Thursday, May 26

My Favorite Color

When someone asks me what my favorite color is, it's very hard for me to say.  I love them all.  When I go into The Home Depot, I often just stand in front of the Behr display taking in all of the colors and shades.  I suppose if I had to choose just one color, it would be a light shade of blue.  I love it when paired with many colors, including chocolate brown.

A mood board, created by Sarah G.
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I know, this color isn't on the cutting edge of design, and has been done a million times, but I always find myself attracted to it.  I associate it to a summer sky, or the crystal clear waters in some tropical paradise.  When paired with the tan's and browns, maybe that is the straw huts jetting over those crystal clear waters, or even the pier.  Like so many have said, nature is the best way to look for cutting edge colors, because after all, Mother Nature was the original artist.

Layering Light in Interiors

Kichler Systems 
Good lighting isn't just something to work toward as an Interior Designer, it should be a goal for every project, every time.  It is equally as important as the right fitting sofa, or the perfect pallet of colors, and the right mix of textures.  So, here is a run down of how to achieve lighting perfection, for any project, every time.

The Layers
Optimal lighting is achieved using different layers of light. Each layer has its own purpose, and each is equally important. Each layer should have its own stand alone control or switch.  This way, you can control or dim each layer independently.  When creating your mechanical or lighting plan, show all three layers of lighting.  So what are the three layers, what is their purpose, and how do I get that great lighting effect?

Ambient 
Ambient lighting is just that, ambient.  It is also sometimes called general room lighting or background lighting.  Ambient lighting shouldn't be the only lighting put into a room. Your general lighting should be used to brighten the room.  Be sure to use the right fixtures, and the right amout of light.  Though it is background lighting, it still is the light source most often used, and the proper fixtures and amount of light needs to be used.  Good examples of ambient light include recessed can's, ceiling mounted lighting fixtures, chandeliers, and even pendant lights.

Task 
Kitchler Lighting Modular 2.0 Tape
Task lighting is the second layer, and is also a very important light source in rooms like kitchens and baths. Task light is just that, lighting directly used for the tasks in a room.  Task lighting increases viability in heavily used work areas, like countertops, for efficient and safe use.  Good examples of task light sources include under cabinet lights.  An example of  under cabinet lighting is Kichler Lighting's Modular LED Pick Lights,

Accent
Accent lighting is just that, an accent, adding beauty to any space, and can often double as a night light.  Accent lighting can be used to accentuate art, like the Kichler Lighting Fixed Rail 4Lt LED, or along the baseboard of cabinetry.  I even saw some interesting installations at KBIS, including under a countertop, to light the edge of the surface.  

When searching for Task and Accent Lights, check out Kichler's line of LED Tape.  And if you are looking for more information on light layering, here are a few more resources:

 - Kichler Lighting - "Learn about Lighting - Light Layering" 
 - Residential Lighting - A Practical Guide to Beautiful and Sustainable Design 

KBIS Show Highlights

The Kitchen and Bath Industry Show is like a large playground for any Kitchen and Bath Designer.  The product is not limited to the kitchen and bath, but it is geared toward that market.  Here is some of the product I found most amazing, and can't wait to use in my designs.

Textures - Cedros, Blocks on Point

Wall paper is back, and Vahallan Papers is an amazing product, with great installation techniques and looks.  One look at their product gallery will tell you, this isn't your mothers wall paper.  With several options of colors, patterns, textures, and weaves, this product is versatile, and unique.  Vahallan Papers was established in 1997, and is currently distributed in over 25 countries.  

Through the gallery, and after looking at their product application, these papers aren't even installed the same way your mother's wall paper was installed.  They can be torn and installed in sections, as blocks, circles, etc.  Because of the custom hand painted texture and patterns, these papers shouldn't be installed in the traditional manner.  The installation patterns that are recommended by Vahallan include: Random Torn, Asymmetric Block, Symmetric Block, and Circles.  

The feedback I received from several designers at the very busy and crowded Vahallan booth, was excitement over wall paper, and the unique look and feel.  The designers were experiencing love at first sight with this amazing product, that can easily be used all over the house, not just in the kitchen and bath.  



Brianna Vessel Sink in Black Nickel

I have always been completely obsessed with unique glass products, and JSG Oceana creates great decorative products for the Kitchen and Bath, including lavatory sinks, vessel sinks, kitchen and bar sinks, tile, medallions, and other decorative glass products. Their color scheme is truly unique, including 24K Gold or Platinum.  The sinks can be transparent, opaque, or translucent, and can range in thicknesses.  

JSG Oceana is located in Jeanette, PA, and was founded in 1904, and all of their product is made in the U.S.A.  The sinks are made with a product called "Hard Roc" which has several great benefits to any home owner.   The first benefit is, Hard Roc is more scratch and stain resistant than Porcelain or Stainless Steel, which is great when used in a Kitchen or Bath.  Hard Roc is also non porous, so it won't absorb chemicals or liquids.  The JSG Oceana Sinks are also thermal shock resistant, which is great for kitchen use.  These products are all made using recycled glass and are recyclable, lead free, and Green.   


Think Glass - Artistic Kitchen Countertop

I have already said, I love glass!  ThinkGlass is a great solution, which has custom colors, shapes, and more.  This material can be used in the kitchen and bath as a counter or bar top, including floating bar tops.  ThinkGlass can even be used outdoors and on back splashes. Other areas of use you can find ThinkGlass include commercial installations such as bar's and nightclub's, restaurants and even in health care, such as reception desks, and in doctors offices and examination rooms.  This product can also be used in murals, sculpture, furniture, flooring, and even on walls in fountains and windows.  If you can dream it up, and draw it, they can probably make it.  
JP Paury Pastry Fountain by ThinkGlass

I saw their fountain located at the JP Maury Pastry at the Bellagio Hotel in Las Vegas, and was fascinated.  It is a dark and light chocolate fountain as a window display, and to me, is more amazing that Willy Wonka's Factory.  When going to Las Vegas, this is a definite must see.   





Tile shower bases are great, but hot mopping is not.  Enter Tile Redi Shower Bases.  These bases are designed to be tiled over, and a great alternative to hot mopping.  This product is a One-Piece module that is pre-formed, molded, with fully integrated drains and curbs, splash walls, and pitching.  They are leak-proof and mold-free.  They require no additional on-site waterproofing.  They are easy to install, requiring no mud base, no hot mop or vinyl liners.   Their product includes Single Curb Shower Pans, Bathtub Replacement, and Barrier Free.  Tile Redi also has designer drain covers, shampoo and soap niche's, and custom shower pans.  These easy to install products are great for designers, contractors, hospitality, and even as a DIY for home owners.  

Friday, May 20

What a Chandelier!

Lui' Suspension by SLAMP @ Lumens
I have always thought that chandeliers were too formal, and didn't have their place in most homes, just in formal  multi million dollar mansions.  However, recently, I am seeing more and more contemporary chandeliers that are stunningly beautiful, and can fit in almost any interior, no matter the decor, even in more casual environments.  Chandeliers are becoming fun, modern, and one of my favorite pieces to look for and find for the interiors and projects that I work on.  Not only are they a great source of light, but they can also be a focal or art piece, right there, hanging in the center of the room.

Tips for finding a chandelier:  Be sure it's the right size for the room.  It's great to have the dimensions of the room handy when looking for a new chandelier.  If the fixture is too small, it will get lost, and if it is too large, it will over power the room.  You want to also be sure it doesn't hang too low in a room, and provide an obstacle for taller visitors.

Bellasera by Minka Lavery @ Lumens 
Though yes, those crystal pieces are still absolutely stunning, and I love to see them placed.  They look great in dining rooms, entry ways, almost anywhere.  I love the way the light picks up on all of the intricate glass pieces, and the way they sparkle.  The more and more I visit showrooms like Lumens and Ferguson's, I realize that those lovely crystal pieces I always thought were too formal for most houses, are starting to lend themselves to more casual interiors.   Chandeliers also have found a home not only in the formal rooms like formal dining and entry ways, but also bedrooms and even bathrooms.

So, you want to get a chandelier now right?  Do you want to know where I go to look at lighting?  Some of my favorite places include Lumens Light + Living, Kichler Lighting, and Cartier Lighting, just to name a few.   Also, be sure to check out Chandelier Tips to be sure you select the right sized fixture for your space.

Thursday, May 19

Color Optional [Part 2]

Modern Elegance

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After my previous post Color Optional, I have seen more and more interest in the Black and White spectrum, and am even currently working with a client on a Black and White kitchen.  The above picture, is an Olio! Moodboard I created to demonstrate how complete a design can be.  I do have some colored paint samples in there to bring in a little color, which corresponds with the greenery of the flowers and foliage.  Even if the walls are painted white, color can be brought in with flowers, which you can change out at any time.  Though flowers are often expensive, you can either grow them in your own yard, or get them from places like the grocery store, or flower delivery companies like ProFlowers.com.   (Note: if you have pets, be sure to avoid poisonous flowers and plants.  Click Here for a list of pet friendly plants.)  

One of my favorite aspects of this room is that wall paper.  Instead of just white walls, why not bring in some decorative accents using wall paper in white and black patterns?  I also love the textured black pillows, and the fun shapes of the vases, tables, and chairs.  Also, mirrored elements like tables, mirrors, and accessories create more fun and interest.  Just look at the chest of drawers, and the chandelier!     

Tuesday, May 17

Technology Spotlight: Google SketchUp

For the past few years I keep hearing about this free drafting program available through Google, and think, how good can it be? After all, it is free right? I even downloaded it multiple times and just never quite got it.  I could never figure out how to control the camera angles, and how to create more detail.  It was just too difficult for me.

I must say, after attending this years Kitchen and Bath Industry show, and attending a Google SketchUp demonstration, I quickly realized, I was wrong.  I realized that SketchUp really is a powerful program.  Even though the demo was very quick, and based mostly on Product Connect, which I will talk about later, just seeing the samples made me realize that this free piece of software can do a lot more than I had originally though.

Google SketchUp, on it's own, is a 3D drafting tool that can create models as simple as a table, or as complex as an apartment building or shopping mall.  The program also has many third party developers such  who create Plug Ins to enhance the program for your specific needs and uses, and make it more compatible with other programs you have.  There are also Ruby Scripts, which also enhance SketchUp though programming, but don't worry, this is pretty easy.  While SketchUp has it's free and Pro licenses of the software, most of the plug ins and Ruby Scripts are free also.  One Plug In that I got to experience at KBIS was Product Connect by Igloo Studios.  This tool creates schedules based on items you use in the model such as plumbing fixtures, cabinets, windows and doors, etc.

Another fun feature of Google SketchUp, is the 3D Warehouse, where you can go and either share, or download, 3D models for the program.  So for example, if you have your eye on a certain Kohler Sink and don't want to try drawing it yourself, go into the 3D Warehouse, and import it directly into your drawing.  Many of these models speak directly to Product Connect, so it works out even better when trying to generate that schedule or shopping list for that new bathroom your designing.  This is especially helpful when trying to design a kitchen.  You can just import your cabinets, instead of drawing each one separately.  You can also upload your designs and view them right on Google Earth.

Thinking about taking SketchUp for a spin, be sure to check out the training section on the web site, watch the video's, read through the tutorials, and be sure to download the Reference Card, so you know what all those buttons mean.  Also while at KBIS, I met Mike Tadros, who wrote a great book that is an excellent training resource, Real World Google SketchUp 7.

Do I need Pro?  Well, if your a home owner just playing around with finishes, possible additions and remodeling, the free version works great.  One of the great features on the Pro version ($495) is the ability to save your drawings in multiple formats, as well as a license to Google Layout, which along with many other features, gives you the ability to arrange your drawings onto construction documents.   

Friday, May 6

The D-I-Y Diva takes The Orange Box

I don't know if anyone else has noticed, the orange box is turning a little powder blue inside. The amount of products lining the shelves of your local Home Depot are more and more by the D-I-Y Diva herself, Martha Stewart. It seems as though every department has some contribution. Now whether your a designer or a D-I-Yer, here is how MSL can help you coordinate, all in one place. 

I will start first on the kitchen. As we all know, Martha Stewart Cabinetry is available only at The Home Depot, and also includes MSL specific Corian™ colors which coordinate with the cabinetry.  Now, the MSL line of cabinets are inspired by kitchens owned by Martha herself. There is also a variety of cabinet hardware, and of course, the cabinets are welcome in the bathroom.

The next department selling products by Martha include the paint department.  Now of course we see the Behr Premium Ultra paint and primer in one, but you also have a large selection of Martha inspired paints.  Be sure to check out the symbols on the corner of the paint chip. These symbols help you coordinate colors of paint together along with cabinets, counter top's, and even the wide selection of patio furniture.  The paint is available in all of the popular sheen's you are used to, and they even have sample sizes for you to to try out.

The MSL Coordination symbols. 
That brings us to the last department sporting the most Martha products, garden. Of course the D-I-Y Diva is found in the garden area.  Like I said before, she has a wits variety of patio furniture available, both on stock and online.  Now this isn't just table and chair sets, this is full on outdoor living at its finest. Couches, coffee tables, chaise loungers, a whole outdoor living space experience.  The coloring of the furniture and cushions coordinate with the colors of her other collections, and like I stated previously, help a D-I-Yer create a whole living space that flows well, with minimal help.

Not only does Martha Stewart have great products to spruce up your house, but to help keep it clean too.  Me sure to check by The Home Depot cleaning aisle to see Martha Stewart's line of cleaning products that not only are effective, but also environmentally friendly.