EMC2 Interiors

Before & After - Eclectic Beach House in Jones Beach, NY

2011-02-21T21:00:00.022-05:00

Over the past few months, we had the pleasure designing the interiors of a historical house located 2 blocks from the boardwalk in Long Beach, NY. They came to us wanting to fully furnish the first floor giving it a "pottery barn" look, while maintaining the stained wood detailing throughout. Having a vision to incorporate the homeowners funky style and beach color scheme, we got to work bringing the vision to reality. Check out the before & after images.

BEFORE

AFTER

The woodwork throughout the space was recently refurbished by the homeowners. The big challenge was creating a fresh beach look, while maintaining the dark stained wood detailing. By incorporating bright yellows, turquoise blue, and creams, we brought the attention to the pops of colors in order to lighten up the space.

BEFORE

AFTER

We selected unique items to use in the space including a bone inlay chest imported from India, a carved Indonesian statue, and a custom color Octopus from Natural Curiosities.

BEFORE

AFTER

The woodwork remained the focal point of the staircase, accented with a metal wire "Z" table from Tucker Robbins and abstract artwork.

BEFORE

AFTER

The layout of the rooms were magnificent, not to mention the 13' ceilings.

BEFORE

AFTER

The homeowners had a great eye for style and purchased 2 of the carved wood chairs for the sitting room. By adding an additional 2 chairs, and a pop of funky Romo fabric, we created a circular seating arrangement focused around the craftsman style fireplace.

BEFORE

AFTER

Such a great symmetrical vibe centered around the fireplace. My favorite picture!!

BEFORE

AFTER

To break up the darkness of the original wood paneling, we opted out of paint, and decided to use a grasscloth wallcovering. Since their dining room is used solely for holiday dinners and parties, we chose a more casual seating arrangement including fresh damask fabrics, and a 68" wide upholstered bench, nestled under a white washed Indonesian Table.

BEFORE

AFTER

We designed a custom brass modern console, and matching Palladian Blue top. To finish off the look, rustic antiques, and upholstered ottomans are nestled under.

BEFORE

AFTER

Finally, the creme de la creme. My clients recently purchased a large pottery barn sofa, to break up the large solid color, we went with a large patterned chevron rug from ABC Carpet, a silver bamboo side chair, and other beachy knick knacks found from antique stores.

Photography by: Craig Denis Photography

www.craigdenis.com

Two's Company - Manhattan Twin Nursery

2011-01-10T14:42:00.000-05:00

Located in the heart of New York City, the room was previously used as a movie theater/man cave; with charcoal walls, a 100" projector screen, and black leather sofas. Transformed to a nursery for twin girls, the space is focused around modern clean lines with a youthful girly touch. Being that the setting of the room is very urban with skyscrapers seen in the windows, we wanted to give the girls a nature themed environment in contradiction with the urban oasis just outside.

With owls being all the rave, we had a muralist (A Mural By Patrice) paint an organic figured tree with a trio of flying birds, and a pair of owls to represent each child.

The room was divided in half for function using double sided silk draperies. On one side of the room, there are two lacquer and ebony cribs by designer David Netto, as well as a conveniently located changing station with decorative knobs from Anthropologie. Floating above the cribs are three brightly colored floating butterflies from the Land of Nod to give the room a 3D effect.

On the other side of the room, we created a custom built in lacquered shelving unit, with a horizontally laying murphy bed from Manhattan Cabinetry. When the bed is put away, exposed is a turquoise blue chalkboard for the girl's art studio. When the nanny is staying in the room, the bed pulls out from the wall, and a daybed with dimmer lighting gives access as a bed as well as a sofa for movie nights.

Tiny Pieces of Art - Funky Mosaic Tile

2010-08-25T16:28:00.004-04:00

I recently went to a design seminar sponsored by The American Society of Interior Design (A.S.I.D) that was featured in Bizarre USA's showroom in Soho. While the seminar was related to furniture design from Ancient Egypt to Post Modernism, the hit of the show was the incredible ambiance of the showroom. There are many immaculate hotels and spas around the world that stake their claim on the new cool way to apply glass mosaics. Check out some applications that are absolutely mind boggling used in both hospitality & residential settings.

Adorable application for a bathroom. Finally, you can have the look of wallpaper with the cleanliness and durability of tile.

Stunning mixed media of upholstery & mosaic tiles.

Traditional large scale floral. Try and guess what the repeat is on this little wonder is!

I don't know how you're suppose to sit on this chair, but it's gorgeous to look at. "Only a true man would feel masculine sitting in a flower chair". Try that line to get this beauty in your house ladies.

Eat your heart out.

In honor of our last post on African design.

Herringbone taken to the extreme.

For the past few years, coral has been a huge design craze. I love how the coral design grows out of the water. What can't be seen however is that the coral mirrors into the pool through its reflection. Very clever!

Another image to make you drool.

A few of my clients have brought to my attention their desire of a tufted upholstered wall. Coming from a family with allergies, my immediate vision is sneezing/wheezing central. This concept of a tufted upholstered wall has the intricate style of upholstery without the hassle of cleaning.

I love the whimsical style of the butterflies and tiled claw foot tub. Precious.

Bisazza makes stools that are fully covered in hand cut mosaic tile. I would love to use these in a outdoor setting to bring a pop of color to the space.

Photos by Sicis Tile & Bisazza USA

African Luxury Tents... Not a Contradiction!!

2010-08-10T09:43:00.001-04:00

To all of our dedicated readers, I apologize for the long delay since the last post. As many of you know, I was busy preparing for our Southern Georgia wedding minus the shotgun!

Before our beautiful affair when people asked us, "Where are you going on our honeymoon?" We quickly responded with excitement, "Tanzania"! We always got the same response, a long pause and awkward look. But my husband and I have a hungry appetite for traveling to more "off the beaten paths". After all, within two years, we met in Israel, scuba dived in Australia, helicoptered to the top of a mountain in New Zealand, and then then got engaged on a cliff side in Italy. So we knew we had to really set our marriage off to an amazing start!

When we first told our families our plan to go on an African Safari and stay in tents, I could only imagine what they were picturing! Heck, even I couldn't fully imagine what these places were going to be like... running water, bugs, animals?? Needless to say, every place we stayed was a completely new experience and accommodated no more than 15 tents.

So after months of requests to see images from our AMAZING honeymoon in Tanzania, without further ado, our incredible accommodations!

All of the amazing boutique tented camps were designed with products that were indigenous to the area. The chandelier was created out of thorn bush and wrapped to form a highly textured drum shade.

One of the incredible views while eating meals. There are no restricting barriers to keep the wildlife out, so you get a real-life discovery channel during brunch.

I wouldn't stop talking for 2 days about the wrapped reeds to mimic a chain link room divider. So creative!

Tree House living! And yes, mosquito nets were both romantic, and NECESSARY!

Pristine natural bathroom with a outdoor shower. We were greeted by an elephant eating leaves from the tree next to us, followed by a monkey that stole the remaining dripping water from the rain shower head.

No really, this happened!

One of my favorite design aspects were the concept of dried banana leaves woven into the ceilings. I'm waiting for a company like Phillip Jeffries to steal this design!

Hippo Break!

The architecture of the spaces were almost dream like. Because the camp was located on the edge of a imploded volcano, the temperatures were shockingly cold, so over sized fireplaces littered the rooms with a tranquil ambiance.

Stunning mixture of antique furniture and modern sculptures handcrafted in Africa.

One of the first views when walking into the dining area. I love how the layout of furniture was off balance, yet it created a great pop of interest, you can't look away!

Luxurious eclectically designed parlor. The architecture of the ceiling was constructed in a cone shape, topped by a glass oculus.

The Serengeti wasn't one of my favorite places, as it was significantly hotter than all other locations, however I must show everyone the picture of this beautiful vanity. The sinks were carved rock built right into the wood.

Lovely poured terrazzo stone tub with waterfall inspired faucet.

Our final days were spent on the remote island of Pemba off the coast of Zanzibar. We chose this location because of the seclusion to other people, and the resemblance to the movie "Blue Lagoon".

All images were happily taken by my husband and I. The pictures don't give the actual locations justice! Next exotic trip... Bali, so stay tuned for more incredible accommodation images from around the world!

BKLYN Design Show

2010-04-19T11:13:00.003-04:00

People always wonder what the differences in the boroughs of NYC are. Well, while I'm not too familiar with Staten Island, The Bronx, or Queens (just yet)... I do know Brooklyn & Manhattan!

Manhattan has a certain energy to it filled with bright lights, tourists, and chic new restaurants to explore every day; Brooklyn caters to uniquely creative people not wanting to walk in others footsteps. The other day, while walking around Brooklyn, I discovered a design event showcasing all of my fellow artsy brooklynites May 7-9.

Stay tuned for a later post showing pictures directly from the design event as well as my top likes and dislikes from the show!

Reclaimed - IN with the old, OUT with the new

2010-04-16T19:58:00.003-04:00

The new craze is all about sustainable products and green design. I have to admit, I wasn't crazy about the initial items that first made their way to the public; there are only so many products you can make out of bamboo. But I have to say, I've been converted to a believer that the green movement isn't just a phase... it's here for the long run.

Committing to green design doesn't have to be a change in lifestyle. Don't think that being environmentally conscious means you have to start drinking vegan soy smoothies and wearing organic socks. You don't even have to LIKE the environment! Now days, there are so many gorgeous reclaimed items to decorate your house with you won't be sacrificing design style. Check out some great new items that are both environmentally friendly as well as fabulous.

Who says your chairs have to match. Try spicing up a dining room table by replacing the perfectly matching chairs with a set of reclaimed teak ones by West End.

To be sustainable, decor doesn't need to be new products from sustainable materials. Try going to antique stores and refurbishing a vintage lamp for a unique look.

Large prints are a new craze for wall covering. To add more texture, Philip Jeffries has a unique line of textured wall covering. Some materials they use include are mica chip, grass cloth, paper cloth, raffia, silk, and metallic papers.

Another company creates wall covering made of truly recycled items. NEWSPAPERS! Weitzner did a great job coming up with a truly unique wall covering that adds texture and a great focal point.

If I haven't sold you on reclaimed items, maybe this will last item will.... A giant teak fork and knife to accompany your kitchen decor!

Architectural Digest Home Show 2010 - Great Finds

2010-03-21T22:20:00.005-04:00

Design events and shows are always a welcome break to meet new people and check out the latest creations. While I could do without the $5 bottles of water and throngs of people, the culinary demonstrations, free wine, and handouts are more than enough of a reason to attend! The Architectural Digest Home Show held this past weekend is one of the best of the year – and as always, proved to be a day of great new finds.

Here are a few of my FAVORITE new items:

Not only were no animals hurt in the making of this lighting fixture, but the clean contemporary white lacquer and rustic origin give this chandelier a unique eclectic look. By Roll and Hill.

A remake of an original created by Tucker Robbins, these are fabulous, solid wood accent chairs that would be great as an accent to a brightly patterned throw.

One of the newest trends I've been seeing around are enclosed chandeliers. This chandelier by John Pomp studios, however, is the first glass enclosed chandelier I've seen of this magnitude in a residential setting. How fabulous would this be in a loft?!

Above are artistic steel accent tables by John Beck Paper & Steel. They can be made with any number of your choosing. Such a clever idea to be used in a cluster.

This is a beautiful infinity edge console with rough edges by Tucker Robbins which is stunning.

Walking around DUMBO in Brooklyn, I saw a fabulous industrial lighting fixture and my heart skipped a beat. 22 CC Industrial furnishings specialize in industrial items such as this cage floor lamp which ranks as one of my top finds this show!

Another great lighting fixture by Roll & Hill with a unique rendition of the antler chandelier!

I happened to come upon the John Pomp Studio at the show – hard to miss actually, since the booth was able to hold this massive table. The uncut edges give what would be an otherwise streamlined table an organic look. The table top is available in a few different materials. Can you say ‘Hamptons eat in kitchen?’

Here is another mixed chandelier with industrial old fashion lighting by Zia Priven. The metal can be made with any finish (brass, copper, oil rubbed, satin nickel, etc.). While I love the fake candle chandelier from Restoration Hardware, this is far more authentic!

And finally... I couldn't resist. They have dominos too!

See something that peaks your interest? Shoot me a note for some great related items at erin@emc2interiors.com.

Architectural Digest Home Show - NYC 2010

2010-03-19T10:31:00.000-04:00

On this gorgeous 70 degree spring day, I will not be exploring new shops around New York City as much as I would like. However with Spring comes new designs and styles, therefore I am excited to be posting throughout this weekend showing you all new, up in coming designs showcased at the Architectural Digest Home Show!! Stay tuned for pictures from the show and top things I LOVE and of course.... HATE!

EMC2 Project Spotlight: Monet Water Lily Theme Nursery

2010-03-04T12:33:00.000-05:00

Despite the record amounts of snow, it’s already March and spring is coming fast. And with spring comes baby season. Therefore, I thought I’d showcase one of my most recent nursery designs.

The mom-to-be of a little girl loved colorful impressionist art and specifically the Monet Water Lily paintings. I used this as the basis to style the room.

We assembled a Monet painting into a variety of vintage style frames, to create an accent wall over the glider. I am a firm believer in nursery furniture that can be used post-baby. This glider would fit well as accent chair in an office or living room.

We also chose furniture that will be able to grow with the child. The changing table can become a double dresser, and the crib can be transitioned into a toddler bed, followed by a double bed with the addition of rails. Art work was selected with transition in mind. The style can adjust to be less youthful overtime. This makes a nursery far more economical given the potentially large initial investment.

Nestled under a tree, the crib is centered in the room. EMC2 Interiors custom designed and hand painted this whimsical tree, creating a calming focal point for the room.

Birds, Birds, Birds

2010-02-22T23:20:00.004-05:00

I love the winter, but after all this snow and cold, I’m getting pretty excited for the spring. A recent scan through facebook confirms that most of you are too.

In anticipation of afternoon park rendezvous, farmer’s market trips, and storing winter clothes far, far away, it’s never to early to start thinking about fun spring designs! I'm a big sucker for incorporating furniture and accessories that are nature themed. One of my new favorite designs is the use of birds. Check out some of the fun and funky items I've come across!

The use of industrial wire with the brightly colored ceramic birds is fantastic! To top it off, I'd add a vintage style light bulb with exposed metal (below).

Combining both texture and nature, these wooden napkin rings from Z-Gallerie are sure to be a conversation starter at any dinner party.

Add a Scandinavian approach by incorporating a wooden mobile like this one from Anthropologie - your living room or kid’s room will have a fun, almost whimsical feel.

The bright spring colors for this dishcloth would be perfect in a vintage kitchen mixing the old with the new.

I love incorporating abstract art into all styles. Especially if you're spending a good chunk of change, you are going to want your visitors to notice your design style!

I wish I saw these when I was writing my "Destination Organization" post! I love finding funky new folders, and while these don't include the same witty comments, they are gorgeous!

Sneak a Peak: Bedroom Design Case Study

2010-02-16T10:40:00.000-05:00

My fiance and I recently moved into a new apartment that was able to hold more than a just a bed and a small dresser, a rarity for the younger New York crowd. With this newfound space, I was able to design my ideal bedroom from the ground up.

I start with a big caution. It’s all too easy to go out to a Raymour & Flannigan or Rooms-to-Go and buy a complete set of furniture. The commercials make it look so nice and easy – and it is. But it’s also exceptionally boring and, for most of you, you’ll be sick of it pretty quickly. With a little effort (or a professional designer like yours truly), you can make a bedroom you’ll be excited to sleep in!

Now let’s get to the design. With a real space (at 15 ft x 12 ft, it's actually big enough to be entitled the word MASTER). The bed of course is the center piece, but you can actually still choose what the focus is. A quality headboard is a must. I wanted to create an upholstered headboard with brushed nickel nail heads to give a tailored look while keeping a cozy feel.

The next necessary item is a dresser. I went for a classic, solid wood double dresser. The thing I particularly loved about this dresser was the masculine patina finish on the handles. The legs were inset which added to the unique look of the room.

Lighting is another critical element sometimes overlooked in the average bedroom. Pictured above is the gorgeous, smoke blue Murano glass lamp. It's difficult to find a masculine chandelier, but this might fit the bill as both! Along with some reading lamps, we have our lighting needs well covered.

If you have the room as we did, I absolutely love the metal legs and nail heads on this chaise lounge from Shine by Sho!

All wool handknotted Makhmal rug from ABC Carpet to tie the room together.

In our last apartment, our bed touched 3 out of 4 walls in the room – it was quite literally a bed-room. I have been dreaming of nightstands for a while now, so I chose antiqued mirror drawer chests to straddle the bed.

So what do you think? Send me some comments on my ideas for our new master bedroom and I promise to share the final results! Stay tuned for an up in coming post showcasing possible accessories too!

PB&J Worthy Splurges

2010-01-26T11:27:00.000-05:00

Ever come across a decorative accessory or piece of furniture and wonder if it's a smart buy? Is it worth a month of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for dinner just to afford it? It’s rarely an easy answer. Even as a professional I spend untold hours looking at decor for client’s homes. It can take a lot of research to determine if an item makes the right statement at a worthwhile price.

Here are few items that I label ‘statement pieces’ – and are definitely worth stretching your budget and having a few PB&J's for dinner.

Anyone who knows me can tell you I am obsessed with nature inspired FF&E (that’s furniture, fixtures, and equipment for the uninitiated). I absolutely love this table. Global Views did a fabulous job creating this sleek granite and ebony metal tree table. It was even showcased on Oprah - that's how you know it's a big deal! I am perpetually hunting for a place in my house to give me a reason to buy it.

The next item is hardly a splurge, but as I discussed in a past blog, I believe that IKEA does occasionally surprise me with their accessories. This Ebony Framed Mirror is a whopping 7' tall and 3' wide with a very thick ebony frame. Designed to lean against a wall, this is a great item to make your space look contemporary, stylish and most importantly, larger. For only $99, this is a Jim Cramer-level BUY.

I know what you're thinking: who would put lemons in a lamp?! This lamp actually offers endless possibilities to change the style of the base by filling the cylinder with anything from rocks, sand, glass, to, yes, even fruit! The modern clear glass lamp can even be used holding nothing at all - meaning it can work in any surrounding. Lamps Plus offers this lamp for just $99, making it another great BUY.

Recently, while looking at new manufacturers, I came upon this company and I think I caught myself blushing. The case goods and lighting by Shine by Sho can't be described as anything else but stunning. The detailing with nail heads are enough to make me want to get my hammer and "revamp" my coffee table. The white lacquer nail head accent tables are a perfect accessory to stand out in a room and make a statement.

Because of my newfound infatuation with Shine by Sho, I had to finish this post with another accessory of theirs. The color dandelion piece is a marvelous addition to an eclectic room. Not only are the geometric shapes on the base visually stimulating, but the bright yellow color and the tall drum shade capped off with a crystal finial just make me happy.

Destination Organization

2010-01-19T09:47:00.000-05:00

With all the different sources of information and pulls on your time, maintaining basic organization can easily consume a big part of your day – and, if you’re anything like me, you still feel like you’re behind. Sure, there are a few people out there with spotless homes and alphabetized books on their shelves. If you’re one of them, this column isn’t for you (and if you are, maybe you can share your secrets). The rest of us need all the help we can get. As an interior designer, I continually look for products that can help organize yet add style to a home. Here are a stylish few that I’ve recently come across.

Pottery Barn has created a new system of organizers that are equal parts decorative and functional. Their ‘Rustic Wall Organizers’ would be a great focal point in dressing up an otherwise boring home office, kitchens, or laundry room.

Most stores supply some kind of organizational desk systems, but West Elm has a new, unique looking Lacquer collection that is very sleek and contemporary. As an extra bonus, white products add a clean look to a sometimes cluttered desk.

A great way to generate a high-end looking design for a low budget is to creatively spice up selective IKEA products. In designing one of my recent home offices, I used a basic IKEA ‘Bergsbo’ bookcase and inserted linen paper instead of the standard (and boring) laminate backing. Decorative knobs rounded out the feel of far pricier furniture.

Storage ottomans are a chic way to add extra seating as well as storage. Z-Gallerie just released an all-new Chelsea upholsterered storage cubes with nail head detailing that would be a great fit in any room.

Finally, for those with a sense of humor, Z-Gallerie also supplies a collection of hilarious folders including, "To Do", "To File", and my favorite for those procrastinators, "To Ponder" paper folders.

Nest Request - No Natural Lighting

2010-01-07T13:22:00.000-05:00

Today’s Nest Request centers around a common problem in urban living: “My NYC apartment feels like a cave – neither of my two dingy windows give much light. What can I do to fix this short of moving?”

Reader, I feel your pain. When I first moved to New York City, the only sky I could see was reflected off the opposing building’s windows. And we’re not even in the minority: Manhattan has over 1.6 million people crammed into just 23 square miles (that’s over 70,000 residents per square mile for those counting). As you can imagine, with no place to go but up, people on the lower floors or smaller buildings often have little to no light.

So unless you’re a vampire or enjoy living in a bat cave, here are a few things that are sure to brighten up your home:

Use mirrors. They’re built to reflect light, so what little light you do have is amplified. If you place it right, it can make a world of difference. This trick dates back to ancient Egypt, where giant tombs were illuminated by as little as one light hole. Strategically placing a series of mirrors, they managed to light up whole caverns. If they can do it, certainly you can too. For extra light, don’t forget to add floor and table lighting on a dimmer setting. Check our last posting on the Robert Abbey lamp.

Use light walls and fabrics. Dark items capture light; get rid of them (yes, this includes your chocolate colored sofa and black on black painting). Lightly colored items will naturally deflect more light. Don’t be afraid to use white draperies on white walls for a crisp and clean look.

*Images by House Beautiful

Use glass or windows in temporary walls. I know in a lot of apartments in NYC, 2 bedroom apartments are often legal 1 bedroom with a fake wall. To bring in light yet keep privacy, try using moveable partitions with frosted glass.

Thanks for the great Nest Request. Keep your design dilemmas coming! To submit a question, send an email to Nest Request at info@emc2interiors.com. And as always, if your question is selected, you can get a 10% discount off your next room.

Havinagala Silent Auction

2010-01-06T13:03:00.000-05:00

EMC2 is excited to announce that we will be offering our design service package for one lucky winner in the Havinagala silent auction January 23 in Atlanta, Georgia. For more details, check out their website at http://www.havinagala.com/.

Thank you for all your support!!
EMC2 Interiors

Chic Design Finds

2010-01-02T23:20:00.000-05:00

One of the fun aspects of my job is searching for what styles and furniture pieces are making their way into the mainsteam. The best part is when I can find a sweet deal on some of them - check out some great furniture and accessories we know you'll enjoy and, best of all, easily afford!

Unique and interesting tables are an easy way to make a statement in a room. Check out this wooden twist table above from Z-Gallerie for only $99.

Lighting is a very important aspect to a room. The table lamp shown above from Robert Abbey for $188, not only expels light from the top but also has a sheer glow from the base. Works well as an accent, or as a bedside pair.

Our next two items are examples on how little details can make a big difference in a room. The first, shown above, is a unique owl furniture knob from Anthropologie for $12 that can easily replace existing knobs of furniture that are too "matchy matchy." Continuing the nature theme, below is a antique brass curtain pullback from Urban Outfitters for only $14!

Check back with us for more unique items. We'll do the legwork, you just enjoy the great finds!

Nest Request - Fear of Color

2009-12-29T12:32:00.000-05:00

Today we reach into the mailbag to answer one of my most common questions: “What color should I paint my wall? Should I just stick with the safe white or off-white? I am looking for a contemporary design style that I won’t get bored of.”

Not surprisingly, the answer to this varies by person. There are actually quite a few people who prefer a bright, colorful room through furniture and accessories and/or bright colors on every wall. Most people, though, fear bright walls and go too far in the opposite direction, leaving all of their walls empty and white. If you are one of the latter, here are a few ideas that will cheer up your room while keeping it contemporary and fresh.

The first example, seen below, showcases all white walls, but adds natural accents like a drift wood chandelier, stone accent table, and granite fireplace to mesh the bright and airy outdoors with the organic, architectural room.

The next example is a decidedly more eclectic look. This style is for someone searching for a little excitement without overdoing it. While the main walls remain neutral, color on accent walls adds a pop to the room. To mitigate this effect, the opposing white walls and neutral accessories tone down the colors and instead introduce focal points (see 10% Theory of Design post regarding focal points) on the architecture.

The final example is a transitional look with all beige walls and bright white molding. By incorporating over-sized furniture and a plethora of textured items, these simple beige walls can transition to any style you want. This also makes changing styles a simple affair.

*Images by Benjamin Moore *Discount is applied to the standard hourly rate related to the design of one (1) room only, may not be combined with any other offers, and is subject to applicable federal, state and local taxes.

The key theme here is to use pops of color deliberately and strategically, adding warmth to engender a finished look to your room.

Please feel free to email me directly with questions specific to your situation and – who knows – you might be featured in an upcoming column and receive a 10% discount* on your next room!

Happy Holidays

2009-12-23T21:55:00.001-05:00

EMC2 Interiors wants to wish all of our readers a safe and happy holiday season. May it be full of good friends, good food, and good holiday decor!

Martha Stewart

Draperies FACT and FICTION

2009-12-12T19:51:00.000-05:00

Today I wish to dispel some rumors on draperies. There are many misconceptions, even among supposed experts. Test yourself below and see how much you really know:

FACT OR FICTION: When using panels for draperies, they only need to go to the window sill.
Fiction. Never ever end the panels of draperies at the bottom of the window unless it is for shutters, roman/balloon shades, or blinds. The rule of thumb: when measuring for draperies the bottom of the panels should touch the floor, touch the top of the baseboard, or billow on the floor.

FACT OR FICTION: Window coverings can make a room seem bigger.
Fact. In fact, a great and oft used way of making your ceilings appear taller is to extend your drapery panels from the top of the crown molding to the bottom of the floor. To hide drapery rods, use a valance or cornice board that matches the stain of the crown molding, or simply upholster to match the panels.

FACT OR FICTION: For window coverings, blinds are the only cheap alternative to draperies.
Fiction. Draperies don’t have to be more expensive. An economical way to have custom looking draperies for a fraction of the cost is to buy pre-manufactured panels along with a few yards of patterned or complimentary colored fabric. Then have a seamstress attach the new fabric to the bottom of the existing panels to give it a custom look!

So how did you do? As you can see, draperies can be a cost effective way to add a lot to a room. There is some risk to overspend and undercut your results if not done right, so here are a few points to follow as you embark to liven up your windows:

1) If your window gets a lot of sunlight, use fabric that has a significant amount of UV protection such as Polyester, Linen, Cotton, Chilewich, and Rayon. While nice, fabrics such as Acetate, Olefin, Nylon, Wool, and Silk have very poor sunlight resistance and the colors will fade rapidly unless protected.

2) If installing draperies in a house with children, make sure to protect the pull cords. Many manufacturers make hidden cords for this reason.

3) Use lining on the exterior side of the fabric to be consistent with your windows. You don’t want a random assortment of colors coming from every window of your house! Depending on your goal of luminosity, there are many different linings to be considered. For example, you should use blackout for bedrooms and media rooms, and sheer lining for kitchens and living rooms. Fabric lining can block anywhere from 5% to 100% so adjust your lining choice by the function of the room.

The 10% Theory of Design

2009-12-02T23:26:00.000-05:00

I’ve seen it way too many times: you finally get to redesigning a room and putting in all the hard work to get it done 90% of the way, yet stop short of the finishing touches that can make a good room great. Believe it or not, all of the hard design and construction work can be severely diminished without these last few steps.

In fact, I see this novice mistake all too often. Someone purchases an already assembled room from a retail store and think their room will end up exactly like the magazine! But that’s like wearing a ball gown with no jewelry, something small, yet critical, is missing.

It’s completely disheartening to see this from a designer’s standpoint, when a few quick rules of thumb, when properly applied, can make all the difference:

Rule 1: TEXTURE, TEXTURE, TEXTURE

Having fabrics and accessories that are plain weaves make your rooms look flat and boring. An easy way to give your room a pop is with varied textures and patterns. With all the amazing fabrics out there - crewel, mohair, shag, metallic threads, you name it - it’s a shame to buy a plain woven pillow that gets lost on a sofa.

Rule 2: Mix and Match Different Styles and colors

Eclectic rooms consist of a variety of different timepieces and styles to give the room a “drop kick” of something visually stimulating. One of the biggest mistakes is picking furniture all of the same stain and style. No one wants their home to look like an Oak furniture store. If you have Contemporary taste, try adding a Tahitian red chest with your dark furniture and glass tables. If you are more traditional, add a large distressed coffee table and vintage accessories. Don’t worry about styles matching; the variety is what makes the room interesting!!

Rule 3: Collections as Focal Pieces

Most rooms have a few natural focal points, usually a decorative item(s) or an architectural design. Designing one or more of these correctly can make the feel of the room. A very simple and creative way to make a focal point (a good one that is) are putting collections of items together. This can be done even on a low budget. All too often people buy knick knacks and just place them on shelves, making the focus look tired and jumbled. Instead, consider putting a more coherent collection of items together, such as antique picture frames on the wall, or an ensemble of 8 to 12 different height glass candlestick holders on a dining room table.

Boiling it down: When you’re decorating a space, paying attention to the last few details ensures stunning results.

Welcome to EMC2 Interiors!!

2009-11-30T18:17:00.000-05:00

We are happy to announce that EMC2 Interiors now has a blog!! Check back weekly for exciting posts about new trends, inspirational images, NYC design events, being creative in harsh economic times and a bunch of other topics we think you'll be interested in!!!