Tuesday, November 30, 2010

Redo Simply

I recently finished this remodel where the homeowner wanted an update in her kitchen and family room. This is a typical remodel request in this area, new countertops, appliances, paint, backsplash, lighting, hardware at a minimal cost but with a big impact. I think we hit the nail on the head with a dramatic change and a more sophisticated look within the confines of the budget. After photo above.

Here's the before photo. The older white appliances had to go as did the tile backsplash and counters. We kept the existing cabinets and stained them and kept the tile floor. The homeowners wanted a darker, cherry stained finish for their cabinetry for a richer look.

The photo above was their existing fireplace wall, directly across from the kitchen. I thought it was just too busy and appeared as a sort of quad diagram, everything divided up in sections, with too many colors and finishes. Something needed to stand out and become a focal point, the fireplace!


Here is the after photo, much neater, tidier, and visually cleaned up. The fireplace has more prominence and the room appears cozy and comfortable. The built-in on the right of the fp was minimized with paint to match the wall with only shelving that contrasts. The long mantel that divided the wall in half was eliminated and a proper mantel stained to match the kitchen was installed. Tile surrounding the fp was changed out to a granite tile that matched the mantel in color. The tv was mounted above the fp instead of pushed back into the far corner as before. We reupholstered the existing seating and did a new textural rug to further enhance the rich look.



I love simplifying spaces so that beautiful features can then be noticed. Visual clutter and too many colors and accessories just create busy, uncomfortable environments. If you unite different features in a room with color or finish, you can make them bolder and more striking. I love how this project turned out, a much calmer and more sophisticated space.

Fabric on the chairs from Duralee, rug through Aston Design Studio. Granite is Crema Bordeaux from Arizona Tile, tile from Daltile, paint is Sherwin Williams, Latte. Photography by Cathi Taraboi Photography.

Monday, November 29, 2010

NYC's Window Displays


’Tis the Season for Holiday Window Displays

I just had to share this peek at New York's fabulous window displays. I can't visit NY myself, so it's so nice to have this look via NY Magazine to get us in the spirit. My personal favorites are a tie between Bergdorf Goodman's and the foodie themed ones at Barney's. I also love the Saks windows with the vibrant color and art nouveau inspired cabinetry. They are all beautiful and such a wonderful NY tradition! Now this gets me in the spirit of Christmas!

Sunday, November 21, 2010

Eye Candy!


At the Houston Dec Center last week, Marjorie Skouras, designer of these exquisite products, was featured in a panel discussion. These chandeliers are absolutely beautiful and are seen in luxury interiors all over the world! The chandelier above is turquoise and coral. Such a simple shape but with eye popping color and richness!
She does it in many different types of stones. This one is blue quartz.


Yummy! Pink jade!

Black onyx....so dramatic!




The Bruno chandelier. What a nice way to bring in a natural element into your space!





This coral mirror is on display in the Courtney and Co. showroom in the Houston Dec Center.
Another turquoise chandelier!



A rock crystal mirror. Mirror, mirror on the wall....I think I would be the fairest of all if I had this mirror!





She is doing cabinet pulls out of beautiful stones and coral now. Truly jewelry for the home.






A little red coral is a lovely way to bring color and nature into your interior! Beautiful products for beautiful interiors. For more on Marjorie Skouras, check out her website: www.marjorieskourasdesign.com