Color Picks for Spring 2016

Here are my picks for Spring 2016.  Soft and muted hues are sure to brighten your space.  They can be used in any combination, and come from the Sherwin Williams "Vintage Chic" collection paint colors.  This collection includes: 

• Sea Salt, SW6204, a soft green 
• Alabaster, SW7008, an off white
• Ponder, SW7079, from the purple family
• Ancient Marble, another green

The rest of the collection is an great spring inspired pallet that coordinates well together in part or in full.

SW6204 Sea Salt

SW7008 Alabaster

SW7079 Ponder

SW6162 Ancient Marble

The Golden Revision

Many of us who have a 1980's and 1990's house have the same thing. Outdated and ugly brass fixtures.  We all have them, we all hate them, and we all want to replace them.  Especially now that they are probably showing their age with tarnishing and deteriorating finishes, leaks, and oxidation.  It's ok, we should all know we aren't alone.

Today's finishes aren't limited to Chrome and Brushed Nickel.  For those of you that still love the warmth and class that Brass once showed, there is still something perfect for you.  There are still golden finishes that are gaining in popularity. (I guess everything does come back around at some point!)  Here are some of my favorite finishes that are perfect for people who love the gold finishes, or who are on top of the fashion game!

This faucet is Brushed Bronze.  Similar finishes are available from many well named brands, including Kohler, Delta, Brizo, Newport Brass, Altman's, and many more.  This finish is available in both kitchen and bath. Brushed Bronze is a darker version of a golden finish.  It is warm, and goes well with cream colored finishes.

Here it is again in a kitchen faucet.  This particular faucet is the Kohler Karbon Articulating Faucet, which list at around $1500.  This finish is truly a way to make a statement.  It hasn't grown widespread like Brass did in the 80's and 90's, and like Brushed Nickel has in the 2000's and 2010's.  Because of so many finish offerings today, I don't think it will be come so widespread, so you can really make a statement and have something unique.

This Polished Copper faucet by Newport Brass is called the Metropole. I very popular design, in a unique finish to Newport Brass.  It looks just like a shiny new penny. This faucet is priced from around $1207. Many of Newport Brass's faucet offerings are available in this finish, which is again, a warm and unique finish.  One thing I dislike about chrome is that it can be so cold.

Newport Brass has the largest selection of gold finishes including Polished Copper, Brushed Bronze, French Gold, Polished Brass, Brushed Brass, and so much more. Newport Brass also has a wide variety of faucet designs, and nearly all faucets are available in all 27 finishes.  They are typically made to order, which makes them the best way to customize your faucet.  They have a full array of faucets including bath, kitchen, shower, and accessories to coordinate your whole home.

Delta Trinsic Floor Mount Tub Filler in Champagne Bronze

And this last faucet is the Delta Trinsic Floor Mount Tub Filler in Champagne Bronze. I love the mix of Traditional finishes with contemporary faucet design.  This is a great way to create a custom space.  Why stick to the same old boring Brushed Nickel if you don't want to. Like Newport Brass, Delta has a full variety of coordinating faucets and accessories to match your whole home.

Most people can't wait to get rid of their outdated gold faucets.  Some people still love the gold, if that's you, rest assured, you will find something to fit your taste.  Traditional, contemporary, and transitional styles are available in these fun new finishes.  And if you shop with the major brands, you can create a whole suite of fixtures and accessories to make a complete space.

Trends 2015 : Kitchen

I woke up this morning thinking of the new trends in kitchens today.  There are so many beautiful and amazing products out there, and a mesh of styles that is harmony in design.  I decided to write this post.  Putting forward this mesh of Industrial Design with a Luxe Transitional feel.

So lets start talking about these products.  The new kitchen trends are leaning more toward these grey/beige/green tones, which is exactly what Benjamin Moore's Antique Jade is.  Want less green?  Then look no further than Halo, a perfect mix of grey and beige.  These soft colors are a great way to add warmth, and also brighten up a space.

For this kitchen mood board, I decided to take the Crystal Cabinetry Downing Way Raised Panel cabinet door, painted with Benjamin Moore's Halo. This is a great "Transitional" styled door, featuring clean lines, a slab drawer front, and a simple raised center panel.  Current cabinet trends include off white cabinets that ditch the glaze.  A crisp and clean look that isn't so stark and institutional.    The flat slab drawer head allows for an easier to clean design, which many home owners are looking for.  It also lends itself to a more decorative cabinet pull, which will add interest to the space.

For cabinet hardware, I am loving the Charlie Collection by Alno Inc.  The coloring I have chosen is Polished Nickel.  This color add's that little bit of Luxe to the space.  Chrome is too cold.  Polished Nickel is rich, luxurious, and warmer than chrome.  A major player in plumbing fixtures and hardware these days.  This specific cup pull is absolutely gorgeous.  It's simple design with just a little frill at the edges.

The knob is not too shabby either.  They have back plates for these knobs as well, for the more traditional installation.  These knobs, again, super simple, with just a little bit of detail on the edge.

This collection is available in many finishes, so even if you don't love Polished Nickel as much as me, you will still be able to find a color that you do love.  Some of the finishes include Brushed Nickel and Rubbed Bronze, which are two of the most common kitchen hardware finishes today.

For the faucet and sink, I have chosen a more Industrial looking faucet, with the beauty and traditional styling of a bridge faucet.  The Artesso faucet by Brizo. This faucet, also available in Polished Nickel and other popular fixture finishes, is an industrial take on a traditional style.  It features a side pull out spray, and a beautiful bridge design.  The Artesso family also features a standard Pull Down faucet with or without SmartTouch Technology, a prep/bar size faucet, and a matching soap dispenser.  Brizo has also launched a brand new style of faucet in this family.  Their Articulating Artesso Faucet, which is a unique and fully adjustable faucet.  I am still waiting to see what consumers think about this faucet.  I like the idea and the design, but not sure how it will work out in the real world.

When this faucet is paired with the Rohl Fireclay Apron Sink, you have the link between classic designs and modern industrial styles.  It is blended perfectly and looks absolutely stunning.

Tiling this design element is the best part.  Since everything is so simple, I wanted to bring in that intricate design through the hard surfaces, like a tile splash and the tile flooring.    The Walker Zanger Sterling Row Chesterfield in Linen Mosaic Tile is a heavy use tile suitable for flooring installation including heavy traffic and exterior surfaces, so it is a perfect material for the back splash in this kitchen, but can double as a splash and flooring tile.

I love the laser cut design, which creates that luxurious look bringing in textures and patterns.  The darker tiles in this design feature a wood look which brings in more warmth and supplements the missing texture from the painted cabinets.

Finally, this industrial styled light by Moda Lighting adds a second metal finish.  The Edison style bulb also adds to that industrial style, tying back to the faucet.  Many designers don't like mixing metal finishes, but like jewelry, mixing metal finishes in a room has become a new trend, and I hope this trend never goes away.

The many styles in this room, luxe, transitional, industrial, traditional, contemporary.  There is not specific style, but it all blends together seamlessly creating the kitchen that is today.  It is a mix on a classic, and hopefully will be around a long time.  Luxurious and timeless elements mixed with industrial elements.  I love it, and love creating it in people's homes.

Metallic Leather

Custom Brushed Metallic Beaver Meadow Brown Leather

on Chairs at the Langham Hotel in Atlanta, GA

Designed by Johnson Studio

Metallic's are a lot of fun, and a great way to bring in some extra texture into any space.  Sometimes they can be a little scary, and easy to overdo, but still fun.  I was surfing Pinterest not too long ago, and found some products that I have since fallen in love with.  The company in question is Townsend Leather, and their product line is absolutely stunning.  They specialize in all kinds of leather, but have a great collection of metallic finished leathers for interior design and fashion.  Their collection of embossed leather features several different metallic and foil finishes, that lets just say, I was rather excited to order some samples.  

Razzle Dazzle Cowhide (RD)

Color: Silver

Pattern: La Scala Damask

Number: L-RD-1875-LAS

The first piece that caught my eye was the Razzle Dazzle Cowhide in La Scala Damask Silver.  I could see this textured and shiny leather featured on throw pillows, or even an upholstered headboard!  This particular design is not recommended for heavy use areas like seating, but great for accents or vertical applications, as the metallic foil can wear. 

The physical sample is just as beautiful as the photo, and the textured detail is absolutely stunning.  No trick photography here, it looks great, even at a distance.  I often worry about some of these textured materials because when entering a room they can often take two or three glances to actually get what's going on, but not this one.  

Fab Foils Embossed Cowhide (EFAB)

Color: Silver

Pattern: Ostrich

Number: L-EFAB-1875-LAS

One of the other leathers that instantly caught my eye was the Fab Foils Embossed Silver Ostrich on Cowhide.  This highly metallic leather sample took my breath away right out of the envelope. It almost looks like a piece of foil, so shiny and bright.  I already have a few projects I could use this for.  Like the Razzle Dazzle Cowhide, this color is not recommended for heavy use areas like seating, but great for accents or vertical applications.

I could see this more in fashion, like on a purse, or shoes, not so much furniture, however I could also see it utilized in some holiday decor, such as combined with blue and silver themed Christmas decor, as accent and accessories. 

Brushed Metallic Cowhide
Old Penny BM-8357

Looking for something that can be used in upholstery?  This chair is a great example of why I am now loving metallic leathers.  This chair is done in the Brushed Metallic Cowhide in the color Old Penny.  It has that subtle sheen that you would expect on say, and old penny, and it is sure to be an eye catcher when walking into a room.  I love it!  I really want a giant overstuffed leather chair in this color, in the corner of my bedroom to curl up with the Kindle, or write a blog post or two.  

This particular leather is Hand Rubbed to accentuate the metallic finish and the leathers own natural characteristics to create that patina that looks like the chair is your favorite.  

Townsend Leather also has some interesting textured metallics that can be used in upholstery.  The Aniline Gaufrage Cowhide pictured below is a breathtakingly luxe leather that looks fantastic on these chairs.  This photo below is the reason I wanted to write this post.  I love this transitional luxe vignette is exactly the kind of room I love creating, and can't wait to partner with Townsend Leather in creating these unique pieces.   Want more?  Check out the rest of my blog.  You can also find Townsend Leather on Pinterest. 

Aniline Gaufrage Pewter Mosaic
GFA-6221-MS

Playing with Colors

Hey folks!  I was bored today, and started playing with Pallet's and Lets Chip It.  So now, you guys get to see some of my creations.  I was looking for inspiration mostly from nature, but from other resources from around the world.  I hope you enjoy!

A cute little bird on a cherry blossom

A great summer collection inspired by
another cherry blossom

My favorite flower, the Stargazer Lily

Because who doesn't think Geisha's are BEAUTIFUL

Don't be Afraid of Bold Colors!

Ok, so my last post was about crisp grey colors that are exploding in popularity.  So this one, I am going to completely contradict myself and go in the opposite direction.  I am going with another collection of colors in the Sherwin Williams 2014 Color Forecast, Intrinsic! Bright colors that can be used as wall colors, or even accent or accessory colors.

Sherwin Williams SW 6841 Dynamo

Sherwin Williams SW 6788 Capri

Sherwin Williams SW 6382 Ceremonial Gold

Now, I bet your thinking, "Oh my, those are bright colors!"  Well, they look great.  Even together they add fun flair to any space.  The scene to the left shows a living room with all three colors on the walls and ceiling.

Now, don't get me wrong, I am not advocating going out and painting this room....unless you really do love it, but I think that bright colors can add to a space.  Don't be afraid of color!  To the left, you can see the same room painted with only one of the colors, and a more neutral lighter color on the walls.  That bright pop of "Dynamo" on the center wall creates personality in the space.  (And just in case your wondering, the new wall color is Sherwin Williams SW 6156 Ramie)

Now, if you are renting, you could easily paint one wall and enjoy the space, and just paint it back before you leave.  I know the accent wall has been a bit overdone, however it is still a super easy way to add to any space.

Ceramic Stool $290

You don't have to use these colors just in your space, I am sure you have seen them raiding the racks at your local clothing store.  There are also a large selection of brightly colored accessories, lighting fixtures, mirrors, and other materials you can accessorize your space with.

Felt Flower Pillow $15

Color isn't the enemy!  There are books, shows, and a ton of resources available to give you inspiration and ideas for using color in your decor.  Like this great article on using color in an open floor plan.  Or this article by Paul Anatier on when to use warm or cool hues.

So what are you waiting for, welcome color into your space!

Floating Shelves

This eclectic kitchen was designed by
Tamar Schechner

Many times, a new trend surfaces, and it is either loved or hated, with little room for indifference.  This is true when talking about floating shelves.  Some love the open minimalistic feel of an open shelf in their kitchen or bathroom.  They love the casual appearance of a floating shelf being used as a picture rail.  Others, however, don't want all of their items on display, and out in the open to collect dust, fearing having to clean their dishes before each use, or having yet another ledge in the living room to remove dog or cat hair.  So where do you stand on this trend? 

I believe that this trend is yet another versatile trend, and has it's place in the design world.  While like many trends, this one shouldn't be over used in every space, it is a great look for most spaces.   Floating shelves, when styled properly and accessorized creatively and smartly, are a great accent for any space.  If you pile too much onto the shelf, you do have more to dust (and who wants that?) or the shelf could look overly cluttered.  When it comes to the floating and open shelf, less is more.

This eclectic living room was designed by
Michelle Hinckley 

Styling, or staging, a floating shelf is difficult.  There is a fine line between a bare shelf, and an overloaded shelf.  When stylizing your shelf, be sure to have fun, and try a few things.  This picture rail to the left shows various sizes of photo frames, alternating large and small.  The balance is perfect, and by using the same color frames and mat's, you keep the minimalist feel of the shelves.  By showing various sizes of frames, and orientations of the photographs, you welcome in eclectic design.

Traditional Kitchen designed by
Jane Ellison

Floating shelves aren't just for the contemporary space.  When the addition of corbels or shelf supports are used, they can lend themselves to more traditional designs and chic spaces.  The thicker floating shelves are typically more contemporary, but still look great in most spaces. This traditional kitchen uses multiple cabinetry finishes to add to the traditional feel.  They keep the shelves simple by keeping only white dishes on the shelves.  The shelves are utilitarian by having stacks of dishes, and less displayed features, keeping a comfortable, lived in design.  

If you are looking to stylize floating shelves, take a look through the ideabook below.

Floating Shelves

A Style Defined: French Country

I have had a few clients ask me to help them define their style.  While most are eclectic these days, taking elements they like from all styles, some do actually have a specific design theme in mind.  This sparked a new idea for a series of posts,  A Style Defined, a series of posts giving examples and definitions of great styles across the generations, and the world. 



French Country is obviously a style that comes from just that, the rolling hills and country side of France.  Many of the pieces look collected, with minimal matching pieces.  It features a flair of sophistication and balance, while maintaining that old world charm. While the furnishings are elegant, they are also highly functional, sometimes serving multiple purposes.  There are various tones of distressed woods, and aged metals.  The design incorporates charming characteristics such as ruffled trims, and shows both subtle hues as well as vibrant colors.  Ghingam prints are often seen in these interior spaces, and other elements are natural, like terra cotta tiles and earthy tones.  Some of the motif's of the French Country design include roosters and grapes, as well as toile designs.  The design also features a lot of flowers and floral elements. 

ADEENI DESIGN GROUP



Kitchen by Denver Kitchen and Bath, Angela Otten

 

View my French Country Ideabook on Houzz.com

It's Time for a Jubilee

I have a new color obsession, and the more I watch HGTV, the more I see it.  It's a sleek gray, with a tint of blue.  It's light, crisp, and remarkably pleasing to the eye.  The color is Sherwin Williams Jubilee, SW 6248.  The crisp gray colors in this pallet are great for any space, and lend themselves well to most decors.

Click here to see the rest of this color card. 

The Pallet

Tufted Brilliance

This is a new pallet based on Sherwin Williams Vintage Moxie 2013 Color Forecast. It features soft colors, great textures, and luxe design.  I love all of my pallet's more and more with each new one that I create, and that trend doesn't stop here.  

This lovely fabric by Duralee Contract Fabrics for $35 - List

Modono Glass San Remo Collection in Celadon 

Uttermost Cyclone Mirror $97.00 

The Chester Sofa from West Elm, from $1099

Rustic Storage Coffee Table from West Elm, $499

A Bar in SketchUp

I have been trying to find a good drafting program that is affordable.  SketchUp meets all my requirements, but I just couldn't grasp the program itself.  This week, one of my last two weeks before returning to work after maternity leave, I decided to sit down and actually try.  Between bottle feedings, diaper changes, cleaning, and during nap time, I decided to work on something a little smaller than a kitchen, and chose to do a simple bar.

The Rendering (via Renditioner)

This simple bar features Kraftmaid Harrington Maple cabinets in Onyx, with a simple marble counter top and mosaic tile splash.  I am still learning the program, but I was pretty happy with how it turned out.  I explored the 3D Warehouse to find the cabinets, back splash, and accessories.  I drew the glass shelf and counter top on my own, and the crown moulding was a combination of the 3D Warehouse and my own drawing.

The Story Board
Copyright © 2012 Sarah George

All in all, I think that SketchUp is a great tool, it just needs some getting familiar with.  For the whopping price of FREE (!?!?!) the program itself is great.  I am excited with what I was able to do for my first serious attempt, and can't wait to keep going and find more.  Next will be to creating custom finishes and materials, and learn the crown molding better.

Eclectic Modern Elegance

Copyright © 2012 Sarah George

I was browsing through my Sherwin Williams fan deck, and came across a great color, SW 6214 Underseas. This bold color is my inspiration for this mood board.  I have been in love with the Modern Elegant style, and thought this color would be perfect, and this mood board proves to be inspiration for a great space.  The purple and orange floral arrangements by Distinctive Designs International add accent colors that can also be included through artwork, accessories, and more.  Two colors in the Sherwin Williams line would include: SW 6564 Red Clover (A Purple/Red) and SW 6648 Kumquat (A Dark Orange).  

This wallpaper, which greatly shows the color of the pallet, is available by
Graham and Brown, in their Superfresco Delight Collection, $55

The Tess Cocktail Table in Nickel Plate with a Mirrored Top is a great accent piece to the room.
Available by Worlds Away, this table starts at $298.00

This mosaic accent tile can be used in a variety of installations, from walls, to fireplaces, floor accents, and more.
Available by Hakatai, this Mosaic is available on a mesh-backed sheet 

The Brentwood Chandelier by Crystorama Lighting, Starting at $906.00
is a great and elegant way to add lighting to any formal, elegant, or eclectic space. 

These fun chairs, by Paul Tuttle at $6,750.00 for the Pair, are
a great way to add a little bit of Mid Century Modern Flair.