Thanksgiving is here and it is a day for us to express how lucky we are to be here and enjoy our families and friends. Take a moment to think about all your blessings and be grateful and consider doing something to enhance the lives of those less fortunate. Do not forget the "giving" part of the day.
We should be thankful for our bountiful harvests............
our glorious traditions and food................
plentiful dishes at our tables...............
glorious desserts......................
and wonderful family & friends ............... from my family to yours
Lila Levinson, ASID, CKD, CID, NCIDQ, IDG
408-369-9801
accentondesign@yahoo.com
Doors are the first impression we make on the exterior of our homes and are the portal to our lives. Pay attention to the hardware too because it is all part of the package and besides looking great it needs to make our homes secure.
1. This door is quite handsome with it's inlaid paneling and architectural shape.
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3. How about using antique doors either for the entry or for a special room in the house?
4. This contemporary door is bold and geometric with it's square shaped glass panes and over sized panels.
5. Have you ever thought of using glass doors inside? Frosted glass doors let the light travel from room to room but maintain privacy.
6. Here is another glass door which is actually two sliding pocket doors.
7. Pocket doors are highly functional and this one is used to close off the toilet in the bathroom.
8. Doors need not actually be doors - this arched stone doorway makes a strong statement without actually closing off the rooms.
9. This clever door is quite whimsical but actually operates as a regular door. Mouse door anyone?
Please call if I can be of any help!
408-369-9801 or email me
accentondesign@yahoo.com
Lila levinson, ASID, CKD, CID, NCIDQ, IDG
We all need to work on getting more exercise but it's hard to get to the gym or go for a run in unfavorable weather so we let ourselves slide. There is no excuse when you have a nice set up at home so here are some samples of places to exercise at home, starting with this elegant bathroom.
The kids will really love a rock climbing wall but adults might want to join in the fun too. Add a little basketball and you have a real indoor gym.
It's wonderful to be able to incorporate lots of natural light in your exercise area even if it's only one or two machines. This room also has full height mirrors to reflect the light around the room and a polished concrete floor to make it easy to clean up.
Here is a scene I had painted on the wall of an exercise room we added on to a client's house. The room is all French windows on three sides so it has a very open feeling and the carpet is reminiscent of grass. There is a TV and small refrigerator in the room in addition to the exercise equipment and pilates equipment. Sorry I don't have pictures of the equipment in the room.
Taking a corner of the family room and orienting it towards the TV lets you be part of family activity while exercising.
Some equipment fits nicely under a stairs like this one in the basement so it's out of the way but easily accessed.
If you have the room a separate exercise room and indoor pool is the ultimate!
Here are two images of lap pools - a great way to get exercise for the whole family.
If your room lacks windows add a wall of mirrors so you can see how you are doing and visually expand the room and light at the same time.
Please call me if I can be of any help!
408-369-9801 or email me
accentondesign@yahoo.com
Lila Levinson, ASID, CKD, CID, NCIDQ, IDG
I consider cabinet hardware to be the jewelery that completes the look on a cabinet. Old style cabinets with finger pulls never had the refined look that hardware adds. It was an economical way to make cabinets because sometimes the hardware can be a little pricey (depending on which ones you choose) but the expense is a small part of the entire project and makes a lot of difference in the finished room. Cabinet hardware comes in many different finishes.
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Leather hardware really ups the tailored and masculine factor for a library or den.
These interesting knobs and handles could be used anywhere in the house.
Have you seen hand carved wooden pulls before? They are very sophisticated when added to furniture and more traditional cabinets.
These knobs are beautifully carved in wax and then cast. They have semi-precious gems in the center.
Speaking of gems - this hardware is made with crystals for a little contemporary "bling".
These twisted pieces of hardware are interesting and can be use almost anywhere for a casual and playful touch.
Love bugs and small critters? These may be just what you are looking for. Animal and houshold pet hardware is also available.
Silverware hardware is available for kitchens and comes in several finishes.
These stones have been carefully polished and then made into cabinet knobs. They can work even if you are not a rockhound.
These beautifully textured knobs remind me of chocolates - always welcome!
Sleek shiny hardware is perfect for today's contemporary cabinets and furniture. The clean lines are elegant in their simplicity.
Here are some more pieces of hardware created by the lost wax method and have very intricate carvings. WOW - wouldn't they look great on a dresser or chest? You don't need too many when you use them on furniture.
Hammered hardware never goes out of style and these are exceptionally beautiful. Notice there is even one in copper which should patina beautifully.
Don't forget that backplates or escutcheons can really dress up simple hardware and take it to the next level.
These hand cast "manhandles" are one of my favoite styles of cabinet hardware and you only need a couple to make a statement and add some fun to your room. They are available in several different metal finishes.
Open your eyes and look at your cabinets and furniture and see if there is some place where you could add new hardware and really update your rooms. You could spend as little as $50 or as much as several thousands, but it will make a huge impact.
Please call me if I can be of any help!
408-369-9801 or email me
accentondesign@yahoo.com
Lila Levinson, ASID, CKD, CID, NCIDQ. IDG
Today I have the pleasure of having a guest blogger, Jennifer Brouwer. She has written a great article about how to decide which upgrades to buy when buying a new builder home.
Often model are beautiful and full of lots of upgrades but the house you are buying comes with the bare bones and the cheapest of finishes unless you buy the costly upgrades. Those upgrades could put you out of your price range and comfort zone so they need to be selected carefully and Jennifer has shared some good ideas to help you decide when it's worth it and when it's not.
Interior design -The Skinny on Upgrades
“Quality is never an accident; it is always the result of high intention, sincere effort, intelligent direction and skillful execution; it represents the wise choice of many alternatives.”- William A Foster -
The Skinny on Upgrades
In light of my recent experience assisting a client with selections from a builder’s “design centre”, I would like to arm you with some information regarding “upgrades”. Below is a list of what I think is worthy of taking a second look at, namely, what things may be easier to execute during the building stage and what things can be omitted from the builders selections and completed after you have taken possession of your new home.
Flooring
This is a great place to “invest” in a better quality product. I am a fan of tongue and groove hardwood but the typical builders “standards” do not include the current popular colour choices (you can guess why….. do I hear upgrade?) But you can avoid up-sell pressure if you remember these two tips
- It is really important that you know market costs on product and installation so that you can compare builder’s prices to the expense of doing it yourself after closing.
- Are you willing and prepared to accept possession of your house finished with builder standard flooring so that you can execute the upgrades on your own?
Lighting
Lighting, in my opinion, is a major element in good design! Again, builder’s standards are insufficient and the ceiling fixtures are usually esthetically un-appealing. When it comes to upgrading lighting, here is something to keep in mind.
- Focus on the rooms you use the most and think about what tasks are done in each space. Check what lighting is included (pot lights, ceiling fixture sconces etc.) review the builder’s costs for additions and determine if any are required. It often makes sense to make modifications at the building stage because adding pot lights and ceiling fixtures is a messy job especially on the second floor. It can be done after you move in, but it is stressful and aggravating. I feel there is a huge value making lighting modifications as a builder up-grade.
Painting
I would never upgrade painting with the builder. The quality of paint they use is poor, the selection is limited and it will need to be re-done or at least touched up after you move in. I feel it is spending good money after bad.
Staircases & Railings
If it is in your upgrade budget, do it now. Grin and bear the inflated price and know there is value in minimizing the complications and upheavals altering your staircase after closing would cause.
Cabinetry
I am torn on this one. I personally would never pay the exorbitant prices builders charge to “upgrade” millwork I cannot customize. I would stick to standard millwork and rip it out, repurpose or donate the cabinetry to Habitat for Humanity and install “custom” after closing. I would wager that you could facilitate the kitchen of your dreams still be under the quote for builder’s upgrades.
Tiles
Upgrading tiles is a must! The typical builder’s standards are poor quality and often leave much to be desired esthetically. Like the staircase and lighting fixtures it can be challenging to change tile later.
Faucets and Hardware
I would NEVER ….. I repeat NEVER in a gazillion years pay 500% plus mark up for faucets that are readily available at your local big box store. Replace these yourself!!
Vanities & Counters
Again, I am torn. The cost of this upgrade is atrocious. You can get an entirely new custom vanity complete with counter top for the same the cost as upgrading the cabinet doors with the builder. If you are dealing with a higher end builder, hopefully the floor tile continues underneath the vanities. If so, you can choose “standard” and upgrade later without any huge issue.
Finally, ask questions. Find how flexible the builder is to changes. Can you delete certain items (ie, flooring, the bath tub, cabinets) and if so are you given a credit? Can you contact their suppliers directly if you do not like any of the choices available at the design centre? Ask for what you want. You never know what your builders will do for you until you ask!
Those of you who follow my blog know that, if nothing else, I am practical. I love upgrades, but I prefer not to throw money out the window if a better solution can be found.
Remember, upgrades are fabulous but you have the full interior to address in your lovely new home!
Choose thoughtfully, Spend wisely,
And remember to save some funds for the finishing touches.
You will be so thrilled you did!!
Thanks Jennifer!
Please call me if I can be of any help!
408-369-9801 or email me
accentondesign@yahoo.com
Lila Levinson, ASID, CKD, CID, NCIDQ, IDG
When you are planning a new kitchen it is essential that you know what the proper clearances should be for people to move around in the space and what height counters and eating bars should be set at.
Here is an easy quick reference from the November/December 2011 This Old House Magazine. When planning a kitchen these dimensions will assure that your kitchen works correctly.
I hope these few essential measurements will help so you get a kitchen that is not only beautiful but works well too! Happy kitchen planning and design. Kitchen design is very technical and if you are not sure how to do it correctly you should consider hiring a professional kitchen designer for help.
Please call me if I can be of any help!
408-369-9801 or email me
accentondesign@yahoo.com
Lila Levinson, ASID, CKD, CKD, NCIDQ, IDG
Today's guest blogger is Susi from Arcadian Lighting, with some ideas about lighting the Bathroom.
8 Ways to Light Up the Bath
Hi, I'm Susi and I write for Arcadian Lighting, a wonderful resource for lighting ideas and trends online. I am delighted to be guest blogging here at Accent on Design. My guest post today is all about ways to light up the bathroom. While a bar of vanity lights will do the job, there are so many other options for bathroom lighting fixtures these days. Here are eight of my favorite ways to light up the bath. Thanks for letting me stop by!
1. Lighting for a bath, like any room, should ideally be a mix of fixtures. Something for task lighting, something to add sparkle or overhead light and something in the shower are smart choices when choosing lighting for the bathroom.
2. A classic light for a classic bathroom is a two-light vanity light above the mirror. This is the perfect size light for a pedestal sink and narrow mirror.
3. The combination of a sparkling chandelier and recessed lighting creates a range of ambient and task lighting for this larger bathroom. Creating lighting zones is important in a larger bathroom.
4. In a contemporary bathroom sleek pendant lights hung low in front of a mirror are a cool option. Look for lights with clean lines and shapes for a contemporary bathroom.
5. For lower ceilings or in the shower, recessed lighting is a good choice. Just make sure your lighting is waterproof for all the moisture in the bathroom.
6. An alternative to a chandelier or a utilitarian semi-flush mounted fixture is a drum shade. You can choose a very simple drum shade or one with metal trim for more sparkle.
7. In a powder room, have fun with the lighting. Choose a pendant or chandelier that has a big impact but doesn't overwhelm the space.
8. A pair of wall lights flanking a mirror is a stylish choice of lighting that also creates a flattering light. Mounting a wall sconce on a large mirror feels glamorous.
Thanks, Susi!
Please call if I can be of any help!
408-369-9801 or email me
accentondesign@yahoo.com
Lila Levinson, ASID, CKD, CID, NCIDQ, IDG
Every little girl seems to love pink and purple and when they grow up they remain favorite colors for many. Pink can be used in many different shades and intensities and it adds a warm feeling to those rooms where it is used.
This room is quite grown up and the bold use of purplish pink add lots of pop to this otherwise gray room.
A hot pink chair adds just the right amount of WOW!
This pinkish coral rug in a neutral room adds warmth and pizazz.
Back to the pink and purple combo of the young, this room is toned down by the grayed purple and warmed with the accents of pink.
OK, who said the ceiling couldn't be fun too? Now there is something fun to look at when you are lying in bed.
The back of a bookcase painted pink may be just the right amount of pink to set off the room.
Or you could go wild and paint the whole wall shocking pink!
Have a little fun with your colors and try them in unusual places.
Please call me if I can be of any service!
408-369-9801
or email me accentondesign@yahoo.com
Lila Levinson, ASID, CKD, CID, NCIDQ, IDG