Art Deco

What is the first thing you think of when you think of Art Deco design? I bet it wasn't this!

It certainly wasn't what I thought of... But the "Christ the Redeemer" statue that overlooks Rio de Janeiro, Brazil is considered to be the largest Art Deco statue in the world.

So if this is an example of Art Deco, what exactly is Art Deco?

Art deco style graphic posters are becoming popular art for interiors spaces.

Art Deco is a design style that began in France in the 1920's, but took off internationally in the 1930's and 40's. Typical Art Deco style contains bright colours, bold geometric shapes and ornamentation. Art Deco embraced modern technology by using materials that had not been used previously.

The Chrysler Building in New York city is an incredible example of art deco architecture.
When it was built, the Chrysler Building was the tallest skyscraper in the world until it was surpassed by
the Empire State Building a mere 11 months later!

Art Deco furniture is typically laid out in symmetrical patterns and often uses inlays and lacquers.

Components of Art Deco style have been popping up in design magazines over the past few years. The Chevron pattern, also called zigzag or herringbone, can be found on fabrics, rugs, tile patterns and paint treatments.

Chevron pattern.

Modern take on the classic Sunburst mirror, an iconic Art Deco design element. 

A few years ago, my mom and I took a trip to Florida and spent a day in South Beach, Miami. Having seen the iconic buildings on movies and TV over the years, I had a fairly good idea of what to expect. It did not disappoint! Miami is the Art Deco capital of the world followed by Mumbai, India.

Sunny South Beach

The Marriott in South Beach

New India Assurance Building in Mumbai, India

Beautifully lit Hotel Dasaprakash in Mumbai, India

Art Deco was forward thinking for the time and embraced modernity. The clean lines and geometric shapes used in Art deco design make it easy to blend with mid-century modern design... a personal favourite of mine. :)

The art deco inspired chevron patterned rug blends seamlessly with this mid-century modern chair. 

I've often associated Art Deco design with Old Hollywood Glam. Old Hollywood glam design is very plush (think velvets in deep, moody colours), mixed with fur throws and lots of bling (mirrored tables, sparkly chandeliers, silver or gold leafed furniture). Art Deco blends seamlessly with Old Hollywood Glam since Art Deco itself is definitely meant to show off.

If you would like to incorporate some Art Deco elements in your own home, SF Girl by Bay blog has some great ideas! The overall pink, gold and black colour scheme is decidedly art deco. I love how she seamlessly incorporates mid-century furniture (dresser in bedroom) with some Moroccan flair (those lovely poufs that are popping up everywhere). Here's a peak at her girly space with some great Art Deco pieces!

The mid-century modern dresser blends seamlessly in the space.

To me, Art Deco is fun, playful and sometimes a bit wild. It's a style that doesn't seem to take itself too seriously. Today's interpretation of Art Deco tends to incorporate a few key pieces to a space without being overwhelming. It ups the glam factor without being gaudy and has great energy... a space I would be right at home in!



Links:

http://homeklondike.com/2011/03/01/wonderful-art-deco-inspired-penthouse-by-phyllis-harbinger/8-wonderful-art-deco-inspired-penthouse-by-phyllis-harbinger-buffet-cabinet/

http://wonderfulworldreview.blogspot.ca/2011/05/statue-of-christ-redeemer-is-located-at.html

http://www.flickriver.com/photos/tags/scraper/interesting/

http://www.furniture.ie/community/discussion/617/wanted-art-deco-furniture/

http://www.getintravel.com/adventure-travel-to-miami-south-beach-in-florida-united-states/beautiful-houses-in-art-deco-style-in-south-miami/

http://pinterest.com/pin/101894010291233611/

http://pinterest.com/pin/258534834828880805/

http://www.globaleventforum.com/hotels/south-beach-marriott

http://www.veniceclayartists.com/demolition-and-buffalo-karma-in-chennai/

Moroccan Inspired Design

Across the Gibraltar Strait, directly below Spain, lies the North African country of Morocco. In recent years, there has been a noticeable rise of Moroccan influence in North American and European design. So what exactly is Moroccan design?

Moroccan culture is rich and vibrant. It it known for it's beautiful furniture and vibrant jewel-toned colours. If anything, Moroccan style is all about the details... think intricate tile work done with hand-painted tiles, hand woven rugs and exquisitely detailed ceilings. Moroccan style has become very popular in the past few years and many North American retailers are now selling anything Moroccan inspired for every room in the home!

Modern Moroccan Tile from Filmore Clark

Modern and traditional rugs

Lighting is an important part of Moroccan design. These days, it seems Moroccan inspired lanterns can be found almost anywhere. The lanterns are typically made of metal or brass and/or brightly coloured glass. The metal lanterns usually have many intricate cut-outs that cast interesting shadows in a space.

Real Moroccan lamps are one of a kind and considered works of art.

I loved reading about designer and blogger, Alexandra Torre's, trip to Morocco
and viewing her stunning photos like this one!

In Marrakesh, the capital of Morocco, beautiful archways are a predominant feature of the architecture.

Many DIY design blogs are showcasing stencil treatments for walls that resemble the archways.

This blogger made over her bathroom with an easy DIY stencil.
The results were done on a dime and are impressive!

The geometric shapes of the arches are also found in modern fabrics and look great on pillows and curtains.

An easy way to add Moroccan flair to any space is to use throw pillows. Many Moroccan fabrics are brightly coloured and are an easy way to add a pop of colour.

Neutral coloured throw pillows. 

Brightly coloured pillows are an easy way to inject energy in a space. 

Poufs (Moroccan leather ottomans) are a huge trend right now. They are available in many colours to suit any decor and are an easy way to add some colour to a space. You can order them online through many companies, although I really love the ones from Bohemia.

Moroccan interiors are all about luxury and comfort. Daybeds topped with beautiful throws and pillows make a cozy place to relax.

Yes please!!!

Moroccan inspired spaces are glamorous, cozy and inviting all at the same time. The use of pattern gives a space visual texture and interest. Bright colours liven up a space and inject energy. If the overall space is kept neutral, throw pillows are an easy way to add a pop of colour and can be changed as often as you like for an instant mini makeover. It's no wonder why this design style is so popular!

Links:

http://www.refinery29.com/marrakesh-by-design-tips

http://www.craftsy.com/project/view/moroccan-lanterns/43666

http://furniture.about.com/od/styleguide/ss/Moroccan-Furniture-And-Decor_7.htm

http://alexandratorre.blogspot.ca/2012/07/beyond-pouf-designer-in-morocco.html

http://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/2460685/thumbs/www.houzz.com/ideabooks/2460685/list/Moroccan-room

http://www.saffronmarigold.com/blog/moroccan-bedding-seaside-and-spice-style/

http://www.transitionsabroad.com/listings/travel/narrative_travel_writing/feasting_in_fez_morocco.shtml

www.filmoreclark.com

http://www.bohemiadesign.co.uk

http://www.hgtv.com/decorating-basics/12-exotic-moroccan-inspired-rooms/pictures/index.html

http://bohemiantreehouse.com/bohemian-daybed/

What the heck is Shabby Chic?

What does Shabby Chic really mean?

I've heard the term a million times, but what does "shabby chic" actually mean? "The name alone pretty much sums it up", I thought to myself. Chic design that is a bit shabby, right? Well, yes and no. It is those things, but so much more, as I have discovered.

Shabby chic is a form of interior design that uses worn furniture or furniture that has been distressed to give the look of an aged piece. It is a soft look (think English cottage mixed with casual Californian beachy style), that is light and airy. The term "shabby chic" was coined in 1989 by Rachel Ashwell and became really popular in the 1990s, especially in LA and San Francisco.

This is a great shot taken from HGTV's website. It's light and airy, yet feels cozy... 

Makes me want to curl up and read a good book.

The furniture pieces themselves become works of art. 

When you search for "shabby chic" online, the first thing that pops up is the website (and blog) of 

Rachel Ashwell. She is after all, the mother of Shabby chic... 

Each room is so inviting...

The detail on this bed frame is amazing...

Last spring, my sister-in-law (and fellow design enthusiast) asked if I would help redo her deck area. I can't resist a makeover so a few weeks later we spent three gruelling days sanding, scraping, painting, reupholstering, shopping and, last but not least... staging. We make a pretty great team. Prettiest shabby chic deck I have ever seen, if I do say so myself. ;)

The "Before"

And "After"

Almost everything we used to stage were items my sister-in-law already owned!

The table and four main chairs were handed down from my sister-in-law's parents. 

They are originally from Holland and are about 100 years old. 

The seats were made from springs and covered in straw!!  

We reupholstered them and the wood was in desperate need of some oil...

And the 70 year old table, also handed down from her in-laws, got a mini makeover as well...

When it comes to celebrity nurseries, shabby chic is apparently the only way to go! Jennifer Lopez, Beyoncé, Victoria Beckham, Jennie Garth and Jessica Simpson (to name a few) decked out their babies' nurseries in shabby chic decor. 

Jessica Simpson's daughter's nursery. Designed by Rachel Ashwell...

Jennie Garth's Daughter's nursery. 

Dr. Phil's 1st granddaughter has a shabby chic nursery!

Mix together loose-fitting, white slipcovers for sofas and chairs... pale pastels... muted colours for fabrics and walls... soft florals... rustic flea market finds and you will be on your way to having the  iconic Shabby Chic look. Throw in a crystal chandelier for some glamour, a plush throw to up the "cozy" factor and you will have one amazing shabby chic room!

For all things shabby chic, go to Iheartshabbychic.blogspot.ca. The blog has oodles of pictures, videos... absolutely amazing!

List of links:

http://www.hgtv.com/decorating/design-styles-defined/pictures/index.html

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shabby_chic

http://www.shabbychic.com/gallery/interiors-and-exteriors/

http://www.shabbychic.com/gallery/details/

http://www.nurserythemeideas.com/jessica-simpsons-million-dollar-baby-nursery-for-girl

http://www.celebritybabyscoop.com/2007/05/16/jennie-garths-nursey-bedding

http://swankybaby.net/2011/08/celebrity-baby-nurseries.html

http://www.withlovefromkat.com/2011/06/refined-shabby-chic.html

Eeny meeny miny moe. Mid-Century it is!

Eeny meeny miny moe. Pick a style by the toe.

I didn't think I would have a hard time trying to choose design styles to "dissect" in my blog. As I mentioned in my last post, there are literally hundreds of design styles to chose from. I have my personal favourites of course, but part of the reason I chose to do this blog, was to learn about styles that I don't normally gravitate towards. After much deliberation, I have settled on "Mid-Century Modern" for my first post. It is my personal favourite... the style that inspires me the most (and makes me want to throw out every piece of furniture I own and start over)! Although I know quite a bit about this style, I am always excited to learn more. 

What is Mid-Century Modern design?

It is design from, well, the middle of the century. The 20th century to be exact. According to Wikipedia, it describes design from 1933-1965, but is typically used to describe design from the 1950's. It's style is "recognized world wide as a significant design movement". 

Mid-century modern design is known for spaces with many windows and open concept floor plans. Sounds like modern homes today, but in 1950, using posts and beams to eliminate bulky support walls had never been done before. 

So what makes mid-century modern different from modern?

Mid-century modern has a very distinct look that, once you know what you are looking for, is easily recognizable. Furniture and spaces from this era were designed for function. Many furniture pieces had angular legs and lacked detail. Spaces typically used wood in some form... wood ceilings, wood panelling, wood furniture, etc. The apparent simplicity of these pieces and spaces are what makes them beautiful. 

I particularly love the chairs in this photo. 

They are undoubtedly mid-century modern and were built to last.

An original Florence Knoll sofa ($9969 from Design Within Reach).

Reminds me of something I saw at IKEA last week... ;)

Who doesn't love floor-to-ceiling windows?

Mid-century in Movies

I am a mother of two small kids, and kids love to watch movies over and over... One of my son's favourite's from a few years ago was "The Incredibles". Have you ever paid attention to the interior of their family home? It is an absolutely perfect example of mid-century modern design. How had I never noticed?! I came across this tid-bit of information on midcenturymodernist.com. Here are a few of the pictures I nabbed from the site. The kitchen may not be so dreamy, but check out the exterior of the house. I happen to think it's pretty fantastic (even if it is an animation).

Blast from the past...

If you were born before 1985, you may recognize this house.

 If you guessed it was from "Ferris Buhler's Day Off" (1986), you would be correct!

Mid-century modern design is known for it's ample windows...

If a picture is worth a thousand words....

One of the greatest design teams of mid-century furniture is Charles and Ray Eames. You may not know who they are, but if you have ever flipped through a design magazine, I'm sure you will recognize their furniture. These are but a few of their many iconic pieces...

Last but not least, the office chair I've been coveting...

This little beauty will set you back about $2000 from Design Within Reach. 

If you are a fan of the band "Maroon 5" and their front man, Adam Levine, you will appreciate him even more after clicking on this video link. Adam's Hollywood Hills home was featured in the March 2012 issue of Architectural Digest. His home is an incredible example of mid-century design, including furniture pieces designed by Florence Knoll and George Nelson, two of the most influential designers of their time. 

That is one seriously gorgeous man coffee table!

One of the greatest things about Interior Design is that it's constantly changing and is always up for interpretation. One designer's vision for mid-century modern design may be quite different from another's. I hope my blog will inspire you, and help you discover your favourite style. 

On a side note... 

I am open for suggestions for upcoming posts. If there is a style that you love and want me to dig up information for, or maybe you've heard of a style and would like to know more, please leave a comment and I would be more than happy to check it out!


List of links used in this post:

http://www.designshuffle.com/blog/files/2011/07/mid-century-modern-wabi-sabi.jpg

http://dwr.scene7.com/is/image/DWR/PD_12943_MAIN?$main$

http://inthralld.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Rich-Mid-Century-Retro-Home-In-Los-Angeles-1.jpeg

http://midcenturymodernist.com/2009/culture/film-tv/the-incredibles-mid-century-ideal/

http://www.designattractor.com/2011_01_01_archive.html

http://jetsetmag.com/newsroom/give-your-home-the-mad-men-look-with-charles-eames-furniture/

http://www.rexkelly.com/images/products/lcw.jpg

http://www.conranshop.co.uk/conrancatalog/product/xlarge/global/images/main/600767.png

http://www.tippycustoms.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/Eames-Low-Back-Ribbed-Office-Chair1-e1346094282312.png

http://www.architecturaldigest.com/video/2012/02/1439150270001