Unique Framing

I often have clients ask me if when arranging artwork on a wall, do the frames need to match? This is a matter of opinion, and my opinion is no. I tend to stray away from "matchy-matchy" in my designs, so I prefer the uniqueness of frames being different. We currently are working on a wall for a client where we're framing multiple pieces of children's art. We did some matted, some not; they are mostly different sizes, and the frames range from a decorative gilded gold style, to a bronze colored frame. When they are finished, we will arrange them artfully on the feature wall. It definitely will be eye catching.

Decorating Economically

Currently I have a design project that has been a lot of fun. Essentially we have changed the look of the space mainly by using what they have and adding some accessories. For instance, we started out by adding some blinds and simple window treatments. These treatments were made from left over fabric from the re-upholstering of two chairs. We also re-arranged the open floor plan, and made the seating more cozy. A large rectangular rug was cut down and binded into a smaller, round rug. Fun, and different, since you don't see round rugs that often. We added some custom throw pillow and a tailored slipcover to the existing couch. (Much less expensive than purchasing a new couch).

We also did a wall featuring family photos on photo ledge shelves (check out www.potterybarn.com). Finally, we're finishing out the project by custom framing their children's art, and we'll feature these works of art on a prominent wall. This has been really exciting project, because I love utilizing what the client has. They have been so thrilled to re-use a lot of their items, but the room has an entirely "new" feel to it!

We're celebrating 13 years!

We are celebrating 13 years in the design business! Distinctive Designs got it's start by designing wine bags and marketing them to local wine shops. Little by little, we got requests for table linens, custom teacozy's, garden smocks and pillows. We marketed these to tea houses, gift shops, kitchen stores and home stores. Eventually, we switched over to interiors when the demand for custom window treatments grew big. We do primarily residential design and cover all areas from window treatments, color consultations, upholstery, room arrangement and shopping services. We serve a wide variety of clientele as well.

It's been an exciting 13 years and we look forward to many more years!

Is it Fall already?

I realize it's been awhile since I've written. Now that the hustle and bustle of the summer is over, and school is back in, I am going to write much more often to keep you up to date on what's new.

There is the crisp fall air outside, and that always brings out the nesting instinct in me. It's nice to get out those warm sweaters and Fall accessories. One thing I do change with the seasons is to change my slipcover on my living room couch from a creme cotton waffle weave to a creme damask chenille. While it's still the same color, there is something about it that says "sit down, grab a magazine and settle in". I also like to change out the pillows to a persimmon red, it's very cozy and comforting.

Speaking of magazines, I always have people ask me what I like. One of my favorites is Domino. I read it cover to cover, and love how they feature different types of homes and how they are decorated. To me, it's like real life decorating. The designs look comfortable and lived in. They also feature great websites to check out like My Deco File at www.Dominomag.com. You can gather all of your finds in one spot.

Enjoy!