Home Ideas - Modern Home Design: Paula Bakies

Showing posts with label Paula Bakies. Show all posts

A green point-of-view

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdBjSr_iy96tF8hrcasg53GBP4kOMZTt2rkkH42vFA8W6c4N9dGfFx4s0r0cRtS1Hz__X05cnA-6fjxPYyMYk0VseXJWUpEqGV6EODCkjcINq9NnV8YPF_if1XU2mWhyM9JwyCdJQUR8n1/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-01-08+at+7.40.21+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdBjSr_iy96tF8hrcasg53GBP4kOMZTt2rkkH42vFA8W6c4N9dGfFx4s0r0cRtS1Hz__X05cnA-6fjxPYyMYk0VseXJWUpEqGV6EODCkjcINq9NnV8YPF_if1XU2mWhyM9JwyCdJQUR8n1/s800/Screen+shot+2012-01-08+at+7.40.21+PM.png" width="500" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Designer: <a href="http://www.concordgreen.blogspot.com/2011/12/we-made-cover-design-new-england.html">Lisa Kauffman Tharp</a> : Window Treatments: <a href="http://acorninteriorsdesigncenter.com/">Acorn Interiors</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Photo by <a href="http://www.ericrothphoto.com/">Eric Roth</a>: <a href="http://digital.designnewengland.com/designnewengland/2012012#pg80">Design New England Magazine Jan./Feb. 2012 p.82</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Have you seen the latest issue of <a href="http://digital.designnewengland.com/designnewengland/2012012#pg2">Design New England Magazine</a>? This lovely space designed by Concord, Massachusetts designer <a href="http://www.ktharpdesign.com/">Lisa Kauffman Tharp</a> was featured inside, plus the equally gorgeous bath from this eco-friendly home made the cover.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Lisa, an expert on incorporating green choices into her interior designs, was <a href="http://issuu.com/nefinery/docs/nef2-april.may2011/45">one of our eco-links</a> in the April issue of <a href="http://newenglandfinery.com/">New England Finery Magazine</a>. She was actually brought to my attention by Paula Bakies of <a href="http://issuu.com/nefinery/docs/nef_winter_2011/3">Acorn Interiors</a>, who has done window treatments for my own design projects. Paula did the treatments in the above photo. I love the clean, quiet, textured look of the space.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Enjoy reading the entire article <a href="http://digital.designnewengland.com/designnewengland/2012012#pg80">by clicking here</a>. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div>

A green point-of-view

Designer: Lisa Kauffman Tharp : Window Treatments: Acorn Interiors Photo by Eric Roth : Design New England Magazine Jan./Feb. 2012 p.82 Hav...

5:30 PM

Holiday open houses this weekend

<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj04xLAhwifvIBMUiPhR_tXKmpkgQg-s1OHOLo4Le3cJi3vyKXrBWb0gyj5nGdzMaDJj_ZibuqIedmOrer_Xyf7sXLjBuvyJWCHU79S0NISZsVbjHHdHfZp9v8_2ZJn5fXWuyAWhUfp0OLk/s1600/treats%2540AcornInteriors.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546664488348435554" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj04xLAhwifvIBMUiPhR_tXKmpkgQg-s1OHOLo4Le3cJi3vyKXrBWb0gyj5nGdzMaDJj_ZibuqIedmOrer_Xyf7sXLjBuvyJWCHU79S0NISZsVbjHHdHfZp9v8_2ZJn5fXWuyAWhUfp0OLk/s400/treats%2540AcornInteriors.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 400px;" /></a> Last night was the Holiday Stroll in Andover. I stopped by to visit Paula Bakies of <a href="http://www.picturetrail.com/acorninteriors">Acorn Interiors</a> at her new retail location at 10 Essex Street. Lots of people came in to take a look at her new space, have a few treats, and see some of the work that is leaving her showroom ... </div> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw9NDH_OjZILcvZj_Kq7egS7npiZyoG4eHFjLRbQh9hojN3dvIZcjfaz7lMTPzY9CZBb70DeaPzwdnloxcThRssMZ35wA-gA028oP7Bci6LF6j3YENwSgW-NOCexxfjW05p_C_er-2vHlN/s1600/ottomansAcornInteriors.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546664485793465522" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw9NDH_OjZILcvZj_Kq7egS7npiZyoG4eHFjLRbQh9hojN3dvIZcjfaz7lMTPzY9CZBb70DeaPzwdnloxcThRssMZ35wA-gA028oP7Bci6LF6j3YENwSgW-NOCexxfjW05p_C_er-2vHlN/s400/ottomansAcornInteriors.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 296px;" /></a> An array of ottomans includes a “before” (all white) and three “afters.” These are available for purchase or can be custom-designed by request. Let me know if you need help choosing fabrics : ) <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgggLC7TesRop-1XbHxCOt4yvlmj_D-44wEtIRntSg7ur2oeeXkn_jm6sWC6tkQ-0KSUnPq1JqbKZq9jU1tfU6hlDDbMb-3ph3KJqeea2XjQjWXGyr2rIVrpIj-4n9e3q4K7tFBQD__71bj/s1600/vignetteLPasquale%253AAcornInteriors.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546669641729079330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgggLC7TesRop-1XbHxCOt4yvlmj_D-44wEtIRntSg7ur2oeeXkn_jm6sWC6tkQ-0KSUnPq1JqbKZq9jU1tfU6hlDDbMb-3ph3KJqeea2XjQjWXGyr2rIVrpIj-4n9e3q4K7tFBQD__71bj/s400/vignetteLPasquale%253AAcornInteriors.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" /></a> Window treatments and ottoman for a girl’s room designed by Lisa Pasquale (who happens to be from my home town and is very talented!) </div> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguNOTCIz77dYzzVCcV76_84SLo8NAQTfNCdFvrknJCpmUtFlPzYfjSTAlUS4GaUBSKAh5biSd5KQdZwkdsxvvKyeJUz4oaIw4UkS9hCi-WGoqoUiK8IC0KID8xHKgQ6YVVMveY-50BCi3x/s1600/pairofchairsAcornInteriors.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546666116130273266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguNOTCIz77dYzzVCcV76_84SLo8NAQTfNCdFvrknJCpmUtFlPzYfjSTAlUS4GaUBSKAh5biSd5KQdZwkdsxvvKyeJUz4oaIw4UkS9hCi-WGoqoUiK8IC0KID8xHKgQ6YVVMveY-50BCi3x/s400/pairofchairsAcornInteriors.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" /></a> Paula transformed these vintage chairs into modern beauties. After leaving Acorn Interiors, I headed over to another holiday open house at <a href="http://www.taggartstudio.com/"> TaggArt Studio</a> which is on Salem Street in Wakefield. I took some pictures of what you can find there on Saturday from 10am to 4pm, which is the last day of their holiday trunk show ... </div> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN2sN-_Hn1ekdONruOY9ZY_OZsAqb2rB2HA_IHjX9VaxIRDCwIiLwNAM0y_0gUpe54Vn7wCC4OjItLOdqxfSuV582eDX0N5_2CQ9bP0iMmoh-YOfuZLM8RrXZwnIaGArSfVzubvXKFAn94/s1600/JewelryLGovostesONeill.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546664175330033234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN2sN-_Hn1ekdONruOY9ZY_OZsAqb2rB2HA_IHjX9VaxIRDCwIiLwNAM0y_0gUpe54Vn7wCC4OjItLOdqxfSuV582eDX0N5_2CQ9bP0iMmoh-YOfuZLM8RrXZwnIaGArSfVzubvXKFAn94/s400/JewelryLGovostesONeill.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 376px;" /></a> Some really pretty pieces of inspirational jewelry designed by Linda Govostes-O’Neill </div> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCrbhayUX6-EwDLHG1riG1DFQswe2BnmscU3TsSDZuJpzrJcUlV0EliXvWwFtHEjwyujTyMbd6lDNrWveL4lJZKxD0y4ajDqZ2FwLR1smS5dH2pWn8TvqVBVbyuo414sYrj7zLq_HqtTnK/s1600/gratitudejournalMSnow.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546663298030955106" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCrbhayUX6-EwDLHG1riG1DFQswe2BnmscU3TsSDZuJpzrJcUlV0EliXvWwFtHEjwyujTyMbd6lDNrWveL4lJZKxD0y4ajDqZ2FwLR1smS5dH2pWn8TvqVBVbyuo414sYrj7zLq_HqtTnK/s400/gratitudejournalMSnow.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" /></a> <div style="text-align: center;">Gratitude journals and inspirational collage gift items created by <a href="http://mariannesnow.com/about.aspx">Marianne Snow</a> </div> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc4JdCRdvQtEEoNfOb2NJa1UqvZQzI4RRoSdyl048FxNaVnoxDuKj_Bn-2HOxu42arFBSrE3_rJwEsMxchQiKxJKMl0Ny0WGMb7uTIeYKBhP-fZ4ris25VY7a8D3AQRxgJKuG2IeZr7JnS/s1600/ANewEnglandChristmas.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546664338280425058" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc4JdCRdvQtEEoNfOb2NJa1UqvZQzI4RRoSdyl048FxNaVnoxDuKj_Bn-2HOxu42arFBSrE3_rJwEsMxchQiKxJKMl0Ny0WGMb7uTIeYKBhP-fZ4ris25VY7a8D3AQRxgJKuG2IeZr7JnS/s400/ANewEnglandChristmas.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 331px;" /></a> Music to celebrate the holidays by local talent <a href="http://www.amazon.com/New-England-Christmas-Noel/dp/B002VL2MAW">Noel Smith</a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr3Ty_lYh7zzh0y309NTLb6UloTuaItcVcnRUiyzG1i4XhbzPK5z0C3bGiKfCjpWkvlfIP20EP3KBGuXQaGN5SpmWpSInC1vvJN9OQY-RepFOao6t0i8tLOHOMD1drBCM92QB3HojAKbfb/s1600/redshoesMTaggart.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546664256306334706" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr3Ty_lYh7zzh0y309NTLb6UloTuaItcVcnRUiyzG1i4XhbzPK5z0C3bGiKfCjpWkvlfIP20EP3KBGuXQaGN5SpmWpSInC1vvJN9OQY-RepFOao6t0i8tLOHOMD1drBCM92QB3HojAKbfb/s400/redshoesMTaggart.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 315px; height: 400px;" /></a> Mary has a lot of beautiful original works of art available, but this one caught my eye. And remember when I said art lessons would make a great gift? Mary <a href="http://www.taggartstudio.com/Schedule_of_Classes.php">offers many classes</a> for children and adults. Contact her for schedule details. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMcWTnLfw5ENscekvkmM_oew7jOTB-6EYRhd_eo1S-4CLA4JTy_Sdw8gvezlQDlW6EKDEYmjiLNhaM-mFahWwzhbCRCOqQ_d0Heix29Y8CCNj7RDTgOJgjm5PykS55qh3w_8Z_IbC7kgRb/s1600/BethHylanHoliday2010.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546677876203594610" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMcWTnLfw5ENscekvkmM_oew7jOTB-6EYRhd_eo1S-4CLA4JTy_Sdw8gvezlQDlW6EKDEYmjiLNhaM-mFahWwzhbCRCOqQ_d0Heix29Y8CCNj7RDTgOJgjm5PykS55qh3w_8Z_IbC7kgRb/s400/BethHylanHoliday2010.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" /></a> And don’t miss Beth Hylan of <a href="http://www.bethhylan.com/Home_Page.php">Studio B</a> who is back in Wakefield just for this show. She has made a new home for herself in Concord, MA at <a href="http://nestingonmain.com/holidays.html">Nesting on Main</a> so you may also visit her there on Sunday from 12pm to 6pm during their Holiday Open House. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO7rkDjLDTTBfGxVOB-HR9RbVn6sD6q909gCNflCnDSLHoebEhZZ3LFs6lLVnCgzvQ3I2kHhWiyclcp_dtN54i1Luv7cg8SR5xFjFEFkDXutNg-JPtu49qUuSyoASNiWCvpyILVJrDbcGn/s1600/velvetpurse%253Aowl.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546683372313513490" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO7rkDjLDTTBfGxVOB-HR9RbVn6sD6q909gCNflCnDSLHoebEhZZ3LFs6lLVnCgzvQ3I2kHhWiyclcp_dtN54i1Luv7cg8SR5xFjFEFkDXutNg-JPtu49qUuSyoASNiWCvpyILVJrDbcGn/s400/velvetpurse%253Aowl.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 385px; height: 400px;" /></a>A gift I bought myself at New England Fine Living: velvet purse with gold owl clasp from <a href="http://www.newenglandfineliving.com/VintageWares.html" style="font-style: italic;">Vintage Wares</a> It is nice to know that I do not have to resort to mall-shopping this holiday season when there are so many creative shopping venues available locally. If only I had more time to visit them all! </div>

Holiday open houses this weekend

Last night was the Holiday Stroll in Andover. I stopped by to visit Paula Bakies of Acorn Interiors at her new retail location at 10 Essex ...

9:00 PM

A holiday stroll in Andover ...

<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAKvIkT2bSGWMjyPcnvErRcD4Fy5gkTll1GZnpF5k9kHMFQsKiN14ec7IdT6CCVy1BBauSLg1h_Wc7AcjHLnJA8zgpz1y5jONTWbFFRMBYWJBqypHhN5wSlhZqO49xEYBrgoBMHEvJr1tK/s1600/coasters+Metamorphosis.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546511484172198642" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAKvIkT2bSGWMjyPcnvErRcD4Fy5gkTll1GZnpF5k9kHMFQsKiN14ec7IdT6CCVy1BBauSLg1h_Wc7AcjHLnJA8zgpz1y5jONTWbFFRMBYWJBqypHhN5wSlhZqO49xEYBrgoBMHEvJr1tK/s400/coasters+Metamorphosis.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 375px; height: 400px;" /></a>Great to give or get: colorful coasters from Metamorphosis Studio in Andover If you are in the Andover area tonight, the annual Holiday Stroll will be taking place. Streets will be blocked off so that pedestrians can walk through the center of town and enjoy special shopping, music and holiday festivities between the hours of 5pm and 9pm. <a href="http://www.picturetrail.com/acorninteriors"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546511455686669074" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY4h8iVczGMiESPF3Q96jFm66LIivpusGF_vaSM-5_R_Fp9D0LseeDYPEON_oxPby68NMJzI38P6ebTv0T28jt8shGz6RHBrReQ8liXpKHwbggcQmubKp-vf4qkxgD86nY9BT1WcNBsrqy/s400/acorninteriors.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 312px;" /></a> I will be spending some time at 10 Essex Street in the new retail showroom of <a href="http://www.picturetrail.com/acorninteriors">Acorn Interiors</a>. My friend, Paula Bakies, has recently relocated her workroom to this great center of town location. She is just across the street from <a href="http://www.gloryrestaurant.com/">Glory Restaurant</a> and slightly behind <a href="http://www.bancroftpto.com/metamorphosis-art-and-design,443.html">Metamorphosis Art & Design</a>. </div> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJvlBmXgCXCSkcWFTv6Zw9NJkltjWxHS3_X9wcO7kN-NQ6iVrdBpU4bCj1MOECPaZ3U_poI30pVUzdLLIh3Uoh9gl2-9vIciQCgpoZOtyyCGrZmyvPEcuMf6Y1o5YU_rSDGBts-AS8B4o3/s1600/mirror+metamorphosis.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546511468895955170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJvlBmXgCXCSkcWFTv6Zw9NJkltjWxHS3_X9wcO7kN-NQ6iVrdBpU4bCj1MOECPaZ3U_poI30pVUzdLLIh3Uoh9gl2-9vIciQCgpoZOtyyCGrZmyvPEcuMf6Y1o5YU_rSDGBts-AS8B4o3/s400/mirror+metamorphosis.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 389px; height: 400px;" /></a> Looking for the perfect item to finish a space? The artists at Metamorphois Art & Design can create a unique piece that reflects your taste and color preferences. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1CziHLok8eDrlXbvhmuQKN9iR_nwKyVrLmYhLpaMow-1Hh3VEsBV_ieLxpfNSzhNh59M73MX_1WfjYmfnlsYKHKKM7xdM-PlMMZW1JTH05vMCsD6SFj0C2cRKI_giPwDoP1grhYII_TCO/s1600/lazy+susan+Metamorphosis.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546523419791542146" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1CziHLok8eDrlXbvhmuQKN9iR_nwKyVrLmYhLpaMow-1Hh3VEsBV_ieLxpfNSzhNh59M73MX_1WfjYmfnlsYKHKKM7xdM-PlMMZW1JTH05vMCsD6SFj0C2cRKI_giPwDoP1grhYII_TCO/s400/lazy+susan+Metamorphosis.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 324px;" /></a>“Lazy Susans” are a top-seller at Metamorphosis Art & Design </div> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTDqZh_aQjqTxk-zDGHhi-qGOyUGLxguttDSYyjwlczyfA0MGBZrPtHO2RPAH9thKORyb3OLKy47tvj4qm47mf8efrtuvjwFTxIBH2WGin4kWwVJiC6TkZRA2z8zognivpuYIPvlZVOxCE/s1600/lazy+susan+Metamorphosis.jpg"> </a><div style="text-align: center;"> Metamorphosis Art & Design will be open and will be offering hot chocolate, cookies, and there will even be a craft opportunity if you are so inclined. Take a look at their schedule of art classes being offered while you are there. Paula’s equally-talented sister, Mary, will be teaching a class on calligraphy there in January. Art classes would make a nice gift for that person who has everything, don’t you think? </div> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyOd0_VBksOAFK8m3HjToCtHsyo2TYDY1eiRpRbh-R_xgubRgiQX5_T-hs5nQ1J1_tmDnhOVMXWnwtwUEq9gVTU3wPgpZFN6FK5gzTy2JaMlcQBZXR6BvvX2lVg8rSJ0zZOCJbpmojbs0U/s1600/windowseatcushion:bolstersLM.jpg"> </a><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1qkEl24QsdT0NWUsNz5G_3wE780AMFn3aXAeevOyCCDRtsxu5yAqdhpCDsE_sAWTgtAHgIVCesTvTgH52A18E0mSnVs5EkpXLPmB3lquO4Ni-iJqz8QHL5zzAV1MrH30VWFoQA0lJxvDW/s1600/windowseatLMb4.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5537310683125904530" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1qkEl24QsdT0NWUsNz5G_3wE780AMFn3aXAeevOyCCDRtsxu5yAqdhpCDsE_sAWTgtAHgIVCesTvTgH52A18E0mSnVs5EkpXLPmB3lquO4Ni-iJqz8QHL5zzAV1MrH30VWFoQA0lJxvDW/s400/windowseatLMb4.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 322px; height: 400px;" /></a>BEFORE </div><div style="text-align: center;"> Looking for a thoughtful gift? How about a “Before and After” for someone who could use a little design help? This window seat area was nice, but in its unfinished state is wasn’t very comfortable and as a result it wasn’t being fully utilized. </div> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyOd0_VBksOAFK8m3HjToCtHsyo2TYDY1eiRpRbh-R_xgubRgiQX5_T-hs5nQ1J1_tmDnhOVMXWnwtwUEq9gVTU3wPgpZFN6FK5gzTy2JaMlcQBZXR6BvvX2lVg8rSJ0zZOCJbpmojbs0U/s1600/windowseatcushion:bolstersLM.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5537311198852339730" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyOd0_VBksOAFK8m3HjToCtHsyo2TYDY1eiRpRbh-R_xgubRgiQX5_T-hs5nQ1J1_tmDnhOVMXWnwtwUEq9gVTU3wPgpZFN6FK5gzTy2JaMlcQBZXR6BvvX2lVg8rSJ0zZOCJbpmojbs0U/s400/windowseatcushion:bolstersLM.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 225px;" /></a>AFTER </div><div style="text-align: center;">After consulting with this new client who took home a gift certificate for my design services from a fund-raising event, I presented her with a number of fabric choices to coordinate with the existing colors in her living room. We placed an order with Paula at <a href="http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#%21/pages/Andover-MA/Acorn-Interiors/165293850171145">Acorn Interiors</a>, and she brought our design to life. </div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjBPPWkCXVJtYTrTEzI2svSHux5IadvbdUj2qDeTf86Pg8NBqunjJn6_41wASijVj-W3M7FYP2a6UFJw2LGxNWld7XmQHdkEN8N-2P2uPlgnfJiEPGs-JwT4PI-XJHJHks-HsUnHyuFRyJ/s1600/fabricLM.jpg"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPHphUUTPRv7ubfis6Nun3llgp6EF5CQI5DMAc-2qzLExVmmA7QwEzOhyWD19KLPkcgdse5Lr71gKjCioBnaFOBrj2Zxp66U-z-Tq6W-L1WsDyXCmJcG3Ry60u6pweLC8wyhPf34Lm8pm4/s1600/windowseat:bolstersYB.jpg"> </a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcn68ySehGjoDfBXXZ26L8jEYJZWh29wYK6gsXw3AdfSqDCv4dNjbFUg5tFT5Dh8dvxRMdWIXGxS859MGDhfVmRCjHoI6ci7BFnP4U7xrZjkSN14yIGT9jxLWZjwYRVJTVE59incuuccM8/s1600/bolstercloseupLM.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5537310688200915154" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcn68ySehGjoDfBXXZ26L8jEYJZWh29wYK6gsXw3AdfSqDCv4dNjbFUg5tFT5Dh8dvxRMdWIXGxS859MGDhfVmRCjHoI6ci7BFnP4U7xrZjkSN14yIGT9jxLWZjwYRVJTVE59incuuccM8/s400/bolstercloseupLM.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 284px; height: 400px;" /></a> <div style="text-align: center;">Now this area is a favorite go-to-place for this family of four (plus one very cute dog named Skittles). </div> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgslPCmSpRdDrcyqssbLxqnteRR210eJk3u-0huDQle2rcJpVT7Hohaxk6-YpDr5NLKvoD1UIrJNWcsxiPd8PDqSdWjTTXSwUfXb0TgaFMNYQ-wVDVpajBM8pJ8PJxuGcefCoDoIxJPreYi/s1600/doorsheerLM.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5537310685761180082" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgslPCmSpRdDrcyqssbLxqnteRR210eJk3u-0huDQle2rcJpVT7Hohaxk6-YpDr5NLKvoD1UIrJNWcsxiPd8PDqSdWjTTXSwUfXb0TgaFMNYQ-wVDVpajBM8pJ8PJxuGcefCoDoIxJPreYi/s400/doorsheerLM.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 262px; height: 400px;" /></a> While I was there, I helped them solve a privacy issue for their front door. By adding a sheer panel with linen that matches the window seat trim, we were able to add a designer touch in a small way that really made a big difference. </div><div style="text-align: center;">If you are interested in giving “the gift of design” just send me an email. I will gladly offer virtual design services for those outside of my traveling distance. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbgNh1S01oc9BGFKvGJalN2fbuHWcioCzN5cQFwmVdCiAgD7iR9b9jtvZ-Gy17oRMqtmPDeLhWxDCWsjtvBFiHkCCW-Nc-7VIqKfCY8ww1bL1oYytOmIURB6qN9K0DrP4dYOP9Yh90GDQV/s1600/customordersMetamorphis.jpg"></a>Click here to see more “<a href="http://designvignettes.blogspot.com/search/label/before%20and%20after">before and afters</a>” from my design files. </div>

A holiday stroll in Andover ...

Great to give or get: colorful coasters from Metamorphosis Studio in Andover If you are in the Andover area tonight, the annual Holiday Str...

11:00 AM

10 Steps to a Perfect Room

<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVhC4xeKiF6TMxKUvmPE164Zb0LZ0SVlOakt9dARjMXxvGuaaCdJ6TTI-g1jb6B_vBqjYE6uZ9z8pEY4v7VlR74ih6e9TYmRe476YzCCeRlZN4eGFy9CXvObIf57jodfiLQcIG_FGSVxU/s1600/sallyandpaula10.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5480202905598345842" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVhC4xeKiF6TMxKUvmPE164Zb0LZ0SVlOakt9dARjMXxvGuaaCdJ6TTI-g1jb6B_vBqjYE6uZ9z8pEY4v7VlR74ih6e9TYmRe476YzCCeRlZN4eGFy9CXvObIf57jodfiLQcIG_FGSVxU/s400/sallyandpaula10.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 298px; height: 400px;" /></a>Sally Morse of Hunter Douglas with Paula Bakies of Acorn Interiors Recently I was a guest at a design presentation at the <a href="http://www.wyndham.com/hotels/BOSAM/planameeting/main.wnt">Wyndham</a> Andover hosted by Paula Bakies of <a href="http://www.picturetrail.com/acorninteriors">Acorn Interiors</a>. To a full house, she presented guest speaker <a href="http://www.hunterdouglas.com/design-trends.jsp?so=tn">Sally Morse</a>, Director of Creative Services for Hunter Douglas, who shared her design tips on how to create a perfect room, in ten simple steps. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQoRTvBsZsoyNmBUdQDpMyHoYDhTqSteGSqrtRroXcGJhvpJ8UXTTWD7R0jK7i2WiPuGZhc-Rk42A4yW4TEIHnRJEL0rE23ZB87Trpsukyn4O8Rsm5C0IojX_y4SPsz5OsucAFq59eIwQ/s1600/deniseinpink10.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5480202574300823810" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQoRTvBsZsoyNmBUdQDpMyHoYDhTqSteGSqrtRroXcGJhvpJ8UXTTWD7R0jK7i2WiPuGZhc-Rk42A4yW4TEIHnRJEL0rE23ZB87Trpsukyn4O8Rsm5C0IojX_y4SPsz5OsucAFq59eIwQ/s400/deniseinpink10.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" /></a>Guest Denise McCarthy looks right on trend in stylish hot pink, black and white. </div> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvGp1PtyAZqGv_xCnDmsQPZh3Z_SrOkw9FgVx93T97TjxtFkaT2dcBCNTCZPGVV9UL4_Oon575rST2Ohr6Osq6gj2U4MZxjYXXm-ZdD6YEqwU1jNswqCYToxXgzehiZp-VuXj5Ha9722E/s1600/ottomanPB10.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5480202897777948994" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvGp1PtyAZqGv_xCnDmsQPZh3Z_SrOkw9FgVx93T97TjxtFkaT2dcBCNTCZPGVV9UL4_Oon575rST2Ohr6Osq6gj2U4MZxjYXXm-ZdD6YEqwU1jNswqCYToxXgzehiZp-VuXj5Ha9722E/s400/ottomanPB10.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" /></a> The tables were decorated with custom ottomans designed by Paula which were raffled off at the end of the evening. My favorite (shown above) was a stylish combination of animal print fabrics. Other raffles included select items from guest vendors like Donna Dreher of <a href="http://www.threadscouture.com/Spa_Couture.html">Threads Couture </a>who specializes in custom embroidery. She has helped me on many occasions with <a href="http://designvignettes.blogspot.com/search/label/Stevens%20Estate">my design projects</a> just as <a href="http://designvignettes.blogspot.com/2010/05/designers-before-and-after.html">Paula has</a>. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif6_kUo7QdAaxDZfZHW0ptR242RAgwiF29KCfchcoGWg1VisHvQIGl5IaUxO4wZIEX3C0NTJqHlYkbjhnWbBa2VgT5xnGMLi-gXONuru_CISjkIPobQmxsY_mEzTSdC2kAIoBWpUvwo94/s1600/donnaTC.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5483728666277759314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif6_kUo7QdAaxDZfZHW0ptR242RAgwiF29KCfchcoGWg1VisHvQIGl5IaUxO4wZIEX3C0NTJqHlYkbjhnWbBa2VgT5xnGMLi-gXONuru_CISjkIPobQmxsY_mEzTSdC2kAIoBWpUvwo94/s400/donnaTC.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 302px; height: 400px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaW23GoTwKIwjpT5-29rZ497MD9WA-tn4DkF5FBV3HGWyH6PbEaaWBYKFZO5jlpLURtro-mCKiF6trhLosyvS8AuLRhIWXqVAghQmr11yNgwlj7vsZkueBTx6L91cqKBx7SGLKAfAVaQI/s1600/threads10.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5480202577638297346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaW23GoTwKIwjpT5-29rZ497MD9WA-tn4DkF5FBV3HGWyH6PbEaaWBYKFZO5jlpLURtro-mCKiF6trhLosyvS8AuLRhIWXqVAghQmr11yNgwlj7vsZkueBTx6L91cqKBx7SGLKAfAVaQI/s400/threads10.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" /></a> A beautiful side table was sent home with one lucky guest, courtesy of <a href="http://www.toddfrancisconstruction.com/">Todd Francis Construction</a> and <a href="http://francisrestoration.com/">Francis Restoration</a> of Hampstead, NH. </div> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYsRtOv-HlGNUIYfBX5MWluERxk5uBR6gHJPv6X75dwJtW6ucToSN99O-nZM4hNiBWWoB7bcUUQcJmCHEQEShYz46Kn8D-rewDGIGOUWITuRYCIx4qo9PnRmrR8J4ek43Wcuk0oXfxx30/s1600/theguys10.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5480202893868591346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYsRtOv-HlGNUIYfBX5MWluERxk5uBR6gHJPv6X75dwJtW6ucToSN99O-nZM4hNiBWWoB7bcUUQcJmCHEQEShYz46Kn8D-rewDGIGOUWITuRYCIx4qo9PnRmrR8J4ek43Wcuk0oXfxx30/s400/theguys10.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 324px; height: 400px;" /></a> </div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmCJl-tso9tBbDLt1LjroZyMNtoMlvFsKGiA28C24XgQ9DiqGPVkAQEq2w-3ujZTsb5bs9WqUn63TrD-wrd2kF_pnj6NdmcmWMNApSJxjLXWM7H8hASFCi3WkRxJk0y91i6JzXvhww3Js/s1600/table1_10.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5480202885397720370" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmCJl-tso9tBbDLt1LjroZyMNtoMlvFsKGiA28C24XgQ9DiqGPVkAQEq2w-3ujZTsb5bs9WqUn63TrD-wrd2kF_pnj6NdmcmWMNApSJxjLXWM7H8hASFCi3WkRxJk0y91i6JzXvhww3Js/s400/table1_10.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2q_Bk4o7gazgy08NAl3qjnxIzM9CUgBKjG0GzTr9Dwkg2PAkSYJXizZ-4T5a-55jOW0J0PUYfkl2BlS9KBk0mXxuLuPHbsnHjbhuI3J-aidGn0_75ZU0Z1qgWZZZ9zC0H4oxguVew8D8/s1600/table2_10.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a> <div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://www.metamorphosisartanddesign.com/" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5483745195696100722" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9z-PyCa_6FfIX5PHjh5NYedzvVu0tdcBkB72MskRu5TNJswRvIK81CISmEX2_xaTTV1q6nulYnzQ0g__kNyNZJpkPHLW6vdT1YuFAHjbn23SgCR4Z6NW7KxmZpINrboHIzcFQs5Yvu1Y/s320/metamorphosislogo.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 98px;" /></a> Katie Blue Nagy and Elaine Trepiccio, the talented designers behind <a href="http://www.metamorphosisartanddesign.com/">metamorphosis art & design</a> gave away a highly coveted lazy susan from their design collection. Here are some more unique items that they show at their Andover location ... </div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEKvveCwMXX5IpU_wTHcNkvZvVCjGqpbFkvjKrGHPEfVCGRE-x05riArLuqwxXjjFHWEr0ICSLw5uN77ppECEM3NhKGR3Na5__4342WDeOn8-9km5xmloxm1kmkJ8IFVoXvp9cuXSzRWk/s1600/metamorphosis_10steps.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5483728654316316802" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEKvveCwMXX5IpU_wTHcNkvZvVCjGqpbFkvjKrGHPEfVCGRE-x05riArLuqwxXjjFHWEr0ICSLw5uN77ppECEM3NhKGR3Na5__4342WDeOn8-9km5xmloxm1kmkJ8IFVoXvp9cuXSzRWk/s400/metamorphosis_10steps.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" /></a><a href="http://www.metamorphosisartanddesign.com/">www.metamorphosisartanddesign.com</a> </div> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcLsFuW8Y_I-hCiyS1mQdz5OrFZQBLa_q6RB0Yz2dhP5J3OZSxQchevjwwK9lAsungUJeiPXp9JpTRC0mhEL94qTrgOPzDClPwt6F4dJ0ysT4Kyuvbk7IgNLFdyY6yq9p9h_fAYgG7zlM/s1600/DHS_Postcard1.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0oB-LfRjAaCHdju9jb9v4W1gWTgwiDFIruBwEQwjHT-4RXiGmIWZLEVKGxeT-AkVB4ViqiOrSgBlbUa6gVdd0HeP13Am3sfWzB2zEWC8R3Ypz-bpB4I5mpbfJk0KmHroQ7SfWj1nZNxw/s1600/danversshowhouse.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5483833870696388290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0oB-LfRjAaCHdju9jb9v4W1gWTgwiDFIruBwEQwjHT-4RXiGmIWZLEVKGxeT-AkVB4ViqiOrSgBlbUa6gVdd0HeP13Am3sfWzB2zEWC8R3Ypz-bpB4I5mpbfJk0KmHroQ7SfWj1nZNxw/s400/danversshowhouse.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 218px;" /></a> <div style="text-align: center;">And I am sending one lucky winner two complimentary tickets to visit the summer design show house that I am participating in at Tapley Hall in Danvers to benefit the Danvers Historical Society. <a href="http://eventkeeper.com/code/events.cfm?curOrg=DHS">Reflecting on Danvers History through Interior Design</a> runs from July 11th through August 1st and will have thirteen designed spaces, a boutique of designer items for purchase, and special events scheduled at <a href="http://www.glenmagnafarms.org/">Glen Magna Farms</a>, another Danvers historical property. Here are just some of the ten steps that Sally shared with the audience (after a delicious meal and yummy dessert, I must add!) ... </div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb9Iowi1M3UjzYOLmyAlbTqP3J0OiDr4vH_Qp9xM0_7fIBTaB9ehdGb1jEYmNetDa5plLLtAHIVDlPKk9K9cd52JB9a56Ud5qYRqw4vXcODb98nImlWIOCX5Y2mOe7urlQYVfCP9KFcso/s1600/sallyspeaking10.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5480202554197910386" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb9Iowi1M3UjzYOLmyAlbTqP3J0OiDr4vH_Qp9xM0_7fIBTaB9ehdGb1jEYmNetDa5plLLtAHIVDlPKk9K9cd52JB9a56Ud5qYRqw4vXcODb98nImlWIOCX5Y2mOe7urlQYVfCP9KFcso/s400/sallyspeaking10.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" /></a> Be inspired ... Start with an inspiration print/fabric to set the tone and build the color scheme of the room. Using three colors in a space will add the most interest, whether you choose complimentary or contrasting colors. The key is using the right proportion (one color being the star, the other two as supporting characters). Set the stage for conversation ... Create conversation areas with your furniture placement. Avoid placing furniture up against the wall, bring pieces closer to each other, and always have a table for your guests to set a drink on : ) Illuminate your space ... By strategically placing light in the corners of a room, even a small space is visually enlarged. Using lamps in unusual places – like on a kitchen counter – add an inviting softness and ambiance to a utilitarian room. Use window treatments ... to define your decorating style while adding privacy, safety and security to your home (an often overlooked benefit!) Well designed treatments add value to your home while reducing energy costs by cooling a house in summer and keeping out drafts in the cold of winter. Add yourself to the space ... Use design trends as a guide, but don’t forget to include the objects and mementos that are personal to you. They tell your unique story and make your house your home. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU5s1oBw3cQ4APJ2YtgivdoIiGPsaHz2QEcUlq52WdieLU-qDlcjkkFh7Fqpm-owbqFACY84qGfqqxEbIThqdnARIXBxftlZDnDkTcpsRGeokkyDT0A1qbLpJ9dA7SJgBQQSBhDSSP-3s/s1600/toys-registration10.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5480202560519398514" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU5s1oBw3cQ4APJ2YtgivdoIiGPsaHz2QEcUlq52WdieLU-qDlcjkkFh7Fqpm-owbqFACY84qGfqqxEbIThqdnARIXBxftlZDnDkTcpsRGeokkyDT0A1qbLpJ9dA7SJgBQQSBhDSSP-3s/s400/toys-registration10.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" /></a> Summer toys were donated by each guest to benefit the children of <a href="http://www.lazarushouse.org/Donations/default.asp">Lazarus House</a> in Lawrence, a charitable organization that provides food, clothing, shelter, job training and medical assistance to local families struggling to meet their day-to-day needs. To support their mission of helping others to move beyond poverty, <a href="http://www.lazarushouse.org/Donations/CashGifts.asp">click here</a>. <a href="http://www.hunterdouglas.com/design-trends.jsp?so=tn" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5483771064196297858" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNFkbO1CSDl8rroZYZNZYxdIRZDr0orjwHc88dIsDO3tTPLFVTbIgQPpGiKlJ8TV863IFa1YatKxeVfcEBMwnk2l_WauiwP3Fvi0NmdpvKeu1rwYXPiZA_vK3YRdkMyR-5FhYsQhsbw9I/s320/sallyandjen.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 161px; height: 142px;" /></a> If you have design questions of your own, take a trip over to the Hunter Douglas website where Sally and her daughter Jen <a href="http://www.hunterdouglas.com/design-trends.jsp?so=tn">answer any design questions</a> sent their way! Sally will be back in New England in July, and has generously offered a free consultation to anyone who donates $250.00 to Lazarus House, the charity chosen to benefit from the nights event. If you are local and would like more details about this special offer, please contact Paula at <a href="http://www.picturetrail.com/acorninteriors">Acorn Interiors</a>. Thank you, Sally, for sharing what you know in such an entertaining way! And thank you, Paula, for hosting such a fabulous event, and for always helping to make my spaces – and the homes of my clients – look picture perfect! xo yvonne </div>

10 Steps to a Perfect Room

Sally Morse of Hunter Douglas with Paula Bakies of Acorn Interiors Recently I was a guest at a design presentation at the Wyndham Andover ...

9:00 AM

Happy post-Valentine's Day to...

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQIeFaMHUm2NpmqAfIgy0dj06w13hgfwL7OiUqAUFwHfmrnyu87itRKwfEd59nW96pIckYYKxPcj3G2Dj77d3mq-UIj2G2-D5qz9s9k13DO0sUDti-Qe1qwr8DLybu0BPmCsTkB5mvtmQ/s1600-h/shellpillow.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5438509603304069410" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQIeFaMHUm2NpmqAfIgy0dj06w13hgfwL7OiUqAUFwHfmrnyu87itRKwfEd59nW96pIckYYKxPcj3G2Dj77d3mq-UIj2G2-D5qz9s9k13DO0sUDti-Qe1qwr8DLybu0BPmCsTkB5mvtmQ/s400/shellpillow.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 360px;" /></a> <div style="text-align: center;">Paula Bakies Your name was chosen (by my youngest, Ben) as the winner of my <a href="http://designvignettes.blogspot.com/2010/02/bloggers-valentine-giveaway.html">Valentine’s Day giveaway</a>! I will get in touch with you to deliver this custom-made Seashell pillow from my design collection. As promised, I have posted the remaining items on <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/yvonnebdesigns">my Etsy shop</a> and will be adding other items from my design inventory throughout the week. Thanks to everyone who entered and who have been following my blog : ) xo Yvonne </div>

Happy post-Valentine's Day to...

Paula Bakies Your name was chosen (by my youngest, Ben) as the winner of my Valentine’s Day giveaway ! I will get in touch with you to deliv...

8:19 AM

A gift for The Stevens Estate

<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEl3b2frE3KGfD8SvkdmW1ppeNjj-SehfHd-zZwBscclWueFfRdwZbx_WNi0E8BbUt16Uygj6Ec_IFb4ijForeDuagiqSpVkvYDD6dAm_SkgkubeOuZETkneT15ZDwuuJoFrkr0Bpbz_o/s1600-h/inglenookdrapes2sm.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5420001951088757042" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEl3b2frE3KGfD8SvkdmW1ppeNjj-SehfHd-zZwBscclWueFfRdwZbx_WNi0E8BbUt16Uygj6Ec_IFb4ijForeDuagiqSpVkvYDD6dAm_SkgkubeOuZETkneT15ZDwuuJoFrkr0Bpbz_o/s400/inglenookdrapes2sm.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" /></a>Stevens Estate design update: new window treatments I am sure you have heard – or maybe even spoken – the words “listen to your mother!” Well, one day while we were talking on the phone, my mom casually mentioned that my aunt had several boxes of drapery panels and sheers that she had put in storage after a recent move, “I think they would look nice at <a href="http://www.stevensestate.com/index.html">The Stevens Estate</a>. Why don’t you give Auntie Marty a call?” I am always happy when my mom tells me that she has read something on my blog (or if anyone tells me they have been reading for that matter!) so when she offers me advice on design projects I always listen. And in this case, especially, I am so glad that I did! My aunt generously donated the beautiful draperies and sheers (thank you!) seen in the photo above, which were a perfect match to the <a href="http://designvignettes.blogspot.com/2009/09/stevens-estate-receives-design-update.html">work we had recently done</a> for the Estate. A special thank you also goes to Paula Bakies of <a href="http://www.picturetrail.com/acorninteriors">Acorn Interiors</a> for professionally re-sizing them, along with providing expert installation. </div> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPROzVsDiOXit9F8xtCTkimFx8A_FTvHOsIQC_pdIkkJAJH76Tb8ZFDNlWXhH6SFVmOaW0ZhjI2qobveW3R2KxJriOqR8z31ELkqkLsNPb7TWb22a2ApJWSF3v7q8zASvPXGjDD3ogvM4/s1600-h/benchcushionb4SE.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5420016596805070386" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPROzVsDiOXit9F8xtCTkimFx8A_FTvHOsIQC_pdIkkJAJH76Tb8ZFDNlWXhH6SFVmOaW0ZhjI2qobveW3R2KxJriOqR8z31ELkqkLsNPb7TWb22a2ApJWSF3v7q8zASvPXGjDD3ogvM4/s400/benchcushionb4SE.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" /></a> Here is a visual reminder of the Stevens Estate inglenook before we began redecorating. Under the new direction of Estate manager Laura Gifford, the redecorating has begun to reflect the historic elegance of this stately North Andover mansion that may be rented for small, intimate parties or large gatherings including weddings, conferences and fundraisers. </div> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnBMHGoAkMmCczOOvGSfhrpEYtEECpdfHgghvT_2DLBaJpFXU2cOdrhBgnYf9B2OAA9z1OWTCviiW9BzaPewGQWp9eFx17KoRcmRIgXKM9PYrFf91LDPAKLo5jFtvtJEPNQHlPqnGF6Ag/s1600-h/SEwindowB4dark.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5420021588595066610" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnBMHGoAkMmCczOOvGSfhrpEYtEECpdfHgghvT_2DLBaJpFXU2cOdrhBgnYf9B2OAA9z1OWTCviiW9BzaPewGQWp9eFx17KoRcmRIgXKM9PYrFf91LDPAKLo5jFtvtJEPNQHlPqnGF6Ag/s400/SEwindowB4dark.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 282px; height: 400px;" /></a>BEFORE: The view to the grounds was blocked with ill-fitting sheers. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdot-JB_tv7z-WeFJc-P75oLkldgTaeT4xJaoT0FY-jNz4DJSxqqRbZk-VXgA_RqDJD-ATx0FNW-LoeWsiyitkxwpd1qxvVkKK9h-n8VRiOFdv78OiK7m6XqTe3vopTh5rtUJTUcw7RAA/s1600-h/inglenookwindowsm.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5420041039458231346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdot-JB_tv7z-WeFJc-P75oLkldgTaeT4xJaoT0FY-jNz4DJSxqqRbZk-VXgA_RqDJD-ATx0FNW-LoeWsiyitkxwpd1qxvVkKK9h-n8VRiOFdv78OiK7m6XqTe3vopTh5rtUJTUcw7RAA/s400/inglenookwindowsm.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 262px; height: 400px;" /></a>AFTER: Properly dressed, the inglenook – which is at the front entrance of the Estate – now provides visitors with an appropriate welcome. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD3HdH6JpxEaD4AI2xOt-AUjDXWNkPy7J8hEm5OE5Df5hXqG5dQineioOojtIcmWlPDyx-1J0uuTICbGXunTjSnfc_H-OBGD6tnUAfB6Wz1CsFwYIGUNjWeapnr09wDh-Mg-kM22LnXbQ/s1600-h/bookcasewithartsm.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5420001927686147010" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD3HdH6JpxEaD4AI2xOt-AUjDXWNkPy7J8hEm5OE5Df5hXqG5dQineioOojtIcmWlPDyx-1J0uuTICbGXunTjSnfc_H-OBGD6tnUAfB6Wz1CsFwYIGUNjWeapnr09wDh-Mg-kM22LnXbQ/s400/bookcasewithartsm.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 258px;" /></a> Another gift: I added this newly framed print of an original architectural rendering of the Estate (Hartwell & Richardson, 1889) that I discovered online to the shelves flanking the window seat. I also brought over a box of old books that my mom had in storage (are you sensing a “we-don’t-throw-anything-away-in-this-family” trend here?) to help fill up the shelves. Attention to details – plus good old-fashioned recycling – makes a world of difference! <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTWJJvG_CIFqfE7g7Yp_8nHm_funRu34ihfft_zzOvDMMoNaTLS_1DzpgyFtDq034ip3BKwswM5-a19pZ0PdlX60MWdhbFXhGkJvf2y_FDAICRcS2bez3QUhFWvZL_aNdkHpAT6W8chI4/s1600-h/SE+side+chairs.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5420048636949181410" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTWJJvG_CIFqfE7g7Yp_8nHm_funRu34ihfft_zzOvDMMoNaTLS_1DzpgyFtDq034ip3BKwswM5-a19pZ0PdlX60MWdhbFXhGkJvf2y_FDAICRcS2bez3QUhFWvZL_aNdkHpAT6W8chI4/s400/SE+side+chairs.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 293px;" /></a>These two chairs from the Stevens Estate are scheduled to receive the next makeover. Check back soon ... Advertisement <a href="http://www.threadscouture.com/Home_Page.php" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5420120734267112450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoLXTg-_smp-xtpZ5iB9EB93Bi5-0a4qL5h2UWRWNjno-snCPjczDKoUQp4gGtLbcCbB-F00YbwajO7UBYiT60cru-q1g4c3cmoH-SpX2GsyWHEgBCgAX7bdOV9OmiBoc2q6YETequocA/s400/threadsbanner-SE.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 143px;" /></a> </div>

A gift for The Stevens Estate

Stevens Estate design update: new window treatments I am sure you have heard – or maybe even spoken – the words “listen to your mother! ” W...

8:00 PM

Home Ideas - Modern Home Design