House And Home

Who Knew We Were So Popular?!!!!!

2011-12-08T20:04:00.000-08:00

I have to admit....the three of us are blushing a little! Well.... actually a lot! So far this month, we've been featured in The Lane Report, TOPS Magazine, Kentucky Monthly, The Herald Leader, and a number of other magazines and newspapers in the area! It seems we're everywhere!

Stuart wrote a great article for the Lane Report about Holiday decorating! If you would like to read the article, make sure you find the magazine, or you can download the article here.

Dwayne has a home that he's decorated for years featured in TOPS magazine! There are several great pages of wonderful classic and traditional Kentucky touches in this one! How can you go wrong with classic!? And Dwayne definitely proves that with this home!

And don't miss Kentucky Monthly this month! There are several pages of Christmas touches that I worked on. Here's a little inside information! All of the photos for KM's Christmas part was taken at Dwayne's home in Paris! And his children really did make the finger paint canvas seen in the magazine! AND YES....those really are his framed family recipes on the hutch! :)

Try not to miss any of the stories out there about house this month, and even more...don't forget to share them with your friends!!!!

Tips on Selling Your Home During the Holidays

2011-12-01T05:57:00.000-08:00

As the weather outside gets frightful, and people are focused on Black Friday sales and what Roast Beast they'll be serving is there hope for those who have their home FOR SALE?

A home can be sold during the holidays if you apply a few rules and stage your home properly.

Here in Chicago, our winter holidays are an open invitation to go WAY over board with the concept of "Decking the Halls" -With too many trims, lights and blow-up seasonal icons bellowing on our front yards.

Deck the halls in key "Showcase" areas of your home - Such as your kitchen island.

My business, Reinventing Space had the pleasure to be featured a few weeks ago in a clever and informative article on Selling Your Home During the Holidays in the Chicago Tribune - "Make holiday home sale a reality."

Here is some key advice from the article:

•Those left combing the market during November and December are typically more serious about the home hunt, Spreen said. They might include families relocating for job changes, first-timers ready to leap during a slow market, and those who've recently sold a home and need a new place to live.

•"You'll have fewer showings, but they'll be more powerful," said Dennis Dooley, managing broker with Prudential Rubloff Properties. Holiday season buyers are typically "motivated and financially ready," he added.

•Deck the halls with restraint. Holiday decorations make homes festive and buyers merry. But too many ornaments, wreaths and garlands can obscure views, make rooms feel smaller and distract buyers from their true purpose: deciding whether or not your home is right for them.

•And think twice before displaying decorations specific to your religious or cultural heritage, said interior stylist Julea Joseph, owner of Reinventing Space in Palos Park, since it makes it more difficult for others who don't share your background or beliefs to envision themselves living in the space.

•Photographs should picture the home as it appears in the current season, but sellers may want to capture and post additional shots of summer landscaping to give a hint of what lies ahead.

•Tap the spirit. Light the fireplace if you have one. Decorate with a pretty throw. Make your home cozy, and someone else might want to nest there.

•Clear the schedule. Since buyers are likely to be fewer in number during the dark days of winter, be ready to accommodate the interest you do have.

Deck the halls "lite" when your home is on the market during the holidays.

Since 1999, certified interior stylist Julea Joseph has owned Chicago area based interiors and home staging business - Reinventing Space. Your can see her work on HGTV or in the news giving homeowners expert insight on how to refresh, style and celebrate their space -Whether staging their home to go on the market, just settling in, or just in need of a change. Julea also offers her expertise with mentoring and certification educational offerings to Realtors, Home Stagers and Interior Redesigners in the industry. Visit her site, JULEA.com or Interior Stylist Program. For more information 708.448.7500 or email her at Julea@Julea.com.

Sassy Wraps are Back & Just in Time for Holiday Giving!

2011-11-28T13:38:00.000-08:00

It's Comfy and Chic!

Wear Multiple ways!

Super chic, super toasty and you'll be the favorite gift giver with these smashing wraps. We have two different wraps for the cold weather season: Both with the classic 2 big button closure, so you can wear them many ways.

Take your wrap to the restaurant, church, airport or a cuddle on the couch.
Email me @ Julea@Julea.com to order!

Riverton - Khaki

The classic Riverton: This go anywhere companion, is a delightful light weight knit. PRICE: $29.95

Winter Wardrobe Colors:

Khaki
Eggplant
Chocolate
Winter White
Black
Red

Davenport in Oatmeal

The Davenport - Cabled. The perfect companion for jeans, cold offices and paired over a coat. PRICE $32.95

Winter Wardrobe Colors:

Oatmeal
Wheat
Black
Red

Davenport in Red

House in the Advocate Messenger

2011-11-17T18:20:00.000-08:00

Incase you missed it, we were included in an article by Abby Laub and the Advocate Messenger at the beginning of the month! Click here for a full PDF of the full story!

Once again...Local First Saves

2011-11-11T18:46:00.000-08:00

OK....first things first, unless you've been under a rock...you know that we have Bourbon Rocks, which are a FABULOUS GIFT for Christmas! We first shared them with you back in February with our blog Bourbon Rocks (click here to visit) . Well as the gift season has approached, we found another place who is selling them as well, BUT WE'RE CHEAPER!

Instead of purchasing them at Restoration Hardware for $25....you can pick them up at House for $19.95!

We know, it's only 5 bucks...but HEY...that's almost lunch...a gallon of gas...or $5 for something else, that you can spend in your community! Don't forget to support your local businesses! It really does pay to shop locally!

Decorating Bardstown!

2011-11-08T11:14:00.000-08:00

Monday Stuart and Jeremy visited Heaven Hill Distillery to decorate their Bourbon Heritage Center for Christmas. We had such a great time!

Every other year that we've done this (approx 6 years I think), there has been a total overall theme to the decor. This year, they wanted to have different areas of the building be decorated in different looks!

This wreath is one of two very large wreaths on different sides of the building! To get an idea of how big..they are as tall as Jeremy when standing on the ground! That large bow you see (not including the ribbon that goes around the wreath) took 10 yards of each ribbon!

This tree greets the visitors when they enter the gift shop! They wanted fun and happy, with Red, White, and Silver! I think we succeeded! I simply love the white boots! They are adorable! It's hard to see all of the detail in the tree, but those red and white poofs are actually iced white and red hydrangeas! There is so much in this tree that you can't see in the picture!

These last two photos are of the other large wreath on the other side of the building! I love the use of the burlap in these wreaths! Who says burlap and birch doesn't scream Christmas!

Notice in the close up, that we layered the two burlap ribbons to really show off the embroidered burlap! To do this, we started with the regular burlap and made several loops like we would for a normal bow. Then with the other ribbon, we made a smaller bow (with smaller loops than the regular ribbon), and then attached it to the center of the bow with chenilles (pipe cleaners).

Here's a small tip....you might have noticed the ribbon tails rolled up! To keep their shape, we used a stapler to staple the curls in so that the wind wouldn't blow them out! Only you and we know! :)

Making Your Home for the Holidays

2011-11-01T09:16:00.000-07:00

With fall well on its way, a bit of frost on the dawn lawns, and the rich colors of autumn making way to subtle shades of whites and grays; the Holiday Season is drawing near. Most of us will happily host some sort of soiree, entertain a gathering of family and friends and just want to fuss and primp our space in celebration of this very special time of year!

Here are some timely tips and helpful hints for November to help make your home for the holidays.

Make it Cozy: From changing our pillows to unfolding those warm throws. nothing speaks “cozy” than creating an environment rich in comfort. Consider swapping out those silk or cotton pillows with ones enveloped in velvet, felted wool or knits (many retailers now offer just pillow covers to make the switch more budget and space friendly.) Consider investing in a faux fur or hand knit cabled throw to make that living room sofa or favorite chair a cold day cocoon.

A rich throw changes the mood of the room.

Overstock's Mongolian-Wool-Fur-Throw

Vern Yip for HSN - Wool felt pillow

Light the Way: Lighting on dimmers will set the festive felling for your home. Create ambiance and mood by putting your plug in lighting on dimmers. You’ll love the results and also set the stage for your Christmas twinkles as well. Swap out your bulbs for “Reveal” bulbs that cast a softer hue. You room's hue and your complexion will thank you. Candle light is also a wonderful gem to make your home inviting and fulfill the senses. From clean burning soy to battery operated wonders, the flicker and soft scent from candles make any environment happy.

Floral Arrangement in Silver Bucket

Add a Bit of Sparkle: Nothing says “Entertain in Style” more than shine and sparkle. Dig out that silver and get it polished. From footed punch bowls or ice buckets hosting a floral arrangement to serving trays showcasing powder room toiletries or a holiday vignette, silver makes everything look rich (whether plated or not!) You can also use this trick of the trade with metal such as copper, gold, brass or nickel.

Celebrate the Heirlooms: We have inherited or collected items with lifelong meaning. From vintage finds to pass down treasures; this time of year is the perfect time to pull out these special pieces. Dress up your Holiday Buffet by using Grandma’s tea cup collection as salt cellars, or butter pat holders. That French Antique Bird Cage can be a show stopper display on your foyer entry table with snow dusted sprigs, nest, and berries tucked inside. Reinvent your China Cabinet with a mix of old photos, ornaments and such to give your dining room a bit of ancestry.

Antique Bird Cage from Home Decorators

Check back next month for December’s list…

Shop and Sleep W/The Boys!

2011-10-31T15:28:00.000-07:00

(so we're blushing a little....lol) Not only can you shop with us During our Open House this week, but you can also "sleep" with us! When you visit the store, you can enter to win a one night stay at the wonderful Gratz Park Inn (featured on the Travel Channel, and acclaimed by many celebrities!)! If you haven't stayed there, it is a wonderful boutique hotel hidden downtown- wonderful for a night away from the kids, or just a night out on the town!

Actually last year, we redesigned on of the the suites! (You actually get a small glimpse of it around the 53/54 second marker of the video below). Our hopes are that when the winner uses their stay at the hotel, they will actually get to stay in our room...but obviously...no guarantee!

Check out this great video of Gratz Park Inn! And stop by and shop...and register to sleep with us too! LOL

Sneak peak for Christmas Open House

2011-10-31T15:12:00.000-07:00

If you want a sneak peak of the store for the Christmas Open House....

Here you go! A video (please watch in HD) and a couple of floral arrangements we made today!

We know how to Shop!

2011-10-28T15:31:00.000-07:00

Here's a quick view of something we have in store for the Christmas Open House @ house! We stocked up on these pairs of felt skates! Last year we sold out of all we had in one day, so this year we did everything we could to find some more and different styles!

Just a word to the wise! We've been around town, and have heard some of our customers running through the store say that have seen them at other stores for $28.95-$38.95! We have them for $21.95 a pr!~ And if you come in during our Christmas Open House, you'll save 20% off of them!!! That comes to $17.56 after the discount!

We're always looking out to give you the best deal!

Updated* 11/08/2011 We sold out of all of these at our Christmas Open House! Hope that all of those that got some love them as much as we did! Such a great DEAL!!!!!!

jameskotecki

2011-10-26T23:08:00.001-07:00

hello, welcome fellow friends from around the world.

Lexington Holiday Open House Tour!

2011-10-25T16:53:00.000-07:00

Scout, Decoratifs, and us are joining together in forces for a Lexington Holiday Open House tour next week and weekend. Stop by any of the three businesses and get a card that when signed by all three places, will qualify you for a $25 gift certificate to all three locations! You must visit all three locations! :) We're excited in joining forces with them! And hope to see you all out next week!

We're on Christmas Time!!!!

2011-10-21T11:18:00.000-07:00

We have heard your cries...and are listening! We are adjusting our hours for the upcoming holiday season! Starting November 7 through December 12, we will be OPEN FROM 10-5 ON MONDAYS! That's right...we will be open 6 days a week! Mon-Sat!

Please note, this doesn't start until after the Christmas Open House, which is November 1-5. See you soon! The store is really starting to look like Christmas! We can't wait to share!

Jeremy,
House by JSD

Local First Saves Again!!!

2011-10-20T19:40:00.000-07:00

Ok...so I have to say, that the first time I found one of our items that we carry at House in a big box/chain store/catalogue, it wasn't the fact that it was there that surprised me, but rather the price that surprised me. The first time it happened, and we were 50% less, I thought it was a fluke! I mean, we work really hard at finding the best prices out there, and believe me when I say that it's work! But then it happened again, and again, and again, and every time, we were less! Some by 25%..sometimes less...sometimes more!

Well guys....it happened again! Just today these lanterns were delivered to the store! Of course, we all feel in love with them, because they ARE fabu! Well, this evening, I just happened to get on Pinterest (you can follow me at jeremyrice), and found them on someone's board from POTTERY BARN for considerably more! I don't remember our exact prices (I'm blogging from home)...but I remember the small one being under $30! They have it at $49! Here's a link to their page.

It really does prove that shopping your local stores and supporting your local community, not only invests in your neighbors, but you also get great values!!! This Christmas season, please support your local shops and boutiques! We're all working really hard to make our community succeed!

Fall Inspiration Table Scapes!

2011-10-17T11:09:00.000-07:00

Recently, Jacki Allen asked us to create some fab Fall table scapes for her at a recent event! The best thing about the event wasn't the fact that we were asked to participate (however that was greatly appreciated), but that Jacki trusted us, and told us just to do whatever we wanted. It's always so rewarding and freeing just to be able to do "what you want". This allowed us to really be open to whatever inspired us that day! Before I go on, maybe you should watch the video! :) (BTW, the video is available in HD, so when you click on the video, and it starts to play, please click on the "360" and then highlight and click the "720" to see it in HD)

Although we had known about the event for a couple of weeks, having 4 weddings the weekend before, a photo shoto for Kentucky Monthly Magazine, and a 1000 other small things had totally gotten in the way of planning for the event. So honestly people, we were winging it! :) It was almost a challenge! What would we see that would inspire us and get our juices going! Well, as you know, Fall is so pretty it didn't take much to get the ideas!

For the first table seen, the single white and orange pumpkin was enough to get us rolling! It was a happy fresh fall color scheme that needed a little more base to bring it along, enter the grapevine tray and containers! Side note, how cute are they! So simple, and so darling! By stacking the three pumpkins, we were able to bring drama to the table, which were anchored by the tray and candles? Did you notice the little bouquet we threw together laying on the tray, totally darling!

The second table was absolutely the easiest! If you read my last blog for Kentucky Monthly (click here to read) you know that I love fall foilage, and it really is the simplest way to use something pulled right off of tree and create beauty! Truthfully, the leaves hadn't turned as much as I wished they would have, so we used mums to bring out the dark cranberry and rust tones showing in the leaves! Wrapped books and cake stands were a unexpected combinaton thrown in the mix, of course were divine!

The last table seen was possibly my favorite! First off, I love anything old tin, I love huge pinecones, and then lastly I am obsessed with Cabbage. And how beautiful were these purple and green ones! The mix with the cast iron containers, the cabbage, the wheat, some dusty miller, chocolate queen ann's lace, and the other flower that I can't seem to remember what in the world it's called at this very second, was enough to have me scream! Honestly, I might have squealled a little, lol. All of it was totally unexpected, but worked together in a beautiful manner!

Unfortunately we weren't able to stick around for the event and enjoy it with everyone, you'll notice that candles weren't even lit yet when I recorded this, we had to get back to town to hold down the store! But we heard that people loved the tables, and even more were inspired! Which is just the icing on the cake!

Don't forget to visit us the next time you're working on a special event or wedding! Cause whether we're prepared or winging it, WE'RE READY! :)

Fall and Halloween "Get it OUT OF HERE!" Sale (and some info about Christmas!)

2011-10-17T08:51:00.000-07:00

Don't forget that this week (Tuesday through Saturday) at the store we're having our "Get it OUT OF HERE" Fall and Halloween Sale with 30% off all things Fall and Halloween! We HAVE to make room for Christmas! There are still lots of great pumpkins, fall arrangements, and floral picks to pick from, as well as some cute Halloween jewelry as seen here!

A lot of people coming in have been asking about our Christmas stuff...what do we have, when is it coming out, etc. The biggest surprise for us has been the perception for many out there, think that for Christmas we are just bringing out the same stuff we had in July.... THAT'S NOT TRUE!

We've had many many many large shipments since July with new product, and there are some incredible new things coming out! We are so excited to share everything with you!

This Christmas for us is going to be the biggest ever yet! We are so excited! We're actually going to start decorating this week for Christmas, so you can possibly start getting some secret peeps in the store what we have planned! Please share the word with your coworkers, friends, and family about our Christmas Open House Nov 1-5, where you'll save 20% on everything FAB for Christmas! Here's to making it a memorable Christmas with our friends and family...YOU!

The Boys,

Jeremy, Stuart, and Dwayne

Construction Site Management - Material Storage

2011-09-27T01:27:00.000-07:00

A construction site has many materials at any one point. Most of these are usually in their raw state, meaning that they will undergo some process before they can be input into the building to form a part of the building. They come in different forms and can be categorized as below;

· Factory Goods: These are mostly off the shelf items, they are unique in the fact that they can easily be resold and are therefore easy targets for pilferage. They are also delicate in the fact that they have unique storage requirements. Examples here include;

o Cement: The most important attribute to consider in the storage of cement is the fact that it reacts chemically when in contact with moisture. For this reason, it should be kept under shade and on a platform, away from excessive moisture.

o Ceramics: These include water closets, wash basins, Tiles and the like. They are extremely delicate and will easily break. This attribute is also shared with glasses. They should therefore be properly packaged in padded cartons and away from areas of much activity, usually under lock and key.

o Ironmongery: These include locks, hinges, handles and the like. Owing to their small sizes, they are prone to pilfering. These should also be kept well locked and only issued under strict accountability.

· Raw materials: This category belongs to the main items like stone, ballast and sand. These are not prone to the previous problems like weather and pilferage. However, they have one attribute that is being bulky. They consume a lot of space on site and require a generous allocation of storage space. These are best stored in bays and contained using things like stones, in the case of sand.

· Workshop finished items: This category also includes semi-finished items, for example in the case of timber. Items here are usually ready for installing in the works and are mostly purpose made. Some may have been imported from overseas and in their exact measurements. This means that damage or loss of such will lead to a very expensive work of replacement. Examples here include Fixtures, timber, roofing materials et cetera.

Material storage is a very important part of site management. How materials are delivered and dispatched determines how easily things flow. In almost all cases, site space is usually restricted and as such, material storage should be very well thought out. One thing to consider is that only the important and requisite materials and items per time should be stored on site to minimize on the risks mentioned above. Records should be kept very in good accuracy of all materials required, ordered, delivered, accepted, stored, dispatched, put to the works and any deficits. Good material storage ensures the following benefits on site.

· Easy movement around site
· Reduction in waste and damages
· Reduction of loss by theft or otherwise

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6102245

Fresh Flowers = Smiling Faces!

2011-09-06T09:46:00.000-07:00

Without a doubt there is just something about a sunflower that makes you smile! Here are some fresh flowers that we made for a customer's dinner party last week! It's amazing how much of a feeling flowers can create! So happy!@ Don't forget us the next time you need a fresh floral arrangement. No matter how big or small!

Some of our Latest Wedding Work!

2011-09-01T10:46:00.000-07:00

We thought we would share some images of one of the many beautiful weddings we've done so far this year! There are many more weddings we hope to get up here soon! Hope you enjoy these until then! If you are on Pinterest, feel free to pin away!

2011-08-30T12:26:00.001-07:00

Check our our Isabella nightstand featured in Traditional Home's Kaleidoscope By the Sea. Read the article here: Kaleidoscope By the Sea

2011-08-30T12:26:00.000-07:00

Check our our Isabella nightstand featured in Traditional Home's Kaleidoscope By the Sea. Read the article here: Kaleidoscope By the Sea

2011-08-30T12:17:00.000-07:00

We would like to give a shout out to our friends at dotcomsformoms.com . DCFM's has been the leader in showcasing websites for Mom's. They recently wrote an article on Redford House and commented on our color palette. Check out the article here: Redford House article

VOTED BEST PLACE TO BUY A GIFT!

2011-08-10T10:47:00.000-07:00

First we must say....THANK YOU! Because of your kindness and support of the 3 of us, and our baby that we call 'house'....We came in 2nd place in the Herald Leader's Readers' Choice 2011! Thank you thank you thank you!

You must know that we love what we do, where we are at in our own lives, and that we love having all of you all in our lives! We've only been open for a little over a year and a half, and have had so much support from the community and our wonderful customers, that we're not really sure how to react!

Last January, when one door closed for the three of us, the outlook

Lunch & Learn Broker's Open - Tips & Techniques

2011-07-27T07:18:00.000-07:00

Today I'll be partnering at a Lunch Learn Broker's Open at a vacant home that I staged. It's a great opportunity to showcase my client's home, promote my work and create partnerships with the Realtor and vendors I worked with on this project.

We've set the scene from 11-1 with a Home Staging tips and techniques workshop, a guided tour of the home, catered food and sassy invitations to locals - both Realtors and Clients.

My workshop is titled 5 Home Staging “Musts” in This Market

- On my end, I'll be bringing some simple floral arrangements to create a bit of home ambiance, workshop pass-outs and gift bags with my marketing materials and mini color fan decks from Pottery Barn.

Broker's Open - Open House Gift Bags & Goodies

As a Home Staging Professional, don't stop at the staging, continue packaging the home by offering your expertise and talents in marketing the home as well!

Julea Joseph of Reinventing Space has created her own recipe for success with her signature Interior Stylist Philosophy. She helps you develop your style, celebrate your home and makes the most of what you already own.

Julea has been featured in countess articles in newspapers and magazines, HGTV’s “Decorating Cents,” “My First Place,” and array of Chicago TV, and even hosts two hometown cable Cooking & Decorating shows. Over the past 8 years her expertise has extended to educational forums ranging from industry certification educator, library workshops to a Board of Realtors Instructor.

Christmas in July Open House

2011-07-21T18:37:00.000-07:00

Christmas in July with "The Boys"

2011-07-15T10:29:00.000-07:00

We've been quiet for the last little bit....because we've been working our little patuties off getting this place ready for our Summer Christmas Open House! Believe me when I say I'm covered in glitter on a daily basis right now!

Stuart, Dwayne, and myself have been slaving away trying to make this more exciting than ever before! There is so much work to do, and at the end of the day..so much glitter to wash off! Look for more news coming soon....I'll get back on here when I can get Stuart dug out from under all of the boxes!

From the three of us to you all.....JUST WAIT! It's going to be a great year for Christmas with "the boys"

here's a little sneak peak of what's to come!

Incase you haven't heard....Local First Saves!

2011-06-07T10:24:00.000-07:00

Once again, stumbling around online, I've found something we have in the store for considerably less in our store than found other places!

This time it I found that the little glass milk cartons we have in the store for $4.95, are available at multiple online stores from $12.95 on Amazon, to $16/$17 at other online locations!!!!

They are perfect for putting milk/cream in for your morning coffee, or just as a little vase to hold a flower on the window sill! ADORABLE!

They remind me of all of the milk cartons I opened while in school.....chocolate milk still gets me to this day! : )

Kentucky Monthly Article

2011-06-05T18:46:00.000-07:00

In case you haven't noticed it in your June/July issue of Kentucky Monthly, we had our hands in one of the articles and features. On pages 62 and 63 you'll see that we decided to show something we like and know best....BURLAP!

We thought we would share some extra photos not seen in the magazine on our blog here! Shaun Ring took the images for the photoshoot, and as usual....all of them were perfection.

And by the way, don't forget that all of the burlap items shown can be picked up at the store, or ordered online at our online store. You can go there now, by click here.

Home Staging Art

2011-06-03T04:17:00.000-07:00

Fabulous Art is only one snap away for your home staging or interior styling projects. Get out your camera, dial it to "close-up" and shoot away in your back or front yard.

Download to your favorite photo editing program, adjust, enhance and crop.
Have it printed into a poster, frame it and hang it on your favorite wall!
These were shot this morning with my trusty Canon EOS and edited in Picasa.

June Poppy

Pond Lettuce

Since 1999, interior stylist Julea Joseph has owned Chicago area based interior design, redesign and home staging business - Reinventing Space. Your can see her work on HGTV or in the news giving homeowners expert insight on how to refresh, style and celebrate their space -Whether staging their home to go on the market, just settling in, or just in need of a change.
Julea also offers her expertise with mentoring and training offerings to Realtors, certified Home Stagers and Interior Redesigners in the industry. Visit her site, JULEA.com or Interior Stylist Program for more information or email her at mailto:Julea@Julea.com

Rug Rage - Size Does Matter

2011-05-23T04:40:00.000-07:00

Shall we say "Scale" issues?
MLS photo

I'm having Rug Rage! Time and time again I see ill-sized rugs being used in Home Staging projects and 99.9% of them are too small for the space or the furniture collection it's anchoring. And don't get me started on materials - I've seen a bath rug under a cocktail table..

Why is this happening? Where can this this size dilemma and faux pas placement stem from?

1. Home Staging Inventory Issues?
2. Lack of Education?
3. Complacent Stagers?

Lovely Rug by Horchow

How do we solve this size issue? Well, by simply educating the faux pas rug placers. Here's a double duty educational tool from our friends over at Over Stock. Why double duty? Over Stock is an awesome place to shop for rugs, so a great source to build your inventory & for educational home decorating articles. They slip you just the right info to foil your size dilemma and faux pas placement issues.
How to Size Your Room for an Area Rug
How to Place an Area Rug
How to Determine the Right Size Area Rug

And for those that offer both home staging and styling services - A fabulous post by a designer and blogger: Area Rug Rules and How to Break Them

Hopefully with these gentle tip, Rug Rage can be resolved.

Angels in the South: Part 1

2011-05-06T06:46:00.000-07:00

First we want to thank all of you for your out pouring of support with everything in helping us aid those in need in the South, and specifically Alabama. We'll be keeping you uptodate with information so you can see how your small steps of kindness affected our "family" to the south. In the last couple of days, we've started calling all of the people down there our family, because...well they are. We're all in this together, and it's our duty to help those in need, because someday it may be our turn to be in need.

At 930 Friday morning, we were contacted by our Angels delivery the donations on the Mountain Parkway already enroute to Alabama. We were informed that last night, everything was divided and organized by size, and is ready to go upon arrival. Incase you were wondering how much you were able to help with, they are traveling down this morning with clothing that fills 26' of rack, as well as a 16' trailor filled to the rim. We did good. Who would have believed, in 48 hrs we would be able to do something so simple but effect so many.

We were informed that the first stop will be at Harvest Elementary, where 60 individual students have lost their homes and everything their family owned. The Angels will be helped and guided by the counselors once they arrive.

After helping there, they will also be heading to Phil Campbell, Alabama. To help all of those in need there, which are so many. We were also informed that the students who can't be found or contacted for aid, will receive help and aid from the items sent by teachers and other helpers starting Monday.

As we continue to get images and information, we will pass this on your way. We believe it's important to hear and see how your small actions are changing people's lives. From the bottom of our hearts, and those in the south, thank you for being what we often take for granted, giving.

30% OFF of Tea Blossom Candle For Mom!

2011-05-04T08:21:00.000-07:00

Incase you're like many of us who haven't figured out what to give your mom this Mother's Day, well....we'll try to help you out. Starting today, our 2011 Spring scent Tea Blossom is 30% off.

Now for you late comers, they will continue to be on sale until May 14, that's next Saturday. HOWEVER, the discount only continues until we are out of stock! So once they're gone...they're gone!

So don't waste time! :)

5 Easy Home Staging Tips to Sell Your Home

2011-05-02T06:24:00.000-07:00

Although Home Staging can sometimes be a precarious feat, these simple tips on prepping your home for sale can make the process much easier.

1. Remove YOU From the Home Staging Process: The place you’ve called home all these years is now a product that gets prepped, package and wrapped with a target buyer in mind. Your personal style, your taste, your needs and emotions get replaced with the requirements of the ideal buyer.

2. Look at Your Home in its Entirety: From curbside to back fence, to the online photos – You’re selling a package, not just the physical home. Today’s buyer is a smart and refined set, they expect from the moment they view photos online, to when they walk your backyard, that the home is pulled together tip to toe.

3. Consider the Stature & Style of Your Home: Whether cozy cottage or charming château, your home’s style and stature dictates how you package the product. Set the stage by staying true to the bones of your home - from quality to price point, be well educated when making updates, repairs and furniture and accessories choices to stay true and in-tuned to the property’s standing.

4. You’re Selling Space not Stuff: From lawn accessories to garage gadgets, showcase the property’s architecture, floor plans, details and storage instead of the stuff you’ve accumulated. Instead, strategically use the stuff to define and highlight to these important selling points.

5. The Psychology of the 5 Senses: People buy on psychology & emotion and the 5 senses speak of all that is home. Make sure your property passes the 5 senses test and evokes the senses of home… Looks great and is light and bright, smells citrus clean and fresh, relaxing sounds and is tactically pleasing – especially in the kitchen and baths.

Local First Saves! yet again

2011-04-27T13:40:00.000-07:00

So...I love Pottery Barn as much as the next person! I get lots of inspiration from them! However, today...while perusing their website, fell into the floor, when I saw something 99% like we're selling here in the store, for 8x the price!

Tied vintage books! I mean....if you've been in, you know we love books, and we love groupings of them tied together! So much so, we started selling them in the store a few weeks ago. FOR $5 A STACK.

Pottery Barn is selling them for $39 a bundle!

Now in all fairness, their books are glued shut, our pages are still free, so you could actually untie and read the book if you would like! What a thought, lol! If it was that important to have them glued shut, I would get out the Elmers! Local first saves!

A boy can dream.....part 2

2011-04-27T09:28:00.000-07:00

So, as I wonder through kitchen after kitchen for divine inspiration... I had to share! First I have to admit, that no... I am not a really good cook. I actually hate to cook, the idea of dirtying up dishes only to have to wash them too...well, it's not high on my priority list. LOL. HOWEVER, if you have a kitchen like any of these....how do you NOT cook!

I simply adore coffered ceilings...and then put that with tongue and groove! OH...i'm in the floor! The only way to even take this a little more over the edge is to paint it the haint blue color! In case you don't know anything about "haint" blue, in southern areas like Savannah, Charleston, etc, people painted their ceilings on their porches this color because it would keep evil spirits away! Totally adorable.

As you'll notice, I'm also fascinated with white cabinetry. There is just something about the crispness that I could eat!

In the next image, again we have a coffered ceiling with the tongue and groove yet again, but I love how they placed the lights and the intersection of the coffered panels. I love how the lines take your eyes to the beautiful stackstone fireplace! What a wonderful hearthroom!

Aside from that, can we discuss all the windows and french doors with transoms! Of course, you would have to have a back yard to look at....but I would be fine looking at weeds if my kitchen/hearthroom looked like that!

When it comes to cabinets, I like Shaker style doors. The simpler the better! I would rather have fab handles or pulls!

But of course we also can't forget about the sink!

There'll be no stainless steel sink for me@! OH NO!!!

Look at these porcelain apron sinks! OH......once again I'm in the floor!

What I also love about these sinks, is that they actually look like they are a part of a piece of furniture! Look at those "turned leg" details! Edible I tell you! Also note the silver pulls. I simply love those! I have those in my kitchen now, but they just don't look as good as these!

Last, but NOT LEAST. There is so much about this last kitchen I don't know where to start! I love EVERYTHING about this one! I love the classic detail with modern details! The bar stools are part of my favorite details. A modern take on a vintage look! The one thing I'm a little concerned about though is....do you really need two islands? I mean...as little as I cook....I don't even think I would use 1 to it's fullest purpose!

Regardless, I guess I can dream of kitchens to be had. Poor Maxine (my realtor)...you have your work set out for you! :)

Concepts In Construction - Sun Shading

2011-04-26T05:34:00.000-07:00

Sun shading refers to the various ways in which direct sunlight is kept out of spaces in the building. This is especially necessary in high rise buildings where direct sunlight gets into the building through windows. The following are ways in which this problem is tackled:

· Built Solutions: These are sun shading solutions that are built as part of the building. Examples here include:
o Cantilever balconies: Although balconies are meant to be used as external spaces, they are at times designed to offer a supplementary duty of offering shade from the sun on windows on lower floors. This can be enhanced by designing the balconies with a downstand beam for better shading.
o Glazing films & Solar glazing: Since most windows are infilled in glazing, it works best to target these when sun shading is being considered. This is either done by the use of glass with sun diverting or absorbing capabilities or by covering such glazing with solar film, whether reflective or absorptive.
o Curtain walls: A curtain wall can simply be defined as a supplementary wall, usually decorative and covering the main functional walls. They are usually made of glass and the above mentioned glazing solutions apply.
o Hanging sun shades: these are various solutions whereby elements like wood, steel or concrete pieces are hang above windows, whether in louvers or full pieces.
o False roofs / eaves: These are small roof-like structures butting into walls and aimed at covering windows below them in a bid to shade them from direct sunlight.
· Furnitures: These are items input in the building after it is complete in a bid to enhance their sun shading capabilities. They include the following:
o Blinds: these are usually in the form of light clothing. They are in most cases done in two layers of different weights.
o Louvres: these are many small pieces, either going horizontally or vertically that can be tilted in a bid to divert or avert sun rays. Louvers are either made of clothe, timber, PVC, aluminium and so forth.
The best and cost effective solution is however by designing the building in such a way that it will require little or no sun shading. This is usually done by orientating the building in such a way that windows are directed against the sun's path, thus ensuring that no sunlight gets in the building through windows. Sun shading will ensure comfortable spaces by reducing sun distraction as well as heat.

Who's Shady?

2011-04-22T09:58:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago on my Kentucky Monthly Blog "Homegrown Design", I discussed how you can start to update your space by changing out lamps! Well, here's another alternative...CHANGE OUT THE SHADE!.....to BURLAP

Seen to the left is an image from Pottery Barn, the lamp is beautiful, however it's also $250+. However you can just switch out the shades and creat the same looks on lamps that you have in your house FOR A TON LESS!

We just got in burlap drum shades in different sizes, includes chandelier size! They are a must buy for the value! Come and see us!

UPDATE: The chandelier size shades have already SOLD OUT today! That's right...we got them this morning! We can and WILL reorder, if interested, please contact the guys at the store @ 859.523.3933

Thank Goodness, at last!

2011-04-19T23:04:00.000-07:00

Thank Goodness, i made it!

The journey was long,
The tire strong,
And the challenge stiff!

But the fire blazed wild,
The urge to show the world,
Am not just bluff!

You Can Do It!

2011-04-19T14:56:00.000-07:00

A while back a wonderful customer, Nancy Thomas, emailed me this image of what she had created at her front door! She simply filled a standing basket with tree limbs and bark, nestled in some fern, and then finished it off with several nest with eggs! How great is this!

This is a great example of how simple can be beautiful! See you really can do it! If you've created something at home and would like to "show it off", please feel free to email images to jeremy at jeremy@jsd-designs, or if you're on Facebook, you can post them there!

Floral Eggstravaganza

2011-04-18T15:07:00.000-07:00

I am simply loving all of the flowers that are popping up in everybody's yard! I almost wept when I realized that Granny's Flowering Almond had finished blooming for the year, but fortunately for me, her beautiful pink dogwood is completely brilliant right now! I thought I would share some florals that have inspired me for Spring! Maybe you could even use them for your Easter tables this weekend. And don't forget, if you love something you see, but feel you can't produce it, we can always make it for you! Fresh !

via rsvpshindig.livejournal.com

via attractivehomedesign.blogspot.com

via marthstewart.com

What Is A Man Worth

2011-04-13T02:51:00.000-07:00

I attended a cousin's burial, in line with my cultural teaching as well as moral responsibility. Above all, I was driven by the great love I have for this aunt, his mother. Working far from the village, I went home just a day to the burial. I felt the immense urge to offer my support as well as register my condolence and not merely present my face on the day of burial like many would have as their idea of supporting the bereaved. Being a humble family, nothing much was to be expected as far as a decent send off is concerned.

But even then, there are basics, the bare minimum expected from such a ceremony. A good example is the turn up as well as the general conduct of the congregation. This guy was divorced, worked odd jobs away from home and made good use of alcohol for his stomach. He did not have a relationship with his village as well as the villagers. He did not even have friends he could rely on. And as they say in my community, one buries himself (or herself as the case may be) while still alive! Even the church did a service for the left and not for the departed. In short, this guy did not have a good name and as such, people were more driven by the relatives and not the deceased.

Among many other responsibilities for each and every one of us is that of cutting our niche in the society where we live. This is usually easy when one has a bargaining chip like a good education or a big fortune. But what about the bigger percentage, the base of the pyramid? Does it mean that they can never be recognized, that their place in society is the back bench? Well it may look like so to many, but it is not really the measure with which one's worth is gauged upon. There are important milestones that every society recognizes and against which the worth of people living in it. Some of these include:

· Respect for family and society at large.
· Conformity especially on matters such as education, marriage etc.
· Contribution to the society.
· Presence and support in other people's activities.

While all societies are different, the value of a neighbour is never compromised. It is nothing that can be exchanged or bought with money. Respect cannot be asked for. When all is said and done, the extent of one's estate cannot soothe them when their backs are beaten and their feet baked in old age.

Hoops of Color!

2011-04-11T13:20:00.000-07:00

Sometimes....we just need an alternative to art work. I love beautiful pieces of art as much as the next person, but every now and then I find myself wanting something else! Today I stumbled on this craft project that I thought was a great idea. I know there's been many times where I've walked into a fabric store, and can find a fabric that I fell in love with, but don't have a clue what to do with, OR it's so expensive, that I can't buy a ton of yardage. Well....here is the perfect solution to small yardage creating high impact.

Materials that are needed:

Embroidery hoops of any size

Square of fabric at least 2" bigger than any embroidery hoop.

Scissors

Elmer's Glue

Instructions:

Place fabric in hoop, pull taught.

Turn to wrong side, run a line of glue on inside ring close to fabric

Press fabric into glue all of the way around

Allow glue to dry

Cut excess fabric off

We're going GLOBAL....well kind of, lol

2011-04-11T13:00:00.000-07:00

It's been in the works for some time now, but it's official! We have an online store!!!!! There are a number of items on there now ranging between handmade burlap pillows as well as soaps, candles, and a few other items! You can visit the site here: http://shop.housebyjsd.com There is a clickable link off the regular website as well! Also available on our online store, you can order Gift Cards! They are available in $25, $50, and $100 (however, if you come into the store, you can get a gift card at any price!). Need a giftcard, but aren't going to have the chance to stop by the store and deliver it? No worries, we'll even mail the giftcard to your recipient! We try to make it as easy as possible! Make sure you visit the online store soon! We are planing on adding and changing items all of the time! It's only been up a few days, and believe it or not, we've already had orders from South Carolina, Arizona, Florida, and a few other states!

If you want it...you have to earn it kids....

2011-03-30T07:44:00.000-07:00

At least that's what Dwayne told his kids....so they're providing us with Handmade Chocolate Candies for Easter! Here's the note that Dwayne gave me about his kids and the candy!

EASTER CANDY: HANDMADE by Ian and Chloe (with very close supervision)

"If you want it, you have to earn it!"

The kids were wanting to have money for the trip planned this summer, and well...nothing is free! So Kathy and I realized that we were given an opportunity to teach a life lesson! So they are making handmade chocolate candies for easter, and selling them in our store to earn money for the trip! Also realizing they needed to give back/pay it forward, the kids decided without a second of thought that they were going to give part of their earnings to help the Red Cross to help all of those suffering in Japan.

The chocolates are available in limited quantities in the store until Easter, ALTHOUGH we are taking orders on the chocolated candies for people. Lists are already growing, so don't waste any time, they're small children and can't produce them out like Hersheys! What are the kids providing? Pure, Solid Chocolate Bunnies (in 2 sizes, above is the smaller $1 bunny, below is the $2 larger bunny) as well as chocolate suckers for $0.50 each! By the way they are good! I've eaten some of their profits - sorry kids! ;)

You can call the store at 859.523.3933 to order you chocolates.

Style You 2! -The 2 Button Wrap

2011-03-30T03:49:00.000-07:00

I had admired a very stylish wrap on a fellow interior stylist a few months back and had been longing for one of my own - While trendspotting on the Web, I accidently came across them! I guess Kathy Lee from Good Morning America sports them too, says the Web. Needless to say I was thrilled. I love the color, style, weight and versitility so much, I opened an account with the manufacter - And can now offer them to you.

Wear it down, buttoned once, over one shoulder, or wrapped and buttoned.

Style You 2 with this sassy wrap.

THE 2 BUTTON WRAP
Stylish and super chic, this wrap can be worn in assorted fashions with its clever 2 button design.
Length: 63" x 16"
Material: 100% Acrylic
Price: 29.95 (plus shipping and tax)
The 2 button wrap comes in a dizzing array of trend forward colors - I love the Coral and Perwinkle! Be fashion forward and order more than 1.

Black
White
Coral
Periwinkle
Lavender
Tangerine
Lime
Raspberry
Light Turqoise
Candy Pink

A Boy Can Dream....of Laundry Rooms

2011-03-29T07:38:00.000-07:00

So in my dreams of growing up and getting the house of my dreams, strangely enough....the laundry room is just about as important to me as the living quarters! A client of ours has what we call the "Taj Mahal" of laundry rooms, and it's to die for....did I mention that it has 3 large chandeliers hanging above the granite island in the middle of the room? I'm happy for her...but what about me! I'll have that someday too...right? A boy can dream I guess.

I recently came across this photo of this old galvanized bucket turned into a sink in a laundry room, and immediately started foaming at the mouth. Paired with the faucet, subway tile, and plantation shutters....it was almost too much for me to handle!!!

Unfortunately for me, this has now been added to the list of things needed when buying our next house. Our poor realtor Maxine. I realize that most likely I will have to update the room into something like this, but I have to have the room to do it first!

I also came across the lower photo, and also adored it. I love the use of the picnic table in the middle as the island! Now I need even more room! My question for this home owner is....HOW MANY WASHERS DO YOU REALLY NEED?! I think they might have went a little over board if they aren't parents of 15 children or so. Who knows...it could have been the Octomom's, but then again...it's white and too clean for her herd of children, lol.

Who would have thought I would be so obsessed with laundry rooms! I mean, I haven't washed clothes in almost a month! I guess maybe I should start practicing that now huh?

Putting it all together!

2011-03-28T08:39:00.000-07:00

I know that sometimes I see things in a store, and love how it's displayed or used, but then when I get home, I'm not completely sure how to utilize what I bought in my space (yes it happens to us too!). I wanted to show how somethings we had in the store, resulted in a home!

Here you see a beautiful three tier stand paired with things to work in the kitchen. Having a newly bought item be beautiful, affordable, and functional are the trifecta of home design!

On the top shelf you see a collection of old vintage silverware passed down through the family tied with twine. Every time these are seen it reminds of special people who are no longer with us.

On the second tier, items used in cooking are stored in old mason jars. Anytime you can put food in a container to be displayed, you've hit the jackpot!

On the bottom tier, our numbered galvanized pots have been utilized to grow herbs by the window! So adorable, and notice our wired burlap ribbon that was wrapped around just to add an extra detail. Lastly, notice our Colonial Candles taper candles wrapped simply with the same burlap ribbon!~ Let's face it. There's something about candles in groupings that are magical, and when they're beautiful....why NOT have them on display and easy access!

Stages Of House Building - External Works

2011-03-24T03:23:00.000-07:00

This refers to all those supportive works that help complete the building. They include the following:
· Boundary walls and hedges: these are meant for demarcating the space on which the building stands as well providing security and privacy. The most common walls are made of masonry while hedges are made out of plants like keiapple and bougainvillea. Most hedges add to the aesthetics of the compound when they bloom. One important thing to remember is that the wall should complement the building.
· Gate and gate house: Can be viewed to be a part of the boundary wall. Depending on the requirements and use of the building and hence the compound, the gate will differ in size, specification. In busy buildings with heavy vehicle traffic, an electronically opened gate will work better than a manually opened gate. Further, it is usually better to have a small pedestrian gate aside the main gate.
· Drives, parkings and pavements: These are usually hard surfaces like tarmac or paving blocks. They provide access and circulation within the compound. Pavements are good for training pedestrians on what routes to follow inside the compound. This will prevent trampling of areas like landscaped lawns.
· Landscape and Flower gardens: Landscaping can be viewed as dressing to the compound. It completes the picture. Variety is the secret here. Having flowers that blossom at different times of the year will ensure that the compound is in colour all year round.
· Gazebos and Porches: These are resting areas in the compound. They come in a great variety of designs to suit varying needs.
· Water points and ponds
External works need also be integrated within the works to ensure that they don't drag the completion of the works as a whole. Taking the example of landscaping, it will need a lot of time to grow some of the plants as may be required in the compound. These could be planted long before the building is put up, as long as they do not play hindrance to the construction.
From our series of previous articles, it is clear to see that there are many components that get into the building to make it complete. While each one of these have their different roles, they are put together concurrently. Planning is therefore very important to ensure that a harmonious process results. Moreover, the different components are usually put up by different contractors (service providers) thus it amplifies the need for proper planning.

Lifestyle Design – Home Staging the Garden?

2011-03-21T14:41:00.000-07:00

Lifestyle Design Home Staging

As we all know, targeting a lifestyle is a well established design niche for both retailers and designers -from big box stores to model home designers, lifestyle design is all about knowing how your ideal client lives. Today, it's about fine tuning the enjoyment of your home. The most expensive thing we own, the one place in this unsure world we can feel safe - Home, now more than ever is where the heart is.

Take a stroll through the Home & Garden department at your local Wal-Mart, Target or Costco. That area no longer just houses pots, towels and trowels - Now, there are whole tempting outdoor rooms presented to you, eye candy equipped with beautiful planters, outdoor chandeliers and matching Melamine tableware. Catalogs like Grandin Road, Napa Style, or Smith & Hawken are totally focused on lifestyle design.

Old school homemaking is now big business. From going organic, brewing beer, to planting your own kitchen garden - the urban "Homestead" is hot! Last year I staged a very high-end home that had a Porsche in the garage, but rain barrels and a kitchen garden in the back yard. This month's Martha Stewart Living has a full feature on an upscale home planned around a garden. This past Sunday's Chicago Tribune had an article on kitchen gardens titled " Food for the Soul." Even the home party plan arena has gone from selling Tupperware to Wine Accessories and Green Cleaning Products.

Why? After 9-11, our safe haven became our home and the rise of using our home as the main entertaining zone. We were staying in, instead of going out and the movement has stayed "in-trend" since then.

We even staycation rather than vacation...

Packaging a Home for Sale

With the downward dip our economy has taken, we're using and valuing our entire home more than ever and looking for economical solutions too. From garages, carved out backyard rooms to kitchen gardens - From curbside to back fence everyone is celebrating every inch of their home.

So when it comes to Home Staging and packaging that home for sale, it's important to keep lifestyle design as one of your basic home staging strategies. As an example, I conducted a Home Staging consultation yesterday for a young couple relocating back to their Michigan roots. The home is in a cute suburb, with a boutique downtown that attracts their age group. In their 30's, this young couple with two toddlers in tow, are heavy entertainers, shop their town and dabble in gardening and yes - the garage is dapper too. As part of our staging plan, we incorporated those lifestyle choices - Since the predictable buyer will be someone just like them! Here are a few of my home staging tips and ideas for the seller -

•· Make sure the public areas of the home have a great open flow plan and are conducive to family & friends for casual living and entertaining. Make sure to establish rooms for their particular purpose and lifestyle - From a great cozy conversational seating areas in the living room, a TV viewing basement family room - to staging the built-in hutch in the kitchen with key entertaining pieces - Every space should read "This room is great for..."

•· Fresh. Take the extra effort and use real instead of fake. From a big bowl of real lemons, fragrant Key limes to a lovely orchid or tulip bouquet - Real speaks to the 5 senses and gives the home the essence of life.

•· Breeze Way is staged from floor to with bulletin board with great places to shop, dine and go, from Yoga class down to the "Whole Food" bags.

•· Backyard is "decked" out with furniture, vibrant container gardens, situated man grill, all to beckon the buyers to see the back half of this commodity.

•· Stage the garden - Budding gardeners, the kitchen garden that went in last year will be planted and maintained and featured as part of the home.

Since 1999, interior stylist Julea Joseph has owned Chicago area based interior design and home staging business - Reinventing Space. Your can see her work on HGTV or in the news giving homeowners expert insight on how to refresh, style and celebrate their space -Whether prepping their home to go on the market, just settling in, or just in need of a change. Julea also offers her expertise with certification training and mentoring offerings to Realtors, Home Stagers and Interior Redesigners in the industry. Visit her site, JULEA.com or Interior Stylist Program for more information or email her at mailto:atJulea@Julea.com.

Life, Peers And The Five Fingers

2011-03-17T02:40:00.000-07:00

The human hand is one of the most complex parts of the human body. With so many distinct units, making so many movements to all possible directions, it is actually a real work of supreme science. Among these magnificent building blocks is the arm, on which grows five fingers. These are also unique in the fact that all of them are different, both in size and character. There are long ones and stunted ones. There are those that bend thrice while others twice. And albeit they grow in the same hand, they perform different functions. Cooks will tell you that the middle three fingers are always in an awkward position as far as hot pots are concerned. On the other hand, carpenters will tell you just how many times they had had to lick they crushed thumbs!
You see, the fingers belong to the same hand, but they are so different. The same happens to us in our day to day living. Differences are so much inevitable, whether in the family or community. There is a common saying in my language that from the same womb come a pastor and a witchdoctor! Even the so called identical twins have some differences! It gets clearer when we get with our peers. You will find that your age mates are not all in your league as much as many issues are concerned. You think differently, you view life differently and you score differently. This is very normal. I remember that during my days in college, I was in the class with a guy driving a top of the range ride and another one that had to limit his toilet paper consumption to six segments a day... patting himself on the back when he used none! If anything mattered to him, it was how to get a meal the next day, while some others formed a snack club at the tuck shop. But all of us were in the same class, taking the same lessons, facing the same examinations and supposedly aiming similar success in life!
One thing about differences in life is that they do not depend on anything in particular. Most of them just happen. Just like happened with Cain and Abel, God chose Abel's sacrifice as opposed to Cain's without any apparent reason. But Cain took it personal; he scorned his brother to an extent of committing an ill never fathomed hitherto. To him, Abel had robbed the chance from him. The comparison had proved him unworthy, giving rise to the first case of sibling rivalry in the history of mankind. Egocentricity is one of the biggest reasons for non-acceptance where differences appear in our daily living, especially when our 'equals' prove an edge in whatever aspects. It leads to people living unfulfilling lives, working against all odds to reach to the level of so and so. Taking heavy loans and even slowing the leaders down, a common way being witchcraft and even killings. What we should always remember is that 'all animals are not, were not and can never be equal. Just be all you can, appreciate your abilities and respect those of others.

Yet again.....Local First...

2011-03-15T20:22:00.000-07:00

So it appears that once again, I have stumbled on an item that we have in our store, for considerably less! This Single Ball Topiary on BallardDesigns.com will cost you $49. We just got them in the store today for $13.95

I have to tell you, I'm not purposely looking out for items that we have in our store! It just seems to keep happening! Which is showing me that "yes you can get high quality stuff local, and for less money!". Now I must say that the pot with our topiary is not white, it's a brown finish pot which is very similar, but....I don't know about you...but I'll save my $35 and paint the pot white if I have to have a white pot!

We've Done It Again.....CHEAPER!

2011-03-15T06:39:00.000-07:00

So while shopping around on UrbanOutfitters.com, I found this lovely chalkboard heart for around $36! Which is wonderful and all.....except we once again have it in our store for considerably cheaper! How's $14.95?

I have to admit that as a small business owner, it can be quite overwhelming to feel the pressure of having to combat with larger companies, however each and everytime I stumble upon an exact item for less money in a local store, it makes that feeling go away bit by bit!

LOCAL FIRST!

Shopping Local First Saves!

2011-03-08T16:35:00.000-08:00

I just got in the new Ballard Designs catalogue and was amazed when I turned to page 10! There I found these great resin entomology wall plaques, THAT WE HAVE IN THE STORE RIGHT NOW!

The real kicker!? Ballard Designs is selling them for $25 (originally were $39), HOWEVER you can get them at house for $10.95! That's right! $10.95!

This only reinforces why I look local first!

Take the Boys Home!

2011-03-06T08:29:00.000-08:00

It seems that everday we are asked, "do you decorate/design people's homes?" It turns out that although we thought most new, there are many out there who still don't know that YES, WE DO.

Our website will be relaunching soon with an altered look and on it will be some video examples of some of the many works we have done. The picture seen here is a master bedroom that we have complete rehauled! It's simply beautiful! She's classic, but with an updated taste! And she simply adores her new master bedroom, she actually calls it, Club Bed!

We do as much or as little as you need. Consultations, color selections, furniture and fabric selections, custom builtins, reupholstery, tile and kitchen remodel, or if you just need to know what to keep and what to start over with! Don't be afraid to call! We won't bite! :)

Who says monochromatic is boring?!

2011-03-02T18:27:00.000-08:00

Most of the time if you visit the store, and there's a floral arrangement that is basically monochromatic, I did it. There's just something about mixing the textures of one color that just fascinates me!

Even though this arrangement is all pink, look how rich everything is! The callas give this radient glow against the soft yet sturdy hyacinths, and the gerber daisies and tulips just nestle in behind like little soldiers! So pink....but SO rich!

By the way, note in the foilage, the pink edges! love it

A measuring cup...LITERALLY!

2011-03-02T18:23:00.000-08:00

I just simply love this photo! I found it recently in someone's blog, and just thought that it was the best idea! What do you do with those left over cups where all of the rest are broken! Use it as a "measuring" cup!

I always love thinking outside of the box for how to use stuff, and this is a little more "thinking outside the cupboard@!" lol

10 Home Staging Tips to Make Your Listing Look like a Model Home

2011-03-01T04:07:00.000-08:00

What is it about Model homes that make them so appealing? Is it the freshness of all new; is it the sassy paint colors, the perfectly placed furniture, art and accessories or the beautiful groomed backyard that makes you want to plop right down on that comfy club chair? Well…. Yes to all the above. A builder hold hosts to an array of skilled professionals to make that Model beautiful. From blue print to drawer pulls that Model home is meticulously planned.

Beyond the nicely placed furniture, Model homes are the current reflection of the home environment needs of the target market of the Builder. They are a turn-key product, designed & packaged for the desires of perfect buyer.

Models homes are lovely because they have the latest and the greatest, are fresh and new and are meticulously detailed. Psychology, more than decorating is applied to make them look so fabulous. From architecture to floral arrangements, Model homes are planned with “YOU” in mind.

So how can you make your next listing as appealing as a Model Home? – Here are 10 ways.

1.) Clean. Those nice angled vacuum lines, gleaming windows, and perfectly manicured lawns in Model homes speak to a potential buyer – You don’t have to do a thing. Translate that into - A little elbow grease goes a long way. A super clean home says “turn-key” to the potential buyer. Have every inch of the home, blind slats to porch light glass, super clean and perfectly coiffed. According to a national 2011 survey done by Real Estate based Home Gain (www.homegain.com,) a $290.00 cleaning investment gives a $1990.00 price increase, or a 586% return!

2.) Fresh & Smells Good. People buy homes on emotion, and your 5 senses are a direct path to your brain. If a home smells and looks “funky,” “doggy,” “smoky,” or if the stove is coated with cooking gone bad – The home is off their list. Just like you would detail your car to sell, invest in clean and spotless carpets, patched, repaired and freshly painted walls and new appliances if the old have seen better days. Be wary to skip this step and take the low road with room refreshers, candles and stove burner covers – Potential buyers are not fooled.

3.) Color. Any advertising executive will tell you color is a key to properly packaging a product; and a listed home is just that, a product. Throw away the off-white manta of old school home staging rules – Welcome to the era of HGTV. Using color is a powerful and inexpensive way of making that home stand out from the rest, and with so many decorating TV shows boasting the benefits of color, you better get hip to hues. From 1st Web impressions to curb-appeal, color is a strong emotional tug for the potential buyer. Update yourself on the latest color trends in wall color, appliance, fixtures, etc… and apply it to your target buyer. For home staging, use earthy, calm tones for the bigger areas such as wall color and add pops of saturated colors in the details; such front doors, accessories or annuals.

4.) Make Space. The joy of a Model home is the acres and acres of unused storage space & beautifully organized closets. Reduce, organize, upscale and edit all the home’s spaces when it comes to closets and storage areas. If the home’s price point dictates, upscale the closets with custom organizing options.

5.) Clear a Path. Consider that many people with be walking through the home. Make sure traffic patterns, entrances and exits are well established. Too much furniture, undefined entrances and awkward walkways confuse and discourage buyers from moving about the property. Follow a Model Home’s lead and create a concise walking pattern for potential buyers starting at curbside to back fence.

6.) Lovely Layouts. From the landscape to furniture placement, take a clue from Models homes that continuity and flow make for a good mix. Create curb appeal with nicely maintained landscaping, added annuals and perennials, an inviting stoop and well groomed walk and driveways. Inside, make sure each room depicts what its function is, enhances the highlights of the room (i.e. fireplaces or upgrades,) and allows the buyer to envision themselves in the space.

7.) Set the Mood. Create ambiance and character in the home with well thought out placement of sensory and lifestyle components. Soft music, lighting on dimmers, candles lit, and fresh floral are all great ideas for Broker or Open houses. If you have concern about candles, battery operated candles that even have timers built in are now readily available. Stage the dining room table tastefully, or set the stage in a back yard with a detailed patio retreat. Offering helpful lifestyle hints has always been in the Model Home arsenal and always is a huge hit.

8.) K.I.S.S. On the opposite note, don’t over accessorize, go over-board with the lifestyle tips or create “store bought theme” rooms (i.e. Chef-with-a-Hat Kitchen or Anniversary Bathtub vignette complete with Champagne bottle and fake ivy.)

9.) Appeal to a Target Buyer. Model home Builders hire tony Marketing companies that create campaigns to market that home. Consider "WHO” the ideal buyer that will be interested in the property is, and market the property accordingly. From advertising photos to furniture, consider who will find this appealing and desirable.

10.) Market, Market, Market. Model Homes have great marketing incentives inside and out. From clear address markers, great signs, to small exit giveaways, to an exit survey - Market that listing to the fullest.

2011-02-28T07:10:00.000-08:00

Springing into Home Makeovers

2011-02-17T05:33:00.000-08:00

It’s my business to make homes better. As an interior stylist, I’m the new generation of designer that can seamlessly progress from a home staging professional to interior design consultant (always on a budget.) My job is to celebrate your home and make it beautiful no matter what chapter you may be on in it. From when you 1st move in, to when you sell - I’m there to make your home better.

My business philosophy is to spend it where you need to, and fill in the blanks with chic, yet cheap finds – The perfect mix of Rich with Poor. Like I always say …“If you keep your big mouth shut, they’ll never know…”

So… it’s almost spring.

Whether you are going or staying, the induction of spring seems to be the cue for home makeovers. Just like the longing for a fresh breeze through open windows, homeowners are ready for change. From simple updates like a fresh new paint palette, to the restless rustlings of bigger remodeling projects; this season seems to burst forth home makeover needs like the crocuses popping up in your lawn.

In this series of three articles, I’ll be offering insight on how to go about a home makeover project. The 1st of the series is “Where to Begin,” followed by two other articles “Style & Details Defined” and “Current Trending & Savvy Shopping Sources.” Hopefully, your makeover needs will be more defined, and if not, I’ll be getting a call (708.448.7500.)

Where to Begin?

The 1st step to home makeover projects is to define your room goals, create a plan, and be realistic of a budget. Unlike the makeover shows you watch on TV, unless you had stock options for an Internet IPO, any home project will cost you more than the materials you purchase.

DEFINE YOUR ROOM GOALS. Is it that darn lack luster living room in need of a décor boost and a color correction? Is it your kitschy out-dated kitchen that will never appeal to the 30-somethings that will be the ideal buyer for your home in need of an overhaul? By sketching out your goals, you’ll start defining the steps you’ll needs to complete the makeover.

When I work with my clients, my 1st step in defining your goals is to use adjective packed sentences to describe how you want to define the space. As an example:

“I want my lackluster living room to feel warm and inviting - a cozy place to curl-up on the couch to read a book, or engage in the latest news with my favorite neighbor. Buttery tones, soft, tea-washed fabrics, with simple, yet sophisticated French flea market inspired accents will fill this space.”

Or, “I want to update and redefine my kitschy out-dated kitchen, complete with duck-with-bows wall border into a turn-key ready, for a family of four, with smart, shiny new appliances, envy-evoking, trend forward cabinets and irresistible, yet no-fuss quartz countertops – so that the kitchen appeals to the target buyer of my home.”

CREATE A PLAN. Create a workable outline of all the projects you’ll need to do to complete your makeover. From wallpaper stripping, to accessory shopping, define, outline and calendar your plan. The best and most effective way of succeeding in this plan - is to take a hard look of what you are and are not capable of. Please, just because you once read in a magazine “3 Easy Steps on how you can reface your cabinets in a weekend with Contact® paper,” doesn’t make a saleable worthy kitchen remodel. Consider your time restraints, knowledge and expertise in all project details, and understand that if you really want to get this done in a timely matter, you’ll need to seek professional help in certain areas.

ATTACH A REALISTIC BUDGET. Once your goals have been described, a plan has been defined you can now attach budget estimates to each of the projects. By attaching a budget to each of the projects, you’ll get a realistic view of your financial investment. By far, the most faulted area of any home makeover is not being realistic of the costs to complete it. It is not an educated guess that your new complete furnishing dreams for your living room will cost $399.00 because that’s what the price quoted on the HGTV show. News alert, a side table for your living room is around $399.00 – Just the side table! Be smart, weed through catalogs and jot down home décor pricing, scour over Sunday newspaper flyers and the internet, and get estimates by referred professionals for deeded work.

Once you’ve established your budget projection, completed your goals and plan - you can proceed to “Style & Details Defined” step of your home makeover. This style definition exercise will help you understand the psychology of the home makeover, understand your home and your lifestyle - which will help you choose color, materials and the overall look of the makeover.

Since 1999, interior stylist Julea Joseph has owned Chicago area based interior design and home staging business - Reinventing Space. Your can see her work on HGTVor in the news giving homeowners expert insight on how to refresh, style and celebrate their space -Whether prepping their home to go on the market, just settling in, or just in need of a change. Julea also offers her expertise with certification training and mentoring offerings to Realtors and Home Stagers in the industry. Visit her site, JULEA.com more information oe email her at Julea@Julea.com.

Bourbon ROCKS!

2011-02-16T08:29:00.000-08:00

BACK IN STOCK 4/11 So for those of us who have friends that are avid bourbon drinkers (I think all of mine are), and never know what to give them as a gift....well, we've finally figured it out. These are our new "Bourbon Rocks"! Made of soapstone in Vermont, these are the perfect way to keep your alcohol cool/cold, without having the ice delute it. The box says it simply enough with "Ice Melts. Whisky Rocks. Ideal for putting a slight chill in your whisky without diluting the dram of your dreams." The set includes 9 stones (only 3 are suggested per drink) and a small pouch to store them in the freezer! The stones are non-porous, and will impart neither flavor nor odor. They will not react with household solvents such as water, alcohols, detergents, or mild acids. The soapstone is composed primarily of talc, hence the rocks will not scatch your glasses! We think these things rock....no pun intended! :) They are available in the store (located 1535 Delaware Ave, Lexington, KY 40505) for $19.95 OR you can purchase them at our online store, you can get there by clicking here!

TrunkRIFIC

2011-02-15T19:42:00.000-08:00

Recently found this in Country Living! How much do you love it! I mean really! How simple can it be! It simply goes back to the idea of putting anything in mass, makes them special!

I have one vintage old trunk....now I only have to find 10 more@!!!!

Old's the New Again

2011-02-14T19:22:00.000-08:00

With our recent trip to market I couldn't help but be caught by this combination of "updated traditionalism fabulousness"! Now that's a mouth full! Seen here in this vignette is a company called Global Views, and to be honest with you, this company hands down gets it 100% right every year! Although, you won't find a single piece in our store. The true problem is price point, those incredible lamps (which were OMG huge) would have had to retail at over $1000. I love them, but not that that much. But it is without a doubt the coolest place to go to get inspired and to dream. This is one of the places where we go to drool!

But as with anything in the market, in 6 months, you'll see cheaper alternatives to these out there, and that's just fine with us! I mean, I understand that quality comes with a price tag, but there's a huge window of options out there in quality, and these are the top line Mercedes, when I would like the Honda, lol.

I can't help but love this setting. There's not a thing in this vignette that isn't updated. Now this is a little more formal than my taste, but it is fabu! I love the oversized scale to everything. The buffet came up almost to my chest (I'm 6'3) so you can only imagine the size of the lamps! What I also love is the nod between the buffet and the mirror, don't miss the silver ring showing up in both. The mirror reminds me of a pocket watch. TO DIE FOR.

I wanted to show this because I thought that it was a great example of taking old and redefining it to be new. There are still details of it that make it timeless and classic, but then the lines and finishes update it. While you may not be able to use all of this in your home. Be open to updating certain items. For when you mix these new with true old traditional pieces, it creates a whole new story.

The Perfect Valentines Gift

2011-02-13T07:24:00.000-08:00

February 14^th is here with us and as happens all years, the spirit of love is in its peak. Everyone is running up and down looking for that perfect gift for their loved ones. The red rose is the first and most obvious gift that everyone pounces on. The flower farmers are in their good times and the same goes for flower vendors. In fact, all the hawkers in town are flushing whatever red items they can put their fingers on, so long as it passes for a gift. Wineries and gift card makers are also counting fortunes from their products. Restaurants are also in their best form and trying their best to outdo their competition in offering their customers, all with the ‘couple’ tag, the most memorable moments, whether in the heart of the city, beach resort or mountainous get away.

And this year it is even getting better, mobile phone service providers are outdoing themselves with offers for the most feminine gadgets around. Even insurance companies have introduced packages most fitting for the season! In this society, it goes without saying that more gifts will be going from the masculine direction to the feminine than the opposite. There was even this opinion poll published in the weekend papers on various aspects of the famous day, ranging from the average amount a man is likely to spend on their wives (or girlfriends for that matter) to which house they will visit on the important. ‘Which house’ because it is very common these days for men to have more than one house to support.

· So, what is the perfect gift to give out to your loved one this Valentines Day?
· Just how much is enough to make the right statement to your loved one?
· What is really the meaning of Valentines Day?

It is not questionable the fact that gifts must be handed across lovers. One of the things to note here is the fact that the gift that one gives must come from the heart and should depict the right impression of the feelings in our heart towards our intimate partners. This does not necessarily mean expensive as many may be tempted to think. It means that what you got for your lover is exactly what they might have asked for, had they the chance. It should be the considerable and reasonable wish they have had in their hearts, the dreams they have on you. It must not even be tangible, for what would be so wrong with a promise for the common future! Think of his proposal you have always postponed answer! The cost of the Valentines Gift should not even be known by the receiver. I mused over a famous and most expensive package on offer around. This may not necessarily convert to a gigantic and overwhelming welcome by the receiver, for as they say, money cannot buy love.

Another important thing to note is the fact that, Valentines marks the beginning of the year of love, just like January marks the onset of the calendar year. For this reason, the specific day is not as important as the days ahead, albeit its importance should not be underplayed. It would be more important to impress all year round rather than on one day alone. And while the day might fall on the wrong day of the week, keeping you away from your lover or your pocket might not support that bouquet of red roses; your love should not be regarded less. Moreover, it would be more important to make ‘new year’ resolutions for your love and seeking ways to making it a better relationship than spending all your savings on an expensive dinner. I surmise it would be a better gift this Valentines Day to give up that mistress than an overseas trip with the mother of your children. The disclosure of the same would be priceless…but don’t kill her with a heart attack. Tell her the way you told her of her mother’s demise!

Clean Hands and a Clean Conscience

2011-02-09T12:30:00.000-08:00

So every buyers' dream at market is to find something that is truly incredible and something they've never seen before to offer their loyal following. Well guys...this year at market we hit the jackpot several times! Probably our most favorite thing we found was FURTHER Soap and Lotion.

Not only is it an incredible value, but it looks incredible, smells incredible, and has an incredible story! A triple threat of the giftware industry if you will!

The birth of these incredible items came from when Marshall and Megan (Pasadena, CA) decided to change their driving habits! Marshall decided to convert his car to run on used vegetable oil from surrounding restaurants. Over time he had acquired quite a bit of glycerin (its the byproduct of using this oil). His wife being somewhat of a "crafty cathy", knew that they could take this left over glycerin and create soap. When they added the perfect combination of scents, they got BINGO! It's incredible!

Here's what the back side of the labels says:

This product is derived from locally sourced depleted vegetable oil, refined and artfully converted into exceptional hand soap for clean hands and a clean conscience.

Our biofuel distillation process drives our vehicles, and the pure glycerin byproduct drives FURTHER. Essential oils of bergamot, olive and grasses are combined to create a products that is at once fresh, sustainable, and pleasingly aromatic. We hope you enjoy using FURTHER as much as we enjoy making it. Wash Responsibly.

We have FURTHER Soap, Lotion, and Candles. Make sure you see them on your next visit! I know what I'm getting myself for my birthday! :) Now I can wash responsibly! I wonder if I can use it wash out my mouth?

Smell My Finger!

2011-02-08T16:40:00.000-08:00

You know those moments where someone walks in on a conversation and hears or sees something that out of context makes absolutely no sense or is obsene? Well that happened to me the other day in the store.

You see....I had just washed my hands with one of our new soaps that we just got in store . Upon exiting the restroom, I started a conversation with someone about how wonderful this soap smelled! Right about the time of I said "here, smell my finger".....another customer came around the corner. Ironically she was the embarrased one, not me, lol.

The soaps just smell so good! I have to admit that I think we hit the jackpot with great gift soaps! We just got in some hand made soaps from Moss Hill (pictured above). These soaps are made in Louisville, and we're the only place to get them in Lexington! We are featuring the Bourbon scented items right now! Now don't let the name fool you. You won't smell like Johnny or Maker's if you touch it! It also smells NOTHING like the bourbon candle we carry. It's something in it's own right, just incredible! You must smell it on your next visit.

It has this clean musk scent that is just divine. Before we actually thought about carrying it, Stuart had picked up a bar of it in Louisville, and we had it in the bathroom here at the store. Everyone who used it wanted to purchase it. Well, "mama didn't raise no fool" and the rest is history!

The next time you visit, you simply must smell it! An incredible Kentucky made product for a perfect gift! We currently have bars of soap, lotion, linen spray, and candle tins!

And please remember, if I happen to ask you to smell my finger the next time your in.....I'm not being crude! :)

Why Build and Not Buy

2011-02-04T05:49:00.000-08:00

(Taken from my series; What To Consider Before Building Your House)

One of the very distinguishing factors between construction and other industries is that construction deals with unique, one-time only products. In most cases, it also involves first and last relationships. Once you build your house, that's almost certainly the last time you build (Unless you are venturing into real estate in a commercial scale). One other important point to note here is that a house is a part of a family. It is a part of you and as such, you want it to represent all that you are. You want to be part of it from the start. You want to fulfill the quest to have you build your house instead of buying one, that is, if you like the thrill of trying something new and more so if you like an extra pocket in the interior of your suit lining!

A house needs to be where we have always wanted to live in. It needs to keep us closer to those that we can identify with and also in the kind of environment that we want to live in. While you might find a bigger percentage of these in a house on sale, there is still that small personal touch that will be lacking. You need a house with a pent room for your son, a small backyard vegetable garden for your wife and a small picket fence for your daughter. These specifics are hard to find in the ready-made market.
Another reason to build and not buy a house is to seek economic benefit of your own construction. It goes without saying that when you go out to buy a house, you are paying for overheads like those for the sales agents, the advertisements, the lawyers et cetera. Other costs include those of high flying contracting companies and management firms that are known to take percentages of the actual costs that can sometimes go as high as 40%. Although is hard to strictly build at cost, but it is still possible lower these overheads to very low percentages.

A house is a long term investment and needs to stand the test of time. The quality of the building plays a very big role towards this goal. It is common knowledge that when things are done in a commercial scale and especially when they are done en masse and by people who are not the end users, it is easy for standards to be lowered. It gets worse nowadays owing to the upsurge of fake and counterfeit materials in the market. It is not very alien to mistake plastic for hardwood these days! You get into a house and by the time you are doing the second year, things start peeling off and others loosening out. A two year house might easily be mistaken for one twenty years old. Another important thing to consider here is safety standards. While statutory bodies are there with the mandate of ensuring optimal performance, there is still the danger of little compromises here and there. And what is little today may prove giant tomorrow.

We cannot also downplay the fulfillment of being part of the process. Once you have decided to build, it is important to note when you will need a hands-on approach into the project if you are to be successful in this endeavor. This does not mean that you all of a sudden become a technical person in construction, but rather you will need enough background information on what to do, when and who to involve long before you shout about your aspiration to build. It is important to seek information from others who have built before you. This will acquaint you with the little foxes in first time construction.

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We're Moving!

2011-02-03T09:43:00.000-08:00

That's right! We've been looking for a new space for a while now, well way into the last part of last year, but had given up. It was amazing how many spaces were available, but the rent was still ridiculously high! So truthfully we had given up. But as we know...things are meant to happen, they just happen! Our new space is literally 116 feet from our current front door! We are taking over the front building of Cowgirl's Attic at 1535 Delaware! Same side of the street! It's going to over double the size of our store! PLUS...we have more vertical space...which you know what that means....YES....GO BIGGER OR GO HOME! The three of us are very excited! We are going to continue to stay open at our current location through the end of the February! And plan on opening March 1 or somewhere around there, more info will come your way for sure! We have a lot going on in the next bit including, our year anniversary, opening the new store, as well as the Spring Open House, all of which you will get more information for! For the best way to stay up to date, friend us on Facebook or join our email list(there's a button back on our website) READY SET HERE WE GO!

I ams what I ams

2011-02-01T15:07:00.000-08:00

It's finally time that I can announce that I am Kentucky Monthly's new home design blogger! It's called "Homegrown Design". This has been in the works for sometime, but is finally going! I am so excited about all of the new adventures that are coming our way! It seems everytime I turn around there's a new something going on! It's never boring, I can tell you that!

The first introduction blog has only been up for like a couple of hours and I've already gotten questions of how we came up with the name "Homegrown Design." Well the truth is, when I met with Amanda (KY Monthly's Creative Director) about this, she was asking me about myself, and the phrase "homegrown" just came out. I am without a doubt my father's son (if you only knew), my mother's son (emotional at the drop of a hat), and my grandparents grandson! I see them in every part of me! With that said, I also believe that I am a product of my surrounding, not only how I was raised, but by the community, and ultimately the area that I lived in then and now where I live now currently. With more discussion I also realized that this was also how I viewed design. Where you live (your home), is ultimately reflected in you.

I've always said "I ams what I ams." When I was younger, I thought that I was a genius for coming up with that, but then at somepoint in elementary school I realized that I had heard it from Popeye. In 8th grade wrote an article about this philosophy that ended up getting published in some school magazine. I find it kind of ironic that sticking to that principal has now gotten me to this new adventure!

I'll be updating it weekly! So please check in whenever you think about it! And leave me a comment if you can and let me know what you think! Also look in the Kentucky Monthly magazine starting in March to see editorials/stories from Stuart, Dwayne, and myself!

Thankfully I have an editor who goes through and fixes grammar issues and all of that jazz. On here, you get the unedited version with typos and grammatical errors. I wonder why they thought that I needed an editor? ;) Oh well it is what it is!

You can view the first blog by clicking here

Do Men Really Cry

2011-01-24T02:39:00.000-08:00

I have lived in a society where taboos are taken very seriously and breaking one would very easily earn you outcast status. These range from stealing to killing and everything in between. Most of the don’ts were hidden in tales, especially for children, to make sure they stuck in their heads at all times. Things like ogres were invented to make sure that once mentioned, they instilled enough fear to last a lifetime. One of the famous don’ts is crying for men. Since early in our lives, we were made to believe that for men, the eyes are solely used for sight; nothing more! Even at tender ages as boys, crying was unheard of. It would bring one a very precarious reputation. Wait until you cry in front of girls and you are done. For crying is strictly a reserve of women! Boys don’t die, let alone cry! It was that strict. At the point of circumcision, it got worse. Even after the white man having brought the concept of anesthesia and “proper” hospital procedure, we still were taken to the river early in the morning and chopped using stone-sharpened blades – to become “real men”. Shed a tear and you are a living shame to your family and age mates!

All this because men do not cry, whatever the circumstances. For crying is a sign of submission and weakness. It is conceding defeat in the situation at hand. I read somewhere that when a man is fired, they don’t cry; but rather, they shake hands and head out to plan revenge. Just like Tupac Shakur would have it, when thugs cry, they don’t shed tears they shed blood! This is very parallel with the movie heroes shed no tears, for in their eyes, every man is a hero. Bring a woman in the picture and the man becomes not just a hero, but a savior, a god in some way! That is my society, and we are not very behind as far as civilization goes! The disassociation of men with tears has for a long time been considered as a universal phenomenon. But not anymore!

I've passed the plains, endured the rain!
I've crossed heights, without minding terrain!
I've walked the rocks, never considered the strain!
Yet grown man at lenient pinch, wanna breakdown in pain!

Today many men are turning to crying as a resolve for their “little matters”. Ironically, these are the same ones that froze all the tears in their eyes some years back. Many men today are crying over failing relationships! Like we see in the movies. I have even heard arguments that when a man sheds tears over a matter in their relationships, it most certainly a genuine case! So my question is; are these men shedding real tears? Or is it just crocodile tears to get their dirty way out?

Yes, Okay But Later

2011-01-13T23:03:00.000-08:00

It is always fascinating the thought of simple concepts that led to the world's most innovative discoveries. Think of Isaac Newton under the apple tree and facing the sky! Among the most useful of these is the alarm clock, and particularly the snooze function of the same. A bigger fraction of the alarm users are the wake up call users. And when the clock strikes five or whatever evil hour that one needs to kick the blankets away, the alarm clock chimes it's rude way to interrupt a good night sleep. While waking up is inexcusable, the exact moment for waking up can always be put off. Thus they switch on a default answer to the wake up call - Yes, Okay...but later!

This is just one simple example of the human nature as far as time consciousness is concerned. We always seem to create a form of deficit time, the kind that is necessary to slow our hurry in anything and everything. You will find that of all the things you schedule to do within a particular time frame, the biggest percentage is either done at the tail-end or later than the set duration. This does not mean that you were ambitious with your timing. You might actually have been very generous and yet find yourself against time (not time against you!).

But note that you are doing great if at all you beat a deadline without being pushed by your boss! The truth is that only a very small percentage of us meet our time targets. It gets worse at times, not only do we miss the targets by some days, but we also never get started on our 'time budgets' at all! Some will push the activity from one period to the other thinking that the next time it will be easier on their schedules, only to find that it was worse. This in turn creates a viscous cycle of 'I will do it tomorrow's'. some will eventually forget there was something to be done all together.
Think of the famous New Year resolutions. This to many is usually a scape-goat to the failures of the past year. Many explain how much they needed to do this thing but time, or money, or their families stood in the way. Once they year has set on its journey, we keep piling issues on top of the resolutions that they soon suffocate under the weight. And another new year set in and more resolutions are made! The problem here is not the resolution, rather, it is the fact that you have not set up a savings account, you are still adding weight, you have not advanced your education and so on.
The simplest way to meet our own deadlines is to breakdown whatever activities we might be planning into logical milestones. This gives us manageable goals, for example, you no longer look at building your own home, but rather buying a plot, procuring architectural services, hiring a contractor to build the first phase et cetera. The result is the same, but the load is much less and the chances of failure negligible.

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Free Yourself

2011-01-13T02:00:00.000-08:00

See how

To find out How......... Click Here!
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Making Your Holiday Table Special

2010-12-22T05:12:00.000-08:00

Whether you serve sit down style or opt for a buffet, making your Holiday table special adds that finishing touch for the day.

1. What's on the Menu? By reviewing your menu plans, you'll have a starting point on how you want to set your table, your serving pieces needs and what size table you'll need. Try to add one dish that’s new or different.

Pumpkin Spiced Mimosas

Pumpkin Spice Apple Cider Mimosas

2. What's the Theme? However you decorate the rest of your home is your common thread for creating a beautiful spread. Color is the easiest to replicate.

3. Gather the Goods. Corral your serving pieces, China, serving ware, napkins and linens 1st. Your serving pieces can be a mix and match, don't feel that they all have to be a certain style, just make sure they can house the food they're intended for. The same goes for China. There is no need to resort to using paper, a mix of dinnerware is O.K.

BH&G Photo - Red Transferware

Back Story on not having a full "set" of China - While conducting a workshop a few years back, one of the participants shared that when her daughter 1st married, they were a bit strapped for cash. Creatively, she shopped the clearance sections for a collection of very good, but usually single, place settings. When she hosted her 1st Holiday, she created a tradition that each setting was beautifully laid out, and each family member got to choose their own setting for dining that day. It is now a tradition, which the family looks forward to each year.

How to shop for Mix & Match China

4. If you're serving sit down style and have enough room, use chargers. They're inexpensive, protect your linens and add that special splash to the place setting. If serving buffet style, the chargers can be used under the serving pieces for the same effect. I have found some of my favorites, from bamboo to crocodile embossed, at Target. Hobby Lobby too has a nice assortment.

5. Consider a run of organza, tulle or sheer fabrics to go over your linens. Fabric stores have wonderful holiday fabrics that can enhance your basic linens. They too most likely will be on sale.

6. If serving buffet style, use lifts to raise a few of the dishes or décor to create an interesting tablescape. Cake stands, large pots, sturdy boxes, books can all lift things up. Make sure if they aren’t pretty, to put them under the linens.

7. Mark your serving pieces. Use stick ‘em notes to mark what each dish will serve.

8. Set the table. Don’t go overboard, but make it special. Fold napkins in a special way, add a small gift ( I like British party crackers,) candles (unscented,) and whatever other décor you’ve decided on to make each place setting special.

9. Make it special. From a signature cocktail, to a special centerpiece, to a new tradition, making your dinner special for the ones you love makes for memories.

Preying with the Rules

2010-12-09T22:49:00.000-08:00

I am a fan of reality shows. To me they score far and away more than fiction, especially because they are easy to relate with. They also teach real life lessons and they depict the true human nature. This weekend I watched a penultimate show of a local music star search contest. In the local standards, the stakes were high and the contestants gave it no less seriousness. They clad the best fashion and pulled the hottest moves. At that point of the competition, the rules of the last elimination were quite clear, or so we thought! Two contestants were to be eliminated so to remain with four finalists. The first contestant was eliminated by the least number of votes garnered from fans. That was done according to book. It seemed to the judges that if the game was played by the set rules, a ‘strong’ contestant would have been eliminated at the expense of a ‘weaker’ contestant, who was a darling to the fans, a working strategy. This particular contestant was all along on probation but thanks to a horde fans, she kept coming on coming back. Thus the judges decided to eliminate this contestant by ‘judge’s votes’.

The jeers and murmurs from the crowd made their statement. The game had been rigged. The result had been insincerely arrived at. The crowd had been robbed of their right to vote for their favorite contestant, their votes had been trashed. The card had been passed under the table. It can be compared with the survivor series. Contestants always fight to get a hold of immunity and the rules are always very clear – get to the immunity instrument and stay in the competition. What would probably happen if the mode of acquiring this immunity is determined at the end of the race?

Games and competitions are only fair when rules are stuck to. The same applies to life. Fair play is one virtue that should be sought by all and sundry. Notwithstanding the side of the equation that one is! Taking advantage of the other side is not an alien phenomenon. It cuts across the board. Raw deals are always experienced, whether in employment, contracts and even marriages! Rules of engagement are always broken. This does not only water down the integrity of the defaulter, it can also jeopardize long cultivated relationships, not to mention cost a great deal to the victim.

That said, however, it also very important for everyone to make due diligence, read in between the lines and especially to get a good look at the fine print and only get as deep into the water as they weight can bear. Terms and conditions of any engagement is always overlooked. This has been in many occasions the cause of great anguish when the water turns murky.

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2010-12-02T05:22:00.000-08:00

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6 Tips on How to Give Your Holiday Décor a Makeover:

2010-12-01T08:14:00.000-08:00

Think Outside the Box!                    Showcase Family Heirlooms

Color            Use What You Have               Set Your Holiday Table in Style

                                      Incorporate New Pieces

#1. Use What You Have

Inventory what you have. Don’t rummage in the boxes my friend, unload them, especially if you’re O.C.D.-ish or a theme person. By revaluating your existing things, you’ll be inspired, find new connections and come up with different combinations.

#2 Think Outside the Box!

Don’t put it up like last year, or the year before, or the year before… One of my favorite places to decorate is the China Cabinet – Acres of Waterford or Macy style China displays are so BORING, besides, the Dining Room is meant for conversation and celebration. Have a treasured ornament from Great Grandma? Hang it from an ornament stand with her picture next to it. Vases can be filled with tinsel or mini-ornaments, shelves can be sprinkled with faux snow – Tell a story in this great space!

#3 Color

A great way to refresh and reinvent your décor is with a new thread of color. This year’s hot hues are Chocolate, Blue, Bronze, Orange and Super brights - like Neon Yellow, Hot Pink and Lime Green. A little shot of these fresh hues will liven up your old stuff and make it all shiny and new. Try some new napkins, I like to pair two together. How about a can of bronze floral spray on some old greenery and neon green on pine cones with a dusting of chocolate glitter? Why not pickup a pot of hot pink orchids or Christmas cactus to perk up table tops? Pop them into copper containers or in brightly glazed pots.

#4 Showcase Family Heirlooms

The Holidays are all about family, and what a better way of celebrating the season than with special pieces of the past. Besides the antique ornaments, what about the heirloom silver tea service? The tray can be proudly placed on the living room cocktail table anchoring a lovely holiday vignette. The pot and creamer used as vessel for a spectacular floral arrangement, and the sugar bowl filled with wrapped candies in the powder room to refresh the breath of guests.

#5 Set Your Table with Style

Treat your guests with style and panache by setting a lovely table. Whether buffet or sit down, be a great hostess by adorning your tables with a feast for the eyes as well as the stomach. Mix and Match is always a lovely treat, so don’t worry that you don’t have enough of one dish set. Never revert to Chinette, but feel free to twist up your service by serving appetizers or use festive paper as the second/salad plate. If buffeting, flat is not where it’s at – Create lifts and height with flipped pots, boxes, hurricane vases, giant martini or daiquiri glasses. The pots/boxes can be covered with runs of fabrics or table clothes, and vases, glasses used as platter/plate stands or filled with dips or food. Think of a fancy brunch at a 5 Star Hotel. Candles, fresh floral and chargers come cheap and make a chic impact for your table. Make sure that the candles are scent free.

#6 Incorporate New Pieces

This is a double meaning tip. When decorating, don’t leave what you already have out, pack it away and replace with the Holiday Décor. Rotation is good. Plus, when the holidays are over, and you unpack the old stuff, consider placement in a new spot.

Now that you’ve unpacked and inventoried your decor, decorated - Pack a box or two to be donated. It’s time for someone else to love your décor. Just like the cloths in your closet, if you haven’t used them in awhile, it’s time to let them to go. By donating, you make room for a few new things.

Use the tips above to help you shop for a few new décor pieces. From color to decorating area, a few new added pieces to your Holiday collection can perk up the old stash and give you a new fresh view.

Resources:

Ornament Stands: http://www.ornamentdisplays.com/

Festive Paper Plates: http://www.platesandnapkins.com/

Orchids and Christmas Cactus: Home Depot

Floral Spray, Glitter, Giant Martini Glasses, Candles: Michaels

Chargers, Hurricanes: Hobby Lobby

We're Plaid Proud!

2010-11-23T17:21:00.000-08:00

Make your Black Friday... PLAID!

This year has been an exciting year of "firsts" and "new" things for Stuart, Dwayne and myself, that's for sure! A new business, a new way of thinking, new clients, and new challenges. But for me personally, a new thing has truthfully come to front of my mind without a second thought, buy locally.

Being a Local Business owner, my eyes have been opened to how really important it is to support local businesses. Before, I never really thought of going to a local shop for gifts, or for lunch, or for...well anything. It was too easy to just stop by a "Big Box Store" and get something "cheap", and truthfully, I use the word "cheap" loosely. As I've found, we're often less expensive than "large retailers" on the same exact items.

Something as simple as produce was just a quick trip to Wal-mart or Meijer. But when I experienced the Farmer's Market, I discovered a whole new world of true local celebration. The Farmers Market is a great example of how easy it is to buy locally grown foods, support local farmers and their families, and make a fun experience out of the whole thing!

As Black Friday approaches, and we're all thinking of the excellent "sales" the Big Box/Big Retailers are preparing, don't forget the local retailers who are also sharing in the excitement with discounts, deals, and sales! And this my friend's is what has become known as "PLAID FRIDAY". Actually thought of and celebrated widely in Oakland, California, this day is simply the fun and enjoyable alternative to the big box store "Black Friday," and is designed promote both local and independently owned businesses during the holidays. The actual name Plaid Friday celebrates the diversity and creativity of independent businesses, how we're all weaved together to make our own neighborhoods, cities, and towns. You can share in Plaid Friday by wearing Plaid, and by stopping by a local business. Whether it is our store, or someone elses, please make sure you stop by and let them know that you support them. We're all in this together!

See you Friday...and I'll be wearing my PLAID!

Weight is Dangerous!

2010-11-04T04:42:00.000-07:00

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Style Spotlight - The Forgotten Dining Room

2010-11-02T05:18:00.000-07:00

With holiday celebrations just around the corner, now is a perfect time to address our Dining Rooms. The dining room is typically the least used room in any home. It also tends to be the room that is most difficult to decorate. Big, bulky furniture suites, extensive hardwood surfaces and space constraints conspire to prevent you from putting your personal stamp on the room. The dining room was intended to be a space used for celebrations, lively conversation and special occasion dining. Decorate this family gathering space with color, creative displays and décor that will make every guest feel welcome!

Ralph Lauren Wallpaper in BURNISHED CORK - TOBACCO

• With wallpapers back in vogue, this may just be the room to unleash a paper creation! Textures, faux techniques, patterns, metallic’s and more are readily available with today’s advanced technology. With a dining room’s hardwood and suite of furniture, wallpaper is a great juxtaposition to the sameness of the space.

• If paint is your choice, choose a hue to compliments your furniture and celebrates you personal style. The dining room was meant for family gatherings and entertaining, so this is a perfect space to show off your personality. Why not pick a color that has been inching up to a new favorite?

What's on your floor? - Rug or no rug? Rugs can add warmth, anchor furniture, add color, texture and ambiance to a space.

• Rethink your Lighting. If your chandelier has seen better days, why not replace or repurpose the one you have? A chandelier should be about 12" narrower than the width of the table over which it hangs and hung approximately 30” above the surface. If you want to reinvent your existing piece – A new coat of paint, new shades or a ceiling medallion, can give a new piece a new life. Swap out your old switch for a dimmer too.

• Hang paintings, family portraits, and other wall art at a lower level so that you and your guests can enjoy them while seated at the dining table. Place a large mirror in the room across from windows to create an illusion of space or reflect your lovely chandelier.

• Shop your home, a local art gallery or store for paintings, prints, plates to adorn your walls. Antique or specialty plates make great wall art, especially hung in a collection. Art in this room should feed the soul with food or dining themes – Still life settings, photography of bistro store fronts, or club car dining are all great ideas for hung art.

Still Life Wtih Blooming Red Tulips Print by Nicole Etienne at Art.com

• Give your china cabinet a makeover by creating a seasonal display or a vignette of precious family objects. From holiday China to treasured ornaments removing the typical stored finds and reinventing the space will give your room a whole new identity. Antique family photos in small sterling silver frames become more meaningful when paired with an heirloom object, such as a pocket watch or a baby’s bootie. Creatively displayed postcards, pictures, souvenirs and other special remembrances make wonderful dinner conversation starters.

• Slip cover, reupholster or replace worn dining chairs. Purchase custom slipcovers with interesting details, such as back lacing, monogramming or fun trims. Reupholster your seats with a colorful fabric that matches the freshly painted walls. Replace the two captain’s chairs with upholstered parson’s chairs. The fabric will soften the hard woods in the room and create a softened look – Best of all, these chairs can be rotated into other spaces when needed.

• Finally, set the mood for your room with accessories. For the table, river a Pashima shawl for a stunning look, tall glass footed hurricanes filled with seasonal finds, your buffet set with a sparkling silver pieces and each of your seats paired with a lumbar pillow.

By putting your personal stamp on your dining room you reinvent a forgotten space, create a mood for a room meant to celebrate family and friends and having a seasonal jumping off point for your holiday and entertaining decorating for this year

Featured in the Herald Leader, Weekender!

2010-10-29T07:59:00.000-07:00

Here's what Harriett Hendren had to see about our Christmas Open House coming up!!!

Christmas is nearly two months away, but November means the beginning of "open house" season, with stores decked out for the holidays offering specials and treats.

One of the first open houses in Lexington starts Tuesday and runs through Nov. 6 at House, the cut-as-a-button homem decor shop at 1583 Delaware Avenue.

Everything will be 20% off. Co-owners J. Stuart Hurt, Dwayne Anderson, and Jeremy Rice worked for years at Corman's, so they can decorate for the holidays like nobody's business.

A sampling of what you'll find: candles, trees, garlands, wreaths, swags and loads of holiday design ideas.

Call (859) 523-3933 or go to http://www.housebyjsd.com

VIDEO HOW I LIKE IT

2010-10-28T00:15:00.000-07:00

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Christmas Open House! It's here!

2010-10-22T09:02:00.000-07:00

Mark your calendars! 'house' will be celebrating OUR first ever November Christmas Open House! We are so very excited! Tues Nov 2 - Saturday Nov 6 Save 20% off EVERYTHING

We've been working our little butts off (well if mine is the determining factor..." fat butts off " )! Christmas is EVERYWHERE in the store....I MEAN EVERYWHERE.

Against what I would have chosen, we started listening to Christmas music on Tuesday of this week, but 4 days in...I'M READY! There's just something about Christmas Music that puts you in the mood!

We've been putting up trees, decorating garlands, wreaths, and swags! If you've thought our store was full before....just wait until you see it for Christmas! I should have went on a diet!

To let you in on a little honesty, every year as the Christmas season approaches, I get a little nervous, wondering how we are going to top what the three of us created before. WELL....this year, is VERY different. Hands down...we've smacked anything we've ever done out of the park this year.

As far as themes....we have everything. We have Burberry Equestrian, Classic Williamsburg, Traditional Red & Green, Oompa Loompa Red and Green, Candy, Cardinal, Formal Gold, Formal Silver, Ice and Snow, as well as some new combinations of Navy/Burgundy with a Flocked tree, and many others!

We are so excited to open our doors and share this wonderful season with you!

We also need your assistance to help us spread the word of the Christmas Open House Nov 2 Nov 6! Please tweet (we're @housebyjsd) , facebook, email, word of mouth all of your friends! Not everyone knows where to find us now! And after all....we're half the fun! (insert disclosure of possible snow and glitter thrown here! we do like to have a good time!)

We're counting down and hope that you are too! Thanks again! And see you soon!

Ultimate Weight Loss Package

2010-10-22T06:08:00.000-07:00

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Tips on Creating Seasonal Arrangements

2010-10-13T08:08:00.000-07:00

Any flat surface is a great area to seasonally dress. Here are a few tips on making the vignette look fabulous:

Room's purpose and style - Fancy in the fancy areas, casual in the casual areas.
Room's function - A large arrangement on a family room cocktail table isn't going to work if you're room's function is TV viewing...
Scale and Proportion - Whatever the area, make sure that the "stuff" is in scale to the surface or area your putting it. For example, a large mantle needs large accessories.
Create highs and lows - Use books, cake stands, easels, hurricanes, apothecary's to create highs and lows in your display.
Group collections in odd numbers.
Try to break your symmetry - Don't be matchy matchy.
Add something unexpected in the mix - Create a conversation.
Don't get lazy - Hang what needs to be hung, use a measuring tape when needed, take the extra step...
Bang for the Buck - One spectacular pieces, with knock-offs around it - makes the knockoffs spectacular too.
Don't go over board - Too much of a good thing, isn't good...

Fall Decorations - Tips & Techniques

2010-10-04T14:51:00.000-07:00

Mother Nature is beginning to put on her grandest show for the year, and we're heading to the attic or basement for all those boxes marked "Fall Decorations."

As many of you would agree, fall is a great season to change out or update your seasonal and home décor, but just like our wardrobe, sometimes we need to weed out or refresh our stash. Here a few ideas and tips to help you update your home for the season and infused the latest trends into your home décor.

1.) Give your rooms a new arrangement. Fall is the perfect time to review your spaces and ready your rooms for the upcoming succession of holidays. Like a blank canvas, a new arrangement gives you an introduction for a medley of fresh ideas from accessory placement to infusing new color ideas. By starting at the base, you can layer on interesting new ideas, rotate your collections and perhaps come up with something totally new! (Insider Arrangement tip: Your hearth, piano or picture window is appropriate launching points for your new redesign.)

2.) Shop Your Home and Reinvent It. Unveil those fall décor boxes and sort through your decorating goods by shopping your own home. Metallics are still in the fore front of 2010-11 trends. Could your ceramic pumpkin and Indian corn collection get a hip makeover with a quick coat of trendy pearlized or high gloss paint; perhaps those pitted cabinet knobs, a lamp bases, or a painting frame could be given the same coat, creating a new metallic tread to your décor? From lamp shades to art print's mats - small changes made to your old stuff gives them the same result as a bit of Botox!

3.) Put it into Rotation. The same stuff out all the time, in the same place becomes a bit dull on the eyes - Consider a rotation of your accessories. Packing away a few of your room’s accessory staples when seasonally decorating, not only rejuvenates your room, but when you bring it back into the mix, put it in a different spot! My motto is - "A pumpkin in, means a Llardro out. "

4.) Layer it. As the temperature goes down, the layers come out. Nothing speaks more to the season than cozy & warm textiles. Hot trends are nature inspired textural prints, animal motifs and ethnic patchworks - So incorporate layered fabrics and other textiles like rugs into your seasonal decorating. Have an old quilt that can be reinvented into a beautiful pillow, framed as art, or upholstered into a footstool? Don't be afraid to layer more than one rug on the floor or consider that rugs can be wall art too. (Insider Tip: No one ever said you can't use fabrics as accessories - Down tables, tossed on sofa backs or tucked into or on top of bookcases or armories.)

•6.) Coordinate with Color. Incorporating a new color palette into a space is one of the easiest ways to revitalize a room. Some new color combinations may evoke your creativity when seasonally accessioning your rooms, looking for a new pillows, window panels, throws or creating vignettes:

-Coffee Bean Brown paired with Artichoke Green
-Dove Grey paired with Navy
-Deep Plum paired with Paprika
Try Chambourd and Buttered Yam Affinity hues by Ben Moore
-Apple Green paired with Tomato Red
-Smoky Pale Blue paired with Metallic Champagne Beige

What I love about Fall!

2010-10-02T09:09:00.000-07:00

Now that it seem the temperatures have finally started to lower and become the Fall that so many of us love, I can't help but think about all of the things that I love about Fall!

The crisp mornings, warm afternoons, and chilly nights! Bowls of chilli! FOOTBALL! The turning of the leaves! And maybe...just maybe that the hint of Christmas is right around the corner! (I know it's still early, but I had to mention it!)

In the last few weeks we've been working on many Fall parties, and have created a number of different takes on Fall. For me, Fall isn't just about sunflowers, and pumpkins (although I'll never pass on a piece of pumpkin pie....don't judge!) , however the season is more about the colors and textures.

Our lovely friends at Heaven Hill asked us to do a couple of Fall floral arrangement to sit out at an WEG event at Keeneland. So what was I to use?

We first off, I found the incredible orange coxcomb seen in the arrangement, it was without a doubt what set the color direction for the rest, and who can pass on the fun texture that it provides! Taking the lead from the coxcomb, I had the color direction, but needed the right textures to add. The large bourbon stained fugi poms (the flowers that are kind of like star bursts) were a great texture against the coxcomb, plus they gave me the option of them being the "star players" in the arrangements. The unusual color and flower shape were ideal!

What to add next?! Well, I LOVE hydrangeas.....or maybe I should say I LUUUUUURRRRVVV hydrangeas (I have about lost my religion with mine at my home, because they bloomed like twice this summer!) The mini-greens hydrangeas were a perfect pop of color in this monochromatic orange/bourbon/green combination!

The final pieces to finish the combination were hypericum berry, decorative cabbage, and a surprise addition by a pomegranate. Notice the color of the hypericum. Often you find it in either a red/burgundy, apple green, or white color.... Well this morning I hit the jackpot....with this creamcicle hinted hypericum! THE PERFECT filler!

As for the cabbage, I use cabbage a lot in the fall, they are such a statement piece! And the pomegranate...it was a beautiful green pomegrated with hints of orange and burnt umber. NOW, just between you and me, it was artifitial....that's right....fake! But this morning while at the store, everyone who has saw it and touched it have asked where in the world have I gotten this beautiful fruit! I never shared the information around it! It just proves that in some circumstances, you can add artificial pieces with fresh to make a look!

So for me today, this was fall. A monochromatic look at the season through a different eye! Now...if I could just find a piece of pumpkin pie!

"Glamour Don'ts" of Home Staging/Redesign

2010-09-30T17:36:00.000-07:00

Just like our favorite magazine, we home stagers/redesigns have our own list of pet peeves when it comes to our craft. Here are a few....

•1.) Faux Greenery/Silks in Odd Areas. Always place trees or greenery in areas that they could actually GROW! Their sole purpose is to give the illusion they are real, therefore need photosynthesis to grow. Oh... and placing ivy as a window valance or China cabinet topper went out when Dynasty went off the air.

•2.) Floating Art. When hanging art over a sofa or a case good, associate the height to the item to retain good visual contact. The display will not look right if it seems to float too high above the object - it needs to be grounded. 18" from the back of the sofa is a good rule of thumb. And slightly above the smallest arrangement for the case good.

•3.) The Rug Scale to Conversation Area Faux Pas. A rug can create and define a conversational grouping. Make sure that the scale of the rug is in-tune to the scale of the furniture/objects associated to it. A sofa should either be sitting on or no more than 8"away from a rug. Just about the same size as the cocktail table is not a scale formula for rug size.

•4.) Accessorizing with Evens. When accessorizing or creating vignettes, the golden rule is "Always in Odd Numbers."

•5.) Forgetting the Focal Point. Every space has a fabulous purpose or emphasis. Focusing on the purpose and/or emphasis of the room will allow you to set the mood and arrange the furnishings and accessories properly.

•6.) Forgetting the Stature of the Home or Room. Wicker doesn't belong in formal living rooms, nor does a Big Lots ficus tree in a Tony Tudor. Make sure the things placed in a room or home go with the stature of the space.

•7.) Flood Window Treatments. Traditionally drapery panels are set 1/2 in. off the floor. 1" is pushing it and 3" off the floor is creating a Capri.

•8.) Being Light Challenged. Every room should have at least three light sources for the function of space. Ceiling lights do not count. The perfect formula is to have them placed in a triangle pattern around the room; which will create movement and flow to the space.

•9.) Table Short. Anywhere someone sits in a functional space should have a table in reach of a seated person. The exception is a transitional space such as a foyer or hall.

•10.) A Mirrored Mess. Mirrors over fireplaces, sofas, or lonely on a wall oh my... Mirrors should always reflect something beautiful - Not a ceiling fan, walk rail or wall. You can be excused if it is a decorative mirror that shows as art rather than function.

•11.) Oddly Angled Furniture. Don't think your being creative if you put it on an angle. Angles instantly slice through visionary planes, can make people psychologically feel uncomfortable, can eat up floor space and can render the piece or room functionless.

2010-09-16T15:32:00.000-07:00

So here we are, only 6 months into this business...and 'house' was voted Best New Store in Ace Weekly's 2010 Best of Lexington by their readers!

It is an incredible honor! Thank you to all of those out there who have supported us when we opened the door and those of you that have continued to support us!

It's hard to believe that the year is coming to an end....Well...I mean there's still Fall coming up, but Christmas will be here before we know it...and then Stuart, Dwayne, and I will be at market again trying to figure out what new we're going to do next year!

I know it's a little early...but thank you for the incredible year!

Also, I realize that I have slacked majorly on blogging.....I promise to do more with that! However, if you would like to see lots of current events and etc...always check our facebook and twitter pages!

J

Finally Moved IN!

2010-09-07T12:05:00.000-07:00

7:00 am. Before

Sometimes it takes a fresh set of eyes, some creative juices and a bit of expertise to make things come together. My client on Saturday, moved in over a year ago - A sofa here, a tread mill there, a few thing hung, but she struggled with placement and making the home her own. Lovely pieces, family heirlooms (such as the Armoire right,) great accessories, treasured photos, just not in the right spots.

10am. After!

Although her room is long, the space is narrow. We established three living areas in one space.

We swapped the large sofa for a love seat, allowing for a dining area to emerge and banished the treadmill as well.. The buffet was repositioned to it's rightful home from the entry area, creating not only a sense of a dining room - but a perfect platform for collections and a serving area.
The TV spot was recreated by a simple tweak in furniture positioning.

Since that room is long and narrow, keeping big pieces on the long plane makes for visual volume in the room. Too, take advantage of extra space such as the bay window to steal a bit of floor space, by sliding that over sized chair into the space.

Space Define and in Scale to Room

3. Create a Functional Foyer - Not only the entry which the family comes home to on a daily basis, but also the foyer for visiting guests. The back of the love seat creates a "wall" so that the area feels like a room. The bench, borrowed from the dining set is a great spot to drop back packs, brief cases, or a spot to take off shoes. The homeowner's family treasured armoire will be repurposed into shoe storage - Celebrating the piece once again, like her Mom did so many years ago.

The Heirloom Armoire will house the family's shoes

Applause.... "I can't say enough about Julea's work. She came in the door and got straight to work and turned my beautiful house into a stunning home using only what I already had. I have a beautiful home with an awkward set up. She walked in and automatically knew what to do (I had worked on trying to figure it out for a year and was still stumped). She also worked with me to plan the next room I wanted to work on. I have started the process of finding the pieces for the rest of our home (much bigger than our last). I have a clear plan now. Everyone who walks in our home is shocked by the transformation."

Ambition, Greed and the other side

2010-09-02T06:47:00.000-07:00

Fore more tips on how to improve your life <{[[( Click Here! )]]}>

That you cannot have your cake and eat it at the same time is a famous cliche, probably as famous as the one about the grass on the other side! There are illustrations all around us. Right from when we set out at the unveiling of a new day to the rush at its close. We, meaning a majority of mankind, find ourselves pulled by the gravity of the numerous things that we interact with. This is more so the ones we do not possess.

Thinking that this is a negative aspect is being oblivious of the nature of mankind! For mankind is generally a progress seeker. This being the chief reason why we no longer live in natural caves. We are clearly out of the woods…and even far away from there! The search for a better, more comfortable life makes mankind move from one level to the other, more so in the advancing direction.

This noble notion is, however, usually misused if not misinterpreted to be; the other side is the better side. Greed is always a very pushy attitude that leads many in to making the wrong move in the hope of getting it easier or cozier in their life.

No one ever said, for example, that life is better when one changes jobs. The pay could be far and away higher, but the conditions could be downgrading and dehumanizing. More money does not always mean more happiness, for as the late Notorious BIG would have it, ‘more money, more problems. Back home, there is a famous saying, that most ladies would rather ‘cry on a Mercedes than laugh on a bicycle!’ this is in regard to relationships they would rather be in.

Fore more tips on how to improve your life <{[[( Click Here! )]]}>

There is always the talk of people (read ladies) to move on to more promising relationships, especially based on financial feasibility of the other guy. Jobs are changed from time to time, if only to make it more worthwhile. Have you ever paid for a new suit only to realize there were ‘better others’? Is it not a factor of non contentment rather than hasty selection that drives the notion that your neighbour’s wife is ‘hotter’ than yours?

What we need to differentiate here is greed and ambition. While ambition looks to the other side for inspirations and lessons, greed pushes us to get that which is on the side and draws all our attention to copy it, regardless. While ambition seeks to exceed the achievements of the other side, greed works to take over the possessions of the other side. And while ambition seeks a progressive advancement into the betterment of life, greed looks to crash land into the better life.
That said, the thing to remember is that while advancement is about change, the psychological rearrangement precedes physical change in ambitious persons, while the opposite is characteristic of greed.

You will get a better happier life in your current job place, country, marriage and what have you! Just look inside you and see exactly what pessimistic and redundant tendencies that have made you a bad apple in the eye of your spouse, boss, prospective customer et cetera. And even if the problem is on their side…it is up to you to bring out the 80% good before you finally table their 20% ill!

Fore more tips on how to improve your life <{[[( Click Here! )]]}>

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The Interior Stylists' Secret Recipe

2010-08-31T15:54:00.000-07:00

Ingredients:

Understand your client’s needs, appreciate their lifestyle, value their taste – Core ingredients to having satisfied clients.

Directions:

Help choose a color palette that enhances the home’s bones, embraces what they already have, and creates the style & mood they’ll love to come home to.
Create a floor plan that honors the room’s function, carefully considering traffic patterns, activities and focal points.
Offer creative and cost effective solutions to re-invent, re-purpose or relocate difficult, tired or hidden gems.
Don’t conceal your favorite hidden shopping haunts; instead, invite them to take hand on a shopping expedition or explain a room-by-room shopping wish list to complete.
Be full service and express your textile talents with a full understanding of how to dress a space with fabrics and window wardrobes.
Complete the home with detailed accessorizing and styling expertise to help evoke conversation, celebrate the 5 senses, stir interest and celebrate the room’s personality.

Our style is your style, our talent is to make your home lovely for you! An Interior Stylist is an expert in fully understanding and defining what the homeowner wants. Although totally in-tune to the current color and trends - An Interior Stylist is there to meld your personal taste with her creativity and expertise into a home of your dreams. http://www.interiorstylist.org/ http://www.interiorstylistprogram.com/

FALLing for your Kitchen - Seasonal & Organizational Updates for the Heart of the Home

2010-08-27T06:02:00.000-07:00

Wall Color BM-2144-30 Rosemary Sprig

The kitchen is the most utilized and meaningful room in a household. It is the hub for family tasks and used for food preparation, household management, and of course entertaining. It is indeed the heart of any home. No matter how many rooms you have dedicated for entertainment, everyone always ends up in the kitchen! With the kids back in school, a cool nip in the air, fall kicks off our major holiday season - in fact, we can celebrate right through the New Year. Now is a great time to get your kitchen “party readied,” and organized for easy maneuvering during the holiday rush, and of course-seasonally updated.

• Need a Color Lift? - Try reinventing an old piece, a wall , or whole room... Be inspired by the season - Ben Moore’s Rosemary Sprig 2144-30, Toasted Pecan #1209, Burnt Sienna #1196, or Sherwin William’s Library Pewter SW0038, or Studio Blue-Green SW0047. It’s just paint, and is the easiest and cheapest change you can make.

• Counter Tops - Swap out a tired canister set with a new revision; there are loads to choose from (If you’re not a gourmet cook, store pens, notepads, and takeout menus inside.) They add needed color and design. Large platters on plate stands are good-looking in unused dark corners or grouped on walls. Extra-large clear glass canisters are conversation makers when layered with dried beans, nuts or black, yellow and white dried popcorn. A kitchen must is a sassy new set of dish towels, seasonal kitchen candles, and a hand soap/lotion set in scents of spiced apple, pumpkin or caramel.

• Tell a Story with your Floral - A whimsical floral whether store or home made adds a bit of seasonal flair to any table. Create a mini-container garden by abundantly grouping those adorable “mini” annuals and petite ivy. or a bountiful arrangement with faux fall veggies, dried pods, leaves and vines.

Rustic watering cans from Pottery Barn can be seasonal highlights

• Looking Up - Upper cabinet tops or upper shelves seem always to pose a decorating challenge. For a quick and easy change, large seasonally inspired platters, pots, framed art fill tired spots.
• Smart Cook Organization - An easy way to organize, is to create stations within your kitchen. Love to bake? Set aside two cabinets and counter space solely used for baking (near the oven of course,) fill with baking essentials such as pans, small appliances, spices and other baking staples. Task clustering such as this will help you to stay on task during the busy holiday rush.

• Get your Party Started - Love to entertain, but don’t have a Butler’s Pantry? Convert your little used desk area into an entertainment station.

-Replace wood panels of upper cabinet with glass, adding lighting, and glass shelves - store glasses and decorative bottles.

-Line desk drawer with felt, and hold bar essentials and serving pieces.

-Add a tension rod with shirred fabric for extra storage to the knee hole space, or find the perfectly sized rolling cart.

Space Game - Use a Lazy Susan cabinet for a “Party Pantry.” Store food products, Beverages, paper goods. and china that can be used to throw a soiree at moment’s notice. If you’re even luckier to have an unused closet. super size it and linens, vases, and decor all in one neat place.

No matter how large or small your kitchen, whether you’re a gourmet cook or take-out type, every kitchen needs a seasonal boost and should be readied for family, friends for upcoming holiday celebrations!

A floral gives a kitchen a seasonal boost (NDI Floral.)

The Case of the Pink Palette

2010-08-24T10:19:00.000-07:00

I try not to tip toe around certain situations, so when I met with a new client last week, with a bad case of color - I had to give it to her straight.

She was so excited, having just moved from the busy city to the blissful 'burbs - Enjoying the wide open spaces and oodles of trees that her new mature folks, golf community boasted. But as I drove the winding roads of the Oak Hills golf community, my mind wandered – “What is delightful for one homeowner is disastrous to another – Beauty is truly in the eyes of the beholder.” After narrowly missing a caravan of golf carts, I pulled up the house. I gathered my thoughts, briefcase and color fan decks and knocked, not knowing what I was walking into…

My business, Interior Styling, my M.O. “Let’s start with what you have and move on from that. “ I’m the clever decorating sleuth that homeowners bring when they need home help – Got a decorating dilemma – Give me a jingle, I’m your gal.

Before...

She called me in because she had a problem – PINK. Like the last sticky bite of an over spun cotton candy cone, the previous owner had sugar coated the place in pink. Pink tiles on the kitchen floors, pink Formica on the counters, pink walls, pink carpet – I will not tell you what’s in the baths….

After casing the joint, asking pertinent questions and feeling like I had just took a dip in a big bottle of Pepto Bismol, we sat down and got to business.

"Pink can be chic if used in moderation, after all it’s just the tint of red" I said. She then stated that she needed to keep some of it, can you make it work I've got a budget. I can make pink work, but we need to resolve it a bit...So how does she fix the prior owner's Pink rampage without spending a bundle? With infusing new COLOR of course! From wall color to accents we’ll create a new palette.

And Here's How -

Her furniture was great, nice modern dark sage sofa, two red leather accent chairs, plenty of accent tables and lamps, nice dining room pieces. We repositioned the furniture into a cohesive arrangement, which cleared the path for color options.

Taking cues from her existing stuff, I created a new palette for her. With a flick of my wrist the fan deck unfurled. I chose a warm putty color as her overall hue to give her a harmonious back drop. She just installed some oak flooring, so a touch of herbal greens as secondary colors will fix the fire place mishap, be used as an accent wall color to define and balance the spaces. We'll incorporate pops of red and pink, from the chairs, existing art and use the pink, instead of fighting it – We’ll make it work.

- Main Color: Ben Moore, Abingdon Putty HC-99

- Fireplace Brick Color: Ben Moore, Hampshire Gray HC-101

- Dining Room Accent Wall: Ben Moore, Gloucester Sage HC-100

(The greens will play well with her new oak floors, existing oak trim and cabinet material. Green too is the compliment of red, making for a nice juxtaposition.)

We “shopped” her home and I made suggestions on what to hang where, what she needed to shop retail for and what needed to be repurposed and renewed (i.e. Lamp shades, etc…) She had some great art pieces with thread of reds that will be just the ticket to bringing all the colors together, allowing her to fall in love with her stuff all over again and giving her old stuff a new lease on life.

We chatted about a future reinvention her window treatments, keeping the sheer panels, but replacing the pinch pleat valance (Ugh..) with some eye lifting cornice boards, furthering her decorating makeover.

She scribed her projects, and I put away my decks. Is the case complete, nope, but, we’re done with the 1st step, and off to a good start. Once the place is painted, and shopping done, I’ll be back for the rest, so stay tuned…

Times of Change

2010-08-16T02:01:00.000-07:00

Nothing lasts forever! Everything changes, with time being the factor of measurement. There is a common local slang that goes like “tumetoka mbali” (We’ve come from far). This is usually an ingredient whenever a current affair is compared with its not-so-long-ago antecedent. That the days are going faster in this age is a common connotation and this follows all the other aspects of days on the run!
Everything is in its own revolution these days, from the society to religion and everything else in between. Not one parent have I heard complain of ‘strange behavior’ by their children. The games have changed. The language of the young is totally poles apart with that of the old folk. Am reminded of the days past, not so long ago though, when the trunk phone was the most reliable form of remote communication! People would give ‘phone dates’, something like “I will give you a ring on Friday at 10am.” The recipient would then hover around the nearby (we are talking kilometers here) public telephone booth for as long as would take the caller to keep their word. Too bad if there was the characteristic long queue on weekends or worse still the other guy doesn’t call! Fast forward 2010, mobile phone explosion! Necessity for all and sundry.
But change is the meaning of life. It is the reason the sun comes up and goes down, the seasons change and the young lose their lithe! ‘Coming of age’ is usually a misnomer for a stationary point in the projectile of life. Soon the benefits of that day are eroded by those of the next and their memories quickly trashed to the decadence of epoch. The pride of today’s achievements is only a blindfold to reality of the gluttony of nature. The insatiable want for more. This is habitually obscured by the challenges of the times ahead.
The only thing to keep in mind is that only quitters can escape the reality of life, albeit momentarily and only fools regret for a day gone past because that is a closed case.

Click Here! For more tips on change and change management.

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The Second Initiation

2010-08-15T23:55:00.000-07:00

So now the secondary schools are welcoming juniors, who have apparently been so senior in their earlier niche that their horns could no longer fit in the low bushes! And into another land so open that the same horns have to be hidden in the sand lest some "tools of routine maintenance" have to come to play!

Well done boys and girls! You must have really earned it - of course from a hard book-digging or deep pocket-digging! Anyhow, you are now into a new territory and this should sink to the deepest of your heads!

Below is a letter of advice that i received from a good friend when i was about to be in your situation and maybe it will be of use to some of you!

It went like....

Carrying a metal box, bucket and hockey stick (something you never saw until today and you'll never see thereafter - the latter goes for the bucket, only that it's loss is often more memorable!) is a precedent, a rite of passage in its own way! Needless to say that the usual "inmate barrier" at the end of the "show me this, go touch that circuit" is a precedent!

A wise first timer knows that talking is a reserve of a few and even when asked to, hesitation is in many ways the better choice! But wisdom comes with age and the first few weeks is far away from age in this world of iron and mud! One wrong statement and you're down a damn slippery stretch, the end of which is a pool of shit....drowning is inevitable!

Laughter is not an option, nothing is a joke if it faces you! Now, if laughter is strictly prohibited, try crying! This prompts a mandatory "apologetic call" to one's mother. Make a guess what the handset is....a boot size 10 fresh from the foot of a footballer's appendage, after two straight hours of marijuana-powered practising session!

Meals are officially mandatory, but missing them is also an option you'd consider inputting in your program or else it might crash! Your mellow-looking melamine plate might be the cause of appetite-loss, especially due to a lost tooth! That nice mug will only be a darling to your hands but might never kiss your lips in the foreseeable days!

You sure have strong bones and even stronger immunity after the longest holiday of your young life, don't expect to use that therapeutic matress and those cosy blankets. Someone will find you more appropriate beddings to check on the possibility of over-sleeping!

So your mother taught you how to wash clothes and iron them, thank her for this, your expertise will come in handy..not everyone washes their clothes...and everyone goes to class groomed (Apart from you if you liked the look of Mr. Principal!) And, oh, that new trouser fits better in someone else's buttocks! Yours can well stand the morning cold, not to mention it's still tender enough for the eyes, don't mind the peep holes!

There's much more i can talk to you here, but i think that too much of a thing is another thing! Just assimillate that and when you are done...you'll get more elsewhere!

And that is how my letter read, and that is how it turned out to be!

Secret gift for my readers =====>Click Here!

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Summer Entertaining Makeover Special

2010-07-06T06:03:00.000-07:00

Reinventing Space is offering a "Summer Entertaining Special." Is your home party ready? If your spaces are looking a bit hum drum, allow Reinventing Space to sweep on through and make them summer entertaining fabulous in a day. I'll rearrange, accessorize and reposition your spaces to make your home just stunning for your up coming summer soiree. - $350.00

What clients are saying.... "I loved working with you .. you do have a skill like no one I have ever met ... Thank you so much for making my house become a home ... once again, just love it! - Heather, St. Charles

2011 Color & Trend Forecast 2011 #2

2010-06-06T12:28:00.000-07:00

The Good Old Days...

Classics never go out of style and watch for the resurrection of some old favorite: From plaids, to forest greens to walnut and pecan furnishings – Retro has never looked so good. Because of the economy and world events, people want to look to the past and reminisce of the good old days… a sense of certainty that previous decades – although they were not free from struggle, manage to make it through & succeed in the end. The color Association translates this with bright, basic colors – Such as Green, Brown, Red and Orange; hues, found typically in vintage wares. The trend curve will explore the 1940’s with seersuckers, cable knots, wools and tweeds. Burberry’s trademarked pattern in tones of tan, black and red is making a resurgence, as well as aviator glasses, bomber jackets and classic art. Ralph Lauren just introduced a new line of "Lauren" furnishings.

10 Home Staging Tips to Make Your Next Listing Look like a Model Home

2010-06-06T11:04:00.000-07:00

What is it about Model homes that make them so appealing? Is it the freshness of all new; is it the sassy paint colors, the perfectly placed furniture, art and accessories or the beautiful groomed backyard that makes you want to plop right down on that comfy club chair, or light the grill on the patio? Well…. Yes to all the above. A builder hold hosts to an array of skilled professionals to make that Model beautiful. From blue print to drawer pulls that Model home is meticulously planned.

Beyond the nicely placed furniture, Model homes are the current reflection of the home environment needs of the target market of the Builder. They are a turn-key product, designed & packaged for the desires of perfect buyer.

Models homes are lovely because they have the latest and the greatest, are fresh and new and are meticulously detailed. Psychology, more than decorating is applied to makes them look so fabulous. From architecture to floral arrangements, Model homes are planned with “YOU” in mind.

So how can you the Realtor make your next listing as appealing as a Model Home? – Here are 10 ways.

1.) Clean. Those nice angled vacuum lines, gleaming windows, and perfectly manicured lawns in Model homes speak to a potential buyer – You don’t have to do a thing. A Realtor can translate that into - A little elbow grease goes a long way. A super clean home says “turn-key” to the potential buyer. Have every inch of the home, blind slats to porch light glass, super clean and perfectly coiffed. According to a national 2009 survey done by Home Gain (www.homegain.com,) a $100-$200 cleaning investment gives an 872% return!

2.) Fresh & Smells Good. People buy homes on emotion, and your 5 senses are a direct path to your brain. If a home smells and looks “funky,” “doggy,” “smoky,” or if the stove is coated with cooking gone bad – The home is off their list. Just like you would detail your car to sell, invest in clean and spotless carpets, patched, repaired and freshly painted walls and new appliances if the old have seen better days. Be wary to skip this step and take the low road with room refreshers, candles and stove burner covers – Potential buyers are not fooled.

3.) Color. Any advertising executive will tell you color is key to properly packaging a product; and a listed home is just that, a product. Throw away the off-white manta of old school home staging rules – Welcome to the era of HGTV. Using color is a powerful and inexpensive way of making that home stand out from the rest, and with so many decorating TV shows boasting the benefits of color, you better get hip to hues. From 1st Web impressions to curb-appeal, color is a strong emotional tug for the potential buyer. Update yourself on the latest color trends in wall color, appliance, fixtures, etc… and apply it to your target buyer. For home staging, use earthy, calm tones for the bigger areas such as wall color and add pops of saturated colors in the details; such front doors, accessories or annuals.

4.) Make Space. The joy of a Model home is the acres and acres of unused storage space & beautifully organized closets. Reduce, organize, upscale and edit all the home’s spaces when it comes to closets and storage areas. If the home’s price point dictates, upscale the closets with custom organizing options.

5.) Clear a Path. Consider that many people with be walking through the home. Make sure traffic patterns, entrances and exits are well established. Too much furniture, undefined entrances and awkward walkways confuse and discourage buyers from moving about the property. Follow a Model Home’s lead and create a concise walking pattern for potential buyers starting a curbside to back fence.

6.) Lovely Layouts. From the landscape to furniture placement, take a clue from Models homes that continuity and flow make for a good mix. Create curb appeal with nicely maintained landscaping, added annuals and perennials, an inviting stoop and well groomed walk and driveways. Inside, make sure each room depicts what its function is, enhances the highlights of the room (i.e. fireplaces or upgrades,) and allows the buyer to envision themselves in the space.

7.) Set the Mood. Create ambiance and character in the home with well thought out placement of sensory and lifestyle components. Soft music, lighting on dimmers, candles lit, and fresh floral are all great ideas for Broker or Open houses. If you have concern about candles, battery operated candles that even have timers built in are now readily available. Stage the dining room table tastefully, or set the stage in a back yard with a detailed patio retreat. Offering helpful lifestyle hints has always been in the Model Home arsenal and always a huge hit.

8.) K.I.S.S. On the opposite note, don’t over accessorize, go over-board with the lifestyle tips or create “store bought theme” rooms (i.e. Chef-with-a-Hat Kitchen or Anniversary Bathtub area complete with Champagne bottle.)

9.) Appeal to a Target Buyer. Consider "WHO” the ideal buyer is that will be interested in the property, and market the property accordingly. From advertising photos to furniture, consider who will find this appealing and desirable.

10.) Market, Market, Market. Model Homes have great marketing incentives inside and out. From clear address markers, great signs, to small exit giveaways, to survey - market that listing to the fullest.

Interior Redesign with Martie

2010-05-18T10:36:00.000-07:00

Martie & Greg were in a tough spot with their Dining Room and Living Room. With the rest of the house complete, they just couldn't make these two spaces work.

With a new view on style, it was hard to meld their more contemporary new view (see light fixture,) with the old school (old house,) pieces in the living room.
They too struggled with choosing a paint color and what to do with those windows.

We 1st picked out a new paint palette using the rest of the completed home as our guide, we choose rich toffees and herbal greens. We then addressed that living room, and decided to keep the tables but replace the couch and side chair. The large red recliner moved to the master, as well as the side chair. She had just purchased a dining room table and 2 black parsons chairs. We did a search within the home and found a lovely mirror and an additional, more scale suited chair in the master.

The side chair, although wonderful in scale, didn't have wonderful fabric on it. As we discussed window treatment ideas, Martie excitedly said she had some fabric yardage she bought and just didn't know what to do with. Ironically, when she pulled it out, stunningly the colors were the same I had chosen for her paint palette.

With a plan in progression, I suggested she have the chair reinvented, with the floral motif fabric. To keep the more clean lines of her new style, she should have silver nail heads added to the chair. The other fabric was a stripe, which I then drew a plan for the window treatments, gave her a shopping list for furniture, accessories and additional fabric yardage for window treatments - And here are the results.

So with a little bit of reinvention, some wise shopping, fabulous color and innovated window treatments, their living room and dining room went from barely livable, to rich, welcoming and a total reflection of Martie & Greg!

Liz & Hector's House Update

2010-05-12T16:29:00.000-07:00

Just back from filming the "After" of Liz & Hector's Newlywed Home. WOW, is all I can say! Super shoppers - Using my advice - here are the before and after results. If you've read the previous post - Although she had "good bones," the room needed a bit of additional ingredients to make it shine - From lighting to art to window panels - Look at what around $700.00 worth of accessories can do for a space (Zoe the dog not included...)
Panels (4) Are from Target
Accessories, Lamps, Side tables from HomeGoods, Hobby Lobby and Target.