New York Design Blog | Material Girls | New York Interior Design

Summer is sadly on its way out but Fall is approaching and with weather like we have today in NYC, I can’t exactly complain.  The sun is shining, there’s a nice breeze and humidity seems to be a thing of the past.  I could have easily just jinxed us, but let’s focus on what is important and that is the Fall color trends of 2012.  Pantone follows these trends with a close eye every year and new season so I thought it would be fun to look at the colors and see how we did in the decorating world.  I selected some rooms that I thought were done tastefully, using these Fall colors.

 

A beautiful lacquered “french roast” living room by Jeffrey Bilhuber from Architectural Digest

A punch of  ”honey gold” to give this room some cheer

“Pink flambe” isn’t just for the girly rooms

Ashley Whittaker uses “tangerine tango” in this latticed sunroom

This “ultramarine green” gives a nice casualness and calming effect

You can’t go wrong with a pop of ” bright chartreuse”

Very timely having just had the Summer 2012 games – “olympian blue”

Thom Felicia knows how to create a sanctuary with “titanium”

The “rhapsody” walls give this otherwise formal room some playfullness

The walls feel very neutral and soothing with this “rose smoke”

 

So I was recently asked to participate in a blogger’s challenge on One Kings Lane which I was delighted about.  The concept was simple; OKL sent me five (5) items from their ‘Vintage & Market Finds‘ which I was to use in my own home by revamping an area that needed a little love and tenderness.  Although my space is small (and by small I mean tiny west village apartment that barely holds all my belongings but it’s ok because the location is everything) there’s plenty of revamping to do, especially with some new cool OKL vintage finds.  With that, I chose the area off my kitchen which is sort of a dining slash side table which could use some serious styling and decorating  in general.  The before picture is quite dull and boring so you’ll be happy to see that I’ve given this space a little life.  Our home, afterall, is a place where we should rest easy and be able to kick back and smile after a long day.  Giving it a little color and style is one of the best ways I know how to create that place of joy.

 

BEFORE

As you can see, there was no love on this table so that’s where OKL saved the day.

With the items OKL sent me, I brought in a few of my own objects, books, artwork and most importantly love.  I wanted to create an eclectic mix of old and new which is what I’m drawn to as a designer and an artist – lucky for me there’s a lot out there (both old and new) that helps me create the perfect blend.  Pops of abstract art against something vintage makes the old seem instantly new and trendy.  You can accomplish a bold fresh look but still keep those family heirlooms on display.  Not only are you mixing your styles but you’re combining generations of meaningful pieces which is what makes everything come full circle.  So the next time you think that bright, colorful abstract art won’t work in your more traditional room, think again!!

The End Result:

AFTER

Take a look at the full challenge on OKL and read more about the revamp and what was used and why!

I can’t quite believe that the 4th of July is here but as usual, summer is flying by!  The best way to spend your summer weekends (especially the long ones) is with good friends and good food.  So if food is on the table, why not make it festive and patriotic?  Take a look at some of these tasty treats that have captured the red, white and blue theme

With good food comes good company so you want to make sure your guests enjoy their surroundings.   Although the 4th of July can bring that on itself, it’s still important to add to the fun and deck your table out in red, white and blue.  It’s all about the details.

Happy 4th to all!

 

Mark your calendars for the mad rush to Target stores on October 21 — Nate Berkus has recently announced his new line specifically made for Target which means it will be affordable and ultra chic.  The assortment will include stylish and relatable pieces that feel like they were collected over time and can be easily layered into existing decor.

 

Nate  Berkus

In his own words: “I created this collection for Target with my philosophy that homes should evoke a feeling, not a theme.  There is something for everyone in this line so I’m thrilled to offer Target guests’ patterns, colors and objects that represent what I love most for the home”  Visit the following link to view his interview: Dine and Design: Nate Berkus Reveals His New Home Collection at Target

Some of the pillows and throws in his new line

Adorable faux snake skin box

I can’t wait to get a hold of a few things for my own home

You can never have enough reading material around the house.  Especially when it can double as decor.  These books not only bring inspiration but beauty to your coffee table, your bookshelves and your life.  Just a few must haves if you’re looking for a good gift for the design addict in your life this season! 

 

An Affair with a house – Bunny Williams

Big Book of Small, Cool Spaces – Apartment Therapy

The Great American Decorator – Billy Baldwin

Details – Lili Diallo

 

Hue – Kelly Wearstler

Happy Chic Colors – Jonathan Adler

A Perfectly Kept House is a sign of the Misspent life - Mary Randolph Carter

 

The Finest Rooms in America – Thomas Jayne

 

Vogue Living, Houses, Gardens, People – Hamish Bowles

Need a headboard for your kids room or a guest room but it’s not quite in the budget at the moment?  Have no fear, bed head is here.  Check out this adorable decal headboard from Whatisblik that starts at just $40. 

 

They have other great decals too..check the website for more fun ideas to finish off your dead wall space!