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><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Great to give or get: colorful coasters from</span><span style="font-style: italic;"><br />Metamorphosis Studio in Andover</span></span><br /><br />If you are in the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Andover</span> area tonight, the annual <span style="font-weight: bold;">Holiday Stroll</span> 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.<br /><br /><br /></span><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><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">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>.</span><br /><br /><br /></div><br /><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><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Looking for the perfect item to finish a space?</span><br />The artists at Metamorphois Art & Design can create a unique<br />piece that reflects your taste and color preferences.</span></span><br /><br /><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><span style="font-style: italic;">“Lazy Susans” are a top-seller at</span><span style="font-style: italic;"><br />Metamorphosis Art & Design</span><br /></div> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTDqZh_aQjqTxk-zDGHhi-qGOyUGLxguttDSYyjwlczyfA0MGBZrPtHO2RPAH9thKORyb3OLKy47tvj4qm47mf8efrtuvjwFTxIBH2WGin4kWwVJiC6TkZRA2z8zognivpuYIPvlZVOxCE/s1600/lazy+susan+Metamorphosis.jpg"><br /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />Metamorphosis Art & Design</span> 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?<br /><br /><br /></span></div> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyOd0_VBksOAFK8m3HjToCtHsyo2TYDY1eiRpRbh-R_xgubRgiQX5_T-hs5nQ1J1_tmDnhOVMXWnwtwUEq9gVTU3wPgpZFN6FK5gzTy2JaMlcQBZXR6BvvX2lVg8rSJ0zZOCJbpmojbs0U/s1600/windowseatcushion:bolstersLM.jpg"><br /></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><span style="font-size:180%;">BEFORE<br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><br />Looking for a thoughtful gift? How about a <span style="font-weight: bold;">“Before and After”</span> 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<br />a result it wasn’t being fully utilized.<br /><br /></span></div><br /><br /><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><span style="font-size:180%;">AFTER<br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:130%;">After consulting with this new client who took home a <span style="font-weight: bold;">gift certificate</span> 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"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Acorn Interiors</span></a>, and she brought our design to life.</span><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjBPPWkCXVJtYTrTEzI2svSHux5IadvbdUj2qDeTf86Pg8NBqunjJn6_41wASijVj-W3M7FYP2a6UFJw2LGxNWld7XmQHdkEN8N-2P2uPlgnfJiEPGs-JwT4PI-XJHJHks-HsUnHyuFRyJ/s1600/fabricLM.jpg"><span></span></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPHphUUTPRv7ubfis6Nun3llgp6EF5CQI5DMAc-2qzLExVmmA7QwEzOhyWD19KLPkcgdse5Lr71gKjCioBnaFOBrj2Zxp66U-z-Tq6W-L1WsDyXCmJcG3Ry60u6pweLC8wyhPf34Lm8pm4/s1600/windowseat:bolstersYB.jpg"><br /></a><br /><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><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:130%;">Now this area is a favorite go-to-place for this family<br />of four (plus one very cute dog named Skittles).</span><br /><br /></div><br /><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><span style="font-size:130%;"><br />While I was there, I helped them solve a privacy<br />issue for their front door. By adding a sheer panel with<br />linen that matches the window seat trim, we were able<br />to add a designer touch in a small way that<br />really made a big difference.<br /><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:130%;">If you are interested in giving “the gift of design</span><span style="font-size:130%;">”</span><span style="font-size:130%;"> just send me an email. I will gladly offer virtual design services for those outside of my traveling distance.<br /><br /><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbgNh1S01oc9BGFKvGJalN2fbuHWcioCzN5cQFwmVdCiAgD7iR9b9jtvZ-Gy17oRMqtmPDeLhWxDCWsjtvBFiHkCCW-Nc-7VIqKfCY8ww1bL1oYytOmIURB6qN9K0DrP4dYOP9Yh90GDQV/s1600/customordersMetamorphis.jpg"><span><span></span></span></a><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);font-size:130%;" >Click here to see more<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">“<a href="http://designvignettes.blogspot.com/search/label/before%20and%20after">before and afters</a></span></span></span><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;">”</span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);font-size:130%;" ><br />from my design files.<br /></span><br /><br /></span></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...

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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><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Sally Morse of Hunter Douglas with</span><span style="font-style: italic;"> Paula Bakies of Acorn Interiors</span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /></span><br />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<br />create a perfect room, in ten simple steps.</span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><br /><br /><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><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Guest Denise McCarthy looks right on trend<br />in stylish hot pink, black and white.</span><br /></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /></span></div><br /><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><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">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>.</span><br /><br /><br /><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><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">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.</span><br /><br /></div><br /><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><br /></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><br /><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) {}"><span><span></span></span></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><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><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">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 ...<br /><br /></span></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><br /></div><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcLsFuW8Y_I-hCiyS1mQdz5OrFZQBLa_q6RB0Yz2dhP5J3OZSxQchevjwwK9lAsungUJeiPXp9JpTRC0mhEL94qTrgOPzDClPwt6F4dJ0ysT4Kyuvbk7IgNLFdyY6yq9p9h_fAYgG7zlM/s1600/DHS_Postcard1.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><span><span></span></span></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><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:130%;">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.</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">Here are just some of the ten steps that Sally<br />shared with the audience (after a delicious<br />meal and yummy dessert, I must add!) ...</span><br /><br /></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><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(51, 153, 153);">Be inspired ...</span> 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<br />two as supporting characters).<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(51, 153, 153);">Set the stage for conversation ...</span> 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 : )<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(51, 153, 153);">Illuminate your space ...</span> 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.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(51, 153, 153);">Use window treatments ...</span> 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.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(51, 153, 153);">Add yourself to the space ...</span> 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.</span><br /><br /><br /><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><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">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.<br />To support their mission of helping others to move beyond poverty, <a href="http://www.lazarushouse.org/Donations/CashGifts.asp">click here</a>.<br /><br /><br /></span><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><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">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.<br /><br />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>.</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;"><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><br />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!<br /><br /></span></span><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:130%;" > xo yvonne</span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><br /><br /></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 ...

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