Magazine Article...!

I received a phone call today from a writer at national magazine publication. She is writing an article about technology, the internet and Interior Design. We had a great conversation! I can't wait to see the article. Check back for updates and links!

Dining Room Update

Before:

After:

A fun, eclectic mix of textures, shapes and colors coordinates beautifully in this dining room re-do. The new glass block window and metallic paints sparkle against the warm wood floors and earthy brick walls. An abstracted rose motif is repeated in the chenille fabric on the newly upholstered chair and ottoman, in the designer iron chandelier, and in the texture of the ceiling treatment. The repetition of circles and squares adds another rhythmic element. The unexpected Flokati rug softens the space, adding comfort and luxury.

Friday the 13th 2009 - The Movie

Last summer, I was called in as an Interior Design consultant and Buyer for the new release, Friday the 13th. Set in legendary Camp Crystal Lake, the ill-fated cast vacations at a gorgeous cabin. The director, Marcus Nispel, wanted authentic high-end Arts and Crafts style furnishings for this set. My friend Randy Huke, a wonderfully accomplished Artist and Set Decorator, hired me to research and shop. I found that the original Gustav Stickley designs are still being made as they have been for over 100 years. Production purchased many pieces, including the sofas, chairs, tables and bedroom furniture. Here you can see the on-set photos, and a film grab from the trailer, showing the finished cabin set.

See Also Linda Merrill's blog: http://silverscreensurroundings.blogspot.com/2009/02/friday-13th-2009.html

Sophisticated Whimsy

Inspired by the fantastic rosette iron chandelier, a dramatic ceiling is the focal point of this mid-century condo's dining room. Textured Anaglypta wallpaper with a fun and funky circle pattern is juxtaposed against classic bead trim, and center medallion. The treatment was hand painted and faux finished with 3 different metallic paints. (Yes, I painted the faux myself!) The overall effect is subtle and sophisticated whimsy!

**See Dallas Dining Room post.

**More Updates soon!

African Art Show

Yesterday we were visited by an art dealer from Mali, Africa. Brahima specializes in authentic African tribal art that he imports, and supplies to museums, universities, and private collectors. He spread out blankets and displayed the beautiful masks, sculptures, baskets and currencies right on the driveway! Much of the art is over 500 years old! It was an amazing experience and unbelievable lesson in African antiquities. (All the pieces are available for sale.)

University Park Updates

The old wallpaper is gone, the old carpet is gone, and the old cabinets are almost gone! Beautiful new solid wood floors, new Shaker style cabinetry, Giallo Fiorito granite, and Egyptian glass wall tiles are on the way in!

Annilee B Ramirez, ASID

I am now a professional member The American Society of Interior Designers!

Concept Kitchen

Today’s kitchen is a multi-functional haven, blending an über-functional layout with eco-friendliness and style. Activity zones flow seamlessly, allowing a busy family to spend time together. Central is the cooking zone: where a traditional work triangle is updated by secondary appliances and fixtures, and miles of work surfaces. Drawers provide hidden trash, recycling and composting bins. A walk-through pantry serves even the most prolific big-box shopper. Nearby, the study zone enables parents to monitor homework and internet time, while also providing a station for the ubiquitous cell phone chargers and Ipod docks. Dining and lounging intermingle in their own zone. The sofa, upholstered in outdoor fabric, is the perfect companion for the flat-screen tv. Whether hosting the Girl Scout troupe, or a wine tasting, the duel entertainment zones will oblige. Pass-through bar tops connect the adjacent family room and the patio, where the awning window swings up to create an open air bar.

Style mixes with function creating the perfect recipe. Here, traditional meets mod, and eco goes glam. Warm bamboo cabinets, bright quartz countertops, sleek stainless appliances, sparkling recycled glass mosaic and earthy cork floors compliment and contrast each other. Natural light is fully utilized with sky-lights. The color palette is a play of light and dark, and neutral and day-glow, tied together by a circle theme that pops all around the room. This bright mix creates a fresh, inviting atmosphere to which family and friends will gravitate for years to come.

Happy New Year!

New Year, New Projects! 2009 is off to a great start! Check back for updates....Happy New Year!

Dallas Dining Room

Before
Design Plan
This 1950's Townhouse gets an urban loft makeover with a new glass block window, painted ceiling treatment, contemporary iron chandelier and fun mix-n-match furnishings.