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Posts Tagged ‘Roman Shades’

color blocking kitchen cabinets pexels for curtis lumberAs we lean closer to closing out 2017 and look forward to welcoming 2018, the cliche’ that a house is never finished comes to mind. The trick is to find a way to put it all together so it feels complete.

 

Painted Cabinetry 

While open floor plans are still working in most new builds, I’ve definitely witnessed the coming and going of many trends and period styles from English Country to Midcentury Modern. But I feel we’re post trend now. I think current design allows us the freedom to incorporate history in an unfussy contemporary way. When choosing kitchen cabinets, the easiest way to accomplish this is to mix finishes. Choose a lighter color for the perimeter cabinets and another darker color for your center island. Your eye is naturally drawn to the darker cabinet finish, while the lighter shade cabinets against the walls will make the room appear larger.

merillat maple mist

Always in-style are painted white cabinets, they have dominated kitchen design for easily the last 5 to 10 years.  Many homeowners considered it to be an easy choice.  White kitchen cabinets have a certain timeless quality and always brighten up the space. As a neutral color, white cabinets also played equally well with cooler walls. And while we will never see painted white cabinets go out of style, a couple of new color trends have started to pick up steam in 2017.

Merilatte Shale

First, we have started to see a slight shift away from white, and moving toward gray.  Gray shares many of the properties that people love about white, but in a slightly more subdued tone.  While lighter shades of gray will never brighten up kitchen in the same way that white cabinets do, many come close, like Merillat Classic LaBelle in Maple Shale.  As a naturally neutral color, gray will also look good alongside warm or cool accent colors.

merliatt urban industrial

In the past few years we’ve seen former warehouse carts being cleanup and re-purposed as coffee tables across suburbia.  Just like other rooms of the home, more and more elements of both traditional and industrial design will enter the home kitchens space.  A coming together of the best of both worlds!  We’re already seeing this trend of traditional shaker cabinetry, being topped with concrete counters, combined with a farm sinks, and topped off with a tall, goose-neck faucet that would be at home in any kitchen…Elements like brick along with wrought iron stools help accomplish this industrial look, while the Merillat cabinetry: Sutton Cliffs in Hickory gives this kitchen elements of traditional style.

Talk with a kitchen and bath designer about how to create a unique space in your home! What styles have you seen start to emerge this year, or which do you think will start to really take off in 2018?  Tell us in the comments!

 

As always stay tuned for more Adventures in Styleland…

 

XOXO

Michele Conti

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As a designer I must admit I am addicted to design trends and 2017 is quickly approaching.. I think now is a great time to start exploring what trends are already shining through:

color-trends-2017-deep-grey

Organic color pallets – Muted, blues and greys still shining, with more organic and natural influences this years pallet will have deep greens, deeper greys and steel blues. There Back…..Deeper Jewel Tones! Deep colors are the best way to kick up a traditional space.

Archiexpo

Cork – As a designer I am very attracted to natural texture. Cork does double duty. It creates warmth in rooms while adding texture. To add another excellent element to this already shinning star, cork absorbs noise in our increasingly open and larger homes. In a home office or luxurious bedroom this trend is often a overlooked design element. Cork brings a unique story to any part of your home. The natural but soft texture of cork complements every style.

home-bar-1Home Bars – This latest home trend raises the bar on what was once considered only for the uber wealthy. Home bars are now becoming the norm.  At the end of a tough day at work, coming home and popping open a beer or decanting a glass of wine is a great way to unwind, but there’s just something special about making a cocktail at the bar.

mid-century-meets-traditional

Vintage goes Modern – In design, what goes around comes around. … start heading on over to your local vintage furniture store now to grab some great finds. Burled wood of the art deco period, classic campaign furniture and other vintage looks were front and center at High Point again this fall. Historic pieces and mid century modern are still going strong.

beautiful-bedroom-ideas-upholstered-headboards

Upholstered headboards – Expect more of this glamorous look, with luxurious fabrics and tufted bed heads. This trend is very versatile, and fits into any room. Nail head’s to tufted buttons, upholstered headboards are an instant way to update your boudoir. Tailored lovely and very desirable!

terracotta-bordered-tile

Terracotta – The color is already prominent in fashion trend this fall, but this is not your mamas tile! Tiles with a matte finish are used on feature walls and fireplaces. The tiles are bordered and in uniquely warmer hues with added texture.

With only a few months left in 2016, trends in 2017 for your home are already arising! Forecasters and designers are rolling in with the newest and hottest trends for your luxury home. So if you’re thinking about or already renovating or building your own luxury home, these are some trends to look out for. Come visit me at the Home Expo for your renovation projects, let the pro’s help you, stop in and see me for some inspiration! in booth 328.  We have a variety of experts on hand to talk to, so bring your ideas and let them help you complete your list.

Stay tuned as always for more Adventures in Styleland…

 

XOXO

M

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dishwasher-ad-dishgruntled

 

 

josephine-cochranIn 1886, Josephine Cochran invented the first dishwasher, effectively bringing peace to a country torn by Civil War. Unfortunately Josephine would never see how innovative her dishwasher was because it wasn’t until the 1950″s that dishwashers became a standard kitchen appliance to the delight of housewives everywhere.

 

dishwasher-ad

 

Loading to Liftoff…

017_13J_dishwasher graphicTo achieve a cleaner outcome, start with how you pack the dishwasher. Dishes should face toward the middle of the unit, and bowls and cups should face down to make the most efficient use of the sprayer. Your glasses should go between the tines, not over, otherwise they could break. Pre-sort your silverware to make unloading that much easier.

 

Lastly, scrape plates before loading, and don’t bother rinsing detergents are designed to attack stuck-on grime, and will make your glasses cloudy if there is no food to attack. Dishwashers are designed to catch food, most models have their own food dispenser. Rinsing can waste both water and time. DO NOT over pack the dishwasher otherwise you might have to re-run the cycle!

Blast Off To The Stars!

Investing in an Energy Star certified dishwashers can save water, energy, and ease your utility bills. Energy Star dishwashers cap out at 5.8 gallons per cycle and only use half the electricity of the older models. As a comparison,  running your faucet for one minute uses about 1 gallon of water along with the electricity to heat it.

Bells and Whistles!

 

minion

 

There are a few tips and tricks that can make your dishwasher habits even easier. For instance, use a magnet to mark whether the dishwasher’s contents are dirty or clean, so your minions know when its time to unload. Unload the bottom rack first otherwise the water from the top rack could splash on your sparkly clean bottom dishes as you unload.

 

 

Do you know all the items that you can clean in your dishwasher-clean-itemsdishwasher, click on this link for POP SUGAR to see 30 everyday things from your greasy range fan filter to contact cases. Keep your dishwasher fresh by tossing a cup of white vinegar into the bottom of the empty unit and run a normal cycle. Lastly, don’t forget to clean the dishwasher seals and trap every once in a while.

With these tips and tricks, you can speed up the time you spend doing dishes, and save money in the process!

Stay Tuned for more Adventures in Styleland..

XOXO

M

 

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In honour of mothers on their special day, I asked myself what decorating secrets did I learn from my Mom…

mom carol and I

She made our home beautiful, chic and inspiring while juggling both a full-time job and being a mother. I learned about fabrics and sewing from my mom. She was an extraordinary seamstress. When I was little, I loved going to the fabric store with her — it was a world of imagination and creativity. She taught me to appreciate quality, natural fibers like wools, silks and fine cotton. Now working with fabrics is one of my favorite parts of decorating.

Another important lesson she taught me,  never to buy what I don’t need: a bargain is only a bargain if it’s something important. I also learned all about color selection and furniture arranging from her. We lived in Brooklyn NY in a 6 room apartment, she always kept it fresh, ever changing.. and I firmly believe that had this wonderful woman been any less interested in our family home as I grew up, I might not be where I am today.

My mother taught me that it’s important to develop personal style,  buy the best quality you can afford and mix family pieces, antiques and comfortable upholstered furniture– eat in the dining room, use your china or better dishes on Sundays.. I learned to respect our home and everything within it, including my mother.

My mom used to rearrange the furniture a lot — it’s surprising how furnishings can look completely new when viewed from a different angle or in a different room. She also taught me that every window looks empty and cold unless softened by a window treatment, she changed hers often.

She was never afraid of bold patterns, I remember her sewing room or the SPARE ROOM, we had large orange and yellow wall paper, and smaller floral wall paper on the ceiling.. It was cutting edge at the time..

When I was little, my mother always dressed — she was glammed up even when cleaning the house. From her, I learned to dress and decorate with the intent to be gorgeous, having no fear of color.

I will end here with a couple of ideas for what to do for your mom..

Source and pay for a house cleaning service for a few months. A house cleaning every two weeks, I’m sure all moms would appreciate the break. That being said, do not buy her a vacuum, cleaning supplies, or tools unless she specifically asks for them. I’m looking at you Dad.

Brunch was always a favorite of mine.. I loved to go to a special Italian place locally that served cured meats..fresh fruits..baked delights and my family would all laugh and enjoy the meal together…

table scape

Spend time, yes…time… take the day and pull out pictures, family vacations reminisce with her, make cookies sit and have a cup of coffee.. Love her and let her know that she is the most important women in your life.

Mom and Dad

 

Miss you Mother Theresa…All my love

 

XOXO

 

M

 

 

 

 

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1024x1042From our home to yours… Have yourself a Merry Christmas.. See The article on our home in 518LIFE

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Times Union Home Expo Banner

 

Home Expo 2015

Building a new home? Remodeling a room in your home? Well this year we have so much in store for you. Meet Jason Cameron February 8th, from the DIY Network. Watch our website for additional information on shows and events. My name is Michele Conti I am a local Designer/Blogger in the Albany Area! I will be here for the next few weeks, sharing information about the home expo, giving you DIY ideas and little blurbs about some of the Vendors and shows that the exhibitors will schedule during the expo. Check out our link on Times Union Home Expo. Below is a quick and easy DIY project for you… With a little help from Behr Paints available at Lowes located in the Times Union Center booth 284-285 this crafty idea was a breeze!!

Couch Seating DIY

Check out the Times Union Home Expo 2015 Web site and read my blog everyday now thru February 6th for great info and DIY projects!!

Chat with you soon!!!! Stay Tuned for more project information!

 

M

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It’s Furniture Friday!!!! I wanted to share this great find with you. I was in Buffalo NY visiting family.  One of my favorite haunts there is the Salvation Army at 252 S Cascade Dr, Springville, NY 14141. I always stop there. They seem to have a treasure for someone I’m currently working with.  Well on this Adventure in Styleland I found these:

Fabulous Find

Fabulous Find

My Goal was to transform them into the Louis the XV Salon chairs that I found on Ballard Design. Two of these beauties for only $10 how could you beat that! And so the project begins, here is a quick picture tutorial it took about a week to do both chairs.

 

Louis the IV Chair

Louis the IV Chair

 

Although these chairs retail for $700, the thrift store chairs look amazingly similar, almost exact same frame…

Removing the cording

Removing the cording

 

 

You can see the thousand staples used to attach the cording, this is only the beginning oy vey!! When asking Gabe to help with pulling the staples, he took pity on me, and I thought OK Green Light!!!  When my husband agrees to a project in our home (and by that I mean agrees to open his heart and sometimes his wallet to help me ), I act quickly.

Experience has taught me that green lights all too quickly turn yellow. Then, before you know it, there’s a big, fat red light staring at you through the windshield of your dreams.
When that happens, you are left with two choices… delays or apologies.  Trust me, it’s best to act while the light is green. Get Help when it’s offered!!!

IMG_0017

 

The fabric had just as many staples as the cording,  I will admit that by this time my fingers were a tad sore. The fabric came off quickly with Gabe’s strong hands… and before you know it we were down to the frame working together..

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Finally!!!! all the staples out and it was time for spray paint!!

 

The spay paint that I used was Satin Black from Rust-Oleum.

Black Spray paint for Ballard Chair Makeover

I spayed the frames with two coats and let them dry for a day before I began to start covering them, this also gave my hands a break, because at this point I was on my own, and was determined to finish these by the end of the week!

I decided to use drop clothes to cover these chairs,   I’ve always wanted to use drop cloths as a slipcover (from Martha Stewart’s magazine years ago). This was my opportunity, here is the what I used:

10 oz. drop cloth

10 oz. drop cloth

I washed and press the drop cloth first.  I used the old fabric we removed from the chair to create a pattern for the seat and back.

 

 

IMG_0113Stapling the fabric was a little tricky, I needed to pull it tight and staple it as I went, this didn’t always go smoothly, I had to remove some staples a couple of times because the fabric would pucker, but after you get a rhythm going, it goes along quickly. I did sew the fabric cording, and decided to use a black gimp on the arm pads.

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Here is the finished product (pictures are not professional). This was an easy project total cost was about $60! What do you think??

 

IMG_1753

 

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Here is a picture of the living room where the chairs reside now,  complete with our Chocolate Lab Chino to compliment the brown in the room! Another project done!!

 

Stayed tuned for move Adventures in Styleland!!

 

XOXO

 

M

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This little video was made by Gabe and I (The Designer Extraordinaire) for a client who needed instructions on hanging a Roman Shade on her transom window. We used a sample shade I had, to show how to fasten a valance board with EZ Rig headrail as an inside mount. We enjoyed making the video and laughed afterwards at how armature it looked.

I have family in from Australia and thanks to our cousin Karla, who helped me create a YouTube account, we have published it! Here is the link to the video. Watch, Laugh and leave feedback on if this is helpful!!

I’m Back!! Designing, decorating and Creating New Adventures in Styleland! Stay tuned for Road trips with Denise Maurer and Wednesday’s with Betsy at DMI. We are designing Women who together are not only tackle the design world, but have fun filled journeys along the way….

My daughter Rosaria and I just died laughing again, as she watched her father making this instructional video, he calls the valance board a HEADBOARD, drops the screw, we notice his bald spot…. OMG like I said HYSTERICAL…!!!

As always stay tuned for more adventures in Styleland

XOXO

M

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Spring is just around the corner, and one of the best ways to celebrate the season of new beginnings is to mix some of today’s fresh new fabrics into home decor. If you’re sad to see prints like the lattice, trellis and chevron start to lose traction, never fear. Many of these designs are still around, but with a twist. And other clean, bold styles are emerging. Below we spotlight some fabric patterns that are back in style. They are “new” in the sense that they are causing a stir this season, but you’ve definitely seen them (or some version of them) before. Check them out!

Ikat

Ikat Fabric designs unite centuries-old modes of craftsmanship with many gorgeously suffused palettes. Ikat literally translates as ‘to bind,’ hinting at the intricate processes involved in its making.

New Ikat Patterns

New Ikat Patterns

The ikat pattern takes the traditional chevron and gives it a little blur, ikat style. This is such a stylish and current design decor. The soft shades of gray with just a hint of yellow make it a perfect neutral choice. Chevron pulses with youthful energy. Perhaps that’s why it’s so popular with customers in their 20s and 30s. It’s fun to see their faces light up when they walk into stores and see fireball chairs.

If you’re closer to my age, chances are when you see chevrons you are reminded of the flame-stitch patterns that were so popular back in the day. Believe me, today’s chevrons are not like those kooky patterns in your mom’s living room. Done in turquoise, coral and emerald, they look brand-new. I love a chevron mixed in with more traditional fabrics in pillow arrangements, whether on a sofa or bed, to give the overall look more zip.

 

Ikat Chevron Pattern

Ikat Chevron Pattern

Carole Fabrics

Carole Fabrics

This Carole Fabric has been so popular, the citrine and blue together are exquisite! This fabric would make a great window seat!

Honeycomb

A honeycomb resurgence has been in the works on for the last few years, but recently designs have shifted away from heavily outlined prints and toward more natural, modern renditions. The Honeycomb Crewel Pillow Cover from West Elm, shown below, features a raised textural surface and an elongated design.

Honeycomb Pattern

Honeycomb Pattern

These patterns geometric in design are more classic with a modern twist!

Honeycomb

I love not only the honeycomb pattern but the color combination used on this distinctive light shade! Imagine building a room’s colors around this palette. Learn more at Shades of Light

Honeycomb Light Shade

Honeycomb Light Shade

 

Trellis

The Imperial Trellis pattern is nothing new but it has been making a big statement in interiors lately.  I must say, I think I am falling in love!

Imperial Trellis Schumacher

Imperial Trellis Schumacher

It is everywhere from upholstery, drapery, accessories and even wall paper. I am loving this dining room below.  The trellis pattern can be a bit busy as with any pattern, but this design was executed perfectly!  It is balanced with the white color palette and simple forms in the space.  There are so many traditional elements in this space yet it has a clean modern feel, my favorite!

trellis1                                                                                               Kelly Wearstler’s trellis is one of the most popular here are a few other favorites.

Fioretto Graphite

Fioretto Graphite

 

Dura Lee Covington

Dura Lee Covington

This great pattern is a Relaxed Roman on my Etsy Store!

 

 

Lattice

I must say that Trellis and Lattice are almost one in the same, but today’s designers have given yesterday’s lattice patterns a modern vibe. Even though the new look in lattice motifs is big and bold, this reinterpreted classic is really pretty quiet, so it works well mixed in with fabrics that are stronger, brighter and busier.

 

Lattice Chairs

Lattice Chairs

My favorite way to use lattice fabrics right now is on side chairs. They create an interesting backdrop for a host of fun decorative treatments in a room.

JeannieBottleTeal

Lattices also are ideal for layering, whether you’re pulling together window treatments or a grouping of accent pillows on a bedding ensemble that is as perky as a cup of morning coffee.

Carole Fabric

Carole Fabric

Lattice panels and pillows

Lattice panels and pillows

 

 

Lattice or Trellis??

Lattice or Trellis??

 

Scales

Sometimes mod, sometimes purely modern, the fish scale pattern can be traced back through a variety of decades, sporting an equal variety of looks. In this decade, the print has re-emerged on pillows, rugs and bedding, such as the Coral Lamu Duvet from Serena & Lily:

Fish Scale Design

Fish Scale Design

The pattern also comes in shades of brown and coral, making a striking statement as bedding, especially when paired with an upholstered headboard. The Chocolate and Coral Fish Scale Euro Shams can be seen in the images that follow. While the pattern is advertised as sporting a bohemian style, the curves of the print can veer into Art Deco territory with the right accessories.

Fish Scale

Fish Scale

 

 

If you’re a true Hollywood Regency enthusiast who appreciates a clean-lined geometric pattern, you’ll love the Scales Pillows in Citron and Teal, Fabric from Spoon Flower. These Down filled pillows would make a statement in any room!

Spoon Flower Fabric

Spoon Flower Fabric

 

What do you think of these “new” fabric patterns? It’s nice to change things up, right?! Trends are clearly leaning toward the tribal. If tribal style is a reaction to crisp, clean-lined patterns, then what could be next? Another celebration of defined, outlined prints? Hope you enjoyed this take on patterns…

 

As always, stay tuned for more Adventures in Styleland!!!

 

XOXO

 

M

 

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The Interior Designers that I have had the pleasure of working with approach their work with enthusiasm and discrimination, seeking out fine craftsmen, choice shops and journeying to inspiring destinations just to feed their aesthetic appetites (and sometimes find and item of choice for their clients). Always searching with a keen eye, as they see what becomes part of their design plan, shaping the structures and spaces they devise.

Observations and obsessions lead us as we travel. Wherever we are design is always on our mind. We take inspiration from public places looking at the use of mill work, tile, architecture and substrates that we are exposed to. Hotels are one of my favorite places for inspiration, from the flooring to lighting, so much to take in. Color, texture and of course the architecture of some of the most spectacular buildings. The Waldorf Astoria has to be one of my favorites (I’m a New York City girl).

Waldorf Astoria

Waldorf Astoria

I remember looking into the entry to see this great sight!! I was a little girl and still could see the Waldorf’s opulence and ingenuity in design.

 

Waldorf Astoria 1

Whenever I travel I seek out every building I’ve heard or read about. Always looking for Architecture,  local Artists and Interior Designers that have their works available to the public, whether they are minimalist or collectors of fine furnishing you can usually see their inspiration in their work. As William T Georgis has said ” I go to London for eccentricity, Los Angeles for Clarity, and Paris for Paris.”

bunny_headshot

Bunny Williams says “Inspiration can come from many places. Attend a lecture given by someone you admire. Go on local house or garden tours. Watch Ina Garten on the Food Network. Subscribe to magazines; I can not wait for mine to arrive each month. Buy as many books as you can-a library is always a great source of inspiration.  And travel, travel, travel; the world offers so many treasures.”

 

 

As for me I get a healthy dose of inspiration every Wednesday.  I mentor with Denise Maurer of Maurer Interiors. Denise Maurer  is a talented interior designer who shares a strategy of success as well as her secrets for great design. I’ve been invited several times to accompany her on various projects, to watch and learn. She’s always so generous with my endless question . I enjoy being in her office when the phone rings so I can just listen to her talk to potential clients. It’s always an education, from handling paper work to the latest software for design, this is my go to place for inspiration! I have been very fortunate to find such generous woman to mentor me. She gives me her time, knowledge, and energy and I have been very blessed to know her. Here is some of her work:

 

Showhouse Kitchen

Showhouse Kitchen

 

MaurerLR_jpg_w560h695

 

Where can you find inspiration? Begin your search for the perfect pieces by starting in your home. What do you cherish the most? Inspiration for decorating your home may come from something you already have: a cherished piece of artwork or maybe some beautiful china.  Perhaps a favorite piece of upholstery fabric can reveal your colour palette preferences as well as your taste for either formal or casual styles.

Whatever your style preference, be creative, let your inspiration move you. As always stay tuned….

 

XOXO

 

M

 

 

 

 

 

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