Relocating?

March 18, 2010 by Lynda  
Filed under Events

Looking to relocate to Boston?  Join us for an informative talk on downsizing and relocating to the Boston metro area. I have partnered with Bob Ernst of FBN Construction and Frann Billus of Otis and Ahearn Real Estate to discuss making this bold move back to city living.  The presentation focuses on the challenges and opportunities of finding a home in Boston and tailoring it to your lifestyle needs.
Here are the details: 
  • Sunday, April 11, 2010
  •  10:45 am – noon
  •  200 Newbury Street, 4th Floor (office of Otis & Ahearn), Boston(corner of Exeter Street)
 
There will be a light brunch followed by presentations by Bob, Frann and myself.  The focus will be on finding the right property, renovation, small space planning and design.  
 
Space is limited so please respond before April 2nd by calling 617-594-2499.
 
 

Focused on The Negative

March 17, 2010 by Lynda  
Filed under Fine-tuned

If you have ever taken an art class, at any level, there will always be the lesson of positive space versus negative space. When you look at a painting, the positive space is represented by the actual object or people – in other words, the subject matter of the piece. The negative space is the area in between objects. A good, every day example of positive versus negative space is that infamous image of the candlestick…or is it two people kissing? The question seems to revolve around your mindset, but really it is a study of contrast and positive versus negative space.

When applying this concept to interior design, because it is an art form that is three dimensional, all the negative space relates to air. When talking about just a flat surface like a wall or ceiling, a plane (since we are using art terminology today), it is a little more like the positive and negative we see in two dimensional art.

So how, as an interior designer, can we celebrate and make the most of the negative space?

The answer, in my opinion, is not to fill it. But rather the question can be answered by what type of interior you are creating.

art-work-space-gallery-interior-largeIn regards to three dimensional, think of the space between a hand rail, all the beautiful vertical space that is created. The negative and positive play off one another here by the size, width and shape of the vertical lines. Or maybe the stairwell is treated with non-vertical like the image to the right. The space between become just as interesting as the actual wood outline.

If you are working on an ultra-chic modern interior, maybe the best thing to do is emphasize the negative space by creating as much as possible. Tone down the furnishings and fixtures to create more negative to compete with the positive. I like to think of an art gallery for this scenario. Because the interior is so minimal, the space feels more expansive, room to grow and breathe.

Sometimes it is actually beneficial to focus on the negative.  What do you think?

Stay Warm

March 11, 2010 by Lynda  
Filed under Featured Products, slider

intercontinentalBathroom450

I love towel warmers in bathrooms.  They are yet another small touch that can make your bathroom feel like a spa. Although towel warmers are often viewed as a luxury item, they have many practical attributes  – so you can indulge guilt free.

The benefit of a towel warmer in the winter months is obvious.  It is such a luxury to wrap yourself up in a warm soft towel.  What isn’t as obvious is how great towel warmers are in the hot humid months.  The towel warmer keeps your towels fresh and mildew free since they encourage quick drying.

If pure luxury isn’t reason enough to have a towel warmer there are also health benefits.  The towel warmer prevents the buildup of mildew and germs that can breed in damp rooms.  Also, they have been known to cut down on dust mites who also like moist areas. 

Regardless of the health benefits, the bottom line is that a warm towel feels good!  So go ahead and indulge.

Click here to see more pictures of this bathroom.

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