August 12, 2015

Mirror, mirror on the wall

August 12, 2015/ Jessica Nguyen

Large wall mirrors can make a bathroom feel bigger but they tend to be pretty boring. If you are like the many who have these ubiquitous mirrors and have been considering ripping them out, try layering a decorative mirror on top. It elevates the look without breaking up the expansive feel that the larger mirror provides. Plus, it saves you from needing sheet rock repair work.

The images below take it a step further by installing sconces on top of the wall mirror as well. Not only does it make it more interesting, but it reflects more light into the room.

August 07, 2015

Artist Spotlight: Christina Baker

August 07, 2015/ Mallory

"There will never be enough blank canvas to fulfill the desire within me to create."

-Christina Baker

Artwork is such an intricate part of a room's design. While I'm all for DIY pieces and black and white family photos, sometimes nothing can do the space justice like a true art piece.

One particular artist that I love is Christina Baker. Her paintings go so well with almost any style and have such a softness and fluidity to them. She is excellent at marrying beautiful color combinations with abstract forms and the outcome is nothing short of amazing.

She began painting in watercolors with her grandmother, and I love that you can still see that inspiration in her work.

Here is one of her recent watercolors. — Here is one of her recent watercolors.

Many of her paintings are available at galleries around Atlanta, GA, but you can follow other available works and her latest paintings on her Facebook page or website.

Don't you just want a piece for yourself now?

All images via Christinabaker.net

August 05, 2015

Designer SOS : Crown molding

August 05, 2015/ Jessica Nguyen

Today's question comes from a dear friend of mine. Like many, she has standard eight feet ceilings and wants to know, can crown molding work in my house?

Crown molding can add architectural interest and make a room feel more polished. When deciding if and what type of crown molding to go with, there are a couple key things to consider.

1)The architectural style of your home.

If you have a very contemporary or modern home, crown molding all together may look out of place. The period of your home should also influence the crown molding profile that you use. A very ornate crown molding would not be complimentary in a craftsman style home.

2) The ceiling height of your home and the available wall space above windows and doors.

Scale is important. A molding that is too overpowering will make a room feel smaller; too small and it will look wimpy. As we know, all rules can be broken but here is a general guideline:

Eight feet ceiling height - keep crown width to 3-5"

Nine to Ten feet ceilings- keep crown width to 5"-7"

For even taller ceilings, you will need to build up. Once you get to this range, more than likely you won’t find crown molding in exactly the right width. The molding is usually built up by combining multiple pieces of trim. One common way to build up molding is by starting with a standard baseboard, installed upside down. Then, on top of this, a piece of crown molding is used, exposing the bottom few inches of the base, as seen in the image below.

A trick when working with lower ceiling heights, you can achieve the illusion of a wider crown without taking up much wall space by extending molding onto the ceiling.

In the image below, they took it a step further and painted the crown the same color as the walls giving the illusion of the ceiling being lifted.

This crown is pretty narrow in height but has a wide projection.

So yes, crown molding can look good in homes even with standard ceiling heights. Just be cautious of its proportions and that it is in harmony with the aesthetic of the home.

August 01, 2015

3A's Three Things

August 01, 2015/ Mallory

Here three things that caught my attention this week. Click the numerical headings for the links.

// one //

My friend Megan made these when she hosted me and my friends at her home last month. They are a modified chocolate chip recipe (with sea salt!) that was featured in the NY Times. I'm not allowed to bake when Jon's traveling because I have no self control with sweets at this point in my pregnancy, but I can tell you this is what I would make if I did. The copious amount of chocolate and the finishing surprise of the sea salt make these the best cookies ever.

// two //

I love a good before and after as much as anyone else, if not more. This home's transformation was no exception. Featured on Birmingham Home and Garden, this home, designed by Marianne Strong, was a real treat (sorry, I must still be thinking about the cookies). Seriously, all of the rooms were beautifully updated, but this kitchen was beyond. Click on the links above to tour the whole home.

// three //

I decided to wander down the lighting aisle on a recent trip to Lowes and was pleasantly surprised by many of their affordable options--this Collinwick Allen + Roth pendant included. For $119 it is a great alternative to the more expensive look-a-likes out there. If you're looking for a timeless piece in a traditional style, this a great buy.

July 31, 2015

Design Trend: Black and Gold

July 31, 2015/ Mallory

It's no secret we love black and gold--after a few seconds pursuing our website, and you'll see that. However, we aren't the only ones who have a strong love for this glam pair. They are both classics and look sophisticated together and standing alone. Here are a few finds that have caught my eye.

one // this ceramic bowl is perfect amount of added glam for styling a shelf, table or desk.

two // moroccan appetizer plates are sure to get your guests' attention.

three // hex matte brass knobs that are not your 90's brass hardware- yes, please.

four // these urchin figurines come in two sizes and are great for a pop of glam in any space.

five // black, white, gold and velvet. How much more luxe can you get?

six // a steal, this Nate Berkus frame looks far more expensive than its $13 price tag.

seven // i've seen this light used in an entry, a nursery, a laundry room...and it looks great in every single space.

eight // this rug is one item i've been drooling over for quite some time. it's an indoor/outdoor so it can handle high traffic and kiddos and the design is so striking.

nine // nothing can add sophistication to a space like some good lighting...especially when that lighting has a gold base and black shade. I can see it in an entry, living room, bedroom and office. Gorgeous.

July 29, 2015

Three great bedroom storage solutions

July 29, 2015/ Jessica Nguyen

After Amelia was born, I went from her entire room being my dressing room to sharing a single closet and dresser with her. Though I have made it work, there are times when it is not convenient. I have learned the hard way not to sneak in her room to grab something while she is asleep. I am convinced my sleep-sensitive child has a sixth sense.

Needless to say, I am always looking for storage ideas. Here are three great, storage solutions that utilize the space around the bed.