October 16, 2014

Everyone Loves A Makeover

Have we really been working on this together for almost 30 years?

My client and I had a laugh over how time has flown and how trends have changed.  Considering an extensive (and overdue) makeover, we traveled from room to room as we inventoried each piece of furniture, recounting which year and which house each piece was purchased.  Sofa from the ’80′s.  Chairs from the ’90′s.  You get the idea.

October 9, 2014

Explaining Natural Fiber Rugs

Fiber rugs are beautiful and add texture to any style of room. They provide elegance and/or a casual look depending on the placement. There are many designs of natural fiber rugs. Geometric patterns are very decorative even if they are neutral in color.  Shades of khaki, beige, taupe, and off white are typical for this type of rug material.

Rich but subtle, these rugs are versatile and timeless.

But what are the differences between all the natural rug fibers?  And how do I know which one is right for my situation?

There are many interesting patterns, textures, and colors to chose from.

September 11, 2014

Lighten Up, Brighten Up a Mountain Cabin

Mountain homes and cabins can be very cozy and warm. Sometimes, however, because of the shade of the outdoor foliage and terrain, the interior can be dark. Such was the case with this log cabin in western North Carolina. The owners requested that we brighten up the living space while keeping the existing rug and sofa.

The first step was to paint some of the stucco walls with an off-white instead of the existing tan color. We also painted the flat ceiling area over the dining table an off-white. After donating the brown leather loveseat to the church white elephant sale, we replaced it with two spool chairs and an ottoman in a light painted finish and soft aqua fabric.

The sofa and loveseat were a set, but the new spool chairs are much more functional and happy than the loveseat.

Using a few new mirrored pieces, we were able to brighten the living room with the reflected light from the skylight above.

This new brass coffee table with a mirrored top is much lighter than the wooden trunk that they used before.

We replaced the tan curtains with cream linen draperies trimmed in a decorative tape. They lighten up this side of the room while also offering privacy.