Serenity in Design

Focal Points

2012-01-20T08:00:00.000-05:00

Soothing Space

A smoky gray paint color allows plenty of design creativity. RMS user JeanninePC99 stayed with the silver and gray theme, adding modern, gray-toned accent pillows to a slouchy white sofa. A sleek, black coffee table provides the perfect home for ceramic gray fish statues.

The eye immediately goes toward the beautiful accent pillow and the fish statues creating an excellent focal point.

Modern Metallics

A fresh combination of white, black, gray and metallic silver creatively installed this modern masterpiece. Floor-length metallic silver window treatments add a subtle glow next to soft, gray walls and white furnishings. Faux wheat grass planters bring in a deep green hue for an added touch of color to a simple palette. Design by RMS user silversun84.

Once again, without the pillows in the chairs, this would be, basically, a washed out color scheme.

Wintry Elegance

Designer Ron Nowfel created an elegant, yet neutral, space with wintry shades of cream, gold and celadon. The gold accents provide a warm touch against the room's naturally soft color palette.

The chair is a fabulous focal point, as well as a great conversation piece.

Ocean Inspirations

Designer Joseph Pubillones paired bold, navy walls with neutral accessories, fixtures and flooring to keep the space open and inviting. A beige sofa, white lanterns and rustic wood furnishings stand out in this wintry, yet ocean-inspired room.

The colors blend beautifully with the pillows complimenting the walls and painting, once again, the chair is unusual for accent and a conversational piece.

Million Dollar Baby

2012-01-19T08:00:00.000-05:00

Million Dollar Kitchen

More than $300,000 was spent on the custom-designed saltwater aquariums, one of which doubles as a bar.

The kitchen includes a separate seating area designed for enjoying the Florida sunrise.

This Florida kitchen features dramatic vaulted ceilings and custom wood cabinetry. The countertops alone cost more than $150,000.

This state-of-the-art game room features an impressive array of electronic games, TV monitors and other pleasing distractions.

This one-of-a-kind space, with custom build glass floors, is even more impressive when lit at night.

When space for more game stations ran out, the dining room became a game room annex.

This garage houses both vintage classic autos and modern sports exotics. It also comes with its own car wash.
To see more rooms in this house click on the title. Personally, I felt it was toooooooo much money spent and all but a few rooms feel cluttered !!!

Winter Colors

2012-01-18T08:00:00.000-05:00

Neutral Sophistication

A neutral living room was given a striking edge with sophisticated hues of gold and brown. The vaulted ceilings are the most eye-catching element of the room with double crown molding and an umber-toned accent wall. Simple beige walls allow the gold accompaniments and brown accents to stand out. Design by Rate My Space user Liv By Design Interiors.

Deep Pink

RMS user artelfin created a feminine and posh space by integrating red-violet tones with sterling silver accessories. The white sofa pops against the rich magenta walls and accent pillows. Periwinkle carpet tones down the bold color of the room, while still maintaining that lovely pink-purple hue.

Perfect Pair

An olive green accent wall paired with an aubergine duvet creates a relaxing tone, perfect for a bedroom environment. Seal brown hardwood floors and furnishings deliver wintertime warmth. Design by Andreas Charalambous.

Snow White

Say "yes" to white in the winter. Neutral tones come together to create a simple and modern space. Warm elements are introduced with a rust-colored sconce, a creamy shag rug and natural hardwood floors. Design by Ron Nowfel.

Rich and Warm

Nothing says warmth more than rich, chocolate brown tones mixed with gray, aubergine and pumpkin orange. Designer Andreas Charalambous added lights behind the wall to illuminate the room with a soft, intimate glow, allowing the orange accent wall to stand out among the deeper elements of the space.

Cozy Colors

Warm shades of eggplant create an intimate, inviting gathering spot within this traditional living room. Soft, gray-toned purple walls allow deeper shades of aubergine, like the lamp base, throw pillow and candles, to make a bold statement. Design by Joseph Pubillones.

Silver and Cold

Black, white and silver combine to create an ultra-modern dining room. Aluminum-gray walls and silver window treatments visually expand the space, while crisp, white furnishings add an unexpected pop when paired with black accessories. Design by Erinn Valencich.

Charcoal Heaven

A color palette of charcoal gray and aubergine in the living room carries into the kitchen and other adjacent rooms for a uniform and balanced look. Designer Gregory Augustine says, "the reflective hues of the surrounding city buildings at dusk were inspiration for the color palette."

This is one of my personal favorites!!! The colors are warm and calming.

Golden Dreams

Designer Judith Balis combined various hues of tan and brown with soothing gold and copper accents throughout this modern bedroom retreat. A rich, chocolate brown accent wall complements the shimmery gold duvet and accent pillows for an ultra-relaxing feel.

Love this, I did a very similiar painting scheme for my own bedroom, love it!!!

Foyers

2012-01-10T08:00:00.000-05:00

Michael S. Smith designed the chair in this beautiful foyer and upholstered it with fabric from his own line.

All the antique American hooked rugs in this house designed by Barbara Westbrook, including those in this entryway, are from Rubs by Robinson.

Designer J. Randall Powers used creamy marble floors and a pair of antique Italian commodes topped by marble urns, which are centered by a noble Zodiac light.

Designer Susan Ferrier used a Richard Mulligan lantern, a 17th-century armchair, Directoire Dog Bed console, with custom finish, by Bobby McAlpine for MacRae, and Pier mirror fabricated by Stonehenge Framing.

Designer William Hodgins said, "I felt like this wide walkway needed strong symmetry and strong furniture." To that end, he placed a pair of large Sheraton consoles against one wall. Foyer floors are faux-painted marble tile

In this entrance hall, designer Jeffrey Bilhuber used a rectangular table skirted in a custom fabric by John Robshaw.

Carolina Cottage Tour

2012-01-04T08:00:00.000-05:00

Instead of facing the street, the front of this house looks out onto a canal. Taking a cue from West Indies architecture, a second-story porch juts out over the first story. Drought-resistant plants like crape myrtles, boxwoods, and palms decorate the facade.

Watch a video of the the entire home Watch the Video

Typically indoor elements such as draperies, an Oriental rug, and throw pillows make this outdoor space feel like a traditional entryway.

Den

Two large sliding doors separate the den from the rest of the house, and can easily become an extension of the living room, or a private space for reading or napping. A natural fiber rug and an ikat window shade add interest and texture to the room.

Den Details

White linen upholstered furniture pops against the all-eggplant den (Like the color? It’s Jamaican Java by Lord and Evans). Pops of bright yellow seen in the artwork accent the space.

Den Sleeping Nook

What was once a closet, this space was transformed into a chic nap nook with a built-in twin bed, swing-arm wall sconces, and sumptuous fabrics and throw pillows.

Great Room

Putting walls between the dining room, living room, and kitchen would have completely closed off the heart of the house. Leaving the space open lets light, people, and conversation flow from one room to the next.

Family Room

Furniture and a statement-making rug create a comfortable family room in this wide, open space. Flea market and vintage finds, such as the rattan chair and coffee table, combined with newer elements, such as the upholstered sofa and throw pillows, keep the room from being too sterile or dated.

Dining Room

It’s all about mixing in the dining room. Designer Angie Hranowsky paired sculptural wire chairs with comfortable slip-covered chairs, which scoot up to a handmade, rustic table juxtaposed with a sleek, mod sideboard. Artist Molly B. Right created the striking artwork completely out of bottle caps.

Kitchen

An entire wall covered in handmade Italian tile (Nottingham Honeycomb ceramic tile in Veil by Ann Sacks), transforms the kitchen’s back wall into a textured mosaic. Open shelving allows the fabulous tile to be the center of attention in this clean kitchen. Instead, storage is found in the island, on the right side of the kitchen, and in the butler’s pantry toward the back of the room.

Courtyard

Two completely separate outdoor spaces are created on this patio—a small dining space, and an outdoor living room. Teak furniture with bright white cushions stands out against a grid made by planting grass between pavers. Raised plant beds on the left side of the courtyard lend a sculptural quality to planting and doubles as extra seating.

Master Bedroom

It’s all about the mix in the master bedroom. Silk bed linens are dressed down with a vintage rattan headboard, and dark brown lamps provide contrast to light blue bedding.

Guest Bedroom

An Old Florida palm frond print is applied to the bed linens, the headboard, and to the window treatments, giving the airy room a cozy feel. A longer bedspread that kisses the floor minus a bed skirt adds a chic 1950s touch.

More About I'On

Find out more about the Coastal Living Idea Cottage in I’On, South Carolina

Bathing Beauties

2012-01-02T08:00:00.000-05:00

Splurge Smartly

If you want to splurge on one item, find ways to save elsewhere. RMS user KarenSpirit bought a slightly damaged clawfoot tub for $90 and a $900 vanity on Ebay. The seamless shower doors are a design splurge with fabulous dividends.

Bag a Bathroom Bargain

The addition of decorative tiles around a vessel sink punched up this otherwise beige and boring bathroom. RMS user joeyboti searched his local classifieds to score a deal on the glass tiles and did all of the work by hand. Taking the time to put in a little elbow grease and searching for bargains can keep your bathroom remodel budget in check.

Freehand and Nearly Free

I TOTALLY LOVE THIS!!!! RMS user KarenSpirit totally transformed her good friend's powder room by hand-painting these stunning blooms. Everything else in the bathroom stayed as is. You don't have to update all of the features and decor in your bathroom to make a noticeable difference. In a small space like this, a bold statement can seem like a total bathroom makeover. If you or a friend are artistically inclined, you can update your bathroom for the cost of a couple of gallons of paint.

Happy New Year

2011-12-31T08:00:00.001-05:00

Wishing all a Happy New Year !!!

New Year's Eve Celebration

2011-12-29T08:00:00.001-05:00

Toasting Table

Toast for good cheer and resolutions for a happy New Year.
Gather flowers loosely, and drop into a cylinder vase. Surround it with wide green pillars and an array of flowered balls to bring an intoxicating display of fun. Sparkling green champagne flutes with mercury glass candlesticks set the stage for a bubbly bash.

Ringing In the New

The fundamentals of a formal, yet fantastically fun, dinner party setting include color, texture, and style. Take an artistic approach when planning this memorable evening. When developing your palette, do not be afraid to mix bright combinations of old treasures and new-found additions.
A stark arrangement of agapanthus flowers mixed with lush flower balls on pedestals and an assortment of candles creates a harmonious glow. Guests will enjoy the added comforts of velvet accent pillows that add a punch of elegance and bright color to seating. The soft yet spirited ambiance is sure to capture all for the long evening ahead.

Setting the Mood

Add dimension to your display by using old and new pieces and bright colors mixed with complementary patterns. Here, fresh galax leaf chargers anchored by simple oversized ivory plates set the foundation for the strong mixture of pistachio green and purple curvy dinnerware.
To make the chargers: Start with 12-inch round pizza cardboard trays (found at restaurant supply stores). Cut stems from galax leaves, and, using a low-temp glue gun, attach leaves to the perimeter of the cardboard, filling the entire outside edge. Repeat the process, covering the bottom portions of the first row of leaves. Continue until cardboard is covered. Chargers may be made a few days before and stored in plastic bags in the refrigerator.

By the Fire

Off with the garland and holly berries. Balls of moss and fresh flowers mixed with fresh green candles atop mercury glass candlesticks present a fresh visual surprise.

Absolutely No Regrets

Handmade invitations let guests know the evening will be special. Use assorted paper that can be found in stationary shops. There are so many options today. Let your design inspiration blend with your evening’s color theme.
Here, green and purple were used mixing a creamy cardstock with a transparent overlay. For the computer savvy, these may be printed at home. For a special touch, we threaded a small ribbon through the top of each invitation. And for a final refinement, a small silver sticker seals the envelope.

Eat, Drink, and Be Merry

Personalize the evening with glass tags and monogrammed napkins. Include a menu card to entice guests’ appetites. And as a new twist to a traditional place card, use ring tags that can be found at a crafts or office-supply store.
Script each guest's name with a colored, thin-tip marker. Holiday metallic silver napkins are monogrammed with the hosts’ last initial by a local specialty embroidery shop. And menu card material can be quickly assembled using the wide array of cardstock.

Midnight Toast

2011-12-29T08:00:00.000-05:00

Liam's Midnight Toast

A flavorful, colorful and classy cocktail for Christmas or New Year's Eve

4 oz. champagne (reasonably priced non-vintage champagne is fine)
1/2 oz. cognac
1/2 oz. Grand Marnier
dash of Campari
orange wheel (garnish)
crushed ice
Preparation:

Fill a large chilled wineglass with crushed ice.
Add the following in exactly this order:

Champagne
Cognac
Grand Marnier
Campari

3. Garnish with an orange wheel.

New Year's Eve Table Settings

2011-12-27T08:00:00.001-05:00

Dinner Time

Set small clocks around the table as a festive way to celebrate on New Year's Eve. A palette of pale green is a fresh way to end the year, and the rustic shape of this china provides a welcome respite from the glitz of Christmas decor.

Seafood Feast

For this sea-themed table, an oyster plate layered over a shagreen charger brings the motifs and textures of the sea to the table. Flowers arranged in a conch shell serve as a beachy centerpiece.

Silver Service

A silvery theme adds elegance to the table. To keep things from becoming too staid, a platinum-striped charger and a beautifully embroidered napkin add texture and refinement.
A silver-painted branch and a centerpiece in a frosty palette introduce natural elements without disrupting the theme. Lamb's ear, a silvery-green perennial, forms the basis of the arrangement.

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New Years Eve Ideas

2011-12-27T08:00:00.000-05:00

New Year's Eve is a time to celebrate new beginnings. We've got plenty of New Year's Eve ideas to help you plan the perfect New Year's Eve party and ring in the New Year in style. Be sure to also check out our budget New Year's Eve party ideas to ensure that your celebration will be friendly on your wallet yet fun for all of your guests.

What really makes a party? The guests! Plan activities leading up to the New Years Eve countdown where guests can interact with each other by playing fun games.
"On Time" Charades
Play charades with titles, songs, and books that feature the word "time" in honor of the New Year's Eve countdown. Search the word "time" at online book and movie retailers to get some ideas or try these suggestions:
"Time" Title Ideas for Charades

Lost in Time (movie)
Time in a Bottle (song)
A Stitch in Time Saves Nine (rhyme)
Time is On My Side (song)
A Wrinkle in Time (book)

Guess My Resolution
When guests enter the party, ask them to write their resolution on a slip on paper.

Fold up the slips of paper and place all resolutions in a bowl.
The party host reads the resolutions aloud and the guests guess who wrote each resolution.

New Year's revelers will inevitably end up singing this classic song after the ball drops. But who really knows the lyrics, and who is mumbling along to the song?
1. Print out the lyrics of Auld Lang Syne on a full sheet of paper.
2. Use whiteout to strategically blank out one word on every second or third line of the printed out song.
3. Photocopy as many copies as you will have guests at your party. Hand out the copies and plenty of pens, and ask guests to fill in the lyrics for the song.
4. At the end of the night, award guests with a small trinket for the Most Creative Lyrics, the Most Incorrect Lyrics, and the Most Correct lyrics.

Auld Lang Syne Lyrics:

Should old acquaintance be forgot,
and never brought to mind ?
Should old acquaintance be forgot,
and old times since ?

CHORUS:
For auld lang syne, my dear,
for auld lang syne,
we'll take a cup of kindness yet,
for auld lang syne.

And surely you'll buy your pint cup !
And surely I'll buy mine !
And we'll take a cup o' kindness yet,
for auld lang syne.

CHORUS

We two have run about the slopes,
and picked the daisies fine ;
But we've wandered many a weary foot,
since auld lang syne.

CHORUS

We two have paddled in the stream,
from morning sun till dine ;
But seas between us broad have roared
since auld lang syne.

CHORUS

And there's a hand my trusty friend !
And give us a hand o' thine !
And we'll take a right good-will draught,
for auld lang syne.

Happy Holidays

2011-12-25T08:00:00.000-05:00

Budget Christmas Wrapping

2011-12-24T08:00:00.000-05:00

Newspaper and Garden String

Turn yesterday's news into graphic wrapping paper. Pair it with green garden string for an eye-catching combo. I aslo use grocery paper bags and raffia for bows for a natual look, raffia can be purchased in many colors.

Make the Wrap Part of the Gift

Wrap a kitchen gift or present for the foodie on your list in a colorful dish towel.

Map It

For larger gifts, use a map of your hometown, favorite vacation destination or dream getaway — it's the perfect wrap for jet-setters or adventurers on your list.

Mix Textures

Put small pieces of interesting paper to work. Ridged cardboard adds textural interest when paired with brown Kraft paper. Pretty gingham ribbon adds color.

Recycle a Past-Its-Prime Shirt

Cut the back off an old shirt and wrap the shirt front around the gift. Simply secure the sleeves on top with string.

Brown Paper and Woven String

Brown Kraft paper is a great anytime gift-wrap. Keep some on hand for wrapping gifts throughout the year. Give it holiday appeal with red twine or ribbon and fragrant cinnamon sticks.

Tissue Paper and Leaves

Arrange leaves between sheets of recycled tissue paper and secure the wrapping with glue and twine.

Christmas Cheer

2011-12-23T08:00:00.000-05:00

White cranberry juice is made with young cranberries before they develop their tart flavor and red color—it's milder and sweeter than regular cranberry juice. Garnish with mint sprigs and whole fresh cranberries, if you like. Prepare the rosemary-infused juice mixture up to one day ahead, and chill.

Yield: 12 servings (serving size: about 2/3 cup)

Ingredients

2 3/4 cups white cranberry juice drink (such as Ocean Spray)
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary
12 mint leaves
1/4 cup fresh lime juice
3 cups club soda, chilled
1 1/2 cups white rum
Crushed ice

Preparation

1. Combine cranberry juice, sugar, rosemary, and 12 mint leaves in a small saucepan; bring to a boil. Remove from heat; cool to room temperature. Strain juice mixture through a sieve into a bowl; discard solids. Stir in lime juice; cover and refrigerate.
2. Combine juice mixture, club soda, and rum in a large pitcher; stir well to combine. Serve mixture over crushed ice. Serve immediately.

Ingredients

2 cups vanilla ice cream
2/3 cup milk
1/3 cup crème de cacao
9 miniature or 3 (1.4-oz.) chocolate-covered peppermint patties, chopped

Preparation

Process ice cream, milk, crème de cacao, and chopped peppermint patties, in a blender until smooth.
Note: We tested with York Peppermint Patties.

Ingredients

3 cups blueberry-blackberry juice blend
2 (12-oz.) cans frozen mojito mix
2 (1-liter) bottles club soda, chilled
1 1/2 cups white rum
3 limes, sliced
1 (12-oz.) package frozen blackberries
Garnish: fresh mint sprigs

Preparation

Stir together blueberry-blackberry juice blend, mojito mix, chilled club soda, white rum, sliced limes, and frozen blackberries. Serve over ice. Garnish with fresh mint sprigs.

Ingredients

1 cup bourbon
1/2 cup sorghum
2 qt. refrigerated eggnog
3 cups milk
Crushed gingersnaps

Preparation

Whisk together bourbon and sorghum. Stir in eggnog and milk. Chill until ready to serve. Sprinkle individual servings with crushed gingersnaps.

Happy Holiday's

2011-12-21T14:00:00.001-05:00

Sparkling Holiday Lights: Leavenworth, Wash.

Spectacular light displays are a hallmark of the holiday season in many locations around the globe.

Millions of lights, St. Nicholas, roasting chestnuts, and nonstop caroling — what’s not to love about Christmas in this Bavarian-themed village in the North Cascades? The buildings and trees in the village are lit each Saturday and Sunday afternoon throughout December in a special lighting ceremony that draws oohs and aahs every time. Skiing, snowshoeing, dog-sledding, Nordic skiing and sledding on the hill downtown are fun ways to kill time until the sun goes down.

Sparkling Holiday Lights: Texas & Louisiana

Nothing says “happy holidays” like an illuminated oil derrick — and in Texas, it’s a sure sign that you’re on the Trail of Lights. In an hourlong drive along interstates 20 and 49, you can visit six cities decked out in their holiday finest: Natchitoches and Shreveport-Bossier City, La.; and Marshall, Jefferson and Kilgore, Texas. Revelers will find fireworks displays, candlelight tours of antebellum homes, skating rinks, steam-train rides and Christmas in the Oil Patch — 75 derricks lit with sparkling stars.

Sparkling Holiday Lights: Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada

The Winter Festival of Lights at Niagara Falls illuminates the powerful falls in a rainbow of colors in a ceremony that begins every evening at dusk, from early November through the end of February. The tradition dates back to 1860, when the falls were first lit to celebrate a visit by the Prince of Wales. The skies above the falls also light up with a weekly fireworks show in December.

Sparkling Holiday Lights: Jerusalem

This nine-candle Hanukkah menorah (also called a hanukkiyah) stands high over the plaza at the Western Wall in the Old City of Jerusalem. The Jewish festival of lights, held for eight days in late November or December depending on the Jewish calendar, commemorates the rededication of the Jewish Temple after it was recaptured from the Syrian Greeks in 165 B.C.E. A new candle is lit each night during the holidays.

Sparkling Holiday Lights: Lego Tree, San Diego

What can you build with 245,000 green Lego Duplo bricks? A 30-foot Christmas tree, as it turns out. Decorated with 400 ornaments — also made of Legos, natch — and lots of lights, this Legoland California tree from a distance looks almost real. If only Lego would make pine-scented bricks, it’d smell like a real tree, too.

Sparkling Holiday Lights: Tokyo

Pictured above, the Blue Ocean holiday display ripples across the Shiodome area of Tokyo, near Tokyo Bay and the famed Ginza shopping district. Occupying what was once marshy tideland, Shiodome is a modern section of Tokyo that’s home to high-power office complexes (including the headquarters of behemoth Nippon Television) that showcase the city’s stunning architecture.

Sparkling Holiday Lights: Tree-Cycle, Sydney, Australia

Look closely and you can see this is no ordinary tree; it’s made of 100 old bicycles that were bound for the garbage heap. A little creativity, a lot of colored paint, and voilà! A festive tree standing 23 feet tall. You can see it on display this season at The Rocks shopping district in Sydney, which is famous for featuring a tree made of recycled items each year.

Sparkling Holiday Lights: Branson, Mo.

The Branson Area Festival of Lights is a mile-long celebration of holiday illumination that can be viewed by visitors to Branson, Missouri. This drive-through exhibit features more than 175 lighted displays, representing well-known Christmas traditions as well as holiday celebrations of many cultures.

Sparkling Holiday Lights: Rockefeller Center, New York City

There may be no more iconic Christmas tree in the world than the one that graces New York City's Rockefeller Center. This year, a reported 100,000 people witnessed the lighting of a 74-foot Norway spruce in late November. The first holiday tree lighting took place here in 1933, no doubt offering Depression-era shoppers some much-needed cheer. Now, the annual star-studded televised event kicks off the crazy holiday shopping season in New York.

Sparkling Holiday Lights: Las Noches de las Luminarias, Phoenix

During the festival Las Noches de las Luminarias, the Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix sparkles with the lights of thousands of luminarias, votive candles nestled in sand-filled paper bags. The meaning behind the tradition is disputed, but some say the festive lanterns light the way for the Christ child or the Three Wise Men. Others say they mimic early bonfires that led congregants to church on Christmas Eve. You can see luminarias in many Southwest towns, including Old Town Albuquerque and Santa Fe, N.M.

Sparkling Holiday Lights: Butchart Gardens, Victoria, British Columbia

The Butchart Gardens in Victoria, British Columbia, are illuminated each year during the gardens' Magic of Christmas event. Especially popular are the Twelve Days of Christmas light displays that are scattered about the 55-acre facility, which is in a former quarry and has been open to the public for more than 100 years.

Sparkling Holiday Lights: Floating Christmas Tree, Rio de Janeiro

It takes 11 pontoons and seven biodiesel generators to keep the lights aglow on the floating Christmas tree in Rio de Janeiro. The 28-story-tall tree (made of 500-plus tons of steel) is adorned with nearly 3 million miniature light bulbs, 82 miles of regular lights and 1,600 ornaments. Fireworks and parties on the beach round out the holiday festivities.

Sparkling Holiday Lights: Paris

The City of Light lives up to its name more than ever this month, when 400 trees illuminated with 1 million energy-saving lights add unparalleled sparkle to the Champs-Élysées. Paris during the holidays is especially wonderful for window shopping: spectacular designer-created displays at Printemps department store are an annual must-see for locals and visitors.

Sparkling Holiday Lights: Christmas Ship Parade, Portland, Ore.

Every December for more than 50 years, boaters in Seattle and Portland have strung lights on their masts, decorated their yachts and paraded en masse around Northwest waters. In Seattle, the flotilla visits 45 waterfront communities, and onboard carolers sing to people huddled around bonfires on shore. In Portland, there are two fleets, one on the Columbia River and one on the Willamette.

Sparkling Holiday Lights: Brussels

The magnificent Gothic Brussels Town Hall, built in the early 1400s, is aglow with lights each holiday season. The Grand Place — or town square — in front of the town hall fills with onlookers each evening for the sound-and-light show that illuminates the building.

Sparkling Holiday Lights: National Tree, Washington D.C.

President Calvin Coolidge presided over the first ever Christmas tree lighting ceremony at the White House in 1923, and today the President and First Family continue the honors. The Colorado blue spruce has been growing at the White House for 46 years, a donation from a family in York, Pa. It stands 42 feet tall and has become a treasured part of the nation's holiday celebration.

Christmas Gift Toppers

2011-12-20T08:00:00.000-05:00

Evergreen Foliage and String

Gather a few lengths of string, tie up the gift and tuck a couple of sprigs of foliage under the bow.

Cinnamon Sticks and Braided Raffia

Tie the gift with braided raffia, thread ribbon under it and add a bundle of cinnamon sticks.

Dried Fruits and Raffia

Glue three dried orange slices together in an overlapped row, tie the gift with raffia and glue on the orange slices.

Holly Sprig and Vintage Ribbon

Tie the gift with bright vintage ribbon and tuck a holly sprig with a few berries under the bow.

Pinecones and Raffia

Tie the gift with raffia, wrap a little thin wire around the base of each cone and tie them to the bow.

Ribbon and Buttons

Wrap recycled ribbon around the gift and glue different-sized buttons onto the ribbon.

Raffia and Dried Leaves

Gather a few lengths of raffia, tie the gift and glue a few dried, flattened leaves just under the bow.
This is one of my favorite, the leaves look like a flower!

Threaded Buttons

Thread odd buttons onto a very thin length of ribbon and tie the ribbon around the gift.

Stress Free Party

2011-12-19T08:00:00.000-05:00

Make a List

Perhaps the ultimate way to create a stress-free holiday is to live by a list. Plan ahead, and don't be afraid to delegate. "Know what you're capable and comfortable doing and give other people things to do," says Kathy Gunst, culinary expert and author of Relax, Company's Coming! and co-author of Stonewall Kitchen Harvest. Asking guests to help with a party-related task makes them feel more involved, so never be afraid to ask.

Cook Ahead

Do as much ahead of time as possible. "Soups and stews are the ultimate winter and holiday food — they'll feed a crowd. Quiches and tarts also freeze well," and you don't have to make them from scratch.

Stock Up

You'll never run out of nibbles if you shop with an aim to entertain. Stock your pantry with a selection of cookies and crackers. Consider purchasing nuts in bulk — which can be mixed together, tossed with maple syrup and cooked in a pan until they caramelize. Serve them with drinks or chop and scatter around a cheese platter. Long-lasting jarred tapanades and pestos make an impressive dip when mixed with fresh sour cream.

Deck the Halls

Monica Gullon, former caterer, food editor and frequent entertainer, suggests going with the unexpected. "Bowls of vintage ornaments (from your family's collection or a flea market) grouped by color or glass bowls filled with white twinkle lights can both look striking. Or place a bare branch in a vase and hang small ornaments from it."

As for your exterior, you don't need a house encrusted in twinkle lights to make an impact. Try a single stand-out wreath, potted evergreens, or a big bow on the front door.

Create Comfort

For a casual holiday party, don't feel compelled to seat guests around a dinner table. If you've got a lot of company, a buffet may be a better way. "Buffets are the most efficient way to serve a lot of people, but be sure to pull the table away from the wall so that there are four sides available to people, otherwise lines form and people can't get to the food easily.

Add Joyful Sounds

Set the mood with a homemade CD or computer playlist of holiday songs. It's easy to make and you'll get to hear your favorite mix of seasonal tunes. Remember to keep the music low — conversation is what counts at any celebration, writes caterer extraordinaire Sheila Lukins in her party-themed cookbook Celebrate.

Try to avoid musical selections with lyrics during the dinner hour, which causes competition between the lyrics and the scintillating dinner conversation that could go unheard.

Open Your House

Too many friends and family to host at one time? Have an open house and let them know they can drop by any time between certain hours on one special day. Your guests will appreciate the flexibility and you'll gain quality time with the ones you love.

Gunst says the secret is preparing foods that can be done well ahead of time. That way, "When the doorbell rings for the first time, you're ready." Open houses work best when there are lots of smaller dishes to bring out throughout the day or evening as opposed to one huge main course, she adds. That way your buffet is always fresh.

Be a Graceful Giver

Store a few extra gifts in a closet and you'll never be caught off-guard when a friend springs an unexpected gift-exchange; try to collect items for all ages and a few gift bags in holiday colors. If you make a practice of picking up items as you stumble upon them throughout the year, it'll be easier when the season comes around.

Consider buying in bulk — divide one case of good red wine or champagne or prettily wrapped portions of quality tea or coffee. Or do some extra baking. Double that cake recipe or cookie confection and you'll have freshly baked gifts ready to go. While a fruit cake may not be everyone's favorite, no one will turn up their nose at a sweet tin of homemade cookies — an inexpensive gift that never fails to impress.

Wrap It Up

Wrapping all of your gifts in one signature style — saves time and creates a finished appearance. "Any solid wrapping paper will look elegant with fancy satin ribbon or cord." Simple can be chic — and it allows you to add gift tie-ons and tags tailored to the recipient's interest. I save paper grocery bags for wrapping paper, and my bows are made of different colors of raffia.
Inexpensive, and makes a simple statement.

And don't overlook the power of a creative container. Everything from Chinese take-out containers to fabric remnants (illusion, organza) can help wrap gifts that are irregular in size or shape.

Your Holiday, Your Way

We all know the value of family traditions and the sense of comfort they impart. However, sometimes breaking from old traditions can save your sanity; living up to Grandma's years of holiday handiwork is hard work. Keep the best, ditch the rest. Going around the room and sharing favorite holiday memories can be just as meaningful as singing every song in the holiday songbook if piano time has grown tedious over the years. "Every holiday season offers a new chance to start your own traditions, so be creative.

Entertaining/Christmas from the Kitchen

2011-12-17T08:00:00.000-05:00

Packaging Food Gifts

Make Christmas gift recipes extra-special by presenting them in unique tins, festive bags, pretty baskets, decorative tissue, or to-go cartons. Add your signature touch by adorning with a homemade gift tag, colorful ribbon, or a keepsake like a small kitchen gadget or toy.

Holiday Bread Winners

From rum-laced banana bread to mini cranberry panettone, sweet tea and yeast breads make perfect holiday gifts.

Decadent Chocolate Gifts for the Holidays

Give the gift of homemade chocolate (and white chocolate) goodies with these favorites from Christmas with Southern Living.

Teacher Treats

Show your teachers how much you and your children appreciate them with these easy and affordable gifts.

Gifts from the Oven

Homemade treats like crisp biscotti, decorated cookies, or moist loaf cake spread holiday cheer among friends and family.

Gift-Worthy Jams, Spreads & Sauces

Think homemade jelly or preserve recipes for a big payoff in flavor and presentation.

Give the Gift of Candy

Take a little sugar and spice and create candy gifts for a hostess, a neighbor, or that special friend.

Banana Bread Bonanza

A favorite holiday gift, hostess offering, or breakfast treat, banana bread is welcome at the table any time of year.

Christmas Centerpiece

2011-12-16T08:00:00.002-05:00

Chic Silver Centerpiece

A bowl full of glass balls is highlighted with well-placed Christmas lights. Add a natural touch to the arrangement with eucalyptus branches.

Materials and Tools:
dried or artificial silver dollar eucalyptus branches
silver spray paint
silver and white glass balls of various shapes and sizes
silver footed glass container
35-light strand of Christmas lights
spray glue (such as Super 77)
silver glitter
faux snow

Steps:
1. Place eucalyptus branches on newspaper or cardboard to protect work surface from overspray. Lightly spray eucalyptus with a dusting of silver spray paint and allow to dry.
2. Next, again using a light touch, spray branches with spray glue and sprinkle on silver glitter.

3. Position footed container in the center of buffet, dining or entry table. Arrange Christmas lights around base of container, making sure to position the plug at the back. Pile eucalyptus branches over lights around base of container.
4. Fill container with faux snow and arrange silver and white glass balls. Vary the ornament's sizes and shapes for visual interest. Tip: If using a food-safe container, instead of ornaments, you could fill the bowl with fresh fruit, such as cranberries or strawberries or homemade candies, cookies or cake.
5. Finally, plug in Christmas lights to add an unexpected sparkle to the base of the centerpiece.

Warm Up the Table

Candles make for the perfect centerpiece. They bring simplicity of style and add ambient light to your table. Sprinkle pinecones and pods throughout the candles to add interest and texture. Design by Erinn Valencich.

Traditional Trimmings

Twinkling candlelight, sparkling crystal and glints of silvered tableware create a warm ambiance at this holiday dinner table. Delicate white blossoms, tall pillars and starched white linen napkins work together to create the appearance of effortless elegance. Photo courtesy of Susan Fredman and Associates Ltd.

Au Naturel

Bring the outdoors in with a woodsy, nature-inspired centerpiece. RMS user JenniH used decorative vine and ornament balls along with feathers, garland and white birds for a stunning table display. The silver, white and gold color palette provides a pleasing color contrast.

Real Estate and Design Trends for 2012

2011-12-14T08:00:00.002-05:00

Guest Post

The new year is finally upon us. It’s time to make all of those New Year’s resolutions and start fresh. This year, why not renovate your home? Let’s say you’re living on a prime piece of Austin Real Estate. If you’re tired of the same old southwest decor, it could be time to give your interior a facelift. Need some inspiration? Here are our interior design predictions for 2012:

Modern design

Enough of the kitschy, eclectic look. It’s time to streamline your house, clear out the clutter, and opt for the clean lines of modern design. The vaulted ceilings and simple color palettes of modern minimalism keep green homes (like the ones discussed above) looking spacious, luxurious, and avant-garde. If you want inspiration, just look toward Mad Men’s mid-century modern interiors or check out the more contemporary-modern approach of Nero 20th century furniture. To add dimension or color to an Italian modern space, try a statement piece, like a Murano glass chandelier, or a piece of art. You can also incorporate a Think Glass Kitchen Countertop, as featured in the previous Serenity in Design blog post.

Indoor to Outdoor

The eco-friendly movement has also lent itself to an emphasis on nature (logically). But, more than that, we are seeing an intertwining of indoor and outdoor spaces. Roofs and walls are becoming full-fledged gardens, exemplified in Patrick Blanc's living wall on the Musee du Quai Branly in Paris. Lautner-esque houses, littered with windows that overlook lush green views, are captivating contemporary architects. This open, nature-inspired architecture both soothes and awakens the senses, making both relaxing and utterly stunning homes.

Going Small

Now more than ever, homebuilders are creating smaller, more eco-friendly homes. These homes will often feature green technology or energy efficient features. Keep the green trend in mind as you flip through architecture and interior decor magazines. Greener, smaller houses are informing almost every aspect of design, at the moment. Maybe less really is more.

Lisa is an Austin-based writer who blogs about design and real estate trends. She has been my guest post blogger today. Thank you Lisa, we look forward to updates in the future.

Holiday/Game/Fun Tablesettings

2011-12-11T08:00:00.001-05:00

DOUBLE YOUR LUCK

Score big at your next game night with these fun appetizer plates. Use two at each setting to replace a normal-sized plate. Continue the casino and gaming theme with matching geometric napkins. Not all casinos are created equal: Make sure yours is five stars with small votives and reed place mats.

CUPPA SOUP

Spice up your soup with fun, oversized teacups and matching salad plates. Mismatch colors and styles for a cheerful look or set each place with a different pattern. These whimsical oversized mugs and teacups are available at discount retailers and some craft stores. Some ceramic shops sell blank mugs and plates: Paint it yourself and have them fire it for you for a one-of-a-kind design.

PLASTIC PICNIC

"Glass in the grass" is a phrase you want to avoid hearing during summer picnic fun. For a much better guest, invite plastic trays to your next outdoor meal. Durable and easy to clean, they're also inexpensive. Lipped trays help contain silverware and condiments as well as provide a clean, flat surface to rest forks in between bites. Bright colors and festive patterns create a retro-chic feel; find melamine if you want a real blast from the past. Once you have a color scheme, flowers and even grass can be handy setting decorations.

TABLE TALK

Everyone has a few spoons or forks of unknown origin. Celebrate these mismatched mystery pieces at your next fete: Try to give each place setting a different set of silverware. To fill out your own collection, try estate sales, thrift stores, and yard sales; often you can buy large quantities cheaply. Personality counts: The right find can be a real conversation starter. Complement the look with antique and vintage linens, or older cloth napkins. Whether it's sterling or real silver, the easiest way to prevent tarnish is frequent use, so invite your friends for dinner tonight.

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS

"Yule" love spreading holiday cheer by doing your table up in festive hues. Go for the full range of red and green: crimson, scarlet, sage, evergreen, hunter, and more. For an added touch, slide a candy cane in each napkin ring as a favor, and use large, peppermint-striped candles at the table. Be sure to get unscented candles, as you don't want a scented candle competing with the tasty aromas of the meal. Individual dessert dishes of chocolate kisses complete the look.

Simply Glass

2011-12-05T08:00:00.001-05:00

Artistic Creations in Durable Glass

Think Glass Kitchen Countertops begin at 1.5” thick (custom orders for increased thickness available), and single seamless slabs run as large as 7’ x 10’—meaning you’re virtually guaranteed an un-interrupted landscape of crystalline enchantment. Not that “enchantment” is the initial adjective evoked by the prospect of kitchen countertops, but The Think Glass collection is truly that (beyond being comparably durable to any rival countertop product). So wherefore such enchantment? Within the aqueous undulations of “Ocean Inspiration,” for starters.

The above is merely one of Think Glass’ innumerable styles of available imbedded textures. That particular choice features a sea-faring theme of swirling blues and oscillating blacks, all imbued with the implied movement of ocean tides. Other choices include “Crystal Granula” (modeled after the blurring effect of water in motion), “Clean and Contemporary” (a richly textured ivory hue evoking a great arctic horizon), and “Southern Belle” (all the imposing beauty of a slab of frozen sea ice).
If none of these stir your pot, Think Glass invites you to mix and match from their store of available thicknesses, textures, colors, and artistic applications—just the stuff to inspire “custom designs of your glass countertops with infused color to create your personalized artistic touch.”

Mantle Makeovers

2011-12-03T08:00:00.001-05:00

I do this in my own home. Raji has a good explanation:

Instead of hanging art on the wall, designer Raji Radhakrishnan of Raji RM & Associates in Brambleton, Va., likes to lean pictures of various sizes on the mantel. "Odd numbers of things always look better than even numbers," she says, "So I would recommend three pieces of art — go to four and five only if they are really spectacular." For the best effect, Radhakrishnan likes to place the largest painting or drawing on the mantel first, slightly off-center, with the second and third pieces (approximately half to two-thirds the height of the first) slightly overlapping in front of it. "In addition to giving the impression that the pieces were accumulated over time," she says, "leaning objects allows you to tuck in mementos or seasonal objects very easily." A mirror gives height to a trio of framed art in Radhakrishnan's room. Photo by Raji Radhakrishnan.

If you want to hang art above the fireplace, consider replacing one painting with a series of nearly identical pieces hung in a grid, starting right above the mantel and going up almost to the ceiling, like the art featured in this Kenneth Brown-designed room. "Think about an arrangement of black and white photography, or prints by the same artist," says New York-based interior-design stylist and writer Jorge S. Arango. "If you arrange them purposefully, the frames themselves create a pattern, almost like a very bold — and very original — wallpaper."

Whether hung on a wall or propped up, the things above your fireplace don't need to be two-dimensional. In fact, in a contemporary home where there is no shelf at all above the fireplace, says designer Raji, "you absolutely need a three-dimensional sculpture, because a flat thing like a painting will almost disappear." Art galleries and museum shops offer lots of sculptural choices. But don't be afraid to think beyond officially-designated objets d'art. New York-based interior designer Amie Weitzman has mounted antique weathervanes and giant African currency above her own fireplaces; the effect, she says, is offbeat and dramatic. Design by Gina Fitzsimmons.

Floor-to-ceiling glass and marble mosaic tiles in brown, gold, cream and grey tones are a spectacular setting for an elevated gas fireplace. The contemporary focal point adds both visual and physical warmth to the room.

Sophisticated moldings are combined with a marble-tiled surround for a traditional fireplace. To allow the space to be a conversational area as well as a space to watch television, Candice hides a television behind a piece of remote-controlled artwork so it's out of sight when not in use.

A simply elegant fireplace surround is painted cream to offset the dark wallpaper in the dining room. Raised off the floor, the visual warmth of the fireplace can be enjoyed from each seat around the table. The fireplace is also flanked with mirrored panels that add depth and dimension, as well as reflect light into the room.

Englishcast Tub

2011-11-27T12:15:00.001-05:00

The Englishcast tub has other perks besides the color. Since Crumley and Co. must shoot their underwater compositions in his exclusive “wet studio” (a 22,000 gallon indoor pool), a prime requisite of the tub is that it be easy to move. Roxburgh was thus ideal for the project, as Englishcast imparts the look of classic clawfoot cast iron, but without the weight: “The Victoria + Albert classic Victorian slipper tub had the right ‘look’ and was also light enough for two people to lift and move around the studio (in the 130 lb range) thanks to the amazing Englishcast material.”

About the Manufacturer: Victoria + Albert designs and manufactures volcanic limestone baths, in addition to vessel basins, bath and basin mixers, and a variety of bathtub and sink accessories. If a “volcanic limestone tub” is new parlance to you, you might better know the material under the term “Englishcast,” a high performance resin that captures the look of classic cast iron tubs without the inconvenience of the weight. Victoria + Albert’s line of Englishcast bathtubs runs the gamut—from iconic silhouettes like the classic Victorian Slipper Tub (Roxburgh), to contemporary stunners like the capacious ios or the spout-style Amalfi.

Photographer Crumley—who’s recently drawn raves for his fantastic underwater images—chose this particular incarnation of Victoria + Albert’s stunning line of 100% Englishcast tubs. The material, a blend of volcanic limestone and high performance resins, naturally imparts a quintessentially Victorian tint of alabaster white, absolutely perfect for its provocative contrast with the surrounding water, not to mention the mermaid’s flame red hair and fiery orange fins.

Thanksgiving Table Settings

2011-11-16T15:13:00.000-05:00

Personalized Pumpkins

Small details can make a big impact on your Thanksgiving table. Try tying handmade place cards to mini pumpkins for a personal touch that will make guests feel special. Design by Holly Mathis.

Candleholder Conversion

Try using items you already own in a creative and unexpected way when designing your Thanksgiving tablescape. Rate My Space user Baubles found that candleholders also make great pedestals for mini pumpkins.

Investing in a versatile set of china makes setting your table for the holidays a cinch.

Dressed-Up Basics

You don't have to buy brand-new dinnerware to create a beautiful Thanksgiving table.

Rustic Elegance

Don't be afraid to mix textures and patterns when setting your Thanksgiving table.

Thanksgiving Glam

For a chic fall table, try combining traditional and trendy pieces.

Soaring Centerpiece

If your table setting is simple, spice it up with a dramatic focal point.

Serenity in Design

Focal Points

Soothing Space

Modern Metallics

Wintry Elegance

Ocean Inspirations

Million Dollar Baby

Million Dollar Kitchen

Winter Colors

Neutral Sophistication

Deep Pink

Perfect Pair

Snow White

Rich and Warm

Cozy Colors

Silver and Cold

Charcoal Heaven

Golden Dreams

Foyers

Carolina Cottage Tour

Den

Den Details

Den Sleeping Nook

Great Room

Family Room

Dining Room

Kitchen

Courtyard

Master Bedroom

Guest Bedroom

More About I'On

Bathing Beauties

Splurge Smartly

Bag a Bathroom Bargain

Freehand and Nearly Free

Stretch Your Dollar

Bold and Sleek

Small Stone Wall

Happy New Year

New Year's Eve Celebration

Toasting Table

Ringing In the New

Setting the Mood

By the Fire

Absolutely No Regrets

Eat, Drink, and Be Merry

Midnight Toast

Liam's Midnight Toast

New Year's Eve Table Settings

Dinner Time

Seafood Feast

Silver Service

New Years Eve Ideas

Happy Holidays

Budget Christmas Wrapping

Newspaper and Garden String

Make the Wrap Part of the Gift

Map It

Mix Textures

Recycle a Past-Its-Prime Shirt

Brown Paper and Woven String

Tissue Paper and Leaves

Christmas Cheer

Ingredients

Preparation

Ingredients

Preparation

Ingredients

Preparation

Ingredients

Preparation

Happy Holiday's

Sparkling Holiday Lights: Leavenworth, Wash.

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Sparkling Holiday Lights: Tokyo

Sparkling Holiday Lights: Tree-Cycle, Sydney, Australia

Sparkling Holiday Lights: Branson, Mo.