The Design Cobbler

We've moved!

2009-10-04T20:49:00.000-07:00

Please check out Niche Interiors' new blog home at: http://nicheinteriors.com/blog/

New features include monthly newsletters, before & afters, and a search feature to find articles on all your decorating dilemmas. Thanks for following the Design Cobbler! :)

Sneak Peek: South of Market Loft

2009-09-24T19:00:00.000-07:00

I never knew how tough photographers had it until I became an interior designer! Here is a sneak peak of the newly finished loft that we shot today. Check out the website soon for all the photos and descriptions...

For more info: Visit www.nicheinteriors.com

Artisan Collection from Restoration Hardware

2009-09-23T09:10:00.000-07:00

I don't usually get too excited about furniture from chain retailers, but some of these new pieces from Restoration Hardware's Artisan collection deserve a little buzz.

Flatiron dining table made from reclaimed elm doors and iron legs. $1,795

Wine barrel chandelier made from reclaimed French Oak, $2,195

Printmaker's sideboard, $1,995
*This would make my office (or anyone's) very happy*

Fore more info: Interior Designer San Francisco - Niche Interiors

Tools for Living by DWR

2009-09-17T14:24:00.000-07:00

Ready to infuse your kitchen or office with some functional modern style? Check out DWR's Tools for Living store. I always agreed that it's the small things that make a difference. Here are a few items on my personal wish list...

Table brush, $50. Cleaning would be much more enjoyable.

Say goodbye to that ugly plastic stapler and hello to the Heavy-Weight, $60.

Granit sugar bowl and creamer designed by Eva Zeisel, on sale for $51.

For more info: Interior Designer San Francisco - Niche Interiors

Design Inspiration: Four Barrel Coffee Shop

2009-09-11T16:15:00.000-07:00

I have been meaning to stop in Four Barrel Coffee shop on Valencia Street, after learning that a furniture designer I've worked with created all of the tables for the space. Take a look at the interior below, I know it inspired me. Oh, and the coffee is good and strong too!

I love the concept for the tables throughout the cafe. Mounting the slab directly to the wall and floor saves space and looks very cool. I believe the tables are made from old railroad ties.

For more information: Visit www.nicheinteriors.com

Decor Mag Highlights!

2009-09-01T08:03:00.000-07:00

The September shelter magazines have all arrived and I'm sharing my favorite rooms. Read on for some inspiring images for Fall, courtesy of Elle Decor and House Beautiful...

The contrasting textures and colors are grounded by light, neutral walls and sofa. Love it!

Risky move to paint the walls and built-ins with a rich, bold blue. It paid off!

The lilac color palette is soothing without being too matchy. The modern glass coffee table keeps the room light and airy.

For more design inspiration: Visit my San Francisco Interior Design Portfolio

Modern Wallpaper Sources and Tips

2009-08-25T14:34:00.000-07:00

Above: Hygge & West Daydream wallpaper in Blue.

It's no news to you that wallpaper is back! Now there are tons of fun, modern prints to choose from. Say goodbye to boring floral and country prints and hello to graphic and whimsical patterns that will add interest and drama to almost any room in the house. (Except for a full bathroom: Steam and wallpaper don't mix.)

Wallpaper Pointers
Bold wallpaper prints are best applied in small doses for maximum impact. Instead of doing an entire living or dining room, consider choosing one accent wall. If you are going for a dramatic effect, foyers and powder rooms are great places to hang wallpaper on every wall. Both spaces are small in size and transitional in the flow of the house.

Modern Wallpaper Resources
Read on for highlights of my favorite wallpaper manufacturers.

Ferm Living (http://www.fermlivingshop.us) is a Danish company coming out with lots of inventive, easy to install papers.

Twenty2 (http://www.twenty2.net) is a Brooklyn based husband and wife team that have been creating bold patterns since 2001.

Jocelyn Warner (http://www.jocelynwarner.com) is a designer from the UK. Her designs range from intricate to simple and bold.

Hygge and West (http://www.hyggeandwestshop.com) See Julia Rothman's collection for Hygge & West for beautiful bird and tree motifs.

For more information visit: San Francisco Interior Design Services

Chic online furniture deals!

2009-08-10T14:49:00.001-07:00

Sometimes the sale page can be a sad, sad state. Not when you have an interior designer cruising the best furniture sites for you! Read on for a few of my favorite sale items from online retailers.

Wisteria Venetian Bamboo table, on sale for $339
Glam it up by adding a mirrored piece to an otherwise boring corner.

Viva Terra Ivory & Gold Suzani bench, on sale for $235
This bench would add some charm at the foot of your bed, in a foyer or in front of a fireplace.

West Elm Patterned-Sphere table lamp, on sale for $59
Perfect for a small table or night stand.

Pottery Barn Wooden Door mirror, on sale for $179
Perfect for your bedroom or (if you are lucky) your walk-in closet.

For more info: Visit http://www.nicheinteriors.com

Current Obsession: Rotary Phones!

2009-08-04T18:13:00.000-07:00

My latest purchase for the office is a vintage white rotary phone. I was a little hesitant to take a technology leap backwards, but I'm so glad I did! Visually it's a nice addition to the desk, and when my cell phone is acting up I can always depend on old faithful to connect a clear, crisp phone call. I bought it on eBay, so I scoped out a few that are up for auction right now in case anyone wants to join my rotary phone party!

Bright red (and shiny!) rotary phone, currently at $31

Vintage black wall rotary phone, currently at $18.50

Yellow rotary phone, currently at $9.95

Happy Hunting!

The Challenge of Built-ins

2009-07-24T08:33:00.000-07:00

Trying to design a piece of built-in furniture to blend seemlessly into the existing architecture of a space is not an easy feat. Luckily, I have a very talented contractor who just installed these built-in bookcases and window seat (with storage) with a fantastic eye for detail.

He was able to match the existing molding by utilizing San Francisco Victoriana, who carries a variety of architectural ornamentation, including many traditional moldings used in San Francisco buildings. If they don't carry the specific molding you are trying to match they can make it for you.

Update: Check out the finished project on my San Francisco Interior Design Portfolio under "Forest Side Bungalow"

Design Icon of the Week: Eileen Gray

2009-07-17T10:01:00.000-07:00

Above: Rue de Lota apartment designed by Eileen Gray.
The tubular shaped Bibendum chair is shown, one of her most recognizable designs.

Eileen Gray has always been a favorite of mine. Maybe it's the fact that she was a woman in a male dominated field, or maybe because flexibility and function were at the forefront of her furniture designs. Here is an excerpt from the Design Museum about Gray:

Neglected for most of her career, EILEEN GRAY (1878-1976) is now regarded as one of the most important furniture designers and architects of the early 20th century and the most influential woman in those fields. Her work inspired both modernism and Art Deco.

In the August 1917 issue of British Vogue magazine a writer described the work of Miss Gray, a lacquer artist who had fled her home in Paris to seek refuge in London during World War I. “Influenced by the modernists is Miss Gray’s art, so they say,” it began. “But is it not rather that she stands alone, unique, the champion of a singularly free method of expression.”

Her design style was as distinctive as her way of working, and Gray developed an opulent, luxuriant take on the geometric forms and industrially produced materials used by the International Style designers, such as Le Corbusier, Charlotte Perriand and Mies Van Der Rohe, who shared many of her ideals.

Her voluptuous leather and tubular steel Bibendum Chair and clinically chic E-1027 glass and tubular steel table are now as familiar as icons of the International Style as Le Corbusier and Perriand’s classic Grand Confort club chairs, yet for most of her career she was relegated to obscurity by the same proud singularity that makes her work so prized today.

Above: The adjustable E-1027 table, a modern classic. Reproductions now available at DWR.

Now, you can find me at the Examiner! Check out my page for more interior design articles, tips and local sources or visit: www.NicheInteriors.com for more info.

Serving up the succulents

2009-07-11T11:00:00.000-07:00

Being new to the gardening world, I started my path to a green thumb by planting succulents years ago. They thrive well on sparse water and care, and there are endless varieties in beautiful shapes and colors. I spruced up the pots with new varieties this year, my latest favorite being Echeveria Metallica shown above.

We also decided to plant a vegetable garden this year. (Growing the vegetables has been easy compared to building and installing the planter boxes on the edge of our patio deck.) The green onions, garlic, and tomatoes are thriving well from seeds, and the basil plant was added after the red peppers didn't take off. Nothing is ready to harvest yet, but hopefully before the end of the summer we will have a home grown salad. We used redwood (cut to size at the hardware store), deck screws, and metal brackets to create simple planter boxes to fit between the posts on our patio fence.

Design Icon of the Week: Alvar Aalto

2009-07-08T09:41:00.001-07:00

I spotted an Alvar Aalto vase at the flea market this weekend and the dealer thought the designer was from Mexico. That made me laugh a bit, and prompted the idea of featuring a design icon every week. Here is a short bio from the Design Museum about Aalto:

The most important Finnish architect of the 20th century, ALVAR AALTO (1898-1976) was a central figure in international modernism. His greatest buildings, like the 1927 Viipuri Library and 1928 Paimio Sanatorium, fused the naturalism of Finnish romanticism with modernist ideals: as did his influential furniture and glassware.

Here are a few of his most recognizable designs. And yes, the forms in his designs are evident at IKEA today.

Stool 60, designed in 1932. Stackable and constructed of Birch wood.

Savoy vase, designed in 1936 for a competition at the World Fair in Paris. Still produced today by Iittala.

Paimio chair, designed in 1931. Made of bent plywood and birch.

For more info visit: www.NicheInteriors.com

Peonies vs. Tulips

2009-07-01T09:30:00.000-07:00

These Peonies are challenging Tulips position as my number one flower.

Modern Wallpaper!

2009-06-30T13:45:00.000-07:00

After today's installation I officially love wallpaper again. The "Little Leaves" pattern above is made by Ferm Living, a Danish design company. The metallic sheen of the leaves is hard to capture in a photo, but beautiful in person. At $115 a roll, it's also not a bad deal.

For more info: San Francisco Interior Design Services by Niche Interiors

Farley Bar at Cavallo Point Lodge

2009-06-29T08:03:00.000-07:00

Something about this place (besides their tasty Sidecars) keeps me crossing the bridge to Sausalito. The interior is distinct, and manages to successfully balance the elegant with the casual.

The restroom reminded me that not all public bathrooms make you want to leave ASAP.

Decor Mag Highlights!

2009-06-19T10:03:00.000-07:00

I thought I would share some inspiring interiors from recent decor magazines. The first two images are from the June edition of Elle Decor, and the last two are from July's House Beautiful.

I love the textures and old world, but casual vibe. Pimms Cup anyone?

You can't go wrong contrasting 1940's wood chairs with a smooth, modern table.

Light blue + dark grey = Chic

Ikat prints are everywhere right now, but it seems fresh upholstered in vivid pink and lilac.

For more design inspiration visit: My San Francisco Interior Design Portfolio

Picture Hanging 101

2009-06-12T14:42:00.000-07:00

I found these illustrations in an old House & Garden interior decoration book from the 1960's.

The excerpt reads:

Large pictures over a fireplace, proportioned to piece of furniture, small pictures grouped to make a large unit, pairs of pictures in a symmetrical arrangement are examples of simple improvements which your eye will catch at once.

Despite the run-on sentence, I couldn't have said it better myself.

Red, White & Green: The Many Faces of Spray Paint!

2009-06-07T10:42:00.000-07:00

As I looked around my apartment yesterday I realized how many pieces had been transformed by the wonders of spray paint. Here are a few favorites...

Two coats of vibrant red made this chair into a living room focal point.

I can hardly remember how this old hospital table looked before...I have a vague recollection of a poop brown color. Luckily, the enamel top didn't need to be touched. Now it serves us well for additional storage in the bathroom.

A brighter shade of green blends well with the garden while adding a pop of color.

Spray Painting 101:
- Clean the item prior to painting
- Use a spray primer if you are trying to cover a darker color with a lighter one
- Use multiple light coats
- Keep your distance: Don't spray closer than 8 inches
- Look for new cans that can spray from any angle! (Even upside down)

Have fun!

Decorator Showcase Inspiration

2009-06-03T10:24:00.000-07:00

I wanted to share two of my favorite rooms from this year's decorator showcase house in Pacific Heights. Cameras aren't allowed so I had to sneak a few with my iphone...

What a fun teenage girl's room! I love the color palette and the bed that doubles as a loungy sofa.

This funky little reading room has a lodge-chic vibe. The paneled walls and dim lighting enhance the small room, creating a cozy little escape.

Brighten Up Your Ceilings...

2009-05-21T20:51:00.000-07:00

With one of these beautiful fixtures!

Designer Lindsay Adelman's 9 Globe Bubble fixture is the tops! Each fixture is custom made in her Brooklyn studio.

I love these Stamen pendants by Niche Modern for their simplicity of form and delicate quality. (It's just a bonus that they also have Niche in their company name.)

The Ziyi chandelier by Thomas O'Brien for Visual Comfort successfully blends tradition and modernity.

Top eBay Picks: Vintage Clocks!

2009-05-19T15:31:00.000-07:00

This Retro Hallicrafters Clock Radio would add a little punch to your bedside table for $79.99

Rare Howard Miller clock, $850. Insanely priced, but I love the shape.

Bring some whimsy to your kitchen with this
Vintage Mastercrafters Starburst clock, $9.99

An oldie but a goodie:
1950's Westclox Big Ben Alarm Clock, $9.99

Island Style

2009-05-13T09:25:00.000-07:00

Having just returned from the Caribbean, I thought I would share some outdoor style highlights and inspiration from my trip. Even though our Bay Area weather doesn’t quite compare, we can still make our patios, backyards, and decks as comfortable and enjoyable for those perfect San Francisco afternoons.

The above was taken at Nikki Beach on Turks and Caicos. White drapery panels create a very cool effect in the evening breeze. This would be easy to adapt to your own patio, all you need are some white cotton rod pocket curtains and simple tie backs.

Is it a bed, a sofa, or both? While you may be hard pressed to find something with such generous proportions in a retail store, it still provides inspiration for creating a relaxing outdoor space. Add lots of pillows in the same tone to your outdoor furniture to create a similar, loungy feel.

Blue mosaic tiles, white barstools and natural materials form a nicely contrasted composition.

Top eBay Picks: Light Fixtures!

2009-05-02T16:03:00.000-07:00

I've found a number of fantastic and unique lamps and chandeliers for clients on eBay. Unlike larger furniture items, lamps don't usually cost much to ship. Check out my current eBay favorites...

Lucite chandelier, Buy it now for $149. It's not the hottest deal around, but it would spice up a boring entryway or small kitchen.

1930's Industrial work lamp, currently at $32. This would make any work area shine.

I'm a sucker for these Art Deco headboard lamps. This one is in good condition and would be a unique substitute for a table lamp. The current bid is $10.

Vintage arc lamp, starting bid $9.99! This is a classic. The shade rotates to direct light wherever you need it.

Happy bidding!

A Word on Window Treatments

2009-04-29T15:30:00.000-07:00

It's about time I threw out some basic guidelines for window treatments. This one area seems to baffle a lot of people. Maybe because there are SO many options! Flat fold roman shade, classic roman shade, pinch pleat, Parisian pleats, grommets...the list is seemingly endless. I'll keep it simple with a few pointers:

1. Drapery panels should fall within an inch or two of the floor.
(Not 3 feet above it)

2. Window treatments should serve their function. If you need to block out light use a blackout shade. If you want light and privacy then use sheer drapes.

3. Mini-blinds are an eyesore. If you rent and can't trash them then pull them all the way to the top position (hidden) and buy drapery panels to soften the space.

4. Inside mount shades are best for generous windows and to show off nice moldings. Outside mount shades can create the illusion of larger windows and hide ugly or puny moldings.

5. Frilly tassels and drapey valances should stay in the last century.

Industrial Heaven!

2009-04-28T09:42:00.000-07:00

Above: Pair of vintage industrial metal stools

Above: Milk glass wall lamp

While searching for the perfect desk lamp I stumbled upon GetBackInc.com, a showroom and online store specializing in American industrial furniture and lighting. Sweet Jesus this may be the interior design holy land! Today, for the first time, I wished I lived in Oakville, Connecticut.

Above: Get Back Showroom in Oakville, CT

Goodbye Pesticides, Hello Organic!

2009-04-27T14:46:00.000-07:00

Organic bedding and accessories are making their way into the mainstream, with new lines at Pottery Barn and West Elm. Organic cotton and linen fibers are grown without the use of pesticides or synthetic fertilizers, therefore eliminating tons of harmful pollutants that end up in our soil and water systems. The above organic hemp linen Birch pillow from Loop Organic would make a great accent for your bed or armchair.

I can personally endorse West Elm's organic cotton blanket, which I received as a Christmas gift and have been loving ever since.

Pottery Barn's Organic Flannel Duvet and sham are soothing and sophisticated. Bonus: They are currently on sale!

For more info: Niche Interiors, Green Interior Designer San Francisco

Modern Pillows!

2009-04-15T17:18:00.000-07:00

It's Spring! Mix up your style and infuse your sofa with some new throw pillows. The Thomas Paul pillows above can be found here.
For a bold punch of embroidered color, try Jonathan Adler's Bargello Waves pillow. Available here for $125.

The above "Desi" pillow is a steal at Chiasso, on sale for $28!

West Elm's Taksim pillows will add pattern and a smooth silky texture to your favorite armchair.

Everything Looks Good in Paris

2009-04-14T21:25:00.000-07:00

I stumbled upon photos from my trip to Paris in October, and wished I could just pop over to the flea market again. I haven't taken many photos at the flea markets here in the U.S., but I will tell you they look nothing like this!

If you feel like treasure hunting through lots of old stuff here in the Bay Area you can always head to the Alameda flea market and antiques fair, which is held the first Sunday of every month. Read more and find directions here. Happy hunting!

The New Academy of Sciences

2009-04-03T10:31:00.000-07:00

Last night we went to the Academy of Sciences Thursday night event, featuring cocktails, food and a Live 105 DJ. The best part (besides being able to drink a whiskey while watching penguins) was the living roof. Absolutely amazing! Hats off to the architects for this functional and beautiful creation.

Finding Beauty Along the Way

2009-03-23T18:10:00.000-07:00

The demo process doesn't usually conjure up pretty pictures, but the above struck me as oddly beautiful today. The exposed lath and plaster, weathered studs, and demo tools form a nicely textured composition.

Artful Accessories

2009-03-22T16:30:00.000-07:00

While I can point clients in the right direction, the final, finishing touches to a home will ultimately be determined by the homeowner. Accessories make a home feel lived in, tying the home to the personality of it's occupant. While the perfectly shaped vase may look fantastic, it's that quirky shell found on the beach sitting next to it that makes the space special.

Here are a few basic tips to help you start on your accessories journey:
1. Display what you love. Whether it be a weird collection of antique chicken and bird toys (that's me) or vintage books, make it visible to enjoy every day.

2. Edit your accessories. Look at each arrangement and ask yourself if it looks right. Sometimes taking away one of the objects helps complete the look.

3. Don't take it so seriously. Who are you trying to impress anyway? Express your personality, it's your home after all!

Natura Paints by Benjamin Moore

2009-03-05T15:43:00.000-08:00

Finally, a line of zero VOC paints that come in a wide selection of colors. If you aren't already up on the lingo, VOC stands for volatile organic compounds. The United States EPA defines a VOC as any organic compound that participates in atmospheric photochemical reactions except those designated by the EPA as having negligible photochemical reactivity. Meaning products that affect your indoor air quality. It's unknown how much a fresh coat of paint can actually harm you, but it's better safe than sorry.

Skipping ahead to the good stuff: Benjamin Moore has a new line of paints called the "Natura" line, which are considered zero VOC paints. The best part is that almost ALL of their colors are available as a Natura paint! Hallelujah options! If you are painting a baby's room, are expecting a child, or just want to avoid the fresh paint smell this is for you.

Go to Benjamin Moore's website to learn more. (And, no, I am not getting paid for this!)

A Peek at the Farnsworth House

2009-02-25T11:56:00.000-08:00

The Farnsworth House is one of the most celebrated modernist structures of the 20th century. The glass and steel house designed by Mies van der Rohe and built in 1951 in Plano, Illinois is now a historical landmark. We were in Chicago this weekend and were dying to see the Farnsworth House despite the fact that no tours were available until April 1st. I will skip the details on how we managed to experience it, let's just say it was worth the trip. But, I highly recommend booking a tour to see the interior.

"The dominance of a single, geometric form in a pastoral setting, with a complete exclusion of extraneous elements normally associated with habitation, reinforces the architect’s statement about the potential of a building to express “dwelling” in its simplest essence. While the elongated rectangle of the house lies parallel to the course of the Fox River, the perpendicular cross axis, represented by the suspended stairways, faces the river directly. With its emphatically planar floors and roof suspended on the widely-spaced, steel columns, the one-story house appears to float above the ground, infinitely extending the figurative space of the hovering planes into the surrounding site." (To read more please visit the Farnsworth Landmarks Illinois website).

Current Design Deals!

2009-02-11T12:55:00.000-08:00

Check out a few of my favorite sale items from online retailers...

Gem bottles, Set of 2, On sale for $29 at Brocade Home

Cleo Chair in Big Bloom, On sale for $699 at Anthropologie

Marimekko Kikku bedding, $39 - $59 at CB2

Cool, Calm & Collected: Tips for a Stylish Bathroom

2009-02-04T09:00:00.000-08:00

Your bathroom can easily turn into a cluttered mess full of products and clashing labels if you aren't careful. Assuming that you aren't ready to tackle that hideous 70's tile just yet, there are still many ways to improve the space simply by paying attention to details, presentation, and accessories.

First off, you want to be selective about what you have on display. More often than not, products come in unappealing or bright packaging. Instead, use glass jars and bowls to store items used on a daily basis such as Qtips.

If you don't have a built-in medicine cabinet simply buy one and mount it on your wall. This is the easiest way to hide clutter and keep products easily accessible.

Stick with one metal finish for all your fixtures, and incorporate this through to smaller accessories such as toothbrush holders, cups, and trash bins.

Matching towels in light tones and simple cotton rugs are always a sure winner.
Toilet lid cozies are a big no-no.

I love to use antique saucers and small trays to display nice soaps, hold rings, and organize perfumes.

Need Design Inspiration?

2009-02-03T17:34:00.000-08:00

It's rare that a retail store or showroom will make me stop and think. I'm usually too busy trying to find the perfect piece for a client to take a moment and appreciate the juxtaposition of furniture and accessories. But, recently I wandered into Swallowtail, a furniture store on Polk Street which carries a mix of antiques and modern accessories. Head to this gem of a store for quirky animal themed accessories, one of a kind antiques or a little old fashioned inspiration.

Swallowtail 2217 Polk St., San Francisco.

Charming hotel in Tahoe?

2009-01-09T22:16:00.000-08:00

I asked myself this question when planning a trip to South Lake Tahoe over the holidays. After much internet sifting I found a diamond in the rough of all the casinos and cheesy motels in this area. The answer is Black Bear Inn. It's cozy, unique, and tastefully decorated in a rustic but restrained decor. Tahoe will be seeing more of us this winter!

I Heart CB2!

2009-01-09T09:52:00.000-08:00

The new CB2 catalog (Crate & Barrel's modern offshoot) arrived in the mail yesterday with lots of fun, new products! Best of all: It's affordable. CB2 offers quality modern furniture at great prices, bringing real meaning to "Design Within Reach". Here are a few of my new favorites:

Desi marble side table, $199

Beale lounge chair, $299

Teepee dining table, $369

Everything can be found at www.cb2.com

Saying Merry Christmas Without Red or Green

2008-12-27T10:29:00.000-08:00

As a holiday thank you I baked all of my clients a variety of sweets. That ended up being easier than coming up with a modern but festive way of presenting them. Orange and white platters were a lucky find, and helped keep the arrangements fun without screaming Santa.

Happy Holidays!

Chalkboard Madness

2008-11-24T09:39:00.000-08:00

There has been many creative uses of chalkboard paint in the design community as of late; I was almost starting to get a little tired of it. That was until I saw this clever entryway at a friend's home last week. She painted different size frames (from the flea market) entirely with chalkboard paint and drew portraits of the two resident dogs. Genius!

The Anatomy of a Sofa: Part II

2008-11-14T11:37:00.000-08:00

Hallelujah, the finished product not only looks sharp but it fit through the client's door!

The patterned fabric on the back cushions puts a modern spin on the textbook sofa. The upholstery tacks and the fine attention to detail and proportion make the custom process well worth it.

Hospital Chic?

2008-11-12T16:55:00.000-08:00

Who knows if sick children were actually carted around on this old metal gurney. But, I do know we love the new coffee table it's become.
After finding the folding metal gurney at a flea market I removed the caster wheels (which were super cool but made the table too high) and had Walnut plywood cut to serve as the table top and the lower shelf. After applying a few coats of polyurethane and screwing in the top it was good to go. It's sturdy, collapsible, and best of all you can put your feet up.

I wasted a good hour Googling vintage gurneys with no luck, so it remains undetermined what the base was actually used for. If anyone has seen something similar let me know! (Well, maybe not if it was used in a morgue. That might be knowledge I could do without)

Bathroom Accessories for the Modern Home

2008-11-11T17:16:00.000-08:00

Why is it so hard to find good quality, tasteful bathroom accessories? Recently on a hunt to get a new modern bath rug I spent hours trying to find one that would work. I didn't think I was asking too much...a black and white cotton rug that didn't look cheap and that would last for more than a month. I didn't have the best luck but I will share a few nuggets that I did find.

Organic cotton color block shower curtain at West Elm, $39.99

Target Modern Home Link Rug, Cotton with a neutral, modern pattern. A steal at $19.99
I loved this Moroccan bath mat from Ballard Designs. Not such a steal at $65, but if you have money to burn..

The Anatomy of a Sofa

2008-11-07T11:29:00.000-08:00

It's not often that we get to see our sofas before they arrive in our living room. One benefit of being a designer is getting to work with local craftsmen to create custom pieces and watching the process along the way. I was able to see this sofa in progress this week, instead of a sketch with dimensions it's become a tangible thing.

The framer delivered the wood base to my upholsterer who built the spring system, applied webbing, and constructed a bench seat cushion made of a foam core wrapped in down. It was seriously comfortable. Now, it just needs to look pretty. To be continued...

Mission Accomplished!

2008-11-01T11:09:00.000-07:00

Here are some photos from last night's event...we were quite pleased with the outcome.

Halloween Decorating Ideas That Won't Make You Sick!

2008-10-28T12:45:00.000-07:00

Anyone else tired of the fake cobwebs and cheesy Halloween decor? Well, it turns out there are some spiffy ways to decorate for the Fall and/or Halloween. Having just taken on a project to decorate a nightclub for Halloween we had to push the envelope and come up with some new ideas that did not include scarecrows and haunted houses. Instead, we went with a creepy pumpkin patch theme using thorny branches, crows, and white pumpkin pendants to create an eerie effect without being too literal.

This was taken during the install but you get the idea. We adhered black contact paper to the concrete pillars to create the effect of branches wrapping around. This ties in with the real branches (which are spray painted black) that are coming down from the ceiling.

Ditch the fake cobwebs and plastic spiders and grab some inspiration from nature this year!

Stylish Design Bargains!

2008-10-16T16:32:00.000-07:00

I've always been a sucker for a good bargain. Below are my top picks for design deals out there right now. Make your money go far in style!

Ikat Paisley Duvet Cover and Shams, $59 for Queen duvet at West Elm

Through-the-Looking Glass side table, $69 at Wisteria

Kulla table lamp, $49 at IKEA

Reunion Dining Table, On sale at CB2 for $199

Bay Area Salvage Resources

2008-10-13T11:22:00.000-07:00

I received a few inquiries about where to find salvage and reclaimed wood (as seen in the last post) so I decided to share a few of my favorite salvage sources in the Bay Area. The wood used in the bookcases was from Heritage Salvage (www.heritagesalvage.com) a great source for all kinds of reclaimed wood species. They also have a showroom with furniture made from their wood. I particularly liked these quirky coat racks:

If you are looking for more than reclaimed wood you can head over to Urban Ore (http://urbanore.ypguides.net/) in Berkeley. They have everything from vintage sinks, doors, fireplaces, windows, and even some appliances and used furniture.

The Re-use People of America (http://www.thereusepeople.org/RetailSales/) in Oakland have a large selection of building materials, and their proactive mission of helping to save the environment with their own deconstruction efforts (which provide 90% of their stock) is commendable.

That's just a short list to get you started. Happy hunting!

There's Nothing Like Custom!

2008-10-09T20:02:00.000-07:00

Today Niche Interiors brought two custom bookcases into this world. With a little inspiration and the help of EVG Designs (www.evgdesignsf.com) we were able to create these unique, solid steel and reclaimed redwood beauties.

The custom fabrication allowed us to design around the dimensions of the space, utilizing the beautiful high ceilings by pushing the height of the bookcases over 7 feet. The hard lines of the steel contrast well with the rough texture and uneven surface of the reclaimed barn wood.

Stay tuned for more custom furniture births in the near future.

Get the Good Glow

2008-10-08T08:38:00.000-07:00

Ready for a more relaxing and cozy home? Making good lighting choices is the easiest way to improve the feel of your space. Ever been to a restaurant that had delicious food but you couldn’t wait to get out? Fluorescent lighting, harsh direct light and overly bright spaces don’t make you want to linger. The same principle applies to our homes. The goal is to create a space that you love to spend time in. Read on for some key lighting basics to get you started on creating your new relaxing space.

Provide multiple light sources of varying types per room. Start with two table or floor lamps for ambient light, and add task lighting for reading or working as needed. This also allows for the use of lower watt bulbs since you are not relying on one bright overhead fixture to illuminate an entire room.

Use a dimmer. If your lamps don’t have a 3 way switch built-in (which requires a 3 way bulb to function) then buy a dimmer at your local hardware store. It’s an easy install and will only set you back $15-20.

Use 40 – 60 watt soft white incandescent bulbs for a cozy, pleasing light. Reserve compact fluorescents for hallways, laundry rooms and other utilitarian spaces. If you are determined to use compact fluorescents throughout your home try the n:vision TCP Home Soft White bulbs, they come highly rated for warmer light output.

Sweden Knows What's Up

2008-10-06T12:22:00.000-07:00

My recent trip to Sweden and France reminded me of the vast style differences between North America and Europe. The Swedes have a very unique and modern approach to interior design. Clean, fresh but not boring...they just make it look so easy.

This is the lobby of the hotel I stayed in Simrishamn in Southern Sweden. The use of white combined with wood paneling, stone floors, and spare light fixtures and window treatments creates an inviting but restrained atmosphere.

Old School Military Style!

2008-09-21T19:11:00.000-07:00

A trip to the flea market this morning brought an unexpected addition to our back patio. This vintage military cot now serves as an outdoor daybed, providing a place to lounge with a bourbon after a long day of work.

The juxtaposition of colors and textures is dope. Best of all, it's designed to fold right up. The built-in straps on the legs provide a way to fasten it up quick if we are ever on the move!

European Chic

2008-09-19T11:24:00.000-07:00

I recently came across Jayson Home and Garden...they have unique, European inspired furniture at relatively inspired prices. I particularly like the Napoleon sideboard with it's weathered black finish: http://www.jaysonhomeandgarden.com/product.php?productid=3399

These bird prints also struck my fancy:
http://www.jaysonhomeandgarden.com/product.php?productid=3043

Hallelujah, Modern Rugs!

2008-09-17T14:42:00.000-07:00

Finally, some affordable options for rugs besides the ubiquitous sisal. A little tidbit about sisal and jute rugs: Once you spill, IT'S OVER. You cannot clean them and stains are near impossible to remove.

It's refreshing to see modern, graphic rug designs that don't set you back a few months rent. Check out this 8'x10' Morocco Rug from CB2, on sale now for $349! Bonus: it's 100% wool (which can be cleaned if the tipsy dinner guest spills).
http://www.cb2.com/family.aspx?c=1010&f=3343&viewall=1

TOP DESIGN

2008-09-17T12:26:00.000-07:00

If you are obsessed with interior design you probably tune in to Bravo's TOP DESIGN every Wednesday as I do. Last week's episode was a kicker. I wasn't sad to see architect Jennifer go home. Why do architects always try to get all up in the interior design of a space? As we saw from Frank Lloyd Wright's awkward stab at designing furniture: Stick to what you know. Andrea and Nathan are my current front runners. I can't wait to see what tonight's episode brings...Hopefully more inventive designs such as this one:

Oh no she DI'INT!

2008-09-16T15:43:00.000-07:00

It's about time we saw a worst dressed list for home design. I spy atrocities every now and then and just think WHY, dear god, WHY?! Here are a few to kick this new column off:

The toilet cozy. Hmmmm, what could I possibly put around the base of my toilet to collect all the flying germs who want to create a colony? Yes, a carpet toilet cozy and matching rug! Perfectly sanitary and chic at the same time.

The leather recliner beast. Just because it reclines does it have to be so ugly?

Yikes! Traditional matchy, matchy bedroom sets. I don't even know what to say. Who started this and why are people still doing it?

Misty, Misty Green

2008-09-15T22:47:00.000-07:00

Cohabitation: What an exciting thing for a couple!

Him: "Honey, I can't wait to move in with you"
Her: "Me too!"
Him: "There's just one thing...do you think we could paint the pink walls a more manly color?"

Queue the Benjamin Moore "Misted Green" (#2138-50). The new walls jive well with my existing furniture and saved him from months of potential torment from his guy friends. Thank you Benjamin, drinks on me.

French Industrial Table

2008-09-15T21:16:00.000-07:00

Maybe it's my upcoming trip to Paris, but this table recently caught my eye. Picture a flat with herringbone wood floors, huge windows and loungy Italian sofas. This little reproduction French industrial table would be magnifique!

Hooray for another interesting and affordable offering from Wisteria catalog. http://www.wisteria.com/prodinfo.asp?number=W2327