Favorite Things - Berman Rosetti Tables

Berman Rosetti has beautiful tables. It's just that simple. Dining, coffee, console... all beautifully handcrafted with wonderful materials. Here is a small sampling of the options. For more visit Bermanrosetti.com. All Berman Rosetti products can be purchased locally through the John Brooks showroom.

Inspiring Images - Istanbul

Istanbul is a wonderfully colorful and vibrant city. From the Grand Bazaar, Blue Mosque, and Hagia Sofia, to the ships and sea or local bakery and night life, loads of inspiration can be found there.

Favorite Things - Effervescence Mosaic Tile

You already know my attraction to polka dots and luxury items. Here is a tile that blends them beautifully - the Effervescence tile from Artistic Tile.
"Glass and marble blend beautifully in a contemporary and sophisticated yet whimsical mosaic with an interlocking random bubble pattern that provides for a seamless installation on an interior wall or floor. Custom colorways are available on a special order basis."
I love it!

Favorite Things - Art Glass

I love art glass. The way the colors change with the light, or intertwine with the design is stunning. Whether in a bowl, glassware or objet d' art, art glass is a great addition to any design scheme. Here are some extra colorful pieces from The Artful Home. Enjoy!

Sunrise Dish by Robert Woldow

Candy Paperweight by Paul D. Harrie

Shimmy Autumn Glass Basket by Jim Vollmer

Italian Line Boat by Kathleen Ash

Spotted Bottles by Ken Hanson

Round Stepping Stone by Ed Edwards

Tutti Frutti Wine Powder Twist Goblets by Robert Dane

The most common design "mistake"...

...pushing all the furniture against walls, regardless of the shape of the room.
I see this all the time and I'm often called in on these rooms because my clients are unhappy with the feel and flow of the space. My number one tip: arrange the furniture in comfortable seating configurations and not against the walls.

Below are several before and after photos from a few clients. You will see the before images with furniture forced against walls and lacking comfortable conversation areas or even proper views to the television. The after rearrangements focus on comfortable rooms and logical seating arrangements, which pulls the furniture away from the walls.

Before:
After:
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After:

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After:

Try moving your furniture away from the walls. Does it revive your space; make you want to spend more time there? If you are worried about the furniture feeling like it's "floating", add an area rug to anchor the space. Try it for at least 48 hours to know how you truly feel about it.

Favorite Things - Van Zipper Lighting Collection

Van Zipper is a unique lighting collection from Claassen-Partners in Germany. The creators behind the product describe it as a "low-tech dimming system" through the raising and lowering of zippers. The collection includes a floor lamp, ceiling pendant and a 3 pendant cluster. I love a brilliant use of everyday materials!

Favorite Things - Romo Grandis Wallcoverings

I have always loved the bold designs of Romo's Fabrics and Wallcoverings. Their collection of Grandis Wall coverings is no exception. Described as "Grand scale classical damasks fuse with bold, contemporary geometrics in this exciting wallcovering selection. Soft, velvety flocks and shimmering metallics give sumptuous texture and a spectacular finish to these oppulent designs". Check them out at Romo Fabrics.

Inspiring Images - Colors of Tuscany

Florence Italy in July

Favorite Things - Pebble Mirror

Horchow has a wonderful selection of mirrors in all shapes and sizes. One of my favorites - the Pebble Mirror. It's a prefect twist for a spa-like bathroom.