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Posts Tagged ‘decorate’

Special thanks to todd, store designer in los angeles, who contributed the following inspiration for some timely hollywood glamour.

Create the look and feel of high-end luxury on a budget by selecting simple shapes with rich textures or reflective finishes.

Think soft fabrics mixed with the sparkle of polished chrome and high-gloss lacquer–and a few design details that echo the glam of old Hollywood.

Start with the avec sofa, its soft pewter poly velvet fabric and vintage cross stitching is a perfect beginning.

Add the peekaboo coffee table, for the illusion of a larger space, and throw in the city slicker side table for its white lacquer–not to mention just the right amount of 60’s regency.

Hang a few perspective mirrors for sparkle, add drama with a luxe floor lamp and a few blok candle holders can add romantic glow. Throw the whole collection on top of the lounge natural shag rug for that deep warm luxurious feel.

Now, take a guess on the cost of this ritzy room worthy of the silver screen. Would you believe it’s under $2,500?

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Recently, CB2 team member Megan and her boyfriend Paul bought a condo in a developing urban area and moved in together.

Slowly they’ve been defining their style–which includes watching expenses.

What did they learn?
How are they doing it?

1. They were fortunate and quick to take advantage of the first time buyer tax credit to purchase a new place. Not only did it give them some extra for their budget, it’s also a clean slate instead of choosing between his or her place.

2. With the new construction almost complete, they were able to work with their builder to make small changes that help make it their own–without adding out-of-pocket costs.

For example, kitchen and bath cabinet hardware went from “swirly” traditional handles to sleek modern stainless steel. Also, the granite countertop was extended to the floor to create an architecturally strong element in the kitchen which leads into the living/dining area.

3. Next, they accepted hand-me-downs from their families. Some of them work great and others are a testament to their ability to negotiate–both with each other and with whoever’s doing the offering.

4. Megan’s living proof of the theory: buy what you love and it will work together.

A perfect example is their new piazza sofa with a second-hand Persian-style rug.

5. Paint is inexpensive–plan on doing a lot of it. It gives the biggest bang for the buck and color helps tie elements together.

They painted every room using a neutral palette, the exception is a rich navy blue in the office/guest room that took three coats. For a close match, see Pantone 2965C.

Lastly, it’s one of the best ways to retro-fit a piece of furniture to your style.

6. Slowly but surely, additions and upgrades get done according to the budget.

Lamps are on their wish list–but in the meantime, a new trig desk provides workspace while still allowing room for guests in the second bedroom.

And even though Paul’s very visual, imagining the mix is not his specialty so Megan gives him lots of time to get comfortable with major purchases.

What’s next? They’re both anxious to enjoy warmer weather with Monroe so outdoor furniture is quickly becoming a priority!

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modern flower arrangements

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Special thanks to curtis, catalog art director, who contributed the following.

So many have requested information about the paint colors we use in our catalog photography that we keep a running list for quick reference. Below are the key colors used in our spring catalog–all from Benjamin Moore.

BM 2024-40 yellow finch, page 11

BM 2121-10 gray, page 16

BM 2124-50 bunny gray, page 8

BM 2013-20 orange nectar, page 31

BM 2021-20 lemon, page 30

BM 2152-40 golden tan, page 52-53

BM 2008-20 claret rose page 41

Last but certainly not least, and since there are scores of whites out there, decorator’s white.

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We’re huge fans of David Bromstad and his HGTV show, Color Splash. Coincidentally we both “moved” to Miami recently and had the opportunity to meet at our store opening.

Following are a few thoughts he shared with us.

Who’s the most influential person to you as far as design goes?
My biggest influence in design would have to be Phillipe Stark. His innovative way of taking and combining styles and colors is absolutely sublime.

What are some of the aspects that define Miami’s design culture?
Miami has a design style all its own. It’s fresh and hip and not afraid to take chances and push the boundaries of design and color. The South American influences are undeniable. We are the only tropical city in the United States, its call the American Riviera for a reason. Hot, sexy and sultry.

What are some of your favorite spots to visit in Miami?
The beach has always been a place to relax and let the creative juices fly. Some of my best ideas come from laying in the hot Florida sun listening to my ipod. My new favorite place is my work studio. After years of working in San Francisco I was unable to have a work studio to create sculptures, lighting and artwork. I rarely leave. I think setting up a cot would be a wise idea!

What are some design trends you foresee?
If I had my crystal ball out, which I often do, and was looking to the next year or 2 of design trends, I would say that global influences will continue to make a mark in design. Going “green” with organic and environmentally products will bring in a more subtle, earthy design sense and color palette. On the flip side I see innovation with new and fantastic materials and colors. Consumers these days are savvy and smart and want to see amazing and inspiring products. The colors as well will be fresh. Purples, magentas, oranges, lime greens and yellows are those color splashes to complement the earthy base colors coming from the organic color influences.

Color is definitely your trademark–what color is your personal favorite for spring? I never thought I would say this would be my favorite color but magenta is my new obsession. I find it sexy, sultry and just plain happy! Combined with acid yellow!? YUMMY?

What’s a fast, inexpensive way to update one’s home?
The fastest way to update your home is to rearrange your furniture. This will cost you absolutely nothing but a little manpower and creativity. Top if off with new throw pillows and you have transformed your room for very little. Another way to give your home a new life is through paint. Instead of painting all 4 walls of your room, which is in an all day project, try doing a feature wall in a stunning color. Black, red, grellow, orange, purple, magenta, I could go on for days the possibilities of color. I prefer an earth and health friendly VOC free paint like Mythic. (In Chicago, see Michelle at the eco paint boutique Colori.)

You recently viewed the CB2 spring collection in person, any favorites?
That’s an unfair and evil question! The minute I walked in to view the new collection and store I was blown away by everything! The thought and love that went into each product was abundantly clear. I’m obsessed! Ok, if you’re going to put me on the spot I will narrow my store wide obsession to a few fantastic items. The parlor sofa in that yummy grellow is so fantastic I can’t even contain myself. Don’t be surprised if this ends up in my bedroom. Sexy, sleek and did I mention the color? Perfection! The knitted pouf in lime green! Its so textural and delicious and the price? Again genius! The grrrl rug. 80s fabulous personified! I’m loving this rug more than I love my car! The alpha floor lamp. So fantastic and stunning, and huge! I love the statement is suggests….”I’m not afraid of design!”

Can you give us any hints regarding the upcoming season of Color Splash? The upcoming season of Color Splash Miami will be sexy and fabulous! With a whole new cast and crew, we will be featuring local artisans and craftsman that make Miami one of the most creative places on earth. The new season should air sometime in July! We are still in the early stages of the series, but I have a feeling this will be the strongest season yet! Also look for the light sculptures in my studio – super colorful and utterly different from anything I have ever created.

Thank You David!

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Lofts…wiiide open spaces…that’s what we’re talking about.

Usually they feel vast, airy, and full of possibilities. But other times they can look scattered and lack function.

The key is defining unique usable spaces within the overall space–without losing what attracted you to it in the first place.

To get the job done, rugs work especially well. Consider these examples:


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