plural interior design

The sofa I designed for The Sofa Company!

2011-10-26T21:19:00.000-07:00

The Draper...

This vintage 60's inspired sofa features a button tufted seat and back with a solid walnut base. A sofa James Bond could be seen sipping a martini on. Classic, sexy, and sophisticated...

Click her to view or order my sofa on The sofa Company's website

I would suggest getting it at 84" in length the scale works better. Its shown at 79". Its the Sofa Company's policy to show every sofa at that length.

This sofa would also look good in a white leather or blue or tangerine velvet!
xo
Steph

Boys Hope Renovation

2011-10-26T20:46:00.000-07:00

I had such a wonderful time being ASID's Community Service Chair this past year. As you know I chose to remodel the Boys Hope House in Santa Ana of Boys Hope Girls Hope. This is a little video I put together of the process. The outcome was amazing.. Enjoy!

To find out how you can volunteer for Boys Hope Girls Hope go to www.bhghsocal.org

Design by Stephanie Cook of PLURAL Design www.pluraldesign.com

American Society of Interior Designers Orange County California www.asidocc.org

Click here to watch the video on youtube for full screen view and to watch other video makeovers by PLURAL.

ASID Boys Hope Renovation

2011-07-18T22:25:00.000-07:00

I know a lot of you have been wondering how the Boys Hope House turned out. Well amazing!!! haha As you know I put on a fundraiser (Poker Night) that was held on May14th, it was not only a fun night but also raised enough money to remodel the entire Boys House! Once the budget was established the design plan began, sourcing out unique finds from thrift stores, estate sales and of course Ikea, giving the house a modern hip vibe. 10 Days were all we had while the boys were on summer break, so the first few days were allocated to painting, then we moved on to replacing tile and carpet, and finally the finishing touches with furniture, hanging artwork and window treatments. We had our challenges with the short deadline but with hard work and dedication we pulled it off. The house turned out perfect and when the boys came home, they said they felt like they were on MTV’s Real World! Their genuine smiles and look in their eyes made it all worth it!

Thank you to all who participated and was apart of this incredible project. We rocked this year’s ASID community service project and Boys Hope Girls Hope couldn’t be happier with the outcome. Whoo hoo..!

A message from Robin Sinclair Executive Director at Boys Hope Girls Hope: “We couldn't be more thrilled with the renovation- absolutely gorgeous, and a home in which our scholars can be proud! You put the H in HOPE! Thank you Stephanie Cook and ASID for all of your creativity and hard work. We are forever grateful!”

Special thanks to these vendors who donated their time and materials.

So Cal Stoneworks: Installed Tile

MCL Floor Cover: Installed carpet

Leonard's Services: $500 Donation

Hazelson Company: $500.00 donation

Custom Comfort mattress (Orange): Mattresses donation

Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams: Furniture Donation

Plural Design: Furniture Donation

Judy's Custom Workroom: Fabric donation

Becky’s Specialty: Sewed window seat

MicroSeal Fabric Protection: Sprayed Sofa

Josh Stevenson Photography: Complementary Photography

Arizona Tile: Tile Discount

List of people who helped: Thank you! Thank you!

ASID

Stephanie Cook
Jennifer Nicole Anderson

Laura Yorba

Barbara Keller

Rick Campos
Jessie Gidda

Chylyse VTosi
Rona Graf

Cindy Maddocks

BHGH

Timothy Rogers

Larry Chu

Kelly Pointer

Jennifer Bosco

Debbie Schmidt

Cameran Lindee

Claire Shatzen

Compass Youth

Circle K

Robin Sinclair

General:

Stephanie Avila
Brian Santistevan

John Santillan
Chris Yorba

Cathy Thomas

Cheri Summerfield

Sheri Trupp

Anthony Colasurdo
Mark Sagen

Before Picture Living Room

After Pictures Living Room

Before Picture Dinning Room

After Pictures Dinning Room

Before Picture Study Area

After Pictures Study Area

Before Picture Bedroom 1

After Pictures Bedroom 1

Before Picture Bedroom 2

After Pictures Bedroom 2

Before Picture Bedroom 3

After Pictures Bedroom 3

Me, Tim Larry and all the Boys!

ASID's President Barbara Keller, Executive Director Robin Sinclair and me!

Kyle from Hart Concrete and his boys delivering the custom concrete table they donated!

Larry dedicated volunteer for BHGH, me and Tim project manager for BHGH at Ikea.

Brian Santistevan and his son helping install the glass boards behind them.

Tim and Kelly at garage sale.

One of the boys from Compass Youth sanding the pedestal for the study area.

Me picking out sheets at Ikea.

Jennifer painting!

Mark the electrician and amazing handyman.

Circle K volunteers helping put together Ikea furniture.

So Cal Stoneworks installing the dinning room tile.

Me sanding the table top for the study.

Tim and Cameran. :)

All the toys Anthony donated! What a generous guy!

And here's Anthony!

Two of the boys just after checking out their presents!

Jen and me dead tired at 11:00 at night laying down the living room shag rug..

Kelly and Jennifer getting their painting on.

One of the boys petting the mascot named after my little Lundon.

I had a blast doing this project and feel so lucky to have made these boys lives a little better! Help spread the love friends.... lets take control of our world and make it better one kind gesture at a time! :)

Stephanie xoxo

ASID's Boys Hope House

2011-06-17T08:51:00.000-07:00

Boys Hope House Schedule for the Week

Hi y'all we will be at the Hope House everyday from 12:00-8:30pm till Saturday please call or text me to make sure we are all still there or if you need the address. We will be clearing out furniture painting and putting together new furniture! Please bring your paintbrushes, rollers, drop cloths and tools! We really need your help so if your not sure if you should come, you should! Also if you can get any tile, furniture or accessories donated, we need it! 949-735-4115
Thanks,
Steph

Get involved!! Help me renovate ASID's community service project the "Boys Hope House"

2011-05-31T20:03:00.000-07:00

Well its that time of year again! ASID's community services project is in motion. I am so excited for this challenge and have had the pleasure of meeting these very smart young men and can't wait to surprise them with a new home makeover! As you know I was looking to raise money for this cause so that their home could be as comfortable and beautiful as possible. On May 14th I held a Poker Tournament Fundraiser that raised $6,800. Yeeeeehh.. Not bad for my first go at it. ;) Thank you all who participated! What a great night I am still getting calls on how much fun it was..

And now you will see the beginning stages of all your generosity. I am in the middle of planning the design for the Boys Hope House. The renovation starts June 17th and will last 10 days! Below is a schedule of the week I'll be at the home. Please contact me if you have any donations or would like to help! We need lots of hands. This house is about 6,000 square feet and at this time there is six boys and two house parents living there. If you are not available that week you can still get involved. I need help preparing and sourcing goods from now until we begin demo! So lets get started...

Please click on the schedule below for a larger clearer version. *Updates will be made often, please check back.
xoxo Stephanie

Go to Boys Hope Girls Hope Website

How did Poker Night do!

2011-05-18T22:59:00.000-07:00

ASID’s Poker Night benefiting Boys Hope Girls Hope was a huge success! This unique event had people rolling in the spirit of giving. The night started out with an exciting poker tournament, while on lookers cheered and others tried their luck on the tables. The atmosphere was intimate yet elegant with a fabulous Jazz band led by singer Nichole Preuss. Towards the end of the night we finally had ourselves a poker winner Lydia Deets receiving a vacation at a beachfront Condo in Cabo San Lucas. While our very own Barbara Keller won the top raffle prize, a vacation at a ski cabin in Sun Valley Idaho! What a fantastic night filled with people coming together for an amazing cause! Overall the event raised a substantial amount of funds and now its time to gear up for the renovation of the Boy’s Hope House in July. If you would like to be apart of this years community services email stephanie@pluraldesign.com. We are looking for contactors, painters and anyone who wants to help out.

Special thanks to our host sponsor Cosentino and there fabulous venue.

Event Sponsor: WINNOW Gallery & Goods

Event Contributors: International Wine Ventures, Shake Bartenders California, Voli Spirits, Real Deal Casino Party, LIZARRAN Tapas Restaurant, Classic Party Rentals, Brian Keegan Christensen Photography

All Vacation Destinations donated by: HAUS CANDY & PLURAL Design

And our donors: The Hotel Hanford, Bonnie Traut Interiors, Water Works, Christopher Guy, Ty Alexander Salon, Sara Jordan Photography, Haus Candy, Plural Design, Sabet Brands, Custom Comfort Mattress, Teuscher Chocolates of Switzerland, The Plexi Gallery, 24 Hour Fitness, Photo Bob, CR - Consolidated Reprographics and Proline Stamps

Thanks Peggy for the love. We will get you your haus candy cuff!

Thanks Voli Spirits for all the low cal Vodka.. Delish!

Stribling before he passed out!

Sarah Winchester, Micah Tanous,and Peggy Tanous from OC Housewives

Thanks Brian Keegan for taking all of our pictures! xo

Thanks Granny E

Craig from Shake Bartenders! Thanks for working the Bar..

Big Thanks to my Mom for getting all of our family there! And buying so many darn raffle tickets!

Me and Stephs launch of our haus candy couture cuffs! www.hauscandy.com

Thanks Matt Thurston for letting us have the fundraiser at Cosentinos!

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Cosentino-Anaheim/354348106355

http://www.silestoneusa.com/

Proline Concrete table http://www.prolinestamps.com/ for sale let me know if interested! It has a compass on the top. Proceeds go to Boys Hope Girls Hope email stephanie@pluraldesign.com

Thanks Rosanne Cox for bringing Silpada Jewlery.

Matt Locke even stopped by... Miss you man

Yeeh...Jon at Real Deal Casino Party was so cool for bringing all his gaming tables! We xo u

http://www.realdealcasinoparty.com/

Robin Sinclair executive director at Boys Hope Girls Hope talking about their wonderful program.

http://www.boyshopegirlshope.org/Default.aspx?alias=www.boyshopegirlshope.org/socal

Joshi my trainer winning two raffle prizes. He deserves it after his eye injury and being stuck looking like a pirate all night.

Big thanks to Nichole Preuss for singing. She is amazing folks, email jazzgirl21@sbcglobal.net to book

Craig mixin it up.. http://www.shakebartenders.com/

Our big raffle winner ASID's own Barbara Keller won a weeks vacation at this ski Cabin in Sun valley Idaho

And our Grand prize winner Lydia Deets from the Poker Tournament won a weeks vacation at this beach front condo in Cabo San lucas! Lydia Deet http://www.vrbo.com/348379

Poker Night!!

2011-03-16T20:06:00.000-07:00

So this year I am on the board for ASID and am heading up the community services! Just in case you don't know what I'm talking about, ASID (American Society of Interior Designers) is a professional organization for qualified interior designers. Membership in ASID requires accredited education, rigorous examination, and high standards of ethical practice. Bla Bla Bla...deep breath... Ok so for the fun part...this year I decided to makeover the Boys Hope House in Santa Ana. The boys are so smart and full of life, they really do deserve a place where they can feel comfortable and excel in life. Last year The Girls got there makeover so we couldn't leave the boys out when this year came around could we!

I wanted to do something fun to raise money so I thought.! Da daaaaaaa dun-dun-dun dunt daaaaaaaah! POKER NIGHT! Now for those of you who aren't so good at poker, no worries you can just listen to live music, have some drinks win some prizes or play some blackjack, craps and roulette.

The fundraiser is being held on May 14th at Cosentino in Anaheim. Doors open at 5:00! Poker Tournament, starts at 5:30! There is a maximum of forty seats available for tournament. So excellent odds! We are doing rebuys for the first hour only and possibly a bonus buy in the beginning. If you are late, because some of you will be, don't worry, your chips will be waiting at your seat. The blinds will be raised so the tournament ends at 9:00. Following the tournament we will announce the winner, begin the raffle and start the auction.

Poker Tournament Winner- Wins a weeks vacation at a beach front condo in Cabo San Lucas. * Airfare not included.

If you are interested in donating a raffle prize or sponsoring the event, please email me at stephanie@pluradesign.com

Important Registration Information:

-Download and fill out the registration form attached to the bottom of this post.
Don't forget to buy raffle tickets, they will be at the door under your name when u arrive.

-Send form along with your payment to:

P.O. Box 13188

Newport Beach, CA 92658

ATTN: Stephanie Cook

-Make check out to, Boys Hope Girls Hope of Southern California. Don't forget to note "Boys Hope Makeover" on the memo.

-You will receive an email confirmation once we get your payment.

Pre-Registration (before May 6th):

Includes 2 raffle tickets ($20 value)

$25 Admission

$100 Poker Tournament (includes admission fee)

*Prices will no longer change at door! At Door Prices will be the same as Pre-Registration!! How cool is that..
At the door: (does not include two free raffle tickets)

$25 Admission

$100 Poker Tournament (includes admission fee)

Raffle tickets:

$10 each. May be purchased at any time before or during the event. You don't have to be present to win. If you will not be attending the event, but would like to purchase raffle tickets, please mail your payment to the address above, and note how many tickets you desire. Once your payment is received, an email confirmation will be sent and your raffle tickets will be waiting for you at the door.

Cosentino

611 E Cerritos Avenue

Anaheim, CA 92805

This will be a fun fabulous night filled with people coming together for a wonderful cause!

So Dress to impress. If you look like a mess, don't bother coming to this address. ;)

We look forward to seeing you at the event!

Sponsors:
Real Deal Casino Party's supplying all tables and dealers
Winow $500.00 cash donation
Wine Ventures supplying red and white wine for 150 people
Nichole Preuss and band live entertainment

Raffle Prizes as of today, more to come:

Week vacation in Mammoth Lakes, CA. $3,500.00 *Airfare not included
Week vacation in SunValley, Idaho $5,000.00 * Airfare not included

Water Works Mirror $950.00

Christopher Guy Tres’ Pettie Mirror 12”x18”

The Hotel Hanford Costa Mesa, CA Two night stay includes meal and shuttle to South Coat Plaza

Ty Alexander Salon $100.00 gift card for Hair cut w/ Olivier

Ty Alexander Salon $50.00 gift card Lip and brow from Karin

Sara Jordan Photography portrait session $400.00

Three Angeles tickets w/ Vip Parking

Haus Candy Couture Cuff $150.00

Plural Design Two Hour Consultation $300.00

Sabet Brands 1 hour consultation

Painting by Ali Sabet $2,000.00
Custom Comfort Mattress $1,000.00 Gift basket includes $500.00 gift certificate, two latex pillows, a three or four hundred thread count set of sheets as well as a mattress protector and delivery.
Teuscher Chocolates of Switzerland $200.00 of gourmet chocolates
Plexi Gallery Custom art $825 or Custom Framing worth the same

(Invitation to Poker Night) (Registration Form for Poker Night)

Kimberly's Wish

2009-08-08T00:15:00.000-07:00

I was wondering how I could give back to the community and emailed a few charities and received an instantaneous response from Mark president of OC Make-A-Wish Foundation. He was thrilled that I had contacted him and said it was perfect timing. He proceeded to tell me about a young girl named Kimberly who was diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosis last year at age 12, and her one wish was to have an Interior Designer make over her room. My heart went out to her and I was on board to help make her wish come true. We met the next day and next thing I knew I had three days to shop and 1 day to make it happen! It was like Design Star all over again!

The day was beautiful! My PLURAL Interior Design Team and I arrived at 7am. We started painting and putting furniture together. NFL quarterback Matt Leinart sponsored the wish giving $5,000 dollars. He showed up with his family and even helped paint for a while. The Orange County media heard about the project and couldn't resist the story. The place was crawling with people all wanting to be a part of Kimberlys' day.

Read the OC Register article http://www.ocregister.com/articles/kimberly-wish-leinart-2200005-make-makeover.

So 14 hours later kimberly got her wish!!! The reaction was priceless- first shock, then tears, then a lot of thank you's!!! I thought to myself, "I can't believe how a room makeover changed so many peoples lives". Everyone there that day had a unique experience that will be with them forever. Kimberly is a very special girl and will always be in my heart. Hope you enjoy all the pictures!! God Bless and don't forget to make someone's day!!

Caitlin's Wish

2009-07-16T18:40:00.000-07:00

So I just finished my second room makeover for the Make-A-Wish foundation. Caitlin Caro an extraordinarily resilient young woman has been battling cystic fibrosis since she was born and her one wish was to get her room designed by an interior designer. I was the lucky designer fortunate enough to make her wish come true.

As I interviewed Caitlin, I began to draw inspiration from her personality and interests. Walking out of our meeting a few ideas came to mind. Floor to ceiling mirrored walls to expand th small space while providing ample viewing for cheer leading practice with her girl friends! She also mentioned she wanted bright colors. Luckily I already had vintage headboard, which I reupholstered with a funky colorful floral pattern, which became my inspiration for the color palette. I decided on a deep turquoise for the walls while choosing splashes of bright colors for accents to keep the space upbeat and cheery.

Another thing Caitlin asked for was storage, so I added a lacquered zebra storage unit to hold all of her nic knacks along with a flat screen and DVD player to keep her occupied during her treatments. To make Caitlin feel like a princess I painted the baseboards and doors and antique gold and finished the room off with a custom chandelier and a Tibetan lamb rug.

What a great week, I am so thankful to have met Caitlin and her family. Caitlin's face was priceless when she walked into the room and per her words the room was beautiful! So I guess I did my job.

Caitlin we are glad you like you’re new grown up room!

To see more interviews with Caitlin check out The Mission Viejo Dispatch or The OC Register.

Pacific Ceramic Design

2009-06-25T10:08:00.000-07:00

Pacific Ceramic Design is a company that give us Designer's and architect's art in 3D form. It not only enhances a design in the asthetic value but also in the scale factor. Everything is beautifully handcrafted and anything you see on the website you like can be replicated. Vessels and water features can be in the 4ft to 6ft range, and Exterior and Interior Columns can reach Heights of 10ft and beyond. The artist is Scott Semple from Santa Barbara and his website is http://www.pacificceramicdesign.com/.

Three piece water Feature...

Handmade vases for any space....

Custom Ceramic Trellis....

Repeated Stamp detail... Iron oxide wash

Water fountain with handles.... great feature!

Stamped with rim and clay rings.....pit fired/beeswax.....

Unique Modern Planters!

2009-06-24T11:21:00.000-07:00

Looking for nice modern planter for the summer??? Well I have some great ideas for you.

These beautiful Galvanized planters are from CB2 from $12.95- $34.95. They are great for succulents.

This Gratia Planter is from DWR and is exceptional for any weather and can be used indoors or out and also comes with holes on the bottom for perfect drainage. $540.00

Simply planters has this Madison Resin Planter great for the outdoors!! $49.98

Yard Art's Column metal planter is a great add to any outdoors for this summer. $440.00-$595.00.
OBleek Objects has some unique eggshell planters that will go great by any pool!! They have concrete and glass based planters. Starting at $125.00.

Glamorous Black and White

2009-06-23T11:47:00.000-07:00

What one person may view as "Glamorous", another may not, but the following interior scenes by Cattelan Italia are beyond imagination and one can only dream to live in a space as glamorous as these. The unexpected combination of highly ornate detailing with contemporary lines and art give each space a modern flair that once seen, can never be forgotten. To combine hints of sparkle, glitz, rich fabrics and muted colors while still managing to remain young and fresh is a token of true design.

Scandinavian Surfaces

2009-06-23T11:26:00.000-07:00

I came across this company Scandinavian Surfaces and thought it was so cool. This company was founded by a few designers coming from all types of design backgrounds from set and costume design to applied art. They fell in love with design and brought their vision to life through Scandinavian Surfaces.

They have many different patterns for all types of surfaces fabrics, wall paper, building facades, interior decoration, accessories, serving trays, and the list goes on and on. This inspired me, now I want to go and put a cool surface on my wall.

I love this pattern!

Be creative every day! ~ Rachel

Succulant Summer!

2009-06-23T10:54:00.000-07:00

Steps on making your modern succulent.....

1. Gather some of your favorite Succulent plants, some of our favorites include:

Echevaria Gibbiflora

Sedum Adolphi

Golden Sedum

Fire Sticks

Kalanchoe Thyrsiflora

2. Select a container, any one of these will work from restoration hardware:

3. Fill the container with cactus potting mix or a miracle grow mix. This soil is a special mix for growing cactus and succulent plants and has excellent drainage.
4. Place the prepared cuttings or plants in the cactus mix up to the first sets of leaves you have. Arrange the plants so that the tallest plants are toward the back and the shorter, trailing varieties are near the front of the container. Do not water for 10 days.
5. Place the Planter in a sunny location, and water when the top 2 inches of soil feel dry when you touch it.... but not before the 10 day mark.
Now you have a succulent summer recipe for a beautiful planter that is easy to make and will last all summer long will very little care time so that when on vacation and soaking up the sun, there wont be any hard feelings.... hope you enjoy!!

Babies need a little design too!

2009-06-18T11:27:00.000-07:00

Recently, I went home to visit my family to catch up, it was weird because everyone in my family are having babies. Cribs, high chairs, and baby accessories seemed to be the never ending talk. I went shopping for a baby gift and browsed through the cribs and "yuck!" I was not impressed. I was on a mission to find a few cribs that were not your average cribs and had design in mind. All you mothers I hope that you get inspired by my finds!

1. Alex Crib by Ducduc 2. Design Public 3. Bassinet by Ooba 4. Sandra by Miguel 5. Ebony Sleigh Cradle by Posh Tots 6.Parker Toddler crib by DuDuc 7. Nest crib by Ooba 8. Regal Cradle by Posh Tots 9. CSN Baby

This was my all time favorite crib, The Dylan Modular Crib System by Spunky Sprouts. This modern crib includes a changing table, Storage, and a bonding bench.

The Dylan can be used until your child is a toddler by reconfiguring the crib. I love that it has a modern, simple, sleek look which will work with many different themes as the baby gets older and of course the bright fun colors it comes in.

Be creative every day! ~ Rachel

Sassy Summer Umbrellas

2009-06-02T15:21:00.000-07:00

Summer is almost here and I'm sure everyone is in the mood for some fun in the sun! Don't get caught pool or beachside with a drab old fashioned umbrella like the pinwheel shown below. Let your largest beach accessory make a statement and not be an eye sore...

Let's move your party outdoors, starting with these ridiculously cute umbrellas by Sunbrella. You can customize yours with a variety of colors available on their website, you can't go wrong.

Remodel on a budget

2009-05-05T09:59:00.000-07:00

Do you find yourself thinking about taking a vacation more recently then ever? Well here's a solution that won't require any flight or hotel accommodations. With just under $750 you can remodel a guest room to look and feel like a vacation suite. As an example, I transformed my guest room into an "Italian villa". The project only took two days and didn't break my budget.

Recreating a space can be as easy as re-finishing or re-painting existing furniture pieces. I wanted to create a space that was a retreat from the rest of the home. A guest room that had the feeling of being on vacation. The color palette I chose is a combination of a soft red, pale yellow and turquoise. I started with an antique bed frame, a side chair, two side tables and a storage trunk, all pieces that I already had. I painted the side chair in the turquoise color and added a seat cushion that I purchased from Pier 1 for only $24.

http://www.pier1.com/Catalog/Furniture/Furniture/tabid/519/CategoryID/159/List/0/catpageindex/2/Level/a/ProductID/2994/Default.aspx?ProductName=Embroidered-Flower/Stripe-Dining-Chair-Cushion

Dunn Edwards: DE5725 Dragon Bay. Gloss finish

I had two different side tables and decided to use the two as nightstands for a unique feel. One is a round marble top table that I found in my grandmothers garage, the other, a square wood top table with iron legs that I revamped with two cans of spray paint. Gold for the legs and white for the table top.

Before the remodel...

Family heirlooms are great pieces for guest rooms because they are conversation pieces and definately help to create a warmth in the room. To create additional seating, I added a chest that my mother gave me, and hung three antiqued mirrors above it. I bought a unique green lamp at an estate sale for only $5 which went perfectly with the room. I stained the existing woven shades in an ebony finish and added white linen drapes.

Paint for all four walls: $50 Dunn Edwards

Back wall: DE5089 Geranium Red

Three walls: DEC734 Jasmine
Stain for shades: $13 Minwax, ebony 2718 from Home Depot

Drapes: $49.00 Ikea http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/80110274
Area rug: $129 Ikea http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/80084920
Round accent pillow: $39.99 Pier 1 Imports http://www.pier1.com/Catalog/RugsPillowsWindows/RugsPillowsWindows/tabid/514/CategoryID/144/List/0/Level/a/ProductID/3661/Default.aspx?ProductName=Round-Boxed-Appliqué-Pillow
Full size Mattress: $400 Costco
Sheets: $44.99 Bed Bath & Beyond

As a finishing touch I added fresh flowers that I picked myself from the neighborhood. This is a great idea and will save you a lot of money!

These were picture frames that my grandma gave me and I had antiqued mirrors put in the frames.

Godiva decadence suite

2009-04-21T11:27:00.001-07:00

I came across some furniture pieces made entirely of chocolate while I was surfing the net which reminded me of Godiva's annual Valentine's Day promo. I know I'm a couple months late, but I've got chocolate on my mind and I thought I'd share the clever pics with you anyways. At last years event, Godiva teamed up with Jonathan Adler and The Bryant Park Hotel for their annual promo, creating the ultimate hotel "sweet" suite ;) as a giveaway for one lucky couple. A chocolate lovers dreams come true! An amazing exhibit of a hotel room suite made entirely out of chocolate or of things painted to look like chocolate.

The Jackson Pollock abstract art piece (above) and Gustav Klimt's "The Kiss" (below) were reinvented using Godiva chocolate.

Here are some other fun chocolate surprises!!

Love love love these shoes!! Two of my favorites wrapped into one: chocolate and high heels!

Chocolate computer keyboard anyone?

This racecar was made entirely out of chocolate. Even the wheels and hubcaps were painted with chocolate powder!!

Pantone color of the year

2009-04-21T10:06:00.000-07:00

What comes to mind when you think of Mimosa? I think of a fabulous sunday brunch and relaxing on a hot summer day with this brightly hued cocktail.

What about color of the year? Pantone has named "Mimosa" PANTONE® 14-0848 Mimosa, a warm, engaging yellow, as the color of the year for 2009. In a time of economic uncertainty and political change, optimism is paramount and no other color expresses hope and reassurance more than yellow. Mimosa also speaks to enlightenment, as it is a hue that sparks imagination and innovation. It is a versatile shade that coordinates with any other color, has appeal for men and women, and translates to both fashion and interiors. So how can you incorporate this highly saturated bright yellow into your home for 09? Take a look at the ideas we've compiled below. You can't go wrong, afterall, it is the "color of the year!"

Want to learn more about Pantone paints? check out their website @ http://www.pantonepaint.com/

Standard Bed and Mattress measurements

2009-04-09T10:02:00.000-07:00

I'm sure that most people think they know the difference between a full, queen and a king size right? Sure, you know that the king is bigger, but do you know how much bigger and how much personal space each accomodates? Here is some information that I hope you will all find useful.Here's the skinny on Twin/Single and Extra-Long Twin Beds.
Twin beds are also known as single beds. They're the most common choice for children's rooms or multi-use guest rooms. These beds are narrow and fit easily into the smallest bedroom. Often twin beds have a "trundle" underneath to accommodate a sleep-over or second guest. Also used for bunk beds and two can be pushed together to make a king size. Usually too short for adults.
*Overall dimensions: 39" wide x 75" long" *Width per person: 39"

Twin Extra Long beds are 5" longer than a standard twin. They're often used in college dorm rooms to accommodate tall teens.
*Overall dimensions: 39" wide x 80" long *Width per person: 39"
Pros: The longer length is good for taller teens and adults. If you need flexibility in a guest room,
Cons: Bedding is difficult to find and not available in every pattern.

Here are the basic differences between a Full bed and a Queen: Full overall dimensions: 54" wide x 75" long *Width per person: 27" Queen overall dimensions: 60" wide x 80" long *Width per person: 30"
Full beds are 15" wider than a Twin, but if two share the bed, each has only 27" of personal space, much less than a twin which has 39"! A Queen bed is 6" wider than a Full bed, allowing more room for each person, but still 9" less than a twin bed.
Pros: A Queen Gives 2 adults more space than a double. The extra length (5") works well for most adults. Cons: Many people find a Full/Double bed too narrow for 2 adults and too short as well.

With two sizes of King beds and four names, it can get confusing when you go shopping for a King Size Bed. A Standard King is also called an Eastern King and a California King is also called a Western King. A Standard King is about 4" wider and a California King is 4" longer.

Two people sleeping in a King size bed will get the same amount of personal sleeping space as in a Twin bed. In fact, if you pushed two Extra-Long Twin beds together they'd be about the same size as an Eastern King.
Standard/Eastern King Overall dimensions: 76" wide x 80" long *Width per person: 38"
Pros: As the widest bed commonly available in stores, the Standard King is the most comfortable for two adults. The 80" length is sufficient for most people. Sheets labeled "King Size" fit a Standard King bed. The wide bed requires at least 3 standard or 2 queen or king pillows.

California/Western King Overall dimensions: 72" wide x 84" long *Width per person: 36"
Pros: A California King or Western King size mattress is wide enough for two to sleep comfortably and is the longest bed commonly available. It is 12" wider than a queen and 4" longer. Its extra length is good for tall people.

Easter Decorating Ideas!

2009-03-31T13:18:00.000-07:00

Great tips for Easter Decorating!

1.. Lighten Up your Room!
Do you have a heavy looking sofa, or drapes that are just too dark for the room? It's time to change them out for lighter and better looking alternative. Take away the drapes and replace them with sheers. Slipcover the sofa or chairs with pastel tones or florals.

2. Views
Your furniture may be positioned to surround the fireplace, but now with spring coming up its time to think about ways to rearrange the look for summer. Change the focal point away from the fireplace to a view of a garden or water or wherever your best view is at your location.

3. Re-Accessorize
Its time to re- organize your accessories! Clean the dust off the shelves and begin to replace objects with lighter tones and fun bright colors. Bring out your floral china and set up a collection of pitchers, and include plants.

4. Flowers!
Easter is the perfect time to arrange beautiful spring flowers around your table. If you are buying the flowers from a boutique make sure you give them an advance order as this is one of the busiest times of the year. Small pots of prim roses, petunias, hyacinths and a short tulip..work the best with spring. Arrange the flowers in woven Easter baskets and fill the empty spaces with floral moss.

5. Sheer everything!
Sheer curtains, sheer tablecloths, sheer bed skirts, and pillows, all of these are the best elements of spring and summer. Plain, embroidered, or printed sheer designs can all be used for interiors, so look for the one that best fits your interior.

Great ideas for table setting!

Jimmie Martin furniture

2009-03-31T11:07:00.000-07:00

We have such an appreciation for designers who bring a bit of modernity and rawness to our world of design. You won't find a typical, cliche or boring furniture piece in Jimmie Martin's furniture collection that's for sure! Each piece is custom, unique, has a personality all its own and we love it! Combine history, art and pure creativity and you've got the perfect recipe for a furniture collection that is exciting, sexy, quirky, and urban while somehow managing to remain glamourous and sophisticated. Modern statement pieces at its best...here are a few...

We love that the feathers on this classic french Louis XVI chair give it a high fashion feel. And although the taxidermy bird is sort of grotesque and gothic, it kinda works and is actually quite funny!

Tagging isn't always unsightly! This Queen Anne chair received a modern facelift with a sharpie and silver leaf details.

It's not enough that the materials for this chair are a rare combo of metallic neon green paint and zebra hide...so Jimmie took it one step further and added the zebra tail. Hmmmm not quite sure what to think about this tail, but I think I'm leaning towards love it.

A simple black armoire with a gold painted candleabra. Classy yet fun.

Wanna really tell them all just how you feel? Get it out with a sharpie and some spray paint! And don't hold your words back...furniture is the new therapist don't you know.

At your command Lamps

2009-03-19T14:08:00.000-07:00

How great are these lamps! Cool, fun and creative we think that everybody should own one of these. And the best part is...you can manipulate the bodies in whatever position you'd like as they are all jointed. This could get really fun!
Find them at http://www.freshome.com/

Be creative every day ~ Plural

Gotta love Ankasa

2009-03-19T12:41:00.000-07:00

For all of you stylish fashionistas out there enamoured with interiors and fashion, have we got a treat for you! Love the look of embellished pillows? then you will not be disappointed by Ankasa's fashion forward collection. Having only been established four years ago, by a husband and wife team of fabric designers, the line has become a huge success. Inspired by the world of fashion, Ankasa aims to blend fashion and interiors into a unique and luxurious home decor collection.

The designs are absolutely beautiful and are like jewelery for your upholstered furniture! Who would have thunk it right?! This line of pillows is glamorous unlike any other, with hand embroidered designs, jeweled embellishments, fur, patent leather and color pallettes mimicking those coming down the runway each season, these gorgeous pillows are definately at the top of our wish list!

Be creative every day! ~ Plural

Fun dinnerware

2009-03-03T13:12:00.000-08:00

A penthouse suite for the price of a dinner plate? Well, not exactly, but these fun plates featuring floor plans are sure to spark conversation at your dinner table. Choose from a studio, penthouse or a luxury penthouse! What a great idea, Love it!

You can find them at http://www.fisheddy.com/

White Kitchens

2009-02-24T14:28:00.000-08:00

What is more timeless than the classic white kitchen? Elegantly chic, modern and oh so beautiful! White kitchens have a clean and inviting nature about them that is undeniable and the space always feels fresh and new.

Here are a few of the many great qualities of using white in your kitchen: It is a utilitarian shade that allows you to easily coordinate your other elements such as counter tops, back splash, wall color and accessories. It reflects light, making your entire space feel much brighter. So if you have a space that is not well lit and electrical work is not an option, then white is your go-to color. It makes any color that's paired with it look like a million bucks. Most importantly, the end results look amazing and you will absolutely fall in love with your kitchen.

Here are some of our favorites:

Splash of Color

2009-02-24T13:18:00.000-08:00

One of the easiest and most pocket-friendly ways to add a quick change to your home is with the use of paint. Adding color to your existing white walls will transform your space without breaking your piggy bank. Always test out several shades of your fave color on the wall before committing. Lighting plays a big role in the way the paint will look in your space so be sure to view your samples in both natural and artificial light, and at different times of the day.

Tile: Tile is a more permanent way of adding color, but it adds another dimension to your otherwise flat walls. Try adding a wall of tile in a smaller space, like a powder bathroom to get more bang for your buck. Glass decorative tiles are on the hot list right now and come in a variety of patterns, sizes and colors. Think outside of the box, mix and match and have fun!

Be creative every day~ Plural

Spoof up your Bachelorette party!

2009-02-24T12:05:00.000-08:00

Recently, I was asked to be in a bridal show to give bridesmaids fun ways to throw a little design in the mix of a bachelorette party. So ladies hopefully these ideas will get your creative juices flowing for your next bachelorette party you plan.

I came across these mannequins and thought these would be perfect for the party. Take two mannequins; spray paint, and some type of flat surface to create a cute table that can display featured drinks of the night or h'orsdeurves. Dress the mannequins to your desire and you have created a fun element to the party.

When it comes to dinner here are some cute ideas to set your table up with. Use handcuffs for napkin rings with whips and for centerpieces I used chains and feathers to keep those fun bachelorette ideas. Remember when planning parties there are fun creative things you can do to make it unforgettable, just don’t forget to think out of the box!

Be creative every day ~ Plural