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Interior expert, Julie Richard

Interior design expert Julie Richard dishes on summer color trends and what goes into the choosing of superior shades. by Kiley Jacques

When it comes to paint colors for that long-overdue interior makeover, consider those hand-selected by Julie Richard, owner of Shelter Interior Design (shelterinteriordesign.com) in Salem, MA, has much to say on the subject of “color concepts.”

Describing the process by which she and a panel of experts chose Ace Hardware’s Clark+Kensington 2013 summer color palette, Richard points to a number of determinants. Client input and color forecasting from Pantone—a recognized authority on color—as well as what is occurring culturally and creatively in the world all factored in to the panel’s choices. Lifestyle trends often influence a palette’s appeal, as do design styles.

Richard notes a few accent shades usually join the ranks for “a bit of drama and contrast.” Her personal color preferences are inspired, in part, by fashion trends. “What is fresh and new in theatre, Hollywood, and the fashion world often trickles down to home décor,” she says, predicting that Pantone’s choice for color of the year will be a hot hue.

No matter the source for its inspiration, a winning color deck ultimately comprises colors that include varying shades and values of classic neutrals, as well as updated accent colors. “The [current] overall design trend,” says Richard, “is to paint rooms with livable neutral shades. Tans were more popular a few years ago, but shades with gray undertones are now in the forefront.” She sees colors inspired by the ocean—like warm greys, blues, and emerald green—as well as Art Deco neutrals making their way into people’s homes this summer.

Color trends, in general, seem to follow a pattern, says Richard. “Often, I find clients desire cooler colors in the summer and warmer tones in fall and winter.” In fact, the season has great bearing on what’s in vogue in the color kingdom. “I [see] clients go into a nesting mode in the cooler months,” says Richard, “[and] they crave richer, cozier spaces. In the summer, [they] tend to want to keep their spaces light, fresh, and fun.”

Richard demonstrates a successful color combination or, as she calls it, a “cohesive interior color story,” by way of example. She says, “Mixing shades of blue, gray, and green [like] Clark+Kensington’s Apple Grove, Crisp Linen, Beach House, and Sapphire create a serene palette. The Sapphire shade would add just the right amount of contrast and depth to the mix.”

As to how she determines successful unions, Richard explains, “I really don’t follow too many rules while designing spaces.” She does, however stick to some basics, using one primary color, one secondary, and a third to serve as a complementary accent shade. With neutral tones as the base, incorporating “pops of color” readily reflects seasonal changes. Richard suggests using trendy hues for easily altered design elements, like a front door. Throw pillows, window treatments, and other fabrics also lend themselves to quick changes that can have a powerful effect on the mood a room evokes. For somewhat more permanent statements, Richard suggests opting for crisp white walls that are accented with colorful pieces of furniture.

People are creatures of habit, so they generally gravitate toward certain shades. Richard has seen a definite preference for the “safer” calming shades belonging to the family of earth tones. “Neutral colors,” she says, “[that are] inspired by nature are always a favorite.” Of bolder, more unusual choices, Richard says, “A fresh, unexpected paint color is truly transformative.”

Rooms painted with Clark+Kensington Lamp Shade #3046. Richard says favorite objects and destinations should serve as inspiration when choosing paints.

To combat the tendency toward traditional colors, Richard encourages her clients to explore unchartered waters. “I ask my clients to look to what they love for inspiration. I suggest choosing objects or destinations [that] they are drawn to when [picking] paint colors. I also [talk about] the importance of taking risks; 90 percent of the time they find [the] risk was worth it.”

Before dipping a brush, however, interior makeovers should include considerations like the type of lighting used in the space, the room’s location in the home, and the amount of “traffic” to be expected. “I’d approach a playroom differently than [I would] a master bedroom,” says Richard. Sun exposure, too, plays a hand in color selection; shades will appear cooler in north-facing rooms and warmer in those facing south. And, of course, a room’s function matters. Kitchens and living rooms, for instance, tend to be highly active spaces and require particularly careful planning. Richard says, “High traffic areas obviously take more abuse…that’s a good place to consider not only the color for the space but also the finish.”

Taking notes and thinking hard about all such matters is commendable, but in the end, committing color to walls takes guts. Fear can prove a debilitating obstacle, but Richard proffers a solution: “I always suggest painting a two-foot-by-two-foot sample swatch on a wall before painting an entire room. Live with this color for a few days. It’s amazing how the shade will change in different light and at various times of the day. It’s really the best way to make the right choice.”

Of how to use colors most effectively Richard says, “I try to vary the shades. I’ll pair a bright, high-gloss object next to something quieter and lighter.” She also suggests playing up contrasts, no matter how slight. The variations in texture of materials, for example, can be the starting point for color choices. That same subtlety exists in the ceiling. Richard regards it as “a fifth wall” and says, “It doesn’t always have to be white; even if you slightly tint a white shade with a complementary color…or paint it a few shades lighter than the wall color, it will feel as if you’ve considered the entire environment, and it will add a beautiful sense of depth to the space.”

Color is a complex décor component, but following seasonal trends and giving thought to a few key design concepts can yield a surprisingly pleasant pick from the old box of crayons.

The Dos and Don’ts of Choosing Color

Devise a color palette that feels fresh and complements the season
Look for inspiration in cultural/lifestyle trends, favorite objects, and destinations
Consider lighting, sun exposure, function, and traffic volume in a space
Play up contrasts
Vary the shades
Use trendy colors in easy-to-change elements, like throw pillows and window treatments
Test colors with small sample swatches left on the wall for a few days
Take chances

Don’t

Use predictable thematic schemes
Forget the ceiling
Choose colors only viewed in a store
Dismiss nearby colors and patterns

Light the Way

Tui Lifestyle Bubble Chandelier

Modern twists on the chandelier make for enchanting aerial decor.

Choice lighting can make a room come alive, and chandeliers are an excellent option if that’s the aim. Dating back to medieval times, this style of ornate, ceiling-mounted illumination has shone through the evolution of time and taste. From wooden crosses spiked with candles and hoisted with chains to glass orbs with chrome finish and architectural mounts, this fixture has moved creatively into the 21st century. Tui Lifestyle’s Bubble Chandelier (right; $1,875, tuilifestyle.com) is a prime example of modern imagination; this arresting, sphere-loaded electrolier bears a clustered, constellation-like arrangement and sharp structural elements. For a more fundamental form, there’s the Droplet Chandelier—designed by Ross Lovegrove and available from Interior Deluxe ($3,705; interior-deluxe.com). Its die-cast aluminum and chrome materials combine with a suspension mounting and stone-shaped, mirror-like luminaires— giving an impression described by its creator as “a pool of aluminum reflecting three pebbles.” Designer Sam Mey’s 37-light Double 5000-376 Chandelier ($2,754; interior-deluxe.com) is yet another captivating corona. Its transparent, borosilicate glass, chrome-finished lamp holders, and translucent electric cables fuse seamlessly for a stellar ceiling show. —Kiley Jacques

Decadent Deluge: Down Stream Showers

Graff Showers

New innovations are turning standard showers into luxurious rituals. By Deborah Geiger

True innovation in the world of home décor is rare, but the newest shower technologies and features—from temperature memory to mood lighting to showers you can take lying down— are making a bold, luxurious splash.

Among the innovations are Ametis, Graff’s polished steel wall-mounted shower system, fitting in nearly any size or style bathroom (graff-faucets.com). An attractive wall-mounted steel bar “U” shape, approximately 63 inches in length, is available in chrome, black, and white finishes.

Four spray settings, including rain, waterfall, body sprayer, and hand- shower options, summon thoughts of rainforests, as mood lighting in red, green, and blue—illuminating from within the shower’s ring—cater to any mood. Designer David Oppizzi of Graff has described it as “a symbol of the fusion between the universe above and the oceans below. Its unexpected shape seems so beautifully simple; the continuous line of the shower column never stops, the solid shapes and dynamic elements meld together harmonically.”

iPhone addicted? Us too. That’s why we love Brooklyn, NY-based Watermark Designs’ in-shower Luxury Shower System, a built-in touch screen menu that operates as a kind of headquarters for your shower (watermark-designs.com). Program in your name and preferences for lighting, music, and precise water temperature, and you can control and time your shower water usage. Following suit, ThermaSol, a maker of luxurious steam shower systems, released a Solitude mobile app controlling for steam flow, duration, lighting, temperature and music in its models. It’s the most convenient way to regulate preferences (just remember not to check your email, even though you can).

Among our favorites is luxe fixtures designer Dornbract’s Horizontal Shower technology, a masterful expression of cutting-edge design and comfortable opulence (dornbracht.com). This shower features six Water-Bar sprays designed to stimulate the neck, shoulders, back, legs, and feet. Three spa-like shower programs are on tap: Balancing, Energizing, and De-Stressing. The first program, Balancing, “simulates the deep strokes of a massage and utilizes rain showers of alternating temperatures and water pressures, beginning at the soles of the feet and converging at the body’s mid-section. The result is a gentle caressing of the body for a wonderfully equilibrium effect.” The second program is Energizing, where the bather would lie face-down with “invigorating cascades of water sprayed in varying directions across the body, from the shoulders to the soles of the feet”; and for De-stressing, which is enjoyed face up as a “light, constant shower progresses from the shoulders to the feet, while changing water temperatures and volume creates a wave-like, sweeping flow for gentle relaxation.” Finally—technology that helps us relax.

The Get: Mirror Image

Take the tech a step further with Pennsylvania-based Robern’s M Series With TViD medicine cabinet. The chic, mirrored bathroom medicine cabinet allows owners to stay abreast of the news, weather, traffic, or their favorite story line while applying makeup or shaving, thanks to an eight-inch LCD TV that is discreetly embedded in its lower corner. (The LED-backlit LCD is even optimized for angled viewing in the bathroom.) The M Series With TViD is available in two widths, two heights, and two depths, and with right- or left-hinged door swings. Luxe extras like door defoggers and night lights make us actually look forward to our morning get-ready routine. robern.com. —Deborah Geiger

Design Wallpaper

This isn’t your grandma’s wallpaper—bold new patterns and color are resuscitating this design touch. By David Eisen

Ask anyone what they remember most about Grandma’s house, and they’ll inevitably recall the ghastly wallpaper that adorned one or more rooms. But like many remnants of yesteryear, what goes around comes around. Luckily for this generation, today’s wallpaper prints are nothing like they used to be, according to Long Island-based interior designer Marlaina Teich (mtdny.com).

Teich is a wallpaper convert. “I remember the first house I purchased; I spent hours removing layers of old wallpaper that the previous owner applied,” she says. “I swore I would never use wallpaper again.”

Her tune has since changed. “Today, wallpaper is one of the hottest trends in décor,” Teich says. “The designs and textures are so varied; it makes it simple to make a statement.”

“I think we are now past the paint and Ikea stage, and people want something bolder and singular for t

heir space,” says Jee Levin, a creative director at Trove (troveline.com), a NYC design house she founded with Randall Buck specializing in wall coverings.

“The trend to customize home
furnishings and wallpaper is definitely strong right now,” says Buck. “People want to have something
completely unique in their home.”

Wallpapers of the 1960s and ’70s were characterized by floral designs, geometric shapes, and metallic foils. “Let’s not forget the flocked papers, as well,” Teich adds. But today’s wallpaper is a far cry from that of 50 years ago.

“The differences in today’s [wallpaper] looks are in the colors used, as well as the play on scale,” Teich says. “Small-scale patterns are given a whole new translation by being shown in an oversized proportion. Grandma’s metallic foil paper may cause some to cringe, but when the metallic is shown as a subtle interplay with color and pattern, it can look like a piece of art.”

Wallpaper placement is as much a concern as aesthetic appeal; knowing when to go big and when to exercise restraint is key. “I love wallpaper as an accent in the bedroom, behind the headboard or in a powder room, where you can be a little crazy with color or pattern,” says Teich. She is even open to affixing wallpaper on the ceiling in the dining room, giving the space an intriguing allure.

There’s also the matter of application: Though it might sound easy enough to apply wallpaper oneself, it’s better left to a pro. The wall first needs to be prepped and smoothed to avoid bubbling. If you are applying light-colored wallpaper against a wall that has deep color, the wall needs to be primed to neutralize the darker color. “The last thing you want to do is start all over,” Levin says.

Reclamation Project

The lived-in look that tells a story becomes a hit with homeowners. By David Eisen

The old adage “Out with the old, in with the new” has been flipped on its head to describe one of the most compelling trends in interior design: the reclaimed design look, which gives new life to materials or products by repurposing and reusing them to create spaces that have a rich, lived-in look. Put simply, it’s “out with the new, in with the old.” The trend is giving form to warm, cozy interior spaces, exuding a worn feeling that avoids looking weathered and otherwise dingy.

Today, wood is the most prominent material being used to achieve the perfect reclaimed look. Wood boards from old barns, logs excavated from rivers, and timber from wood beams are all giving designers the inspiration to fashion everything, including chairs, cabinetry, artwork, and floors and ceilings.Ian Crawford owns the Whitefish, Montana-based Vinoture, which produces custom reclaimed wine barrel furniture. His most popular design is a bar stool that comes in four separate sizes and is the perfect complement to a bar or kitchen. Like head-to-tail cooking, Crawford reuses the whole barrel (he favors French oak barrels).

“I get them from Washington and Oregon wineries,” he says, noting that the majority of barrels he uses come from the Bordeaux region of France.“Working with a reclaimed medium like wine barrel staves creates a product that has a visible history,” Crawford says. “The entire winemaking process contributes to the unique patina of the wood and the finished product”—think distressed accents from rusting and oxidation, even brands from the winemaker.

John Loecke, a partner at interior design firm Madcap Cottage in Brooklyn, New York, says his clients are increasingly asking for spaces to be outfitted with reclaimed materials. “They like relaxed spaces with a warm, lived-in look,” he says, pointing to wood as the most popular reclaimed material, but insisting that metal is another likeable option.While many reclaimed pieces are bespoke, more mainstream sources have caught on to the design movement, such as Pottery Barn and World Market. For homeowners, it comes down to their distinct tastes. “It all depends on their personality,” Loecke says. “It is the idea of living in a less formal way. Our clients want to live in their homes, but at the same time, they don’t want to worry about how the home wears.”

Employing reclaimed materials is as much about a look as it is a sustainable choice. “It tells me that a homeowner is environmentally conscious and has an appreciation for unique furniture and art with a story behind it,” Crawford says.

THE GET Vinoture’s America’s New Barstool

Vinoture’s signature America’s New Barstool is the perfect complement to any kitchen or bar area. The stool is made from sustainable materials: the staves, heads, and hoops of reclaimed French oak wine barrels from wineries of the Pacific Northwest. Each stool has its own distinctions and tells a story through its connection to a specific winery and vintage, as well as its own unique patina and distressing from the wine-aging process. The America’s New Barstool measures 30 inches high, but a mini 18-inch-high version is also available. The stool, which comes with a blond or natural red seat, is priced at $250. vinoture.org.

Style Tips from Designers

Who better to take advice from than the pros? A variety of designers weigh on light, color, texture and accessories and what you need to know when styling your home. From seasoned vets to up-and-comers, these designers know how to make the most of any space.

Continue reading Style Tips from Designers

From Couture to Decor

Fashion moves at such a fast pace, that often, other forms of design will follow in its wake. Did you know that fashion trends often spill over into home décor trends? While fashion charges onwards, the trends that cross over from fashion to interiors usually stay put for years. But like fashion, there are certain classic styles that will never fall to the wayside. Check out how you can keep your house looking fresh, without undertaking complete home makeover each season, by taking a few tips from the fashion world.

Continue reading From Couture to Decor

High End Furniture by Promemoria

Italian Style: Promemoria furniture

Exceptional Italian furniture designer Promemoria debuts in the United States. By Deborah Geiger

Somewhere between the mountains in Lecco and the shores of Lake Como in Italy are the headquarters and workshops of the luxury custom furniture maker Promemoria. As it unveils luxurious custom creations for the home—from decadent, ultramodern kichens to bold, outrageous kids’ furniture to outdoor patio creations—its exquisite works have found their way stateside with a new showroom in New York City.

At the helm of the 24-year-old Promemoria workshop is Romeo Sozzi, a fourth-generation cabinet maker and graduate of the Accademia di Belle Arti di Brera in Milan, who brings more than 30 years of crafting experience to the table. Descending from a long line of crafts people, including ancestors who built custom carriages for 19th-century Italian nobility and who restored antique furniture, Sozzi and his three sons continue to develop the traditional craftsmanship at the center of their work. Because everything is custom-made, the company requires up to 14 months for completion and delivery.

As Sozzi provides the “creative spirit” of Promemoria, his three sons manage everything else. Stefano manages the carpenter’s shop; David, an architect, oversees planning; and Paolo manages the day-to-day business.

Most recently unveiled was Promemoria’s first kitchen collection, Angelina, described as “efficient, functional, comfortable, and precious.” Stone and bronze, as well as simple lines, help define “a kitchen which offers intimate everyday pleasure.”

New products also include an innovative collection of elegant lighting pieces. Grenoulle, a lavish table lamp available in bronze, glossy chrome, black glossy chrome, nickel matt, gold, copper, or white gold shades, is topped by a cobalt-blue Murano glass lampshade. Best of all, the base is crafted of a sophisticated yet playful frog—the brand’s logo.

Sozzi utilizes a decadent, natural palette of materials: fine mature woods; animal hides and skins; precious metals; and luxurious fabrics such as silk, cotton, velvet, wool, and cashmere.

Recent collections have included wooden writing desks; tables, mirrors and paraventi (screens, or room dividers); and pillowed chairs, beds, headboards, sofas, and armchairs. One kids’ collection featured furniture in colors like lime green and fire-engine red, and a sophisticated outdoor collection with seating uses materials like dyed ashwood, okume, bronze, and fabric.

With “sensibility and culture, constant experimentation and research,” the firm’s new showroom in New York marks a new era in company history. Italy has never been so close. promemoria.com.

Parvez Taj

The Get: Parvez Taj’s White Barn collection

Coastal style and rustic chic define SoCal-based designer Parvez Taj’s new hanging wall art pieces known as the White Barn Collection, which are crafted of 100-plus-year-old barn sidings. “I was attracted to the textures that outdoor barns acquire over years of being exposed to the elements and the weather and wanted to incorporate that texture in my artwork,” Taj stated. Ready to hang and available in sizes that seem just right, the innovative repurposing of barn pieces ranging in wood type and wear can create a splash in any room. Utilizing environmentally friendly paints and UV-cured inks to design the pieces, no two are alike. Taj has worked on wall art concepts since 2003. parveztaj.com.

Home Renovations that Add to Security

In this day and age, it’s more important than ever to take precautions to keep your home and family safe from harm’s way. If you’re thinking about remodeling your home, why not consider renovating with a few extra safety features in mind? Take a look at these 5 renovations that can help keep your home secure.

Doors

Did you know that most home invaders walk right through the front door? When renovating, purchasing a new door or lock system is one of the most effective ways to prevent intruders. If you want to buy a brand new door, make sure you select one with a peephole. While it may seem like a small detail, a peephole keeps you from having to open the door to any strangers. Dead locks should be installed on your doors as spring latch locks are easy to jimmy open with simple tools.

Windows

Large windows on the ground floor are easy targets for burglars as are windows close to doors. If you’re planning a home addition or a large scale remodel, consider placing windows high on the wall and away from doors. When purchasing new windows, avoid tempered or thin glass windows. Double and triple pane windows are much harder to break through. You could also opt for laminated glass which is also very durable and resistant to cracking. Make sure you install locks on your windows, as it’s easier for a criminal to simply open the window rather than break it.

Floor Plan

When planning the floor plan for your renovation, keep safety in mind. It’s best to keep all of the bedrooms on the second floor. Should your house get broken into during the night, you’ll be as far from the invader as possible. If you don’t have a second story, bedrooms should be kept towards the back of the home off a hallway of a single entry point.

Landscaping

You may not think that landscaping has a lot to do with home security, but a smart landscaping scheme can help protect your home. Trees should be kept away from windows. While it may seem to provide privacy, it also conceals your view of the outside. Trees near windows are also convenient places for home invaders to duck behind. You may also want to install a tall fence that circles your property to ward off intruders. Lastly, outdoor lighting can deter criminals, so plan on having a well-lit landscape and install motion activated lights.

Security System

A security system is the smartest way to protect your home and family against burglars. When installing, be sure to conceal any wiring as criminals will snip the wires to disable the system.

This article was written by Erie Construction.

Bring Glass to Your Countertops

Glass brings a sparkling new elegance—and an edgy design—to kitchen countertops, backsplashes, bars, and more. By Terri Ogan

Options in design are infinite, especially when it comes to home décor, but some trends seem as if they’re here to stay. Until now, that is. In a culture where granite countertops typically rule the kitchen, glass is now making a statement—and a loud one at that. Glass can be elegantly utilized as kitchen countertops, bar tops, and stairwell designs, to name just a few.

“Glass is a noble, pure material that has been out there for a long time,” says Bertrand Charest, president/certified engineer of ThinkGlass in Quebec. “People like glass; the fresh and clean feeling of it. It is one of the toughest materials out there. Plus, it’s unique and new, especially in ocean settings.”

A bath counter from ThinkGlass

Though some clients might have reservations about the fragility of glass—some have worried about it cracking when objects are placed on it—Charest says it’s the same thing as placing things on transluscent granite countertops because sand (the main component of glass) is essentially made from rock. It is the same specification and same idea, except the beauty of the light in the glass makes it different and unique, Charest says.

ThinkGlass specializes in unique and innovative glass designs. From kitchen countertops to backsplashes to raised bars, artist Michael Maihot revels in the beauty and utilization of the organic material. Most of Maihot’s textures are the translation of nature, from the wave of the ocean to the bark on trees, Charest says.

The company’s most popular style is the glass kitchen countertop. The 1.5-inch glass is cut and designed to rest on top of a laminate material, which Charest says is perfectly functional because it hides fingerprints and scratches and creates a smooth and urbane finish. ThinkGlass offers the option to install LED lights underneath the glass to add peaceful yet striking beauty. The pioneer material complements the water and brings the oceanic feeling directly into shoreline homes.

“…In your kitchen at night, you can turn on nice white LED lights so your countertops are shining, but it’s still subtle and calm,” Charest says. “Your kitchen is transformed into a lounge. You can’t do that with any other material on the planet at the moment.”

Prime Find: Portable Fireplaces

Portable ventless fireplaces light up your home’s every last nook. By Rebecca Kensil

It might be balmy and breezy where your oceanfront home is, but a little fireplace can add a lot of ambiance and atmosphere, even when it’s warm outside. Portable fireplaces that can be placed practically everywhere are perfect for owners of oceanfront homes that don’t require a bulky, permanent option. In addition to their varying sizes and shapes, these movable works of fiery art are available in a variety of styles, allowing for more placement options. Some models can be conveniently mounted on the wall, while others are placed on the floor or another steady surface (think tabletop for alfresco dining or lounging). Ideal for fuss-free decorating and maintenance, the ventless fireplaces don’t require a chimney or gas line (no ashy mess to clean up, either), and they burn liquid or gel bioethanol fuel, making them eco-friendly.

Eco Smart Fire "Ghost"

The odor-free fuel is smokeless and non–polluting, and it creates no soot or ash, but gives off water vapor and CO2. But there’s more to these hot little numbers than their heating capabilities; they’re also sleek and stylish, with the smooth finish of stainless steel, black satin power coat, or high-gloss white paint—options that allow them to blend into nearly any room’s design scheme. A perfect touch for beach homes, many models come with polished rocks, shells, marbles, or sea glass. Anywhere Fireplaces“Hudson” MSRP (shown above) $200

Editor’s Picks Four more movable, eco-friendly fireplaces.

1 Brasa Fire “Sienna,” $1,100. 2 Eco Smart Fire “Ghost,” $2,295. 3 Blomus “Vidro,” €649. 4 Planika “Coffee Fire Long,” €2,300.

Collins-Dupont Interior Design

Sherri DuPont

Kim Collins

Founded in 1987, Collins & DuPont is a nationally recognized, award winning, full service interior design firm offering clients enduring style in combination with exceptional quality. From their offices located in Bonita Springs, Florida, Sherri Dupont and Kim Collins work with clients throughout Southwest Florida and across the nation. Collins-Dupont residential designs have earned recognition including the Southeast Building Conference’s Aurora awards, the Best in American Living awards, sponsored by the National Association of Home Builders, and the ASID-Florida South Chapter Design Excellence awards.

One of the trademarks of Collins-Dupont is their work with oceanfront and ocean view homes and condos and below are some images that illustrate the level of quality devoted to each project.

[Show as slideshow]

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For more information or a consultation, contact:

Collins-Dupont Interior Design

8911 Brighton Lane, Bonita Springs, FL 34135

239- 948-2400, www.collins-dupont.com

Home Couture

Pieces from Hermes's home collection

It’s been said that form follows function, and nothing could be truer than in the case of La Maison, Hermès’s chic new line of gorgeous home goods. La Maison means “the home,” and it’s an apt name for a product line that includes tables, chairs, sofas, chaises, ottomans, fabrics, wallpapers, and more.

The French haute couture house, begun in 1837 by Thierry Hermès as a harness workshop in the Grands Boulevards quarter of Paris, is already known worldwide for its luxury leather goods, accessories, perfumes, and ready-to-wear garments. Its home furnishings are expected to follow suit. “These collections are an opportunity to demonstrate a contemporary expression of Hermès, faithful to its craftsman spirit and imbued with values of functionality and comfort,” says Pierre-Alexis Dumas, artistic director of Hermès.

The team behind the new collection reads like a who’s who in global design: Enzo Mari, an influential Italian designer; Antonio Citterio, the Italian architect known globally for his innovative furniture and product designs; and Rena Dumas Architecture Intérieure (RDAI), a widely recognized Paris-based architecture firm.

Mari’s work on the new collections is compared to Hermès’s previous home collections of the 1920s and 1930s, designed by Jean-Michel Frank with an “elemental sobriety” in mind. In 2010, some of these pieces were reissued. “This long process enabled me to understand in depth the work that goes into materials such as the Hermès leathers,” Mari says of working with Hermès craftsmen and its R&D workshop. The team used “the most noble wood that exists, with its flamed vein and warm brown coloring.”

Citterio utilized his expertise on the Matières collection, perfecting the details of the furniture to create seamless unions of wood, leather, metal, and fabric. Of the process, Citterio says, “First, we want to sit, then to touch and to make the object live.”

The house of Hermès has a long history as an illustrator and colorist as well. Fabrics in the collections include the Illustrative, the Graphic, and the Plains and Semi-Plains designs. Pêle-mêle wallpaper, designed by Philippe Dumas, channels Hermès’s equestrian history, while Indian themes harness the enchantment of travel. These designs already exist on either silk scarves or porcelain tableware, and they are now available in accompanying furnishing fabric.

The Get: Floor Flourish

Walk on air with lush handmade carpets from the new Ben Soleimani for Restoration Hardware collection, a dazzling array of neutral-toned floor couture available in hand-knotted, Tibetan, distressed, and heathered wool, as well as flat-weave styles. Understated and timeless patterns evoke architectural ironwork, antique carpets, North African themes, and Art Deco. The minds behind these sweet and surprising carpets are Gary Friedman, Restoration Hardware chairman and co-CEO, and Soleimani, principal and head designer of Mansour Modern.

Water Installations to Compliment Your Ocean-Front Home

A dashing water feature is the perfect accent to any ocean backdrop. By F.E. Exley

When your backyard is the ocean, adding more water might seem counterintuitive, but a well-placed water installation can be the perfect piece to accentuate your outdoor oceanfront space—and give your health a lift.

David Reed, the founding principal of San Diego-based David Reed Landscape Architects, says, “In my garden, the sound of water can be heard from almost any part of the house, quietly gurgling but audibly with undertones and overtones,” he says. “Whether it is sound or sight, it is a boost to the human spirit.”

But it’s important to know what kind of water element best fits your property. “When you have an ocean view, it’s best to use it by installing an infinity-type fountain,” says landscape architect Owen Dalton of OTD Design & Development in Marina Del Rey, California. With an infinity fountain, water is pumped from a hidden reservoir and then disappears into the ground. Homeowners would do well to also add lighting to their feature, Dalton says, and position it so that it is visible from several angles.

Another contemporary option is the Harmonic Cascade from Harmonic Environments, a piece that’s ideal for creating a large-scale exterior focal point. However, the feature’s seamless single panels can be crafted to virtually any dimension. As water cascades through light stainless-steel mesh, an ethereal effect of luminous water suspended in air is created. The Harmonic Cascade can also be fitted with custom lighting that provides an extra jolt of ambiance.

Aesthetically, a water element can convert any backyard into a tranquil space. What you might not know is that water installations also provide a health benefit by giving off negative ions—which is actually a positive result. Tiny odorless molecules are released into the air, which, when breathed in, boost energy and alleviate stress. “This is why I try putting a water feature in all of my projects,” says Dalton. “I want to create that feeling of euphoria.”

While it may be tempting to go with an over-the-top water feature, be realistic with your choice, as you already have the greatest water feature imaginable—the ocean. Go with something bold yet understated. “A whisper is often more powerful than a shout,” says Reed. “Sometimes just mirroring the horizon and the azure sea is all you need.”

He suggests that homeowners purchase water features that are composed of materials that will last (tile, concrete, glass). There’s also the good chance of dealing with efflorescence, the unsightly white, powdery deposit that appears on the surface of concrete, masonry, and stucco products. Ask your landscape architect to take note of this and use special detailing techniques on the water feature to obviate this scourge.

Above all, choosing the right contractor is key: You want the job done right the first time. “A lot of homeowners pick contractors because they are the cheapest,” Dalton says. “Always go with someone who has experience. If your bid for the fountain is cheap, it’s going to look cheap.”

Halloween Decor

Cooler weather and the changing of the seasons are upon us. The excitement of Halloween is in the air. It’s time to swap out your carefree summer décor for something a little spookier. However, if plastic tombstones and inflatable witches don’t complement your style, try trimming your home with these classic Halloween decorations that are perfect for easy going coastal design.

Pumpkins

Pumpkin carving is a Halloween tradition that also makes for fun and easy décor. For a more sophisticated execution of the jack-o-lantern, try carving new shapes instead of cartoon faces. Monogrammed carvings give a new twist to an old classic. You could also carve leaves or trees. Set these outside along your front steps or on the porch for an easy outdoor decorations. Don’t forget to light them at night. Mini pumpkins and gourds are great for indoor or outdoor use. Paint them with metallic spray paint for an extra special look. Pumpkins also make excellent flower pots. Simply hollow out a large pumpkin and place a potted plant (mums work well) inside so the flowers stick out of the top. This looks great both outside and in.

Beach Finds

If you home style is beach chic, these subtle changes can carry your décor right into Halloween. If not, this project is a great opportunity to start adding a little coastal style into your Halloween decorations. Specimen jars are a great way to give your home some Halloween flair. Instead of using acid green food coloring and fake eyeballs, take a more natural approach. Pour small sea shells or black sand into apothecary jars. Place small pieces of drift wood, dried flower buds or single bird feathers inside others. You can find old fashioned labels at a craft store to stick on the jars. Label them as different potion ingredients like raven feathers or poisonous pods.

Flowers

Flowers may not be frightening, but they can lend to the Halloween spirit. An arrangement of dried flowers and spindly twigs makes a great Halloween decoration. There are also a few species of flowers that are hauntingly beautiful and perfect for Halloween. Mums, calla lilies, and dahlias are available in the deepest shade of purple, they look almost black! An arrangement of fresh-cut black flowers is a little unnerving.

Books

This is an easy project that looks great along with the beachy specimen jars. Recover hard-bound books as spell books. There are templates online that you can print out, or you could make your own.

Candles

There is something about the flickering flames of a candle that add to the Halloween spirit. Consider an arrangement of tall candles and various size pillars. Old fashioned candelabras or antique finger holders add to the haunted manor vibe.

Photos

Another easy way to decorate for Halloween is to swap out your photos with creepy portraits. There are hundreds of images online of old fashioned painted portraits that look downright spine-chilling. Print them out on photo paper and stick them in any frames you already have in your home.

Don’t get caught up by the gaudy inflatable zombies and fake cobwebs. These easy projects are all smart ways to deck your halls for Halloween.

This article was written by Erie Construction. Follow Erie Construction on Twitter.

Photo Credit: (1-2)Martha Stewart Living (3)It’s All About O
(4)Earth Sea Warrior (5)Soda Head (6)In between Seams (7)ChickaBug
(8)Unknown (9)Kaboodle (10)Chicago Tribune/Wizarding World of Harry Potter

A Must Have Luxury Gadget For Every Room

The Floating Bed: The bedroom is often playfully described as a place “where the magic happens,” get yourself a levitating bed and you can use the saying without a hint of irony. The floating bed is designed by Dutchman Janjaap Ruijssenaars, it’s got enough magnets to keep a small elephant afloat, not that you will ever put that to the test. To make sure the bed stays aligned with the magnets it is tethered to the walls, this will stop the bed floating away and crashing from under you.

Floating Bed

Electrolux WoW Screenfridges: The acronym WoW stands for “War on White”, fed up with humdrum white appliances Electrolux are on a mission to revolutionize everyday home appliances. The concept is based on a graphics panel that spreads across the whole front of the fridge. For extra gadgetry points the design includes an LCD screen in the front door with a processor that would put many laptops to shame. For those looking to add their own individual personality this product is a must have, it will be like having a new fridge every time you change the image displayed.

Fridge

Television Mirror: Televisions seem to be integrated in every product imaginable and now mirrors are the latest addition. At a flick of a switch a small display appears in the bottom corner of the LED bathroom mirror, large enough to view but small enough not to get in the way of your posturing. Brushing your teeth and shaving can be an enjoyable experience with a television mirror, just be extra cautious.

Mirror TV

Samsung NaviBot: Samsung have created a device that all bachelors have been dreaming of, a robot that does the vacuuming for you. While the concept is practical and a step in the right direction the lack of power means that it won’t be replacing your vacuum cleaner any time soon. The charming NaviBot from Samsung made this list for pure originality, a novel idea today but could be mainstream the next.

Vacuum

Bringing Vintage Coastal Style Into Your Bedroom

Bringing vintage coastal style into your bedroom is a way to either dress it up or down. It’s a salute to the coast and will bring a traditional or antiqued feel to your contemporary bedroom.

To achieve all this you don’t have to be a world renounced interior designer either. Pulling colors and images directly from the ocean, combined with bright whites, emphasized with natural woods, navy strips, and a few antiqued accessories is basically the gist of it. This post will help you get some great ideas for each area of your bedroom from the choice of linens to your bedroom floor finish.

The Bed

In any bedroom the style and design of the bed can really set the stage for the entire look and feel of the room. It may seem too easy but the trick is to keep your linens crisp and white and use pillows or a foot blanket as accent pieces. Going for navy strips or just a plain navy print will help create a coastal feel.

If you own a sailboat or know someone who does, get a hold of a sail and get custom slipcovers bed skirts constructed. This will make a great nautical statement when paired with navy stripes and it also brings a piece of a ship into the room!

Choosing the right type of bed frame and headboard also plays a major part in the look of the bed. Pairing traditional metal bed frames or antique garden gates as a headboard with antique side tables looks great in these guest rooms.

When working with classic coastal color schemes in the room such as blues, sea grass green, and yellows there is no need to be overly nautical. For a simple look, try an antiqued solid wood bed frame with posts paired with traditional coastal colors to achieve the desired feeling.

Floors, Walls and Ceilings

Wood, wood, and wood! Aging your home and adding a “ship like” and vintage feel is achieved with wood and is probably the most essential part of any nautical theme. There are a few choices for finishing the floor but if you can custom order wide planks it will really bring a vintage feel. To age and add extra history to your floors, get them professionally distressed with an antique finish.

Bright white wood paneling is perfect for a coastal feel on the walls. Another idea is to leave intricate framing exposed to play with the early American architecture design. A unique design which would definitely add extra character to your bedroom is using wood exterior shingles on one wall to make the space appear as though it was an addition to the original home. Notice the wood detailing on the ceiling in this picture, as it also adds a wonderful feel to the room, almost as if you are down on the second floor of a ship.

One of our favorite details in many vintage coastal homes is their use of exposed beams. In modern homes you can get these types of beams installed and they do not have to be functional in the framing of your home. It would be a small renovation which would make a big impact! Make sure to shop around for your beams. Often historic properties are taken apart piece by piece and the pieces of old wood and large beams are auctioned for sale.

Accessories

Weathered wooden pieces will enhance the rustic theme in any room. If you love antique shops, shopping for bedroom accessories is where your trained eye will come in handy. Try adding a large weathered pine or cedar chest to the end of your bed or even a large beach wood tree trunk as a coat rack. A stack of antique suitcases adds extra storage to the bedroom and acts as a memento of the spirit of travel that has always drawn people to the coast.

If you happen to come across a great weathered wooden bowl use it in your bedroom. Fill the bowl with shells, pieces of beach glass or any other type of keepsake from the sea then place a few small candles on top. This elegant coastal piece is not only beautiful but is fun to consistently add to.

This guest post was brought to you by PartSelect.com, your complete online resource for DIY appliance repair!

Photo Credits:

Coastal Living

Country Living

Creating Cottage Style

Cottage style interiors are lovely because they are reminiscent of long days at beach, sailing on a perfectly breezy day, and the warm summer sun. Cottage décor is not only very beautiful, but it is also comfortable and familiar, which makes it all the more appealing. This is the ideal style for a home that rests on the water or close to the beach, although it is easy to bring cottage décor to any home. Cottage style is eclectic. Each home is different, but there are elements throughout cottage style homes that unify them and set this charming décor apart.

Color

The color palette sets the tone for the whole room. Cottage style interiors often reflect the beauty of their natural surroundings with beachy neutral palettes and aquatic accent colors. When the palette is kept neutral, it allows the outdoor landscape to shine. Crisp whites reflect starchy canvas sails, toned-down tans mirror warm sandy beaches, while unassuming greens mimic mossy stones. Choose a neutral, and run with it. This shade should be the primary color of the room. Highlighting a neutral palette is easy, especially in a cottage style home where blues often prevail. Blue and white is a classic and timeless combination. Consider using a turquoise that reflects sea, or pure cobalt that echoes the clearest skies. While blue is a very popular accent color, warm tones look just as pretty. Pinky-orange, like the underwater corals makes a bold statement against a neutral backdrop, as does bright yellow or true red.

Texture

Cottage style is about bringing the beauty and ease of the outdoors, indoors. Hardwood floors or exposed rafters bring an organic, earthy feeling to the space. Stick to natural fabrics, like crisp linen and soft cotton. Not only are these fabrics familiar, but they’re lightweight and perfect for summers by the shore. Fresh cotton slip covers on a sofa keep things cool and relaxed. Bring in the look of wood exposed to the elements with weathered furniture. It blends perfectly with cottage décor. Also, rattan or wicker is a very traditional material. To get the look without committing to an entire bedroom or living room set, use rattan baskets as storage or decoration. Sisal, a durable fiber that is used in making rope is a great choice for a natural rug or floorcovering.

Seaside Accessories

Bringing in seaside accessories is really the easiest way to bring a little cottage style to the home. It is important not to go overboard, or else it can come off looking cartoony. The best thing to do is to use seaside accessories sparingly, for maximum effect. Pick a few pieces that make a statement. Integrating natural beach accents like driftwood or shells is a subtle way to reaffirm the cottage look. A more nautical approach could incorporate anchors, ropes or antique sailing maps for a different variation of the style. Vintage finds are often the perfect complement for cottage style. Hanging an old surfboard or displaying a pair of antique wooden oars over the mantle could lend the finishing touch on a room. Just be careful not to over-style, cottage décor is uncomplicated and breezy.

Lighting

Keeping things light and easy is one of the keys to great cottage style. Natural light is best. Keep window treatments sheer or lightweight and let the sun shine through. Plenty of ambient lighting will make dark nights a little less shadowy and much cozier.

Written by Erie Construction. Check out Erie Construction on Guild Quality.

How to display coastal artifacts throughout your home

If you have artifacts which are not of the ancient variety, but something you treasure to remember a vacation or event and would like to display them, then a shelf, mantel, book case or table would be fine.

This shelf can be placed high enough to discourage the exploring fingers of children, but low enough for you to be able to carefully dust and rearrange. It makes quite a lovely display and will spark conversation of or memories of a wonderfully enjoyed excursion. A photo collage of the event could be placed on the shelf as well.

How about taking some of the tiny shells and creating a one of a kind picture frame?

When deciding how and where to display your artifacts, bear in mind both the artistic and sentimental value. A china cabinet with glass doors, or a case made particularly for displaying valuables would work nicely.

There are also interesting ways to display your coastal artifacts within a coffee table, or perhaps you would rather purchase a display case, which sits on your table?

The items are carefully displayed inside the table where everyone can see them but the top of the table is still totally functional. The tables can have a lock if necessary to discourage mishandling of the items. There are a wide variety of tables and display cases available. One is sure to strike your fancy.

Ways to display your treasures are as endless as your imagination

Use colored sand, if you like to add an extra dimension. Place a small plant inside a shell. There are plants that grow very slowly, or use some wire cutters and cut some artificial flowers down to size then you will not need to worry about watering.

Tuck them inside pretty glass containers, glue them on ceiling fan pull chains, trim your serving tray with a scalloped edge of pretty shells, and make earrings and necklaces…Glue them on the outside of decanters, glass candle holders, fill a 3 tier hanging mesh basket with shells and display them in a spice rack.

Wherever you decide to display them they are sure to be enjoyed, remembered, and talked about.

Marina Chernyak is freelance writer and co-owner of accent tables store located at – AccentTablesBoutique.com

Image sources – spontaneouschick.com and sherryscraftprojects.com

DIY Silk Trees

Stunning tall silk trees from OfficeScapesDirect boast unique, easy DIY assembly. Fourteen-foot trees for business and home décor no longer require expensive custom installation

Adding tall trees to your business and home décor has never been easier and more cost-effective thanks to a revolutionary design by OfficeScapesDirect, the nation’s leading supplier of designer-quality silk botanicals for businesses, home interiors, and commercial spaces.

Most artificial tall trees (10 feet and higher) require a complicated, costly process of being custom built and assembled on site. OfficeScapesDirect, however, uniquely offers stunning, realistic trees up to 14 feet tall – handcrafted on natural wood trunks with the highest quality foliage. They are shipped directly to businesses and homes in just two boxes and can be assembled in 20 minutes with easy-to-follow printed and on-line video instructions.

“Assembly of our tall trees is faster and easier than that of most artificial Christmas trees,” Tim Hennessy, co-founder of OfficeScapesDirect, said. “Our proprietary do-it-yourself design is a huge cost-saver for businesses and homeowners because it eliminates the expense of custom set-up. No one else in the world is doing this; we truly have revolutionized artificial tall tree technology.”

OfficeScapesDirect’s deluxe tall trees are available in five varieties – Alder, Bamboo, Ficus, Ming Aralia and Silver Birch – in 10-, 12- and 14-foot heights. Their pricing ranges from $799 to $1399. Once ordered via www.officescapesdirect.com or the company’s toll free number, 1-800-557-1997, they are shipped hassle-free to a business or home within ten business days. They arrive fully shaped and ready to assemble.

OfficeScapesDirect silk trees look beautiful year after year, saving customers tremendous amounts of money and time. The cost cutting benefits of silk plants and trees compared to using live plant leasing are undeniable. Silk plants eliminate costly service contracts, dying plants and the need to water. They eliminate conditions for mold, mildew and insect problems. They eliminate plant allergens and the need for chemical fertilizers and pesticides. They conserve resources and fuel so they reduce the carbon footprint. The bottom line: The need for costly live plant servicing to keep fragile, expensive outdoor trees unnaturally thriving indoors is eliminated.

“Our silk trees, plants and floral arrangements look incredibly real, thanks to recent improvements in artificial botanical technology,” Hennessy said. “Compared to ten, even five years ago, the leaves and petal components are amazingly authentic. At OfficeScapesDirect we use only the highest quality materials and assemble our products by hand in our own factory in Cincinnati, Ohio. The time, craftsmanship, and ingenuity we put into our product development really make a difference.”

OfficeScapesDirect is the nation’s premier supplier of designer-quality silk flowers, plants and trees for business interiors and commercial spaces. The company proudly offers the widest selection and deepest inventory of beautifully designed silk creations at affordable prices, delivered directly to offices and businesses. OfficeScapesDirect’s sister company, Silkflowers.com, serves the consumer market in the same manner, offering the widest selection anywhere of designer-quality silk botanicals for enhancing home décor. Both companies are located in Cincinnati, Ohio, and White Plains, N.Y.