The Studio at An Interior View

Paint Your Rugs!

2011-06-28T10:53:00.000-07:00

Here is an easy and awesome idea for you Do-It- Yourselfers....this is a fun technique and allows you to jazz up and customize a sisal rug to fit your decor. I have been known to paint anything, so this is next on my to do list! This technique would be useful for a large area rug, a small accent rug or, as seen in the video, an entrance door rug.
Check out the link to the How To Video from House and Home:

http://houseandhome.com/tv/segment/bold-diy-painted-rugs

Upside Down Tomato Plant

2011-06-17T09:00:00.000-07:00

I consider any type of plant part of my home decor, even if most of it is on the outside. As a born and bred city girl, it has taken me years to develop a semi-green thumb. My "thing" is basil and tomatoes. How can I live in New Jersey and not grow a great tomato? Or at least in my case....TRY to grow a great tomato. I've had some good years and bad years.

I found the following idea on youtube and think it is a great idea and wanted to share it. I was intriqued by the idea of the upside down tomato plant but they were kind of ugly. Here is a concept of using a coco lined basket, which is more attractive application of the upside down idea. The basil and marigolds add interest and also repel insects. And the basil is a great add in to any tomato dish.

Instructions:
1. Cut an X in bottom of coco liner.

2. Add plant stem first from the top, close up X to hold plant firm.

3. Add potting soil about halfway up the well of the coco liner.

4. Add basil and marigolds and fill in with more potting soil.

5. Hang from shephard's hook. NOTE: the planter is heavy so you will need to anchor the hook onto something. As you can see, I leaned mine up against the fence and tied it to hold steady. I bent two shephard's hooks before I figured out a good solution. You can also hang it from a hook anchored into the house, fence post, etc.

As you can see the plant is thriving, I haven't managed to kill it yet. I will keep you apprised of how it goes. Try it yourself and let us know how you did.

Beautiful Versailles hardware collection from Brimar

2011-06-10T10:52:00.000-07:00

The new Versailles hardware collection is stunning. Look at the sample below and how it reflects the metallic feel of the fabric. Beautiful. An excellent way to add style to your windows.

Brimar states "Metallic brilliance is created by the ancient art of water gilding. Each hardware piece is uniquely crafted by skilled artisons who meticulously layer gesso, red clay and gold or silver leaf."

Pantone color the year for 2011: Honeysuckle

2011-04-08T16:15:00.000-07:00

I'm almost a little late declaring Pantone's color of the year for 2011. But then again, Spring is the perfect time to think about color, and what a lovely color this is. Here is what they have to say.....

A Color for All Seasons
Courageous. Confident. Vital. A brave new color, for a brave new world. Let the bold spirit of Honeysuckle infuse you, lift you and carry you through the year. It’s a color for every day – with nothing “everyday” about it.

While the 2010 color of the year, PANTONE 15-5519 Turquoise, served as an escape for many, Honeysuckle emboldens us to face everyday troubles with verve and vigor. A dynamic reddish pink, Honeysuckle is encouraging and uplifting. It elevates our psyche beyond escape, instilling the confidence, courage and spirit to meet the exhaustive challenges that have become part of everyday life.

“In times of stress, we need something to lift our spirits. Honeysuckle is a captivating, stimulating color that gets the adrenaline going – perfect to ward off the blues,” explains Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute®. “Honeysuckle derives its positive qualities from a powerful bond to its mother color red, the most physical, viscerally alive hue in the spectrum.”
Eiseman continues, “The intensity of this festive reddish pink allures and engages. In fact, this color, not the sweet fragrance of the flower blossoms for which it was named, is what attracts hummingbirds to nectar. Honeysuckle may also bring a wave of nostalgia for its associated delicious scent reminiscent of the carefree days of spring and summer.”
Honeysuckle is guaranteed to produce a healthy glow when worn by both men and women. It’s a striking, eye-catching hue that works well for day and night in women’s apparel, accessories and cosmetics, and in men’s ties, shirts and sportswear. Add a lively flair to interior spaces with Honeysuckle patterned pillows, bedspreads, small appliances and tabletop accessories. Looking for an inexpensive way to perk up your home? Paint a wall in Honeysuckle for a dynamic burst of energy in the family room, kitchen or hallway.
Honeysuckle products are currently available from a variety of manufacturers

Translated to interior décor:
Home Interiors
Honeysuckle is upbeat and dynamic when used on large areas like the entry area of a house or an apartment. It is an appetite and conversation stimulant when used on the dining room walls. In the kitchen, it adds a fun touch on the table in placemats and other linens (patterned or solid), colored glassware, candles and small appliances. Honeysuckle is a great color to cover up shabby kitchen cabinets, or, if that’s too much of a color statement for you, try repainting knobs and drawer pulls. But be warned – once you try this arresting shade, it can become addictive.

March Madness!

2011-03-18T06:46:00.000-07:00

Design a shade around your favorite team...

Choosing color palettes for your home

2011-02-06T16:14:00.000-08:00

I found this info from BHG.com and it is a great resource for choosing fresh new color palettes for your home. This is a timely article for all of the clients, friends and family who have been asking about help with color choices. There are designer sites showcasing their portfolios that show some great colors in action. This may help you all narrow down your choices from a wide array of paint colors out there. And the coordinating color suggestions for trim and furniture are very helpful as well.

http://www.bhg.com/decorating/color/schemes/designer-color-palettes
Synopsis:
Are you craving a colorful new look but are stumped about where to start? We asked a handful of designers to share the color palettes they're using now to give rooms a refresh. (We've given the paint match for each color so you can use the paint chips to coordinate fabric, furniture, and more.)

Holiday Greetings

2010-12-05T18:40:00.000-08:00

Snowflakes And Wishes Christmas

Get custom photo Christmas cards online at Shutterfly.com.

View the entire collection of cards.

Turning empty wine bottles into home decor | CapeCodOnline.com

2010-09-22T16:43:00.000-07:00

When I first saw this article, I laughed....since many of my friends and I do enjoy a bottle of wine now and then (and you all know who you are!). But after reading this article I was intriqued. Someone started a program to have learning disabled folks create unique home decor items using recycled wine/liquor bottles. This touched a few things in my life and I thought I would share. It took a little digging, but I found that these items are for sale at http://www.samueldaygallery.com/. Enjoy.

Turning empty bottles into home decor CapeCodOnline.com

Major League Baseball shades

2010-09-05T07:11:00.000-07:00

Here is a new idea from one of the companies I work with, Persona Shades. They have licensed MLB logos that can be put on any color background.

Now if football is more your thing, or no sports at all, ANY graphic can be applied to the shade. How cool is that?

Designer Candice Olson updates a tiny, old bathroom

2010-08-07T10:18:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite interior designers is Candice Olson. Look at what she did for this bathroom.....wish I could have her redo mine...

Home & Garden Designer Candice Olson updates a tiny, old bathroom Seattle Times Newspaper

Changing your bed coverings with the seasons?

2010-08-01T18:31:00.000-07:00

I remember when I was young my mother would change my bedspread and curtains with the season....usually just two seasons: spring/summer and fall/winter. Yellow and white checks for the former and a heavier, multi-colored set for the latter. It was a nice change and a great way to perk up the room. I recently thought it would be a great idea for my master bedroom and my kid's rooms until I realized how much I paid for the current sets and did I really want to invest in a whole new ensemble for another season? One idea that can add some seasonal change to the bedroom without a major investment is to use BED SCARVES. The better hotels have been using this concept for awhile. The scarves go across the bottom of the bed and look nice in a matching or complementery fabric. Also a great protection for your expensive bedding when the pooch wants to snuggle on your bed. Check out these photos for ideas....you can go as simple or elaborate as you like. If you are a quilter, it is a great way to get use out of multiple designs based on the seasons. Imagine a quilted bed scarf for every holiday even! ........hmmm, I better get my scissors out.

Join the Cause

2010-06-23T18:42:00.000-07:00

make a pillowcase
make a difference

Calling all quilters, sewers and crafters! American Patchwork & Quilting is challenging you to join our efforts to Make a Pillowcase, Make a Difference. Every pillowcase can make a difference in your community. A pillowcase can provide comfort for a cancer patient, hope for a foster child, encouragement for a battered woman, or beauty for a nursing home resident.
http://www.allpeoplequilt.com/millionpillowcases/index.html

Pantone: turquoise is color of the year

2010-06-15T12:06:00.000-07:00

http://www.pantone.com/pages/pantone/Pantone.aspx?pg=20705&ca=4

Embroidered Gift Idea

2010-06-15T09:51:00.000-07:00

Embroidered Gift Idea - adorable 12x16, white linen/cotton pillow. Available in pink, blue or black dots. Many embroidery designs available. Contact me at jacqui@aninteriorview.org for more info and pricing.

Thibaut natural textures

2010-06-09T11:55:00.001-07:00

I love Thibaut's wallpapers and fabrics. Here is textured wallpaper from their new collection, called Ostrich.

Follow the link to more views from their natural collection.

Robert Allen and Sherwin-Williams

2010-06-06T06:24:00.001-07:00

Robert Allen fabrics has a partnership with Sherwin-Williams paints to coordinate paint colors to the fabric line. Check out the latest collection at http://www.robertallendesign.com/fabrics/featured_1.aspx.

Towel Storage Ideas

2009-10-20T14:20:00.001-07:00

1. Use a basket in the corner - I added a bow that matched my decor and rolled up the towels to insert in the basket.
2. Try a wine rack - the rolled up towels fit neatly into the round holes for the bottles.
3. How about a long plant box - the wooden plant boxes from the garden store can be painted to fit your decor and installed on the wall or even right under the window...roll up the towels and you're good to go!
4. Build up - if you have a small area surrounded on three sides by wall, for instance a cubby for the toilet, a good idea is to put a shelf high up and across the whole width of the cubby and you can stack a bunch of rolled up towels for a unique look that is also out of the way.
5. Hang 'em - A hat rack, maybe vintage or chrome, will allow you to hang up a line of attractive towels in minimal space. Some come with a shelf to display decorative items as well.
6. Pants hangers - hang them from pants hangers on a hook. Paint or decorate the hangers for a unique affect.
7. Vintage ladder - hang towels from each rung and lean against the wall. Tres chic!

Quilt for Kids

2009-10-20T14:13:00.001-07:00

Just when I thought there was no further time in my day, I have discovered quilting. I used to tell my sister I'd rather stick pins in my eyes than sew all those little squares together, but after seeing some fabulous quilts at a show, I was impressed at the artistry of some of these creations and have been bitten by the quilting bug.

So I've taken on sewing a quilt wall hanging and also working with my daughter's Girl Scout Troop to make quilts as a service project for Quilts for Kids, a wonderful organization that donates quilts to sick children in the hospital. Project Linus also is a great organization that also needs donated quilts. If you want to get involved, make a quilt or donate fabric or supplies to the organization.

Industry Trends from Heimtextil

2009-10-20T14:09:00.000-07:00

At this month's Window Covering Association meeting, we learned about the new trends in color and style that came out of the annual Heimtextil (Frankfurt) and Maison & Objet (Paris) trade shows.

Some of the trend highlights from the show:

The color brown is now paired with coral and pink vs. skyblue and teal.
Jewel tones from the 90s are back
Peacock teal is a new hot color
Purple is everywhere!
Red going towards a brick shade, used as accent
Grey is the new beige
A move towards more ethnic designs and colors
Texture has more of an organic linen-y feel vs. shiny
Velvet textures are back, such as flocked fabric - but not what your granny used to use
New hardware finishes in mushroom vs bronze.
Stainless steel and acrylic rods with jeweled finials are a new trend
For draperies, lots of gromments, braids, details.
Panel tracks have replaced vertical blinds (thank goodness!)
Roman and roller shades with fabulous fabrics make a statement - hot in Europe!
How about this: leather blinds rather than wood - very chic looking
Fabrics with sea cells knitted in that boost immune system - Imagine that!

Play Safe, Live Safe - October is National Window Covering Safety Month - Free-Press-Release.com

2009-10-03T13:38:00.001-07:00

Play Safe, Live Safe - October is National Window Covering Safety Month - Free-Press-Release.com

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Yellow's Split Personality

2009-07-30T11:43:00.000-07:00

Written by Zara Stender

Years ago, okay, decades ago, I bought a yellow and black Liz Claiborne dress that was very elegant. I felt sexy and dangerous when I wore it.I had translated the energy or "aggression" I felt when I first put it on to be flirtatiousness however I ended up rarely wearing the dress because the shoulder pads irritated me. Or so I thought at the time. I didn't realize I was robed like one of nature's venomous creatures. I, like most people, thought of yellow as the color of sunlight and a color with cheerful, energizing, uplifting qualities.The Other YellowAlong with all of its positive qualities you should also be aware of these facts about the color yellow:
Yellow stimulates receptors in the brain, which can trigger aggression and this aggression [energy] is expressed many different ways.

Yellow is used in nature two ways: either transitorily [flowers bloom then fade] or as a warning displayed by most poisonous creatures [...and those pretending to be poisonous]. There is a biological reflex built into us that causes even babies to recoil from this signal.
Yellow seems to have an energizing effect as it comes into the eye and is diverted to the hormonal system.

Yellow is the color the eye sees most quickly in daylight. The eye is immediately drawn to it.
It is a difficult color for the elderly to perceive, although recent research indicates that this problem stems from a condition brought on by inadequate diet.
On a biological level yellow has been shown to alter chemical and hormonal actions in the body to the degree that larger doses of medicine or drugs may be needed. The color yellow can also impair motor function. This is especially noticeable in the elderly, where a marked loss of muscle control can be observed in the presence of yellow. This is true for all shades and tints of yellow according to Michael Parks who spoke at NeoCon in 2005. Yellow was said to be Einstein's favorite color as well as the favorite color of Hitler and Jeffrey Dahmer. Examples like this have led some to the conclusion that yellow is the favorite color of those who display mental extremes.

Using Yellow Effectively
Knowing both sides of this color's personality allows you to use it more effectively. In home interiors yellow is best used in transitional areas; entry way, powder room, and hallways are all good choices. I once consulted with a client who seemed to be in a constant state of nervous exhaustion. She was frazzled and depressed. When I visited her home, it was clear to see why. It was decorated in bright ochre yellow top to bottom. This entirely yellow palette was putting her nervous system into overdrive. Recently, I had a personal reminder of the effect yellow when someone kept me waiting far too long in a bright yellow waiting room.

Although I'm usually patient I became restless and irritable within the first fifteen minutes and by the time my appointment began I was certainly not my most pleasant self. In commercial spaces, use yellow as an accent wall in an area that is encountered only briefly not where a client may be for an extended time. Yellow can stimulate clear thinking. In combination with red, yellow will stir the creative juices and inspire brilliant thinking. Yellow combined with its complement, violet is said to be the most healing of color combinations making it an especially good combination for someone that is recovering from illness. I worked with a client whose family wanted to honor him by having his family room transformed into a beautiful private space for him to spend time in as he battled cancer. We chose a soft buttery, yellow, gentle lilacs, and taupe for the color scheme although I didn't tell them about the healing qualities of this palette because this was the first time I had recommended it and frankly was a bit skeptical myself. Six months after the project was completed, I was astounded to see this gentleman in remission and I have since seen similar results many times.

To bring out yellow's positive side, you can use it in measured doses and in combination with other colors. As part of your decorating palette yellow can give a lovely boost of energy, uplift spirits on gloomy days and send you out ready to conquer the world.

Zara Stender, CID, IDS, Allied ASID is an author and lecturer and California Certified Interior Designer. This article is an excerpt from: The Business of Color by Zara Stender.

Color Tips in Decorating

2009-07-30T11:38:00.000-07:00

#1 - Coordinate all of your rooms without painting them all the same color. Use fabrics that have the main color elements in each room and use them throughout those rooms to tie them together.

#2 - Use color to call attention away from a particular area that you consider unattractive by painting a wall or hanging a boldly painted art piece in a different section of the room.

#3 - Adding a dark color, such as black or brown into your decor helps to balance the room and give the eye a place to rest in between colors. Use frames and accessories to bring in this dark color.

Designer Window Film

2009-07-30T11:21:00.000-07:00

I've become a dealer for a popular line of Designer Window Film that looks like designer glass at a fraction of the price. It is perfect for any window where you may need privacy but want a stylish solution and still have some light, such as front doors, sidelight windows, transoms, foyers, bathrooms, hot tub enclosures.

Upholstered Ottoman

2009-07-30T11:01:00.000-07:00

One of the many classes I attended at the last Eastern Draperies & Window Coverings Conference in Springfield, MA was a reupholstery/slipcover class. It was definitely a learning experience and loads of fun, too! Shown here is a reupholstered ottoman from a vendor at the convention -- these make a great addition to your living space and can be customized to complement and enhance your decor. So give your tired old ottoman a new look!

New Design Tool

2009-07-30T10:52:00.000-07:00

I've had a design software package on my wish list for awhile now and I finally decided to indulge in this investment. It adds a whole new facet to the business. I can design a window treatment on a digital photograph of a client's window or create a rendering as I did below. One of the many cool features is the ability to change colors and fabrics on the fly as well as the opportunity to add paint colors from the major paint companies -- and wallpaper, too! Now clients can help design their distinctive window treatments and "see" the final results while in the comfort of their home.

Motorize Your Windows

2009-07-30T10:51:00.001-07:00

Motorization is the latest trend, and I'm not talking about cars.

I attended a seminar recently and the topic was motorization of window treatments. I guess I always thought of that as an "over-the-top" feature, but now realize some of the more practical applications -- such as for opening and closing treatments on high double-story windows or for closing drapes that are hard to reach, e.g. behind furniture. Drapes, blinds, shades, awnings, and even shutters can be controlled with just a push of a button. Some even have timers to adjust treatments automatically! I have a sample of a motorized shutter if you want to see it in action.

Solar Shades

2009-07-30T10:40:00.001-07:00

The sun is shining! Summer arrived with a vengence after those moderate spring temperatures.

I figured this was a great time to let everyone know about the line of Graber solar shades that I carry. These are great for blocking both heat (lower energy bills!) and damaging UV rays that can fade your furniture and rugs --without restricting your view. They come in many colors and design weaves to match your decor. I have installed a solar shade on my living room windows if anyone wants to drop by to see them in action. I can vouch for their effectiveness!

Seven Layers of Design by Christopher Lowell

2008-09-21T16:38:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite decorating experts is Christopher Lowell. Here are his “Seven Layers of Design” rules that will help you do some fabulous decorating. Have fun!

Layer # 1 is paint and architectural embellishments: Paint is the cheapest way to add warmth to your room. Oh yeah, don't forget to paint those ceilings. Architectural embellishments are mouldings and other architectural items. I like to add these elements not only because they add value to homes, but also charm and substance.
Layer #2 is installed flooring. This is wall-to-wall installation, not area rugs which come later.
Layer #3 is high-ticket upholstery items: These are basically any oversized fabric covered piece. Here is a quick tip to remember when purchasing your items. Remember to focus on solid and textured fabrics rather than patterns. Locking yourself into a pattern can be a costly investment, which won't have any return.
Layer # 4 is accent: This is where you can have fun with accent fabrics for pillows, curtains, runners and yes, area rugs. These are the easier pieces to change from season to season or when updating is needed.
Layer #5 is non-upholstered furniture (or the workhorses): Without these workhorses of the room, like coffee, end and side tables, a room simply doesn't work.
Layer #6 is accessories: This is my favorite part. This is where you can inject personal items like photos, books and other merchandise.
Layer # 7 is plants and lighting: Shadow is important to the mood of the room as the light that creates it. Here's a tip, remember, as much lighting should come from the floor as from the ceiling. Plants under lit help make great shadows and add that important living element to the room.

2008-09-21T16:03:00.001-07:00

Why Custom?

2008-09-21T12:42:00.000-07:00

Why select custom window treatments over ready-made?
Custom window treatments are typically made with higher quality fabrics and linings. There is usually much more attention to details, such as careful pattern matching and placement. Also, with custom treatments you have a much greater selection of fabric choices, so you get a fabric that perfectly complements your decor, and a treatment that exactly fits your window. Additionally, it is a unique treatment that you won't find in your neighbor's home.Just like fine furniture and art, window treatments are an investment that will greatly enhance your home's decor.

Do I need to spend a small fortune on fabric to have beautiful window treatments?
While there never has been a greater selection of gorgeous fabrics, you don't need to spend a fortune to have stunning window treatments. By using professional techniques and a good quality lining, even a moderately priced fabric can look fabulous.
If you have your heart set on an expensive fabric, you might want to consider using it just for the valance or a roman shade. Then use a less expensive, coordinating fabric for the draperies.

So, How's Business?

2008-09-16T05:34:00.000-07:00

I've been asked this question alot recently considering the state of the economy, housing, gas prices, and now the troubles with AIG and Merrill Lynch. People are definitely watching their dollars, which is a good thing. Interestingly some of us in window and home decor business are actually seeing an increase in work since people are deciding not to move and to fix up their homes instead. Updating your window treatments or bedding is a heck of alot more affordable than buying a new home. You can make a big impact with a small amount of fabric.

So, what should you look for when choosing new window treatments? There are a few things to consider besides style, such as: light control, privacy, and functionality.

Light Control - either for keeping the brightness at bay for bedrooms or TV rooms OR for protecting your furniture and carpets from fading. Choices include:

Roller shades in an opaque fabric or a special UV-blocking fabric (see photo at top) that allows you to see to the outside but blocks the damaging sun's rays. I have one of these installed in my formal living room and it work well - it even helps keep the temps lower in that room.

Natural shades, e.g. bamboo, with a privacy lining

Cellular shades in an opaque fabric

Wood blinds with tilt controls

Window draperies in a non-sheer fabric

Privacy - all of the choices above will also provide privacy except for the UV-blocking fabric, which allows people to view in from the outside in the evenings if the lights are on inside.

Functionality - consider these points:

Children's rooms should not have long draperies and all blinds should have the child-proof cords. Newer blinds and shades are required by law to have this safety window cord feature.

Double height windows - if you need to have operable blinds on very high windows, consider some of the newer techie features such as remote control.

Stationery treatments - if you do not need to open or close the treatment for privacy or light control, there are many options for stationery panels and top treatments.

Top down / bottom up shades offer many ways to manage the light and privacy options you need.

Style - here's where the fun begins:

Use combinations of treatments in contrasting fabrics, such as drapes over a roman shade or swags layered on a straight cornice.

There is an amazing amount of trims available to jazz up even the simplist fabrics and make your design unique.

Drapes can have different styles, such as tab top, grommets, and different styles of pinch pleats

Valances can be swagged, pleated, boxed, shirred, gathered.....the possibilities are endless!

Enjoy!

An Interior View is a custom window treatment workroom dedicated to helping customers beautify their homes one window at a time. Check out the products and photo gallery and sign up for the free newsletter at www.aninterioriew.org.

Welcome

2008-08-14T13:22:00.000-07:00

Let me start by welcoming you to An Interior View, the home for custom window treatments and soft furnishings. This blog will help me bring you some new window treatment design ideas, industry trends, home decor tips and even some do-it-yourself projects. I'll also highlight any vendor specials such as sales and promos -- I'm a dealer for Hunter Douglas and Graber among others.

Feel free to let me know of topics you would like to learn more about!

Go to my website for more info about my products and to view the photo gallery of my work.
http://www.aninteriorview.org/