Pendant Lighting 101

Pendants — lights that hang from a ceiling through cords, chains or poles — are crucial to some well-layered lighting plan. Not only do they channel task lighting where it is needed, but they also offer you a prime opportunity to set a decorative flourish. Consider these pointers when installing and choosing pendants in your […]

Motley to Modern in the Hollywood Hills

“I will trade you four partitions for four beams.” OK, that’s not precisely what Margaret Griffin of Griffin Enright Architects said to the owners of the home — but it was a wonderful tradeoff nonetheless. The 2,000-square-foot home was laid out just like many other postwar homes. “It was a string of highly compartmentalized rooms […]

Renovation Detail: The Kitchen Laundry Room

After purchasing our house from an elderly couple who’d moved the laundry area from the basement to the kitchen, I was unsure how I’d feel about washing my unmentionables and sautéing veggies at the exact same area. But after 14 months at our house I can honestly say I’m hooked! It is so convenient. I’ve […]

Master Bedrooms That Require Command

The master bedroom has its name for a reason. So rather than relegating yours to afterthought status, utilize the designer tips below to make one which is commanding in its beauty and style. A few of the techniques (leftovers, anyone?) May surprise you. Dayna Katlin Interiors 1. Mix, don’t match. When selecting furniture for your […]

Architect's Toolbox: Aim High Interior Railings

Stairs, balconies, porches and much more all have railings to protect people and to make it easier to climb a stair or to lean when taking in an opinion. These are the practical needs of an interior home rail. And building codes will dictate the minimum standards for the way the railing is to accomplish […]

French Farmhouse Style in Pennsylvania

A Number of you may know Marian Parsons Because the supertalented girl behind Miss Mustard Seed. Thanks to her smart do-it-yourself touches and flair for French farmhouse style, Parsons has produced a lovely and inviting space for herself, her husband and both sons. Mustard Seed Interiors The home was constructed in 1948, and also a […]

Design Calendar: Jan. 27-Feb. 17, 2012

If you’re a fan of Mid-century Modern, you won’t need to miss Palm Spring’s 7th annual Modernism Week. See Frank Sinatra’s expansive piano-shaped pool, or watch the latest Eames documentary as you take in the desert’s signature decorative. Head to sunny Orlando, Florida and see the latest in building materials and trends, and listen to […]

The Right Built-ins for Your Fireplace

The depth of a fireplace just naturally creates a void about it begging to be filled with built-ins. However, to hold what? Before you haul out your hammer and watched or bring in a contractor, take a while to think about what you actually want and need about your chimney. By first deciding what items […]

Fantasy Kids' Rooms

Designers seem divided on the dilemma of theme rooms for children. On the 1 hand, they’ll probably outgrow the theme in a couple of decades. On the other hand, they are SO MUCH FUN until they do! Themed rooms for kiddos aren’t limited to bedrooms; playrooms, rec rooms, finished basements and playhouses can all take […]