Unique Unique Design

The old man might be snoring, but if you have been caught outside lately, I hope you had an umbrella. Living in the Dallas area it’s not very often it rains and rains and rains for days on end. We usually get our rain with a little more violent weather…huge thunderheads rolling in, lightning that defies most firework displays, large hail (you know, the size of small Chihuahuas), and the kind of “swirling” wind that brings Dorothy and Toto in for a visit!! Now, I’m not complaining. We needed the rain badly and it’s dropped the temperatures enough to make it quite pleasant. We spent one whole day playing in huge rain puddles (more like small ponds) with our grandkids. Catching crawdads, running through the water, laughing, and I guess our moms were right…..not enough sense to come in out of the rain.

I was looking at Material Girls blog and saw this cute boot umbrella stand and decided I’d look for a few more I liked, since they would come in very handy in this weather to place all those soggy umbrellas.

The cute ceramic boots are from Z Gallerie. The “Nexus” oval 24″T stoneware container is from 18 karat. One more whimsical, one dressier.

The gray and white oval stoneware containers called Aperto  and the Elato square container would be quite stylish in a foyer to stick your wet umbrella. These are both from 18 Karat.

The one on the top is from Mothology. It’s from recycled pine and brings that natural element to the space. The Alesa “blow-up” stand is by designers Fernando and Humberto Campana from the Unica Homes website. Wouldn’t that be great in a space with a touch of industrial or as just a bit of fun in almost any room.

This glass and stainless “Thor” stand by Markus Borgens from Treehook website would definitely fit into that mid-century space. On the right, the glass column by Leonardo found on the Made in design website is very chic.

So if I would of had any of these before the recent rains, I would have been prepared. But instead my umbrella is sitting in the breezeway outside by back door. Oh well, maybe next time I’ll be ready.

Not sure why my pics flipped around. They were side by side when I posted them. But, I’m not going to try to fix them. I’ll probably just mess them up more.

My grandkids are coming in this weekend. Yea!! Can’t wait to see them. This is only 3 of Casey’s 4. Mason wasn’t there for the picture taking. They were camping somewhere in New Mexico. My son’s girls will be over too, so lots of activity. And I have no doubt you all want to see their pictures!

Madison, Jack, and Ellee

Riley…although, between the hat, sunglasses, and binky you can’t see much of her. Her sister Sierra wasn’t here that day.

Won’t be blogging much this weekend, but hope you all have a good one.

And may we never forget what happened 8yrs ago today.

God bless America!

Do you know someone who is always dramatic? Maybe their hands fly around when they are telling a story. Maybe the story itself is filled with superlatives…the coldest most miserable weather ever, the loudest most ill advised person on earth, those are the most fabulous “gotta have ‘em” shoes this season, that is the most scrumptious “to die for” chocolate truffle (well, maybe this one isn’t an overstatement!). You’ve probably encountered someone who seems to go over the top on things most consider every day occurrences. A.K.A. the “drama queen”. Well, drama isn’t necessarily a bad thing. The person whose hands fly around might help you understand the sense of action in their story. The superlatives help paint a more vivid picture of the subject The “drama queen” might cause you to take notice of something you otherwise wouldn’t have or help you engage emotionally with her. One of the definitions of dramatic is: highly effective; striking; sensational. This is the perfect definition in the world of design, also.  These photos all contain some element of that…the WOW  factor; punching it up a notch or two; the unexpected; causing us to engage our senses. Some will be more dramatic than others, but it is there.  Now I’m not saying there aren’t wonderful rooms done with beautifully done focal points. This is probably where most of us live, but every now and then you see something that just goes beyond that. It can be done with color, art, lighting, plant life (dead or alive), found objects, architecture. Whether or not you would want to live with something this dramatic, it is fun to see and realize how creative are the minds behind it.

I am adding several photos now, but I think I will do this once a week. I know there are many very dramatic rooms out there, so as I find more examples I will post them. Hope you enjoy these as much as I have. If you have something that is a WOW in your home send a pic and I will post it

ashington house: 1st option

Pretty dramatic, huh? Wouldn’t it be fun to sit in this room to watch a movie with friends?

photographer: peter vitale   veranda

The scale alone of this painting is striking, but, also, the mix of contemporary and antiques brings another element into the room.

photographer: ngoc minh ngo  house beautiful

The graphic design mixed with the contrast of black, white, and turquoise is very uplifting. It makes you smile.

photographer:eric piasecki   house beautiful

Okay, I realize the designer isn’t responsible for this spectacular view from this apartment 74 floors up in the Time Warner Center in NYC. BUT, you can bet he took it into consideration when he designed the space. Drama like that can’t be ignored.

photographer: peter vitale   veranda

Now here is a neutral palette, but the wonderful contemporary art, also, in a neutral palette makes this sensational.

unique unique design

Not as dramatic as the others, but using the 10 5ft long old brushes creates a graphic element. Since these are “found” objects, it brings in the unexpected.

Again, if you have any “dramatic” decor send me a photo and I’ll post it. If you have a blog, post it and let me know and I’ll link to the post.

smiles

When I was a little girl, I would eat all the other M&M’s first and save the green and yellows ones for last. That was because I loved to look at those two colors. I have a confession….I still will do that. Now in my house, we use color like that (but not limited to those 2 colors) as accents, when we want to add color. Our color palette is much more subdued. We love the gray metal of old zinc corbels, the rough texture of burlap, the white linen or washed white denim of slipcovers, the old concrete bowl with a myriad of subtle colors brought on by age, the cool look of stainless steel mixed with stripped wooden pieces, or sparkly glass containers. Besides loving the serene, peaceful look of all this, it suits our customers better. If they desire they can add their own punches of their color of choice when they take their treasures back to their shop or home. So whether your style is “industrial meets farm girl”, “cottage by the sea”, “elegant modern”, “traditional with a french flair”, or whatever look that pleases you, sometimes a good place to start is those very natural neutral colors.

so many grays to choose from

quite a range even in these subtle colors

photographer: victoria pearson   house beautiful

The striped floor is just an extra touch

photographer: peter vitale veranda

Scandinavian flair with a fabulous stone fireplace. The touch of purple in the delphiniums and hydrangea is beautiful.

photographer: jonn coolidge veranda

linen, silk, iron, wood, greenery, GREAT

If you haven’t already done so, check out Joni’s site at Cote de Texas. She did a fabulous job (as usual) on the Belgium influence and Restoration Hardware’s new direction. She has some absolutely beautiful pictures and many with a very neutral palette. This is her August 25th post.

photographer: roger davies elle decor

If you like a more sleek modern look, this is stunning. Note the amazing lucite table base and gorgeous mirrored console under the black and white photos. Mayron’s favorite is the large piece of quartz on the table.

photographer: simon upton elle decor

The owner of this house calls this style “modern barn”. Wow, what a barn. Its both refined and rustic.

Now for those of you who like a bit more vibrant color in your rooms…

Aren’t these fun. These artichoke lamps (30″ tall) are by Straw Dog Designs.

And to liven up your kitchen, how about these “Switchit” utensils by Chef’n.

Here’s some great spaces with some of the above colors.

sweet home style blog

Spanish style entry looks like they just cut open a fresh cantaloupe.

photographer: james merrell house beautiful

More subdued shades of lilac with Venetian touches

sweet home style blog

Yellow, black, gray, always great.

sweet home style blog

Green and white is so crisp and fresh.

photographer: james merrell house beautiful

Perfect for entertaining with duck egg blue walls.

photographer: eric boman elle decor

If you like pink, this sitting room is for you. Quite unique.

If you really want to read about color and all the intricacies involved in picking and using color, you need to check out Maria’s blog at Color Me Happy. She is a color consultant and designer that really knows the whys and wherefores of using color…or as she says the “becauses”, one of the 3 most important words in color consultation. She, also, teaches color theory. That’s a class I would love to attend, If only Texas was closer to Vancouver. Check out her blog if you haven’t already found it. There is a wealth of information there. If you are not about to change colors in your home or trying to match shoes and a dress, her header alone should make you smile.

As for me, I have a room I need to go arrange. BTW, it’s all white and mirrored. Haven’t decided yet about a single pop of color in there. Any suggestions?

I was taking some pics today of some of our merchandise set up in the house. These were crusty old items. Then, I decided instead I would go around the house and take photos of different textures. Since we use a lot of neutral items, we, also, use a lot of different textures. I think it is especially important in a room without a lot of color. Something has to be in the room to give it dimension and depth. Those green Granny Smith apples in an old concrete birdbath top on a worn wooden harvest table, the peeling bark on tree branch in a tall metal vase against a white wall, or the murky silvering on a huge gilt framed mirror hanging above a stone mantel reflecting back the birch tree outside, all add interest and depth to a space. My goodness, texture is everywhere from a melting ice cube to a bowl of popcorn to a silk drape. We just need to remember to mix it up a bit when putting together a room. AND, to not be afraid to add something out of the norm. Who says you can’t fill a glass vase with old shoelaces. The curling pile of tons of laces would create a wonderful texture. Or line a dining room wall gallery style with old bike wheels. Not only does it become arty, it add lots of texture with the rubber tires, the shiny chrome, and the spokes. Whether you are a little more traditional or not afraid to step out of the box, there are tons of ways to add different textures in a space. Let us hear some of the ways you add texture to a room or ideas of ways you could.

base of rusty, painted old cast iron urn

worn pages of books

base of crusty old chalk lamp

ancient woven basket

hinge in old stainless medical cabinet

paint chipped off italian metal sconce

vintage faux bois planter

fern fronds

inside concrete bowl with spanish moss

smooth handles of knives

very shiny handles and doors

part of marble sink

ooh, shiny leaves

pebbles in another crusty painted old iron urn

rough texture of burlap

mosaic mirrored balls

sea sponge

very messed up silver mirroring…love it

the charcoal shadings of a very talented artist

That’s just a few of some of the textures in my house. Some were too blurry to use, but as you can see there are many. It’s fun to go searching for them. I bet you’ll be surprised what you find. Have fun.

Here are some lights we have designed out of found objects.  As usual, I apologize for the pictures. I’ve got a pretty simple camera, but maybe you can get an idea. All are for sale, but one is on hold. Most these can be used in several different settings. We aren’t afraid of mixing it up. It makes things more interesting. How would  you use them?

Very versatile shape

This one is fairly large, but I love the basket.

Pair of hanging lights from wire baskets. Would be great in a dark corner or over an end table next to a comfy chair.

We were told this is a crab basket. I don’t know, but we love it. The sticks are woven together with leather strips. Great for an elegant room that has touches of natural elements…kind of a "rustic elegance".

So, here’s to a little light in your life. Happy day!

BTW, my granddaughter, Haylie, is just having radiation at the site of the surgery. No chemo as long as it was just the one tumor. She’ll just have regular scans to keep an eye out for any new ones that might develop. Thanks again for your prayers and concern.

Time is such a tricky little thing. It can be so elusive, yet it’s with us every second of every day. Some are better at capturing it than others, but in reality we all have the same number of minutes in each day. Some let it just float away with no thought of the loss, while others have it so accounted for they lose the spontaneity of life.  I am certainly not the latter, but I hope that I can learn to use my time more effectively than I do…there is a time for thinking about it and a time for doing it. I guess I want both. It’s very rewarding to be efficient and find satisfaction in a job completed and done well.  Being a creative person, I love the design work we do whether in my home or somewhere else. There is alot of planning, physical labor, traveling, and we work hard. But, I, also, want to read a book, a blog or a magazine. I want to play with and talk to my grandkids and do things with my husband and kids. I want time for my friends and who doesn’t want a relaxing, long bubble bath.  Of course, when I get out I want to sit on my white slipcovered sofa and plop my feet on vintage industrial cart coffee table and look across into my dining room at the old white olive jars crammed in the center of the french style gray table surrounded by burlap covered french chairs. Then, I’ll pick up my latest issue of Elle Decor or House Beautiful…..I’m working now, using my time wisely as we need to know the latest trends. Hmm, maybe I have this figured out!? Tell us how you manage your time. And in the meantime, here are some really cool clocks to keep you on track.

1st Option London

Love this foyer and the scale of everything.

1st Option London

Another wonderful clock.

1st Option London

Uh oh the time police!

Hope you all have a wonderful day, and remember the clock is ticking! 

Today is the day you get deals straight off the trucks and trailers, but due to other commitments, we are going to First Monday in Canton, Tx. tomorrow. This is a hot time of year to venture out in Texas, but many sturdy souls do it. The vendors who are there for several days are really the ones who should get a pat on the back (or are they certifiable? ).  The temp has actually dropped a little in the last couple days, so maybe tomorrow it will only hit the low 90’s with humidity almost as bad! Mayron doesn’t sweat (I know ladies aren’t supposed to), but apparently I’m no lady, because I need a towel with me!! In spite of the HEAT, we hope to find some finds, for the house, etc. So, here we go….

Jayson Home and Garden 

Will expect great things!

photo by mops

This is what we should be doing!!

photo: Brandon Christopher Warren on Flickr

This is what we’ll want. Wish we could just drag this around behind us and share with all in need…which is pretty much everyone this time of year.

Will let you know if we are successful in our quest. If we don’t run into you there, hope you stay cool.

Please continue your prayers for Haylie. They have determined the cancer is Rhadomyasarcoma. That was what she was originally diagnosed with almost 4yrs. ago. She was 6yrs old at the time. Seth and Casey are supposed to talk with the oncologist today to see if they have determined a course of treatment. She’s been through a lot at her young age, but we know the Lord holds her in His Hands.

On our previous post as you could tell one of the photos of a pool house didn’t show up. I’ve still no idea why, BUT the architect of the pool house was kind enough to e-mail me and offer to send me the photo directly. I took him up on his offer and he included another very wonderful pool house. Hope you enjoy these two new ones, also. Don’t stop there, though. You really need to check out their website, Crisp Architects. They work primarily in the Northeast, but saw some great things that would fit right in here in Texas. There are some beautiful homes. out buildings, and renovations on the site. As a matter of fact, I saw one building in particular that has me thinking about a future post. They, also, have a blog. You need to click on these links and check them out for yourself.

The photographer for these photos is Rob Karosis.

Wouldn’t you love this in your backyard! It’s precious.

With it’s Greek Revival design this is a gem. Between all the french doors and that fabulous large triangular window, who wouldn’t want to gaze out of their house at this.

For more details on these two pool houses go here. Thank you Jimmy for helping us post these photos.

Here’s an update on Haylie. She went home from the hospital Saturday morning. She is recovering great from the surgery, although, one of her eyes is wandering. They’ve put a patch on the good eye to strengthen the weak one. This is a result of the surgery not the cancer. The doctors are still trying to figure out what kind of cancer the tumor was. They are being very thorough as it will effect what treatment she receives. Probably early this week they will have an answer. Thank you for your thoughts and continued prayers.

We are working for someone who might need to update a house by the pool they will add if they buy the property. Ideas have started bubbling up in my head. The property hasn’t closed yet, but it’s hard not to get things going in your mind. So, since we are thinking of this, I thought I’d post a few pool houses. These all have very special qualities that make them so perfect. None of them look like what we will be involved in, but it’s fun to look around and see some of what is out there.

Love the roof line and shingles on this. Great windows, too.

Grew Design Inc

I think this one should have 3 crystal chandeliers centered in each of these window/door units. Wouldn’t it be great opened up at night. The setting would be perfect for an intimate dinner party.

Windham Luxury Pools

This is just cute. Look at the fireplace on the porch.

Oops, the above pic doesn’t seem to be showing up on my post. It did last nite, but not now. Sorry if it doesn’t come up for you either. I have no clue.

Crisp Architects

If you saw from a previous post, this is a pool house we did the inside on from the Parade of Homes in Frisco, Tx. Obviously from the landscaping they weren’t quite finished yet. Such great lines and note the outdoor fireplace with large timber mantel on side of house. That fireplace faced the pool.

photo: Unique Unique Design

Time to get out suntan lotion.

I want to add an update on my son-in-law’s 10 yr. old daughter. Almost 4 yrs ago she was diagnosed with Rhabdomyosarcoma. She has gone through extensive chemo and finally they said she was in remission. Last Thursday they found a small tumor in her brain. Monday they removed it and she is recovering nicely. The spinal tap and bone marrow tests came back negative (thank Heaven). They believe the tumor is malignant, but are examining it closely as it is a bit unusual. Those results aren’t back yet. For those of you that have been praying for her, we thank you. Anyone that is so inclined, we would certainly appreciate your prayers. Will keep you updated when the doctors let us know.

Also, please remember little Witt (link in sidebar). His button came off my sidebar when my husband was updating something and I don’t know how to get it back on w/o help. This little guy has been through so much in his short life, but he’s a fighter and his family’s faith is amazing.