Dallas Blog | Material Girls | Dallas Interior Design

Neon’s are everywhere this season from fashion to home decor. It’s impossible not to notice everyone wearing colored jeans and celebrities at movie premiers in gorgeous neon dresses. I love this guide to “doing neon right”.

Just the other day, my husband asked me why I was still living in the 80′s…really, what do you even say to that?

{Black Tie neon}

{Casual evening neon}

{Street style neon}

These colors aren’t just in fashion, but home decor as well! Neons add a touch of vibrancy and are a fun way to liven up your home.

Here are a few ways to add a little neon to your life without going over the top-

This yellow bar stool from ABC Home is the perfect color to mix with grays, blacks, and whites. I also love the idea of this mixed with turquoise!

This dining room from House Beautiful mixes bold colors with classic black and whites. Johnathan Adler did a wonderful job mixing mid-century modern pieces with funky yellow Chinese Chippendale Chairs (and turquoise drapes to boot!)

This dramatic yellow mirror from Horchow would be perfect in an entryway.. Maybe with some gray and white striped wallpaper and a Lucite table underneath!

How funky and mod!  Orange wall clock from CB2

Pairing turquoise blue and bold orange is the perfect neon color palette. I love how they toned down all the neon by adding in neutrals like the black and white lamp and light taupe paint color (same rules as in fashion!) Houzz

A bright yellow sofa with funky eclectic pillows paired with dark gray walls creates an airy, perky atmosphere! Houzz

Don’t you just love these hot pink chairs paired with the dark wood table?

The rug in this space ties everything together. All the colors from the rug are spread throughout the bedroom and creates a cohesive look.  Notice the neon green chandelier!  Houzz

I’ve always been a big fan of Stray Dog Design’s Artichoke lamp..it comes in wild neon colors like pink, chartreuse, and turquoise!

And you thought colored bathtubs were so out of date in the 40′s…well they are back! This neon green tub screams for attention in this small white and black bathroom. Pinterest 

This movie pool sofa is perfect for the college student living in a small apartment looking to brighten up their space.

Now this is the literal meaning of neon! Back lighting a dark toned painting with neon colored light creates a new story for the painting to tell. Elle Decor

These beautimous bedside chests in lacquered orange paint from 1st Dibbs paired with brown leather drawers is a unique pop of color that would look perfect in a masculine bedroom.

This year at the Dallas Home and Gift Market there were so many amazing finds it was hard to pick just ten! Keeping up with current and upcoming design trends is vital to the design process to ensure that we can make your home lovely and something no one will forget. Here are a few of my favorite design trends at market that are sure to knock your socks off!

#1- Bright colored lacquered furniture-

Pops of color are on the cutting edge of design this season. Reviving a traditional style chest by adding blue lacquered paint gives new life to this piece at the Ambari showroom-

#2- Tassels and ropes!  (see our post on this topic from the other day)-

This iron style knotted chair and demilune table are so unique and charming! Drinking your morning coffee in this lil chair will definetly start your day off great. Both are from Currey and Co- 

#3- Dramatic screens-

Screens are great for so many things. They can act as a room divider, a piece of art or sculpture (behind chairs or a sofa), or fill an awkward corner or long wall. My favorite screens are mirrored or metallic ones with lots of visual interest (like this stunning one from Design Directions)

#4- Colored glass-

Looking for something unique? We have the right pieces for you.  These beauties are displayed at one of our most favorite showrooms, Taylors on Ten.  They have a whole “glass” section that will make your heart race! Don’t even get me started on their glass knot pendant light!

#5- Natural lamps-

I love a good natural lamp.  At market, we noticed tons of lamps made out of natural materials such as marble, granite, driftwood, and shells.  This white marble lamp by Ralph Lauren was also at the TOT showroom.

#6- Graphic patterns mixed with bold colors-

Graphic motifs such as chevron patterns paired with vivid colors are THE it factor (found in the Imax Showroom). Using one of these ideas in any space will definitely keep you on trend.

#7- Color combination- orange and gray-

I am using this color combo in Ben’s mancave as we speak and I have to say that I keep seeing this palette more and more lately (especially at market)! Global Views always has the best vignettes at the show and their use of this color combo was truly stunning.

#8- Metallics-

Metallics, Metallics, Metallics!! I can’t say it enough! These gold side tables/benches with wooden details (found at Design Directions) are the perfect accent for any space. The great thing about metallics is that they can go with anything and add that extra bit of sparkle that most rooms need.

A gorgeous round mirror from Ambari-

A bling worthy vignette from Global Views-

#9- Embroidered Pillows-

We love the use of color on these dramatic embroidered pillows.  This extra layer of texture really helps take the pillows to another level!

#10- Framed textiles-

This amazing Indian styled scarf in a frame can be a great starting point for a room. LOVE the orange and pink combo here.  This particular one was found at Taylors on Ten.

#11- Faux fur

Last but not least.. OHHH the uniqueness! Being different and standing out is right up this chaise lounge’s alley. It’s purrrfectly pettable with its fuzzy upholstery. You most definitely won’t have to worry about your neighbor having this! Spotted at Cyan Design.

I have been completely and utterly obsessed with anything to do with tassels or ropes lately…and we aren’t talking about the traditional over the top drapery trimmings from back in the day..no ma’am!  We are talking about the tassel and rope motifs that are popping up anywhere and everywhere- from furniture to lighting.  They bring an unexpected twist to any space and provide texture and opulence to an otherwise basic piece of furniture.

We just purchased these chairs from Again and Again for a client…we are going to paint them black and upholster them in a white vinyl (and put a rounded monogram on the backs in a deep teal).  SO excited for the finished result.

Whether it’s through metal or wood (or the real deal), these pieces do a great job mimicking my beloved tassels and ropes-

Tassel Black and Navy Table Lamp From Arteriors

Tassel Ivory Lamp From Arteriors

 Chloe Coffee Table From Horchow

Renzo Arm Chair From Currey and Co.

Tassels AND rope- I’m in heaven!

Renzo Console Table From Currey & Co.

Renzo Side Chair From Currey & Co.

Tassel Table From Horchow

Beth Dotolo and Carolina Gentry of Pulp Design Studios used a similar table in their vignette for Dwell with Dignity’s Thrift Studio- how gorgeous does the tassel table look against the dramatic black walls and funky vintage chairs? Love!

And if you missed it, even Kelly Wearstler is on board… her recent sale on One Kings Lane featured a very similar chair to the one I’m re-doing above. They seem to be everywhere these days! Now there is just one more place that they need to be….my home of course!

The info you have all been waiting for!!!! Gypsy Soul will be having a huge Warehouse Sale this Friday and Saturday (June 29 and 30) at 155 Howell Street in the Dallas Design District. Even better news?? They are teaming up with Scout Design Studio and Rehab Design Studio to bring you a trifecta of fantastic finds. Hours will be 6-9 pm tonight/Friday and 9-3 pm tomorrow/Saturday.

To answer your questions- yes, they will be taking credit cards as long as their 3G connection works. They will not be taking checks, unless said 3G connection is out. Delivery is available through their trusty delivery guy Jackson, but they will have people there to assist you with furniture to your car the day of the sale. Below are a few of the items being sold.  You won’t believe some of the pieces being sold. Can’t wait to see you there!

“Why put off buying today, what you can sell tomorrow?” (is my new personal slogan).  It’s a revolving door over here at casa de Larkin.  It’s not uncommon for me to buy something and then the next week it shows up on Craig’s List.  I just can’t stop myself- I have furniture and accessory A.D.D.  I will buy something vintage and then get sick of it before I even have an opportunity to recover it.  With the new house, the addiction has only gotten worse.   I’m constantly lurking on Craig’s List, Ebay, estate sales, thrift stores, vintage shops, 1st Monday at the WTC, warehouse and sample sales for that unique find.  It’s gotten so bad that I just realized my whole house is filled with faux bamboo and I’m starting to look like the crazy “bamboo” lady. If you are interested in taking any of these off my hands, please email for pricing, availability and condition (I may have more photos too)!  (I’ll also post them on a link on the Dallas page)

 {Abstract giclee art from Dallas design district.  Framed in brushed nickel frame. 49.5″W x 73″H}

 {PAIR of vintage  butterfly back chairs- approximately 30″w x 25″d}

{Vintage white faux bamboo dresser with gold hardware- 54″w x 20″d}

{Abstract giclee art from Dallas design district- framed in black frame- 31.5″ square}

{Global Views faux malachite magazine holder from Dallas design district- never been used- 20″L x 14″W x 20″H)

{Pair of 24″ square pillows with Duralee artichoke print- green and gray; One rectangular gray/white greek key pillow in Duralee fabric}

{Vintage desk/vanity chair- needs to be re upholstered and legs re painted}

{Amazing octagonal mirror upholstered in light creamy taupe fabric with gold nailheads- 42″ x 42″.  Antiquing on mirror}

Close up below-

{Global Views drum shades- set of TWO white shades with gray trim- will sell separately- 25″dia x 12″h}

Can easily make them into gorgeous chandeliers! (this is what it looks like made into a light fixture)

{Gorgeous beveled Horchow mirror- fell off my wall so has two cracks on front and one on each side- but should be repairable.  Selling it for super cheap!- 32″w x 47″h}

{Pair of mercury glass lamps with white shade- 15x10L- shade size x 24″H}

{Wood pedestal table-  22″dia x 26.5″ h}

{Highland Court/Duralee fabric- blue and white ikat- 1.5 yards}

{Curvy/glossy black vase- 12″w x 14″h}

{White armoire with acrylic Anthropologie hardware- probably needs to be re-painted- 82″h x 41″w x 23″d}

{Dark wood floor length mirror- 18″d x 26″w x 70″h}

{Set of three tall jewel tone vases- will sell separately- Green- 19″h; teal- 22″h}

{Fairly new CB2 Acrylic Counter Stool- 16″L x 16″W x 33.5″H- Seat height- 23″H}

{Craft desk- dark espresso- very similar to the craft desk they sell at Pottery Barn- 48″L x 30″W x 36.5″H; Accomodates one counter stool}

{Small sunburst mirror- 14″dia}

{5 yards of Pindler and Pindler gray-blue linen fabric- from the Dallas design district- 54″ wide- still in its original packaging!}

{Global Views- turquoise oblong shaped bowl- 24.5″L x 7.5″W x 8″H}

{Vintage plates from Roundtop- a PAIR}

Also selling- two Pottery Barn natural rugs.  One is a 5×8 seagrass rug with neutral border and the other one is a 5×8 sisal rug with a black border, black iron patio dining set, tv stand, TV, white outdoor rocking chairs, wood table desk and more fabrics!

There’s a lot more where this came from…email if you need something specific. You never know, it may be collecting dust in my garage!

Although we’re always on the lookout for fun, creative showrooms, it’s sometimes hard to find one whose character truly stand out from the rest. But West Palm Beach, Florida-based resale shop Circa Who has done just that with its wild selection of colors, fun trimmings, and collection of whimsical pieces from artichoke lamps to dolphin candlesticks.

Circa Who manages to fulfill your wildest design fantasy, while not going tacky-overboard, and the store’s owner and buyer Tracy Deramus describes the pieces as “20th Century furnishings meets vintage Palm Beach.” We love the mix of fabrics and colors that the store offers, with more than enough pieces to satisfy even the most avid of bamboo-lovers.

Here are a few of our favorites…

Orange ‘X’ Benches

 Pair of Clam Shell Lamps

Hollywood Regency Mirror

Cyprus Root Console

Faux Bamboo Chippendale Arm Chairs

Greek Key Headboard

Faux Bamboo Barrel Chairs

Pagoda Mirror

William Haines Cabinet

Artichoke Lamp

We asked store owner Tracy a few questions:

When did Circa Who open, and what inspired you to open your own store?

 The store has been open since 2004. While buying things to put my own house together, I realized there is so much FAB merchandise out there with so much LIFE left. I started buying all the things I loved and hoarding them in my husband’s warehouse and he encouraged me to open up a shop.

What inspires you to find “20th century-meets-West-Palm-Beach” pieces?

  I love the 20th century design, and how it was interpreted through Palm Beach details, especially in the 1970s!

Do you have a favorite room in the house to decorate?

The entrance/ foyer.

Who would you say are your ‘typical’ customers?

DIY decorators.

What is your favorite aspect of owning your won business?

Doing something that I LOVE to do!

Anything else you would like to share with Material Girls readers?

 I always tell my clients that it is the piece I fall in love with, not the color or the fabric. It’s the new life that I leave up to them!

Check out the site for more information on the store and its playful pieces! http://circawho.com/

Although it’s fun to keep up-to-date with the latest and greatest in design trends, it sometimes pays off to look into the past for a little inspiration.

Campaign furniture as we know it has been in use since the traveling armies of Julius Caesar, but is most commonly associated with the British Armed Forces. Why the war-time trend? Because that’s where the ‘campaign’ name comes from.

Considered to be any type of furniture made to be easily broken down or folded for easy transportation, campaign furniture was initially designed for armies to pack up and carry with them on their marches. Demand for these portable pieces increased in 18th and 19th century England but now you’ll find them all over the globe (including in Dallas, on Craig’s List)!

A few weeks ago I stumbled upon an extremely affordable and chic campaign desk on Craig’s List that just needed a little bit of extra TLC. I had been wanting a piece of campaign furniture for a long time, but hadn’t come across “the one” yet.  Since we are moving into a new office and need another unique desk (I’m not one to buy office furniture from IKEA), I snatched this up from sweet Bonnie and immediately started searching for painted campaign inspiration.

{Desk looks very similar to this one here}

While the most common item of campaign furniture is actually not the desk but the traditional chest of drawers (also referred to as a military chest or campaign chest). These campaign cuties come in so many different shapes and sizes, the options are endless. Campaign furniture is most often made of mahogany or teak, and can be easy to distinguish because of their recognizable folding places, but others only have their standard brass corners and strap work (originally used for travel protection).

We love their worldly feel, and even though you may not be packing up your entire set of drawers for your next road trip, these pictures of inspiration show that you can still have lots of fun with them.

This kelly green painted campaign dresser quickly became an internet sensation-

Are these nightstands brown or black? I can’t tell…either way, I’m in love!

This deep blue color is stunning!

Other kelly green beauties…

Classic white paint always looks good and boy does it make the gold hardware pop!

Ok I don’t know if it’s the gold chair with the zebra print or what, but I’m completely obsessed with this set up here-

Va va voom coral!

This turquoise color is nice and fresh! Notice the black top for contrast…

And the best of every world- multi-colored campaign!

There are so many color options out there! Now I ask you dear readers, what color do you think I should paint mine? Leave a comment if you have a favorite bright furniture paint..would love to get your opinions!

I don’t know about you, but I find accessorizing one of the most challenging parts of the design process.  It’s partly because you have to get the right “mix” of accessories. There has to be a balance between textural and smooth, shiny and matte, colorful and neutral, etc.  It can also be difficult because you might find the perfect accessory, but the scale is totally off…or maybe it’s the fact that it’s the last step in the process and if you are anything like me, you are a perfectionist and won’t quit until you find those amazing last touches for the space.

But above all, I truly believe that accessories can be so frustrating because of the lack thereof.  Of course there are a lot of accessory showrooms in Dallas, but  not very many that will let you take things on approval to test out and that is KEY with accessories (buying more than you need, playing around with the arrangement at the residence to get the perfect balance and then being able to return anything that just didn’t work out).  This past year I re-discovered IBB Design Group, a 40,000 square foot showroom who lets you take on approval, has up-to-date/ stylish accessories and has a warehouse FULL of them!

And if that’s not enough to convince you, here is proof-

Shay Geyer and her mother, Beth Rafferty are the brains (and beauties) behind the thirty year old showroom.  The duo’s knack for creating inspiring commercial and residential interiors, as well as stocking their showroom full of goodies from markets around the world, has kept their clients coming back for more.

{Shay in front of one of her favorite pieces}

Not only do they have accessories galore, but they also stock furniture from tons of different manufacturers such as Baker, Henredon, Lee Industries and Vanguard.  The best part? Everything is available for purchase off the floor!

As you can see, they have tons of mirrored pieces. I recently bought two John Richards mirrored etageres from them that are to die for!

Their colorful, patterned vignettes are constantly changing as things move off the floor very quickly (and I have to say this keeps my visits really interesting!)  You never know what they will be up to next

They use really fun patterned fabrics on their pillows and accent pieces….

They sell tons of lighting too…lanterns, drum shade chandeliers, crystal lamps- you name it.

See what I mean about the art?

Did I mention the bedding yet? So luxurious! All you need is a matching silk sleeping eye mask to complete this relaxing scenario.

I’m normally not a huge fan of leather chairs, but I could totally do a pair of these-

Their chairs never lack detail.  Whether it’s a back with a contrasting fabric, a shiny set of nailheads or patterned tape trim, you can count on them to give you designer quality furnishings.

This one here is from their own line…isn’t it great? I love the gray fabric mixed with the gold nailheads. Very unexpected yet so chic.

On my last visit, I snuck back to the warehouse to look at even more inventory and came across this turquoise chest with fabulous oversized hardware-

I love these chairs because they are traditional but with a modern funky flare.  You’d expect the chairs to be all neutral right, but a patterned ikat back?  Only at IBB!

Come visit them! Monday through Saturday- 10-5pm

5798 Genesis Court, Frisco, TX

Every designer in Dallas has their go-to vintage stores that they frequent for the best deals and hidden treasures. EJ Interiors would like to share one of our personal favorites for finding the best in vintage furniture and accessories – Antiques Moderne! (We are not alone, this is even Barbara Bush’s favorite spot for vintage furniture shopping!) They are a one-stop shop – you can pick your piece and they will refinish, restore, or reupholster for you as well.

John Bacile is the owner of this 20,000 square foot space that is packed full of furniture, art, lighting, and accessories. He has a workshop in the back where they are busy restoring, upholstering and lacquering unique pieces for their wide range of clients. John finds some of the most amazing pieces that you just can’t find anywhere else, and he’s always got the history behind each piece! This guy really knows his furniture.

Take a look at some of the furniture pieces our clients have purchased and the amazing job that Antiques Moderne has done refinishing them -

Wing Chair AFTER!:

We refinished the wood in a glossy white and reupholstered it in a fun gray and white fabric with shiny silver nail heads. Didn’t their team do a great job? Our client just loves it, and we do too!

This credenza stopped me in my tracks when I first saw it. I completely fell in love, and our client did too!

This is it BEFORE:

And here is the AFTER!:

We had John and his team lacquer this piece in a gray-blue color to coordinate with a fabric in the room. It looks absolutely fabulous now!

For the same client, we purchased two wing back chairs that were in need of a little T.L.C.

Here is the BEFORE:

And AFTER!:

We had Antiques Moderne reupholster the pair in a vibrant orange velvet to pop in the navy room. They turned out amazing!

If you live in, or ever visit, Dallas you must stop by Antiques Moderne to see their huge inventory of great vintage furniture. You’re sure to fall in love with something!

Their address is 1208 N. Riverfront Blvd. Tell John we sent you!

The Material Girls would like to introduce our newest advertiser Joss & Main! We are so thrilled to have Joss & Main be a part of MG!

For those who don’t know, Joss & Main is a members-only site that features daily deals chosen by their carefully selected stylish curators. Joss & Main gives members a chance to buy designer goods at a fraction of the cost! Items featured on the site include everything from large furniture and accent pieces to small accessories, lamps, and kitchenware.

Take a look at some of our favorite featured items from the past few days!-

Chevron Wingback Chair

Spot on Blackbird Striped Lumbar Pillow

Treviso Chandelier

Osbourne Mirror

Freud Croc-Embossed Leather End Table

Henley Sculpture

Louis Ghost Chair

Stateroom Trunk End Table

Click HERE to register with Joss & Main, and tell all of your friends to join too! Trust us, you don’t want to miss out on these fabulous bargains!