Lonny To The Rescue!

For those of you who are still in mourning over the loss of Domino... your prayers have been answered. Enjoy!

Chanda-where?

I love it when chandeliers are put in unconventional places, like hanging from a tree branch at an outdoor party or in a bathroom. It makes them that much more interesting to look at because they don't really belong, but they look good.

A giant chandelier in the middle of a small kitchen? Why not? I love the way the white pops against a black wall.

Not a chandelier, true, but the idea is fantastic.

What a cool place to stick a chandelier, and much more interesting that two lamps.

Bathing is way more fun with pretty lighting.

This one is my favorite. A green backyard, cool weather, and a shimmery chandelier. Perfection.

All photos are from Domino.

Art Education: Working with Patterns

Part of what I love about wallpaper is that it can negate the need for art. It can be visually dynamic enough to run the whole show. That said, some well=placed clusters of art on a busy, patterned wall can look fantastic.

It's important to start with a strong base. In the photo above, the black-framed pieces provide a base on which the other pieces can build.

The pattern of the wallpaper is also important. All of these are relatively small prints. Small frames would get lost in a larger print.

I think the most important factor is unity. There has to be some unifying characteristic in the art. This is perfect, because the frames are all the same and the color red unites the entire room.

I also like how the placement of the art seems intentional, but also somewhat random. They aren't placed in a perfect square or rectangle. Some stick out at the bottom and some are placed farther apart that others. In this photo, it even seems to incorporate the sconce and the intercom.

The first photo is via Vogue, and the rest are via Domino.

Cha-Cha-Chartreuse

I suppose I'm slightly biased. I even like to say the word chartreuse. It rolls off the tongue so nicely. Chartreuse.

It's a good thing the color itself can back up all the hype I'm giving it. It's punchy yellow with an undertone of green. Sounds like a winning combination to me. Perhaps you should try some on this summer...

I like the unexpected pop of chartreuse behind the striped pillows. Loverly! Photo via Domino (r.i.p.).

I kind of want to buy this clock. I'm trying to resist the urge! Innermost Eclipse Clock, $184 @ High Fashion Home.

The company is my new obsession. There will be further posts on Casamidy, but for now, you can enjoy the Almidi Arch Table. It can be painted in any Benjamin Moore color!



I fell in love with this Rory Beca top that I found in Lucky. So swingy and airy for a summer night out.

Beachside sexy. via ShopBop.

I really wish I had a pair of chartreuse heels. It would perk up my outfits oh-so-much! Photo via Coco+Kelley.

Got Storage?

If you're anything like me, you have a lot of, for lack of a better term, crap hanging around. This is probably the chief complaint my husband has with our small, one-bedroom apartment. I have too much stuff and not enough places to hide it all. That's why I find myself dreaming of these cabinets that I pulled from an issue of Domino...

Literally, a place for everything! Store the kids' stuff on the lower shelves. Leave some door-less to display your good-lookin' books and knick-knacks. Then, when the threat of visitors looms, hide it all behind closed doors. I think my favorite thing about this is that the family made this themselves! Now, that's impressive. I'll be sure to add this to the honey-do list...

Open Sesame!

I was totally inspired by this page from Traditional Home! My main complaint about my small apartment is that it literally has no entryway of which to speak. Insanity, I tell you! Someday, I'll get my hands on a spacious entryway and jazz it up my way. My first step will be to wallpaper it in a vivacious, colorful print!

This one feels very gardenish to me, but not quite in the literal sense. The walls are floral, yes, but the legs on the table add an organic, surreal quality. From House Beautiful.

I just noticed that the wallpaper picks up the teal tile below. What a prime example of exploding pattern into a small space. From Domino: The Book of Decorating.

How hard is it to pull off neon wallpaper in a home? I don't really know. But this works. All subsequent photos from Domino.

Compared to some of these entryways, this one almost seems tame, but there's just enough pattern to not make it just another house.

I love the very thrown together quality of this. The geometric paper is very precise and linear, while to stacks of magazines muss it up just enough.

I would use elements of this in my own decorating, like the shabby chair. It's a very rustic, eclectic look.

I love that she used the pattern on three walls instead of the usual two. I really grabs your attention!

And then you see this and it commands your attention! Although this feels a bit clubby to me, it is a very cool look and the other elements in the room are subdued enough to keep it from going off the deep end.

This one is so sweet and serene. The pattern isn't overwhelming, keeping the spaces light and airy, but saving it from being blah.

Cool Nurseries! (Is That An Oxymoron?)

First of all, let me preface this blog by saying that I am neither pregnant, nor intend to be in the near future. I say this for the sake of my mom and sisters who faithfully read this blog.

While perusing through pictures pulled from the Domino website before they took it down (still upset about that, by the way. Sniff!), I noticed a lot of really cool nurseries. As in, I would decorate my adult bedroom the way they decorated their kids' room. Each photo had its own little inspiration...

The very pale aqua offsets the awesome wallpapered ceiling wonderfully. What a novel idea! Wallpaper on the ceiling!

These ebony-stained wood walls are breathtaking! And not a pastel in sight!

If I was to do pink, this is how I want to do it- fiery, in your face, unapologetic! That Amanda Peet sure does have style...

I like this one solely for its space saving ideas. The fuzzy throw rug is fun, too!

Obviously, I'm on a linen kick lately (see my last blog!) Wrinkly linen drapes are pretty for baby.

I love the idea of using a blown up picture of the kids as their own work of art. The fairy light chandelier is a playful light fixture.

File This Under...

"Things You Played With As A Kid That Have Come Back As Good Design"

Item One: Beanbags. Once part of a childhood game in which the participant attempts to throw said beanbag through a small hole, thus winning a prize (P.O.S.). Now, made of sumptuous leathers by one Sophie Nova, the beanbag is used for the purpose of propping up books and adding a dose of color and style to your bookshelves. Said item has been featured in Domino and House Beautiful. It just goes to show you, good design always finds a way.

Confessions of Shopaholics

Isn't Spring the cliche time to get something new and great? I suppose it goes back to getting a fancy new Easter dress as a kid, but I always get shopping pangs around this time of year. The weather is warming up, it's nice to go outside to get to the shops, and the shock of holiday spending has faded from memory. With that in mind, I asked some of my very stylish friends one simple question:

If you could splurge on one thing this month, what would you get?

I didn't place any limits on them. Anything, any price, anywhere. Here's what they said...

My friend Stephanie is finishing up her last year in college, so her desire to splurge on a beach vacation makes perfect sense. Finally, a chance to relax without a textbook in sight!

Marian is the lady with the shoes (or Choos, really). So I was actually surprised when she said she wanted a brightly colored handbag for Spring! Of course, when you're talking about Valentino, I would forget about shoes, too.

My very stylish interior designer friend, Kelley, just bought a home in the Heights. Needless to say, she's in a decorating frenzy, but the one thing she wants more than anything is artwork a la this print from 20x200.

Perhaps the most extravegant request came from my boss, Jeff. His major splurge? A drum set. Well, Jeff, I hope your neighbors are heavy sleepers.

If you want shopping advice, you go to Cynthia. She has impeccable style (and she's an amazing artist. I have a mini-gallery of her work in my apartment). She was very specific about what she wanted: A pair of tough heels to rock out all of her flirty skirts.

I suppose a lot of my friends love shoes. I lived in New York with a shoe-aholic named Allyson. Everytime she came home with a new pair of shoes, I would literally drool. I wasn't surprised to hear she wanted a new pair of Manolo Blahniks for Spring.

My friend Amber is also on a decorating binge, but she's looking for a very specific coffee table. She wanted something "solid and thick with a natural look, nicks and all". I'd say the Beam Coffee Table fits the bill.

My coworker friend, Jennifer, is dying to redo her kitchen. She picked this one from Domino as her inspiration because she liked the combination of open shelving and closed cabinets.

I couldn't forget to put in my two cents. I'm lusting after the Dulce Sequin Skirt from J. Crew. Paired with a slouchy t-shirt and some leather flip-flops, it's the perfect summer night out outfit!

Sweep Me Off To Paris!

via Elle Decor

Something about a summer in Paris is really appealing to me right now. Maybe it's the dreary, rainy weather we're having in Houston. Maybe it's the small and architecture-free apartment I've been in for close to two years. Maybe it's the constant reminder of our declining economy from TV to radio and magazines that's finally getting me down. Either way, I need a vacation, and a trip to Paris would be just lover-ly.

via Domino

Of course, that involves quite a bit of funding that I just don't have at the moment. I'll have to make do with these Parisian (and faux- Parisian) interiors which are tickling my French fancy.

via Domino

Apparently, the ingredients for a Parisian interior are as follows: 3 parts chevron patterned wooden floor, 1 part ornate fireplace with large mirror overhead, 2 parts French doors with balcony and iron railing, 1 part simple floor-to-ceiling drapes. Voila!

via Domino

Until I can cross the pond and get over there, I'll be dreaming of French architecture, French fashion, and (my favorite) French crepes! Au revoir!

Still Loving Suzani!

Elle Decor had a little suzani on it's cover. Love the sofa!

I'd love to add some suzani to my living room. Beautiful, colorful fabrics add a touch of bohemian to even the most classic room. The patterns are so gorgeous that just a little bit will go a long way. Suzani has been in for a couple of years now, but it doesn't show any signs of leaving, so grab a little bit where you can!

Portobello fabric from Rubie Green.

Rebecca Chair in Zankari Rhubarb by Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams at High Fashion Home.

Photo via Rooms We Love on Flickr.

Carolina Herrera, Jr. obviously has a thing for Suzani. She used it on a table in one home for Domino and as drapes for another home in Vogue Living.

Suzani Sunburst Pillow from Anthropologie.

Sleep Tight

I'd never given it much thought before, but I love the look of upholstered headboards. They give the bedroom a certain softness that a big piece of wood can't. I've been surfing the Domino website a lot lately, pulling inspiration photos before they shut down, and I found a lot of headboard eye candy...

Grey moire and navy floral- calm and collected. Check out the ceiling, too!

Is calm isn't your thing, there is always fiery hot pink!

I love the sweet, classic shape of these headboards, and I love the throw pillows they put with them!

Sometimes, more is more.

I think neutrals are beautiful. You don't have to feel bad for not using a lot of color!

Headboards are a great place to use a big pattern because you know it will be seen.

A lot of amazing pattern going on in this bed.

I saved my favorite for last. It's a headboard fit for a queen... quite regal, no?

DIY Entry Table

Apparently, I'm in quite the Do-It-Yourself mood, because I've found another project for myself. Every time I've looked for a piece for my entryway, I've been looking for a chest or console table, and good looking ones are not cheap. I like this inexpensive alternative. Maybe it's obvious to everyone but me, but I never thought of getting a cheap table from, say, Ikea, and covering it with a pretty linen or cotton. I like the look. It's soft and organic. Thanks, Domino! What will I do without you?!

Doin' It Yourself

I came across this picture on the Domino website (not sure how much longer it'll be up, be here's the link regardless). I'm not wild about the fabric choices, but I spied the top of the drapes and thought, "How cool! It's a four poster bed without the four posters!" Not only would this look lengthen your room, you can hide away within the fabric on cold nights, and you will never have to worry about banging your foot or elbow or any other body parts on the posts. Add this one to my dream home checklist...

A Little Escape

Growing up, I was always a little jealous of my older sister because she had a window seat. I love window seats. They're so cozy and warm and away from everything else. My dream house will definintely have a window seat or two. I put together this little collection of ones that inspire me, so that you can, hopefully, get inspired as well!

An absence of shades lets the light pour in. This photo and the next three via Domino.

An intimate little nook in which to have a cup of tea on a rainy day.

Even though it's out of the way, the shelves are still accessorized daintily.

Bright white allows for statement pillows.

Technically not a window seat, but a clever use of space nonetheless. This photo and the next via PointClickHome.

Keep plenty of reading material close at hand.

A rustic and homey place to rest. This photo and the next via House Beautiful.

This one might just be my favorite. A tiny little nook for bites to eat and good conversation.

Brilliant Book of the Week: uh-oh Domino!

Yay for the new Domino: Book of Decorating!! I bought it for Sarah's birthday and now I want one for moi. Oh well. I can't rave about this book enough.

Check it out!

"Domino: The Book of Decorating," by Deborah Needleman, Sara Ruffin Costello, and Dara Caponigro.

First of all, it's hard enough finding decorating books that present their ideas in an organized way. The editors of Domino magazine have done a fabulous job laying this book out by rooms and how to go about decorating spaces no matter how big or small.

I especially love the first chapter because it helps light a fire under your toush. As a design student, our professors always tell us we can't dive right into a project--we have to plan and organize how we are going to execute the big picture. Finding inspiration, deciding your style, determining how the room is used, what items you'll need to keep, drawing a floor plan, planning on a budget, doing research, and last, but not least, starting the room you want to decorate. There's much more to decorating than picking out paint swatches and light fixtures, as you can see.

So, if you'd like to add a book to your library that gives great tips and looks good on your coffee table, then I'd hit the bookstore and get it hot off the press!!

Happy Reading!

Shake it like a Polaroid picture!

Thanks to my bestie, Anna, I have found the coolest image maker EVER! Better than PicNik, Photoshop, or iPhoto! It's called Poladroid. The other night amidst chips, guacamole, Mr. Goodbars, and the surround sound playing Mamma Mia, I waited for my picture to develop.

The cool thing about this program (other than the fact that it's totally free to download) is you can drag and drop your digital pictures into the Polaroid camera icon and wait for your picture to appear as an imitation of a Polaroid picture. Some come with fake fingerprints, others with scratch marks...each with it's own quirky characteristic similar to the old Polaroid. It's a shame they don't make these handy little cameras anymore because I'd totally abandon digital cameras!

Take a look at a few of our experiments....

Anna and me in Austin.

Flowers from Domino Magazine

Sarah and John--the lovely newlyweds!

Yes, We Can!

Mr. Smith Goes to Washington

In case you haven't heard, we do have a new president coming into office this month. Barack Obama ran his campaign on the message of 'Change'. His first big 'Change' initiative will be to redecorate the White House. He's enlisted the help of superstar, interior decorator Michael Smith. Smith's interiors mix furniture and art from a wide range of styles and periods in a way that is harmonious and modern.

His list of celebrity clients include Steven Spielberg, Dustin Hoffman, Brian Grazer, and Cindy Crawford. For more on this breaking, home decor news, head over to Domino. Check out some of his work below:

Bohemian Decor...Hollywood Style!

Meet Sunrise Ruffalo. She is wife to hugely underrated actor, Mark Ruffalo. Check out their beautiful home from the latest Domino. She sought to create a comfortable, bohemian home that balances sleek, cool furniture with flea market finds.

Balancing the striped chair, rug, and daybed with a circular coffee.

I really like the circular framed chairs. Great organizing shelf for all the toys.

Very clean mirror and a simple desk. It's a great way to start the day with an uncluttered space.

Some times people try too hard to spice up their bedding. White bedding is classic, timeless, and soothing.

The two facing sofas makes for a great conversational area. Nothing screams laid back like a bean bag.

The entry way features two built-in shelves where they can frequently changed out the artwork.

Zooey Deschanel

There's no one more cute and quirky than Zooey Deschanel, so you would expect the place she dwells to follow suit. Bingo! Using a spare room, she created a vibrant home studio for all things creative with style oozing from every corner. A mix of patterns and textures emphasize the royal in the blue, but simple lines keep the room liveable and comfortable. Be sure to read the full article in this month's Domino!

The soft pinks in the pillows and flowers are a perfect complement to the healthy use of blue.
An antiqued gold frame pops against the blue velvet upholstered wall. Sometimes, everyday objects make the best art, like a vintage guitar case.
There's nothing quiet in this room! Everything is bold, bold, bold!
Take an idea for yourself: Take the doors off of a closet and treat it like the rest of the room- chandelier and all!

It's a sweet room, and she knows it!

Inviting Interior Design Tips

Designer Mary McDonald's Hollywood guesthouse showcased in this month's Domino has a ton of striking imagery and trendsetting ideas for 2009.

The luxuriously draped walls add a warmth and femininity to the room. It works well with the daybed and antiqued stools.

I'm no Pantone forecaster, but I get the feeling this blue is in for 2009.

A settee in the bathroom...a brilliant idea. She used stencils to paint the pattern on the floor.

The rich blue and white combination makes for a timeless design. Notice the geometric patterns that she incorporates in several rooms.

I love the two tone drapes. The styling is very simple, yet real impactful. The Louis Chairs with the patent leather is a nice touch.

That blue is everywhere. Grey walls were hot last year, and it still be in for the foreseeable future.

No, that is not wall paper. It's actually Benjamin Moore paint. The all white, chic furniture manages to balance the striped walls.

Mary slips the blue in once again with the coverlet. The headboard is just out there in a good way.

Classy Gift Ideas That Won't Break The Bank

Our team got a peek at Domino Magazine's gift ideas for the holidays. During this economic crunch, its nice to find a break where ever we can when spending heaps of money on our loved ones. In the December/ January issue, Domino has given us a plethora of ideas for under $25!!

Here are my top five favorites:

This Tsubota Pearl Japanese Chrome Lighter for $21 is a great gift for the candle lover in your life. As if there weren't enough things taking up space in the junk drawer, a clunky chunky lighter is not one of the things you need when it can be sleek, skinny and smaller than a pen. (This would also take up less space in a purse or pocket.)

I'm in love!! These cute and quirky French reprodutions of student notebooks are really sweet. They are only 6 ⅜" x 8 ⅝" and $3.95 a piece! Anyone who has an eye for international style would love to take notes in these. These aren't just functionally appealling, but think of your home decor! My apartment is covered in French Art Deco paintings, I'm considering framing some just for myself!

Along those vintage lines are these really cool Neo-Victorian soaps. They are "infused with carob, myrtle and marine mineral salts and smells a bit like the ocean." Sounds pretty fantastic to me. Black goes with any color interior, and they are only $7 a bar, so its win win!

The hand written note is a lost art. So is the usage of fun stamps. I think we should try to bring it all back. And this $9 1920's style stamp is just adorable. It reminds me of the old black and white Laurel and Hardy movies. I think this would be a great gift for anyone who thinks plain white envelopes are boring!
And lastly, these very classy heirloom-style reusable polycarbonate flatware. Hot!! Nothing like high-gloss black to make your holiday dining elegant and chic. For only $15.50 for four place settings, this gift will delight the hostess in your life.

Well, I hope these gifts will charm and impress all the classy people on your list. For more inspiration that won't break the bank, check out the rest of Domino's amazing gift idea's for under $25.

Happy Holiday's until next time!

//R

Fashion vs. Furniture: Project Runway Style

Bravo posted the final collections of the final SIX contestants weeks ago (is this a new thing?) so it was then that I began scheming to make a Fashion vs. Furniture out of it. I picked a favorite look from each designer's collection and paired it with a room that fits the style. The results are all over the map (and some just plain went off of the map).

Jerell's Design:

This dress, by Jerell, is a whole lotta busy- but it really works. The patterns and textures complement each other rather than fighting. A girl who wears this must have an apartment that is just as eclectic as her wardrobe. A vibrant mix of colors, patterns, and accessories make this place wild, but visually enchanting! Photo by Annie Schlechter.

Suede's Design

Suede designed a look that is clean cut and preppy. A girl in that dress would want an elegant and clean home that plays with proportions. Stripes are the ultimate in prepster chic and the room above makes good use of them. Photo by Max Kim-Bee.

Joe's Design:

Going for a rustic look doesn't necessarily condemn you to Wranglers and plaid shirts. Joe's design is rustic and girly at the same time- a breezy summertime frock. For home, take an otherwise sweet and feminine room and add cowboy touches like cowhide pillows. The rest of the room is urban lofty. It's the definition of eclectic. Photo by John Granen.

Korto's Design:

Young women always look lovely in color. Korto was very liberal in her bright color use for her collection. The apartment above looks like a young woman's dream home. Vibrant and playful- there isn't a single color of the rainbow you won't find in here- it's super feminine and perfect for a bubbly girl. Photo by Melanie Acevedo.

Kenley's Design:

Kenley is undisputedly the queen of retro on Project Runway and her final collection was no different. While she usually went for eyecatching floral prints for her frocks, I was more drawn to this sleek, black number. It's old school glamour, very ladylike, and stunningly sophisticated, like this room is also. Classic animal print along with sexy sixties inspired chair bring that retro feel. Dark wood brings to mind a dim martini bar. Photo by Brandon Barre.

Leanne's Design:

Leanne's impeccable designs are all about structure and morphing a two-dimensional material in a fabric scultupe that wraps are a body. For her final collection, she employed cool, airy colors to allow the designs to take the lead. This room is equally ladylike and mixes shapes and lines- curvy baroque chairs mesh with straight edges. Each piece is different, but they are all unified by their cohesive color scheme. Photo by Francois Dischinger.

Oops! She's done it again.

Kelly Wearstler, the ultimate trendsetter, has managed to land on the cover of this month's Domino (big shocker!). I just can't get enough of Kelly, so here are some nice pics from this interior design diva:

The vintage brass lamp screams sophistication.

That wall panel is ridiculously awesome. The blue leather chair provides some serious pop!

Most people play it safe. Ms. Wearstler is not afraid to incorporate modern prints.

Kelly's twist on black and white design that comes off warm, not cold.

Before and after proof positive that she can turn any bland room into something glamorous.

Boys & Girls

A girly girl's paradise. Photo by Wesley Rose.

It's never easy to compromise- especially on something as important as decorating your home. Whether you are working with a roommate, a spouse, or a sibling, you have to find a middle ground.

I'll be taking on my own decorating project at home when I get married in one month. My husband, and all of his "man stuff" will be invading my feminine space. Gone will be the days of leaving my stuff on the coffee table and cleaning it up when I feel like it. No more shoes strewn across every room of the apartment. It's time to make room for another.

Classic man-zone. Photo by Brandon Barre.

I'm more of a visual learner (as I know many of y'all are), so I went in search of some inspiration for my gender-neutral decor. My fiance gave them the thumbs up, so what about you? Did I hit the nail on the head or am I too biased by my own style to find a true combination of masculine and feminine? Take a look...

The intricate shape of the chaise and chair adds femininity to the room while the neutral and textural elements ground the room and keep it masculine. There isn't a lot of embellishment to the vignette, instead letting the view outside take the lead. Photo by Gray Crawford.

I could envision a young couple entertaining here. Nothing about it screams "Guy!" or "Girl!", but the room as a whole is very stylish and simple. Little accessories placed around the room (like a bud vase of flowers) add that woman's touch. Photo by Melanie Acevedo.

Every piece in here is an example of balance. The color scheme of the room is perfectly neutral. The accessorizing is brilliantly executed and mixed well. My favorite part is the anchor of the room: the daybed-ish sofa. Feminine in shape, masculine in color and texture. Photo by Douglas Friedman.

The (Black and) White Stripes

I love watching trends just explode. Case in point: Black and white stripes are everywhere. Open any decorating or fashion magazine and you're bound the see prison stripes covering the pages. Yes, it can easily get busy and dizzy, but sometimes the result is hypnotizing...

A striped hallway via Domino.

Striped marble floors at the Mark Hotel.

Neutral stripes ground a bold red headboard via Domino.

Nate Berkus's stripes made the cover at Elle Decor.

Maximum impact stripes via Domino.

Okay, so Domino really likes their black and white stripes.

Domino: Decorating on a Budget

Check out Domino's Budget Decorating: $1 Design Finds! That's right, amazing looking pieces for under $1.

"Snartig" vase $0.79 each, ikea.com

"Lion's Head" small bowl $.85 each, crateandbarrel.com for locations.

"National Airline" forks and knives, $.99 each, fishseddy.com

Various decorative papers, $.75-$.80 a sheet, mannysart.com for information

Teacup, set of two for $1, goodwill.com for locations

Copper scrubbing pads, package of two for a $1, familydollar.com for locations

Everything But The Kitchen Table...

A preppy kitchen booth with extra storage below is always handy.

Lately, I've been hunting for the perfect kitchen table and chairs. Something small enough for my little apartment's dining room, but still enough to fill the breakfast nook of a house in the future. I really want a clean and modern round table to surround with industrial metal or mix-and-match antique dining chairs. Luckily, I have lots of pictures to serve as inspiration in my search!

A relaxed and airy breakfast nook at Amanda Peet's home.

A simple and rustic booth in a breakfast nook.

Tres minimal... Straight pieces of wood and chairs with just a little curve.



A nook with a view at the home of Billy & Katie Joel.



Granted, this takes a little more effort to build a bar out from the counter, but the combination of marble and colorful barstools is fantastic.

The HF List: Five Trends That Make Me Cringe (and five that I'll always love)

All things fashion come and go. Remember Madonna's major cone bra? And those platform boots with the goldfish in them? So, maybe we'd prefer not to remember some things. Interior design is just like fashion design. There are trends that come in and out of style. Just like you might cringe when you see someone in a hideous outfit, you may also cringe when you step into a home that you think is tacky. I've watched a lot of people decorate homes, and through that I've seen a whole lot of good and a whole lot more bad. Here are some of the highlights:

Bad Trend #1: Chocolate and Aqua

Just. Plain. Tired.

Stick a fork in it, this color scheme is done. Over. Finished. About five years ago, this color scheme became really big, and for some reason, no one ever adopted another idea! The chocolate just shrinks a room to almost nothing, and the bland, muted blue that accompanies it does nothing to remedy that. Please, resist the urge to do the Brown & Blue and pick somthing lighter like...

Good Trend #1: All White

Good morning. From Garnet Hill.

This is a look that will absolutely never go out of style. There is something about an all white room from the walls to the sheets to the drapes that always looks crisp and clean. But an all white color scheme doesn't mean your room will lack personality. It just makes it easier to incorporate different textures like silk with cotton eyelet with linen and so on. Consistently chic.

Bad Trend #2: Bedroom or Dining "Suites"

So busy and yet so boring.

Just because a furniture company makes matching furniture does not mean you are required to buy it all and stick it in your room. Where's the personality in that? It may be more difficult to mix and match pieces yourself, but the result is so much more interesting. Leading me to...

Good Trend #2: Mix and Match Dining Chairs

Now it doesn't matter if they don't have 6 matching chairs! Picture from Domino.

I've seen a lot of this trend in magazines lately and it has totally inspired me! Rather than buying 6 or 8 of the same dining chair, scout out flea markets and antique shops for single chairs. You can get some that are all wood, some that have upholstered seats, some with wicker backs, whatever you want. Paint them all the same color and upholster the seats in the same fabric. Voila! Unique chairs that are unified.

Bad Trend #3: Elaborate Drapery Treatments and Bedding Sets

Hey honey! You in there?!

Too far. Just too far.

Here is my problem with the window treatments that have the panels + a swag + cascades, etc. The window disappears beneath the whole mess. Windows are there for a reason! To see out of! Now, here is my problem with matchy bedding sets. Don't you get tired of making a bed every morning with sheets + comforter + blanket + shams + pillows + throw pillows, etc.? I'm tired just thinking about it! It's time to simplify...

Good Trend #3: Simple Panels and Bedding Sets

So easy you could make them yourself. Or Pottery Barn could do it.

Now, isn't this a tad more inviting? From Dwell Studio.

At the very least, your husband will thank you for simplifying his sleeping process. Ditch the fringe trimmed pillows and dry clean only silk duvet. Go for some high thread count sheets and a cotton comforter. Throw on a couple pillows and you're all set. That is all you need! As for the drapes, why not put up a couple linen panels. Linen looks lovely in a drape, it's easier to clean than silk, and it doesn't rot in the sunlight like silk does. Your bedroom with go from frou-frou to casual chic in a flash.

Bad Trend #4: Silk Bedding for Baby

That's just wrong.

There are so many things wrong with this and I see it all the time. First of all, babies don't remember anything before age 4, so they won't appreciate the fine fabric. Second, silk bedding needs to be dry-cleaned. Babies get things dirty. Indiscriminately. A babies room can be adorable and functional at the same time...

Good Trend #4: Modern Baby Bedding

Your little princess would be more comfy in this. From Dwell Studio for Target.

You can move beyond the ducks and bunnies without upsetting the baby. I assure you of this. Dwell Studio for Target has proved it! They offer cute, modern printed cotton bedding for affordable prices. Truly a win-win situation. Except for the dry cleaner.

Bad Trend #5: Ready-made Slipcovers

Just as unflattering as wearing a burlap sack would be.

When you are in college and you need a solution for the ugly sofa that comes with your apartment, ready-made slipcovers are an acceptable option. When you are out of college, they are not. Slipcovers that aren't made for your sofa specifically are just sloppy. Not to mention the fact that they shift around everytime you sit on them. It's about time for an upgrade...

Good Trend #5: Upholstered Sofas That Can Be Slipcovered

Slipcovered and stylish. From Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams.

This is the best of both worlds. The slipcover can be thrown in the wash and protect against pet paws and kids' spills. The slipcover can then come off to show off a completely different sofa- free of stains. Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams will soon offer that option with their Tyler collection. The options are endless!

Undercover Decorator: Julianne Moore

Julianne Moore is a pretty good actor! Her body of work is quite diverse and highly acclaimed with four Oscar nominations to prove it. But her most unexpected role might just be "Interior Decorator". She's been featured in this month's Domino magazine. It highlights her working with a very modest $15,000 budget (at least for celebrity).

Before and After: Adding punches of color transforms the room from boring to chic.

Amazing what blue flooring can do for a space. Adding books always helps.

For some reason, everything becomes a little more glamorous with fur.

The Rochelle Sofa is a great mid-century modern furniture piece!

Before and After: Went from an Ikea Sofa to the Rochelle Sofa from Crate and Barrel.

When your acting career consists of over 50 movie roles, you'd be smiling too!

Domino's Top 10 Interior Decorators: Katie Stassi

Katie Stassi: Domino's Top 10 Designers in 2008

Katie Stassi was featured in the April issue of Domino as one of the top interior designers to keep your eye on. She also happens to reside in our very own Houston, Texas. Stassi only started her business 3 years ago by just helping some of her friends decorate their homes. Her business took off soon thereafter. She largely credits a higher source for her immense talents. "It was a gift from God," she says. "Some people can sing, some people can dance—I can decorate." Stassi's style is elegant and traditional combined with a minimalist twist.

The Domino Chair!

Domino decided to showcase on their website this retro, high design chair from Global Views! We only have one small problem. The chair is so new, we don't even have it on our floors yet. Rest assured, the chair is on order. But feel free to admire the above photo until it comes in.

A Place For Your Brilliant Books (of the Week)

Maybe in my dreams... there's major drama in these bookshelves set back behind archways. From Elle Decor.

A place for everything, and everything in its place. There's really no excuse for having books strewn about your home when they (who "they" is, I don't know, but I thank "them") long ago created a piece of furniture with the sole purpose of holding... your books! Bookshelves can be small or large, simple or ornate, minimal or jam-packed. You can have just books, add knick knacks, show off art, or display your drool-worthy Jimmy Choo collection. Make them as stylish as they are practical. They don't even have to be expensive. Try Ikea shelves with invisible brackets topped with a few coffee table books and cool souveniers from your far-flung travels for a minimal, modern look. Spring is upon us (at least in the South it is) and it's time to get to cleaning! Start with something easy and get your books in one place. These pictures will help you along your way.

This would work well in an entry way. Books add some interest to an otherwise simply industrial piece. From Domino.

Place some art in the back of the shelf as well as the front. From Domino.

Minimalism at its best and an easy DIY project. From Elle Decor.

Arranging books by color will instantly draw eyes. From Vogue Living.

Use every inch of precious space by wrapping shelves around your fireplace. From Elle.

Frame favorite pictures and postcards and lean them against books in front. A simple way to punch up plain shelves. From Elle Decor.

Bigger art works over several shelves, too. From Domino.

No place for shelves? Make your coffee table pull double duty. Artfully arrange books and knick knacks on a double shelf table. From Domino.

Maximum Impact

The study in the home of Carolina Herrera Jr. Vogue Living

There are always two sides to the coin. Some scream "Less is more!" Others cry "If you've got it, flaunt it!" These rooms have me agreeing with the latter. There's no need for your living room to be shy, even if you are. Pick an outgoing fabric and run with it. Wallpaper, drapes, furniture- even your outfit! Avoid animal prints which can up the tacky factor, and focus on something abstract. Also, limit the number of colors in your pattern. One color with a neutral base prevents your room from taking on that Barnum & Bailey quality. It's just no fun if you don't go a little bit overboard! Invite your friends over and watch their jaws drop!

The living room in the home of Serena Rees,

designer for Agent Provocateur. Domino Feb '08

Left: Robert Cary Williams transformed Anna Dove's "Rose Garden at Night" wallpaper into a dress for London Fashion Week. Right: Anna Dove's "Rose Garden at Night" wallpaper.

Outdoors In

Even if you don't have a radiator, try chunky wooden shelves for a taste of the natural. Picture from dominomag.com.

For those of us in Houston, Spring is quickly approaching (yay!). For me, that means getting in touch with my nature-loving side. Picnics in parks! Planting a garden! Laying by the pool! But, alas, after a week of beautiful weather, here comes the heatwave. Rather than cursing the inevitable humid weather, bring the best parts of the outdoors to you. Natural-ize your living room. Make your bedroom botanical. Have a picnic in your living room (no ants!). Try these outdoor treasures, indoors only.

Zebra and seagrass are an earthy combination. Picture from dominomag.com.

White resin lends sophistication to a tree stump. End table from West Elm.

A unique branchy sideboard blends with just about anything. Eucalyptus Console Table at High Fashion Home.

Plants don't have to be banished to the porch. Bring in a Meyer Lemon Tree and you'll have pretty flowers, good smells, and delicious lemons year round. Try Buchanan's Native Plants in Houston.

Flower Power!

It's amazing how a mention from Domino about a Flower Mirror from High Fashion Home has caused such a craze. Ever since the February issue came out, we've received countless calls from all over the country for this 40" painted gem. It comes in both white and black. I remembered seeing the mirror from somewhere else, but I couldn't quite place where until a customer mentioned that the same mirror is at Williams-Sonoma Home. Of course, it always helps when we are retailing the mirror $150 cheaper.

Flower Mirror - Black from High Fashion Home, $445

Ribbon Mirror from Williams-Sonoma Home, $595