how we decorate our tree for maximum sparkle, step-by-step

yes, I'm posting this on Boxing Day :) Pretty much sums up the pace of the holidays around there! Hope you all have had a wonderful Christmas, and that you have been fortunate enough to be with you family and friends.<br /><br /><br />I took photos of the tree as it progressed this year - and the kids announced that they were going to decorate it - so I just sat back with a cup of tea and watched!<br /><br />We decided to use "sparkly nature" decorations - kind of embarrassed to admit that we have so many tree ornaments in storage that we can choose different themes on different years, and we don't have to buy anything!!!<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijgYVE1kAjkVusgiwdWum0VOjDcj5y-O1VOK3yWAX6tq8_lDa62093lfA8q61lb1sIkyYzuM2mGgtA34mgXTVOizKhT9kCguISRPw7AzPGgdKhUaTzgKdB4UfyPr8w2aSD4wCEoP0AICM/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-12-26+at+8.39.14+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijgYVE1kAjkVusgiwdWum0VOjDcj5y-O1VOK3yWAX6tq8_lDa62093lfA8q61lb1sIkyYzuM2mGgtA34mgXTVOizKhT9kCguISRPw7AzPGgdKhUaTzgKdB4UfyPr8w2aSD4wCEoP0AICM/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-12-26+at+8.39.14+AM.png" /></a></div><br /><br />The crocheted snowflakes are some of my favourite ornaments - my Mum made them one year when I was small, and they were on our childhood tree for most of me childhood. She gifted them to me a few years ago :)<br /><br />We use wired ribbon woven throughout the middle of the tree (Miss N is allergic, so we have a fake tree) to fill it in a little, and we added in some glittery and mercury glass onion-shaped ornaments at the last moment.<br /><br />Here are the pics:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">being fluffed by Miss N</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPmHiKC6CRLYAQuBCMtvYRyultIslUJuq5WBajZ5wxRSGAqW3jfYs-HHaGMDnIOu_OTm0JnzJe9Dxr2qhDHCDi0eVIABoxySi_Oia-Z-6HVG9XeCorJIpIIVD5xAaaqS0jF14MRm8O0iA/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-12-23+at+5.28.35+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPmHiKC6CRLYAQuBCMtvYRyultIslUJuq5WBajZ5wxRSGAqW3jfYs-HHaGMDnIOu_OTm0JnzJe9Dxr2qhDHCDi0eVIABoxySi_Oia-Z-6HVG9XeCorJIpIIVD5xAaaqS0jF14MRm8O0iA/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-12-23+at+5.28.35+PM.png" /></a></div><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">the darling boy taking a break for a puppy snuggle</div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgxkP9bp0h59_yT0pSJ5i30vt2rx6K360zM7dPah5eq37MxpGdMGwAZqxxcS2gaJSopmQBOEJy_kpJ-AeZ9qqlVOkODKQt6r1W5VoW3Rg51E04bg0sNz5YPIPrfRkyFx0BzXwLNOjf5kU/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-12-23+at+5.29.11+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgxkP9bp0h59_yT0pSJ5i30vt2rx6K360zM7dPah5eq37MxpGdMGwAZqxxcS2gaJSopmQBOEJy_kpJ-AeZ9qqlVOkODKQt6r1W5VoW3Rg51E04bg0sNz5YPIPrfRkyFx0BzXwLNOjf5kU/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-12-23+at+5.29.11+PM.png" /></a></div><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">light reflectors going on - these are the bane of my existence! </div><div style="text-align: center;">They don't quite fit the lights, but the kids love adding them, </div><div style="text-align: center;">so we end up steeping on them for the entire holidays!!</div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzArS2mjHhS6OUM2qXUzIJfpH9J72EtwV4_Rf_U3XXbFhJlUH0PkT_NXU45zZRCP4oFIoha501q-bN6i3d1IwY0CTAimiXLDUSTttkOtdZayAVR5g_YDfUk4cAzOEItERadNaTQr0i80Q/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-12-23+at+5.29.42+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzArS2mjHhS6OUM2qXUzIJfpH9J72EtwV4_Rf_U3XXbFhJlUH0PkT_NXU45zZRCP4oFIoha501q-bN6i3d1IwY0CTAimiXLDUSTttkOtdZayAVR5g_YDfUk4cAzOEItERadNaTQr0i80Q/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-12-23+at+5.29.42+PM.png" /></a></div><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">ribbon throughout the middle, and large pinecones place toward the centre of the tree for sparkle :)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs6zwg-NQmLGt_xQb05APKtQ2oCiHJq0jutQhzBYJiai5e9EmDhIhpNFlr0DnzPsBeqcf0jbQyvR9rjInd6m7_gTS-1IVS74qDDjp2qBpXNaQXWcJnXiUWjZBmNmp280h73niirH_SfcY/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-12-23+at+5.30.15+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs6zwg-NQmLGt_xQb05APKtQ2oCiHJq0jutQhzBYJiai5e9EmDhIhpNFlr0DnzPsBeqcf0jbQyvR9rjInd6m7_gTS-1IVS74qDDjp2qBpXNaQXWcJnXiUWjZBmNmp280h73niirH_SfcY/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-12-23+at+5.30.15+PM.png" /></a></div><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">small pinecones and snowflakes on...</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5_6-UhoSc1LG1G6CGXvs4-GRMCP4aAaVBkQlwVDSXADyBWSimWmxbUGYf9INwg8SU_0jS75j0pFISyusbOOdJta88IrsBpU2TDH8YMDC2gn6tx_6MwN-FS2w6kkFCwr4nDNb3TqOUPdk/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-12-23+at+5.30.45+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5_6-UhoSc1LG1G6CGXvs4-GRMCP4aAaVBkQlwVDSXADyBWSimWmxbUGYf9INwg8SU_0jS75j0pFISyusbOOdJta88IrsBpU2TDH8YMDC2gn6tx_6MwN-FS2w6kkFCwr4nDNb3TqOUPdk/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-12-23+at+5.30.45+PM.png" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">onion ornaments and a small wreath for a topper...notice all those reflectors on the floor?!! </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDgtMwLtHCWpFgQu3q_0R5koJy57q818u_nhehv3cIXjV18W_E5Rz6MhZBM_wRSMoUNQJ3VNYbg37y3jHx863i48p242Fy5SYrR0voYgYldizVH8NLCO-ZAp9otOgRpJvgEHQvTQzdzHQ/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-12-23+at+5.31.14+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDgtMwLtHCWpFgQu3q_0R5koJy57q818u_nhehv3cIXjV18W_E5Rz6MhZBM_wRSMoUNQJ3VNYbg37y3jHx863i48p242Fy5SYrR0voYgYldizVH8NLCO-ZAp9otOgRpJvgEHQvTQzdzHQ/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-12-23+at+5.31.14+PM.png" /></a></div><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">and somehow I've lost the pic with the tree skirt :)</div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVcGIi-Vm__uiVeG_czhSI6WIffNA8365w-pqzRSmxP_YWpE_pcCZS_Hico1Sq8BlPbWpdP7E7th4cLe296DDhqZM7_q5_rhs97kdXBP7cLSBZiCLDOS3Zyw8vw4r23rA7WfoGkNwN4bY/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-12-23+at+5.31.49+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVcGIi-Vm__uiVeG_czhSI6WIffNA8365w-pqzRSmxP_YWpE_pcCZS_Hico1Sq8BlPbWpdP7E7th4cLe296DDhqZM7_q5_rhs97kdXBP7cLSBZiCLDOS3Zyw8vw4r23rA7WfoGkNwN4bY/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-12-23+at+5.31.49+PM.png" /></a></div><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"> finally, presents!</div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHYwjQKp-JZTMNV4toHfAGNvq6N_jGzEEGl4b2orc8yGgJoB3n3zRQgToDDWF7gBAJou1q5OcQ9CJtIQaarXFY3fwOPUS0F6rFrC0bWLGRx2SlY8nm_liWsUoSg_hLcYIsUXAGsHwXvjM/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-12-23+at+5.32.16+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHYwjQKp-JZTMNV4toHfAGNvq6N_jGzEEGl4b2orc8yGgJoB3n3zRQgToDDWF7gBAJou1q5OcQ9CJtIQaarXFY3fwOPUS0F6rFrC0bWLGRx2SlY8nm_liWsUoSg_hLcYIsUXAGsHwXvjM/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-12-23+at+5.32.16+PM.png" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjBXXJORJq8H1euUM093CmGmIeGye4XWVef-haaT42ukag4p0H-hn5ZeXqoWeRAPCtcWIkKpdWnWEAC10TVu6Ou4DPzdaHn0ij0TDqqb6f-UuFhdGfQn2cxjzL7WPTxjPt7Md6aMItE1k/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-12-23+at+5.33.03+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjBXXJORJq8H1euUM093CmGmIeGye4XWVef-haaT42ukag4p0H-hn5ZeXqoWeRAPCtcWIkKpdWnWEAC10TVu6Ou4DPzdaHn0ij0TDqqb6f-UuFhdGfQn2cxjzL7WPTxjPt7Md6aMItE1k/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-12-23+at+5.33.03+PM.png" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Happy Holidays, lovelies!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Am working on a post about the lovely colour of the year from pantone - it's gorgeous, isn't it?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">xo</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br />

how we decorate our tree for maximum sparkle, step-by-step

yes, I'm posting this on Boxing Day :) Pretty much sums up the pace of the holidays around there! Hope you all have had a wonderful Chri...

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decking the halls...

<br /><br />Wanted to show you the tree, and was messing around with some online gif makers, and this happened :)<br /><br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="0" src="http://c.gigcount.com/wildfire/IMP/CXNID=2000002.0NXC/bT*xJmx*PTEzNTYzMDI3MTk3NDcmcHQ9MTM1NjMwMjk4MTAwNyZwPTU3OTAzMiZkPWdpY2tyLmNvbSZnPTEmbz*5MTZlYmU5MzE*/NmE*ODg3YjdhODE*NTU1MWQ1NjMxNiZvZj*w.gif" style="height: 0px; visibility: hidden; width: 0px;" width="0" /><a href="http://gickr.com/" target="_blank" title="free gif maker"><img alt="make a gif" height="640" src="http://gickr.com/results3/anim_8b3a564c-9efa-4ad4-4954-345b1a6260db.gif" width="484" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Will post less grainy photos tomorrow... hope you all had a lovely weekend!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>

decking the halls...

Wanted to show you the tree, and was messing around with some online gif makers, and this happened :) Will post less grainy photos tomorrow....

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Retro Mix First Home

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />A few months back E. emailed me asking for a design consultation for her first home. Being a military family, this couple has moved and travelled extensively, but after receiving a long-term posting had just bought their first home. I LOVE working on a first home with a client - they are always so enthusiastic and appreciative of their space. E described her loves as mid-century style, and the colour red.<br /><br />Sounded intriguing!<br /><br />When E. sent me the photos of her home, they brought back a flood of memories - their home is a raised bungalow, and the layout actually almost identical to the first home my husband and I bought, almost fifteen years ago. The open living space is lovely, and E. already had some great mid-century furniture and unique accessories from living abroad that she wanted to incorperate. The challenge was to make it all work together.<br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc1OybtCFFQWGP8endS8VxOJLEA391n_-9yX_GV9TayEpZclc3ZtiT0RivLNd2Dd15w55m-HIKNYiiSp3fd5tztMqlC6G4RworMsIFaPml2p6FH_LRATCZdWwyacL810zf93mwaCw6gEY/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-12-08+at+11.37.43+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc1OybtCFFQWGP8endS8VxOJLEA391n_-9yX_GV9TayEpZclc3ZtiT0RivLNd2Dd15w55m-HIKNYiiSp3fd5tztMqlC6G4RworMsIFaPml2p6FH_LRATCZdWwyacL810zf93mwaCw6gEY/s640/Screen+Shot+2012-12-08+at+11.37.43+AM.png" width="490" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><br />E. decided to replace the vintage orange chairs with Ikea Poang chairs, and the existing sofa and console were to remain. She wanted to work on tables, lighting and accessories for the living room. In the dining room, the table and chairs were staying, so we needed to find a way to make the dark finish work with the rest of the space. E. wanted to update here kitchen by painting the cabinetry and adding a new countertop and backsplash.<br /><br /><br />We started with the living room space. Here is an inspiration room that best summed up the feel we wanted to achieve.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc_6IYBZjOrdyODQqScnuPDR5WaIMsvABnrUOxnhL7_7bP1_eUT4-O0Bru-g-868ZTy15P8uXEErFNLy_m8X9iLfz2OhhWSgeQoNo9j6fQi9IN8gbfSa51TqX41yUVW51gDanhPtBBbug/s1600/Cozy-Living-Room-with-Retro-Mid-Century-Style.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc_6IYBZjOrdyODQqScnuPDR5WaIMsvABnrUOxnhL7_7bP1_eUT4-O0Bru-g-868ZTy15P8uXEErFNLy_m8X9iLfz2OhhWSgeQoNo9j6fQi9IN8gbfSa51TqX41yUVW51gDanhPtBBbug/s640/Cozy-Living-Room-with-Retro-Mid-Century-Style.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><span id="goog_1451080067"></span><br />The caramel tones in E's sofa and console really set the palette. She and her husband plan to replace the beige carpeting in the living room with hardwood down the road, and so we decided to lay an area rug down over the carpeting now that will work over the hardwood once it is in place. Since E and her husband both like bold, saturated colour, we incorporated red and small amounts of green as accent colours, against a clean backdrop of walls painted in Benjamin Moore's Moonlight White.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinsasxL8oIEl_98BKT3cHTC98cKk73UC4sM9q9e6XzSCfrvNf-yKAfPHNpDh6B3ZaQ1HQ8sg4nzuuuwTbAHCmIx_YzYjJRs0FzkRjTdg_q0NxDcZ4TzSrM2cwM-J8D4nFda0bsQvxZeiU/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-10-07+at+11.40.05+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="520" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinsasxL8oIEl_98BKT3cHTC98cKk73UC4sM9q9e6XzSCfrvNf-yKAfPHNpDh6B3ZaQ1HQ8sg4nzuuuwTbAHCmIx_YzYjJRs0FzkRjTdg_q0NxDcZ4TzSrM2cwM-J8D4nFda0bsQvxZeiU/s640/Screen+Shot+2012-10-07+at+11.40.05+AM.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br />E has a handy husband, lucky girl, and he reconfigured the small cabinets that go with the console into side tables by mounting them horizontally onto some vintage legs he found. The console will serve as an entertainment stand, with the television placed on top. The only things we were really missing were <b><a href="http://www.ikea.com/ca/en/catalog/products/50148848/">lighting</a></b>, a carpet and a coffee table. I found the vintage inspired surfboard table on<b><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/8982064/eliptikal-coffee-table-surfboard-eames"> Etsy</a></b> - E had it custom made in a glossy red. A moroccan inspired <b><a href="http://www.rugsusa.com/rugsusa/rugs/rugs-usa-moroccan-shag/ivory/200MTVS28A-8010.html">carpet</a></b> adds some softness to the design, and the diagonal pattern will lead the eye across the entire space, corner to corner, visually expanding the living room.<br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq-4cXcFyhlsWuaF7UVx6c8QuBIeGs97DGWrNVbFGsu3fq7-l8-0oE1K1MRh8nV-q-M2Krp0qiMlhPQWgs0DqZ2l3FxrwGZEXTZ0t0T3751rMimxLV_dOPnYiL6GKxqL5Fg8_fg6CHmgY/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-10-01+at+11.34.00+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="494" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq-4cXcFyhlsWuaF7UVx6c8QuBIeGs97DGWrNVbFGsu3fq7-l8-0oE1K1MRh8nV-q-M2Krp0qiMlhPQWgs0DqZ2l3FxrwGZEXTZ0t0T3751rMimxLV_dOPnYiL6GKxqL5Fg8_fg6CHmgY/s640/Screen+Shot+2012-10-01+at+11.34.00+AM.png" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">As always, there is a plant tucked in here. This is a fiddle leaf fig, the tree to end all trees :)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It's large size will fill in the space beside the console, and if it were real it would bask in the light from the large window. The couples frequent travels don't allow for plants, so <b><a href="http://www.amazinggreen.com/collections/frontpage/products/fiddle-leaf-fig-tree">this</a></b> very good quality imitation will work for them.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">If you know me at all, you know I'm an art junkie! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The sofa needed tone grounded into that large blank wall, and defined as the focal point here.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Since we are on a tight budget, I suggested E purchase a canvas and try an <b><a href="https://pinterest.com/search/pins/?q=art+diy">art DIY</a></b>...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV9m0u9hAgTMNVFPXDlmSWV3DIya0SxCu15FGYIrGOFg73nZYWJMPSxRrB66wG05l__aOpfNXex4fZQq_n0h_rpG2Rw_rskRI_ou_qdXSLtIeVIJnERwdZlldvUKgK7ly39YMmzAb2erk/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-10-01+at+9.35.06+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="614" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV9m0u9hAgTMNVFPXDlmSWV3DIya0SxCu15FGYIrGOFg73nZYWJMPSxRrB66wG05l__aOpfNXex4fZQq_n0h_rpG2Rw_rskRI_ou_qdXSLtIeVIJnERwdZlldvUKgK7ly39YMmzAb2erk/s640/Screen+Shot+2012-10-01+at+9.35.06+AM.png" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">In the end, however, she decided to add some bold red wall cubes above the sofa and place some of her treasures collected through the couples travels - </div><div style="text-align: center;">perfect for remembering all the previous homes they have lived in.</div><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc1OybtCFFQWGP8endS8VxOJLEA391n_-9yX_GV9TayEpZclc3ZtiT0RivLNd2Dd15w55m-HIKNYiiSp3fd5tztMqlC6G4RworMsIFaPml2p6FH_LRATCZdWwyacL810zf93mwaCw6gEY/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-12-08+at+11.37.43+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc1OybtCFFQWGP8endS8VxOJLEA391n_-9yX_GV9TayEpZclc3ZtiT0RivLNd2Dd15w55m-HIKNYiiSp3fd5tztMqlC6G4RworMsIFaPml2p6FH_LRATCZdWwyacL810zf93mwaCw6gEY/s640/Screen+Shot+2012-12-08+at+11.37.43+AM.png" width="490" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Let's look at the changes the kitchen are currently undergoing.</div><div style="text-align: center;">The cabinets are in good condition and so will be painted out white to freshen up the space.</div><div style="text-align: center;">I suggested adding a butcher block countertop in beech from <b><a href="http://www.ikea.com/ca/en/catalog/products/40057853/">Ikea</a></b> to bring some of the wood tones from the living room into this space, and keep it warm -</div><div style="text-align: center;">don't you love the way they have stepped the end of the breakfast bar, below?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="http://www.woodworkershdwe.net/servlet/the-497/Amerock-Hardware-Cabinet-Kitchen/Detail">Hardware</a></b> with a retro feel in brushed stainless will work perfectly.</div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisBqTm-ONCTDh-_OzmaKvM_YEppWZSsQayU1yC04A198wO83UZmnnUzeXeUAMnLEd0VHQwM3mlbKDXao8u_XIWAgts741zRRv0OXbrjHl8u2_7kUsuGWwX9De74bxdN00_gcYKBAufVRk/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-10-01+at+12.48.30+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="468" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisBqTm-ONCTDh-_OzmaKvM_YEppWZSsQayU1yC04A198wO83UZmnnUzeXeUAMnLEd0VHQwM3mlbKDXao8u_XIWAgts741zRRv0OXbrjHl8u2_7kUsuGWwX9De74bxdN00_gcYKBAufVRk/s640/Screen+Shot+2012-10-01+at+12.48.30+PM.png" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSc5HoGZAL49seztveQBo67ZarDauUWfdYoe3T4StcEas9jt80PB0tWuzQAP9SP1IJphX9-6G-5uX_N69P_70Sd6htYtsu9sCyXdb5yxx3UP98nLoGV1B6aY8ksEIiTeXNNeyEo92cvVs/s1600/wood+counters.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSc5HoGZAL49seztveQBo67ZarDauUWfdYoe3T4StcEas9jt80PB0tWuzQAP9SP1IJphX9-6G-5uX_N69P_70Sd6htYtsu9sCyXdb5yxx3UP98nLoGV1B6aY8ksEIiTeXNNeyEo92cvVs/s640/wood+counters.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">E wanted to add a backsplash. </div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A subway tile is a classic look, but we wanted something a little edgier. </div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">How about a square tile, with dark grey grout.</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This echoes the retro vibe we've got going on, </div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">and adds some graphic lines here without overwhelming the space.</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMx3cHWhtau23Ue9RIdojH-iBjLFTWfrXoJoA1xx1WGXF5vu9spx5I_NJ9hwfQw0GjjsTJem-6Kp5M-meRlaNYh_n6Zb1AAStYt_hdPt-9fLT_ZI2xzXhhgnPQ2pfH2YBXeT8sOhBxdW4/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-10-01+at+10.56.23+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="526" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMx3cHWhtau23Ue9RIdojH-iBjLFTWfrXoJoA1xx1WGXF5vu9spx5I_NJ9hwfQw0GjjsTJem-6Kp5M-meRlaNYh_n6Zb1AAStYt_hdPt-9fLT_ZI2xzXhhgnPQ2pfH2YBXeT8sOhBxdW4/s640/Screen+Shot+2012-10-01+at+10.56.23+AM.png" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Since the back wall of the kitchen is the first thing you see when entering from the living room, </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">we needed to add some interest to this spot. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I suggested E remove the wall cabinet between her sliding door and kitchen window, </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">and add open shelving.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">After considering various options for the shelving,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> she decided to use the leftover Ikea countertop and install wood shelving here, </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">creating a beautiful place to display a collection of colourful ceramics, etc.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ7MbUSmjgkrDzQSDCsXNyELMq7JLIxWrsxh6_H1qQIoKv0mpkh-I4t159sdhp2sHe9ftiUiYy93Rt8cCkzS6yQWlta1mx3YIAb4kW14hsruFB1yWzs65GNHIFtS76AQpdRvEz0BkL7AE/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-10-01+at+9.13.07+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ7MbUSmjgkrDzQSDCsXNyELMq7JLIxWrsxh6_H1qQIoKv0mpkh-I4t159sdhp2sHe9ftiUiYy93Rt8cCkzS6yQWlta1mx3YIAb4kW14hsruFB1yWzs65GNHIFtS76AQpdRvEz0BkL7AE/s640/Screen+Shot+2012-10-01+at+9.13.07+AM.png" width="592" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-7fImFjSi5-J4Rr3WCxwoE6hAcO0ruR_qXp08UGQElhhrMWewrO2Lvqd3QAoDJaWzjhuR4g-2kG-aNXFit3nUX1vT2AmSiCBgUIXOnyO0Anbvte-ObMC9ZHqmgFea9fbwQ04udFfcP0M/s1600/11822017741932788_mcnjvBVc_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-7fImFjSi5-J4Rr3WCxwoE6hAcO0ruR_qXp08UGQElhhrMWewrO2Lvqd3QAoDJaWzjhuR4g-2kG-aNXFit3nUX1vT2AmSiCBgUIXOnyO0Anbvte-ObMC9ZHqmgFea9fbwQ04udFfcP0M/s640/11822017741932788_mcnjvBVc_c.jpg" width="526" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Although E will be keeping her dining set for now, a change is not far down the road.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A table in the same wood tones as the countertop and some interesting red chairs will keep this space light-hearted and consistent with the rest of the home.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqJxXQRK8KgNJxirzJDXGu6uMHmIpd7IqWeCuSuHfG8FsCW-VWx9lG_NDe5JsVp3RmF_usCYXoQQvW2fftNW__FEHm14BLtzO-eKPhL6INi7rZSQAWPkj4362XX2kcDWSWRa4epDBEo_o/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-10-01+at+12.23.39+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="538" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqJxXQRK8KgNJxirzJDXGu6uMHmIpd7IqWeCuSuHfG8FsCW-VWx9lG_NDe5JsVp3RmF_usCYXoQQvW2fftNW__FEHm14BLtzO-eKPhL6INi7rZSQAWPkj4362XX2kcDWSWRa4epDBEo_o/s640/Screen+Shot+2012-10-01+at+12.23.39+PM.png" width="640" /></a><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">and, of course - art again!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">LOVE these <b><a href="http://www.allmodern.com/Danese-Milano-Art-Edition-Due-La-Pera-The-Pear-Poster-DEDZ002-AMO1034.html">Enzo Mari</a></b> prints for the dining room wall.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIfYINzZioWKwZ89WlG-48psSahVpNr1U46bMAyZVqexfuk5WspPioS_EtbAam3lVJoGnjHjLSZZnXhhOS9ZqVEoXOR2kEaiXxY0W2EInKspuAolqkYJNNkIpuKA9KhIkvPzot1Gn_bDo/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-10-01+at+9.17.06+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIfYINzZioWKwZ89WlG-48psSahVpNr1U46bMAyZVqexfuk5WspPioS_EtbAam3lVJoGnjHjLSZZnXhhOS9ZqVEoXOR2kEaiXxY0W2EInKspuAolqkYJNNkIpuKA9KhIkvPzot1Gn_bDo/s640/Screen+Shot+2012-10-01+at+9.17.06+AM.png" width="562" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">E has been wonderful about keeping me up-to-date on her progress, and the work here is nearly complete. She is loving the way the changes to here home have brightened the space up, and unified her furnishings and all the treasures from the couple's travels.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Hopefully I'll have some pictures of the completed space to share with you all soon!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br />

Retro Mix First Home

A few months back E. emailed me asking for a design consultation for her first home. Being a military family, this couple has moved and trav...

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just tape it

<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">you know I'm a die-hard painter, </div><div style="text-align: center;">but be it washi, paper, masking or electrical, </div><div style="text-align: center;">tape is showing up in some clever applications these days...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">as wall decor....</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="http://www.maxattenborough.co.uk/content/Party_00036_large.html">pink abstraction</a></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYpy_zgxCKrOpO4VXRTguMtgG0gnqZZv4mYTT3TsWIedP8PTX1YH47dWeVb2xP156VLg2RBs_9bSvfw-sbQhfgJmd11ox4Hms_o3OC90qwvQlJjbrMOaKA2qNo9IcT-b6uQVytcoWUC2o/s1600/Party_00036-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYpy_zgxCKrOpO4VXRTguMtgG0gnqZZv4mYTT3TsWIedP8PTX1YH47dWeVb2xP156VLg2RBs_9bSvfw-sbQhfgJmd11ox4Hms_o3OC90qwvQlJjbrMOaKA2qNo9IcT-b6uQVytcoWUC2o/s640/Party_00036-1.jpg" width="478" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">linear black and white <b><a href="http://www.mrkate.com/2011/01/12/diy-tape-wall-stripes/">stripes</a></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgozRB2DjDp8zMnPhcsgV4obMl2hGV4o-Tsx7u4tqHjnRbr74VoS7n6-TI2J2jCjN4YemFL8XSarBk1Oibs2-WeraLGAos0bVtRA3lBkC0px9sXl-v4waP0-CpDH3ZPhQ1BkTz-IQ8XRSQ/s1600/tapestripes1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="403" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgozRB2DjDp8zMnPhcsgV4obMl2hGV4o-Tsx7u4tqHjnRbr74VoS7n6-TI2J2jCjN4YemFL8XSarBk1Oibs2-WeraLGAos0bVtRA3lBkC0px9sXl-v4waP0-CpDH3ZPhQ1BkTz-IQ8XRSQ/s640/tapestripes1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">metallic <b><a href="http://www.karapaslaydesigns.blogspot.ca/2012/01/easy-cheap-fast-and-fantastic-diy.html">geometric</a></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_rjrr35JNN6DQ7y0sESXgjJ1JoMrhWCcgNNS-LuOl-8jduHKR2l52s_lm4E1VCyW8J3ZvfdkJjcn7ym4K1DD7swK57heuE_LXA19LF4odBb7c6VBmlYLcLShfXOUycUKpV9cF3GMVxiI/s1600/6677116387_733f30ff9e_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="538" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_rjrr35JNN6DQ7y0sESXgjJ1JoMrhWCcgNNS-LuOl-8jduHKR2l52s_lm4E1VCyW8J3ZvfdkJjcn7ym4K1DD7swK57heuE_LXA19LF4odBb7c6VBmlYLcLShfXOUycUKpV9cF3GMVxiI/s640/6677116387_733f30ff9e_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="http://remodelista.com/posts/diy-instant-washi-tape-wall-graphics">simplistic</a></b> and wrapped onto floors</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZDGOwFbwk6EFBb1iLup-554Vxz51sN6Z7judrvNS47iqHK2-94nX2N65GVqxXzyC0c8qnCMDanzi_b1ay24RKv_t6a9JzCPPPRVxVFALmFHnX4CVNgQM-UXFEL4efWY8FUqHuUUQ_kl8/s1600/700_washi-tape-yellow.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZDGOwFbwk6EFBb1iLup-554Vxz51sN6Z7judrvNS47iqHK2-94nX2N65GVqxXzyC0c8qnCMDanzi_b1ay24RKv_t6a9JzCPPPRVxVFALmFHnX4CVNgQM-UXFEL4efWY8FUqHuUUQ_kl8/s640/700_washi-tape-yellow.png" width="426" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">as an <b><a href="http://menocal.tumblr.com/tagged/tape/">art installation</a></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjofHxtyY43pihUd7tv1oq7Hc0jzyvl_4hyphenhyphenYCs48JKDN5ZyMFrzTKhD5UUhDF-7KGBl3-FN0AtzKBZ9nN8hiRnS_Auyk06lnVCbkRe3r4Gxvs6Uf2A2eQ8uK7h6sM93otVodW_-zE0Zc_Y/s1600/tumblr_l04caefDdv1qb4l61o1_r1_1280.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjofHxtyY43pihUd7tv1oq7Hc0jzyvl_4hyphenhyphenYCs48JKDN5ZyMFrzTKhD5UUhDF-7KGBl3-FN0AtzKBZ9nN8hiRnS_Auyk06lnVCbkRe3r4Gxvs6Uf2A2eQ8uK7h6sM93otVodW_-zE0Zc_Y/s640/tumblr_l04caefDdv1qb4l61o1_r1_1280.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">part of an art wall <b><a href="http://www.miloandben.com/grid-wall/">composition</a></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihDXL48V4OYbeBlEuP3GWw0HsWfet8w5K94fbGEGjBnLURCDf73Hoalm72dPPJmb2ibWQqRsrH4SS65zY2RHNm_IsB9JnoYN_ZxF9IkZeZ1u7GDjmH1PWd3VN-c_UvA0fyJffL29Ure8E/s1600/another-view.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihDXL48V4OYbeBlEuP3GWw0HsWfet8w5K94fbGEGjBnLURCDf73Hoalm72dPPJmb2ibWQqRsrH4SS65zY2RHNm_IsB9JnoYN_ZxF9IkZeZ1u7GDjmH1PWd3VN-c_UvA0fyJffL29Ure8E/s640/another-view.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">to <a href="http://trendenser.se/2012/november/veckans-diy-ramar-av-washitejp.html">frame art</a> - LOVE</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOjc7t_nncJUoJYMNtEsdtXMV01Le8xSTvXn3SChuwbGiiw2j7LQpJcl32w71U6tvldlzVp4HYeKu6mmmTP0UtE2R1OedXR0JzMxcuGG8v0QpRtwzZJ6_Ix3IP31MoQD6iyAYXGsNT1KU/s1600/veckans_diy_5098f4d9e087c324f572fb13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOjc7t_nncJUoJYMNtEsdtXMV01Le8xSTvXn3SChuwbGiiw2j7LQpJcl32w71U6tvldlzVp4HYeKu6mmmTP0UtE2R1OedXR0JzMxcuGG8v0QpRtwzZJ6_Ix3IP31MoQD6iyAYXGsNT1KU/s640/veckans_diy_5098f4d9e087c324f572fb13.jpg" width="436" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">or reign in an <b><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/154670568424083332/">inspiration wall</a> - </b>hello, office!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijqvOCJBhl6_0wQX4D0jH3yff0_E4t5A511DlIGB5oiPm27PVyqnrktoztqmNKZNIq1hqIypr3tY5DZc0__W0Lf9L9skLZ43wxS86DqHvlYKvnU8t46yvSj4W5i-zXYPxy7ARwqGih-74/s1600/161496336607454778_IS0g1qKS_c-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijqvOCJBhl6_0wQX4D0jH3yff0_E4t5A511DlIGB5oiPm27PVyqnrktoztqmNKZNIq1hqIypr3tY5DZc0__W0Lf9L9skLZ43wxS86DqHvlYKvnU8t46yvSj4W5i-zXYPxy7ARwqGih-74/s640/161496336607454778_IS0g1qKS_c-1.jpg" width="428" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/174796029258092691/">yummy</a></b> color, yes?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSMihvivPsFuNSZFRCfTTxNyck1A-tugcJxAo7eTl9HqVcupQoSrPaKcP8RLpPG9pAC-cbn5ZfovbivDwwulmI3-BApF1FqXY8PFcKMPFJtkW3DCR9RY66qAlSvO_cqYR_Mc9CzvbsMZE/s1600/174796029258092691_YROS1kKp_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSMihvivPsFuNSZFRCfTTxNyck1A-tugcJxAo7eTl9HqVcupQoSrPaKcP8RLpPG9pAC-cbn5ZfovbivDwwulmI3-BApF1FqXY8PFcKMPFJtkW3DCR9RY66qAlSvO_cqYR_Mc9CzvbsMZE/s640/174796029258092691_YROS1kKp_c.jpg" width="468" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">as an<b><a href="http://hannasroom.blogspot.ca/"> outline </a></b>for color-blocked walls</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgugwnJSfod625LtuZr5cZutlcZdJMZJisPWL3dvvhG9gJNU9-26Ex1DYf_YxfavhqLAw6GApvdYa4jfOJccpzl0flYEs-048m79Umg3MQngAH_Pb15H7bhhsv5SKCQ1SZCTRovFoLSglY/s1600/hannas-room-blog-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgugwnJSfod625LtuZr5cZutlcZdJMZJisPWL3dvvhG9gJNU9-26Ex1DYf_YxfavhqLAw6GApvdYa4jfOJccpzl0flYEs-048m79Umg3MQngAH_Pb15H7bhhsv5SKCQ1SZCTRovFoLSglY/s640/hannas-room-blog-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">to <b><a href="http://bklynbrideonline.com/18122/wedding-inspiration/neon-wedding-inspiration-decor/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+bklynbrideonline%2FSRBY+%28Brooklyn+Bride+-+Modern+Wedding+Blog%29&utm_content=Google+Reader">highlight</a></b> existing molding..</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFCLDZp9AzLpeDb0TKXlANUW-qp_QwluixpM4AKPDe89tsM_Wfye3BlIWC3TP4KKGWWGYk7isCdwYwFvxsZ8RW5a_y8M1X-jZe_TFfZsOeJrOl1RON3FAx245DfuHTptYsMDZS8hTzFpA/s1600/110826_BROOKLYNBRIDE_1969-600x900.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFCLDZp9AzLpeDb0TKXlANUW-qp_QwluixpM4AKPDe89tsM_Wfye3BlIWC3TP4KKGWWGYk7isCdwYwFvxsZ8RW5a_y8M1X-jZe_TFfZsOeJrOl1RON3FAx245DfuHTptYsMDZS8hTzFpA/s640/110826_BROOKLYNBRIDE_1969-600x900.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">my favourite is this tongue-in-cheek <b><a href="http://www.pencilshavingsstudio.com/2012/04/decorating-with-washi-tape/">faux panelling</a></b> ....</div><div style="text-align: center;">may just offer la solution parfait to the panelling/no panelling debate </div><div style="text-align: center;">going on between the hubs and I for our boudoir :)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSbmU11hY_yrfuieRTCcgrTBS40iv_5Jo-fP0A9an_52atI9EHu0ce2sKg6cQccKJKBxnXSXld2-tbHJf5MMC72Fddy37-6qiS4O_5ULNLhkHKLD7uu2NxVwD_9XdX6dtN-REklGoLf5o/s1600/7104492957_21ec4cbe0c_z1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSbmU11hY_yrfuieRTCcgrTBS40iv_5Jo-fP0A9an_52atI9EHu0ce2sKg6cQccKJKBxnXSXld2-tbHJf5MMC72Fddy37-6qiS4O_5ULNLhkHKLD7uu2NxVwD_9XdX6dtN-REklGoLf5o/s640/7104492957_21ec4cbe0c_z1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">What do you think? Something here you would use in your space?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><br />

just tape it

you know I'm a die-hard painter,  but be it washi, paper, masking or electrical,  tape is showing up in some clever applications these d...

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Design Boards: Elegant Club House

It's been quite a busy fall, my online client list has almost surpassed my local client list! Thank you so much to all of you ladies who have entrusted me with the design direction for your homes - it's been a wonderfully creative couple of months around here, and it shows no signs of stopping...<br /><br />I thought perhaps some of you would like to see some examples of the design boards I have been doing up. Colour consultations have been few and far between, with more and more clients requesting design consultations. This is exciting because I get to put the whole look together, rather than just a part of the puzzle.  Many of my clients this fall have had dramatically different taste, and that is what keeps me challenged and loving this job!<br /><br />Let's begin with the Elegant Club House Client. This client's home backs onto a golf course, and she would like to combine her love of the outdoors and neutrals to create a country club feel within her great room and kitchen. This home was built in the seventies, and has great soaring ceilings and a large brick fireplace  which need to be left as is. The walls, kitchen cabinetry and built-in's will be painted, and the countertops, furniture and lighting replaced. The ECH Client requested a space that was up-to-date but had a timeless appeal, with a soothing atmosphere. She liked the idea of grey, and had just purchased a white and black ottoman that she loved.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDxKrs_W2dSda04bpWpv-X3LiqFagUy2M3SeIKI8683LvoIUd5EQguicX_mjwB-6e6cYIs-8scECt4ns4XzVcMK_n5jAmf-2UZCFfyfIv2G928MogYwym3CWUaXQL_cs9iH1Nx7pvKC6w/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-11-01+at+6.28.17+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="544" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDxKrs_W2dSda04bpWpv-X3LiqFagUy2M3SeIKI8683LvoIUd5EQguicX_mjwB-6e6cYIs-8scECt4ns4XzVcMK_n5jAmf-2UZCFfyfIv2G928MogYwym3CWUaXQL_cs9iH1Nx7pvKC6w/s640/Screen+Shot+2012-11-01+at+6.28.17+PM.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br />Many rooms like this were considered...<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZPBnXH9oVWFbUpkR3edwd2QjQpfXMKHupSnr_QB-V0Y97Cv4BYW0KM_cLcAJonmCjV1SJMtsBbAzZqY34AOE_hNnRkh3ktJkDWvrqDrq8vI5XTLczCP-Ncb8o7lHVUwoNOZvGxYEN-zg/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-10-02+at+8.14.07+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="468" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZPBnXH9oVWFbUpkR3edwd2QjQpfXMKHupSnr_QB-V0Y97Cv4BYW0KM_cLcAJonmCjV1SJMtsBbAzZqY34AOE_hNnRkh3ktJkDWvrqDrq8vI5XTLczCP-Ncb8o7lHVUwoNOZvGxYEN-zg/s640/Screen+Shot+2012-10-02+at+8.14.07+PM.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCuSMKmU_rT7TVI0GtKonTQOzJUKOP7OtCi0yiQw8G6HoQaH9nMbLkCJ9Mwf-022mA-C_G8gDL1vMXTK93ZVKhclSHI3fiJD9ZXjROMwonD7v21lqGAaABpwBF1_ReX36TD33E2SeRe04/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-10-02+at+8.12.13+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="544" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCuSMKmU_rT7TVI0GtKonTQOzJUKOP7OtCi0yiQw8G6HoQaH9nMbLkCJ9Mwf-022mA-C_G8gDL1vMXTK93ZVKhclSHI3fiJD9ZXjROMwonD7v21lqGAaABpwBF1_ReX36TD33E2SeRe04/s640/Screen+Shot+2012-10-02+at+8.12.13+PM.png" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYKvViNyn_dGvSwF_RpoLMbbJEkQtu9OqOkp23hF3AhpaKetZWphncJaup7t6WNIc-n3CGi-KJRHEJR_WZ3x2t3gh2ONXqM9DQJNuLo9__4Kk5s6NTsz0_cyNWtgEP3AQIRL1IURJvYIA/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-10-02+at+8.13.06+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="576" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYKvViNyn_dGvSwF_RpoLMbbJEkQtu9OqOkp23hF3AhpaKetZWphncJaup7t6WNIc-n3CGi-KJRHEJR_WZ3x2t3gh2ONXqM9DQJNuLo9__4Kk5s6NTsz0_cyNWtgEP3AQIRL1IURJvYIA/s640/Screen+Shot+2012-10-02+at+8.13.06+PM.png" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjC-9t9wiN4xgu5gNzrrfZN6FNMuUOk4eKx4h9UPO1NBvI_EgiZOjrMmEL3kzyT0iNCdy1C2suxEydO7AOWp6dY4EAIKIsYdf7tDf-A0eJpm5etU62pjzG7wrU7JAwdXw-ujavz7OKRqg/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-10-02+at+8.18.11+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjC-9t9wiN4xgu5gNzrrfZN6FNMuUOk4eKx4h9UPO1NBvI_EgiZOjrMmEL3kzyT0iNCdy1C2suxEydO7AOWp6dY4EAIKIsYdf7tDf-A0eJpm5etU62pjzG7wrU7JAwdXw-ujavz7OKRqg/s640/Screen+Shot+2012-10-02+at+8.18.11+PM.png" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">These were on the right track, now the space must be fully considered before deciding on a personalized colour and design plan...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The pale grey-white brick of the fireplace meant grey was already part of our scheme, which works against the warmth of the hardwood floors and the sun from south-facing windows.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So we had it:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Steel grey upholstery balanced by warm grey paint on the walls and cabinetry, warm wood floors and furnishings. Black accents add some crucial contrast.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr4UsMZoG9Qqo-IZnWQYvsb9L_c21SveYaMfyHPAC4XMHnY0QKG3mWeu0ZL17y_7I8D65zsbTYaaE0Y7V7fFylqJUu3R2fnS1Hpth_kAE94SXuQl20A5iYWL8azUg-fb3tl4wECHOiByQ/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-11-01+at+6.24.58+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="310" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr4UsMZoG9Qqo-IZnWQYvsb9L_c21SveYaMfyHPAC4XMHnY0QKG3mWeu0ZL17y_7I8D65zsbTYaaE0Y7V7fFylqJUu3R2fnS1Hpth_kAE94SXuQl20A5iYWL8azUg-fb3tl4wECHOiByQ/s400/Screen+Shot+2012-11-01+at+6.24.58+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div><br /><br />A television will be placed opposite the window of the great room, and so placement of the sofa under the window works well. A matching armchairs provides a cosy corner by the fire for relaxing and conversation, while two smaller armchairs provide additional seating and define the living area without blocking off the view to the fireplace.<br /><br />The dining table is placed across the room, so that the dining views are the fireplace and into the kitchen beyond. Four chairs will serve for everyday meals, and two additional chairs for guests are tucked in alongside a small cabinet. This sideboard provides a place for display or to set up a bar/buffet for larger parties. It also grounds the dining table, making it part of a distinct area rather than just a table floating in the room.<br /><br />In all pieces, clean lines are tempered by graceful curves and pattern is used sparingly to keep a restful atmosphere. The board below does not show many accessories, but the china that will be displayed inside my clients built-in's will offer plenty of eye candy on our focal wall.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNjoa3B1BHbor219ZezBxI5C6XKiJUcG-tVIWOQeN9Bbc8oop1eDX5yKVzYn4Bt6GW0FuSUlQnWti3siPnEsBSVgS5OkfPGBMU58Lg7pWSz-3w-tWVQKXdy1_D837ufxoqCQBh2ONboWA/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-10-08+at+6.34.54+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNjoa3B1BHbor219ZezBxI5C6XKiJUcG-tVIWOQeN9Bbc8oop1eDX5yKVzYn4Bt6GW0FuSUlQnWti3siPnEsBSVgS5OkfPGBMU58Lg7pWSz-3w-tWVQKXdy1_D837ufxoqCQBh2ONboWA/s640/Screen+Shot+2012-10-08+at+6.34.54+PM.png" width="512" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJxIKdIdT03nI3WYI5ONDMkr5gRJpxP5BcU8xecFgiAHuq4MWx-cOWzh7BUVQ8WrNyRZUYW4vnL4opJuuwh4mTX4xqpocz5z3KAU8SlKBxN-48MpTKVA0KDbSHKkinMfxFepAGRp1LP8c/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-10-09+at+7.43.31+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJxIKdIdT03nI3WYI5ONDMkr5gRJpxP5BcU8xecFgiAHuq4MWx-cOWzh7BUVQ8WrNyRZUYW4vnL4opJuuwh4mTX4xqpocz5z3KAU8SlKBxN-48MpTKVA0KDbSHKkinMfxFepAGRp1LP8c/s640/Screen+Shot+2012-10-09+at+7.43.31+PM.png" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The ECH fireplace is a bit of a conundrum (don't you just love that word?!)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It's asymmetrical placement in the fireplace facade had my Client baffled by how to decorate this area.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Once the built-in's a painted out in the pale grey we've chosen, this will be even more obvious. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The client is considering adding a mantle, which isn't really necessary, and may even take away from the simplicity that makes this fireplace wall work.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I suggested two solutions:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">One, place a pair of baskets like these beside the opening, stacked with logs, for balance,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> and centre some art above.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Adding art above a fireplace where it may be subject to heat requires some care - </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">metal sculture is ideal here, and the organic forms of these pieces work well in this space.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQrNplDJ3SXrlO5wznS_sTnTgfS61qWXIxCy_rybOJvV91IkHAp3M3Ot-UtEW_R5ULjpPwJpxu07wgn4E3BzvT7asJWbTB3PH3oxVzGsKu6xsfTXYsDCodcXK2qKgilN2CoRQOuqE8WGM/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-10-18+at+10.39.56+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="452" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQrNplDJ3SXrlO5wznS_sTnTgfS61qWXIxCy_rybOJvV91IkHAp3M3Ot-UtEW_R5ULjpPwJpxu07wgn4E3BzvT7asJWbTB3PH3oxVzGsKu6xsfTXYsDCodcXK2qKgilN2CoRQOuqE8WGM/s640/Screen+Shot+2012-10-18+at+10.39.56+PM.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br />The second option is simpler, and my favourite. Gather some tall branches into a glass vessel like the one shown below, and place them beside the hearth. This look doesn't require any additional accessories. I think this is a softer approach, and looks less "decorated". My client has decided to try this out before making any other decisions.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFlMzLTBdiRWxZtJHMX1ghCCik2Huivlq8Jy-OTdguSUKF5K0G1CzIqLGb4jJB_w32fUz8pgxgRp4sbQbscO9XYSZ3h33uhNPIZ2oOFp4Gm-HDZ0oFOA8fjM7QLVgPr9XxbX0BYbEO42c/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-10-18+at+10.41.41+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFlMzLTBdiRWxZtJHMX1ghCCik2Huivlq8Jy-OTdguSUKF5K0G1CzIqLGb4jJB_w32fUz8pgxgRp4sbQbscO9XYSZ3h33uhNPIZ2oOFp4Gm-HDZ0oFOA8fjM7QLVgPr9XxbX0BYbEO42c/s640/Screen+Shot+2012-10-18+at+10.41.41+PM.png" width="434" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">For the walls we've chosen Classic Gray, Benjamin Moore 1548, in the Ulti-Matte finish, which will minimize the textured walls.  Nimbus, Benjamin Moore 1465,  will be GORGEOUS on the cabinetry in the kitchen and built-ins. Happy to say the client has tried these out and loves them :) In the kitchen , I've suggested a dark countertop, perhaps soapstone or honed marble, to draw the eye around the room and create the illusion of space. My client has said this may be a challenge for her - she usually goes for "safe" neutrals, but likes the idea more each day.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And that, dear lovelies, is the Elegant Club House I've been working on in a nutshell.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Would you like to hear about the Rock & Roll Baroque Home? How about a working to create Feng Shui Harmony in a builder home?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I'll post about those soon, promise - 'til then - a big MWAH, miss you all - x</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div>

Design Boards: Elegant Club House

It's been quite a busy fall, my online client list has almost surpassed my local client list! Thank you so much to all of you ladies who...

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polka spots

<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">it all started with this sofa from <b><a href="http://www.isuwannee.com/2011/06/decorating-is-delicious.html">Furbish</a></b> last year....</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwRG9Uk0HvLWSvF90fiwWr-1IpMBbGphkNvg0XIkjLbQXRFW8HFFJc3P2KzNYQntJU7PPFJoFPqZcB1ijymdHvIkBGat935dYS0tLC1emHlrffbNldeFn6oLV27kwe_RzRkgpevrbq76g/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-09-18+at+7.00.20+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwRG9Uk0HvLWSvF90fiwWr-1IpMBbGphkNvg0XIkjLbQXRFW8HFFJc3P2KzNYQntJU7PPFJoFPqZcB1ijymdHvIkBGat935dYS0tLC1emHlrffbNldeFn6oLV27kwe_RzRkgpevrbq76g/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-09-18+at+7.00.20+PM.png" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">then <b><a href="http://www.tphblog.com/see-spot-sit/">the chairs</a></b>....</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6uVTnqiih1VlRfYhbb_f6K0Y8yO5xYChoLcEiMjBuzta0dfc5V813MbWt1pyUPMNMW-ErNZ_fe8Kb_lI3JDDmBs1RBBr259FJhjK-lRSLSLM1rrb_JSFqmYxZ4cOoG9KMIf5mYPsKj7I/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-09-18+at+6.46.58+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6uVTnqiih1VlRfYhbb_f6K0Y8yO5xYChoLcEiMjBuzta0dfc5V813MbWt1pyUPMNMW-ErNZ_fe8Kb_lI3JDDmBs1RBBr259FJhjK-lRSLSLM1rrb_JSFqmYxZ4cOoG9KMIf5mYPsKj7I/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-09-18+at+6.46.58+PM.png" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">then it was <b><a href="http://highstreetmarket.blogspot.ca/2009/11/new-vintage.html">this</a> <a href="http://www.brunschwig.com/fabric.php">fabric</a></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivJhO8gO2Hg2VT56HGd3sTo8FPwWlvzRuecQgrSDvpYu0kYNjAhVn7Q9Lk7a9lgRrkd7A42GDfFmibGIGmHrLjfyC8xPlu1W9qnOsKsMjbsR5dHUnGdE1f5TLyvttWoqrzK8MhwnXvkok/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-09-18+at+6.45.50+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivJhO8gO2Hg2VT56HGd3sTo8FPwWlvzRuecQgrSDvpYu0kYNjAhVn7Q9Lk7a9lgRrkd7A42GDfFmibGIGmHrLjfyC8xPlu1W9qnOsKsMjbsR5dHUnGdE1f5TLyvttWoqrzK8MhwnXvkok/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-09-18+at+6.45.50+PM.png" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">on <b><a href="http://houseandhome.com/design/tommy-smythe">these chairs</a></b>...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2bSHxcX_5yVvalg6FSkZyxnXa2rwKK5es9PWVTdO6ezW8fDNDaMMjGuzRzrvDE9gMSVnCK_MQr2NdY4IbGwXcyYcfzt0Fp3LoJWr-7QRyFqxIhxibNe9sGhJ3vpQNERD6RzzOcj7L1Y0/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-09-18+at+6.46.10+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2bSHxcX_5yVvalg6FSkZyxnXa2rwKK5es9PWVTdO6ezW8fDNDaMMjGuzRzrvDE9gMSVnCK_MQr2NdY4IbGwXcyYcfzt0Fp3LoJWr-7QRyFqxIhxibNe9sGhJ3vpQNERD6RzzOcj7L1Y0/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-09-18+at+6.46.10+PM.png" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">but now walls? </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6oJauIQdrMdwSBDEJ9yIHaY1yrmh1Awz6sEHyvl9hK2koerMTo-i2HR_z_tAySeNUgoN3b49PM1J7EP91lbp2CZuFz8Zm1qbsrL_nIMICMKwOHW4czICPKtxZ7_eRlvJpVlcqh9Vumd8/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-09-18+at+6.22.02+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6oJauIQdrMdwSBDEJ9yIHaY1yrmh1Awz6sEHyvl9hK2koerMTo-i2HR_z_tAySeNUgoN3b49PM1J7EP91lbp2CZuFz8Zm1qbsrL_nIMICMKwOHW4czICPKtxZ7_eRlvJpVlcqh9Vumd8/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-09-18+at+6.22.02+PM.png" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0xgGJVWaFRY2Q7J5t97nA9NGXWjEsu9hVeUQfG4c6ArduZO3rPp_LHsTtzb2u4AyGajph08VEnjWqnMSbXwDoPXKSog9urvLn_qx7RvwF_MRf4zmPYZdxMAbaTM19tiEBi7xH4TS0WPE/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-09-18+at+6.23.02+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0xgGJVWaFRY2Q7J5t97nA9NGXWjEsu9hVeUQfG4c6ArduZO3rPp_LHsTtzb2u4AyGajph08VEnjWqnMSbXwDoPXKSog9urvLn_qx7RvwF_MRf4zmPYZdxMAbaTM19tiEBi7xH4TS0WPE/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-09-18+at+6.23.02+PM.png" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;"><b>polka spots </b></span>are everywhere......</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2E7OEULaLNbZKAXx3Djk9Oxiytmh4VCClfUwZ5QrfKUqYr3v6bkgkET90HmzjVvqhAEuFMSQG5g3eLG-DT-p0zs0Tf9_NtZzwy2SFV8_BvNk-t-9PH3iy6DAV3maElP57l5y1ldAu1eI/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-09-18+at+6.22.24+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2E7OEULaLNbZKAXx3Djk9Oxiytmh4VCClfUwZ5QrfKUqYr3v6bkgkET90HmzjVvqhAEuFMSQG5g3eLG-DT-p0zs0Tf9_NtZzwy2SFV8_BvNk-t-9PH3iy6DAV3maElP57l5y1ldAu1eI/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-09-18+at+6.22.24+PM.png" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNWvOvmRlhxHzQElk3qUjPdOxNFQe-3QJ7cwQTnZkhCLQUcPLgpO9JOoo-JV9sTaGF_4fmSJxPyi6jc4JjLBP0zuwjBkRS8A57-EqAfHodsG3MQANNSz2lg03R4YHmcy4jZUrQFvHKypM/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-09-18+at+6.24.38+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNWvOvmRlhxHzQElk3qUjPdOxNFQe-3QJ7cwQTnZkhCLQUcPLgpO9JOoo-JV9sTaGF_4fmSJxPyi6jc4JjLBP0zuwjBkRS8A57-EqAfHodsG3MQANNSz2lg03R4YHmcy4jZUrQFvHKypM/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-09-18+at+6.24.38+PM.png" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpe4JQTrfhJLeyW-bQd_Sa1JBxtnq31goqfjRhil8-U0wSGgwDYrkEOR1cPzm493pwBV9m_nqzRZq-G55G4xdcWCHvNRZt50P0PHGW9AVa4lM5qD8GTAgqpR3FKbgNVuRT3nlDnDF5CxI/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-09-18+at+6.28.08+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpe4JQTrfhJLeyW-bQd_Sa1JBxtnq31goqfjRhil8-U0wSGgwDYrkEOR1cPzm493pwBV9m_nqzRZq-G55G4xdcWCHvNRZt50P0PHGW9AVa4lM5qD8GTAgqpR3FKbgNVuRT3nlDnDF5CxI/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-09-18+at+6.28.08+PM.png" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj5EUDVzocHvIxmxiT5gkr5LsPMgd-o1giKj8dA2rODB9N2rhUdJj3cp_SBAdeVxap2j1Q7UO2TZS7bqsX6Nk_szfJpkRdERsNZg0dZSTPM7AyhYw3HCxxo1rD9Z-esihpPJrHjUIs1hQ/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-09-18+at+6.22.43+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj5EUDVzocHvIxmxiT5gkr5LsPMgd-o1giKj8dA2rODB9N2rhUdJj3cp_SBAdeVxap2j1Q7UO2TZS7bqsX6Nk_szfJpkRdERsNZg0dZSTPM7AyhYw3HCxxo1rD9Z-esihpPJrHjUIs1hQ/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-09-18+at+6.22.43+PM.png" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGZx0WPEgvmTa7piYr7KUNl26PD2RG0bPKVdBD8lq_ZWyjMBztrDWrstZW9DxyRnTYsLzEQiU4GEMEwupf_oNl5JPPpDv4UCjZdgnKrSEmc9ScUMoqfloszxBQ7FU57hWQZu5p-5RlFVo/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-09-18+at+6.32.13+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGZx0WPEgvmTa7piYr7KUNl26PD2RG0bPKVdBD8lq_ZWyjMBztrDWrstZW9DxyRnTYsLzEQiU4GEMEwupf_oNl5JPPpDv4UCjZdgnKrSEmc9ScUMoqfloszxBQ7FU57hWQZu5p-5RlFVo/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-09-18+at+6.32.13+PM.png" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">and I like 'em :)</div><br /><br /><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">(you can buy <b><a href="http://www.thibautdesign.com/collection/high_res.php?productID=7286&patternID=1170">Thibault Tanzania wallpaper</a> <a href="http://www.shopfurbish.com/servlet/the-1660/Jungle-Spots-Wallpaper/Detail?category=Fabric+and+Wallpaper%3AWallpaper">here!</a>)</b></span><br /><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://paloma81.blogspot.ca/2012/08/fabulous-room-friday-082312.html">Office no. 1</a> <a href="http://chloemagazine.ca/2012/04/canadas-top-interior-designer-meredith-heron/">Office No 2</a></span></b>

polka spots

it all started with this sofa from Furbish last year.... then the chairs .... then it was this   fabric on  these chairs ... but now walls?...

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