A Kitchen Facelift at Belmont Bay

When my client came to me with her hopes of having a kitchen that reflected her style I knew right away how we would take on the project.  The existing cabinets were in very good condition with concealed hinges, a big plus.  We chose an off white chalk based paint to brighten the space.  The raised panel details on the doors were an invitation to create interest and depth with light distressing along the edges.  The nickel knobs were exchanged for a glass trefoil shaped knob with copper accents to pick up the flecks of copper in the Galaxy granite counter tops.    And to give a nod to my client's love of all things French we stenciled the overhead vent housing.  Oh, and that tres urban farmhouse chic sheep head? .... a purchase from VanEch Studio's store in Occoquan, from our Park Hill Collection.

Befores

The Afters

 

Photography:  Nicolas Otth

Repurposing 101

Have you ever picked up an old broken chair that you were drawn to for its charming wood back, but hello, another chair is the last thing you need.  I do, admittedly, have a fondness for these charmers, but a) have little room in my house for them, and b) have the time or funds to repair them.  So out with the saw, some paint and sealer, these vintage wood chair backs are creating a party in my garden.  Products used:  CeCe Caldwell Chalk & Mineral Paint and Endurance finish.

 

 

Bullion Fringe Comeback

Bullion fringe, pronounced "bool yuhn" has always been a go to embellishment for many designers, and today we are seeing a resurgence in its use.  Bullion has it's origins in France, and was used to describe the thick cords covered in gold and silver that adorned uniforms.  In decorating, these cotton and silk threaded fringes are most often used on the skirts of upholstered furniture to provide a couture look.  Growing up I recall the bullion fringed stool at my mother's vanity, how fascinated I was with all the twisted cords.   Many years later when she passed away, I salvaged the fringe for use in a new upholstered piece.  These fringes can run as little as $5/yard all the way up to $80/yard depending on it's complexity and what it is made out of.    Like many trims, bullion can transform the ordinary upholstered piece into something unique and luxurious.  At the bottom of this post, check out the fascinating video on how this awesome fringe is made. 

The fringe I removed from my mother's vanity stool

For casual looks try a jute fringe, a favorite go to with burlap and natural linen.

 In this monochromatic room, the fringe adds texture and interest

 Tablecloths hemmed in the silky cords look amazing too.

 This bullion has an added tassle for the wow and feminine factor

 Ottomans are a perfect piece to embellish with bullion

Elegance

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=psDnYOnQXdM