A Contemporary Asian Inspired Family Room

I fell in love with interior design when I knocked down the interior walls of my own home in 2002.  I built them back up the way that worked for me.  From that point on I thought outside the box (literally).  When space is used wisely, function and design is achieved and life at home is harmonious regardless of our style and color palette. That is the next step. 

For my clients Paul and Haunani, a couple in Macungie PA, who love to relax with friends and family, poorly laid out space in their family room was a buzz kill. 

BEFORE

 No matter which way they turned their furniture, it didn't work well, which made the hub of their home, a very irritating space.  The problem stemmed from an angled fireplace that took up precious real estate.  

AFTER

We created a new floor plan that included demolition of the current fireplace.  A new electric fireplace surrounded by built-ins was re-configured along the back wall.  And to create ample seating for them to put their feet up and host dinner parties as well, a sectional and ottoman were brought in.  The ottoman opens up for storage.  We also used a sofa table that had two leather stools that could be moved any where.  

We had so much fun creating custom drapes in three different fabrics, and choosing the rich red color palette.   Haunani, an amazing artist, created the koi fish canvases on either side of the television. 

I love the authentic Asian touches that are very important to the home owners, including the black and white prints framed and hung over the sofa, which depict the correct way of Hawaiian dancing.  Sometimes you have to go backward (demo something that is there already) to move forward.  And you can then achieve harmony.

Make The Most Out Of A Small Bathroom

People first describe me as 'short', then after that is established, as a 'delightful quirky warrior'.  I am five feet to be exact-but so much more.  That is why the bathroom renovation I just completed in Allentown PA meant so much to me.  It is a packed bathroom in the size of a walk-in closet.  I looked at it and knew right away that I wanted everyone to walk in and forget about its size and just see the beauty inside.  

BEFORE

AFTER

There is no secret to making anything look bigger and taller.  For a five foot lady like myself that means wearing four inch heels.  For this little bathroom that means using materials that reflect and grab the eye all the way to the back of the space.  We used iridescent subway glass tile in the shower all the way up the wall, and so the space isn't interrupted, we inlcuded a frameless glass shower door.  Big tip about flooring in bathrooms-try long wide tiles  that require less grout lines, making the floor feel bigger.  And just because you use white wall tile does NOT mean you need to have white floors too!

BEFORE

AFTER

BEFORE

AFTER

Space was so tight and measurements had to be precise to take full advantage of everything.  We switched out the round toilet for a narrower oval one, and the vanity was a great find online.  It uses its depth instead of its width as storage, yet the sink bowl is still large enough to be extremely functional.  

Instead of centering the bathroom mirror over the vanity, we used a large mirror that measured the size of the toilet and vanity to bring in more light and create an illusion of space.

BEFORE

AFTER

We took advantage of the empty wall opposite the vanity by adding a focal point that will come as a surprise for visitors.  The door opens into this wall so as soon as they step in to the space and close it behind them they will see a large niche covered in more of the iridescent glass subway tile, framed out in glass bars, with a wooden tree sculpture.  You know, every room should have interest, including the bathroom.

We used very contemporary pieces in a chrome finish.  I actually had fun picking out even the knob for the shower.  And the right accessories can set any space off.  Don't forget about the details!!

I know this bathroom thanks its owner for seeing its potential and taking pride in  it!  "Thanks Wayne!"

Kids Camp Barn Makeover Part 1

I have designed and decorated home and office interiors, but this weekend I will be working on a barn.  The barn is part of a local kids camp in the Lehigh Valley.  I will be busy, along with a few friends as part of the social action group I chair called Tikkun Olam (hebrew for Repairing the World).  We will turn the empty spaces into fun new places where memories will be made for these campers.  I remember my camp experience.  We ate our brown-bagged lunches on our pool towel, and sat on the grass for hours working with lanyard, having sing a longs, and reciting hand clapping games.  I looked forward to the ice cream cups we would get while waiting for the bus and remember the bees kept bothering us if we stood too close to where the juice and milk was kept.   There were no comfy sofas, or delicate anythings around.  Nature was our room to play in.  But when it rained we had to find shelter.  This will be their shelter!! Here are photos of what the barn looks like now.  

This space will be a Game Room full of fun games!

This space will be a Creative Musical Room to inspire kids to use their imagination!

The barn 'extreme makeover' has been fully funded by Fabrics by Allan, Sherwin Williams on Tilghman St. in Allentown, Buss store in Emmaus, and donated pieces from the JCC Nearly New Sale.   I can't wait to see what a group of friends who care about their community can do.....I promised to show off my Vanilla Ice moves so watch out!  I will blog about the 'After' next week.

Top 10 Ways To Bring Color In & Recession Chic Projects You Can Do

Right now I am enjoying a well deserved chocolate glazed donut, my reward after making it through my first on-air appearance! If you don't know what I am talking about, yesterday I did two live decorating segments on Channel 69 News at Sunrise: ‘Bring Color Into Your Home Quickly & Inexpensively’ and ‘Recession Chic Ways To Add Life To Your Home’. If you missed it, click here to see part 1 & 2 http://www.wfmz.com/news/23516214/detail.html.  

I had a great time not just during the segment, but hanging out with the news crew prior to it.  It started at 7 am when I pulled up to the news station in my Honda Pilot packed full of all my decorating props.  I was greeted by the nicest guy who helped me unload my stuff.  I was shown the control room and given coffee (thank you!!!).  After I set up my table for the show I sat and watched the newscasters do their thing.  Isn't this a gorgeous bunch of people! (see above photo of Matt Broderick, Eve Tannery, Jaciel Cordoba, and little me in the back). 

Since the show aired there has been so much positive feedback and interest so I  am blogging about some of the most important ideas I touched on and further tips.

TOP 10 WAYS TO BRING COLOR TO YOUR HOME 
FAST & INEXPENSIVELY

The photo above displays the decor items I used on the show. Using them, this worn neutral sofa just got 'colorfied!'  The 20"x20" throw pillow, tray, small patterned container, and lamp shade are from Target;  The large green and small blue ceramic outdoor containers are from Ollies;  And two garden stools are from Big Lots.  Now here are my top 10 tips for bringing in color right now:

1.Change out your paint color.  You have heard it a zillion times-paint color is the easiest, fastest, and most economical way to bring color into a room.  Try one of the hot colors for spring 2010.  They include oranges, slightly green blues (turquoise), and purples.  I like Sherwin Williams Caribbean Coral, Plum Dandy, and Reflecting Pool.  If you only paint one wall one of these ‘hot’ colors, try a grey or gold toned neutral on the rest. 

2. Turn your walls into a piece of art.  Wallpaper is back in a ‘big way’ with tons of designer patterns and colors to choose from.  If you don’t want the paper on your wall try painting your own wall treatment using a stencil or big bold stripes.

3. Less is more on your windows.  Take down those heavy layers of window treatments and replace them with simple panels or sheers.  Sheers don’t have to be boring.  They come in an assortment of colors and patterns.  This will open up your windows bringing in more light. 

4. Re-Accessorize.  Dust off the shelves and bring in a collection of light and bright pottery, floral plates, and glassware.  The more the merrier!  Add color to your kitchen and coffee tables through a table runner and trays.  Place strong colored accents throughout.  Designers this year have created an array of bold accent pieces because color is hot!

5. Re-Imagine wall photo galleries.  Take out the photos from your wall frames and replace them with artwork, decorative paper, fabric, or homemade art (kids make the cutest things); anything with color.  You can always put the photos back in later.

6. Add BIG throw pillows that have a bright fun pattern.  Throw pillows update any room, and add tons of color.  And there is nothing better for hiding a worn, shabby, dull piece of furniture, than hot new throw pillows.  My tip for buying sofa pillows, is to go for 20”20” ones instead of 18”x18”.  They make more of an impact.  And this year bigger and bolder patterns of floral motifs are hot.  Another tip to save money is to buy just the pillow cover.  More and more retail stores are selling pillow covers (Target, Bed Bath & Beyond, Ikea).  Now you can switch out your pillows as often as you like!

7. Keep your lamp base but change out the lamp shade.  The size, shape and color can make a HUGE difference.   I am always stressing how lighting creates a mood, now imagine colorful lighting.  Why should your lamp wear a plain white t-shirt when it could be dressed for the prom?    

8. Add color under your feet.  Place a cheery bright rug over worn neutral carpet and create wonderful fun color.    

9. Bring the outdoors in.  This not only means bringing in plants and fresh flowers; You can get your hands on tons of outdoor chairs with vibrant pillows & cushions, and ceramic garden stools.  And don’t even get me started on the amount of outdoor pottery that costs half of what you would pay for traditional indoor vases and accents.

10. Add color to your tabletops.  Place a colorful table runner on your dining table, then place a large bowl of bright fruit (fruit is a great way to add color because it lasts; or use   plastic fruit that looks real), or fresh flowers in the center.  Place a fun tray on a coffee table or ottoman (Pier 1 and Target has good options). 

___________________________________________________

RECESSION CHIC STYLE - 
TURNING YOUR WORN DECOR INTO HOT AMORE

These days we are all watching our wallets.  Recession Chic Style means adding new life to decor you already have so you don't have to spend your hard earned cash.  Go through your attic, closet and basement, to find frames, mirrors, and anything else you want to change up to love it again!

I showed some of the projects above on TV. Read below to find out how I did them, and more!

CREATE A GALLERY OF FRAMED ART OUT OF YOUR MISMATCHED ONES

Pull together a brand new collection of framed art by grabbing all your odd and end frames of different sizes and finishes.  Spray them with a can of primer, then spray them with your favorite color this season.  For a frugal chic look, fill them with remnant fabric or wallpaper, homemade artwork, wrapping paper, or decorative paper.  Fill an entire wall!

SPRAY IT NEW AGAIN

See the cute little blue birdies above?  They were once a dark dull finish. Resuscitate accent pieces you have tucked away because they are just not exciting to you anymore.  Simply spray them a new finish, or sand and paint them, if wood.  Remember to prime first.  This method also works great for framed mirrors, accent furniture, knobs and hooks. Works great for old outdoor furniture!

CREATE A UNIQUE RECYCLED COLLECTION

I recycle old glass bottles and vases by spraying them the same finish with paint spray (prime spray first!) and set them together above an armoire, on a table, on top your kitchen cabinets, and my favorite thing to do is use them to hold my necklaces and bracelets.  

CANVAS ART 

I purchased a yard of the colorful yellow bird fabric shown above for a bargain (see above). I wrapped it around a canvas and hot glued it tight to the back (you can staple it too).  I recommend   gluing trim along the back sides, over the fabric edges, so there is no fraying.  Frame the leftover pieces to create a another art piece.  Now you have a colorful fun wall collection!

COVER YOUR BOOKS FOR A CLEAN NEW LOOK

Check out the book covers above.  This is a super easy way to clean up and brighten any bookcase! Using wrapping paper, decorative paper, or wallpaper, cover books you have  by laying each book open flat on the paper you choose, then trace it leaving a few extra inches on either side, cut it and fold around the book.  

MIRROR RE-'DO' YOU CAN EASILY 'DO'

BEFORE

I found this mirror on the side of the street.  I said 'you have potential so come with me!'.  I covered the mirror part with paper, primed it and spray painted it white.  Then using painters tape, I created stripes and painted them purple.  Lastly I used a clear coat of sealer.  It is now fun, bright and useful again!!

AFTER

I have more Recession Chic projects going on including an old dresser I picked up recently at a 'nearly used' sale.  It was a great deal that I couldn't pass up but getting it home by myself was challenging..... BUT worth it!  I will blog about the makeover soon.  

Decadently Yours,

Shoshana

Tomorrow on Ch. 69 News I Will Show How To Bring Color Into Your Home & Recession Chic Projects

Tomorrow I get to hang out with Eve Tannery, anchor for 69 News at Sunrise.  We will talk about this year's hot paint colors and decorating trends.  I am excited to show viewers quick and easy ways they can brighten and beautify their home for spring. 

After that I will take a break to eat a cookie, then come back on the air to extend the more personal and creative side of me, showing Recession Chic projects one can do by re-using and re-purposing items they already have.  

After the show airs I will blog about it and share the ideas Eve and I discussed.  This is my first live news segment so I will have lots of butterflies in my belly!

Segments will air at 8:40 am and 8:50 am-WFMZ-TV Channel 69 News at Sunrise.

Stay tuned friends!

Small Kitchen BIG Transformation

A kitchen remodel needs to be functional first, but never forget to show off your personality in it!  I can't say that enough.  This is the place you eat, hang out with family and friends, try out recipes, and read the paper with a cup of joe. Its where you get inspired and feel comfort.  It is a very personal and important space of any home.  So when my clients, Diane and Dan, asked me to come back and help them with their kitchen after designing their living room, I was honored.   

BEFORE

AFTER

Every square inch in this kitchen counts due to the small size of the space.  To make it feel larger we added a fun stripe treatment on the far wall to bring your eye to the back of the room.  The big mirror then reflects the light back into the space creating an airy open feel.  The rich dark woods of the furniture grounds the space and looks luxe against the cool colors on the walls.  The most important and most worked on detail in the space was the table.  We had it custom made to fit in this nook perfectly, to allow as much seating as possible, while keeping as much usable surface space as possible.  And by using a bench instead of chairs allows Diane and Dan to keep the table against the wall when it is just the two of them dining and keeps the space open.

And when they have guests over, they can pull the table out and have 4 to 6 people around it.  They don't have a dining room so we made the kitchen feel like one by fitting in a rockin' buffet and contemporary table lamp to create a romantic glow at night.

Who says a kitchen has to be ordinary. Just because we used a bench doesn't mean it has to be for function alone.  Make a statement using bold graphics on the upholstery like we did.  And I love these chairs.  The shape with the smokin' hot white leather cut into the tobacco finish looks so contemporary.  

The other side of the kitchen received a little makeover ON A TEENY BUDGET!

BEFORE

AFTER

Changes to this side of the kitchen include a new granite counter top, nickel hardware, elegant faucet, and roman shade in a yummy dark chocolate.  And of course, a creamy gray paint color creates a calm feel in the work zone.  No need to change the cabinets or appliances.  Wow....what a difference!

I urge you to be bold and let go when remodeling your kitchen.  Have fun and be fabulous!!

Small Awkward Living Room Becomes Beautiful

I remember meeting Diane and Dan for the first time.  The moment I walked in their front door I could see the issues at hand.  I walked right into their living room, which was split into two awkward spaces.  One small area to the right of the door, and one small area to the left.  With a staircase directly in front of the door. Diane and Dan didn't know what to do with this layout.  After sitting with the couple and finding out their wish list of functions and style (they get away to top island resorts whenever they can), I set to work on a plan that would treat these spaces separately yet still be cohesive and feel larger then they are. 

BEFORE

AFTER

I let the furnishings do all the talking, using a creamy wall paint.  I didn't want to overcrowd the spaces, so I chose a few large pieces that grounded the areas (a cluttering of small pieces dwarf small spaces further).  I added pieces with glass, mirror, and silver finishes, to keep the area light and airy, yet high end.

I brought the eye up using very slight horizontal stripe wall treatment, which also helped make a distinction between this space and the one across from it.  I used floor to ceiling drapes, and hung them wider than the windows to make them feel larger.

Pops of color and lots of shine give life to small spaces.  These fun bright pillows call you into the room.

BEFORE

AFTER

I re-arranged the awkward seating layout to a more inviting and useful space.  The new leather sofa is very large and deep, yet fits right in.  The coffee and end table are quite large as well (they are beauties!-the reclaimed wood looks and feels like driftwood), but don't look like they are because of their airy thin metal bases.   Here is another good tip for making small spaces feel large-USE BIG ARTWORK.  My clients are well versed with my motto 'go big or go home'. Large pieces with a specific point of view makes an impact and read as a 'wow' factor.

BEFORE

AFTER

This new console houses all the clutter in this small space.  And the fun armless chair next to it stops your eye from drifting up those stairs.

We had so much fun working together that Diane and Dan (seated above) asked me to help them with their kitchen.  Wait until you see what we did with that small awkward space!!!

Lodge Style Makeover for a Master Bedroom

I am the daughter of a true nature lover. From an early age my family would take our annual July vacation, camping near North Lake and Taconic Lake in NY. Dad made us oatmeal pancakes with berries we picked near our tent, and we spent our days catching turtles, lizards and frogs. To me there is something so romantic about being near nature, the smell of the open air, and I still love the sound of zippering up a sleeping bag. Don't get me wrong, I love living it up in luxurious hotels also. Maybe a good fit for me is a log cabin. So charming, cozy and full of fine craftsmanship (I love the one pictured above). My dream log cabin would be sitting next to a lake just like a scene out of On Golden Pond, and I would be lying in my hammock with a good novel, watching the sun go down. The inside of my log cabin would be full of arts and craft style furniture and the colors on the walls would feel warm. There would be lots of stone and finishes that feel natural. And of course a big beautiful fireplace so I could snuggle up to it wrapped in my quilt with a mug of hot chocolate full of marshmallows!

Lodge Style can be both rustic and chic. Resorts that use a Lodge style for their suites make sure their bedding is lush and furniture is comfy. So when Scott and Karen, my skilled DIY clients in Whitehall PA asked me to create a design plan for their master bedroom that would transport them to their dream lodge every night, I was up for the challenge, hot chocolate in hand! 

BEFORE

AFTER

What a transformation-from floor to ceiling! The new paint colors create the scene, and the natural looking furniture pieces, upholstery, traditional fabrics, and accents, add that rustic comfy charm. To find out more about my initial design and see how I dealt with the angled walls and entrances to the eaves, click here.

The far end of the bedroom was just calling for a cozy reading nook. Soft fabrics, mission style recliners, mood lighting, and a very cute little deer,  give the space Lodge appeal.

BEFORE

AFTER

All the original furniture stayed in the bedroom but the pulls were changed to fun hammered oil bronze swirl knobs. Some of the pieces were then moved around for a more cohesive look. And of course an electric fireplace was added. There were so many interesting fireplaces to choose from, but this one made me say 'wow'. It was so easy to install also.  

Total rustic luxury! 

Surround Me With Black Leather, Miles Davis & Button Tufting

Imagine dining in luxury with walls wrapped in glossy black leather, drapes that glisten like millions of tiny silver stones, and of course an elaborate silver mirror and  tons of shiny mercury glass.  Your round pedestal table is a rich dark mahogany and feels very intimate as you sit elegantly in a sexy concave backed creamy white leather chair.  The lighting is dim, striking, and romantic.  All you need to finish off the room is the blues sounds of Miles Davis' Blue in Green playing seductively in the background, a very dirty martini in your hand, and James Dean staring at you from across the table (with his 'I will die without you' pained expression) .  

That was my vision for my clients, Debi and Marcel, who hired me to bring Hollywood Regency Design to their newly built home in Harrisburg.  This luxe look is very popular, but with a bit more modern twist, and it is not just for the rich and famous!  For my clients, I brought in things that looked rich, lush, and posh.  So of course their dining room walls are black leather-well not really black leather, but a shiny textured lacquered-like pinstripe wallpaper that is hot!  

I also took the Hollywood Regency Design to their living room......

This is a small glimpse at my plan, using button tufting and  nail heads on everything, mirrored tables, velvet and silky fabrics.  I am refinishing their existing furniture in black and white high gloss lacquer and upholstry that dazzle.  There are chrome lamps, and shapely accent pieces, a mix of glitz and glamour, surrounded by souring blue gray walls. I can't wait to show you the finished spaces!!!!!

'Hey James, where's my martini!'