A Designer's World

Sweet Dreams

2011-03-03T22:14:00.004-06:00

Are you looking for a way to change the look and feel of your bedroom? Consider making your headboard the focal point of the room with an upholstered headboard. Upholstered headboards can add elegance & drama to any room. They are available in various styles (from traditional to ultra contemporary) and materials (from leather to silk). Upholstered headboards can be customized to fit your personal style and can be used in any bedroom in your home.

Plush & Tufted

Traditional

Fun & Funky

Sweet & Simple

Dramatic

With Nail Head Trim

Transitional

Why not frame your bed in comfort and create an elegant focal point in your bedroom

-Stel

Living Room "Must-Haves"

2011-01-31T17:55:00.003-06:00

The living room is a place for family and friends to gather and visit, so special effort should be made to create a comfortable environment. No matter what your style, the primary design goal for living rooms is to achieve a functional yet inviting living space. There are certain fundamental pieces that every home, large or small, formal or casual, should have - the ‘must-have’ pieces that will create the most comfortable conversation area possible. Provided you have the space, those basic pieces include:

A Sofa or Two Love Seats

One or Two Armchairs

Table Lamps
A Coffee Table or Piece of Furniture that Functions as one (an ottoman, or a hinged wooden trunk)

A Side Table in Easy Reach of Every Seat

If it's time to replace a piece of furniture, buy something that you really love. You'll be living with it for a long time. Experiment with different styles - don't limit yourself. After all, the fun of decorating is adding new pieces that have personal meaning for you.

-Stel

DON'T MISS IT!!!! PATIO SALE

2011-01-25T17:15:00.002-06:00

Join us on the Patio
Saturday, January 29th
10 am - 4 pm

And The Color Is.....

2011-01-14T21:02:00.005-06:00

Pantone announced Honeysuckle 18-2120 as the 2011 Color of the Year. Courageous. Confident. Vital. A brave new color for a brave new world.

Benjamin Moore's color designers are forecasting Vintage Wine as Envision Color 2011's Color of the Year. Vintage Wine is a rich hue with a deep brown base and a hint of smoky violet that makes a rich statement in any interior.

ICI Dulux's 2011 Colour of the Year is Citrus Yellow. Light, airy, citrus yellow that symbolizes a freer spirit, sense of fun and positive energy. Conveys a feeling of fizzy sherbert, new growth, relaxed fun and the goodness and vitality of sunshine.

Sherwin Williams celebrates individualism with 39 colors grouped into 4 separate palettes.

Purely Refned

Blues, Lilacs, Greens and Grays interwoven with understated neutrals

Bold Intervention

Vivid Greens, intense Turquoises and Blues with Hot Reds & Neutrals to provide balance - all inspired by Latin American Pop

Restless Nomad

Dusky darks, Hot Vibrant Pinks & Reds and Earthy hues that evoke Eggplant & Cabbage all characterized by colors of Morocco and Turkey

Gentle Medley

A soft, romantic and refreshing color palette includes Neutral Tans, Freshwater Blue, Mint Green, Copper, Chartreuse Pastels and Safari Greens & Browns for depth

So what do you think? Any favorites? We'd love to hear from you!

-Stel

A Room With a View

2011-01-05T20:28:00.003-06:00

The holidays are over and the decorations are put away. Is your interior looking a little drab? Maybe it's time to freshen up a bit. You'd be surprised what a difference some simple changes can make. Check out our article in Klatch Magazine for some inspiration, then call us for appointment.

http://klatchmagazine.com/woodlands/an-eye-for-design.jpg

HAPPY NEW YEAR

2010-12-31T19:39:00.002-06:00

Cheers to a new year and another chance for us to get it right! Oprah Winfrey

MERRY CHRISTMAS

2010-12-20T15:32:00.001-06:00

Wishing you and your loved ones a Safe and Very Merry Christmas

'Tis The Season

2010-11-29T19:09:00.002-06:00

Now that Thanksgiving has come & gone (as well as your guests), it is now time to begin the process of Holiday Decorating! When it comes to Holiday Decor, less is often more. Sticking with simple decorating will save you time and $$$$. So if you're looking for some simple decorating tips, check out some of these inspirational ideas.

Instead of cluttering all of your holiday craft projects, try an artful decorative accent - like your favorite ornaments arranged in a bowl, tray, box or any other container.

When designing floral arrangements, steer clear of complex floral arrangements and instead use one type of bloom in a simple container to allow the beauty of the individual flower to show.

Your tree does not have to be the main focal point. Why not showcase the fireplace mantel with some beautiful garland, candles, stockings, etc.

Find some interesting containers for your candles or simply dress them up with some holly & berries.

Why not use that traditional wreath in un-traditional ways or places.

Holiday decorating does not have to be a chore! Take some of these simple ideas and apply them in your holiday decor this year. Or better yet, send us some of your favorite holiday decorating tips. We'd love to hear from you.

-Stel

Room Service

2010-11-19T18:16:00.003-06:00

The holidays are just around the corner - and you know what that means - GUESTS!!
Here are a few tips to help you creatre the perfect retreat for your out-of-town guests this holiday.

Let's start with the basics. With all the airport regulations on liquids, wouldn't it be nice to forego the tiny bottles and plastic baggies and arrive to a fully stocked bathroom.

The basic elements of creating a "hotel" experience for your guests is luxury:

Luxurious Towels

Feather Down Pillows

And who wouldn't LOVE, LOVE, LOVE a white luxurious robe & slippers

Don't you love your rooms to have a great scent? Your guests do too! Include scented candles on the bedside table.

A glass water pitcher next to the bed will keep your guests from waking up thirsty and searching for the kitchen in the middle of the night.

Finish off with some Fresh Flowers

How do you create the perfect space for your guests? We'd love to hear from you!!

-Stel

Pillow Talk

2010-11-05T22:01:00.001-05:00

Have you ever noticed how a piece of jewelry can totally change the look of an outfit. The exact same thing applies to your interiors. A simple addition of pillows can quickly reflect your personality and make a statement about who you are.

Like the perfect pair of earrings or bangle bracelet, the right pillow can:

Animate a Boring Sofa

Update a Room

Soften a Space

Add Warmth & Texture

Add Shine

Add Personality

Pillows are the jewelry in the room - "The Finishing Touch"

-Stel

Happy Halloween

2010-10-31T17:54:00.000-05:00

To Paint or Not to Paint

2010-10-27T20:55:00.000-05:00

Ceilings are too often the forgotten 5th wall. Little thought is given to a ceiling's contribution to the overall room design. Look at your ceilings from a new perspective - color, sheen, pattern and texture on the ceiling can transform the entire look and feel of a room. Adding texture, color and dimension can elevate your ceiling to an art form. Take a look at some painted ceilings and tell us what you think!

Keep color contrast between walls & ceiling to a minimum to make a small room feel larger.

A large room with high ceilings can feel impersonal when bottom heavy - experiment with a deeper color on the ceiling. A rich color in a soft sheen or pearl finish immediately cozies up and balances a large open space with style.

Consider wallpaper, silverleaf or metal to give life to a boring box

So next time you're ready to freshen the look of a room and don't know where to start - Look Up!

-Stel

Take a Walk on the Wild Side

2010-10-18T18:57:00.008-05:00

Animal Prints - When & Where to Use
Throughout history, animal prints have been popular for many reasons. They were generally considered exotic and a symbol of wealth & status. In the last several years, they have become increasingly popular and many clients are asking us how to incorporate some animal print into their design. The best way to use animal prints in interiors is to use ONE print on ONE piece in ONE room.

Here are some Dos & Don'ts on how to use Animal Prints in your interiors.

DO use in Area Rugs

Black & White Zebra with beautiful aqua chairs

Looks great in this Contemporary Living Room....

In this library....

And this media room

In the right setting, it can even be used in carpeting

DON'T use cheap looking rugs

DO use in Furniture

A touch of animal print on the pillows makes a quiet statement

An artistic chair makes a strong statement

A tone on tone animal print can be eye catching

DON'T make it the furniture!

DO use in Bedrooms

DON'T DON'T DON'T

DO DON'T

DO use for Fun

AND in Fashion

Bottom Line
Done right, animal print can make a sophisticated and stunning statement in any room - from the traditional library to a contemporary living room, to the clothes you wear. The lesson here is "LESS IS MORE"

What do you think? Can you take a walk on wild side?

-Stel

Interior Design 101 - Harmony

2010-10-09T13:50:00.013-05:00

Harmony: Variety & Unity

Harmony is the combination of design elements, architecture and furnishings into a pleasing whole. Harmony balances two subprinciples - Variety & Unity.

Variety can be seen through a selection of different colors, textures, furniture and accessory styles. It can be achieved through the contrast of soft materials with hard materials, and through the combination of old and new - architecture and/or furnishings. As fun as variety can be, it still requires some order or it can become confusing and cluttered.

Unity suggests a oneness. It can be achieved by using a cohesive color scheme or by keeping the style of the furnishings consistent. Selecting background materials, fabrics and accessories that have similar colors & textures can help you create a unified design.

Every interior should have a goal of harmony - enough unity to make sense, but varied enough to be interesting.

-Stel

Interior Design 101 - Emphasis

2010-09-22T22:08:00.011-05:00

Emphasis is the creation of a focal point. A focal point should be an area that is visually important enough to draw and hold attention. Examples of dramatic, demanding or interesting focal points can be found or created in many different ways:

A Grouping of Artwork

Or an Artistic Fireplace

A Beautiful Window

or a Beautiful Window with a View

Dramatic Artwork or a Wall of Books

An Architectural Feature, such as this Ceiling makes a Dramatic Focal Point

Or an Interesting Wall Treatment in the Dining Room

Make your Bed the Focal Point in your Bedroom

A focal point can be created by placing a beautiful piece of furniture with an interesting grouping of art in a foyer or at the end of a hallway

And the Winner is . . . . . . . . .

2010-09-18T12:13:00.021-05:00

Our Holiday Decor Open House was a HUGE success. Despite the bad weather, our loyal customers and wonderful guests came by to enjoy some refreshments with us. Blaine Stacy of Creative Branch was on hand with some of her gorgeous holiday florals and presented some unique ideas for holiday decorating.

THE WINNERS

Debbie Quates - 1 Hr. Free Design Consultation

Tiffany Halbert - 1 Hr. Free Design Consultation

(Tiffany graciously gave her certificate to Nancy Lapham seated right next to her)

Sandy Ashworth - $250 Hunter Douglas Gift Certificate

John Bayless - $250 Hunter Douglas Gift Certificate

BLAINE SHOWING OFF HER BEAUTIFUL X-MAS FLORAL DESIGNS

OUR FABULOUS GUESTS

OUR SHOWROOM . . . . . . . ALL DRESSED UP FOR THE HOLIDAYS

Interior Design 101 - Rhythm

2010-09-06T18:43:00.016-05:00

Rhythm
Like music, rhythm in interior design carries the eye along a path at a pace that is comfortable for the viewer. Rhythm can be found in the repetitive use of a color, pattern, texture, line or even in furniture pieces. There are five major types of rhythm:

Repetition establishes rhythm through the repetitive use of an element. It establishes a continuity and a flow of rhythm. For example, a color repeated throughout an interior, grouping artwork to create a whole, or even a place setting can create rhythm if the eye can smoothly connect rather than jump or leap from one object to another.

Alternation is the sequence of two or more components by which the eye can follow a rhythmic pattern.

Progression is seen in shapes progressing from large to small, short to tall, etc. A collection of different-size boxes or glass bottles are accessory items that can create rhythm by progression.

Contrast is an abrupt change that forms interesting, repetitive rhythm.

Contrast can be seen in patterns - open/closed, busy/plain, light/dark combinations.

Angular shapes placed with rounded shapes create rhythm and give relief and a type of asymmetrical balance.

Radiation, another type of Rhythm, is closely related to radial balance

Radiation can give a room a circular, sweeping, rhythmic movement.

On a smaller scale, radiation can be seen in furniture forms in a circular grouping.

Holiday Decor Open House

2010-08-31T14:02:00.004-05:00

You're Invited

To Our Holiday Decor Open House

We'll have refreshments, a complimentary gift for all who attend!

We will also have some door prizes!

So Please Join Us

From The Runway To Your Home

2010-08-27T14:51:00.017-05:00

If you love fashion then you know Diane Von Furstenberg. She is a New York fashion designer known for her vivid, bold, and colorful prints. Recently she decided that her beautiful patterns were not just for the runway. Inspired by her own designs, DVF just released a collection of upholstery fabrics for the home. Now you too can have designer threads, not just for your closet, but for the entire home. These patterns are just a prelude to her collection of tableware, bedding, and accessories that arrives in stores early next year. Enjoy!- Amy

"China Vine" Dress

Guestroom at Claridge Hotel in London inspired by "China Vine"

Guestroom at Claridge Hotel in London

Ikat Original & Mini DVF Stripe

Ikat Original & Mini DVF Stripe, with Ikat Large

DVF Plaid Medium and Garden Animal PrintDiane Von Furstenberg in one of the rooms she designed at Claridge's Hotel in London

Quick & Easy Redux

2010-08-25T14:17:00.008-05:00

BEFORE Margaret was ready to throw out this wing chair but I convinced her to reupholster it with a transitional fabric from Duralee for an updated look that really rocks. This is in a little reading corner of her kitchen that we recently re-did with a porcelain travertine on the floors and a warm wall color. Add a funky lamp from Barbara Cosgrove and a bright floral accent to pull it together.

-Elaine

AFTER

Interior Design 101 - Balance

2010-08-23T21:08:00.032-05:00

Balance

Balance is equilibrium - the arrangement of objects physically or visually to reach a state of stability and poise. It is necessary for physical confidence in our actions and movement. Balance in interior design is achieved in one of three ways - through symmetrical (or formal) balance, through asymmetrical (informal) balance, or by radial balance.

Symmetrical Balance creates a mirror image by the placement of items that are exactly the same on both sides of a central point. For instance, a matching pair of vases on either side of a large painting or mirror. Or matching nightstands with matching lamps on either side of a bed or sofa. Symmetrical balance suggests formality, restraint, refinement, and orderliness.

Here are a few examples of perfect Symmetrical Balance. Everything on one side of each room is a mirror image of the other side:

Perfect Symmetry

Ashton White

John Willey

Charlotte Moss

Asymmetrical Balance

Because symmetrical balance is so predictable it can become stale and boring. A really good symmetrical composition always contains elements of asymmetry. Asymmetrical balance is also known as informal balance. It can be accomplished in two ways - Dissimilar objects placed at varying distances from the center point; or Objects of similar visual weight balanced at equal distance from an imaginary central dividing line. Asymmetrical balance is harder to achieve because it requires finding objects that are not only varied and interesting, but also compatible. Asymmetrical balance can be pleasing and does not readily become tiresome. See examples below:

At first glance, this interior appears to be symmetrical, but take a closer look at the shelving on either side of the fireplace. Totally different, but perfectly balanced.

Caldwell Blake

Another perfect example. The right side has a photo and a small acorn while the left side has a small vase and a small bowl. But the same lamps and larger vases on both sides.

Asymmetrical placement on the mantel is far more interesting.

The chairs on one side of the room balance the sofa on the other.

Different arrangement on the nightstands.

Radial Balance is based on the circle. It is seen as chairs surrounding a round table or the concentric circles in a chandelier. It can be defined in a circular furniture arrangement which can create a comfortable design for a group gathering. Furniture pieces incorporate radial balance with inlaid pieces of wood, or on a pedestal table base. See some examples below:

Radial balance is clearly evident in all aspects of this design - the curved sofas, the circular furniture placement, the circular rug, the curved walls, etc.

More radial balance

Andrew Skurman

Jay Jeffers

Notice how the radial balance can be found in the pouffs, curved sofa, curved chair and even on the art piece above the fireplace.

-Stel

Next week: Rhythm

Interior Design 101 - Proportion

2010-08-16T19:52:00.028-05:00

Proportion

Proportion deals with shapes, forms and their dimensions. It is closely related to scale and is usually expressed in terms of the size relationship of parts to one another and to the whole. For example, it is the relationship of a chair seat or back to its base or arms. When the proportion is correctly balanced, the look is pleasing.

Proportion is typically based on ratios. For example, a table that is well proportioned has side dimensions that related well to each other, creating a nicely shaped rectangle. A sofa table should be relatively narrow and the same height as the back of the sofa.

Pleasing proportions are termed as "golden" (K. J. Nielson & D. A. Taylor). The golden mean is a line that visually divides an object - a wall or a tieback drapery - into two unequally but harmonious parts. The golden section refers to proportions of parts to one another and to the whole. The ratios 3x5, 5x8, 8x13, etc. are considered pleasing proportions as they relate to one another.

Many other philosophies of good proportion exist, but the bottom line is the "sense of rightness" that we feel or recognize when good proportion is evident. Here are some examples:

The pattern on the console is proportion to its size. A larger pattern would have looked a little awkward. Same with the chair - the pattern of the fabric works well with the size of the cushions. And the proportion of the mirror against its frame is perfect. AND, the scale of all of these pieces make this a great vignette.
House Beautiful

The fabric on this Louis XVI chair is precisely porportioned to the size of the chair itself. It makes a fabulous focal point and brings it the attention that it deserves.

Aren't these drapes gorgeous? They definitely create drama in this beautiful space. Notice how the "golden mean" is applied by placing the tiebacks on the lower part of the drapery panels. Something to keep in mind when using tiebacks on your own drapery panels - never place them right in the center of the panels!

Here the balloon shades are placed so that they fall right below the half way point of the window creating a nice visual proportion. Also notice how there are three balloons on the one window and two on the other windows creating a pleasing proportion. The details of the window itself (not just the size) need to be considered when desiging the treatment. Two matching, but larger, balloons would have ruined the design.

The wainscoting in this room has been placed above the midpoint of the room - again applying the "golden mean" rule. Typically, a wainscoting is applied to the bottom portion of a room, but in this case the designer used fabric wall covering and did not want to risk any damage to the fabric by placing it in the lower part of the dining room.
Sarah Richardson

The "golden section" is applied to this 19th century Zhejiang Carved Cabinet

-Stel

Interior Design 101 - Scale

2010-08-02T11:43:00.025-05:00

Principles of Design

Interior Design is a fascinating, exciting profession that allows us to create rich and luxurious environments or comfortable and inviting spaces. Being an Interior Designer is a rewarding career. Interior Design is vital, vibrant and dynamic; it is never static. As the world changes, life changes - design keeps the pace. Anyone with an interest in interior design can apply the "principles of design" to their own living space.

Each week we will post a short lesson to demonstrate how the "principles & elements" of design apply to interior design - like learning a foreign language. If the vocabulary and grammar of a language are mastered, we can adequately express ourselves.

The six "principles" of design are: scale, proportion, balance, rhythmn, emphasis & harmony. These principles are abstract concepts that form the theory that implies that "truly fine interior design incorporates appropriate scale and good proportion, as well as harmony of all the elements achieved through sensitive balance" (K. J. Neilson & D. A. Taylor)

Scale
One of the goals of an aesthetically pleasing interior is to select objects that are similar - visual weight - in overall dimensions or mass, pattern, or in other forms. Scale, in residential design, is most appropriate when it complements and easily accommodates the average human form. Scale relates to the size of an object when compared with the space it occupies.

Here are some examples of how scale plays an important role in creating good design:

The large scale of the framed mirror and console are appropriate against the large scaled rock wall. Nothing here looks wimpy or bulky.

Two small drum tables and a small sofa work perfectly in a small room. A single coffee table would probably create some traffic problems in this small space.

The large scaled artwork looks great against the large wall and is scaled appropriately to the large windows. Anything smaller would look awkward. You can also group several smaller framed prints to create one large focal point.

For a dramatic effect, why not use large patterned wallpaper.

The scale of this adorable Ming console from Mitchell Gold will fit nicely in a small entry hall.

A large overstuffed sofa requires an equally large coffee table.

-Stel

Jewelry For Your Walls

2010-07-25T20:03:00.035-05:00

Definitely not your grandmother's wallpaper, today Luxury Wallcoverings add a feeling of opulence and beauty to any room. The Chicago-based Maya Romanoff Corporation is the leader of the most advanced wallcoverings in the world. Led by the vision and creativity of Maya and Joyce Romanoff, they have transformed modern day design by combining ancient artistic techniques with up-to-date industrial production, and a unique approach for environmental concerns. Check out some of their most stunning designs:

Mother of Pearl
Stunning decorative wall covering can be used in various applications including niches, columns, focal walls - the sky's the limit!! These tiles are hand crafted and consist of flexible veneer of round, layered capiz shells. These tiles are pliable enough that they can go around corners.

Mother of Pearl - Chevron
Genuine shell on tiles in a herringbone pattern. These hand inlaid shells shimmer and shine with a radiance inherent in Mother of Pearl and bring a stunning depth to any focal wall.

Bedazzled

Myraids of tiny spherical glass beads are attached to a flexible base to create a quartz effect by reflecting light in all directions. This wallcovering is not only beautiful, but is suitable for residential as well as commercial projects. Bedazzled is available in 17 colorways. I can't wait to use this is a powder bathroom or as a focal wall for a stunning entry.

Bedazzled Pattern
Flexible Glass Beads are artfully arranted to create this stunning motif. The glossy background enhances the reflectivity of the glass beads for a breath-taking effect. Wow!!

Precious Metals
Sheer, glowing elegance available in genuine gold, silver and other metals that are hand-applied in micro-thin leaf. Ingenious!!!

True Metals
Extraordinary genuine copper and brass are hand-processed using an ancient technique that creates a warm, permanent patina. Sold in 12" x 12" tiles and available in 4 colors. Truly artistic!

Stitched
Designed by David Rckwell, this wallcovering focuses on the traditional art of paper making for a unique look. Hand-drafted paper looks line fine lacquered leather and stitched in puzzle, horizontal and vertical (as shown).

Wall Mica
A natural silica mica that is shaved micro thin then laminated to a sturdy paper-backing. This strong, flexible wallcovering exudes the look of granite and comes in 10 colorways.

Wood Veneer

Micro-thin genuine Paulownia wood on paper backing is so flexible it can wrap around columns and even turn corners. This wallcovering creates an updated wood veneer wall that is cost effective, enviromentally sound and a beautiful alternative to traditional wood surfacing. Inlaid in a parquet frame, this pattern creates depth & dimension. Imagine this in a dramatic ceiling application.

Or this gorgeous "Sunburst" pattern

Inspiring aren't they? Are you ready to update your grandmother's wallpaper? Visit our professionals at An Eye For Design Interiors and let us assist you in selecting the perfect wallcovering for you!

-Stel

EYE CANDY

2010-07-09T13:50:00.020-05:00

We recently returned from Dallas Market & thought we'd share pics of some of our favorite ideas/showrooms!!

One-of-a-kind architectural pieces that maintain a time-worn aged look!

Aiden Gray

Who said you can't use mis-matched chairs! Rough-luxe baby - it's "IN"

Aiden Gray

A little Bohemian Chic - Every little girls dream!

Check out this gorgeous Leather Headboard by Global Views.
And the pop of Orange. I love it!!!

Mirror, Mirror!!

What a fun application, right? And who wouldn't want this desk in their home office?

A little color never hurt anyone - I actually love it!

Global Views

Beautiful Tablescape - don't you think?

Not for everyone, but gotta admit it's pretty interesting!

Cyan

-Stel

Why Hire An Interior Designer VS. Decorator?

2010-07-06T11:52:00.002-05:00

"So you get paid to spend other peoples money?" I hate it when I tell someone what I do for a living and that is their response. I get offended. If only it really was that simple. I'm an interior designer, NOT an interior decorator and there is a difference. I'm finding out more and more that people don't really understand what an interior designer does vs. an interior decorator.

There are many forms of interior decorators. Some do get paid to spend other peoples money. They go shopping and put together a room with furniture, accessories, and maybe suggest paint colors. The lady at the counter of the paint store might be called an interior decorator because she is a color expert and can help you find the perfect shade of beige. The furniture store sales lady is called an interior decorator because she will help you pick out the perfect living room set along with lighting and accessories. Don't get me wrong, I'm not trying to put down interior decorators because many are quite talented and have a lot of experience.

An interior designer should only be called an interior designer if they have a degree in interior design. It is more than picking out paint colors, and furniture pieces. It is space planning, technical drawing, understanding architectural drawings, computer aided drafting, renderings, building codes, principles and elements, code of ethics, business practices, lighting, and sustainable design (just to name a few). I could go on and on but the whole idea is that an interior designer has been educated and has a trained eye for design. They also have access "to the trade only" vendors and are capable of creating a one of a kind space. An interior decorator rarely, if ever, has the extensive training that accompanies an interior design degree. So I'm not trying to be conceited when I say I take offense to being called an interior decorator. I just know the difference, and the difference is a lot of money, time, and many sleepless nights went into that degree.

In many cases there are some interior decorators out there calling themselves interior designers because they think they can. If you plan on doing a project that involves more than aesthetics, make sure the person you are dealing with has a degree. The difference of not knowing what an interior designer does vs. an interior decorator could cost you a lot of money.
-Amy

My House Is So Cool, It's Got To Wear Shades...

2010-06-15T16:18:00.002-05:00

Ok. Ok. So my title is cheesy. Did you know that windows make up 20% of the typical home exterior and 40% in contemporary construction? Numerous large, uncovered windows can break your energy budget here in Texas as we are cranking the air conditioners to try and keep cool right now. ALL window coverings help defend your home against this summer heat, but some will help more than others. We just recently designed some custom draperies for a client's master bedroom. She claims that it is now the coolest room in her house - at least "a good ten degrees cooler". So she has asked us to design new custom draperies for the rest of her house.
Window treatments also help protect the home against sun damage. Yes, your interior can suffer from the effects of the sun just like your skin. Over time, UV Rays will eventually fade floors, furniture, upholstery, draperies, and artwork.
So if your windows are naked and your energy bills are breaking the bank, why not give us a call? Not only can we make your house look fabulous, we can help keep your house energy efficient as well. Your house will be so cool, it's got to wear designer shades.... (sorry had to say that).
-Amy

Color Contest

2010-06-10T11:48:00.002-05:00

One of the easiest and dramatic ways to change a room is with paint color. It is such a simple application yet it can lighten, darken, or change the entire mood of a room. Unfortunately, the wrong color can do the opposite of what you are trying to accomplish. One of the hardest things is picking out the right color. With thousands of colors to choose from, the simple task of picking a color can become overwhelming. Why not hire an interior designer to help you choose a color? A one time consultation with one of our designers can help you narrow down your choices- or point you to a new direction you never thought of! As interior designers, we are knowledgeable of the colors that can help or hurt you depending on your room and style. We also know the current color trends and forecasts for all those who are daring to keep with the latest styles. Interior designers also have access to reliable contractors and faux finishers to do the job for you!
Right now at An Eye For Design Interiors, we are having a color contest! If you are in the Houston Area, stop by our store to be in a drawing for a FREE COLOR CONSULTATION! It is worth $125 and can help you choose the right color to create a dramatic new room for you!

Worst Homestyle Trends

2010-06-02T15:19:00.001-05:00

So what are the worst homestyle trends of all time? One Real -Estate blogger, Butterflylister.com, compiled a top 10 list. I can't say I agree with everything on it. Some of these looks were truly hideous, but others weren't bad, and a few are actually coming back into style. Here's the list:

1. Popcorn Ceilings (Sometimes decorated with gold glitter- how very disco!)

2. Shag Rugs (A 70's staple that is making a comeback. I love shag rugs!)

3. Foil Wallpaper (Another 70's stable that is making a comeback, but updated interpretations that are fresh and modern. Totally cool if you ask me.)

4. Pink Bathrooms (Ugh- I'm sorry if you still have one, but I have to say it's time for a remodel!)

5. Orange Formica (Definitely agree on this one)

6. Wood Paneling ( Nothing a coat of paint can't fix!)

7. Bean Bag Chairs (Enough said)

8. Patterned Linoleum & Vinyl Flooring (I disagree to a point. You can now buy better designed linoleum now. It's a cheaper alternative- and it's GREEN!)

9. Velour Animal Print (It was a "Dynasty" thing. I must admit- I love anything animal print)

10. Bathroom Carpeting ( What a way to breed mold, mildew, and collect toliet splash! EWWW!)

Now it's your turn. What home decor fad most deserves a permanent plot in the style graveyard????

-Amy

New showroom vignette

2010-05-30T20:32:00.002-05:00

Speaking of Rough Luxe, we just set up a new vignette in the showroom that falls into that category. The bleached pine screen and console have a comfortable, timeless quality that works well in many settings. Like this look - it's available in our showroom.

Elaine

Trending..... Rough Luxe

2010-05-26T15:07:00.002-05:00

The trend Rough Luxe has been around for hotels and restaurants for some time. Now it is the hot new trend for homes. What is Rough Luxe? A nice combination of old and new furniture & art, with luxurious/modern fabrics and distressed finishes. Ask A Pro at An Eye for Design Interiors how you can get this look for your house!

Here are some examples of the "Rough Luxe" application

A pair of sleek, contemporary daybeds against the "rough" hand scraped wood flooring. The beautiful crystal chandelier adds more "luxe"

A contemporary style sofa against a very "rough" wall treatment. Notice the color scheme - plum/gray - you'll be seeing a lot more of this in the next year

A contemporary chandelier/pendant against the crumbling "rough" plaster walls

Need I say more!

Love, love, love this look. A "rough" distressed dresser with a beautiful mirror and a translucent smokey ghost chair

Welcome To Our Blog!

2010-05-21T15:27:00.001-05:00

Welcome to "A Designer's World". We are jumping on the "blog" bandwagon here at An Eye For Design Interiors. An interior designer's life is not as glamorous as it seems, but we love it. We hope that this blog will give you an opportunity to see what the real life of an interior designer is really about. We must warn you, however, this is NOT HGTV! Follow us as we post about current projects, happenings of the day, new trends, designer tips, and much more! We are excited to share our designer lives with you and hope to read some of your comments and answer your questions. Follow along and see what it really is like in the world of an interior designer!
-Amy