Design Details

Kelly Rae Roberts - An Artist that touches the heart

2011-04-13T06:15:00.000-07:00

This is wonderful display of Kelly Rae Roberts work at our store in Roanoke, Va

It's very easy to make great displays when the material is so amazing. Please read her bio and you will begin to know how much she has and will enrich peoples lifes.

We sell her work at the store of course, but also on line in our Ebay Store http://stores.ebay.com/greyportia . We have on line a selection of her jewelry perfect for every season, You can carry her words with you are you move around our world.

http://www.plantagenetrose.com/

The Story of My Art

To me, art has been the unexpected & life-changing discovery of finding my passion. It was a dream I neglected until I was 30 years old, a whisper in my life yearning to be heard. When I finally began to put paint onto paper, my heart and life exploded with a joy I hadn’t known before. Now, many moons later, the whimsical and playful nature of my paintings still come from the inside like a quiet yet heartfelt truth. Much like my own spirit, my work expresses honesty and tenderness while remaining lighthearted and colorful. My hope is that my work invokes a sense of clarity and peace within you as you walk your own path in life, and that it inspires you discover your own limitlessness.

The Story of Kelly Rae

Kelly Rae grew up in rural North Florida where she jumped off docks into the Sante Fe Lake with her german shepherd dog every day after school. As a child, she lived for eating fried chicken every Sunday afternoon, fishing with an old tattered piece of bamboo, and playing checkers with her then 85 year old granddad. Amidst the winding dirt roads of her hometown, Kelly experienced the joy and complexity of life and, like her mother and sister, turned to creative outlets as a way to express her experience of life.

Eventually, Kelly’s family moved to Jacksonville, Florida where she attended middle and high school. Later, she attended college at Florida State University, deciding to major in something “practical”- social work. In 1999, she met her husband John and they set off to begin a life together in Portland, Oregon. It was there that Kelly eventually decided to take up running which mysteriously led her to discover the confidence and passion to pursue a longtime “impractical” dream: to become an artist.

Kelly is the author of Taking Flight: Inspiration + Techniques to Give Your Creative Spirit Wings, a best selling book that encompasses all aspects of what it means to live the creative life. She is also the author of Flying Lessons: Tips + Tricks to Help Your Creative Biz Soar - a series of popular e-books where she shares everything she knows about how she got to where she is now. Her work has been featured in a variety of mixed media books by her peers and she’s had several articles published in various magazines, including Cloth Paper Scissors, Somerset Life, Somerset Studios (her artwork was on the 03/2010 cover!), Where Women Create, Memory Makers, and more. Much of her artwork is licensed and can be seen in stores nationwide on a variety of products, including decorative wall art, magnets, sculptures, and so much more.

In essence, she is an artist and all around lover of life and people who seeks to express a sense of vitality and connectedness in her paintings and writings. Having spent most of her life in the company of women, her pieces grow out of the kindred support she has felt from many of them throughout her life. She is unendingly grateful for the spirits of these women who walk with her, in flesh or in paint, on her incredible journey into art, love and life.

Kelly currently lives in Portland, OR with her outdoorsy husband John, their new baby boy named True, and their airplane-eared dog Bella.

http://kellyraeroberts.com/about

Give Away Closed and Winners announced.

2011-04-09T04:17:00.000-07:00

The Winner is Writerslife for a $25 Floral Gift Certificate, but we decided to give all four of you the same Gift Cert. So you are all winners, Stop by at the Open House April 10th - See you all there.

Stella Jewelry Give Away - Congrats

2011-04-07T05:51:00.000-07:00

Give away now Closed - Ramdomly selected Winner is Charlotte, please Email Plantagenet Rose Interiors for details at store@plantagenetrose.com .

'Outside In' Decor and the Promise of Vacation

2011-04-05T12:54:00.000-07:00

This is the time, when all the new Catalogues are filled with the promise of vacation, sunshine, gardens, birds and botanicals. Pick up this month issue of Pottery Barn and Ballards, and we have the 'outside in' look. Not only the look of your favorite Summer getaway in Chesapeake, but also the tropics and the islands, There are images of the great barrier reef in terms of color and content, and plenty of those linen pillows with that Parrot wth exquisite plumage. or botanicals illustrations.

http://www.potterybarn.com/shop/accessories-decor/decorative-accents/decorative-home-accents/

There is something for every color sceme from the stark contemporary to the softs and spa colors. This vignette could be added to most decor styles, bringing in the feelings left over from a great seaside vacation. I believe these kind of styles and looks are best as seasonal decor that can be changed out quickly for something new. Using these priciples, our base decor platform can be changed in an instant using a budget that won't break the bank. Nautical and seaside decor can work well if you are located close to the ocean or for a childs room, but it is usually not appropriate for an all year round look in the city or the middle of the desert. Bringing it in as accents is a great flexible approach to Spring decor with the promise of long Summer days.

These found glass bouys from Pottery Barn bring in a much softer look, these could also be incorporated into a Holiday theme. Take some time out to find items that can transition season to season, for the best value for money.

Another quick change you will see in the catologues is using rattan and cane furniture. A great look that can have an all year round appeal, if the fabrics are used well . A note of caution - use this as accent furniture only or it can look like garden furniture. Perfectly lovely in a sun room or conservatory, but less is more through the rest of the house.

This is the new Corning Ad - Amazing

2011-04-02T05:54:00.000-07:00

http://michaelhyatt.com/the-future-is-coming-faster-than-you-think.html

There are great examples here, of how advancements in Techology will create major changes in the way we move about our Space and interact with each other. The way we decorate out homes will be amazingly different as our levels of effeciency and comfort increase. Time will be created by lessening our need for Busy work, creating time slots for the more important things in our lives, people. I believe technology gives us greater freedom to interact with each other in a million ways. Not less, very much so More not Less. Communication is everything, without it the world is back in the Dark Ages.

Design Details - Give Away

2011-03-30T04:39:00.000-07:00

Open House Special Give away. We will be giving away a $25 gift certificate to one lucky reader to be used at Plantagenet Rose Interiors towards Any Floral Arrangement or Topiary. The winner will be picked randomly by random.org.

All you have to do it check out the facebook page here, become a fan and leave us a comment on this Blog Its so easy and everyone needs new Florals for Spring right ??

You have until April 8th 2011 to comment!

Gift Certificate will be redeemable at the April 10th Open House,

12 till 5pm

Plantagenet Rose Interiors

3565-D Electric Road, Roanoke, Va 24018

Tel 540 206 2275

http://www.plantagenetrose.com/

(if you are unable to attend please make contact for other arrangements)

Please Follow this Blog

Trying out Jane Iredale

2011-03-28T05:38:00.000-07:00

Well ,I am finally trying this stuff, after many recommendations from friends and customers. Do I Like it, I think the jury is maybe still out on that one.

The Pro's -

Light weigh - Yes - Can't feel it on unlike Bare Minerals. (I like the coverage better from Bare Mineral)

Good for my skin - Yes - I do see some improvement from less breakouts and blemishes.

The way it looks - Yes I do like the way it looks, when I first apply it, although I am not sure I have the right color yet. At my age many foundations can sit in the wrinkles, this does not seem to do that.
For me Jane Iredale foundation wears off quickly and needs to be reapplyed should I happen to look in a mirror, and that's an issue ,as it is expensive and I have not time after the morning application. If it doesn't get done then then it's just not going to happen. Mornings are when I do the store and home finances, the social media for the Store - Plantegenet Rose Interiors, the West Village Shopping Center and me sometimes too and then go to the Bank, the Post Office, the Florist etc.... all before opening the Store. I digress.

The main draw back for me is the time it takes to apply, brushing and blending, etc. Yes, it does look better than a liquid foundationas you don't see edges and missed bits. My friends say I am just not used to it yet and need more practise, so I continue trying to get it right. The coverage for me is a little on the light side, but if you have great skin I am sure that this is the way to go. It seems also not to be an an exclusive product line anymore, as it is availalbe on every street corner spa and doctors office. I suspect that it will soon hit the high street as Bare Minerals has alrady done and perhaps the price will come down a little.

Overall Yes I think I do like it, but find it an expensive luxury.

Here is a nice article on Spring make up ideas
Article from http://www.janeiredale.com/

March has arrived here at the home office of jane iredale. The days are a little longer, but it is still below freezing most of the time. What can we do when it won't warm up? Create a little heat with makeup! Spring looks are usually demure, but here is a different take: a sultry, shimmering look that makes spring feel like sizzling summer:

Start with Champagne Silk Eye Gloss on your whole lid, lashes to crease. Blend gently by patting with your ring finger. If you want more coverage, let it dry a bit and apply a second coat.
Dot a tiny bit of Brown Silk Eye Gloss into the crease, blending upward.
Thickly line the upper lash line with a burnished gold liner such as Citrine Mystikol. The effect should be soft and smudgy. Line lower lash line as well, close to the lash line.
Use the highlighter end of your Mystikol to add shimmer to the brow bone and the inner corner of the eye (blend with your finger).
Warm the exterior of the face with So-Bronze 3, in the bottom step of Warm MySteppes. It doesn't matter if you are a "warm" or a "cool" shade. This is makeup, there are no rules! Dip a nice fluffy White Fan Brush into the bronzer and dust it around your hairline from above the temples to the jaw line, blending inwards. We are not contouring here, just creating a healthy-looking glow. Reload your brush as often as needed, but you should not be noticing too much color on the face! We want to look warm and golden, not "made up."
Swipe your brush on a tissue to remove the bronzer, and then use it to sweep Whisper, the blush in the middle step of your MySteppe, over the apples of your cheeks. Smile to see the apple of the cheek and blend up and out.
Staying with the White Fan Brush, tap some 24-Karat Gold Dust into the lid of the jar. Try Gold or Rose Gold . Dip your brush into the lid and sweep 24-Karat Gold Dust onto the tops of your cheek bones. Dip your brush into the lid again (tap out more if you need to) and dust over your closed eyelid. Start out with a little and then build the luster depending on your desire. The more shimmer you use, the more sizzling the look!
Give everything a fresh dewy finish with a spritz or two of your favorite Hydration Spray.
Lashes get an inky, wet look with a coat of PureLash Extender & Conditioner followed by several coats of Jet Black PureLash Mascara on top lashes.
Seal the deal with a bright, pretty, pop of pink on your lips. Forever Pink Just Kissed Lip and Cheek Stain adjusts to your personal chemistry to deliver the perfect shade of bright, fresh pink just for you.

Tablescapes and Centerpieces

2011-03-23T06:40:00.000-07:00

How many of us have the time and the money to get really elaborate at the Dining Table these days? There has always been a tradition in England (my home Country) for the Sunday Lunch. Usually taking up most of Sunday Afternoon and having a fairly set menu, of roast beef, roast and mashed potatoes, rich gravy, seasonal vegetable etc. Followed by apple pie and hot english custard. Varies from Family to Family, but you get the picture. Not much room on the table for decor, somehow, Mother or Grandma would put out her best china and perhaps a candle stick or too. A time to relax and catch up on each others news. In my home we are lucky if we have this happen 6 times a year, It's not enough, but with a small business and Son and Husband on call 24/7. Daughter with 2 jobs and in the middle of launching her Jewelry Business, getting them all together is like herding cats. (I have 4 that's another blog) -

Back to decorating -

This tablescape is a could be compiled using the best china and crystal avaialble but it also could be a very inexpensive look to put together, Using all white china and turquiose or clear glass stemware and vases, white seasonal flowers from the yard and a stick or two of curly willow (or any suitable branch). Florist wire will temporarily attached almost anything light weight to a branch, then the branch and the items can be repurposed many times. Keep an eye out in you local stores for faux branches they are very realisitic these days and last many years. Food colornig can be added to the clear glass vases, water to introduce more color to this arrangement. Changing out the white flowers for daffodils or a vibrant bunch of pansies would add a new dimension to these cool colors. The options are endless when the basics of white china are in place. You can create an image from classic beauty to bold metropoltan modernism in only a few minutes and with little cost. The choice it yours.

Experiment but stay true to yourself.

This simple grouping is very cost effective and simple to put together. Wonderful for any simple evening meal with Hubby after a long day at work.

Both Images are from HGTV.com

Metallics and Mercury Glass - Not just for the Holidays

2011-03-19T09:16:00.000-07:00

http://www.potterybarn.com/products/vintage-mercury-vases/?pkey=ccachepots-vases-urns

Most of you already know I have a more than a little respect for the Pottery Barn folks, so here's another one of their vignettes from the online store linked above. Mercury Glass was developed in the 19th century as an affordable alternative to silver that never lost its luster.

I believe that metallics and mercury glass are timeless in decor, but this year the experts agree. You will find the store filled with these treasures this year, my store included, we have gone more than a little crazy on this stuff. So, think 'Transitional' in your shopping throughout the year. My store starts getting Holiday merchandize from mid May, we put it right out on the floor. Although, we buy Holiday merchandize that is very seasonable, there is a lot out that that although, it may come from a Holiday collection, it will transend the seasons with just the additional of fresh flowers, ferns, silks and foliage. Add red and green glittery stuff to this vignette and the Holidays are here in a heartbeat. In this economy and with our increasingly busy lifestyles we need to think much more about simplfication and flexibilty. Happily our Suppliers have risen to this, you will start to see many examples of this on our website, facebook page, the store and in here in this blog.

Silver plated Mint Julep up by Pottery Barn

Stella Jewelry Give Away.

2011-03-17T18:51:00.000-07:00

We are excited to do our first giveaway of Stella Jewelry.

Stella Jewelry is a handcrafted company based here, Roanoke Va. I have carried their pieces for over two years now and my clients really love the simplicity and versatility of each piece.

This week we will be giving away a $25 gift certificate to one lucky reader to be used at Plantagenet Rose towards Stella Jewelry. The winner will be picked randomly by random.org.

All you have to do it check out their facebook page here, become a fan and leave us a comment with what your favorite piece is! Its so easy and everyone needs new jewelry for Spring right ??

You have until March 31st to comment!

Update: Bonus entry ~ become a follower of our blog!!

Cats in the Silk Stash

2011-03-17T06:01:00.000-07:00

I am issuing this message to be girls, via facebook. My girls are four felines, Portia, Brooklyn, Madison and Emma.

Gizmo and Strip all in the same cuddly little package - my girls.

Message to my darling feline girls - if I catch any one of you four anywhere near my floral arranging workshop I will change your food and deny you all springtime on the deck. Thats right grounded. Not one paw, claw or tail is to go anywhere near the Silks. Are you reading me loud and clear you naughty little monkeys.

Yes, I know it all my fault for leaving the door open, but I was up late fininish a floral for a clients Dining Room Table, Yes, I forgot I and Yes I know I am only Human. I couldn't bring myself to take photos of the mess I will have to clean and sort out this evening. Lucky, I boxed my Ladies arrangement up ready for this Morning or they would have had at that too. This is not the first time they have done this, you would think that I should have learnt that lesson. Promise to myself - Must do better.

If you haven't already guessed, I will put up with anything from my darling girls, just needed to put this out there to make me feel better.

Milk Pails

2011-03-17T05:05:00.000-07:00

Love her or Hate her, she gets it right. We love the simplicity of this vignette by Martha Stewart and her Team

Milk Pail Garden Pots

Old-fashioned enamel milk pails, available at flea markets and farm-supply stores, have a rustic charm. Place sword ferns (nephrolepis obliterata -Kimbery Queen) or similar plants in 10 inch pots inside large buckets (above); cnsider ferns in 4 - 8 inch pots for smaller pails. If the bucket is too deep, put an upturned plastic pot inside, and stand the plant on top. Remove plant to water.

Read more at Marthastewart.com: Milk Pail Garden Pots - Martha Stewart Home and Garden

Potterybarn - A Farmhouse Brunch

2011-03-15T17:52:00.000-07:00

Ever wondered what makes Potterybarn the go to name for everything stylish. Well its stuff like this.

Heres a link to their - How to Guide.

Follow this and you will present the event of the season - any season.

Effortless - I don't think so, but worth it Oh Yeah..

http://www.potterybarn.com/stylehouse/articles/how_to_throw_a_farmhouse_brunch_by_farmhouse_brunch.html

Safety Standard for Window Treatments

2011-03-15T15:52:00.000-07:00

One of our Suppliers sent us this information. We would like to share this with you. Please make sure that you are fully aware of the steps your Blind Supplier, Decorator or Designer is taking to ensure the safety of Children.

http://horizonshades.com/downloads/safetybooklet.pdf

On Sale from Restoration Hardware.

2011-03-14T23:17:00.000-07:00

Too Cool - These pillow are on sale. From Urban Loft to Casual Farmhouse, these pillows could be incorporated in to many styles. These photos are from Restoration Hardware. Definately not a formal look, but ecclectic and a bargain.

http://www.restorationhardware.com/

France Post Large Lumbar Tarp Pillow

Artfully pieced from cotton canvas that once covered open market stalls and delivery trucks in India, our handcrafted pillows are crisscrossed with rugged seams and textured with the patina of history. Artisan David Thompson collected these vintage tarps during his travels abroad over the past decade, envisioning them as exclusive, one-of-a-kind pillows.

New Silk Arrangements

2011-03-14T05:15:00.000-07:00

Our Sunday was mainly spent designing and constructing these four new arrangements. - 3 for our Store and one a commissioned piece for a design client.

This piece is a light natural design featuring dogwood blossom (our stash) and foliage from a local store called Main Street Primatives, in Salem Virginia, which specialized in silks stems - http://www.mainstreetprimitivesva.com/. worth a look. We collect quality stems, silks and containers from anywhere and everywhere. In order to keep our prices extremely low we purchase most of our supplies wholesale, but we are always on the hunt for that special bunch of fabulous to add to our stash. We believe that there is nothing worse than a cheap silk flowers and leaves.

We have a special apprecation for assorted mosses and foliage, this has become a little bit of a trademark for us, These finishing touches are all important. This arrangement shows the use of various mosses in a natural woven container offering a very spring like feel that can be used in any home decor design from very formal to very casual.

This piece is a little more formal but still natural and simple in design, a bit taller and slimmer, but suitable for many locations.

It should be said at this point that we are not florist and have no training. We have fallen into this wonderfully, satisfying activity in support of our design clients requests. In the past we always engaged the services of a professional florists, this worked for the most part, but increased the costs and the interpretion of our designs was not always exactly what we wanted. One day a client said "I want you to do it, you know me and my home, the florist is a stranger." We tried, produced 3 designs to fulfil her one requirement. She took all three. This client is highly qualified in floral designs as she is one of the main organizers of the Miss Virginia Pageant. A vote of confidence indeed.

This is a much larger design, bottom centered using tropicals as a basis. It still has a natural open feel, but is much more formal, suitable for a large garden room, entrance hall or sunroom. Scale, is always a main consideration for florals, See how this piece is overpowering the vignette to the right of the arrangement. It is so wrong for this space. Removing the blue vignette and moving this to the right on a diagonal and this would look a whole lot better. The use of mosses in this piece is a very obvious design feature. With such a large container, too much foliage would over power most rooms.

Finally, the commissioned piece. we always worry ourselves into a frenzy, when fulfilling our design clients requirements, we set ourselves very high standards in terms of contruction and design.

There was a quite specific size requirement for this room. A large dining room table in an open plan, tuscany inspired home, with vaulted ceiling and exposed beams. This is an all year round design with dogwood, black eyes susans and many different leaves and twigs. A little on the formal side, but still quite open, we are attempting for it to be casually sophisticated without being uptight. These clients are wonderful family guys and are definately not uptight.

Final words on Choosing your Decorator

2011-03-13T09:06:00.000-07:00

Installment 6

Working with an interior decorator can be a pleasant, rewarding and satisfying experience. If you do your homework beforehand and use the consultation time wisely, this should be a headache-free experience. You may enjoy it so much that, who knows, maybe you will do something with that guest room before your mother comes to visit.

http://www.decor-medley.com/ - A Classic Bath - A Little Tuscany

Type of Decorator or Designer. This sounds a little silly, but some decorators have a recognizable style that they provide for their clients and others are what I call interpretive.

If you want people to know who did your decorating you should check out the decorators and ask for their portfolio. Other decorators, like me, do not have a portfolio, as I do not take photos of my client’s homes. This is for a number of reasons, property security is one, but the main one I think, is that nothing I do should be recognized as mine. It should reflect the design and style of my clients. Nor do I give my clients name out as references. If they want to, they will tell others about my work. I am a facilitator, a project manager, a supplier manager, a hand holder, a sounding board; in short I prevent wasted money resulting from incorrect choices. This area of consideration is of the utmost importance and leads to the next subject.

Do I want a partner in design or a turnkey solution? I am a partner in design. I will only design a home or a room for a client once I get to know them and their personal style. Some clients will just want it done. There are decorators and design houses who specialize in the turnkey solution. If turnkey is what you want, for whatever reason, time, distance from the project etc., the homework is paramount. You have to love everything about what they have done for others, or just be willing to accept the results.

http://furniture4u.onsugar.com/

A very Modern Style living room

Lovely, but not so practical for most Folks.

Scope of Project. Some decorators don't consider themselves full service and like to do different elements of the work, whereas others, like us, like to do everything. Some would say that this is the difference between a Designer and a Decorator. I have not met the end of the scope of my work; I have been an event planner, a landscape designer and everywhere in between. I believe the true difference lies in whether or not the person has a degree in interior design and is a member of ASID. I do not; my formal educations and qualifications lie in Business Administration, Supplier Management, Project Management and Ergonomics. Whilst creative talent is all important, the ability to deliver a completed project is as important or even more important. I have been brought into a home only to find someone has done part of a job and left the home owner hanging, with unfinished work and unanswered phone calls. This gives us all a bad name. So be aware of what your decorator is willing to engage in and what he or she doesn't like to get into. My interior design company likes to call itself full service, in that we can get almost anything done, using our contacts, suppliers and contractors.

An English Garden Style Room, from http://www.joanbreen.com/

Finally, consider other things that might be important to you, this list is by no means all encompassing, take care in your choice, be prepared to listen if your decorator doesn't agree with you, be prepared to give and take a little. Be aware that things can, and often will go wrong, and it is how you and your decorator overcome it that matter. Plan to have a relationship with your decorator for many years. We have clients that have been with us since we arrived from the UK. Do we have a project running all the time, no, but when they call they have our full attention.

Hiring the Interior Decorator

2011-03-11T04:35:00.000-08:00

Installment 5

If, after you have considered all the above, you feel you are ready to start working with a particular decorator and trust them enough to make the right choices, you can start work. Oftentimes a contract will be entered into signed by both you and the decorator. This can only protect both the homeowner and the decorator; it should define the project details. In our business we do not usually contract for the services, unless it is commercial work, but we do contract for any deliverables, like draperies, flooring etc. as, with any custom work, once ordered there is no going back.

http://www.interiordesignreviews.com/

Pretty, but in my opinion over staged with too much furniture, but a useful image, in that there only a few accessoroes and the fabrics are wonderfuly coordinated.

Fees

Fees will vary quite widely depending on the interior decorator, the size and reputation of the firm and whether it's a residential or commercial only decorator.

Some of the basics are:

Hourly, rates this can vary from $35.00 to $400.00 per hour. Sometimes interior decorators will provide a free one-hour consultation, but after the first hour charges apply. That is why it is important for you to do your homework and use your time with the decorator well. Hourly rates can be misleading, as a more experienced decorator will work more efficiently than a beginner, also a busy decorator will not have the time to stretch your project out to make extra money.
Fixed or Flat Fee, may have a cap on the hours that are included within that fee. Consider what happens when those hours are spent, how will you proceed after that?
Cost Plus or percentage based billing. This is calculated anywhere between 15-35% above cost of all items and services purchased for the project and does not include delivery or sales tax. This can be useful if you want to make sure that your decorator is independent of all suppliers, but can run high when large cost items are purchased, such are flooring and tile.
Retail pricing, sometimes used for items purchased, as some stores do not discount to the trade. Usually used with an hourly rate for personal shopping. Some projects will require a combination of any of the above to achieve the best outcome.
Retainers. Some decorators like to receive a retainer. This can work to both parties advantage, if it works for you then go ahead, just be sure to know how often you will receive a time and materials statement. We usually leave this to the clients to decide on whether or not to go this route.

Choosing Your Decorator - What to expect

2011-03-10T05:39:00.000-08:00

Installment 4

To listen attentively and do a walkthrough of the project room

The ability to make the right product selections for your project in the most cost effective manner.

Are they are coming up with creative ideas and solutions for your project, are they seeing the things you know to be wrong, even though you haven't yet pointed them out?

Helping to create your color and design scheme by showing you fabric and paint samples, and suggesting solutions such as flooring. This is a good area for you to ascertain the scope of the decorator.

http://www.bedroomcolorschemes.org/

The attitude that this is your home and should reflect the style and personalities of the family living there, not the decorator's

A willingness to come out to your home to meet with you.

Suggestions as to how to improve a home's function by applying design principles of color, texture, balance, etc.

Do they shop around or are they affiliated with a store or specific suppliers? Do not assume that a decorator with a store will shop only from their own store; this is almost never the case. You need to feel that the decorator will do the research to find the best items for you.

Choosing Your Decorator - Style, Color and Accessories

2011-03-09T06:22:00.000-08:00

Installment 3

Style. I advise my clients not to spend a lot of money on decorating books. I would rather put that money to better use. After saying that, a couple of favorite magazines or home catalogs are useful. The photograph below is high style, with no clutter, but achieves an image of extreme warmth and comfort.

http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/

Color. When you hire an interior decorator you know that you will be getting color. The question becomes, what color? Be prepared to know what colors you like and dislike; this goes for the other members of your family as well

Accessories. It will be useful for you to let the decorator know which pieces and accessories are of personal importance to you, especially if given by a relative. If you have an heirloom of Aunt Martha's that must work with the decor, you should let the interior decorator know. Keep in mind that if you really don't like a piece your mother in law gave you, it can be consigned to a guest bedroom or chest. Blaming the decorator is always a useful excuse.

The Room. Be prepared to let the decorator know what the project room is going to be used for (unless it is obvious, like a kitchen or bathroom). Who will be using this room? What will be the function of the room be? The decorator may have ideas of a different use for a room. I have turned an unused formal living room into a large dining room and the dining room into a comfortable library. This was more useful for the client who liked to give formal dinners to a large group of friends. Let the decorator know what you are finding difficult to do in your home.

(From Detroit News, no reference to decorator or owner.)

Pets. If you have pets and they are not in evidence at the time of your consultation, let the decorator know. This will help in determining the type of fabrics or floor coverings used, especially if your pets normally have free range of your home.

Pictures. Pictures are always good to have on hand to indicate a style you like, as are furniture, fabric and colors.

DIY. If you want to cut down on the expense of some of the decorating, let the decorator know what you can and can't do. You can save yourself a lot of money, but consider timescales and cost effectiveness. You may be able to paint, but do not have much time and spending the time at work may earn you more that it would cost for a painter to do the work. So, be prepared to let someone else do things for you, it will be less stressful and your timescales will probably be shortened. Consider your needs. By all means do it yourself if you have the time.

Choosing your Decorator - Play Dates

2011-03-08T04:26:00.000-08:00

Installment 2

One good way to get to know your decorator is by what we call a play date. We get everything out and we go through a room or a whole house and we redistribute things in a different way. This can give a face lift to a home in a very short time.

http://creativedecoratingonabudget.blogspot.com/

A decorator can give you general advice over the phone, or at his or her store, but, it will never be as good as a home visit. If a decorator doesn't want to come to your home and see your needs, do not use them.

Things to note for when you meet with a potential decorator:

Is the decorator able to communicate with you?
Are they saying things you want to hear?
Do you think that they will listen to you?

http://designdazzle.blogspot.com/

Listening and hearing. When the decorator comes to your home for the consultation, you should be aware that they are both listening to you and hearing you. But let them do their job, too. When they make a recommendation that you may not agree with, hear them out and be willing to listen attentively and do a walkthrough of the project room.

Budget. This is important but it not the whole thing. Having an idea about what you want to spend is crucial, but oftentimes I have found that the client has a wildly inflated idea of what the cost could be, when, in reality, it is nowhere near as bad as the client thinks. For instance, I got a call from a lady with a drafty den. They were thinking window treatments would provide the solution. Well of course they would help, but new windows were needed. We did the treatments with the interlining etc., they look great but where more expensive than the replacement windows she thought would be cost probative (we did discuss this beforehand and she decided she wanted the window treatment as well as the new windows). Budgets can be adjusted up or down, but the decorator’s hourly rate will stay the same.

Ferns, Foliage and Silk Arrangements

2011-03-07T04:56:00.000-08:00

You only need to visit our store to see that this years is becoming one of the biggest Fern, Foliage and Silk Arrangements year of the century. That is probably a huge exaggeration, as they have never been far from my mind as a decorator or the shelves and surfaces of families across the World. But, don't take my word for it, take another look at those fine quality decorator catolgues coming through your mail box, Ballards, Pottery Barn and more.

What I call 'Natures Neutrals' are here to stay

. These Decorative Jars are from http://www.potterybarn.com/

There is a new emphasis on the Spring with light, natural looks to fit any decor. More formal and sophisicated silks are by no means out of the picture and can be mixed with the ferns and foliage, very easily.

Scale is always an issue. Choose the most appropriate size and shape for the area you need to enhance. Not sure? Call in at our store or a similar one in your area, and ask the docorator, taking advantage of design centers that let you take items out on approval. Of course, we now have the added benefits which come with the new plant displays being artifical, we do not have to worry about watering, dying, looking shabby, lighting etc.

http://shop.tradingplacesinteriors.com/Silk-Foliage-Plant-Arrangement-of-Western-Fern-Green-Ivy_p_10.html

Don't worry too much about the color, as these greens will go with anything. Do think about the style and shape of the container, it should be in keeping with your own decor themes. With the major advancements in the quality of silks and artifical stems, we can now have a touch of nature anywhere we want it. There are ferns and foliage pots and arrangements at the store in all sizes and shapes, from mini ivys in 1, 1/2inch pots to large statement pieces. If you don't find what you need, talk to your decorator about having one made, custom work does not usually cost as much as you think it will.

http://www.sweethomeantiques.com/Sweet_Home_Antiques_WOBV.html

Choosing Your Decorator - First Things First

2011-03-07T04:13:00.000-08:00

Installement 1. First things First.

Thinking you might need a little help? Would like to hire a decorator, but don't know what to expect?

Making sure that you have the right person to help is all important. The availability of merchandise today is much greater than at any other time in history, there so much out there and price is not always an indicator of quality. The same can be said about decorators. I hate to say it, but some folks will set themselves up as a decorator without knowing what they are getting into, after saying that, some of these people have natural talent and the ability to learn fast, they will be great decorators. If you want to try someone you suspect to be a newbie, go with it, making sure that you are very involved in the process and on top of your own budget. For this you will need to have time to be a design partner, the process can be pretty satisfying.

If you are considering using the services of an interior decorator, you do have to do a little homework. Think about what you're expecting from the decorator regarding the project and what you want the decorator to do for you. Knowing how to communicate and work with your decorator can take a little time to work out. The main thing is knowing when and how to let the decorator do their work. There is no point paying for someone if you are going to ignore everything they say or feel annoyed when they tell you that something will not work. Working with a decorator will be the subject of a later blog

This beautiful vignette is from http://www.songbirdisnesting.com/. The writter of this blog is Dutch, but her designs touch everyone.

Installement 2 of Choosing your Decorator will follow tomorrow

Wonderful Composition

2011-03-06T02:39:00.000-08:00

This is wonderful composition area, found on http://www.facebook.com/brightboldbeautiful. He has some wonderful pictures illustrating excellent use of mirrors. Be careful with the obvious safety issues on this one, but it couldn't be prettier. Using a splash of gentle color, this vignette, brings a level of french style and comfortable, sophistication to a high ceilinged room. This may touch on some of the principles of Shabby Chic design techniques, but this is a look many would enjoy. The level of quality is there, in the antiques, the upholstry and the Fabrics. Definately not so shabby.

Decorate for less

2011-03-04T04:24:00.000-08:00

Just a short blog, this morning, there is a 4 part blog about choosing a decorator coming soon.

During an almost failed Saturday afternoon of gallery viewing, punctuated by the occassional glass of wine, we found ourselves in Roanoke,Va, towncenter store, Chocolate Paper. A space full of treasures in the form of whimsical little gifts and chocolate, lots of chocolate, great customer service from the staff at this store. Last Saturdays mostly disastrous outing is detailed in our Art Blog http://www.swvaartists.com/. . We held back on the vitriol, but I think you will get the picture. Back to Chocolate Paper, they sell greetings card and wrapping paper, good wrapping paper. We selected two sheets, can't remember whether they were $3.99 or $6.99 each. Images were a postcard of the Eiffel Tower and an old map of Italy. With a little careful trimming, some discounted frames from Michael's (coupons used, of course) we have two 20" x 30" framed pieces of Artwork. Substantial pieces for the cost. Using a professional framing company is always better, but for the price this works.

We will have them for sale in the shop by next week - Plantagenet Rose Interiors - at $78 each (a modest markup). They look great and this is a quick and easy project for anyone out there that needs to spruce up a wall on a budget. My favorite design principles were used; Simplicity, simple black frames, very little mounting and Repetition in both frame and theme. We should have photos by this evening. This is a great project to try at home, it will take about an hour to complete. Store website is http://www.plantagenetrose.com/

Green – Natures Neutral

2011-03-03T05:18:00.000-08:00

And by Green we mean the color Green. I have had more than one client tell me, that they do not like green when decorating, but had huge windows featuring many trees and shrubs on the outside. Green flooding in from all sides. But, thats different they would say . 'That's Nature'. And so it is, and Wow, you gotta love it.

I often refer to the color Green as Natures Neutral hence the title of this blog. Green will find it's way into any room, without any deliberate action taken by a decorator or homeowner. A bunch of fresh flowers – green coming in, a house plant – green coming in. A silk arrangement – greens.

And pink, too in this arrangement, available at Plantagenet Rose, Roanoke, Va . 24018.

http://www.plantagenetrose.com/

The Green Room

This room is from Gaita Interiors NY. A very strong design, but one that really illustrate how Green can be both current and classic. Many modern elements combine the old and with the new. This brave, strong green works, mainly because of the high ceilings and large scale furniture and a good illustration of a a subject touched on in a earlier blog, simplicity and repetition and scale. Two coffee tables, one would not fit the scale, Gold on the tables and repeated on the ceiling and elsewhere, four piles of books etc... But the green is strong and dynamic and striking, work here, but would not work for many.

gaitainteriors.com/blog/

Softer hues are often the way to go. From pale sage greens to vibrant, lime greens. Look around outside and you'll see every shade of green imaginable. If it works in Nature, as a rule it will work inside.

This room is by April Force Pardoe owner of AFP Interiors – http://www.afpinteriors.com/

The softer yellow green on the walls of this den work well with white wood work, furnishings, wood floors and natural fiber rug. Black appears in most good room design, here teamed with orange as an accent. This can be a very young look, so be careful using yellow greens they can be very difficult and can often whimsy and fun, in a Pier One way, great if that's what you are aiming for. This room works well, as it is uncluttered and uses a few sophisticated pieces. Its very easy to add too many elements to a room. Many times, a decoration will have to gently and tactfully remove things to improve a clients room.

Green as Accents

I flash of bright green mixed with bronzes and muted green works so well as a composition. Think vignettes when decorating, groupings of items, teamed with an abundance of texture, softness and hard edges can work, Stay on point with your personal design focus, but try and add a contemporary piece in here and there. Greens, will almost always work, in accessories, if not in paint.

This image from Accents of Salado, http://www.accentsofsalado.com/

If you feel that you need a little help, use stores that have resident Designers or decorators, they will often times allow overnight approval services on accessories and will help create a vignette for you in the store, without risk. Try taking an hour or two of consultation in the form of a home visit this can save you more money in the long run, as it will direct where you spend your money and stop you wasting time on things that won't work. Don't be uncomfortable about doing this, you do not need to be stuck with high uncontrollable bills, when using a decorator. Choose the ones you feel understands your requirement and be clear on what services you need, but stay open to their advice. Choosing your decorator and letting them do their job will be subject of a future blog.

Modern Window Treatments

2011-03-02T13:51:00.000-08:00

Ideas

Modern interior decorating is the one main themes of the moment. It can fit into almost any design style. It's minimalism , sleek lines and basic concepts can give it the appearance of high end without a high price. We like it to look clean and simple with great fabrics, often in solid colors, the emphasis being on textures. Thus, spending the most money on the fabric and not on complex, fabrication labor charges. With modern patterns, your home will look fresh, light and airy. These are few ways to make your window treatment patterns reflect a modern style.

Curtains

Modern curtains should have straight lines, great construction and sometimes fabulously solid rods. offering balance and symmetry. Using solid fabrics, such as ultra suedes or the new velvets make for a strong look. To add shine and reflection to the room, choose a satin or silk as an alternative. Using Faux silks can extend the life of your drapes by as much as 10years. These days faux silk is not a cheaper option and it is almost impossible to tell the difference. Keeping your curtains within the same color palette as the walls, will give a calm impression avioding visual noise. All treatments should be aleast in the same theme, nothing should stand out in Modern design, unless it meant too, as in the Retro themed room..

Minimalism

Minimalistic themes are common for modern designs, mainly due to the simplicity of the designs and strength of line. Shades made of Natural Fubers add a natural feel to the space, are on the inexpensive side, but please be sure to go custom, its always better, trust us you will see the difference. Natural fiber roman shades add texture and light diffusion without overwhelming the room. Roman shades and roller blinds can always made out of fabric, offering an alternative to metal venetians. Privacy and blackout linings can be added as an option.

Colors

Modern design have contemporary and retro elements, the choice is yours. The colors play a large part in the overall effect. Contemporary style often use neutral textural fabrics. Retro design often have bold color and large patterns providing contrast on neutral walls. Basically contemporary designs will blend in and stick to a soft, color palette, such as beige or soft blues, retro will shout out I am here.

Hanging

Modern window treatment very much depends on how you hang them. Often a traditional rods, or a space-consuming valance is unnecessary. Less is always more. Removing a valance will always simplify any window treatment. If you have this combination, try the treatment without the topper, visualise re-hanging the drapes on a decorative rod. If it works it will save you a fortune. Cable systems adds an industrial feel. This is done by extending a cable from one bracket to the next, attaching the curtains to the cable with metal clasps. Using clip-on rings, will help add length to your window treatment; large metal rings will allow your curtains to easily open and close, always consider your technical requirements when choosing your treatments