Glamour In A Man Cave 4th Edition: College Dorm Room

Just because your son's going off to college doesn't mean he has to have the stereo-typical dorm room. You know what I'm talking about: loud music, clothes scattered across the room and posters on every wall. You moms can make the perfect room for your son and everyone will want to hang out in his man cave!

A little creativity can go a long way in school housing. And you might as well do something that makes them feel like they are home even when they are far away.

A few suggestions:

• Keep it simple - Boys are messy. The less clutter, the cleaner the room will look.
• Design it using colors that are refreshing and clean. Dark colors can make it hard to concentrate on studying.
• Give them some comforts of home. Use some of their favorite things from home:
• High school friends framed in wooden photo frames
• A favorite chair from his old room
• A small refrigerator filled with Mom's homemade snacks and goodies
• Create a "Man Cave" for him and he and his friends will love you! I.e., coke machine, sporting decor and the cool man factor! I love the photo below...Do you think the couch could act as the bed?

Kids are usually excited about heading off to college, but once they get there, the first night or two can seem a little lonely. Providing an atmosphere they love will help take away some of that anxiety. I love the soothing blue look below.  Replace the prints on the wall in the first picture with some collegiate or sport prints and this is a great choice for a boy's room.  I especially like the baskets under the bed. They make for great space savers in such small quarters. In the second photo, I would add some sports memorabilia to the walls above the beds and the desk.

Be sure not to make it too nice. You want them to come home for a visit every now and again!

Inviting Spaces

Did you know the look of your favorite hangout spot was probably intricately pieced together by an interior designer? It is said that your economic well-being is greatly effected by the space you are surrounded by. Colors, style and atmosphere are the components that move your soul to be happy, sad or perfectly content.  This is just one of the many ways hiring an interior decorator can truly change your life.

When a space is designed specifically with you in mind, it will be a haven away from the stress and pressures of everyday life outside of the home.

Cool colors promote tranquility and peace, where rich colors like deep reds and golds can sometimes promote anticipation. However, everyone is effected by colors in various ways. If you've ever heard of Feng Shui, you may be familiar with how colors can be used to bring a spiritual peace to your being. Traditional Feng Shui is an ancient system based upon the observation of heavenly time and earthly space. Aside from finding colors that best suit your moods, Feng Shui is also used to help position furniture in a room. One of the rules of Feng Shui is to clear out the clutter and release the stress of not being able to enjoy a clean and clear space.

A decorator helps you determine what works best in your home to encourage a life of harmonious peace and everyday glamour!

Transforming Your House Into A Home

Summer's almost over, the kids are heading back to school and it's just possible you have some time on your hands. That means there could be a new decorating project in your future!

Today, I want to share some tips to prepare you that next big endeavor - transforming your house into a home of glamorous luxury. If it's a big project, creating a plan and a budget will be essential.

• Create a budget that allows for some flexibility. Unfortunately, we all end up wanting more than we originally intend. You should have two budgets (You will end up falling somewhere in between!) - 
• 1) What you intend to pay for a project 
• 2) What you have the ability to pay for a project

• Research interior designers to determine which one has expertise in your design style. Interview several prior to choosing the one who best fits your needs. It's always a good idea to ask for references not only from the designer, but also from the contractors being used for the project.
• Once you have determined your preferred consultant, set up a meeting and plan a timeline of the work to be done. This is the perfect time to decide how budget monies will be spent and when money will need to be allocated.
• Next, the fun begins! If you need to move out of your house while work is being completed, be sure to have arrangements made in advance.  Your decorator should be able to estimate how long each project will take.

• A design board and rendering will be created so you can approve the overall look and feel of the proposed outcome. If you don't like the sample, speak up. A designer is there to help you fulfill a look that connects you with the everyday glamour of a beautiful, yet comfortable, abode.

• From here, the vision begins to become reality. Furniture, paint, window treatments and artifacts begin to fill your home changing the atmosphere in the world you've become so accustomed to. Yes, your house is suddenly a home!

I'd love to be the one to transform your house into a home!

West Palm Beach

I love it here!  The sand in between my toes, the blue ocean screaming tranquility and the sun beaming down on my skin with a kiss.  What more could I ask for?  I don't ever want to return home!

Aside from the glamour of the beach, I love the West Palm Beach decor.  Palm Beach is full of seashells, bright colors and a stanch white accent similar to what is shown in the photo below.  

I have been strolling the seaside and I can't help but notice the beautiful homes that surround the area...simply glamorous, of course:

The West Palm Beach look is refreshing.  I could see adding in a little flair from one of my favorite fabric places as well - Quadrille Fabrics.  Their materials are amazing and add just the right "pop" to any modern transitional space:

I guess I will have to return home from the glitz and glam of West Palm Beach, but I sure love it here!

Something's Gotta Give 'Cause I Want That Look!

One of my favorite movies of all time, Something's Gotta Give, staring Jack Nicholson and Diane Keaton will keep you rolling with laughter from start to finish.  It will also stun you with things you never thought you'd say and a few tears. Whether you like the movie or not,  the English Manor styled beach house decor is one to be admired...sheer elegance, clean lines and perfection.  You can have this look too!

I love it that the main character, Erica Berry, surrounded herself with a collection of one of the things she loved most - white rocks in glass jars throughout the house mixed with a collage of books. The whole design of the home bespoke to things Erica loved and collected over time that tailored to her life as a screenwriter.  We should all surround ourselves with the things we love!

In the designer world, this home is the most loved and talked about interior in the business and one of my favorites as well.  Oftentimes, clients will come to me and request I give them a certain look.  Since this home is such a popular favorite, I want to share the secrets to getting this look.

As our leading lady would say, "Oscar, please!!!"  The blue and white rug look-alike in the family room can be found at Restoration Hardware!  The actual rug came from The Rug Loft DhurrieRug, but the look can be created with a Ben Soleimani Flatweave Pinstripe Rug.

The lounge chairs in the family room are also spectacular.  They have a clean look with a cozy feel that says, "I want to spend the rainy day - or any day for that matter - inside!"  A Pottery Barn Carlisle upholstered armchair will do the trick.

If you'll look towards the back of the family room photo, you won't be able to miss the elegant candle holders that boast from the foyer table.  You can get the look at LazySusan-Candleholder.

Erica's bedroom was also a masterpiece.  The quaint Rose Tarlow Side Table can be rediscovered with Bliss Home & Design's Italian Baroque Pedestal Table.  And I can't forget to mention the Kenton Nelson painting in this room.  Three of his paintings were featured in this film.  Kenton is known for his idealistic ordinary life style.

To complete the overall look, seashells are a must.  Visit Pottery Barn to find a variety of shells in all shapes and sizes.

Dennis Miller Stands Up for Collin County Children

It's impressive to me that two women could just decide they want to make a change and actually do something about it!  Co-Founders Linda S. Paulk and Michelle Brennan Hall began their search for people to help support their cause in 2007.  It's been a long road, but the strides Star Children's Charity has made in the community have truly impacted our Collin County children.  Because of these two women along with the support of their Executive Director Ronelle Ianace, the Star staff and the community members who have banned together to make it happen, children are safer, have a place to live, participate in after school programs and receive medical treatment.  I'm so proud to be a supporter in what they do.

November 10th marks their 5th Winter Fundraiser and the theme is "Stand Up With Dennis Miller."  Join us in this fight to make Collin County a better place for our children.  For more information, contact Caralee Gurney at caralee@starchildrens.com.

Designer Ideas on a Budget

Your home can look fabulous whether you spend an enormous amount of money or you decide to work within a minimal budget.  Sure, those with an unlimited cash flow may have really cool upgrades and expensive bling, but an elegant space can still be created without thinning your wallet to the last dollar bill.

An enriching color scheme can make all the difference.  Take a look at the room below.  I found it on HGTV.

Notice how rich the gray and the red appear.  The design is simple.  The couch and the print hanging above it are inexpensive.  Not much had to be done to create this look.  A sleek coat of paint mixed with tone on tone coloring and a splash of red will make any room pop.  Of course, the white flowers give the room just enough glamour to make the room elegantly perfect!

Glamour In A Man's Cave 2nd Edition

Yes, it's true.  Men love mood lighting as much as women do!  This Emporium Home sconce is the perfect find for the man who wants to create a unique atmosphere while exuding masculinity.

Complimented in the dining room by this chandelier, our glamorous man is sure to impress!

Men don't have to have a fru-fru look to show off their tastes.  Mix a little chocolate leather and a furry white rug like the one pictured below and he'll have it made. Simple, yet glamorously cool.

Emporium Home Furniture & Accessories

I am loving this new furniture company!  Emporium Home opened doors in April to a sleek suite of contemporary designs. This type of interior design creates a clean look that is also soothing.

Decorating a room with soft, light colors leaves guests feeling welcomed and refreshed. 

 The above sconce is beautiful!  Unique lighting can change the entire look of a room.  Although odd numbers are usually preferred in Interior Design, sconces work well in pairs.

Aside from it's originality in design concepts, Emporium Home has amazing jewelery!

Save the Date for a New York Extravaganza!

I'd like to introduce you to a friend of mine, Jennifer Gilbert, owner of  Save the Date® , an amazing event company based in New York where the motto is "Consider your event planned.^TM"    Fifteen years experience has landed  her planning events for Fortune 500 companies, celebrities and brides.  The fabulous Marilyn you see photographed above is from one of Jennifer's events. I wonder how long the model had to pose like that!

You may recognize Jennifer from Real Housewives of New York,Working Woman Magazine's Top 500 list,The Wall Street Journal or maybe even Cosmopolitan.  I am looking forward to a collaboration of our friendship and our businesses.  Be sure to visit her blog!

Interior Design isn't always about the home.  Similar design concepts and proportions are used when planning for events as well, something Jennifer Gilbert can do in her sleep!

Glamour in A Man's Cave 1st Edition

It doesn't take a woman to notice classiness in a home.  Men like the feeling of glamour too!  The perfect bachelor pad is home to strong leathers, clean lines and hidden treasures that men NEVER want to leave behind.  All can be encompassed into the glamour of a man cave with the comforts of home.

First, a man has to determine his style.  Is it a rugged ranch style or a contemporary, clean design?  This is essential because it will lay the groundwork for surrounding your home with the things you love while making it special with the elements of design.

The key to the man cave is to have masculinity blended with usefulness.  I love this "designer" tool chest...

It's definitely a must for the male in terms of usefulness, yet it can sit in the corner of a den or game room and portray a unique presence in the room.

Stay tuned next week for more tips on Glamour in A Man's Cave.

I like a unique design of old mixed with new to create the perfect piece of Everyday Glamour. Why throw out your old furniture when you can make it special with a touch of paint or a creative blend of stain.

The above chair was at one time cherry wood.  I refurbished the finish and added a designer fabric and pillow to design an exclusive work of art.

I personally refurbish furniture for my clients, giving them a treasure that is one-of-a-kind AND something they love!

American Society of Interior Designers Meets Alexis Hunter & Associates

Condo at One Arts Plaza - What a view!

What a thrill to be a part of a special evening with the American Society of Interior Designers located in One Arts Plaza!  This gorgeous interior is part of a unique boutique of condos.  It's minimalistic and clean design boasts a modern work of art.  We had the privilege to tour the developer's available condo during a design event hosted by Knoll Furniture and the condo boutique - both located in the same building.

The condominiums are part of a downtown revitalization effort speared by the Dallas Museum of Arts. One Arts Plaza is home to both residential and commercial.  Massive, automatic opening doors welcome you into the lobby with a design that softly says, "Hello!  Come on in."

Incredible view from condo

"The" Patio 

Condo Lobby

Knoll Furniture, established in the 1950's, is a cummulation of modern works of art.  Their fine furnishings are very detailed, yet clean and modern.

Knoll Bench

Hans and Florence Knoll founded the uniquely high-end furniture company and have been creating quality works of art ever since.  Not only do they design interior furniture, they were the first to revolutionize outdoor furniture to stand the test of outdoor weather errosion.  Designer, Richard Schultz, carefully constructed the weather resistent furniture over a three year time period.  Introduced in 1966, it is known as the "1966 Luxury Collection."  He specifically designed the timeless pieces in an effort to meet the request of Florence Knoll to provide patio furniture that wouldn't rust.  Meeting Shultz's works of art was the best part of the night!

The Knoll's don't just specialize in furniture.  They have also designed specialized products used in both residential and commercial real estate.  "filzfelt" is a 100% wool designed felt with a comfortable feel.  It is used mostly for flooring, but also serves as a room divider.  It's multipurpose capabilities allow the unique German design to serve as draperies, sound barriers and insulation as well.

"Spinnybeck" is their latest invention and consists of all types of leather - distressed, hair hides, embossed, metalics, etc. - creating incredible wall panels. 

I am so privileged to have the opportunity to attend events like these!

American Society of Interior Design Meets Alexis Hunter & Associates

Condo at One Arts Plaza - What a view!

What a thrill to be a part of a special evening with the American Society of Interior Designers located in One Arts Plaza!  This gorgeous interior is part of a unique boutique of condos.  It's minimalistic and clean design boasts a modern work of art.  We had the privilege to tour the developer's available condo during a design event hosted by Knoll Furniture and the condo boutique - both located in the same building.

The condominiums are part of a downtown revitalization effort speared by the Dallas Museum of Arts. One Arts Plaza is home to both residential and commercial.  Massive, automatic opening doors welcome you into the lobby with a design that softly says, "Hello!  Come on in."

Incredible view from condo

"The" Patio 

Condo Lobby

Knoll Furniture, established in the 1950's, is a cummulation of modern works of art.  Their fine furnishings are very detailed, yet clean and modern.

Knoll Bench

Hans and Florence Knoll founded the uniquely high-end furniture company and have been creating quality works of art ever since.  Not only do they design interior furniture, they were the first to revolutionize outdoor furniture to stand the test of outdoor weather errosion.  Designer, Richard Schultz, carefully constructed the weather resistent furniture over a three year time period. Introduced in 1966, it is known as the "1966 Collection."  He specifically designed the timeless pieces in an effort to meet the request of Florence Knoll to provide patio furniture that wouldn't rust.  Meeting Shultz's works of art was the best part of the night!

The Knoll's don't just specialize in furniture.  They have also designed specialized products used in both residential and commercial real estate.  "filzfelt" is a 100% wool designed felt with a comfortable feel.  It is used mostly for flooring, but also serves as a room divider.  It's multipurpose capabilities allow the unique German design to serve as draperies, sound barriers and insulation as well.

"Spinnybeck" is their latest invention and consists of all types of leather - distressed, hair hides, embossed, metalics, etc. - creating incredible wall panels. 

I am so privileged to have the opportunity to attend events like these!

Veranda Magazine Event



Attending designer events is not only fun, it's educational.  Being able to spend time visiting with designers as well as Veranda Magazine contributors made for a great day.  Design expert panelists shared their stories and ideas.  They also encouraged audience participation allowing us to gain additional insight into the design world.  One of the most important lessons I learned was that every designer goes through a "rebirth."  Age and years in the designer business isn't the most important asset of a designer.  It's their ability to adapt to an ever evolving environment and consistently change their design approach to meet the needs of their clients.

In the above photo, I had the opportunity to take a snapshot with Windsor Smith from Windsor Smith Home.  She's pictured in the brown dress right next to me!  Meeting Windsor was the highlight of my day.  She is not only talented, she is genuinely someone I can relate to - a true gem.

Veranda Magazine publisher Jennifer Levene Bruno and I posed for the camera in a picture framed by amazing fabrics. 



Panelists were happy to answer our inquiries.  I now have a new wealth of knowledge to take back to my clients!

1:1 Texture & Interior Design

Texture plays such an important role in Interior Design.  I found the above image today and was reminded of how simple a look can be if texture is added to the room.  I love this clean, white look.  There's not much to it, but the stonework makes the room.

Obviously, we can't all change the shape of our walls, but we can add the texture.  It may be as easy as recovering one chair in a room or adding multiple pillows to a bench, couch or chair.  Paint, wall texture, and window treatments can also give your comfort room that extra "pop" it needs.

Interior Design doesn't always have to be a full blown project.  You can take it one step at a time and before you know it, you have that room you've been dreaming of!