For the second time in a few months, I've heard the designers on HGTV counsel against the use of artificial flowers and greenery. Real is better, they say. And I have to agree, but with one big exception: if you are like me and have a hard time keeping plants alive, let alone looking good, then you should consider artificial plants. Believe me, a dying, gangly philodendron, or a pot with a stick and a couple of leaves do nothing for your decor!
I know why designers disapprove of artificial flowers and plants. It is because people commit two big faux pas when they own them:
1- People let artificial plants get dusty. When plants are dusty, they make your house feel dirty and unkempt. Make sure you buy high quality artificial flowers and greenery, and make sure you keep them dusted and looking fresh.
2- People keep artificial floral arrangements long past their prime. If you have arrangements from the 80's please let those go! Chances are they are making your house look dated. Make sure your artificial flowers are in colors that actually appear in nature, and don't look like they've been around for 30 years.
If you are really attached to your artificial arrangements, give them new life by pulling out all the flowers, tossing out the really old-looking outdated stems, and creating a new arrangement by mixing some of the old flowers with new stems. Use a new container for an updated look.
Monday, April 13, 2009
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Three Unique Baths for Three Unique Clients
This year so far, I've been lucky enough to help several clients with their bathroom remodeling projects. Three different clients, three very different bathrooms. This is the best part of my job-- every client is unique, and I get to design spaces that really fit their taste and lifestyle. Maybe you can get some ideas for your own remodel.
Bathroom #1: Vintage Splendor
Picture this: Lots of white-on-white, very clean and pristine. White subway tile in the shower, accented by an embossed white border tile. White hexagon tiles on the floor. Gorgeous clawfoot tub, front and center, the focal point of this beautiful bathroom as you open the French doors. Overhead is a beautiful vintage chandelier, centered over the tub. White beadboard paneling, white porcelain sinks with shiny chrome fixtures. For color, we chose a lovely lavender paint for the walls, very calming, a nice contrast with all the white. The client, a fan of all things old-fashioned, is thrilled with the results.
Bathroom #2:
This bathroom will be a stunner when it is complete: chocolate-brown Emperadora Dark marble tile on the floor, and also as an accent in the shower. Fixtures are bronze finish, shower tiles are creamy-colored marble. The vanity is amazing-- carved wood with ornate detailing, creamy white with a chocolate glaze distressed finish. The shower is embellished with a floor-to-ceiling custom shower curtain in chocolate-brown faux silk with an embroidered floral motif. My client can't wait to show off this elegant bath.
Bathroom #3: Casual Country
With mossy green walls and crisp white trim, this bath is colorful and casual. The shower curtain adds pattern and color with stripes of blue, brown and terracotta. The shower tiles are rustic green, and the floor is a wood-look water-resistant material. The overall look is warm, cozy and casual.
Bathroom #1: Vintage Splendor
Picture this: Lots of white-on-white, very clean and pristine. White subway tile in the shower, accented by an embossed white border tile. White hexagon tiles on the floor. Gorgeous clawfoot tub, front and center, the focal point of this beautiful bathroom as you open the French doors. Overhead is a beautiful vintage chandelier, centered over the tub. White beadboard paneling, white porcelain sinks with shiny chrome fixtures. For color, we chose a lovely lavender paint for the walls, very calming, a nice contrast with all the white. The client, a fan of all things old-fashioned, is thrilled with the results.
Bathroom #2:
This bathroom will be a stunner when it is complete: chocolate-brown Emperadora Dark marble tile on the floor, and also as an accent in the shower. Fixtures are bronze finish, shower tiles are creamy-colored marble. The vanity is amazing-- carved wood with ornate detailing, creamy white with a chocolate glaze distressed finish. The shower is embellished with a floor-to-ceiling custom shower curtain in chocolate-brown faux silk with an embroidered floral motif. My client can't wait to show off this elegant bath.
Bathroom #3: Casual Country
With mossy green walls and crisp white trim, this bath is colorful and casual. The shower curtain adds pattern and color with stripes of blue, brown and terracotta. The shower tiles are rustic green, and the floor is a wood-look water-resistant material. The overall look is warm, cozy and casual.
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