Friday, April 29, 2011

The Memphis Group - Color, Pattern and Objects






Memphis Group Bookshelf: Andrea Branzi
Olivetti's Valentine Typewriter
circa 1969
The Memphis Movement celebrates the best of Italian design with vibrant colors and pattern.  Founded by Italian designer Ettore Sottsass, the design and architecture group created Post Modern furniture, fabrics, ceramics, glass and metal objects from 1981-1987. The group intended to develop a new creative design approach offering bright, colorful, shocking pieces meant to contrast with blacks and browns found in modern design.
Sottsass was already know for his 1969 design of Olivetti's Valentine Typewriter.  The design was marveled for its portability and the user's ability to use it anywhere.  Plus it was manufactured in eye-catching red.
They drew inspiration from Art Deco and Pop Art and embraced color.  Some might say their designs were superficial but that was far from the truth.  The Memphis Group continues to stand the test of time and it still inspires today's designers.

Here are some great examples of how we celebrate this design movement today!

NeoCon 2010: Interface FLOR






Wallpaper: Sarah Hvass
London Desk Lamp


Monday, April 18, 2011

Green Eggs! Inspiration for a Modern Farmhouse

Green eggs do exist and aren't made up from a Dr. Seuss book!  

NixChix Team Fresh Green and Brown Eggs
Photo: Susan Currie 

Let me tell you about how I found out about green eggs and how they inspired this blog entry. Karen Levy, a fabulous friend, introduced me to my neighbor who has a budding business called NixChix Team in metropolitan Atlanta. From the name NixChix, you may have guessed that my neighbor's name is Nicholas and is in the business of selling organic, fresh laid eggs. 
Nicholas and his chicken Pepper.
Photo: Susan Currie

Anyone from the country or who has tasted fresh eggs knows what a luxury this business provides! Not to mention the fantastic colors that the eggs naturally come in. Beautiful medium to pale green and brown egg shells are the eggs natural appearance.

The Green Egg Layer - Zucchini. What a great name!
Photo: Susan Currie


From Eggs to Modern Farmhouse

The eggs and the beautiful spring hues inspired me to investigate what makes a "modern farmhouse." There are many interpretations but the basic elements are wood finishes, creams and a warm pallet.

Here are some of my favorite examples of the different perspectives on the Modern Farmhouse. Enjoy!












Friday, March 25, 2011

Live in Pastel

Spring is here, so think pastel!

Arrangement by: Studio Choo

We are influenced by all that surrounds us. At this time of year one of the greatest influences to be celebrated are the blooming blossoms and the beautiful colors found in nature! 


Be creative! There are so many interesting ways to play bring the spring aesthetic into your home without being redundant. Try using colorful eggshells as candle holders!


Pastel wallpaper is a great accessory for any room! 



Yellow, teal, and soft whites are perfect colors for a bedroom because of their peaceful, soft qualities. 

Room by: Maison Decor

Here, soft blue, green and white tones are used to create a sophisticated and peaceful aesthetic. Who wouldn't want to relax in this space? No bad dreams here! 




Wednesday, March 23, 2011

Patchwork Palette

Patchwork or pieced work is a form of needlework that's created by sewing together pieces of fabric into a larger design. A patchwork design can based on repeating patterns, colors and shapes in a more regulated way or randomly.



This tulip farm in the Netherlands is a great inspirational image for patchwork. The beautiful bright colors are laid out at random and still posses simplicity and refinement without a need to match. This idea is the same for using patchwork in upholstery, pillows, blankets or finish materials. 


Missoni Home fabrics uses patchwork fabrics to separate sections of the sofa. It's visually stunning and the bright colors and patterned textiles are perfect for rooms with dark floors and white walls because they add contrast. 



 Bedding is another great space to use patchwork fabric. It adds elements of coziness and comfort to your bedroom. I suggest picking a dominant color from the patchwork pattern and use it as a way to balance the space. Too much patchwork can distract from the overall design. 


The trees, grass and natural elements are wonderfully paired with patchwork cushions and blankets. The floral patterns on these particular cushions and blankets are an extension spring flowers now in bloom. 


Sometimes less is more. Here an ivory sofa is lightly sprinkled with three pastel patchwork pillows. The patchwork effortlessly adds coziness and warmth to the plain sofa. 


Patchwork and table setting work wonderfully together! For informal gatherings, try accessorizing with patchwork materials for maximum social atmosphere!




Monday, February 28, 2011

Lapis Lazuli


Lapis lazuli is a rock, largely formed from the mineral lazurite and looks beautiful when paired with jewel toned colors. This color can be the focal point in a space or simply act as an accessory; either way you will love playing with this color! 


Here designer Isle Crawford  uses the bold lapis lazuli for the entire space and balances it with pops of jewel-toned furniture pieces and black and white accessories. The pink, gold, white and black really bring this space together!


This is a great example of a lapis inspired space!
Lapis lazuli in its raw form has many different shades of blue along with veining.  The geometry of the chandelier reminds me of the veining goes along well with the mixture of hues. 


Lapis lazuli inspired accessories by Taika Dinnerware are eclectic and sophisticated! This is an easy way  to add a beautiful pop of color on your dining room table.


These lighter shades of lapis accessories gives life to this neutral room. Calmer tones of lazuli are easily integrated in any space while providing a hint of fun!


Knoll Textiles Luxe
Campbell
Saphire
Iris
Nordic
These fabrics available through Knoll Textiles use fun patterns, geometry and tones of lapis. These would be wonderful for decorative pillows or upholstery! 



Wednesday, February 2, 2011

Tickled Pink!

If you like pink, here are some rooms that will tickle your fancy.



Pink transforms this industrial and modern space into a flirty sophisticated living area.



Pink paired with this jewel-toned teal creates an amazing focal point. It's a dramatic look that can be difficult to achieve without the use of rich, vibrant colors. Don't be afraid to play with pink!



If you are hesitant of using pink, take baby steps with accessories like this hot pink accent coffee table. 



Feeling bold? Transform your ordinary white, wood or beige kitchen cabinets into a playful, inviting and sophisticated room of color. The lipstick pink cabinets work well with the white china, the beaded chandelier and the black granite counter top.  



Powder-puff pink adds a touch of whimsy to this all white room. I suggest using pink in small doses in a common area like a living room. 



Pink adds punch to this room! The color and spiral shape contrasts wonderfully against the white walls. 

Monday, January 24, 2011

Timeless and Luxurious Malachite!

Photo: Apartment Therapy
For those who are unfamiliar with my newest color inspiration: Malachite is a beautiful and natural occurring mineral with unique and regal green hues, textures, and patterns. It is commonly used to make jewelry, fine furniture, and extravagant finishes but is also a timeless and historical material that was reserved in it's use for only the finest and wealthiest of the social hierarchy. Today, this beautiful color and finish is available to anyone in want of sophistication, luxury, or antiquity into their space.
Photo: Jim Thompson
The deep green hue of Malachite mineral contrasts well with oranges. This shows how timeless and hippie chic this color can be used.


Photo: Global Views
Try Faux Malachite colored accessories such as these small side tables for a touch of bold color and sophistication!
Photo: Kelly Wearstler
Malachite's finish and texture are translated here in the stone furniture as well as the curtain patterns. 


Global Views