, or use kabob skewers to stabilize the items.

Arrangements are most effective when done in a limited color scheme. An example would be a simple white metal bucket or container and white flowers. Use flowers like vibernum, hemlock, hydrangeas, astromeria, and creamy white roses...all with their own leaves for the greenery. The result is casual, soft, and elegant all at the same time.

A "Tuscan" look can be established in a terracotta urn or compote with small cabbages and artichokes on long stems, green figs on stems with leaves, and succulents like "hens and chicks." Add green tulips for the soft flower power. Tuck in green moss over the oasis foam to fill in. The pros always let their flowers get a good, long drink of warm water after cutting the stems with a sharp knife.

Be brave! Be fearless! Be adventurous! Do not doubt yourself!...Enjoy the process, and the smiles of appreciation from everyone who sees your creations.

(Floral arrangements by Ron Morgan, photos by Pamela J, and Keith Lewis)

SITTING PRETTY

2009-06-09T10:23:00.000-07:00

My sister-in-law is expecting her first baby (a girl...woo hoo!), and fell in love with the Calla Highchair that she found on http://tinydecorblog.com/blog/. She is a fashionista in her own right, and this would be quite the fabulous statement in her kitchen.

CHILDREN'S DECOR

2009-06-08T16:35:00.000-07:00

http://tinydecorblog.com/blog/

My FAVE new blog for all things baby! If you have a child or grandchild in the family, and you have a passion for design, CHECK THIS OUT!

http://mycurlycue.com/ ...for the cutest wall graphics for a kid's room or nursery!

Color Theory

2009-06-08T14:17:00.000-07:00

Colors can affect your mood, attention span, and more...from an article in Mind, Mood, and Memory, May 2009:
RED- Stimulating; increases your blood pressure, pulse and respiration; energizes, increases attention and vigilance; promotes anxiety; improves memory; promotes interest in food and intimacy
ORANGE- Increases blood pressure, respiration, and heart rate; increases appetite; reduces fatigue; fosters sociability
YELLOW- Stimulates memory, awareness, and perception; raises pulse and respiration rates; engenders hope and optimism
GREEN- Soothing, relaxing, calming; reduces anxiety; fosters feeling of self-control
BLUE- Calming; increases happiness, boosts confidence and creativity; promotes risk-taking, cooling effect; lowers pulse and respiration
PINK-Soothing, tranquilizing; lowers anxiety; reduces aggression
BLACK- Relaxing; lowers blood pressure, respiration rates and pulse rates

Tip to create your own original art

2009-06-07T20:07:00.000-07:00

Remember making leaf prints in school?...well, even if you don't, I'll share with you a creative, inexpensive way to make beautiful, original artwork for your home.

Buy "sun-sensitive" paper (Try NATURE PRINT PAPER, from Moraga, CA). This paper chemically changes when it is exposed to sunlight, leaving a white outline image of whatever item you laid on top of it in the sun. Flat objects, like leaves, shells, and coral work best. They leave a dramatic image profile in white, and the paper around the item turns cobalt blue. This art works well in a bathroom, or beach house, or child's bedroom. Try it!

SUCCESS

2009-06-05T09:54:00.000-07:00

Our Spring Green/Art Event was a huge success! The turnout was fantastic, and exceeded our expectations. Good food, wine, and conversation was had by all. The green design display included items an interior designer could specify for you in a remodel...Cambria quartz countertops, recycled glass tiles, insulation made from recycled denim, information about the ReUse People (who dismantle houses and re-use the materials before a remodel or tear-down). Our art reps brought many pieces of beautiful art, and clients bought a lot of pieces right on the spot. All in all, a huge success!

ART SALE

2009-05-20T14:12:00.000-07:00

June 4th, 7-9pm...Huge trunk sale of our exclusive, original, art line! Beautiful pieces, at great prices! Art from traditional to abstract. Designers will be on hand to help with custom framing options if needed.

Spring Green Event, eco-friendly products

2009-05-20T14:07:00.000-07:00

View our invitation to the Spring Green Event on this blog. We will have samples to touch, and tear-sheets to hand out on various eco-friendly products that we deem design-worthy! ...aka, things we think are beautiful and smart. We, as designers, are constantly educating ourselves on the latest trends and developments in the "green" product market, so we can keep our clients on the track to safe, healthy, home environments.

Our location

2009-05-20T13:55:00.000-07:00

Design Concepts :: Interior Design: "Address:
3235 Danville Blvd.
Alamo, Ca 94507.
Phone: 925-837-9188."

Our designers

2009-05-20T13:54:00.000-07:00

Design Concepts :: Interior Design:
Lea Bartneck
Briman Wallior
Judy Bostrom
Jeff Culbertson
Susan Dargis
Jill Durst
Leslie Firth
Jan Galletly
Sandy Parbury
Barbara Park
Rachelle Cuny

VISIT OUR STORE

2009-05-20T13:47:00.000-07:00

Design Concepts :: Interior Design: "Visit Our Store:
Design Concepts specializes in custom furnishings and unique home décor.
Address:
3235 Danville Blvd.
Alamo, Ca 94507.
Phone: 925-837-9188."

Design Concepts :: Interior Design

2009-05-20T13:46:00.001-07:00

Design Concepts :: Interior Design: "Working With Us:
We are a group of independent self-employed designers, who have chosen to join each other in the spirit of collaboration. We share resources and samples as well as design tips and experiences. This enables us to continually broaden our perspectives on interior design, and allows us the unique benefit of professional growth through sharing our knowledge and experiences with each other. To select a designer from Design Concepts is a different experience than you will find almost anywhere else. We are a group of nine talented and diverse personalities. We pride ourselves on being inventive yet practical designers who are able to employ our experience, expertise, and talents to create appropriate environments for our clients.
Since our firm was established in 1977, it has worked hard at developing and cultivating relationships with our vendors. We are able to buy many of the furniture, accessory, lighting, and flooring lines we carry directly from the manufacturer, rather than a showroom like many designers are forced to do. This enables us to pass along the perks of our buying power to our clients. We work with many artists and contractors whose services allow us to create the unique environments our clients crave. We pride ourselves on our ability to provide so many wonderful professional resources."

Design Services

2009-05-20T13:46:00.000-07:00

Design Concepts :: Interior Design: "Design Services:
By selecting one of our designers, you have chosen someone to handle every aspect of your home project. We provide a range of services from designing your ideal home environment, to purchasing, expediting, and general project management. Most of our designers offer an initial complimentary consultation in our design studio, allowing us to discuss your project and ideas in person. An in-home consultation fee varies from one designer to the next. After the initial consultation, the working relationship between each designer and client will usually be specified with a Letter of Agreement and a Retainer. Please feel free to call to discuss the details further with a specific designer."

What we do...

2009-05-20T13:42:00.000-07:00

Design Concepts :: Interior Design: "Since 1977, Design Concepts has been dedicated to providing the best personal service to the discriminating buyer. Design Concepts is a full-service interior design firm specializing in mid to high-end residential and commercial interiors. Each of our projects are custom designed to meet each of our clients’ unique tastes and needs. From the blueprint stage to the completion of a project, for one room, or for a total environment, Design Concepts can help you fulfill your vision for your home. Choose from any of our designers and feel confident that you have selected someone who knows how to listen, interpret, and implement the dreams you have for your home.
Feel free to drop by our intimate showroom to meet a designer, for a quick tour, or simply to browse through our ever-changing assortment of furniture and accessories. Remember, Design Concepts can help you with residential and commercial interior design, space planning, color coordination, fine furniture, accessories and art, window treatments, floor coverings, lighting, and more!"

DESIGN CONCEPTS SPRING GREEN EVENT

2009-05-20T13:12:00.000-07:00

DESIGN CONCEPTS SPRING GREEN EVENT

JUNE 4TH, 7-9PM

HOTTEST TRENDS IN GREEN DESIGN

-Learn about eco-friendly design

and the newest green products

VIEW EXCLUSIVE ORIGINAL ART LINE

-Traditional to abstract art

"ONCE IN A GREEN MOON" ART SALE

-Huge trunk show of beautiful pieces at

incredible prices

REFRESHMENTS AND FUN - BRING FRIENDS

RSVP by June 2 to (925)837-9188 or

designalamooffice@sbcglobal.net

Please bring a donation of non-perishable food

to benefit the Monument Crisis Center

WWW.DESIGNCONCEPTSALAMO.COM

3235 DANVILLE BLVD, ALAMO, CA 94507