Frame Space With Balustrades

When you design and build a masterpiece staircase think about the balustrades.   Whether you are using iron, glass, steel, or wood you can  make it a fascinating creation. A balustrade is a row of repeating balusters – small posts that support the upper rail of a railing. Staircases and porches often have balustrades.

A new trend is frameless glass balustrades that maximize the perception of space through a modern minimalist appearance, retaining views while providing security and safety for staircases, balconies and decks. Glass provides an architectural feature that will enhance and add value to your home.

Stylish stair runners

Stylish stair runners can be an added element of design detail for any space and are a fun way to add decor to the hall, stairs or landing area where most visitors will see.  This is a great place to make a statement and set the scene for the rest of your home.  Stair runners provide the perfect opportunity to express your taste or to emphasize the age and style of the property.

While non-dressed stairs can be a default and something we don’t even notice day to day, there are so many stylish stair runners that can be made from any carpet type or style you desire to work with your overall decorating theme.  If it is a contemporary look you are going for then look no further than stripes or geometric patterns.  Stripes seem to be the single best selling style for modern staircases and done correctly do look stunning.  Add some chrome stair rods and you have completed the look.  In a property with history, look to use more of a velvet pile pattern or an oriental design fitted with bronze or brass stair rods to add that essential class.

 

Round Table Romance

The round table, first mentioned in 1155 in Wace of Jersey’s Roman de Brut, told of King Arthur having a round table made so that none of his barons, when seated at it, could claim precedence over the others.   The lack of “no head” allows for everyone an equal status at the table and King Arthur was clearly a very clever man.

I recently decided I wanted to transition from a rectangular table to oval or round.  I bought a stunning round table from Horchow and have found a real romance with it.  With the rectangle I always felt like there were two conversations going on and the dinner was divided.  With a round table everyone is involved in the same conversation.  We all can reach and pass, see one another, and we all feel like we are attending the same dinner party.  Here are some beautiful round tables set to inspire.   If you have carpentry skills you could create an amazing unique round table that no one would have.

Curtesy of Architecture Design Magazine

Curtesy of Horchow

Decorative Drain Covers

Have you ever stood in the shower, looked down at your drain covers and thought, “That’s not very pretty.”  Probably not, as most of us have a standard, non noticeable cover that says nothing to you- its a forgettable detail.  Now that I have drawn attention to the little drain covers you may start looking at them every morning and thinking how nice it would be to add a flower, a sunburst, a geometric pattern to the floor. These beautiful drain covers can be used in showers, wet rooms, swimming pools and spas.

Of all the drain cover companies the best I have found are from DesignerDrains.com.  They have a great selection of decorative drain covers that allow you to add a little piece of art to your space.  They have a wide selection available in over 50 designs, round or square, in brass, stainless steel, copper and stone materials.   I have just ordered a couple of drain covers from the Architecture series and cant wait to see them in place.  Have fun with this and get drain decorating!

Wow With Wallpaper

From traditional to trend setting, the latest and greatest for defining space is in wall covering with wallpaper.  I am about to embark on a wallpaper journey, one that started 6 years ago in my North London home and now, here in Boston, I will start once again.  When I think of wallpaper I only think of two brands to dress my space:  the fabulous and chic Farrow and Ball, and the bright and bold Graham & Brown.

Both brands have a large wallpaper variety of color ways, incredible patterns and beautiful design detail. Farrow & Ball have an amazing printing technique that allow the paint to have the textured vintage, almost nostalgic feel making the price five times higher than Graham & Brown.   So if your looking to start the wallpaper process, start with a powder room and go less bold.  Don’t do too busy or too color bold in small space.  I’m starting my powder room this weekend and thinking Farrow & Balls Crivelli Trellis BP 3107.  I can not wait to bring wallpaper back into my life!

Live In A Treehouse?

Could I actually live in a treehouse?  I love the idea and I really enjoy looking at the amazing detail and craftsmanship that goes into building an elaborate and extreme treehouse, but could I really do it?  If I went to the middle of Yellowstone, found an enormous tree and built a little wooden home it may feel a bit like an extended camping trip. I could fish and hunt, hike in the woods, run from black bear and sleep under the stars every night.  It sounds so exciting, adventurous and unrealistic. 

The reality is I couldn’t and it wouldn’t have the internet….what on earth would I do without the www?  When I was a child I asked for a treehouse and it never happened.  Now as an adult I wonder if I could build something cool with a modern twist in our garden. I would have to think very carefully about every aspect of the design including the staircase, a bit of lighting, screens to keep the New England mozzies out and of course a secret password to let people in.  It sounds like fun and would give me the opportunity to be a kid again, with my kids, so I better get cracking!

Connect Indoor & Outdoor Spaces

With Folding Glass Doors

Folding glass doors allow you to enjoy the best of both worlds: a room with an amazing view that also opens up completely exposing the outdoors.   These folding glass doors transform a space and create a seamless transition from the outdoors to the indoors giving you a painting, a picture that comes to life.  I love how they are stylish and simple and add an element of elegance to the space.

With clean lines folding glass doors go flush against the walls which maximize your view when the  glass wall is open and when completely closed. Additional advantages of using glass are that they are appealing, can compliment in style of home, are hygienic and safe. As far as versatility and design is concerned, glass is the best material for separating and dividing different areas in the house.  I think its time for an extension so I can put folding glass doors in.

Door Knocker Decor

The perfect door knocker can set the tone for an entire home; they set a level of intrigue right from the start. Door knockers are also a great conversation starter for first-time visitors.  If a knocker is simple they can be easily overlooked, so picking one with unique traits and a bit of character is a must.

There’s also something quite nice about gripping a heavy piece of metal and beating it against a sturdy wood door saying, “I have arrived!” And a well-chosen knocker can send a message about exactly what kind of home you’ve come to.  I personally love the classic lion door knocker; I wonder what that says about me.

Pure Deck-adence

Are you looking to create a space to enjoy a morning coffee, a weekend breakfast, or an outdoor space to watch the day as it passes? Maybe it’s time to think about a deck to relax on with your friends and family.  A deck has become one of the most popular places for many homeowners, especially since it is a great location to host BBQ’s or game nights and can be as custom as you want.

Decks are an added exterior room and provide the comfort of still being connected to home.  It’s easy to come in and go out but to also feel separate and part of the environment.  Custom made decks can have beautiful additions such as fire pits, flower pots, curved seating benches, and built in grills.  If you are looking at converting some outdoor space and want to implement a deck there are a variety of materials to choose from that can fit your lifestyle and budget.

Amy’s Amazing Mason Jar Flower Arrangements

My friend Amy always comes over bearing amazing mason jar flower arrangements and I love this thoughtful gift. The decorative mason jar flower arrangements are classic vintage elegance, stocked with fresh flowers that will add a touch of style to any home or gathering.  If your looking to give an artful gift this is a nice idea and it doesn’t break the bank.   Simple, classic and beautiful, just like Amy.