Iowa Tinsel and Turquoise Transitional Tree

Just like many of you, people around here get pretty excited about “decking the halls”!

So, today I am taking you inside the store on a Chritmas tree – glow- tour. Once again Alex Von Ahsen took the photos and I played with them. 

Here’s what it really looks like! A classic in crystal, copper, silver and gold.

There are two tiny trees also on the first floor – very sparklie!

 

Next, off we go to the mezzanine. . . Turquoise colors bending under the weight of a mountain of tinsel!  BLING and unexpected drama! 

 

and upstairs: Oh! Tannenbaum: Hubba-hubba!

        We have more!

Old world elegance.

Come in for cookies and coffee while you’re downtown this season.

You’ll love what we’ve done to the place!

  

Dianne Ross

Interior Designer / Phelan’s Interiors

363-9634

Personal Traditions for Thanksgiving

What a gorgeous, meaningful, and inexpensive table setting! I saw this in a magazine and it reminded me of how much my daughter loved to hear stories about my  childhood in the “old days.” Children literally eat these up! 

Think of the personal  ideas that could springboard from this type of Thanksgiving table setting.

“Personal Touches for the Thanksgiving Table

 Family History What better time than Thanksgiving, with everyone gathered at the same table, to learn more about your family? Devising a table setting with photographs inspires everyone present to reminisce and tell stories that can be shared from one generation to another. Ask guests to share or bring photos and to include information, such as names and dates, on the photo backs. And as stories are told, have someone at the table record them, then copy them later to be mailed as gifts. Photos can be duplicated using a photocopier. Consider producing multiples and offer them as favors as guests depart. Slip each into a manila envelope lined with cardboard to prevent creasing, and mark with the recipient’s name.”

The photo and paragraph above were taken from Country Living magazine.

 

Favorite family recipes could also be incorporated into this type of gathering.  I know it sounds odd, but at my house we serve a French cranberry parfait. The recipe came to us from a friend and a French World War II bride. Originally it was served at her Christmas feasts. Somehow it showed up and then claimed a permanent place on her Thanksgiving table.

 

Since sharing that dinner with my family 35 years ago,  her cranberry recipe has been on every one of my Thanksgiving tables.  

Don’t limit the photos entirely to the crowd; photograph the delicious food,  the food-flops, the hodgepodge of the best dinner day in the USA!

If you have any favorite decorating photos or personal recipes or new traditions I’d love to hear about them. Drop me a note in the comment box and DO send photos!

I am thankful

 and

 my hope is the same for you.

 

Dianne Ross

Interior Designer / Phelan’s Interiors

363-9634

PS If you want the cranberry parfait recipe, just ask!

What’s Up HOT Color?!

Maybe because we are inundated with bad news these days, the design world is offering a “pick me up”. That lift is coming to us in the way of color!

I remember writing a hot pink blog recently, but after the National Furniture Market in High Point 2 weeks ago, I get to write another one!

Hot pink, hot orange, hot red, and even hot purple were seen all over vignettes at market. I don’t know about you, but I am totally ready to bring some hot into my life and my home. I’m not saying that you should paint the whole house Mandarin orange, but be fearless and use it for fun! 

How could anyone be in this room and be sad? It would be very difficult.

Don’t hesitate to include some of that hot color this year when you set your menu as well as the Thanksgiving table.

 Orange infused cranberry sauce belongs on this Thanksgiving table. The sage hue of the walls reminds us that a savory stuffing will scent the room as the copper-skinned turkey is carved.

And so it begins!

So, what’s up, Hot Color?

 This year go for a blast of color when you want to accent with pizzazz! 

It is really that simple!

 

When you realize how perfect everything is you will tilt your head back and laugh at the sky. ~ Buddah

 

Dianne Ross

Interior Designer/Phelan’s Interiors

363-9634

 

Sectionals are alive and well for 2010!

What’s the design word on the street?

 SECTIONAL!

They’re back!

Throughout the last 100 years sectionals have been in and out of favor with the masses.

Growing up there was an enormous sectional in our front room. It was cotton chintz in some sort of chocolate brown floral fabric with a ruffled skirt, if you can visualize (or remember) that! 

 This was in the early 1960’s and the style was called “Early American”.  Really.  Can you picture this fabric as an entire sectional?

My mother loved that monster.

 

Today the sectional is enjoying yet another comeback.

Today I’ll show three different looks on the upswing!

 

Here is one of the strong, modern looks as seen at High Point Market 2009. It is sleek, unencumbered and all business.

 

 

This  curvaceous sectional invites closeness and conversation.  And it’s  looking very much like a variation of the one on Oprah’s set, don’t you think?

This beauty in the photo below lives right here in Cedar Rapids and was custom designed for a client. -   From our Norwalk line!

Even though the cool grey tones suggest a cutting, contemporary edge, this piece is perfectly at home in a cozy, traditional setting. Family and friends feel welcome here.

It seems impossible to kill the adaptabilty, the function, or the ambiance of the sectional! With so many schematics available,  large rooms or tight spaces will benefit by adding a sectional. 

 

Having trouble figuring out what will fit?

Just ask!

 

Dianne Ross

Interior designer/Phelan’s Interiors

363-9634

Interior Design on Halloween

Why is this woman in a straight jacket? What pushed her over the edge?

                                                       Trick or Treat photo by A. Von Ahsen

 

 She didn’t come to Phelan’s first for all her home furnishings and design needs!  Don’t let crazy happen to you!

 

***HAPPY HALLOWEEN***

 

Dianne Ross

Interior Designer

363-9634

 

 

 

 

National Furniture Show

 

 

 

Twice a year, in the furniture world, all the buzz is focused on High Point, North Carolina. Each October and again in April, manufacturers lure shop owners into their showrooms to behold their latest and greatest offerings! These new pieces are called “market introductions”.

This event is highly anticipated, a visual extravaganza, and well – just spectacular. I might even say that ”market” is the New Year’s Eve party for the home fashion industry! 

Even though I didn’t get to go to market this year, it doesn’t diminish my excitement about all the new trends, new colors, new pieces of artwork, and fresh collections of furniture!

Market Introductions!

 

YAY!

 

In the weeks to follow I will highlight market introductions, but today here is a sneak peak from everybody’s favorite, Candice Olson. And I will give you one market word to remember:

Sectional! 

 Designed by Candice Olson

Manufactured by Norwalk Furniture

But, best of all:  Available in our store!

 

If you need help ( or an opinion!) with your interior design planning, please drop me a note or send a photo. 

 

Dianne Ross

Interior Designer/Phelan’s Interiors

363-9634

 

ARTISTIC paint and plaster

Hey Everybody!

Metallic plaster technique – this is one way to add some very sophisticated BLING to a home!

 and layers of  stunning metallic paint!

Today I have the honor of introducing an outstanding plaster and paint artist. Lew Brewer is his name and he is right here ( Kalona, Iowa) among us.

Below you will find some very interesting facts about Lew’s training, techniques and unique skills. The photos are really a poor representation, so you’ll have to forgive me for that.

 That’s right – it’s a painted wood floor!

 

 

Name: Lew Brewer

Company: Creative Colors Painting and Decorating

 

Services offered: Residential and commercial conventional and decorative painting.

 

Decorative painting services include, but are not limited to, faux finishing, murals, Trompe L’oeil, stenciling (both flat and dimensional),gilding(metal leaf), furniture, countertops, columns, and Italian Plaster.

 

Experience: I started dabbling in residential painting in 1972 and in 1976 I decided to make it a full time career, gaining experience in most sectors of the industry, eg. tract/new construction, architectural/residential, commercial and industrial.

 

  About fifteen years ago I decided to direct my efforts more toward creative and decorative painting.

 I studied with Aaron Cohen of Vandalea Studios in Seattle, Kathy Carroll of Chicago Institute of Fine Finishes, Nicola Vigini, an Italian Master located in San Antonio, TX and Doyle Self of the School of Italian Plaster in Dallas, TX.

 

  I believe the training I have received from these outstanding teachers, coupled with the years of paint trade experience and my own creative drive has brought Creative Colors Painting and Decorating to where it is today, one of the pioneers of decorative painting in the Eastern Iowa area.

 Venetian Plaster

 I hope you can appreciate Lew’s fantastic abilities from the photos but if not – no problem!  He will make “story boards” for you to approve before he begins any project, which virtually eliminates all guesswork. Lew customizes each project for the client. We are very fortunate to have an artist of this caliber so close to home.

Opinions? Questions?

Leave a comment or feel free to call me for more details about this fascinating work.

 

Dianne Ross

Interior Designer/Phelan’s Interiors

363-9634

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

Iowa Rain verses Pretty Shoes

 Several pairs of my shoes have been flooded out. So far this year, over 40 inches of precipitation have graced the fair community of Cedar Rapids. That’s right – and we still have three of our “tradtionally wet months” ahead of us!

Normally, I wouldn’t go off on a rant for this blog, but sometimes the Iowa weather makes me cranky. It makes everybody I know cranky. I find myself wishing I owned stock in a flip-flop company!

 

 

 Frankly, we midwesterners are extremely weather-sensitive. The very first decision we make each and every day depends on the weather: what to wear. And this year (actually last year must be included as we remember THE flood) we  must decide what shoes we can or cannot wear based on how many inches of rain have been predicted. 

I mean,  don’t misunderstand – I am fully aware of heartland beauty. I appreciate each season with its unique spectrum of colors, and spicey or earthy scents, and comforting ambience.

But then it rains.

Every season.

    So yeah, I’d wear these to work! 

 

Dianne Ross

Interior Designer/Phelan’s Interiors

363-9634

2009 Johannes Parade Home!

Stunning and practical all in one home!

That’s right! This is a DON’T MISS house when touring the Iowa Parade of Homes this year!

The custom home is built by Casey Johannes is located in Swisher, Iowa.

 Nothing else quite says welcome like an 8 foot mahogany front door and this one is an absolute work of art.

 

 

 

 

 There are some unique architectural features and details here that you won’t find in other houses, such as a wine refrigerator just out of the camera’s view.  Look at the combination wood and tile floor in the kitchen and dinette.

Hand scraped, five inch, walnut planks are used in the Entry and Hallway.

 In the Kitchen an artistic treatment was then implemented by using the wood planks as a picture frame to surround the 20 x20  tiles. Casey Johannes estimated that it took him 60 hours to do the installation. What a labor of love!

Note the backsplash as it repeats the pattern on diagonal of the tile and wood.

 

 The Great Room acts as a hub for entertainment as it opens up to the Dinette and Kitchen spaces.

Stacie Reid, Phelan’s interior designer, partnered with the Johannes team on floor plans, furnishings, and accessorizing the house.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

Here are 2 shots of the unusally spacious, work – at – Home Office which is located on the second floor. There is also a Bonus Room upstairs, which is one of Stacie’s favorite spaces!

I don’t want to spoil all the surprises that are found throughout this home – but I am compelled to talk about one more well designed feature. It’s in the Master . . . No, on second thought, I want you to visit this house and see it for yourself!

 

The space planning, the added artistic elements, and the consideration of family day-to-day living, are brought together under one roof in this well executed home.

2785 NE Sunset Ct

Swisher, Ia

***** ONLY TWO DAYS LEFT *****   

Saturday September 27:  noon – 5 PM

Sunday September 28: noon – 5 PM

 

Remember, it is number 8 in the Parade of Homes magazine.

And stop to see the Allan Custom Home,

in Cedar Rapids, number 11

 

Dianne Ross

Interior Designer/Phelan’s Interiors

363-9634

Cedar Rapids Parade Of Homes 2009

This is it! The magnificent home presented by Allan Custom Homes!

 

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  

 Front entry early in the week.

Welcome !

 

 

Great Room

 

 

 

 

                                                             Notice the fantastic ceiling!

 

Kitchen is almost done!??

 

                                                               Amazing! Built in buffet.

 

 Shall we go downstairs?

 

Lower level Family Room, Bar, entrance to Wine Tasting Room and Wine Cellar

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Here is the Family room. . .

 

 

 

 

 

 

 and Bar- exposing stone arch into the entrance into the Wine Tasting Room

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Let’s taste some wine!

 

Please come and join Stacie Reid, lead designer, and me this weekend (TODAY!) at this fabulous home.It’s number 11 in the Parade of Homes book.  We would love to show you around!

 

 

 

6804 Cottage Ridge Crt NE, Cedar Rapids

 

 

 

As long as you are out and about, don’t miss the other ( number 8 ) gorgeous home that Stacie did for Casey Johannes Homes, 2785 NE Sunset Ct in Swisher!

 

Saturday Sept 19 and 26:  Noon to 5 PM

Sunday Sept 20 and 27:  Noon to 5 PM

Tuesday Sept 22:  5 to 8 PM

Thursday Sept 24:  5 to 8 PM

 

Dianne Ross

Interior Designer/Phelan’s Interiors

363-9634

Family, Friends and BUTTER for Thanksgiving

 

No, this is not a Butterball turkey. It is a butter sculpture!

“TOGETHERNESS

 IS THE MOST IMPORTANT INGREDIENT

  IN HOME MADE . . .

BUTTER, A CLOSE SECOND. ”

                                            BETTY CROCKER

HAPPY THANKSGIVING EVERYONE!

 

Dianne Ross

Interior Designer / Phelan’s interiors

363-9634

Personalized CHRISTMAS Wrap – Practically Free

 

 Dianne Ross photo

 

December brings out the very best in designers. . . because December is all about the beauty of Christmas decorating.

When you think about it, December is the only time of the year when we create things and celebrate things simply for being beautiful! I love everything about Christmas – the snazzy holiday snacks, the fancy full course meals, decorated cookies galore, illuminated trees with ornaments aglow, pretty packages, presents,  fireplace mantles, scented candles, sticky candy canes, glitter, sacred music, creches, holiness, and materialism. I love it all!  And I’m not alone.

It was hard for me to determine which topic to write about this month because obviously, it’s difficult to whittle it down to ONE single topic. So, for today I’ve selected to share a gift wrapping technique that turned out to be a huge crowd pleaser with my family. I hope you use this info as inspiration for your own personalized packages this year.

 Start with a favorite personal snapshot. Turn it into a black and white shot using photoshop or whatever editing device you have. I prefer tight head shots without a lot of fussiness in the background. . . but pick what you like! Print the photos on plain computer paper – any size you like. You can then cut them out and using double faced sticky tape, adhere them to a plain white gift box. These boxes are free at most department stores when you make a purchase. Otherwise they can be purchased (for less than most wrapping papers) at discount stores.

I used black ribbon to “frame” a couple of these photos on larger boxes. I also used leopard print wrapping paper to mingle with the black and white packages. Aqua was my accent color, but any bold color works beautifully! Use your imagination and your photos. Your Christmas guests will be very honored, not to mention impressed!

If brown tones are more to your liking, try doing the photos in sepia instead of black and white. The whole idea is to have some fun making your personalized packages for those near and dear to your heart!

If you want more information give me a call at the store and I’d be delighted to help.

After the gifts were passed out we put my youngest grandchild under the tree. Why? Because he matched the decor! OK – what? You know I have “the design sickness!” Scroll to the bottom to see him.

 

 

Dianne Ross

Interior Designer/Phelan’s Interiors

363-9634

Interior, no – I mean EXTERIOR Holiday Design!

Dianne Ross Photo

Following a Christmas-List reality check this week, I came up wanting. I was horrified to accept the fact that it may not be possible to accomplish all of my tasks. Only on Thursday did I begin shopping for gifts . . .

No cards written, addressed, or mailed, but the house is looking fairly festive.

No baking done, but I know where the cookie cutters are.

No gifts wrapped or embellished, but I did find a Tupperware container filled with 8 scotch tape dispensers and a 7 inch strand of wrinkled ribbon. The container was in the cupboard behind the cookie cutters.

Stocking stuffers? No comment. But, I digress . . . BACK TO THE LIST!

And to exterior design. Well, uh,  I don’t have any outdoor lights up yet, either. But it’s on my list.

When I shot this photo in my courtyard, the glitter of the snow was as fresh as my ambition to design my own Christmas cards this year. Talk about excited! Instead, what I did was sprinkle salt (ever so artfully) on the front step and then I scooped the sidewalk.  Exterior design. I ran out of steam and I’m running out of time.

TIME. It also occurred to me that my story might very well be your story. Our holiday lists apparently have no end! So here’s a thought, if you will, and a generous gift to give yourself. It’s the gift of awareness.

To see the beauty of glitter on the snow

To hear the somber tolling of bells

To stop long enough to behold the wonder of the Christmas.

This year give yourself the gift of time for awareness.

(it’s on my list!)

 

Dianne Ross

Interior Designer/Phelan’s Interiors

363-9634

The Glitzy-Glam Tannenbaum (i.e. Christmas tree)

                               O Tannenbaum O Tannenbaum

The history of our Christmas tree is long and murky. The first worshipped trees were of pagan origins and celebrations. But then, somewhere around the 1600’s came the tannenbaum. Germany gave us the lovely, candle-illuminated, first  Christmas tree.

O Tannenbaum!

Today in most schools the words have been changed again – going back to a more pagan nomenclature – they are now referred to as holiday trees. Seriously?

 Throughout wars and times of peace the holiday (i.e. Christmas) tree has transformed, morphed, progressed, and regressed.

In the 1930’s trees became large and real again. Balls, bells, tinsel, mercury glass, crystal – anything that glistened  – was done en masse. Over the top didn’t exist.

When the 50’s and 60’s introduced us to “less is more”, decorators could not, would not give up the glitz and the bling, no matter how sophisticated and modern they attempted to be. Solution? Make the whole tree out of blinding bright, silver color, aluminum! Now, that had some razz-ma-tazz! And everybody could save face by labeling it as minimalistic.

Today holiday (i.e. Christmas) trees of every creative style abound. Last week I saw Hollywood-Glam trees advertised and they are PINK!  Trees with a theme are apparently going to be with us for a while: Snow Queen trees, Mickey Mouse trees, Victorian trees, Fishing Lure trees, Pokemon trees, Feather trees, etc.

Well, whatever they are called, whatever they are made from, whatever hangs on their boughs, they are one of the best ornaments ever invented! Aromatic fresh or long term fake makes no difference to me. . . You might remember I am the one who loves everything about Christmas? ESPECIALLY if it’s shiny?!

If you scroll to the end there is another photo of a grandchild under an enormous  holiday (i.e. Christmas) tree with me . . . it was taken last year in the lobby of a Texas hotel, as we celebrated my birthday.  

O tannenbaum!

 

 

Merry Christmas Everyone

Dianne Ross

Interior Designer/Phelan’s Interiors

363-9634

Dec 26: Nasty, Glittery, Santa aftertaste?!

 

 

         Santa is the overseer of cupcakes and silver balls.                                      

Here it is – the day after Christmas and shoppers are being lured into buying even more. Santas at 50% 0ff, Glittery ornaments at 75% off, free candy for the kids, early bird specials from 5:30 -7:30AM.  Me? Are you kidding?  I am the one who loves all things Christmas but, honest to Blog, I can’t think of anything I want to buy at 5:30 AM. 

I have barely had time to enjoy my own holiday decorating and it’s almost time to put it back in boxes. Makes me kind of sad.

Today I’m just going to photo it up with Santas and Christmas glitz – just to make sure everybody gets their fill. I don’t have that nasty metallic     aftertaste… Not just yet. So, here we go -

                                                       Same guy later that night – sans cupcakes

  Then, when it’s time, we can  pack up  everything that sparkles, all that glitters, and get ready for the long cold winter. . .

This guy is in the bag.

OOOPS! Did I say “long, cold winter”? What I meant to say was, “Let’s get ready to celebrate the coming of the fabulous new year!”

Much later that night. 

                                                                                                                  And later, still

             MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL  and TO ALL A GOOD NIGHT!

 

Dianne Ross

Interior Designer/Phelan’s Interiors

363-9634

After Christmas Sad-House Blues

This syndrome is defined as depression following holiday parties.

It has many names (Treatment is available) and is sometimes known as

POST PARTY-UM BLUES.

Onset begins 4-10 days after Christmas tree removal.  You are at low risk if you have some but not all of these symptoms:

You have a family history of living in snow bound areas.

Sudden onset of snarky attitude and general melancholy.

Not remembering how dark the house is without Christmas lights.

Most, if not all of these symptoms of Winter-Dark-House Blues will be eliminated by implementing a non-specific commonsense home improvement project of any type. Do not deny the power of these Blues. Shop with an understanding friend who shares a similar experience and is good with color.  There is help. There is hope.

 However, CALL YOUR INTERIOR DESIGNER  immediately if you experience any of the following high risk symptoms:

Thoughts of hurting your sofa.

Halucinations – Seeing colorful accessories that aren’t really there.

Having an uncontrollable desire to paint everything sun flower yellow.

Thoughts of completely destroying or eliminating a wall.

These are traumatic manifestations of Post Party-um Blues. If your symptoms are severe, last longer than an Iowa winter, or if you find yourself  fixating on buying an ocean front condo in Costa Rica, then you must be treated by a professional interior designer. Therapy won’t work. Medication is useless. Googling Rosicrucian psychosensory incantations is definately out of the question, but -

TO CURE THE MOST HIDEOUS CASES:

 Talk with your designer.

Schedule a house-call.

Make a plan and follow through with confidence.

See the light.

At the very least, buy one lamp!

There is absolutely no need for Post Party-um, Dark -Days -of -Winter Blues to envelop you. For more information on this debilitating syndrome contact your personal interior designer or . . . or call me!

 

Dianne Ross

Interior Designer/Phelan’s Interiors

363-9634 

 

 

BLING it on HOME with glass tile!

 

 

 Look at these cabinets with the back-splash done in glass tiles from Daltile. Bling as elegant as a flawless diamond. It begs a second look. These are white iridescent tiles. See the mercury glass pieces on the counter top? Notice the icy crystals on the chandelier?    Bling it on home!

KraftMaid Stock photo

Actually this kitchen does look somewhat like a wedding cake! Not prissy. Not fussy. Not trashy. But rather, it is well thought out, perfectly executed, shimmering BLING.

Tiles have come a long way in the past 5 years, just as the word bling (or phrase Bling Bling) is now formally recognized in the dictionary! It wasn’t there 10 years ago. Originally referring to jewelry only, the word has morphed in definition and direction,  which now includes home accessories.

 ”Hollywood Glam” is part of our everyday vocabulary and everybody wants a little piece of it! Glimmer and shimmer are living among us and they are not going away. They are getting bolder as they mainstream into our decorating schemes. Surprisingly affordable, glass tile and metallic colored ceramics have joined glass block to shimmer in bathrooms and kitchens.

People are drawn to things that sparkle. It’s a part of our nature. It’s pleasing and energizing. Take a trip to Daltile.com and look at the the glorious glass and metallic colors available in ceramic tile.

When it stops snowing – or BECAUSE it is still snowing – stop into our showroom to see  and touch these sparklies for yourself! Then BLING it on home! No one really NEEDS a fabulous diamond, but kitchens and bathrooms are pretty much a part of our daily lives. Why not make them as glamorous as possible?!

More next week on natural stone tile. . . .or would you rather see more about home accessories in the category of BLING? 

Drop me a Blog to make your wishes known.

 

Okay,  I just couldn’t stop myself with this tile! Here is yet another photo of drop-dead-gorgeous iridescent tile. ENJOY!

 

 

Dianne Ross

Interior Designer/Phelan’s Interiors

363-9634

Travertine: one type of stone tile

TRAVERTINE

casual, relaxing, and inviting

 

     THREE  BEAUTIES

 

 ”Commonly found in Southern Europe, travertine is a stone that is earthy, rich and warm – a classic beauty in colors ranging from subtle creams to dark browns, reds and golds.

 

 

Travertine is a perfect choice for any setting – warm, cool, or neutral. Find it in tumbled, chiseled, honed, or straight-edge styles. Use it on floors, walls, or backsplash.”  

Quoted from: Tile –  Design in Style ‘08 Ultimate Resource Guide

 

Find more photos on line  by visiting daltile.com.

Find the real deal in Phelan’s show room.

 

Next week we will continue with LIMESTONE and SLATE.

 

Dianne Ross

Interior Designer/Phelan’s Interiors

363-9634

SLATE and LIMESTONE

 SLATE

 ”Flowing colors and eons of weathering give slate its personality. This is another natural stone with streaming textures and colors ranging from a single color or shade to blends of blues, grays, greens, golds, and rusts. Slate is available with a smooth sufrace or a ‘cleft,’ that is, a split look with an irregular surface, or tumbled versions with rounded edges.

 

 Use slate for walls, floors, counter-tops, entryways, and around fireplaces.” 

Slate should be sealed. Even though it is not recommended as the best choice for shower surrounds, I have clients that absolutely love it!

 

LIMESTONE

 

 ”A natural stone, limestone presents a softer design appearance due to the unique, varied and casual-looking striations of this sedimentary, organic stone.

 

Because of limestone’s usual colors in soft grays, browns and sometimes yellows, limestone brings the outdoors in with neutral (or close to neutral) colors for floors or walls in every room of the home.” 

All quotes are from Tile -Design in Style

Again, to my readers, I suggest to trip to daltile.com, where more product  pictures are featured along with product information. And, better yet stop by the store where you can actually see and touch our samples!

 

Dianne Ross

Interior Designer/Phelan’s Interiors

363-9634

 

 

Granite

 

 

GRANITE  has literally become the magic word in kitchen and bathroom countertops, as well as fireplace surrounds. Ever wonder why?

“One of the hardest, most durable of natural stones, granite is a stone usually featuring many colors.

 You can find granite in a host of natural designer colors, like warm browns, creams, golds and grays or cooler grays, greens, blues and black.

 Mother Nature made granite structurally versatile for use on floors, walls, and countertops.

Granite’s fine designs make it more tailored, more formal and sophisticated than other natural stone.”

 Most people prefer to use a slab installation for countertops but granite is also available as tiles. It is more cost efficient to use the tiles, but the downside is that you give up some of the unobstructed beautiful flow of the natural pattern. For this particular Blog I decided to show only the tile type of installation, assuming most of you know the look and beauty of a solid slab.

Here is a kitchen island done in granite tile.

 

Many thanks to all the shutterbugs who posted these photos on Flickr!

And, just a reminder that the quoted information was published in

TILE – Design in Style ‘08.

FYI:

I highly recommend this magazine, which I purchased locally at

Barnes and Noble.

And just another reminder, we carry granite, limestone, and travertine at our store. Stop in for a look-see!

 

Dianne Ross

Interior Designer/Phelan’s Interiors

363-9634

serious METALLIC EMBELLISHMENTS – ceramic tile

           Let’s see – where were we before Valentine’s Day interrupted our mental design flow?

 Oh yes – ( now we have put that to rest! ) we were exploring options in the world of tile: ceramic tile, stone, granite, limestone,  porecelain,  glass, metal,etc. Today I want to give you one more serious idea.

 Do you want to have some fun with a tile project?

**EMBELLISH**

Think metal.

Think seriously fun!

 Use metal tiles over a large expanse of walls or pare it down to the backsplash, or use it more sparingly as an appreciated piece of fine art. It’s all in the eye of the beholder.

Scroll down and see  actual products available as embellishment pieces. When these items are decided upon, quite often the design idea behind it is to repeat other metal objects in the room. . . stainless steel appliances, perhaps, or maybe an oiled bronze chandelier. Go wherever your imagination leads you. 

But, pay attention here: USE CAUTION when embellishing. The metal accents are serious pieces to add. 

If you walk into a kitchen and the backsplash screams,

“LOOK AT ME! LOOK AT ME!”

then you have made a mistake. You want to add an ornamental element inside your scheme. Balance, balance, balance, is always the goal. You wouldn’t wear ALL your jewelry at one time, would you? Same, same. Observe the power in these accent pieces.

 

 

 The bathroom below is staged in the simplest of fashion. The metallic tile is crisp  and unfettered. The look is uptown, yet prudent , and completely wild with style!

 It is just one more way to use metallic tile. And notice there is no overkill in the design. Because the metal tile packs such a visual punch it is capable of holding its own and holding your attention.

No fou-fou required.

 

Stop in the store to see more seriously fun metallic tile!

FYI: In Hiawatha you can see many of these embellishments installed on  the display floor of WOODHARBOR DESIGN SHOWROOM,

located at  1737 Boyson Road.

Be sure to mention that you read about it here !

ENJOY! 

 

Dianne Ross

Interior Designer/Phelan’s Interiors

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MY FUNNY (interior design)VALENTINE

 

 Today’s blog is simply about putting a smile on my (your?) face.

These playful images and ideas are oozing with creativity. With their lightheartedness, I think they are perfect for Valentine’s Day!

 These lips come to us from a U.K. company called dnaart.com. Check it out!

 

 

 The smashing implementation of detail in this photo knocked me out. Other equally outrageous photos like this can be seen at  deviantart.com or click on majorlycool.com. Both are inspirational.

 

 Can’t help myself with this photo - I LOVE cake!

And it made me smile. Interestingly, the woman who made it is named “Valentine”, Diann Valentine.  More of her lavish creations can be seen at weddingsvalentinestyle.com. Yummm.

 

My last valentine image for the day is just plain silly and I hope it makes you giggle! It is a vintage valentine card for sale on eBay.

 

So, there you have it –  some whimsical, don’t take life too seriously, design ideas for Valentine’s day!

Enjoy the romantic weekend with those you love.

 

If you can’t think of anyone to share it with,  then uh, uh – then paint your bathroom red and consider taking a communications class.

 

HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY!

 

Dianne Ross

Interior Designer/Phelan’s Interiors

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French Inspired ZEBRA CHEST IS HERE!

 

BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND. . .

Because I had so many inquiries on this piece, which I posted in a previous blog, I thought I’d give all of you a treat with this announcement. . .

ANNOUNCEMENT ** It’s here!  **ANNOUNCEMENT

It’s a piece of bold artwork, unique, flirty, functional, and above all – positively pulchritudinous!

Come on down to the store to see it proudly strutting its stuff!

Print this Blog and bring it with you for an additional surprise!

 

Dianne Ross

Interior Designer/Phelan’s Interiors

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More COLOR Trends for the home

I love my job.

One day last week my daughter (who lives in Texas) called to ask how my day was going.

“I’m coloring,” I said, “window treatments.”

“Isn’t it wonderful, that as an adult, you can color on the job?” she exclaimed.

I hadn’t really given it much thought before, but she is right.

I swung my chair around to face the cabinet adjacent to my desk and pulled open the top drawer.

Upon reflection it became a near-religious-experience.

Filled to capacity is a drawer full of color! Paint decks, colored pencils, books, color chips,  illustrated brochures on color, painting technique pamphlets, two color wheels, and more paint decks. I mean really – How many people  have a designated color drawer?

After I took this photo I began wondering about all those paint decks. How many are there? The palms of my hands started to sweat as I anticipated the final count. I almost became  delirious over this color spectrum extravaganza. You know I’m going to tell you, don’t you?

Twenty-three!

And that  doesn’t even include my “big box” from Sherwin Williams. Nor does take into consideration the very extrodinary, even bigger, black box from Pratt & Lambert. That huge box is the exact size of  flight bags that airline captains are seen with. Inside, it contains nine individual notebooks of color samples! The box isn’t in my designated color drawer, clearly because it doesn’t fit. I have a special double door cabinet for that baby!

Is it just me or are there choirs of angels singing over head?

I got so wrapped up in my daughter’s proclamation I forgot to stick to my subject and write about home color trends. It’s her fault. Definitely her fault. Next week I promise to be more vigilant.

That is if I’m not busy coloring.

 

  

Dianne Ross

Interior Designer/Phelans Interiors

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More COLOR Trends for the Home 2.0

 

Hello, all you color freaks out there!

 

My apologies for the self indulgent post last week – but, well. . . I just got lost in the moment! Enough said.  Now, as promised,  I’ll get on with it.

The announcement you’ve all been waiting for. The color trend for

 2009 is:

WATER

 

 McKenzee Bell photo

Word concepts have  such a powerful influence in the decorating world that people are using terminologies today such as  ”spa” bathrooms and “hotel” bedrooms.  Now comes the buzz word for the newest color trend. It has been edited down to one simple word. WATER. It’s a power-word.

The new blues include deeper shades of AQUA than we have seen for a few years. Dare I even say TEAL? Hold on to your snorkels because it’s coming!  Also included in the blue category, which we haven’t seen in a very long time, is COBALT.  As an electric accent color, it is the perfect accompaniment for every shade of aqua. I am happy to see the blue palette starting to make a come back. No doubt the “spa” influence and thoughts of being  refreshed and being well play a roll  here with the idea of WATER as a color.

Water; life is born from it – and so is color!

 

Dianne Ross

Interior Designer / Phelan’s Interiors

363-9634

 

 

GREEN Smoke and Mirrors!?!

 

Does it seem to you like suddenly everything is organic, recylced,  and/or eco-friendly? So, can anyone acurately say what GREEN really is?

Smoke and mirrors. 

 

                                                                                  Lolita Ginoski photo

Green smoke, that is, maybe green mirrors. You pick.

Let’s talk just a little bit about what that means in the furniture and design world. There are all kinds of variations on a theme available to the consumer, but I’ve come across one that I like. It’s simple  – not too smokey or too much glare. Believe it or not the words come to us from J.C. Penney through their “Simply Green” campaign.

1  Organic products must be made from 70% raw materials such as organic cotton or linen, grow without chemical pesticides or fertilizers.

2  Renewable products are made from at least 25% renewable materials such as bamboo, sorona, ingeo, soy, capiz shells, or wood that comes from managed forests.

3  Recycled products contain a mix of at least 25% previously used materials such as cotton, glass, or polyester made from soda bottles.

I am thinking , “Good for Penney’s” – at least they put their thoughts into words. They gave themselves, as well as their customers, guidelines and expectations.

Kermit should be proud because green is here to stay. I’ll continue this variation on a green-theme next time when we look at trends verses realities.

I remember back in my college  (hippy) days we were told to eat greens. But that was long ago. Long before we could imagine sitting on  them!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dianne Ross

Interior Designer / Phelans Interiors

363-9634

More on GREEN (smoke and mirrors)

 

 GREEN SMOKE

                                                                                 Gage Photography 

 

 VOCABULARY WORDS – 2009

  Sustainable:   Wikipedia says:  Sustainable product development and design is concerned with balancing economic, environmental, and social aspects in the creation of products and services.

I say: Many products have a fabulous, common sense story to tell which is not a new idea. For example, wood floors have a longevity that outlasts nearly every other floor product. And, most suppliers know they must replenish the trees as they harvest. Like I said, it’s not a new idea for wood producers. Because they are as proud of their forests as they are of their products, most wood flooring companies love to educate the consumer about what they have been doing for the environment.

Recycled:According to Wikipedia: Recycling involves processing used materials into new products in order to prevent waste of potentially useful materials, reduce the consumption of fresh raw materials, reduce energy usage, reduce air pollution (from incineration) and water pollution (from landfilling) by reducing the need for “conventional” waste disposal, and lower greenhouse gas emissions as compared to virgin production. 

I say: Some of this stuff gets boring. How about spray painting(!) an old end table? Does that count?

 Wonder if I spray it lime green?

Environmentally friendly: One more time from Wikipedia:(eco-friendly and nature friendly) are synonyms used to refer to goods and services considered to inflict minimal or no harm on the environment.^[1] To make consumers aware, environmentally friendly goods and services often are marked with eco-labels. But because there is no single international standard for this concept, the International Organization for Standardization considers such labels too vague to be meaningful.^[2]

I say: I concur. Keep your eyes and ears open. Look at yourself in the mirror. Refuse to smoke sardines.  Ask questions. Research.

Rotting, smelly garbage is called eco-friendly when one is discussing a compost pile!

Ever Upward photo 

Buyer beware of green smoke and mirrors!

 

Dianne Ross

Interior Designer / Phelan’s Interiors

363-9634

What does the Price of Tulips in Iowa have to do with an Eco-friendly house?

 

Eco-friendly home products are being marketed like there’s no tomorrow!

 Clever, indeed.

  But that doesn’t alter the fact that more and more rational people are interested in doing their part. Little tiny baby (carbon) footprints are quite desirable. Awwww!

If you find yourself wanting more information and less smoke and mirrors, tune into HGTV’s Green Home 2009 Special. It premiers Sunday, April 19 at 8 o’clock and looks to be informative, fun, and very down to earth.

If incentives sound attractive, don’t overlook the fact that the government is at the ready with rewards! Many green home improvements come with tax breaks. That puts more green in your pocket! Check out all the possibilities!

This magnificent tulip variety is called angelique.

Naturally,  my personal favorite green home, eco-friendly, make your neighbors green with envy, green idea is older than the hills.

Simply stated: Plant a garden.

Flowers are cheap. Mother Nature is generous. If perennials are selected you get the added bonus of blooms (for free!) year after year after year.

If you haven’t started some type of garden you are missing one of life’s deepest blessings! It’s eco friendly, leaves a lovely oxygen footprint, and gives you bragging rights about having a green thumb.

 

Dianne Ross

Interior Designer / Phelans Interiors

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PS For your reading pleasure, all cliches have been italicized.

Martini Madness FUNDRAISER in Cedar Rapids!

 

I realize it’s THREE weeks out, but as this year’s host, we are honored and very excited!

No, Cedar Rapids is NOT raising money for martinis.

No, Cedar Rapids is NOT raising money for madness, either.

(although I know some people out there would probably be in favor of either one or the other!)

 

MARTINI MADNESS ON THE MOVE . . .

the madness moves to a new location each year.

this year follow the madness to:

Phelan’s Interiors                  728 Third Avenue SE

May 8, 2009

The event is sponsored by The Cedar Rapids Musuem of Art!

 

 

Dianne Ross

Interior Designer / Phelan’s Interiors

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PS More details next week along with Martini trivia!

CR MUSEUM OF ART – MARTINI (trivia) MADNESS

 Two weeks and counting! Martini Madness is coming to Phelan’s Interiors, so I thought it might behoove my readers to know a little martini trivia! Check it out. 

• Martini, Allesandro (1812-1905) Italian businessman and founder of Martini and Rossi distillery

            

            Martini (vermouth), a brand of vermouth

• Martini (cocktail), a popular cocktail
• Martini Racing, motor racing teams sponsored by the Martini vermouth producer
• Martini (automobile company), Swiss automobile company
• Martini (racing), a French manufacturer of lower-formula racing cars
• Martini (festival), a festival formerly celebrated in Latvia
• Martini Shot, a term used during film production for the last shot of the day
• Martini-Henry, a rifle used by 19th century British empire soldiers
• Martini-Enfield, a .303 calibre version of the Martini-Henry introduced in 1895  

 

Inside scoop: Phelan’s has come up with a remarkable martini

recipe and name,

which will be served at the event. Details coming!

Teaser: Look at our logo and guess what color our martini will be.

**Martini Madness, Cedar Rapids Museum of Art

Fundraising event**

I hope there is lots of support for our local museum! 

 

Dianne Ross

Interior Designer /Phelan’s Interiors

363-9634

**What is a PHELAN-TINI!?!**

 

THE PHELANTINI

Gearing up for the Art Museum’s fund raiser involved selecting a personal martini we can call our very own. We played around with colors ( green and yellow,of course) and names before settling on “The Phelan-tini”!

Not only will this green martini be served at the event,  but there will be a host of special martinis to pick from.

 Don’t like martinis? No biggie.

 The party will be offering wine tastings, beer tastings, and even Starbucks will be on hand with their special varieties of coffees! And that’s just the beginning, from what I’ve heard. It’s all about the food.  So, once again this is a reminder to to buy your tickets and join us in supporting the

 Cedar Rapids Museum of Art.  FRIDAY May 8 starting at 7 PM

 

THE PHELANTINI

Key Lime Martini Recipe

Graham cracker crumbs, for rimming the glass

2 lime wedges

6 T vanilla flavored vodka

1/4 cup key lime liquor

2 T pineapple juice

2 T heavy whipping cream

Ice

Pour the graham cracker crumbs into a shallow dish. Rub a lime wedge around the edge of a martini glass and roll the edge in the graham cracker crumbs. Chill the glass for 30 minutes or until ready to serve.

Combine the vodka, key lime liquor, pineapple juice and cream in a shaker. Fill the shaker half full with ice and shake until well blended. Pour into prepared martini glass, garnish with a lime wedge and serve immediately.

See you there! I mean here!

 

Dianne Ross

Interior Designer / Phelan’s Interiors

363-9634

 

 

MARTINI MADNESS TONIGHT!

 

PARTY TONIGHT PARTY TONIGHT PARTY TONIGHT PARTY TONIGHT PARTY TONIGHT PARTY 

 

Lilacs and Forget Me Nots                   Oil by Igor-Grabar

 

CEDAR RAPIDS MUSEUM OF ART

TONIGHT

ANNUAL FUNDRAISER

 

HOSTED BY: PHELAN’S INTERIORS

7 - 10 PM

 

In previous blogs I have told you all about the fabulous hors d’oeuvres, the

crazy martini concoctions, wine tasting, beer tasting, Starbuck’s coffee varieties -

“But wait!  There’s MORE!”

 

A band will perform and you can dance the night away on our special dance floor!

Upstairs there will be a softer live music  sound if you simply want to indulge in the tastings

and mingle with friends.

SUPPORT THE ART MUSEUM

 

It’s not too late to purchase tickets – buy them tonight at the door.

 

ENJOY THE ABUNDANT SPRING NIGHT

 

Dianne Ross

Interior Designer / Phelan’s Interiors

728 Third Ave SE

363-9634

 

What is Memorial Day?

Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, is a day of remembrance for those who have died in our nation’s service.

rosendalV photo

 

 Flags, poppies, parades and attention to gravesites are the momentos which mark the day, even though in 2009 many have forgotten the original intent of making this a national holiday observance.

I found this photo on flickr  by kimberlyfaye. Additionally she contibuted to her lovely photo by way of educating the viewer.

 So, I have reproduced her photo and her words for our eyes, our minds and our souls.

AWESOME! Thank you!

                                            “In honor of Veterans’ Day.

Among all the flowers that evoke the memories and emotions of war is the red poppy, which became associated with war after the publication of a poem written by Col. John McCrae of Canada. The poem, “In Flander’s Field,” describes blowing red fields among the battleground of the fallen.

For more than 75 years, the VFW’s Buddy Poppy program has raised millions of dollars in support of veterans’ welfare and the well being of their dependents.

The VFW conducted its first poppy distribution before Memorial Day in 1922, becoming the first veterans’ organization to organize a nationwide distribution. The poppy soon was adopted as the official memorial flower of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States.

It was during the 1923 encampment that the VFW decided that VFW Buddy Poppies be assembled by disabled and needy veterans who would be paid for their work to provide them with some form of financial assistance. The plan was formally adopted during the VFW’s 1923 encampment. The next year, disabled veterans at the Buddy Poppy factory in Pittsburgh assembled VFW Buddy Poppies. The designation “Buddy Poppy” was adopted at that time.

In February 1924, the VFW registered the name “Buddy Poppy” with the U.S. Patent Office. A certificate was issued on May 20, 1924, granting the VFW all trademark rights in the name of Buddy under the classification of artificial flowers. The VFW has made that trademark a guarantee that all poppies bearing that name and the VFW label are genuine products of the work of disabled and needy veterans. No other organization, firm or individual can legally use the name “Buddy” Poppy.

Today, VFW Buddy Poppies are still assembled by disabled and needy veterans in VA Hospitals.

The minimal assessment (cost of Buddy Poppies) to VFW units provides compensation to the veterans who assemble the poppies, provides financial assistance in maintaining state and national veterans’ rehabilitation and service programs and partially supports the VFW National Home for orphans and widows of our nation’s veterans.”
In Flander’s Field
by John McCrae

In Flanders Fields the poppies blow,
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky,
The larks, still bravely singing, fly,
Scarce heard amid the guns below.
We are the dead.
Short days ago,
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved and now we lie,
In Flanders Fields.
Take up our quarrel with the foe
To you, from failing hands, we throw,
The torch, be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us, who die,
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow,
In Flanders Fields.

 

Enjoy the long weekend and don’t forget to hug a vet!

 

Dianne Ross

Interior Designer / Phelan’s Interiors

363-9634

Couch, Couch, SOFA

Know the difference?! Let me explain . . .

First of all, anything you see on the curb definitely qualifies as a COUCH!

 

Another qualification is a piece that takes on the personality of the Incredible Hulk. It’s too big, too muscular, awkward in most environments, and not necessarily green.

 See what I’m talking about?

 

Distinguishing characteristics of a COUCH can also include

(but are not limited to)

Ugly fabrics:

 Stripes and plaids that don’t even come close to matching up, floral patterns that look like they’d be better served as a casket lining, anything  lavender.

I think I make my point.

 

?SOFA?

A SOFA is a piece made with care, preferably with American hands.

The construction tells a quality story.

The design is simple – whether it be contemporary or classic.

The proportions are designed  for human comfort.

 The tailoring is spot on.

Here are but 2 beautiful examples. Designed by Candice Olson and

made in the U.S.A.

Notice the contrasting welt (outline) on each of these pieces. I showed it just for grins. These sofas are available with matching welts but it doesn’t cost a penny more to add this contrasting design element!

I will include one more SOFA in this blog. It is the classic traditional sofa, who some would say is boring. I say, not necessarily so!

It’s simple in style, well constructed, beautifully tailored, and still maintains it’s 2009 attitude!

 

Dianne Ross

Interior Designer /Phelan’s Interiors

363-9634

secrets and tips about sofa buying(Couch versus Sofa)

 

Hey everybody!  

Given a few furniture facts, you can make sense of why one sofa costs $699.00 and another costs $1899.00. My intent, this week, is for this blog to  clear up some of that mystery. COUCH vs  SOFA

First thing you need to know is that NOT all sofas are created equal. Some don’t even have springs inside. Some don’t have hardwood frames – actually some have “no wood” frames. . . plastic is used in the very worst couch construction. And staples. Honest.

 

  Corner blocked, doubled doweled, screwed and glued?!!  No, it’s not a dirty joke , but sounds like it could be, right?   It’s a bit of information describing fine construction. Only in the very best! Yes it costs more. And most likely it is made in the USA. I could (and might ) write lots of Blogs about the hows and whys to quality furnishings, but today I am giving some BASIC information that could save you hundreds of dollars over a 10 -20 years. Well, I mean if you like buying a couch every couple of years then this blog probably isn’t for you.

 

But  if you are like most of us who expect a piece of upholstered furniture to be comfy AND durable read on, read on!

 

                                       Quality built in America, Norwalk Sofa: “Ollie”

 

An Anatomy Lesson

No matter which form or function you choose, the comfort and quality of upholstery is based on what’s hidden: the frame, springs and padding. The following is a general guide to better understanding what’s beneath that seat.

Frames:

• Kiln-dried, hardwood frames are traditionally the best for ensuring long-term stability and shape retention. (Soft woods are rarely used as they are more likely to warp or split.)
• Quality hardwood frames are joined with some combination of dowels, screws, glue, staples and corner blocks … and the best examples use a combination of these methods. Properly built furniture will not rack or twist when you lift it by one corner.

Springs:

• “EIGHT-WAY” hand-tied: A time-honored construction method using a series of coils, each tied — from front to back, side to side and diagonally — eight times. This system creates even comfort and prevents “give” in the frame. This traditional method is believed to offer superior comfort, but has lost ground in recent years due to the advent of equally durable systems that are more cost-effective and less labor-intensive.
• “DROP-IN” machine-tied: A pre-assembled, machine-made coil system designed to simulate the hand-tied version. It drops into the frame and is typically fastened at the corners.
• “NO-SAG” or sinuous: A popular system using S-shaped steel components fastened to the frame from front to back. The highest quality versions use sturdy 8-gauge wire closely spaced and reinforced with horizontal steel supports. This method is used in many contemporary and traditional style frames.

Beneath all coil systems is a web of tightly woven jute strips or so-called sheet webbing, reinforced with steel straps under each row of springs. In the best upholstery, you can’t see between the strips.

	Eight-Way Hand-Tied	Sinuous Wire

Want more nuts and bolts? Drop me a line! We have sofas!

 

Dianne Ross

Interior Designer /Phelan’s Interiors

363-9634

Great Eastern Iowa DUCK RACE

Once again Cedar Rapids is gearing up for an event to bolster our community.

 

Not only is PHELAN’S INTERIOR’S hoping our adopted duck floats across the finish line in first place, we are absolutely convinced he is the best decked!

This guy is sporting his bling and his pizazz. Check out that top hat -

 His winner’s attitude is on full display!

 

  Yup – he is all about floatin’ his stuff and living the dream!

 

Paul Phelan Jr will be downtown Saturday for the highly anticipated launch! Come and join us.  You’ll be supporting the 2009 beneficiaries:

FOUR OAKS, BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS,  POLK ELEMENTARY SCHOOL.

This event is all about having a great time!

Saturday, June 6,  1:00PM

 

Dianne Ross

Interior Designer/Phelan’s Interiors

363-9634

PS Is it just me or has anyone else noticed a striking resemblance of our adopted duck to J R ?!  I don’t know – maybe it’s the tie.

 

 

 

 

Exposed Leg or Skirted?

  Ivanka Trump showing some skirt AND exposed leg!

 

 I really have a tough time passing up a cheap shot.  But it’s such a cool photo. Okay, okay – I know -

On this blog we are supposed to be talking about furniture!

Sorry. Back to business!

Previously, we have been talking about WHAT defines a quality-built sofa and  WHY to buy a quality-built sofa, so maybe we should just take a quick little peek at some options. Options are choices that quality sofa manufactures offer in the way of design elements.

So what are these exposed legs and skirted pieces all about?

Today I promise not to be wordy! Let’s look at pictures, instead.

Exposed leg:  Wooden or Metal legs showing. Several styles  are available beginning with the clean look of a  Tapered Leg

 

 

 

 

 

 

Of course there are Queen Anne legs, French legs, and Chippendale legs, but next I’ll show you a sofa leg called a foot. It’s quite low to the ground, it’s round, and it’s called a Bun Foot

One more (leg) foot coming up. This style can be utilized in nearly any type of setting. It doesn’t really make any type of design statement other than it is harmonious: A Wedge Foot

And the last image for today is the standard skirted sofa – well, almost standard. This one is called a Waterfall Skirt because it falls to the floor without any horizontal seams. It is fluid and quite elegant. Sorry, I’m getting wordy again.

All of these styles are from Thomasville,  just one of our custom vendors. There are other choices of exposed legs and skirts, as well. Take a peek online or stop in and check out the show room! We’d love to show you our exposed legs and skirts!

 

Dianne Ross

Interior Designer/ Phelan’s Interiors

363-9634

SOFA STYLES – Know The Lingo

Hey – can we talk?

Interior design language or furniture language doesn’t usually come tumbling out of the average person’s mouth. There’s no real use for it in everyday conversation. When the time arrives to purchase furniture is when that vocabulary becomes, not only a handy tool, but a time saver.

Today I am going to help you know the lingo!

I am going to keep it simple and I am going to stick to sofa styles.

TRADITIONAL 

 

 

Classic in looks and largest in selection: 

These pieces may have:  Skirts, nail head trim, rolled arms, fringe, tufted backs, lots of throw pillows, opulent fabrics, including leathers.  Terms you might hear to describe the look: Tuscany style, Heirloom, French Country, Old World, Old English, Men’s Club, Cottage, Library, Rustic or Elegant, etc. The most wonderful thing about Traditional is the range and scope of flexibility available to the consumer.

It can be incredibly boring or rich and sassy!

                                                                                                          

TRANSITIONAL

 

 

 

These pieces are a bit more stream-limed. The style leans toward a  modern look without really committing to it. The word, itself, is telling you that the style is transitioning between traditional and contemporary. Terms you might hear to describe this look: Urban, Fresh, Lifestyle, Casual, Michigan Avenue, Global,Young, Relaxed, Inviting, Clean lines and nothing fussy.

These sofas mean business and probably have set of ear buds resting on a cushion!

 

CONTEMPORARYThese audacious pieces are recognizable by their simplicity of design. The lines are low in profile, unencumbered and gutsy.

 Common terms describing a contemporary sofa: Modern, Ultra-modern, Soho Loft, Stark, Industrial, Strong, High Tech, Retro, Mid Century Modern, Funky, Architectural, and, are you ready for this? Classic.    

 

Hope you now have a better working vocabulary for distinguishing and naming styles of upholstery. The same lingo holds up for bedroom furniture, dining rooms, media rooms, and well, you get the drift, right?!

To give honors: the top two photos are sofas from Bradington Young and the contemporary piece is from American Leather.

Available at Phelan’s

 

Now get out there and talk the talk!

 

Dianne Ross

Interior Designer/Phelan’s Interiors

363-9634

4th of July, SAY WHAT? Presidential Quotes

On the Fourth of July Americans acknowledge and celebrate the birth of this experimental nation in all sorts of ways.  Oftentimes in Iowa,  it takes the form of  family picnics, colorful parades, and dazzling fireworks. So for added historical fun  here are a few words to consider from our Presidents : some deep, some silly, some stupid, some futuristic, some contemplative, and some plain ole common sense. Reflect and remember!

  [ July 4^th] ought to be commemorated as the day of deliverance by solemn acts of devotion to God Almighty. 

John Adams. 

 

 Ask not what your country can do for you,  but what you can do for your country.   John F. Kennedy

 

They misunderestimated me.  George W. Bush  

             

Don’t expect to build up the weak by pulling down the strong.

Calvin Coolidge 

Yes we can!    Barack Obama 

 

 

I am not a crook. Richard Nixon

 

She says I am the one, but the kid is not my son.      Just kidding!!

 

  I tried to walk a line between acting lawfully and testifying falsely. .  . 

                                                                                                   Bill  Clinton

 

The world is full of educated derelicts.  Calvin Coolidge

 

 

 

 . . . .reason and experience both forbid us to expect that national morality can prevail in exclusion of religious principles . . . George Washington

 

 

I know only two tunes: One of them is ‘Yankee Doodle Dandy’ and the other one  isn’t.   Ulysses S. Grant

  

With Malice toward none, with charity for all, with firmness in the right, as God gives us to see the right, let us strive on to finish the work we are in, to bind up the nation’s wounds.  Abraham Lincoln

I never considered a difference of opinion in politics, in religion, in philosophy, as cause for withdrawing from a friend. 
Thomas Jefferson

 

 HAPPY FOURTH OF JULY!

ENJOY THE HOLIDAY!

 

Dianne Ross

Interior Designer/Phelan’s Interiors

363-9634

 

PS  Guess who was born on the July 4th?

Calvin Coolidge, 1872

 

Guess who died?

 John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, and James Monroe

 

Glamorous Hollywood furniture meets Cedar Rapids

Hollywood Regency Design 

 

 

 

We have listened. We have responded.

 Hollywood meets Cedar Rapids!

 

HOLLYWOOD REGENCY DESIGN

Why have I taken the liberty to run the post below again?

 For one simple reason – it has received the most hits of any of my posts! Actually, TWICE the number to the second runner-up! Interestingly, the second place article is  also of  the  Hollywood genre!

The above photos feature the newest look on Phelan’s showroom floor. Come by and tell us what you think. This look is bold, but more to the point, it is functional, sophisticated in a playful way, and, well - just romantic!

 

Told you so.

This is it  – 100 percent over the top – Hollywood Regency design revival in full bloom. Always opulent and ever eclectic, always theatrical and expectedly daring, this style is not for the faint of heart. Captain Milquetoast does not get a ticket to this show. Sometimes this style is brushed with whimsy and fantasy , like in the abundant use of light fixtures as seen in the photo. But you have to admit, it is dazzling.

From the 1930’s and continuing through the 50’s (now referred to as Mid-century) Regency styling epitomized glamor, wealth, and lavish collections that identified the early Hollywood era. Elements of Lucite, lacquer, chinoiserie, bamboo – painted or natural, mercury glass, wild color schemes, flamboyant feathers, and …

Well, name something glamorous and it was in!

Clean architectural lines were paired with the frill of rococo. And, of course MIRRORS MIRRORS everywhere. Global Views is a company favored by Phelan’s for their wonderful selection of mirrors. At High Point market they introduced an elegant montage of 7 octagonal mirrors, finished in black lacquer and edged in silver, AKA: Regency revival. 

Today the revival is just as bold and as fresh as ever, not to mention terribly interesting! Scroll down to the previous post and you’ll see another interpretation from the swank unrestrained era called Hollywood Regency. 

 

There will be more next week – THE GLAM BEDROOM!

 

Dianne Ross

Inrerior Designer / Phelan’s Interiors

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glammmmma – Hollywood Decor 2009

 

Here is the look of a sophisticated bedroom with the flair of

Hollywood Regency. . . Glammmma!

Note the detail of black silk cording which highlights the curvy shape of  the upholstered head board. Smooth. The pillow fabrics have a metallic lustre – not a shine.

 

 

It just looks like shadows in a rococo moonlight!

 The shimmering paisley print, as well as the geometric diamond pattern (in the color of gun metal!) give the room a decidely masculine edge. Most people think the Glam look is exclusively feminine. Not so. Not even close.

Now the bedding reveals itself dressed up in a tidy black and seapearl pin stripe. Nice.

 Even though the setting is elegant, with the look of old Hollywood extravagance, it retains a superb relaxed and snob-free attitude. Achieving this technique is often difficult in interior design. Everything about this bedroom says

 ”Touch me”, rather than saying ”hands off.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hollywood Revival look.

The romantic flavor spills into the sitting area. The space was well planned by choosing the sparkling bling of glass, lustred accent pieces, plush fabrics on the sofa, and repetition of monochromatic colors.

 

 The whole idea of injecting Hollywood Glam into our homes is to have fun and to acknowledge the romantic in each of us.  Even so, keep in mind that neither function nor creature comforts, can ever be thrown to the wind. Planning is key.

 Nilly Willy doesn’t live here.

This is the look of handsome leading men

and confident leading ladies.

 An artistic balance of ideas and precise implementation is always the sign of smart interior design.    

These two rooms are on our show room floor.

glammmmma!

 

Dianne Ross

Interior Designer/Phelan’s Interiors

363-9634

 

Hollywood Glam – Sparkle and Mirrors

Add some drama:  Today,  three photos – one chest!

Here I am at work shooting a mirrored chest . . .

To continue the exploration of, and the implementation of the popular Hollywood Regency Revival style, this week I roamed through the store with my camera.

 Over the next few weeks I will show effective ways to add drama with a few simple, but utterly beautiful, accessories we have on our floor.

 

 The reflective panache of this  chest screams Hollywood!

Use it in a foyer, in a dining room or a bedroom. 

This is the one.

Place this piece wherever you want a flash of serendipity.

 

 Even though it looks rather plain-Jane, I wanted to include the manufacturer’s photo below.  The entire piece can be seen without our added Hollywood embellishments.

 

Next week I’ll reveal some design secrets concerning what can be done without color – i.e. black and white art. This is at the very heart of glamorous interiors.

If you have been struggling with how to accessorize, especially using a “no color palette”  please drop me a note with your dilemma.  

 

Dianne Ross

Interior Designer/Phelan’s Interiors

363-9634

 

 

 

Add PUNCH to a NO COLOR palette

A successful “no -color” palette in interior design is not a paltry accomplishment. Our room can be a dramatic scheme of black and white – think of a classic wedding – the white gown and the black tux.  Or it can be a room done in any monochromatic gradiation, but the one thing each of these rooms must have is  punch!

 Crystal balls in a boat.

 

 

 

 

 

Today I am showing  black and white elements (punch) to add to any monochromatic  room. These accessories are added in small increments, or percentages, to punch up the rest of the (lack of) color in the room.

You might know it as the “wow factor”.    

                                     

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bar-stool and art.

 

Mercury Glass Finials with Leaded Glass Vase as reflected in a mirror. BLING!   

*On this table there are only two finials and one vase.*

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dynamite graphics in a  Black and white “Op Art” area rug under a dining room table.

These are fabulous finds for the 2009 Hollywood Regency look!

Punch it up. I shot all these photos in the store, so come in to see what else you can do with some black and white drama!

Next week we will go one step further by adding a touch of heat to the black and white palette.

 

Dianne Ross

Interior Designer/Phelan’s Interiors

363-9634

 

A Touch of Heat: PINK, not Red

As promised, this week we are looking at how to add a touch of heat to a black and white palette. I’m suggesting to think pink!

 

 Hot pink is making inroads, again, into home decor.  Shocking to the eye at first, it soon asserts itself much like the flavor of the pink pepper – when used sparingly – it is warm with a lingering romantic after taste!

The hue is delicious.

                                              Room setting at Phelan’s

 

So, here is a strategy to fire up a  palette without totally burning it up. Here are two more groups of accessories available on our floor.

Think pink.

 

 Add a magenta pillow to your sofa.  Add a fuchsia orchid anywhere.  Add electric-pink stemware to the formal dining table.  Add a handful of pink peppercorns to your Lucite pepper grinder.  Add a touch of heat. 

Show off!

 

 

Be warned: Hot pink is dramatic. It is confidence.  It is ego. It must be controlled. In the era of Hollywood Regency design, this one color demanded a presence of front and center on the set, and yet when used with restraint, never stole the show. It simply added a touch of heat!

NEXT WEEK

If the hue of  hot pink doesn’t add enough heat for your decorating style, stay with me because we will burn it up with lipstick red . . . caliente! 

If you have photos you’d like to share of your successful hot ( pink or red) decorating ideas please send them to me. I’d be pleased to post them.

If you are in a dilema, let me help.

 

Dianne Ross

Interior Designer / Phelan’s Interiors

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Stalks of Decor(n)

BLOG interruption for a Fund Raising break!

This magnificent summer weekend is (drum roll, please!). . .

 

 

St Jude’s Sweet Corn Festival 

That’s right…. an unbelievable FOURTEEN TONS OF CORN will be cooked!

 

I will be there. My plan doesn’t alter from year to year. I will fast all day before arriving at the festival. I will ignore the car raffle. I will not be tempted to network with friends. The home made pies won’t lure me in. 

 I WANT CORN ON THE COB!

 

The Sweet Corn Festival is, in my opinion, the best reason to live in Cedar Rapids. I am practically giddy with excitement as I visualize chomping away on as many ears of corn as I can possibly choke down!

I totally understand people who love sweet corn and love this festival, but as an interior designer, I am having a bit of trouble  understanding people who love to decorate with corn. Count yourself lucky if you were unaware of the phenomena  known as corn decor.  AKA: decorn!  It is as real as it is hideous.

These are ceramic or pottery plates – totally appropriate for serving sweet corn. I get that. Same as the ones shown above, only not-plastic, and missing the pokey things you stab into the ends of the corn. Like I said, I understand.

Both of the above items are available on eBay.  

 

After that  things start going crazy on me. Like corn switch plate covers.

 Disturbing.  (also on eBay)

 

I have the capacity to completely enjoy sweet corn and even the idea of corn.  At the risk of sounding like a spiritual braggart I also have the ability to comprehend the absolute pure essence of corn on the cob.  I do embrace my heartland-ness.

I mean I live in Iowa, it’s no big deal. 

 

Are you serious? A smirking, napkin-holding decorn? 

 

 

Back to my dilemma. Through the years, just as a joke mind you,  my sister and I have gifted each other with decorn items that fall into the category of:  ”Who in their right mind would possibly pay money for that ?”

 As it turns out, each one of us does!  Anything for a laugh. The corn seahorse makes my case for me. This gift from my sister, this piece of decorn has to be the big winner. Could any decorn absurdity beat this!?!

It makes you wonder about who thought of the idea of a corn-bodied seahorse - but more intriguing than that is someone else thought the idea was good enough to manufacture!

I had to show the “piece de resistance” one more time – just in case you are having a tough time believing what is in front of your eyes. 

 I could easily continue down this corn row, but the story has been exposed.  So, enough about decorating with a corn motif -

Go out to St Jude’s Sweet Corn Festival and feast upon the world’s best corn on the cob.

If you’ve never attended before, you will thank me!

NEXT WEEK -

Back to business -

RED HOT ACCESSORIES!

 

Dianne Ross

Interior designer/Phelan’s Interiors

363-9634

 

PS Confession: The smirking corn thing is also from the author’s private collection.

 

Black and white and RED a little bit!

Hi Everybody!

If you are a “Corn Fan” just scroll down to last week’s blog – that’s the one you are looking for!

 

On with the show!

And now, back to the business at hand – interior design! We were talking about how to fire up black and white color schemes. We covered magenta but some clients don’t do pink.  So, with that in mind, let’s take a look at red. It is the true, sizzling ”glam” color!

I am going to show you photos of individual pieces and then an entire room with all the flourishes in place.

Here we go!

A bust, a lamp, and a sneak peek of a  painting- all done in shades of black and white.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

                                             More of the painting  with a bit of red becoming visible.

 

Now for the reveal, as they say on HGTV!

Classic black and white with the glamour and romance of Hollywood is hot.  The heat, the crimson color,  the seduction of  the color RED, itself  provides all the drama anyone needs. Don’t shy away from red. . . use it sparingly, in little bits!

 

Dianne Ross

Interior Designer/ Phelans Interiors

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Interior Design PICTORIAL in Cedar Rapids

We have a guest contributor today! He was a tiny bit reluctant to write a guest column, but he shot some fantastic photos from inside the store. And, all of you know the adage, “A picture is worth a . . . “

For your consideration:

 PHOTOS by Alex Von Ahsen

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Thank you for contributing to the blog, Alex! 

Nicely done –  according to me, anyway!

Your photos are always welcome here! 

Readers? Do you have an opinion? Let’s rally around him and let him know. Send a comment in the box below!

 

Dianne Ross and Alex Von Ahsen

Interior Designers / Phelans Interiors

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Eye Candy – CANDICE OLSON design, that is!

Hello to all my fellow Candice Olson fans out there in bloggersville!

Have you been following Design Star this season? From my perspective it has been quite underwhelming. To quote  the judges themselves, “where is the wow factor?” The exception would be the comments coming from the judges – not boring!  Candice Olson always utters words of wisdom. Listen to her advice. Watch Divine Design and see what she does.

She knows whereof she speaks!

During the month of September we are inviting everybody into our showroom to feast your eyes on some of her remarkable upholstery products.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Candice Olson has partnered with Norwalk , which produces her chairs, benches, ottomans and, her signature sofas. Along with past offerings she has recently introduced a scrumptious array of new Kravet fabrics – silks and linens and yes, even some additional, practical chenilles!

 

 Candice Olson has a renowned reputation for her design - eye.

Eye Candy! 

I know. It’s a lame play on words – but the silly thing is this: It’s true! 

Her devoted fans know she offers much more than just eye-candy.  She is uncompromising in her demand for quality products. Her designs are always fresh and consistantly fabulous.  

If you were unaware that Candice ’s products are here on our floor, consider the veil lifted!

 

Dianne Ross

Interior Designer /Phelan’s Interiors

363-9634

Remembering 9-11 with numbers

 Like most people in the interior design world I am not a numbers person. Obviously. I think in pictures and dream in color, so my blogs are filled with the greatest visuals I can find for you.  But given today’s anniversary, I found these numbers thought provoking enough to share with you. 

I found the article on an internet 9-11 remembrance page and Preston Kere’s emotional photo was published in Life.

September 11th by the Numbers

The initial numbers are indelible: 8:46 a.m. and 9:02 a.m. Time the burning towers stood: 56 minutes and 102 minutes. Time they took to fall: 12 seconds. From there, they ripple out.

• Total number killed in attacks (official figure as of 9/5/02): 2,819

• Number of firefighters and paramedics killed: 343

• Number of NYPD officers: 23

• Number of Port Authority police officers: 37

• Number of WTC companies that lost people: 60

• Number of employees who died in Tower One: 1,402

• Number of employees who died in Tower Two: 614

• Number of employees lost at Cantor Fitzgerald: 658

• Number of U.S. troops killed in Operation Enduring Freedom: 22

• Number of nations whose citizens were killed in attacks: 115

• Ratio of men to women who died: 3:1

• Age of the greatest number who died: between 35 and 39

• Bodies found “intact”: 289

• Body parts found: 19,858

• Number of families who got no remains: 1,717

• Estimated units of blood donated to the New York Blood Center: 36,000

• Total units of donated blood actually used: 258

• Number of people who lost a spouse or partner in the attacks: 1,609

• Estimated number of children who lost a parent: 3,051

• Percentage of Americans who knew someone hurt or killed in the attacks: 20

• FDNY retirements, January–July 2001: 274

• FDNY retirements, January–July 2002: 661

• Number of firefighters on leave for respiratory problems by January 2002: 300

• Number of funerals attended by Rudy Giuliani in 2001: 200

• Number of FDNY vehicles destroyed: 98

• Tons of debris removed from site: 1,506,124

• Days fires continued to burn after the attack: 99

• Jobs lost in New York owing to the attacks: 146,100

• Days the New York Stock Exchange was closed: 6

• Point drop in the Dow Jones industrial average when the NYSE reopened: 684.81

• Days after 9/11 that the U.S. began bombing Afghanistan: 26

• Total number of hate crimes reported to the Council on American-Islamic Relations nationwide since 9/11: 1,714

• Economic loss to New York in month following the attacks: $105 billion

• Estimated cost of cleanup: $600 million

• Total FEMA money spent on the emergency: $970 million

• Estimated amount donated to 9/11 charities: $1.4 billion

• Estimated amount of insurance paid worldwide related to 9/11: $40.2 billion

• Estimated amount of money needed to overhaul lower-Manhattan subways: $7.5 billion

• Amount of money recently granted by U.S. government to overhaul lower-Manhattan subways: $4.55 billion

• Estimated amount of money raised for funds dedicated to NYPD and FDNY families: $500 million

• Percentage of total charity money raised going to FDNY and NYPD families: 25

• Average benefit already received by each FDNY and NYPD widow: $1 million

• Percentage increase in law-school applications from 2001 to 2002: 17.9

• Percentage increase in Peace Corps applications from 2001 to 2002: 40

• Percentage increase in CIA applications from 2001 to 2002: 50

• Number of songs Clear Channel Radio considered “inappropriate” to play after 9/11: 150

• Number of mentions of 9/11 at the Oscars: 26

• Apartments in lower Manhattan eligible for asbestos cleanup: 30,000

• Number of apartments whose residents have requested cleanup and testing: 4,110

• Number of Americans who changed their 2001 holiday-travel plans from plane to train or car: 1.4 million

• Estimated number of New Yorkers suffering from post-traumatic-stress disorder as a result of 9/11: 422,000

 Our President this morning, 9/11/2009

 

 

Today I am remembering all those . . .

 

Dianne Ross

Interior Designer/Phelan’s Interiors

363-9634