Villas & Bungalows

Dwindling Down the Shop

noreply@blogger.com (Wanda S. Horton - Interior Designer) — Wed, 10 Oct 2012 02:25:00 +0000

In my last post, I shared how I’ve looked at turning my full attention back to my interior design business. It’s funny how, when you state your intentions, someone always seems to be listening. It’s tempting not to say it out loud, lest I jinx things, but it’s beginning to feel like what my “normal” busy pace used to be. I know I’m sure having deeper slumber, at night! I think my desires have really been heard.

There is the “one thing” which has been hanging out there. I’ve got one last shop space to clear out. On one hand, it would be so easy to leave it intact and try to keep moving product through it. With upcoming deadlines for the holiday season, that would just be silly . . . so . . . one more round of a blow-out sale and then I’ll be done.

You see, I’ve got these special treasures which are still sitting there and they need a good home. I see various sites and shops selling these pieces like hotcakes, and for a higher price. It has me perplexed. A lot of TLC is sitting in the space. For example, the piece above is a turn-of-the 20th century chair and it has a pristine, caned bottom. If you took it to a chair caner, it would cost that much to get it done. (Insert head scratch, here.)

So, until the last weekend of November, stop by to find some great bargains in our space at Southern Marketplace. I’m dealer #412. Keep in mind, while I’m looking to move this merchandise, my prices are going to be fair and equitable to both of us

I may still visit this blog, from time-to-time, just to share personal musings. If you’re interested in more regular postings, then I would encourage you to jump over to my other blog, Interior Concepts by Wanda. I write more about interior design, various projects, and yes, there will still be a bit of “me” tossed in for good measure.

All my best and thanks for shopping! ~ Wanda

PS – Southern Marketplace is located in Indian Trail, NC – just outside of Charlotte. If you click on the link in this post, you’ll find store details and hours.

Decision Time = A Fall Sale

noreply@blogger.com (Wanda S. Horton - Interior Designer) — Sat, 15 Sep 2012 03:09:00 +0000

Sometimes you just have to recognize there are too many irons in the fire. Not enough time to do everything you love and to do it really well.

Well, today, as I began to feel a bit of frustration building, while putting a hand finish on a piece of furniture, I had to question why. First, I must say I began this blog to share the things I love from the world of cottage design, and instead, I feel it has been neglected and/or become mainly a source of advertising a little shop venture I began in the late spring. You see, I’m a treasure hunter by heart and I hoped to be able to have fun, while on the hunt, and to find some extra time to keep a shop stocked, while maintaining the balance I feel is so important at this stage in my life.

(This cottage chest attracted me because all of the knobs are a little different. Someone once made due with what they had and I think it’s charming.)

In the interim, I discovered that in my particular location, the desire to buy real antiques, in their original finish, has given way to everything being painted. Now, it’s not that I don’t love a bit of color or a lovely design, here and there, but as an interior designer and antique lover, I also appreciate the patina real wood can offer a home, via mixing it up a bit.

I fear that there will be many travesties committed over cans of paint and we’ll one day wake up to discover this trend has sailed, leaving behind a furniture stripper’s nightmare! (I remember oh too well the antiquing trend that was in vogue in the 70’s. My mother has stripped many a walnut piece with horrible finishes globbed on.)

(I was almost shocked to see this beautiful ‘40’s cottage dresser with the finish left intact. I think it’s perfect, as is, with this more modern color palette and design.)

(This primitive work table was put together with pegs. I like the patina of old wood and I would never paint this!)

(See the old nails and the pegs? Beautiful!)

I do think there is a place for painted pieces; otherwise, my spaces wouldn’t look like this.

Or this. But I do think it’s missing this . . .

(I can’t help myself . . . I love fine furniture and the depth of wood grain. So does my husband and he does a fabulous job bringing old pieces back to life. He misses that part of this process.)

Honestly, I just can’t keep taking the time to try to find items in a certain price point and category which allow for this to be a venture of pleasure and profit while investing in painting. (And heaven only knows there’s some to be done around my own home!)

I admire those who can make it happen on a weekly basis. I know too well the time, the mileage, and the cost of sourcing and creating unique and interesting pieces. My decorative artist creates custom pieces on a whole different level. These will become collector’s items for my clients!

(This is just a little bit of what it takes to bring a piece of furniture to the shop. It’s definitely more than a hobby!)

So, short story long - I’ve decided to begin with downsizing and it’s time to sell it all off. The holidays are around the corner and my design clients need me more than a shop needs stocking. My parents and family would also enjoy a bit more TLC. I’d love to be able to keep a decent manicure, too! In the bigger picture, I’d love nothing more than to have time to hit my local Pilates studio on a regular basis. Those brush strokes aren’t fierce enough to burn calories, I’m afraid.

So, back to business . . . if you live near or around the Charlotte area – Indian Trail to be exact, please be sure to stop by Southern Marketplace to see what goodies lie in store for you. My goal is to be sold out by the end of October and the remainder of things will either be donated or sold for a good cause. Some of the larger pieces are marked waaay down! The buffet pictured, above, was once $495.00. It’s been impeccably finished and has an attached, etched mirror. Go figure as to why it’s still at the shop?

Thank you to everyone who have supported my little spaces and who may be enjoying some of the fruits of my labor! It’s been fun but now there is more to be done!

All my best ~ Wanda

Update – All of the above items are now sold! Here’s one of the next items to land in the shop. A rustic finish on an elegant sideboard!

Vintage Summer Months–Greased Lightening!

noreply@blogger.com (Wanda S. Horton - Interior Designer) — Sun, 05 Aug 2012 17:22:00 +0000

I was just thinking how this summer has flown by like greased lightening. (Ever stop to think of how that term came about?) Well, for those of us who were either in our high school or college years in 1978, I’ll bet a certain tune might be humming in your brain. Yes, Grease was the word and I think I’ve lost count of how many times I either went to see or have watched tv re-runs of the movie.

(Didn’t this poster just make you swoon?)

Speaking of this summer moving by so fast . . . what about the last 30+ years?!!! It’s so hard to believe the original Grease movie posters are now a vintage piece or a collectible.

(IKEA – circa 1970’s. Kind of ‘groovy’ and fun!)

Did you know anything over 20 years is considered to be vintage? Makes something, not quite antique, (100+ years), sound a bit more romantic, doesn’t it? Since IKEA was founded in 1943, even some of their original designs would now qualify. (Factoid – The first catalog was released in 1951 and the first store opened in 1958.) Apologies to Ingvar Kamprad, the founder, but I just never thought about some pieces making it past the landfill.

(If only you could have seen the “before”. But then, it might have scared you! Photo: Villas & Bungalows)

And then, I remembered how my grandparents couldn’t wait to get rid of their 1930’ and ‘40’s Depression Era furniture, of which current generations scour shops and online sites in order to get a hold them to upcycle into a variety of fashions. Come to think of it, I used to turn my nose up there, too! What a difference a little time has made . . . and some fun finishes!

(It truly is about the finish to brighten up an old beauty. Kind of like updating your make-up! Photo: Villas & Bungalows)

(One of my favorite pieces and it sold in less than a day! Ah, the one that got away! I’ve seen this reproduced at five times the price. No wonder we love upcycled vintage. Personality and easier on the wallet. Photo: Villas & Bungalows)

(A little more traditional piece with a rubbed finish didn’t last long, either. Photo: Villas & Bungalows)

(Oozing personality! A waterfall buffet, ca 1940’s, with what I refer to as a “Swedish Country” finish. Look at the following photos for details. It’s in the shop, as of today’s post. Photo: Villas & Bungalows)

(Look at the hardware and the details! So beautiful!)

(And French Provincial was the “bomb” when my parents got married in 1956. They still have their original bedroom set. I would so love to change it up for them but they love the cherry wood. This darling hutch just looks so sweet in a new finish. Photo: Villas & Bungalows)

(A perfect place for china and linens or would be great in a bedroom, too! Photo: Villas & Bungalows)

(This has to be one of my favorite pieces! It lasted less than a day in the shop. The front had an old plexiglass insert so we removed it and added a screen. Viola! A pie safe was created! Photo: Villas & Bungalows)

Well, I think I’ve solved the mystery of where time has gone, this summer! We’ve been busy sourcing and zhushing great vintage/cottage-style finds. (And I’ve been also balancing that with my design biz and family.)

I hope you’ve been having the best time, whatever’s been on your calendar. And if you’re taking the drive down Hwy 74 towards the NC or SC coast for a little vacay, be sure to drop by South 21 Drive-In, for a little retro dining, and then head on down to Southern Marketplace, for some vintage shopping!

Just be sure not to go like greased lightening! We don’t do blue light specials!

All my best! ~ Wanda

Summer Projects

noreply@blogger.com (Wanda S. Horton - Interior Designer) — Thu, 19 Jul 2012 14:40:00 +0000

First, just waving “hello” after an extended absence. To say the computer “blew up” is just the tip of the iceberg of activities. Now, a spanking, brand-new one sits in it’s place and I’m still figuring out the bells and whistles. (And may I say, my newer version of Windows Live Writer is the absolute bomb-diggity?! You would think it would have gotten me back to the keyboard, much faster!)

Meanwhile, lots of great summer projects have been flowing through the pipelines – both for the interiors biz and our little shop. I would have posted more photos of works-in-progress but we’ve sold so many pieces at Southern Marketplace, that we had to keep moving along.

Here are a few goodies for you to enjoy:

I should call the table, “Leap Frog”. The green and the legs – do you see it? The sideboard was a labor of love in Annie Sloan’s Emperor’s Silk. Shows a little more brick than the true red it is. I almost kept this one!

Here’s the top view. Pretty proud of the finished product! Just a smidgen of rubbing the edges for a loved look.

If neutral is more your style – a sweet farmhouse table and a pair of twin headboards – an added bonus of the cottage table on top. Cool and cream!

Look at those legs! (Peeking in on the side, a great little book table glazed in Graphite.)

Here’s a blast from the past. I think it lasted just a couple of days before going to a new home! Sweet French Provincial style chest.

Sometimes I make boo boos! I had hoped to place a couple of these in my own bathroom so I scooped them up at a local show. Ooops! A bit big for the space. No worries, though. One has already sold and this is the other window box shelf looking for a home. Only $70 for taking him home!

This is our “little” space. Just big enough for a piece like the library table. It has been lovingly refinished by my hubby and is as smooth as silk. Promise!

A parting shot. We’re filled to the brim! (Well, that is until the weekend. You never know what will be left after the flurry of shoppers pass through.)

Gee. I hope I don’t sound like a walking billboard. It’s just that I’m so excited to share with you what we’ve been up to and why I’ve been MIA.

Even if you’ve not been to Southern Marketplace to shop, I hope you’ve enjoyed a vicarious experience of gaining inspiration for adding a unique touch to your own cottage! Buy what you love, fits your purpose, and what will be everlasting!

All my best to you – until next time! ~ Wanda

Totally Stocked and Totally Pooped!

noreply@blogger.com (Wanda S. Horton - Interior Designer) — Mon, 02 Jul 2012 03:50:00 +0000

When we were planning our expansion of our Villas and Bungalows venue, inside of Southern Marketplace, we had no idea we would be doing so during a record-setting heat wave! I wish I could come up with something more witty than - “Our sales were so ‘sizzling’, in our little vignette, that we needed to ‘strike while the iron was hot’, when more room became available” – but I think that’s about all I can muster without another gallon of iced tea flowing through my veins. :)

Yes, the sweet hubby and I are more than a bit wilted from moving merchandise and prepping finds. I’ll just let the photos do the talking. (Well, with a few little comments. It wouldn’t be like me to give you the total silent treatment!)

A mix of old and new. Picked up the fabulous, black and gilt Trumeau mirror this weekend, just in time to give the new space a statement piece.

I have a weakness for toleware so it was a miracle these ended up in the shop! Love the roses in these two.

A labor of love. I found this great Eastlake table and it was a bit drab. A touch of grassy green and a little distressing and now it’s a happy camper of the indoor variety!

If it’s hot outside there’s nothing like taking a dip into a pool of cool blue!

A pair of French-style, caned twin headboards had my heart go pitter patter! Just the right mix of chic to the not-so-shabby. You can put them together to create a king bed, too. (And for under $500 for the pair!)

A closer look-see . . .

A vintage piano stool has been zhushed with personality. She still has the original glass ball feet with the claw ferrule caps. I think it would be a great spot to place some books by a chair – or your e-reader. Never let it be said that antiques can’t also be tech-savvy!

Oh, and I think this chair’s name should be “Miss Priss”. Look at the carving and the lovely velvet cover!

I sure could have used a nice ocean breeze, today! This great wall shelf, with a blue beadboard backing, seemed to be the perfect spot to place some seaside treasures.

I think the mercury dipped a bit with an evening storm. I imagine it will be steaming up again, though, so you might want to consider some indoor venturing with a chill in the air. If you’re in the Charlotte area, drop in to see our handiwork. Some other vendors have been on the move so check them out,too!

I think you might want to stay inside a while. There are some pretty ‘cool’ bargains. (Giggle)

All my best! ~ Wanda

A Mermaid’s Cottage

noreply@blogger.com (Wanda S. Horton - Interior Designer) — Sat, 23 Jun 2012 23:02:00 +0000

It certainly might seem to be a whimsical thought – a mermaid on land, much less in a cottage. Hey, if it happened in the ‘vintage’ movie, “Splash”, it might certainly come true! (Since the movie came out in 1984, I’m thinking it’s okay to use the term.)

At any rate, it’s either because summertime brings forth fun ponderings or it’s the blast of heat sweeping the south, but I’ve been thinking of island cottages, color schemes, and all of the related design. I’ve never been to Tybee Island, Georgia; although her neighboring southern belle city, Savannah, has been visited a time or two. From what I’ve heard and read, it sounds like just the kind of laid-back beach escape I would love, full of colorful island homes, adorned in vintage 20’s, 30’s & 40’s shabby chic.

Ah, the crisp white of it all!

Marvelous, mystical mermaids featured on the blog of none other than, Mermaid Cottages! Yes, I told you they existed!

Creating a seaside cottage vibe requires just the right combination of found pieces – carefully curated so as not to look like Grandma’s attic was totally raided, but with calm, order, and a little kitsch. My shop within a shop currently has a few of these pieces ready to go!

The hardware on this is amazing! She’s a beauty right from the pages of a 1940’s catalog! Just “cottaged up” with a new finish!

Add a little sand, some seawater, and shake up for some foam. I’m so there! How about you?

All my best! ~ Wanda

Oh, and Mermaid Cottages also offer pet-friendly accommodations. Perfect for Fido or Fifi or your felines!

Happy Anniversary to Southern Marketplace! A Sale-a-bration Event!

noreply@blogger.com (Wanda S. Horton - Interior Designer) — Tue, 12 Jun 2012 17:22:00 +0000

While we’re only a few weeks into our “marriage” with Southern Marketplace, there are vendors who have been with them since the beginning of time. You know what that means? . . .

That’s right! A “little” ~~celebration~~ sale-a-bration event is in order. Well . . . I think it will actually be a MAJOR event as it’s their first year anniversary. If you remember yours – those first years are full of love with a lot of adjustment. Trying to work through the bumps in the road and figuring out things like thermostat settings, etc. (And let me promise you this, you’ll still be figuring that one out for the years to come!) When you make it to the big 1.0, you’re kind of into the flow of things. Heck, that’s almost like ten years in Hollywood time!

But I digress . . . consider yourself invited! For the latest party update, just click on the invitation photo, below, and it will take you straight to the Facebook page for the venue at Southern Marketplace.

ALL of the vendors are participating with special sales, mark-downs, and I hear there will be food and drawings. Who knows, there could be dancing as people will be so giddy with their finds and buys!

Be sure to bring your truck, van, SUV, or whatever works for you to haul away your goodies. This event will be happening, come rain or shine! (Saturday, June 16th from 9am – 5pm. Remember, keep clicking on the invitation photo for more sneak peeks!)

All my best! ~ Wanda

Southern Marketplace – We LOVE You!

noreply@blogger.com (Wanda S. Horton - Interior Designer) — Fri, 08 Jun 2012 02:25:00 +0000

Well, if you’ve been reading my latest blogposts . . . and apologies for being on the same topic, as of late . . . but it really does seem as if we’ve found a lovely little home for our penchant for vintage and cottage finds. The folks at Southern Marketplace have welcomed us with open arms and so have their customers. We had just moved in and in less than 48 hours, our first piece of furniture sold. Yes, the lovely French style vanity!

We took a cutie patootie cabinet in, this evening, and it may already have found a home - based on the inquiries we’ve been seeing posted on their Facebook page.

Here’s a close-up and in better lighting of the doors. Kind of has a vintage, Swedish look to it.

An extra bonus? Storage in the top. Oh the different ways this could be used! And it’s got character written all over it, too.

Meanwhile, here’s a little close-up of the mirror above it. Love the raised Belle Fleur design! The mirror has the perfect aging in the silvering. The kind interior designers pay big bucks to have done.

Oh, remember the garden seat from my previous post? Here she is. All happy in green and ready to be tucked at a desk, a vanity, or in any nook or cranny.

It’s a veritable collection of cottage! My space is quaint and cozy so we’ve learned how to stack it full. Don’t worry, felt pads are on the bottom to prevent scratching.

A great wooden tole-painted box.

I hope someone buys these darling lamps, soon. I’m becoming so tempted to re-do a bedroom around them!

Let me tell you, Southern Marketplace has so many beautiful pieces. Can you believe this French style dresser is under $500? I was drooling over the pieces in this vendor’s booth. Lovely!

If you live in the metro area, around Charlotte, North Carolina, you’ll not want to miss the opportunity to stop by. If you’re traveling down to the coast, on Hwy 74, they’re located between Charlotte and Monroe in Indian Trail – right in front of Lowe’s.

Tell Phylliss I sent you! She would love to say “hello” and show you around the shop.

5811 W. Hwy. 74, Indian Trail, NC 28079 – Phone: 704-684-0211 – Open Mon – Fri 10-7, Sat 10-6, and Sun 12-6.

All my best! ~ Wanda

PS – I promise to get back to posts about designing for cottage interiors, gardening, nesting, and such. Just so thrilled to have found the perfect marketplace and had to share it!

A Garden Seat

noreply@blogger.com (Wanda S. Horton - Interior Designer) — Tue, 05 Jun 2012 00:41:00 +0000

There’s nothing like having a seat in the middle of a garden spot.

A great place to observe the fruits of your plantings.

This petite garden maiden started out with not much personality. A little brown and dull. Some extra “fertilizer” did the trick, in the form of a green finish. (Sorry, I forgot to take the before as I was too excited about the final vision.)

She was definitely “cottage made”. A combination of Rococo and Eastlake with some incising in the back for accents.

Oh - and the legs kicking out from her zig-zag skirt. Fun!

Soon, she’ll be out of the garden and heading up to Southern Marketplace. I hope someone will give her a good home. And, of course, she really is an indoor piece. I just thought she might enjoy catching a few rays for her photo shoot, today!

All my best! ~ Wanda

Good Omens

noreply@blogger.com (Wanda S. Horton - Interior Designer) — Sun, 03 Jun 2012 02:16:00 +0000

Many years ago, when I decided to dip my toe into uncharted entrepreneurial waters, I kept my day job while taking on a few interior design clients and dabbling in a local antiques mall. It was a good way to see if this path might be the right one.

One day, a smiling face introduced herself to me and shared that she had made quite a few purchases out of my booth for her home as well as her daughter’s condo. She had been on leave from work as she had a cast on her leg and had been waiting for some broken bones to heal. Long story short, this kind woman, Brenda, introduced me to her boss - upon literally getting back on her feet. Her boss happened to be one of the top real estate agents in our area and the rest is history as she made lovely referrals to my business. Brenda was my lucky rabbit’s foot!

Fast forward to the present and move-in day to Southern Marketplace, located in the same venue in which I had a space, over fifteen years ago. (I decided to test the waters, again, as I had missed being in a vibrant, busy location, including the thrill of the hunt for one-of-a-kind pieces – not to mention my passion for merchandising.) How ironic to be back where a lot of this began!

Low and behold, I heard someone call my name from around the corner. Can you imagine my delight and surprise when I saw it was Brenda?! She had been retired for several years and I had lost touch with her. I was so happy to hear all was well and to find out she had purchased a little cabin, in the NC mountains, not far from where my husband and I love to visit.

Lately, I’ve been finding great joy in reconnecting with people I’ve been missing in this busy life. It probably has a lot to do with how quickly time has passed and the desire to make moments last longer with special folks has been at the forefront of my mind. Truly, it has been a real thrill!

My husband I were sharing, at dinner, after having finished putting the new vignette together in just a couple of hours, that we feel like we’ve landed back home at Southern Marketplace and that we’re optimistic things will go well there.

After all, my good luck charm stopped by today. I think it’s a good omen, don’t you?

All my best! ~ Wanda

(Southern Marketplace is located at: 5811 W Hwy 74, Indian Trail, NC – In front of Lowe’s. They’re open Mon-Fri, 10-7, Sat 10-6, & Sun 12-6) Stop by for a visit. You never know who you might see!

Antique Picking Through The Mountains

noreply@blogger.com (Wanda S. Horton - Interior Designer) — Sun, 27 May 2012 15:03:00 +0000

Picture this: Take a ‘young’, middle-aged married couple – she, an interior designer . . . he, an urban planner . . . and send them off to the North Carolina mountains for some much needed R&R, mix in a few rain showers - then present to them some “honey holes” of sweet vintage and antique finds – and you’ve got a regional version of American Pickers! (I promise we did take in the views and hiked along some gorgeous streams, I really promise!) We even took turns rockin’ on the front porch. Rocking, mind you, not rocking out. :)

See, here’s proof. And apologies for the dachshund bootie shots - they just won’t pose when their daddy has a snack in his hand. (Notice Freckles, on the right, licking his chops in anticipation.)

I’ll bet there was a “honey hole” in top of this barn.

Isn’t she a beauty? I have this thing for barns. Have to take photos when I see a pretty one. See the clouds? That means “permission granted for picking!”

I’ll catch up, later, with more shots of the vacay. When the sun came out, it was absolutely gorgeous!

Meanwhile, here’s where you can do your own “picking”. It’s definitely going to be your sweet spot for finds!

(Tip for best video view – click on the tool button at the bottom of the video band, (cogwheel), and select 480 – Or you can click to watch it on YouTube)

See something you really like? You’re welcome to email me. I’ll bet we can arrange for shipping. (Large items or furniture must be picked up locally.) Watch the video to the end to find out our location. If you really want to be a picker, you’ve got to have patience!

What’s been your favorite find while on vacation? I’ll bet you’ve got some great stories to share!

All my best! ~ Wanda

Time For Tabletop Tips

noreply@blogger.com (Wanda S. Horton - Interior Designer) — Sat, 19 May 2012 14:52:00 +0000

Oh, we just bought a pail of fresh strawberries. The old-fashioned kind where they are small but bursting with sweetness and flavor! It reminded me of summertime entertaining and pulling out some sweet pieces for tucking flowers and fruit.

Here are just a few ideas:

Yes, it’s going to be hard to “adopt” these pieces out, but I have to save myself room for the next shopping venture!

Stop by Golden Girls Antiques in Monroe, NC to get ready for your summer season. Lots more of these await, along with beautiful napkins, lamps, accents, and furniture!

All my best! ~ Wanda

A Run For The Roses

noreply@blogger.com (Wanda S. Horton - Interior Designer) — Sat, 05 May 2012 21:58:00 +0000

The beginning of the Triple Crown of racing begets fanciful hats, Mint Juleps, and visions of a red roses loom ahead for the winner and I’m celebrating in the garden. (Where else would I be during planting season?)

(Divine Derby Hat – Via Fashion and Lifestyle)

We had a bunch of pesky trees removed, so it opened up a ton of possibilities. The DH loves trees - as do I - but we needed a little more breathing room and color. Off to Latham’s nursery we went! There were roses as far as the eye could see! Knockout roses and drift roses made their way into the garden trailer. (Yes, we look like the Clampetts on gardening days.)

(These Drift Roses, at Latham’s really popped in pink. )

We’re so fortunate to have a plethora of planting places within thirty minutes of our home. Each has something to offer and I’m sure you could find some of my stories about Three Creek Farms and King’s Greenhouse, too! I have my favorite peeps at each. Michelle, at Latham’s was especially helpful as she patiently listened to “lively” discussions between the DH and I as we decided which plantings would be the best ones for the border.

(These chickens enjoy a rose-covered coop. Lucky birds!)

(Designer Jeffrey Bilhuber’s vacation home on Nantucket – Aptly named “Rose Cottage”. Architectural Digest Like a story book!)

So, I guess you could say we’re racing against the clock to get our project finished. With so much to plant, it will be more like a gallop!

All my best! ~ Wanda

Pinterest Pinings & Design Inspirations

noreply@blogger.com (Wanda S. Horton - Interior Designer) — Sun, 29 Apr 2012 03:10:00 +0000

Before someone calls the spelling police, I didn’t forget the extra ‘n’! If you’re addicted to Pinterest, (and I know if you’ve ever been on the site, you are), it’s easy to understand the yearnings for so many of the beautiful pins.

One of my favorite ‘pinners’, Pamela Rodriguez, must be totally into my head as I love so much of what she chooses. In fact, I hope she doesn’t think I’m stalking her!

For example, she loves red and white – both in transferware and toile fabrics:

And so do I!

(Currently in my shop at Golden Girl’s Antiques – Monroe, NC)

Pam also has an affinity for shabby chic.

(Mmmm. Seems familiar. And also in my shop.)

There’s a little love of blue and white, too.

(I just brought in a pair of sweet dresser lamps. Pardon the plastic on the shades. Those 100% silk babies need a little protection!)

And being that she likes vignettes of collected items . . .

(Okay, I know it’s one more shameless plug, but don’t you love the mixture of textures? Aubusson pillows, tole painted round box in a chippy cradle. Ahem – also in the shop!)

I sure hope ~~I’ve~~ Pam has inspired you to drop by for a visit to take the images of Pinterest from online to real time in your home!

I wish Pam lived closer. I think we could get into trouble, together!

(Golden Girls Antiques is located in Monroe, NC. Be sure to check out their Facebook page for other shops within their shop.)

All my best! ~ Wanda

Feathering The Nest

noreply@blogger.com (Wanda S. Horton - Interior Designer) — Wed, 18 Apr 2012 21:19:00 +0000

It’s almost time to head to the High Point Furniture Market as I’m sourcing some lovelies to help clients feather their nests! I can tell, from sneak previews, there will be cottage comforts to share. (Stay tuned as I’ll post them on both of my blogs!)

Meanwhile, a special client will be receiving a pair of custom tabletop arrangements for an engagement party she’s hosting.

Aren’t they lovely?

Yes, nesting season is here!

All my best! ~ Wanda

Easter Memories And Interior Design

noreply@blogger.com (Wanda S. Horton - Interior Designer) — Wed, 04 Apr 2012 18:59:00 +0000

So . . . just in case you didn’t know . . . I happen to guest blog for Hooker Furniture Company. They’re a lovely manufacturer of many different styles of upholstery and case goods, but I think they excel in the area of cottage-influenced design. If you aren’t familiar with them, I would definitely check them out! Their Primrose Hill collection happens to be one of my favorites and I’m working on a client’s guest bedroom project with this gorgeous bed as the focal point.

Can’t wait to show you the completed space. Even more gorgeous in person!

In the meanwhile, as the Easter holiday is just around the bend, I wanted to share my recent blog post for them. It captures a poignant and fun memory and I thought you might enjoy it. Tales of smocked dresses, patent leather shoes, S’mores, and a run-a-way bonfire!

Just click on the image, below:

May you have a lovely holiday with peace and hope for the future!

All my best!

Wanda

A Shop Within A Shop – We’re Open!

noreply@blogger.com (Wanda S. Horton - Interior Designer) — Sat, 31 Mar 2012 23:02:00 +0000

For those of you who have not heard of Golden Girls Antiques in Monroe, NC, you’re not alone! In fact, if you’re in a hurry and pass through our little town, you may just miss it - even though it’s right across from the main post office. I’ll bet some of the local folks even hope it’s a hidden secret because there are just too many great finds tucked inside!

Well, being guilty of a little self-promotion, here, I WANT you to stop by! After all, even if I’m pretty proud of the space I recently set up, I don’t want to see the same pretties staring back at me, week after week. They need to go to a good home. :)

A fabulous, designer bergere chair for under $500! Covered in a Kravet fabric. The mirror is a 1960’s bullseye with amazing metalwork. Under $350. English Plates - $48 for the set of four. Milk glass set - $35 – yes, pitcher and glasses! Oh, and the wall hanging has meticulous stumpwork and beading.

Stumpwork is a needlework technique where it has been looped and trimmed for dimension.

Banded in black velvet.

Here’s a close-up of the mirror. Notice the detailed metal work?

I’ve got a few pieces of art glass, too. A little something for everyone.

Here’s the other end of the space. The rustic brick texture is the perfect backdrop. I’m sure I’ll be tweaking as time goes by. The little farm table would be great for a breakfast nook or as a writing desk. It’s under $300! All wood peg joinery, too. The French ottoman, underneath, has a new file fabric cover. And yes, on the shelf above, that’s a chicken coop! I loved the gray/blue washed finish and can just picture it hanging on a wall with mossed pots inside.

This cutie patootie cradle almost didn’t make it to the shop! It would be such a great piece to hold quilts or to be lined to hold big red geraniums. It’s a little more green than it shows in the photo. I know you would love it, no matter what! A pair of vintage pillows, with pom-pom trim are nested in it, for now.

English lusterware pitcher - $39. American Ironstone coffee pot - $35. Seaside oil painting - $95. Yes, it’s worth the drive from Charlotte!

Antique wood fragments. Put a hook on the back and hang them in a grouping!

Iron planters, wall plaques. Old and new live happily together!

Two carnival glass bowls sparkle away. I think they would be gorgeous in a bathroom with soaps and scrubbies piled inside.

I sure hope you’ll stop by for a visit. For more details, you can go to my Facebook Page – Villas and Bungalows or visit the Golden Girls Antiques Facebook Page. Updates about other vendors will be there, too.

Thanks for letting me share the news! If you’re interested in some pieces, feel free to leave a comment and I’ll get back to you as soon as possible. Better yet, take a side trip to Monroe! There are several area shops – Remember Me Antiques, The Pack Rat Antiques, and down the road in Marshville, NC – OldeTyme Marketplace. You can drop by Alice Jules Coffeehouse for a “Chilly Alice” iced coffee. I can attest that it’s delish!

All my best to you!

Wanda

Spring Inspirations for Design

noreply@blogger.com (Wanda S. Horton - Interior Designer) — Sat, 10 Mar 2012 02:53:00 +0000

Okay . . . So I haven’t been doing too well in holding up my end of the bargain as far as posting. I’ve been working away so that I might find some time to escape to the garden, this weekend. I know it’s not quite spring but you certainly couldn’t tell that by what’s been budding and blooming in the lower half of NC!

My grape hyacinths are at full attention.

The saucer magnolia is pretty in pink!

And the red bud trees are . . . well . . . budding.

Meanwhile, if you’re in an area where a chill is still in the air, hop on over to my latest blog post for Hooker Furniture. You’ll be sure to find some garden inspiration to bring a cottage touch to your interiors!

All my best!

Wanda

Hello – Remember Me?

noreply@blogger.com (Wanda S. Horton - Interior Designer) — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 23:45:00 +0000

I’m almost embarrassed at the time that has passed since I’ve posted on this blog. The poor thing probably feels as if it has been abandoned for greener pastures. While it may be true that I’ve been spending more time writing for my design business, as well as for Hooker Furniture Company, and now, for Williams-Sonoma’s Designer Marketplace, I’ve got to remember this little spot is just for me . . . a place to feed my soul, and hopefully yours, too.

So, even if there will be only a few words and some images, I’m going to be coming “home” more often. When the world becomes too big and it’s easy to get lost, there’s truly no place like it.

Looking for some pretty?

Framed buttons – Bonita Rose

Harlequin – Miya Pattern Wallpaper

My friend, Diana, holding up the faces of Lenten Roses in a woodland garden she created.

No matter what your dress size might be, a purse always fits!

All my best! ~ Wanda

Touch Stones

noreply@blogger.com (Wanda S. Horton - Interior Designer) — Sun, 13 Nov 2011 20:07:00 +0000

Happy Anniversary to my mom and dad!

A young nurse, working at Duke Hospital in Durham, NC, caught the eyes of a young man, back from Coast Guard duty and taking classes at Duke University. They were in the cafeteria and she was attempting to be "cool" while lighting a cigarette, (thankfully an extinguished habit), and he began to chuckle at her. There was a spark and it wasn't from the matches!

When I was younger, I didn't pay as much attention to those conversations, but now, I soak them in like a sponge. It’s my way of collecting memory touchstones.

Wicked Fun

noreply@blogger.com (Wanda S. Horton - Interior Designer) — Fri, 28 Oct 2011 01:01:00 +0000

Happy Halloween! Don’t do anything I wouldn’t do!

A Cheesy Subject

noreply@blogger.com (Wanda S. Horton - Interior Designer) — Tue, 11 Oct 2011 21:28:00 +0000

Nestled somewhere between the Blue Ridge Mountain Parkway and Mt Jefferson, lies a little mountain town, West Jefferson. You’ve probably heard me speak of it, on several posts, as it’s just a short escape away and it’s not nearly as congested as many other NC mountain destinations.

This photo didn’t capture the beautiful blaze of foliage along our recent parkway trek.

Here ya go! It was a misty day for sure!

I was so fixated at capturing the beauty of the mountains and valley, these fellows scared the beejeebers out of me when they called out from across the road. “Moooooove on over hear for our close-up, they said.” I promise you, they really wanted to socialize for a while. Very chatty, they were!

Meanwhile, since the clouds were beginning to build a bit, we decided to take a ride back through town to visit West Jefferson and the Ashe County Cheese Factory. (Sounds like a musical group throw-back to the 70’s.) As many times as we’ve stayed in the area, it was not a place we had paid much attention to putting on our agenda.

We had my father-in-law with us and he l-o-v-e-s good cheese. No twisting of the arm, there! Here’s my husband and his father hamming it up for the camera. You know what they say about ham and cheese . . . they just seem to go together! *wink*

The sign invited us in for a real treat.

I managed to capture a few images of the process, through the looking glass. You can see that it’s a real team effort. We were lucky in that the cheese curds had been formed enough to see the salt being added and then for the curds to be weighed to be placed in the forms . . . see the background action. What you see in the front is a variety of product which had been hand-sliced and sealed, ready to go to the store or to be shipped out.

The curds are later compressed into these wheel forms and after two days, they’re covered in wax to age. Very fine, sharp cheese can be aged up to five years! Talk about having patience in the process.

In the store, across the street, there were all kinds of varieties to be found, not to mention wax-covered shapes.

From Dachshunds to Dinosaurs! (And you know I love my Doxies!)

We didn’t even miss the fall pumpkins and leaves!

If West Jefferson is a bit out of your way, no worries! Just click on: Ashe County Cheese Store for ordering some tasty treats!

One last parting shot. I call this one, “Heaven”.

Easy Peasy Pumpkin Decor

noreply@blogger.com (Wanda S. Horton - Interior Designer) — Sat, 08 Oct 2011 20:02:00 +0000

Have you been watching some of the latest pumpkin carving challenges on the Food Network? While I most certainly can sketch with the best of them, my expertise, when it comes to welding sharp objects is not something any emergency room doc would like to witness. Can everyone say, “stitches and bandages, stat!”?

Southern Living always seems to have some creative tricks up their sleeves, which are creative and fun, while appearing to be a few levels above “crafty”. (Nothing wrong with being crafty, just saying they have a special touch. Could also be in the production pics!)

Here are some lovely examples:

These pumpkins are not tacky at all! (Sorry, couldn’t help that one.)

A ‘hole-listic’ approach to lighting your path! (I’m on a roll.)

Peter, Peter Pumpkin Eater – What a lovely buffet! If he had a wife and couldn’t keep her, it wouldn’t be due to his lack of culinary skills. Of course, there’s something about putting her in a pumpkin shell and keeping her there, very well.

Showing their true stripes.

Don’t you just want to cozy up with this cute fellow?

A bonus from Kinser Event Company – How clever!

Child’s Play

noreply@blogger.com (Wanda S. Horton - Interior Designer) — Mon, 03 Oct 2011 01:38:00 +0000

In my little hometown, there’s a house in the historic district which is a favorite of big and little kids, alike. Now, it may not be your particular style or taste, but you can’t drive by without slowing down to check out the porch and I dare you not to get down the block without a smile on your face!

Looks like she’s just gearing up for the fall season. Just wait until Halloween arrives . . . I’ll be back!

Today we went playing in the pumpkin patch. The weather was perfect in every way. Brisk breezes and sun.

Woo hoo! White pumpkin gourds! I bought a bag-full as I think they would be perfectly fine to work into winter/Christmas decor as long as they hold up.

Wouldn’t you love to see a room designed in this color palette?

Isn’t Mother Nature talented?

And she’s so benevolent. She loves her pumpkin children, warts and all!

Multicolor mum-a-lisciousness!

Pull up a bale and stay a while!

Hopping down the pumpkin trail.

And who would have ever thought I’d spy a Spider Lilly bloom on the edge of the parking lot? Did you know these were first brought to the United States from Japan, in 1854, by Captain William Roberts? They were propagated in North Carolina, before spreading across the southern US. (Hey, just because we’re speaking of child’s play doesn’t mean we can’t have a little classroom time!)

If you’re in the area of Indian Trail, NC, stop by Simpson’s Produce/Pumpkin Patch and tell them I sent you. (They were excited I had my camera along for pictures!) They are on Old Monroe Road, right next to Heritage Funeral Home.

Ahhhh – Sweater Weather!

noreply@blogger.com (Wanda S. Horton - Interior Designer) — Sat, 01 Oct 2011 13:39:00 +0000

It’s finally here! We dipped into the 50’s, last night, and so you know what that means!!

Etsy – Gray Cowl Sweater

Etsy – Wool Boucle Wrap Sweater

Hand Knit Mexican Wrap Sweater – Shades of Marilyn Monroe, Starsky & Hutch!

(Are you old enough to remember this guy?) :)

Isn’t this pattern gorgeous?!

(Baaaa haaaa haaaa humor!)

If you love knitting and handcrafted delights, check out our Charlotte area’s own “Stitch Poet”, Champagne Maker.

She’s always got a thing or two up her sleeve!