Finding the Perfect Sofa

What do you look for, when purchasing a sofa? There are lots of things to consider, besides the price tag. Here’s my list… The Look: First and foremost, I have to love the way a sofa looks, before I’ll even bother to sit in it. I shop for simple lines and fabrics, traditional designs that…

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Affordable Outdoor Rooms

While the outdoor rooms in the prior post are certainly impressive, there are many ways to create a wonderful outdoor space,without ‘breaking the bank’! Instead of custom made or ready made outdoor curtains, consider cream colored painter’s drop cloths. It’s easy to install grommets for hanging and the material is washable and long-wearing. Pillows tossed…

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Outdoor Room Inspirations

Happy Sunday to you! On this grey and chilly afternoon, I’m dreaming of the warm Sacramento summers and life out-of-doors. There are so many possibilities! While we don’t have an ocean view, I am enjoying a view of deer feeding in the pasture next door! What do you think of this Moroccan style outdoor room…

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Duralee’s New Spring Fabrics

Duralee, one of the fabric companies for the design trade, showed off their new season of fabrics. Fabric trends included tile block prints, crisp bright colors, suzani inspired fabric designs, menswear inspired plaids and even embroidered fabrics that would be stunning used in draperies. Lilac was everywhere, especially paired with grey. Yellow, grey and white…

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Design Blogger’s Conference, L.A., Part 2

One aspect of the Design Blogger’s Conference last week, was little about social media and everything about interior design. We were near a state of nirvana, listening to design icons Jan Showers, Tracy Porter, Barclay Butera and Suzanne Rheinstein speak about their favorite looks as well as a few design tips. Designer favorites include painted…

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Design Blogger’s Conference, L.A., Part 1

Just like in every business, social media is “the rage”. Sites like Facebook, Twitter and Yelp have forever changed the business marketing landscape. Blogging about your business and/or passion probably won’t make you rich, but it’s another way to “level the playing field”, reaching the masses, while solidifying your marketing brand. All good things. I…

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Sample Sale!

The sample sale at the San Francisco Design Center is right around the corner! It’s open to the public and you’re sure to find some great bargains. If nothing else, you’ll enjoy seeing all the gorgeous inventory on display!

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New Girl in Town!

Next time you’re in Carmichael, I recommend that you visit Veranda Living, next to Cottage Girls on Palm, just east of Fair Oaks Blvd. Susan Powers is the proprietor, and you’ll find a very nice mix of vintage antiques and collectables at reasonable prices. It’s worth a visit and a welcome addition to the neighborhood!

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Looking for a Weekend DIY Project?

If the weather forecasters are accurate, tomorrow will be a wet one; the perfect day to complete an indoor project. How about creating a “window pane” wall of mirrors, as was done in Amy Dragoo’s Manhattan loft? After painting the wall black, Amy and her husband hung 48 mirrors using a laser level and mirror…

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Finding Your Authentic Design Style

Are you trendy or traditional; cottage or mid-century vintage; contemporary or simply not certain? Well, if you’re not sure, you’re in good company! And that’s where some people can benefit from the services of a design “mentor”…someone who will help you stay true to the style that serves you best. In my mind’s “eye”, good…

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Happy 50th to Sunbrella!

The Sunbrella fabric line is celebrating it’s 50th anniversary, while extending their fabric line from the outdoors, in. Beautiful new colors, design; paired with long wear and easy care. What a deal!

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