Black & White Beauty

The December 2008 issue of Veranda Magazine features the home of designer Renea Abbott. She shows a strict adherence to a black/white/gray/cream color theme. The high contrast results are absolutely stunning. I would love to do this in my own home, yet I know that I lack the discipline to pull it off to this degree. I'd be sneaking in color somewhere.
If you want a dramatic home, this is inspiration for you. But do remember that the drama is all in the unwavering discipline of the application. Your color scheme doesn't have to be black, and white, but it does need to have contrast and it must be as disciplined and purposeful as Abbott shows us here. Varying from the strict color scheme would start to diminish the drama. I hope you find this as inspiring as I do.

Favorite Things - Non-Adhesive Window Film

A constant struggle in design seems to be our desire for natural light versus our desire for privacy. There are several window treatment solutions designed to maximize our control over light and privacy - wood blinds and shutters; top down, bottom up shades, and drapery sheers. But in many applications those solutions are inadequate for our needs. That is why I love window film.
Most window film is applied with an adhesive. This is great for many people and situations. However, if you are like me and worry about getting the film on straight or changing your mind, non-adhesive window films are the way to go. They adhere to windows with static and are very easy to remove and reapply.

The following collection of non-adhesive window films are available through Scandinavian Design Center.

The Pelagron screen by Strössel Design is absolutely my favorite. Take an ugly view and create the impression of potted geraniums on the other side. Brilliant.

Linjer film by Maria Liv

Träd (Tree) film, also by Maria Liv

Maria Liv Vass window film

Here is my very own design dilemma solved by the Vass window film. My foyer gets very little natural light, so I wanted to keep as much as possible. However, this long, narrow window invites a lot of peeks from those ringing the bell. And there are times I don't want to answer. Blinds or shutters would have eliminated too much light. Drapery sheers would not have provided enough privacy. Not to mention that the window is very narrow for any of the above treatments.
Instead I bought a roll of Vass window film, cut it to size and applied directly to the window. The whole process took about 15 minutes and I have the perfect balance of light and privacy.

Sexy Bedroom

What takes a standard bedroom to a sexy bedroom? A lot of elements can come into play - the fabrics, colors and technology (think mood music). In my opinion, the number one element in a sexy bedroom is lighting. Good bedroom lighting should include multiple light sources all on dimmer switches and, of course, candles. This allows the maximum light adjustment to get the mood just right. And when we are talking about sexy bedroom lighting, a chandelier is a must. Adding a dimmable chandelier is one of the easiest DIY projects to spice up your bedroom.

If you want to amp up the sexy even further, bring the same lighting elements into the bathroom. Here, I've added matching dimmable chandeliers in a master bedroom and master bath, along with several candles.
Happy Valentine's Day!

Favorite Things - Stacked tables

The Luna Line, by Helene Aumont, is constructed of stacked wood disks for the table base. What a beautiful concept. The table top is constructed of sections of walnut or rosewood. Available locally (Denver) at Town Studio.

Luna Round Dining Table

Square Luna Dining Table

Luna Side Table

Luna Mirror

Favorite Things - Polka Dots!

Polka Dots really are a favorite of mine. For some unknown reason I am just drawn to them. Truth be told, I have 2 pairs of polka dot shoes, untold dot shirts, and even a polka dot sofa. I'm crazy for polka dots, and so is Pottery Barn, apparently. Below is a taste of the Pottery Barn Dot collection.