Designer Dad

One more preview...

2012-02-02T13:28:00.000-05:00

Preview of things to come...

2012-02-02T13:13:00.003-05:00

On location - shooting some amazing home products and style ideas in a home setting that I'm excited to share with all of you...

More to come...

Having a Vision...

2012-02-01T13:43:00.001-05:00

My Designer Dad column in Family Circle this month talks about creating a space for yourself, but also creating areas that inspire you.

I'm all about putting things up that motivate, inspire, empower...Visuals that remind you of what you are planning, thinking about, focused in on, aspiring to, etc.

Whether you are planning out your dream room or your entire home, a renovation, a creative art project or simple goals for yourself or your family...Create a visual area - a vision board - to gather those things in one place...

It can be on a wall in your home office, in your closet, on the backside of your vanity cabinet, a bulletin board in the mud room...Whatever and wherever works for you. Just start tacking up and collaging images and text that inspire you. I use that blue gum-like,tack-able stuff to hang things up without damaging the wall.

It doesn't have to be fancy or perfect. I created this board for you to illustrate what I'm talking about. You see how these images are collaged on a wall casually with words that motivate - add family photos, places you want to visit, styles you love, looks you are drawn to...Gather and inspire yourself...

The point? To have things around that catch your eye and remind you of what you are working towards or, sometimes, it just simply reminding you of your dreams -- the life's purpose you are trying to pursue and achieve.

D R E A M B I G.

Bathroom Makeover Video...

2012-01-31T11:37:00.002-05:00

As promised from my earlier posting today - here is the behind-the-scenes video of the bathroom makeover on location...

Be creative!

Amazing Bathroom Makeover!

2012-01-31T06:35:00.000-05:00

A bathroom makeover is something I have wanted to do for a long time as a room makeover. However, when you think bathroom makeovers - you tend to think that it can involve major construction, a big mess and lots of time spent getting to the end result you want.

So I started exploring ways to make a makeover of a bathroom less invasive or less stressful.

Once I found the makeover location that deserved a new look - I started researching what was out there product-wise that could get the job done. This would be especially key in the case of this bathroom that is in a city location.

This dated bathroom - was probably very much in style in the 1970s but certainly has seen better days as we look at it here in 2012. The space is not a very big one - but the darker "rust-colored" tiles and bad lighting make it seem even smaller.

Mirrors can be good in a space, but too many mirrors can overwhelm a room. Visually there was too much going on in this bathroom!

My first thought for the design direction for this makeover was to make it a classic-looking bathroom that would be more along the lines of what would have been found in this 1930s building. Not a period style bathroom - but something that carries the essence of one.

As you start to look at the room with less in it - you start to see the badly worn tub, the decay around the small window, the bright rust-color of the tiles on all the walls (and the floor!), the vanity cabinet that is falling apart and the cracked sink cabinet below. This is a great example of a room needing change - but one that stayed this way for many years.

However, the change will uplift this space and the lives of the people living here in a big way. Once the change happens in your own space - you will ask yourself "WHAT WAS I WAITING FOR?" It will be hard to imagine what your life in that space was like before.

I could imagine white subway tiles, a smooth white ceiling, great lighting, simple floor tile and new white bath fixtures too...All classic in style, clean and something that would give the illusion of more space...

You can see here how the vanity cabinet needs to go! However, this is a great example of how many people live. They think "I'll fix it tomorrow" and suddenly tomorrow is a couple of years later. Sound familiar? With a home - there is always something to be done, but I also know that by making the changes and updates, you will start to love your home again.

The shower rod was literally falling off the ceiling and the dated shower head didn't provide a much-needed "rain shower" effect...

I love this picture because I literally could not stand up in this bathroom to shoot my before images because mirrors were at every turn. My vantage point gives you a good sense of what we started with overall...

Time for a change.

So in my quest to find an easy way to make the change happen - I found a solution that I had heard about - but had not experienced yet. I had seen ads for Bath Fitter - a company that prides itself on the one-day bathroom makeover. They literally can transform your bathroom - completely - in one day. Knowing that I wanted to make this as stress-free for the homeowner living in an urban environment - I knew this could offer up a great solution for her and many others like her - even those in a house.

The process started by checking out their website and then setting up an appointment for a consultant to come meet with me, measure the space and show me options for this makeover.

I approached that meeting - like a homeowner would - looking at sample options that were given to me - from acrylic wall finishes and detailing for showers and tubs, bath and shower fixture options, glass door options and tub fittings that actually can cover your old bathtub! The idea being that there is no demolition needed to remove the old tub - the new tub would be made to go right over it. This intrigued me. It certainly is a creative solution for those homeowners wanting to make the change happen fast.

A few weeks later, I sent the homeowner away for the day and the Bath Fitter team arrived. The first thing I saw in the hallway was the new, acrylic tub on stand-by!

Soon the amazing installers (that were very funny and personable too) came through with large rolls of acrylic. When they unraveled them - I got to see the faux white subway tile look that I had chosen. It was a bit of movie magic - the look of the classic tile but in large sheets that would cover up those old walls. So simple and easy - which is what this project called for!

There was some prep work needed. The mirrors were removed from the walls, the rust-colored tiles were prepped and the surfaces were readied with a special adhesive tape and glue.

To make the black bathroom window get a new look - I painted the black metal frame with spray paint that adheres to metal. Plus, I frosted the glass with a spray frost (also sold in the spray paint section of your local hardware store). It adds a layer of privacy to this room - but also it all simply cleans up the window area...

I loved how these guys were in a rhythm with their process. I could tell that they knew how to do it well - but also sensed they enjoyed what they were doing.

The old sink corner. That dated light fixture was about to be removed. The former vanity cabinet was removed. The wall was covered up as I planned on bringing in a surface-mounted vanity cabinet...

With the nearby living room as the staging area for the new pieces, the team brought in the first layer of the transformation - the smooth acrylic sheets that would create the new white ceiling. Wow, just doing that bounced light into the room.

Next, the sheets of the wall covering started to come in - section by section - giving the room the subway tile look this room deserved...

Here you see the half and half - the new white walls and the former walls about to be hidden away...

Now the fun part - the tub transformation. As the team prepped the old tub - everything was readied for the new tub that was standing by to be lowered into place into its new home...

The moment of bath fitting truth...

When I saw the final tub in place - it almost looked like the tub was deeper and larger than the original tub. A good thing. I chose a straight edge for the tub edge closest to the door (instead of the curved edge that had been there originally). My reason was to give the tub a more substantial feel, plus it's a perfect place to put things on (candles, towels, bath soaps).

The tub walls were completely covered with the subway tile look - but for the other wall (the former mirror wall) - I chose to do subway tile for the bottom and smooth surface (also made from acrylic) that looked like a soft, gray marble for the upper walls.

The final layer goes into place - no more rust color! You can see in this image - how the upper walls reflect the room and the light. That's a good thing in this space!

With the main look of the bathroom changed - it was now time to bring in some other elements to make the makeover really come to life...

As the shower is a big focal point in this bathroom - I wanted to find a shower rod that made a statement. I couldn't use a glass shower enclosure in this bathroom because of the window that would have been in the way. So I decided to find a classic, chrome shower rod in an oval shape that could float above the bathtub. I found exactly what I was looking for with the products at Signature Hardware.

Next, I visited my local Lowes for some easy to use options for flooring. I found these soft gray faux marble peel and stick tiles by Armstrong that fit the design style of the space. Again, it was about keeping it easy. This is a great example of how you can do this at home. Peel and Stick tiles offer up a budget-friendly solution to any makeover room. You may want ceramic tile later on - but you don't have to spend all your money at once - but it can still look great in the meantime.

I came across this light fixture that worked into my budget - but what I liked about it is that it had a chrome finish which fit into a period, classic feel I was going for in this space. I also chose it because the spots would allow light to be "spotted" on certain areas in the bathroom. The other simple light for over the sink also had a class style I liked - but also add a modern accent too.

The new faucets, rain shower and water controls were from Moen - which came through Bath Fitter and are also sold at Lowes.

I chose not to do a sink cabinet with storage under it. So I found a white Kohler pedestal sink to match the new Kohler toilet. I wanted the sink vanity to be part of creating the illusion of more space. By not eating up the floor space around the sink - we were able to show off more floor surface and the edge of the tub too...So you see more open space as you enter into the small room...

Just a visual reminder of that before space...You can see how the sink cabinet takes up space visually. If the sink and toilet had been good to repurpose - we would have but they were not. However, in your own home - you may not need to replace these.

The fun part of the makeover for me is seeing the final details coming in...Here the installers put in the Moen rain shower but also an adjustable bar for the hand-held shower too (something that the homeowner didn't have before). Also, note the corner storage also an option from Bath Fitter...No more having to pile bath products on the edge of the tub.

With the impressive shower rod from Signature Hardware going up - the chrome accenting throughout the room becomes visible...You can also see the warm, directed halogen spots that bring the room to life...

By doing a shower rod and rings - I chose to do an eco-friendly shower curtain/liner combo that was frosted but light enough to not overpower the room...

Storage at your fingertips...Plus, a great example of how faucets and detailing like a hand-held shower can make your bathroom take on a spa-like feel...A simple way to treat yourself and upgrade your current bathroom.

Once the change is done - you can't even remember the old shower head. A great visual that change is good for you.

The chrome accents work in this room. Brushed nickel would have been the wrong look for this space. That classic 1930s building would have had chrome originally - so that is why I chose it.

On the former mirror wall - you can see the tile and trim detail - also the shaft of spotted light washing over the wall but it also is the only wall to display something on. I decided to find a chrome-edged mirror to hang here. Something to look at yourself in but also reflect the light too...

Light goes a long way in any room redesign!

The wall-mounted vanity mirror provides great storage. I also gave them added storage inside a linen closet door for extras nearby. You can see the chrome mirror on the opposite wall...

The layer of luxury to this new classic bathroom is treating yourself to towels with style... I found these amazing organic towels from Garnet Hill. I gave the homeowner two options to change up from time to time...a great gray tone (see video) but also the classic white as well. A simple way to change the look when you want just from the towels but also another way to treat yourself with something beautiful and spa-like.

I was very eager to shoot the after shots - that I shot the sink before the final faucet was in place. You get the idea!

You see how simply changing your towels and details - you can get a new look.

Here you get a glimpse of the new floor. It gives the room the classic style that reminds me of an old-fashioned NYC hotel - but also has a modern edge too...

The new space!

Now make sure to check out my behind-the-scenes video of this makeover...Coming out later today...

All designed to help and inspire you to bring your own bathroom to the next level!

Simple Idea...

2012-01-30T11:32:00.000-05:00

A simple idea...Have a lot of extra books around? Try stacking them next to your favorite reading chair or sofa - top with a small tray and you have a creative, instant side table...

You can change it around as you wish...but it can certainly be a fast and stylish way to add visual interest to a space...

Be creative!

Hollywood Art Interview

2012-01-26T10:35:00.002-05:00

The Stephen Saint-Onge Canvas Collection launched recently, what was your motivation for wanting to bring this collection of your art and photography to life?

Art and photography have long been a passion of mine. They are simply other creative hats that I wear aside from being a designer. However, they all sort of blend together nicely.

The other reason I wanted to bring this collection to life was quite simple - I wanted to create art that was attainable and usable for everyday living and for real homes.

It also came out of necessity - in a way. In my years of doing makeovers on television and in magazines, I always found myself frustrated as to what I could find on a retail level for art and images to style the rooms I was designing. I wanted visuals that could accent various home styles. So I guess you could say - I created the collection to be a resource for makeovers I work on. At the same time, a useful resource for homeowners out there that want to use art to their own advantage in their own environments.

Have you always been a painter and photographer?

I have always painted and sketched - since I was a kid. In fact, I used to watch old movies when I was a kid with a sketchpad and pen in my hand. I would draw the floor plans and areas of the houses I was seeing in those films. I was always inspired by the locations I was seeing. Film was a creative tool for me - even before I knew that it was. Now, film and film homes are a big part of what I talk about as a designer. I urge homeowners that are trying to figure out their home styles to think of film homes they love and respond to. All meant to empower the homeowner about home design.

The photography part is something that has evolved over time. I love the idea that you can look through the lens and capture a scene, a mood, a style - even just a moment in time. There is something very powerful and amazing about how photography - like film - can transport you.

I have always documented my work as a designer with before images, in-progress room shots and capturing the final "beauty shots" of a project for myself. But, over time, I realized I liked the the process of working with the camera. So I could design a space, style it and also shoot it - I have come to love that creative process more and more. When I was beginning to write my book NO PLACE LIKE HOME (2011 Wiley $19.99) - I decided that I should shoot the pictures for it - as well as write it. So I went to my publisher and they said "Yes."

Now, I am shooting my own photography for most of my creative projects in the media, product shoots - as well as advertising and marketing photography for private clients too. It's become a facet of my business that I truly enjoy.

Let's talk about your creative partners on this venture Artistic Photo Canvas. Why are they the right fit for you?

Simply -- they are the best. They understand quality. They are all about attention to detail towards the end result of what they produce. They are the host, if you will, of The Stephen Saint-Onge Canvas Collection - but they also are a great resource for any homeowner or photographer out there as well.

Part of what I like about them is that they can take your own family photos or vacation photos that you love and APC will turn it into quality canvas art for your own home. A useful resource for families to know about in our digital age.

For me, they are able to take my creative works and bring them to life for everyone in an accessible, timely and high-quality way. I love that you can see the online store that I have created with APC, you can order your favorite pieces immediately, they are produced by APC on canvas and sent directly to the homeowner within days! Most impressive to me, they care about what they produce and it is made right here in the USA! I could go on and on about them.

The collection you showcase is varied in look and style - was that on purpose?

Yes. As a designer, I do not have one particular style that is known as the "Stephen Saint-Onge" look. I'm all about interpreting what is going to be right for the homeowner I'm working with. I'm not going to live there - they are. So it's my job to figure out what is going to work for them - what will be inviting and comfortable in the end. So the art collection is very much like that - there is something for everyone. Plus, it will constantly be infused with new works too. That was part of my goal with APC - that we could bring new pieces to the collection monthly. I wanted this to keep things fresh - but also keep people coming back to see what's new.

The Hollywood focused collection that you have within the collection is very bold and graphic - tell us more about that?

As I said earlier, film is very much a part of everything that I do. The old movies I watched as a kid, the design seminars that I give today as a designer - urging homeowners to think of favorite film homes to help guide them to my playing movie soundtracks in my studio when I am in a creative mode. It's all connected.

I created this Hollywood focused collection to capture phrases or simple text that are all part of the magic of movie-making. Having worked on movie sets myself - I love hearing "Action" because that is when the magic begins or I have said many times on photo shoots "It's all about the light." So true in film, in art and in life.

I recently featured these pieces in a makeover. The response was great because it was something unique for homeowners. I can see these pieces working into an urban loft setting, a suburban family room or even in an office environment.

What I love about these pieces is that when you go to the online store for the whole collection - you will see these graphic black and white pieces - but you'll also see contrasting pieces capturing the essence of the great American barn, the landscape of Sedona or simple moments found in everyday life. That is what I am proudest of - the variety.

Plus, I wanted the overall collection to capture the essence of a cinematic style. So it was important that music, visuals and mood be a part of the way the whole thing was presented. Art is very personal to each of us - so I want the collection to be something that visitors respond to on a personal level when they see it.

What's next for the collection and your creative works?

Some of my pieces are about to featured in a primetime drama on CBS within a few episodes. They were integrated into a new home set that was created for one of the main characters of that show. More to come on that...

I'm also just shooting a makeover now that is going to feature some of my collection of American barns. In fact, it's going to coincide with my interview with a very-known Hollywood actress that loves home design and is also very inspired personally by those faded, classic American barns as well. More to come on that front too...

To visit the online store for

The Stephen Saint-Onge Canvas Collection

visit: Canvas Art

Cleaning Time...

2012-01-19T13:45:00.000-05:00

As a dad, cleaning products that get used in the home around the family is something I give some thought to. If I'm on location, prepping a makeover - the products used to clean up the set are key too...So whenever there is a chance to use something that is non-toxic on surfaces - I'm all for that.

My new favorite products for daily cleaning are: Method's Wood for Good (great almond scent) and Method's Antibac (lemon verbena scent)...

Check them out for yourself here: METHOD

Thank you Phoenix!

2012-01-17T18:13:00.002-05:00

Sedona 2012

Just returned from my speaking event and media in Arizona this past weekend.

This marked the beginning of my national speaking tour this year at IKEA "The LIfe Improvement Store" around the country...

Thank you to all the great people that turned out to hear what I had to say about how design can improve your life! Plus, I was glad to share my book with all of you too. I hope that all of it continues to inspire all of you! More to come...

While out west, I was so excited to see one of the most beautiful parts of our country - one that I had never seen before - Sedona. Truly breath-taking and stunning. I'll share more of my photographs of it soon - but here is one sample...

These will certainly become part of my new Canvas Art Collection...Stay tuned...

IKEA Tempe Arizona This Saturday January 14th!

2012-01-11T15:36:00.002-05:00

Designer Dad is about to launch a national speaking tour about how design can change and improve your life with Family Circle and IKEA.

This Saturday, I'll be at IKEA Tempe in Arizona at 1pm to kick off the tour - which will bring me to various parts of our country throughout the year.

I'm very excited about this tour and I hope to see you on the road. It's all about getting you empowered and motivated about your home environments again! The time has come.

The seminars are free and open to the public. Plus, be one of the first people to attend the events and you'll get a free signed copy of my book NO PLACE LIKE HOME!

See you soon!

Check Out The Latest Issue...

2012-01-10T15:23:00.001-05:00

Be sure to check out my Designer Dad column in the February 2012 issue of Family Circle Magazine on stands now...

All about helping you define and design a creative space for yourself at home...

Be creative...

More to come...

Special Savings for you...

2012-01-05T13:14:00.002-05:00

Earlier - I featured a makeover of a garage I did with French Porte Garage Doors which received amazing responses from many of you...

To add to that - French Porte is now offering a special promotion to homeowners that mention Designer Dad or Family Circle when inquiring about a door purchase for their own homes...

Simply mention those names and receive 15% off any purchase you make with them from now through Friday, March 30th 2012.

Check them out here: French Porte

If you missed the original featured story - here it is again: Garage Makeover

Getting Creative in 2012...

2012-01-04T13:16:00.004-05:00

With the New Year upon us...It's time to get creative about our home environments again...We are spending more time inside - so it's a time to plan the changes you want to make in your spaces now or maybe in the months ahead...

Here are some creative ways that I stay inspired - that may help you....

I use my iPad as a creative tool to inspire me - whether I am planning a design project, looking ahead to other creative projects and ideas or if I simply need to capture something for later use in one place...It becomes a walking file of various things that inspire and focus me...

I have also found that having my iPad on an easel I bought at Target - not only gives it a stylish support system - but allows it to be accessible in the office or at home when I need it...

Using the easel (which can be used for displaying frames or plates) allows me to see what I want to see if I'm in the kitchen, in my studio or somewhere else. Otherwise, I can pick it up and move around the location with it easily...

I have found that it inspires my creativity in a couple of new ways... I have music playing all the time on it via Pandora Radio - which I love. Two favorites at the moment are my stations for "New Age Solo Piano" and "Chris Botti Radio" - easy to have on when I'm working - but the stations I play change every week. I find that music can be a great way to get inspired about whatever you are working on! Again, I can pick it up and take it with me.

The other way I am gathering creative ideas and staying inspired is by using Pinterest. It's a great way to start gathering visuals of things you respond to from home design and decor ideas to fashion, family ideas and recipes. Check it out...Being a visual person - I find that it can be a great way of gathering things you respond to...

Check out my pin board on there focused in on homes or interiors inspired by one of my favorite films "Somethings Gotta Give."

Be creative!

My Favorite Home Product of 2011

2011-12-28T12:36:00.001-05:00

To me, windows and doors are like the eyes of the house - they add to the home's overall first impression as you approach it. That is why I feel that choosing the right style of windows or doors is something that is worth giving thoughtful consideration to. When they are the correct style and look for the house - they simply add to the beauty and overall essence of the place.

Now the same can be said for garage doors. Garage doors have always been an issue for me - because many times they can be the after thought door on the home. Many times, they are the first thing you see when you drive up to the house. Yet, they can be something we give little thought to from a style or "essence of the home" standpoint. In my mind, garage doors are just as important as your front door or the overall style of the windows on your home.

Recently, I worked on a client project that was about a garage. When I saw the project - my first thought was that the garage should look like the rest of the house. I wanted something that would look inviting, still serve the purpose of it being for a car, but give the illusion of it being a part of the livable part of the client's home.

The existing garage door was dated and painted a basic white - which helped it blend into the house, but it was also the perfect place for something that could make more of statement and also add some architectural beauty to the place.

Once I went inside the garage - it became clear to me that they needed light and sun to come into the darkened garage. I felt that the light would help to keep the space warmer in winter months - while keeping the humidity down in the summer months. Plus, having natural light streaming in could make the typical garage space - a space that could get new possibilities. Instead of being just about car parking and house storage - maybe the garage could be a workshop, a kid's summer playroom, a craft studio or workout room - while still serving its original purpose too. I liked that idea and so did the client.

I stood in front of the before garage for the client and drew this sketch below. I knew I wanted to have a garage door that had the illusion of a French Door. A style of door that I have used on renovation projects inside and outside the home - but never for a garage. I began to wonder if it was possible or if there were such a product out there. I had done renovations with doors that looked like old carriage house doors - which had some windows on them - but I wanted something that was fully open like a traditional French Door would be...

So my search began...

In my research, I found an American-based company that is perfectly named French Porte Garage Door Company. When I saw their website, I was very intrigued and excited because they could bring to life the vision I had from my initial sketch. However, I didn't quite believe what I was seeing.

So I set out to see their product in person by taking a trip to their factory to see their creative work in action. What impressed me most was that the product looks exactly like the traditional French Door style that I love - yet it's a garage door that folds up and rolls up overhead like any other garage door would! Yes, it works! Seeing was believing for me. After that, I was sold.

They have a variety of styles and looks. As you can see from this one pictured above and below - you can even have a garage door with a single pass-through door option. That way you can enter your garage on foot if you choose not to open the whole door. Very impressed by that.

For my client space, I opted for a series of what would look like a set of double French Doors side by side with fixed side lights on each end. This would give the long expanse of the door opening the illusion of there being two French Door units flanked by windows. The creative part or the fun part of the illusion is created - in the end - by fixed or faux door handles that make one think they can open them up like a typical door!

So having found the "Kendra Style" door that would work for the site project - the door was ordered and was specifically made for the site at their factory. A few weeks later, it was delivered in pieces by their expert installer. One guy - installing it in just about four hours. I liked that it wasn't going to be major construction or be something that would take a long time. It was essentially instant results in one morning.

With the installer putting up a new track system for the new door - the pieces of the new door were removed from the truck and put up - section by section...

What I loved is that by removing the old door and seeing the pieces of the new door going up - you could already get the sense of the great openness to the space and how it would just change the look of that end of their home dramatically. All because of a new garage door!

What I also liked was that the glass is frosted. It's standard that the glass comes that way. The windows block being able to look into the garage or out - yet the light can come in and out. So your car or storage items can be hidden from view - but you can get the benefit of light.

You can see how the view is obstructed just enough to add the layer of privacy.

When I shot this picture, I remember being blown away by the look of these doors. The fact that it is a functioning garage door - but it had the look of the French Door I was going for - was a perfect marriage of great design and great home technology.

It's all about the positioning of the faux door knobs...Makes all the difference.

So I was able to take this typical garage entrance and make it something that looks like it could be a livable room in this family home. At the end of the day - seeing the space lit from the inside at twilight was great. There was something very inviting and warm this new feature to the house.

I could see this door working on a variety of home styles. I can also see it on garages that are part of your home or even those that have separate garages or barns. The doors add visual interest and depth to any structure.

That is truly why this is my favorite home product of 2011. I think French Porte Garage Door Company gives every homeowner a creative option for their home and garages. I hope it inspires you too.

The night view of the project speaks for itself. You lose the idea of it being a garage for a car - it gives you the illusion of being a family room or finished room in the house...Love that! You can see how powerful windows, doors and garages can be for your home!

So as you start looking ahead to spring and those home projects that can help make your home better - this product should be up there on your To Do List for 2012!

Check out French Porte Garage Door Company here: French Doors. Also check out the video below for a behind the scenes on this makeover...

Wishing you Peace & Joy...

2011-12-23T13:09:00.002-05:00

All in the moments...

2011-12-20T09:33:00.002-05:00

As 2011 comes to a close - in the midst of crazy everyday routines that we all have - it's nice to just take a moment to think about the good things that came our way over the journey of this past year. The simple moments that made us smile...moments at home, time with family and with friends...

At the end of the day, as with the end of a year - the bad stuff just kind of falls away and you hang on to those real life, simple, happy moments that made up the tapestry of the moments of this year in time...

Enjoy and appreciate those moments in the midst of the To-Do lists!

No Place Like Home : Holiday Gift...

2011-12-15T07:56:00.000-05:00

It's that time of year when you are trying to figure out gifts for family and friends...

Here's something that may help out - for that person wanting to make their home better, those getting their first home or simply someone that just wants to change things up in their home environment in 2012...

I'm extending a special offer of 25% off the retail price - plus FREE shipping for those wanting to purchase my book NO PLACE LIKE HOME: TIPS AND TECHNIQUES FOR REAL FAMILY-FRIENDLY HOME DESIGN through December 31st.

Use Promo Code: NPLH1 when ordering.

Go to this site only to order directly and save: ORDER THE BOOK

Thank you and enjoy!

Remember - change in the home is good! Hopefully the gift of my book will help inspire that!

Family-Friendly Home Design Videos for you...

2011-12-13T13:16:00.000-05:00

The January 2012 issue of Family Circle Magazine has just hit the stands today...

I'm excited - because as "Designer Dad" - I am able to share great news with you about a new series of videos that I shot with the Family Circle team at IKEA Paramus...

This video (seen below) focuses in on how to find the sofa that’s right for you...

It's a natural fit for me. I always get people coming up to ask me "How do I know what my style is?" or "How do I know what piece of furniture is right for me?" This is why I am so excited to share these videos with you...This one is the first in a series of eight videos we did together on family-friendly home design...

Plus, if you see the January issue of the magazine - you'll see that I'll also be speaking around the country in a series of inspiring and, hopefully, empowering design seminars geared at helping you make your home be the best it can be now...

I have always said that "Good home design can change your life." I have seen it firsthand many times through the projects I've done. I also know how powerful - making simple changes or bringing in new products into your home environment - can be. It can uplift, inspire, motivate and simply make you happier about your home and, in turn, your life.

I'm all about helping you with the creative journey of improving your own life and your own environment...

Be creative!

I hope you enjoy this video and I also invite you to check out this wonderful site for more inspiration...

The Life Improvement Project

Designer Dad's Teen Bedroom Makeover with PBteen, Apple Products and The Stephen Saint-Onge Canvas Collection...

2011-12-07T16:10:00.001-05:00

One of my favorite recent projects for a client was taking a boy's room from kid's space to all-about-Teen space. The kid is growing up - so his room should reflect that too...In essence, taking a space that was all about him being a kid and creating something that would inspire him - but also support him during his teenage years...

The journey of this makeover project started with two things:

I was shopping in NYC and wandered into the PBteen store that I came across. I was instantly inspired to create a young person's space just from the pieces of furniture that I was seeing firsthand...What captured my eye was that I could take key pieces for the overall design of the room that could have a traditional, classic undertone - yet modernize it with a whole layer that could be teen-friendly.

Secondly, at that time, I was beginning the early stages of my new art collection and was exploring graphics and working with bold text in my studio within that art...

Suddenly the two concepts meshed together and I found myself on the creative journey of designing this Teen Bedroom...

I have, at the same time, been hearing from people that are motivated to make change happen in their own homes. I had a few people write me wondering if it was okay to give their child a room makeover as a Christmas present. I say "YES!" Whether you surprise them with the creative project or bring them into the planning and design of it - I think that giving your child a new space is a great way to end the year and look ahead to all things good in 2012! No, I'm not saying you have to get it all done before Christmas - but you could could create a "vision board" Christmas card with some pictures collaged of what you are thinking about doing for them...Just a thought about a unique, personalized gift...Hey, something I love, Holiday E-Gift Cards are a perfect option: PBteen E-Gift Cards.

This is my creative journey of bringing this room to life and I hope it inspires ideas and creative directions for your own child's room...

What I like about a makeover room that I am focusing in on is the first vantage point of the space....this is what I was seeing when I visited the room for the first time...

The focus of this project was the bedroom, but the adjacent bathroom was getting a makeover too...

After my first visit to the space, I had a clear idea of what I was going for in the furnishings area...I had seen pieces at PBteen in NYC and those key foundation pieces for the room remained true to my design and were ordered...

One nugget of information that also became part of the overall inspiration for the room was my chat with the boy who would inhabit the room. I learned that he was an avid stop-motion filmmaker and creative writer. He's a kid that loves films and has taught himself how to create them. As a kid that also loved films and sketching floor plans of sets - I started thinking "what would I have liked for my old room?"

So I was motivated to give him a space - to inspire him! For years, I have been a supporter of arts programs in our nation's schools being saved. Anywhere we can inspire creativity in our kids is key. So obviously the teachers who were inspiring this kid were doing something right!

The next phase of the makeover was getting to the location and pairing down what was there - donating, purging, repurposing, etc. Getting the space down to basics and starting with a clean slate is key to any space. You don't always have to have everything be new - but in this case we were setting the stage for an exciting, new chapter in this boy's life - The Teenage Years - so we wanted something special!

Paint is an instant makeover in a can! I love how just painting a room can make it come to life...So once we got the room down to basics - the room was prepped for painting and a new look...In this case, I brought in a PBteen Paint with Benjamin Moore paint that was very eco-friendly. I'm all about working with products that are healthy where I can...No point in adding more toxins into the environment...I had not explored the complete collection of paint colors from PBteen before - so I was very pleased to see the selection when I was working with my color scheme.

Once the painting was completed - the makeover truly started to come to life...You could feel and see the new energy in the space...just from having painted it. Then, the fun part could happen - bringing in the main pieces of furniture that were standing by...

So here it is...the original vision of the room that I had imagined from that NYC store visit and creating those art pieces in my studio - a room for a boy as he enters into his teen years...

The classic lines of the PBteen "Parker Bed" were a big part of my creative inspiration. The warm tones of the wood were perfect to give a traditional feel to the room, while combining beautifully with the modern accents. I love how the side table also from "Parker Collection" showcases the stainless bedside light called "The Shine-On Task Light" nicely but also (my favorite lamp in the room) - the "Shine-On Clip Light" seen on the headboard.

A great final touch to this area - the Chalk Movie Sign...which blends perfectly with my "Lights Camera Action" art...

I won't bore you with showing you "before" Images every time I show you a final beauty shot - but I always love looking back on what the room looked like before and this is a quick look back at the future sleeping area before...

Now - I'll let you sit back and enjoy the creative journey of this makeover...

Seating in any teen room needs to be durable, comfortable and allow them to change things up on a whim. PBteen's Lean and Laze Lounger is a must-have in this reading nook... The side arms are adjustable so you can create various seating options or remove the back pillow if you wanted to use it as a guest bed...The blue tones of the fabric truly bring in a great color into this area - but also tie in perfectly to the blues used throughout the room.

You can see the detail of The Parker Bed and my favorite lamp up close...The Bedding brings in that hint of blue. I like this "Derby Style" bedding because it is classic in style but has that slightly washed look about it...

The Chatham Large File Desk and Hutch is a perfect fit for this creative corner...Also from PBteen it showcases great storage, a traditional style - yet you can see how it blends beautifully with the modern accents. Clearly they are pieces of key furniture that will grow with this young man - and be classics years from now. I like that you can bring in furniture that can stand the test of time and not appear dated or out of style down the road. The "Swivel Armchair" compliments the zone.

As I found out from this aspiring-filmmaker teen and also as a parent of tech-savvy kids - technology plays a big part in their everyday lives. As a designer, however, I'm all about technology marrying with good design...so I really wanted to bring product in that would make this family's life easier - while blending in nicely with the style and mood of the room...

I remain impressed by Apple Products...they marry the two must-haves for me seamlessly. I know how much they are incorporated into my own family's daily life - but also into my own creative works. The attention to detail is something I take notice of because it is all designed to make life easier.

I liked that this room had great wood floors. I really wanted to keep the majority of the floor visible, but having an area rug provides yet another place to sit and relax too. At the same, the room needed another layer of softness and texture. I choose this rich Textured Wool Rug in a Dark Coffee color to add another dimension of color into the space.

A room does not come to life for me - until it is lit. So seeing the final room with the right lighting is key. To complete the film-inspired room - PBteen has these amazing spotlights that fit the bill. "Stage Floorlamps" are truly what I envisioned for this space because they have that classic Hollywood look about them. They play perfectly into my theme but are also quite functional for everyday use.

More stylish storage that blends into the blue scheme - I added hidden storage with this Collapsible Twill Storage Cube. Easy to move around - yet store those larger items easily...

I wanted this to be a room that the teen boy could hang out in - but also gather with his friends to work on projects, do homework or just listen to music together...

Film and filmmaking is something that I personally have an interest in - so seeing my final art work in his space is great fun for me personally. I liked the idea of taking what would be on the pages of a movie script and making it bold and larger than life...This art piece and the one below are available at : The Stephen Saint-Onge Canvas Collection... Art is something that inspires me in the home and I designed this collection of art for everyday living with real homes in mind...I think there is something there for everyone...Check it out!

Just because your kids are growing up - doesn't mean you cannot have reminders of things they loved when they were younger - or that they still want to have around...

I love the idea of going back, as a grown up, to the room you grew up in...Something about the touchstone of things just staying as they were...Is that possible? So in styling this room - I brought in things that he had around him before - books, projects, accessories, etc.

I know how easy my MacBook Pro makes my life. So giving this room various options for seating and "work spaces" - that can provide flexibility was key and the right technology can also work into that seamlessly. I wanted him to be able to pick up what he was working on in one area - and have the freedom to work in another area...That is why portable technology works so well in our lives.

Lighting is key...Saw this Shine-on Clip Light as you know and just loved it instantly... I like that you can pick it up and clamp somewhere else. Great for a desk, an artist's easel, a book shelf...You can see how I used another one in the image below. Adjustable and easy. I also like how this room has subtle accents of stainless steel in various places.

Check out Apple for some great holiday gifts...I know a big thing in my house will be some iTunes Gift Cards...

Wires are always such a big issue in any home office or place where you have technology in most cases. I love that this new iMac does not have the regular tower that sits on the floor near your desk (the hard drive)- so fewer wires already. Instead, everything is streamlined into the monitor. Then, the whole thing is nicely finished off with a wireless keyboard and wireless mouse...How easy is that!?

As I said, my new art collection - which features many looks and styles as well as this collection of graphic images... The Stephen Saint-Onge Canvas Collection is something that I want you to use as creative inspiration as you are planning your own spaces and redesigns...Makeovers can inspire as can Art...

One last word about tech in the room and creativity in the room - I do think it is important to give our kids things that they can use creatively. They may be bombarded with homework and school projects - but the down time too to explore their creative side with such programs as GarageBand, iMovie, iPhoto, etc. I keep thinking back to what I had to work with as a kid - can you say sketch pad and pencil!

As a photographer and artist - iPad2 is key in anything that I do...a great way to share some visual projects but also easy to take with you on the road. For Teens, it is a great gift idea because it is portable and easy to integrate into their lives... For this young, inspired filmmaker it is a way for him to showcase his short films and creative projects easily....

I have used this great creative product from PBteen before Cable Wire Systems - as room dividers. I love that they give you flexibility and style...Great for an apartment or a room where you want to create zones like in this bedroom...

I went back and forth with the drape panels that I wanted for this room divider. In looking at the final shots of this room - I am so pleased that I went with PBteen's "Derby Stripe Drape" - they tie in perfectly with the bedding and, like the rug, add another layer of softness and texture to the room...For this boy's room I think the look is perfect. If you were designing a girl's room - you could go with something sheer and lighter...

Storage is very key in any room - especially in this kind of room because it's transitional - so you may have some toys or kid's stuff (Legos, cars, etc.) but you may not want to have them out in the open...So these fantastic metal Locker Bins are so cool...In fact, I had seen these in the NYC PBteen store and wanted to bring them into the room somewhere. Here they are! Worked well into the existing bookshelves the room already had. Add some labels into the slots and you can stay organized.

Simple accents gathered from things I found around their house...

The bathroom was the simple part of the makeover...New paint, PBteen Classic Organic Bath Towels and new accessories...

In the end, the project was a very enjoyable one for me. I loved that I was creating a room for someone transitioning to the exciting chapter of their lives...but also I was able to illustrate how any room in our homes can get a new look. It changes how you feel about your environment - whether you make big or small changes...The time has come to make change happen...

Remember - it's all in the details and mood you are trying to create...One last suggestion on details and great gift idea for the movie-lover Popcorn Bowls! I couldn't resist one last tie-in to my film-inspired design...

Check out this video of the behind-the-scenes of my makeover from my vantage point...

A special note about art - If you sign up on the collection website now and create a "Wish List" of the art pieces you are liking - we will be choosing random winners to get one of the pieces from their "Wish List" sent to them...So sign up. Plus, I can let you know when new pieces of art arrive into the store monthly...

Special thanks to: PBteen and Apple for their creating their wonderful projects which you have seen here.

Go be creative!

Create Your "Wish List" Now...

2011-12-06T12:32:00.001-05:00

All about inspiring you in your home environment...

Using art in your home is a great way to personalize your space with what you love and are drawn to...

Go to Stephen Saint-Onge Canvas Collection to create and set up a "Wish List." If you see a painting or photograph that you love from my collection - add it to your "Wish List."

We will be choosing some random winners to receive a free work of art from their "Wish List" during this holiday season...So sign up now...

Tell your friends and family because my collection is all about art for everyday living.

The Stephen Saint-Onge Canvas Collection Launches Today

2011-12-01T11:14:00.001-05:00

Today is the day. It's been a long-time in the planning and development - but today is the big day...

The new web store for my new art and photography collection has premiered online...

Check out the feature on Family Circle to learn more or click on the postcard on on this site to learn more and explore the creative possibilities for your own home...

"Parenthood" Designer Dad : On Location Feature - Sharing once again!

2011-11-30T11:13:00.001-05:00

As a designer, I have always taken notice of homes in movies and on television. As a kid, I would sit with a sketchpad and draw the floor plans of the rooms that I liked. I even imagined what the rooms would be beyond what we were allowed to see on television. There was something magical and exciting about those home settings that sparked my imagination - whether they were homes like those featured in I Dream of Jeannie, The Brady Bunch, Please Don't Eat The Daisies to checking out the classics with the homes in I love Lucy (their Connecticut house) and The Andy Griffith Show. Later on, I was inspired by the main home settings in the shows thirtysomething and even Family Ties. Homes on screen were always something that intrigued me.

Years later, as a grown up designer, I still value the importance of homes seen on television or movies because they inspire me personally, but I have also found how they can be an inspiration and empowering creative tool for the everyday homeowner wanting to make their home better. A visual guide - a tool that can help you figure out what you like or respond to. So even though you may be sitting back watching your favorite show or film - I want to motivate you to take notice of the homes you are seeing with new eyes and with a new purpose.

Adam's house foyer design seen on "Parenthood"

Having done makeovers on television and in magazines for years, I always have people coming up to ask me: "How do I figure out my own home style?" or "I just don't know where to begin to figure out what my style should be because I'm not a designer." My answer usually is - "What house in a film or on television have you seen that you respond to?" Their answer is the starting point.

In my role as Contributing Home Editor for Family Circle Magazine - I still get those questions and many more. The bottom line is that we want our homes to be good to us and our families. However, in the midst of our busy lives and hectic schedules - our homes sometimes take the backseat. Being a husband, father of two and a homeowner with that ever-growing To Do List on my fridge - I understand that clearly. So I wanted to explore other ways to help people figure how to find their style, design their homes and truly make it inviting for them - by making design accessible and attainable to everyone.

I tried to address that earlier this year with the release of my book NO PLACE LIKE HOME. I dedicated a whole chapter to using film and television homes as a way to guide you towards what you like, making note of that and then integrating those ideas or solutions into your own home. Maybe it's a paint color you love. Maybe it's a kitchen style. Perhaps it's the way the sofa and chairs are arranged in the space. Details that can help convey what you like and respond to. In the end, giving you more clarity on what your home should be.

Now, with this series of Designer Dad : On Location features - I'm taking all that one step further. I'll be visiting the home sets of some of the top television shows on television and talking with the talented designers that bring those spaces to life. To me, they are visual guides to illustrating to you how to bring a look or mood together directly from the places you already know and love on television. Plus, these environments are usually capturing the essence of how we really live. The idea that the rooms are not overly-styled or picture perfect is something that I also respond to because that is not how you and I live. So I am bringing together my love of home design - with my love of the magic of film and television.

So begins my on location creative journey...

Adam's house foyer view as you enter the home

Parenthood is one of my favorite shows on television. I think it reflects the way many American families live today. I like the multi-generational factor and how it puts a positive focus on the importance of family once again. At the same time, I believe that the various home settings on this show also reflect or capture the essence of well-lived rooms in the varied American-style homes seen across our country.

Steven Jordan is Parenthood's Production Designer. I recently talked with him to get a sense of his creative process and how he brings to life the settings for the various characters on this highly successful series. You'll find our conversation about the show's home sets below.

At the same time, I also wanted to share as many visuals and design notes as possible with you, so you'll also find below my "noted images" to take you on the visual journey of this program from a home view perspective.

Adam's living room set from "Parenthood"

When the series began, what was the starting point with each house interior for you?

SJ: I had several conversations with Jason Katims our Executive Producer and then did my own research and character development. I did a script break down, a character breakdown and played with color for each character to set a mood and tone for each one.

Did the producers say “this is what we are looking for here” or did you sit with the actors and discuss their characters?

SJ: All conversations were with the producer, no actors.

Are there sketches you began working with?

SJ: Yes, we did sketches for Zeek and Adam's.

A mood board for Zeek and Camille's House on "Parenthood"

Did you do a mood board or what I call – a Look Book for each main houses?

SJ: Yes, we did mood boards for all of the main character sets.

You are creating homes for fictitious characters but you are creating homes – so is the design approach like any other real home would be?

SJ: Absolutely, the process is the same but you take certain factors into consideration such as, how do we light the sets, how do the rooms flow? We need to create depth so people aren't standing against flat walls, create a layer of life, i.e. where do people pay their bills, where do the kids keep there toys, where do they play, where do people relax.

The only difference between creating a real home and a set is that we take into consideration the composition of a shot, actor staging and accommodating the shooting company. You can design the most beautiful set in the world if they can't light it it's a failure.

Each home is such a great example of how real families live – how do you keep the settings on the pulse and relevant to today’s family home?

SJ: Observation, observation, observation. To do this job you have to be a great observer of how people live. You don't want to create a set that looks like a magazine layout, doing this helps motivate the actors to believe they are in a real home and not just a set.

Adam's Family Room and Dining Room - Kitchen seen beyond

What is your favorite area or “moment” as a designer on each of the main house sets from Parenthood? Is there one home set you love above all others? If so, why?

SJ: Zeek's interior and exterior is my favorite set. My favorite moment is Zeek and Camille's screened porch. I find it to be the most calming space and where I would go to relax.

Zeek and Camille's Dining Room Set with the porch beyond

Are all of the main home interiors of the show actually sets or are they real locations?

SJ: They are all sets.

How would you describe the mood or style of each of the main house locations?

SJ: Zeek and Camille's- sense of family history, three generations of Braverman's here- has a casual elegance to it (shown above).

SJ: Adam and Kristina's- virtually a younger/more contemporary version of Zeek and Camille's house (shown above).

SJ: Julia and Joel's - reflects the most upwardly mobile lifestyle (shown above).

Where do you turn to for resources when designing these homes? Do you shop retailers to make them very authentic to today’s family?

SJ: It's a combination of things, we use retailers, antique shops, flea markets and garage sales like any other family in America.

Adam's Dining Room Area

I’m a firm believer in lighting making design come to life – how important is lighting in the home interiors you create?

SJ: Lighting is one of the most important aspects of any set and one of the most difficult. Lighting creates the mood, it warms the set. Every time I open a new set I insist that all the lamps are plugged in and lit, I am not a fan of overhead lighting. The lighting sources I choose helps motivate the cinematographer, set lighting and define character.

Any favorite colors you like working with now?

SJ: The whole show is based on the Benjamin Moore Historical Colors and the Farrow and Ball collections.

Are there any visual changes with the homes this new season?

SJ: Actually there are, across the board almost all of the art work has been changed. This was done basically to freshen up a three year old series.

What is your favorite part of the job that you do as a creative person?

SJ: I love to see the idea go from paper to reality. I love the process.

Is there one home on the show that is similar in style to your own home?

SJ: I guess my style falls somewhere between Zeek and Adam's homes.

At home myself, there are certain things I do for styling or to make my spaces more visually appealing – what do find yourself doing in your own home?

SJ: Flowers are huge - as is lighting and I like to set up still settings - be it photographs on a piano or a collection of antique toys.

What details of the homes on the show do the fans of the show tell you they love?

SJ: Usually it's the paint colors.

Adam's House Master Bedroom

Was there any one thing that inspired you to become a production designer?

SJ: I was inspired by the collaboration process. Working with the directors, actors and writers.

What did you design before you did Parenthood?

SJ: I started with Woody Allen as a set decorator on Stardust Memories. Then I was an Art Director with Paul Mazursky for several films. Other work includes the film Clueless, The Brady Bunch Movie, Never Been Kissed and television shows, Third Watch, Fringe and various other films and television shows.

When you get to the set in the morning – what is the first thing you will do?

SJ: I make sure all the lamps are on! Check in with the director to make sure they are happy.

For the fans out there that are all about making their homes better and more inviting – what are the three things you have learned that truly make a home a home?

SJ: Lighting, Comfort and a Great Kitchen.

Thank you to Steven Jordan for taking the time to talk with me. A sincere appreciation to him and his team for their inspired creative work on this family-focused series.

Now, it's all about the visuals to inspire you...I'm excited that you are actually able to see the rooms as rooms - not just a small part of them in the background of a shot. With these images, you can see the rooms come to life and see how the tapestry that Steven has created for the each environment truly has something to offer. Enjoy!

Adam's House - Family Room from "Parenthood"

Adam's House - Family Room new angle from kitchen

Adam's House - Dining Room Area

Adam's House - Family Room and Kitchen

Adam's House - Kitchen

Adam's House - Master Bedroom

Adam's House - Max's Room

Zeek and Camille's House - Foyer

Zeek and Camille's House - Dining Room seen from hall and kitchen

Zeek and Camille's House - Dining Room with view to hall and kitchen

Zeek and Camille's House - Kitchen

Zeek and Camille's House - Kitchen seen from hall

Zeek and Camille's House - Living Room with Dining Room beyond

Zeek and Camille's House - Living Room from hallway

Crosby's House Boat - Galley Kitchen/Living Room

Crosby's House Boat - Galley kitchen towards living room and bedroom

Julia and Joel's House - Family Room from Dining Room

Julia and Joel's House - Entrance Hall and Living Room seen from Dining Room

My goal is that you have been inspired by these rooms and my talk with Steven Jordan. By sharing all this with you - I hope that you have noticed things about each space that you can appreciate, maybe incorporate into your own home, perhaps you can see spaces in new ways or maybe you have found a style that speaks to you. By going on location - I want to start to empower you with more ideas that can help make your home even better for you and your family. It's a journey and we are all on it.

Check out everything about the series and more: PARENTHOOD.

In the meantime, stayed tuned in for my daily, family-focused home and design ideas for the everyday family.

- Stephen Saint-Onge

One of my favorite TV shows "Parenthood"...

2011-11-30T11:05:00.001-05:00

Following up to my Behind-The-Scenes Designer Dad : On Location piece with the show "Parenthood" - which I received overwhelming response from - I thought this video

interview with the show's creators and writers might be interesting to you as well....Check it out:

An Exciting Project...

2011-11-28T21:36:00.001-05:00

With Thanksgiving behind me, I'm very excited to be focusing on the launch of my new web store for The Stephen Saint-Onge Canvas Collection which debuts this week...

This has been something I have been wanting to do for a long time - making good art available for homeowners looking to make their homes better backed by a simple motto: art for everyday living...

I will let you know shortly when the collection goes live...My partners and I are working on the last minute touches to the unique online store that is designed to bring you paintings and photography for your own home...

The images gathered here are a few of the art pieces shown in room settings...The goal is to inspire, motivate and show you how art can truly bring your home space to life...Something for everyone and for any home...

More to come...

Holiday Decor - Transitioning from Thanksgiving to Christmas...

2011-11-22T10:23:00.001-05:00

Some pine greenery introduces winter/holiday while still mixing with pumpkins -
keeping the harvest/fall theme going...

Friends asked recently if it was okay to put Christmas decorations up before Thanksgiving as they prepped their house for family and friends coming for Thanksgiving...

The answers is "Yes, it is okay...to a certain extent"...

Pre-lit trees on their kitchen island - brings in festive light without being overly focused on Christmas (yet)

Inside, you can easily bring in pine and spruce greenery to accent areas - like your centerpiece, your kitchen island, mantle, etc. Mixing in apples and pumpkins makes it still have a fall/harvest feel - without being too Christmas-focused...You can even add holiday string lights to add some glow and the all-important votive candles scattered around the house...

After Thanksgiving - you can then add holiday ornaments to the trees, remove the apples to replace them with sparkling Christmas-themed fixtures on the mantle or bring out family photos or artwork that are brought out only at Christmas time...(This is a nice tradition to start at home. Each year - as you take them out - you are reminded of fun vacations or other holiday moments)...

Outside the house - you can add some accents that can add a glow to the exterior of your house at Thanksgiving - which can remain through the New Year...This hanging star lights up and also looks great during the day too...

Think about the areas outside your house that guests will see and focus on decorating those areas.

A front door can get lights and garland around it - even a plain wreath is fine...or two matching, pre-lit topiaries can do the trick - clean, traditional and always a classic look....

As my friends were prepping their house - they also asked if all porch furniture should be put away at this time? I say - "keep it out if it helps add to your holiday decor for now"...

At this time of year, it's all about the warm, inviting glow of home...

Enjoy the moments...