Matters of Style

Take Three and That's a Wrap: The Tole Chandelier Project

2012-02-13T06:30:00.000-05:00

Last fall I posted here about a fabulous tole chandelier I scored for $5.99 at a Goodwill in Philadelphia. I considered it the find of a lifetime...until I foolishly tried to strip off the [bad] former paint job. I blogged about the trials and tribulations here, but let's just say, that after all that paint stripping and toothbrush scrubbing, and not getting the results I was hoping for, I decided it was time for Mr. Chandy and I to take a break. So he was relegated to my storage room- stripped down, unwired, unloved- for the better part of fall/winter.

Until a few weeks ago, when I decided that the chandelier I'd been living with for the last year just REALLY had to go.

I had always planned to paint the chandelier gray. I like how it ties into the marble top of my Saarinen table. I guess absence makes the heart grow fonder, because after slapping some primer on my long lost friend, I decided he wasn't looking so bad.

So I proceeded to give him a few coats of glossy gray Rustoleum. Later that week, I set out my tools and went to work rewiring the chandelier. It had come with its original wiring, but after seeing how old and rusted out the chandelier was inside, I knew that I wouldn't ever want to risk using it that way. And actually, re-wiring a chandelier really isn't that hard (and is very inexpensive). It's sort of like rewiring a lamp...just doing it six times.

In a nutshell: you cut six smaller lengths of electrical cord (one for each arm-) and one long length of cord that will connect the little cords and run up through the chandelier and connect to the ceiling. Run each little cord through each arm. So on one end, the cord will connect to the chandelier socket (left). On the other end the cord will stick out of the bottom of the chandelier, where you'll attach it to the main cord (right). Of course, a lamp cord actually has two cords fused together- a "hot" side and a "neutral" side that you then attach to the corresponding sides of the socket, and the corresponding power supplies. Hot wire/neutral wire issues are uber-important when wiring a lamp, so I'd definitely google a tutorial if you're interested in doing this (however, it's definitely really easy).

As you can see, at the bottom of the chandelier, I gathered up all the "hot" wires, twisted the stripped ends together, and topped them with a plastic connector (red = hot). Then I did the same with the neutral wires.

So the bottom of the chandelier looked like this (before putting the decorative cap on to cover all that mess). Now it was finally time to hang the chandelier and see if all my hard work paid off!

Speaking of uber-important, seriously, do not pass go, do not collect $100, until you do this- turn off the power supply to the fixture before taking down your old chandelier and/or installing a new one!

Since I was just replacing an existing chandelier, the brace and electrical box were already in place, which made things a lot easier. I connected one end of the chain to the chandelier, and then hung the other end of the chain on the support that was already in place. Next, I threaded the cord through the chain towards the ceiling. I then ran each side of the cord (ie, the hot side and the neutral side) through the little holes in the chain support.

Then I connected the appropriate chandelier wire to the pre-existing wiring.

After that's done, you just slide the canopy up and secure it so that it covers all that mess on the ceiling. I was kind of nervous at this point about whether all this would really work, so after turning the power supply back on, I only put one light in the chandelier to test it! But lo and behold, we had LIGHT. I couldn't believe it! Here it is by daylight.

And here's proof that it actually works!

Not only has the new chandelier majorly improved things aesthetically, but the lighting is much better than before- I think my old chandelier was LCD or fluorescent or something and it always gave off an unnatural glow. Now I actually want to sit at the kitchen table.

So there we have it, the $5.99 Goodwill chandelier...it took a little bit of time, a little bit of love/hate, and a few trips to Ace, but this is one DIY that was definitely worth it!

Friday Vignette

2012-02-10T07:00:00.001-05:00

Barrie Benson

It's the Little Things, Part II: Decorating with Plants

2012-02-09T00:46:00.001-05:00

Last week I kicked off a mini series of little, low cost projects that can have a big impact around the house. While my wallpapered entryway project was basically free, today's tip might require a purchase- however, it's definitely one with a large return. I recently trekked out to Ikea to pick up a couple of their tall tree-like plants. Ikea plants are a fraction of the price of those at your local nursery or even Home Depot. I got 3 huge plants and each was only $19. Hard to beat! I stuck one in my dining nook, which I have never quite loved, and I swear it brought the whole space to life. But you don't have to take my word for it...both Meg Braff and Celerie Kemble are experts at mixing plants into their design schemes. Here's a few favorites from them, and others, below. Meg Braff- the tree balances the oversized starburst mirror.

Celerie Kemble-palms and orchids complete the old Florida look.

Bonus points if your palm is gold!

The tree helps bring the outdoors in.

Adds a little life to a stark color palate.

More Meg Braff- Ikea has trees similar to this for only $19. They have a great topiary effect.

And of course, palms breathe new life into a dining area.

Even a smaller plant will pack a huge punch.

Plants are a great way to bring a room to life, and with the right TLC they're a little investment that can last for a long while. - Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Tony Duquette: The Original Hollywood Regent

2012-02-08T07:00:00.001-05:00

Have you seen Tony Duquette's new line for Coach? Although Duquette passed away in 1999, the Coach design team spent time studying his work and homes and created a dazzling line of special edition bags and jewelry, with nary a candy-colored "C" to be found. The eyecatching pieces incorporate some of the iconic symbols of his interiors, such as starbursts, rays, malachite, and organic elements like insects and shells.

Tony Duquette Flamed Heart Clutch

Malachite Cocktail Ring

Duquette's rooms are truly eye-candy, full of so many interesting and unique details. As I was browsing through photos of his work, I was reminded that there is truly nothing new under the sun. When you examine some of Duquette's decade-old designs, suddenly Kelly Wearstler's work doesn't seem as groundbreaking (although no doubt she is largely responsible for the Hollywood Regency revival).

For instance, isn't this console table amazing?

It perfectly anchors the expansive wall in this dining room. Before we had Antelope, Tony was using tiger!

Check out the collection of starburst mirrors along the wall. The pair of petite chairs add a chinoiserie element and softens the hard angles of the coffee table.

Speaking of chinoiserie, this large-scale Chinese figural lamp creates the perfect focal point in this seating area. And notice in the background, the gold palm tree lamp with a black shade. Is that a lucite box I spy?

I love the juxtaposition of the bed with pink bows and the stuffed crocodile bench at the foot of the bed. Can you imagine waking up to that every morning (especially with the creepy glowing eye)? He does a fantastic job layering rugs, and the metallic reflective ceiling is beautiful.

This massive tole chandelier adds glamour and brings out the red in this space. One thing I have noticed throughout these designs is how Tony used pieces in pairs to "tame" his wild styles. This room has so many patterns, textures, colors, and styles, yet it doesn't feel chaotic because of the precise placement of pairs (garden stools, cachepots, chairs).

A pair of white-and-green faux bamboo chairs provides the perfect bedroom seating area. I love his use of the same pattern on the walls and the bedding.

Contrast piping on this tufted sofa is so elegant. A wall screen/ room divided is a great way to soften the hard angles in a room.

I don't think I will ever be a fan of aubussons, but this gold koi console table is nothing short of glamorous.

Pink and green, Beverly Hills Hotel-style.

The hand-painted chinoiserie wall inspires a competitive game of checkers.

All photos courtesy of www.tonyduquette.com.

Are you inspired? Check out the Tony Duquette for Coach line here.

Speaking of Ikea Hacks...

2012-02-06T23:58:00.001-05:00

A stylish friend recently tipped me off to the clever company O'verlays, which makes all kinds of gorgeous overlay panels to add that extra special something to furniture. They make them to fit various ikea pieces (including Malm and Rast). However you can also get them custom sized for any other furniture you may want to spruce up. The best part- they're only about $10/each! I'd say the Cheryl and the Fiona are my faves.

Here they are in action!

Wow! Isn't this a great color combo?

The plain white looks so very expensive.

Amazing Greek key reminds me of the Worlds Away line.

More Rast hacks!

And a two tone Malm.

They work on non ikea pieces too.

And there's a kit for the idea lack table. Though I think you could use this narrow Greek key trim on a variety of things.

Is anyone else thoroughly impressed? Check out O'verlays and tell us your favorite! - Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Ikea Hack: DIY Upholstered Malm Console Table

2012-02-06T07:00:00.004-05:00

The red Ikea Malm console table I bought a few years ago has been sitting in my attic. The red wasn't really working with my room (the former man cave-turned-playroom), but I had aspirations of one day trying to upholster it, so I decided to hang on to it. After two failed estate sale adventures this weekend (I am learning that estate sale shopping is a dog-eat-dog business, which takes some of the fun out of it), I decided I needed a little pick-me-up in the form of a DIY project.

I knew I would need about 4 yards of fabric for my project, so I headed to Post and Gray to check out their remnants.

The table would be going behind the large tan leather sofa in the playroom (it was my husband's before we got married, but it is indestructible and comfortable), so I wanted a fabric that was tonal and slightly feminine to pair with the sofa.

I found a 4 yard piece of this velvet cheetah- perfect!

Here is what you need for the project, in addition to 4 yards of fabric:

A console table (Ikea's Malm works great).

A staple gun:

A bottle of fabric glue:

And a roll of tack strip to make a straight edge (this is key):

I started out by cutting the fabric in half width-wise (half of the 54-inch width is perfect to cover the top and sides).

I then draped it over the table to play around with how I would handle the corners of the table. I decided it would be easy to just fold the corner diagonally and affix it to the table (sort of like wrapping a present).

I then flipped the table over on its back so I could start covering one side.

I pulled it tight and stapled the end at the bottom. I was a little worried about how well the staples would go into the Malm since it is made of MDF or something like that, but they went in really easily.

I pulled the fabric really tight and started stapling both sides. They didn't have to be perfectly even because they were going to be covered with another panel of fabric on the inside of the table.

Here is a close-up of a corner in progress. I cut a slit in the fabric so it would be very flat and straight at the corner.

I pulled the fabric very tight and stapled the fabric around all 3 outside surfaces of the table. This is the easy part. Covering the inside is trickier.

This is where the tack strip is a necessity. You place it on top of the reverse of the fabric along the edge of the table and staple it all the way down one side of the table.

Then you fold the fabric back over it, and voila, you have a straight seam. Here it is in process...

After one side is attached, you can't fit a staple gun under the fabric to staple the tack strip to the other side, so you have to use fabric glue. Use the same process to add the tack strip, but instead of stapling, you glue it on. It will give you a perfectly smooth seam.

One side is finished! Now I skipped to the other side and waited to do the middle last.

Here it is in-process of upholstering the inside middle section of the table, as I staple the tack strip along the edge. Then you fold the fabric over it and add tack strip to the other side and glue it down.

And voila! No more red!

Adding lamps...

A pair of stools (I will replace these eventually, but for now, they are placeholders)...

Some books, and a big geode.

Would you guess this is an Ikea table?!

This is a project that you can absolutely do yourself. The Malm is easier to cover than a 4-legged style would be, so I would recommend using something with a similar shape. Give it a try!

Friday Vignette

2012-02-02T23:05:00.001-05:00

When I first saw this picture I wondered why the mirror was on the floor, but then I realized it looks like this is a non working fireplace that's been mirrored. Brilliant! Oh and you can also sign me up for the Mulberry bag, wheat table, and lucite magazine rack too.

Happy Friday! - Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Reducing Prices on MoS Marketplace!

2012-02-02T14:44:00.000-05:00

We are working through inventory on MoS Marketplace and are reducing prices! Here are a few examples (but check out MoS Marketplace for so much more, and MAKE OFFERS):

5.8 Yards of China Seas Malay Batik (sells for over $150 a yard), $175

Pair of Large Mounted Horns, $150

Coral and Red Antique Hand-knotted Rug, $40

And so much more! We are lowering prices on many items so we can bring in some fabulous new pieces!! Make offers!

Catalog Favorites

2012-02-02T07:00:00.001-05:00

Although the digital era has certainly changed the way we shop, sometimes it is so refreshing to flip through a catalog full of colorful, glossy photographs. Often I love something in print that I overlooked on the website. Here are a few of the items I dog-eared in my latest set of catalogs.

This parsons console doesn't look so exciting online, but imagine it styled in an entryway with a pair of lamps on top and a pair of fun stools underneath. And it even comes in orange!

Home Decorators Parsons Console

For some reason I get the Schweitzer Linen catalog. I've never bought anything there, but I have heard so many good things about their bed linens. They fill that no-mans-land between Pottery Barn and Leontine.

Schweitzer Linens

This console is gorgeous and reminds me of one of my Cottage Living favorites.

Ballard Sylvie Console

Are Moroccan rugs officially over now that they have been reproduced for West Elm? I still like them.

West Elm Souk Rug

I'm loving the vibrant blue color of this gourd lamp. Notwithstanding a Christopher Spitzmiller creation, I don't know why anyone would spend an arm and a leg on a gourd lamp when it is so easy to find an affordable version.

Crate and Barrel Zing Blue Table Lamp

When MoS Washington pointed out this lucite coffee table to me the other week, I couldn't believe it. We've all seen the vintage versions of this style fetching REALLY big bucks...

Wisteria Acrylic Coffee Table

The Pier 1 version of the classic X-base end table looks pretty good!

Pier 1 Simon X End Table

Pottery Barn does the spindle chair. Not my favorite fabric, but the lines of the chair are great.

Pottery Barn Sabine Spindle Chair

Leave it to Z Gal to bring us a fabulous camel garden stool. Your friends will swear it's from Circa Who.

Z Gallerie Ceramic Camel

Have you come across any good catalog finds lately?

It's the Little Things, Part I: Wallpaper an Entryway

2012-02-01T06:30:00.008-05:00

Today I'm starting a series about little things you can do to spruce up your home to make a real impact. These things don't require a whole weekend of effort and hardly cost a thing (if they even cost anything at all). They're just little touches that make a significant difference in projecting a polished space. So the first "little thing" I did is make over my entryway this weekend. The total cost was about $5 and all in all I can't say it took more than an hour.

This way my entryway before. Nothing too memorable (however, the fish umbrella stand is one of my all time Craigslist scores).

Last year at the DC Design Center clearance sale, I got a (brand new) roll of this amazing Thibaut trellis wallpaper for $1. It's hard to tell from the picture, but the background is a creamy ivory color with flecks in it, sort of like a hand-made paper. The trellis is a gray/silver color with a hit of metallic sheen.

Problem is, as a renter I'm not going to go to the time and expense of actually wallpapering a room (mostly because I don't want to have to remove it when I leave). But I figured that for such a small space, there must be some other way to hang wallpaper. So I got out a roll of double sided carpet tape and decided to see where it would get me.

I put the tape around the borders of the wall (sides, top, bottom) as well as down the middle for the seam. The width of the roll covered about 3/4 of the wall, so that part was easy. To finish the remaining part, I got out my X-Acto knife and cut a smaller strip (taking care, of course, to line up the trellis pattern at the seam!). After securing the second piece, I used my X-Acto to run a straight line in the corner and remove any little bit of excess that was left. Worked like a charm.

The result is even better than I expected.

Now I smile every time I open the door!

It's been 3 days and the paper is still holding strong- I haven't had any problems at all. I wouldn't necessarily use this technique for a larger wall, but for a wee space, it's working for me! Now I'm just on the lookout for a little rug for this space and I'll be all set. I'm hoping to find an beat up kilim on ebay or somewhere like that.

Stay tuned for the next "little thing" coming next week!

MoS Travels: Aiken, SC

2012-01-31T07:00:00.003-05:00

Ahhh….Aiken! Home to live oaks and camellias, foxhunters and polo ponies, and favorite stomping ground of the Winter Colonists since the late 1800s.

At the heart of Aiken is the Hitchcock Woods, one of the largest urban forests in the U.S., with over 70 miles of sandy trail…perfect for long hacks and dog walks, and home to the Aiken Hounds, one of the oldest drag hunts in this country. A long-standing tradition in Aiken is the Blessing of the Hounds on Thanksgiving Day at Memorial Gate, one of the entrances to the Woods.

Polo abounds, with over 40 polo fields attracting a slew of high-goal professionals. Sunday afternoon finds most of Aiken tailgating at the Whitney Polo Field, cheering on their favorite local ponies and players.

Come spring, the crowds gather at the Aiken Training Track for the Aiken Trials, first leg of the Aiken Triple Crown, where 2 year olds test their mettle before heading off to Kentucky.

But don’t put your hat away yet…the next week is Spring Steeplechase where crowds gather in the tens of thousands to watch this thrilling sport.

Another Spring tradition…Aiken Horse Show in the Woods, where foxhunters come out in full regalia to compete in the show ring.

Boyd and Silva Martin are Aiken’s newest celebrities…Boyd and his horse Neville are sure to be Olympic-bound eventers and Silva continues to leave crowds speechless in the dressage arena.

If horses are the heart of Aiken, history is its soul…Winston Churchill, President Roosevelt, Fred Astaire, Bing Crosby, Harold Vanderbilt, Elizabeth Arden all enjoyed the pleasure of a night at the lovely Willcox Hotel.

Stanford White of McKim, Mead, and White designed several of Aiken’s best…including the Palmetto Golf Club clubhouse and this private residence, Sandhurst (currently on the market- check it out here!)

Even the Hope Diamond resided in Aiken as part of the collection of Evalyn Walsh McLean!

Speaking of Palmetto Golf Club…Augusta National is just minutes away from Aiken and remains hallowed ground for golfers everywhere!

They say in Aiken it is not a good day unless you’ve played three sports.

But some of my less sporty friends have changed that to “…unless you’ve changed clothes three times!”

All true…I return to Manhattan to rest!! The social scene is relentless and full of southern hospitality (translation…stiff drinks and pimento cheese :). All the more reason to visit!

And when you do, come see us at Folly, one of Aiken’s newest additions, located at 116 Laurens Street, SW.

Can’t wait? Check out our website: http://www.follyfinds.com/

__________________________________________________________

A huge thank you to Jane for her guest blog post about Aiken! Aren't the pictures of her store, Folly, to die for?! We can't get there fast enough!

We love sharing these world-class-but-off-the-beaten-path destinations with our readers. If you have a chic locale you would like to share for our MoS Travels series, email us at mattersofstyle@gmail.com!

Needlepoint Belt Project

2012-01-30T06:30:00.003-05:00

At a friend's Christmas soiree, I had the good fortune of being introduced to Susan Battle, the owner of DC's fabulous needlepoint shop, The Point of it All. I admitted to my new acquaintance [whilst hanging my head in shame] that I love needlepoint but I have never actually finished any of the projects I've started. So my friend and I decided that once the holidays died down we were going to take a trip to the Point of it All and have Susan get us started on a new project...one that I'd actually finish and could have proper instruction for.

So on Saturday we ventured up to Susan's jewel box of a store in Friendship Heights. If you love needlepointing (or just want to learn) this is the place to be- I felt like I'd walked into a neighborhood hangout where everyone knows each other's name. The store is so fun and fresh, full of bright colors and alluring canvases- definitely not your grandmother's needlepoint store! I decided on something I'd wanted to do for years and years- a belt. Susan measured the belt I brought so she'd know the canvas size, finished size, etc.

And then the fun began- we chatted about what would be going on the belt so that she can send instructions to her canvas painter. It's a bit daunting to sum up your life in 8 symbols or less.

I started off with a few easy ones- my monogram and my cats. I've got to represent my Florida heritage, so I'm also thinking either a flamingo or the outline of the state.

A mix tape because I go to shows. A lot.

Wahoowa.

A chippendale chair to represent blogging and design.

And since I always seem to have one of these in my hand...

If you had to sum up your background/interests in 8 [easily recognizable] symbols or less, what would they be?

Friday Vignette

2012-01-27T07:00:00.003-05:00

I can't stop thinking about this fabulous coral James Mont lamp in the California home of Marlien Rentmeester. Boring drum shades, be gone- the shade is what makes this lamp!

Lucky

A Quick Chair Makeover

2012-01-26T06:30:00.001-05:00

I finally got around to painting my dining chairs black and I think they look so much better than the retro ivory color they were before.

But of course, once I did that, I realized the fabric on them was better suited for a light chair. There was just too much contrast.

After looking around for a fabric that was a little darker, I found this Robert Allen for Dwell Studio Snake Chain fabric. From afar, it looks like your usual large trellis pattern.

But up close you realize the trellis is made out of snakes. It's not for everyone, but I think it's pretty cool.

Recovering chair cushions like this is technically "easy" but that doesn't mean there isn't a lot of work involved. Most of you can probably do this type of thing in your sleep, but I figured I'd walk through it as a refresher. First you need to remove the old fabric from the cushion. Of course, I was cursing myself for using so many staples!

I used a flathead screwdriver (for prying up the staples) and some pliers (for pulling them out).

Finally, I got all four cushions stripped down.

Next, cut out your new fabric to the shape of the cushion. Make sure that if you have a pattern, it's centered!

Next, get out the trusty staple gun. Secure one side, then the side directly opposite. Then, work on the other sides that face each other.

When you get to the corners, staple in close on each side, but then take that extra fabric and fold it in, sort of like wrapping a present.

Here's a finished one.

Pop it on the chair, and there you have it! I think the gray goes so much better with the darker chair, and ties in with the marble top on the Saarinen.

I'm also having drapes made in this fabric, so I'll share more of the finished result once I get those up!

APB: A Proper Pair of Benches

2012-01-25T07:00:00.004-05:00

I'm on the hunt! I am searching for a pair of benches to go under my living room console table. I do have a couple of leads.

I have been told about a pair of brown x-benches that would look chic and provide a nice contrast against the lighter console table. My only concern is that since I have x-benches (pictured above) in my bedroom, I don't want to go x-bench overboard. Maybe a different style would be better.

I spotted this pair of Moroccan benches last week but am likely using them for a client. Clients come first, of course. They have fab Moroccan detailing that you can't really see in this picture. But they are amazing. I'm thinking something along these lines might be nice.

I always love a good lucite waterfall. But since I have a waterfall console table, I probably need a contrasting shape.

We could really up the ante in the glam department with a pair of gold Platner stools

Or perhaps I should take the chinoiserie route, since I don't really have any of it in my living room.

Mecox

If only my ship would come in, then a pair of these (not in satin of course) would do the trick.

Paris Apartment

I have a weakness for MCM and have always been surprised at the comfort of a Barcelona chair. Maybe a pair of Barcelona benches in ivory could work.

Mies van der Rohe Barcelona Stool

You can't go wrong with vintage x-benches. This pair from Circa Who is amazing. But the pattern is too busy.

Wood legs could provide nice contrast against the fully upholstered console table.

1st Dibs (I KNOW I can't afford them if 1st Dibs won't tell me the price!)

I never tire of the ming shape. But are they too similar to the form of the waterfall table?

1st Dibs (but I am certain I can find these elsewhere).

Have you seen any amazing benches lately? Please spill the beans!

The Perfect Pom

2012-01-23T23:23:00.001-05:00

There's so much we love about this Lindsey Coral Harper living room in this month's House Beautiful. But today let's zoom in on one thing- that sculptural item on the coffee table that looks like a brass urchin.

Seems like these gorgeous little mid century items are popping up everywhere. Isn't this the perfect vignette? That chest...

Oh and what have we here in Ashley Stark's dining room?

What's more incredible- the chair or the light fixture?

Love this collection of little guys too.

Love them mounted on a wall too.

So the $$$ version of these brass urchins are vintage C Jere pom poms. Love this one on 1st Dibs.

And the $ version is this $35 number from Furbish! They come in 3 sizes!

And here's a big C Jere statement piece on eBay. Amazing.

Are you a pom pom person? - Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

My Evolving Living Room

2012-01-23T07:00:00.010-05:00

Here is how my living room looks now. Want to see how we got there?

AFTER

I am always playing around with furniture and accessories in my home. I don't think a week goes by when I don't make a change or two. But sometimes it takes a fresh set of eyes to where changes are needed in your home. When MoS Washington came to visit last weekend, I told her that my living room felt a bit busy and cluttered. There were too many small pieces of art on the walls and too many small pieces of furniture.

BEFORE

The room felt disorganized and was not relaxing. This is an old pic- I have since replaced the coffee table with a beautiful midcentury table from my grandmother, switched the lamps around, replaced the rug, and painted the directoire table glass black. But you get the idea. Too much stuff everywhere, too incohesive.

BEFORE

MoS Washington agreed (in the most polite manner possible), and we got to work, with the goal of re-decorating using only pieces I already had in my home. We took ALL of the art off the walls and put it in a pile on the floor. We moved MOST of the furniture out of the room. There were some limits as to what we could do because the piano had to stay where it was, but other than that, we started fresh.

The biggest change we made was moving the slipper chairs away from the blue molding wall and floating them in the middle of the room, facing each other. It really opened up the room. We also put most of the art and all of the small occasional chairs and tables in storage. Each piece I kept must be deliberate and meaningful.

AFTER

We then moved the Jean-Michele Frank upholstered waterfall console table from my basement to the center of the blue molding wall. It is a gorgeous piece, and it was a shame to have it hidden downstairs. We played around with different lamps and accessories, but overall we decided to keep things really simple.

DURING

I formerly had a West Elm butler's tray serving as a bar in the corner. It is a versatile piece that I will probably use somewhere, but it just wasn't right for the room. And the botanical prints weren't doing anything for this wall, so they too are now in storage.

BEFORE

The bar has been replaced by my desk. I am loving my Craigslist brass chiavari chair, and the paintings are of Segovia, Spain, where my husband and I went on a trip. The desk is from the Habitat store, and the chinoiserie brass lamp is from a church rummage sale.

AFTER

Even though most of the basics stayed the same, changing the layout, art, and accessories makes it feel like a new room to me. It is more symmetrical, cohesive, and soothing.

AFTER

I replaced the small pieces of art with a larger single piece to make the blue wall feel more unified and deliberate.

AFTER

My one new purchase for the room is this abstract piece, from my friend Laura Park at Cotswold Marketplace. She has lots of well-priced, gorgeous abstract pieces for sale in her booth there.

AFTER

I am still searching for the perfect pair of benches to place under the waterfall table (these came from my bedroom, serving as placeholders until I find the perfect pair).

My room feels so much bigger, and now I actually want to spend time in my living room!

If you live in the Charlotte area and need some help creating a beautiful and comfortable home for your family, email me at mattersofstyle@gmail.com!

A tale of two rugs

2012-01-20T06:30:00.007-05:00

As part of my bedroom makeover, after living without a bedroom rug for almost a year, I recently ended up with a new rug that I love! However, a simple thing like a rug is never as easy as it seems...

I started out by purchasing this homespun moroccan rug from Rugs USA. The largest it came in was 8x10. It comes in a zillion colors and is a GREAT deal for a wool rug. I was thrilled with the quality- it looks much more expensive than it is- I'd highly recommend it.

This is a horrible pic (and the rug pad I'd gotten was too big and needed to be cut down) but when I put it down, I just had that nagging feeling it was too small (especially width-wise). But it's really hard to find rugs bigger than 8x10 online.

Then MoS Charlotte gave me the great idea to go to a carpet store and see what they had by way of remnants. So I checked out Carpet Palace in downtown Bethesda (Maryland) and came home with some awesome samples. Their stuff is GORGEOUS!!! Truly, I never knew I could get so jazzed over carpet.

I finally decided on this pattern- I think it was called Halcyon. They cut it to size and bound it for me, with a turnaround time of about a week, and included a custom-cut rug pad. I couldn't be more pleased with the results.

Oh, and the moroccan trellis rug got relocated to my sunroom (and fits perfectly), so all's well that ends well!

Homegoods Happy

2012-01-19T07:00:00.005-05:00

I stopped by Homegoods the other night to look for a couple of things for some clients. You never know what you are going to find there- it's so hit or miss, but I have spotted some amazing pieces of furniture there in the past. For instance, last summer I found a Drexel Heritage Shagreen buffet (retails for $12k) for $399. There was no shagreen this time, but there were some great pieces!

My phone does not do justice to this Drexel Heritage pagoda etagere. Here it is on their website now. It has fabulous chippendale fretwork detailing and is huge- about 8 feet tall. The pagoda top is to die for. If you have the space, grab it up since it's only $499! I don't know what it sells for at furniture stores, but I would imagine it is significantly more than $499.

This massize capiz shell chandelier was around $100 I believe. It is pictured next to some fun tufted purple chairs so you can see the scale of it (it is much taller than the seat of the chairs).

You can't go wrong with gold and mirrors- this round table would make an adorable bar table in a living room. And only $79!

Aren't these gazelle bookends so fabulous? They remind me of the Kelly Wearstler-esque brass ones.

A white Jonathan Adler lookalike giraffe lamp would be adorable in a nursery. They had two of them, so get the pair!

I love the modern lines of this sleek parsons end table. It would work well in any room.

One client and I have been on the hunt for ages for the perfect limed wood media console. Who would have guessed they would have it at Homegoods?!

Have you scored anything good at Homegoods lately?

What a difference a trim makes

2012-01-17T22:18:00.001-05:00

The more you learn about decorating, the more you realize it's the little luxurious touches that really elevate design components to a custom level. Take drapery trim, for example. It adds a heft and a substantialness that don't always find in regular curtains.

There's a ton you can do with trim. Like add it to the inside of the panels...

Or tie in a wallpaper color so the room really unites.

Where a pattern would distract from the elegant simplicity of a room, a trim is a perfect way to add a subtle punch.

I love white curtains with a colorful trim for a bedroom.

How awesome this tortoise painted doorway??? And that is some luxe trim going with it.

A gorgeous color combo.

Here's another great idea...contrasting lining.

So this isnt trim but my oh my...those drapes! I think that's Quadrille.

So all that brings me to my next question...what's the best place to find drapery trim? I've looked a few places online and it's a bit overwhelming! Any resources are much appreciated. - Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Styling for the Masses

2012-01-17T07:00:00.002-05:00

Ever since Dara and the Domino crowd took over Veranda, it has become one of my favorite shelter magazines. Instead of Belgian beige, now we are seeing fabulous color and modern styles that keep me dog-earing page after page in every issue. The new issue is no exception, particularly with regard to Dallas designer Kelli Ford's magnificent home.

Ford's home is incredible, a mansion full of art by Chagall and Picasso and in true Texas fashion, decorated to the hilt (by Ford herself with the fanciest fabrics, wallpapers, and custom furniture that (A LOT OF) money can buy. No one would ever describe this home as understated or demure, to say the least.

Here are a few glimpses into Ford's amazing Dallas home, as photographed for Veranda:

MoS Washington and I poured over this issue together this weekend, commenting on this no-expense-spared home. Yet we stopped dead in our tracks when we got to the living room.

Sure, it's pretty and memorable. But among the inlaid ceilings, hand-woven textiles, custom furniture and and room-size carpets were four chairs that looked oddly out-of-place and oddly familiar.

In this over-the-top family room of this over-the-top home of this over-the-top designer are 4 very recognizable $249 slipper chairs. You've seen them everywhere- at Amazon, Overstock, and Pier 1. Veranda's sourcing identified them as Anthropologie (but we all know they are really from Anthro's less expensive little sister, Urban Outfitters).

I know there are some designers who aren't afraid to mix high and low, but Kelli Ford does not strike me as one of those designers. Particularly not in her own house, and particularly not with such a recognizable chair. I'm just not buying it.

Are the chairs in this room the handiwork of a magazine stylist? With the exception of Architectural Digest, shelter magazines do varying amounts of styling before photoshoots. Some may just add flowers or a bowl of fruit. Others do significantly more. When I was interviewing for an editorial position at a large magazine, I felt like I had just learned the truth about Santa Clause when I was told that the scouts often look for a home to serve as a clean backdrop so that the magazine's designers can bring in a truckload of rugs, furniture, accessories, and fabrics to make the home magazine-worthy.

Certainly Kelli Ford's home was magazine-worthy, long before the photographers showed up. So did a stylist think that adding inexpensive chairs would make Veranda readers relate to this room? Did the original chairs just not photograph well? I am convinced that these $249 chairs are not sitting in Kelli Ford's living room as I write this blog post today. Is this just a case of styling for the masses? I'd love to hear your thoughts.

Friday Vignette

2012-01-13T09:38:00.000-05:00

We're starting a new series on Fridays where we feature our favorite vignettes. We all know they look so effortless, but in real life, are anything but haphazard. Hope this provides some inspiration! Now excuse me while I go drool over this lamp.

via Lonny

DIY Shower Curtain (that you shouldn't try to DIY)

2012-01-12T07:00:00.003-05:00

Chic, off-the-rack shower curtains are few and far between. I have been on the hunt for something stylish for my children's bathroom for quite a while now. Having a boy and a girl, the shower curtain couldn't be ballerinas or race cars... And it's not really my style to do something super kidsy, so I started thinking back to my trip to Beverly Hills and the stylish awning at the hotel pool. I know there is a name for this.

So since I reasonably know my way around a sewing machine, I decided to try to make a version of this for my children's shower curtain. I did a little brainstorming and decided to buy two plain white waffle shower curtains. I would use one as the regular shower curtain and then cut up the other to use for the valance. I believe these were around $15 at Target, for a basic 72 x 72. (This ended up being cheaper and MUCH easier than buying fabric by the yard which would then have to be pieced together to make it wide enough for the shower.)

I drew a rough sketch of the valance on paper. I like shower curtains to be really long (who wants to see the top of a shower?), so a valance would be the perfect way to add dramatic height to a cheapo Target shower curtain. I already had one tension rod hanging in the bathroom, so I bought a second one. The original rod would hold the plain white shower curtain with shower curtain rings (to open and close), and the second rod, hung closer to the ceiling, would hold the valance which would hide the top of the functioning shower curtain, rod, and rings.

So then I started to measure and mark on the curtain with my fabric pen, detailing exactly where the cuts should be made to make all the straight lines on the valance perfectly even.

Measure twice; cut once.

I cut two identical layers to make a double layer of fabric, so the valance would not be see-through.

Then I sewed it together, inside out, leaving enough open to flip it right-side out (like making a pillow cover).

I decided to use 1-inch turquoise grosgrain ribbon trim all around the edges, to highlight the style of the valance.

Adding the grosgrain ribbon is where it gets tricky. You have to sew exactly the right size pieces of the ribbon together in exactly 90-degree angles exactly the same distance from the edge of the corners in exactly 6-inch increments for the entire width of the valance. It's not as easy as it sounds...

The first piece was easy...

But when I had to start sewing edges together to make perfect 90-degree corners, let's just say I put my seam-ripper to good use. Many times. Pinning and sewing and ripping out the seam and pinning and sewing again.

Before cutting away the loose ends... (scary huh?)

And after! Ready to hang!

The valance stays in place when you open and close the curtain itself. I love that it hides the rod and rings, and that it adds so much height to the shower curtain, making the ceiling look much taller.

Works great with sweet little monogrammed towels and a vintage Florida wall hanging.

I am happy with how it turned out. But it took A LOT of work to get it exactly right. Next time I would have a seamstress make it. For sure.

Linens and Things

2012-01-11T06:30:00.007-05:00

I'm usually pretty confident in my design decisions, but oh man oh my oh me, if there's one area where I'm a fish out of water, it's in picking out bedding. I'm in the process of doing a little bedroom makeover (rug, headboard, bedding), and would really love to upgrade from my old white duvet when it's all said and done. It's been great, but I'm ready for something a little more special, and maybe some more interesting patterns and colors.

To me, nothing beats the look of crisp white bedding with a lovely monogram. In my ideal world, this is my inspiration:

Whatever happened to the Tinz? Haven't see much of her lately. She does have great taste in bedding though.

However, in the real world (ie with pets), it's not always super-practical to have a fluffy white cloud of a bed. So I'm thinking that maybe I need something a little more practical...maybe still white bedding but some kind of decorative blanket cover to throw on top? Like so...

I would take everything about this bed in a second! The headboard, the dust ruffle, the bedding, oh and the chair...yes.

Even a throw blanket might do the trick.

Love the colors here! I'd never think of doing a white headboard, but it looks great with these suzani-inspired colors.

Love this too, but might I say that the monograms these days are getting a bit in-your-face? These aren't too outrageous, but I've seen some other pics where the monograms are super-sized!

Oh, and then there's the to-be-determined headboard to grapple with. There are SO many factors that go into creating a bedroom, especially with textiles. It's daunting, isn't it? I need to hire MoS Charlotte as my decorator!

Bouillon Done Right

2012-01-10T07:00:00.001-05:00

I have a new-found love and respect for bouillon trim. I'll admit I was hesitant to warm to bouillon. My formative years coincided perfectly with the barrage of cheapo maroon-and-damask-and-bouillon hitting the mass market. But when it is done right, bouillon is a bold detail that adds glamour and elegance to a room. I especially love it when paired with velvet, and I am hoping it use this combo soon in a client's home!

Let's take a look at bouillon trim done right.

Jeffrey Bilhuber uses bouillon trim to break up the horizontal lines of this extra-long sofa.

Jeffrey Bilhuber

Miles perfectly pairs velvet furniture and bouillon fringe trim.

Ruthie Sommers boldly used bouillon trim in a contrasting color on a pair of green velvet sofas.

Miles again, using bouillon to "overdecorate" (in a good way) and make a narrow room feel grande.

Tory Burch uses bouillon trim to add a feminine touch to her masculine living room.

If you have the room, a large round table with a bouillon-trimmed tablecloth is a chic way to display stacks of books. Or brass critters as my friend Nick O and I have discussed.

Would you use bouillon trim in your home?