Linda's space

Today, even though still chilly outside, I've become inspired by the bit of spring we've had.  New ideas and spring colors are popping into my head with fun ideas for decorating trends.

 

So what's a trend and how do you spot it?  Well, a trend is something that uses a common item in a new way, brings back something old and makes it new again, or it can transcend industries (look at the Hummer vehicle--its beginning purpose and where you see versions of the original today).  In relation to interior design, a lot of what you see begins in clothing design.  Just last month, our WCAA chapter took its biennial tour of the Kent State University Fashion Museum where we look at clothing detail as it may creatively relate to interior design elements or embellishments.  Why recreate the wheel, an abominable task, when you can just make it a little leaner, a bit faster, a new color, etc.  We also had the pleasure of meeting Isabel Toledo, designer of Michelle Obama's inauguration day suit, and her husband Ruben.  Isabel designed Michelle Obama's dress and coat from wool lace, YES WOOL LACE, woven in Switzerland.  It was backed with silk so it glimmered in the sun.  I can just picture window treatments in the same style or the leading edge of a panel with the wool lace detail for a client's window. 

 

New trends for window fashions show tab top panels in a new light with elegant tabs that are rouched, trim cascading down the leading edge and the hem gently breaking on the floor.  Panels of all sorts have made a comeback, from traversing panels to very full stationary decorative panels with shading systems underneath made of woven woods, decorative roman shades and shutters.  Or how about full and flowing sheer panels with a soft or colorful design on decorative drapery hardware with rings?

---

Hardware can make or break a treatment, literally!  But that's a topic for another day. 

 

 Details can really add that wow factor to any style.  Write back with comments or ask me a question. 

Enjoy the day!

---

Good morning!  What a bright and lovely day today!  The world looks greener from my windows as most of the snow has melted and I see grass for the first time this year.

I'm doing a little boasting today as I am very proud to have been selected the Person of the Year by my peers at the Valley City Chamber of Commerce's President's Ball held January 31, 2009.  ( http://www.valleycity.org/community/pb/2009/presball.htm )  I enjoy volunteering for the Chamber and have made some very nice friends as a fellow board member.  It's nice to live in a small town where people really do feel like family and understand your efforts can make a poignant impact for the good of the community.  I urge everyone to give what and where they can; whether it be time or money, compassion or relief.  No effort goes unnoticed, especially to those that it touches the most.  These days we see that a little must go a long way, we must live with less (and in my book that can be a good thing), and help each other more.

So today, if not every day, don't think about yourself, pay it forward--as little as it may be, give a nod to a stranger and be blessed.  Enjoy the moment...

What a lovely day today!  I took the time to take down most all the holiday decorations and even was able to get the lights down from outside.  We have a large live tree each year and that's something I can't do myself!  I captured O Tannenbaum before the de-decking and thought you might enjoy the picture.  The cats weren't very helpful, but they did take inventory of everything and wanted to see if some items were edible!

As part of this time of year, I love to clean up and clear out items taking up valuble space (don't toss the hubby!), so goes with all the organizing shows, commercials and ads we all see now!  I've also updated and cleared out my portfolio, so be sure to check it out to see the latest in window treatments and decorating ideas!  Make it a great month and check back soon!