Ashleigh N. Clark

Fall 2011

2011-10-23T19:26:00.000-07:00

This is turning out to be a great Market this Fall. LOVING all the fresh color combinations. Here is a sneak peak (oh, and these are three of my favorite looks so far!!).

Genious!

2011-10-05T11:26:00.000-07:00

Okay, I typically HATE to take something from another blog but I saw this post on Ohmigosh Design Blog and had to share it!

Overlay's takes a standard table and turns it into a designer peice

You can use it for the glass doors on your cabinets.

On even on a mirror that has been hanging in the same spot looking the same way for years now.

Simply take a peice of furniture, paint the overlay the color of your choice and apply!

I am in love with O'verlays! Not typically a DIY girl, but I am all for this! Check out their website!

Modern and Classic...

2011-08-04T10:20:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite ways to add character to a room is to mix two or more design styles together. There is nothing better then seeing a traditional chandelier hanging over a modern seating area. Not only does it add a layer of sophistication, but it gives you many opportunities to add your own personality to the design.

Go with what you are Attracted to: Achieving a well done eclectic space does require some knowledge...not rules, just some general guidelines. Many people are drawn to a certain commonality, whether this is color, lines, or scale. This is where you can begin your design for cohesive harmony. You may be drawn to the lines of a traditional wing back chair. Why not take those lines and find a modern fabric that coordinates with them and upholster the chair in it?!

Create Balance: Finding the "balance" is key. The best way to have your eclectic space look intentional is to give more of one style and take less of the other. Try for a 80/20 or 70/30, 80% of one style and 20% of the other. One of my favorite tricks to achieve the eclectic look is to make all the lighting fixtures and rugs traditional and all other elements modern, or vice verse. This gives the correct amount of balance and looks beautiful.

Consider the Elements: Before putting those five pillows together consider what they do to one another when put side-by-side. By throwing all these pillows together it could look very "hodgepodge", but finding one element that works with all five elimantes this issue. This could be one color found throughout the pillows or even the scale of the patterns. This "guideline" applies to furniture as well.

Art: Art is one of the hardest parts of the room for some people to envision. My rule is: GO FOR IT!! Art does NOT need to match your room. If you like it and the proportion works, use it. Art is meant to be seen not blend in.

The art of mixing old and new and having it work together but in the same token be completely different, can become confusing, but, when done well, it can be breathtaking.

Photographs: Google Image, www.houzz.com, www.decorpad.com, Lee Meier Studio

Near Completion II, A Stunning Master Bedroom Nestled on the Lake

2011-07-19T09:53:00.000-07:00

As I promised in a previous post, here are the final photographs from the "Near Completion" post

At the heart of this residence is a beautiful Master Bedroom, perfect for the homeowners needs and wants. It is just the right amount of elegance while keeping comfort in mind.

Notice the headboard fabric and area carpet as these were the inspirations for the entire space. The headboard sits in a prominent spot at the center of the room with a spectacular view of Lake Erie.

The stunning oil painting graces the seating area where there is a nice play on colors and patterns.

And thus, the customized chests that serve as nightstands flank the gracious bed.

MDD

2011-06-30T10:19:00.000-07:00

Are you watching? Every episode? Every bit of drama? Every bit of fabulous design talent? I know I am!!!

Million Dollar Decorators is my newest obsession. I am not a designer who likes "decorating" shows, but this show is incredible. It shows REAL designers and clients, their relationship between each other and actual design work. Real, good, design work. I love Kathryn's eclectic personality, Martyn's passion for good chocolate and "delicious" design, Jeffrey's diva attitude with Ross (not to mention how often he is shirtless!), and let's not forget Mary and Nathan. Those two have now worked their way up to the top of my list to become best friends with!!!!

If you haven't watched this show yet, trust me, you should!

Near Completion

2011-06-24T11:16:00.000-07:00

I thought it would be fun to share with you one of our latest "near completion" projects. Paul and I designed a Master Bedroom together recently and had so much fun customizing some bed-side tables. I must first apologize that this is NOT the completed project. Lamps still have plastic on them and there are no accessories/artwork, as well as some technical items that still need to be relocated. But, I have decided on sharing this with you early because of a post on Lort's blog that I was very excited to see. Below is our unfinished project:

The two bed side tables are pieces that we customized from Lorts:

Today, we were reading the blog I mentioned above and vuela! They photographed our piece and look how beautiful it looks!!!!!!

I will be sure to share pictures of the finished project!

Photographs taken from Lorts.

Loving Mid-Century

2011-05-05T08:13:00.000-07:00

If you like mid century design I have fabrics for you! The newest fabrics from Villa Romo are a modern twist on Mid-Century and they are GORGEOUS! The colorways and patterns have been perfected and I am so excited to start using them!

All photographs are from www.villaromo.com

Latest Wallcovering!!!

2011-05-05T07:19:00.001-07:00

We were lucky enough to get a preview of our newest wall covering books before they arrive here at the studio. Oh how I love them. They range from sophisticated, fun, vibrant and soft patterns. Take a look......

I would love to see this installed horizontally!

Great for a feature wall or in a bookcase!

LOVE THIS ONE!

All photographs come from www.harlequin.uk.com

Here Comes Peter Cottontail!

2011-04-11T08:21:00.000-07:00

Now that the weather is finally starting to feel like spring, I am reminded Easter is right around the corner! During my weekly search for inspirational rooms I came across many that reminded me of the upcoming holiday.

The bright yellow and geometric patterns in this room resemble these fun Easter eggs, like they were hatched from the same designer!

mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm.....Easter candy. Not only do the colors in this entryway work with the chocolate Easter egg, but the pattern does as well.

Weathered painted chest, meet weathered painted eggs.

I did only choose one Easter photograph to show with this room, but there are so many possibilities. The floor = Easter Basket, the chair fabric = Easter dress, cocktail table = Easter ribbon. I do love this room!

Unexpected yes, but doesn't the rug resemble the Easter grass in Easter baskets, and the bright orange and green remind you of colored Easter eggs?

Too cute! I just want to cuddle this little guy.

I am hoping this is a faux fur though.

Easter lilies are a perfect complement to this space!

Photo Credits: Google Image

After a Long "Waites"

2011-04-04T07:38:00.000-07:00

After a long Waites, our newest catalog and fabrics have finally arrived... the Raymond Waites colection! We have been able to offer you this unique line since last fall, but we were unable to show the new products/fabrics until now! Many of you have seen the lovely chair and mirror we currently have in the showroom.

We fell in love with these peices at the fall High Point Furniture Market and just had to bring them back with us. Now we can offer even more! Look at these exciting peices... Hope you are all having a nice day today...it is a dark and dreary one here this morning :(

Interested in anything you have seen here? Feel free to contact me!

All photographs are from Google Image or Myself!

Rue Rules Once Again

2011-03-30T12:30:00.000-07:00

Last fall I blogged about the new online magazine: Rue Magazine. They are now on issue #4 and I am so in love with their cover.

Does it get any better? I love everything about it, not to mention the magazine just keeps getting better. If you haven't checked it out, please do! Let me know what you think so I can say "I told you so!"

Staircase to Creativity

2011-03-30T10:20:00.001-07:00

As my family keeps growing, so does our need for space. I have been researching some creative ways to utilize every square inch of space in my already too small home. Eventually we would like to move into a more spacious home but until that time comes, I need to start thinking of different ways to use the one I already live in. One space that jumped to mind was the staircase. There is always so much unused space under the stairs, and is usually too odd of an area to use for living purposes. So to the computer I went and I have found some great inspiration photos: And my favorite: Photo Credits: Levitate Architects, Apartment Theropy, Cottage Living, Google Image

Complete!

2011-03-16T14:38:00.000-07:00

I have recentley completed a large project and have a little more down time, which means more blogging!
As promised, I have some great photographs of the project from the Home and Garden Show. Fellow designer, Barrie Spang, and I created two areas for Cleveland's Great Big Home and Garden Expo. The first was for local celebrity, Romona Robinson, and was a "French Country" inspired sitting room:

The second space was the main stage where many talented designers gave presentations. We were inspired by all the fresh flowers we are looking forward to this spring!

Sneak Peek!

2011-02-03T07:07:00.000-08:00

Hello blogging world! It's been awhile but I am finally back and I want to re-enter my blog with a very exciting post. Barrie Spang, a fellow designer at Lee Meier Interiors, and myself have been working very hard designing a local celebrities room, Romona Robinson, for the Great Big Home & Garden Expo, as well as the Main Stage.

Upon meeting with Romona we learned that she likes French Country, warm earth tones with soft greens and blues, as well as a love for toile. Barrie and I also gathered inspiration from the High Point Furniture Market last fall and went to work. We are very pleased with the results, but I am keeping the final design photograph for another day (I know the suspense is going to kill you)!!!!!

Day 1:

Barrie and myself.
Christopher and Melissa
Kevin hanging the burlap (yes I said burlap and it looks very cool!)
Christopher and Paul laying the flooring.
Staging area.

End of day 1!! We all look so energetic.

Day 2:
Poor Melissa had to fold and tie rope around newspapers for over an hour!
Sneak peek of Romona Robinson's room! I will post a photograph once perfected.
Sneak Peak of our Main Stage design...fresh colors and fun prints!

Beautiful Color Combos

2010-12-03T07:17:00.000-08:00

Are you ready for some exciting photographs? These color combinations may be "over the top" for some, but as for me, I LOVE it all! Pay attention to how many styles, patterns and colors are mixed together in one room. Well done, well done. (sorry about the quality, I had to scan the ads!)

My all time favorite color combination...Peacock and Purple:

Photographs are Osborne & Little and Designers Guild

Open House

2010-12-02T06:50:00.000-08:00

Good morning!
The Lee Meier staff has been hard at work in the studio getting ready for our Holiday Open House this evening. Take a sneak peek at our work!!!

Isn't the mirror gorgeous? This was a great team effort with displaying the mirror and artwork!

Our Holiday mantle...the purple and green are a great color combination for the season!

A wonderful way to display artwork!

Stop in and see us this evening or anytime for that matter!

Design + Me = Love

2010-11-22T06:44:00.000-08:00

This week is my parents 25th anniversary and all our family and friends gathered together to suprise them with a party. It was wonderful to have everyone together again. When parties or holidays are around these days, I try to take a step back to make sure appreciate what is happening at that time. This morning I began reflecting on how happy everyone was and from there my mind went into how happy I am in my life right now. Then of course, me being typical me, I began with questions! Am I where I should be in life, am I doing everything the way I would if I had a do-over? I know I am meant to be a mom and wife, was I meant to be a designer? Then I saw a beautiful room in this months Rue Online Magazine and realized I LOVE DESIGN more than ever. Next to family and friends comes design in my life and I wouldn't have it anyother way!

Rue%20Magazine%20Holiday%202010

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Distrubing? HPFM-4

2010-11-19T10:10:00.000-08:00

I have promised some readers I would post some pieces I saw at High Point that I described as "disturbing". I was hesitant to do so after thinking about it, because some people may not agree, but then I thought...well that makes it that even more fun to read all the comments, so please leave as many comments as you wish! And I do hope no one takes offense, it's all for fun! Now, lets begin with body parts!!!! (Wow, that sounds awful!)

Now don't get me wrong, I know art can be created in a million different ways for a million different points of view, but I just don't think I want to stare a a foot on my cocktail table! Below are a few more body parts, but trust me, they were EVERYWHERE for some reason...

And the winner for the most disturbing body part goes to...

The spilt torso.

I am a huge animal lover but the below images are just a little off to me...

And the winner for the most disturbing animal goes to...

One creepy horse!

This sure is a different way to view yourself in a mirror!

I am not sure if they are dancing in the unusually high chairs or if they need to find the nearest restroom!

This is by far the winner for the most disturbing piece of art this year at HPFM.

I promise, my next blog will be a happy one on a beautiful interior!

In Living Color...HPFM-3

2010-11-15T07:18:00.000-08:00

As I promised, here are more of the colors I fell in love with at High Point. Which is your favorite?

In Living Color...HPFM-2

2010-11-11T12:22:00.001-08:00

Continuing on with my posts on the latest trends we saw at HPFM...COLOR!!!!! As a designer, I of course LOVE using color. What I am glad to not see was America's #1 color, beige. Beautiful, vibrant colors were all the rave, YEAH!

Different hues of pinks and raspberries are very hot right now (and in my opinion they are always hot!). This raspberry colored sofa pops right off of the blue wall.

The pink in this room is just the right hue to be sophisticated and whimsical at the same time!

The raspberry repeated on the artwork, ottoman and pillow adds a great punch of color. I love the chair fabric, and the contrast tufting was everywhere this market.

Not only do I love the pink in the fabric but I also love the pink and green detail on the wood!

A pink lazy Susan! Fun fact: It is believed Thomas Edison invented the lazy Susan because his daughter Susan always complained she was served last! But, documentation says Vanity Fair coined the term lazy Susan in an advertisement in 1917. Anyways...

Making a new modern statement this year is blush. Although much of the blush you see is still in a traditional setting, the modern room settings are very glamorous.

Replacing beige this year is gray. It is being paired with all sorts of colors and seems to be dominating the neutral world!

For a modern twist- Gray and a Green/Gold!

Using gray as your "all over" color is a great neutral but adding a few hints of orange adds enough color to bring life to the gray.

I have many photographs to show of all the wonderful colors so look for "In Living Color Part 2"!

It's Almost Here

2010-11-02T11:53:00.001-07:00

The glitter and sparkle that is filling the retail stores always puts me in the mood for some holiday decorating. I am always a fan of the Biltmore Estate, which is decorated to perfection every year.

I am excited to start! Contact me if you need some decorating done in your home for the season, or any time of year for that matter!

1 Fabric, 2 Fabrics, 3 Fabrics, More! HPFM-I

2010-11-01T10:03:00.000-07:00

Since I have returned from HPFM (High Point Furniture Market, and yes I know it was weeks ago!) I have been wanting to blog about the wonderful, and not so wonderful, finds. I will try and catch everyone up quickly but it will take a few blogs.
One of my favorite looks involves using more than one fabric on a piece of furniture. This combined with the wonderful colors that were displayed made for some BEAUTIFUL eye candy!

Although everything is very traditional on this chair I feel it has a very modern twist. The mixture of wood, metal, hounds tooth, and red leather makes for a striking "traditional" chair with an updated feel.

One trend I saw a lot of was pink. Not the soft pink we saw years ago, but the strong, bold, wonderful pink you see in this chair. I am personally in love with this chair. Note how the pink is actually dominating the floral, which is usually not the case.

Upon first glance you may think this is just a traditional dining chair done with the traditional mix of leather and fabric. Look again and you realize how beautiful it truly is. The fabric, leather, wood tone, and nail head work wonderfully together but what I really love is how they played with the leather. The band of leather framing the fabric rather than wood just adds to its elegance.

Hello beautiful! I have always loved this shade of blue and the crisp white background of the pattern just makes it pop!

For those of you that have had the opportunity to use/see this fabric in person...lucky you! The photograph does not do it justice.The color is so intense that pairing with the the neutral leather was a great call. This pattern speaks for itself, but the whole ottoman in it just wouldn't have looked as good as it does with a tone down!

FALL back in love with your home!

2010-09-30T07:30:00.000-07:00

The weather is cooler, the leaves are beginning to change, and the stores are a sea of amethysts, spices, and reds...fall is definitely here. Below I have complied a list of ideas to help you FALL back in love with your home!!!
First thing first...the Entry. Often ignored for seasonal decorating, other then Christmas, but I believe this is a great area to add some life without dipping into your Christmas present savings!

Image Credit~ Style at Home
Do you have an entry bench? Adding a new cushion in amethyst, spice of brown can completely transform your look into fall.

Image Credit~ Crate & Barrel
I know this is expected but I just love fall wreaths for an entry door.

Image Credit~ Williams-Sonoma Home
If you haven't replaced your rug in the area you enter or exit the most it may be time. The vibrant colors of fall is a great choice that works year round!

Office:

Image Credit~ Iomoi
I found the cutest site for stationary and pens. Iomoi offers fabulous colors in their stationary, as well as other products (check our their gifts under $50.00). Adding these to your desktop is a great way to add some spice to your office for the fall.

Kitchen:

Image Credit~ Etsy
When I think of fall, there are two things that come to mind: vibrant colors and delicious flavors. Gneiss Spice, an Etsy shop, combined the two to make a functional piece of art for your kitchen!

Image Credit~ Williams-Sonora Home
These mugs from Williams Sonoma are perfect for hot soup or cocoa. I would definitely leave these out, perhaps on a shelf. They are too cute to hide behind cabinet doors!

Image Credit~ Williams-Sonoma
Yes, once again the obvious, but a nice reminder...time to bring out the fall colored dish towels. A nice pumpkin colored stripe or even solid jewel tones will do the trick.

Image Credit~ The Frugal Girls
This idea is not so much for decoration as it is for two of your senses, taste and smell. If you know guests will be arriving soon, pull out your crock pot, put some apple cider and cinnamon sticks in and your home will smell like a little piece of heaven in no time!

Living Room:

Image Credits~ Williams Sonoma Home & Gracious Home
Replace your pillows and throws with fall colors and plush textures.

Image Credit~ Woodson & Rummerfield's
Do you have an old side table tucked away in an attic? Take it out, give it a light sanding and paint it a classic fall color...red in this case!

Image Credit~ Pier 1
Now we can address your photographs. You can either replace the frame...

Image Credit~ Robin Wieland (Thank you again!)
Or play around with the coloration of your photographs to add a nice warm tone (Aren't these the cutest little boys ever? The middle two are my boys and my two nephews are on each side!).

Dining Room:

Image Credit~ Country Living
Time to bring out your fall place settings or buy new!

Image Credit~ Country Living
It may also be time to look into some updated centerpeices!

Image Credit~ Happily Nested
Do you have a cabinet in your dining room? If so, adding wall covering or paint to the back of it is a great way to add a punch of color for this season.

Lastly, the bathroom...

Image Credit~ Gracious Home
Add a colorful rug...

Image Credit~ Gracious Home
Autumn colored towels...

Image Credit~ Bath & Body Works
Hand soap that is scented in apple, spice or pumpkin pie...

Image Credit~ Boxco
And a red tissue cover and your home is now FALL-ified!

Image Credit~ The Box Girls
I almost forgot, place this box of questions on a table for a great conversation starter when entertaining!

HAPPY FALL!!!!!!!!

Rue Rules!

2010-09-17T11:37:00.000-07:00

I love the new Rue online magazine. For those of you who haven't seen it yet, it is a must see.

Open publication - Free publishing - More shelter

A toast to the pages above! That gold zebra printed rug is now on my top ten. At only $375.00 you can't go wrong!

Open publication - Free publishing - More shelter

I know this is an interior design blog, but would you look at those boots! I was shocked when I saw they were from Target, I was not expecting that.

I could keep going on about this magazine but I do beleive you should check it out for yourself! Hope everyone has a happy weekend...I know I will!

Why Hire a Designer When Building/Remodeling Your Home?

2010-09-10T11:20:00.000-07:00

I feel I have neglected the blogging world this week. My usual Monday post was taken over by the preparation for a lecture myself and fellow Interior Designer, Barrie Spang, gave this afternoon at the Ohio Design Centre.

It was a lot of fun and a great way to prepare for the Home and Garden show at the IX Center, where we will be giving the same lecture at this February (and yes, I am aware that I look as though I am preparing for gym class but I thought an action shot was necessary!)

The presentation was on the topic: "Why Hire an Interior Designer When Building or Remodeling Your Home". Barrie and I spent some time on coming up with a different way to present this topic. We felt the topic could be very mundane if not presented correctly...I believe we got it just right!

Holly Golightly (from Breakfast at Tiffany's) decided it was time to get married and move to the burbs. Barrie and I took off from there. We presented Holly as our client and walked our audience through the process of building her new home.

As an added bonus we gave gift bags to our audience.

Here we laid out the materials we chose for Holly and her new husband Fred's master suite for our guests to touch and feel!

It was a lot of fun and I look forward to doing it again come February... WE HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE!!!!!!

Thank you Christopher and Kim (Mom) for all your help!

My Latest Obsession

2010-09-03T08:57:00.000-07:00

I am having a love affair with an old friend at the moment...silver leafing. Take a look at its beauty....

Image Credit ~ Trendir

This metallic dark wall covering paired with the silver leafed pieces adds a great amount of drama to this space

Image Credit ~ Traditional Home

The wall covering panels trimmed with silver leafed molding is more of a subtle way of bringing silver leafing into your home.

Image Credit ~ Traditional Home

The crystal chandelier's lighting captures the antique silver leafing while the trumeau reflects both the crystal chandeliers and the ceiling!

Image Credit ~ Traditional Home

I am so in love with this butler's pantry. The teardrop chandelier, ceiling and wall treatment, white porcelain and white molding, all reflect one another giving a dramatic appearance to such an unexpected area.

Image Credit ~ Trendir

Look at that bathtub, talk about flair! The combination of silver and gold, the polished stone and of course the crystals makes this one luxurious bathroom.

TILE

2010-08-27T11:24:00.000-07:00

I was going through some old projects this week that I have completed and found a photograph of one of my favorite homes. Unfortunately, my favorite part isn't represented in the photograph - a tiled rug. Similar to the one pictured below:

Image Credit ~ Tierra y Fuego

In my search online to find a tiled rug photograph I came across some beautiful tile designs. The tiled mural below looks real!

Image Credit ~ Artisan Surfaces

Can you beleive that fireplace is all tile!?!?

Image Credit ~ CIG

A tiled ceiling...lovely!

Image Credit ~ Bee-Boppin' the Boroughs

A fun take on a kitchen back splash...circles!

Image Credit ~ MGT

Of all the places in a home, I love a beautiful staircase. If done right, it could be majestic!

Image Credit ~ Tierra y Fuego

A more practical wainscoting for a bathroom!

Image Credit ~ Velvet & Linen

From a distance it looks like a stunning wall covering!!!

Image Credit ~ Dornob

What tile applications do have/want in your home? The possibilities are endless!

Lets Set the Table!

2010-08-23T07:43:00.000-07:00

There are some fantastic dining tables out there. Here are some of my favorite finds!

This black walnut slab dining table adds a bit of rustic to any space. Pair it with sleek lacquered chairs for a modern dining area or beautifully upholstered chairs for more of a traditional look.

Image Credit ~ Trendir

The white tolix chairs compliment the rustic farmhouse dining table so beautifully, makes me want to eat brunch there!

Image Credit ~ Decor Pad

How innovative is this table? You must have a sense of humor to own this table and chairs!

Image Credit ~ Craziest Gadgets

This eye candy was created by Eric Manigian. The table is solid walnut with purple heart wood running through it.

Image Credit ~ Trendir

Dressing up a plain table with a tablecloth and pastel chairs, this setting is just the right amount of girly for a Sunday morning!

Image Credit ~ Country Living

The dining table above is made from exquisite materials and methods. A polished stainless steel base with a polished onyx top. Does it get any better?

Image Credit ~ Taylor Llorente

Wave a shiny or metallic object and you have my attention, give me a metallic yet rustic dining table and you have my heart!

Image Credit ~ Restoration Hardware

Light (even thought it is black), airy, and modern. Add a few upholstered chairs a crystal chandelier, colorful flowers and tada!

Image Credit ~ Danetti

R & R at a B & B!

2010-08-20T07:47:00.000-07:00

I have been dreaming of staying at a lovely Bed & Breakfast for a nice long weekend so I began researching! These are my top ten in Ohio...Enjoy!!!

The 1861 Inn, Cincinnati:

A Georgian Manner, Hocking Hills:

Willow Tree Inn, Tipp City:

German Village Guesthouse, Columbus, Ohio

The Garden Manor, Columbus:

High Street Manor, Urbana:

Felicia's Guest House, Mount Vernon:

Whispering Pines Bed & Breakfast, Dellroy:

The O'Neil House, Akron:

A Water's Edge Retreat, Kelleys Island:

What do you think? My wedding anniversary is next month, I think I want to stay at one of these delightful B & B. Now I just have to decide which one!

I am sure there are many more Bed and Breakfast’s worth mentioning, if you know of any, please post!

All images are taken from each Bed & Breakfast website (see links).

Shining Star?

2010-08-16T10:01:00.000-07:00

Okay, for those of you who REALLY know me, you know that I am not easily impressed with "television design". That being said, I was impressed last night with a certain "star".

I almost gave up on watching Design Star and I thought, heck, it is the end of the season, lets just see who continues on. This entire season was rather mundane I must say. Really, how many group challenges do you need? Anyways, I thought the judges did okay in the eliminating process last night. I would have preferred to see Casey rather than Michael continue on, but SCORE with Emily.

For those of you who didn't watch the show, the designers were given a glass house individual challenge to create a space that corresponds to the theme of their show, if they were to receive one.

Okay...here it goes...Michael's show would be focused toward college graduates moving out on their own for the first time. I personally thought it was boring and a theme that is apparent throughout almost all of HGTV as it is. Here is his finished room:

Some people feel that Casey should have gone through to the finales, but I think the HGTV producers did not want two cute girls as the finalists, just my opinion! Also, the theme. Casey's theme was using old finds in a home and creating new uses for theme, or something like that! How many times can HGTV make this type of show? I think all but two or three shows are centered around this concept.

Emily...my favorite. Finally some real talent. Emily had a fresh "theme" (match your fashion wardrobe to your home) and what she created last night was fresh, stylish and fun.

I was unsure who had talent this entire series because no one had a chance to shine through in the challenges they were given. I was rather disappointed in that part of the show, but like I said, "television design" isn't my favorite. I feel it misses a lot of quality and gives people the wrong impression. If I am to make a living, I cannot design your home in one day for $500 and say I am proud of my design, sorry! Oh, Candice, that is not in anyway intended towards you, I think you are a fabulous designer!

What did you think, did they choose the best designers to have their own show? Would you watch them?

Mouth Watering...

2010-08-12T08:32:00.000-07:00

After a yummy conversation I had yesterday regarding DARK CHOCOLATE, I came across a room that reminded me of my current craving. This inspired me to find more designs that resemble desserts, during which I had the urge to eat my computer screen! Hope you enjoy!

My Best Friend: Dark Chocolate!

How does this room remind me of a dark chocolate bar? The chocolate squares resembles the artwork and windows, the metallic foil resembles the artwork, and not to mention the color of the walls and chocolate bar are an exact match!

Image Credits ~ Jeffrey Bilhuber

If Life Gives You Lemons...Make a Lemon Meringue Pie!

Place a lemon in a drink, garnish a dish, or display in your kitchen and you have a nice punch of color. That is exactly what the yellow did for this room. The meringue balances the taste of the pie, as does the sofa, rug, and moldings in the room, all of which are similar in color. The brown portion of the meringue reminds me of the fireplace surround with similar colors and texture.

Image Credit ~ Decor Pad & Twice Baked Twins

Red Velvet Trellis!

If there was ever a cake and a foyer that were meant to be together, these are the ones! The actual cake itself mirrors the floor in the room, the white frosting resembles the walls, and the red decoration topping the cake is a dead ringer for the imperial trellis wall covering!

Image Credit ~ Barrie Spang from Lee Meier Interiors & Sweet Treats by Lattis

Criss Cross Brownie Sauce!

All I have to say is look at the color and pattern in the stunning hall and the mmm mmm brownies!!

Image Credits ~ Decor Pad & Bakers Royale

I'm Nuts About This Kitchen!

This kitchen design and the cacao pistachio florentine and mint ice cream sandwich (my goodness that's a mouthful- literally!) are a match made in heaven. Modern design meets modern dessert.

Image Credits ~ Lori Dennis & GLiving

DELISH!!! Now I am in the mood for some good DD (Dessert & Design)!

ROYGBV!

2010-08-09T08:46:00.000-07:00

Now that we have discussed putting color on your wall, let’s look at some beautifully designed rooms from the colors of the rainbow!

RED!
Photo Credit: Miguel Flores-Vianna, Elle Decor Magazine

ORANGE!
Photo Credit: Joyce Bradshaw

YELLOW!
Photo Credit: Google Image

GREEN!
(I am in LOVE with this Kitchen)
Photo Credit: Google Image

BLUE!
(Designed by Barrie Spang of Lee Meier Interiors)
Photo Credit: Barrie Spang

VIOLET!
Photo Credit: Roger Davies, Elle Decor Magazine

I also went shopping with a friend of mine in lovely Tremont this weekend and thought I would post all the colorful and fun finds!

A stunning colorful antique light!

Aren't they fabulous?!?!

I love how they displayed these colorful scarves!

Mr. and Mrs. Merlot

I need this dress!

The lovely Kim...I had fun, let's go again!

How to Choose a Paint Color

2010-08-09T08:28:00.000-07:00

1. The first step is to be patient. All too often people rush through choosing paint colors and are not happy with their decision once on the walls. If you do not have patience, stop right now, pick up the phone and call me. We can choose together!!!!!

2. Decide what you want painted. Are you painting all the walls or just one? Are you painting the ceiling, moldings, cabinetry….? The list can go on. The room pictured above has three different paint selections I had to choose for. The ceiling (dark grey) the walls (a light grey) and the molding (a shade of white).

3. Look at your surroundings, take note of the lighting. Is it morning, afternoon, or night? The time of day can radically change the colors you are viewing. Also, check your mood! If you are sad, mad, excited…this can drastically change the way you are viewing the colors.

4. Walk your home. Begin at your front door and walk through all the hallways, glancing in each room as you pass. Take note of the colors that catch your eye. These could be on pillows, artwork, tile, rugs, bedding, draperies, photographs, etc… These are most likely colors that you chose for a reason and hopefully they all work well together!
The rooms throughout the home above, designed by Paul McClure of Lee Meier Interiors, blend beautifully.

5. Find these colors on your paint deck and place in the room you are painting. If you have other colors in mind, place them in your room as well. By bringing these colors together you can get a good sense of what you want/like.

6. Consider your paint finish and moldings. Are you painting with semi-gloss, eggshell, or satin? This can alter the look of your color. The color of your molding is an important part of choosing your color as well. If you have moldings that are a shade of white or a wood tone, make sure to have a sample of this ready for the next step!

7. Pull together your finishes from the room you are painting. Are you purchasing new furniture? If so, ask for a sample of the finishes/fabrics. Lay everything in the room with your paint swatches.
The sample board above, created by Christopher Randall, shows all the different finishes for one room. Although this board is gorgeous, you only need to lay the samples together!

Thank you Christopher!

8. Study your colors, select your favorites, but leave all the colors out and WALK AWAY! Come back in a few hours, maybe even the next day. Do you still feel the same about your favorites? If so, discard you’re least favorite colors… you are getting closer.

9. BUY SAMPLES!!!! Seriously, this can save you so much headache and not to mention money! Buy samples of your top colors and paint a large area with each. Once dry, place your fabric and finish samples next to the paint samples, if the samples are able to be taped on the wall it is an easy way to look at your choices together. Again…WALK AWAY! Come back later and then choose. Follow these steps and chances are you will get it right the first time around!

10. Still not sure… CALL ME!
Photo Credits: Google Inage, Lee Meier Interiors

A Love Letter

2010-08-03T07:11:00.000-07:00

Dear Mr. Baldwin,
I understand that I am not the first designer to profess my love for you and your talent, but here I go anyways!
What you did for American design is incredible. The way you mixed old and new, masculine and feminine, textures and colors, was more than brilliant, it was genius. The timeless designs you have created has shaped American design in more ways than one. I just want to simply say thank you. Thank you for showing the world your talent and sharing your gift with us!
Love,

While studying at Ursuline College I was given the opportunity to write a paper on an Interior Designer of my choice, and that is where my love affair with Billy Baldwin’s talent began! Billy Baldwin, PLEASE, NEVER MISTAKE HIM FOR ONE OF THE BALDWIN BROTHERS, he is far too talented to for that, was an iconic designer who lived until 1984. For those of you that are unfamiliar with him, Baldwin created stunning interiors as well as furniture pieces. I have posted some of his great works and quotes for you to enjoy!

The Blue Salon of La Fiorentina on the French Riviera:
“Comfort is perhaps the ultimate luxury.”

“Tall Room”, Woodson Taulbee Apartment, and yes, that is his signature slipper chair!:
"Great blends of pattern, like great dishes, must be carefully tasted. And constant tasting is what teaches a cook how to taste."

Bonnie McIlhenny Wintersteen’s Bedroom:
"Color should not be subject to the rules of fashion."

Mrs. Mollie Parnis Livingston's Living Room:
"Be faithful to your own taste because nothing you really like is ever out of style."

Mrs. Gilbert Miller's Living Room:

"A person with a real flair is a gambler at heart."

Mr. and Mrs. Lee Eastman's Living Room
"There is magic...in the deep-jewel-colored room, warm and mysterious, where you discover its many beauties as you sit, seduced slowly."

I saved my favorites for last: Billy Baldwin’s Apartment and two more of his famous quotes:
"Never adopt a particular style and peddle it as your own. Always be personal, always be flexible. Many decorators fall into a trap, and when they finally want to do something a little different, they find they cannot because their clients have stereotyped them."

"If I find that something I am doing is becoming a trend, I run from it like the plague."

Images- Billy Baldwin Decorates, Architectural Digest

Picking Rapberries

2010-07-29T08:36:00.000-07:00

The color raspberry is a nice, bright, clean color that seems to haunt me these days. This color is so naturally eye catching, possibly because of how vivid and intense it is, and I seem to see it everywhere.

This kitchen is so unique in design and its use of color. I love the pop of raspberry in the rug and cabinetry. Paired with the wood tones and the clean white countertop, the raspberry is definitely the star of the show! I feel as if a ballerina is going to twirl through the walkway while the chef is preparing a five course meal!

I must say these might be the best highchairs I have come across! Not only is the color great, but look at the functions and the design. I am in love with this AGS Design HiLo Chair thanks to All Modern Baby. I must say, all the moms out there really need to check this chair out. It also comes in five other fabulous colors. Che meraviglia!

I found this photograph of the Raspberry Study of Empress Maria Alexandrovna (Russia) and thought it was just gorgeous! From the detail in the ceiling and moldings, to the most perfect use of raspberry, I could definitely see staying here!!! Empress Ashleigh, I believe it has a nice ring to it!

A three legged stool! The designer of this stool, David Restorick, actually found a stool that was old and broken and made these replicas in Cast resin!

The neutral color palette of this exterior space allows for the dining chairs in raspberry toile to come to life! Nothing says English country side like toile, stone work, and antiques!

Isn’t this skirt just the cutest thing ever! I found the most darling website: Teacups and Mudpies . WARNING: Moms, do not go to this website with the intent to just 'browse'…you will buy! There are items for boys and girls, but the Tutus and Pettiskirts are just wonderful.

I do believe I need a pair! These amethyst chandelier earrings worn by Christina Applegate, go from a deep amethyst to a lovely raspberry in different lights. Yes, of all the jewelry I have seen on celebrities this year, these may take the cake, or at least a large slice of it!

I found this chair on one of my favorite site: Etsy. Spruce Home took this vintage high back chair, painted in a bright white and reupholstered in a raspberry fabric. Nice choice I must say, and the pillow is a wonderful compliment!

Ahhhh, reminds me of a nice relaxing hot day, enjoying the slow life with a drink in hand. Hopefully that is what I will do on our little weekend get-a-way this Saturday!!! Yeah, much needed!

My next cocktail (taken from Absolute’s website):

Absolut Raspberry Ambitious
4 parts ABSOLUT Raspberri
2 parts Cranberry Juice
1 part Lime Juice
Sprite
Fill a highball glass to the rim with ice cubes. Pour all the ingredients over the ice. Garnish with raspberries and a lime wedge. YUMMMMMMM!

Thank you to everyone for reading. As a side note, don't forget to sign up to receive this post to your email and hit the follow button!
Images ~ Goolge Image, Etsy, All Modern Baby, Absolut Vodka, Teacups and Mudpies, David Restorick

Up, Up, & Away!

2010-07-26T12:42:00.000-07:00

More than just a white ceiling...
The fifth wall is often forgotten. In the right space, certain applications can enhance your room making it stand apart from other homes. I have found some of my favorite applications just for you!!

Just add paint...

Lost in the woods...

Wallpaper or Ceiling Paper?

Canopy of Goodness...

The Element of Suprise!

TINsel town...

A Peice of Art...

Images ~ Google Images, Elle Decor

Lets Talk Fabric

2010-07-21T13:57:00.000-07:00

Seeing as this is my first post on this blog, it is fitting to discuss my love...FABRICS!
As we all know, there are literally thousands of fabrics to choose from. My problem always tends to be choosing between those two or three perfect ones you inevitably find.
There are many factors that may determine your selection in fabric, one being the time of year. Each season brings different emotions and desires, which obvioulsey effects the choice you make.

This fabric from Nina Campbell reminds me of summertime. The color reminds me of the ocean and the pattern of seaweed. Pair this fabric with some linen, maybe a larger print fabric and it becomes a seaside cottage!

Ahh, the fall. A nice little break from the heat.

Obviously the colors in this fabric remind my of this time of year, but it is the pattern that really caught my eye. The lines that make up the swirls remind me of the wind gusts that pick up the dirt and fallen leaves and swirls them around.
http://www.pollackassociates.com

Winter, we always love that first snow fall and then the joy of winter is over! Funny how the longest season in Ohio is also the least loved! For those of you who do love winter... good for you. I wish I could, but I just hate to be cold!

It is the colors in this Liberty Furnishings fabric that reminds me of winter. The white snow, blue/grey skies (mostly grey in Cleveland!) and yes, even the brown from the slush!

The lines of this Pollack pattern reminds me of the snow drifts, while the sheen you see is reminicent of the sun glimmering over the snow.

My last season: Spring!

This Lorca fabric is not only a beautiful print, it evokes excitement as well as representing the number one thing associated with spring...flowers! Every one is always excited to be outside when spring shows up. It cracks me up every year, us Ohioans are outside in 40 degree weather, no coat, pretending it is actually WARM outside!

I just love weeping trees, especially weeping crabapple trees. I received one of these trees for my birthday the year my husband & I purchased our home. Do you see the beautiful spring buds in this print?
http://www.romo.com

Next time you are searching for a fabric, bed linens, or even a pillow, try to look at it as art. Most likely, there is a reason you are attracted to the pattern or colors!