Jumat, 31 Juli 2015
Alumna, Neely Shirey Passed NCIDQ Exam
Congratulations! UNT Interior Design programalumna, Neely (Prestemon) Shirey who graduated in 2009 has passed the NCIDQ exam.
Kamis, 30 Juli 2015
Design Delimma - The Corner
Sorry, I could not resist!
Over the years, I have notice a few small areas which always seem to trip up clients when decorating their homes. So, I thought I would take some time to discuss them. First up, the corner. Many comment on it, and others struggle with it, but may not even realize the isse. The dilemma . . . how to deal with a corner where two simple walls meet. No architecture to save you - just plain, empty walls.
I know, it sounds so simple and many of my clients feel silly when they mention it to me. They say, "what do we do in the corner?" While every space is unique (when you take into account the rooms layout, the clients furnishings and the artwork available), there are couple of general thoughts to help you tackle this spot.
For starters, you need to create a focal point on the main wall of any space - and it needs to Wow you. This will take you farther than you can image in dealing with a tough corner. Once that is accomplished, think about these tricks to address the corner.
Bare is not Blah
It's ok for a wall to be bare.
Do you see that empty corner? Yes, it is totally bare. The reason it does not seem odd is because the focal points in the room are drawing your eye.
via
When a client asks, "What do we put on this wall?" and I say, "nothing." I can sometimes see them deflate before my very eyes. Then, as the rest of the room begins to come together, they realize what I'm talking about and how the corner just fades away. It has lots to do with creating the right focal points.
This is a very hard concept for many of my clients. I think one reason is most homeowners have entirely too much furniture, artwork, and accessories in a space. What you don't include in a space is just as important as what you do include. When all the other walls are covered in artwork and furnishings, an empty wall can feel odd and unfinished. The trick is to edit out other pieces to balance the space. Blank walls in your rooms allow one's eye to rest and bring them back to the focal point of the space. It's just that simple.
Do you see that empty corner? Yes, it is totally bare. The reason it does not seem odd is because the focal points in the room are drawing your eye.
When a client asks, "What do we put on this wall?" and I say, "nothing." I can sometimes see them deflate before my very eyes. Then, as the rest of the room begins to come together, they realize what I'm talking about and how the corner just fades away. It has lots to do with creating the right focal points.
This is a very hard concept for many of my clients. I think one reason is most homeowners have entirely too much furniture, artwork, and accessories in a space. What you don't include in a space is just as important as what you do include. When all the other walls are covered in artwork and furnishings, an empty wall can feel odd and unfinished. The trick is to edit out other pieces to balance the space. Blank walls in your rooms allow one's eye to rest and bring them back to the focal point of the space. It's just that simple.
via
Another reason blank walls are difficult for clients - unlimited access to professionally photographed rooms. Homeowners these days have more access to inspirational images than ever before. The problem, however, is such images rarely include empty corners. The photographs are a slice of the room which only includes the major feature wall of the space. If you've ever been part of a photo shoot, you know what I'm talking about! Homeowners get so used to seeing these images, it becomes difficult to translate them into their own spaces which have corners and spots that are never included in inspirational images. Trust me, blank walls are in every well designed space.
Another reason blank walls are difficult for clients - unlimited access to professionally photographed rooms. Homeowners these days have more access to inspirational images than ever before. The problem, however, is such images rarely include empty corners. The photographs are a slice of the room which only includes the major feature wall of the space. If you've ever been part of a photo shoot, you know what I'm talking about! Homeowners get so used to seeing these images, it becomes difficult to translate them into their own spaces which have corners and spots that are never included in inspirational images. Trust me, blank walls are in every well designed space.
Think Contrast
When a blank wall just won't do it for you . . . OK, I have a few clients (who will remain nameless) who simply can not accept a blank wall. They insist we put something on every wall. If you are in this category, the trick to a great corner is to mix it up. What I mean is create contrast.
If you have an oil painting on one wall of a corner, you need to do something different on the other wall else it will not feel "right." You simply can not continue to hit the same note and expect a different sound! Consider a mirror, architectural remnant or something framed that is not normally considered artwork. This will allow each wall to stand on it's own and not compete.
In this image, it is a little difficult to see, but there is artwork on the back wall and an antique, weathered ladder on the left wall to create contrast.
via
In this image, the homeowner has used a decorative clock on the opposing wall. This creates contrast with the traditional artwork that makes the corner work.
via
In this example, the mirror on the right wall contrasts the small artwork in the opposing corner. Then on the left side, the use of the wall bracket sets the framed etching apart from the gallery wall on the far left.
via
Lighting can even do the trick. . .
If you have an oil painting on one wall of a corner, you need to do something different on the other wall else it will not feel "right." You simply can not continue to hit the same note and expect a different sound! Consider a mirror, architectural remnant or something framed that is not normally considered artwork. This will allow each wall to stand on it's own and not compete.
In this image, it is a little difficult to see, but there is artwork on the back wall and an antique, weathered ladder on the left wall to create contrast.
In this image, the homeowner has used a decorative clock on the opposing wall. This creates contrast with the traditional artwork that makes the corner work.
In this example, the mirror on the right wall contrasts the small artwork in the opposing corner. Then on the left side, the use of the wall bracket sets the framed etching apart from the gallery wall on the far left.
Lighting can even do the trick. . .
Even an architectural piece, like these amazing shutters creates a nice contrast to artwork on the opposing wall.
via
I hope these simple tricks are helpful. Now, go tackle a corner in your house - and send me some before and after pictures while you're at it. M.
via
I hope these simple tricks are helpful. Now, go tackle a corner in your house - and send me some before and after pictures while you're at it. M.
Rabu, 29 Juli 2015
Faculty Trip to China for Research Collaboration
The UNT delegation team visited 12 universities in China to make research collaborations during summer 2009. An ID faculty, Jin-Gyu “Phillip” Park, Ph.D., joined the delegation team and made research collaborations. Student and faculty exchanges under the 1+2+1 Dual Degree Program were also discussed.
The 1+2+1 Program was started in 2001 under the joint administration of China Educational Association for International Exchange (CEAIE), the China Center for International Educational Exchange (CCIEE), and the American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU), to promote cooperation and exchange between Chinese and U.S. higher education. During the first year of the program, Chinese students will complete their freshmen year in one of the Chinese partner universities. In the second and third years of the program, Chinese students will travel to the United States to complete their sophomore and junior years at CSUSB. In the fourth year of the program, students will return to China to finish their senior year at the Chinese Partner University. Upon completion, the student receives degrees from both universities.
The 1+2+1 Program was started in 2001 under the joint administration of China Educational Association for International Exchange (CEAIE), the China Center for International Educational Exchange (CCIEE), and the American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU), to promote cooperation and exchange between Chinese and U.S. higher education. During the first year of the program, Chinese students will complete their freshmen year in one of the Chinese partner universities. In the second and third years of the program, Chinese students will travel to the United States to complete their sophomore and junior years at CSUSB. In the fourth year of the program, students will return to China to finish their senior year at the Chinese Partner University. Upon completion, the student receives degrees from both universities.
Yunnan University, Kunming in China
UNT Interior Design Alumni Group Meeting
An alumni group of the UNT Interior Design program held an organizational meeting on July 27 at UNT Art Building. The group explored the possibilities to support current students and graduates and identified key representatives to serve on a steering committee. They were very enthusiastic to support the UNT Interior Design program and enjoyed being on campus where their success and memory resides.
UNT Interior Design Alumni Group
Tricky Oval Window
Here is a great idea I found for dealing with those oval shaped windows. You know the ones - they add tons of character and make you love the house. Then you're not sure what to do with them once you realize you need more privacy and/or light control (like in a bathroom or master suite).
Well, here's a great solution.
For a more versatile take, I would use a sheer linen, as opposed to a damask, coupled with the nail heads.
PS: I saved this picture awhile ago and have no source for it. If this is yours or you know who it belongs to, please shoot me an email, and I will gladly give credit!
PSS: If you live in the Birmingham area and are looking for something fun to do this coming Saturday afternoon, Chill Art is having an art show from 4:30-8:00 pm at Escape Day Spa in Crestline. It's across from Mafiaoz's (you can't miss it).
Happy Weekend! M.
Summer in Review (and other random musings)
I can't believe that summer is coming to an end. We received school registration information last week for the junior high. Needless to say, it has been a very different summer for me. With my Mom's surgery and lots of challenges with her recovery, it has not been the summer I envisioned it would be last Spring. But, we have had many moments of sheer summer bliss, along with lots of blessings from her experience. I'm totally grateful for these as they've helped me to see that God is good, even in the mist of our suffering.
So, before I get back into all things interior design, I wanted to share a few highlights of our summer. I hope yours has been just as interesting and full of fun.
Ok, first up, I've been obsessed with this artist's ability to paint water. These paintings evoke memories of my childhood and jumping into a pool or lake. Just love them! Since I'm not a painter, I marvel at this kind of talent.
Look at this one and the reflection of light on the waves the swimmer has created.
Totally digging these botanical blocks of resin. They are the perfect accessory to place on a stack of books on a chest or coffee table.
I always love to see an oddity included on a coffee table and this is a great example. Any of these would be perfect for the Fall.
I've been rocking out in the car to this song all summer - Get Lucky. You know how certain songs make you think of certain times of the year. Well this one will forever remind me of summer! It's totally a throwback disco song and I'm so hoping it will start a trend for more disco songs! My son found this youtube video where they have dubbed this current song onto the dance moves of some kids on Soul Train. Just look, it totally fits! Thinking that's why I love this song - I watched a lot of Soul Train and American Bandstand when I was a kid. The bow ties are cracking me up on this!
While at the lake with some sweet friends this summer, we toured the only Frank Lloyd Wright House in the state of Alabama - the Rosenbaum House. A real treat for me to see it. Remember, I toured his studio on a trip to Chicago last Fall so it was interesting to see a slighting different design in this Usonian (named for the United States of America) style home. Btw, the man who gave us the tour was so knowledgeable, and you could tell he loved his job!
We had dinner at the 360 Grille which is a rotating restaurant atop a beautiful hotel overlooking the Tennessee river. My kids had never seen anything like this and were completely mesmerized trying to figure out the mechanics of the whole thing! I just enjoyed the food, wine and view! It was really special.
This photo of 360 Grille is courtesy of TripAdvisor
We've had many discussions this summer about the Green Flash. To date this elusive phenomenon has totally escaped us, but I am determined to see it in my lifetime!
On this same trip we were treated to an outdoor production of The Miracle Worker at Helen Keller's birthplace.
The production began just at sunset, and it was a wonderfully cool evening in early summer - perfect for sitting outside. During the first half of the show, we looked up and saw hundreds of June bugs attracted to the spot lights. A real summer experience (sort of like smelling cut grass). But by the second half of the show, they had completely disappeared. This is not the actual actress who played Helen, but I have to say the child did an amazing job.
I just discovered Lewis and Wood fabrics - particularly "Cobweb" . . .
There's something classic yet midcentury modern about this fabric. I think it could really blend those two styles together in a great way. Always love a fabric you just don't see everyday.
We were turned on to this comedian named Brian Regan. What I love about his routine is that it's completely clean and hilarious - a very rare combination for stand up comedy. My kids can quote almost every one of his routines. The walk around our house quoting him and laughing. My favorite is this one on "I walked on the Moon." (it's at the very end of this standup routine and it makes me laugh out loud!)
Our July 4th beach trip was a total wash (literally - there was major flooding on 30A). So, we celebrated the 4th here in Birmingham. We found a wonderful vantage point to see the fireworks and the rain stopped just in time for the show. It turned out to be a lovely evening.
Then we were off to the mountains with my husband's entire family to Montreat, N.C. for a week with all the cousins. We do this trip most summers, and my kids love it!
We ventured out to sliding rock, lookout falls and a new jump off place. The water feels like you've jumped into an ice chest!
Then, I took the girls to the Biltmore House for a self guided tour. We then enjoyed a "ladies lunch" in Black Mountain where we discussed our favorite rooms and then things in each room that we loved! There was a close tie between the Breakfast room and Mrs. Vanderbilt's bedroom as our favorites.
I think I've eaten my weight in this completely delicious avocado egg salad this summer. It's good on a bed of mixed greens or as a sandwich. Very Yummy.
My summer read has been this (very dense) book a friend loaned me called At Home - it's a history of everything in your home that you use everyday and probably have no idea why it's called what it's called. Very interesting.
My kids also spent some quality time with my brother and sister-in-law. It's always a party with them - fishing, lounging, movies, swimming, water slides, you name it!
They even have an underwater camera - love this shot of my daughter!
So, now it's time to get back to my favorite subject - interior design! During my summer break, I've seen lots of inspiring things, along with some really great installations of some of my projects. I'll be sharing it all with you here at the Muse in the next few months. I'm going to slowly build back up on my number of weekly posts. It's great to be back! M.
Selasa, 28 Juli 2015
Back to it . . .
With school just around the corner, I am feeling the need to get organized. In fact, in many ways I feel like back to school is sort of the second New Year's for me. I find my self thinking about starting anew when the kids go back to school. So, I'm putting together a to do list of massive proportions. Things like - a new exercise program, completing projects around the house, parties to host, AND getting organized.
Here's one little step in the right direction. I found this on pinterest (it's amazing what you can find there), and man o man is it appealing to my Type A tendencies.
Here's one little step in the right direction. I found this on pinterest (it's amazing what you can find there), and man o man is it appealing to my Type A tendencies.
Any guesses what this is?
They are plastic grocery bags and a tutorial on how to fold them into this convenient little shape. Be still my heart. Do any of you do this? I know most of you are taking your own bags with you to the grocery, but I actually like to have a few of these around to use for other things. So I recycle them, but mine are not organized like this!
Hmmm. . . wonder how much I would have to pay my kids to learn how to do this and get that cabinet organized? Have a great day. M.
Senin, 27 Juli 2015
Getaway Details
This week has totally flown by for me. I've been working on a couple of redesigns, and I'm not sure where all the time has gone? Since we are staring another weekend in the face, I guess it's appropriate to share some details of my weekend excursion (last weekend).
We went to Highlands, North Carolina and stayed at the Old Edwards Inn.
Highlands is a simple drive from Birmingham, and we took advantage of it. If you have never been to Highlands, it is a must see. The Old Edwards Inn is one of the nicest places I have ever stayed. It is beautifully decorated, and the service is amazing.
One of the biggest treats for my husband? The Dove bar. Yes, an entire bar of vanilla ice cream dipped in dark chocolate - Open 24/7 with no limit on the number you can eat! Well, let's just say they lost money on my husband!
We were treated to champagne when we first arrived Friday afternoon! Such a treat for me (way more fun than Dove bars)!
OK a totally random picture. I've been working on a project where we are considering a longer version of cafe curtains on windows and french doors, and I was having trouble finding a example to show my client. I turned the corner and there it was. Love this look if you need a bit more privacy but still love the idea of lots of light.
Saturday morning I took off to check out the sites in the area (thanks to Lisa of Lisa Mende Design who was gracious enough to share her favorite haunts with me). I only had the morning since I spent the afternoon in the spa (only do this on vacation, and it was so relaxing). The town of Highlands is so quaint - look at all the shops.
I stopped by Mirror Lake Antiques and got a fabulous antique lesson from the owner Stan Cochran on Majolica. I will be sharing the details of this with you in a later post.
He had some marvelous examples for us to discuss.
I also stopped in and met Laura of the Highlands Gem Shop who is going to be sourcing some gems for me to use in a DIY client project I will be sharing with you soon.
She and her husband are owners of a wonderful little shop! Stayed tuned for more on this project - can't wait to show it to you.
And last, but certainly not least, I ran into James Farmer (huge smile here) If you recall, I posted about Mr. Farmer here. He is a mover and shaker in the landscaper/design/entertaining world. Here's how it went down - I was in a different shop when I saw his most recent book at the checkout counter and starting chatting with the salesperson about it. The salesperson said, "You know he's down at Acorns today signing books." At that moment, it was all I could do not to run - I quickly made my exit and race walked down to see him.
He was such a southern gentleman, and so gracious to entertain my complete monopolization of his time. He is working on his fourth book as we speak which I hope is out in time for Christmas so I won't have to think too hard about what to give everybody this year.
If you would like more information about James and just some breath taking inspiration, click over and check out his website.
Happy Weekend! M.
Minggu, 26 Juli 2015
Eye of the Magpie - acrylic box love
When we were relaxing at the beach a few weeks ago, I had time to really read and absorb the current issue of Traditional Home. One item that caught my eye?
This room . . . which was designed by Patricia Healings and Dan Barsanti for the 2010 Hampton Designer Showhouse.
I love how they have used yellow to create a neutral palette in this space - which, if you have ever worked with yellow, is difficult to pull off!
But what really caught my eye - that acrylic box on the console table behind the sofa. I love it!
I'm not even sure what is in that box - it looks like a book of some sort, but this idea has so many possibilities.
As I have mentioned (way more than once) I think a room really needs to include items that are unique to the homeowner and meaningful to them. Items that can't be duplicated by just running out to the nearest home store. This acrylic (or glass) box is an excellent way to do this.
You can put anything in the box unique to your family, and it will instantly become special and a true conversation piece when friends come for a visit.
My husband has this very old pistol that belonged to his great, great, great Uncle (the original John Smith T). It's really a work of art. It's currently sitting in a shoe box (in the attic) not being appreciated. I really need to pull it out and put it in an acrylic box.
I guess this is a lesson in do as I say, not as I do.
I guess this is a lesson in do as I say, not as I do.
So, I am putting it on the to do list! I'll of course share pictures when I make it happen.
What do you have in your space that is unique to your family that you, too, could highlight with an acrylic box? I would love to hear about it! M.