Debbie Jacobs

An Interior Design walk on the Wild Side!

2012-02-28T18:24:00.000-08:00

Do you want to take a walk on the wild side with your decor? Seems like I am seeing a large use of zebra patterns in the design world right now.

When I was a little girl, my parents took me to South Carolina to visit with some friends. I remember being totally fascinated with their home. It was very modern, but what really got my attention was the zebra rug. Remembering that house now, it would fit right in with todays design style.

Zebra Rugs can be used in a variety of styles from very traditional, eclectic or contemporary.

Zebra rugs are often used on bare floors and sometimes they are used as accents on top of larger sisal or sea grass carpets/rugs.

Zebra patterns are not just for floors either.

wallpaper

Zebras come in colors too!

Here are some fun facts about Zebras:

Each zebra has its unique stripe pattern—like human fingerprints.

• Zebras take dust or mud baths to get clean. They shake the dirt off to get rid of loose hair and flaky skin. What's left protects them from sun, wind, and insects.

• Zebras have their own “smile”—a bared-teeth grimace that is a greeting and helps prevent aggression.

• Zebras are attracted to black-and-white stripes. Even if stripes are painted on a wall, a zebra will tend to go stand next to it!

• A zebra's eyesight at night is thought to be about as good as that of a cat or an owl.

Are you ready to take a walk on the wild side?

Source: Pinterest, Style at Home, Conspicous Style, Design Chic, Classic Chic Home, Eclectic Revisited

The Colors of Mardi Gras!

2012-02-20T15:50:00.002-08:00

We celebrate Mardi Gras this year on February 21st. It is a time of parades, beads, masks and costumes and festivities.

Mardi Gras marks the last day of the Carnival season, a period of rich feasting and frivolity which follows Epiphany and is the day before Ash Wednesday when Lent begins. It’s a floating holiday and the date of Mardi Gras varies slightly because it must fall 47 days before Easter Sunday.

Mardi Gras celebrations have their origins in the ancient Roman festival, Lupercalia. It is considered the last great indulgence before the 40-day fasting period of Lent.

Mardi Gras is French for “Fat Tuesday.” Fat Tuesday started back in 1857. Then in 1872, some business men invented a King of the Carnival named "Rex." Rex is chosen each year by the School of Design in New Orleans.

The first Mardi Gras parade in the United States was in 1837. The first “throw” (beads or small trinkets) happened in 1871 when a krewe member dressed up as Santa Claus and tossed gifts to parade revelers. (Krewe is a non-profit organization or club participating in a parade.)

It was the first Rex that selected the colors of Mardi Gras and the significance they hold. The colors of purple, gold, and green have their roots in political and religious arenas. Purple stands for justice, green for faith, and gold for power.

You might want to think about how you could use the colors of Mardi Gras in your home!

Here are some pictures to spark your imagination on how you might go about it! A little pop of purple, gold and green or an entire room the choice is yours!

Celebrate Good Times

Source: Blue Mountain, Pinterest

Maison & Objet or "I love Paris!"

2012-02-08T17:52:00.000-08:00

I love Paris in the Springtime....

but the design world loves Paris in January. In fact this year Paris in January on the 20th - 24th was the place to be for Maison & Object.

For those who do not live and breathe design, this is where you find the newest and best of Design, home-fashion, objects, tableware…anything and everything for the home. This is where the trends start and this year everywhere you looked were distressed old wood, bright colors, faded patchwork rugs, white lacquer, brass and chrome, tufting, nail heads, taxidermy, skins and fur, horn, lucite and lots of leather! This year the displays were incredible. There was plenty of eye candy for everyone to indulge in, so much that I can not begin to show you all the photos that are floating around the Internet! But I will try to give you an idea of what is coming our way!

Did I say the displays were a bit unusual and over the top?

Something for everyone!

Keep your eye out and see how these are interpreted when they hit

the states in the future!

sources: Jody Seivert, Patricia Gray, Elements of Style, Design Mixer, Confessions of a Design Geek, Vladimir Kagan and Dwell

Designs that are... Born in the USA!

2012-02-02T18:37:00.000-08:00

I will give you a minute to get the image of Bruce Springsteen out of your head! I am talking about furniture, fabrics, wallpaper and accessories that are USA created. Back in October there was a big hype at the High Point Fall Market about the rebirth of "Made in the USA." This emerging trend carried on into the January Market at the Americasmart in Atlanta.

Over the course of several years the American furniture industry has gone from making ‘world class’ products to shutting down plants and outsourcing hundreds of thousands of manufacturing jobs overseas . A new study from the Economic Policy Institute found that America has lost 2.8 million jobs to China in recent years because of failed trade policies.

But America is open for business again, so lets take a look at some of the companies that carry the Born in the USA label!

Lee Industries: History of Lee Industries

Hickory Chair Company: History of Hickory Chair

Stickley Furniture: History of Stickley

Habersham Furniture: History of Habersham Home

Harden Furniture: History of Harden Furniture

Lazy Boy: Lazy Boy History

Duralee Fabrics: History of Duralee

Kravet Fabrics: History of Kravet

Lee Jofa Fabrics: History of Lee Jofa

Thibaut Wallcoverings and Fabrics: Thibaut History

Urban Electric Company: Urban Electric Company

So the next time you start to make a purchase for your home, consider buying

And if you need help in making that decision, call me!

(Where did that come from?)

Interior Design Trends for 2012 ....What to do?

2012-01-23T16:58:00.000-08:00

It is that time of year when the design gods reign down on us with what is new! I am just as fascinated as the rest of you with what is trendy for this year. But I always tend to

be a bit cautious about following trends. A trend can make or break a room. So here are some thoughts on how to use them:

Do you like it? Does your family like it too?
Does it work in your home and with your decorating style?
How financial invested do you want to get with this trend?
The best way to be trendy is to use accessories. Paint, lamps, rugs, pillows all are pieces that can be easily changed once a trend has passed.
If you are going to commit to a trend, do it early so you can use it longer. But once it passes, be prepared to move on!

Now with that said, let us see what is on the cutting edge for 2012!

One trend that is carrying on into 2012 is comfort and making your home a refuge from the economy and an election year. But we are starting to be brave and that means more color and more fun!

Color POPS!

This years color is Tangerine Tango

Use it as an accent for a quick update!

Green is the new black. Eco-friendly design is a continuing trend. There will be more furnishings that are being repurposed and recycled.

Painted furniture like this antique clock and

chairs show how to repurpose older pieces and give them a new look.

Brass and Gold are back with hopes for a better economy. This is especially showing up

in lighting and fixtures.

Wood furniture is going lighter and

it is also showing up on floors, walls and ceilings.

Nail heads are showing up as accents on furniture

and other interesting places!

We are seeing smoked glass and reflective pieces

used in all types of rooms.

Wallpaper started to appear in 2011 and is moving full steam into 2012!

Large scale patterns are popular in wallpaper and fabric.

2012 is the Year of the Dragon and it falls on January 23rd. The dragon motif will show up in accessores and other areas of interior decor. Dragons are thought to bring good luck, so this might be a trend to add to your home!

There you have it! What trend is exciting you? Just remember whether traditional, contemporary or transitional, classic interiors stand the test of time. If you need help adding some of these to give your home a fresh, updated look, give me a call and I will be glad to help you.

These are a few of my favorite things!

2011-12-22T19:04:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite things about Christmas are the many memories that I experience when I get out the holiday decorations. Each thing I take out of the packing boxes makes me think of a time, a place, or a person. This is part of the joy of Christmas. To be able to walk through my home and enjoy seeing these special reminders. As the count down to Christmas approaches, I thought I would share with you some of my favorite things!

This is my first Nativity Scene that I received as a gift from my Mother when I moved out on my own.

A dear friend gave him to me and he sure is handy when my sweet tooth kicks in!

Isn't he cute!

These were from a special florist that was in our town when I was a little girl. Mother use to keep candy canes in them.

I have always loved the "Little Drummer Boy" and that is what this music box plays.

Another dear friend gave me this charmer and he holds a tea light.

This is one of my most special things. My Father gave it to me the Christmas that I was five. It plays Silent Night.

My husband gave me this snow globe. It is one of the first ones in our collection.

This one always reminds me of our little Jack Russell that passed away in April. It is from the book "Olive the other Reindeer."

My maternal Grandmother knitted the two stockings on the bottom.

These two young ladies (now all grown up) were not to impressed with Santa!

He probably wasn't to impressed with them either!

This is my grandson Jake. He is really concentrating on what he wants to tell Santa!

This picture and the one at the top is of our Baby tree. The angel ornaments were on a tree in my room when I was little. The silver pieces are all things that were used by my daughter, husband and myself when we were babies. The tree skirt is my christening coat.

I bought our first artifical tree when my daughter was 16. She was not to happy with me that we didn't have a real tree that year. Several years ago it finally started showing its age! We decided to not get another tree, but I really wanted to display our many ornaments. This was the solution!

Dorothy, the lion, the tin man and the scarecrow were all made by my mother!

A very dear friend was never really fond of a pair of schnauzer we use to have. But she must have like this pair she gave me one Christmas. I certainly do!

Two very special people gave me these little squirrels!

My daughter made the ornament on the left and I made the one on the right. There are several others that we made on here.

My Father and Grandfather were both Cadillac dealers, so of course we had to have a pink one!

Got to support the red and black!

I got this little fella when I went to see a very special friend in Montana!

We spend a lot of time at St. Simons Island. Another good friend has a place there too. She gave me this oyster shell ornament! On the inside it says "time and tide wait for no one."

This is one of my favorite Santa Claus books from when I was a little girl. The illustrations in it are incredible. It was written in 1958.

Like snowflakes, my Christmas memories gather and dance -- each beautiful, unique and too soon gone. Deborah Whipp

Thank you for letting me share these special favorites of mine with you, before it is time to pack them away again till next year.

May beautiful moments and happy memories
surround you with joy this Christmas.

Happy Holidays,

Debbie

It all began with a crash!

2011-12-14T18:24:00.000-08:00

If you are like me, you are starting to feel the holiday stress! Each year it seems Christmas creeps up on us. Are you racing madly from place to place trying to mark items off your "to do" list?

Well, take a minute and sit down with something warm to drink and let me tell you about an extra special treat I had this year. I do love a GOOD surprise!

Some friends and I had gone to St. Simons Island in Georgia last weekend for their Christmas Tour of Homes sponsored by the Cassina Garden Club. The houses were beautifully decorated for the Holiday Season. I am sorry, but they would not let us take pictures. You will just take my word for it that they were lovely to see.

As we left the last house a friend from home, that knew we were on the island, called to tell us about a Good Morning America segment she had seen that morning.

THANK YOU DIANE!

GMA had shown a clip about a special Christmas tree at Brunswick Manor in Brunswick, Georgia, right across the causeway. When we left to come home, after googling and setting our GPS, we made a stop at Brunswick Manor. We did not know we were getting ready to see something very special.

Brunswick Manor

Located halfway between Savannah, Georgia and Jacksonville, Florida this classic Victorian Mansion is in the heart of historic Old Town Brunswick. Brunswick Manor is home of the largest collection of Christopher Radko Ornaments in the United States. The ornaments were what we had come to see. We saw the first display of the ornaments on the beautiful front door wreath. We were greeted by innkeeper Stacy Bass, who told us the wreath was a good way to display any broken ornaments! What a great idea to use the cherished keepsakes.

This musical band of cherubs were displayed as we entered into the grand entrance hall.

Stacy Bass and his partner, Jay Anderson, operate Brunswick Manor. Here is a shot of Stacy adjusting one of the ornaments. Some of these are on small motors that are wired into the lights. These special ornaments "twirl" on the tree!

Here is a close up of some of the many Christopher Radko ornaments. The tree stands majestically in the front parlor and has 10,000 lights and over 2,000 ornaments.

Christopher Radko's career, as the creator of some of the most collected blown glass ornaments, all began with a crash!

about Christopher Radko

In the early 1980's Christopher Radko, at the age of 22, began to search for blown glass ornaments for his family's Christmas tree. The tree had fallen, and destroyed a collection of over 2000 vintage blown-glass Christmas ornaments that had been passed down for generations.

Christopher Radko had assumed responsibility for replacing the ornaments because he had recommended that the old Christmas tree stand be replaced with a more modern one.
Replacing the ornaments was going to be difficult. His search to find replacements lead him to Poland where he found a glass blower who agreed to make the ornaments from sketches that Christopher Radko had made from memory.

When he came back to New York, others were impressed with the beautiful ornaments. This was the beginning of a business that would grow to a multi-million dollar company.

Here are some additional shots of Stacy during the decorating process of the tree at Brunswick Manor. This has been an extra special year for them since they were contacted back during the summer to appear on "Extreme Christmas Trees" on the TLC channel.

If you are interested in seeing more about this unique Christmas Tree. The program will broadcast again Friday, December the 17th on the TLC channel.

Extreme Christmas Trees on TLC (sorry for the ad at the beginning of the video)

If you are a Christopher Radko fan, this is a program you will not want to miss!

Stacy also owns the Event Planning Company

Straton Hall

If you want to plan a special event, just contact Stacy!

Hope you are very close to the end of your "to do" list. I believe I will go and meditate on my list.

*One big regret was that I did not get a picture of Stacy's precious dog Satchel! Hopefully they will add a picture of him to their website soon.

The Doors of Christmas!

2011-12-02T14:35:00.000-08:00

What is the first thing that says the holidays have started? Not counting the holiday displays that seem to pop up in the stores earlier each year! It has to be the door decorations that start showing up on your street and around town. This is the one symbol of Christmas that everyone that passes your home gets to expierence. So come with me to take a look at some beautiful holiday displays that say it "Tis the Season!

#10

#11

#12

And don't forget the "inside" of your door. It needs special holiday trimming too!

#13

#14

Why don't we just open the door and peak in to see what wonders wait inside?

#15

#16

Which Door is your favorite?

Designing Tables for Thanksgiving!

2011-11-22T17:28:00.000-08:00

"Thanksgiving is the holiday of peace, the celebration of work and the simple life...a true folk-festival that speaks the poetry of the turn of the seasons, the beauty of seedtime and harvest, the ripe product of the year and the deep, deep connection of all these things with God."

It is one of those magical times when family and friends gather together. We celebrate our time together and our many blessings. We set our tables with heirloom china and crystal. Come join me as we take a look at some beautiful ideas for your special holiday table.

Southern Living

HGTV

House Beautiful

House Beuatiful

Kids Table HGTV

HGTV

What we're really talking about is a wonderful day set aside on the fourth Thursday of November when no one diets. I mean, why else would they call it Thanksgiving?
~Erma Bombeck

May you have a very special Thanksgiving Holiday at your house!

Choose a seat!

2011-11-08T17:55:00.000-08:00

My late dear mother in law, Louise, had a saying she loved to use whenever a friend stated a preference for something. "Whatever blows your skirt up!"

First click on the title of this post Choose a Seat.This will take you to the full blog page. I don't know why the blogs want to short change the readers. If you don't go on the internet to read a blog post, you are missing out on so much! Now scroll down and take a look at 18 of the new chair styles from the Fall furniture market. At the end of the post you will find a place to post a comment. You do not have to use your complete name! So be sure and comment and let me know which chair "blows your skirt up!"

Christopher Guy Chair

Century Chair and ottoman

Dorya Chair

Global View Chair

Greta Chair for Lexington Furniture

Hickory Chair

Ixat Chair for Lexington Furniture

Lane Venture Chair and ottomans

Norwalk Furniture

Pearson Furniture

Hickory Chair

Tara Shaw mid century Chair

Bee's Knees by Carcola

Star International

CR Laine

Sam Moore

Taylor King

American Leather

If you want to know my favorite new chair introduction, it would have to be

the Bee's Knees!

* If you enjoyed this blog post, be sure and sign up to have each new post and my monthly e-mail newletter delivered to your "in box." (Sign up boxes are in the right column)

Interior Design Highlights from Fall 2011 High Point Market

2011-11-03T19:16:00.000-07:00

The last two weeks have been a very busy time. We took a play break to head down to Saint Simons Island, Georgia to celebrate the border war, known as the worlds largest cocktail party! I am referring to the yearly battle in Jacksonville, Florida between the Georgia Bulldogs and the University of Florida Gators. It was a time of celebration on the island, since Georgia was victorious!

Then it was back to work and design time. I am a member of a wonderful organization for designers, the Atlanta Designers' Network. At our meeting on Tuesday we talked about the Fall High Point Market and all the wonderful new products and styles for us designers and our clients to lust over.

Facts about High Point Market

The blog world was also humming the past week with new post telling about market and buzz words/phrases that told us where the Fall 2011 trends were heading. What was being "talked about" were:

Gray is the new Beige
Glamour is back!
Green as in "Sustainable" (using reclaimed woods)
Peacocks in all motifs
Undeniably Modern
Equestrian
Upholstery Details (pleats, nail heads)
Metallics including a burnished brass
Intense hues of color - Orange, Turquoise, Lime Green, Purple

DRUM ROLL PLEASE~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

To see more High Point pictures go to Pinterest

Be sure and post on my blog, what new trend you think will be around for awhile!

Remember on the East Coast it is time to change our clocks this Sunday (November 6th)

Live, Love & Decorate with Martyn Lawrence Bullard

2011-10-25T04:46:00.000-07:00

Last Tuesday, the Atlanta Decorative Arts Center, ADAC, had a very special guest speaker. For those of you that watched Million Dollar Decorator last summer, you would have immediately recognized Martyn Lawrence Bullard, MLB.

MLB on the right

MLB has a new fabric line for F. Schumacher and was at ADAC to talk about the launch of this new line and his new book Live, Love and Decorate.

Martyn was joined on the panel, in the ADAC seminar room, by Clinton Smith, the editor of Atlanta Homes & Lifestyle Magazine, and Susan North who is the creative director of F. Schumacher.

Clinton Smith on the left and Susan North on the right

The presentation room was standing room only as the designers turned out to hear the "designer to the celebrities." Martyn said his inspiration for the fabric collection came from his travels. His father was an opera singer and the family traveled with him. MLB was inspired by the varied colors, food, music and smells of the exotic places he went. He attended the Royal Academy of Arts in London. While there, he spent time prowling the stalls at the Greenwich Antiques Market in south London for unique items and then resaleing them. He also did a turn on the catwalk as a runway model. After saving up enough money, he headed to Hollywood to become a "star." He got a role in a movie and became friends with the producer, who after seeing Martyn's rental house, asked him to help him with his offices. From there he got a job with Liz Heller decorating her office and home. He was seated next to Cheryl Tiegs at Liz's wedding and she asked him to help her with her new home a 1950's bungalow. A star was born, but not exactly the star he had planned, from that point on he never looked back!

Cheyl Tiegs

He went on to design for celebrities such as Cher, Elton John , Eva Mendez, Ozzie and Sharon Osbourne. Keenan Ivory Wayans and Kid Rock to name a few.

Elton John

Cher

Ozzie & Sharon Osbourne

Kid Rock

When asked about how he began to design a new fabric line, MLB said he always starts with a signature piece and then adds the supporting cast. He pulls from many cultures. The tree of life is from India. The ikats are from Pakastain and greek key from Greece.

The tree of life is the signature piece.

Adras Ikat

Ikat

the collection

In this line he had a beautiful paisley that was inspired from antique shawls. He wanted an aged feeling to the line. He desire to give an old classic a new fresh look. This fabric is very versitle in that it can be used by cutting the borders off for beautiful drapery banding and then using the center for pillows.

center of paisley

One of the questions Clinton Smith asked MLB was "What were some of the challenges in designing the fabric line? He replied that the big challenge was the way they tried to make it layer together without it being an exact match. Because it wasn't matchy matchy, it had more interest. He wanted a lot of color in the collection, but as it developed he also included a more neutral group of taupes and grays.

You can see the entire collection here:

Both MLB and Schumacher had the same point of view for the collection. To take something rooted in the past and see it with new eyes. A desire to explore it with a modern interpretation.

Martyn has new products coming out from tile, flooring and lighting to a line of eco friendly cleaning products. He wants to associate himself with eco friendly products. He discussed this in an article with the Buzz:

I believe the use of natural fibers such as linen, cotton, and raw silk always lends itself to a tasteful interior. It’s also eco-friendly, which is of great importance to me now. My project with Keenan Wayans is a huge learning curve for me. It is imperative for the planet that we all start to think in an eco friendly and sustainable manor. Reclaimed materials, local products, energy saving appliances and solar panel heating are major elements in this movement…and of course the use of antiques is ultimately the greenest.

You can read the interview here:

He has been asked to do many endoresements and will be the new face of Jaquar. He also was asked to be the new face for "men's Spanxs," but he turned that one down!

After the program, Schumacher welcomed the design community to their showroom for a champagne reception, to view the new line and book signing for Martyn's book. I was able to get him to sign a copy for me and also to chat with him. He has the most beautiful english accent! Quite elegant!

Martyn's philosophy is "In anything you do in life, don't do it unless you are going to do it 100%." And he certainly has!

Source: ADAC, Schumacher and Live, Love and Decorate.

Debbie Jacobs Designs....the House of the Future

2011-10-18T05:47:00.000-07:00

IFDA's "Vision for the Future" is a survey by the International Furnishings and Design Associate. It was published in a recent *trade magazine. The survey found the following:

Americans will be living in smaller spaces with fewer rooms by the year 2020 according to 70% of the members surveyed.

(Let's hope not this small!)

Formal Living Rooms are going extinct, according to 64%

Enchanted Home Blog

71% Doubt that there will be a separate formal dining room in most homes by 2020.

Alexa Hampton

Cathy Kincad

Enchanted Home Blog

Scalamandre

Ralph Lauren

Separate rooms are disappearing; they are blending into spaces that serve many different purposes.

Home Bunch

Eat-in Kitchens will replace dining rooms say more than half, and nearly 65% believe future kitchens will grow larger.

Home Bunch

Shannon Bowers

The Master Suite will stay about the same size, say about 52.2% but it will share space with home office, media center and exercise room.

Home Bunch

More than three quarters say a home office is a given, and 37.3% see more than one!

36.2% Think outdoor living spaces will expand.

Home Bunch

Enchanted Home Blog

Home Bunch

Enchanted Home Blog

What changes do you think will take place in the Home of the Future?

I want to put in a good word for fabulous SouthernFlorals. If sending flowers to someone is in your future, be sure to call on Lucy & Sharon. Here is a beautiful European Garden that the two sent me on my birthday this year.

You can't go wrong with Southern Florals from small arrangements to weddings. They are the go to place for all your floral needs!

*gifts and decorative accessories

Kitchen Design Tour welcomes Fall in Highlands

2011-10-07T19:30:00.000-07:00

Fall had most definitely arrived in Highlands, North Carolina on Saturday, September 24th. We headed out early to travel up the curvy roads into North Carolina for the First Kitchen Tour sponsored by the Laurel Garden Club of Highlands. After having a relaxing lunch in the Wine Garden (outside) at the Old Edwards Inn, we were ready to begin.

The first part of our tour were three cottages that formed a family compound. They were very close together and housed so many beautiful things! Unfortunately we were asked not to take pictures inside of the homes, but nothing could compare to the outside views and the homeowners had created beautiful outside areas for us to enjoy. The owner of the first cottage was present and she was just a delight to talk to about the three cottages and her family. You could tell these homes were well loved!

Since this was the first year they had done the Kitchen Tour, you would expect some mishaps or things not to run smoothly. That was not the case. From the personally driven cars that took us to each home, to our goodie bags we received with our ticket purchase,the committee did an excellent job of keeping everything moving along. They even offered shaded areas to stop and have a glass of lemon flavored water. This garden was the perfect place to pause!

We were not supposed to take inside pictures, but the hostess let me snap this simple fall arrangement. How easy to make, but quite an eye pleaser!

The committee used these kitchen inspired signs to show the way to each home on the tour.

There were beautiful blooming flowers everywhere you looked, from window boxes to

elegant cutting gardens.

This is the exterior of the fourth home and it was here that author, Pat Conroy was signing copies of his new book. The Pat Conroy Cookbook Recipes and Stories of My Life.

I just love this unusual pattern on the gate at this home. They were cooking up lots of good things for us to nibble on here.

The committee members had begged, threatened or whatever it took to rope some of their husbands into being drivers for the tour. They were quite the characters from being highly entertaining with their good sense of humor, to telling us history of how the Highlands area was founded. This home was in a private gated area and we got a little side tour to see some very breath taking views along with our history lesson.

On the drive to the last house we got an "insider tip" to step off the main walk and take a secluded path that led us to this pond and gazebo area.

At the last house on our tour we had another culinary treat from Sheri Castle who gave us samples of her recipes and signed our copies of her new cookbook, the New Southern Garden Cookbook. The big fella peering in the window was so jealous of all the goodies we were getting to enjoy!

We ended up our days adventure on the bistro patio at the Main Street Inn relaxing at their outside tables with a beverage. As the sun was going down we had fun people watching and enjoying the laid back pace of Highlands. It is easy to see why so many
enjoy this beautiful mountain getaway town.

Design Stalker!

2011-09-22T16:13:00.000-07:00

It is getting easier to be a Design Stalker these days. Especially when the team of Veranda magazine and ADAC (Atlanta Decorative Arts Center) come together to present the celebrities of the design world at one of their events. The fabulous team of Brooke, an interior designer, and Steve Giannetti, a well known architect, were the inspirational team yesterday at an event in the beautiful showroom of Ainsworh & Noah at ADAC.

Winton Noah, Steve Giannetti, Brooke Giannetti, Hal Ainsworth

The Dynamic Duo were introduced by their good friend and editor of Veranda magazine, Lisa Newsom. Lisa met Brooke through her blog "Velvet and Linen." During a time that they spent in Santa Barbara, near where the Giannetti's live and run their full service design firm and shop, Giannetti Home, Lisa and Leslie Newsom Rascoe, call them and were invite out on their boat. They have been good friends ever since. Veranda featured the Gainnetti Home in the July-August issue this year.

Lisa Newsom, Brooke Giannetti, Leslie Newsom Rascoe

THe Giannettis were at ADAC to talk with a group of southeast designers that were eager to hear about Velvet and Linen and their new book Patina Style. Their style is a blend of the old and the new, the beautiful and the functional. They design for real families and approach each job to tell the story of that family by their home and its design. They use muted, natural colors to create a calm retreat from the hectic daily life of these families.
They have also added a furniture line to the many hats they wear, along with being parents to three children and assorted animals!

They gave an exciting presentation that ended with a question and answer time. I was amazed at how freely they shared the stage and the presentation flowed effortlessly back and forth between the two. You could tell they were a couple that worked well together. One of the questions that was asked "was how do you manage your life working all day together and then being together in the evening?"

Steve laughingly answered, alcohol!

Here are a few shots of their work and you can see more on the website:

www.GiannettiArchitects.com

And here I am with Brooke after she so graciously signed my copy of Patina Style!

Life isn't the things you own, but the experiences you have with them.

Brooke and Steve Giannetti

Interior Design is heading Outdoors!

2011-09-13T15:29:00.000-07:00

There is nothing like Fall in the South! Summers sweltering tempertures are finally starting to subside and the time has arrived to move your entertaining outdoors. Now is the time to think about creating those special outside places. Interior design is heading to the exterior.

Bunny Williams

The foliage has been losing its freshness through the month of August, and here and there a yellow leaf shows itself like the first gray hair amidst the locks of a beauty who has seen one season too many. ~Oliver Wendell Holmes

My Home Ideas

It was one of those perfect English autumnal days which occur more frequently in memory than in life. ~P.D. James

Southern Living

No spring nor summer beauty hath such grace
As I have seen in one autumnal face.
~John Donne

My Home Ideas

A woodland in full color is awesome as a forest fire, in magnitude at least, but a single tree is like a dancing tongue of flame to warm the heart. ~Hal Borland

Southern Living

October gave a party;
The leaves by hundreds came -
The Chestnuts, Oaks, and Maples,
And leaves of every name.
The Sunshine spread a carpet,
And everything was grand,
Miss Weather led the dancing,
Professor Wind the band.
~George Cooper, "October's Party"

Home Bunch

By all these lovely tokens September days are here, With summer's best of weather And autumn's best of cheer. Helen Hunt Jackson

Everyone must take time to sit and watch the leaves turn. ~Elizabeth Lawrence

Southern Savy Style

Winter is an etching, spring a watercolor, summer an oil painting and autumn a mosaic of them all. ~Stanley Horowitz

Youth is like spring, an over praised season more remarkable for biting winds than genial breezes. Autumn is the mellower season, and what we lose in flowers we more than gain in fruits. ~Samuel Butler

I hope these pictures will give you some inspiration to take your interior outside. Grab a glass of wine and go enjoy the beautiful colors mother nature has to offer while you are surrounded by the wonderful brisk air of Fall!

Interior Design of the 60's is showcased in the Help

2011-09-06T07:09:00.000-07:00

If you grew up in the south during the sixties, the movie The Help, immediately transported you back in time. Kathryn Stockett tells a very compelling story about an unlikely friendship between three women in Jackson, Mississippi. There were so many familiar things about that era that I recognized. My freshman year in high school was the first year the schools were integrated in my hometown. Having lived during that time, I can see why Skeeter, Abilene and Minnie's book set the town on its ear! I look back at that time and see how far we have all come. Stockett's story of the black women of Jackson in 1962 brings that time vividly back to life.

The set decorator Rena DeAngelo, takes the main characters of this story and shows each ones personality in their homes interiors. DeAngelo and Mark Ricker, the sets production designer, used fabric, wallpaper, furniture and accessories to bring these characters to life on the screen.

One of my favorite lines in the movie is when Skeeter's mother says to her, Love and hate are two horns on the same goat! That is how I feel about the sixties and interior design! There are some good things and some oh so not good things!

One of the good things to remain is a traditional four poster bed with a beautiful canopy treatment.

One that needed to go was the TV tray!

Our house had these same heavy cornice window treatments in the living room and dining room when I was in high school. But I don't ever remember wearing a bow like that in my hair!

And we had louvered doors like this between the living room and dining room.

Another style to keep is the settee that Skeeter and her mother are sitting on. I have one just like it in my house now. But it is covered in a leopard print!

I remember we had one of those lovely pole lamps and a paneled den. Also that low back sectional furniture was all the rage!

I don't remember the formica table and the check vinyl floor at my parents house. But this kitchen could have come straight out of my grandmother's home. Vinyl has gone through a number of upgrades since the sixties, but I don't think there was much that could be done for that dinette set!

I do believe this was the only wrought iron pattern they had during that time! I think every outdoor terrace or patio area had one! This day and time the choices in outdoor furniture are endless.

And last but not least is Hilly's pink bathroom. I had this same beautiful shade of pink in my bathroom growing up! It is now my grandson's bathroom and it is chocolate brown with white beadboard. I was so happy to see that pink GO!

Yes we have come a long way in so many different part of our lives and homes.

But as in all things.....what goes around comes around! So it will be interesting to see what design comes back next!

Interior Design “find” in Cashiers, North Carolina!

2011-08-29T14:38:00.000-07:00

Do you ever feel like things happen for a reason? Maybe it was the coconut cake my two friends and I lingered over at lunch. Maybe it was the wrong turn we took on the way to the shuttle stop. But for whatever the reason, I am glad we were detained. We had driven to Cashiers, North Carolina to see their annual Designer Showhouse. While we were waiting to board the shuttle to the showhouse, I noticed two men in front of us. One of them seemed strangely familiar. I asked my friends if they had seen him on television. The other man over heard us and said that is Leslie Jordan. You may not recognize the name, but you would his face! He played on “Will and Grace” and most recently was in “The Help.” Leslie is original from Chattanooga and still has that southern charm! He could not wait to tell us all about filming his cartwheel in the Help!

Leslie Jordan

We struck up a conversation with them as we rode on the shuttle. Little did we know what a design treat was ahead of us! The other man was Charles Faudree. If you are not familiar with his name you may have seen his design talent in magazines like Veranda, House Beautiful, Traditional Homes or one of his several design books. He has his own line of fabrics through Vervain. Charles has created a name for himself nationally and internationally after being a part of the design industry for over forty years.

Charles Faudree

Charles is based out of Tulsa, Oklahoma. But has recently purchased a home in the Cashiers area and did the entryway for the 2011 showhouse “Reflections.”

Reflections - Cashiers Designer Showhouse 2011

The showhouse runs through September 4^th. If you can make it to Cashiers, you will enjoy this house. It is actually two houses that have been put together and the designers have out done themselves in making their designs work with the interior and exterior of the house. The lake view is particularly stunning from the porch areas. I could have happily curled up with a good book and spent the afternoon there.

Charles had his new book “Details” for sale in the gift shop area, but he was told, when we arrived, they had sold out. I had recently seen his book advertised and had it on my “to purchase” list. We were almost finished with our tour, when Charles came back through the house looking for us. They had received some additional books and he came to let us know and tell us he would be glad to autograph our copies! Not only did we get Charles’ signature, but Leslie agreed to sign our books too! I want to share with you several pictures of interiors created by Charles Faudree.

If you like his style, I would suggest checking out his books. They are in bookstores and on Amazon. I know your book will not be as cherished as mine, since every time I see Leslie and Charles signatures I will think of what a lovely afternoon we had with such entertaining Southern Gentlemen!

4 Cats

2011-08-21T16:56:00.000-07:00

I have been on a brief blog break, since I got back from my trip. Been trying to get caught back up on work and other things that needed my attention, since I returned. I plan to get back on a more regular posting schedule. (I hope!) I have a few more things from my trip to share with you, but will mix them in with design notes.

I think I would have to say our best dining experience in Barcelona was at 4 Cats. It was certainly the one that had the most interesting decor and beautiful exterior. All of this, to me, helps to make the the meal exceptional.

We had several people tell us not to miss the 4 Cats. They said it was very popular and to be sure and call for a reservation. We decide to go there for lunch and made a reservation. We were glad that we did, as soon as we arrived they started to fill up fast. I can't begin to tell you how wonderful the food was and the service was exceptional.

After turning off one of the main streets we wandered down one of the many alley ways to the entrance. The alleys are made out of stone and are not very wide. Mainly foot traffic with a few bikes.

After entering through the front door we come into a room with this mural on the wall. Our hostess then led us back into the next area....

...that was the bar. The front and back areas on the bar had the most incredible tile work all around it. The ladies room is through the door to the left. European bathrooms usually allow a "lot to be desired!" This one was incredible with the same magnificent tile work on the walls, the floors and the stalls. Quite elegant! After our detour, we were escorted back through the door to the right.

This was the view from our table across the main dining room. The fresh flowers in the center were a gorgeous arrangement! All done with white and green flowers. Always one of my favorite combos for arrangements in a room with so much going on and filled with color.

Here are the 4 traveling gals enjoying a lovely glass of wine before our culinary adventure begins at the 4 Cats. (from left to right: Patty Wallis, Pat Hensley, yours truly, Vaughan Nalley)

Love these beautiful windows and their surrounds. They let in just enough natural light. I would have loved to have seen the interior at night.

Here is another shot of the exterior. This entire street was just loaded with charm!

It is time to say goodbye to the 4 Cats and move on to another adventure or maybe a siesta!

Basking in Barcelona

2011-08-01T14:29:00.000-07:00

I'm back from my recent European jaunt to Barcelona and down the Italian coast. What a fantastic trip it was. My three traveling friends and I managed to pack each day full of sites and experiences. Over the next few post, I will share some of these special places with you. I have been posting pictures on my Facebook Fan Page, so I thought I would share them also here for those that are not on FB.

We started our trip in Barcelona, Spain on Wednesday, July 13th. There was lots of twisting and turning as I tried desperately to take in all the sights around me!

This was my very first shot. I was already impressed with the Spanish architecture.

The tile and mosaic work in the buildings are incredible. Heading into the Parc de las Ciutadella. (Park)

The Spanish Arc de Triomf. The grand entrance to the park. Close up of the angels tooting their horns and offering wreaths.

I could have spent hours exploring in this park. So many beautiful sculptures and fountains. But since this was our first outing. It was time to move on.

Time to stop for the first of many glasses of Sangria and tapas! They have these funny two ft. long straws to use for sipping! The Dolphin Cafe was a great people watching place. Barcelona is very busy this time of the year. I was surprised at the overall size and mass crowds.

The next day we started off with a stroll down La Rambla. La Rambla is very crowded (that helps to make it a high crime area) but worth the risk to see all the beautiful buildings and the sites.

Gorgeous flower stalls are up and down La Rambla.

The entrance to the Mecat (Market)

These look like a painting. The presentation at each stall was amazing.

Meats of all types are on display and also some that were not suitable for this photo opp. Not for the squimish!

Garlic, peppers and wonderful seasonings make the food oh so delicious!

The mimes are all up and down the street posing for pictures to earn euros.

Our next place to visit on our walkig tour was The Port of Barcelona

Here is the marina at the Port. My husband had told me to be sure and get lots of boats and marinas for him to see. No pictures could do this area justice.

and of course they can not have an ordinary walking bridge

This is our feathered friend Jorge. He stayed with us while we sat on the pier and watch the boats come and go. He had no fear and I was surprised he hung out with us, since we did not have any snacks to share!

Before heading back to our hotel to get ready for dinner, which was usually late around 10:00 PM, we had to stop and enjoy a "Happy Hour" glass of Sangria. We were four tired gals, from so much walking. But it was oh so worth it!

I will be back soon with some more highlights to share! Adeu (for now)

*I love for you to post comments and share your thoughts with me.

Make room for Daddy!

2011-06-15T14:20:00.000-07:00

Father’s Day is just around the corner and if you’re looking for the perfect way to appreciate the special man in your household, create a space just for him. Luckily there are great options to create the perfect retreat using manly options that fit the interior design of your home.

Creating an Island of Comfort within Shared Spaces
The chair is the most important element of a great space for most men. It has to be comfortable and durable, but it doesn’t need to be a stuffed recliner with fuzzy fabric. I know you care about aesthetics, so let’s look at more stylish options that fit within your family room or even a dedicated space just for him:

Leather is a great option, but if you have pets with claws, be aware that you may see scratches on the surface. Some people consider the inevitable marks part of the patina. Other durable fabric options include ultra suede or commercial fabrics because this chair will be used frequently.

Fabric protection is a great option to protect from stains, so you can still use lighter colored fabrics if it fits the interior design of the room. Nail head trim is a great decorative element that adds the “clubby” masculine feel to the piece and it blends nicely with more sophisticated pieces without the extra detail.

If he likes to read or just watch sports in the evening or on his days off, be sure to include appropriate lighting. Add a table or cabinet with storage for the remote and other miscellaneous gadgets he wants close to him that you don’t want to display.

Outdoor spaces:
This is the perfect time of year to create an outdoor space for entertaining, and it can include a built-in grill or even an outdoor kitchen for all types of entertaining. He’ll enjoy impressing his buddies with his grilling skills and you can relax while he takes charge.

If you’re really serious about creating an exterior family room for casual entertaining that looks as if it is an extension of your interior space.
Outdoor furniture options are endless with fabrics that look as if they could fit in your family room.

Summertime Projects:
Another great gift is a workshop that is organized and stylish. Who said the garage is just a utility area to store your cars and lawn tools?
Whether it is a space for tinkering, serious woodworking or storage, a functional space can be attractive, too. Yes, you can be the envy of every other garage on your block.

There is always the "Man Cave." Don't leave him to his own designing~

Not Sure What He’d Like?
I design functional and stylish spaces whether it’s inside or outside. Call me to order your “Designed for Men” gift certificate for a personal consultation. He’ll like it much better than a tie and cologne, don’t you think?

Which One???? Print vs Digital

2011-05-25T16:25:00.000-07:00

I love to read! I finally got a Kindle this year for Christmas and I really enjoy it when I travel and for going places where I have to wait ( Doctor's Offices) But I haven't given up on my hardback books. I am not very fond of paperbacks. The verdict remains out on magazines. There is something about being able to hold a magazine. Pick it up when I have time and flip through it. Mark pages with my colored post it flags. These are easier to find later than dog eared pages! I have a huge collection of torn out pages in my Interior Design swipe file. I just don't like reading magazines on my computer. I personally feel that print is not dead. I think there is a need for both types of magazines. I am going to share links to my top ten digital publications. Post a comment and let me know what you think!

http://www.lonnymag.com/issues/19-trad-home/pages/1#p1

http://www.lonnymag.com/issues/28-may-June-2011-issue/pages/1

http://anthologymag.com/blog3/2011/05/23/issue-no-3-spring-2011/

http://www.highglossmagazine.com/

http://www.houseoffifty.com/

http://www.nestingnewbies.com/magazine/issuethree.HTML

http://www.ruemag.com/

http://issuu.com/surroundings/docs/surroundings_may_june_2011

http://roomplanners.com/RP-Mag-April-2011/index.html

http://southernflourish.com/

These online magazines are best viewed with a full screen. You can zoom in and out as you need to get a better look. A feature that is necessary, but that I don't like. Just to much "clicking." All of these are chocked full of great pictures and articles. It is best to look at them on your computer. If you try to download most of these magazines, they will take a very long time. You could run out and buy the print edition and be back home before your download is complete! Most are free, including their back issues. Southern Flourish

is by subscription. It does have a good article about Gena Knox. Gena will be the June Speaker for Women Source.

http://www.womensource.info/

Women Source is an organization in Gainesville, Georgia for Northeast Georgia Women. Gena will be the guest speaker on Thursday, June 2nd and I highly suggest you make a reservation and come find out more about this great organization and some amazing women!

Don't forget.....let me know what you think. Are print magazines on the way out? Also which one of my top ten magazines did you like the best. There are a number of new fashion and other lifestyle magazines out in a digital format. But that is a topic for another day!

A house is not a home until it has a DOG

2011-05-01T14:12:00.000-07:00

I am writing this blog today for a very selfish reason. On Good Friday we took our Jack Russell, Miss Priss, for her final visit to the Vet. Prissy had been a member of our family for over sixten years. She had been a very health sixteen, until about the middle of March. Something happened to make her health start to rapidly decline. Johnny, my husband, and I had to make the most difficult decision that a "Pet Parent" can have to do. We had to take away her pain and let it become ours.

Our house is so quite now. I especially miss her when I am here in the office workng. She would lay on the sofa as long as I remained in the room. As she got older, she had to have a small ottoman to help her get up on the sofa and in the last few weeks she would lay on the floor next to my chair. I realize it is not her pictures that upset me, but the day to day routine in our house that she was such a part of that I miss the most. I found the above quote by Gerald Durrall and understand to well the meaning. "A house is not a home until it has a Dog."

"My little dog: a heartbeat at my feet."
--Edith Wharton

"Children and dogs are as necessary to the welfare of our country as Wall Street and the railroads."
--Harry S Truman

"When you leave a dog in the morning, it will stick its nose in the door crack and stand there like a portrait until you turn the key eight hours later."
--Erma Bombeck

"The ideal age for a boy to own a dog is between forty-five and fifty."
--Robert Benchley

Sir, this is a unique dog. He does not live by tooth or fang. He respects the right of cats to be cats although he doesn't admire them. He turns his steps rather than disturb an earnest caterpillar. His greatest fear is that someone will point out a rabbit and suggest that he chase it. This is a dog of peace and tranquility."
--John Steinbeck

"Being patted is what it is all about."
--Roger Caras.

"The dog was created specially for children. He is the god of frolic."
--Henry Ward Beecher

"I think dogs are the most amazing creatures; they give unconditional love. For me they are the role model for being alive."
--Gilda Radner

"We give dogs time we can spare, space we can spare and love we can spare. And in return, dogs give us their all. It's the best deal man has ever made."

--M. Facklam

"No one appreciates the very special genius of your conversation as a dog does."
--Christopher Morley

"A dog is the greatest gift a parent can give a child. OK, a good education, then a dog."
--John Grogan

To err his human, to forgive canine."

My goal in life is to become as wonderful as my dog thinks I am."
--Eileen Green

"Dogs' lives are too short. Their only fault, really."
--Agnes Sligh Turnbull
(Prissy and Jake after a day at the beach)

Rest in Peace Miss Priss!

Here comes Peter Cottontail!

2011-04-21T13:36:00.000-07:00

I think Easter is one of my favorite holidays! From the beautiful story of Christ to all the fun of the Easter bunny and his basket, I just enjoy all the decorations and it seems so much more relaxed than the other holidays. A special time for family starting with the arrival of the bunny with his basket of treats and then on to the beautiful church services. Our church holds our Easter sunrise service down by the lake and there is nothing more peaceful and spiritual.

I always enjoy finding new decorative items to add to my Easter collection. We started having an Easter Tree when I was a very little girl. One of the ladies magazines at that time had the instructions on how to make one. I have talked with friends my age and they remember their Mothers fixing one. This has continued as a tradition in our family. It has always been decorated with bunnies, eggs, chicks and all the Easter goodies. I now have a permanent tree that I use for holidays, but when the timing is right there is nothing I love more than to use a pink dogwood branch that will burst into bloom as Easter approaches.

Jake with the Easter Tree

I also love to see ideas for Easter tablescapes. We might be having brunch or lunch around our house, but there is nothing more fun than to come up with ideas for a spectacular table! Here are some recent tablescapes that are full of inspiration!

Centsational Girl Blog

Here is a tree used as a table centerpiece. I love the tiny white butterflies and the all white with blue accents.

Martha Stewart

Leave it to Martha to come up with a creative centerpiece. Don't you know

children would enjoy this one!

But watch out for the bunnies' ears!

HGTV

Easter is not all pastel colors. This one takes its theme from the bunnies favorite snack. Love the orange and green color scheme.

Sheri Martin

I can hear "In Your Easter Bonnet" playing in the background. Don't you just love Mrs. Bunny in all of her finery~

More is More Mom Blog

Have you ever heard that saying "White Rabbit White Rabbit" the very first thing Easter morning, brings you Good Luck?

Martha Stewart

Wouldn't you love to have these cute egg pots as your favor to take home!

Sheri Martin

What could be easier than putting a small vase of water, inside of a bigger vase full of jelly beans! Then you just add your favorite flower, in your favorite color that looks best on your table!

Sheri Martin

Another variation would be to do a mix of flowers and instead of jelly beans use dyed or candy eggs!

Casa Sugar Blog

Old fashion milk glass pieces will mix with a varitey of linens and dinneware. They also make a wonderful

holder for Easter treats!

Martha Stewart

You could do so many things with egg cups and an Easter table. These are wonderful using the lavander and green flowers and the egg cups as vases!

Another family tradition that I want to share with you is a very special Easter book. "The Country Bunny and the Little Golden Shoes" is a book you will treasure and read over and over for years to come.

http://www.amazon.com/Country-Shoes-COUNTRY-Library-Binding/dp/B002VLIIFA/ref=sr_1_3?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1303417080&sr=1-3

For I remember it is Easter morn,
And life and love and peace are all new born.
~Alice Freeman Palmer~

May you and your family have a wonderful Easter!

I do my little turn on the Catwalk....

2011-04-10T16:19:00.000-07:00

Fashion has often created inspiration for Interior Design. What comes down the runway will follow into the interior design showrooms very soon. The textiles, fabrics and accessories that you see in your home got their start on the catwalk!

What will the styles be for Spring of 2011?

COLOR on the runway:

COLOR in the home:

MENSWEAR on the runway:

MENSWEAR in the home:

THE SEVENTIES on the runway:

THE SEVENTIES in the home:

WHITE on the runway:

WHITE in the home:

SPORTY on the runway:

SPORTY in the home:

METALLIC on the runway:

METALLIC in the home:

FLORAL on the runway:

FLORAL in the home:

"Fashion is not something that exists in dresses only. Fashion is in the sky, in the street, fashion has to do with ideas, the way we live, what is happening."-Coco Chanel

source: InStyle and House Beautiful

What is ADAC?

2011-04-02T12:56:00.000-07:00

Front entrance of ADAC

The Atlanta Decorative Arts Center has been located in the heart of Buckhead since the early 1960's. ADAC was created by internationally recognized architect and developer John Portman Jr., FAIA. ADAC is open Monday through Friday and is one of the premier design centers in the country. John Portman had the foresight to locate his center near the future Lindbergh Marta Station. This has been a valuable asset as designers fly in from all over the country and take Marta to the center. On any given day you will see car tags from all over the southeast in the parking lot.

Galleries of Peachtee Hills

ADAC West

Over 25 years ago ADAC started out as a one level design center, but over the years it has grown to a five story building covering 550,000 square feet. There has been an expansion next door to ADAC West and most recently the Galleries of Peachtree Hills.

ADAC is a "To the Trade" facility for designers and their clients but every spring there is a sale open to the public and recently several seminars have also been open too. The showrooms at ADAC offer a collection of the interior design industries finest product lines.

Brunschwig & Fils Showroom

After using ADAC as one of my main resources since the early 70's, I have come to know my way around the showrooms and know where to shop for the best priced lines or the most exclusive. Not all things shown at ADAC are for for the extremely wealth. You just need a good guide to help you find the right items for your price range. ADAC is a wealth of design ideas and as you move from showroom to showroom you will see the latest in fabrics, wallcovering, rugs, furniture, kitchen, bath, lighting and accessories. All are skillfully displayed to offer design inspiration. It is truly a privilege to have such an exceptional facility offering the highest quality and most exclusive products and services available so close to home!

Kravet Showroom

Ann Sack Showroom

Jordan Spencer and Lorts Showroom

Lee Jofa Showroom

"To the trade only." Means that the showroom permits only professional interior designers or decorators to make purchases.

How do you know it is Spring in Georgia? Because of the Home Tours!

2011-03-22T16:30:00.000-07:00

When the third week of March arrives, my girlfriends and I pile into our cars and head south to St. Simons Island, Georgia. No, we are not driving down I-16 for Spring Break. But we are as excited as any teenager heading off for a week of fun in the sun! We are off to see the Annual Tour of Homes sponsored by Christ Church. These beautiful homes are located on St. Simons Island and Sea Island, two of the wealthiest areas of Georgia. This years selection did not disappoint!. The architects, builders and designers all had out done themselves this year.
The mission of the Tour of Homes is to raise funds for local charities primarily benefiting women and children. It takes about 350 workers to put on the day long tour. Approximately 263 work at the homes. Also open the day of the tour are several historical buildings.

Hawkins Island Drive

Our first stop was on Hawkins Island. This home was five years old and belong to the busy family of local interior designer Stacey Anderson of Hampton & Hawkins Interior Design Inc. Special features like the mud room with custom design fishing equipment storage and lockers for each family member shows what special attention to detail was used in this house. A home suitable for entertaining with an outdoor kitchen and fireplace on the screen porch. Another unusual touch was the grass and tile checkerboard designed patio.

Cottage 56

This 1930's Spanish Colonial Home was built just two years after the famous Cloister resort on Sea Island. The home is full of asymmetrical arches and details and a combination of doors and windows let the sea air blow through. The building materials for this home where brought over on ferries or barges as the bridge that connects to the mainland had not been built in 1930. The grounds and patio areas are as wonderful as the inside of this unique home.

Cottage 133

The next Sea Island home is a perfect example of Island Entertaining. With its open floor plan, it is ideal for formal or casual entertaining. The front exterior has been completely redone and the columns are made of salvaged brick with a slight taper at the top. The house also has a cedar shake roof and the exterior is a combination of brick and tabby. A new pool, spa, outdoor kitchen area and remodeled porch add for the perfect spot to gather with friends. The back porch has beams made out of wood that came from an old cotton gin.

Cottage 84

Our only ocean front home was celebrating a 50th anniversary. It has had only two owners The original deed to the home was on display along with a number of island artifacts. All the wood used in the house is cypress. There are seven bedrooms and seven baths in this home. Along with a "first" beach near the house for the children to play, on you will find a spectacular view of the ocean and all the privacy you need. Along with the children's art that is scattered in the rooms and hallways you will find a number of family pictures and even a celebrity or two!

16 Forest Lane

One of two homes on the tour designed by Atlanta architect, Keith Summerour. This Spanish influenced home has the same North Carolina gray brick that was used when the Cloister was remodeled. The owner has a beautiful collection of antiques and oriental pieces. This home also has pecky and clear cypress beams.The kitchen and keeping room have beams that were originally in textile buildings in Massachusetts and Rhode Island. A lovely outdoor area that include a courtyard and separate entrance to guest house are visible as you exit this home that is perfect for gracious entertaining.

Pikes Bluff
(Frederica Township)

There is no question that this house out at the north end of St. Simons Island was the hands down favorite of our group. The owner, who is the principal of Windmere Interiors of Short Hills, NJ, designed the interiors to show their love of all things nautical. There is a tremendous respect for the history of the area. As you enter the foyer of the house, three antique flags hold a place of honor. There is a special bookcase in the living room to display their exceptional collection of staffordshire pieces. The owner has a wonderful talent for choosing beautiful fabrics and trims and no attention to detail was missed. The back of the house has a large porch and garden room that overlooks the infinity pool and a beautiful view of the marsh and boat with boat house completes the owners love of ships and water.

Our last house took us back to East Beach on St. Simons Island's. It overlooks Gould's Inlet and the Atlantic Ocean. The house designed by Keith Summerour is situated to show the spectacular panoramic view of the water. As we entered the property from the side street we were shocked to see a live Arabian horse being moved into a stall under the guest quarters to join another already in a second stall! But as we toured the grounds, they seemed to fit right in with the home.The owners love for horses is apparent in the fountain in the courtyard and other areas of the home. The house is called Villa de Suenos, “House of Dreams” and is inspired by a 15th century Spanish home. The floors in the main house are limestone and heart pine with venetian plaster on the walls and ceilings. The quatrefoil design is used often in this beautiful home. There are large windows to showcase the view, many balconies and a courtyard where an infinity pool seems to flow right into the Atlantic. This Spanish Style Villa was the perfect ending to a day spent appreciating the beauty, both man made and natural, that the Golden Isles has to offer.

The highs and lows of "Inside Design"

2011-03-09T17:54:00.000-08:00

I had another Interior Designer that I found inspiring. When I was in college pursuing my design degree, I stumbled on the book Inside Design by Michael Greer. On the back of the book it

states: Michael Greer is one of the handful of interior designers practicing today who is famous not merely for his fertile imagination, but also for flawless, undeviating taste. He has worked on five of the available six continents; his clients represent a dazzling roster of business, social and theatrical celebrities, and include both crowned and elected heads of state.

(Michael Greer, on left, at the White House)

I had tremendous appreciation for his talent, but what I enjoyed most was his witty way in discussing his interiors. The following are some examples:
Whether or not you have much money to spend, but especially if you haven't, you need one marvelous decorative object which you love outrageously, which you may have spent far more for than you could afford and perhaps which no one else in his right mind would ever have spent as much for as you did.

I wish family rooms didn't have to be called family rooms, but this or anything is better than calling them Florida, Texas or California rooms---asinine as calling a pea, a garden pea, as menus or restaurants along throughways do.

The place to start in decorating any interior, is with color. Colors must be sorted into three categories: those the client can't bear, those it can, and those it prefers. Since the wrong (for you) colors can drive you as surely crazy as Chinese water torture, color is the first consideration chronologically and the first in total importance as well.

Maybe because there's so much of it locked up in Fort Knox, gold has the reputation of being a more pretentious decorating device than silver. It is not. In fact with its mellow warmth, gold and gilt can be a lot friendlier and more hospitable than silver, which after all has the exact cold hard color of steel.

Far less demanding and in the long run far more economical, unreal flowers can be as attractive though not in the same way, as real ones. For me they're at their best when patently unreal---made of porcelain, glass, fabric, wood, metal, stone. Plastic ones produced to date, with their embalmed oily-transparent look, should be led away and shot, and beaded ones, created by the Italians for graves, painfully destroyed.

These are just a few of his pearls of design wisdom. I would love to tell you that Michael Greer, a native of Monroe, Georgia, is remembered for his talent, but in later years his lifestyle not only caused his fall from grace, but also his death. I am quoting from People magazine, May 10, 1976:

At the height of his career, Michael Greer had everything. He was rich, handsome and celebrated. A decorator of considerable fame, he volunteered to beautify the diplomatic reception room of the White House. Actresses Joan Fontaine, Mary Martin, Geraldine Page and Ethel Merman graced his list of clients. He supped with the Queen of Denmark and the Duke and Duchess of Windsor. He drank from Baccarat crystal and travelled in a chauffeur-driven Rolls-Royce. With his French cook-butler, he entertained the Vanderbilts, Revsons, Bette Davis and Gloria Swanson.

Late last month, the tall, silver-haired, 60-year-old Greer was found dead in his Park Avenue apartment. His body, clad only in a short, blue kimono, was sprawled across one of his prize possessions, an antique steel bed. His ankles had been bound with a silk scarf of his favorite color—red. He had been strangled, police said, with a cord of some kind. Several photographs of Greer with famous friends had been turned face down. Otherwise, his apartment was not disturbed. The door had not been forced open.

The bizarre murder ended what friends call "a period of deterioration" in Greer's life. "He was on the road to self-destruction," says one close friend. "No one could help him." Greer, a homosexual, frequented Manhattan's gay bars and, according to a doorman in his building, "often entertained young men in his apartment." The murderer, police believe, was a homosexual pickup.

Link: People magazine article (May 10, 1976)

Though his lifestyle was questionable, his work is a pretty good epitaph. I enjoy his book as much today as when I received it years ago. The man had talent!

Source: Michael Greer "Inside Design"

A Passion for Carolyne......

2011-03-01T17:49:00.000-08:00

Back in 2001 my husband and I went to visit some dear friends in Birmingham. My friend Bimi left a copy of a new book she had received in her guest room. It was At Home with Carolyne Roehm. She knew I would enjoy seeing it during our visit. That was a big mistake, because when handed a great design book it is very hard to get me to be social until I have studied every page and picture. Needless to say they did get my head out of the book for the rest of the weekend, but as soon as I arrived back home I immediately purchased my own copy! This became my “go to gift” for my friends that year. If I was forced to choose a favorite of her many books it would have to be this one. It is a wonderful blend of home décor, flowers and recipes. Or maybe it is because it introduced me to this fascinating artist.

Previously she had published A Passion for Flowers in 1997. Carolyne spent time working in the famed French Flower Shop, Moulie Savart. She has wonderful stories about her experience there. She certainly shows in this book what a talent she has for flower arranging. This book has 250 gorgeous photographs and has been dubbed "the bible of floral design" and remains the gold standard for florists, brides, party planners and flower lovers alike.*

It was after A Passion for Parties was published that Carolyne came to ADAC (Atlanta Decorative Arts Center) to promote her books and speak about her fascinating life. She started out as a fashion design assistant working for the legendary Oscar de la Renta. She could easily have been a model rather than an assistant and is an extremely entertaining speaker. This she proved again last Thursday when she returned to ADAC to enchant a captive audience. She talked about her latest book A Passion for Interiors and told us about her three homes that are the focus of this beautiful book. Carolyne has nine dogs right now and you will find them in many of her photos. She told us of her two Westies that proceed to use a pair of “extremely” expensive antique console tables as chew toys. She said if they had been a husband or even her Mother that did the damage; they would have been long gone. But the Westies are still with her. This I can understand from having the divine Miss Priss, our Jack Russell, who in her youth enjoyed chewing on a convertible top, chain link fence and sheetrock! She has managed to digest most things she nibbled on. She is also sixteen years old and still with us!

I highly recommend any of Carolyne Roehm’s books and if the opportunity arises by all means go and hear her speak. She never disappoints! And yes that is one of the console eating dogs in the picture sharing the table where she autographed our books!

She is just one of many talented and creative people that have influenced my love of design. In the future I will share some others with you.

If you would like to read more about Carolyne, be sure and go to the below links:

http://www.newyorksocialdiary.com/NYSDhouse/thewaytheylive/carolyneroehm.php

http://www.observer.com/node/41279

source: http://www.carolyneroehm.com/ *

What goes around, comes around....

2011-02-22T17:32:00.000-08:00

While I was trying to decide what to talk about in this blog post, something popped into my “in box” that helped make the decision for me. To begin with I want to tell you a little bit about how I started my love of interior design.

When I was in high school I had made up my mind I was going to pursue a career in fashion design. Then during my junior year my Mother decided my bedroom needed an update. Her good friend and our back door neighbor, Alvina Betts, was her interior designer. They included me in all of the selections and with them I made my first of many trips to the Atlanta Decorative Arts Center (ADAC.) That is when I made the decision to find out more about this exciting new career option.

Now back to what was in my “in box.” Fashion Week has just wrapped up in NYC this week and the new color forecast for the Fashion industry had been posted.

There in the color forecast for Fall 2011 were all of the colors that had graced the design of my teenage bedroom! We had used emberglow, cedar, coffee liqueur and nougat. The main fabric was a cotton print of butterflies, woodland flowers and vines. All of those colors on a cream background. Still love it today!

It used to be that the interior design took a year or more to follow the color trends of the cat walk. But things are picking up, so it won’t be long before you will start seeing these colors coming into play in the higher end of the interior design industry. Quickly after, they will be showing up at Target in their household department and it all started on the runway!

Tory Burch

House Beuatiful

So I am grateful to our neighbor, who was a lovely lady and an excellent designer, for helping me get to where I am today!

Do you launch a blog with champagne?

2011-02-14T14:27:00.001-08:00

This is the official launch of my design blog "Southern ~ Design ~ Style." My name is Debbie and you will find out more about me as we go along and I hope you will post on my blog, so I can find out more about YOU!

I confess….I am a design junkie! I have been one for more years than I want to admit. Because of that fact, I have been working as an interior designer to indulge my habit! I live in North Georgia near Atlanta where there are amazing design, architectural and style resources. I also live, lust and obsess over all things Southern!

Why start a design blog? To me I feel like it will be more like an on-line journal of my experiences with design. Whether I am working with clients, participating in my design group, touring a showhouse, reading magazines, books or other design blogs or attending markets or design programs, there are always “take aways and ah ha moments” waiting to be recorded or shared.

Interior Design is an experience that we feel visually and emotionally. It is part of our personal lifestyle and is always evolving at different stages in our lives. I feel that writing a blog is like working as a designer with a client. It is an ongoing relationship. It is an adventure that you set out on together looking for inspirations and solutions.

We will discover new things about design, style and being from the South as I find my way around in the blog world. We may take some detours where I will ramble about my family, friends and my dog. But I promise that I will try not to bore you!

So join me on the path for this journey……….