Perfect Pillow Pairings

The right balance of pattern, color, scale and texture!

Crate and Barrel Beaded Pillow, Z Gallerie Elton Pillow, Crate and Barrel Cozy Yellow Pillow

Pier 1 Cabana Geometric Pillow, West Elm Love Bird Pillow, Cost Plus World Market China Garden Floral Pillow

 Etsy Blue and Grey Chevron Pillow, Etsy Blue Floral Pillow, Home Decorators Delaney Pillow

Etsy Geometric Floral Pillow, Etsy Black and White Trellis Pillow, Etsy Black and White Houndstooth Pillow

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Decorating Inside and Out

 I’ve been busy working on a design project that involves several rooms of a home.  The homeowners want a front porch space that is welcoming, cozy and filled with personality.  Here’s a peek at some of the design elements for the space.

The client already has white rockers which work beautifully with their craftsman style home.  We are looking to keep the space fairly neutral and bring in depth through strong patterns, warm colors and lots of natural finishes. 

As you move into the living room of the home, the colors will become richer and more saturated, again using textures and patterns for visual warmth and interest.  I’m loving the mix of rich red and grey paired with antique gold and warm wood tones.   

It’s always fun to create a design plan that will truly transform a house into a home.

If you’d like help creating a home you absolutely love, CONTACT ME about my design services.

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5 Decorating Rules I (almost) Never Break

I bet every morning when you get up you brush your teeth, get dressed and eat something for breakfast.  These things are rituals in your life not only because they are necessary but because they make you feel better and set the stage for a productive day.  Just like your daily rituals, there are design rules or rituals that I think are necessary to get the most from your home and your décor.  These are the little things that bring out the best in the features of your home, the flow of your home, the function of your home and the style of your décor.  Whenever I am designing or decorating for clients, I try to always follow these rules, because they work and because the end results are always good!

NEVER GO NAKED! 

With your windows that is!  I am a firm believer that most, if not all windows and the rooms they are in are enhanced by some type of window treatment.  Curtain panels add softness and can enhance the size of a room while valances, blinds or shades can add pattern, color and texture and that finishing touch that a room needs.  Straight curtain panels are my window treatment of choice and hanging them as high as possible is always the way!

for more window treatment ideas, check out my Curtain Call board on Pinterest

TAKE TIME TO REFLECT

And adding mirrors into your design mix is they way to do it.  I’ve said it time and again here on the blog that mirrors are a wonder drug when it comes to decorating.  Mirrors add light, they make small spaces look bigger, they enhance the good things in your décor and take the attention off the bad.  Adding a mirror opposite a window, above a mantle or on the wall across from artwork is a great way to reflect the beauty inside and out.

For these and other decorating ideas using mirrors, take a look at my Mirror, Mirror on the Wall board

ALWAYS PUT YOUR FEET UP

Yes I want you to create a comfortable home where you can put your feet up and relax but I also want you to make sure that the feet (front legs) or your furniture sits on the area rug that you have down.  This simple design principle will make your furniture arrangement feel more unified and connected and the will feel warmer and cozier too!

The Wrong Way…the sofa feels disconnected from the coffee table and the open space creates a visual barrier

The Right Way…

 COLOR INSIDE THE LINES

Just about every bookcase I work with, whether free-standing or built-in gets paint or a decorative treatment on the back wall.  Painting the backs of bookcases is an easy way to add color and drama to a room.  And it’s an inexpensive design treatment that packs a punch.  The rule of thumb I follow when painting bookcases it to paint the back wall only, not the side or the shelf.  The color on the back will draw the eye in and help the decorative elements stand out.

There are so many ways to decorate a bookcase and I’ve got all the inspiration captured on my Bookcase Beauties board on Pinterest!

ENCOURAGE A BREAK-UP

Some things like furniture sets are better alone than part of a group, so when you have the chance break-up the set.  While furniture stores create sets to make it easy for people to envision how the furniture will look in a room, their “set formula” doesn’t allow much room to create a unique personality for a space.  Often times a room decorated with a set of furniture comes off contrived and over powering. When I’m working with a client that is drawn to a set of furniture I focus on the piece (or two) that they like best within the set. Then I pull pieces from other sources and stores to work with those pieces, creating a more personalize look.  For a dining room, the table or the sideboard is usually the key piece to work around.  For a living room or family room, the sofa or coffee table can set the tone for the décor. For the most personality filled space it is also a good idea to break up the finishes that are used within a room.  A room with nothing but dark stained wood pieces will always look dark and heavy.  Try incorporating metal, fabric and painted finishes to change the vibe and lighten things up.

The Wrong Way…not only does the lack of color variation feel stale, but the design detail in the set is over-powering the other elements in the room.

The Right Way…

This bedroom still maintains its traditional style even with the addition of a more contemporary mirrored nightstand and metallic pouf!  These non-traditional elements add interest without disturbing the tone of the room.

Texture, Variety, Interest

Breaking these rules in not harmful to your health but it can cause a mild case of design style deterioration!

Other Post you might like:

My Ten Commandments of Interior Design

Design Tips to Live By

Space Planning

If you’d like help creating a home you absolutely love, CONTACT ME about my design services!

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How to Decorate your Home with Confidence

In my years of owning a home décor store, designing and writing this blog, I can honestly say that one of the major pitfalls the average person has when it comes to decorating their homes is a lack of confidence.  As a designer, I not only have studied my craft but was fortunate enough to be blessed with a good sense of style and design which have been invaluable in my work.  Even with all that going for me, I still follow a set of simple rules when it comes to designing for clients and myself.  These are the rules you need to know to Decorate Your Home with Confidence!

You Need a Vision:  You need to decide how you want the space to feel, look and function AND determine what you like and don’t like in design! 

Easier said than done but this step is critical in creating a design for your home that will not only feel good but look good as well.  This may require you to live in your home for a while and let it speak to you.  What style do you want to create for your home and what colors feel right in your home? What elements do you want to play up  and/or take the focus off of?  Knowing how you want a space to look and feel is all part of the design plan and design vision.

You Need a Plan:  How is the space being used or to be used? What items that you already own stay or go? What pieces of furniture do you want/need in the space?

Creating a plan not only in your head but on paper will help you embrace and execute your design plan in every detail.  Draw the space as you envision it, tape off the floor where furniture pieces will go and move things around until the flow and layout feel right.  You can read more of my tips on Space Planning here.

You Need a Starting Point:  Now is not the time to go out and buy any and everything you like.   You need to start with the pieces that will make the most impact in a room.

The best starting point for your design is the selection of the rug, larger art pieces and the sofa. Think of these as the foundation to your design.

 Choose your area rug, large artwork and main furniture piece first…

then select the paint colors that will work with them.  Rarely does it work to select a paint color first and then search for pieces to work with the color.

You Need to Evaluate: Once all the major pieces are in place and the walls are painted, take a step back and evaluate what you’ve done so far. 

Change anything you don’t like,  make adjustments to the floor plan and decide what other elements are needed to allow the space to meet your expectations.  Simply put, if you don’t like something, change it.

You Need to Personalize:  This is where the fun and magic happen.  Personalizing your design plan is what will make it come to life and feel complete.

 Add photos, textiles, books and accessories.  Surround yourself with the things you love and the things that will allow you to relax and enjoy your home.

AND finally, You Need to Enjoy Your Home! 

Make it  a priority this year to spend time with friends and family in your home.  Enjoy the comforts it provides and let is nourish your soul!

Developing a confident attitude when it comes to decorating your home is as simple as envisioning, planning, executing and putting your personal stamp on the look and feel!

If you need help creating a home you love, CONTACT ME to schedule your personal design consultation.  If you live outside the Atlanta area my DOOR-TO-DOOR E-Design service is for you!

For more design inspiration, be sure to Like ConfettiStyle on Facebook, follow on Pinterest and show us some tweet love on Twitter!

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Layering Rugs: The Pros and Cons

Over the last f=years or so, one of the hot decorating trends has been the look of layering rugs on top of each other.  While I personally love the look, I also recognize that there are a few PROS and CONS  and RULES OF THUMB when it come to designing with layered rugs.

 

RULES OF THUMB:

*  Layering works best when the patterned rug is on top of a solid colored rug.

*  Layered rugs function best when the under rug has a pile of 1/2″ or less.

*  Layered rugs look best when the textures compliment each other rather than fight each other.

*  To get the best look from your layered rug, pick a rug at least 18″ to 24″ larger than the rug that will sit on top of it.  The under rug will help frame the smaller rug.

*  To layer multiple rugs with different patterns…seek the help of a professional designer.  This look is really had to pull off and in most cases will look like a mistake.

 

PROS:

* In large rooms, layered rugs can help to literally and visually warm up the space.  Think of it just as you would clothing in the winter….layers add warmth and a coziness!

*  In high traffic areas or main living spaces, layering a rug over wall to wall carpeting can be a great way to protect it from spills and stains. 

*  If you happened to have concrete or tile floors, layered rugs will add cushion and make living in the space more comfortable.

*  Layered rugs can help define living space and create a focal point with large open rooms.

*  Layered rugs can add that punch of pattern and/or color that’s needed to bring a room to life. 

*  Layering rugs can save your money.  Rather than splurge on a large oriental or patterned rug, use a solid colored sisal or jute rug as the under layer and add a smaller version of your patterned rug on top.  You’ll still get the benefit of the design without the added cost.

 

CONS:

*  Layering over higher pile rugs can cause the top rug to buckle and not lay flat…a trippng hazard!

*  In some rooms that get lots of natural sunlight, the exposed space of the under rug can fade over time and create a contrast with the rug space that has been covered up by the top rug. 

*  Layering multiple patterns together can create that “I ran out of rug” look if not done correctly!

 

Here are a few awesome examples of  layering done right and one example of that I think is not such a great look. 

Enjoy and be inspired to layer!

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Don’t always think that the top rug has to be laid the same direction as the bottom rug.  Angle that top rug to add an eclectic feel.

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I love the two textures mixed together…subtle but complimentary.

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This is a great example of using that top rug to bring in a little color and pattern.  The larger rug fills the space and frames the smaller rug perfectly.

 

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Not only does the layering of these rugs help to defined the space but the placement and sizes used connect the two seating areas together making the space feel as one!

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Another great example of using a layered rug to help define a small space within a larger room. 

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Without the top rug, the bottom rug would just blend in with the wall color. The addition of the patterned rug on top adds the right amount of interest and personality!

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Cowhide or Zebra rugs (real or faux) are a really popular option of layering not only because they add a shape contrast but because they add an element of style.

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This look is a great example of when two patterned rugs work together when layered.  The bottom rug is a larger, open and geometric pattern while the zebra rug plays up the same colors but with a more defined, intricate pattern.  The contrast works in harmony.

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And then this look…multiple patterns and colors that just don’t seem to work well together.  I get wanting to create an eclectic look for the space but it comes off looking like a jumbled mess in my book.

 

So what do you think….is the layered look for you or not? 

If you’re not quite sure yet, here’s some advice from two of Americas top designers that might sway you.

 

“I like the warm, deep-comfort look of smaller rugs laid right on top of wall-to-wall carpet. The smaller rug could be a bigger-scale pattern…or a needlepoint, or a beautiful Oriental,” said Billy Baldwin (1903-1984), in Billy Baldwin Decorates (1972).

Layering rugs, like layering clothes, adds texture, color, and dimension. The effect is “calm and warm,” says interior designer Suzanne Rheinstein, owner of Hollyhock, a Los Angeles home store.

 

 

If you’d like help creating a home you absolutely love, CONTACT ME about my in-home design services or my DOOR-TO-DOOR e-design service.

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My Fall Table + {a few Tablescape Tips}

Boy am I loving this cooler weather.  It has really gotten me in the spirit of FALL and all the decorating that comes with the season.  Last week I showed you a sneak peak of my fall dining table and shared a few creative ideas of decorating your table with dinner napkins.  Well, I’m glad to say that I’ve finished up my table and can’t wait to share it with you. I really love the way it turned out.

The inspiration for my fall table came from Sarah at Upscale Downhome and her use of wool plaid blankets on the dining table of screen porch.  I loved the look she created and just when I thought I’d have to hit the thrift stores looking for blankets, I remembered I had one of my dad’s in the back of my car. 

When it comes to decorating my dining table I usually opt for table runners versus tablecloths so I folded my plaid blanket and placed it across the center of the table.  It provided the perfect pop of pattern and color I needed for the rest of my decor.

Once the blanket was in place I created my centerpiece using items I had stored, sitting around the house or had found thrifting.  The centerpiece consists of a brass urn I found thrifting for $5.00, faux pumpkins and gourds, leaf branches and flower stems from the craft store and pinecones from my home state of Washington.

I collected the pinecones in Seattle  and brought them to Atlanta when we moved here 12 years ago.    The pinecones in Washington are typically larger than the ones you can find here in Atlanta so they provide lots of impact when you use them to decorate. They have traveled across the country still look great.

 I nestled all the pieces together on the center of the blanket and then added votive candles around the edges.  The flower filled urn is sitting on top of a stack of vintage books to give it more height.

 There are a few DIY velvet pumpkins with real stems added in giving the entire arrangement more texture and depth.

I used a pair of tall ceramic candlesticks to flank  each end of the centerpiece arrangement.

 

 To create my place settings I used the brown alligator textured chargers I bought at Hobby Lobby in April, on sale for $1.59 each.  I love the texture they add!

  I then layered my white china on top. The dinner plate is the china from my wedding and the smaller plate is my moms wedding china which she gave me a few years ago. Her pattern has an embossed flower detail on it while mine is plain.  I love that they work together.

Next I added gold-plated silverware that has been in our family and was given to me by my mom a few months ago.  The mix of silver and gold adds another layer of visual interest. 

Then as a whimsical touch to the table, I pulled out a vintage scrabble set I found thrifting and created a different sentiment to sit at the head of each plate. 

The napkin was the finishing touch.

 Here’s my creative touch with dinner napkins.  I was having a hard time figuring out what I wanted to do with my napkins and then it came to me late last night (ok, about 2:30 this morning when I couldn’t sleep)…a   simple napkin fold and the addition of vintage pins!

Seems that I’ve amassed a collection of vintage leaf pins so I thought why not use them on my fall table.  

I folded the opposite ends of the napkin towards the center and attached a different pin to each napkin. Again, I made it a point to mix gold silver and even threw in a bronze pin for more color.

 Here’s a close-up of the dinner plates and the leaf bowl I placed in the center.  The leaf bowls are from Creative Co-op and are just darling! Those acorns are from my weekend walks in Piedmont Park.

  A little touch of nature never hurts!

{p.s.  the leaf bowls would also be great to hold dessert or condiments, or even make a cute soap dish in the powder room}

 

 So there you have it,  my Fall 2012 Tablescape!!! 

 

If you are planning your fall table decor, here are a few tips for creating a dynamic tablescape:

*  Find one item that can serve as the jumping off point for your table decor.  Use it to pull your color story together and to decide the style of your table.  In my case, the blanket was the inspiration piece and all the colors and textures I used played against the wool of the blanket.

*  Create a focal point with your centerpiece and then let the rest of your decor flow out from there.  It is always a good idea to create height with your centerpiece either with the height being the middle elements or the outer element.

*  Make sure your tablescape has depth vertically and horizontally…layer from the bottom up and from side to side.  My centerpiece provided the vertical depth and layering and the blanket and  place setting provided the horizontal impact.

*  Candles are a must…they add ambience and everyone looks great under candlelight!

*  Personalize your place settings.  Use place cards, napkins or decorative element in the center of the plate to add the personality to your table.

*  Mix and Match to make the table come to life.  While most of my table decor is on the casual side I loved mixing in some refined china and silverware and using a combination of silver and gold finishes.  The perfect mix of rough luxe!

and finally,

*  Layer, Layer, Layer!  I’ve mentioned this before in several post but can’t stress enough how much layering will enhance your tablescape. 

 

Thanks for stopping by. I hope you are enjoying FALL as much as I am! 

 

 

 If you’d like help creating a home you absolutely love, CONTACT ME about my design services or check-our my Door-to-Door e-design service for those living outside Atlanta.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Anatomy of a Hallway Vignette

One of my favorite parts of designing a space is creating a special vignette…in, along or at the end of a hallway.  These spaces are the perfect spot to step outside the box and create a display that is artful, electic, serene or simply a showcase space for things you love.

 

Lamps are always great as part of a Hallway Vignette.  Go big and bold to make an impact.

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A mirror hung above a hallway table is a great way to create a vignette that draws you eye up!

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An eclectic wall statement will make your HallwayVignette come to life.  Mixing shapes keeps the wall grouping interesting.

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Who says asymmetrical is always best for a Hallway Vignette.  I love how the coat hooks draw your eye down the wall but still feel connected to the tabletop vignette.

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Don’t forget that space under the table in your Hallway Vignette.  A single item or a grouping of items will add to the overall arrangement.

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Group items you love or things that reflect our personality and interest.  A Hallway Vignette is a perfect place to get personal.

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The simple addition of a chair can turn your Hallway Vignette into an intimate sitting area.

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And, if you really want to think outside the box, replace a table with something fun and unexpected like a grouping of DIYchairs!

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Now that Fall is here, it just might be the perfect time to give your Hallway Vignette a fresh look!

Happy Decorating!

 

 

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Inspiration from a Design and Fashion Idol

While I’ve spent a little time recouping from my surgery, I’ve had a chance to watch all the shows I had recorded on my DVR.  Amongst the long list of Oprah shows, Dance Moms (guilty pleasure) and Housewives of NYC were all the episodes of Sarah’s House with none other than on of my design idols Sarah Richardson.  I don’t know if you had a chance to watch but this series was noting short of fabulous.  Sarah and her charming side kick Tommy design the most stunning and livable rooms ever.  I love Sarah’s esthetic, her use of color and how she

Here are my favorite looks from this season of Sarah’s House.

 

 

Love the industrial mix that makes up this vignette.

 

The softness of this room gives off such a relaxing feel.  Although it’s a tad on the formal side it looks very approachable.

 

Stunning grey and white kitchen.  I’m loving the look of multiple paint finishes on kitchen cabinets.

 

 Great pattern mixing! And that coffee table looks like a fun DIY project.

 

This cute little work space has lots of character!

 

A beautiful entrance!

 

The black cabinet really helps to add depth to this space and the artwork collage helps the TV to blend in.

 

The white wall ( created with moulding and paint) is a brilliant way to create a focal point and frame out the bed/headboard.

 

Love this furniture turned vanity and the unexpected style sink.

 

I adore, adore, ADORE this wallpaper!  A powder room is the perfect place for this intricate and whimsical pattern.

 

A front view of the entry.  I really like that Sarah used different element on each side of the chest to make the space less predictable.

 

The perfect fabric for these chairs.

 

This kitchen and eating area is just amazing. And check out the stained table base with the painted wood top and painted chairs.  So fresh! 

 Every kitchen need a mini frig/wine cooler.  Love the tiered layout of the island, making each work are distinct.

 Pretty and quaint! 

 This is an awesome craft space!  Love the paint treatment on the ceiling and all the organizational elements from IKEA!

 

My next sofa purchase will be grey!  I so love this color palette!

 

A great example of mixing finishes! 

Who wouldn’t love this bathroom.  Those hexagon mirrors are to-die-for!

To learn more about Sarah Richardson and see more of her stunning design work head to her website and check out her Facebook page.  And, to learn why I love her personal style read this post!  Sarah’s not only one of my design idols but she’s also one of my fashion idols!

I hope you are as inspired as I am!

 

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