Autumn Inspirations

I grew up in New York City, where Labor Day meant school was about to start again and Fall was in the air. It didn’t matter that the thermometer and official calendar still read Summer. As far as we were concerned, Autumn was officially here.

Now I live in San Diego, where it’s pretty much summer all year round. (Not complaining.) As the days grow shorter, though, I know the fall season has begun.

In that spirit, I thought I’d share a few Autumn inspirations today.

Lustrous wood cabinetry and furniture
(Photo: Bornholm Kitchen)

Jewel-toned paisleys
(Photo:  Kravet)

Warm brick-toned walls
(Photo:  Sherwin-Williams)

Cozy, whiskey-warmed leathers
(Photo:  Pottery Barn)

Lustrous bronze and crackling fireplaces!
(Photo:  Pleasanthearthfireplacedoors.com)

Cuddly, chunky wool throws
(Photo:  Pottery Barn)

Home candy

I'm in a random mood today. All of my focus these past few weeks has been dedicated to a big project I'm working on, so I thought I'd escape into some of my favorite interior delights, the objects I crave for how they look and feel.  Home candy.

Pewter and peonies

I love the soft blend of silver pewter and pink peony petals. Peonies and tulips are my favorite flowers.  The vase is from Match, an Italian-based company that crafts their beautiful pieces by hand.  I want one!  (Or one for each room!)

Match pewter vase with pink peonies
(Photo Courtesy:   Match )

Wool and silk rugs

One of the best gifts I've received in recent years was a handmade wool and silk Persian rug hand-carried back for me from Iran.  (Thank you again, Dean and Paul, and Dean's friend who acquired and brought it back from her family visit!)  It sits at the end of my bed and caresses my feet whenever I step on it.

Incidentally my love for wool extends to Karastan carpets and flokati rugs.  My tootsies (and eyes) love 'em all.

Modern Living Room design by San Francisco Architect CCS ARCHITECTURE

Animal prints everywhere

Animal prints show up everywhere Chez J, especially cheetah.  They're on pillows and a matching ottoman slip cover, sheets and a vase sitting on my wine cabinet.  Chances are, they'll show up somewhere else some time soon.  (Or in my next place on a carpet, like the one shown here... Yes, I definitely would!)  Animal prints are just sexy.  Always have been.  Always will be.

Eclectic Family Room design by Philadelphia Interior Designer Meadowbank Designs

PS:  I love patterns, in general.  Animal prints, florals, stripes, plaid, checks, paisley, you name it!  Mixing them together is even more fun.

Leather

I love its rustic warmth and practicality.  Leather is livable and very Sensible Style.  My next couch will be leather. And my office will get a leather recliner in the not-too-distant future, too.

Lancaster couch offers sink-deep comfort
(Photo Courtesy:  Restoration Hardware)

Velvet

Rich and touchable.  Soft but strong.  Elegant and durable.  The ultimate Sensible Style fabric.  I own a velvet couch that's seen more naps than I'm willing to admit to.  And I've been shopping for a velvet duvet cover for my bed for a while, thus far unsuccessfully.  I also love velvet drapery panels and my next home will probably have some.

Velvet panels add luxe privacy
(Photo Courtesy:  Pottery Barn)

Seagrass, rattan and wicker

I love strong woven textures like these.  I have them in storage baskets throughout my home, in a living room area rug and a hamper.  They all say 'coastal' to me, and I love living on the coast.  No reason not to bring that feeling indoors.

Contemporary Kitchen design by Other Metros Interior Designer In Detail Interiors

Last, but definitely not least... Art 

No home is complete without art -- certainly no home of mine would be!  I'm not talking about posters chosen because their colors match your couch either.  I'm talking about pieces that speak to your heart and soul, whatever medium and price tag they happen to fit.

Art doesn't have to be expensive.  It doesn't even have to be an original one-of-a-kind piece.  It can be a vintage McCoy vase you picked up at a garage sale that makes you happy.  Or a beautifully-composed photograph of a favorite pet, person or vacation.  Art should make you smile when you look at it.  That's its job.


I have three framed Clyde Butcher photographs in my office.  I see them whenever I walk into my townhouse.  They're hauntingly beautiful pictures by an artist considered to be the Ansel Adams of the Everglades.

I love remembering breakfasts on my screened lanai in Florida watching the herons, egrets, ducks, cranes and wood storks land on the pond behind our house. Art inspires memories.  That's its job, too.

This original photograph of Amelia Island reminds me of a wonderful vacation there
(Photo Courtesy:  Clyde Butcher)

Thanks for sharing my visual escape with me today.

Create a Ma'am Cave

Last week in this space, I shared some tips for creating a football lover’s man cave. This week, I’d like to offer some insights on creating a getaway for the woman of the house – especially if you (or she) needs an escape from all the rowdy testosterone surrounding her. 

This is a space that should nurture and embrace its occupant with comfortable furnishings and lighting that enhances the room’s activities. It should be private, if possible, and closed off from the noise and hubbub of the house. It should be filled with artwork that inspires its resident to pursue her passions. Its color scheme will relax or stimulate, depending on the room’s primary purpose. 

As an example, my writing/design studio is painted red, a color that stimulates creativity. If I were using it as a yoga studio, I’d probably have chosen a soft sage instead. While every retreat is different, here are some general multi-purpose ideas to hopefully inspire you. 

Appropriate lighting 

Layered lighting is probably your best bet, especially if your retreat does double duty as a work and play space. Consider dimmable ceiling lighting and a table or floor lamp next to a chair or on a desk. 

This Atrium Glass Table Lamp from Pottery Barn illuminates your  space while displaying sentimental collectibles

Comfortable furnishings 

Even if your retreat is mainly dedicated to paperwork or exercise, it’s wonderful to have a comfortable chaise or chair with ottoman for relaxation. 

You might also want a writing surface, depending on how you’ll use your space. This could be a desk or a table, depending on your needs. Attractive storage solutions are available for files, if necessary, that could be hidden under a skirted table. 

I love this Baldwin Chaise from Ballard Designs for its style and comfort

Sound system 

You don’t need the kind of big-speakered system your boyfriend had in college. A compact player with good sound quality that lets you enjoy your work or play music is a great retreat enhancer. 

A Bose SoundDock or comparable system can serenade your  retreat

 


Sensible Style flooring 

How you primarily use your space will determine the type of flooring you choose for it. If you regularly work with paints or clay, consider low-maintenance materials that can be easily wiped clean, like rubber or vinyl. If you do yoga, ballet or Pilates, consider flooring that will be soft and comfortable underfoot, like linoleum or cork. If you just want a quiet place to read, meditate, relax or write in a journal, consider something cozy underfoot like a wool or flokati rug that you’ll enjoy digging your toes into. 

Nothing feels cozier underfoot than a flokati rug
(Photo: Flokati-Rugs.com )

Inspiring and engaging visuals 

Whatever your private passion, surround yourself with mementos or artwork that inspires it, or just delights you, and display your pieces handsomely. Consider a framer with archival experience for professionally preserving your valuables.

This signed, numbered photo is one of three Clyde Butcher  images archivally framed on my writing/design studio wall

A Chez J Thanksgiving

Last year, in these days just before Thanksgiving, I closed on my three-story town house, which I now affectionately call Chez J. It was a long road, given its short sale status. Don’t let the “short” in its name fool you.

Chez J elevation!

I had much to be thankful for then, and I still do. So I’d like to use this Thanksgiving week post to express my appreciation to the many professionals who have contributed to Chez J’s acquisition and improvements to date. Without their help, my home probably wouldn’t be mine, and it definitely wouldn’t be as homey as it is today.

I've included web sites for those folks who have them. I'm happy to pass along contact info for those who don't.



From the start

First and foremost, I need to thank my wonderful realtor, Terri Davids with Century 21 Award in Chula Vista. This deal would not have come together without her patience and expertise. Short sales are challenging in general; having a second lender involved makes it all the more so. And having a lazy seller’s agent who epitomized the sleazy salesman stereotype made her job that much tougher. Thanks for hanging with it, Terri! You gave me a home for my Talo...

Yes, I had a fabulous kitchen faucet even before I had a kitchen! When I attended Fashion Week in February 2010 at the invitation of Brizo and its agency, MSL Group, we were wined, dined, feted and sent off with wonderful gifts. Our newly-minted Blogger 19 group was treated to their premium Talo faucets with SmartTouch and MagneDock technologies in the finish of our choice. All I needed was a sink to pair it with! Thanks, Brizo, Jai, Charlie, Christiana and MSL for the wonderful housewarming gift -- it now has a cozy home of its own and is serving me very, very well. And thanks to my friend, Paul Anater of the brilliant Kitchen and Residential Design blog for suggesting that I be included in that inaugural B19 event!






My go-to-gal for lighting and more

My designer pal and favorite lighting pro, Vicky Lodge of VML Design and Lighting, was immensely helpful with terrific insights and local referrals who have proved to be phenomenal. Thanks for your friendship and for helping me settle into my new hometown.

Vicky suggested a three-light sconce when I decided to paint the powder room ceiling the same dark shade as the walls. I chose a fixture at Home Depot inspired by Restoration Hardware's Dillon (for about $100 less).

Friend and fix-it guy


Close friend for 20 years and super-skilled carpenter, Norman Alatorre is also a top-notch handyman who has spent more time here than anyone besides me! He’s done so much great work at Chez J since I moved in that I couldn’t list it all here.

The stand-out contribution, though, is my home office/design studio. He turned it from the bland, cluttered, carpeted box it had been to the inspiring, organized work space it is now. I smile every time I walk by or into the room.

Norman doesn’t have a web site, as his real job for the past two decades has been building TV and movie sets, but I’d be happy to pass along his contact information if you have projects, especially carpentry-related work, that needs a skilled hand. (You've already seen his talents in the Princess Diaries, Entourage, CSI Miami and other popular entertainment.)

Thank you for your friendship and dedication, mi amigo!

Logan Desk from Pottery Barn, part of the home office makeover designed by me, wonderfully executed by carpenter-friend Norman Alatorre

Finely wired

Bill Martin of Martin Electric was one of Vicky’s referrals and a phenomenal electrician. I’ve had him here for several projects already, and I look forward to doing more work together – both here and for my clients. I was very happy to hear that Bill also does AV work. When I get ready to set up my living room TV/components, I now have a great go-to resource!


To the trade


I’ve been a member of ProSource since I became an independent designer, first in Tampa, more recently in San Diego. I have found the prices and service to be notable in both locations. My rep here, Kathy Anderson, was terrifically helpful in getting me my laminate flooring at a fabulous price, getting me all the samples I needed quickly, and ensuring that everything was processed smoothly. Thanks, Kathy!



They absolutely floored me

Flooring Creations did a terrific job with my friend’s wood floors, and so I had them quote me on installing most of my laminate. (The material from ProSource was already here and the office already completed when I called them.)

First, company owner Gus showed up on time to quote my install. Then he came through with a terrific quote. Technically speaking, he didn’t have to take on this job at all, since there was no big material profit margin in it for him; it was just a chance to show me what his firm could do. And, boy, did he ever! What an incredible service experience from start to finish. It didn't feel like they were doing anything different for me than they'd do for a non-industry client either. I could see their approach to service and quality was stellar; that doesn't happen on demand. It's intrinsic.

Gus and Sinda, his able helper, coordinated everything smoothly, including the fixtures replacement that had to be worked in with the new powder room flooring. Their team was fantastic. Not only were they super-skilled, but they were also punctual, polite, respectful and incredibly hard-working. They’ll be my first call when I’m ready to replace the ugly old carpeting still left on the two staircases and third floor. Thanks, guys!

Palisades Honey Oak Laminate from ProSource,
expertly installed by Flooring Creations

Fixture folks, et al


I’d also like to thank Chris Patti and David Contreras at Ferguson for their help in ordering and delivering my beautiful Kohler Archer powder room fixtures at a terrific designer rate, and Dennis Hargraves at Fixtures Living for his help in selecting, discounting, coordinating and delivering my sleek powder room faucet! Dennis' able team includes Kellie and Rosa.

Kohler's Archer Pedestal Sink and Toilet look wonderful in my remodeled powder room!

I’d also like to thank the folks at my local Home Depot and Pottery Barn for their terrific help. My painter, Drew Leach, also gets thanks for working with my hectic schedule, for being a total pro, and for his beautiful handiwork. We, too, shall do more projects in 2012!

Behr Premium Plus Paint in Root Beer looks delicious on my powder room walls and ceiling -- especially against white fixtures and moldings

Finally, I’d like to thank my wonderful family and friends – both here in California and across the country – for your fabulous support, this year and forever. I love you guys!

Big hugs from San Diego,
Jamie


PS: Look for posts in 2012 with all of the office, powder room, flooring and other Chez J improvements!

Details #5 - Finishing Touches

This is the final installment of a five-part, first week of the month series with The Decorating Diva. Each focuses on a single room detail that can make a huge difference in the success of that space's style.

Last month we looked at hardware. (See links for the full series at the end of this post.) This segment focuses on those last little details that sometimes go unfunded or get overlooked. Think about the last time you walked into a darling powder room, only to notice plastic clips on the mirror or an ugly white switch plate. Or try to imagine this bathroom with plastic towel holders? (As its designer, I try not to!)

Master bath by Jamie Goldberg Kitchen and Bath Design, LLC

Design is in the details. So this edition of Details focuses on finishing touches.


Mirrors

We look at them every morning when we comb our hair, but when was the last time you really looked at yours? Are the edges chipped or rusting? Does your mirror lack a frame? Mirrors glued to the wall are tricky and hazardous to remove, but can be framed for a richer look. Clip-on mirrors or builder grade medicine cabinet mirrors can be more easily replaced. For a couple of hundred dollars or less, you can give your bathroom a much, much better look!

For a great splurge, check out this beauty. (I want one in my next home!)

It's a mirror. It's a television. It's a stylistic and engineering marvel. It's a Seura!

I can see this Crate & Barrel Largo mirror really enhancing a bath with cinnamon cherry cabinets.

Pottery Barn's Kensington Mirror creates an instant bathroom upgrade

Installed Accessories

Chances are, your home has some permanently-installed accessories in one or more room that are taking away from their appeal. Examples include dime store kitchen paper towel holders, plastic flush levers on your toilets, plastic towel bars in your bathroom and builder basic switchplate covers. These are easy DIY upgrade opportunities on their own, or should be factored into any larger remodel plans you're making.

Flush out ugly tank levers with coordinating versions, like this Brantford model from Moen

Vent your home fashion frustrations with a stylish register cover, like this Scroll model from Restoration Hardware.

Switch to better-looking outlet covers, like these Porcelain beauties from Rejuvenation... Perfect for a retro bath!

Countertop Accessories

This is the easiest, most affordable, no tools or handyman required, update you can make to a kitchen or bath. If your canisters or drinking glasses are looking dated, visit your favorite home goods store or web site for an instant upgrade. They tend to be smaller, lower cost items, so changing out every few years isn't a budget buster. (Donate your old set to a charity, please!) They're also a great way to add color, texture and a new style component to your space.

Give your bath modern, international flair with Jonathan Adler's Berlin accessories

Add pared-down elegance to your bath with Pottery Barn's Quinn Beaded bath accessories.

Form meets function in these stainless steel canisters at The Container Store.

Countertop Appliances

What is your toaster or coffee maker saying about your kitchen? I'm tired... I'm old... I'm bargain basement? Countertop appliances are also easy upgrades, albeit a little more expensive. The first principle of countertop appliances, however, is store the ones you don't use daily. The only appliances that should sit out are part of your morning or dinner routine. If the food processor or stand mixer only gets used once a month or so, it doesn't need to take up room on your countertops. For those essentials you do use daily, consider models that add functionality and style to your kitchen.

Give your kitchen coffee bar style and flexibility with this Cuisinart Coffee on Demand machine at Williams-Sonoma.

Think of it as a toaster on steroids! This Breville Countertop Convection Oven, also at Williams-Sonoma, is so much more. I want one of these, too!

Breville also makes a top-rated, darned good looking juicer! Available through Amazon.com.

Enjoy the entire Details series!

Details #1 - The Lighting Edition
Details #2 - The Faucet Edition
Details #3 - Fabrics and Fibers
Details #4 - The Hardware Edition
Details #5 - Finishing Touches

Details #3 - Fabrics and Fibers

This is the third of a five-part, first week of the month series with The Decorating Diva. Each of the five Details editions will focus on a single room detail that can make a huge difference in the success of that space's style.

Last month we looked at faucets. This segment focuses on fabrics and fibers. Never underestimate the power of terrific textiles to enhance the look of a room. To see what I mean, try to imagine the chandelier in this kitchen with naked bulbs.

Kitchen designed by Jamie Goldberg, AKBD, CAPS

Such an unfinished look would totally detract from the otherwise pulled-together room. Fabrics can quickly, easily and often inexpensively update a room. Consider replacing your oven mitt and dish towels, your tablecloth, place mats and napkins. You can get yourself "new" kitchen chairs by slipcovering them. You can minimize an unappealing floor with a throw rug. You can dress up a basic light fixture by adding shade covers to your bare bulbs. You can even swap out the shades seasonally.

Here are some great fabrics and fibers to consider for your kitchen, even if you're not planning a major redo. Small touches can make a big difference!

Outdoor rugs like this Crewel Floral from Ballard Designs offer easy-clean Sensible Style for your kitchen!

Soften the look and feel of your kitchen chairs with a new cushion, this Tempo pad is from Pierre Deux

Coordinate your window covering to the style of your room, as this London Fabric Shade from Smith+Noble so beautifully does for this kitchen.

They're going to get seen at some point, so pick out pretty oven mitts. This Marseille style from Williams-Sonoma has coordinating dish towels, too.

Give your old chairs the slip! A great camouflage like this Dining Room Loose-Fit Slipcover from Pottery Barn gives you a new look for less.

Dress up your breakfast nook with new napkins and placemats from World Market's Krishna Medallion Textile Collection.

Or go contemporary with these texture-rich, neutral Z Gallerie Hyacinth Placemats.

Here are three essential points about kitchen textiles that you should consider:

* Are the table linens or chair slipcovers you're considering machine washable? If they're dry clean only, they may not fit your lifestyle.
* If you're updating your window coverings, keep in mind the amount of privacy and light control that you require, as well as the overall style of the room.
*If you're adding a throw rug, be sure to include a nonslip pad underneath to minimize the chance of a slip or fall.


Enjoy the entire Details series!

Details #1 - The Lighting Edition
Details #2 - The Faucet Edition
Details #3 - Fabrics and Fibers
Details #4 - The Hardware Edition
Details #5 - Finishing Touches

Details #1 - The Lighting Edition

This begins a five-part, first week of the month series with The Decorating Diva. Each of the five Details editions will focus on a single room detail that can make a huge difference in the success of that space's style.

In the next four months, we'll look at hardware, fabrics, faucets and accessories. We'll also be giving away a fabulous faucet from Brizo and a room full of new Italian collection hardware from Topex. Trust me, you won't want to miss out on those opportunities!

This segment is probably the most critical. If you're not sure what I mean, imagine this remodeled kitchen with a florescent light box on its ceiling.

Kitchen designed by Jamie Goldberg, AKBD, CAPS

Not only would the outdated fixture detract from the elegant cabinetry and granite countertops, it wouldn't deliver the light quality a kitchen deserves.

Here are some great fixtures to consider for your kitchen and bath, even if you're not planning a remodel.

Good-looking Melrose Pendants by Tech Lighting

Brand, striking new Banja Mini Pendant from LBL Lighting

Transitional style showcased in Rejuvenation's Whitaker Island Fixture

One of my long-time favorites, the Hundi Lantern at Pottery Barn

The Jefferson delivers retro style, also at Rejuvenation



Brighten your vanities with Metro Bath, also by Tech Lighting


Holtkoetter's 2980.1 Sconce, a sexy VML Design & Lighting suggestion


Kalco's Asiana LED Module delivers energy efficiency and exotic allure


Minka-Lavery brings sleek chic to the bath with its 5994-84 collection

Here are three essential points about kitchen lighting that you should consider:

• Do you need to augment the room's natural light with general room lighting? This is often achieved with recessed can lighting - now available in energy-efficient LEDs.
• Is there enough light shining on your work spaces? Consider adding under-cabinet lights and an island fixture or pendants, if applicable, to illuminate those key spots.
• Is there sufficient light at your eat-in space? This doubles as homework central in many homes. In others, it's the spot to enjoy a cup of coffee with the morning paper.

And a couple for the bath:

• Do you have enough light for shaving and make-up application at your vanity? A small upgrade can make a big difference in functionality and style.
  
• Is there a water-resistant light above your tub or shower? Consider adding one if there isn't already.

Enjoy the entire Details series!

Details #1 - The Lighting Edition
Details #2 - The Faucet Edition
Details #3 - Fabrics and Fibers
Details #4 - The Hardware Edition
Details #5 - Finishing Touches