RED.. WHITE.. AND BLUE!!!!!

In honor of the 4th of July right around the corner...red, white and blue spaces are waiting to be seen.  Let's be honest, patriotic-themed rooms can easily become a bit much....not these!  These are quite tasteful.

Have a great day!

Images from House Beautiful

COVERED IN GINGHAM

Gingham.  

Although we know it for its checkered pattern, it was originally imported into Europe in the 17th century as a striped fabric.  As it was being produced in the mills of Manchester, England during the mid 18th century, it started to be woven into checked or plaid patterns.  More often than not...in blue and white.  Ever since...it has lingered on... fading in and fading out.  Well....it's back.

As always, look to see what's on the runway.  Here are some of the gingham looks by Christopher Kane for Spring/Summer 2010.

This all-American print is also being seen in home decor.  It is chic and colorful on furnishings and fabric more than ever!

Marquis bed by Hastens.

Gingham cotton and linen fabric by Ralph Lauren Home.

Portland side plates by Thomas Paul.

Elton Check cotton by Schumacher.

Silk throw and pillow by Ann Gish.

Salt and Pepper shakers by Dabney Lee at Home

Pendant light by Ballard Designs.

Will you add this trend to your home???

Images and story found on Elle Decor, history found on Wikipedia

ROGERS BROTHERS IS CLOSING THEIR DOORS

Although I am sad to announce that Rogers Brothers Fabrics on Devine Street is closing, I am happy to say that they are having a great sale!  All fabric and trim is 50% off!  Of course, all sales are final and no returns.

If you dare to hunt for a treasure know that all the bolts of fabric are lined against the wall and scraps are stacked on tables in the back.  I found this amazing, super unique brown trim in the back...for 50% off!  Love it!

 

Rogers Brothers is located on 2912 Devine Street in Columbia and their number is (803)748-8877. 

Happy shopping!

GREAT FINDS: DIAMOND IN THE ROUGH

Okay, it's been a while since I've posted a "diamond in the rough" blog.  But let's be honest, they wouldn't be diamonds if I found them all the time! 

A space that I have offically begun working on is our landing.  This french chair is the first to fill it.  I found this great find yesterday at an antique store for $35.00...yes, thirty-five dollars!  With the caining in perfect condition, I decided to paint the wood white (although...I might decide to soften it after I find the exact fabric...I was just too excited!).  Also, I am going to have the cushion recovered in a velvet fabric--either chocolate brown or soft yellow/gold.  Never know for sure, of course.  I will keep you posted!

Here is the antique french chair before white paint and after:

Take care!

DESIGNER SPOTLIGHT: KATIE LYDON

Let me introduce you to Katie Lydon.  Originally from London, she founded her Tribeca-based interior design firm in 2002.

I love the portfolio of Katie Lydon Interiors.  The rooms are stricking and unexpected with a traditional lining.  As mentioned on her site, "she believes that a balance of classic and modern pieces creates a home that is at once timeless and exciting."  Her mixture of contemporary art and classic antiques/architecture reveals her incredible eye and passion for both.  Enjoy!

Here is a link to a video featuring Katie Lydon and a Park Avenue space that she designed.  It really is incredibly chic!

http://link.brightcove.com/services/player/bcpid50176160001?bctid=66629058001

Hope you enjoyed!  Have a wonderful day!!!

Beach Cottage On Cape Cod

Wouldn't it be fun having a beach cottage?!  ...a home away from home?  Well, this family has just that on Cape Cod in coastal Massachusetts. 

Designer-owner Meredith Hutchison with her daughters on their beautiful deck.

Let's take a look inside where she used a neutral palette with a dash of American colors!  So fun!

Entryway

Study

Dining Room

Living Room

Great Room Alcove

Master Bedroom

Bedroom

Stairway and Custom Cabinetry

Sitting on a custom bench at the entrance of the cottage.

 

Cape Cod Seashore

...doesn't it make you want to go to the beach?   :)

Photos courtesy of Veranda

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DAD!

Happy Birthday to you...happy birthday to you... happy birthday dear dad....happy birthday to YOU!!!

Thank you for all that you do--for our family and our country!  I love you!  Miss you and can't wait to see you when you come home!

Happy Birthday!

WORDS FROM A FAVORITE DESIGNER... SUZANNE KASLER

"In order to get a room right, I'll often subract rather than add.  Of course, what's left has to be very good in order to sustain the attention." 

"I don't want a room to look decorated.  It should look collected."

"A dining room can usually handle more color and pattern than any other room in the house.  You're only in it for small periods of time.  Why not make it memorable."

"When putting a room together, I'll often choose accessories that in some way bring out the beauty of the art."

--Suzanne Kasler, Suzanne Kasler Interiors

TELLING A STORY WITH HARDWARE...

I find it interesting how things as small as knobs and pulls can help tell a story and add personal style to a home. 

There are so many options now that you can even make these the unexpected, pop of color in a space.  If you have a particular theme in your home, a beach home, for example--there are many options that will help bring the ocean indoors!  If you are wanting to update your look in small doses, replacing your hardware can work wonders!  Or if you buy an inexpensive piece of furniture, like a desk...try replacing the knobs with unique, contrasting knobs.  It will dress up the piece and make it appear more costly or better quality.

I find that a great place to look for the fun, unexpected hardware is Anthropologie.  With a great website and a store located in South Park Mall, it isn't too difficult to check out their fantastic selection of whimsy!

Another great place to look is Restoration Hardware.  They offer more sleek, understated options that are lovely.

For fun...

"Molecule" and "Aurora" by Sherle Wagner

And..last is my favorite by Carl Martinez.  Love the color!

Image 1:  York Street Studio

Have a fabulous day!!  Thanks for stopping by!!!