Modern Farmhouse Inspiration

Shinn Estate Vineyard & Farmhouse Inn

I am so filled with inspiration after my weekend at a Modern Farmhouse Bed & Breakfast.  Located in wine country on the North Fork of Long Island, Shinn Estate Vineyard and Farmhouse Inn exceeded my expectations for a weekend getaway.  As a designer I appreciate when great design and planning come together.  The thought that went into every inch of this Farmhouse is truly impressive.  Bringing together the feel of a Vintage Farmhouse and Modern Hotel can be a daunting feat.  The bold use of color is displayed throughout the house, but the Grasscloth Walls are a personal favorite.  I have been so inspired here, I can't wait to get back to my office and begin planning.  First on this list, my own Master Bedroom.  For those of you who are scared of B&B's for fear of patchwork quilts overload, you definitely need to check this place out.  I personally can not wait to come back.

www.shinnestatevineyards.com/farmhouse-inn

Family Tree

It was just another Sunday morning when I said to myself, I'm going to paint a mural.  With darling husband out of town now is my chance to try out the idea that has been swimming in my head for my hallway.  I want to display our vintage family pictures, but just a frame collage was boring me.  So I decided to paint the "Family Tree" myself.  The more pictures I collect, the more branches I can add.  And I already feel the need to add more.  This is something that I feel anyone can do, you just have to have the guts to try it.  If it doesn't work out, just repaint the wall the original color and no one will ever know.

Don't be fooled by some of the design shows out there.  If I see one more chair made of styrofoam or chandelier lit by candles, I'm going to start a riot.  True design is well planned and fully functional.  Only the guidance of a certified interior designer will help to achieve that perfect fit.  When I plan out a room I look at every angle.
What are the functions of this piece?
Is this something I would want in my own home?
Not only does it look good, but does it feel good?
How is the quality?
Good design should meet the highest standards.  That doesn't always mean the highest budget either.  Working with a designer who has a partnership with quality vendors will help maintain costs.
  I do agree with one aspect of the design shows out there, The Big Reveal.  Whenever I am working on a home I choose to reveal the rooms in their entirety.  The effect is amazing for both my client and myself.

Color Quiz

Find out what colors most suit your personality.  You may be surprised at the results.


Quiz Link:
http://www.hgtv.com/color-central-find-your-color/package/index.html?soc=tw

Spring Bling

Now that spring is here it's time to freshen up the house.  The best way to bring the outdoors in is to incorporate a lot of BLING.  No, not diamonds, reflective pieces like glass, mirror, and silver accessories.  The sunlight bounces off the surface and creates a sparkle through out the room.  Furniture pieces that have a glossy finish coat also help the sparkle effect.  Then bring in some spring colors like yellow or green.  Just changing a pillow or two on a sofa can transform the entire room.

Designer Apps

For all you die hard designers out there, do I have an App for you.  I am always on the lookout for great design related programs and I came across Pimp My Screen for iPhone.  For those who crave all things custom this App lets you redesign your phone settings with different backgrounds.  Now you can display your Apps in style.  For $0.99, it's a great deal.
Check it out!
http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/pimp-your-screen-home-screen/id419864550?mt=8&ign-mpt=uo%3D2

White or Right?

I know what you're thinking...."white furniture? that can not be realistic"? ....Well hear me out and let me see if I can change your mind.  Doing a sofa or sectional in white is actually a great idea, if you consider the following options.  Make sure your cushion covers are removable, that way they can be thrown in the wash.  And, unlike colored or patterned fabrics, you can wash them with a little hint of Bleach.  Also, make sure that there is no welt or binding on the cushions.  These tend to fray after multiple washings.  You can also use a stain/water resistant spray on top.  Now you are free to make a statement  with accessories such as pillows.