Red in Every Room

One of my design philosophies is adding something red to every room.  For a recent project I completed for Dennis Hammer, we worked with a lot of texture by adding a different grasscloth in every room.  Working with his beautiful black and white collection of photography brought in a sense of refinement that added an elegance to the home.  I have always been a huge fan of using neutral colors in varying textures, however, there is a fine line between neutral and boring.  Popping in a shade of red is the cure for boring and works every time.

Working in a small area off of the kitchen, I used a red fabric on the bench seat as well as refinishing the vintage chandelier in a red patina.

In the library/media room, the deep red silk pillows along with the red topped ottoman punch up the space without drawing attention away from the photographs

For the bedroom, it was the surprise dose of red on the interior of the secretary/desk.

Overall, our design goal was to create a Carribean resort-style home that combined a neutral palette of textures while highlighting Dennis’ love of books and photography.  Check back as I plan to share more photos in upcoming entries along with ideas and tips

Help 1 Up

Many people ask me what to do with their current furniture when their new pieces arrive.  The last thing you should do is throw it away.  Many people would be thrilled with any furniture at all. 

If you find yourself in the position to donate your furniture, please check out http://www.help1up.org At a recent event I met Jeff Hay, the executive director of the National Furniture Bank Association.  Their organization provides furniture for families who have lost their homes to natural disasters, children and woman who have been displaced due to domestic violence as well as families living below the poverty line who need a hand up, not a hand out.  Their belief is that no child in America should have to sleep on the floor.  If you have anything to offer, please go to their website where you can donate today. 

All is OK

Thanks for all the emails and calls checking in on my place after yesterday’s fire.  I did wake up at 5am to screaming sirens and 2 barking dogs.  Thankfully no one was hurt although the building direclty across from my new home burnt down.  While I have a little smoke damage to my draperies, all is OK. 

Large plums of smoke could be seen for miles.  Unfortunately the windows in my building are original from the 20’s and not sealed as well as new ones.  It’s a trade-off for keeping the originals (which I don’t mind)

It seems KBTV is a huge success as we are doubling the amount of traffic to my site.  I enjoy sharing my process with you.  We still plan to post new episodes every Monday and Thursday.  Although I am actually a little ahead of the video, I thought I’d share a few recent purchases.

These vintage stools don’t have an exact place yet.  I just love the use of color and bold pattern of the Marimekko fabric.

On a recent trip to Grand Rapids I came across this artist who is based in Portland, OR.  I have always been a fan of landscapes.  Her abstract trees and use of color drew me in.  These 2 pieces are a diptych that hang side by side.  I recently commissioned her to do a large scale diptych for a client in Manhattan Beach.  As soon as that project is finished I will share photos.  You can check out more of her work at http://www.studiohartig.com

I guess I am in the phase of buying small pieces that can float around my house.  They don’t have a permanent place, so to say, I just like to have a few pieces that can travel around and find a home in various areas keeping it fresh.  This vintage Baker bench was found at another favorite shop of mine http://www.orange.1stdibs.com