Growers & Nomads Blog

High Design Disposable Tableware

Tue, 28 Sep 2010 23:15:00 -0500

Posted by Judith Cohen
Tuesday, September 28, 2010 | 1 Comment

I come from a long line of innovative “entertainers” who have wonderful culinary skills and love to cook for the holidays, and I’ve followed in my family’s footsteps. The perennial dilemma that each of us faces is that long list of invited company that way outnumbers the amount of dishes in the cupboard!

Of course I urge you to use reusable tableware as much as possible, but when that isn't an option, here are some of my favorite high-design disposable tableware picks for upcoming holidays and special occasions. I can’t wait to use them to “wow” my guests.

The 2010 World Series is set for October 27. Choose your favorite team, if you haven’t already, and have a party with tableware from gamedayparties.com. Can you tell who I’m rooting for?

[Image: gamedayparties.com]

Why do children and adults alike love Halloween? Is there a secret candy maker’s society that has us all brainwashed? I buy all of my favorite candy every year, hoping that the doorbell will keep ringing with trick-or-treaters before I can say “Boo!” Caspari (casparionline.com) has been producing exquisitely designed and printed paper products for more than 60 years. The company has a line of matching accessories including invitations, place cards, placemats and lacquerware in glistening colors. The square black and white plate, pumpkin napkins and matching orange cups are perfect for Halloween festivities.

[Image: casparionline.com]

I don’t know anyone who doesn’t love Thanksgiving. The food is always delicious, football games are on TV and the fallen leaves are marking the end of the season. Just the thing for mealtime: Caspari’s Spice Jaipur paisley pattern, bordered square dinner plate, matching napkins and rings.

[Images: casparionline.com]

From December 1 through 9, we celebrate Hanukkah, lighting candles, spinning dreidels and eating delicious potato latkes...maybe from these blue and white beautifully drawn Caspari Chinoiserie plates! I’m also in love with the black lacquer reusable bamboo flatware to finish off the set.

[Images: casparionline.com]

December 25 is Christmas; bring out the holly, stay up late for Santa and gather around the tree for a beautiful day. Then enjoy your holiday dinner on tableware from Ferris Wheels & Carousels (ferriswheelsandcarousels.com).

[Image: ferriswheelsandcarousels.com]

At the end of December, it’s time to usher in the New Year with high hopes for joy and prosperity in 2011. I love the black-and-white “Black Tie” theme from cocktails through dinner!

[Images: casparionline.com]

[Images: platesandnapkins.com]

[Black Tie Cocktails Image: paperproductsdesign.com]

Here’s to successful entertaining and the many joys of visiting with friends and family, and passing down your love of holiday traditions (as I have with our two boys!).

[Main image: Glorious Maple Glam from casparionline.com]

Tags: Design Inspirations, Entertaining, Interior Design, Living/dining

Comments (1)

Love this--especially the Thanksgiving set. The paisley napkins are so rich looking!
By Judith Cohen 966 days ago

Design that 'Clicks' - How a Designer can Match with a Client

Mon, 27 Sep 2010 23:09:00 -0500

Design that 'Clicks' How a Designer can Match with a Client

Posted by Growers Contributor
Monday, September 27, 2010 | 1 Comment

When an interior designer is hired to do a whole house design, sometimes there’s a special moment. That moment comes when the decorator and the client walk into one room and something just clicks. Seattle-based interior decorator Faith Sheridan shares how her passion for cooking melded with that of her client’s and informed her recommendations for a “big family kitchen” redesign.

GN: How did you come to develop your style?

Faith: I have a keen sense of observation combined with curiosity. Whether display windows, books, movies, magazines, museums or galleries, my eye is ever attuned to design elements. Over time my aesthetic evolved to a signature of simply elegant restraint.

GN: Tell us about your latest project.

Faith: Although I worked on the whole home design, my love of cooking and entertaining melded with my client’s in the kitchen design. Large family gatherings once a month and frequent entertaining with friends required a kitchen with professional appliances and two islands.

In the main image by Roger Turk, you can see the Tuscan-theme custom kitchen with dual islands.

The second island has under-counter refrigerator drawers and an entertainment sink that doubles for food prep. It’s also adjacent to double ovens and a warming drawer.

[Image: Roger Turk, Northlight Photography]

GN: What advice would you have for homeowners in hiring and managing contractors, whether it be for paint, flooring, handymen or big remodels like custom-made closets?

Faith: Require references and do your due diligence to contact more than one. Have a contract that is clear about deadlines and dollars. Maintain good communication.

GN: What element(s) turn a space into a happy home?

Faith: A comfortable home is all about you—your lifestyle and personality that you want to express.

GN: What's your philosophy on creating meaning in the home?

Faith: It’s not about possessions—it’s about a warm, welcoming place to gather and share secrets, stories and laughter. It’s about the memories you create. Your home and every last little detail should be well considered and perfectly executed so it reflects your good taste, passion for comfortable living and joie de vivre.

Faith Sheridan, interior designer, gains inspiration from magazines like Veranda, House Beautiful, Elle Decor, Traditional Home and Sunset. In her own words, “New online magazines and more blogs than you can imagine offer ideas to explore. I advocate living and enjoying all aspects of your home and understanding the implications of parties, children, pets, friend and family gatherings combined with a love of beautiful things.” Faith has resided in Seattle for the past five years and finds inspiration all around her. See faithsheridan.com and faithsheridan.com/mydesignblog.

Tags: Ask An Expert, Interior Design, Kitchen

Comments (1)

Love how Faith called her style "simply elegant restraint." :)
By Growers Contributor 967 days ago

How To: Organize Your Garage

Fri, 24 Sep 2010 16:17:00 -0500

How To Organize Your Garage

Posted by Guest Editor
Friday, September 24, 2010 | 1 Comment

Has your garage gotten to the point where you don’t have room for your car anymore? Do you dread your next small project because you have to dig through the clutter on the workbench to find the tools you need? Are you forced to maneuver around old pieces of furniture and boxes to find your electric drill? Maybe it’s time to organize.

Think about it this way: If things are where you can find them, and if you have what you need when you need it, you might be more motivated to do those little things you have put off for so long. Jump in, and let’s get started.

Survey the Field

Make a list of the things that need your attention: the paint cabinet, automotive supplies, the garden tools, the tool cabinet, camping equipment, holiday decorations, bicycle tools, shelves, workbench, floor, ceiling, walls. Then tackle one piece at a time.

If you tend to procrastinate, consider diving into the task you dread the most, instead of letting it linger on the horizon. Get it out of the way, while your energy is high. When you finish it, the other tasks won’t seem as formidable.

Sort It Out

Make 3 piles: Toss, Donate, and Keep. Go through each shelf, box, and drawer, and toss things that are broken, dried out, or worn out. Put things you haven’t used and won’t ever use in the Donate pile. Then group the things in the remaining Keep pile into categories so that you can see how much stuff you have. If you find something that doesn’t belong in the garage, put it aside so you can return it to its proper place.

Sort the small screws, washers, and nails in multiple drawer hardware storage cabinets or in small, plastic compartment cases. They are inexpensive and great for keeping tiny things visible in one place.

Keep instructions and warranties together. Separate them into gallon-sized resealable plastic bags, and label the bags with a permanent black marker. Include the date you purchased the item and the name of the store where you bought it.

Handy Storage Hints

Invest in at least 10 clear, plastic storage totes with lids. After sorting, put the groups of things you are going to keep into containers: your new plastic bins, boxes, drawers, jars, or shelves. Label them clearly. Don’t put so much together in one container that you can’t see what’s in it, or that you can’t quickly grab what you need.

[Image: California Closets]

Keep a separate tool box handy with the tools you need most for indoor work: screwdrivers, hand drill, small hammer, pliers, wire clippers, small level, along with an assortment of nails, screws, and picture hangers. That way, when you need to do a simple project, such as installing curtain rods or hanging a picture, you can grab everything you need in one small tool box.

[Image: California Closets]

You probably have your favorite ways of storing things and keeping them handy. Here are some more to consider:

   •   Take advantage of overhead storage shelves and hooks.
   •   Install wall storage cabinets—the investment can be well worth the peace of mind and time they save.
   •   Consider purchasing special clasps for hanging garden tools on the walls, and hangers for storing bicycles on the wall or ceiling.
   •   Keep frequently used things where you can quickly get to them.
   •   Take a trip to your hardware store to investigate the types of storage systems they have.
   •   Investigate online and storefront sources for products that help you organize.

[Image: California Closets]

Clean It Up

Clean the dust from cabinets and shelves. Wipe away cobwebs. Vacuum the floor, and remove oil and paint stains. Place floor mats by the doors to the outside and to the house. Replace burned out light bulbs so you can see, and to illuminate your work areas.

Sort any tools that you need to clean into groups such as garden, carpentry, and painting. Wipe them off with a clean moist rag, and lubricate moving parts. Check electrical cords and plugs. Examine sets of tools including drill bits, sockets, and cutting wheels for wear and tear. Discard worn items, and make a list of things you need to replace with new.

Sharpen cutting edges of drill bits, screwdrivers, pruners, and shovels. Apply a thin layer of silicone spray to prevent rust.

Cautionary Note
In your haste to finish, don’t forget to put aside batteries, used motor oil, and car parts for the appropriate neighborhood recycling center—don’t put them in the garbage.

Congratulations

Undoubtedly while sorting through your things, you noticed that you lack something that could help you stay organized or that might make that next project easier. Reward yourself with something new.

Then, get your car washed and waxed, and keep it clean by parking it in your neat, organized garage.

By Marnie Shepperd

Schedule your free in-home consultation with our recommended garage storage experts at California Closets!

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[Main image: Courtesy California Closets]

Tags: Closets, Closets And Storage, Garage, How To

Comments (1)

Great tips. Just signed up for an estimate!
By Guest Editor 968 days ago

Tea Trolleys, Trays and Bar Carts

Thu, 23 Sep 2010 23:02:00 -0500

Tea Trolleys Trays and Bar Carts

Posted by Judith Cohen
Thursday, September 23, 2010 | 1 Comment

I have always loved furniture that moves or looks as if it can. Anything remotely kinetic catches my eye. When I was growing up, we had a brass tea trolley, sometimes bar cart, in our dining room. It had a two-tiered oval shape with two smaller shelves that swiveled out from the sides. I still love using a serving cart for any time of day or evening entertaining and have enjoyed purchasing these versatile tables for my clients. Here are some of my current and past favorites.

Kartell (kartell.com) has long been known for its innovative manufacturing of furnishings by internationally famous designers. Here are some of my favorite trays that keep me imagining calorically challenging, extravagant desserts on each tray tier!

The Battista cart, which comes in a choice of seven colors, is extendible and foldable. It can be used to serve drinks, buffets, lunch or dinner. The Gastone trolley is elegant and practical, comes in four colors and can be folded and stored away. Kartell’s newest trolley, the Flip, has two plastic trays combined with a metal frame. Any of these designs work in most contemporary environments and mix well with other periods.

[Image: Battista cart from Kartell]

[Image: Gastone cart from Kartell]

A major destination for lovers of modernist furniture and accessories is the M2L Collection (m2lcollection.com). The company’s iconic 20th century line includes designs by Eileen Gray and Walter Knoll. M2L has a variety of servers. The Betsy is a substantial frosted glass and silver cart that has an interesting shape and reminds me of a console table. My other M2L favorite is called the M4 Console Cart. The large wheels with spokes give it a bit of casual style, not quite a hot dog stand.

[Image: Betsey Serving Trolley from M2L]

[Image: Console Cart from M2L]

David Iatesta (davidiatesta.com) is a manufacturer of beautiful, traditional furniture and lighting. The Brighton Bar Caddy is a substantial dining room piece made of ash with silver leaf accents. It can be ordered in custom sizes and finishes. The pure English style and elegance of the piece makes it blend beautifully with any period furniture. Now this is the server for high tea!

[Image: Brighton Bar Caddy from David Iatesta]

The Porto Sherry Table from McGuire Furniture (mcguirefurniture.com) is a convenient serving cart or large drinks table. This table is perfect for providing just the right eclectic touch to a formal dining space to make it more interesting. It’s generously scaled, made of lacquered rattan and can be customized and adorned with gold or silver leaf accents combined with beautiful wood finishes.

[Image: Porto Sherry Table from McGuire Furniture]

C.S. Post & Co. (cspost.com) is a wonderful shop located in Hays, Kan. It was included in my August 11 post, “A Designer’s Favorite Interior Design Websites.” Along with the company’s other innovative furnishings, I would love to use its beautiful mirrored bar cart. Even the oversize wheels are reflective and give the piece a glamorous look and a nice platform for cocktails before dinner.

[Image: Regency Bar Cart from C.S. Post & Co.]

Salut, cheers and à votre santé!

[Main image: Hemera | Thinkstock]

Tags: Design Inspirations, Furniture, Interior Design, Living And Dining, Living/dining, Media/entertainment

Comments (1)

And here I was thinking I was the only one who is obsessed with drink carts! Such a great collection!
By Judith Cohen 968 days ago

Incorporating the Things You Love into Home Design

Wed, 22 Sep 2010 22:59:00 -0500

Incorporating the Things You Love into Home Design

Posted by Growers Contributor
Wednesday, September 22, 2010 | 1 Comment

Designer, painter and sculptor Pablo Solomon has been featured in major publications online and in print—and each time for something different. Whether it’s a National Geographic piece about Earth Day, an article about vintage home renovation (featuring his own “Comanche territory” Texas ranch) in the Wall Street Journal or a hotel-inspired decor piece for Woman’s Day, Pablo seems to be the designer to interview.

Here, Pablo tells us about his latest project (in which he built a relief sculpture of his client!), and shares three must-have design books from his own shelf, including a title written by one of his all-time top inspirations.

GN: How did you come to develop your style?

Pablo: Two of the biggest influences on my style in art and design have been my love of Japanese Zen simplicity and balance, and my love of the wonderful natural colors here in Texas. I pride myself on conveying feelings and ideas in as few lines and curves as possible.

GN: Tell us about your most recent project.

Pablo: One of my recent projects that I especially enjoyed was working on a large estate outside of Dallas. Although the owners and their architect had done the big stuff, I was able to add some art and solve some design problems, which really added uniqueness and elegance.

GN: What did you love most about it?

Pablo: Actually, one of the fun elements was doing a near life-size relief sculpture of the wife depicting her figure when she had been a ballet dancer. She thought she was secretly commissioning it as a surprise to her husband, and he thought he was commissioning it as a surprise to his wife. I never let on. And no, I did not charge each of them.

[Main image: Pablo Solomon]

GN: What was the biggest challenge about this particular project?

Pablo: Although I had several design challenges to help them work through, I was most pleased with my solution for the air return for the AC/heating for one section of the mansion. Instead of the predictable vent, I created a niche at the end of a long hall that flowed up from the floor and doubled as an angular display area.

[Image: Pablo Solomon]

GN: What advice would you have for homeowners in hiring and managing contractors, whether it be for paint, flooring, handymen or big remodels like custom-made closets?

Pablo: I can recommend three wonderful books:

1. The Complete Guide to Building Your Own Home and Saving Thousands on Your New House by Corie Richter (Atlantic Publishing). This is an absolute must. It’s simple yet covers all the important points of planning and dealing with contractors, including sample contracts.

2. Terence Conran’s New House Book: The Complete Guide to Home Design (Villard Books). Conran is one of my all-time top inspirations, and you’ll see why in this classic.

3. Metropolitan Home Renovation Style by Joanna Krotz (Villard Books). If nothing else, get this book to monkey see, monkey do. Fantastic designs and design solutions.

GN: What makes a happy home?

Pablo: A place you love to be.

GN: What's your philosophy on creating meaning in the home?

Pablo: You should feel safe and comfortable in your home. You should feel joy and pride in the design every time you look around. You should want to share your home with your friends. You should always look forward to coming home.

Pablo Solomon is an internationally recognized artist known primarily for his drawings and sculptures of dancers and for his calm, soothing and environmentally friendly designs. He has been featured in books, magazines and newspapers, and on radio, TV and film. Currently he lives and works with his wife, Beverly, on their historic 1856 ranch north of Austin, Texas. Visit pablosolomon.com.

Tags: Ask An Expert, Interior Design

Comments (1)

A sculptor and a designer! What an amazing combo!
By Growers Contributor 968 days ago

Your Dining Chairs Can Set Your Style

Tue, 21 Sep 2010 23:09:00 -0500

Your Dining Chairs Can Set Your Style

Posted by Judith Cohen
Tuesday, September 21, 2010 | 1 Comment

One of my favorite rooms to decorate is one that celebrates family, friends, entertainment, holidays and delicious occasions to remember: the dining room! The table and lighting are important elements in its design; however, the first items I always tell my clients to buy for the dining room are the dining chairs. They have the most impact in defining the room. Here I thought I’d share some of my favorites.

Artistic Frame (artisticframe.com) is a designer trade resource with a wonderful showroom. The comprehensive, detailed website shows numerous models that are categorized by period and style. The collection has many options, including custom finishes, sizes and a large choice of fabrics. I love the Athens Dining Chair. It blends perfectly with traditional or modernist style; its angular back is ultra comfortable from appetizers through dessert.

[Image: Athens Chair via Artistic Frame]

For more than 20 years, M2L (M2Lcollection.com) has brought the best contemporary European furniture to the American market. M2L’s iconic designers are world renowned and their furniture among the finest pieces of 20th-century design. The Little Tulip dining chair was created by Pierre Paulin in 1965. The petal shape invites the sitter to dine in comfort in an edgy and modern setting. Another M2L classic, the 401 Break Chair, was created in 1976 by Mario Bellini. It’s currently on display at the Metropolitan Museum in New York City as part of the 20th Century Design Collection. Its simple and straight lines mix beautifully with modern or traditional tables, whether your style is formal or casual.

[Image: Little Tulip Chair via M2L]

[Image: 401 Break Chair via M2L]

McGuire (mcguirefurniture.com) has been known for its wonderful and innovative rattan furniture for more than 60 years. Finishes and fabric customization are available, and there are many styles from which to choose. The Double Caned Armchair is supremely comfortable and always stylish and elegant. The Cracked Ice Chair, introduced by McGuire in 1968, is famous for its rattan and rawhide back. Another of my favorites is the impeccably crafted Rattan Target Armchair. I love the fact that McGuire’s rattan dining chairs complement almost any type of table in a formal, country or ultra modern style and setting.

[Image: Double Caned Armchair via McGuire]

[Image: Cracked Ice Chair via McGuire]

[Image: Rattan Target Chair via McGuire]

Restoration Hardware (restorationhardware.com) has reinvented its brand to offer one-of-a-kind items and new pieces that are an expression of form and function and exact replicas of 19th-century pieces crafted faithfully from beautiful materials. Such is the case with its dining chair collection. The Vintage French Round and Vintage French Square dining chairs are sophisticated and timeless in their Louis XVI style and have matching armchairs as well. The Gustavian side chair is a simple and pure Swedish design and looks wonderful mixed with the Belfort Wing Chair at the head of the table.

[Image: Vintage French Round Armchair via Restoration Hardware]

[Image: Vintage French Round Side Chair via Restoration Hardware]

[Image: Vintage French Square Side Chair via Restoration Hardware]

[Image: Gustavian Side Chair via Restoration Hardware]

[Image: Belfort Wing Chair via Restoration Hardware]

All of these chairs are classics. Some are pure examples of period furniture, others embrace a more eclectic style. Just sit back, relax and enjoy the meal. Bon appétit!

[Main image: 401 Break Chair from www.M2lcollection.com]

Tags: Design Inspirations, Interior Design, Living/dining

Comments (1)

I 3 the Athens Chair! So chic!
By Judith Cohen 973 days ago

How To: Maintain Your Spa

Tue, 21 Sep 2010 00:54:00 -0500

How To Maintain Your Spa

Posted by Guest Editor
Monday, September 20, 2010 | 1 Comment

Spas offer a terrific way to relax, as well as having noted therapeutic benefits. However, they do require a lot of attention and maintenance. With the days getting chillier, you may be thinking either of cozy spa evenings gazing at the stars or closing it up for the season. Either way, you also need to take steps to ensure that your hot tub, open or closed, is safe for all members of your family.

Hot Tub or Spa?

There’s no difference between the two, and either term is acceptable. Originally, hot tubs were constructed of wood, but when composite materials came along, some people began referring to them as spas to differentiate the construction style. Now the terms are used interchangeably.

Benefits

Many cultures throughout history have touted the benefits of bathing in hot, therapeutic waters. The use of spas remains an important ritual all over the world, not simply as relaxation or therapy, but as a social opportunity as well.
In addition to reducing stress, the bubbling hot water has other real health benefits. The Arthritis Foundation reports that hot tubs have been found to be an effective treatment for many arthritis symptoms by helping to relax muscles, decrease stiffness, and ease pain.

Operation and Maintenance

The typical spa is an aboveground structure, round or square, filled with water that is circulated and cleaned via a pump filter system. Although less common, they can be installed below ground. Many consider this to be a more aesthetically pleasing choice, but below-ground spas are much more costly to install. Spas come in a variety of materials, and have several different filter options, each with slightly different maintenance requirements. Follow the filter manufacturer’s instructions for best results.

The water in your spa is susceptible to greater chemical fluctuations than a swimming pool, simply because it is a much smaller volume of water. In addition, higher operating temperatures of spas and higher bather loads make it an ideal environment for bacteria to grow. For these reasons, daily testing of the water is recommended to prevent the propagation of bacteria, and to keep the filtration system and pump in good condition.

Preventive maintenance is key. Testing your spa only takes 30 seconds, and it’s a good habit to get into. While typical care and maintenance is fairly simple and relatively inexpensive, deferred maintenance can be costly, as well as exposing your family to possible health problems. Here are the basics of caring for your spa:

Daily:

Test the water. Test strips are available from spa stores to help you monitor the balance of chemicals in the water.
Based on that test, balance the water accordingly with the appropriate additives to bring the chemicals into their proper ranges.
Inspect the water line for residue or mineral deposits, and clean if present.
Check the chlorine-dispensing floater, if you have one, and replenish it as needed.
Always follow the pool pump manufacturer’s instructions for regular maintenance.
Add water to replace what has been lost to evaporation.
Cover the spa when not in use. This will help it retain heat, and save energy, and also keep out foreign matter that can foul the water.

Weekly:

Shock the spa with sanitizer.
If you live in an area with hard water, add a scale preventing solution to minimize deposits.

Monthly:

Clean the filter, in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions specific to the filter type.
Bring a water sample to the local pool and spa store to get a more comprehensive water test than test strips can provide, and follow their recommendations for care and adjustment.

If Closing Seasonally:

If you do not plan on using your spa during the winter, you must take special steps to close it safely. Not closing it properly can seriously damage the spa, especially in freezing climates. Be warned that any water left in the pipes, shell, or pump filter can freeze, expanding and cracking the unit, and resulting in expensive repairs.
If you do not feel confident to do this properly, hire a service professional to close your spa for you. They can help ensure that the spa will be in great shape when you’re ready to use it again.

Also, you must periodically drain and refill your tub with fresh water to avoid an excessive build-up of total dissolved solids (TDS), which can clog your pump filter. There are no strict rules for how often you replace your spa water, but use this formula as a guideline: Estimate the number of liters of water in your spa, divided by the number of daily bathers, divided by 12, equals the number of days between draining and refilling. For example: 2000 liters of water, divided by 2 daily bathers, divided by 12 equals 83 days between draining and refilling. If you know the gallon capacity of your spa, multiply the number of gallons by 3.78 to figure the number of liters—a typical 500-gallon spa is approximately 1,893 liters.

NOTE: If you don’t have the time or inclination to fool with all of this, finding a service professional to mind the upkeep on your spa is easy. Fees are typically what you might pay for a lawn service.

An Alternative to Chlorine

Chlorine is a caustic chemical, and some people find that is irritating to skin and eyes, as well as lending a strong chemical odor to your spa. If you fall into this category, you may want to consider the installation of an ozone generator instead.
Ozone generating devices spray ozone gas into the spa water, which effectively kills any bacteria present, and is reputed to keep your water clearer longer than bromide or chlorine. However, you still have to balance the water with other chemicals. Also, to function properly, ozone generators must operate for several hours a day, which consumes additional energy.

Safety

Pregnant women and those with high blood pressure should not use hot tubs. If you have any serious medical condition, check with your doctor before using a spa.

Children should never be allowed unsupervised access to a spa, as drowning is common. The National Spa & Pool Institute recommends using a locking safety cover for your spa. If you have a home with young children, this is a must to ensure their safety. Make sure the cover you purchase meets ASTM International F1346-91 safety standards—this information is listed in the documentation included with your cover. There are also alarm systems that can alert you if the cover is disturbed, adding an additional layer of protection. These are valuable measures, but they are still no substitute for adult supervision. Talk to your kids about possible hazards, and make them your allies in the safe use of your spa.

Lastly, be smart and don’t bring any breakable glassware into your spa. Sure, that frosty margarita is just the ticket while kicking back in your spa, but use only plastic, shatterproof containers whenever drinking any beverages in or around your spa.

Worth Every Penny
There is nothing quite like sinking into a tub of bubbling hot water after a long day. The small amount of time and money you spend on the upkeep of your spa is nothing compared to the invaluable relaxation it provides you and your family. Enjoy!

By Robert Bundy

[Main Image: Fancy Photography | Veer]

Tags: Exterior Home, How To, Maintenance, Outdoor Living

Comments (1)

Have had a spa for the past 1 years, it's true what you say. Worth every penny!
By Guest Editor 973 days ago

Designing Beautiful and Functional Indoor and Outdoor Spaces

Fri, 17 Sep 2010 21:51:00 -0500

Designing Beautiful and Functional Indoor and Outdoor Spaces

Posted by Natasha Stocker
Friday, September 17, 2010 | 1 Comment

Have you ever spent a weekend in the Bay Area or perhaps in Sonoma, and came away wishing you could bring the brilliant mix of clean lines and rustic beauty home with you? Then you could very well have spent your weekend lounging in a home designed by Inspired Spaces Design’s Natasha Stocker. True to the needs of a Northern Cali dwelling, Natasha specializes in eco-friendly designs and gracefully applies a holistic sensibility to extend interior design out to a home’s sun-soaked outdoor spaces. Natasha tells us about just such a whole-house remodel: her latest project, in fact, which included a gourmet outdoor kitchen design and glass fire pit. Read on!

GN: First of all, where does your sense of style derive from?

Natasha: Style is one of those things that develops organically. Just like how you dress, you wear what makes you happy or inspired and your taste is ever-evolving. My personal design style tends to be classified as Rustic-Contemporary. I like the juxtaposition of clean lines paired with rough, organic elements. Like a modern chair paired with a tree stump side table. It makes the space feel like it came together naturally and over time. When I need a side table or accessory, I never limit myself to one style or era. Sometimes a mid-century brass coffee table is a perfect fit for a modern house. To me, that collected, interesting vibe signifies “Home.”

GN: Tell us about your last project.

Natasha: The last project I worked on was not only a whole-house remodel, but a backyard redo as well. The most exciting part of the job was really diving into my client's taste and being able to give her exactly what she wanted—even though she might not have been able to articulate what that was. I tell my clients, "It's your job to show me pictures of things you love and talk about the places you admire, and it's my job to take in all that information, sort through it to find the commonalities and paint the final picture." The biggest challenge on this project, like most projects, is helping the client to focus in on what's important. To continuously remind the client of what she truly wants, and what will work both aesthetically and functionally—for example, "Perhaps we don't need four major focal points in your powder room."

My latest remodel project included designing a backyard that would flow effortlessly into the vibe of the house to maximize indoor-outdoor living space [see before and after, below]. The challenge here was that we lost half of the backyard space to the new addition of a large great room. So we needed to pay close attention to our space planning, scale and layout to make the new yard beautiful and fully functional. The new space includes a gourmet outdoor kitchen, pool and glass fire pit.

[Photos: Natasha Stocker]

Below is a before-and-after of a kitchen remodel for this same house. My client's new kitchen is five times the size of her old space. Notice that the homeowner has clean and sleek taste but loves color. We chose to light the zebra wood cabinetry to give it that extra punch of drama.

[Photos: Natasha Stocker]

GN: What advice would you have for homeowners in hiring and managing contractors, whether it be for paint, flooring, handymen or big remodels like custom-made closets?

Natasha: Unfortunately, there are contractor horror stories around every corner for a reason, so get a recommendation from a friend or neighbor if you can. Ask for their contractor's license number and see if there are any complaints against them. There are incredible craftsmen out there; the key is to start researching early, be patient, ask around and find the right person with whom you communicate easily. Start doing your research well before you’re dying to get your project started. That way, you won’t get sucked into any “if-you-sign-today-I’ll-give-you-a-deal” shenanigans. Of course, a referral is best, but another great place to find a designer is through professional organizations like the American Society of Interior Designers (asid.org) and the National Kitchen and Bath Organization (nkba.org).

Many of these associations pre-screen to make certain their members have a design degree from an accredited university and are professionals at the top of their field. Many designers can orchestrate smaller projects for you, from repainting to new flooring to custom closet cabinetry. It’s a secure feeling for homeowners to know they have a seasoned expert who’s got their back.

GN: What elements account for a comfortable home?

Natasha: One that makes you feel both inspired and hugged. When you walk into your house, the feeling you get should encompass the coziness of your favorite sweatshirt and the divine inspiration of your favorite painting. Bottom line: If your house isn't functional, beautiful and makes you feel loved, it's time to make a change.

GN: What's your philosophy on creating meaning in the home? This could pertain to design and/or overall beautiful living.

Natasha: I love a house that feels like it evolved organically over time (no matchy-matchy bedroom sets in my portfolio!). One of my recent clients said, “I love how you put that rock on top of that stool... It looks like it just crawled right up there!” Let the pieces speak to you, and a creative and natural design concept will take shape. Creating meaning is bringing great art or treasures back from a vacation, or even from a day at the beach. My son and I love to look through our rock collection and try to remember what we were doing when we found each little stone. The rocks live in a huge, carved wooden bowl in our living room. So it’s not only joy and memories, but a great, one-of-a-kind accessory, too!

Natasha Stocker is owner and chief designer at Inspired Spaces Design, a full-service interior and landscape design firm in Windsor, Calif. She has been been receiving great accolades throughout Sonoma County and the San Francisco Bay Area for her attention to detail and incredible ability to draw out each client’s personal style. Her firm specializes in kitchen, bath and whole-house remodels with a focus on eco-friendly building and finishes. For more information on Inspired Spaces Design, please visit inspiredspacesdesign.com.

Tags: Ask An Expert, Going Green, Interior Design, Kitchen, Outdoor Living

Comments (1)

I wish I could do backyard renovations like the ones featured here. My husband and I are dreaming of a pool!
By Natasha Stocker 973 days ago

Creative, Adaptable Play Furniture

Fri, 17 Sep 2010 01:21:00 -0500

Creative Adaptable Play Furniture

Posted by Judith Cohen
Thursday, September 16, 2010 | 1 Comment

When your baby leaves the crib, it’s time to introduce some new play possibilities. There are a number of new products on the market for growing toddlers, preschoolers and beyond to help them exercise their newfound mobility, practice toddler techniques, use their imaginations and explore their environment. Here are some new products that are fun for children and their parents.

Greenplay (greenplayfurniture.com) is a creative, adaptable children’s furniture system crafted from environmentally sustainable materials. The company uses only recycled, renewable resources in its manufacturing process. Greenplay also offers a take-back program that allows its furniture to be repurposed and donated. Its play furniture is suited to public education facilities, libraries and healthcare environments, but can be adapted on a smaller scale for the home. The airplane and train are both wonderful vehicles for interactive play.

[images: GreenplayFurniture.com]

I love Oeuf (oeufnyc.com) products, recently featured in my September 3rd post, “Baby Furniture, Evolved.” They are simply and beautifully made. The Toy Store helps teach your children to organize their toys and also serves as a practical storage bin.

[image: Oeuf]

Offi & Company (offi.com) has been selling cutting-edge products by famous international independent designers for more than 10 years. Its home furnishings are multifunctional, comfortable and beautiful, and have won a number of prestigious awards. Here are some of the company’s latest products from its ever-expanding Kids’ Collection.

[Images: Offi & Company]

Generate Design (gnr8.biz) is a website that encourages viewers to interact; it asks for comments on designs and votes for favorites. The company wants its customers to be “virtual design buyers” and help it choose which items to sell. Many of the kid products are multifunctional; parents might even want to buy an extra for themselves.

I love the Imperial Rug, which comes in a number of colors, in 10 pieces that can be reconfigured again and again. The Puzzle Tray is designed to make eating and learning fun. The Play Table doesn’t require assembly and the designers certainly understand how children like to play. I love the House1 Build it Yourself Playhouse because children can not only put it together, but also decorate and customize it in their own fashion.

[Images: Generate Design]

[Main image: Offi & Company]

Tags: Closets And Storage, Design Inspirations, Interior Design, Kids

Comments (1)

Love the airplane and train play structures!
By Judith Cohen 973 days ago

Home as a Reflection of Your Life

Thu, 16 Sep 2010 03:37:00 -0500

Home as a Reflection of Your Life

Posted by Jill Vegas
Wednesday, September 15, 2010 | 1 Comment

Stars, socialites and heads of state flock to her design sense. She’s also the author of Speed Decorating, a dream-come-true coffee table book for those in need of an interior quick fix or micro face lift. As her new venture, The School of Speed Decorating, prepares to open this month in New York City, interior decorator Jill Vegas pauses to share her latest design project (a LEED-certified, 5,000-square-foot townhouse) and the words of Gore Vidal regarding personal style that still resonate with her.

GN: So, from the beginning—how did you come to develop your style?

Jill: Style is about finding things I love and putting them together in a way that tells a story. It’s about having confidence that it works, and if it doesn't work, knowing I can have a “redo.” I like this quote by Gore Vidal: “Style is knowing who you are, what you want to say and not giving a damn.”

I grew up in the country and spent a lot of time playing in the fields and forests, which I loved. Living in New York City for more than 13 years, I can see nature’s influence in my work. I always bring nature indoors to give a grounding sense of place. For example, in a recent project we stacked two stumps in a chic living room to create an instant side table. Style is about mixing different materials and textures so that a room is put together in a fresh new way.

GN: Tell us about your last project.

Jill: One of the projects I worked on was decorating a LEED-certified, 5,000-square-foot townhouse. I love walking into a space that is a “blank canvas” and having the vision to transform it into a warm and cozy home. The biggest challenge about this project was the crazy timeline—we completed the project in less than two weeks!

[Image: Michael Grimm]

The main image showcases part of a living room I decorated. The bookcases were actually about to be thrown away. They were part of a built-in unit. What I decided to do was give the bookcase a face lift to showcase all the books. First, the whole thing was painted poppy red. There are actually four bookcases with crisp white trim and baseboard. Crown molding was added to give the appearance of a grand bookcase. Lights were installed and the adjustable shelves were arranged to create a dramatic and graphic focal point. To make this a cozy reading area, a super comfy yet classic chaise lounge was installed. Books were stacked to create the perfect side table for an afternoon cup of tea.

Here's a detailed shot of the flowers on the bookcase.

I like keeping the middle two shelves open for an ever-changing display of flowers and vases, depending on what’s in season. Flowers are the perfect way to “Speed Decorate” your home.

You don’t have to have things matchy-matchy. Mix up styles and metals, but keep it to three finishes or the look can feel cluttered. I like this side table that is classic Bertoia. It's mixed with an antique store lamp and a quirky mirrored vase.

The color red in the rose and the glass shade make the grouping work.

GN: What advice would you have for homeowners in hiring and managing contractors, whether it be for paint, flooring, handymen or big remodels like custom-made closets?

Jill: Don't go with the cheapest bid even if you're trying to save money. It pays to go with the contractor with the best reputation and has stellar references. Make sure to call the most recent references. Businesses change and you want to make sure you're working with the same crew.

GN: What elements account for a comfortable home?

Jill: A happy home is a place where friends and family gather to share food, stories, laughter and love. My goal is to help as many people as possible create a home that they love and share it with loved ones. Life is short. Let's love our homes and our lives!

In September, the School of Speed Decorating is opening with seminars to empower students to make over their homes so it doesn't take forever or cost an arm and leg. Isn't that what we all want? Who wants to wait weeks, months or years to renovate? Let's love our homes right now, exactly as they are, flaws and all. There are things that can be done to transform flaws into fabulous.

GN: What's your philosophy on creating meaning in the home?

Jill: Love your home, love your life. I like to approach design from a 360-degree perspective—to love your body, your family, yourself, your home and your life. If there's something funky in your love life, look at your bedroom. You might want to take a look at areas of your life where you're stagnating or unhappy and see how it's reflected in your home. Home is a visual reflection of how the rest of your life is going. And I'm not talking about creating boring, picture-perfect, showroom-sterile rooms. I'm talking about infusing each room with a sense of style and fun. Fill your home with things you love and tell a story.

Jill Vegas is an award-winning professional “stager” and a sought-after interior decorator and TV personality who has worked with stars, socialites and heads of state. She creates gorgeous homes and uses her quick-thinking flair and seven principles of decorating to sell houses for more than asking price, even ones that have been languishing on the market. Jill is the author of Speed Decorating. Check out The School of Speed Decorating, which opens in New York City in September 2010.

[photo credits: Michael Grimm]

Tags: Ask An Expert, Color Selection, Home Office, Interior Design, Library, Living/dining

Comments (1)

That gold lamp is stunning!
By Jill Vegas 979 days ago