FALLING Into some Fabulous FENG SHUI  by Pamela Farnsworth Smith IIDA

I think I worked feverishly all through the Autumn season into the Holidays so this Blog Post is late.   It was such a FUN subject matter post though, that I just had to finish it up with the photos and post it here with my belated apologies. 

It's Autumn, or Fall as we knickname it, and time to think about rearranging our rooms to gear up for Fall and Winter seasons and the oncoming holidays as well. 

FENG SHUI works for every season; and actually may be a good design checklist at the beginning of each season to make our living surroundings more comfortable, functional, more joyous and prosperous at the start of every quarter of every year.   Seeing as it is Fall though, let's focus on "Falling into some fabulous Feng Shui".   

I first have to share my own experience with FENG SHUI.  Back in the SF Bay Area Peninsula in the late 1970's and early 1980's, I thought I was at the top of my design career game.  Little did I know that I was in the lst Quarter only!  After my Design Classes were over, and my business was humming along,  it seemed I had learned so much in such a short time.   I worked from the center of my spiritual and intuitive center on all my designs.  A bit embarrassing to say, I ate, breathed and drank interior design every minute of every day.  I could not go anywhere without redesigning a friend or relative's room, visualizing a better doctor's office as I sat in their lackluster lobby, or creating a new sign for a local restaurant and then writing a brand new menu for all the meals they  might serve.  I was obsessed with my craft.  My "design energy" was alive and on warp speed.  It fed me a joy which I then shared with anyone who wanted to hear more about it.  Balance, harmony and color flow were always on my mind.  Reaching to the heavens for inspiration on new projects was my silent non-spoken mantra.   I had not read a book about Feng Shui yet and it was the late 1970's.  I was too busy working hard and keeping up with my young life.  To my surprise (as I would learn later after reading and loving my first Feng Shui book), I found that I had been unknowingly letting "Feng Shui" flow out of my own intuitive center, by introducing just the right spatial concepts, color or design elements,  placing them in perfect balance with the room or creating focal point artwork for my client's personal enjoyment. We all have that ability to feel the good Feng Shui when we see it, because we're all programmed for good flow, balance, harmony and success in life.  Feng Shui applies to so many different fields of work.

There is so much to Feng Shui including much technical information.  There are many books out there at this time.  Here,  I will just share the three principles which were introduced to me through my favorite little book, "Home Design with Feng Shui A-Z" by Terah Kathryn Collins.  These are verbatim and in quotes below by this wonderful author, Terah Kathryn Collins:
 
1) " Everything is alive with Chi "   ---  "We also choose our belongings much more carefully, knowing that everything is imbued with living energy...."  and "We want to be surrounded by possessions "who" strengthen our sense of well-being all the time."  and "When you design your environment to affirm your life, you are opening the pathways for happiness, health and prosperity to take up residence with you, and you're creating your environment to be your personal paradise".

2) " Everything is connected with Chi" --- "We are also intimately connected to every single "thing" that surrounds us."  "So in the spirit of good relationship, it's crucial to simplify, organize, and properly house our possessions - including the ones in garages, basements, attics, and closets."

3) " The Chi in Everything is Changing" --- "When we fully join the dance of change and "let it happen", we grow in wisdom and experience, and we allow our homes to reflect our changes."  "There's a Chinese saying: "If you want a change in your life, move 27 things in your house", "When you alter your home in a positive way, you bring positive changes into your life."

See, she is great and her book is a timeless treasure to have on your "home design" shelf.  I do have a few more thoughts to share here about Feng Shui and my work experience with it.
 
The physical nature of real life experience and living environment changes affect your feelings, values, states of mind, your priorities and subsequently your decision making and future courses of action.  If I could give a client a serene place to come home to after a harried day's work, then I believed I was making a difference for them.  If I could address all the multiple functions they needed in that sewing room or dual spouse office space, provide ample practical storage in budget conscious style and still keep the room "clean and clear of clutter", I felt I had done my job.  Lastly, if I can continually be aware of what makes my clients come alive themselves (their likes and dislikes in styles, subject matters, accessories, colors, shapes, sizes, etc) and also what comforts them in the evening such as low lighting, candles, music and images on their walls, then I know I have designed with the alive energy, flow and harmony of Feng Shui.


In the end, clients (me too!) want to have warmth, creature comforts, a space to think and dream, organized carefree living, their favorite colors, and a place which supports them on as many levels possible to personally express who they creatively are as unique individuals.  Finally, what we all want, as one of my favorite movie actresses, Sandra Bullock says in a famous movie (do you remember the one?) is "World Peace".  In this case, our own world peace within our own four walls.


Happy New Year 2013
Blessings for World Peace and Goodness.

The P's and Q's of PATIO DESIGN by Pamela     3rd Qtr. Blog 2012

Outdoor Spaces are the hottest design on demand right now.  As designers, we guide our clients as well to perfect these exterior spaces.  There isn't one company in the retail box store chains that hasn't jumped on the patio bandwagon with new products to turn our exteriors into staycation home resorts and ultimate personal playgrounds.  It seems everyone wants to experience that vacation ambiance in their backyards and patio areas.  We are going to focus first on the most important "P" - the PLAY part of outdoor living and then cross all our "P's" (I know it's supposed to be T's) of Patio Living to create a fresh-air dreamscape.  Let's look at some Q's (questions).  After all, it is summertime, "and the living is easy".  Want to play along here?   

ARE YOU PREVIEWING THE POSSIBILITIES WITH A PROFESSIONAL? 

More choices exist now for patio furniture and accessories from our mail order catalogues and online websites to our larger patio retailers; and please do not forget your faithful and seasoned professional Interior Designer (like me!) for consultation, shopping guidance and the outdoor furniture products we carry as well that will be different than your local Patio Stores.  A quick meeting at your home with a designer can get you on the right track to find treasured resources for just about every outdoor improvement project. 
                                         

PLANNING WITH PASSION

Come on in; the water's fine!  Jump in with some passion in your planning.  This is going to be a major purchase from furniture to BBQ's,  islands, wall art and patio accessories and plants.   An Interior Designer will assist with dramatic and practical space planning, color concepts and updated products and materials for remodeling needs and ideas for canopies, privacy draperies and/or trellis covers to complete the ambiance.  Planning ahead will give you the focus you need to buy smarter and avoid costly mistakes.  If you have a clean slate in your backyard, have your designer plan in your entertainment center, BBQ and island cabinetry, designate more than one dining area for your parties, create conversation groups and lounging areas, and coordinate all outdoor elements.


                                                                                         
                                                                          

PRACTICALLY SPEAKING, HOW WILL YOUR FAMILY USE THE OUTDOOR AREAS?

Keep it practical while beautiful.  Realize what works best for your family needs in cushion styles, colors, textures, sizes, arm shapes and firmness of seat and back cushions.  Be realistic about how your family will live with the fabrics and styles you choose in furniture items.  For instance, if your husband would be more comfortable having his own lounge chair, then give it to him and don't insist on that cute set of petite loveseats just because they look good.  And why not give yourself that fully upholstered outdoor chaise lounge you're been dreaming about for so long.  If not now, then when? I offer several spectacular lines of practical, weather proof outdoor furniture; some that even resemble the finest indoor upholstery.  Practical Note:  Remember that you know best how you will live outdoors, so communicate that to your Designer so she may program properly for your needs.

There are also pets' patio lounging cushions available as your dogs need a comfortable place of their own. Your cats will probably find their way, as one of my clients said recently, to one of your favorite chairs, so keep extra pads or towels handy to accomodate them and protect your fabrics.

  
                                                                            
                                                                            


PALETTES OF PATTERN AND COLOR

Wonderful sunbrella fabrics abound in several colors and patterns.  I always transition the colors of the interior furniture items into the outdoor pieces, so that color and patterns flow seamlessly from one living area to the other.  In most cases, it is always easier to select solid colors for major cushions and add pillows in the pattern prints and bold solid colors.  Sometimes my clients' interior rooms are all tone on tone solids in earth colors, which allows me to reverse the design outdoors to solid bolder color cushions and neutral toned pillows.   It's all about balancing and enhancing your view.


                                                                                  

 

ARE YOU PERSONALIZING YOUR PATIO?

One of my friends happens to love the tropical influence.  She had a Palapas built by her poolside with seating underneath.  A few stunning palm trees stratigically positioned around the pool area and you feel as if you are at an island resort. Personalizing your patio can also be as simple as adding a theme in handpainted pillows, ironwork wall art, outdoor canvas artwork, or designer outdoor area rugs.  Remember that "less is more" when it comes to adding these touches.  Larger scale items look best and one signature dramatic "focal point" piece makes a memorable statement.  Large candles (citronella if possible) in iron holders, wall sconces or backyard torch style or lantern post lights and garden lights illuminate for added personality. 



PLACES FOR HOW MANY?

Identify how many people will be using your patio areas on a daily basis and also the size of your average family get-togethers or social parties.  Provide seating for your immediate family all in one location of the backyard so you may sit together in shared conversation. Plan for visitors' seating nearby and better yet, have stacking chairs handy to welcome spur of the moment guests.   We all know round tables are great for conversation, but did you know that a center lazy susan is excellent for serving meals right off the grill on large hot platters.  Not to mention a lot fun spinning the susan!  Small bunching tables are excellent to pull up to a sofa or lounge chair. If you're lacking space or money to spring for additional tables, find some handsome molded plastic trays (match your colors!) with good handle areas, so folks can set their plate into tray on their laps and pick up easily when moving to another location in the yard.


PREPARATION FOR A PICNIC

Backyard entertainment centers and barbeque islands, some with bartop counters, L-shaped or circular bring so much luxury and function to outdoor preparation and dining outdoors.  Your designer will locate these areas for you in their space plans and better yet, they will guide with the items that fill those islands.  Most of my clients (the men are the most vocal on this) know what kind of BBQ grill, refrigerator, food prep area, etc. they want and have researched their options.  What a designer can help further with is coordination of those appliances, proper spacing on either side for food preparation and serving, and providing ample space for visitors to sit nearby with their drinks at bartops or tables to watch the chef in action.    If your budget only allows for a simple stand alone BBQ grill, no worries.  There are movable serving carts available that will also hold a substantial size picnic basket full of utensils, plastic dinnerware, etc., ready for use when you need them.  If your BBQ is not under cover,  introduce a umbrella for the chef's area to minimize the heat of the sun and the hot grill.  Make sure there is a comfortable chair for him/her, an end table and a very cold drink.


PRIVACY AND PORTABLE SHADE

The ultimate resort style finishing touches to exterior spaces are the umbrellas and the outdoor canvas draperies and canopies.  You could furnish the entire space beautifully and actually think you are done.  However, when the umbrellas arrive and they are raised to shade you from the sun, they do way more than just that.  They are the trees, the canopies of privacy and tall grandeur that change the entire landscape of the patio.  They create the cover, albeit the roof to protect and shelter you and make you feel cozy and safe.   Ahhhh!  Now imagine adding side canvas fabric draperies to the sides of your columns on your verandas tied back by day, hanging straight down at night for even more privacy.  Feeling like a pampered princess or sultan yet?  Add an outdoor TV screen and you've got yourself a whole other living room outside your home. 


WHAT ARE YOUR PRICE POINTS?

There are so many sources for patio furniture.  It only takes imagination and creativity to find the right pieces for your budget and style needs.   Well made furniture that is both very durable and beautiful will be more costly than other choices, so set your budget for your space and then do your homework.  Decide what is most important to you at this time, in this particular house.  If you are thinking you will just add pieces over the years, make sure you select well established manufacturers who have ongoing groupings that don't change every year.  Consult with a local Patio Furniture Store Sales Consultant; and better yet, your Interior Designer for their knowledge, direction, and the patio lines they represent.  Remember a designer's goal is to recommend the best looks in fabrics, frames, and finishes for your style home, and they are happy to render color/style opinions on any internet or mail order catalogue options you run across yourself. 


PRESERVE YOUR PURCHASES

A wise outdoor owl tip:  Preserve your purchases by adding furniture covers into your spending plan.  Nature's elements of sun and rain, heat and cold will all damage your furniture frames, cushions and umbrellas over time.  There are varying sizes of canvas furniture covers which will fit almost every piece of furniture out there, including even your BBQ grills.  The larger cantilever umbrellas have umbrella covers for protection.  Important Tips:  Keep the covers handy, folded in an outdoor weather proof bin when not using.  Do remember to use the covers when you're going away for a couple of days, or expecting rain, wind or intense hot sun for prolonged periods of time.  Do check behind and in these bins carefully when you use them for unexpected wildlife visitors like snakes and mice. Other critters like bees and wasps like to make their homes in umbrellas that have been closed up for a good while.  So open your umbrellas on regular basis to keep that from happening. 

PLANTINGS AND FLOWERS (PETUNIAS!)

Add plants and flowers of your choosing to your patio spaces.  No need to write a paragraph about this.  You all know how much I love flowers; in fact, I just replaced some hanging flowers and floor pots this past week as I lost a few through the winter.  Fresh greenery and bright colors are cheerful companions to the soul.  


YOUR OUTDOOR ROOM IS COMPLETE NOW;  TAKE A BOW,  DANCE AND PLAY LIKE A PEACOCK! 

OMGosh, I almost forgot that while addressing all the "P's" here so diligently, that we almost forgot to PLAY!  If you've ever had a peacock dance in front of you, you know what I mean when I say, "Dance and Play like a Peacock".  A peacock gracefully spreads it's spectacular tail feathers into a full fan of technicolor hues.  Unique and proud, the peacock puts on his colorful show; he turns in a circle in slow motion as if he is dancing. It's the most relaxing dance I have seen a creature perform in living, breathing color.  If we could all feel as good as that peacock every day, where might we be?  Well, we're probably on vacation at some exotic vacation resort or on the beach without a worldly care, breathing in deeply, spreading our wings, seeing life in sharp color and contrast, and feeling so good we could just dance.  Welcome to your private backyard resort 24/7 where you can play and dance to your heart's content. 


ENJOY AND CELEBRATE DESIGN ALWAYS.
 

PAM'S SIDENOTE ABOUT THIS POSTING AND INTERIOR DESIGNERS!

I never know what I am going to write about until I sit down at this computer and start blogging.  Well you have just read my mind's wanderings above here and it occurs to me that we interior designers are actually a proud and passionate lot of design peacocks.  If you have ever attended a "designer group luncheon, evening cocktail party, or an educational business event", you will find that we love to dress up, have fun, and share design with each other.  We are chock full of ideas and cafe lattes at lunch (or whine and cheese at event events - spelling error intended), and are always trying to solve each other's design dilemmas with yet another and better solution.  Designers will also balance the serious business of staying on design task details while keeping the whole process moving merrily along the design highway to successful completion.  Designers need each other's viewpoints periodically; we need ongoing education, and we need our great vendors, artists, and crafts people for superior products and workmanship.

But most of all, we need our Clients who create jobs for us which allows us to PLAY while we work. Play balanced with work is healthy, reduces stress levels, clears the mind,  lightens the load, and creates better decision making.  So, like the peacock that does his slow circular dance while gently bowing as he moves, we extend gratitude to you for the opportunity to make your design spaces stunning and perhaps even life changing as one of my favorite clients tells me everytime we reunite for a lunch again! 

Pamela

Pamela Farnsworth Smith IIDA
AVALLON DESIGN
P. O. Box 1623
Lincoln, CA  95648
PH  (916) 677-6792
pam@avallondesign.com
www.avallondesign.com
www.enhanceyourdesignviews.com (you're here)
Check us out at HOUZZ and FACEBOOK
www.houzz.com/pro/pamelafs/pamela-farnsworth-smith-iida


Please let us know if we can assist with your Interior Design or your Outdoor Patio Living Designs.  We thank all our Clients and Vendors whose photos appear in our Blog. 

Special Thanks to Chuck Smith at CALIFORNIA BACKYARD, 1529 Eureka Blvd, Roseville, CA  95661   Chuck's cell:  916.677-6791 ~  Outdoor Patio Sales Specialist since 2004. 

Recline into Beds of Color and Flower Power for Spring

Welcome into my 2nd Quarter 2012 Blogger Post. Anxiously awaiting Springtime weather to kick into gear and dreaming about vibrant colors to pop everywhere in nature as well in my clients' homes! April is our High Point Market and there are plenty of new ideas just waiting to be unveiled. Although furniture and lighting introductions are the best style direction indicators, there is nothing like fabric and bedding to show off the new colors and patterns for the renewed Spring season.



VIBRANT COLORS VERSUS PASTELS: WHAT IS TRENDING RIGHT NOW? Vibrant colors are on the rebound, but so are pastels actually. Both color concepts are indicative of new growth, change, optimism and hopes for a renewed economic market as well as a need for gentler times ahead. Our creative right brained designers in all industries respond to their world experience (and guided by their spiritual intuitions), by introducing certain colors, patterns and styles every year. We can only hope that our design elves everywhere (me included), can help to nudge everyone to think and act more positively in every aspect of their lives. We, in fact, have control over nothing really except our own behavoir and thinking aside from the action oriented work we do in our own careers, in our volunteer efforts to better the world, and in our family driven works of better education, support, relationship building, healing and communication.  With that said, what better way is there for an interior designer to help influence all things good, but to continuously offer those colors, products and styles which will lift your spirits visually. Take a moment and look at some of the beautiful color palettes new on the scene shown off by BEDS of Flower color power!


FIRST, ENVISION YOURSELF ON VACATION TO FIND YOUR INSPIRATION COLORS

Envision yourself taking a vacation anywhere; would it be to places that give you these cheerful and also soothing colors and images? Aren't you already thinking about that tropical drink as you recline on a chaise lounge, or perhaps getting a massage at the Spa? So many friends and family members are taking or talking about coastal vacations or mountain retreats. It's age old wisdom. We go to the coast or the islands for the peacefulness and refreshing blue green ocean experience. We kick our shoes off and connect with nature's floor of sand beneath our feet and take walks amidst the sound of waves lapping the shore to seek purity of thought (or at the very least, forget our cares for a brief while). Some go to the mountains for the grand, majestic feel of God's country, breathing in the aromatic scent of pine needles, communing with the oldest rocks and trees alive, and catching an eagle's view of our world below. We remember that we have been placed here in this magnificent creation of a natural world by an out of this world creator, as we breathe in nature's beauty, detail and color. Sorta puts everything back into proper perspective. Maybe that's why I love my job. As a designer, we have the priviledge of working with beautiful elements, creating and/or recommending designs that bring relaxation and comfort into our clients' spaces. Let's talk favorite colors to see how they will affect your senses, since color seems to always be an important starting point.


CHOOSE YOUR FAVORITE COLORS OR VARIATION OF THESE PRIMARY and SECONDARY COLORS AND CREATE YOUR OWN BEDS OF COLOR OR FLOWER POWER!
       

COOL COLOR BEDS of BLUES, GREENS and PURPLES    When most people are asked what their favorite color is, the majority of people will say BLUE. I always said blue myself since my first love lies with the coastal waters of Long Island where I was born, and my current west coast location near San Francisco Bay and the great Pacific Ocean. We all have more than one other strong favorite color though. And sometimes, it turns out, the second one is the one that you use, display, wear, and connect with more on an everyday basis.

• BLUE is the dreamer's  color, the visionary, the thinker, and the true blue trusted friend. My second favorite is GREEN, so I tell everyone my favorite color is BLUE-GREEN, JADE or TURQUOISE.  I realized that most of my favorite "designer" rooms, the colors in my china, fabrics, and even my wardrobe had shades of green, I knew this second favorite color was the quiet unspoken counterpart to my BLUE. 

• GREEN is the universal healing color.  The green color scheme in Resort spas always calms me down. Gazing at green grass fields and mint green painted walls with a hint of blue undertone in the paint creates serenity.   What's of interest is that your two favorite colors may not wind up being the predominant colors in your home. This is due mostly to the architecture and styling of the house, and also the geographical climate within which it is situated. In addition, most of our upholstery and carpeting these days are in solid neutrals from white, ivory and beige to sage, caramel, brown, eggplant and black, so these favorite colors are often the focal point accents.  

• FOCAL POINT COLOR    The addition of your favorite pops of color look great as focal point accents in the rooms; your eyes are drawn into them for inspiration as you would gaze into a crystal ball. If you truly want your lime green or turquoise blue or cherry red to be the predominant upholstery in your room, I understand the contemporary and bold nature of this youthful design. It would be best to break up all that solid color with accent pillows in either very light fabrics or very dark neutral solids for contrast, or wonderful printed floral, paisley or geometric pillows with bold rich patterns of personality.

• VIOLET or PURPLE is the royal color which also denotes spiritual hierachy.  It is the combination of RED and BLUE mixed together.  Leave it to hot blooded warm RED to take the cool visionary and dreamer BLUE hue to an even higher level of spiritualism.  My good friend Diane has always loved PURPLE and she has mixed it with RED in her home decor.  So many variations of purple are appealing - lavender, violet, eggplant, aubergine, purple mauve, black raspberry, blueberry and plum, just to name a few.  Come to think of it, there's a lot of fruit that wears these colors that are also very rich in nutrients for the higher good of our physical bodies.  No mistakes in this universe!   

WARM COLOR BEDS OF REDS, ORANGES and YELLOWS

• RED and Pinks are beloved by many women.  PINK, especially for my clients' young teenagers girls, combined with black and white, or gray in a more contemporary styling are frequent requests. When you hear a friend or client say they love RED, you better know that they are very dynamic people; romantic, feminine, exciting, with lots of energy and self-direction within a warm personality full of good stories and affectionate banter. Don't be surprised if these people aren't also pretty nice looking, like that red sports car you once pined after. I have been lucky to have several women clients who are not afraid of red, and it is the MOST FUN color to decorate with. RED can be added into almost any other color scheme in small amounts to spike up the design, add focal point contrast, and command your adoring attention to the room or photo scene. RED is never boring. I heard a story back in college from a design professor that some clients of hers (wife and husband), had this lovely breakfast room where they had their morning coffee and meal together before work and the wife's complaint was that her husband buried his head in his paper and never talked with her. The wife of course wanted to change this and decided to paint the breakfast room walls RED, to get his attention.  (RED will get your attention, aka fire truck). Apparently, it worked as he began talking with her every morning after that, with an added note from my teacher. After a few months, they became very irritable with each other whenever they were in that room! (Beware of excitable RED in large amounts in a morning room or anywhere).

• ORANGE surprises and delights much like a California Poppy flower does as it peeks up among a field of wild grasses. It is a bit of an enigma to me, as it is last on the list of people's favorite colors in general (how many times have I heard the sentence, "I don't like orange at all"); but yet, ORANGE appeals to the fun or "carnival" side of almost everyone when they encounter it, making people feel enthusiastic, young at heart, and actually hungry! I heard years ago that one of the most popular restaurant chains back then on the west coast used orange as their backdrop wall color and their booth seating, as it drew everybody in quickly to dine (a fun place to be), excited their appetites (ordering even more food), and then ushered them out quickly to free up the tables for the next round of diners (could it be true, people don't really want to be around orange for too long?) When you think of where ORANGE comes from, it is the child of RED and YELLOW (a mix of excitable and happy - how much fun can you handle?) Try spicing it up (actually down) with muted tones of orange.

• YELLOW is the happy color. We are mellow yellow with the buttercreams and progress to golden finch or canary yellow where happiness is taken to a new level with melody and song. However you look at it, yellow is the joyful, carefree and ever positive attitude color. Whoever said, "blondes have more fun" might have been responding to their intrinsic intuitive knowledge of the affect of the color yellow. We all ultimately know how color affects us; we just do not think about it on a daily basis or when it is happening. One of my oldest dearest friends, Dee Dee (you know who you are), absolutely loves the color yellow and had it in her kitchen for years. After I had met and got to know her well, it came as no surprise when later I was invited to her home and saw her yellow walls.  Apologies, no yellow photos posted!

• NEUTRAL BEDS OF WHITE, IVORY, BEIGE, TAUPE, CAMEL, CHOCOLATE AND BLACK are natural choices for elegant backdrops.  We love our neutrals for walls, carpeting, other flooring, and some of our main upholstery pieces. Creating the right color canvas for your room starts with selecting the level of warm or cool color hue that works best for your tastes. I have found that clients who have olive to dark complexions are often comfortable using warm rich colors, even vibrant primary colors on their main or accent walls. Clients who have light to medium skin tones love that look as well; however, they may choose colors that are mid-tone variations of same if all walls are being painted the same in the room.  It's all about the eye's comfort level.

• GOOD DESIGN begins with matching the right color base to the home for that particular client and then introducing their favorite colors for accents in the fabrics, pillows, accessories and artwork. The climate again of the area in which you live as well as the sun exposure in each room will dictate how light or dark a color to select. I have even realized that for many years I would select a color palette for my clients by studying them personally and listening to their style needs. The colors I would choose were well received by them and the projects were a success.    A few years later I had the good fortune of working with this one special client and her husband who were well known in the CA Silicon Valley.    She was a trained and educated color theorist from San Francisco and after I finished their Peninsula home, she offered me a free 3 hour wardrobe color session which I gladly accepted. Sigrun painted my complexion color on canvas to start.  I surprisingly learned more about color than my college education ever gave me. Bottom Line: I learned about the vast number of color gradations available in cool and warm base for every primary and secondary color, and also learned that all those projects I had intuitively chosen colors for, were amazingly quite similar to the wardrobe colors for the skin and hair colors of each of my clients.   Surrounding yourself with colors you live and look best in was the moral of this story. 

 
ENJOY YOUR WORLD. CELEBRATE DESIGN.
 
Pamela

All Bed Ensembles are available through AVALLON DESIGN HOME.  Please email or contact me by phone with your interest, inquiries, or pricing requests.  THANKS. 

Pamela Farnsworth Smith IIDA AVALLON DESIGN
P. O. Box 1623 Lincoln, CA 95648
PH (916) 677.6792
FAX (916) 543.8782
pam@avallondesign.com
www.avallondesign.com
www.enhanceyourdesignviews.blogspot.com (you're here!)

We are on FACEBOOK under Avallon Design Group.  Log on and join our page.  Scroll DOWN to see past postings and more contact information.  

First Quarter 2012 - HOPE's Leading, DESIGN TO WIN

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2012! Are you ready for what the New Year will bring?




I am sure you have thought about how 2012 will pan out in our world and homeland economy, in our families, our careers, travel plans and personal relationships I know one thing, on Monday after New Years Day, I woke up just "feeling good", like there was something amazing in the air, a sense of extreme HOPE almost akin to the sense of a Spring Day renewal in the dead of winter. I was not alone. An old high school classmate of mine posted on Facebook simultaneously that she had experienced the same feeling and then others joined in giving similar accounts.




I decided that it had to be related to millions of souls around the earth, all in same approximate 2 day timeframe celebrating the New Year, and feeling determination to make 2012 a better year. A lot of positive energy being transmitted through minds and hearts everywhere just changed the earth's channel to a happy program. HOPE was leading last time I checked the game. So, let's talk game for a moment as the Rose Bowl traditionally kicked off our New Year again. Between the Rose Bowl Parade of flower floats which I adore, and the game which occupied my husband, both genders seemed totally content on that same day (what other day can you claim those two fun wins?) Now again, I am not the biggest football fan (I actually prefer baseball, golf and boating); however, I love the excitement of the games. I believe we can all learn valuable daily tools from sports, period. Here's a brief look at it




Life IS a game, and we're all playing it. Whatever position you're best at playing(as in football - quarterbacks, running backs or line backers, etc), chances are, you'll be learning other positions and new skills for the success of your family life or career. I am for example, comfortable playing a quarterback role in my design business, with a myriad of vendors, suppliers, artists and subcontractors in my weekly interactions. Keeping the design ball in play is the main goal always. However in latter part of 2011, I found myself learning the patience and fortitude of a line backer, the vision and wisdom to intercept some other unusual unique design contracts and then sitting out on the bench through the holidays for some actual fun time off to enjoy social events. On the bench, I also had time to reflect on the entire year's plays and consider what works best in these economic times for our local market to achieve a 2012 winning year.




When you are reflecting on the future of your 2012, do one more fun thing. Take a look at this LEFT AND RIGHT BRAIN chart to the right. Designers are notoriously RIGHT brained, full of creativity, intuition, passion, sensitivity to color, pattern, theme, and overall vision of design at hand. However, the LEFT brain is as important and sometimes even more important during certain job phases, representing the analytical nature, logical thinking, realistic goals, math, and sequential programming and scheduling. It is always fun to figure out which way you lean and "play to your strengths", while learning to balance the two sides of your brain.




Then, flexibility in the game and teamwork is paramount. You do what you have to do to get that WIN for your team, even if you change roles with your design associates or your team members at home. Because, ultimately, we really are all on the same team. You've heard that said before, but did you know that our DNA differs from each others by only 1-2%? We have so many allies in this world to rely upon. I have always believed in that expression, "Win, Win". If my husband isn't winning along with me, it's not a win. When my team members on a project are all winning, the success is sweet and my client benefits from all these wins as they will receive best price, best design and product, best service, and my personal one on one attention. The key is to understand what the project scope is from the start and be on the same page at every turn with your client.




Whether a client job is about paint and faux finish concepts like some shown here, window treatments (fancy, edgy or simple elegance), furniture and upholstery items, accessories or artwork, area rugs or change of flooring or carpeting; and even a completely remodeled kitchen, bath, family, or bedroom area, each project scope should be treated with same diligence and attention to design detail and excitement to make it a WINNING DESIGN.




Here are but just a few winning design elements for the New Year from various vendors and resources of mine. You cannot help but smile at some of these, while others are just so incredibly beautiful, you wonder how you might incorporate them or a version thereof into your own home!



NEW FOR 2012:

Please check out my listing on www.houzz.com under Professionals - Interior Designers - Sacramento.


CELEBRATE DESIGN!


Pamela


Pamela Farnsworth Smith IIDA
AVALLON DESIGN
P. O. Box 1623, Lincoln, CA 95648
PH (916) 677-6792
pam@avallondesign.com
www.enhanceyourdesignviews.blogspot.com (you are here!)

NEW: We are on FaceBook under Avallon Design Group. Click on the big house.

Colors that Calm & Coastal Classic Lines to Reclaim!

Welcome into the last quarter blog posting for 2011. As I hear some Canadian Geese flying overhead this afternoon, it's appropriate to say that the year has really just flown by. Autumn is just around the corner from this indian summer we are having here on the West Coast. I have seen hummingbirds and dragonflies all this past week and wonder if they know something we don't know about a delayed autumn season on our coast. Meanwhile rain and storms continue to pound other parts of our world and I am not ready for winter yet. Our Design Market begins in October and despite the inconsistencies of the economy and the weather, the trends seem to be holding the same pattern as last market. Savoring the summer and staying serene through the winter could be our best defense, while reclaiming our natural world in all ways possible. Let's take a look at the trends.



CLEAR COLORS, CALMING COASTAL PATTERNS & CLASSIC CONTEMPORARY LINES


October is our big Market time back east and as usual, the market information I am receiving is plentiful and colorful. Seems our design industry, at least, is still introducing vibrant clear colors, calming patterns, botanical themes, and soothing classic, clean lined furnishings of a more natural weathered and contemporary nature. It almost feels like a repeat of our last Spring Market. It seems no one wants to let go of coastal influences, resort style themes and again, our mother nature's images. I am elated about that! Having grown up on Long Island with water, beach and blue skies all around me and now a Californian since 1973, I am as happy and comfy as a clam around these lighter weathered finishes that look as if they were made right out of our sand dunes' driftwood. Artwork and fabrics with leaves, vines, birds, butterflies, insects, turtles, flowers, shells, sand, grassy dunes, marine life, and water/sky images with graceful sailing vessels are all ingredients of this calming coastal influence.



CLEAR COLORS


We're seeing similar colors to last Spring, just a little deeper version this Fall. The greens are prevalent and they are a little deeper than the lime greens we saw a few months back. Our blues are more turquoise and teal blue now (I still saw several peacock themes from last April), and the combination of red and turquoise is a "hot one"! Grays and neutral beiges are the canvas colors of choice. From my Color Psychology ongoing CEU class taken, I learned once again how light - medium gray is the color of creativity. It will inspire and ignite creativity in a boardroom full of attendees, and support inventive thinking and dreaming. It is slightly more masculine than beiges which may attest for why mens' suits have always been predominently gray! Adding a contrast accent color to a gray sofa (shown below), like a deep lime green or even an orange based red will add unexpected drama. Same goes for using these solid colors with all neutral beige on beige bedding or upholstery.



CALMING PATTERNS: NATURE'S WILDLIFE, BOTANICAL FLORALS, & SEASHELLS


Take a look at these great art images. Each one of them is calming and colorful in their own right, as they are in most cases the natural colors of the actual bird, insect, turtle, or seashell. The more decorative art will always add a bigger punch of color and that's always a good option when most of your upholstery or bedding is neutral. Adding in some decorative medallions or architectural doors, gates, verandas, etc. adds another peaceful element of stability, design and structure. Keeping it natural is always the key. Don't overdo anything. Simple elegance is the rule.



COASTAL CLASSIC LINES, CONTEMPORARY STYLE FURNITURE, & NATURAL RECLAIMED WOODS


We have seen a resurgence of light color woods in both traditional and contemporary classic lines, so I'll address those new introductions in this posting. The dark woods are still very much in trend and always will be. These lovely photos of an antique ivory carved chest or a reclaimed natural wood chest placed next to a colorful floral pattern clean lined side chair will give you an idea of the look I have seen in my market previews. If this "lightening up" trend is beginning again in our furniture world, I hope it will permeate into our economic world soon. This dining room is a fine "weathered european style", using the finest environmentally friendly woods and only American-made finishing materials.



GOING GREEN


It would take more than even one entire blog to really give "Going Green" the attention it deserves. There is so much more to supporting "Green" than any one vendor's contribution. However, this chest of drawers shown supports our green industry in that it is weathered reclaimed natural wood and materials, using a very simple sanded finish with either little or no wax or sealer. That makes it essential to use coasters and placements on these pieces. Occasional wiping with a soft cotton cloth will maintain the unique character of this kind of furniture. I believe we can "feel" the difference being in a room full of more natural materials and woods. There is a peace and a balance that you inutuitively sense. I realize it's more upkeep for the homeowner, but the rewards are great! I would love to talk more "green" here but I'll address that in a future blog. Meanwhile, I am proud to be a professional member of IIDA (International Interior Design Association), an organization which educates about and supports the green industry, with many affiliate vendors with green compliant procedures and products.



FINISHING TOUCH: ADDING GREENERY WITH BOTANICAL SILKS, TREES AND FLOWERS


Years ago, there wasn't one room I designed in the SF Bay Area that I didn't incorporate at least one real ficus tree, schefflera or yucca palm along with numerous tabletop greeneries. Every foyer received fresh flowers in a remarkable vase we found up in one of the San Francisco showrooms. The room is just not complete without its real greenery. We had a hand full of live plant services who met us at our jobsites, recommended and installed the proper plant for the light exposure. That service then visited regularly to make sure the plant was adjusting properly to its new environment and receiving its water and nutrition. If for some reason the plant wasn't thriving, my plant service would relocate the plant, or replace it with another one. As you can imagine, this is an expensive service. We still have those services but with the lagging economy, I am sad to say, not as many clients wish to pay for this luxury. Therefore, my clients usually opt to have high quality silk floor plants and dried botanical arrangements, green topiaries, sculptures and sik floral arrangements for their spaces. There are quite a few lines out there. Trust your designer to find the most natural and best quality ones.



DESIGNER RESOURCES ARE TRULY THE BEST


As designers, we have a huge library of resources at our fingertips by catalogue and on our trade internet sites. A few of my clients still like to do their own research, and send me photos of what they are considering and then I will find the best look, quality and price in my lines. So, please remember if you have any inquiries or requests, contact me and we can assist you on this design journey and guide the project easily and quickly as your design buyer and/or consultant for all furnishings, upholstery, casegoods, lighting, artwork, accessories, area rugs, plants....and so much more.



CELEBRATE DESIGN!

Design 4 You 4 Ever

Pamela


Pamela Farnsworth Smith IIDA

AVALLON DESIGN P.O.Box 1623 Lincoln CA 95648
Visit our Website: www.avallondesign.com
Blog: www.enhanceyourdesignviews.blogspot.com (You're here!)
Design Inquiries: pam@avallondesign.com
Contact Info: Ph(916) 677-6792 pam@avallondesign.com



We're on FACEBOOK now. Type in AVALLON DESIGN and click on big house profile pic. Everyone is welcome to join. Post your comments or inquiries



Pamela is an IIDA Professional Interior Designer in Northern California. her most current projects are in the Sacramento area; Roseville, Granite Bay, Rockin, Lincoln, El Dorado Hills, Lake Tahoe, Truckee, Napa Valley and Sonoma. Having had a showroom for 16 years in the SF Bay Area in Woodside and Portola Valley, Pam still travels for clientele as requested from Marin to the Peninsula and down to Carmel. She has also owned a design gallery in North Carolina for 9 years, a design office in Arizona for 4 years and worked in the states of Florida, Texas, Virginia and South Carolina designing custom residences, vacation homes, luxury model homes, country clubs and reception sales centers for golf development communities.


FACEBOOK Avallon Design Group Introduction Video








"I didn't choose this career...it chose me when I first moved to California. It lit a fire inside me that has been burning now for over 30 years and thankfully, it is a career that moves and changes with me as I grow myself. Since there are so many branches of design in our industry it allows me to continually learn more information to apply to my projects. My clients are all unique as are their design styles. Reaching our design goals for their living environments is paramount, while creating a sound enjoyable design journey for them along the way. We become a design team. With design in mind and desire at heart, we transform spaces into living art." Pam



All of the photos to the right on this post are Market Introduction photos by each of our furniture/accessories Vendors for our Fall Market. Please contact me if you have any interest in these lines and I will return your phone call or email within 24-48 hours.



Avallon Design offers consultation and concept coordination as well as purchasing for their clients' projects on a Design Fees (Hourly) and Purchases basis. Thank you for your interest. Pamela (916) 677-6792 pam@avallondesign.com



Scroll down further to see my past Quarterly and Monthly posts for 2011 and 2010. Photos may not align with the blog posting but I believe you will get the idea of it all.


Comments and Feedback always welcome. CELEBRATE DESIGN!

Summertime Blues

Remember the Peacock Accent Pillows in sumptuous silks above from Springtime posting? We'll keep them around through Summertime, as they are BLUE!




Hello! If you're reading my 3rd Quarter Blog here, then you've taken a relaxing break off from whatever you're doing. Hopefully, you're on a summer vacation cruise, or by a lake, or even on a beach with one of those fancy drinks with an umbrella in it. Wherever you are this time of year it's bound to be fairly HOT temperatures. Let's take a look at some Summertime Blues to cool us off in these hot months of July, August and September. From photos of some of my favorite vacation spots, to blue theme room designs, this tour is certainly eclectic.

Those who know me say I am usually loquacious in my postings, but this Quarter, I'd just like to take you on a visual tour, since it is the season after all, for getting away to see great scenery, while cooling down. Refresh thyself.





SUMMERTIME BLUES IN SO MANY DIFFERENT VIEWS




CELEBRATE DESIGN!



Designer4You4Ever
Pamela Farnsworth

AVALLON DESIGN





Visit our Website: www.avallondesign.com
Design Inquiries: pam@avallondesign.com
Our Blog: www.enhanceyourdesignviews.blogspot.com
NEW! We're on FaceBook now. Type in Avallon Design and click on the big house profile picture. Everyone is invited to become a member. Design feedback and comments are welcome!





Pamela is an IIDA Professional Interior Designer in Northern CA. Her most current projects are in the Sacramento area, Roseville, Granite Bay, Rocklin, Lincoln, El Dorado Hills, Lake Tahoe, Truckee, Napa Valley and Sonoma. Having had a showroom for 1 years in the San Francisco Bay Area in Woodside and Portola Valey, Pam still travels for clients as requested from Marin down to Carmel. Pam has also owned a design gallery in North Carolina for 9 years in Hendersonville, a design office in Arizona (Fountain Hills, Scottsdale) for 4 years, and worked in the states of Florida, Texas, Virginia and South Carolina, designing custom residences, vacation homes, luxury model homes, country clubs and reception/sales centers for golf developments such as Champion Hills, Kenmure Golf & CC, and Naples Golf & CC. Earlier in her Californa days, Pam also designed the corporate offices of Robert Trent Jones II, Golf Architect, Palo Alto, CA.





"I didn't choose this career...it chose me when I first moved California. It lit a fire inside of me that has been burning now for over 30 years, and thankfully, it is a career that moves and changes with me as I grow myself. Since there are so many branches of design within our industry, it allows me to continually learn new information to apply to my projects. My clients are all unique in their styles. Reaching our design goals for their living environment is paramount, while creating an enjoyable and sound design journey along the way. We become a design team. With design in mind and desire at heart, we transform speaces into living art."





This blog is inspired by so many old and new friends alike, family members and clients. I want to express my gratitude for the many projects I have worked on for you, and for the ideas you have brought to the design table. People are the pearls and gems in life. Hone, renew and refine those relationships (personal or business) and you'll find your true treasure....your boat will come in.




Pamela




All photos to the right are photos of Avallon Desing project photos or photos taken by Pamela during a vacation or design event, market or show. If you have interest in any of these items, kindly leave an email inquiry: pam@avallondesign.com





We will get back to you with pricing and availability within 48 hours of receiving your message.





Avallon Design's studio is located in Lincoln, CA and correspondence may sent to:
P. O. Box 1623, Lincoln, CA 95648 PH 916 677-6792 FAX 916 543-8782




Pamela will consult over the phone about your upcoming project if desired, in the form of a 15 minute phone interview. Please email your request for this phone interview, along with information about your room(s), style and desired design services and/or merchandise purchases to: pam@avallondesign.com. We will email back available interview times and you may call us at one of those times given. Design fee estimates are not given over the phone; however, they are available by mail after phone interview is completed. We request that prospective clients review our website at: www.avallondesign.com prior to the first phone interview. It is also helpful for clients to have a list of their design needs in front of them at time of interview chat.




THANK YOU FOR YOUR INTEREST. I look forward to providing these quarterly blogs for your reading pleasure. ENJOY.




Please post any comments below here by following the prompts.




If you scroll further down, you can review all the past postings. They are all archived here with copy and photos. Photos may not align with copy but you'll figure it out from the descriptions under the photo.




Also, if you have any design topic requests, please don't hesitate to ask that I research them and I will be sure to include it either in the next quarterly blog post or the following one.




THANKS.






PAMELA

New Design Palettes for Spring

Greetings my friends, clients and family and I hope if the warmer weather hasn't reached you yet, that it is getting closer to popping your flowers up and out into the sunshine and sweet spring air. This is my Spring Quarter Blog for April, May and June 2011.



NEW MARKET INTRODUCTIONS BRING NEW UPLIFTING COLORS

Springtime always brings our new design market introductions, so I thought I'd start my quarterly blog off here in April with some great ideas and images that came on the scene just recently. We're seeing colors and designs which are uplifting and exciting. Our markets both in Las Vegas and North Carolina were both better attended than last Fall, and our designer spirits have high hopes that good business will continue to follow for all in 2011. I mentioned in my first quarterly blog this January 2011 that 11 was a "gateway" year. Since then I've read more about how significant this year could actually be in business, spirituality, education, and personal goals and health achievements.



DESIGN IDEAS ARE CREATED AND IMPLEMENTED WITH A TRIO YOU ARE FAMILIAR WITH

Sharing some of my personal journey information -- I was greeted in the past week by a beautiful lady security guard while visiting one of my client's homes in a lovely development. The guards in the past have been men, but that day was different. She stood at the guard shack by the double gates and as I gave her my client's address, my company name and purpose of my visit, I thanked her for being there, and asked her what her name was. She replied, my name is "Faith". Previous to that event, I bought some outdoor dishes for patio dining with an artist's flower image in the center. I loved the colors and the design mostly and they felt substantial for plastic dishware. When I got them home and as I was cleaning them, I noticed there was a small signature under the flower. It read, "Hope Smith". HOPE, FAITH AND the last one, LOVE, greater than the two, is the magic trio that creates all things and sustains them as well.



A COLOR WEATHER FORECAST - VIBRANT AND CLEAR TO COOL AND CREAMY WITH INTERMITTENT WARM TONES THROUGHOUT THE YEAR

With that , hope you LOVE this new layout for my Quarterly blog and all the fun and dramatic ideas I'm sharing herein. The colors are vibrant and clear, combinations of lime green, blues and turquoises in fields of creamy neutrals, and others are warm and bright with golds, warm reds, and teal blues. Buttermilks and lavendars are in there too. It just feels so good to see all these colors out there.



OWLS AND PEACOCKS, OH MY ! DANCE AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE AND BE WISE.

Owls and Peacocks seemed to be the theme for the furniture and accessory market advertising, so you know I need to lend a meaning to that one. Owls are known as wise birds and their hooting sounds are comforting as well as cautionary. Peacocks on the other hand are vibrant, showy and love to dance and prance their bright feathers. An unlikely coupling, but nevertheless one that I saw in a lot of my market flyers and postcards! The color lavendar made a big splash actually in the jewelry world along with pinks, turquoises and neutral cream yellows this year.
The SILPADA jewelry line here also shows off its' spring complexion in their lovely creations, which always seem to be designed with nature in mind.



WATER, GRASS, BLUE SKIES ARE EVERYWHERE

It's as if we all need an infusion of water, grass and blue sky colors this Spring to refresh our lives and living spaces, and there was no shortage of these colors at market time. My favorite color is teal (blue or green), and I'm sure it relates to my connection with the coast and the sea, as I am from Long Island, NY.



FOLLOW THESE COLOR TRENDS AND SOAK UP THE FRESH OUTDOORS IN YOUR DECORATING

When in doubt, follow the color and trends of the design and fashion world to see the sign of the times we are living in. Of course how you view and experience these trends, I know, is totally personal for each of us. But in the meanwhile, enjoy basking in the colors of the earth, sky, water, flowers and sun...because they're here!



Celebrate Design!


Designer4You4Ever
Pamela Farnsworth


AVALLON DESIGN

Visit our Website: www.avallondesign.com
Design Inquirires: pam@avallondesign.com
Our Blog: www.enhanceyourdesignviews.blogspot.com
NEW! We're on FaceBook now. Type in Avallon Design and click on the big house profile picture. Everyone is invited to join. Design feedback and comments welcome!




Pamela is an IIDA Professional Interior Designer in Northern CA. Her most current projects are in the Sacramento area, Roseville, Granite Bay, Rocklin, Lincoln, El Dorado Hills, Lake Tahoe, Truckee, Napa Valley and Sonoma. Having had a showroom for 16 years in the San Francisco Bay Area in Woodside and Portola Valley, Pam still travels for clientele as requested from Marin down to Carmel. Pam has also owned a design gallery in North Carolina for 9 years, a design office in Arizona for 4 years, and worked in the states of Florida, Texas, Virginia and South Carolina, designing custom residences, vacation homes, luxury model homes, country clubs and reception/sales centes for golf developments.




"I didn't choose this career...it chose me when I first moved to California. It lit a fire inside me that has been burning now for over 30 years, and thankfully, it is a career that moves and changes with me as I grow myself. Since there are so many branches of design within our industry, it allows me to continually learn new information to apply to my projects. My clients are all unique in their styles. Reaching our design goals for their living environment is paramount, while creating an enjoyable and sound design journey for them along the way. We become a design team. With design in mind and desire at heart, we transform spaces into living art."




This blog is inspired by so many old and new friends alike, family members and clients. I want to express my gratitude for the many projects I have worked on for you, and for the ideas you have brought to the design table. People are the pearls and gems in life. Hone, renew and refine those relationships (personal or business) and you'll find your true jewelry treasure ... and your boat will come in.



Pamela




All photos to the right are market photos from our the vendors that we do business with in our design industry. If you have interest in any of these items, kindly leave an email inquiry: pam@avallondesign.com


We will get back to you with pricing and availability within 48 hours of receiving your message.


Avallon Design's studio is located in Lincoln, CA and correspondence may be sent to:
P. O. Box 1623, Lincoln, CA 95648.


Pamela will consult over the phone about your upcoming project if desired, in the form of a 15 minute phone interview. Please email your request for this phone interview, along with information about your room(s), style and desired design services and/or merchandise purchases to: pam@avallondesign.com We will email back available interview times and you may call us at one of those times given. Design fee estimates are not given over the phone; however they are available by mail after intial 15 minute phone interview is completed. We request that prospective clients review our website at: www.avallondesign.com prior to the first phone interview. It is also helpful for clients to have a list of their design needs in front of them at time of interview.


THANK YOU FOR YOUR INTEREST. I look forward to providing these quarterly blogs for your reading pleasure. I enjoy writing this blog very much. ENJOY.

Doorways to Design in 2011

We've just entered another one of those space aged sounding years, 2011 (two thousand eleven)...quite different from the 90's which went by so fast. Now you probably know how old I am, right? Well age is physical, yes, but youth is still in your mind. In other words, if you think you're still young, YOU ARE YOUNG. Sharing your life with your kids, grandkids and really enjoying the fresh experience of it will keep your energy high. Some of us have pets to keep us laughing with their silly and entertaining ways...guilty here on that one. Regaining a youthful attitude can often be re-ignited by a physical makeover as well. I know when I watch a particular TV show, I am amazed how they transform a more middle aged woman with new hair style, makeup and updated wardrobe, shaving 10 years off her age. She feels so good about herself and it changes her outlook on the world. She suddenly feels empowered to enjoy her life in more ways than before with newfound self esteem. The major changes seem to be correct color choices, updated chic clothing suited to her body type, and great accessories. Designing interiors for 2011 can use much the same formula. It's time to revamp and rework those home spaces which need a new lift.


And so we'll enter 2011 through it's double doorways this year, with the number 11 visually signifying two columns and spiritually representing a gateway opening. This year can be an empowering year for all of us with open doors of abounding opportunity. Here are some lovely doorway views. When we enter, we hope to see a space which gives comfort, joy, beauty, peace and exitement too. Remember when decorating, that the home's architectural features (inside and out) will determine a style to follow, as does its geographical location. However you cannot judge a book by its cover; a quite traditional home will often have modern minded homeowners within, and a contemporary home may be filled with traditional oils and antique furniture. The homeowners (YOU) are the key design factor. Here are (4) doorways to open this year to update your look. The best choice is the one which works best for you.


Behind Design Door #1: DO A COLOR BOOST Consider giving your room a foundation color to liven up it's complexion. Renew your room with paint! Here are some Sherwin Williams colors that always say, "refresh and renew". You might also consider going a shade or two lighter to create a more subtle glowing backdrop canvas for your fabrics and furniture. So if you have had the same basic beige walls for a while, and want to give your room a lift, consider giving it a color transfusion. I always recommend you buy a pint of paint first and put a large 24"x24" swatch on wall before purchasing all the paint. Some local paint stores also provide free 8 x 11 color brush outs, or you can order samples online. Take a look at these photos of the same room with three different color options from Sherwin Williams. Go to www.sherwinwilliams.com and check out their fabulous room visualizer before you paint!


Behind Design Door #2: PERK UP THE PERSONALITY Every home has it's own style of architecture, thus creating its personality. You can choose to follow that styling on the interior which is safe and predicatable. However, I love to introduce a more eclectic look mixing traditional and contemporary elements together. It just creates a more youthful exciting look. Like the hair style that is all one length classic and timeless; but slant the hair up slightly in the back to create an a-line, or long layer it in back and on sides to create movement, and you've now got a more dramatic design that turns heads due to it's unexpected and youthful flare. Take a look at this absolutely gorgeous traditional Living Room with the addition of contemporary designed cocktail table of penshell and iron and antique mirrored round end table on scrolled base. Adding a few key furnishings items like these will keep the room updated and full of interest.


Behind Door #3: ADD "BLING" ACCESSORIES for drama and excitement to update your look. Replace your throw pillows with some new color or pattern to create contrast. If your budget allows, think about an area rug which is complimentary. Keep it simple and clean. Too much pattern on pattern can be confusing to the eye. Even the best professionals will have to think twice about mixing patterns with patterns when the room or client's style calls for a style such as French Provence. This Family Room incorporates a warm caramel sectional, creative throw pillows and an area rug added for detail, color, pattern while it updates the space. Here are some other great blings you can add to your home: 1) Crystal bead trim around the base of your Foyer and Powder Room lampshades is sassy and romantic, 2) Decorative mirrors with cut and bevelled mirror frames in a traditional room or... ornate carved wood framed mirrors over contemporary buffets or console tables, 3) Large crystal, seeded or color glass vases with fresh or silk flowers, 4) A mix of unique complimentary photo frames atop foyer tables, dressers or even pianos, 5) Decorative iron wall art on walls and in upper windows and 6) Artwork or Tapestries with great subject matter and scale.


Behind Door 4: CREATE GRACE SPACE One last important design tip is to leave enough "grace space" as I like to call it on your walls between artwork, on tabletops between accessories, and in your actual furniture floor plan between pieces of upholstery and casegoods. When this is more open space, rooms appear larger and cleaner and more up to date. When they are crowded with too much going on, they will look cluttered, older, very lived in and hence dated. There is a balance of course, as there is in everything. Strive for that design balance by standing back and entering your room with a new glance after it is done. The look that appeals to, say a buyer of a home after it has been design staged, IS that newer updated, fresher, uncluttered home. Keep in mind that this same principle applies to the look that will keep you young at heart and mind as you live in your home!

CELEBRATE DESIGN!

Design 4 You 4 Ever

Pamela
AVALLON DESIGN
Visit our Website: www.avallondesign.com
Design Inquiries: pam@avallondesign.com
Our Blog: www.enhanceyourdesignviews.blogspot.com (you're here!)
P. O. Box 1623 Lincoln, CA 95648 Ph 916 677.6792 Fax 916 543.8782

NEW! We're on FACEBOOK now. Type in AVALLON DESIGN and click on the big house profile picture. Everyone is welcome to join. Post your comments or inquiries.

Pamela is an IIDA Professional Interior Designer in Northern CA. Her most current projects are in the Sacramento area, Roseville, Granite Bay, Rocklin, Lincoln, El Dorado Hills, Lake Tahoe, Truckee, Napa Valley and Sonoma. Having had a showroom for 16 years in the SF Bay Area in Woodside and Portola Valley, Pam still travels for clientele as requested from Marin to Carmel. Pam has also owned a design gallery in North Carolina for 9 years, a design office in Arizona for 4 years and worked in the states of Florida, Texas, Virginia and South Carolina designing custom residences, vacation homes, luxury model homes, country clubs and reception sales centers for golf development communities.


FACEBOOK Avallon Design Group Introduction Video, with Pamela Farnsworth Smith IIDA


"I didn't choose this career...it chose me when I first moved to California. It lit a fire inside me that has been burning now for over 30 years and thankfully, it is a career that moves and changes with me as I grow myself. Since there are so many branches of design in our industry, it allows me to continually learn more information to apply to my projects. My clients are all unique as are their styles. Reaching our design goals for their living environments is paramount, while creating a sound enjoyable design journey for them along the way. We become a design team. With design in mind and desire at heart, we transform spaces into living art." Pam


This blog is truly inspired each month by so many old and new friends alike, family members and clients. People are the pearls and gems in life. Hone, renew and refine those relationships (personal or business) and you'll find your treasure...your ship will come in.

December's Design Dance

My favorite time of year is right now. The month of December is always a juggling act for most of us, between work and the Holiday parties, events, shopping and family and friend dinners and lunches. I've learned over the years that to get through this time of year without too much stress, I simply have to remember that celebrating the holidays can also occur right after the Christmas holidays also. In fact, I already have lunches set up with 2 friends for after the New Year as well. Stretch the holidays out as far as you need to, in order to enjoy the season. Dashing around in the heavy rain and windy weather (or snow for those of you on the east coast) to get that shopping done or make that lunch date may not be necessary. The gift of grace might just apply here to relieve the stress of a deadline (I like to call them timelines, by the way), and to keep you from winding up "under the weather" yourself on Christmas Eve.




Like the ballet "The Nutcracker" , wouldn't it be better if you just envisioned yourself dancing gracefully along with your dance partners in life (that includes your friends, family, clients, work associates, everyone!) during this holiday especially, all in harmony and synchronization with each other? If you forget a step or two, you bow out gracefully and then back in when you're ready again, and just enjoy the dance of the season? One of my FaceBook friends recently posted a bumper sticker saying on her wall, that read, "what if the hokey-pokey is really what it's all about?" It made me laugh inside. The lyrics of this song are "Put your right foot in, put your right foot out, put your right foot in, and you shake it all about. You do the hokey-pokey and you turn yourself around, that's what it's all about", and so on....with the other foot, each arm, etc. It seems to me that life really is one big stage, where we are learning how to dance and interact with many people successfully. The key elements in the song are 1) first, get up and dance 2) take small steps, 3) celebrate by twirling around each time you accomplish something, and 4) start all over with the next step. For someone like me who is a master design planner who likes to see everything figured out ahead of time, have it all scheduled out to happen, and make sure all drawings and designs are well thought out, I usually don't come up for air to twirl around and celebrate after each small step. My New Year's Resolution is: to do the celebratory dance more often!



In fact, I have a few more design ideas to de-stress this season:

When in doubt, DANCE; When in dilemma, DANCE; When it's delicious, DANCE; When it's done, definitely DANCE! (When you're driving, try smiling...dancing could be dangerous).



I'll leave you with some December images and photos that dance with design. Decorating for the holidays is a joy for most everyone. Add both elegance and whimsy to your spaces. Here's a stunning Tuscan home of my clients' who followed that formula. She loves to add the unexpected touches at holiday time and it is different every year, as I've seen her home a few times. Her style home is perfect for large scale accents as you'll see, starting with the custom designed glass and ironwork front double doors with holly and winter foliage hanging in an "S" pattern on both sides. In the Grand Foyer you can almost hear the elves talking to themselves on the ottoman about the arrival of Santa for her grandchild. What a nice place to sit down and enjoy a cup of cocoa (ho, ho, ho), and chat with a big brown bear with red cap, who looks as if he has had more than just cocoa (leaning over the pot) and an angelic lady sculpture watching over this scene who has donned her new coppery cape for the evening.




We enter into the Dining Room where the music "Oh Christmas Tree" could easily become "Oh Mantel Grand". What a simply elegant adornment. It goes on to my client's inspiration to bling up our existing drapery tassel tiebacks with the winter leaves foliage. I truly enjoy doing Christmas shopping with my clients while they select items as we go through a local holiday boutique full of possibilities. We always manage to get a great lunch in at a special cafe after we've finished the design purchases. This particular client happens to love decorating for all the holidays and has so many more decorations stored away, I almost think of her as Mrs. Claus now.




And if you would prefer a traditional design with a twist, take a look at this wonderful painted metalwork Nativity Scene....it glows and feels as if it's in movement. The small brown candles in the three kings' lanterns are actually chocolate scented, so although they do not smell like frankincense, they are a good subsitute. Look at the interplay of ornaments themes on this sparkling tree, from flying angels and music playing cherubs to hummingbirds and colorful glass balls. Whatever your theme is, enjoy the mixing of ornaments. As long as you keep a consistency in either color, scale, or style, you can achieve a good blend and harmony.




I'd also like to send you into Winter with this glorious image from my favorite photographer, Kevin Sink. A red cardinal on a bough....grace and nobility and a delight to the eye. The red cardinal is a male and the bolder the red color, the longer will be his lineage. He represents warm, vibrancy, and the color red itself is one of love.



Wishing all of you a safe, healthy, happy holiday season. See you in 2011.



Designer4You4Ever

Pamela Farnsworth

AVALLON DESIGN
Visit our Website: www.avallondesign.comDesign Inquiries: pam@avallondesign.com
Our Blog: www.enhanceyourdesignviews.blogspot.com (you're here!)

P. O. Box 1623, Lincoln, CA 95648
Ph: 916 677.6792 Fax: 916 543.8782



NEW! We're on FACEBOOK now. Type in Avallon Design and click on the big house profile picture. Everyone is invited to join. Design feedback and comments welcome!



Pamela is an IIDA Professional Interior Designer in Northern CA. Her most current projects are in the Sacramento area, Roseville, Granite Bay, Rocklin, Lincoln, El Dorado Hills, Lake Tahoe, Truckee, Napa Valley and Sonoma. Having had a showroom for 16 years in the SF Bay Area in Woodside and Portola Valley, Pam still travels for clientele as requested from Marin down to Carmel. Pam has also owned a design gallery in North Carolina for 9 years, a design office in Arizona for 4 years and worked in the states of Florida, Texas, Virginia and South Carolina, designing custom residences, vacation homes, luxury model homes, country clubs and reception/sales centers for golf developments.



"I didn't choose this career...it chose me when I first moved to California. It lit a fire inside me that has been burning now for over 30 years and thankfully it is a career that moves and changes with me. Since there are so many branches of design within our industry, it allows me to continually learn new information to apply to my projects. My clients are all unique and their styles are as well. Reaching our design goals for their living environment is paramount, while creating a sound enjoyable design journey for them along the way. We become a design team. With design in mind and desire at heart, we transform spaces into living art."



CELEBRATE DESIGN!

A Designer's Thanks

Welcome into my favorite time of year, from Thanksgiving through the Holidays, my beloved Christmas and the New Year's Celebration!



I think it starts out with lots of thanks being given for all our blessings whatever they are this year. That has to be coupled with delicious home cooked meals of a grand nature with lots of left-overs. It then proceeds onto giving thanks to a loving creator for our lives, our relationships, then giving our time and gifts during the holidays and sharing our presence with family, friends (I said presence, not necessarily presents!) It culminates with a celebration of the New Year which ushers in new ideas, plans and goals! November and December are recap months for the whole year, remembering the positives, giving thanks for same, sharing with others, and then getting back on the horse for a new and celebratory ride into 2011.




REMEMBERING: Remember what some of your rooms looked like before we designed them anew? Here are just a few....you'll recognize yours if it's here on this post. If it's not, look for it in another post soon. What a great time we had working on these together. I have great design memories of all kinds from way back in the SF Bay Area, FLA and NC. I only wish I had photos of every before and after. Remember your accomplishments and fun times. It's called cumulative joy!




THANKING: I am ever so thankful to be able to even do this blog! Who thought I could take the time to do a blog? But in those slower months, it allowed me to use my creative writing talent to give back knowledge, new design info and these photos for your enjoyment. I look forward to each post. My most important thank you? Of course always health & prosperity, your client projects, the teamwork support from my husband Chuck and my feline design assistant ... well, she's really still in training.




FEEDING: Spiritual feeding goes without saying and is the most important but we'll focus on cooking for a minute. I love to cook new meals ... it's a very creative process. The combinations of healthy ingredients, flavors, herbs and spices are important for the meal's success. Desserts are far and few between for me these days, so I choose them carefully ... from a simple dark chocolate bar with raspberry to tiramisu, a carmelized flan to a strawberry shortcake with whipped cream. A good friend of mine reminded me that "stressed" spelled backwards is "desserts" spelled forwards. So now we all know why we're driven to binge on something sweet! In my design projects, the dessert would be the last phase which is the "spice up the room" Phase III Accessories and Artwork. The meal just isn't complete without the sweet, and that pertains to your designs too! So let's finish up some of that accessorizing soon. It will make a big difference on the "oohs and ahhhs" you hear and feel yourself.




GIVING, SHARING: Seems these are in a perfect circle. Giving as much of your help, ideas, encouragement and knowledge is always a good thing to share with others. If we didn't have a monetary system in place in order to survive and prosper and if commerce all happened in a barter type society; would you then choose the same job you have now? If the answer is yes, then you must love what you do. If you love what you do, that pours more energy into your life and profession/practice to succeed. Your Gifts: 1) practice them 2) share them, and 3) they give back to you again to use!





DREAMING: This one is my specialty. I am a dreamer mostly...I always shoot for the creative stars at first. That is what starts the project off on the right foot and creates the unique concept and blueprint for the job, then tying together the details all the way through. But my practical and organized side brings the project back into line with the reality of function and budget! Thank goodness for a balanced left and right brain. Dreaming is positive creativity and planning assures it's positive reality. What's new for you in 2011?




CELEBRATE: Acknowledging a fresh new beginning is exhilarating and something worth celebrating. How about a brand new year, twelve months full? We all love new starts.




TAKE A RIDE: Riding the rollercoaster of life, ups, downs and sideways. It's "all good" is a saying of one of my old friends and what I like to say is "enjoy the ride", since most of us did dream about it and planned most of it anyway, driven by a lot of heart desires and divine guidance. Just think how great the ride would be if we really "visually designed it all" ahead of time for the best outcome and result, just as my design projects are handled? SOME AWE in that statement! Celebrate Design.



THANK YOU,

Designer4You4Ever

Pamela Farnsworth

AVALLON DESIGN
Visit our Website: www.avallondesign.com
Design Inquiries: pam@avallondesign.com
Our Blog: www.enhanceyourdesignviews.blogspot.com (you're here!)

P. O. Box 1623, Lincoln, CA 95648
Phone: 916 677.6792 Fax: 916 543.8782


NEW! We're on FACEBOOK now. Type in Avallon Design and click on the big house profile picture. Everyone is invited to join. Design feedback and comments welcome!



Pamela is an IIDA Professional Interior Designer in Northern CA. Her most current projects are in the Sacramento area, Roseville, Granite Bay, Rocklin, Lincoln, El Dorado Hills, Lake Tahoe, Truckee, Napa Valley and Sonoma. Having had a showroom for 16 years in the SF Bay Area in Woodside and Portola Valley, Pam still travels for clientele as requested from Marin down to Carmel. Pam has also owned a design gallery in North Carolina for 9 years, a design office in Arizona for 4 years and worked in the states of Florida, Texas, Virginia andSouth Carolina, designing custom residences, vacation homes, luxury model homes, country clubs and reception/sales centers for golf developments.



"I didn't choose this career...it chose me when I first moved to California. It lit a fire inside me that has been burning now for over 30 years and thankfully, it is a career that moves and changes with me. Since there are so many branches of design within our industry, it allows me to continually learn new information to apply to my projects. My clients are all unique and their styles are as well. Reaching our design goals for their living environment is paramount, while creating a sound enjoyable design journey for them along the way. We become a design team. With design in mind and desire at heart, we transform spaces into living art."

CELEBRATE DESIGN!