STYLE FILES: Wonderous Walls

Brock Designs, Portland OR. Interior Design Company

Nothing says dull more than blank walls but it is so common that people hesitate when hanging artwork and family photos. How high? How low? Do the frames have to match? Soon, the artwork and family portraits are put in a closet or set aside for “another” day and voila you are left with vast walls just dying to be adorned.  So today, I’ve gathered together some truly inspiring art and photos walls! They are striking, original and creative! Enjoy!

143904150562921820 OPaOvKli c e1326827648566 STYLE FILES: Wonderous WallsImage via rachelhazelton

Maybe you are not one for hanging photos…no problem use shelves instead! I love how this is like a library of images.

63894888432910965 G4Mq0LXN c1 e1326827776780 STYLE FILES: Wonderous WallsImage via Pottery Barn

Don’t be afraid to mix in other objects in your display. Sculptural elements add interest and texture.

63894888432797590 sc9qdANJ c e1326827930337 STYLE FILES: Wonderous WallsImage via designsponge

No need for frames! Cluster similar snapshots together like this to make a real impact!

63894888432797597 1jDjGR50 c e1326828201458 STYLE FILES: Wonderous WallsImage via elsa-may

You don’t need expensive art to decorate your walls either! String up some twine and clip pretty postcards, magazine pages and other lovelies to your wall. This is wonderful as an installation above your work area. Just make sure it is full of inspiration…not receipts.

4222193370264565 go856je5 c e1326828688344 STYLE FILES: Wonderous WallsImage via the glam lamb

This is a wonderful wall and inexpensive to create. Using printed wallpaper or wrapping paper and inexpensive frames this look makes a real statement!

p 101250527 e1326829092571 STYLE FILES: Wonderous WallsImage via bhg

Another fun and thrifty way to create art for your walls – use pretty paper scraps and adhere them to craft plaques, which can be found at your local craft stores. For diy instructions go here.

126663808239517521 rIrnbXue c STYLE FILES: Wonderous WallsImage via girl at home

Fill an entire wall with images for a dramatic gallery feel! The equal spacing makes the wall feel unified.

Okay, so are you feeling inspired? Think outside the box and don’t be afraid to tackle your own walls!

For even more ideas visit my Pinterest board here.

Have a fabulous day!

5AD32E5D80D0C1FAA3382E02E91FB880 STYLE FILES: Wonderous Walls

 P.S. Check back in on Thursday for DIY tips on hanging photos and artwork!

 

Speak Your Mind

*

INSPIRED MONDAYS : Creativity

Hello there. Hope your weekend was lovely.  It may be a holiday for some but I’m back at work and as promised, I am here to share some inspiration!

One of the most demanding and pleasurable aspects of being a designer is being creative! Our clients expect us to think outside the box, be inventive and ultimately share in the vision they have for their home – OR create one if they don’t have one! I love it! I am constantly challenged to be open and to go the extra mile to marry form and function.

But, my friends, I am here to tell you that YOU are creative too! I believe everyone is. Being creative doesn’t just mean you draw and paint. Being creative is about solving problems…with style! You can creatively organize your kitchen, rearrange your living room or hang your family photos! It’s all about just going for it and not being afraid of making a mistake.

tumblr lk7oljriT31qbotog e1326747855674 INSPIRED MONDAYS : Creativityimage via polished objects

229472543482969457 SQE9cARN c e1326748424227 INSPIRED MONDAYS : Creativityimage via bhg

So what are you waiting for? Look around your home…where could you put your own creativity to work? Tomorrow, we will be sharing some fabulous ideas for hanging artwork and photos! Don’t miss it!

5AD32E5D80D0C1FAA3382E02E91FB880 INSPIRED MONDAYS : Creativity

 

Speak Your Mind

*

HOME TOURS – A Monaco Marvel

Brock Designs, Portland OR. Interior Design Company

Rumor has it that the worlds most expensive penthouse ($305 million) resides on the beautiful Mediterranean in Monaco.  This two story penthouse has a full library, infinity pool, numerous bedrooms, his and her full master bathrooms, a dining room fit for a king and every other representation of luxury that you could imagine. Come dream with me…

Screen shot 2012 01 12 at 8.48.27 PM HOME TOURS   A Monaco Marvel

Screen shot 2012 01 12 at 8.49.00 PM HOME TOURS   A Monaco Marvel

Screen shot 2012 01 12 at 8.48.49 PM HOME TOURS   A Monaco Marvel A book-worms dream!  This two story library is just breathtaking!

Screen shot 2012 01 12 at 8.47.03 PM HOME TOURS   A Monaco Marvel This masculine master bedroom has more of a modern, art-deco feel that is separate from the rest of the house.

Screen shot 2012 01 12 at 8.46.30 PM HOME TOURS   A Monaco Marvel The linen lined walls and small details soften this room.

Screen shot 2012 01 12 at 8.45.50 PM HOME TOURS   A Monaco Marvel Now this is a master bathroom!  I love the chaise lounge and the dark wood that is a contrast to the light marble.

Screen shot 2012 01 12 at 8.49.17 PM HOME TOURS   A Monaco Marvel The more feminine second master suite is so inviting with it’s cream color tones and soft touches.

Screen shot 2012 01 12 at 8.45.15 PM HOME TOURS   A Monaco Marvel “Her” bathroom has a sunken tub and hand crafted art carved into the concave wall.

Screen shot 2012 01 12 at 8.49.48 PM HOME TOURS   A Monaco Marvel By adding full length mirrors on either side of the window, it gives the illusion of a panoramic view. 

This is a great idea for any narrow space.


Screen shot 2012 01 12 at 8.45.00 PM HOME TOURS   A Monaco Marvel This sophisticated living space has an amazing wall to wall entertainment center and beautiful crystal chandelier. 

A comfy seating area with lots of pillows give it a more casual feel.

Screen shot 2012 01 12 at 8.49.35 PM HOME TOURS   A Monaco Marvel This lanai area is just dreamy!  Yet another place I would love to have my morning coffee on this swing overlooking the Mediterranean….

what a great way to start the day!

Make it a great weekend- and remember-  do at least one thing just for yourself so you can recharge for the week ahead.

5AD32E5D80D0C1FAA3382E02E91FB880 HOME TOURS   A Monaco Marvel

Images via here

 

Speak Your Mind

*

DIY – Creating Handsome Headboards

Brock Designs, Portland OR. Interior Design Company

A fantastic way to make a bold statement and create a centerpiece to your bedroom is through your headboard.  It makes a room feel complete and polished.  Here are some “easy-do-it-yourself” headboard projects which are plush, unique and sure to make a statement in your bedroom.

Screen shot 2012 01 11 at 8.42.00 PM DIY   Creating Handsome HeadboardsImage via DIYnetwork.com

This grand upholstered headboard with nail head trim is sure to turn some heads!  The height makes the room seem much larger by bringing the eyes upward.  It’s surprisingly very easy to make!

(find the directions and the shopping list here)

Screen shot 2012 01 11 at 8.43.49 PM DIY   Creating Handsome Headboards

Image via HGTV.com

Using old shutters (or new ones and making them look antiqued) is a great and simple way to create a headboard piece.  I love the partially open look of these, rather than being flat on the wall which makes it look a little more whimsical!

Screen shot 2012 01 11 at 8.47.53 PM DIY   Creating Handsome Headboards

Image via Bees Knees Bungalow

What a fun idea for a lake or beach house!  Simple oars connected to a 2×4 at the edge of the bed. Get vintage oars on Ebay here.  I love the different colors and lengths.

Screen shot 2012 01 11 at 8.48.07 PM DIY   Creating Handsome Headboards

Image via dreamywhites

One of my favorite headboard ideas- the old doors mounted to the wall.  You can usually find old doors at a construction “up-cycle” facility or architectural salvage shop. Another take on this is to turn a door horizontally and hang it a bit higher.  You only have to use one door for this version!

Screen shot 2012 01 11 at 8.48.44 PM DIY   Creating Handsome Headboards

Image via housetweaking

This headboard says it all…LOVE!  Simply using old wood planks and painting a little sentiment is just perfect!

Screen shot 2012 01 11 at 8.49.30 PM DIY   Creating Handsome Headboards

Image via Better Homes & Gardens

So simplistic!  Modge Podge beautiful scrapbook paper or wall paper scraps on to the glass of old windows and hang as a headboard!

Screen shot 2012 01 11 at 8.50.13 PM DIY   Creating Handsome Headboards

Image via Better Homes & Gardens

Using a mantel as a headboard piece just makes the room feel warm and cozy even without the fireplace!  You can also make this out of crown moldings and wood panels to look like a mantel and weather it yourself.

Screen shot 2012 01 11 at 8.54.07 PM DIY   Creating Handsome Headboards

Image via DIY Ideas

Another version of using a mantel but adding in mirrors is a great way to reflect light and make the space feel larger.  I love this headboard piece.

As you can see, the possibilities are limitless.  Let your creativity flow.  What kind of headboard do you dream of having?

5AD32E5D80D0C1FAA3382E02E91FB880 DIY   Creating Handsome Headboards


Speak Your Mind

*

Color Palette – Dance with Tangerine Tango

Brock Designs, Portland OR. Interior Design Company

And the winner is in…the 2012 color of the year is a rich and fiery hue: Tangerine Tango.  This charismatic color commands your attention in such a wonderful way.  And the easiest way to enjoy this delicious color is through your accessories and marrying it with many colors on the wheel both neutrals and bold tones.  Enjoy these luscious finds!

Screen shot 2012 01 10 at 9.59.16 PM Color Palette   Dance with Tangerine TangoUntitled 13 Color Palette   Dance with Tangerine Tango

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Such a spicy invigorating color, I just love it!  What room will you put your Tangerine Tango?

5AD32E5D80D0C1FAA3382E02E91FB880 Color Palette   Dance with Tangerine Tango

Images via here

Speak Your Mind

*

STYLE FILES: Five Fabulous Bedrooms Before and After

Brock Designs, Portland OR. Interior Design Company

This week is all about welcoming change and putting it in a positive light.  Simple changes to the interior of our home is a great way to lift us up and make us feel inspired and motivated.  Here are 5 fantastic before and afters of some favorite bedrooms to get you started!

107 0712 IMG3 225x300 STYLE FILES: Five Fabulous Bedrooms Before and AfterBrock Designs Living Space Design AFTER B2 232x300 STYLE FILES: Five Fabulous Bedrooms Before and After

With some simple paint, lighting and accessories, this Brock Design Group project transformed a plain, boring room into an elegant guest room.  The result is a warm and inviting space everyone would want to stay in.

Screen shot 2012 01 10 at 8.13.58 AM 300x228 STYLE FILES: Five Fabulous Bedrooms Before and AfterScreen shot 2012 01 10 at 8.14.10 AM 300x228 STYLE FILES: Five Fabulous Bedrooms Before and After

Changing the light fixture, bed and a few accessories really helped lighten the look and feel of this bedroom!  I love the chandelier and the four poster bed that fits just perfectly inside the window.

Screen shot 2012 01 10 at 8.27.06 AM 234x300 STYLE FILES: Five Fabulous Bedrooms Before and AfterScreen shot 2012 01 10 at 8.27.21 AM 235x300 STYLE FILES: Five Fabulous Bedrooms Before and AfterThis shabby chic bedroom makeover creates a comfortable space with a little drama in the headboard.  By bringing the half canopy up to the ceiling, hiding the sloped portion, it brings the eye up making the room look larger.

Screen shot 2012 01 10 at 8.36.41 AM 300x181 STYLE FILES: Five Fabulous Bedrooms Before and AfterScreen shot 2012 01 10 at 8.36.57 AM 300x181 STYLE FILES: Five Fabulous Bedrooms Before and AfterThis bedroom went from too much red to perfect pops of color.  The area expands by adding full height folding doors and extending the wood grain floor to the perfect outdoor seating area.

Screen shot 2012 01 10 at 8.50.41 AM 300x234 STYLE FILES: Five Fabulous Bedrooms Before and AfterScreen shot 2012 01 10 at 8.49.31 AM 300x234 STYLE FILES: Five Fabulous Bedrooms Before and AfterFrom no direction to beautiful harmony!  Taking out the heavy rug that weighed the room down, and bringing in a more neutral choice, the eye naturally moves upward to see the entire wonderful space.  I love the wall sconces over the desk area along with the pops of color that tie in with the headboard.

I hope that you enjoyed these bedroom makeovers and can see how uplifting a little transformation can be.  Don’t be afraid of change and the wonderful things that it can bring!

5AD32E5D80D0C1FAA3382E02E91FB880 STYLE FILES: Five Fabulous Bedrooms Before and After

Images via here

Speak Your Mind

*

INSPIRED MONDAY: Embrace Change

Hi everyone. Hope your week is off to a great start!

Often, I need a little pick-me up on Mondays and while my latte does help, being inspired really motivates me to work. So I thought, why not share a little inspiration at the start of each week to encourage myself and hopefully you too! This week we are going to be focusing on CHANGE. It’s sometimes tough to accept but remains the one constant we can rely on as we go through life…

122723158565447567 MHViKH8g c INSPIRED MONDAY: Embrace Change

24980972902671686 Z5s4Dp8R c INSPIRED MONDAY: Embrace Change

Change is truly the heart of interior design and our homes are an extension of our lives. Sometimes, small changes in our space can truly impact us…

So…what changes are you looking to make this year?
5AD32E5D80D0C1FAA3382E02E91FB880 INSPIRED MONDAY: Embrace Change

P.S. Check back tomorrow for a fabulous round-up of bedroom before & afters! See change at work!

Images via here and here.

 

Speak Your Mind

*

HOME TOURS – A Swedish Sanctuary

Brock Designs, Portland OR. Interior Design Company

As we look forward to the weekend, I want to take a quick moment and whisk you away to Sweden, well actually Florida, to inspire the calm and tranquil feel we are all looking for!  This design combines the elegance of 1930′s Swedish Classicism with the charming vernacular of turn-of-the-century wooden American seaside resort houses.  Feast your eyes on this….

Screen shot 2012 01 05 at 10.36.35 PM HOME TOURS   A Swedish Sanctuary

Screen shot 2012 01 05 at 10.33.52 PM1 HOME TOURS   A Swedish SanctuaryThe light and airy living room is very comfortable and inviting.  The tones on the walls are carried through to the ceiling to give the whole room a cohesive look.

Screen shot 2012 01 05 at 10.34.04 PM1 HOME TOURS   A Swedish Sanctuary

Screen shot 2012 01 05 at 10.34.22 PM1 HOME TOURS   A Swedish SanctuarySuch a beautiful outdoor space.  Adorned with soft white curtains, to block the east wind when needed, and the perfect setting for the dinner table whispers “calm down”.    Can’t you just picture yourself having your morning coffee while listening to the ocean?

Screen shot 2012 01 05 at 10.34.40 PM1 HOME TOURS   A Swedish SanctuaryThe quaint kitchen, with it’s soft yellow pallet and exposed brick-like back-splash, carries out the character of the house.

Screen shot 2012 01 05 at 10.34.54 PM1 HOME TOURS   A Swedish SanctuaryA perfect little “book nook” to snuggle in and read on those stormy days!

Screen shot 2012 01 05 at 10.35.06 PM1 HOME TOURS   A Swedish SanctuaryA sun room, that is surrounded by french doors to open up to nature, is absolutely perfect!  The two inward facing porch swings add a playful flair to the space.

Screen shot 2012 01 05 at 10.35.34 PM HOME TOURS   A Swedish SanctuaryThe master bedroom’s glorious view is flawlessly paired with plenty of seating to enjoy it.  Waking up to this view would be a dream!


Screen shot 2012 01 05 at 10.35.21 PM HOME TOURS   A Swedish Sanctuary

I love the classic sophistication and character of this house.  The contrast of the beautiful dark wood and the white cabinetry ground the space and give it dimension.   The pops of blue and yellow colors throughout the house gives you the feeling of warmth and sunshine even if you don’t live in a southern coastal region.

 

This weekend, be sure and take a little time for yourself, whether it is organizing a room to make you breathe easier, or just sitting and reading a book, make sure you do something that is important to you and your sense of well-being.  It’s a great start to a new year – enjoy life!

5AD32E5D80D0C1FAA3382E02E91FB880 HOME TOURS   A Swedish Sanctuary

Images via here

Speak Your Mind

*

DIY : Organize and Simplify Your Laundry Room

Brock Designs, Portland OR. Interior Design Company

 

On Tuesday, I hopefully inspired you with some pictures of luxurious laundry rooms.  Today, I am going to give you some fabulous DIY and organization projects that you can easily get done over the weekend and still have plenty of time to relax.

The first project is a washer and dryer pedestal like the one pictured below.  This is a fantastic way to get those pesky laundry baskets out from under our feet and all over the house as well as to keep it easy and organized to start a load or two, not to mention raising the machines to make it easier on the back!

Screen shot 2012 01 04 at 2.02.39 PM DIY : Organize and Simplify Your Laundry RoomImage via Ana White

You can get the shopping list and detailed instructions to make this wonderful pedestal here.

This “Drying Rack” (a painted ladder) gives you so much space and saves you from throwing your clothes over the top of the door to dry!

Screen shot 2012 01 04 at 2.17.34 PM DIY : Organize and Simplify Your Laundry Room

Image via Little Lucy Lu

So simple right?  Just paint an old wooden ladder, attach chains to it and the ceiling and voila….a perfect place to dry your delicate attire!

Or you can add a simple closet rod from wall to cabinet like this one.

Screen shot 2012 01 04 at 2.57.45 PM DIY : Organize and Simplify Your Laundry Room

A effortless shelf mounted above your machines will create the space you need for all of your detergents and miscellaneous items at an arms reach…and what a beautiful wall color against the white cabinetry!

Screen shot 2012 01 04 at 3.00.44 PM DIY : Organize and Simplify Your Laundry RoomImage via Cameras and Chaos

These perfect little baskets with mini chalkboards on them (which can be made with small pieces of wood and chalkboard paint) are great for those items that you need on hand for whenever they are needed.

Screen shot 2012 01 04 at 2.34.31 PM DIY : Organize and Simplify Your Laundry RoomImage via Houzz

For those of us that keep all of our cleaning supplies in the laundry room, here is a great way to keep them organized and easy to find.

Screen shot 2012 01 04 at 2.50.01 PM DIY : Organize and Simplify Your Laundry RoomImage via Houzz

These “towel rods” and hooks can be found at Ikea…simple!

I hope that these simple little projects will motivate you to get up and get organized and make some more space for yourself.  I know what I am going to be doing this weekend and I cannot wait!

Make it a great day,

5AD32E5D80D0C1FAA3382E02E91FB880 DIY : Organize and Simplify Your Laundry Room



Speak Your Mind

*

STYLE FILES: Lovely Laundry Rooms

Brock Designs, Portland OR. Interior Design Company

 

In this new year, I am craving to get organized, a “winter” clean if you will.  I decided that the perfect place to start is in the laundry room.  It’s the place where we spend much more of our time than maybe we would like to.  Why not create a space that we’d actually enjoy working in?

Screen shot 2012 01 02 at 7.35.48 PM STYLE FILES: Lovely Laundry RoomsImage via remodeling therapy

I love this beautiful and aesthetic laundry room.  The red machines pop against the steel grey cabinets.  The center island with the sink is a perfect work space.

Screen shot 2012 01 02 at 7.42.36 PM STYLE FILES: Lovely Laundry RoomsImage by Haute Box via Houzz

Natural light is a bonus in any work area.  If you are lucky enough to have a window, treat it with beautiful fabric and choose a paint color for the walls that will make you happy.  The stacking washer and dryer are a great way to save space and have been proven to be less noisy.

Screen shot 2012 01 02 at 7.54.57 PM STYLE FILES: Lovely Laundry RoomsImage by Frog Hill Designs via Honey & Fitz

Oh the storage!  These custom cabinets allow for all of the extra needs for a laundry room, including a fold out ironing board, cleaning centers with doors to hide it all away.

Screen shot 2012 01 02 at 8.01.06 PM STYLE FILES: Lovely Laundry RoomsImage via Swagalicious

I just love this wonderful laundry area.  The storage space and marble enclosure makes it not only beautiful but very functional.  Add an under the counter TV to watch your favorite show or listen to music while you work.

Screen shot 2012 01 02 at 8.16.08 PM STYLE FILES: Lovely Laundry RoomsImage by Spinnaker Development via Houzz

This grand laundry room is magnificent!  The custom antiqued cabinets provide plenty of extra storage – so organized and beautiful.

Screen shot 2012 01 02 at 8.21.31 PM STYLE FILES: Lovely Laundry RoomsImage by Charlie & Co. Design, Ltd. via Houzz

I know this isn’t exactly a laundry room but I would be remiss if I didn’t add in this gorgeous mud room where each person gets their own “cubby” area for their belongings.  What a great way to keep the rest of the house from the clutter!

I hope that these pictures inspire you as much as they did me!  Make sure to check back the rest of this week for DIY projects and organization ideas for your laundry room. I am ready to get mine looking luxurious….are you?

5AD32E5D80D0C1FAA3382E02E91FB880 STYLE FILES: Lovely Laundry Rooms

Speak Your Mind

*