see so good: to the maxx

the other day i went to tj maxx on a whim and was completely bowled over by the home furnishings that were in the store that day.  i actually had never seen such a great variety of furniture options and prices in the well, ummmm, let’s just say decade that i had been shopping there.  it was like a treasure chest filled with all kinds of goodies - upholstery, wood pieces, fun accessories and even a yummy cowhide rug.  this was too good to be true and i needed to share my new found pot of gold.

so away i went, snapping my camera phone like a mad photographer, when an even better idea formed, why not pull a whole room together!  what a wonderfully happy idea, especially since i had reigned in a lovely sofa and wood pieces that rival high end retail furniture stores.  the fun began and i staged the scene with pillows,  a concept for a clock wall and a color palette of plum, taupe and black.  there was no stopping me…like a scene from Saturday Night Fever, the wheels were spinning out of control…and the next thing i knew…

The Trammps, Disco Inferno (video from www.youtube.com)

okay, okay i’m back, but really, why not compare what i had found at tj maxx with matching (or close to it) brand name items, it was pure shopping genius, not to mention a super fun challenge.  i hope you enjoy “to the maxx” and for those of you who have $$$ to spare, check out “maxxed out” for the retailer goods!

  all the above from tj maxx, prices of some items as follows:

1. sofa - $699.99
2. black leather chair - $199.99
3. various clocks - $19.99
4. wood chest – ?
5. metal stool - $59.99
6. wood chair - $199.99
7. wood chair – $199.99 + fabric from Designer’s Guild to recover the end chairs (see no. 7 below)
8. column lamp - $39.99
9. table lamp – ?
10. pillow - $24.99
11. pillow - $19.99
12. accessories – ?
13. accessories – ?
14. coffee table - ?

sources and links to the above items…

1. Kensington Sofa from Restoration Hardware
2. Neptune chair in black from Chiasso
3. various clocks from Restoration Hardware
4. Ettore Console from Anthropologie
5. French sewing stool from Restoration Hardware
6. Louis XVI End Chair from Wisteria
7. Culswick (Phipps-Rasberry) fabric to recover end chairs (no. 6) from Designer’s Guild
8. slender rustic table lamp from Wisteria
9. Off-White Cotton Linen Table Lamp Shade and Prema Punched Metal Table Lamp Base
10. Vintage French Linen Pillow covers from Restoration Hardware
11. Hand Blocked Paisley Pillow from West Elm
12. sculpture from Global Views
13. Buffalo Horn Ring on Stands from Z Gallerie
14. Printmaker’s sideboard from Restoration Hardware
15. Carved Wood Coffee Table from West Elm

see ya soon [X] [X]!!

i’m just seeing: “tie dye for” grooviness

i’ve been loving the milder form of tie-dye fashion seen in clothing and also hair styles.  and as we know, what happens in fashion follows in home wares, which is why i’m dyeing to share this very fun look (wink, wink)!  the hippie movement in the 60’s most certainly was inspired by the ancient tie-dye technique that has been a popular expression of design in many countries for centuries.  but within the past few years, the new trend is a dip-dye technique, chic and subtle, and ever so shady… what can i say, it’s the alter hippie in me that laaahhhoooves this new interpretation!   so hold on to your faded and dyed socks my friends, cuz there’s some juicy stuff to see below, but before you sneak a peek i gotta share this “how to” from Martha Stewart Living especially if you’ve got a box or two of RIT dye (check out their site for lots of fun projects) you’ve been itchin to use.

ombre (which means shaded or graduated in tone; French meaning shadow, shade; darkness, obscurity) options are a close cousin of the dip-dye look  and are characterized by two or three colors within a close range.  there’s another version of this trend i like to call graduated grooviness,  which is a mix of ombre, dip-dye and a cleaner striated-stripey version of tie-dye.  so as i was gathering all my design inspiration for this post, the items that blew me away and circling back to “tie-dye for” is the line of furniture produced by SCHOLTEN & BAIJINGS, 2005 PHOTOGRAPHY: INGA POWILLEIT, 2007, titled COLOUR PLAID 05 (c).  i mean where have i been?  i can hardly believe this amazing design had escaped me…

…until now and i’m sooo happy to share with you more styles just as luscious, so without further adieu, i give you

 

sources:

1.    John Lewis Gradient Outdoor furniture

2.    Colour Plaid 03 produced by Scholten and Baijings

3.    Trift by Judith Seng from BLTD (betterlivingthroughdesign.com)

4.    Unique Rugs by Esti Barnes from Captivatist

5.    Do-Lo-Rez Sofa by Moroso from yliving.com

6.    Ombre 18” pillow from Z Gallerie

7.    Woven Ombre Placemats from Anthropologie

8.    18” x 36” carpet tiles - “Vertical Edge” from the “On the Edge”     Series Contract Carpet from Shaw Contract Group

9.    Louisa Sette from Anthropologie

10. fade print table mat in cucumber by chilewich

happy seeing and have a groovy day {g}{g}!!!

polka dots & moonbeams

it’s incredible to watch your children grow up to be semi-clones of yourself, sometimes for good and others times not so much.  i often wonder why each child seemed to pick and choose what kinds of behaviors and tendencies that i displayed over the years and then stray at times from my more redeeming traits.  i am grateful for their differences and individuality, and am happy to say each of my children has a very big heart.

this post is focused on the matters of the heart, especially with the recent engagement of my daughter Kirsten.  when we speak of the heart we think about love and romance. sometimes love for our families and relationships, but today i am not writing about people, this is the polka-dot kind of love in which kirsten and i share the same genetic chromosome .  when we were recently discussing her thoughts on her wedding she recited that she would like the theme of her wedding to be polka-dots.  after my long and exhausting happy dance upon hearing this news, i quickly set to work to determine how we can neatly fit this super cute theme into the most perfect wedding design concept so no “dot” or “i” was left unmarked.  they say when an idea is destined for it’s course, the magic begins and this was no exception.  yes, we had the graphic, but we needed the substance, the glue, the one main idea that would always turn us back to where we should be, and as if my nuptial prayer was answered, there it was, a gift from the internet heavens in the form of the song “polka dots and moonbeams” sung and recorded by Frank Sinatra in Los Angeles in May of 1961.

perrrrrfection!

Polka dots and Moonbeams – by Frank Sinatra

[Recorded May 2, 1961, Los Angeles]

A country dance was being held in a garden
I felt a bump and heard an "Oh, beg your pardon"
Suddenly I saw polka dots and moonbeams
All around a pug-nosed dream

The music started and was I the perplexed one
I held my breath and said "May I have the next one?"
In my frightened arms, polka dots and moonbeams
Sparkled on a pug-nosed dream

There were questions in the eyes of other dancers
As we floated over the floor
There were questions but my heart knew all the answers
And perhaps a few things more

Now in a cottage built of lilacs and laughter
I know the meaning of the words "Ever after"
And I'll always see polka dots and moonbeams
When I kiss the pug-nosed dream

enjoy the style sheet and stay tuned for more updates…dot, dot, dot!

happy seeing [@][@]!!

i’m just seeing: winning windsors

i remember the purchase of my first dining set (in the 1980’s buying a furniture “set” was the norm), it was an oak table and a set of 6 sturdy windsor styled chairs, heavy to move and thick parts and pieces.  i loved that set especially when country décor took over the nation by storm.  being a youngling then my taste was right there in the thick of everything country.  it seemed that this set, in all of it’s oakey glory, would be something I would pass down to my children and it of course was forever to be in my family.  but alas, there finally came a time to let the set go to another owner who hopefully had the same zeal for it’s chunky character and english heritage.  it’s been quite sometime since the passing of the country craze and my dining room set and now that my tastes are much more refined, less trendy and definitely more contemporary, i am intrigued by my new fascination for this iconic chair.  i admit i am drawn to furniture that is historical in nature and spun in a new way, it’s the saying “what old is new again” that makes me do a double take!  and as this chair takes on a newer modern aesthetic, the roots are clearly visible. i am so happy to report that windsor chairs are making a comeback and more stylish than ever.

1. New country by ethan allen burton arm chair – talk about a whole new attitude, this furniture company has defintely reinvented itself, I would take one of these chairs in a heartbeat.

2. Windsor Love Chair by anthropologie – I love, love, love the gradated painted finish, so tie dye like, hippie meets modern country!

3. and if you weren’t yet convinced, look at how amazing these red windsor like chairs look in this very hip and contemporary restaurant!

4. Smile Chair by Lievore Altherr Molina by Andreu World – one of my favorite examples of this new modern classic, I think the red is perfection!

5. Wegner PP550 Peacock chair by Hans Wegner from the Danish Design Store – there’s something to be said for iconic never goes out of style, like this masterpiece designed by Hans Wegner in 1947, so current, simply stunning in it’s scale and proportion.

6. Pair of Blue Windsor Chairs offered by Huniford from 1stdibs – the blue paint instantly updates the look of the chairs that are actually quite old, yet they are slim and uniquely interesting enough to showcase. This pair mixed with a group of simple clean wood chairs is definitely a “do”!

7. Modern Windsor Accent Chair from West Elm – I loved it when I first saw it and I still do.

8. Straight Backed Chair by George Nakashima for Knoll from DWR - another timeless classic that will endure all the trendiness of design.

9. Windsor Chair by Chris Specce from materialicious – a fun twist and super cute windsor chair design

Well there you have it, windsor chairs are no longer old fashioned or countrified, and hopefully will be around for a long time to come! Happy seeing {6}{6}!

see so good: dining ala serengeti style

in a world of imagination and love of design, i embark on an anthropologie (www.anthropologie.com) wonderland, with the first of my stops to be the african serengeti plains.  a subtle promise, to be sure you will not be left high and dry on this excursion, oh no, a dining setting that sets the scene of watercolor like grasses, parched and rustic weathered wood, exotic fanciful animal imagery layered among tribal inspired handiwork, please join me as we safari to the serengeti…

{all from anthropologie}

1. Constaninople Chandelier – candlelit beaded dining heaven, 3 of these centered over the table in various heights keep the look relaxed.
2. Sculptor’s dinnerware – handmade dinnerware that is so rustically refined.
3. Bright Morning Teacups, Blue – sipping just became more intentional, no hurry to go, savoring the moment and keeping it real with no handles.
4. Menlo Lamp – a randomly placed small grouping give instant ambience without being pretentious, can you say very romantic and inviting.
5. Brushstroke Branches Mural – this paper is so modernly beautiful I want to frame it, i think i can see the zebras and gazelles just beyond the tall grasses yonder.
6. Ettore Console – who could have known something so rustic could be so hip and simple, the perfect piece for trays of tiny little cakes!
7. Springkbok Benches – the inspiration for this post and i gotta have these benches or else, i mean how fun are they…you can split them apart or cuddle them together, placed on one side of the table with some soft cushions, you’ll want to camp with the animals.
8. Idling Iguana Pillow – a couple more animal friends to share the night…
9. Lucid Outline Pillow – and a pillow or two for extra comfort.
10. Lever and Lumber Table – a solid table for a backdrop to the magical moments and stories to be shared.
11. Grafton Chair – a homespun chair with a sophisticated frame equals sitting pretty.  a pair of these on the short ends break up the animals from the natives.
12. Dutch Wax Ottoman, Green Diamonds – 3 or 4 of the colorful fabric wrapped ottomans look like the dresses of the native land.
13. Grass Striped Rug – what’s better than a field of grass to soak your toes into after a long day on safari or to lay on and soak in the beautiful sunset?

Thanks for traveling with me, stay tuned for more dining experiences and happy seeing <0><0>!

see so good: HB relief

work has been so good that it’s taken my time away from blogging but when presented with this new design challenge my mind had a migraine/design fever and it would not subside until i finally became my own client.  so here’s the symptoms of my predicament:

• a slightly numbing plain apartment in HB (for you west coaster’s you’ll know what i’m talking about, Huntington Beach, California of course)
• existing conditions -  his and hers mish mosh of furniture
• compounded with the function of second office for my husband and me as his pain in the neck
• and then finally severe delusion of the designer brain until i’m completely metaphorically semi-conscious because i simply have to figure out how to make this place look beachy cute without spending hardly any $$!

prognosis: good, thanks to the inspirational images from Belle and Elle Decoration magazines…

 

prescription #1: the inside, take the following 19 items, sit back, enjoy and you should be on the road to recovery!

1. ornate mirror – from World Market
2. amazing image of the ocean (this is even better because it is actually a HB beach pic), get permission or buy from the photographer, enlarge to a really big size at least 6-7 feet, have it stretched onto 2” deep stretcher bars, hang, you’ll feel like dipping your toes in the water – image from Flickr by by John Paul Rodriguez
3. own it…or something like it, a dark stained TV stand – from IKEA
4. own it…or something like it, two floor lamps to flank each side of the sofa – by World Market
5. for texture, rattan poufs – by Pottery Barn
6. my happiest beach ikat pillow find, two for a double dose of goodness – by Z Gallerie
7. own it…it’s a hers/mine from my bachelorette days from Z Gallerie
8. own it…
9. how do you combine office meets dining, just roll on over with this white leather office task chair – by World Market
10. my next happiest beach tie-dye pillow find – by Z Gallerie
11. beachy is not beach without a stripe or two, pillow – by Pottery Barn
12. what’s a design haven without a collection of apothecary jar for seashells and rocks – World Market
13. pretty glass balls – Pottery Barn
14. wanna ditch the table and eat alfresco the sofa, this tray is just the answer – by CB2
15. hair on hide pillows add a touch of glam and fab – by Restoration Hardware
16. own it…Lack coffee table – by IKEA
17. layers of rugs to help the speed up the recovery time or to add extra yumminess, striped rug – by World Market
18. own it…flokata rug – by IKEA
19. own it…his dining table from the bachelor days – by Bo Concept

prescription #2:  the outside balcony, add these 11 items and you are sure to be in beach heaven!

1. in or out this rug is double fun, striped rug – by World Market
2. super cute side table or stool – by World Market
3. get in touch with your inner elephant so your memory stays strong, outdoor pillow – by World Market
4. layer the back of the sofa with some neutrality, chunky weave pillow – by Pottery Barn
5. a couple of blue outdoor rattan chairs add spice and flavor – by World Market
6. the best outdoor deal i know of, $160.00, this sofa is big enough to lounge the day away and still have money to spare, outdoor wood sofa bench – by World Market
7. mixing it up with some pattern, blue outdoor pillow – by Pottery Barn
8. not much space on the balcony, this will do the trick and weather the weather, coffee table - by CB2
9. line these babies on the coffee table and you have just created zen meets HB cool, oil lamp – by CB2
10. don’t forget to string out the lights for impromptu get-to-gethers – by World Market
11. mix this green little guy in and the scene is set, lumbar outdoor pillow – by West Elm

get well soon and here’s to a beach-speedy recovery!

see so good: wall stickers, so fun!

if you would have asked me 5 years ago about wall stickers, i might have lectured you on the two most don’ts in design:

• don’t ever use wall stickers
• and don’t EVER, EVER put any kind of ANYTHING that looks like a sticker on a wall!

well, times have changed and wall decals certainly have come a long way and i’m actually loving the opportunities for embellishing walls with vinyl works of art.

there’s a couple of great places to buy wall decal art and I’m also throwing in wall murals into this mix, some of my favs are

• www.fermlivingshop.us – wonderful modern graphics and great installation ideas on their website
• www.lanakole.com – another site that has a very nice selection of graphics and design ideas
• www.whatisblik.com (blik studio) – has a ton of wall decalls and many are very bold and craaaaaahzy, they also do custom decals.  be sure to check out their portfolio and e-book for ideas
• www.eazywalls.us – is just murals, and you will find all types of ideas, the murals come in different sizes so you can be sure to cover the entire wall (which is what I recommend :-))

First let me say a couple of things about the do’s and don’t of wall decals before you go “sticker happy”…

1. little stickers on a wall are almost always a no-no, pretty much any type of stationary, scrapbooking stickers and child size stickers with cute little bunnies are a big design DON’T.
2. consider the entire room and wall(s) where you are going to place your new art, does it work together as an entire composition.  your walls are the canvas and the sticker(s) are the subject matter (image from www.fermlivingshop.us).
3. i’m all about go bold or go home, but a subtle tone on tone approach is also good.  going bold-you should have the graphic incorporate as much of the wall space as possible, even, oversized or bleeding images are much better that something that only takes up a small percentage of the wall, UNLESS, of course it is part of a grouping (example below from www.fermlivingshop.us)
4. layer decals of various sizes on top of each other to create a one-of-a-kind mural – check out this cute idea below from www.spearmintbaby.com



5. see more ideas below…

blik studio www.whiatisblik.com – chair mix’a lot

both decals above from www.lanakole.com

dandelion blowing seeds in the wind from www.eazywalls.com

red paint spiral wall mural by www.eazywallz.com

 

Urban Outfitters 3-D Wall Sticks Birds and Ferm Living timber wall sticker….

…happy stickering!

DIY for $100-bathroom design give away

Have you ever wished you could redo your bathroom, and then realize you just don’t have the budget to do what you really want to do?  Fear not my friend, I have come along to help you with your woes!  I am giving a away a free bathroom design for one lucky do-it-yourselfer, wanna know more? 

Photos Courtesy of Lonny Magazine –www.lonnymag.com and photographer for Lonny Magazine Patrick Cline.

Here’s the deets:

What’s in it for YOU?

• a FREE re-design of one of your bathrooms in your home (so think of your smallest bathroom and I’ll think big!)
• my commitment to stick to a $100 budget ($100 = cost of materials such as paint, accessories, it all depends on what makes the best design sense for YOUR bathroom)

What’s in it for ME?

• one more happier bathroom in the world that I hopefully get to promote once it’s all finished
• more “design to see” and s.e. design, inc. facebook followers :-)

Here’s how it works…

1. if you’re reading this from my blog right now, click the “Follow” button so I know who you are (you will be instructed to put in your email at that time) AND…
2. click the SUBSCRIBE TO DESIGN-TO-SEE Posts button (and follow the instruction to subscribe) so you will know who the winner is when I make the announcement next Friday, March 25th, 2011
3. if you are not already a fan of my s.e. design facebook, please click this link s.e. design, inc. fan and then click the “like” or “fan” box
4. okay now for the good stuff – I will gather all the names from my blog and s.e. design, inc. facebook page and put them in a very large basket, do a quick little drum roll with my hands and draw a name which I will send out a personal message via facebook and announce on my blog.  Make sure you do both no. 1 and 2 above, cuz I will be making my list, and checkin it twice, gonna make sure who’s naughty and nice (o.k. wrong song for this time of year).
5. one more little detail, if you tell your friends and they sign up, tell me and I will throw your name in the basket for each additional person you recommend.
6. once I have identified the lucky winner and we both do a little happy dance celebration, he /she will provide me with photos of each of the walls in their bathroom, floor and ceiling, etc; measurements of all walls and necessary elements; and will fill out a brief questionnaire about their likes and dislikes for the transformation.
7. my turn – I will then send the winner (and post this to my blog) all the ideas on paper including a sketch of the most prominent wall, a list of items to purchase (remember I’m sticking to my $100 limit!) and a list of things to do.
8. here’s the catch, you should be prepared to clean, paint, hang pictures or shelves, switch out a light, install vinyl floor tiles or whatever an able-bodied person can handle.  If you are completely unsure of your abilities enlist someone to help you!  I want you to LOVE the transformation and since I’m not going to be there to supervise or pitch in, the success of the outcome is one part how well you follow my instructions and how neatly the work is done.
9. Let’s get this party started!!!

11 to see: black & white*** beaut-ees

1. Ikea GUNVOR Fabric.  For the money, this fabric has the most bold-bang for the buck.  You can use it to upholster a headboard, a pair of bergere or wing chairs, make pillows, a bedspread, or drapes, the list is endless. 
2. Urban Outfitters Medallion Wall Mural.  How cool is this mural, like a magical snowflake taken from Masaru Emoto’s Water Crystal images.  Cover a whole wall and see the crystal clear persuasion.
3. CB2”s FLOR™ Side by Side™ floor tile.  I’m clearly a stripe-a-holic, but truly, this carpet square wonder can perform a stripe-miracle in almost any room.
4. Urban Outfitters Russian Folk Tale Tapestry.  Attach a rod pocket to hang from a simple drapery rod or layer over a floor puddling black bedspread made of a thick linen or lightweight wool and your room will feel like a ethereal sanctuary.
5. Anthropologie Ebony Lace Wallpaper.  Wall paper is the new paint these days, you can’t deny the transforming effects.  So wherever you may choose to use this black lacey beauty, just remember it’s not just for the bedroom anymore!
6. CB2 alpha carbon floor lamp.  I think this floor lamp may just be the next gotta-have-it room-essential, whether your decor is traditional, transitional or modern, it works.
7. West Elm’s Ikat Woven Basket Collection.  A tisket, a tasket, what a beautiful basket!  When it comes to baskets I have finally been able to hone my selection skills, this is how it goes:  something unique about the design + functionality = a basket triumph.
8. Anthropologie Rigid Pleats Lamp.  On a kitchen counter, in a bathroom, on a desk, nightstand, bookcase, this is so suuuuper cuuuute!
9. Wisteria Wooden Upholstered Sofa with Bridal Rug.  The anchor piece for this post, for $1,599.00 I was blown away.  You might find something like this from another retailer for 4x the price.  It’s true perfection of texture, contrast and uniqueness, this bridal rug sofa has me saying “I do” all over again!
10. West Elm Modern Windsor Chaise.  When I saw this modern interpretation hit the West Elm presses, I was sooooooo happy!  Finally they reached far out of the mainstream furniture boxy-box they were in and presented a classic icon statement!  And if you are wondering what to do with this ultra hip windsor winner, well there’s so many places it can go it makes my head spin right round like a record, baby, right round like a record, baby:  in an entry, bedroom, living room, office, dining room, large master bath, Open up your lovin' arms, Watch out, here I come! (lyrics by Dead or Alive - You Spin Me Round)
11. CB2’s nest chair.  I’m chirping over this number…an outdoor chair I would also use inside:  a pair in a breakfast nook, a side chair in a guest room or a bathroom or in a living room.  An outdoor style that can transform any space into hotel chic.  Pair with solid pieces of furniture with clean simple lines, such as a thick wood or parsons table and tree stump side tables, add glass cylinder candle votives, Cabo Azul here I am….

***Now here’s some good news, in my next post I’m switchin it up, stay tuned!!

see-be-do: ap·pre·SEE·a·tion

It’s my new word…appreSEEation,  I love how it rolls off my tongue, and even more, the deeper meaning of appreciation.  Lately the dots have been connecting like the starry sky that stretches out as far as the imagination, so good, so wonderful!  So the other night while reading  “you are here” by Thich Nhat Hanh I came across a section of the book that connected to me, he writes:

“Your eyes may be in good condition, but do you know it?

Breathing in, I am mindful that I have eyes that are still in good condition.

Breathing out, I smile to my eyes that are still in good condition.

In this practice you touch your eyes with your mindfulness, you have this simple insight:  your eyes are in good shape, and they still exist.  You only have to open them to make contact with the paradise of forms and colors, a true paradise.

….You should recognize that your eyes are there for you, and they are so very precious.  They are more precious than pearls.

Your heart is also there for you.  Your heart works night and day in order to maintain your well-being.  You take time to sleep and rest, but your heart works non-stop to supply all the cells in your body with blood.  Have you touched your heart with the energy of mindfulness?

Breathing in, I am mindful that my heart is working day and night for me.

Breathing out, I smile to my heart.

…When you touch your heart with the energy of mindfulness, you are already practicing love.”

What crazy good stuff, sooooo, here’s how I sum it up….

the ability to see beyond sight + mindfulness of your heart (focusing on your heart places you in love, you just can’t help it) = the power to be transformed in how we engage in the world, how we treat others, and how we see ourselves and truly embrace the uniqueness of personalities, cultures, design and so much more.   I’m talking true appreSEEation!

After reading the above passages from “you are here” I was struck with a higher appreciation for my heart and my eyes, …more precious than pearls… and reflecting about my past lack of appreciation boggled my mind.  Yes, I have written hundreds of lists about what I am grateful for and recognize the kindnesses bestowed upon me by others daily and I am constantly touched by the awe and beauty of the world, but I had not seen as clearly as I did that night.  I realized how lucky I was to be alive and even more miraculously still have my eyesight (although I was legally blind almost all life until I had Lasik surgery), after coming close to dying when I was an infant from a very bad eye infection.  How could I not have more appreciation for my gift of sight?  It’s even more amazing that my Hawaiian mother gave me the name of “Makanani” when I was born because she said I had beautiful eyes.  Heellllooooo, I finally could “see” this miracle, I was not blind, but it meant that connecting with my heart on a deeper level made the true difference!

Reflecting even further on my past week, I had an opportunity to attend a workshop on Emotional Intelligence presented by Six Seconds (www.6seconds.org).  It was an amazing experience and I learned many new strategies.  I am excited to share the “world changing message” I learned to all I come into contact with, and to promote the EQ (Emotional Quotient) Model for children in schools, a top essential for improved quality of life and academics. 

During my week’s experience at the workshop, many inquired “what are you doing here?”, not in a mean way, but several were curious why an Interior Designer was among teachers, scholars in psychology, leaders of non-profit groups and the like?   I honestly did not know how to answer the question, why was I there?  I started to feel consciously different from the other attendees for which I convinced myself that was okay.  Perhaps others felt they did not belong either, nonetheless, I persevered and convinced myself that I was going to finish the workshop and “see”.  And “see”  I did.  I saw that even though I was different, so was every individual who attended the workshop, so uniquely different, it made such beautiful sense to me, whoo hooo, how happy I was to be different!!!  I finally could appreSEEate how different was good, great and I was happy to be there.

This has been my experience with design, helping people to see differently, and now I see more deeply today than yesterday because of Thich Nhat Hanh and the EQ Workshop/6 Seconds participants (you know who you are).  What a beautiful principle, “appreSEEation”.

i’m just seeing…black and white do’s and two don’ts

I really hope you are inspired by all the amazing photos I have shared in this Black and White series.  Thanks so much to both Rue Magazine (www.ruemag.com) and Lonny Magazine (www.lonnymag.com).  These two magazines are becoming my new favs, showcasing real rooms that look timeless and have sprinkles of quirkiness!

  

If you remember the past posts, this rooms speaks to why Black and White is so darn yummy, and below is a list of definite do’s and two don’ts to get you buttoned up and on your way to Black and White stardom!

1. Do mix black and white, it’s okay if your whites are not all the same, just as long as you don’t mix pinky, bluey, greenish or any colory white.  It’s best to stick with white, off white and/or creamy white.
2. Do create rooms with an all-over white scheme, but be verrryyy careful about an all black scheme, too much black is, well, too much!
3. Do add various textures, wood, rustic elements, shiny, smooth, rough, cuddly soft, all mixed together add dimension and make the space feel more comfortable.  White + no texture = cold and sterile.
4. Do mix in neutrals such as warm woods, sisal, chunky faux (pronounced like four without the “r”) fur throws, linen, baskets and natural artifacts.
5. Do mix black and white prints, such as stripes, geometrics and florals of different scales and textures.
6. Do mix in accents of color if you want to add some punch – see see so good: part 2.
7. Don’t no. 1-I’m going out on a limb with this one, but in my very humble opinion, black and white and primary colors are a BIG no-no.  It screams bachelor pad stuck in the 80’s, soooo don’t mix primary colors with black and white unless, and ONLY unless, you happen to own the most amazing Mondrian painting and it covers a huge wall in your home and then, you should only allow the painting to speak for itself and not accessorize with more primary colors.
8. Don’t go crazy with black and white, everything in moderation.

see so good: part 2

this is the part where I just go craaahhhaaaazzzzy with B & W rooms that boggle my mind (and hopefully your mind too), the kind of rooms that make you think, no way, I’m changing every thing in my house just so that I can get that look.  So no “xplaining“ just feast your eyes on some beautiful pics and know that I’m right there with you baby, it’s soooo good!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Courtesy of Lonny Magazine –www.lonnymag.com and photographer for Lonny Magazine Patrick Cline.

but yet there’s more…another beauty from Lonny Magazine.

how cute is this room from Lonny Magazine, with a bit’o’orange.  Orange you glad I included this pic?

black is beautiiiiiiful (-Lonny Magazine)!

and last but not least, one more image from Lonny Magazine (too many black and white beautiful rooms, so little time…)

you can’t go wrong, so easy, so inspiring!

i-see-a (IKEA looks): 1-black and white

I know, I know, not another IKEA crazed woman, yes it’s true, so here’s my big confession for my obsession and passion over Ikea: 

I can’t contain myself from being inspired by Ikea. Their furniture is simple, clean, fun, adaptable, and sooooo uber affordable, it makes my head spin.  In fact, I seriously have to restrain myself from going to the design-on-a-budget mecca when I drive by, it’s like a drug and my right side of my brain is looking for an Ikea creative fix!  How does one amazing huge blue box have that kind of effect?  I remember the days not so many years ago when my friend and I would drive to San Diego for an Ikea weekend and now, but alas, I have my very own store in the state of Arizona, talk about true happinesssssss!

In a world of lovers and not so lovers, I am hoping to inspire, redirect and even perhaps convince the masses that the world would be a very sad design place without Ikea. 

So I’m thumbing through my 2011 Ikea catalog for the two hundred and thirty-second time and can’t hardly believe I missed the page in the teen section showcasing “spacemaker” http://www.ikea.com/ms/en_US/rooms_ideas/planner_youth/index.html – the dream room planner .  No way, now I can design thousands of rooms with ALL the Ikea products at my finger tips, ummm, no, not so much!  But, if you’re in the mood to test out a few Ikea looks, this is a handy tool.  Below is my first test run, I added the Lack coffee table and plain pillows since these were not offered in the various menus.  Be sure to click on the “watch it work” before you begin the fun.

This is also my attempt to design my own White Box from HGTV’s Design Star designer’s challenge.  I must confess, I tried out for the show and was not selected, oh well, if you can’t beat, join em, right? 

So below is a very safe list of ideas to incorporate into the scheme above with three different looks while being true to Ikea for the main parts and pieces and our black and white vision this month:

1. hippie oh so now (hippie vib with a clean white backdrop):  Remember layers, no matchy-matchy.  To get the look add various paintings that cover the entire back wall with minimal spacing, keep the look very random; add an Ikea PS Stuga Rug and your favorite incense, groovy!
2. cottage modern (all things cottagey from Ikea): Staying true to clean, paint the back wall a dark charcoal; add some books wrapped in brown paper bag covers (youtube this how-to); add some oversize farm implements, or a mix of faux trophy heads; using the Ikea Ribba Frame print black and/or white large letters from a print shop to the size of the frame to spell out a saying such as “enjoy (1st row), life& (2nd row) and smile (3rd row)” to place on the back wall.
3. industrial chic (heavy-metaly):  Add some precut squares or rectangles, the same size of course, particle board or plywood panels to cover the ENTIRE back wall and bolt in place only if you don’t rent or you have a landlord who gives permission for you to do this; hang 3 of the Grundtal Mirrors with about 3-6” inches of space between them horizontally on the side wall, cool dude!

See shopping lists below:

1. IKEA Lack Coffee Table - $19.99 http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/00095036
2. IKEA SorglosVases – $14.99 & $12.99 http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/10164190
3. IKEA Sockerart Vase - $19.99 http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/30148463
4. IKEA Pjas Woven Bowl/Vase- $12.99 & $39.99 http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/30107132
5. IKEA Aryd Pillar Candle Holders- $9.99 & $12.99 http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/70188174
6. IKEA Grundtal Round Mirror - $29.99 http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/40047883
7. IKEA Ribba Frame - $19.99 http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/20078050
8. IKEA Henny Rand Cushion Cover - $9.00 http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/20173919
9. IKEA Stockholm Cushion - $12.99 http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/60103236
10. IKEA Kajsa Trad Cushion Cover - $7.00 http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/40151681
11. IKEA Vilmie Throw - $19.99 http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/20174952
12. IKEA Vilmie Figur Cushion Cover - $10.00 http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/90174939
13. IKEA Ektorp Limbar Cushion in Idemo Black - $19.99 http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/00143914
14. IKEA Vilmie Rund Throw - $19.99 http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/60174950
15. IKEA Ofelia Throw - $29.99 http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/30139623
16. IKEA Fargrik Hogst Plate - $4.99 http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/00164478

“i-see-a” is the everything Ikea fill-in post.  Stay tuned for more, I promise you, it will be worth the adventure, the ideas are as far and wide as those lovely concrete polished floors of their warehouse lined with boxes of simplicity waiting to be unveiled.  Also, stay tuned for the funkiest of funky White Box creations!

see so good – black and white

…you either love it or not, and I love, love, love it, in fact I’ve been living in a world of black and white for a couple of years now.  Why?  Perhaps I see it as safe, easy, controlled, peaceful, bold, authentic, beautiful, striking, and the contrast is so “hey look at me world”!  I guess you could say this color combo sums up where my psyche has been, and for me, it’s been black and white bliss.  But alas, color has not completely escaped me and “see so good” means to see more completely how in design the world of color can be limitless and beautiful no matter what colors speak to you.  So just for a moment give black and white the stage and enjoy the beautiful images and my tips on how to get the look!

Photo courtesy of Rue Magazine: www.ruemag.com

I love this image from Rue Magazine and love their website too!  What can I say, an Ikea Klippan sofa/loveseat (I own one of these numbers and it has been in an office, in a living room and even outside - still looking good!)  never looked so glamorous with this eclectic mix of furniture.  The sisal rug and variety of wood, glass, mirror and fabrics say “I wanna show you off, you cute bundle of joy”.  Personalize with some great black and white photos (or buy some from www.art.com) and viola white with-a-little-black accents perfection.

Here’s how to get the look…(and the sources)

1. West Elm - new glazed pillow cover (and down insert)
2. West Elm - faux suede/linen pillow – 24” square in Steel and Stone White
3. Ikea -  Klippan loveseat in white vinyl
4. West Elm - hanover slipcovered armchair in stone white
5. Ikea - Vejen rug (jute/wool)
6. Wisteria – Venetian bamboo leg table #W2513
7. Pottery Barn – Emmett Coffee Table
8. Anthropolgie – Society Taper Holders
9. ZGallerie – Bergmann Mirror, Antique Silver 54” diameter
10. Ikea – Ribba frames in black and white for various black and white photos
11. Frazee Paint “Forgetmenot”white  painted walls and trim
12. West Elm – chunky tassel throw in Gold Metallic

………………………………………………………………………………………….

Photo by Patric Johansson for Elle Interior:  Courtesy of Molly Scott and Flickr

This next image is all-kind-of-daring without being scary, I mean who really paints their walls black/charcoal?  But this room proves that it’s a down right “I gotta have it” look with beautiful wall sconces, an eexxxttrraaa long sofa which can be achieved by using a left and a right sectional sofa combo, animal inspired throw and rug, cozy slip covered chair/ottomans, white shelving and wood trunks.  Whether you are a girl or guy this space is a black and white bold beauty.

Here’s how to get the look…

1. Ikea’s Koldby black and white cowhide rug
2. Ikea – Ribba frames in black and white for various prints and art 
3. Frazee Paint “Forgetmenot”white  painted walls and trim and “Racoon” charcoal accent wall
4. West Elm - faux suede/linen pillow – 24” square in Steel
5. ZGallerie – Graham Slipcovered Chair and Ottoman
6. Room & Board – Ellipse End Table
7. Restoration Hardware – Lorraine Architectural Railing Sconce
8. Restoration Hardware – Coyote Faux Fur Throw
9. Pottery Barn – Metropolitan Side Table
10. West Elm – chunky tassel throw in Gold Metallic
11. Tres Amigos - Rustic Pine Chest
12. Crate & Barrel – Ascend Bookcases that can be stacked and configured in many different ways or Ikea – Expedit series
13. Ikea – Kivik right and left arm sofas in Tullinge Gray Brown

the things we do for love.

What do you do for love?  It's my very first post, and I am embarking on a journey of doing what I love, I’ve got a bow and arrow in my hand and armed to share my passion.

We’ve all heard the song by 10CC - the things we do for love:

Too many broken hearts have fallen down the river
Too many lonely souls have drifted out to sea
You lay your bets and then you pay the price
The things we do for love
(the things we do for love)

Communication is the problem to the answer
You’ve got her number and your hand is on the phone
The weather’s turned and all the lines our down [shouldn’t “our” be “are”, just wondering?]
The things we do for love
(the things we do for love)

Like walking in the rain and snow
When there’s nowhere to go
And you’re feeling like a part of you is dying
And you’re looking for the answer in her eyes
You think you’re gonna break up
Then she says she wants to make up

Ooh, you make me love you
Ooh, you’ve got a way [you get the drift…]

[10CC - The Things We Do For Love:  thanks to lyricsdomain.com for the lyrics]

Stay with me, you can go to itunes and download the song in a few minutes…

Let’s dissect the words for a moment, this post is not speaking of a courtship between two people,  but more contemplates a love affair with life.

I won’t do crazy things for love any more and I’m done with paying the price, paying the price for not doing what I truly want to do for the benefit of myself and others.  I’m not calling you on the phone baby, I AM SHOWING UP and forget about wondering, it’s all about COMMUNICATE-COMMUNICATE-COMMUNICATE...the things I do for love, ooooh yeahhh.

Rain, the snow, adversity or a bad economy can be good for you because just when you think you can’t be any more thrifty, you figure out how to keep the bottom line even lower or after digging through the sludge, there is a surprise of some kind; the garden hose you’ve been looking for to water all your dead plants, or the cute chalk drawing that is preserved perfectly from your little ones’ last fall soiree with the sidewalk, who knows, it’s different for everyone, but if you open your eyes and heart you will see it...the things I do for love, the things I DO for LOVE, ooooh baby, yeahhhh.

Ooh I hope you love me, love me for sharing some insight, design ideas and doing what I love!

Lists of the things that I love that I can’t wait to write about/to inspire you with.

1.            Using ordinary products in a new way

2.            Revamping inexpensive furniture (this is going to be a good one!)

3.            Color of the month

4.            $100 room (bathroom, living room, dining room, bedroom, etc…)

5.            Design briefs on tons of things.

6.            The list goes on and on, I can’t give it all away right now…

So what do you do for love?  I hope you’re doing it right now.  But if you’re not, what’s keeping you?  Fear, money, waiting for things to be perfectly aligned (you know they never will be) or just can’t find the gumption to take the first step, I SAY GO FOR IT.  If you don’t like your career, your relationships, your economic situation, then do something to change it so that each new step you take points like cupid’s flying arrow right smack where you want to be. If you wait, you’ll miss out, don’t be afraid, remember  just like a true love relationship find the romance in what you are doing moment by moment to get there.  Savor the small things, plan for the now, for the future and BELIEVE!  If you can’t get motivated check out Danielle Laporte's http://www.whitehottruth.com/.

This is the first of many see-be-do posts, check out my next post on the Color of the Month with design ideas and cool images.