Seen Around Town: At the Brimfield September Market

I love going to Brimfield, and the fried dough is not the only reason!  The HUGE Massachusetts outdoor antique and flea market takes place three times each year and September is usually my favorite one.  This year, we managed to go on a 90-plus degree day with humidity somewhere in the stratosphere so it was less crowded than usual.

As always, it was a mix of new, antique, reclaimed, vintage, and unique finds - some of which defied description!  Luckily, we snapped some photo's so here are some of the highlights from our visit...

This vendor had a terrific assortment of marine salvage with a LOT of light fixtures.  We thought some of these pendants would be fabulous over a kitchen island!

marine pendant lanterns

marine light fixtures

nautical lighting

If you are in the market for unusual tables, there were a fair number of options to be had.

Turned leg farmhouse, reclaimed wood on metal sawhorse brackets, and REALLY long in case you have a very large family...

farmhouse table

sawhorse table

extra long table

And then there was this really unique metal table made from a vintage metal door  - it even still has the keyhole!

metal door tabletop

metal door table

Or this very funky dinette set...it would certainly make a statement, although I'm not entirely sure what that statement is...

vintage dinette

This table with the top covered entirely in vintage hotel matchbook covers would be an interesting conversation piece in a game room

decoupage matchbook table

Or add a statement piece to the library with this elaborately carved walnut claw foot table

carved table

Being a complete sucker for things with lots of drawers or cubbies, I loved these vintage storage chests

This one has 124 drawers!

124 drawer chest

And we saw two of these hexagonal beauties that spin and sport triangular drawers, and a crank-rotating hardware display piece full of cubbies

multi-drawer spinning chest

hexagonal chest

rotating hardware cabinet

Vintage signs, architectural salvage - some of which was upcycled into other things like mirrors, and painted furniture abounded...you could even buy the paint - both Annie Sloan Chalk Paint and Milk Paint displays were seen.

vintage signs

column capitol remnant

architectural mirrors

burlap chair

chalk painted table

chalk paint

milk paint

And there were beds...from iron beds and metal beds....

iron beds

metal bed frame

to this pair of beautiful French carved and book-matched burlwood beds

French beds

If you have just the place for it...maybe a fun pool cabana house...this vintage ice cream fountain out of an old store in southern Massachusetts would be SO fun!

vintage ice cream bar

There were the usual suspects...tin letters (still?), metal embellishments for the Pinterest project crowd, or these fun paper flower accessories made from maps or music and buttons for those who want their craft projects already done

tin letters

metal embellishments

map and button flowers

music and button flowers

jadeware

vintage cookware

And this vendor with vintage dishes...he always has a fabulous assortment

And then there was this dealer who had some gorgeous hand painted Hungarian porcelain by Anna Weatherly...but alas, even at half the retail price it was still out of reach

anna-weatherley-handpainted-teacup-at-250-half-of-retail-price-hand-painted-hungarian

Not old, and not particularly a bargain, but still a great look - these lamps with architectural bases and these unusual rustic cage pendants were a nice find

architectural lamp

architectural lamp

architectural lamp

square rustic chandeliers

And finally, a couple of seats in the category of "WHY?" ...or maybe "WOW." I guess there really IS something for everyone!

cow bench

multi fabric chair

Brimfield.  Always entertaining, one way or another!  

The 2017 show dates are: May 9-14,  July 11-16, and September 5-10

Brimfield

Transformations: Creating a Gallery Wall

Gallery walls are among our favorite projects.  While, when poorly executed, they can be chaotic, when done well they can help make a house into a uniquely personal, welcoming home.

We recently were approached by a man for help in doing a gallery wall as a surprise anniversary gift for his wife ... what a WONDERFUL and creative idea!  We were delighted to be a part of it.  It was a long distance project and time sensitive so we agreed to provide photo selection, frame specifications, gallery layout design, and step by step hanging instructions for him to execute himself.

The first step was for him to send us pictures and measurements for the walls we might use, and the furniture we would be working around.  Below is one of the pictures of the room we began work from.

family room before

He also sent us a digital file of possible photo choices for the gallery ... we selected an assortment that represented the family well and arranged them for optimal viewing - some we cropped for better composition or photo-edited to remove old camera date stamps before they were printed.

Once the arrangement and sizing was set, we selected frames that complimented each other and the images.  Having differing frame styles and mat styles is important to keep the look of the finished wall interesting, but they still need to have common elements that make them work together ... in this case, color.

We generated a complete package for him to use including: a numbered list of prints with the sizes to order and the updated digital files; a list of frames, mats, and sizes with ordering specifications for where to buy them; a detailed computer generated image of the wall showing placement for specific images and frame styles; as well as measured instructions and tips for hanging.

gallery-overview

gallery wall print specs

gallery wall frame specs

gallery wall specs

gallery wall specs

gallery wall specs

As a last minute addition, he realized he needed an additional group shot of the other side of the family, so we subbed in a new photo of the children and moved the two family group shots around the corner to extend the gallery onto the next wall. Serendipitously, he pointed out that this made it 20 photos for their 20th anniversary!

gallery wall specs

Miraculously, even in a household with 4 children, he managed to pull off the surprise and his wife was overjoyed with such a thoughtful and unique gift.  He wrote to thank us profusely and tell us all the anecdotes of nearly being discovered, missteps in printing and assembly, and feverishly hanging right down to the wire - reading like a script right out of reality TV!  Below are some pictures he sent us of the finished installation ...

gallery wall around door

gallery wall around tv and door

gallery wall around the corner

Well Done!  

and Happy Anniversary!

Here are a few pointers to keep in mind when planning a gallery wall:

• Select pictures with good lighting (they will be viewed from a distance) and good composition.
   
• For pictures that will be hung high on a wall (like over a door or window frame) or printed in a smaller size, choose images that are close-ups.  Save the group shots for closer to eye level and for larger size prints.
   
• Size frames for the scale of the wall - for most gallery walls, the smallest frame should be no less than 8" x 10" for it to not look too cluttered with tiny pictures.
   
• Vary the sizes and orientations of the pictures for interest.
   
• Mats give photos some breathing room so we recommend using them - exception: canvas gallery wraps can be a nice addition mixed into a gallery wall.
   
• Custom framing is always beautiful and perfectly suited for the images - we use this most often for antique family pics because it also preserves them with acid free mats and conservation glass.  Ready made frames are a cost effective way to do a wall with contemporary prints and give you the flexibility to change the images if the mood strikes.
   
• Choose a variety of carefully curated frame styles when planning your gallery wall composition and repeat them in different areas of the wall.
   
• Plan the arrangement on paper and/or on the floor before you start...it is much easier to rearrange BEFORE you start putting holes in the wall.
   
•  Add picture wire or sawtooth hardware to the back of ready made frames to make hanging easier - those little triangle hooks are a nightmare!
   
• Begin hanging near the center of the gallery and work out.
   
• Level each picture and use a bit of poster putty on the back corner to hold it in place as you hang it - this keeps it in place so you can hang the next picture in proper relation to it.

A gallery wall is a great addition to any home!

Seen Around Town: Luscious Textured Fabrics

I can't get enough of the continuing trend toward embellished textured fabrics!  A recent visit to the Boston Design Center turned up some beautiful, quirky, and creative choices...seeing them in person is ideal, but pictures are the next best thing ...

The unique fabric above features squares of appliqued velvet scattered like shimmering confetti, while the ones shown below show some embroidered geometric patterns.

geometric embroidered linen

embroidered geometric stripe on linen

And here are some colorful embroidered florals ...

more colorful embroidered linen fabric

colorful embroidered linen

This gorgeous grey toned embroidered Jacobean floral quietly embodies elegance.

embroidered jacobean floral

Embroidery on black linen is rich and dramatic.

black embroidered linen at Kravet

Fun thematic embroidered fabrics like these feathers or sea fans can enliven a whole room.

feathers embroidered on linen

sea fans embroidered on linen

This pretty embroidered branch pattern comes in several colorways.

embroidered vine on linen

geometric soutache embroidered linen

Soutache trim creates a stunning geometric pattern and a dramatic texture.

soutache embroidered linen

This soutache applique has a whimsical feel.

embroidered damask pattern on herringbone weave

And this embroidered 'damask' pattern on a herringbone base cloth is an elegant contemporary take on a traditional pattern motif.

So many choices!

Textured fabrics add so much personality and elegance to a room in any style of decorating.  Need help choosing exactly the right combination for your space?  We would be happy to assist!

www.jrlinteriors.com

Trade Secrets: Tips for a Well Dressed Window

For the love of window treatments

Windows can be dressed in a variety of ways and what you choose and how you install it will impact the look of your room.

Here are a few tips as you make your choices:

• The simplest and most versatile way to dress a window is with drapery panels. However, nothing is worse than too short panels – they are the drapery equivalent of flood water pants. My personal general preference is a ½” to 1” break on the floor, but at least touching the floor is a must. For ball gown elegance, allow fabric to puddle 8”” to 18” on the floor.
  

• Hanging your window treatment above the window will instantly create the illusion of more height in your room. For ceilings in the builder standard 7’-8” range of years past, hanging valances right at the ceiling can do a world of good for the perceived proportions of the room.
  

• If you are using a window treatment like a pair of panels that covers the sides of your window frame, upsizing to a rod 12” to 16” wider than your window measurement will expose more of the glass to let in more light while creating the illusion of a more generous sized window.
  

• Use clip on rings or sewn on rings, or drapery pins to attach rings to panels and a coordinating decorative rod rather than gathering the panels directly on the rod, which can end up looking either frilly, if it creates a ruffled header, or sloppy if the pocket is much larger than the rod.
  

• Some rods are not meant to be seen. A functional traverse rod that doesn’t show when the panels are closed, leaves the utilitarian and decidedly not decorative rod exposed like visible underwear when the panels are open … either cover it with a valance or cornice, or use a decorative traverse rod that has the working mechanism on the back side and a decorative front face.
  

• Working fabric blinds, as well as many styles of tailored valances, should always be mounted on a fabric-covered board. Valances will hang correctly and blinds will function properly when secured to a solid surface rather than sliding around on a rod.
  

• For a professional looking installation, curtain panels and valances should have extra fabric that returns to the wall on the outside edges on the window treatment so there is not a gap between the curtain and the wall when viewed from the side.

custom window panels with trim and decorative rod

I love custom window treatments. I am a self-confessed curtain snob … I don’t think most ready-made curtains are worth the money … sizes can be off by a substantial amount from panel to panel, panel widths tend to be skimpy, dye lots can be tricky, stitching is often poor quality, the lining is generally cheap if it exists at all, and interlining, which makes a HUGE difference is non-existent.  That said, inexpensive panels and decorative rods from a discount store are a great option to use for staging a home for sale if windows are not already treated, or if the current treatments are heavy and/or dated.  In a real estate staging application they are only used to create an impression as buyers pass through the rooms of a house.

Custom window treatments, on the other hand, are designed to do exactly what you need them to do for a particular window. Couture for your windows for a whole lot less than couture clothing and something your windows will wear every single day!

• They can be sized to exactly the right length and depth to work with under-treatments (like blinds, shades or shutters), and to take into account architectural details like millwork, or uneven floors.
  

• They can be made of any material or combination of materials and in a custom designed style so that they compliment and enhance both the window and the other details in the room.
  

• They can be designed, and sometimes layered, to provide privacy, light control, softness, pattern or texture, and color.
  

• They can be enhanced with dressmaker details, trims, and standout hardware that elevate the design of the whole room. Adding these details is like adding accessories to an outfit – they take it from ordinary to beautiful and unique!
  

• Custom hard treatments – blinds, shutters, shades – from a reputable company, will be sized just for your window (there is no “standard” sized window) and give you many, many years of service.
  

• Custom draperies are often not only lined but interlined with a flannel layer sandwiched between the face fabric and lining providing softer folds, and a sumptuous, elegant drape, and protecting the face fabric from the ravages of sun exposure. Interlining can make an ordinary or inexpensive face fabric look luxurious.

Brunschwig toile with tassel trim and contrast lining

soft Roman shade with covered button details

contrast lined valance with medallion hardware

Asymetrical swags and jabots rod mounted

Questions about custom window treatments?

We would love to hear from you!

You might also like THIS post on Window Treatment Do’s and Don’ts

Transformations: A Sophisticated Master Bedroom Retreat

It was past time ... this sunny and spacious master bedroom had been beautifully crafted in a feminine periwinkle, rose and green palette starring a jacobean floral chintz and embellished with ruffles and bows, with periwinkle paint and wall-to-wall cut pile wool carpet ... but that was 20-something years ago and the fabrics and style were showing their age.

Here are some 'before' pictures ... you may remember this era...Mario Buatta, "The Prince of Chintz" was inspiring beautiful, detailed and embellished floral interiors and this one was right on trend at the time.

'before' front window

'before', side windows jacobean florals, ruffles, and bows

While they had loved the room for over two decades, the clients were ready for a change that reflected a more current, simpler look and inspired more of a retreat-like feeling.  The space has a lot going for it - it is ample in size with vaulted ceilings and an abundance of natural light from a pair of skylights, a large arched window and two additional windows.

We selected a sophisticated neutral color scheme of taupe, grey, and white.  A textured taupe wool carpet covers the floor and taupe paint wraps the walls.  A new bronze toned metal headboard, black console table, and new French linen grey painted nightstand chests anchor the space and pair well with the existing walnut dressers and dark mahogany armoire.  Fabrics were selected for varying texture and pattern to keep the neutral color palette anything but boring.

A Custom tailored dust skirt and flanged shams of this textured stripe, were paired with pin tucked silk euro shams and a white matelasse coverlet and shams with scalloped edges.

textured stripe in neutral grey taupe and beige

euro sham in pintucked polysilk

white matelasse

And the wing chair was slipcovered in this helical stripe woven with window treatments in an embroidered linen organic pattern featuring leafy vines in shades of taupe, grey, and beige.

embroidered linen leaf fabric

slipcover fabric, neutral geometric, embroidered woven

The window treatments were simplified on the arched window to a graceful pair of goblet pleat panels with understated covered buttons at the base of each pleat - hung from a custom iron rod and rings with a painted French silver finish.

2016-06-13 10.50.16 (2)

embroidered linen shades, covered button details

The covered button details continue on the side windows, but this time as the embellishment at the top of the inverted pleats of soft Roman shades.

goblet pleat panels, covered button detail, custom iron painted rod

bedroom window 'after' soft roman shade, slipcovered wing chair

There are still a few details to complete - the nightstands are on order, the artwork is pending selection, and the wicker chaise awaits a final transformation with a coat of black paint,

but the main elements are in place and the occupants could not be happier...

...even the pets!

matelasse bedding, custom bedding

Sweet Dreams!

Project in Progress: A Renovation Tale, Chapter Two

Our hero has weathered the demolition phase ... dumpsters full of old cabinets and tile and TONS of brick and the supporting cinderblocks were carted away, and the framing of the new spaces is complete!  Plumbing is being roughed in, and electrical and HVAC are all underway ... nothing that inspiring to photograph on the site at this point, but a lot of pretty finish selections to see!

Meanwhile, back at the studio, the homeowners are busy making the millions of decisions that will eventually add up to a beautiful space.  Appliances and fixtures have been specified, cabinet styles selected and stone and tile selections are underway.  Just this week, we are finalizing the stone choices so we can confirm the cabinet finishes.  A recent stoneyard visit yielded the response of "I LOVE this" from the client and we knew we had the winning direction for the finish plans.

While I adore the space planning and problem solving phase at the beginning stages of a renovation, selecting the finishes is so rewarding because it is usually the part that clients get most excited about ... they can see and feel the materials and start to imagine the finished spaces better.  And so begins the "fun" part of this renovation tale!

The powder room is just off the kitchen and laundry room - the kitchen will have white perimeter cabinets, a charcoal island, and grey stone countertops and the powder room will have similar finishes.

Here is the quartzite we are lusting after for the countertops:

Supreme white premium quartzite

and here is the charcoal finish for the powder room cabinets, a possibility for the sconces to flank the mirror, and the Carrera basketweave tile for the powder room floor (to be installed on the diagonal).

traditional wall sconce with narrow backplate

M-CAD1

carrera basketweave tile

The Master bathroom will have countertops, tub deck, and shower seat in this amazing quartzite with wonderful movement in shades of gray and greige and even hints of a blue-green.

Avalanch quartzite

Some 'supporting cast' tiles to go with this standout stone have yet to be selected, but the shower walls will definitely feature this herringbone Carrera, and the cabinetry will be in this warm dark brown-black stain:

carrera herringbone tile

AL-THI1

For the third bathroom, we are looking for a remnant of, most likely, brown fantasy granite for the countertops - this being an extremely popular stone at the moment, that should be a fairly simple acquisition!

Yay for progress!

Trade Secrets: Four Tips for Choosing Stone Counters

Selecting stone countertops

There is nothing as beautiful as natural stone countertops – and there are almost as many options as there are kitchen renovations!  Kitchen counters are one of the most important and perplexing decisions to make ... you must factor in look, feel, color and function ... and it is a decision you will likely live with for a long time.

Some things to keep in mind when selecting stone:

1.  Choose a good fabricator

Most fabricators can get stone from a variety of sources for you – choose someone knowledgable who delivers good service and cares about what YOU want, not just what they need to sell.

2.  Look at the actual slab(s) you are going to buy

Looking at samples in a showroom is a good start and is essential to narrow down the types of colors and ‘movement’ (how swirly, streaky, or speckled the stone is) that appeals to you. However, do not EVER plunk down your hard-earned money without seeing the actual piece of stone your counter will be made from. Stone is a product of nature and as such, the colors that are most pronounced and patterns inherent in the stone are dependent on the environment in which it was created and where in the quarry it was harvested. Every piece is unique so unless the sample came from the ground right beside the slab you are buying, it may look quite different. Uniqueness is part of the beauty of stone.  If you want perfectly uniform pattern and color, either choose a more solid color stone or stop looking at stone altogether and choose a manmade product instead.

3.  Consider your lifestyle and personality

Different varieties of stone have different properties and different maintenance requirements … the “patina” that a Carrera marble inevitably develops with use might be a highly desirable attribute for one personality type and a maintenance nightmare for another. There is something for just about everyone from limestone to quartzite depending on the look you want and the way you want to live with it.

4.  Have someone oversee the templating

Once your stone is selected and purchased, the fabricator will come to the installation site and create templates of exactly the shape the stone will be cut. Back at the shop they arrange these templates on the slabs like a giant Tetris puzzle. If you have particular sections of the stone you wish to highlight or mitigate, be sure someone you trust is there when they decide what sections will be cut from what parts of the slab. You can buy a slab that has one place you really don’t care for in the midst of stone you love and template in such a way that the undesirable section gets removed for the sink cutout, for example.

granite templating

Granite countertop installation

This stone has a lot of variation and on the template shown above, these two sections were to meet at a seam on the center of the sink.  The templates were laid out so that where the seams met, they would not have an obvious contrast.  In addition, we were able to locate the sink cutout on an area that didn't have a part of the pattern we wanted to highlight.  The installed pieces, shown below, look just beautiful!

Enjoy the beauty of natural stone, nature's artwork,

in your home every day!