Tabletop decor for the holidays 12/17/2010
 Pretty beaded napkin rings dress up simple glass candlesticks. This trick would work on chandeliers, too. Last weekend we had our annual workshop to give customers some great ideas for stylish and easy holiday decorating. I pulled a few looks together for the workshop focusing on ideas that would be simple to shop for and put together. I bought everything I needed at the local garden center, craft store and grocery store. I paired them with items we had here at the store--similar to items you may have around the house. I found a ton of inspiration on Eddie Ross's site. If you're looking for some new ideas for tabletop decoration and working in some thrifty finds, definitely check it out.
Add Comment Mea Culpa 12/16/2010
Do forgive my extended absence. It's been a hectic time of transition as I get settled into my new position on Long Island. I've actually had to turn down some business as I get it all together! I have several questions from readers that will be answered in upcoming entries in the near future. So please visit regularly and I promise to have some good things waiting. Shady Lady indeed 10/20/2010
 Custom Roman shade featuring Dwell Studio fabric My good friend and talented designer Brooke just landed herself a new job with The Shade Store. I wasn't too familiar with their product offerings and decided to find out more. I talked to some people and dug around on their site and am happy to share some excellent information. If you're someone who has a good idea about the look they want to achieve, but need a little guidance, read on.
Project-arranging shelves 10/15/2010
 As promised, here's some more information about the project I posted last week. If you look through the before and after shots, you'll see two different issues in place. The first set of built-ins (living room) is clearly a case of not enough accessories to adequately dress the space. It is a formal room, so leather bound books, family photos and decorative boxes are appropriate. But I also added some shine and sparkle to keep it from feeling to heavy. You'll note the crystal spheres and the peacocks (aren't they awesome?!) The family room had the opposite problem--too much stuff! The basic idea, however, is still the same. Here are some things to keep in mind: *Make the items appropriate to the space *Keep heavy items (visually and literally) on the lower shelves *Use a variety of shapes and textures to create interest *Repeat certain elements to create some unity 2010 Showtime Showhouse 10/11/2010
 The Showtime Showhouse is back again with rooms inspired by seven different shows from their television lineup. If you're a fan of shows like Weeds or Californication, it is definitely worth a visit. Tickets are $15 with proceeds going to Harlem's Children zone. You can check out the showhouse at The Cassa Hotel 70 W. 45th Street. Investment Ikat 10/05/2010
 For a few years now, I've had this conflicting relationship with ikat patterns. I absolutely love the idea of an intricate and interesting pattern that is gender neutral. I can't in good faith, however, advocate spending huge chunks of your decorating budget on something you will likely tire of quickly. This is why, up to this point, I've said pillows and throws only for ikat. But there is a caveat to this advice.
Inspiration-beautiful banquette 10/04/2010
 I saw this picture in this month's issue of House Beautiful and was immediately drawn to it. First off, the color--to die for! A rich jewel-toned velvet is almost never a bad idea. Second, the nailhead trim. Seriously, look at how stunning that is. I'll wait. The animal print pillows are classic and still very fashion forward. And finally, the bamboo and glass table is just terrific. The perfect size, shape and slightly modern foil to the banquette. I even like the wall mounted lamp. What I'm not loving is the artwork. The oil paintings make what could be an amazing space feel a little dowdy. I'd love to see some great wallpaper in either a bold pattern or something with texture to compliment such a charming little nook. New Redesign Project 09/30/2010
 I just finished up a small redesign project styling some built in shelves in their living and family rooms. Take a peek at the updated portfolio page to see the before and after shots. Later this week I'll go through the project in more detail to give a sense of some of the choices I made. Work with what you've got 09/20/2010
 Every year fashionistas hold out for the September fashion issue which is always chock full of the latest and greatest must haves. Those of us who can't afford to purge and entirely rebuild a new wardbrobe each season (oh, hello, everyone!), appreciate the few pages devoted to making the pieces you already have feel fresh again. Well fortunately that doesn't just work for fashion. It's also really effective for interior design.
Cool as Ice, Ice, Baby 09/16/2010
 There's something about our culture that just loves watching celebrities flounder like fish out of water. What else could possibly explain the popularity of Dancing With the Stars? But one of the fun parts of a show like that is seeing someone flourish in that strange environment. Like Emmitt Smith bustin' some fierce moves. Or Vanilla Ice (that's Robert Van Winkle to the government) flipping houses on his new show on the DIY network. The Times did a feature today on him and his continued success in a real estate market that went from white hot to...yeah, I'm gonna say it....ice cold. The show starts on October 14 and I plan to check out a few episodes to satisfy my curiousity. | AuthorChristine Schwalm is an Interior Designer and Visual Merchandiser based in NYC. This space will keep you updated on what's going on with CSD along with some ideas to inspire you. Go here for more information about pricing and services and here to make an appointment. . ArchivesOctober 2011 CategoriesAll |
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