Spruce Up For Spring!

Well it is that time of year again!  The warm weather is here and we need to get out and clean up our yards, porches, decks, patios, outdoor furniture etc, etc!  And since it seems to ALREADY be midsummer(umm, 89 degrees?),  I regret having to inform y'all that you are already behind...so, I thought I would share some tips to help get you started.

1. Maintain/Clean patio and porch furniture-  Most types of furniture can be cleaned with warm soapy water and a large soft brush, then rinsed with a hose.  For wicker and teak furniture, you can use a soft scrub brush and Murphy Oil Soap, then rinse with water. The use of harsh detergents or bleach can actually damage some types of furniture over time.  And you should always hose down your furniture once a week, if possible, to maintain furniture.

modern patio design by new york architect Dufner Heighes Inc
2. Clean out your flower and plant beds- I like to wait until it rains to weed my yard.  We should all do a "once over" in the yard, and pull as many weeds by hand as possible.  This also gives us the opportunity to check out our beds and see where we are starting to get good regrowth from our perennials! It also gives us a chance to turnover the soil in the beds.

traditional landscape design by portland landscape architect Samuel H. Williamson Associates
3. Clean out your gutters- This task can be tough for is those with 2 or more floors!  But for those with homes on all one level, it would be wise to get up there and see what is going on and clean out any major clogs or problem areas!
4. Clean your deck-  If you have one, go ahead and get it done!  you will be happy that you tackled it and you can move forward with the grilling and relaxing!  Olympic Premium deck cleaner will work well and let it sit for 10 minutes, then rinse with water.

modern patio design by san francisco architect Fulcrum Structural Engineering
5. Declutter your garage- Now this can be a big one, depending on the condition of your garage.  If you can take on the garage and clean it out and sweep the floors, Go For It!  If not, then you can take on the areas that you use the most or the areas that may be cluttering the entrance to your home.  By tackling these targeted areas, it is not as overwhelming, but it will make a big difference when you pass by it everyday!

traditional exterior design by minneapolis architect Murphy & Co. Design
6. Clean your windows! I plan on taking off my screens, cleaning my windows and then leaving my screens off! I want pretty shiny windows for awhile thank you very much!  Use a squeegee and a homeade solution and you will be shocked at the results. Try this: One gallon of water, 1/4 cup of vinegar and 1 tsp dish detergent.  You can also add a squirt of lemon, if you have it.  Make sure you wash windows in the shade, as well.

traditional bedroom design by new york architect Crisp Architects
7. Wash away the winter grime- sweep your sidewalk and driveway and use a pressure washer, if you have one.  If not, hose them down and scrub any specific areas that need it and move on!

traditional exterior design by other metros design-build Witt Construction
8. Scrub your grill- soak grill grates in warm soapy water. scrape inside the hood and clean the sides with a grill brush.  Hose off the grates and scrub them.

modern patio design by boston appliances Clarke

If you are able, then purchase a new inexpensive door mat and a flowering shrub or plant to place next to your main entry!  Now it is time to start the grilling!  If you have any special cleaners or methods that you would like to share, please let us know!

traditional entry design by san francisco architect ACANTHUS Architecture & Design, San Francisco, CA

Got 20 Minutes? Then You Can Feel Better About Yourself and The Beginning Of Your Week!

                                            contemporary kitchen design by atlanta interior designer Brian Watford ID

Do you want to feel a little better about yourself, your family and your home?  Well, of course there are a myriad effective answers to this open-ended question....but today, I want to focus on answering this question by taking the easy way out because sometimes we just need to!  If you lack time, energy and extra funds, there are some surprisingly simple ways to do this.

Let's say that you have 20 minutes this evening, after dinner and baths etc. to give yourself a better start to your week.  I would take that 20 minutes and head to the kitchen. The kitchen is the heart of the home, and it is often the space that every family utilizes and frequents, often first in the morning and last in the evening.

This is going to sound a little simplistic, but just trust me and give it a shot.  Don't worry, you won't have to clean out all of your drawers and pantry in 20 minutes, besides...how much difference is that going to make to you and your family immediately?

Okay, here we go...

                     traditional kitchen design by chicago kitchen and bath Jane Kelly, Designer for Airoom LLC




• Clean up any big mess, wipe down the counters and get any dishes out of the sink into the dishwasher
• Take a step back and look at your countertops.  Empty as many small appliances, oils, extra decor off the countertops!  Now, do you really need that blender or mixer out on your counter every day?  NO!  Find a spot under the sink, in a closet off of the kitchen, in the pantry on the top shelf etc.  Essentially, you need handsoap by the sink and perhaps a sponge.  You may like to have salt and pepper near the stove.  The reality is that many families "over-decorate" their kitchens and there is usually some level of random decor residing on the countertops.  Trust me when I tell you that emptying your countertops of excess makes a bigger difference than you would expect.  Just do it. and then, wipe your counters down again.
• Switch out your kitchen towels if you use cloth towels
• Visit your back yard or the grocery store tomorrow am or pm and purchase some inexpensive fresh flowers.  Get home and put them in a mason jar, small bucket, glass vase..whatever you have.
• Wipe down the kitchen table and if no one is seated and eating, there should be NO table setting.  In other words, no staging with placemats and accoutrement!  You are not staging your home to sell and you are not a food stylist, so the kitchen table should be clean and empty..unless you have some extra flowers.

                                        eclectic kitchen design by boston kitchen and bath Artisan Kitchens LLC

 Now, do you really use that pretty canister set every day?  Have you ever used all the bright colored infused oils?  Your answer may be yes, but for now, move them out of immediate sight and experience the difference.  And then add back only the items that you really use or find beautiful.

Now, if you are thinking...I don't have a place to put this stuff.  Well here is my answer.  First, just put the "Stuff" in a basket or bag and literally place it wherever you can to get it out of sight, even if it isn't going in a location that makes sense.  Here is the reason.  You need to experience the peace of simplicity in a commonly used space.  This can be a test if you wish.  Maybe you try it and then you enjoy it and you rethink your storage.  Or...maybe you rethink some of the stuff and realize that it might be time to donate!

Remember, this is NOT about achieving perfection or the perfect looking kitchen!  It is about owning items in your home that are placed there with SOME level of forethought.  Reduce the clutter, reduce the stress.

Either way, give yourself a little break and start the week off with a clean open space in the kitchen and spend only 20 minutes to get there.  Everyone benefits and your family will notice!

                                     modern kitchen design by san francisco architect John Maniscalco Architecture

The Gustavian Style Trend....Less Really Is More!

Gustavian...of or relating to the reign of the Swedish Kings or any one of the Swedish Kings named Gustavus...what?  I know, that is what I was thinking.  Maybe this will help.

Jacqueline deMontravel of Romantic Homes magazine describes Gustavian style as "the functional country version of a decadent French palace."  Now we are getting somewhere!  Gustavian is essentially Swedish design that embraces light airy spaces, pale milky blues and grays and simple lines.  As a young man, King Gustav of Sweden spent some time visiting Versailles and fell in love with the ornate french style of Louis XVI.  King Gustav returned home and these influences were eventually translated into a more simple, but equally rich aesthetic that became Gustavian.

                                               eclectic living room design by london interior designer swedish interior design

As with the other styles that we have been reviewing for 2012, Gustavian evokes a specific feeling or mood. There is a definitive nod to European History with this aesthetic and one cannot help but feel regal in its surroundings.  The richness of this style comes not only with its implied history, but in its carefully edited sophistication.  One of the hallmarks of this style is a lack of unnecessary ornamentation and minimal use of accessories.

                                                  eclectic spaces design by seattle media and blogs Splendid Willow

                                 traditional dining room design by san francisco interior designer Kathleen Burke Design


When you begin to consider Gustavian style, think of linen and muslin, slipcovered furniture, and blue and white china.  The colors that were most popular in the Gustavian period were grey, yellow ochre and swedish blue, and the finish associated with this style of furniture is a dull matte finish.

                                   traditional dressers chests and bedroom armoires design by The Picket Fence

thepicketfence.com

www.1stdibs.com

www.1stdibs.com

Take a look at the following sites for some beautiful items in the Gustavian tradition.  

• www.stbarthshome.com
• www.1stdibs.com
• www.realgustavian.com

Do you have any sources for Gustavian items or Swedish antiques?  Do you think that this is a style that you would like to incorporate into your home?  let us know what you think!

Finding Farmhouse Flair! It's an Etsy Treasury!

Does the Farmhouse style appeal to you?  If so, then you should take a look at Etsy for some beautiful finds that help to define that aesthetic...

Farmhouse Flair in 2012

"Wide Open Spaces" and good ole cowboy boots are required for this next "Top 2012 Style Trend."  Well, maybe you can get by without the wide open space if you have to, but I would recommend a pair of cool cowboy boots....for Farmhouse style.

traditional exterior design
by burlington architect Smith & Vansant Architects PC

I really began to notice the prominence of this aesthetic when my design magazines started to include articles and photographs of chicken coop plans that are nicer than most family homes!  Hey...I am ALL for chickens having a beautiful place to live but do they really need a replica of The Biltmore House?

Well,  it is true that many families around the country have embraced the tradition of raising livestock in even the most "suburban" types of neighborhoods...and they are doing it quite successfully.  My feeling is that this style trend has gained popularity for reasons beyond the "look."  I believe that this trend encompasses a little more... like the idea of embracing our roots in these tough times and the importance of finding pleasure in the simplest of tasks like getting your hands dirty in your own garden and cooking fresh eggs for your family in the morning.

contemporary dining room design by boston architect ZeroEnergy Design

It just so happens that farmhouse style is pretty fabulous and we all know that every farmhouse is full of old stories- when we include items in our lives that have a history, life becomes a lot more interesting indeed.

Farmhouse is a state of mind and a way of life in many cases, but it is also possible to incorporate special items into your home without going the way of the coop!  Often the look includes lighter, neutral tones and  distressed furnishings- with the occasional bright antique quilt or bright painted tin sign.

                              traditional dining room design by austin architect Hugh Jefferson Randolph Architects

Many would say that the kitchen table is the heart of the home in a farmhouse...the place where every day would begin and end and where a lot of those famous stories were told.  If you ask me this is not a bad tradition to uphold and certainly, it is not a bad look.

                               traditional dining room design by atlanta interior designer Yvonne McFadden LLC

The good news for our wallets- there are many items from which to choose that have a beautiful patina and that is a key word to remember when it comes to farmhouse.  Take a look at your regional flea markets and make sure to visit the next Country Living Fair  in Ohio or Austin and you will find everything you ever dreamed would be in a traditional American farmhouse...but don't forget to wear your cowboy boots.

                                  traditional kitchen design by san francisco design-build Canyon Design Build

Farmhouse style is whatever you decide that it is for you and for your home.  There are so many possibilities and so many sources. Inspiration is all around you and if you are lucky enough to live in the country, then get in your car and take a drive.  You won't believe the things you see when you are paying attention!

                                                              traditional serveware design by piperclassics.com

                                                         eclectic dining chairs and benches design by Factory 20

                                                       contemporary bathroom sinks design by WS Bath Collections

                                                                      eclectic storage boxes design by Etsy


So here is the plan...wait for a pretty day, put on your jeans and cowboy boots, put a Rascal Flatts disk in the car, roll down the windows and head for the hills. You will be sure to find your inspiration and you might just find a little adventure as well!

VINTAGE VA VA VOOM

eclectic bedroom design by media and blogs Dreamy Whites

Next on the list for 2012 style trends is...Vintage!  Yes, we all love vintage.  It is always a little more interesting to incorporate items with a story into our spaces.  Whenever I see an old metal and wood school desk/chair combo, it immediately brings up old memories of days gone by, not to mention it sparks my curiosity as to the specific history that resides within that particular chair.



Vintage items are those that have been "loved" and passed on for others to "love."  Whether we are talking about Levi's, old industrial lighting, teacups, or linens... Vintage just makes our lives a little more interesting.


Even better...many vintage items can be extremely affordable!  Start your Saturday with a visit to some yard sales and a flea market, peruse some thrift shops and end the day with a quick dumpster dive (Of course, check Ebay and Craigslist before bed). - You never know what you will find!

modern living room design by los angeles media and blogs Dabito

contemporary family room design by boston media and blogs Justine Hand

Mothology always features beautiful vintage items. You will never be disappointed when you visit this site!

www.mothology.com

 

www.mothology.com

Three Potato Four Shop is another fun website that is constantly changing and adding to the inventory of  unique finds.  Some of my favorite discoveries at www.threepotatofourshop.com, are the depression-era mugshots!  What a great conversation starter...talk about an item having its own story!

www.threepotatofourshop.com

And don't forget RELIQUE!

www.relique.com

www.relique.com

Where do you find your vintage?  What other styles do you incorporate in your home with your vintage items?  Any secret "go-to" vintage websites?

WHAT IS IN STYLE FOR 2012...ECO-CHIC.

Happy New Year!!  I am happy to be back on the blog and I have a lot to share in 2012.  You will see some changes in the way the blog looks over the next month, as well as some new features, but it is all coming from the same source, Me!

I want to introduce a new series of blog posts that will focus on the top design trends for 2012.  I was inspired by an article that I read in Romantic Homes magazine and I wanted to share the design styles with my own perspective and additional sources.

modern living room design by los angeles interior designer Carlos Alberto


The first style trend that will continue to dominate in 2012 is ECO-CHIC.   This trend has continued to gain momentum over the past several years and the concepts and products to support this trend have increased 100 fold!

To some, eco-chic means using less paper towels and to others it is a comprehensive lifestyle choice.  To me,  it means being aware of the products in your home, making conscious decisions in your selections and incorporating natural materials into your space to the extent that it reflects and enhances your personal style.

Interestingly, the addition of natural materials into a space can often make the difference between a warm space and a "chilly" space.  In addition, many options exist that are extremely cost effective and in some cases, free.  And remember, it is not about creating a space that is simply eco-chic...it IS about embracing your own personal style and adding natural elements that you enjoy and that complement your style.

You can start with a set of organic white sheets, or a reclaimed wood cheeseboard.  Beach glass is a beautiful element to include a glass jar or dish... as well as burlap or hemp.

www.seasideinspired.com

www.seasideinspired.com

www.seasideinspired.com

Driftwood is one of my favorite elements and can be incorporated in many beautiful forms.  These 3 photos include driftwood items from www.seasideinspired.com.  Driftwood adds warmth and is a natural element that can be utilized successfully in rooms of all styles, including more modern settings.

www.nettletonhollow.com

Nettleton Hollow is a great resource and you can order individual pieces of driftwood in multiple sizes and use them on coffee tables or console tables for a very affordable price.  You can also order birch pedestals that can be used as risers in your home.

www.nettletonhollow.com

Another versatile product that can add beauty and interest to any wall or space is the 3-d wall panel.  There are multiple manufacturers of these products so it is best to take a look and see what company offers products that fit your style and budget. Most are made of biodegradable materials- essentially you receive a pack of 8 or 12 panels that you adhere to the wall, and you can paint them any color as well.

www.mywallart.com

www.mywallart.com

Are you enjoying that hunting lodge look without the real looking carcass on the wall?  Or perhaps you have one too many mirrors in your home and you really need something else on the wall that shows your playful side.  Take a look at www.cardboardsafari.com.  I love this company and I purchased "Bucky" several years ago and he is still hanging on my guest bedroom wall!  As you can see below, there are options that fit into any space and provide whimsy.  

www.cardboardsafari.com

www.cardboardsafari.com

And yes, this wreath is made entirely of cardboard.  They are fun and VERY affordable...go ahead and vist the website, I know you want to.

Now, you see there are many ways to embrace this concept without having to move in to a treehouse.  Or, if you prefer the treehouse, go for it!  I couldn't complete this post without the mention of Angela Adams and her rug designs.  AMAZING.  This is the ultimate secret garden right in your home.  WOW!   Now go and get started on your own update.  What are your favorite ways to incorporate nature in your home?

modern living room design by portland maine showroom angela adams designs.

These are some of the items to look for if you like the ECO-CHIC concept.

• items made from hemp, cotton and burlap
• stoneware and pottery
• old glass
• reclaimed wood
• succulents  

and remember, when it comes to artwork, there is nothing more "eco" than outsider folk art where all of the materials used are usually found and recycled into masterpieces!

Simple Design For Small Prices! MUJI Delivers.

We all need a little "city in a bag"...right. So I need to introduce you to MUJI. Muji is a company with a design aesthetic based on simplicity, an overall approach that is devoid of frills and extras. They aspire to modesty and plainness in a way that makes every girl want to be a "little" more plain.

Muji focuses on simplicity in both design and packaging, opting for product packaging that is not wasteful and free of excess decoration which in turn, keeps prices down and makes it a lot easier for us to buy more for less!

Muji designs office supplies, interior decor, furniture, housewares and gifts. And all of their items are beautiful in their simplicity and clean lines. Even better, they are very affordable, for example the small sofa below sells for $330.00.

Take a look at www.muji.us/store to discover some impressive designs for surprisingly affordable prices. Maybe Muji is just a little too simple for you? Well, then maybe only one aspect of your life needs editing right now, such as your home office supplies or cosmetic and toiletries storage. This would be a good way to take some of the chaos out of your life, add some well designed organization and- achieve it on a budget!

Well, I will leave you to your quest for simplicity in good design and I will be leaving to order some kraft paper notebooks and aluminum pens. Thank you Muji!

okay, and maybe some baskets...