Sunday, August 16, 2009

Visualizing Vignettes

I love this idea of building vignettes to experiment with selections. Visualizing the design concept can be so difficult, even with the best renderings and sample boards. This technique truly illustrates the final look by showing how each element relates to each other and to the surrounding environment. Bridging that ubiquitous gap between concept and reality will definitely give the client a great sense of trust and confidence in their decisions and their design team.

I would select the traditional red roof for the long term classic value. I prefer the mullions on the 4 lite casement over the single hung window, but I would still use the blue accent color on the mutins, sash and fascia.

Where could we use that gorgeous blue roof...?

Article by Candy Evans of Dallas Dirt.

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Wednesday, August 12, 2009

Sha-Do

I love how a seemingly simple object can create such a beautifully intricate pattern with light and shadow. Reminiscent of other everyday elements that can transform a space -or an experience- completely.

From German designer Peter Buning.

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Wednesday, August 5, 2009

Fireplace Beauty

I finally found the perfect thing for my empty hole of a fireplace....Glass Logs! These beauties are cast from 2300 degree molten glass in sand impressions of actual wood, by artist Jeff Benroth. Being glass, they are decorative only, but they reflect and refract and sparkle so fantastically. Each piece is signed and numbered.


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Tuesday, August 4, 2009

Pittsburgh Project

My residential remodel in Pittsburgh is well underway and looking fantastic!
Here's the "before" and "during" photos.

Thursday, July 30, 2009

I heart Funky Floral



I came across this quirky designer from Los Angeles. Marguerite Inman, working under the title Velvet Spade Designs, creates witty narrative scenes by blending plants with unexpected vintage and new materials. With titles such as "Drinkin Buddies" "Monkey Mist" and "What the Buck" these plant sculptures are instant conversation starters.

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Velvet Spade's Myspace

Sunday, July 12, 2009

Unexpected Dining



While working in Pittsburgh, I lunched at Bistro 19, located in the picturesque Mt. Lebanon area. The township, first settled in 1773, is filled with the narrow streets and stone cottages, feeling very old world and charming. The interior design of the restaurant is a fantastic contemporary contrast. Rich mahogany, basalt, slate and oak bring an earthy warmth to the fairly minimalist lines of the space. The front wall is comprised of folding windows that open completely, making the entire space an al fresco experience. Oh, and the food is fabulous...try the Grilled Salmon Salad!

Sunday, July 5, 2009

I Love Money....

...as Flooring!

What a beautiful way to repurpose! En masse the pennies create a cohesive, warm and almost old world look, yet each penny has it's own character and patina. I am wondering how it will change with age and what it sounds like when walked on in stilettos.

NotCot

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Monday, June 29, 2009

Inspiration does exist...

...but it must find you working.
~Picasso


"Ox Cart" by John Huke.

In my design work, I always start with an inspiration piece. Sometimes it will be a rug, sometimes a fabric, but many times I look to fine art. Researching for a client recently, I rediscovered the wonderful surreal paintings by John and Randy Huke, a husband and wife team from Austin, Texas. Their transmundane works are intellectual and dreamy, full of fantastic colors and recondite imagery.

Huke Art Website

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Friday, June 26, 2009

Melt Meee...



New from Italian glass studio, Andromeda Murano, is the hand made "Melt Meee" collection of chandeliers. I love the Rococo styling made ultra chic with a literal twist. Asymmetrical balance and the juxtaposition of traditional and funky evoke a comfortably uncomfortable feeling that is certain to be the ultimate conversation piece.




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Thursday, June 25, 2009

BUA update: Another Painting


Here is another painting by Justin Bua currently on display at The 4th Wall Gallery. Did I mention how much I love these??

Original Post

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