Monday, August 31, 2009

Modern Contemporary Furniture

Well, looking for comfort, the modern furniture frames were often left out completely in favor of an early version of the bean bag chair; cushions were low and stuffed with straw or other soft materials that were available in the region. It is something that people would like in a home and something in which they can enjoy for sure. Modern furniture has truly set the trend since the early days and its popularity is reaching sky high, which is not a question since it already evolved into something new and of course something good. More to good sign is that modern furniture have made more improvements over the years and let me tell you all of them are all significant improvements and changes.

It is well known that after the end of World War II, however came the onslaught of modern contemporary furniture design. It is said that these designers saw the long history of furniture creation as something that was too focused on pure functionality; they sought to bring in a more aesthetic focus that coupled with functional purposes. It is a great idea during that era that is in deep need of changes and when I say changes improvement comes to the word as well. To achieve this aim, modern contemporary furniture designers turned to the use of unorthodox materials, structures and shapes in the hopes that these pieces of furniture would be appreciated for their artistic vale as well as their usefulness in the home, workplace, or patio. Those creative minds helped the modern furniture front to achieve the exact same reaction in which the designers are using as motivation nowadays.

Modern furniture has always seen a big splash on the market now, basically because they have leaded their class with a great deal of innovation and improvement. More to the fact that modern furniture has shown its potential over the course of the years and people have really focused their minds on the latter. It is also known that modern furniture have gained notoriety and it have enhanced its products over the said years. If you'll count the latter I can say that modern furniture have seen so much evolution that the people supporting it have shown great deal of interest in which they try to just improve it further. Modern furniture can always stand out because it possess the swag that can get people's interest.

Sunrise to Sunset, we are Retreat!


This was our view of the sunrise while driving off the Island on Sunday morning, heading to the show...

Completely unretouched photo. The sky really was this color!

Here's a shot of the booth setup with the canvas rug added - does a MUCH better job of showing off the cute black folding chairs, don't you think?! (Two of them sold)

We had such a great day! We saw so many of our friends, fellow dealers, shop owners, decorators & designers, even blog-ebrities (blog celebrities!). And you know, I'm a bad bad blogger - I didn't take one single photo of any of them. sigh. I really did have good intentions, but it was so BUSY. We sold a slew of stuff, including every lamp I had, save one! I am now Lampless in Seattle and have to get my rear in gear to create more for our next show in two weeks.

On our way home, this was the sunset. What a glorious day! Thanks to everyone who came out and said hello, made a purchase, brought a friend, or left a comment here on our blog. We appreciate you SO MUCH!

Now it's on to the next thing... re-set our room at Poppyseeds with a new fall look and prepare for the French Flea Market in Mill Creek! Be sure and click on the link in our sidebar for info on that one....

Sunday, August 30, 2009

Simple Interior Decorating Ideas

So you're tired of looking at your house. It's looked the same for years and you just can't take it anymore. Should you sell it and find a new place to live? That's certainly one option, but if you happen to like your neighborhood then you could just do some home decorating and make it look like new. So if you've decided on the latter, you will need some interior decorating ideas.

Living / Family Room
It's time to get rid of the old sofa and, yes, even that favorite recliner that your father-in-law falls asleep in every time he visits. If new furniture is an option, great! But if it isn't, look for some great furniture covers. Furniture covers can change the whole look of a room for a fraction of the cost of new furniture, and the recliner will still be just as comfy. If you happen to have both a living room and a family room, try switching the furniture around. You probably spend more time in one room than the other and switching the furniture between the two rooms every so often will make them both last longer and give you a new look to work with.

Have your carpets cleaned and paint the walls. Don't be afraid of color! The best interior decorating experts will tell you that white walls are boring. Take a swatch from the furniture, or a throw pillow, and find paint that matches one of the colors in it. Make sure not to use the primary color of the furniture on the walls, you don't want them to blend. You do want good contrast. Get some new window dressings and nic-nacs and your room will look like brand new.

Kitchen
Interior decorating in the kitchen is a bit more difficult, but there are a few ways to make it look new. Start with some new window dressings, a throw rug under the table, and a nice new border on the freshly painted walls. If that's not enough, you could paint your cupboards and install new handles and pulls, or remove the upper cupboard doors if it's not too much of a mess inside. This will make your kitchen look much larger and more open. A nice, new faucet goes a long way in a kitchen, too.

Bedrooms
Clean the carpets and paint the walls. Replace the window coverings and the bed linens, and rearrange the furniture. You're not just sleeping in there, right? We all know that the bedroom is often our only retreat, so you want to make it a nice, new room to relax in. Put a comfortable chair and a small bookcase near a window and make a nice reading corner. For the kids' rooms, take them to the paint store and let them pick out their own colors and decorations. Let the kids go online and look for awesome things for their rooms. You will be the coolest parent around if you let the kids decorate their own spaces.

Bathrooms
There's not much interior decorating that can be done in a bathroom without replacing the fixtures. You can certainly replace the shower curtain, window coverings, accessories, and toilet covers and rugs. Make sure to put a fresh coat of paint on the walls, too.

Bathroom Decorating Ideas For Starters

Been reading through some bathroom decorating ideas but afraid to try them out? Well, there will always come a time when you need to make some changes in some parts of your home. Bear in mind that these changes are meant not only to put everything in order but also to add some nice touch that is well deserved.

Below are some simple bathroom decorating ideas that will give you the results you are craving for.

1. De-clutter.

Begin by removing unnecessary stuff in your bathroom. If you have a storage area, you can put things that are not of use in there. Do not hesitate to dispose of things that have no significant use.

You can also opt to add some decorative holders and boxes so that you will have some place to put your bathroom stuff.

2. Lighting.

Give your bathroom a bright new look for a change. If your bathroom lighting looks dull, it is time to change it something that can brighten up the entire area.

Lighting in bathrooms make a big difference especially if you have chosen the kind that will give off an air of pleasant atmosphere. Besides, you do not have to call an expert to do this. You can do it all by yourself once you know the basic things needed for changing bulbs and sockets.

3. New paint.

When was the last time you changed the colors of the paint in your bathroom? If it is that long, now is the time to try on a different shade.

Take the time to choose the kind of color that will suit your bathroom. You can match it to the curtains or other accessories that you already have in the bathroom. If you want to go for the bright and sunny look, you can try out pastel paint colors. Dark colors can also be an option if you do not want dirt to be visible on the surface.

4. Plants.

Plants inside bathrooms can soften the aesthetics of the design. In addition, having plants in your bathroom gives it a more natural and refreshing look and feel.

Opt for silk plants because they do not need light and sunshine to thrive. You may find them costly but it will be worth it once you see the change in your bathroom once there are some plants around.

100th Post!!!

I noticed this morning that this is my hundredth post! What a wonderful ride this has been- new friends, information and ideas flowing through cyberspace. I have been blessed to make incredible personal connections both near and far, which I have come to value and treasure. I am excited to keep posting about all the things that inspire me in home decor and design both here in the US, and internationally. I hope Willow Decor continues to evolve and change as I continue to grow and learn. I know exciting things are just around the bend!
I thank you for reading and commenting, and sharing this journey with me. It has been a gift beyond my greatest imagination.
xxx-Gina
.
Photos: 1, 2 - Shannon Bowers/Veranda, 4- Real Gustavian

Saturday, August 29, 2009

Creating a Mood....


The work is done (after a remarkably easy, low-key day!) and we'd like to share a few peeks at our space at Sand Point for Sunday's show.... (and after viewing this photo, I'm taking in a canvas rug to place under this table in the morning. You can't even see the cute black vintage metal chairs in the shot!)

Inspired by our love of late summer leading into fall, and the simplicity & calm of Danish/Euro design trends...

Classic lines, fresh approach....

And FAB.u.lous lighting fixtures & shades!

Yum! I love this palette: Soft tan, warm brown, mottled zinc, tarnished silver, rubbed white and velvety black paint, and a bit of creamy vanilla for good measure. The perfect mood for an Indian Summer/Autumn season....

The finishing touch to our setting was an art installation on the wall.... I found a huge portfolio filled with charcoal & pencil sketches at a garage sale in Portland last weekend. FREE! I was thrilled because this effect is exactly what I thought of when I opened the portfolio and saw black & white. To Joanne, the artist, and her sweet daughter (never found out her name) who was selling/giving away mom's belongings after her passing: Thank you. Your art is beautiful, and it will be appreciated by all who see it! (I particularly like the sketch that includes a pair of Mickey Mouse Ears.... ;0) )

We hope you will come by and say hello! (or Gut Morgen!)

Friday, August 28, 2009

Furniture home Decor interior design 2009


Furniture home Decor interior

She's ready for her close up, Mr. DeMille.....


So, she's been to the 'spa' for some beauty treatments. Been pampered and polished. Been accessorized with swanky hooks and a foofy mirror...

Painted three shades of soft dove gray and whitewashed, drybrushed, and detailed to within an inch of my life to imitate years of age... yes, the kind of age that was present on her original red coat of paint! Irony, I guess.

She's ready for not only a close up, but the beauty shot:

You'd never guess this was the same red Butler's Table! Amazing what a marvelous application of paint can do for a piece. She's gone glam. Totally Jeanne d'Arc Danish Living style, don't you think?!

Oh, yeah, and that's her little sister standing next to her in the photo above. These two 'Butler's Tables' or 'Hall Trees' are just perfect for an entryway, hallway, stairwell.... back porch... front porch... store display..... (shall I go on?!) small kitchen that needs a spot for your morning cuppa'... powder room.... you get the picture!

She's loving the close ups, too... Do come and meet our beautiful girls on Sunday, won't you?! We can promise you more wonderful Retreat products and inspiration. And THAT's entertainment!
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Sand Point Antique & Design Market
Sunday August 30th 8 AM - 4:30 PM
Warren G. Magnussen Park, Seattle / University District
Check their blog for info & maps
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Living Room Color Schemes, A positive Approach

Take the flower wall paper down; it's time to start really thinking about living room color schemes. Most people never even thinking about living room color schemes, because the colors are already chosen for them with the furniture that they like, and the home that they have purchased. Think about how many people buy furniture unstained, or uncovered, and at the same time, purchases a home that has yet to be painted on the inside. Right, not too many people do that, so we must focus on the obvious truth about living room color schemes, much of it is already chosen for us.

The best way to approach living room color schemes is think about what you can do, not what you can not do. This means to look at whatever you have the ability to change, and change it as much as possible to match some type of living room color scheme.

A living room color scheme is simply a coordinated effort amongst all the colors in the room to create a group, or scheme that is noticeable from a distance. Think about the stripes on a traditional prison uniform, the color scheme of that is easily identifiable as black, and white. Some rooms have single color schemes like brown, or red, or white. While most have multiple color schemes.

One of the most iconic living room color schemes of all time is the hunting lodge color scheme. This is a deep brown color that most of the furniture comes out to be, matched with a dark green wall paper. The brown and green is then matched with natural wood accents from handmade furniture. This color scheme works well together because the green and brown contrast one and other to a point that is pleasing to the eye.

While not all will want to go with the hunting lodge color scheme, there are plenty of other living room color schemes that one can utilize. One popular living room color scheme is that of grey on the walls, and tan on the furniture. The grey helps to keep the furniture the focal point, while the tan keeps the eyes from becoming too overwhelmed with color, this is a good example of a modest living room color scheme.

Regardless of the living room color schemes that you choose to implement, the important thing is that you become cognizant of what living room color schemes are, and how to create one that works for you.

Thursday, August 27, 2009

She's DONE!

OMG, be sure to check in first thing tomorrow morning. Have we got something to show you! ;0)

Weekend Update....


And now, the news:
It's time once again for the Sand Point Show on Sunday. It's going to be a great day for some antique/vintage/junk shoppin' in the Northwest, let me tell ya'....

I read on LuLu's blog that she, Susan Wheeler of Pink Lemonade and her friend Dwayne, plus ever-fabulous JohnBobCoolJunk will ALL be there. (They do not, however, have blogs. Bummer.)

With fabulous STUFF. (disclaimer: photos from the March show. BarnHouse and Tarte won't be at Sunday's show. Darn.)

At fabulous PRICES.

You really aren't going to MISS this, are ya'?!

I didn't think so!

Doors open for $10 early entry at 8 AM on Sunday, and for $6 regular entry at 10 AM. Show runs till 4:30 but as we all know, the best stuff goes first! A map to the show location is available on the blog: http://sandpoinantiquedesignmarket.blogspot.com. It's easy, right by University Village & Childrens' Hospital in Seattle's University District.

And that's the weekend update. I'm Chevy Chase, and you're not.
Oh, wait, no, I'm NOT Chevy Chase. But YOU may be...... and if you are younger than 40, you have NO IDEA what that means. Nevermind. See ya' Sunday!

Cape Cod in Blue and White

I am having trouble downloading my pictures from my trip so until I can figure it out I wanted to share a beautiful home on Cape Cod designed by Catalano Architects (do they ever sleep?!)
Look at the entry to this home! The gate provides a perfect framing for the home. I love the brick driveway with the herringbone pattern and edging in cobblestones. Perhaps my favorite feature is the grass down the center to soften the hard lines.
Here is the back yard. Notice the shingle style feeling. Some features which stand out are the covered porches, I especially like how the round porch balances the round section of the house itself. The chimneys also have some wonderful decorative detailing.
A beautiful entryway with incredible light. Notice the moulding details on the staircase and around the windows.
The blue and white color scheme of the kitchen gives you a classic beach feeling with marble counters and white cabinets. The rounded breakfast nook is lovely with its built in seating and
interesting ceiling design.
Here is the view from the family room. It is important to notice the use of interior windows in this home. The walls entering the kitchen are thick and wide which give the home a feeling of substance and in my opinion the richness of a bygone era. The internal windows then give the spaces a more light and open feeling. Also notice the internal transom windows over the doorways in the kitchen.
The family room from the other direction. Notice the ceiling detail. Touches of blue keep the room soft with out feeling kitschy. The chandelier, anchor andirons and framed flag add a folk-art/Americana feel to this room.
The formal living room is awash in pale pinks. I imagine this room is really pretty in the evenings by lamplight. The pink chairs have interesting upholstered arms.
Perhaps my favorite room is the bedroom. The aqua silk curtains and interesting mirror, along with the white upholstery and bedding make this room very Veranda -esque.
No beach house is complete with out a bunk room! Four bunks each with their own lighting and bookshelf - I like the varnished floors and sliding ladders - it really evokes a nautical yacht like feeling.

Let me know your favorite aspect of this wonderful home on Cape Cod!

Wednesday, August 26, 2009

Interior Design For The Home

Any home can be pleasing with the proper application of basic interior design methods. Some people study interior design to be very good at it but there are people who are gifted with an eye for beauty and for interior designing.

A person who is creative can do some interior designing on his own even without formal training. Those who have an eye for what is aesthetic can just as easily decorate and design his own house depending on his tastes. Of course, it helps to read books and articles about designing to be updated on the basic and latest design methods.

Any interior designer can create a specific atmosphere just by putting together several pieces and unifying them in a single theme. There are interior designers who have a bias for certain motifs like eclectic, modern or even country style. Some go for simple designs without the clutter.

Interior design is not only aesthetic but also functional depending on the requirements of the client. An interior designer can make a small room spacious and an otherwise cluttered room into an orderly one. Interior design is used just about anywhere from homes, offices to commercial buildings.

The interiors of a room should always match the personality of the person who will occupy that room. This is the reason why designers always work closely with their clients so they can make sure that they get a feel of what their clients want in terms of design style.

People have this notion that interior design is expensive. However, designers are not only creative people but they are also very good in budgeting. Most designers will work on a design that will match or fit the budget of their clients. A person can allot a minimal amount for the interior design of his home or office and still come up with an aesthetic and functional room.

Professional interior designers who are formally trained usually have basic knowledge on architecture, engineering and even accounting. They need these courses to make their design aesthetic, structurally correct and cost effective.

The terms Interior design and interior decorating have often been used interchangeably. However, the two terms actually deal with different phases of making a room or a space aesthetic. Interior design is basically the process of studying the personality of the occupant of the room being designed in order to maximize and tailor-made the room’s design for that person's behavior and personality.

Interior decorating on the other hand is the process of actually mixing and matching the different design techniques like window treatments, the right wallpaper, wall finish and even the furnishing of a room.

There are a lot of opportunities for those in the interior design and decorating industry. An interior designer can go into designing household, corporate or commercial establishments. Others specialize in the design of health facilities or even tourism establishments.

The latest trend now for those in the interior design industry is to be able to incorporate the right engineering and aesthetic design with sustainable development. Even designers are now more conscious about the state of the environment so they tend to use environmentally friendly materials for their designs.

There are designers who specialize and use Feng Shui in their designs. This requires further study because Feng Shui deals with the Chinese’s ancient methods of designing a space to make the design work for the owner’s health, business and other life factors.

The Chinese believes that a structure should be properly designed so as to allow positive energy to enter the structure. When the structure has already been built without the aid of a Feng Shui expert, the mistakes can be corrected through proper interior design using the Feng Shui methods.

By incorporating Feng Shui in interior design, it is believed that a person can bring out all the positive energies in a room to make him rich, happy and healthy. An interior design using Feng Shui can also get rid of bad spirits that bring in negative atmosphere in an abode.

Getting the services of an interior designer can make a room both aesthetic and functional. Any person who wants to make his home livable and functional should try getting the services of an interior designer to maximize his space.

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