A Place to Write

My sister is a wonderful writer and is wanting to turn her dull downstairs basement corner into an oasis of writing inspiration.  She can tell a story like not other, but lacks certain elements and principles of design skills.  To help her with a vision, I put together two quick inspiration boards that I think would help guide in her selection of furnishings, finishes and accessories.     

Option 1: rustic, bright and cheerful.

Option 2: vintage, elegant and refined. 

Any thoughts on which one you like best?

A Touch of Italy: Murano Glass Chandeliers

image credit: bella-figura.com

"The Murano Chandelier (1920) is made with a glass-forging technique developed to amplify flickering candlelight in the 17th century. Produced on the island of Murano, it represents the grandeur of centuries-old craftsmanship. Dramatic in its scale, color and delicate filigree, the design is a reproduction of a Venetian-style chandelier, with scrolling leaf and flower motifs. Due to the artisan craftsmanship that goes into each chandelier, some of the joints will show clear pieces of glass" (www.stardust.com)

image credit: cyandesign.biz

Glass chandeliers are a great way to bring in the elegance and opulence of the traditional chandelier but with a sleek and modern twist. They come in all sorts of beautiful colors as shown below.  I love the concept of placing one of these beautiful art pieces in a modern space.

image credit: bella-figura.com

image credit: designwithinreach.com

The semi-transparent nature of this aquamarine chandelier gives the fixture a light-weight and whimsical feeling unlike many of the traditional chandeliers that are more heavy in nature.

Murano glass chandeliers not only come in a variety of colors but also come in many different styles ranging from very traditional in designs to more modern and even abstract.  

Most all are handmade creating a slight variance in each chandelier, making each fixture unique. 

Whatever size or style you decide, the Murano Glass Chandelier will draw attention and bring focus into any room.

image credit: cyandesign.biz

The Color Purple

Who would of thought that purple could be a designer color trend? New York designer Amanda Nisbet uses purple in a stylish and chic manner.  I think the use of chocolate brown with striking purple is smart and sophisticated.

Image Credit: www.amandanisbetdesign.com

Sprinkled throughout our showroom are some accessories with a purple flair including this small glass bottle with stopper.  

Below is a 'sharp' glass bowl that I like to call "Sea Urchin" bowl.  

The purple amethyst crystals are a perfect accessory for any home or office.

Recently sold the accompanying pieces to this beautiful and unique Raku vase.

 Kravet fabric has a new line out called 'Modern Colors' where the purples have a star showing. Check out Kravet.com for more beautiful fabrics choices. 

 Another look at one of my favorite fabrics in the collection. 

We will see if this popular color choice can become a classic and timeless design aesthetic or just a trend of the times.  

Its all about the Lamps!

Did you know that a 'lamp' is actually what is more commonly referred to as the 'bulb'?

In our showroom we have a variety of beautiful and unique lamps.  Mostly table lamps but also some pendants and floor lamps. 

Unique shell lamp

Fun orange and blue swirl lamp

These ceiling mounted light fixtures are a captivating and decorative way to add interest to a ceiling.  They come in a variety of sizes.  Being installed in acoustic ceiling tiles does not give justice to the beauty and possibilities of these sunburst fixtures.  

My favorite lamps are those made of clear acrylic, glass or crystal.  I just love the honesty of the design. 

Elegant crystal lamp base

Fun geometric base

I have never really used table lamps as a decorative accessory, but I am quickly learning what a statement a well chosen lamp can make in a room.