2HD Unleashed {blog}

Vintage Glam and Crappy News

2012-02-10T09:08:00.000-08:00

I'm taking a 'me' break this a.m. Lounging about on the sofa in my recently purchased vintage fur coat made in Geneva. I'm cold and it's warm. It's got a golden sheen to it...but I've no idea what the little critters were that make up the coat.

Source: moderndesigninterior.com via Dane on Pinterest

I've been under the weather since mid-December. I thought I'd gotten a virus which had decided to settle in to my joints. Since it's February and it has been getting worse I was thinking I should see the Doctor but I'll be honest. I still procrastinated...as per usual.

Then, last week, I found a lump. Dear hubby insisted I make an appointment. Thinking I'd just be sent for a mammogram/ultra-sound for the lump I was more than a little surprised to find myself, this past Monday, under an x-ray machine. Turns out Rheumatoid Arthritis is the culprit not a virus. I've still got to book the mammy/ulti.

I'll be altering my business model till I can get back on my feet. I still have to work out the details but figure I'll focus on eBoards and consulting/designing for client's online. Lot's of one on one phone time with clients to ensure total happiness! Win win situation: clients save cash on design and I can continue working at a more joint friendly pace...in a fur on the couch.

Speaking of couches...LOVE Kelly Wearstler's updated blue leather de Sede sofa:

Source: chapmaninteriorsblog.com via Dane on Pinterest

Friday Flight of Fancy

2012-02-04T11:06:00.000-08:00

We are just about to put hardwood in to our dining room. Unfortunate...the ceiling has the popcorn ceiling finish. I don't have the time to strip it and refinish it so I have primed it and painted it.

I still want the ceiling to be fabulous so I'm racking my brain for what I can do to take it to the next level. I do love a challenge!

Am I fooling myself or is this simply a flight of fancy?
Do you think there can be anything redeeming about a popcorn ceiling?

Until I figure it out...and I only have a day or two *gasp* here's a snippet of the room prior to ripping up the old parquet...iPhone photo :/

Dreaming in Monochrome

2012-02-01T14:58:00.001-08:00

Monochromatic palettes upon first blush seem simple, using only varying shades of a single colour. To avoid the pitfall of the single colour room your guests jokingly refer to by the colour ie. "Sarah and Jake's gray room" you want to be sure to inject life...since you are not injecting much colour.

Life, in a monochromatic scheme, is introduced through:

varying values (lightness/darkness and tone) of the chosen colour or edging to the right or left on the colour wheelof your chosen hue

textures are key. Think felt, boucle, velvet, linen, silk, leather, fur, concrete, lacquer, etc. I'll share a secret: you want to include textures which will both absorb and reflect light...because:

a great lighting plan is essential but in a monochromatic design it can make or break all your great work.

Monochromatic rooms to dream about and be inspired by:

Source: bijouandboheme.blogspot.com via Dane on Pinterest

Source: neutralheaven.blogspot.com via Dane on Pinterest

Source: princessannecounty.blogspot.com via Dane on Pinterest

Leslie Fine's sensational work:

Source: blog.wainscotsolutions.net via Dane on Pinterest

Source: theaestate.tumblr.com via Dane on Pinterest

Kitchen's look great in a monochrome.

Source: decorpad.com via Dane on Pinterest

Bobby McAlpine's work makes my knees weak. Use you're wildest imagination...that's what I'd do to live in a home designed by Bobby. Just look at the legs on those islands!

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Queen of monochromatic design, Barbara Barry:

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A New Front Entrance to Brighten the Day

2012-01-31T13:31:00.000-08:00

Fieldstone Windows and Doors was at my place today to swap out the 25 year old builder door and side lights. The entrance was dark 24/7 and drafty as hell.

Our old door:

Dingy eh? That was this morning. The door fronts on the East so the sun would flood the foyer with a new door.

Take a look at the difference now that the new door is in:

That's what I'm talkin' about! The amount of light coming in is so bright you can't even see the details of the door.

The old door had only 2 hinges and was light as a feather...sound familiar? That's what you get when you buy a door from those 'big box' stores for a few hundred bones.

My new door is frickin' solid! When it engages it is air-tight. And best of all it's got style.

Here's what it looks like today from outside:

Sexy brushed nickle lock set and, what's this...they even put in a new door bell! Awesome. The fit and finish of the door is great and the trim work inside by the guys from Fieldstone...is perfect!

Can't wait to paint out the trim (in sable to match the new windows Fieldstone installed in November) and I'm thinking I'm going to do the door and sidelight...in a bright coral colour. Cause I've really wanted to use coral for a while now and wholly impact that would be on the door!

Here's a shot with the brick to give you a feel. So far the two colour options are C2's Fantasia on the right and Flamingo on the left (colours do look better IRL):

And another shot with the trim colour (sable) and some inspiration with the same colours:

Thank you Ken, Scott, Steve, Rose, Tansy and everyone at Fieldstone for everything!

BTW, they've just started blogging so watch for some good info and maybe, the nosey parker in me hopes, some sneaky peaks in people's houses...ah, I mean of their new doors/windows. I do love me some good before and afters!

Monday's Inspiration

2012-01-30T13:10:00.000-08:00

Christine over at Bijou and Boheme blogged about the Design firm Commune today. It is well worth popping over to take a look.

I was impressed with the runner created with what looks like multiple antique rugs. How clever! I'd definitely consider doing this in an old brownstone, a farm house or even a hard loft.

Source: google.com via Cat on Pinterest

What do you think? Love it or leave it?

Does it inspire you?

The stairs being painted (risers as well as treads) really highlights the carpets.

Winter blahs breeds desire...

2012-01-28T07:47:00.000-08:00

for luminousness! It's a word. In the Blogosphere....

Who wouldn't want luminous skin? Winter dries out our skin and if you are like me, the sun of summer sun sins...has a layer of ick as well.

In honour of Valentine's Day, which is fast approaching here's a simple way to restore moisture, divest yourself of chapping and pump up your pucker:

Luminous Bootylicious Lips Exfoliant:

1 tsp - sugar
drizzle - olive oil
1 to 2 drops - essential cinnamon oil (puts the booty in bootylicious)

Apply to lips in a circular motion with a soft toothbrush to exfoliate. Rinse.

Source: sexclothespopularity.blogspot.com via Dane on Pinterest

P.S. I'm restoring some youth to my haggard visage. Here's a little B & A ;)

Before:

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After:

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It's January. The weather sucks and days are short. The least you can do is treat yourself; you deserve it.

Friday Flight of Fancy

2012-01-27T10:05:00.000-08:00

The phrase, 'flight of fancy' can be defined as an unrealistic or fantastic notion, a pipe dream.

Beauties, you and i will never accept the notion of our dreams and desires to be unrealistic.

What we crave in our homes and our lives may take time to be realized, but we know, implicitly: a flight of fancy is the unleashing of the imagination...to soaring heights.

With this philosophy in hand designer's make client's dreams come true and inspire us to expand our dreams!

Friday flight of fancy...

Don't let anyone tell you:
- A stuffed deer head can not possibly look stylish in a bedroom.

Source: thelennoxx.com via shamecia on Pinterest

- Drama belongs on the stage.

Source: elledecor.com via Dane on Pinterest

- Patterned wallpaper can't be a neutral background.

Source: design-crisis.com via Dane on Pinterest

Stunning Kitchen

2012-01-05T04:08:00.000-08:00

I am agog. This kitchen is over the top wonderful. From the oak floor and needlepoint runner to the blue delft(?) platters and the distressed pillars flanking the range. This kitchen is right up my alley. Dark, warm and inviting with tons of drama and more than a little sense of history.

Also note the black of the cabinets is actually a navy...see my previous post about navy being the new black ;)

It is so rare to see a mix of patterns in a kitchen! The potted African Violets are perfect. My mother has a green thumb with them. Me...not so much.

My own kitchen is in the process of being updated. I won't have the hardwood like the on above however. We are stuck with the existing ceramic tile since we've decided to sell in the spring...we have over $15,000...as in 15K! of hardwood currently being installed throughout the house *ack* but that's another blog post). But my cabinets are black with satin brass pulls and I'll have a beautiful old area rug in there. Kitchen won't be complete till March, at the earliest. I suspect it will be completed in April.

Source

Ok, ok, a new colour trend prediction for 2012...but not the colour of the year

2012-01-01T10:31:00.000-08:00

navy. Not just any navy but a saturated jewel toned navy. We are going to want colour in our homes in 2012 more than we have in recent years and navy is an incredible backdrop for color.

I can not wait to see the interiors be featured in Shelter Mags and blogs in 2012!

2012-01-01T09:59:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year mes cocottes!

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May more follow in the foot steps of Canadians and open their hearts to love in all shapes and forms.

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2012 Trends in Interior Design - Color Of the Year

2012-01-01T09:54:00.000-08:00

I am so happy to be posting my predictions for another year! These truly are my favorite posts.

Last year I predicted the color of 2011 would be yellow. I'm confident I've been proven correct over the past year. Every yellow under the sun has been enjoying it's moment...in the sun. Ha!

I have been thinking about what I see being the color of 2012 for the past 3 months and I was just not coming up with anything new. For about 2 seconds I actually thought I was losing my touch...ok for a bit longer than that.

Then I gave my head a shake. Shitballs, we are talking about interior design! We don't shed our interiors the way we do our clothing...unless we are talking about someone who believes fad is synonymous with trend; who have no concept of investment. Admittedly this was me for years.

'Colour of the year' in interior design is the creation of corporations. Magazines, paint manufacturers et all marketing their products. Sure it's fun for about a week but come on who really wants to be told you have to have to have Honeysuckle (Pantone 2011) or Tangerine Tango (Pantone 2012). Really buttonholes colour in interior design and that shit don't fly with me.

So, you ask what my colour of the year prediction for 2012 is? You've no doubt guessed it by now.

YELLOW!

It is not going anywhere yet. It is not my favourite colour. I'm a dark and moody kind of interior design salope but I am still enjoying my yellow. Judging by the newest cover of House Beautiful...so are the editors at Hearst!
If you are someone who *needs* a new color each year...I'll give you this to chew on for interior design trends of 2012: the new black is...(link)

Happy Holidays!

2011-12-24T10:02:00.000-08:00

Source: themeadowbrookblog.blogspot.com via [maisontwenty3} on Pinterest

I have been absent for far too long. I appologize profusely. We've been in an internet forced outtage at home. I tried to switch us to a 3rd party ISP provider...long story short: We are back up with our original provider and paying through the teeth.

Tomorrow is Christmas and no doubt many of you are like me...not ready!

I'll see you soon lovelies.

An Unbelievable Kitchen

2011-09-26T07:15:00.000-07:00

Source: veneerdesigns.tumblr.com via Dane on Pinterest

Stunning. Note the Jonathan Adler Anemone light and hands on the counter. This kitchen is not at all serious but totally Glambam!

This is what I'd wear in this kitchen:

Source: google.com via Dane on Pinterest

I apologize to Good Taste for I have offended it!

2011-09-13T17:18:00.000-07:00

To paint or stain?

That was NOT the question I asked myself about updating our oak staircase. To paint the treads would be a job half done. I will put in the time to strip and sand the treads in order to stain them to match (as closely as is humanly possible) the Brazilian Teak which will go down on the floor.

Teaser photo:

Isn't this staircase absolutely gorgeous?!

Source: weburbanist.com via Dane on Pinterest

Obviously not my staircase but probably the most beautiful I've even come across.

Anyhoo...

When we bought the house one of the selling features for me was the oak staircase. I am not a fan of carpeting. Everyone in our family has stock in Puffs with lotion because of dust; so, 'carpet begone', said I of the faded rose runner up the stairs.

Fast forward 3 years (omg?!) and the stairs are sans carpet but remain the same 'honey oak' as when we purchased them. I hang my head in shame. I should have done something about them at least 2 years ago.

I apologize to 'good taste' for I have offended it!

So I now blog to you, dear readers, with wrinkled fingers (*nb* latex does NOT stand up to stripper). I promise to have the stairs stripped and sanded by the end of this week come Hell or high water! I've stripped and sanded 2 treads this afternoon to see how I fair. All is well other than needing new thicker gloves.

There are, wait I have to go count....

....

11 more stair treads to do which I feel confident I can get done in 2 days...spread out over this week...'cus, you know, life and shit.

*bisous*

Dane

p.s. If anyone has used paint and varnish strippers and can tell me of one that works better than Min Wax...do tell!

*Sept. 26, 2011* Update:

Stairs are moving forward! I've now begun prepping the risers, banisters and posts.

A Kitchen Trend I Can Totally Get In To

2011-09-12T08:08:00.000-07:00

I've got the itch for a couple of tall wing chairs for my kitchen. Talk about comfy for that first coffee in the morning or tea in the evening.

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Source: google.com via Dane on Pinterest

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Source: google.com via Dane on Pinterest

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Source: toronto.kijiji.ca via Dane on Pinterest

I love the height of this chair I found on Kijiji but unfortunately they only have one and I need a pair...for my kitchen of course!

Bedroom Make Over

2011-09-05T12:48:00.000-07:00

I've been absent for 3 months! Time really does fly when you are having fun. Hopefully you will forgive my absence, due to summer vacation. Yes, I do appreciate having such an extended time off in the summer. We were in South Carolina for the largest part of the summer. Waking up on the ocean is wonderful!

Alas, we are home, Steve's back to work and the kids are off to school tomorrow. Yippy on the school! The Boy is going in to French Immersion Grade 1 so he'll be in school 5 days/week now. Lot's of time for me to get working!

Remember my ensuite bathroom reno? Remember we gutted the bathroom, hallway and 2 walk-in closets? Well, I've got some photos and corresponding info to update you all with. That will be later in the week so please check back next weekend for the post.

We have made the life altering decision to move to a small horse farm. So long bedroom community! We are looking in the Port Hope area which is the prettiest town East of Toronto. It is artsy, stylish, has a vibrant gay community and is pet friendly on the beach all of which are important in the community we choose to raise the children in.

So I have been busy redesigning our kitchen for a mini reno, helping with the plastering and sanding of drywall, ordering NuHeat radiant flooring, picking up truckloads of tile and of course selecting colours to paint.

I'm excited about the colours I've selected for our Master Suite. For the walls: F&B Dimity and for the trim: Tanners Brown. Ceiling will likely be Archive or Joa's White. I've got more sanding to do in the ensuite and dressing room so I can't start painting for a while. As soon as I can, I'll have photos for you to get a peak!

Till then, enjoy some loveliness in Dimity as well as Tanners Brown!

Source: flickr.com via Dane on Pinterest

Dimity on ceiling, Archive on trim and Hague Blue on walls.

Source: examiner.com via Dane on Pinterest

Dimity on walls and ceiling.

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Tanners brown

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Tanners Brown although over exposed photography :/

Elle Decor Modern Showhouse: Study By Sara Story

2011-05-30T09:45:00.000-07:00

I must confess I found the study by Sara Story to be weak. The Venetian plaster walls and ceiling were stunning with the addition of the decorative paint details but I found the space to be under utilized and therefore not at all functional...as a study.

The main space had a daybed with occasional tables around it and the closet in the room was made in to a nook to do makeup...or serve drinks...sort of; which I'll explain soon.

There was nothing functional to convey this was a study. The daybed made it feel like was designed for occasional guests to sleep over but there was nothing functioning to hold or place 'study' type things like bookcases/etageres etc. for books, files and no workspace for a laptop.

There was a desk in the closet but it was styled for doing makeup, well it had a small mirror but then it also had a tray with aperitif crystal glasses and what looked like a decorative dispensor. As odd as the styling was, it was not at all suitable for doing makeup (inadequate lighting...an uplight...and red paint in the closet).

The room seemed it should be off of an ensuite bathroom or closet.

There was also the drapery which made the room unbalanced. They were beautiful lined golden dupioni silk but the left side of the room had them wrapping around a bulkhead, so at least 3 panels wide; however they were not meant to be closed. Then on the right side there was one panel which was not to be closed.

Although the study had some really beautiful elements it fell short on meeting the design requirements. The other rooms in the apartment where cohesive and displayed a personality type that was very much *not* like the person Sara created the study for. So I was disappointed with the study.

However, do not take my word for it. Below are photos I took so you can decide for yourself. Please, let us know your thoughts! Yes, I'm *that* close to begging for comments ;)

Even the Best Make Mistakes - Albert Hadley

2011-05-28T11:04:00.000-07:00

Very few admit it. Albert Hadley is one of the few who very freely admits it when he hasn't achieved his design goals.

While being interviewed by Christopher Mason for the NY Times Hadley motioned to the concrete walls of his own Upper East Side apartment and commented:

One of the first projects Hadley worked with Sister Parish on was for the Bronfman's. It was to be a true Sis Parish design with lots of Chintz until, that is, the Bronfmans vacationed in Mexico. They sent a telegram to the Parish-Hadley firm with the message: "Stop all work. We want a floating apartment." Now this apartment was at 740 Park Avenue:

Source: ny.curbed.com via Dane on Pinterest

It wasn't working, until Parish sourced eighteenth century furniture for the space:

“The chairs became like sculptures, and it was fantastic. That was a big turning point in Sis’s thought process. It was a challenge. I could never have done what I did without Sis. And she couldn’t have done what she did without me.”

Another project that had a mis-step Hadley recalls with humour was at another Park Avenue apartment. The drawing room had a Regence chandelier with real candles. At a glamorous party thrown to 'inagurate' the room:

“the air-conditioning was going full blast and the candles spilled all over the guests,” Hadley recalls, “and that was the end of that.”

Source: nymag.com via Dane on Pinterest

I've made mistakes myself. The worst to date which Steve will never let me live down was a chair rail I painted in an old apartment. The walls where painted eggplant when I moved in and the chair rail was a dull creamy colour. I wanted colour! I loved lime green with eggplant so I went out and got a can of what I thought would bring a hit of colour to the space.

Now, lime green is much like yellow when you paint it on the walls: it is amplified 100 times and I was mortified. My hit of lime turned out to be neon bright. I know now what I did wrong...but I had no idea at the time what was wrong with the colour I'd chosen.

What is your worst design mistake?

Antiquing Finds & Tea with Barbara Barry

2011-05-27T15:26:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited to share a couple of the items I found when I stopped in to a (new to me) local Antique Shop, Harvest Antiques in Hampton, Otario. They have 18,000 square feet of antiques spread out over 2 barns (2 floors each) as well as another building with the 'girly' stuff and chandeliers.

I usually try to avoid Antiquing because it can become very expensive for me...very quickly.

But I was good today and behaved ;)

I'm head over heels in love with the tea cup and saucer I found. They are marked Bell Fine Bone China England. The deets I've found: they where made in Staffordshire by Shore & Coggins of Longton, who also produced the Queen Anne Mark, who produced from 1911 to 1966. The mark on the bottom of my sweet new set predates the mark in use from 1936-1966. But what I love about them is the pink coral pattern and doily edging.

How cute is that pattern?!

My second find is the interesting plate under my tea set. Again, I love the pattern. It is so unique. I don't know if it is for decorative purposes only but that's ok. I'm planning on using it for display.

The deets on the plate:
Mark is 'Ridgways England, Royal Semi Porcelain' which was manufactured by Bedford Works, Shelton, Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent (my guess this is somewhere in England). The date for the mark as it is on my plate was used from 1912 on...till I don't know when.

Isn't the pattern great?! I love the black and white graphic used in combination with the illustrations of India. The photo doesn't do justice to the pink sky.

I enjoyed a cup of licorice spice herbal tea as I worked on this post. I'm going to have to get myself a box of Barbara Barry's new tisane (an herbal tea) Citrine which she created for Tea Leaves. I was fortunate enough to enjoy a cup of Citrine with Ms. Barry when I was in NYC for BlogFest2011. Citrine is outstanding!

My camera battery died just as I met Ms. Barry so I couldn't get a photo although another designer was kind enough to take one for me. Just as soon as I get a copy of it I'll get it up. Till then...you'll have to take my word for it ;)

Chinatown New York

2011-05-27T08:12:00.000-07:00

When I was in NYC for BlogFest2011 I had some time to wander around in Chinatown. I had on my personal agenda to get me some yummy Vietnamese for lunch. Success on that!

I had a terrific meal at Xe Lửa a Vietnamese restaurant on Mulberry Street, just south of Canal.

I had a street side seat to people watch. You can't see me in the photo but you can see where I sat devouring my food :)

I had the Barbecue Pork on Rice Vermicelli and it was HEAVEN!

On another stroll through Chinatown I noticed a small lighting store with adorable rice paper lanterns. If I had room in my luggage I'd have brought these and more home with me!

I can't wait to go back to NYC. Steve and I are hoping we to get there some time in the next 2 months. Fingers crossed!

Where do you like to go for a stroll and light lunch in NYC?

Elle Decor Showhouse: Designer's Sketches

2011-05-26T08:15:00.000-07:00

Marie Turner's Master Suite:

Aurelien Gallet's Master Suite:

I've an interesting story behind the art Aurelien selected and will dedicate a post to it.

Sara Story:

The other rooms I have sketches, by the designers, I could not get over all photos of because the rooms where so crowded. I do have some nice detail shots so if you'd like to see them let me know.

Elle Decor Modern Showhouse Beneficiary: Housing Works

2011-05-23T13:42:00.000-07:00

Housing Works, the beneficiary of Elle Decor's The Modern Concept Showhouse, is a wonderful organization. Their Motto says it better than I could:

Housing Works is a healing community of people living with and affected by HIV/AIDS. Our mission is to end the dual crises of homelessness and AIDS through relentless advocacy, the provision of lifesaving services, and entrepreneurial businesses that sustain our efforts.

I was in the Gramercy Housing Works Thrift Shop on the Saturday before Kravet's BlogFest2011...I'd won a pair of never worn Chanel kitten heel pumps in blush and pink

through their on-line auction...and was so inspired by the work accomplished by the volunteers that I donated $120. I also picked up my Chanel's; I'd won them for $93! In case you don't follow pricing on vintage designer shoes: used Chanel's go for about $200. So my winning bid for New vintage Chanel pumps...was a huge score!

Unfortunately they are a little too wide for me :( but it was for a good cause. I'll likely use them in my dressing room as a display...with the Cole Haan Clutch I found in a basket of small clutches in the shop!

Yes I do have a new DSLR but iPhones are uber convenient!

Clutch was $15 - craziness I tell you! I also got a gold suede Coach wristlette...envious yet?!

The rug you see under the shoes/clutch is a wool Madeliene Wienrib I picked up from ABC Carpets. I love the unique print and the colours are perfect.

You can shop Housing Works online...they offer everything under the sun as well as auction items.

BTW, the furniture you can find in their Thrift Shops is unbelievable. Don't believe me? Take a look at the window display the day I was there:

Prices are out of this world...in a good way!

If you have the opportunity to stop in to a Housing Works take it because stock changes daily. Greater NYC has 13 locations; 10 of which are in Manhattan.

Please share what you find with me. I'd love to see your purchases and will blog your fab style! Because as you know, the find is exhilarating but it is in the gushing of others that you truly get to revel in your greatness!

A few more photos I took while in the Gramercy shop:

Raul, at the Gramercy shop taking my donation. He was as thrilled with my Chanel pumps and Cole Haan clutch find as I was. Very lovable guy!

Oh The People You Will Meet: Day 1 of BlogFest2011

2011-05-22T14:12:00.000-07:00

Without a doubt what made the Kravet - Lee Jofa BlogFest2011 event for me was the people in the design industry who I was fortunate enough to get to chat with.

Highlights of Day 1 for me were:
Scot Meacham Wood

Scot Meacham Wood with Kravet's Jennifer Powell

I had the opportunity to chat with Scot a couple of times. He is so fun loving and easy going. Add to that his unbelievably diverse design talent and you've got one fabulous package! Scot was attending BlogFest2011 with us but I've got him on this list of Design Talent.

Karen Marx

Elle Decor's Karen Marx with Jennifer Powell

I hit the jackpot at Elle Decor's Modern Life Concept House. Editors, designers...I got some quality time with them all! I took the photo with Karen Marx from Elle Decor while we were chatting in the Office designed by Oliver M. Furth. We were loving the details of the room. To find out what those details are you'll have to come back and read my It's in the Details post. ;)

Marie Turner

Marie Turner in the Master Suite she designed

Marie Turner did an incredible job with the Master Suite in the first apartment at Elle Decor's Modern Life Concept House. The suite included the en-suite bath, walk-in closet as well as the bedroom. I could have moved in instantly! Turns out not only is Marie beautiful but also a very lovely woman who was excited to share her sources for the room. I was stunned when she told me she was only 26 years old. We will be seeing much more of Marie's work in the future as she is a very bright star in the the design universe.

Future post, It's in the Details, is where I will give you insight in to the rooms at The Modern Life Concept House...stay tuned for the deets on Marie's Master Suite!

Aurélien Gallet

Aurelien Gallet

Aurélien Gallet, formally trained as an Art Appraiser is originally from France. He came to the USA about 8 years ago. Aurélien has over seen huge projects around the world working for 2 of NYC's top interior designers, Juan Pablo Molyneux and Robert Couturier before finally deciding in the last year it was time to strike out on his own. He's already got 3 Showhouses (Elle Decor's The Modern Living Show house, Kips Bay Show House and he is the Hampton Designer Showhouse in Southampton! He's also on Elle Decor's 5 Designers to Watch list.

Aurélien has no fear of stepping out of the box. With The Modern Show House he was limited in what he could do with the existing features of the Master Suite. To compensate for the inability to rework the space he had the walls upholstered in velvet (Lelievre Paris' Yeti in Truffe & Trianon in Blue) to create a feminine cocoon. Ideally, he would have moved/removed walls.

I've got some insight to the unique selections of art and antiques Aurélien used so stay tuned to my It's in the Details post where I'll reveal Aurélien's inspiration and thought provoking selections!

It was a pleasure chatting with him but because he was shy about having his photo taken...I forgot to sneak one when he was not expecting it. P.S. Fabulous french accent, funny and tall, Aurelien Gallet is one hot commodity...err, designer. =)

That's just the first day of the people I met!

Delta's Amazing In2ition

2011-05-21T20:06:00.000-07:00

I recently helped a Realtor with a listing she had in Cabbagetown which is a beautiful area in Toronto full of Victorian homes. The listing I worked on was stunning...if you could see past the Funeral Parlor look and feel of the previous owner.

There was some work to be done prior to listing...ok there was LOTS of work to be done but I had a limited budget of $10,000 to do the repairs, minor updates, paint 2/3 of the home as well as stage it with rental furniture.

The listing went extremely well...I'm told the house looked fabulous...and it sold for hundreds of thousands more than it was listed for. Yes, the house sold, firm, in six days setting a record for the neighbourhood. Yay me!

Some simple updates to the house created the buzz. The have to be show stoppers! Lighting is the first thing I always change. Not all the fixtures but 2 or three key pieces.

I find one of the most overlooked updates are the faucets and Delta Faucets makes my favorite uber functional kitchen faucet, the Pilar H2O Touch.

For this house I also updated the shower with a new shower head. The bathroom had been renovated and was nice but not one that would make you WANT to use the shower. It had a plain old shower head...so I put in Delta's In2Ition. You won't believe this: you simply replace your existing shower head with the In2Ition...and you get a 2-in-1 head and hand held:

If you are looking for easy, WOW, updates I recommend you seriously look at Delta's Pilar and In2Ition. You'll be glad you did! The Pilar kitchen faucet and the In2ition are available at retail showrooms as well as plumbing showrooms.

Kravet's Blogfest2011 1st Post....

2011-05-21T19:15:00.000-07:00

I returned home from NYC and Blogfest2011 last night. I have over 500 photos (after deleting blurry/redundant/unflattering shots). I was going to watermark before posting them on Picasa but I think I'll simply upload and trust in receiving link love...and I must say, the bloggers I just spent the last 4/5 days with are amazing at sharing the love!

*Update: Day 1 of BlogFest2011 is now available:

Everyone I met was warm, open and enthusiastic. We were over the top excited about all the plans Kravet had for us and just as enthused to be sharing it with like minded design bloggers. We all left BlogFest2011 with at least 100 potential blog posts and I for one can't wait to read my fellow blogger's posts recapping the week in NYC.

This particular post of mine has no 'subject' per say. It is simply a Thank You to Beth Kimless Greene of Kravet who conceived, laboured and birthed Blogfest2011 and to thank the Kravet Family who where with us each and every day to share their experience and knowledge of the design elite in North America.

Beth along with Jeniffer Powell blew us away with the agenda they set for us. I will be posting for the next...who knows how long about the wonderful and professionally rewarding week I had in NYC.

BlogFest2011 House Beautiful Luncheon

Live Today @ Hearst Tower

2011-05-16T07:20:00.000-07:00

This Decorator/Design Blogger is Live in NYC @ Hearst Tower. You can tune in by clicking the banner below:

http://www.livestream.com/blogfest2011

Be there with me mes p'tit Chous

*bisous*

2011-05-05T13:56:00.000-07:00

I was in the city today to get my hair 'done'. When I walked outside after the appointment I will freely admit I looked Fierce. Totally hot hair. Don't you love how a great cut an make you feel good about yourself. Or is that just me?

I walked out of the salon like this:

Source: inventorspot.com via Dane on Pinterest

Unfortunately I had to go pick up The Girl after school and it was really very windy out. As she was running up to me she, outside the school, she YELLED...in horror: 'What did you do to your hair?!'.

So I got this amazing haircut but the family (and neighbours as well as their kids, cats and dogs) saw this:

Source: sodahead.com via Dane on Pinterest

Will I *never* get a break?

P.S. I've been in a funk the past couple of weeks. It always happens when I'm between jobs.

Bunnies and Milk...Glass

2011-04-23T21:16:00.000-07:00

We don't celebrate Easter in our home, however, the Easter Bunny does make a stop here!

Source: re-foundobjects.com via Eva on Pinterest

Be Still My Heart

2011-04-22T19:16:00.000-07:00

Cruising 1stDibs for lighting. I'm looking for 2 matching ceiling fixtures and 2 sconces for the vanity. While I found several I liked they where over the top expensive so I've had no luck for our ensuite bath. Poopsies for me.

But I found this beauty! It would look so great over an island. Not what you normally see in a kitchen which is why I like it. It's pricey but perhaps not for someone doing a full kitchen renovation. Isn't the pink of the opal glass pretty? Hmm, it would look lovely in a dressing room too. Oh the possibilities!

Source: 1stdibs.com via Dane on Pinterest

For those of you who are super duper good at DIY (I'm NOT), I also saw the light fixture below and thought someone might be inspired by it.

Source: 1stdibs.com via Dane on Pinterest

I suppose these inspiring kitchen light fixtures are fitting for this holiday weekend. I hope you all have a wonderful time and enjoy the people you're with!

Just Because Mondays

2011-04-18T08:09:00.000-07:00

The series, Just Because Mondays, is my way of easing in to a new week of blogging. It will feature what is top on my list of desires so it can be absolutely anything.

Today's post is clothing that I would so love to have in my closet:

- An outfit by the late Alexander McQueen.

via net-a-porter

- This dress I came across on Aspinal of London...I don't know who designed it but it's exactly what I imagine wearing in my office...when it's been completed...it's currently storage. Not sure what's up with the vapid look on the model's face.

- Last but certainly not by any means least...silk crepe bra and briefs from Carine Gilson available through Net-a-Porter.

What's with the obsession for the colour blush? Truth be told I'm uncomfortable wearing pale pretty colors but I've decided if I can't wear it I'll paint my office in it. Now that I've made that decision...I am finding I am wanting to try wearing it. Too bad for me my taste runs a wee bit expensive!

Drapery Day Dreaming

2011-04-16T12:02:00.000-07:00

I've been obsessing a little about drapery. I need drapery for my dining room, bedroom, the Girl's room and now my office. I LOVE silk drapery and get very excited when I see it with them edged in pleats.

I have been looking at fashion for inspiration for drapery and bedding. I think over the next few years we will start seeing more elaborate drapery in high end design.

So, with haste, here are some of my most inspiring photos for drapery...and bedding! I hope they get you thinking about how you can incorporate some of the ideas in to your home.

Source: citified.blogspot.com via Dane on Pinterest

Source: bhldn.com via Dane on Pinterest

Source: absolutelyladylike.com via Dane on Pinterest

Source: monsteratemycouture.blogspot.com via Dane on Pinteres

Raising Awareness & Raising Funds 4 Mental Illness

2011-04-14T11:13:00.000-07:00

via

A mask protects, provides a place to hide how we feel from others. Though behind the mask it's not a safe place because what we are hiding from is within us. Telling us how worthless we are, how we don't deserve to be loved but how we deserve the emotional pain we suffer.

Long before I looked and acted sad I looked and acted angry. When I look and act angry I am still feeling, still fighting for my self-worth.

When I look sad it's because I've given up and have no more strength to fight for myself.

When I look sad it's because I believe they are right. I am worthless. I don't deserve to be loved.

I looked sad 2 years ago.

I believed my children and husband would be better off without me.

I was wasting away. Overwhelmed I slipped away. I couldn't be reached. It was all I could do to just breath.

In this place I knew I was hurting those who loved me. In this place I couldn't help them. In this place I couldn't stay.

I got in the car and drove. I slept in the car at rest areas and drove till I ended up in New Orleans. Nothing had changed. I thought it was a fitting place. To. Just. Stop.

My husband's heart was shattering. He was desperate to help but could do nothing but let me go. His mother rather then offering him support, love or understanding told him, "I told you she'd destroy you".

My mother-in-law is a

My own family never asked if I was ok. They never reached out with love or support. One of them told my mother, who suffers from dimentia that I'd left my family. Then one of them did phone...to accuse me of not being alone, to tell me I was the reason my mother was crying every day. They are cowards and won't tell me who told my mom such a lie. They protect each other.

Why not protect me? Because I am not worth anything...that is what they've been telling me.

Someone needs to be blamed for everything wrong in their lives.
Someone needs to be blamed for their being racist, obese, miserable, homophobic.
Someone needs to carry their guilt and hate to the grave. Someone they could turn their backs on.

But I was lucky and a lifeline was extended.

I was diagnosed with C-PTSD. I could get help. I could get better.

I could laugh with joy watching my husband and children playing. It would take a long time and it would be hard but there was a light at the end of the tunnel. There were those who would not turn their backs on me. They would not let me carry anyone else's guilt.

I'm very lucky. Today I feel more like myself. My CPTSD self is still here but she is slowly dispersing like smoke after it's been exhaled. I breath. I learn to recognize when I'm having a flashback. I recognize when my inner-critic is telling me I've no value and I exhale it and it disperses.

There will be no Barouche-Landau for me anytime soon. The light at the end of the tunnel has come and I've walked out in to the warming sun. I'm fortunate and I'm mostly happy.

For those who have not made it my heart goes out to those who loved them.

Join me and show your support for those who suffer from mental illness.

Please spread the word about the Bloggers Give Back eBay Auction to raise funds for the George Herman House. A place where women who suffered from mental illness can learn to live without a mask.

You can donate to the George Herman House through Bloggers Give Back, here.

I want to thank my husband Steve, my closest friend Kellie, my niece Roxanne and my Dr. Jayne for without them this blog would not exist.

Thank you to the wonderful sponsors of Bloggers Give Back as well for their support of the George Herman House:

Ikea: Supplying outdoor furniture for the house
Tonic Living: Supplying outdoor Fabrics and sewing services
Bona Vista Pools: Some outdoor accessories
MastermindToys: Financially donated to help the team buy materials
Frank Ferragine and Teamscape - Landscape Design

Just Because Mondays

2011-04-11T14:47:00.000-07:00

Welcome to another new weekly post. Just Because Mondays!

All things pretty and feminine to do with my dressing room and my office has been on my mind. This photo is inspiration to the nth degree! Wouldn't a warm mid-tone gray or greige baseboard look great?

If you know who I can attribute the photo or work to please post below. I don't even remember saving the photo but I named it miss_p?! I must have been lacking in caffeine because I seriously don't know where it came from.

High Point Market Week Highlights - Oly

2011-04-06T07:50:00.000-07:00

Beautiful furnishing are headed your way! It is Market Week at High Point Market in High Point, North Carolina. This is the industry's week to showcase their newest designs to retailers, designers and others withing the industry. If I had my way I'd be there.

I'll be pulling out all the stops next year to try and make it. High Point Market week is HUGE...both physically and event wise. All the designers who have furniture lines coming out are there to introduce the new wares.

There are so many spectacular pieces I couldn't possibly cover them all so I'm going to do a few posts highlighting some of my personal favourites.

Oly - For over 15 years Bay Area designers Kate McIntyre & Brad Huntzinger have been working together creating furniture for the designer showroom market.

The Oly showrooms at HPMW showcased light, bright, airy sophistication. Very little here says vintage although the timeless vintage vibe is present. 'Nuff said. Enjoy!

The gorgeous wall mural looks as if it's been there for 200 years.

source

George Herman House - Lounge Area

2011-04-05T08:23:00.000-07:00

My vision of the lounge area at Toronto's George Herman House. It is a wonderful private area of the Healing Garden. Perfect to read, chat quietly, groom the boxwoods, tend to the herb garden wall or just hang out.

Click to enlarge.

You must excuse my sorry excuse of a sketch. It looks more like chicken scratchings but I wanted to quickly show the seating layout and how I envisioned the wall of the garage.

Outdoor fabrics from Tonic Living:

- Slick in Mink

- Cool Stripe in Sorbet

- Sunny Side Coral

Paint for garage wall Benjamin Moore:

- Nightfall using Aura Exterior Edition sheen level Flat

(Herb garden & tree will appear to float!)

Furniture from Ikea:

- Ammero seating as sofas

- Ammero ottoman

BonaVista Pools:

Planika Fire Jar

To see more excellent concepts by the many wonderful bloggers volunteering with Bloggers Give Back you can check out our website! To find out more about the wonderful work the George Herman House is doing for women with mental illness please visit their website. If you'd like to donate it's simple almost as simple as clicking here!

Revisiting a Client Board

2011-04-03T11:18:00.000-07:00

Click to enlarge

We have a number of projects on our list for our current house. One of the reasons we bought the house was because it has not had any updates or upgrades. We have a hard time paying for someone else's changes because we know we will have to rip them out. We live in a bedroom community in a suburb outside of Toronto where homeowners here think granite counter-tops with GE or Frigidaire stainless appliances equals luxury gourmet kitchen.

Our personal style is decidedly metro and mid to high end. It will take us some time to achieve the renovations we want...one project at a time and we are still working on our en-suite bathroom and dressing room. But that doesn't stop me from thinking about smaller projects that I think I could tackle myself. ;)

I've been thinking about our powder room recently. It is yucky. You sit on the can and look at yourself in the mirror above the sink and when the door is left open the view is of the toilet. I. Hate. It. To make matters worse hunky hubby Steve is always opening doors to rooms. I can close the door to the powder room a dozen times a day...even though no one has used it. Totally sets me off. I can not stand to look at a toilet as I walk through the main floor of the house.

The only way to solve the 'toilet view' is to swap the toilet an sink so there will be a bit of work beyond my abilities in the basement with the waste stack but lets just ignore that for now.

I have been focusing on creating the sense of space in our tiny powder room. I 'd like the sink and counter-vanity to be almost transparent but I'm not sure how realistic this is. So thinking about the sink that will become the focal point got me to thinking about an inspiration board I was commissioned to do for clients a couple of years ago. I dug out the board to see what sink I'd sourced.

I love the Lucite legs! It's definitely an option.

The board has antiqued mirror which I'm already putting in our en-suite bath and possibly on the back-splash in our kitchen so I won't use it in our powder room but the mood of the board is a nice fit otherwise.

BTW, below is a photo of what the powder room looks like currently. It will be a total gut job, even the sub-floor needs to be replaced as it's chip board.

Kravet Has Me Feeling Blue

2011-03-31T16:57:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Kravet hosted a Social Media Event for Designers and Decorators out of the Designers Walk Resource Centre. Jennifer Powell, Kravet's Social Media Coordinator from NYC opened the morning with an overview of how important FB, Twitter, LinkedIn & Blogging are in the business of design. I've been tweeting (off and on) for a couple of years and blogging for a few years but I still took away some valuable information.

After Jennifer's presentation Toronto Designers Meredith Heron and Lisa Ferguson joined her on stage for a panel discussion on Social Media. I'll go out on a limb here and say every single person in the room realized the potential boost social media can bring to their business after hearing Meredith and Lisa's excellent examples of how they've personally benefited.

As dry as it all sounds, it was all about social media after all and not one Kravet fabric was seen, it was a ton of fun and there where many laughs...at and with Meredith. Teasing Meredith...we all ~~stalk~~ admire Stephen Drucker!

Click image to view.

1. Kravet Couture: Interpretation

2. Kravet hand tied area rug: All Over Suzani

3. Kravet:

- Delta Sofa with brass caps

- Kravet silk upholstery fabric for sofa

- Kravet piping cord for sofa

1st Dibs:

- Cocktail table

4. Kravet:

- Murcia Chairs

- Kravet blue silk upholstery fabric for chairs

- Kravet contrast piping cord for chairs

1st Dibs:

- Large brass palm trees

- Seahorse side table

- Globe

5. Kravet gold leaf glass insert console table

1st Dibs gilded coral table lamps

6. 1st Dibs copper crayfish

1st Dibs crab dish

I wanted to thank Kravet for the great day but wasn't sure how until I saw the pillow at the top of this post. The board above is inspired by the pillow and features Kravet furniture, rug, fabric and trim for a sophisticated living room...somewhere where it is summer year round and has a view of the ocean and a sandy beach out the windows.

Thank you Kravet for the inspiration!

Kravet items are available to the trade. Contact me if you'd like help creating a your dream living room!

The Healing Garden and a Confession

2011-03-29T08:44:00.000-07:00

A wonderful place exists in Toronto. I'd never heard of this place until last week. It's a supportive place for women, with mental and emotional illness'.

The George Herman House encourages a self-directed and independent lifestyle using a Holistic approach to health: mind, body, spirit. The House, while funded by Ministry of Health, it relies on donations.

The GHH was looking for help turning their back yard in to a Healing Garden. Upon learning of this a group of bloggers in the GTA have rallied and before you know it they had IKEA Canada on board as a sponsor!

So why am I blogging about this? I'm helping with the garden...for a selfish reason: because I was diagnosed a little over 2 years ago with Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (C-PTSD). My options where to take medication and get in line to see a Psychiatrist or go to Guelph where they have a program specializing in PTSD. I chose to stay at home...after trying (unsuccessfully) to run away. I'm still working on getting better...it's easiest when I'm working because I love what I do. Creativity heals. The crisis, for me is over for now, but I'm just now learning that I have only made it through the depression. As I continue healing I'd like to know I'm helping others and the healing garden fits perfectly. Creativity & connectivity through the healing garden.

I hope to see the George Herman House healing garden full of laughing, confident, healthy women some day and I'd like to know I had a hand in it.

You can help too.

Defining What Inspires You

2011-03-29T07:30:00.000-07:00

Just looking at what inspires me for my ensuite/dressing room. The ensuite it ready for the radiant subfloor. Yay! But I've not ordered it yet. Boo! But the tile is ready and waiting at StoneTile. Yay! But I haven't found a source for the distressed mirror wall. Boo!

But I've got lots to do this week including tomorrow's Designer's social media event at Kravet.

Kravet's social media coordinator extraordinaire, Jennifer Powell, is going to be in Toronto & Montreal spreading the word, to Designers, the benefits of having an online presence. If you didn't already know, Kravet has a great blog you need to Follow called Inspired.Talk. , has a Facebook Page for you to Like and of course you will find them Tweeting all kinds of beautiful and useful info!

Sometimes It's All In Their Mouth

2011-03-25T19:22:00.000-07:00

Taste. Some people have it and some don't. Same goes for class and style.

Tonight I've read a blog post by a fellow Canadian Design Blogger that saddens me. It is in a round about way bashing a Designer yet they have no first hand knowledge of what transpired. Sometimes being pseudo-anonymous behind a blog makes it's easy to natter away about others when it doesn't involve them and they were not privy to the situation.

Here is the blog post doing this currently about a female Canadian Designer who is allegedly famous and on HGTV. So obviously NOT me, I'm neither famous nor on HGTV...although I'd be open to both opportunities.

The problem is this: the story is told from the 3rd person perspective and important details are ~~conveniently~~ ~~ignored~~ left out yet it is rather vicious and seems to decide the Decorator was an overbearing monster.

It was also sad to see the name calling of some successful designers and the innuendos as to who it could be that so wronged the clients. Honestly, I think there is far more to the story than the clients are willing to admit.

I was going to right a comment on the blog post but decided I'd post my response below:

It's always sad to hear clients are not happy with the service BUT I have a big problem with this story. If this was the 'big name' Decorator that it suggests there is no way the client would not have known the sofa was going to be beige.

The client would HAVE to sign off on the fabric for the sofa and place a deposit before it was purchased by the designer. They would have been given detailed invoicing for the time spent and what the time was spent on. They would have known the hourly rates as they would have been in the contract.

There are so many flaws to the story even if some details where left out.

This sounds fishy to me. Perhaps it was not such a 'big name' decorator. There are some pretty crappy ones on TV but there is no way the handful of top Designers nor Decorators in Toronto would work the way these clients did with their decorator.

There is nothing wrong with the prices they paid. For example the quality of the roman blinds are excellent. I always choke when I get the quotes from the workroom for drapery. When a client is willing to invest this kind of money they are not looking to get some drapery from InVu let alone from HomeSense or Bouclair.

I'd love to see what the decor looked like after the reveal rather than the after...after...photos.

P.S. Someone mentioned this is not TV so why the Reveal:
1. so the furniture, drapery etc is delivered and installed all at once therefore saving the client multiple delivery charges.
2. so the items don't get damaged, by pets, kids, etc. before the install.
3. so the client gets the WOW they are paying for!
4. items can take weeks to months to arrive so rather than having the client disrupt their lives multiple times and have missed deliveries or who knows what that can go wrong it is done in one fell swoop. AKA the reveal.

*sigh* I gotta go look at some pretty blue bedrooms to feel better.

More Large Scale Graphics for Walls

2011-03-07T10:46:00.000-08:00

In December I did a series of posts on my 2011 Trend Predictions. It was in Part 2 of the series I predicted large scale graphics on walls as murals and wallpaper.

I love when I can say I was right! My memory is not the steel trap it used to be so I can't generally say that to Steve anymore so please bear with me...I'm going to shout it here :)

I saw a post on Tom Scheerer over on Chinoiserie Chic and my heart skipped a beat. Tom's remake of the Main Club at Lyford Cay in the Bahamas has the most outstanding wall murals (or is it wallpaper?) I've seen in some time. I'm head over heels for it.

Take a peek mes petit choux!

Is there nothing Tom can't do? Stunning!

Kitchen Inspiration Provided By Design Tweeters

2011-03-06T14:00:00.000-08:00

You never know where or when inspiration will come to you. Recently I've been hearing Bijou & Boheme & Toronto Interior Designer phenom Meredith Heron tweeting about Christine's kitchen design Meredith is doing. It has peaked my interest and unexpectedly helped me with my stalled inspiration for my own kitchen. #Win ;)

I knew I wanted White marble but that was the only thing I was sure of. Did I want gray, white or black cabinets? Did I want modern or traditional doors? Did I really want the organic wood trend in my kitchen or was it just an infatuation?

Truth be told I've dreamed about kitchens for the last 2 nights. A Hodge Podge of kitchens and excited chatter with Christine & Meredith. Hmmm, sounds like Twitter has influenced my dream style. I blame Christine and Meredith and thank them as well for unwittingly being my design muses.

So what have I decided? 30's chic inspired baby! Behold my inspiration photos:

Baba, stylist extraordinaire has a 20's, 30's style I greatly admire and Miles Redd has a kitchen I salivate over.

My decisions:

Traditional cabinet doors.
Custom high gloss painted cabinets in black(ish).
Backsplash should have a matted sparkle (does this make sense) like Baba's gold lame' blouse or solid bangle. I'm thinking Rocky Mountain Hardware tile backsplash.
Light fixtures will be a warm metal finish.
Faucets should evoke the flow of the dress in the first image. source unknown
Marble will have the 'hand' (tactile feel) of the dress.

Kitchen design, I've concluded will be by Carol Reed Design (I do not have the experience designing kitchen layouts and Carol does exceptional kitchens. Some day I'll formally request her expertise!

Now, cash flow is all that's holding me back. PR firms...make your pitches ;)

It's all in the architectural details

2011-03-05T10:42:00.000-08:00

At first blush this entrance hall looks so simple. Stunning but simple.

McGill Design Group

It is deceptively simple looking. Seems easy to achieve doesn't it? But look closely. This room is a study in details; look at the architectural detailing. From the wall paneling to the deep baseboards and appropriately deep crown molding.

What makes this entrance stunningly warm and inviting is the layering of clean and simple furnishings over the formal, traditional details of the home. Imagine the walls bare with only standard baseboard and crown molding. The room would look cold, bare and unfinished...as if something were missing.

Architectural details can not be overlooked. When you are considering decorating a room start with the walls themselves and build upon the architectural details you add. The furniture is one of the last things you need to think about. Almost an after thought.

I love :

The Robert Abbey semi-flush fixture, called 'Bling', just visible at the top of the photo. It's on my list for the atrocious home we are in.
The contemporary wall sconces are lovely and almost unexpected in an entrance foyer.
The millwork...on my list. It will run up the stairwell, as in this photo and throughout the 2nd floor hall.
These dark stained treads draw your eyes up the stairs and give a greater sense of depth to the entrance. Again, on my list. We have 'honey' oak stained stairs. Hideous!
Hardwood floor, natch. We have 12'x12' ivory ceramic tile covering about 1/2 of our main floor...I'm so embarrassed! And my little piggy's are always freezing!

For the suburbanites in the cookie cutter homes many of us live in this single photo is an excellent example of a jumping off point to take your blah builder basic to a show stopping shelter mag worthy home. Put the builder's model homes to shame! Show the builders and neighbours (I'm Canadian, eh.) how it should be done.

As the nosey parker that I am I love that the mirror allows us to see in to the kitchen. Wouldn't you just love to live here? Nothing is over done it is simply...perfection.

For the modest investment of cash and a couple of weekends of work for 2 you will always be excited for the moment you walk in the door. Sure wallpaper would look fabulous but will it appeal to a future buyer? Not likely. Wallpaper would cost about as much as the millwork but would date your home and potentially reduce the value...unlike this home.

Sophisticated never goes out of style.

It had me at Yello

2011-03-04T21:18:00.000-08:00

I love the yellow as the accent color to this brown palette. The ceiling sort of rounds out the room yet is unexpected...completes it don't you think?

via The Glam Lamb

Yellow, corresponding with earth, is considered the most beautiful color. The Chinese saying, Yellow generates Yin and Yang, implies that yellow is the center of everything. Associated with but ranked above brown, yellow signifies neutrality and good luck. Yellow is sometimes paired with red in place of gold.

Yellow also represents freedom from worldly cares and is thus esteemed in Buddhism. - via Wikipedia

via Nuevo Estilo

A little sunshine to brighten your day while we wait for spring.

Colette as inspiration

2011-02-28T10:59:00.000-08:00

I really must read some of Sidonie-Gabrielle Colette's novels. I was shocked to realize I've not read Gigi. It's been on my list for years. Not sure what I've been waiting for...unless it's an iPad? Hint hint DH!

In honor of the approaching spring, Paris in spring, and Pantone's color of the year, Honeysuckle, I present to you Colette. Colette's life is deserving of a movie a la Henry & June and Frida.

Colette by Jacque Humbert

I think I'll do a design board using the Humbert painting of Colette with a nod to her Parisian boundary pushing lifestyle!

French Interior designer Jacques Grange purchased Colette's apartment at the Palais-Royal in Paris just a skip across Rue Saint-Honore and Rue de Rivoli to Place du Louvre.

Jacque's living room.

Bedroom view over the gardens. *Swooning* The walls are covered in woven horse hair!

Of course when I was in Paris I had no idea who Jacque Grange and Colette where nor did I care about seeing the Palais-Royal. I only wanted to walk the streets of Paris and try to remember the sights, sounds and smells. Paris was wasted on me. I was far too young to get much meaningful out of the trip...other than a love of crepes the desire to go back someday!

A little dab will do you. Dabble Mag is live!

2011-02-28T07:25:00.000-08:00

Kimberly Seldon's highly anticipated Design and Lifestyle on line magazine 'Dabble' has gone live this morning at 9:30 eastern .

If you have not subscribed to receive your copy, here is the link. Each issue we get to travel the world with one of the top residential designers in North America!

Sneak Peak:

Stunning white kitchen by California's Erinn Valencich.

That backsplash is to die for. It finishes the kitchen off powerfully - calm, clean and radiant!

From Design to international food and art each issue of Dabble will inspire you I'm sure as there is something for just about everyone.

David Carter's 'opium' den! I love the hits of vibrant red in the green paneled room.

There is so much more in the premier edition of Dabble...just waiting for you to turn the pages.

P.S.

Wholly Guacamole Kimberly Seldon looks a lot like me in this picture:

Kimberly Seldon seated between Lena Diaz and Nyla Free enjoying a gourmet Popsicle from Las Paletas in Nashville, TN.

This is me and The Girl at Christmas.

A Living Room Project - Before and After

2011-02-25T21:13:00.000-08:00

I've never posted client photos on this blog so I'm a little apprehensive.

This is a Before and After shot of the living room...hopefully I've done my job and you can tell which is the B and which is the A!

The room felt dark and despite it's size it is narrow so my client's didn't feel they had any other option but two love seats and therefore only room for 4 people and a tiny side table, used as a cocktail table, to set drinks on.

The ceiling fixture is off centre to the fireplace so framed the fireplace with a new chandelier from Nuevo Living on one side and a vase with tall dogwood branches on the other.

Now the room feels bright, symmetrical and has plenty of room for entertaining.

I hope you like it!

What are you wearing for the Oscars?

2011-02-25T20:23:00.000-08:00

The Champs is chilled. The dresses have been fitted.

I figure I'll start out with the pink Channel dress and Fendi Cinderella shoes saving the the slinky black Ann Demeulemeester with a serpentine diamond arm band I found on 1st Dibs for the after parties. For both dresses I've chosen an Alexander McQueen skull clutch.

So, what are you wearing for the Oscars?

Oh, my date:

Oscar 2011 Host James Franco of course!

A girl can dream...

Thrift store score!

2011-02-23T09:19:00.000-08:00

I found this god awful chair at the Salvation Army in the fall. Honestly it was love at first sight but Steve was not so smitten. Regardless, I paid $5 for it and brought it home.

Turns out it is extremely comfy and I now can often be found working on my laptop sitting in it.

I had no knowledge of it's history, source etc. Despite searching the web for something similar. Until 2 days ago that is. I don't recall what I was looking for but off in the corner of a photo was a chair very similar to mine - minus the 'hair'.

It was a pretty version of my beloved chair!

Turns out I've gotten myself an Arne Norell Scirocco chair and a rare one at that =)

Manufactured in Sweden in the 1960's the Scirocco and Safari chairs by Norell are pretty iconic pieces of Swedish design. Neither are being manufactured anymore although the company still exists and produces beautiful seating.

If you'd asked me last week if I'd consider selling it I'd have told you no. I may reconsider now that I have an idea of it's retail value.

http://www.1stdibs.com/furniture_search.php?i_creator=Arne+Norell:

Here is my chair:

The color of the wood is off. In person it is beautiful richly grained. You can see it a bit in the back leg in this photo. Sorry iPhone camera!

Awkward room? Here's today's inspiration

2011-02-16T07:13:00.000-08:00

Do you have a small room with a sloped ceiling and can't figure out how to work with it? San Francisco's Cecelie Starin shows us how it's done!

Beautiful and inspirational. This is why people hire decorators!

A Beautiful Room

2011-02-06T08:21:00.000-08:00

But do you agree with me...they've taken it too much to heart and over did it with the Agate and other rocks?

And, um, perhaps over did it with the fossils too? Now if this was a shop...or a museum it would be fine and dandy but for a home...I don't think Indiana Jones would even be comfy here!

When trends are taken to literally...or too far. Poor Architect must be shaking his head over this one.

My Dream Wallpaper

2011-02-04T07:05:00.000-08:00

Alexander McQueen's iconic Hummingbird print is available through The Rug Company as a rug as well as pillows. Now if only it would be released as a wallpaper...I'd be one happy girl!

I would run the wallpaper up my stairwell.

Winter totally sucks

2011-02-02T07:31:00.000-08:00

I want to live where I can wear these shoes year round...outside to clarify for any cheeky smarty pants out there.

Winter totally sucks. Thank god the 3rd issue of Rue Mag is out!

Photo: Sarah Yates for Rue Magazine + Faire Frou Frou

Save Time + Money With Designer Paints? YES!

2011-01-23T10:33:00.000-08:00

A few years ago we were selling our house so I re-painted the entire thing. Since it was going to be sold and I just wanted to freshen it up I went the cheap route and color matched a Benjamin Moore colour using Behr (at Home Depot).

Source: tumblr.com via Dane on Pinterest

What a disaster! The computers used for colour matching can never get the same formula unless you get all cans at the same time. You will be in big trouble if you run out of paint and have to get another can. Even using the formula from the first purchase the remaining can was way off. After repeated attempts to match to the original/color matched order, and multiple (mis-matched) test spots on walls (argh!) it became clear I'd made a huge mistake trying to copy a paint colour.

A Home Depot paint manager gave me the low down on why it just doesn't work when you copy a paint colour:

After a product (ex. latex flat emulsion base white) goes on the big box shelf the paint manufacturers update the product on an ongoing basis. Therefore you can get a can with an 'older' (last months) formula and a can of the 'new' formula. The cans will look exactly alike; the manufacturers have simply 'tweaked' the base formula which will alter the colour outcome.
Each manufacturer has their own 'white' base to which colour is added. So when you take a Benjamin Moore, Restoration Hardware, C2 etc. sample in to colour match you will never get the same...because they are formulated using a different white base.
The colour matching done at the big boxes only uses the computer to create a formula. At least at specialty paint stores when they colour match they will take the computers 'match' and then, by eye, tweak till they feel it is right. This can take a whole day of them playing around, a few hours or few minutes.

Here is what happened when I tried to touch up some spots with a different can of paint purchased at the same time as the original wall colour:

I went back 3 times trying to get the colour fixed...many many cans later I actually spoke with a paint manager. I got my money back for the original paints which was very kind of him.

I will never again colour match at a big box.

I wish I could say I'll never colour match again but C2 is to damn far away and Farrow & Ball is too.

I'm very fortunate to find a specialty paint store where the paint technicians take their time and will not release the paint till it is a match.

The point to all this rambling: I ultimately used Benjamin Moore's Aura paint. Despite the cost of a gallon of Aura you actually use much less than you would of the big box paints.

1 coat with Aura (like C2)
self-priming (OMG!!!)

New drywall or patched? Just paint it one coat with Aura and you are done.

I had already done 2 coats everywhere with the 'color matched' paint...then the touch up fiasco and then repainting in Aura.

Thankfully I only had to do 1 coat and no priming any patches.

Now that is a lot of time to relax and enjoy the job!

Painting a Stipple or Popcorn Ceiling

2011-01-23T10:01:00.000-08:00

We all detest them, but many of us have them. The stipple or popcorn ceiling. The recommendation is to remove the stippling to get the clean look of a drywalled ceiling but often times this just isn't an option. Time constraints & the possibility of opening a whole new can of worms, such as builders not priming before applying the offending stipple, are the two most often quoted reason for not eradicating stipple from a home.

If you want to freshen the ceiling with a coat of paint there are one or two steps you must follow first.

With a spray bottle, wet an area of ceiling. If the stipple absorbs the water after sitting for a few minutes (it will become soft to the touch) you will know the stipple has not been primed. In this case, proceed to step number 2. If the water does not get absorbed but remains on the surface of the stipple you've gotten the go ahead to skip step two and go straight to paint the ceiling.
If you've determined the stipple is absorbing the water you must prime the ceiling with an oil based primer before painting.

When priming and painting the ceiling make sure to use a high nap roller specifically for stipple ceilings and paint in 2 directions perpendicular to each other in order to cover all surfaces of the stipple.

When you calculate the amount of primer/paint you need...double it. There is a lot of surface to your stipple ceiling!

And here's the completed ceiling which I painted in Benjamin Moore's Titanium:

Happy painting!

Sourcing for a client: chaise longue

2011-01-21T09:04:00.000-08:00

I've a new client which means I get to source fabulous furniture and lighting. Lovely timing because I'm so desperately over winter. I know that when I'm able to say the job is complete it will be on the verge of getting nice out.

I can't think of a better way to get through this season...other than heading south which is just not financially feasible for us. So I'm good with this!

I'm thinking about putting a chaise lounge in the living room on the dining room side of the fireplace. I want the room to be airy and feel roomy even when the owners are entertaining and the room is full of guests.

Here's a nice selection of modern chaise lounges:

Love! via

Glam sophistication Hollywood Deco style. via

Ok not modern but transitional...and very big on comfort! via

Lama Leather chair/chaise

Another combination chair/chaise. via

Ludwig Mies van der Rohe's Barcelona is still my favorite. Available through Knoll.

Graphic Wallpaper Goes Large Scale

2011-01-18T08:09:00.000-08:00

I predicted large scale graphics as a trend we will be seeing more of this year. One I've wanted to use myself is de Gournay's Wind Swept Blossom design. Note sure where I could ever get the funds to use it but that's neither here nor there.

I was thrilled to see de Gournay's paper on the cover (and inside) the current issue of CS Interiors!

Chicago designer Anne Coyle

CS Interiors Digital Mag: It's a Page Turner!

2011-01-18T07:59:00.000-08:00

Have you seen the newest digital issue of CS Interiors? If not, let me warn you now. You will need a good 2 hours to go through it just once. Then you will want to revisit the incredible editorial shoots by the various designers who will blow you away!

To be honest, I've not yet finished going through the issue once. I got to the last editorial spread and could not take in another breath taking home they are just chock full of inspiration. I'm overwhelmed by the content and have to take a break!

Here are just a few (of my favorites) to wet your appetite! But know you are going to care about nothing else for a good 2 hours!

Snowed In

2011-01-15T09:38:00.000-08:00

It's been snowing for some time and it doesn't look like it will be stopping anytime soon. The sky is quite black out over Lake Ontario. I just want to crawl back in to bed with a good book. Unfortunately I finished reading the third and final book in Stieg Larsson's series (The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo, The Girl Who Played With Fire + The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest). I've nothing new to read...and I can't fathom what could possibly be better than the one I finished last night!

Well, at least I know which bed I'd like to crawl in to!

I've lost my reference for this image. Any help to provide credit would be greatly appreciated.

I love the inky depth + subtle texture the grass cloth paper brings to the room. The heft of the dressers as bedside tables anchor the bed while the feminine shape of the headboard along with the fur throw, frilly pillows, scalloped coverlet and soft blue keeps the room from feeling heavy. Quite possibly perfection.

I hope you all stay bundled up, warm and cozy during this cold snap!

Sorghum straw? Yes Sorghum!

2010-12-30T10:14:00.000-08:00

Kirei Board is a wonderfully versatile product made from left over sorghum straw which would normally end up in landfill or burned. Kirei Board can be milled like wood, used for flooring, walls, furniture...your imagination is the limit!

The designs using Kirei Board take on an organic feel that we'd all like to introduce in to our homes.

Here's a couple of my favourites:

Kirei Board Bar

Bathroom Vanity Design by Jessica Helgerson

Think of the possibilities!

You 'Moss' See This!

2010-12-22T07:50:00.000-08:00

Although it's only the beginning of the winter I've gotten an email that has me thinking of spring. By now we are all familiar with green or live walls but they are a lot of work to install with proprietary systems. There is a new product on the market for those who would like a simple install with no maintenance.

Yes, I said 'no' maintenance! MOSStile available through Benetti Stone uses lichen on an eco-resin ready for install. There is no watering, fertilization or pruning required, which is perfect for those who are green thumb challenged. About the only requirement is a humidity level of 50%. The lichen is available in 12 different colors.

For someone like me (who likes to preserve energy...yeah I spin it, lazy makes it sound like it's a bad thing) MOSStile sounds like a fantastic alternative. Just think, if you do a wall in your shower...one less wall to wash!

via

I've wanted to do a green wall outside at the front entrance to our house for some time. I would love to see if the MOSStile stands up to our winters; it should, lichen grows in the Arctic.

Holiday Cheer

2010-12-20T07:57:00.000-08:00

White Christmas

1. House Beautiful (?)

2. Country Living

3. Desire to Inspire

I love the feel of this room! I could do without the dolls, stuffed animals & carraiges...pillows...but otherwise I love the warmth of the room. Source unknown.

Isn't this is clever and fun? Source unknown.

To be honest, I'd rather be celebrating the holiday season like this:

I'm a terrible example of a Northern Canadian girl. via Getty Images

Only 5 more shopping days till Christmas. Are you ready? Almost ready? Just starting? Or are you one of those who do it all on the 24th?

I'm not yet ready but I have ordered the organic free-range turkey. I usually wait till the 23 or 24th and run to the butchers in a panic.

My Sparrow Giveaway You Don't Want to Miss!

2010-12-17T11:13:00.000-08:00

You don't want to miss this My Sparrow $100 value giveaway on offer over on Art by Karena.

My Sparrow has just about everything for your home and it's all Eco-conscious fabulous!

Some of my favorites from the store:

The Aaron rolling cart would look great peeking out from under my (someday) kitchen island. Then when entertaining...out it comes! Totally in love with this!

Cog table lamp. ART!

How fun is this octopus throw?! I would love this in our family room. Works with our paintings (ships) and would warm me up when I'm on the leather sofa!

My Sparrow has something for everyone! This linen tote is my favorite.

This is called the Bird at Peace paper weight. Melts my heart. I'm all about melancholy.

Be sure to enter Loves!

2011 Trend Predictions (Part 3) - Lux. Raw. Warm. Organic. Texture.

2010-12-12T09:23:00.000-08:00

1. Photo via Werrner Seggarra.
2. velvet headboard & skirt with fur throw via unknown :(
3. over-dyed rugs via Little Shop.
4. Roberto Peregalli via W Mag.
5. Distressed Pillows in grey and gold via 2 Hounds Design.

Fur, natural or synthetic (I like mine natural but re-purposed), vintage linens, distressed velvets and over-dyed rugs are some of the textiles you are going to be seeing more of this year.

It's all about textiles with a history!

2011 Color of the Year Prediction!

2010-12-09T09:21:00.000-08:00

Yellow!

I'm loving it. I've put it in a client's home...and my own. OK, well I'm not using a lot of yellow...it's just in this rug which you see I sourced for a client (top). I loved it so much...I put one in my living room yesterday.

I loved turquoise as the 2010 colour of the year but didn't put any in my own home. Well, I didn't recommend it either, but never the less, I loved it.

I'm sure of yellow.

Btw, yellow is big on the runways for spring 2011...I'm just saying...Yellow!

2011 Trend Predictions (Part 2) - Lux. Raw. Warm. Organic. Texture.

2010-12-09T07:59:00.000-08:00

Gallery walls of mixed art and the acceptance of black walls as a neutral we are going to start seeing a more creative movement when it comes to wallpaper and color. Bold colour in large scale prints and graphics be it on all the walls in a room, as a feature wall or for those who want the edge but not the huge commitment, accent pieces such as pillows. It can be punk, graffiti, chinoiserie or all out baroque; but it will be big, bold and quite possibly colourful!

Don't believe me? Wait till you get a look at the January 2011 issue of Canadian House and Home's Style Files...page 28. ;)

1, 2. Via Adore Magazine

3. Brazilian artist Assume Vivid Astro Focus for Mark Fletcher's living room via W Magazine

4. Wallpaper design by Kravitz Design for Flavor Paper (imagine this in a bright sunny room!)

5. Alexander McQueen Spring 2011 via NYT

2011 Trend Predictions (Part 1) - Lux. Raw. Warm. Organic. Texture.

2010-12-06T10:15:00.000-08:00

1,2. Bronze Tile, Bronze Pull both by Rocky Mountain Hardware.
3. Restoration Hardware.
4. Brass light fixture by Annabelle Selldorf for Neue Gallerie Design Store.
5,6. Brass bottle openers, patinated brass pendants both by Oji & Design.

Warm metals beckon to be touched. Clever designers have added the element of texture as clearly evident with the tiled backsplash and faceted pendant light fixtures. Don't you want to pick up the bottle openers? Desire to run your finger through the bronze pull? I know I'm dying to!

I've been recommending brass and bronze lighting and accessories for a couple of years now...but just recently it's become an obsession for me.

We will be seeing a lot more of the warm metals over the next few years; they soften the darker walls we are seeing, instill a sense of warmth to our rooms and lend timelessness to our homes, often in some nontraditional concepts!

Paolo Roversi's Ethereal Winter Wonderland

2010-12-02T17:10:00.000-08:00

I am not easily impressed by fashion editorials. There are a handful of photographers I am head over heels giddy about. Paolo Roversi is one of my favorites. His images are often raw yet he reveals an innate fragility in each image.

Paolo did an editorial for W Magazine's December issue that has me speechless. The dresses, model selections, makeup, hair and styling are superb. I have to remind myself to breath. I'd love to have these blown up and on my walls.

I've picked 2 of my favorites to show here and you can follow the link below to see the rest of the editorial.

Galliano Hat

Dior Haute Couture's silk tulle dress

W Magazine's Family Circus editorial

*bisous*

Dane

You May Have Too Much Money When....

2010-11-28T18:26:00.000-08:00

An unusual choice for a centerpiece. source

*bisous*
Dane

Sunday Morning's = Nostalgia

2010-11-28T10:44:00.000-08:00

My favorite way to spend Sunday mornings include white wine, a selection of cheeses and charcuteries as well as artisanal breads. Regrettably, I've not been able to do this since...well not since I lived a short stroll from the Atwater Market in Montreal.

Saturday afternoons I'd make my way over to the Atwater Market.

My first and favorite stop was La Fromagerie. Owner Gilles Jourdenais has owned this boutique cheese and deli shop since 1983. You never buy without a taste. And they will work hard to find the cheeses you like. They have about 800 cheeses! Yes, this is boutique cheese shopping at it's best.

You always walk out with a smile on your face. Just look at Gilles...how can you not be happy after spending a bit of time with him. Everyone behind the glass display and cash are happy in this shop.

I bought my coffee, cheese and deli meats from Gilles every Saturday. One of my favorite coffee mugs, to this day, is one Gilles gave me. They appreciate coffee should be in a Large mug.

Then next up was the wine. Atwater Market is blessed with an SAQ Classique Terroirs d'ici (Liquor store).

I'd pick up a bottle of white to complement the cheese I'd purchased. I should tell you I'm a complete neophyte when it comes to cheese. If I'd had more than a year shopping at La Fromagerie I am certain I'd be a connoisseaur.

I'd grab some fresh fruit and vegetables and perhaps a steak for Saturday's dinner then make my final stop at Boulangerie Premiere Moisson...

for a hot cafe au lait en bol and a fresh warm loaf of an artisinal bread.

Thank you for traveling down memory lane with me this Sunday.

*bisous*

Dane

My 1st Give Away! & What I Got: One Of A Kind Show Toronto

2010-11-27T09:50:00.000-08:00

2 Hounds Unleashed is holding a give-away!

Hang out long enough to follow my Blog, Like my Facebook Page and follow my Tweets then comment on this post for a chance to win a ticket to the One of a Kind Xmas Show and Sale in Toronto open now! You have till end of business day Monday to enter! I will have The Girl, at bedtime, randomly select the winner. I will then contact you for your address and Fed-Ex the ticket to you. Good luck!

This is The Girl:

My day at the One of a Kind Show was very fruitful. I walked out with my arms loaded down. Thankfully the organizers of the show have a FREE! package check for shoppers. Imagine that. Customer service is alive and well!

I wanted to buy so much but managed to exercise some control. Here's just a highlight of what I bought:

Julie Pederson's black suede & Tibetan lamb spats (mine have red paint slats):

Julie's booth is where you will find gorgeous Mukluks which are heavenly comfortable. The children's mukluks are outstanding btw! Ok, they are all outstanding. Julie is available to meet and talk with (beautiful woman) and her mother is there with her working the booth. Both very fun ladies. The booth is very busy so don't wait till the end of the show you may end up having to order and *horrors* have to wait for your boots. Booth F-48

Dahlia Drive is artist Wendy Van Riesen. Wendy takes old slips, shirts and kimonos giving them new life with her custom art. I bought a beautiful black slip with lace inserts under the bust and along the hem with the skeleton design on the front and back. Someday I'll post a photo of myself in the dress. I wore it yesterday on our out and abouts, over black skinny jeans with a black velour hoody. Looks amazing and I got many complements and questions about where to get one!

Wendy is overflowing with energy and fun as heck. She will also do custom designs using heat-press, silk-screening and hand painting if you send her a slip.

Wendy had a soft peach slip she'd wrapped around a rusted shovel and left in the ground...if it had fitted I'd have bought it. It is stunning!

These slips totally rock it when you layer them btw. Don't look like everyone else this summer get a Dahlia Drive slip dress! Booth V-56

Honeybea Design Hive is one of the busiest booths at the show. Bea, seen in the photo, makes bags, and other accessories but I got a Bumwarmer for my daughter.

If I'd had more space to try one on I'd have gotten one for myself but this booth was abuzz with activity! Seriously, you have to see these Bumwarmers! Booth N-04

Seriously if I'd had more $ I'd still be at the show. If you where thinking of skipping the show this year you really should reconsider. There are vendors who have not been for years only to return this year to the thrill of attendies. Do not miss out!

*bisous*
Dane

Motivational Inspiration - get yourself to the One of A Kind Show

2010-11-24T08:59:00.000-08:00

I'm so stoked about Toronto's Christmas oneofakind Show and Sale which opens tomorrow (Thursday November 25th) and runs till December 5th.

I have been looking at some of the artists attending the OKS this a.m. and it's gotten me more motivated than ever.

Think about it:

No shipping charges (cause most of us do not have a U.S. addie for free shipping).
No duty on the gifts you buy (be they for friends & family or for yourself...yes you DO deserve it!). I have confirmed from vendors, Canada Customs has been cracking down on imported 'gifts' and applying duty. I *know*; that's dootie! ;)
No waiting for your on-line order to be delivered!! Don't kid yourself. We are in Canada...Canada Post is notorious for being slow.
Shop at the show, gift wrap and mail...guaranteed on time delivery for Xmas!

I'm looking forward to meeting:

Artist Kelly Grace

(her blog)

Kelly in her studio. She's adorable. The painting: WANT!

*bisous*
Dane

One Of A Kind Show & Sale - Christmas 2010

2010-11-23T08:26:00.000-08:00

I'm looking forward to getting my Christmas shopping done at the Toronto One of a Kind Show & Sale later this month. Not only will I be a shopper, I'll be attending as press. I can't say that without giggling. The perks of being a blogger...industry's want you to talk about them.

It is so easy to talk about this event. It takes place 2 times a year in 4 different cities in North America. My favorite is the Christmas Show.

Where else can you get unique, one of a kind, gifts for all your family and friends in one day?

Artisans from all over the world bring their talents to the oneofakind. This is like Etsy Live. You can meet the artists and learn the story behind the pieces you purchase. For a little while the world will seem like a smaller warmer place. Who'd want to miss out on the warm and fuzzies?

Amazing stocking stuffers for every personality from gourmet coffees, dips, jams and jellies for the chefs on your list; earrings, bangles etc for the fashionista; knit sweaters and designer beds for you pampered pooch...paintings, designer clothing, ceramics, hand blown glass, woodwork...there really is something for everyone.

If you are anywhere near Toronto (November 25-December 5), Vancouver (December 9-12), Chicago (December 2-5) or New York (November 11-14 & 18-21) you do not want to miss the One of a Kind Show. Ok, if you are in or near New York you have missed it...but Toronto is just a hop, skip and a Porter Air flight away.

I can't fail to mention there will likely be huge freshly baked cinnamon buns there. They taste so good while wandering the aisles. I stuffing my face with nibblies for sure.

Speaking of Porter Air, they have a 30% off sale on all flights right now (use promo code: GIFT30)...so book (before November 24th)!

I can't wait to show you what I find for the loved ones on my list so stay tuned.

*bisous*

Dane