A Little Touch of Paris

Robert Allen has introduced a new line of trims inspired by Paris. Here is Robert Allen Designs describing their trim, "The eclectic trimmings in the Parisian Trim Collection intermix vintage designs, traditional motifs and luscious textures in this distinctive offering inspired by “the City of Lights.” Eleven versatile colorways are offered, ranging from neutrals to classic multi-colored combinations. The line is artful and inventive." I agree. I tend to use trim judiciously however, I do like this line. I love the silhouette of the trim on the lead edge of the drape and the elegant lattice tassel on the throw. I particularly like the bead trim on the lamp.
I love it more in these colorways.

They also recently introduced a Parisian Collection of drapery hardware. I enjoy the detail of the filigree designs. I can see using these lines in a traditional design with an abundance of silk.
Viva La France!

All Things Glass

I love glass. I said that in Paula Zottoli’s blog in my Artist Series. Paula knows me very well. That is why she gave me earrings made from glass. Glass is a material that I adore because it is amenable. What do I mean by that?? Glass let’s one express themselves artfully in many forms and applications. It can agree with any palette and style as it can have color or no color, texture or no texture. It is also amenable as it is a responsible material - glass is typically an eco-friendly product. I also love light – light is paramount in all designs. Glass is amenable to light as it is open to its influence. When glass is unlit, it looks one way – lit – another. Recall from my principles and elements blog. Here it is again – the example of light versus no light. These are glass art pieces from Nuvo Designs. Directing light through glass gives a different interpretation – unlit = demure, lit = spectacular. I love glass.


I have also found that manufactures tend to be green in their processes to develop their glass products. Today, let’s look at glass for countertops – countertops – yes, countertops and such. I aspire to have glass countertops in my own home. I will have a style that looks like water – soothing and beautiful. How do they function compared to granite or other stone? Very well. Take a look at these companies and you will see what I mean regarding functionality and responsibility: Thinkglass by Mailhot, Vetrazzo, and Icestone. Take a look at these applications and products and tell me what you think.

This one is my favorite.

Recall the interplay between light and glass. I know this is a commercial application but I can imagine this next to a pool with a fabulous party!

Working Paint

I have used functional paint in several of my designs. I used magnetic paint in the Child Advocacy Center to help maintain a comfortable room size. I also used it underneath children’s wallpaper so they could place magnets directly in a scene. I have also used magnetic chalkboard paint for get the best of both. See Magnamagic. Fun! Chalkboard paint can be tinted to be used with almost any décor – from children room to kitchen…. See Rustoleum. I recently came across another functional paint that I have not used – washable marker board from Idea Paint. Just one coat turns any surface into a dry erase board. Great! How eco-friendly! In fact, they address this directly on their website, “Idea Paint is the most environmentally friendly dry-erase product on the market, making significant improvements in raw material utilization, energy consumption, and air quality. “ Wonderful! I can see using this in many applications - home office, kitchen, laundry room, pantry, playroom….. Many folks came up with great uses for functional paint – take a look. Send me your photos using functional paint and your ideas and stay tuned to see your contributions.

Artist Series - Paula Zottoli

As I mentioned in a previous blog, I will feature artists from time to time. The other day, I put on a new blouse I bought at Ann Taylor - black with white polka dots. I love it. I was looking for the perfect earrings to complete the outfit. I found them - right there in my jewelry cabinet. They are pretty glass (I love glass) black and white earrings made by my dear friend, Paula Zottoli. So today, I am featuring her. The black and white glass earrings below are the ones I have (among others). Paula is an amazing artist. She renders beautiful painted glass art, creates lovely jewelry, and the most functional key chain I have ever seen. Seriously, the key chain Paula made for me revolutionized my ability to carry many objects and still have access to my keys. Genius! Paula also created for me the perfect piece of glass art for a Showhouse that I did. She painted the fabric pattern I used on the ottoman in the design onto a large glass vase that adorned the fireplace. It was spectacular! Paula uses the wonderful Etsy site to show & sell her work. Here are just a few of her creations. Check her out!