La Mode Design Blog: May 2010

Thursday, May 27, 2010

Curb Appeal

First impressions are important. Add some life to your front step:

Adding plant life will instantly improve the look of any home. You can add a pair of pots on either side of your garage or front door or freshen up your front flower beds with ever greens and hits of color. It's important to remember all the seasons, even winter when you are adding plant life so that your home will look lively all year round. For idea's, check out this website:

http://www.landscapingideasonline.com/potted-plants-container-gardens.php

http://www.southernliving.com/home-garden/gardens/boxwood-pots-00400000044716/

When ever I am updating my pots, I think of it the same way I tackle accessorizing the inside of a home. I like to choose varied heights, color and textures in plants, to create an eye catching look that you won't see on every other house on your block. Try a pair of these planters:

http://www.eighteenkarat.com/garden/large-planters/terrazzo.html

White is seen on every other house...the trim, front door and garage doors are often done in a version of white. Change the look of your house instantly by painting these area's out in a contrasting color. For a neutral option try: Benjamin Moore, Willow, CC-542. This charcoal will bring your home into today's current design trends.

http://www.benjaminmoore.com/?lang=en_CA

Do you have any gables on your home that are covered with your standard siding? Remove the siding and replace it with cedar shakes or board and batten. This should be a weekend project and will instantly break up the vast expanse of siding, adding character and charm.

http://www.renovationexperts.com/images/siding/shingled-gable.jpg

Tuesday, May 18, 2010

Tile talk

Do not overlook the importance of tile in your kitchen and bathroom. These options below can give your room the push it needs to be memorable:

This natural stone marries the world of vintage and current. The shape mimics a vintage penny round, while the dark natural stone and oval shape make it distinctive

http://www.daltile.com/large_items.cfm?itemID=4678&itemtype=1

Instantly, this marble tile will add texture and impact without being over whelming

http://www.daltile.com/large_items.cfm?itemID=4683&itemtype=1

Metal is an extremely durable material and often seen in restaurant applications. Using the metal option in penny round form gives it a unique look for a residential treatment

http://storefront.amestile.com/storefrontB2CWEB/itemdetail.do?action=prepare_detail&itm_id=19812&itm_index=47

Marble is a timeless material that has been used in homes for years, although this pattern and application is very current. This fluid marble option could fit into a modern or transitional style home.

Fluid Marble shown in 12" x 24" tiles

http://storefront.amestile.com/storefrontB2CWEB/itemdetail.do?action=prepare_detail&itm_id=20186&itm_index=0

Monday, May 3, 2010

Bringing the indoors out

Hooray for warmer weather!! We've all seen the standard patio sets and folding lawn chairs. This year, I am going to treat my outdoor spaces as I would my favorite indoor rooms. Bringing color, texture, accessories and artwork to my back yard. Here are a few idea's to get you started:

Adding these votive candles along your stairs, table or other feature area's will add sparkle to your room