Renovation Diary: The Shades

Several of your asked about the roman shades in the new powder bath that I posted...so I thought you might like to see their "kissing cousins" across the landing. Same fabric. Same trim. Different design. I had to have a little Greek key somewhere, and it was a nice way to tie this upstairs area together.


I have been working with Michele Green Designs and must tell you how much I think of her design eye and professionalism. If you're near my area....she's an absolute gem! Her workroom did the fabrication.


Fabric is by Fabricut. Pattern is Breezy in Color #20.
Trim is a French grosgrain ribbon in Charcoal by Samuel & Sons.

And since I had the pleasure of meeting Benjamin Moore's in house blogger, Michelle Zakko, I want to give them a shout out because I used all Benjamin Moore paints on the renovation.

The powder bath is: Amherst Gray

The landing and playroom are: Light Pewter

Trim throughout: White Dove

Next, I thought I'd take you back downstairs into the the mudroom, which you walk directly into from the side entry. I really wanted closed cubbies in this high traffic area. I like to collect, but I don't love clutter. And, this way my boys can shove all the jackets, backpacks, artwork and random items into their cubbies and I can still feel zen. The drawers below are for shoes...yes, they get dirty, but I'd rather clean them out than look at dirty sneakers! 

 How many of you have the classic L.L. Bean bags?!

It's pretty bare bones right now, but it's functioning! Next,I need a colorful seat cushion for the built in bench. Hmmm...this project doesn't seem to end.


Are you starting new projects or are you taking the summer off?

Elle Decor Modern Concept House 2012

One of my favorite spaces at the Elle Decor Modern Concept Life House was actually outside. 


With outdoor velvets by Perennials and furniture from Restoration Hardware, designer, Michael Tavano demonstrates how a little vision can transform a basic outdoor space into an oasis.


Funny story....in order to get the first photo, I politely asked a handsome gentleman to take a couple of steps over. Imagine my embarrassment when a voice behind me (belonging to none other than Scott Kravet) asked if I didn't want the designer in the photo? Oh my gosh...of course. PLEASE get in the photo.

Michael, an interior designer, product designer and design industry consultant is also known for his outrageous and fanciful table-scapes. Multi-talented and charming, he recently landed a coveted spot as judge for the BBC's House of the Year.

Not your average New York City terrace! 


Wouldn't you love to have Michael come style your outdoor living area? I know I would!

Renovation Diary: An "A-Ha" moment

Inspiration is all around us, but when it's time to make a commitment to something, I think we all can be a little nervous. Is there something better? Will I love it in 5 years? Or 10? 

Last week at Blogfest, House Beautiful Editor-In-Chief, Newell Turner asked us to share our "A-Ha" moments...so I thought I would share the process of creating our new powder bath and the "A-Ha" moment that started it all. 

Our new powder bath will be used primarily by our sons and their friends. It is located just outside their new playroom on a 2nd floor. For this reason, I wanted it to be functional, but I didn't want to compromise on style.

Instead of focusing on wallpaper, like I did on our primary powder bath, I looked down for inspiration. I started with floor tile before shopping for anything else. And, once I committed to this fun, Moroccan style, everything else fell into place.

So, my "A-Ha" takeaway is this...When you're faced with a new project, find one aspect that you love...and build everything else around that. It doesn't have to be in the most obvious place to make an impact.


It's just design...have fun with it!

Renovation Diary: Almost Done

There are more Blogfest photos to share, but I thought it was about time I gave you an update on the renovation. We are living in and loving the new space...just fine tuning things. I'll share some interior shots next week, but thought I'd leave you this weekend with some outdoor photos, in hopes that all of us will enjoy the great outdoors!


The front shutters were finally hung this week. And, the rain is keeping things looking lush.

 The completed side entry, which is keeping us and our deliveries dry.

The shot above would be much prettier without the basketball goal....but it's too heavy for me to move and....showing it as it is.... is just "keeping things real"!!


For any of you who have experienced a renovation, you know that euphoric feeling when you realize...we're basically done!


Wishing you and your families a fun-filled, sun-filled Memorial Day Weekend! I'd love to hear what you've got planned!

Blogfest 2012: Behind the Kravet curtain

On our final day of Blogfest, we were given the opportunity to go behind the scenes at Kravet Inc and see where the magic happens in designing and manufacturing their stunning fabrics. They shared their concept boards and samples. We even learned which top designers had new lines under development.

And while the fabrics from Kravet, Lee Jofa and Brunschwig & Fils are all noteworthy and covetable....what really struck me was the talented group of people who make this company hum. This is a family owned company and you could feel the pride, enthusiasm and passion inside the walls. Just like a delicious meal begins with the best ingredients and is made with love....these stunning fabrics are made with the best materials and most definitely made with love.

Everything below is being developed and will be in showrooms in approximately 3-18 months.

Can you believe the fabrics in this last photo are outdoor fabrics under development? They're so pretty, you could use them on a kitchen banquette or dining chairs.


I know there are a number of fabrics I'd love to use in my own home. See anything that YOU like?