Room Interior Design California: kitchens

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COLOR FOR KITCHENS - THE 10 BEST

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br />So fortunate to have Jennifer Riner of Zillow as a guest blogger today.  <a href="http://www.zillow.com/">Zillow</a> is a site Mr. B and I find ourselves on often. (Totally unsolicited by the way). We love to check out the real estate in areas we think might be fun places to live... yes we are guilty of the <i>'lookee loos'</i>.  Mr. B fantasizes about retiring on a beach or a lake someday so he loves to look at the <i>'possibilities</i>'.  I like to peruse <a href="http://www.zillow.com/digs/">Zillow Digs</a> for design ideas.  So being fans already, we jumped at the chance to have them on a guest post today.    </div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br /><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br /><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br /><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">The 10 Best Paint<br />Colors for Kitchens<o:p></o:p></b></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br />By Jennifer Riner of Zillow<o:p></o:p></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br /><br /></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br />Altering kitchen paint colors can be intimidating,<br />especially when homeowners are accustomed to bland, builder-grade palettes.<br />However, incorporating fresh flair in kitchens is easy, especially when applying<br />adventurous palettes in small amounts. <o:p></o:p></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br /><br /></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br />Choose from the following 10 colors to create well-designed,<br />inspiring culinary spaces.<o:p></o:p></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br /><br /></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br /><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">1. Timeless Gray<o:p></o:p></b></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br /><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgae6Ektw-3JiIFqeHGdNIFgmKNNahCqgQJLGgHlJh0OVdoLVjdww4Z80qYy_SIXmPPx7IuGtJL9YL7S9e5bviLrs4pmJ-vLxAWv7L1R3BhDIWmxX8hQvet8d06rHHOUH5FtAog3uLft1Q/s1600/kitchen+light+grey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="492" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgae6Ektw-3JiIFqeHGdNIFgmKNNahCqgQJLGgHlJh0OVdoLVjdww4Z80qYy_SIXmPPx7IuGtJL9YL7S9e5bviLrs4pmJ-vLxAWv7L1R3BhDIWmxX8hQvet8d06rHHOUH5FtAog3uLft1Q/s1600/kitchen+light+grey.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br /><span style="mso-no-proof: yes;"></span><o:p></o:p></div><br /><div align="right" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: right;"><br /><span style="font-size: 8.0pt;">Source: Michelle Workman<o:p></o:p></span></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br />Complement marble countertops with soft gray tones on walls<br />and cabinets. Marble stone grains provide dark contrast against similar,<br />lighter hues. Unlike other pale neutrals, gray color schemes appear clean<br />without feeling cold.<o:p></o:p></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br /><br /></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br /><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">2. Bright White<o:p></o:p></b></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br /><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-no-proof: yes;"></span><o:p></o:p></b></div><br /><div align="right" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: right;"><br /><span style="font-size: 8.0pt;">Source: Lukas Machnik<o:p></o:p></span></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br /><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaSBdQijTr-JmTjPm58r2AiJ2sT69FxTiK5HA-y9EV3baW52BCtIoEg4xD_A9x9_o4TjuZ6sqv8EmD_8TpI870cjuzt50Js9PhvnJjl4fvFvIQ6QfD_EDvQ_OMrHug_guoFguNUCR4rPc/s1600/white+kitchen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaSBdQijTr-JmTjPm58r2AiJ2sT69FxTiK5HA-y9EV3baW52BCtIoEg4xD_A9x9_o4TjuZ6sqv8EmD_8TpI870cjuzt50Js9PhvnJjl4fvFvIQ6QfD_EDvQ_OMrHug_guoFguNUCR4rPc/s1600/white+kitchen.jpg" width="640" /></a></b></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></div><br /><br /><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br />Nothing says sterile quite like all-white kitchens. While<br />not everyone’s taste, bleached kitchens featuring pops of colors maintain some vibrant<br />interest. Fresh flowers, brightly-colored stand mixers and brass hardware<br />pieces appear more vivid against stark backdrops.<o:p></o:p></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br /><br /></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br /><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">3. Charcoal<o:p></o:p></b></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br /><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br />Charcoal is a prime accent color for large fixtures in the<br />kitchen, such as lower cabinets and island bases. Incorporating darker hues on<br />lower levels helps disguise drips, dust and grime accumulating from foot<br />traffic and high-use kitchens. Avoid overusing darker hues as they tend to<br />block out natural light, which is a highly-desired feature in kitchens.<o:p></o:p></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br /><br /></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br /><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">4. Deep Black<o:p></o:p></b></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigVx92oa8gZK5VNQvFUDz0SttjwlkHbUB3TONA3ezjUhWClSiPO6C8JJLBd8WfBUYBo0ukG3vCDfqFF4RWj0yOIVy_BkJO7tz9otvaqfvkh_QQLB3kDVPE5yQ_Kkjfj6268YMR-PzjecY/s1600/black+kitchen-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigVx92oa8gZK5VNQvFUDz0SttjwlkHbUB3TONA3ezjUhWClSiPO6C8JJLBd8WfBUYBo0ukG3vCDfqFF4RWj0yOIVy_BkJO7tz9otvaqfvkh_QQLB3kDVPE5yQ_Kkjfj6268YMR-PzjecY/s1600/black+kitchen-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br /><br /></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br /><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-no-proof: yes;"></span><o:p></o:p></b></div><br /><div align="right" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: right;"><br /><span style="font-size: 8.0pt;">Source: 24 Design Construction<o:p></o:p></span></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br />While not appropriate for every space, black accents are<br />sleek and versatile options for larger spaces. Vast kitchens typically have<br />ample lighting to contrast dark shades, but black paint in smaller spaces tends<br />to absorb the already limited lighting. Limit dark hues to cabinets, accent<br />walls or countertops – but not all at once.<o:p></o:p></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br /><br /></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br /><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">5. Greige<o:p></o:p></b></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br />A new spin on classic beige is “greige,” incorporating gray<br />undertones rather than yellow. The latest mixture yields warm, yet<br />contemporary, atmospheres without looking generic.<o:p></o:p></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br /><br /></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br /><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">6. Dark Navy<o:p></o:p></b></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br /><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-no-proof: yes;"></span><o:p></o:p></b></div><br /><div align="right" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: right;"><br /><span style="font-size: 8.0pt;">Source: Zillow<o:p></o:p></span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvNrB_QOV7SgLuEIvjnwXQfBmMvsOzUS1qrlFb5z3xS7O7c0CZUBIE68gAtI_c85a5HU0aqNn4F2ToCR4OHzBdNbanrbRu20bGgiQ65vS6JH8TweoS_d1idHtRU5D8cdjJlAu7L8nJFng/s1600/blue+kitchen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvNrB_QOV7SgLuEIvjnwXQfBmMvsOzUS1qrlFb5z3xS7O7c0CZUBIE68gAtI_c85a5HU0aqNn4F2ToCR4OHzBdNbanrbRu20bGgiQ65vS6JH8TweoS_d1idHtRU5D8cdjJlAu7L8nJFng/s1600/blue+kitchen.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><br /></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br /><br /></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br />Navy is a go-to color for nautical or Cape Cod style<br />interiors, and the kitchen is not off-limits. Consider navy cabinets with<br />marble or quartz countertops for a sophisticated, Hamptons-style in any home.<o:p></o:p></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br /><br /></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br /><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">7. Kelly Green<o:p></o:p></b></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br />Fashionable, primary green looks great when paired with<br />butcher block countertops. Keep in mind that strong colors are best balanced with<br />neutrals. Constrain the number of loud tones on large façades, adhering to one<br />or two options for walls and cabinets.<o:p></o:p></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br /><br /></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br /><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">8. Soft Yellow<o:p></o:p></b></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br />For cottage-cozy appeal, incorporate muted yellow tones via<br />kitchen walls and cupboards. The key to finding the perfect yellow for varying spaces<br />is testing shades throughout the day. Sometimes, darker rooms require brighter<br />tones that appear gaudy in sun-filled spaces. Paint small patches and<br />photograph in various weather changes to determine suitability.<o:p></o:p></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br /><br /></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br /><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">9.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">  </span>Bold Red<o:p></o:p></b></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br /><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-no-proof: yes;"></span><o:p></o:p></b></div><br /><div align="right" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: right;"><br /><span style="font-size: 8.0pt;"><br /></span></div><br /><div align="right" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: right;"><br /><span style="font-size: 8.0pt;"><br /></span></div><br /><div align="right" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: right;"><br /><span style="font-size: 8.0pt;">Source: Zillow<o:p></o:p></span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQDjT7TsQ3obTrFbdkUYAmhyphenhyphenEtMmPN5YH_uEOF_3fbtWvnhC09yWNJSap4YnC1V4oKGBpvfW-A1DB1OYB8vB4_OseRNoZPxwpdLguZnSxlePsG2YD3yyQ8kK_e1gzZzKVtErWwQJdbSUA/s1600/red+kitchen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQDjT7TsQ3obTrFbdkUYAmhyphenhyphenEtMmPN5YH_uEOF_3fbtWvnhC09yWNJSap4YnC1V4oKGBpvfW-A1DB1OYB8vB4_OseRNoZPxwpdLguZnSxlePsG2YD3yyQ8kK_e1gzZzKVtErWwQJdbSUA/s1600/red+kitchen.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br /><br /></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br />Some individuals shy away from using red paint and choose to<br />incorporate the color using fabrics and accessories. Many fear the aggressiveness<br />red often denotes if overdone. On the contrary, red accents radiate energy. As<br />some designers proclaim, stimulating surroundings are imperative, especially in<br />the heart of the home.<o:p></o:p></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br /><br /></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br /><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">10. Burnt Orange<o:p></o:p></b></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br /><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-no-proof: yes;"></span><o:p></o:p></b></div><br /><div align="right" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: right;"><br /><span style="font-size: 8.0pt;"><br /></span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1kNfRPc2gpIqDQEG27HfLz7djvAlK8qrBJlfUcenytIbE_L6UOo9JUujos9kMITwGIiosktbij0hgotIrVcH1D6MqdejGS5CssTufjUuwuzYdM_ON42ZeOCazg-kUdXcqb8uKKISUFRI/s1600/orange+kitchen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1kNfRPc2gpIqDQEG27HfLz7djvAlK8qrBJlfUcenytIbE_L6UOo9JUujos9kMITwGIiosktbij0hgotIrVcH1D6MqdejGS5CssTufjUuwuzYdM_ON42ZeOCazg-kUdXcqb8uKKISUFRI/s1600/orange+kitchen.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div align="right" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: right;"><br /><span style="font-size: 8.0pt;">Source: Gustave Carlson Design<o:p></o:p></span></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br /><a href="http://www.zillow.com/digs/contemporary/">Contemporary<br />interiors</a>, especially in loft-settings, appear handsome when paired with<br />unique colors. Burnt orange combined with exposed wood beams creates funky,<br />industrial ambiances for kitchens.<o:p></o:p></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br /><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br />Kitchen color schemes largely reflect individual homeowners’<br />preference.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">  </span>Provisional to location, sun<br />exposure and size, painting surfaces bright colors instead of neutral palettes<br />can be beneficial even if it’s outside of homeowners’ natural tendencies.<br />Regardless of personal preference, keep buyers <a href="http://www.zillow.com/chesapeake-va/">searching for homes</a> in mind<br />when updating kitchens for resale. <o:p></o:p></div><br /><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; line-height: 0; min-height: 20px; min-width: 40px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 360px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; line-height: 0; min-height: 20px; min-width: 40px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 360px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a></div><br />

COLOR FOR KITCHENS - THE 10 BEST

So fortunate to have Jennifer Riner of Zillow as a guest blogger today. Zillow is a site Mr. B and I find ourselves on often. (Totally un...

8:18 PM

A Touch of Wood in the Kitchen

<div align="center"><br /><br />I've got kitchens on the brain this week! </div><div align="center"><br /></div><div align="center">I'm very partial to painted kitchen cabinets, but I've always liked a little wood in there somewhere.  It just gives some warmth and depth....a little flavor, no matter what the style.  An island, a countertop, some open shelving, a section of cabinetry, ceiling beams, floor....please!  Something?</div><div align="center"><br /></div><div align="center">Imagine these fabulous kitchens without the touch of wood.</div><div align="center"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0IpSQ-6TNXbFIEgSQSTJrkcXcsR6x3V6W306xVQ20_ClDL0fk0rT28DjnqbIpcRMY_aUm27R085j0TXuUVsU3_xg3fyODEKm4Tph4RE5nKOKFqE0hDi0TCrdd1RmV57OD1OFTY-qfUmf5/s1600/Patrick+Printy+ED.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" oda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0IpSQ-6TNXbFIEgSQSTJrkcXcsR6x3V6W306xVQ20_ClDL0fk0rT28DjnqbIpcRMY_aUm27R085j0TXuUVsU3_xg3fyODEKm4Tph4RE5nKOKFqE0hDi0TCrdd1RmV57OD1OFTY-qfUmf5/s640/Patrick+Printy+ED.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Patrick Printy - Elle Decor</span></em></div><em></em><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCoATRNfRmgmCzuQJgns9JhgrBOcSKckNMmmLx51R5Sd9DIfN3PqCUlLhHb6whxE7gOSst07E31xWRiRCeeEaMZ_d0QKJGa_TPndv2gsmS30ofNjMwMEw1wXTPZn_Y8XQm8YPwDaZRZzHW/s1600/southern+liv.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCoATRNfRmgmCzuQJgns9JhgrBOcSKckNMmmLx51R5Sd9DIfN3PqCUlLhHb6whxE7gOSst07E31xWRiRCeeEaMZ_d0QKJGa_TPndv2gsmS30ofNjMwMEw1wXTPZn_Y8XQm8YPwDaZRZzHW/s400/southern+liv.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Southern Living</span></em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><em></em><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJbXKtqwK6erzSCmLMGd1cmTS9vbIWEnJRry8hICWo1wf59iZl-Afe07mIrrI3BtIUB-dxYJhZqDwPR48huwmgGrsQRsSFnwtaq64i8b4JZi8ZldHSlzUGdOhGnoZgrC3oCfv5COtYEn-G/s1600/KIT_3-hbx-white-kitchen-sink-0412-kitchen07-xln.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJbXKtqwK6erzSCmLMGd1cmTS9vbIWEnJRry8hICWo1wf59iZl-Afe07mIrrI3BtIUB-dxYJhZqDwPR48huwmgGrsQRsSFnwtaq64i8b4JZi8ZldHSlzUGdOhGnoZgrC3oCfv5COtYEn-G/s400/KIT_3-hbx-white-kitchen-sink-0412-kitchen07-xln.jpg" width="347" /></a></div><div align="center"><em><span style="font-size: x-small;">House Beautiful</span></em></div><br /><br /><div align="center"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPmMliGztK5PNqKOavDhboq-2i32shzD-y8Om_-42HHkNXmRq8mbHjU3bbIl3mPM89s21bmUqatBRFbK9erU8vFJdRmri9uho3LAaoqkg4nlKmVUrom-F-gujZxR_AZnfE4qWv73Hrb9E9/s1600/HouseandHome-CaronDaleryKitchen-AP11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPmMliGztK5PNqKOavDhboq-2i32shzD-y8Om_-42HHkNXmRq8mbHjU3bbIl3mPM89s21bmUqatBRFbK9erU8vFJdRmri9uho3LAaoqkg4nlKmVUrom-F-gujZxR_AZnfE4qWv73Hrb9E9/s400/HouseandHome-CaronDaleryKitchen-AP11.jpg" width="335" /></a></div><div align="center"><em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Nadia Caron and Karl Dalery - Canadian House and Home</span></em><br /><br /></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinLegWf5yPyUFOWoIsezJTvCWfVB5Yqihu80uhq80aSdMc4rd_v2e-5sOTflhaoM1ZRMuDbR5XiY1DF494EkO3mBN26QexfN9-1IbabGtVYnKd3oFRHScuKMAddUDbH3MXcx_pWsFWhjTO/s1600/AH&L+Sara+Steinfeld.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinLegWf5yPyUFOWoIsezJTvCWfVB5Yqihu80uhq80aSdMc4rd_v2e-5sOTflhaoM1ZRMuDbR5XiY1DF494EkO3mBN26QexfN9-1IbabGtVYnKd3oFRHScuKMAddUDbH3MXcx_pWsFWhjTO/s400/AH&L+Sara+Steinfeld.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div align="center"><em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Sara Steinfeld - Atlanta Homes and Lifestyles</span></em></div><div align="center"><br /><br /></div><div align="center"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0N-99o-QgINfm5_WBnOE8y746N_Db_rUtqxl765xFl8C9jq0McBkyxjKvQz56qv4XCn4lT9tHITU5AtqHS9v_wVBqCuxqmX8YrtbX3HShubjOzdLUoFVSBUCcXrt1L7Dlqc9JVl6ns6Es/s1600/Ruthie+Sommers+hb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0N-99o-QgINfm5_WBnOE8y746N_Db_rUtqxl765xFl8C9jq0McBkyxjKvQz56qv4XCn4lT9tHITU5AtqHS9v_wVBqCuxqmX8YrtbX3HShubjOzdLUoFVSBUCcXrt1L7Dlqc9JVl6ns6Es/s400/Ruthie+Sommers+hb.jpg" width="312" /></a></div><div align="center"><em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Ruthie Sommers - House Beautiful</span></em></div><div align="center"><br /></div><div align="center"><br /></div><div align="center"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxy7Xee2eXl3vd_Lz-S_bb39tXL8jXSjfxAVxnOOZ9VwTCwhrQRpiqpeDr-xdA9_yj80hw_2qtwpL0WFZ7wK6yV2ie_IeCvoGWfYPKl5WEd32ikEyKqkPuEGScT-OtFhmGxLCHkQ96F4qt/s1600/Shannon+Bowers+designer+-+House+Beautiful.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="312" oda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxy7Xee2eXl3vd_Lz-S_bb39tXL8jXSjfxAVxnOOZ9VwTCwhrQRpiqpeDr-xdA9_yj80hw_2qtwpL0WFZ7wK6yV2ie_IeCvoGWfYPKl5WEd32ikEyKqkPuEGScT-OtFhmGxLCHkQ96F4qt/s400/Shannon+Bowers+designer+-+House+Beautiful.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Shannon Bowers - House Beautiful</span></em></div><div align="center"><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2KUt9UdQbY3C3k6ZZ-Iuo30YGeGpMx872qLs8wThfC6MrsbQzOFkTZ9f18lsxXtjnWLLxxJ_CL9pw-peuLvj6E14pL_cCJPXP23Da0C-rLs7FWgKPk9-s6Em6RF37avpv2_ie9g99Uj5d/s1600/Ili+Nillsson+Atlanta+H&L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2KUt9UdQbY3C3k6ZZ-Iuo30YGeGpMx872qLs8wThfC6MrsbQzOFkTZ9f18lsxXtjnWLLxxJ_CL9pw-peuLvj6E14pL_cCJPXP23Da0C-rLs7FWgKPk9-s6Em6RF37avpv2_ie9g99Uj5d/s640/Ili+Nillsson+Atlanta+H&L.jpg" width="458" /></a></div><em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Ili Nilsson - Atlanta Homes and Lifestyles</span></em><br /><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrvwkGZfHlXxQ8AAU5PXjWmvgYuhM0afo976sixSs6W5Rtbmdd7k-huTl8waHLWgrXMZmlb-6hAZGjPwZ1HeW3oYjd7DX9QsNFrlbOVHQnSzuLt8g1fdSWdl08J7uwzvIL1uZkkz1IpkCW/s1600/Philip+Mitchell+Can++House+and+HOme.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrvwkGZfHlXxQ8AAU5PXjWmvgYuhM0afo976sixSs6W5Rtbmdd7k-huTl8waHLWgrXMZmlb-6hAZGjPwZ1HeW3oYjd7DX9QsNFrlbOVHQnSzuLt8g1fdSWdl08J7uwzvIL1uZkkz1IpkCW/s400/Philip+Mitchell+Can++House+and+HOme.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Philip Mitchell - Canadian House and Home</span></em><br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8TXJCJ_MAhyphenhyphenj8myvM3aBXdkrTLk5sESM70I3ExSan9Cepvi6IF3ve0Kp7CoscHgbQQj3fkbxUpggSdHr11AablEjRXwhD1YDRgFUtJwCOnqE9hL3_6tyMOSW9ZUEwoOvGQ0e0waXFCno9/s1600/hbx-watson,+marshall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="312" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8TXJCJ_MAhyphenhyphenj8myvM3aBXdkrTLk5sESM70I3ExSan9Cepvi6IF3ve0Kp7CoscHgbQQj3fkbxUpggSdHr11AablEjRXwhD1YDRgFUtJwCOnqE9hL3_6tyMOSW9ZUEwoOvGQ0e0waXFCno9/s400/hbx-watson,+marshall.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Marshall Watson- House Beautiful</span></em><br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVriGVteQS5IIGeShyphenhyphenil0vK5Zh7M-YMxEKt2rJdSlsKN0hX5X_I4o8MkYbfpE4R7PBRYyCo3tn8Z9j_yCS6s1oRnWMXfPVKTeA3l7RHVfy-aGU__YvCzEJ6IITE2yyuX1ar5P2JtGE2yFd/s1600/Stephen+Knollenberg+AD.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVriGVteQS5IIGeShyphenhyphenil0vK5Zh7M-YMxEKt2rJdSlsKN0hX5X_I4o8MkYbfpE4R7PBRYyCo3tn8Z9j_yCS6s1oRnWMXfPVKTeA3l7RHVfy-aGU__YvCzEJ6IITE2yyuX1ar5P2JtGE2yFd/s320/Stephen+Knollenberg+AD.jpg" width="295" /></a></div><em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Stephen Knollenberg - Architectural Digest</span></em><br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQiuEFjW648-acZ5lIoRrjGNnq0OjTIpJylDcDlnsWEDjr9NMLgTaP2dHgm5TWWsAFsj1kNa33tUYVGdNRQU1gtHvduu5tghGZpE_4nGWHM9d37JCH0QawH9SJ2GPgdlQsVJfPPGzyNjvw/s1600/Mimran-+Can+House+and+home.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQiuEFjW648-acZ5lIoRrjGNnq0OjTIpJylDcDlnsWEDjr9NMLgTaP2dHgm5TWWsAFsj1kNa33tUYVGdNRQU1gtHvduu5tghGZpE_4nGWHM9d37JCH0QawH9SJ2GPgdlQsVJfPPGzyNjvw/s400/Mimran-+Can+House+and+home.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Sharon Mimran - Canadian House and Home</span></em><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfY-rSlSnjtQuYdYuRhM9Ub3zZJxs-Y6MwL8kQ_iTo9-RNfs7Y8W5oXDzJtX9i_lju0ftB1WJxgQ0ORXFnQWJSb8j05-3eFGNXVh-bU9aQ1eCycEQbHIe1fGrwPZVOK16Ig0MnXmoSsYP1/s1600/Joan+Schindler+hb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="312" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfY-rSlSnjtQuYdYuRhM9Ub3zZJxs-Y6MwL8kQ_iTo9-RNfs7Y8W5oXDzJtX9i_lju0ftB1WJxgQ0ORXFnQWJSb8j05-3eFGNXVh-bU9aQ1eCycEQbHIe1fGrwPZVOK16Ig0MnXmoSsYP1/s400/Joan+Schindler+hb.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Joan Schindler - House Beautiful</span></em><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgO2JAf1tlsIb9pNf6mHCjqEE49z4A4bJ583c9AvjMq9AiV_UOnCCCFAL_UOdDm68u2eo9iOw4gsjVUzKYghXWtZ51iTQt86q24OpTdbJre5uE1euEMYMXJHBwY2X02KPJawfMw0ItHt6X/s1600/item1_rendition_slideshowWideHorizontal_celebrity-kitchens-02-hank-azaria+Trip+Haenisch+AD.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgO2JAf1tlsIb9pNf6mHCjqEE49z4A4bJ583c9AvjMq9AiV_UOnCCCFAL_UOdDm68u2eo9iOw4gsjVUzKYghXWtZ51iTQt86q24OpTdbJre5uE1euEMYMXJHBwY2X02KPJawfMw0ItHt6X/s640/item1_rendition_slideshowWideHorizontal_celebrity-kitchens-02-hank-azaria+Trip+Haenisch+AD.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Trip Haenisch - Architectural Digest</span></em><br /><br /><br />Love that island above and <br />all the warmth that wood brings to each fabulous kitchen.<br /><br /><br /></div>

A Touch of Wood in the Kitchen

I've got kitchens on the brain this week! I'm very partial to painted kitchen cabinets, but I've always liked a little wood in t...

1:04 AM

Open Shelving in Kitchens and Some Press

<div style="text-align: center;">I just had my comments published in the Houston Chronicle this weekend in an article about open shelving in kitchens.  Thank you, Melanie Warner, for the opportunity!  See the article <a href="http://www.chron.com/life/article/Are-open-kitchen-shelves-for-you-3339202.php">HERE</a>.</div><br /><div align="center">I love open shelving in a kitchen and found some more great images to share.</div><div align="center"><br /></div><div align="center"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioadHrWxmEZj5Ac-c-U4I1XVgvIWfpwapRh6LtL1pNvYJgXNVEnKxxnrpN1sZ4yGxyrqJ-kk1rAz3wGfopJCZRKLp8UelKpo63KRbGvWfgPIqHVC4NKbmx-IW3jwWueWtfQ9Xc_PlHqVge/s1600/Patrick+Printy+ED.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioadHrWxmEZj5Ac-c-U4I1XVgvIWfpwapRh6LtL1pNvYJgXNVEnKxxnrpN1sZ4yGxyrqJ-kk1rAz3wGfopJCZRKLp8UelKpo63KRbGvWfgPIqHVC4NKbmx-IW3jwWueWtfQ9Xc_PlHqVge/s640/Patrick+Printy+ED.jpg" width="640" yda="true" /></a></div><div align="center"><em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Patrick Printy - Elle Decor</span></em></div><div align="center"><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><div align="center"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-z0NScjUdqeQKzgBfQUlSd8qFlktFXmtO_iDnXRjojohGhah8rFAeAwUGcPEj9WlNrFk20TXCYOCUlnZfVtCDazYmiS3yQcIKHh1c-agCwsJHY9AF72gajTNNZNrgUEz9PH9FbG_jUKit/s1600/Shannon+Bowers+designer+-+House+Beautiful.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-z0NScjUdqeQKzgBfQUlSd8qFlktFXmtO_iDnXRjojohGhah8rFAeAwUGcPEj9WlNrFk20TXCYOCUlnZfVtCDazYmiS3yQcIKHh1c-agCwsJHY9AF72gajTNNZNrgUEz9PH9FbG_jUKit/s640/Shannon+Bowers+designer+-+House+Beautiful.jpg" width="640" yda="true" /></a></div><em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Shannon Bowers - House Beautiful</span></em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqXJaHXt43gtYFbwu5G6XLFc_WJaebaZYMhEAwGBCj3lVHEIgKDRfjhd7sr0F26xXwznaCUqUMCEnvLEq7mFr-m197PYJZcXb_b-cMwrNL283FmlpRHOhtDMyFB1miNhXw9owuIsnz5UlK/s1600/House+Beautiful+-+Jeffrey+Bilhuber+designer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqXJaHXt43gtYFbwu5G6XLFc_WJaebaZYMhEAwGBCj3lVHEIgKDRfjhd7sr0F26xXwznaCUqUMCEnvLEq7mFr-m197PYJZcXb_b-cMwrNL283FmlpRHOhtDMyFB1miNhXw9owuIsnz5UlK/s400/House+Beautiful+-+Jeffrey+Bilhuber+designer.jpg" width="312" yda="true" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Jeffrey Bilhuber - House Beautiful</span></em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxwq-EboNZ9vDPbiPQBMp15kCel9Z199sjccupF3U2mSzZzBDyX-EqHbONZPjIZp0s3qmjJBwym3S0Eg1ubcXvG55VdrVoyM-ZVNu0XLAudxxsplrThJUGq6GXq7ZATR83aq8MIp91ReY2/s1600/country+living.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxwq-EboNZ9vDPbiPQBMp15kCel9Z199sjccupF3U2mSzZzBDyX-EqHbONZPjIZp0s3qmjJBwym3S0Eg1ubcXvG55VdrVoyM-ZVNu0XLAudxxsplrThJUGq6GXq7ZATR83aq8MIp91ReY2/s640/country+living.jpg" width="480" yda="true" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Country Living</span></em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPnOkLKwPCmv2yL2zWHbEDvPtP5fa9eeFPz941ISkLYTCrj5KZhsvNyNq1P7ilwdcvycmOQNNTfVbD9AQvJWfpalh9RjikjMTLFHdEd69KNWMNlJzTKzKy6-ec8OI105gg03fWF8k3q3dA/s1600/House+Beautiful+-+Jonathan+Adler.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPnOkLKwPCmv2yL2zWHbEDvPtP5fa9eeFPz941ISkLYTCrj5KZhsvNyNq1P7ilwdcvycmOQNNTfVbD9AQvJWfpalh9RjikjMTLFHdEd69KNWMNlJzTKzKy6-ec8OI105gg03fWF8k3q3dA/s640/House+Beautiful+-+Jonathan+Adler.jpg" width="640" yda="true" /></a></div><em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Jonathan Adler - House Beautiful</span></em><br /><br /><br /><em><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span></em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuIzP8lq3g1CbmMj-7I-CmoGwHO5o1YTnMjIGPrZyv9mBa9QruvtGV0Cb-FrCqNo6nLQxGRO04oe67OMjGf_ml_AUpIhkJNl-U6ybjFB04eWRVe36RtlLhso-CkrHZ6M11K2Wi9zgJbEKl/s1600/SCAN06171_thumb1_jpgThings%2520That%2520Inspire.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuIzP8lq3g1CbmMj-7I-CmoGwHO5o1YTnMjIGPrZyv9mBa9QruvtGV0Cb-FrCqNo6nLQxGRO04oe67OMjGf_ml_AUpIhkJNl-U6ybjFB04eWRVe36RtlLhso-CkrHZ6M11K2Wi9zgJbEKl/s400/SCAN06171_thumb1_jpgThings%2520That%2520Inspire.jpg" width="297" yda="true" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Things That Inspire blog</span></em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFFMFy_VCJC4BR2qujzNgv42_ngrWaS-jNLKeDJSuRYsunHCcoq0UxBvg1yYap6ziJQzE8N7p82TeXyJwKcAI5wVS5oOIu9xZqYas1kg-fUgYsjZTeupBXB2Yqc2IuboKVUHXqUZ7ZIoTJ/s1600/Michel+Boyd+M+and+C.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFFMFy_VCJC4BR2qujzNgv42_ngrWaS-jNLKeDJSuRYsunHCcoq0UxBvg1yYap6ziJQzE8N7p82TeXyJwKcAI5wVS5oOIu9xZqYas1kg-fUgYsjZTeupBXB2Yqc2IuboKVUHXqUZ7ZIoTJ/s640/Michel+Boyd+M+and+C.jpg" width="640" yda="true" /></a></div><span style="font-size: x-small;"><em>Michael Boyd - Mix and Chic blog</em></span><br /><span style="font-size: x-small;"><em></em></span></div><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy7hgPkL_PfcDTUY-_yiDUF-noLUz-0sDp1iYQoF_ZnvwcN9RWQBDkblAqP_uQR4SrNzhzs1j_DV5nSPoCpxIJtIqAe-y3voOietyOwARMm6NTp2_txjsI1ToKXzRr9Y9efxdqEjEkY7v_/s1600/open+shelving+country+living.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy7hgPkL_PfcDTUY-_yiDUF-noLUz-0sDp1iYQoF_ZnvwcN9RWQBDkblAqP_uQR4SrNzhzs1j_DV5nSPoCpxIJtIqAe-y3voOietyOwARMm6NTp2_txjsI1ToKXzRr9Y9efxdqEjEkY7v_/s400/open+shelving+country+living.jpg" width="300" yda="true" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Country Living</span></em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Open shelving works with any style and can a</span></span>dd personality to a kitchen with personal items displayed.  Open shelves make the room feel larger and more spacious without all those cabinet boxes on the wall encroaching on the space.<br /><br /><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">The down side....dust and maintenance. :/</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Combining open shelving with closed cabinetry though, can keep some of the clutter and not so pretty dishes tucked away while being able to have some openness and opportunity to display.  I love a combo.  How about you?</span></span><br /><br />See some more great kitchens on my Pinterest board <a href="http://pinterest.com/carlaaston/great-kitchens/">HERE</a>.</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Melanie also has a blog called <a href="http://blog.chron.com/designhouston/">Design Houston</a>.  Local readers can see what's happening in design in our area.  Thanks again, Melanie, for featuring my comments.</div></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>

Open Shelving in Kitchens and Some Press

I just had my comments published in the Houston Chronicle this weekend in an article about open shelving in kitchens. Thank you, Melanie Wa...

8:21 AM

THE FAVORITES

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /> PINTEREST FAVORITES</div><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><br></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe37zPMOV5HOEdkGH-uD-n7s2Ohc_6LuYtoyfKYxKzS13OUr7BIW8ghYzIW1Nypl0ROeXHXnLg9nKU2d9AuLxBzbzHtDqih3gSJ39aYtE8GP0GsnQYHLIRuJqcXCuhyphenhyphenUTiflwmssWaHG1Z/s1600/bowers-swedish-0908-1_lg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe37zPMOV5HOEdkGH-uD-n7s2Ohc_6LuYtoyfKYxKzS13OUr7BIW8ghYzIW1Nypl0ROeXHXnLg9nKU2d9AuLxBzbzHtDqih3gSJ39aYtE8GP0GsnQYHLIRuJqcXCuhyphenhyphenUTiflwmssWaHG1Z/s640/bowers-swedish-0908-1_lg.jpg" width="480"></a></div><br />Have you joined the addicted?  If you haven't discovered <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/">Pinterest</a> - you are missing out on an amazing resource.  If you have, you know just how addicting it can be.  Personally, I wish I owned stock.<br><br /><br><br />I love adding images to my boards on Pinterest.  It keeps me focused on what I love, what I'm looking for and color choices.  It's also a great way to keep my finger on the pulse of what is important to my<br><br />readers and clients.  Join me there:  <a href="http://pinterest.com/yournest/">http://pinterest.com/yournest/</a>.   Let me know if you need an invitation.<br><br /></div><a href="http://yournestdesign.blogspot.com/2012/02/favorites.html#more">Read more »</a>

THE FAVORITES

PINTEREST FAVORITES Have you joined the addicted? If you haven't discovered Pinterest - you are missing out on an amazing resource. ...

6:14 PM

A Little Brass In The Kitchen

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC200ONu0n22icM_oW1pWyciWWXqSJkKWGkkuB80UQu-zrC1RO-63uG7VifhyUBDr9EjxnkoNFW7NvIdlkJdEZKNrKUM2XeY2eicCZtMmoZB2X5MsEHtPw7wC85ulMn5nknJmcwEoHvjQ6/s1600/GP-Genevieve-Faure-Dominican-Republic-Architectural-Digest-Jul-2011-5-480x634++Genevieve+Faure.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" rea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC200ONu0n22icM_oW1pWyciWWXqSJkKWGkkuB80UQu-zrC1RO-63uG7VifhyUBDr9EjxnkoNFW7NvIdlkJdEZKNrKUM2XeY2eicCZtMmoZB2X5MsEHtPw7wC85ulMn5nknJmcwEoHvjQ6/s640/GP-Genevieve-Faure-Dominican-Republic-Architectural-Digest-Jul-2011-5-480x634++Genevieve+Faure.jpg" width="484" /></a></div><div align="center"><em>Architectural Digest  - Genevieve Faure </em></div><div align="center"><br /></div><div align="center">I'm loving a bit of brass in interiors these days.  It had such a bad turn for awhile there.  We're seeing it more and more and I love the warmth it brings to a space.  </div><div align="center"><br /></div><div align="center"><br /></div><div align="center"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD6iIKueWtrwHTiYDY72QmL6RefnyHImrTOqzjffHuvxpZ2F4Scc9k_Y5n47Pd2r_pxCwe1wPMP9bxX6hd6zpYeApv170t4FAW6quWIFAUe0cCxnrhsKIvW3pgmc6iYk9ceWsQOzpgeMEH/s1600/Carole+Lalli+hb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" rea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD6iIKueWtrwHTiYDY72QmL6RefnyHImrTOqzjffHuvxpZ2F4Scc9k_Y5n47Pd2r_pxCwe1wPMP9bxX6hd6zpYeApv170t4FAW6quWIFAUe0cCxnrhsKIvW3pgmc6iYk9ceWsQOzpgeMEH/s640/Carole+Lalli+hb.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>Carole Lalli - House Beautiful</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy9JF3pi3uymbjDzQI3-GfE4cnDnyV_jwIbbfb1QzUBmT5r5v2SK79qb6FduWxgVRiZCXxDUTBjQKGyeRdxPAmLOYJA544Tsavx51KQa8CqejhfIOghCMgTOPJZIzDAVCyllfgKi57rfq5/s1600/Mark-Badgley-Elle-Decor-Sep-2009-Roger-Davies-2-480x364.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="484" rea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy9JF3pi3uymbjDzQI3-GfE4cnDnyV_jwIbbfb1QzUBmT5r5v2SK79qb6FduWxgVRiZCXxDUTBjQKGyeRdxPAmLOYJA544Tsavx51KQa8CqejhfIOghCMgTOPJZIzDAVCyllfgKi57rfq5/s640/Mark-Badgley-Elle-Decor-Sep-2009-Roger-Davies-2-480x364.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Mark Badgley - Elle Decor</div><div align="center"><br /></div><div align="center"><br /></div><div align="center"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixFjPf3oQqpjOheWWq6Z5_YtLhH7wUfoMBrbfbGtvByIxnp3kEx-b7cguT1Q0tSfSAWyRob3bQZYouRDchzW9BLcOSkTJ38UmA6ovLolnkmTVBhXDnK8atYhYl03m5lkXsNo3A7eCTo3ak/s1600/Nancy+Bozhardt+hb++y.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="312" rea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixFjPf3oQqpjOheWWq6Z5_YtLhH7wUfoMBrbfbGtvByIxnp3kEx-b7cguT1Q0tSfSAWyRob3bQZYouRDchzW9BLcOSkTJ38UmA6ovLolnkmTVBhXDnK8atYhYl03m5lkXsNo3A7eCTo3ak/s400/Nancy+Bozhardt+hb++y.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div align="center"><br /></div><div align="center"><em>Nancy Bozhardt - House Beautiful</em></div><div align="center"><br /></div><div align="center"><br /></div><div align="center"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhci1gz-KNthWTZmrj_eWGq3h8JjP6ws77VnabWRMm6E2TZqwCJtLrw8E-2Cswxr64wGg4dHGsqaFsFyNgJA1dcf6BItHAdxV9udQYI6_aJXTOjn_-2QG0WRCbX3nsm4aCD7V75YbBX_7hY/s1600/Aerin-Lauder-Zinterhofer-Elle-Decor-William-Waldron-10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" rea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhci1gz-KNthWTZmrj_eWGq3h8JjP6ws77VnabWRMm6E2TZqwCJtLrw8E-2Cswxr64wGg4dHGsqaFsFyNgJA1dcf6BItHAdxV9udQYI6_aJXTOjn_-2QG0WRCbX3nsm4aCD7V75YbBX_7hY/s400/Aerin-Lauder-Zinterhofer-Elle-Decor-William-Waldron-10.jpg" width="335" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em>Aerin Lauder-Zinterhofer - Elle Decor</em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div align="center"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzuKKRfxbNQ3jDt61BuL7y4WHc9WzySG8EWalRnBHIX3L3GWfSIKt2eCaG-oyPAvhxmx_MfyjdPeo1DJUzu5Ykufb_uRoX-BcaXX5-QIq5ecBHqPGXbpgDxh6jPZhUn3shMw7-lgfYK8u8/s1600/Susan+Dossetter+hb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" rea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzuKKRfxbNQ3jDt61BuL7y4WHc9WzySG8EWalRnBHIX3L3GWfSIKt2eCaG-oyPAvhxmx_MfyjdPeo1DJUzu5Ykufb_uRoX-BcaXX5-QIq5ecBHqPGXbpgDxh6jPZhUn3shMw7-lgfYK8u8/s640/Susan+Dossetter+hb.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><br /><div align="center"><em>Susan Dossetter - House Beautiful</em></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"><br /></div><div align="center">So what do you think?  Would you do some brass in your kitchen?</div>

A Little Brass In The Kitchen

Architectural Digest - Genevieve Faure I'm loving a bit of brass in interiors these days. It had such a bad turn for awhile there. We...

9:25 AM

Contrast = Drama

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjguub-kwM8rb1n_mDY0ysjnf9E51RhVrSnB3wlugVnSajk_UenhfsrSAE9jLxlVxSBv8i-J7KCBxtZuW86rbLhljCaIIH8NJ8cY_LLxFyaTwBXgZyM0mv5wN4kaY7QNHJZTxz-TZl4CQVY/s1600/Melanie+Elston+TH.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Contrast is one of my favorite tools in design and one I feel makes the biggest impact visually in a space.  This photo above from<em><a href="http://www.traditionalhome.com/"> Traditional Home</a></em>, designer - Melanie Elston, demonstrates the drama created by the high contrast between the lights and darks in the space.  The curves and beautiful shapes of the chair and sconce really pop off that dark color.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimIjbwubymSGeD0rgZigIq9IQwkK4Jk2X1yqTIE3ek04frGLiNMSeKU9S4l9Khy8oYqjfoLneluKt_7Jjhvdrxn21DpDOguQQ6Vw7IcqKxSbX7Nw4x7m8LtF3-c5FpXjfqj0Rfv87SUZse/s1600/Beth+Gross+ED.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em>image from <a href="http://www.elledecor.com/">Elle Decor's website</a></em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">You often see drama in foyers or entrance halls. People like to wow their guests when they come into their home, so high contrast is often used here.  The dark railing and dark wood treads on the stairs highlight that graceful curve and really add drama in this space.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJaZ5JzvF0czOeYMxw2uBFdPBrO-bDxSmXOwh3W7iMBQK56tL3a8baIcvZC_uWUkMNlErvDxRqj6ShQx8oyzR8llgbpxaMLWw54DD_K-DstzWMzPCf_iLGR5D2iQqVhFlGZs_kyBQMs4Zm/s1600/ED+Hortensia+Vitale.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em>Hortenisa Vitale - Elle Decor</em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Those fabulous light fixtures really stand out against the dark chocolate walls.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTkTmIM9llM5d3MOMGypWhyKOuA4JgZjxhqNSyUHQ1lbV3C9QwSYn_JEvPJmZEQ93CJPvWk2b8wgtxQnJSsk6yE6cJnNzfH4NCh7kUini5KBWSfjjS9n5w0MDo7Oy79QHEPcUHdyPfUUsX/s1600/Courtnay+Daniels+Haden+ED+Victorian+home.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em>Courtnay Daniels Haden - Elle Decor</em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The dark rich, lacquered doors and newel post in the light environment really make for a dramatic foyer.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi19gQsjZvFn-8qNKBlUNw7d9kPfVStD1xpOLy5YVE3Io9mXX3gFFTX8SIArvHdC1dTPxDPh7gs5Biv7XbtB41yNL7VVKuVYWTC7gG3wbB0mHLKDXwvfdELBcMPbC9ydqhKpEx55DHi-qF6/s1600/ED+Kerry+Joyce.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em>Kerry Joyce - Elle Decor</em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Contrast is best used when you want something to stand out and other elements in the room to take a back seat.  These beautiful balusters and the art really stand out in the light environment.  In a wood paneled space, they would have all blended in and been hardly noticeable.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEgjCzbmHHcftgSXqu3CUQ8BZHfaYaaJuxOPE0iDe5hgFLv6W0zxDpcTer-W6J1H3ypefEuEADMy-pkmph34nMX_l8_JtK0Z2p3byMktcTtijH5LVMtmR-pMGrJV6EfNXUD-TttkHvqr0h/s1600/Vicente+Wolf+ED.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" /></a></div><br /><div align="center"><em>Vicente Wolf - Elle Decor</em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzCYDJhE_IKKrkM5QUalew4dKcO9e0jm5-R2jWNZaLfHa53PD_XHCY3JSnYYr2BOvAc8741c6eE-TwNsfcl5mJT64WLJ7kHDZiQzeTmXw-Ra6CZSi84l4pVD_L7668cEmCKE4FvsThAvNP/s1600/ver-Saladino-AD.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em>John Saladino - <a href="http://www.architecturaldigest.com/">Architectural Digest</a></em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I love the simplicity of this stairwell.  He used the same material on the stair and the wall beyond to add drama and make that stairwell go on forever.  The contrast between the wood and walls focuses your eye and leads you up the stairs.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3wSNIitG5pmg8TOgKH9wUxsaV_H3GY2DzKMBkis5eilHkGFHJMk9OSJZBGu0jLV9VK5H06Ln8EyGxuB-sQmEmC9hy10-vJYImDhGRufGnGx0pbZzaGLQ18EJJZ_pgLoeu37O7xy7no2Pv/s1600/15_ozzy_sharon_osbourne_home+AD.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><em>Martin Lawrence Bullard - Architectural Digest</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Lots of drama here in Ozzy and Sharon's home.  Of course!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBG6dLPpEh1tf4AtRELGR78z3eKauzcLGWjZs3R8R6_C8mnzJQubGL4dIjH4961VizELX10SDCKhxntUZNvKZUXrxa_KvEXrRJ9eZw1ZzzktbaOTbwcYwyYawQsY1hbuSXaoWLehRI_fEB/s1600/ED+Michael+Formica.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em>Michael Formica - Elle Decor</em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The chest and walls all blend together to make a nice backdrop for the objects and lamp base in this tablescape.  Not only the contrast in value, light/darkness, but the contrast in texture makes these pieces stand out.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP_txTHfsc06YWAauD50_itA1G5sPvbfSq2TC8DSAZw06gXOgFNpGlsg4o5QyCnAktQBqH5M4USMDoJ71Q4U-xCYn3CPQwa6g0_gd-6fx2zkHYcxlyx5qsWpXimavUkOxcHh6ooL9Phh7e/s1600/E.+Claudio+Modola+AD%252C+Kenyan+coast.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="406" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em>E. Claudio Modolo - Architectural Digest</em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Drama in the bedroom.  Those fabulous carved headboards make such an interesting pattern against the light walls.  It really telegraphs the location of this property on an island off the coast of Kenya.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibndFtM774F7MLdLl9T1IrZ2zseEDlroj3wV4z_W6KCtLUolwSP34kYXQrNIKwiUNRQg520NeAsoihndlIPL38v62UoM6z3Aj7BymYC0QRLdHOM5WwcFU3KbnUPZFpQVPvbwzrq2ncWUwV/s1600/James+Radin+black+Windsors+HB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="500" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em>James Radin - <a href="http://www.housebeautiful.com/">House Beautiful</a></em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The high contrast of the dark Windsors in this white kitchen calls attention to the traditional style of this home. They become sort of delicate sculptures in this space.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBJg60jEO6oui3K1F7OJZxukssYwG2H7nqvC255-wi5eCkuUYAIqzq8Hb9GIVmNGCirRnBcdcH-gW1IYiTfqSbUMdy05kaVOkCarNZ4Fy52DJgaw2NJukBNsoyBMgIMWmLmv2wtzt9rvb4/s1600/Michael+Graves+TH.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><em>Michael Graves - Traditional Home</em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I love how the contrast of the dark window frame firmly establishes the grid pattern motif used in the cabinet fronts and really draws your attention to the view.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3ldq84oGTiIjk-kUJmgvuUQv_ObZGAQv0xVR62Fep3u2raAfHHX5sexo1lb8Qu4PJKMXLFXXS19KDnrI7Bka7tifX1Uq7m1N5nyv7cGsdr7BlBSTyTyMgH-N3TkII9jvITcJOJhd2eLaz/s1600/suzanne+Kasler+HB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="500" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><em>Suzane Kasler - House Beautiful</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Contrast doesn't have to be just black and white.  It's about the difference in value.  This vibrant red background helps this collection of pond yachts to stand out in their case.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4rzrvFvMoN2OxVzxhUq-tSQ_9mcmv2pJYyeX8d4YbiBhJ-eC9wyn3qe50Y62mE69b3aIucY0A_4ZDvIl9ioZg1LEog8oNO6ZBfygYTuACwvyVgDawMOxydbgFl7SEM01cWYKdSUzwQMfF/s1600/Juan+Montoya+AD%252C+Dominican+Republic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>Juan Montoya - Architectural Digest</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The distinct X pattern in the windows and the wood trim and furniture are highlighted by the use of high contrast here. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBL1rQ3i_kPnowOsngR5g8iDygIuQdBKdM5RHUmYhyphenhyphenIQdPn3DlQGWzrQjKUHQfyzozpifHcsNfq63SyxTvAjO1lqQYPMqT4bTataHv_MnkdjXesvEDPMiB48wt0ckKD1klsZo2no3Nr3u3/s1600/Gary+McBournie+HB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em>Gary McBournie - House Beautiful</em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Do you think this incredible ceiling would've been noticed as much if the cabinets and walls were a wood tone?  </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFcsV0INNLiXV1RQ5YVcVr9ISvPPBmUrYGO3vgqetKzfp8RdXhIsI8Qmb0ChR8xeqoAunXp4NaXQ9LZ8KKYiX-SI3IM3PznFG59EmmqSAAmZnIV2eHtorSYTWiaFGW7jH0mbjJ5gYwCbWW/s1600/Veranda.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" /></a></div><br /><div align="center"><em>Veranda</em></div><div align="center"><br /></div><div align="center">The high contrast of the trim on the white bed linen highlights the detail.  Headboard and lamp are subtle repetitions of the trim detail's shape.</div><div align="center"><br /></div><div align="center"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi99w7HLVOdCGYEpco4ClrmXbNFyVbjwdbESAscfi6mDDz-bfWtTnI39qJ2nj4kYrJia4nbOITQeBAF5Qgks8WWj8-GtrH8AzEr2q4z1YlVsLzKgikV8IiF4Frfr_fCyF9nB4aHOGdJgmip/s1600/Veranda+McDonald.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" /></a></div><div align="center"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em>Mary McDonald - Veranda</em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I've always thought of Mary McDonald as the queen of contrast.  Her interiors are always full of drama!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6-qU8f3F3mTQ22qaqLLQi1gncJ_ZProlbuBUyYCtMpQZ2_dy_iIJxNxuj38AvmvXNvkwVaq5auFdE91pUX2nbKeyE00YG16R6jYVU-fqJ3VaEMPPO01DaerNGBt1lJNkjPEPQLk8floi7/s1600/VER-mcdonald++Veranda.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em>Mary McDonald - Veranda</em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjnX0CVul1muw8yPoZRPnQ-v_ItUEtMt_wSFb-aMn6KDQMWkDVyqB8AlsZW7a7BI1hal-QCOkypyFitC2J8EajpGPAJaWEYAspVntuNlGkxqCbTut7r5xZDCWcfRZHTO2p3EXG3S7gWG0i/s1600/VER-mcdonald-+Veranda.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em>Mary McDonald - Veranda</em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyEGiMYpXsmh4JgUGIXUvGgovKYB5f8PzBUeCOhLJikBW3w-ifZau9o3JLK0My9wGf9txHuNLt01yBGJaKoLWcXHAg2-_mewzWbMMDSUPoub_UqRtFtjJo4vH6cfNAJPdEznEZp1KUTBPF/s1600/Susan+Tully+HB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em>Susan Tully - House Beautiful</em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I love how the similar shape of these light fixtures and stools are highlighted by the contrast between them and the envelope.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe2-dwaeDGAwc5QssxqIDAB9t1i0SHT3d7jKWDXz2MsLJk29c9icVGTGs9UZfBb4cbo0d9Z9i7SufHfLqRuE7XiQmrpwbtfh4nf-dyzYWmtraIpt4IyOpSlsKxMwiAZhUlCoLT3tO13o-B/s1600/healing+barsanti+hb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" /></a></div><br /><div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em>Healing Barsanti - House Beautiful</em></div><div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The beautiful wood finish on this island with it's curvy rope legs stand out in this creamy kitchen.  If the floor had been a dark wood, it would not have been such a strong visual.</div><div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I've been wanting to do this post for some time.  Contrast and other tools used to create the desired end result in a space always fascinate me.</div><div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Don't forget to leave a comment on <a href="http://designinthewoods.blogspot.com/2011/07/flokati-give-away.html">THIS POST</a> for my Flokati give away!  Drawing will be done next Friday!</div><div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>

Contrast = Drama

Contrast is one of my favorite tools in design and one I feel makes the biggest impact visually in a space. This photo above from Traditio...

11:08 AM

Room Interior Design California