A few years ago, I came upon EverGreene Architectural Arts.  You know the joy when you discover a company whose sheer craftsmanship and dedication to excellence oozes out of every image, every project and even every pore of their website?  Exactly.  Evergreene is truly a special and unique studio — one of the finest in the country.  Their scope of work is astounding — please do take some time to see their artistry.

We are proud to profile one of their recent projects, the lobby ceiling of a building along Fifth Avenue in New York City.  The project had undergone multiple renovations and the original entrance had an unusually narrow, low-ceilinged lobby. After adding lobby height and width, the new entrance and portal was then roofed with a shallow arch, evoking the building’s crown.  The commercial project had a decidedly contemporary vibe and the technique was designed by Robin Roi, the head of their decorative finishes department.

First, the team primed the surface and then created a textured pattern in a dark green color, which was the color that the client wanted to come through the final gilding.

The artists made a textured finish with heavy acrylic paint and massive brushes in a swirled pattern and then gilded it with aluminum leaf.

Close-up

It was all then sanded and abraded it lightly to reveal the texture even more. Finally, it was glazed to match the rest of the lobby.

Close-up

The gorgeous finish blends beautifully with the Travertine walls, patterned terrazzo floors and marble accents.

The final images are by Jock Pottle. All are courtesy of EverGreene Architectural Arts.

EverGreene advises that there’s a long historic precedent for this style, specifically, combed plaster from the aesthetic movement in the 1880s. It was actually more a style than a movement and was in response to the Victorian clutter of Gothic Revival.  To a certain extent, they used influences of the Far East as stylistic cues. Edward William Godwin is the architect that more or less typifies this style.  Taking the contemporary interior in mind, Robin Roi created a more abstract version of the textural aesthetic movement wall coverings for this project.  I think the technique is gorgeous and so well done — and am enchanted with the final colorations.

Since 1978, EverGreene has been creating award-winning designs and projects for special clients.  Their studio has several facets, including restoration and conservation along with sacred, civic and theatrical works.   In fact, they have a fascinating short video explaining how architectural conservators explore, sample and test historic interiors to determine past layers of history and suggest an appropriate plan of action.

The company also keeps a wonderful blog where they share some of their projects. You can also keep up with them via their Facebook fan page.  A warm Thank You! goes out to EverGreene Architectural Arts (and especially their Communications Director, James Tarmy) for sharing their project and incredible artistry with us.  What a beautiful way to end the week — enjoy the weekend, dear Readers!

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Hello Everyone!

If you open your mind wide enough, you can find inspiration in just about anything. For me artwork is one of my favorite sources for creative spark. Last week I used a photograph of a Hamilton Ontario side street taken by M. Christine Duncan as the inspiration for a room’s design. Today, to create a formal living area, I am going to draw on a great masterpiece that is said to be the most famous painting in the world – the Mona Lisa by Leonardo Da Vinci .

For my first step, I always decide on my color pallette. As I looked at the painting I new right away that I wanted to go with warm earthy tones and chose a pallette that would work well with that. The four colors I selected are from Sherwin-Williams. Each would be beautiful as they are or used as the base for a decorative finish. My color pallette…

Next I chose my upholstered pieces…

Source: Golden Settee, Darra Brown Floral Chair, Olive Velvet Club Chair  – Horchow

Then came hard furnishings, lighting, drapery, rugs and accessories…

Source: Schonbek Bagatelle Collection Crystal Pendant Chandelier – Lamps Plus
Flocked Velvet Damask Brown Pillow & Dupioni Silk Cream Envelope Pillow – Pillow Decor
Paramount Curtains – Horchow, McDermott Jar with Lid – Home Decorators
Fable Chest, Felicie Oval Mirror, Margaux Accent Table  – Horchow
Constantine Rug – Home Decorators, Carved Two-Tone Brown Table Lamp – Lamps Plus
Elaine Table Runner – Home Decorators

The beautiful finishes on the wood furniture and upholstered pieces can be recreated by many talented decorative artists. There are also artists that specialize in antique mirror finishes. Personally, I think the mirror that I selected would work even better if it had one of those lovely finishes!

Even though I saw this room with warm dark wood and earthy tones, I still saw it as very feminine. A place that was grand but inviting; a place where you could spend an entire afternoon just enjoying the view. Have you ever used one of the great masterpieces or a more recent work of art as your muse? Where do you draw inspiration?

Cheers to all,
Peggy

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“This is my invariable advice to people: Learn how to cook – try new recipes, learn from your mistakes, be fearless, and above all have fun!”
― Julia Child, My Life in France

I thought a quote by Julia Child would be a wonderful ice breaker into the next week-long series announcement: Kitchens.  It is also appropriate because in the time that we’ve had the week-long series events — an entire week dedicated to one area with five chosen studios to profile — so much has been learned.  What works, what doesn’t and which projects help ignite imaginations.

We continually strive to improve and have made a few changes to our submission and selection process — and one change which will make you really happy.

For the first time ever, each of the artists and/or designers in the series will receive a sponsored prize AND five lucky readers will win a prize as well.  Yay!  So, without further ado…

Are you ready for your close-up?

Cabinets with a rubbed finish of black over Chinese blue, lined in gold. Featured in Architectural Digest.

KITCHENS

The heart of the home — and a place where memories become beloved stories.

We help create these rooms that provide an inspiring, fun and warm environment.

Fauxology is looking for these Kitchens — the ones that have something extraordinary. Something unique. Something completely artistic.

The submissions lines are now open — and here are the details:

• Deadline: Friday, March 2, 2012
• E-mail: Submissions@Fauxology.com with the subject line Kitchen Week Submission
• Entries: One project per e-mail. Please send as many projects (and images per project) as you’d like.  E-mail must have your name, company and quick overview of project, including the year completed.
• Surfaces: Any overall design is eligible as well as any surface in the kitchen, including but not limited to cabinetry, counter tops, walls, ceilings, canvas works and flooring.
• Images: Can include before and during shots, but there must be images of the completed room.
• Note: Please do advise us of the publications your project has been featured in. We are ideally looking to feature projects that were not the sole focus of a prior publication, the exception being websites, blogs and fan pages personal to the artist and/or designer.

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If chosen for one of the five slots during Kitchen Week, you will be sent follow-up info by Sunday, March 11th.  Those chosen will have their own one-day feature on Fauxology during Kitchen Week in April 2012 — and win a prize along with five lucky readers!

Thank you — and I hope to see your project in there!

2/3 UPDATE: After receiving quite a few e-mails with questions, we’ve decided to update two of the areas in the submission requirements.  In terms of the publishing, the actual project must not have been the focus and/or sole image of a prior publication, with the exception of pages and sites personal to the artist and/or designer and in terms of the timeline, we ask that you send us the year your project was completed in.  Thank you!

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Classic design never goes out of style and always adds a note of sophistication to any room. One of those classics that has been around for centuries is Chinoiserie.  Now you know I’m a stickler for correct pronunciation, so here it is: “shēn-ˈwäz-rē”. That’s “shēn” like in “Martin Sheen“, “wäz” like in “out the wazoo” and “rē” like in “repeat this word 10 times and you own it”. Then put it all together!

Chinoiserie is a French term that refers to a European artistic style that began in the 17th century in which objects and decoration are inspired by Chinese design. Chinese motifs are reflected in furnishings, fabrics, accessories and other decoration.

I’ve put together some decorative items for you that represent this style…

Top Row: Silk Pillow, Porcelain Lamp with Silk Shade
Bottom Row: Mother of Pearl Motif Porcelain Vase,
Chinoiserie Bombay Chest, Terracotta Tang Dancer
Source: China Furniture Online

Chinoiserie murals are a popular way to bring this style to a space in a way that has major impact. Talented San Fransisco mural artist, Lynne Rutter draws inspiration from her world travels to create the most beautiful Chinoiserie imagery. This post wouldn’t be complete without including a few samples of her magnificent work. Here are three for you to enjoy…

Above: This modern interpretation of classic Chinoiserie wallpaper murals was specially designed for this room in one of San Francisco’s period mansions.
Photography: David Duncan Livingston

Above: This formal powder room features a hand-painted chinoiserie room mural, faux marble console and baseboards. It was designed by Lynne for the 2002 San Francisco Decorator Showcase.

Above: Three layers of silver leafed moulding and hand-painted chinoiserie panels were used to add architectural balance and subtle color accents to this glamorous Art Deco-inspired bedroom.
Interior Design:  Paula McChesney
Photography: David Duncan Livingston

Note: I especially love the marriage of Chinoiserie and Art Deco in that last photo! If you’ve read my previous post on Art Deco, you can easily recognize the Art Deco influences in this space.

If you’re not blessed with an artist’s hand, there are myriad stencils available to help you create this look. Here are a few samples for you…

Source: The Stencil Library, Made in England

While gathering photos, I came upon the most FABULOUS installation of Chinoiserie that I just had to share with you! This amazing artwork was done by the talented Metall-FX. They were commissioned by interior designers Alex Kravetz Design to create this outstanding series of Chinoiserie doors and panels in the Grand Ballroom of the Dorchester Hotel in London. Prepare to be amazed…

Here’s a close-up view so you can see the detail of their work…

Sort of takes your breath away, doesn’t it? (Next week I’ll be bringing you more of their remarkable artwork and share with you how they create it.)

Chinoiserie is such a versatile style that plays well with others. It can be classic, modern or a little of both. If you’d like to learn more about this fanciful style, Lynne Rutter did a wonderful indepth post that you really must read!

Have you used this style in a space or done any work with it?

Cheers to all!
Peggy

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I love murals.  I think they can add so much to a space and in many ways, bring a design together.  There are many types of murals but today I thought I’d focus on (what I call) shadow murals.  This is artistry achieved with an unenbellished design and a singular color — but together they make a nice impact.  Let’s see what I’m talking about…

Such a great idea – one color layered over the other. Courtesy of Minor Details.

Love the bringing up of the singular color and then creating a landscape with it. Via French Knot (above) and Wet Canvas (below).

Designer Audrey Brandt had shadows painted in this room — just as if trees were right outside the window on a great day. I like the effect a lot. Via Home workshop.

On the subject of trees, here are palms on a landing.  I do have to say one thing — I don’t think anything should have covered the lovely work of artist Kristin Moro.  The canvas is wonderful, but it actually takes a bit of the kick away for me.

Finally, a whimsical one to close the post.  I feel as if the objects might come to life at any minute!  Photographed by Simon Bevan and featured in Designers Block.

Did you enjoy these?  I wanted to also leave you with an incredible artist, Rashad Alakbarov, who creates astonishing “paintings” on walls via ordinary objects using light and shadow.  Please do click on the link to see the ingenuity.  May your day be filled with imagination — and seeing shadows in a whole new light.  Pun intended, of course.

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Hello Everyone! Happy Monday to you; I hope you all had a great weekend.

A client once asked me where I found inspiration when beginning a design project. The answer to that question was easy – EVERYWHERE and then some!

One fun place I find color inspiration is on magazine covers. And I don’t just mean decorating and design magazines. Fashion magazines are a great place to get color ideas for a room, too. Professional stylists are at work choosing just the right color combinations for the clothing, accessories, and make-up. They also have pros working on choosing the background and font colors so that everything works together. Half of the job has been done for you. Now all you have to do is pull out the colors that you like and voila! You have the start of something beautiful.

I’ve put together a bedroom for you that was inspired by a popular fashion magazine.  I hope you like it.

Here’s the cover that was my inspiration along with the paint colors that I pulled from it:

Cover: British Vogue, April 2008 with Victoria Beckham   Paint: Sherwin Williams

Now, here’s the room I put together:

Sources: 1 - Dresser with linen finish: Horchow,  2 - Art: Art.com,
3 - Silver leaf bed: French Style Chairs,  4 - Ivory Pillow: Etsy – Pink Pillow: Etsy,
5 - Tea Lights: ZGallerie, 6 - Rug: The Rug Company,
7 - Decorative Finish: “Shabby Chic” by Faux Design Studio, 8 - Chandelier: Crystorama

And here they are side-by-side:

The design goes beyond just the color selection. The cover is soft, romantic and very feminine; so is the room.  The sparkle of her jewelry is reflected in the selection of the crystals of the chandelier, the tea lights and the silver leaf bed. The curved lines of the embossing in the wall finish are echoed in the lines of the chandelier and the bed, too. Finally, the rug beautifully ties it all together.

We all have special ways to get our creative juices flowing. I love to hear how and where other designers and artists find their inspiration. Where do you find yours?

Cheers to all,
Peggy
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In the 18th century, women and men retired to different rooms after dinner — women left to the drawing room and men stayed in the dining room to enjoy their drinks. Nowadays, the rooms are used more equally but more often that not, only for special occasions.  We sometimes are running around so quickly, that we have meals in the kitchen or in the alternate, while lounging in the family room.  However, everyone mostly agrees that the Dining Room holds a very special place in the home and as such, is often decorated beautifully.  In this design, Sheri Zeman of Chicago’s Faux Design Studio shows us a space that definitely falls under that category.

THE POP OF STENCILING

Close-up of crushed glass

Sheri Zeman: I was requested by the Painters Union to design the space for the annual Dining by Design gala by the Design Industries Foundation Fighting AIDS (DIFFA) organization.  Dining by Design showcases spectacular displays of cuisine, glamour and creative design and is presented along with the Architectural Digest Home Show.  For this space, our theme was “Metropolitan” and we decided to use Faux Effects products on every possible surface.  Everything you see in the picture – the floor, walls, table base and table top were all “fauxed”.

The table was MDF board, woodgrained with Stain & Seal to appear as a beautiful walnut inlay. The base and floor were also particle board, and RSCrete™ was used to simulate a 2’ Limestone blocks. Troweled on the table base was RS Stone and troweled on the walls, a light LusterStone.  The overall stencil is the Loft 101 Hudston stencil and it was embedded with black crushed glass.  (The glass is decorative — completely safe to handle!) The project took about 2 weeks to complete and was executed by the apprentices from the JATC with the booth was sponsored by the FCAC.  The event — and our area — was an incredible success!

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Sheri Zeman creates some of the most innovative finishes and her Faux Design Studio is very well-respected. I recently took a class from her and could not be more pleased with the samples. (In fact, take a peek at a design board we created with one of them, Marcello.)  I love those glass beads — in every color.  Please be sure to visit and “like” her Facebook fan page to keep abreast of all the new samples and commissions her company produces.  Thank you, Sheri, for sharing this cool contemporary project!  And THANK YOU, dear Readers, for coming along with us during Dining Room Week — we hope you’ve enjoyed the projects, stories and above all, the exceptional creativity. Have a great weekend!

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