Client Before & After

Sometimes all a piece of furniture needs is a little makeover.  I have been working with a client for several months now and have transformed their home from shades of golds and reds to soft, inviting and calm neurtrals.

One of the pieces they had was a round tufted ottoman that simply needed a little makeover.  The size was perfect for the space, but the colors and style were off.   Instead of tossing it and buying something new, I suggested getting it reupholstered.   It was in perfectly good shape and I knew I could transform it into a piece that would be absolutely perfect for their new design plan.

BEFORE

This was how the ottoman looked when they hired me.  It needed an update with more current fabrics and a new skirt style.  Notice how tight the pleats on the skirt were.

AFTER

Here is what the ottoman looks like now!  I chose a classic linen fabric with a chic Greek key trim to bring the piece up-to-date and fit with the new overall design concept.  My upholsterer worked their magic and the result is exactly how I envisioned!

Please note, I am not able to give sources to furnishings and accessories used in client projects as they hire me to create these spaces for them.  Thank you for your understanding.

If you would like help creating a home you absolutely love, email me at info@mariannesimondesign.com

 for more information and rates.

Schoolhouse Electric & Supply Co.

It's been awhile since I've checked out Schoolhouse Electric & Supply Co.  They really have added some great pieces to their collection that I just adore.  You know I love my neutrals and their offerings are no exception!  The classic and simplistic lines are timeless.  What do you think?  Do you see anything you could use in your own home?

Details

I have always been one to notice details.  From the stitching on a pillow, the way a flower falls in a vase, the way a ribbon is tied on a package or a pattern on a garden gate, I tend to take it all in.  I'm drawn to it, I crave it and I am inspired by it.  Sometimes the simplest of things can be displayed in the most captivating way.  Is not necessarily the object, but the texture, the color, the weight of it, or the way it reflects light.  Beauty is all around us!

What draws you in?

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Inspired

I had the pleasure of hearing the lovely Barbara Barry speak yesterday at the Seattle Design Center.  She introduced her new collection for Kravet called Indochine.  I have not heard her speak before and was beyond moved and inspired by her words.  You know when you listen to someone and hang on to every word because what they're saying is so meaningful and thought provoking?  She is so incredibly genuine and sincere that you don't want it to end.  Of course, I didn't think about bringing my camera for a photo and left my phone in the car, so no photo of the event.  Trust me on this one, it was spectacular!

She shared personal photos from her travels to Asia and how it inspired her collection.  Seeing things through her eyes as she described each and every image was simply mesmerizing to say the least. 

Here are a few images of the trims being offered in this collection.  They are gorgeous!

P.S.  She's writing a book that will be released in Fall 2012.  I cannot wait to get my hands on a copy!

Splendid

I could not be happier for my dear friend, Monika.  She has filled her online store, Splendid Willow Avenue, with the most wonderful things.  Since I am fortunate to have Monika as a local friend, I have been able to see almost all her new merchandise in person and have fallen in love with every single piece.  I love that she offers unique items and has stayed true to her Scandinavian roots.

I'm ordering this little number, the Splendid Silver Bar Necklace.  You can wear it with anything!

This one is a beauty too.  How gorgeous is this Chunky Bead Necklace in green?!  It comes in 4 stunning colors and the glass beads are exquisite.

Remember when Monika was featured in Rue magazine? She was wearing the white necklace in this photo.  Her son William is such a sweet boy...

These Mouse in a Matchbox are even better in person.  The quality is unbelievable.  I can think of countless kids to give these to.  You should really think about stocking up.  Dare I say, Christmas?  The perfect stocking stuffer for the kiddos.  When Monika first showed them to me, her kids were playing with them for hours.

And the tiny Wooden Pram... the cutest!

Don't forget to get the High Chair too.  A mouse does have to eat after all!

Hello, happy Pink Pig.  Every little one needs something to snuggle with...

And these Sheep Skin Pelts... Be still my heart!

Don't forget about the Ilse Jacobsen boots.  Fall is coming and you wouldn't want your feet to get wet in the rain.  Many colors and sizes to choose from...

So, what are you waiting for?  Check out Splendid Willow Avenue!