Honoring our Heirlooms

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Honor and Appreciation

Although those two sentiments are usually reserved for people, there are countless of objects in home décor that require and deserve both.  I will say though, that most of these objects are usually tied to someone who is, or has been special and dear.  We keep and display these items to honor their existence and their part in our lives.

The most common of these are family pictures.  Every time you display a picture in your home, you are no doubt honoring the person in the photo.  So it’s also important to show a little honor for the photo itself.  For example, original photos (taken with film and developed on paper) should always be matted.  The mat will prevent it from touching the glass, which believe me, the photo can stick to the glass after several years…ruining the picture!  Older photos should be protected if you expect them to last.

Today, digital photography has increased our options.  I highly recommend that you take the time to scan all your important and very old photos so that you have a digital record of them. It’s definitely time consuming if you do it yourself, but totally worth the time…you can give a copy to all your family, further honoring them and your heritage.

Sometimes, we honor the memory or actions of those we love with small heirlooms that once belonged to them…medals, pins, jewelry, etc.  Again, protecting these heirlooms is  important, and for this, shadow boxes are the way to go. Almost any small collection can be showcased in a shadow box.  So if you have a collection of small heirlooms in a closet somewhere, think about displaying them.

If you’re creative, you can do it yourself.  But most framing shops can artfully display your collection for you.  The shadow box will protect your treasures while on display for all to enjoy.

Furniture is another home décor item that is often inherited.  And how better to honor and appreciate than by using it!  Of course this isn’t always possible, …you don’t want to destroy it either.  But if your item is functional and usable, then I encourage it.  I believe your ancestor would be honored to know that you’re truly appreciating the piece by actually using it in your home.

And by the way, if it doesn’t fit with your current décor (and it’s not a valuable antique) it’s ok to paint or alter it to fit your needs. Even if altered, it’s STILL the same piece.   Some people might think that’s wrong, but I feel that the point is not to keep it intact, but rather to enjoy and appreciate it.

Hope I’ve inspired.

EAA Fish Fry – April 2012

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The EAA Chapter 1246 annual fish fry was held on April 21 at the MHOA hangers. As is tradition, the North Texas Flying Club helped host the event.

8 Women That Have Inspired Me

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Renowned interior designer Charlotte Moss has an office that is truly inspiring.  She has artfully devoted an entire wall to pictures of women that have inspired her.   When I first saw this wall in a magazine, I fell in love.  And I decided to start my own gallery.

We are all inspired by different people, men and women.  But AS a woman, I’m particularly inspired by other women who have had an impact in changing their world…and in the process, changing the lives of others.

Charlotte Moss

I share with you some of the women whom I have admired most of my life.  These are not in order, nor are they the ONLY women I admire, but all have definitely played their part in shaping my ideas…

Coco-Chanel (1883-1971)

Coco Chanel was an influential French fashion designer and founder of the famous brand Chanel.  Her biography is certainly colorful and controversial, but there’s no denying that she led an amazing life whose work is still impacting the world today.

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Catherine The Great, Empress of Russia (1729-1796)

Catherine The Great was the most renowned and the longest-ruling female leader of Russia.  Under her reign, Russia was revitalized,  growing larger and stronger than ever and becoming recognized as one of the great powers of Europe…and the woman wasn’t even BORN there!!

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Eva Peron (1919-1952)

Eva Peron…As far as I can remember, I’ve been fascinated by the story of Eva Peron.  Partly because of the rags to riches element, but mostly because I so admire her determination to seize life.

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Queen Victoria (1819-1901)

Queen Victoria…became queen at the age of 18… ruled for 64 years in what is considered Britain’s great age of industrial expansion and economic progress….had 9 children in the process…enjoyed a loving and lasting relationship with her husband…and was SO influential that an entire era is referred to her!!  Need I say more?!!

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Gloria Estefan (1957-Present)

Gloria Estefan.  I love Gloria.  Like me, she was born in Cuba and migrated here with her parents.  We both share being raised in a Cuban household.  I LOVE her music… and I love her dedication to family. The American Music Awards presented Gloria with the Lifetime Achievement Award.  They told her that children were not allowed to the ceremony.  She objected and brought them anyway, even bringing them up on the stage to accept her award.  She said that she and Emilio both felt that their greatest achievement was their children…that’s why they had brought them.  You gotta love that!

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Mary Kay Ash (1918-2001)

Mary Kay Ash…did you know that she didn’t start her cosmetic empire until she was 45 years of age?!!  That in itself is inspiring, but in the process she also created countless opportunities for women around the world.  I’m inspired by her commitment to her values and her unwavering belief in the power and potential of women.

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Audrey Hepburn (1929-1993)

Audrey Hepburn…the epitome of style and class, and one of the world’s most famous actresses of all times.  She remains one of  few entertainers to have won Academy, Emmy, Grammy and Tony Awards, yet always remaining modest about her acting abilities.  She was hugely influential in the fashion industry redefining glamor itself, yet devoted her later years to UNICEF, working in some of the most profoundly disadvantaged communities of Africa, South America and Asia.  I am inspired by her beauty, inside and out, and her kindness.

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My Mom (1928-2006) with my sister and me

My Mom…the most inspiring woman of ALL.   A woman who came to this country with nothing and worked hard to create a safe, nurturing and loving home for her family…the kindest woman I’ve ever known.

I am inspired by her in ways too countless to tell!

Who inspires YOU?

Trend Alert: Monograms

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Monograms are personal signatures that have been around since 350BC.  It’s a form of personalization that continues to be extremely popular.  I absolutely love them, but I think they should be used sparingly for major impact.  Although, today you can monogram just about anything, here are some of MY favorite items to stamp as your own…

Towels.  This is one of those small details that makes a huge difference…making you feel special on a daily basis.

And what guest would not feel special to use a towel that has been placed there specially for them!

I don’t actually use a bath robe, but if I did, I would definitely get it personalized.  I think it would make me feel like if I was on vacation every day!

Furniture is another popular item for monograms.  But again, restraint is important.  You don’t want to overdo it.  I love this iron bed below with a single initial monogram.  It’s simple, classic and elegant.

Pillows are the perfect venue…and I’m particularly partial to monogrammed dining chairs.  SO elegant!

One of the most versatile items to personalize is the drinking glass, especially if you entertain.  But also, they’re perfect as gifts for ANY occasion.

…and you can serve the drinks with personalized napkins.

Here are the basics of 3 initial monograms:

The three-initial monogram is probably the most common format in use today. Typically, the last name initial is placed in a large type at the center of the monogram, flanked by the first and middle initials in a smaller type. For example, a monogram for Jane Marie Doe would read as follows: jDm. This is generally referred to as the Victorian format.
Another format for 3 initial monograms is using all capitals.  In this case, the first name, middle name, last name initials are placed in order using the same size font for all three letters. Example: Jane Marie Doe is JMD

Of course, these are just guidelines, part of the fun is creating a unique look that is all your own.

I have to say though, that my favorite item to monogram are note cards.

This one below is my current note card.  My sister bought them for me as a gift and I absolutely love them.  Probably cause it has an animal print (which I also love in moderation), and because it came from her!

Inside THIS particular note card I’ve written…

Thank you to all of you…my dear clients, for your continued support of my talents!

Till Next Time,

Alba

Ideas To Take Outdoors

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Spring is in the Air…

Before you know it, Spring will be in full bloom! I love Spring. You can feel the renewal and the energy in the air, which makes it the perfect time to live outdoors.

So, whether you have a grand patio with a pool, or a modest balcony, your outdoor space should be comfortable, inviting, stylish and reflect your personality. Here are 10 simple ways to boost the energy of your outdoor space.

Put Out a Bird Bath

Bird baths are sculptural art for the yard. They come in all shapes and styles. Find one you love and place it where you can see it. Our feather friends are sure to appreciate it as the weather gets hotter, and there’s nothing more precious than seeing little birds splash in the water.

Wind Chimes

If you don’t have a wind chime, I highly recommend them.  Not only are they pieces of art, but their soothing tones promote relaxation and reduce stress, anger and tension.  Their tone will depend on how they’re made and what they’re made of.  So, listen before you buy.  I personally prefer the deep baritone sounds, but the important thing is, how the sound make YOU feel.

Add a Fountain

If you love the “water” idea, but not the wildlife, try adding a fountain. Whether a standing or a wall fountain, there’s nothing like the sound of water. Many fountains are inexpensive, easy to install and create enormous atmosphere. You might consider looking into solar fountains too.

A Portable Fire Pit

Now that you have a water feature, bring in the FIRE!  Like water, fire evokes warmth, life and energy.  And today, there are many ways to enjoy fire outdoors without actually having an outdoor fireplace.

Outdoor Curtains

What better way to bring the intimate indoor atmosphere outside? Outdoor curtains are not only beautiful but also functional. Depending on where you hang them, they can provide privacy plus heat, sun and mosquito protection. But DO make sure they’re made for the outdoors. Interior panels won’t hold up to the elements.

Suspended Relaxation

Have you considered a hammock?  No matter if you hang it between 2 trees or the stand it comes with….once you’ve experience this suspended relaxation, you’ll wonder how you ever did without one.

Or how about this hanging lounge?!  This outdoor hanging lounge looks like a bird nest. It’s the perfect place for relaxation, meditation and conversation outdoors.  It’s called Nestrest and was designed by Dedon, a German company that creates really amazing furniture for outdoors .

Wall Decor

If you’re lucky enough to have an outdoor space with a wall, you should take full advantage of it.  There are no rules that say you can’t hang art outside.  And there are no rules that say “art” has to be a painting.  Clocks, canvases, sconces, murals, wreaths, iron…as long as it can withstand the elements, it can be used outside.

Container Gardens

It’s SO much easier to water and maintain a container garden than one planted on the ground, especially if space and time are limited.  Yet, the impact is no less colorful. Container gardens are perfect for annuals, and allow you to create and enjoy a garden anywhere you want to place it.

Hanging Ferns

I LOVE hanging ferns.  Oh, I suppose there are many plants that you can hang on your porch, but there’s something exquisitely Southern about a fern that just screams “hospitality”.  Think of them as an annual accessory…you can get them for less than $10 each, water them frequently and they’ll last through the summer getting bigger and lusher.

Area Rugs

Here’s another design element that I’m passionate about…area rugs!  Today’s outdoor rugs are not the same as even 5 years ago.  With modern weaving techniques and modern yarns, today’s outdoor rugs are durable and more colorful than ever.

Yes, Spring is almost here.

Hope these have inspired you to breath in the air,soak in the sun and enjoy your outdoors!

Till Next Time,

Alba


Decorating In Tampa

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I spent all last week in Tampa, Florida with my colleague Mira MacDonald.  We were there to decorated a total of 6 model apartments at 2 senior living communities.    Having been raised in Florida, I’m always excited to visit for ANY reason.  So even though we worked long and hard, we were both excited to be there…enjoying the 70 degree weather and the Cuban food!  Plus we had a great time completing the project, all the models turned out beautifully.

This was my first property at Seminole.

I love the hibiscus in full bloom.

My first model was a one bedroom apartment with  a small sun-room, decorated in blues, creams and terracotta.

The second property too had stunning landscaping…with its Koy pond and quaint village feel.

The second apartment, also a one bedroom, decorated in greens, creams and black accents.

But, I have to say, my favorite was the 3rd…a one-room studio apartment with a built-in Murphy bed.  The challenge was to  help the prospective resident “visualize” how to create multiple, specific areas within a single space.  And this is a perfect example…the 3 specific areas being clearly identified: bedroom, living room and office/dining.

Of course half the fun of being in Florida is to take advantage of the always available Cuban food.  We found this great little restaurant, Las Teresitas.  Mira had a blast trying new dishes the 3 nights we had dinner there. As for me…my favorite continues to be the classic Bisteque De Palomilla with white rice and fried plantains.  Mmmmm!

I LOVE my job!!

Till Next Time,

Alba

Pantone’s 2012 Color Of The Year

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Tangerine Tango….is Pantone’s 2012 color of the year.

“Sophisticated but at the same time dramatic and seductive, Tangerine Tango is an orange with a lot of depth to it”, said Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute.

“Reminiscent of the radiant shadings of a sunset, Tangerine Tango marries the vivaciousness and adrenaline rush of red with the friendliness and warmth of yellow, to form high-visibility, magnetic hue that emanates heat and energy.”

From fashion and nail polish, to everything that is home decor…

To arrive at the selection, Pantone considered global color influences from areas including the entertainment industry and films that are in production, traveling art collections, new artists, popular travel destinations and other socio-economic conditions.  Influences may also stem from technology, availability of new textures and effects that impact color, and even upcoming sports events that capture worldwide attention, according to a company release. (Article from Home Accents Today January 2012)

As you can see, it doesn’t take much Tangerine Tango to make a big statement…a pillow here, an accessory there…

When I visit Market each year, I always pay attention to the Global Views showroom.  They’re always on the cutting edge of new and upcoming trends. Above was there front-and-center display this year…Tangerine Tango!

And, in case you’re wondering, Pantone’s past colors include:

Hope I’ve inspired you to Tango this year!

Till Next Time,

Alba

Valentines Day Wreaths

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Valentine’s Day…  

…yet another wonderful reason to decorate your home.  I know what you’re thinking, “I just took down all the Christmas stuff!”  I hear you!  But when decorating for Valentines, a little can go a long way.  In fact, I love the look of a single wreath hanging on the door…Classic and Understated!  

Here are 5 gorgeous and classic wreaths you can make yourself.  Click on the pictures for instructions on how.  

I love this ball wreath.  It’s shinnny and fun and totally unexpected.  

Ball Wreath

This delicious beauty is made from peppermint candies.  Isn’t that clever?  

Pepermint Wreath

This tie wreath is a more casual interpretation.  The red fabric makes it a Valentine wreath, but you can do green for St Patrick’s or orange for Halloween, pastels for Easter…a VERY versatile design.  

Tie Wreath

Also very versatile is this burlap beauty.  

Burlap Wreath

I love this fabric wreath, made on a foam heart.  But you can use a foam circle too, and as for fabric, the sky’s the limit.  

Fabric Wreath

  Are you inspired?  

Choose the one you like and invite a friend to help.  Or better yet, make it a family project.  Happy Valentines! 

“Love isn’t love, till you give it away.” – The Sound of Music 

Till next time, 

Alba 

 

  

Dwell With Dignity

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I’ve been a part of the Interior Design Society for over 10 years.  During which time I’ve served as President, Vice President and this year, Treasurer for the Dallas / Ft Worth chapter.  I continue to devote my time to IDS due in large part because of the amazing designers, colleagues and friends that I have the pleasure of knowing.  But also, because it gives me the chance to make people happy by doing what I love!

Each year, our chapter selects an organization or charity as beneficiary of our member’s talents.  This year, it’s Dwell With Dignity.

Dwell with Dignity is a non-profit group of Interior Designers and volunteers dedicated to creating soothing, inspiring homes for families struggling with homelessness and poverty. They provide and install home interiors for families including furniture, art, bedding, kitchen supplies, and food in the pantry.

Dwell was created in April 2009, and it’s growth has exploded, in part because of the support and publicity created by Nate Berkus of the Nate Berkus Show.  But mostly, due to the unwavering dedication of it’s founders, Lisa Robison and Kim Turner.  Personally, I’m honored to be involved  with this group.

Last September, our IDS chapter put together our first Vendor Showcase.  The proceeds have been reserved for Dwell.

Dwell With Dignity and IDS members at the IDS Vendor Showcase

Our members are all extremely excited, because our chapter is the first “outside” organization that Dwell has permitted to design an apartment for a recipient family.  And we’re taking that honor VERY seriously.  We’ll be decorating for a family of 6 who will be moving in at the end of February.  Members have been volunteering twice a week to paint furniture, create art, and whatever else is needed to insure a gorgeous design.

Painting children's art that will be hung in the kid's room.
Volunteering at the Dwell House in Dallas

Still, there’s a lot to be done.  So stay tuned for future updates on our progress.

If you’re not familiar with Dwell With Dignity, I encourage you to check them out and perhaps, through donations or volunteer work, you’ll be inspired to help them accomplish their mission:

“…to help families escape poverty and homelessness through design. One household at a time.”

Till next time,

Alba


New Accessories…New Look!

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Its no surprise that accessories can make a huge difference.  In fact, oftentimesall you need to do to get a fresh look…and sometimes a whole different look, is to change your accessories.

And by “acccessories” I include art, lamps, pillows, rugs, etc.  All of the “jewelry” that is not furniture.

Recently, we transformed a client’s home doing just that.  We selected key pieces to add to her existing decor.  They made all the difference! 

Before
  • New lamps.
  • New art for over the mantle.  The existing one was too small.  We custom framed a photograph that had been taken by her dad…very special.
  • New throw pillows.  We  used patterned pillows to bring in some color and solid pillows in a light tone to “lighten” up the room.
  • A floor plant was added to “soften” the “hard” lines of the leather sofa back.
  • An area rug was also added to identify the seating area and to add more color.
  • But the most dramatic, was the installation of the very large antique miror, flanked with matching candle sconces.  Big “art”, big drama! 

After
Same room, different angle.
After
In addition to accessorizing, the library also got a new coat of paint. And I don’t need to tell you what a difference paint can make! 

Before
After

In the words of my client:  “I KNEW the rooms had potential…”. 

Yes they did.  And yours do too.  Hope I’ve inspired.

Till next time,

Alba