Materials & Finishes

I am a fan of finishes for a space. Depending on the choice, it can make or break an interior.

A clear colored wood finish or a paint or curing process that can be matte to high gloss is lacquer. Used on furniture, accessories or interior surfaces, it's one of my favorite finishes.

I'm a fan of this simplistic high lacquer Reve D'Edo box from Ligne Roset

Another finish that offers sophistication is the application of venetian plaster.

On this curved wall + tray ceiling, venitian plaster offers a high end look. This expensive budget technique takes skill and I prefer it when it's used as a non-faux finish.



I adore this turned cerused oak leg. The pigment composed of white lead gets into the grooves and grain of the wood to add a dimension of texture as well as distinction to a piece.

A simply white washed picket fence is a lot of which the American Dream is based on.

Distressing is a finish option on many pieces to add character. In this case, distressing came with the actual aging process of time.

Ultimately, finishes are what make our environment. Whether a choice of laminate, solid surfacing such as granite, wood chosen for cabinetry or hardware such as brass or chrome ferules, each transform what the environment is to become.

Onyx & More...

As a follow up to the last post on Minerals, a fine example is featured in Elle Decor this month by Kelly Wearstler. Lavish and over the top.

Onyx bathroom in a glorified sense of high style featured in Elle Decor September 2012

Tile is a simpler form of embellishment yet it can become incredibly complex. A material and sense of intrigue, it can be unexpected with textural linear qualities.

A handsome approach. Siding or paint would have been a dull option.

Tile has had a long history in many corners of the world which often time is an expression of ethnicity & cultural heritage.

An ornate version found at contemporary tile showrooms like Ann Sacks

This pool is the epitome of Greco-Roman influence and sets a stately example of historical reference. 

Contemporary tile application with an intricate pattern is instant pizazz  which can only be boring when the boring are bored.

Minerals

Learning of minerals + fossils at a young age from my great grandparents fabulous collection, I found an appreciation for color, science, history + interest added to decor. These are earthy elements which can elevate a decor of any kind. Transforming an interior from bleak to chic!

Quartz



Tigers Eye

Turquoise



A decorative mineral lamp adds instant texture, interest + solidity to a space.



A mineral is always a fantastic conversation piece as it sits naturally as an elegant object.

Exquisite + sophisticated Australian International Interior Designer, Thomas Hamel, used a decorative sculpture piece of Ammonite for the cover of his first book.

Architectural Elements

Continuing with elements of an Interior, it's important to not underestimate the significance of Architecture.

Architecture is an important part of an Interior process. More often than not, successful Interiors take note of the architecture of it's exterior as well as its own interior elements. An Interior should incorporate these motifs of structure for a cohesive surround. Some classical decorations are found in our furniture, moldings and shelves we see in our interior environments.

The Column is one of my favorite Architectural elements. It inspires with strength, support + decoration while giving commanding presence.

The Bracket is a decorative point in classic architecture often used the same way in an Interior. We often see them as small decorative shelves or accents on furntiture or lighting fixtures such as sconces.

The Pediment can be found in our exterior and is often used in doorways or other pieces such as cabinets or bookshelves.

This is a prime example of an Empire table. It uses architectural elements to incorporate both function and decoration. It sets a tone for the over all Interior with high brow attention.

Gingham

Continuing the discussion of a stripe- the word Gingham, originates from an adjective in the Malay language, genggang, meaning striped.

Gingham is a medium-weight balanced plain-woven fabric made from dyed cotton or cotton-blend yarn, according to Wikipedia. It also is often used as a test fabric while designing fashion, or used for making an inexpensive fitting shell prior to making the clothing in fashion fabric.

Picnic Gingham



Preppy Gingham Jacket



BOLD Gingham



So FUN Gingham



Stripes + Gingham together- the Interior is still serene



Stripes

Thinking of the Candy Cane for the Holiday Season. Stripes are a way to make a Bold or Simple statement in decor. Whether it is a paint technique, embellishment or an application that implies a stripe. One of the more basic ways to amp up a space + to mix in more pattern.

A dramatic Interior Entryway- powerful statement

Fun & non-offensive T-shirt Stripe

Effective Art Installation flooring application

The Babe Ruth baseball stripe

The sweet classic Candy Cane stripe

Seasonal influences on style, fashion, design + art

RAIN

SNOW

FALL

SUN



Call it a simple concept but better yet, a complex concept if you consider all of Seasons and their elements. It's not just weather that influences passion of creativity but the colors, shapes, patterns and textures bring the true depth of design to the forefront. As awesome as weather patterns + changes in the seasons, good design can inspire these grandeurs. Afterall, these are the things which make anything good worth taking a second look.