Finding Beauty Along the Way
Monday, March 23rd, 2009
The demo process doesn’t usually conjure up pretty pictures, but the above struck me as oddly beautiful today. The exposed lath and plaster, weathered studs, and demo tools form a nicely textured composition.
Posted in Remodeling | 1 Comment »
Artful Accessories
Sunday, March 22nd, 2009
While I can point clients in the right direction, the final, finishing touches to a home will ultimately be determined by the homeowner. Accessories make a home feel lived in, tying the home to the personality of it’s occupant. While the perfectly shaped vase may look fantastic, it’s that quirky shell found on the beach sitting next to it that makes the space special.
Here are a few basic tips to help you start on your accessories journey:
1. Display what you love. Whether it be a weird collection of antique chicken and bird toys (that’s me) or vintage books, make it visible to enjoy every day.
2. Edit your accessories. Look at each arrangement and ask yourself if it looks right. Sometimes taking away one of the objects helps complete the look.
3. Don’t take it so seriously. Who are you trying to impress anyway? Express your personality, it’s your home after all!
Posted in Accessories & Lighting, Decorating Do's & Don'ts | No Comments »
Green Interior Designer Tip: Natura Paints by Benjamin Moore
Thursday, March 5th, 2009
Finally, a line of zero VOC paints that come in a wide selection of colors. It’s music to a green interior designer‘s ears! If you aren’t already up on the lingo, VOC stands for volatile organic compounds. The United States EPA defines a VOC as any organic compound that participates in atmospheric photochemical reactions except those designated by the EPA as having negligible photochemical reactivity. Meaning products that affect your indoor air quality. It’s unknown how much a fresh coat of paint can actually harm you, but it’s better safe than sorry.
Skipping ahead to the good stuff: Benjamin Moore has a new line of paints called the “Natura” line, which are considered zero VOC paints. The best part is that almost ALL of their colors are available as a Natura paint! Hallelujah options! If you are painting a baby’s room, are expecting a child, or just want to avoid the fresh paint smell this is for you. Go to Benjamin Moore’s website to learn more. (And, no, I am not getting paid for this!)
* Need professional help? Interior Designer San Francisco *
Tags: eco-friendly paints, green interior designer san francisco, natura paints benjamin moore, zero-voc paints
Posted in Green Design, Paint & Wallcoverings | No Comments »
Green San Francisco Interior Design Newsletter
Monday, March 2nd, 2009
HOW GREEN IS THAT TABLE? With the interest in green interior design increasing, there is a risk of information overload when shopping for environmentally friendly furniture. It’s a huge topic to tackle, but these key factors will start you on the sustainable path.
Reclaimed barn doors at Heritage Salvage
1. Reduce, Re-use, Recyle. It’s basic but very true. Before immediately purchasing a new furniture item, consider buying a vintage or antique piece. They have a lot of character and will not be using up any additional resources.
2. What is the furniture made of? If it’s wood furniture you are looking for, determine what the veneer (thin decorative covering of fine wood) and sub-layer beneath consist of. Veneers preserve rare trees by using only a fraction of the wood that would be needed if the piece were solid.
The use of a more abundant species of solid wood or medium-density fiberboard (MDF) is a good option. Avoid using particle board as a sub-layer, since it is not very durable and is likely to end up in a landfill at the end of its short lifespan. Check to see if the type of wood used is renewable (grows quickly), reclaimed (re-used for a new purpose), and/or responsibly harvested. The highest stamp of eco-friendliness is an FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certified wood.
If you are in the market for upholstered goods, consider what types of fabrics, glues, and fillers are used in the furniture. Some manufacturers, such as Verellen, offer organically grown fabrics that are grown without the use of pesticides. Do your homework, and don’t be afraid to ask questions.
3. Where is the furniture made? If a dining table travels halfway across the world to get to you, does it matter that it was made from reclaimed wood? The fossil fuels consumed to get it here might offset the benefit of using reclaimed lumber. Consider the integrity of the manufacturer whom you are supporting, and what types of commitments (if any) they make to their community and the environment.
* Need professional help? Interior Designer Bay Area *
Tags: FSC certified, green interior design, green interior designer bay area, green materials, reclaimed wood, san francisco green interior design, veneers
Posted in Green Design, Quarterly Newsletter | No Comments »