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Artistic Inspiration

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Recently, while looking for the perfect watercolor floral fabric for a client, I ran across a new fabric from Black Edition by The Romo Group. It was so interesting – this fabric that looked like it was pulled straight from a canvas – that I had do to a little research. I learned that this new line was titled “Desire” by British artist Jessica Zoob. 

 
The line consists of digitally printed linens, velvets and wall coverings using images and patterns pulled directly from Zoob’s contemporary impressionist paintings. These buttery velvets and breathtaking wall coverings would add just the right amount of softness to an “industrial chic” interior – or they could give a traditional look a bit of edge. Either way, they are definitely amazing.

 

 
 
 

 
 As you are aware, I cannot discuss something new and hot in the interior design world without showing the similar trends from our sister industry, the fashion design world!  Here are some fabulous looks from Resort 2015 that immediately came to mind while I was looking at these beautiful fabrics and wall coverings:
 
Michael Kors, Resort 2015

Lenny Niemeyer, 2015 Collection
 
Fausto Puglisi, Resort 2015

Happy Shopping!
 

Meridith Hamilton is principal and founder of MLH Designs, a full-service interior design firm specializing in highly custom residential interiors and select corporate projects. Learn more about her and her firm at mlh-designs.com.

Dwell on Design Recap

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Last weekend I returned from the American Society of Interior Designer’s Chapter Leadership Conference which was held in conjunction with Dwell on Design in Los Angeles. 

 
 
Not to miss an opportunity to see a trade show, especially one in such an influential location as LA, I made a point to visit during my down-time, between the ASID meetings.  Although several exhibits were a repeat from previous shows, I did see a few things that I was very excited about!  Here are a few that I had to share: 

Castellan Parquet Porcelain Tile from Classic Tile and Mosaic 

 

This new porcelain tile design follows the wood-look trend, but the addition of the oversized parquet look makes this product stand out from the others I’ve seen.  The tiles are available in Brun, Creme, and Gris and, as you can see from the photos above, they are suitable for the interior or the exterior.  

New Color Availability from Miele

Miele appliances shown in Brilliant White.

Miele appliances shown in Havana Brown.

You may already be familiar with Miele’s Brilliant White glass front option, introduced in 2012 and the winner of  Interior Design Magazine’s Best of 2013, which is a pretty fabulous choice when planning a sleek kitchen.  Due to the popularity of that, they are now adding two new glass colors to the line, Havana Brown and Obsidian Black.  As if the glass colors weren’t cool enough, the operating panel works as a touch screen – similar to an Apple product.  Not too shabby, Miele. 

Shimal’e-Light in Art

Shabbat Candles in White

Drops in White

This was the first time I’ve seen product by Shimal’e – Light in Art in person and I was impressed.  The designer, Shimon Peleg, creates one-of-a-kind light fixtures, windows, art and sinks.  My favorite designs from the show utilized rectangular panels of stained glass to create a truly unique chandelier.  All of Peleg’s creations may be customized to create the right look for your project.

 Smith & Fong Plyboo Carved and Textured Panels

 

These textured architectural panels, newly introduced by already-popular “green” manufacturer Smith & Fong, were pretty exciting.  Available as prefinished or unfinished sheets in three different styles, Reveal Collection, Plyboo Sound and Linear Line, my mind soared with all the possible applications – cabinetry, furniture, backsplash, or simply a highlighted panel on a statement wall!  

These are merely a few of the exciting new products and finishes that I discovered at Dwell on Design.  Stay tuned to my blog where I will unveil even more cool new products and designs from the show! 

Until next time,

Meridith Hamilton is principal and founder of MLH Designs, a full-service interior design firm specializing in highly custom residential interiors and select corporate projects. Learn more about her and her firm at mlh-designs.com.

Top 10 Finds at KBIS

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The Kitchen & Bath Industry Show, or KBIS, is THE show for kitchen designers like myself and was held in conjunction with the International Builder’s Show earlier this month.  This combo made for one heck of a show and a whirlwind couple of days spent in Las Vegas.

 
Here is my list of the top ten newly released products that stood out to me as I scoured the show floor:
 
 
Available later this year, the beautiful Whitehaven Hayridge was created when Kohler took one of their most popular cast iron sinks and added a simple yet stunning detail to the apron front.  
 
Kohler‘s new Tailored Vanity Collection is a versatile one.  It is available in five different styles, ranging from Craftsman to Contemporary, and in a variety of wood stains and species.  Some styles in the collection have the option of adding furniture legs or a toe kick – for those remodeling projects – along with customizable door and drawer configurations.  Love the interior organizers you can chose from!  They include roll out trays, electrical outlets, make-up trays and much more.
 
 
“Mousharabia” is the Arabic word for the intricately carved screens that adorned the windows of middle and upper class houses and other historic buildings in the old medina. The Mousharabia Collection by Martyn Lawrence Bullard for Ann Sacks Tile & Stone was inspired by these wooden and metal screens.  The high relief ceramic Agidar field tile is shown here.
 
 
This little contraption by Glideware took Silver in KBIS Best in Show’s Kitchen category and I can see why.  It is another one of those now-why-didn’t-I-think-of-that gadgets that will increase functionality and decrease headaches!  Glideware will install in any new or existing standard depth cabinet and, while it is most useful reducing pot and pan clutter, it can also be used for small utility cabinets (shown at left).
 
 
I adore this not too brassy, not too gold, new Champagne finish by Atlas Homewares.  
 
 
If you can’t see it already, the streamlined look of Brizo‘s new Sotria lavatory faucet was inspired by aeronautic architecture – sleek and purposeful with wing-like levers. When it is turned on, the faucet releases a ribbon-like stream of water.
 
 
And on my “Need This ASAP” list is The Docking Drawer.  Created by J Tech Solutions, this in-drawer mobile device charger can be easily installed in a slightly modified drawer.  I would love to hide my family’s myriad of cords and connectors in their own drawer!
 
 
Available in July 2014, the delicate pattern and veining of CaesarStone’s Calacatta Classic is as close to marble, while still having the benefits of quartz, as I’ve seen.
 
 
The Adorn Vanity and the V14 Vanity both have that sleek look you have come to expect from Robern.  The Adorn is the freestanding version and the V14 version can be ganged horizontally or vertically to customize your space.  Pictured above in one of their new Digital Wood patterns, Charcoal Ash.
 
 

The Per Se Collection by Kallista is another extremely streamlined and linear vanity fixture that caught my attention at the show.  Available in three finishes, this faucet’s thin design gives it a sleek, classy look.

Hope you enjoyed seeing these new products as much as I enjoyed finding them!

 
 
 
 
 

Mad Style

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We’re so excited about our newest guest blogger! Fashionista-turned-interior designer Meridith Hamilton will be offering up a monthly dose of style in her new guest blog column. Take it away, Meridith!

I don’t know if it was the fabulous pair of Tom Ford Cat Eye sunglasses I purchased on my recent trip to NYC…



 ….or the fact that I am catching up on past seasons of Mad Men (thank you, Netflix)…


…but I am all of a sudden inspired by anything Mid-Century Modern.  Whether it be fashion or interior design, I am loving this particular era as well as the clean lines, classic appeal and simplistic form that goes along with it.

One of my favorite things about the 1960’s era in which Mad Men is set is that the design was simple and the colors were bold.  This was a time when “Modern” was still fresh and new, but a little more progressed than its early years.  Therefore, some of my recent fashion and furnishing finds have obviously been influenced by the Mad Men era.

First, the interiors:

Just in case you don’t know – the star of the show is the dashing Don Draper.  While Draper’s home (this is a photo of the space before his wife, Betty, hired a designer in a later season) was a mix of styles, the angular sectional and throw pillows are quintessential of the era.  Draper’s office from Sterling Cooper, however, is a beautiful example of early Mid-Century Modern.

Check out some current installations that pay homage to this era…

 

 

Now, for the fashion:

The above collage shows Joan Harris (née Holloway), the curvy, Monroe-esque vixen of the Sterling Cooper Draper Pryce offices, Don Draper, the mysterious yet charming leading man, and Elizabeth “Betty” Draper, the archetypal frustrated housewife of the 60’s.

The fashion of the era was stunning and extremely similar to the interiors – simple designs that hinted at the structure beneath and bold color.  Women were seen with bold patterned accessories and modest hemlines.  Men donned sleek tailored jackets and narrow lapels with skinny ties thanks to the Italian influence.

Here are a few of today’s inspired pieces…  

Banana Republic

John Galliano, Fall 2012

Oscar de la Renta, Resort 2013   

 J Crew

Oscar de la Renta, Resort 2013

 Dolce & Gabbana, Fall 2012 

 Banana Republic

Disclaimer: As with all things Mad Men, the scotch in one hand and cigarette in the other are optional.

XOXO,


Fall Runway Trends to Use in Your Home

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Black and Blue

This color combination appeared on nearly every runway and created a notably edgy feel.  To integrate this look into your home, be sure to keep the overall feel very monochromatic.  A little will go a long way!

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Bold, Overall Patterns

I felt a little retro theme amongst several designers.  Bold, richly colored patterns were seen usually on a pantsuit; however, Valli threw in a twist using a bold pattern over the majority of a sheer dress.  (Notice the cropped hem on the pants…another trend.)  Duralee Fabrics just released the John Robshaw Collection which, if used correctly, can create the same look.

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Fur and Leather

Whether it was a fur shrug, a leather corset belt, or a full garment of the material, these were everywhere.  The look varied from vampy (think Girl with the Dragon Tattoo) to ladylike.  For the home, fur throws and supple leather pillows are on-trend additions.  As well as one of the newer leather tile collections from Ann Sacks.

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Sheers

This is a look which was popular in the summer, and shows no signs of leaving.  From tops to dresses to leggings, this material popped up on almost every runway.  Many interior fabric manufacturers have released tons of new sheer options for the windows.  A more edgy version of this “sheer” look is the resurgence of acrylic furniture.

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Overall Winter White

I love this look, so pristine and angelic, and it is an obvious trend for Fall.  While it’s not the most forgiving in interiors, it can be absolutely breathtaking.

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Until next time, blog readers!  Happy shopping!




XOXO,

Fifty Shades of Gray

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I am sure you have heard many people reference the word ‘grey’ recently. Most are referring to Christian Grey, the antagonist/protagonist of the E. L. James best-selling trilogy beginning with Fifty Shades of Grey. I must confess that I have read the first two books (in record time) and have the last in my reading queue…Oh my!

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However, I am going to show you another ‘gray’ today…the color.  Most people who know me, know that my most used or worn color is some shade of gray.  I can’t imagine going a week without that hue somewhere in my life!  I think what I love most is that you can immediately turn something colorful and busy into something classy and sophisticated by adding gray.

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A few of my favorite interiors are centered around that color scheme:

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You’ve probably seen this space in At Home’s latest kitchen & bathroom issue.  I loved the challenge of creating this modern kitchen, while keeping a warm, inviting feeling.

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Love the simple elegance of this space.

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The warm taupe floor tile in this kitchen ties the grays in the backsplash, glass cabinetry and countertops together with the deep espresso cabinetry.

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Most people see grays as cold and austere; however, such as in this bedroom, they can be rather soothing. Don’t get me wrong, I love color as well.  While most of my base pieces are neutral, I will bring in color with art and accessories.  I do this because so many people tire of a certain color and it’s easier to change out the smaller things in a room instead of the big ticket items.

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Here are a few examples:

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Ok, ok…as much as I love the interior usage of gray, the color is more near and dear to my heart when it comes to my wardrobe.  Here are a few looks from this year’s Fall Ready-to-Wear Collections:

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Love these.  Want these.  Yes, even the glitzy silver hidden-wedge high-top from Blumarine.

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Armani and D&G know very well that a man is irresistibly dashing in head to toe shades of gray.

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I think a gray (faux) fur and a pair of cute little pageboy knickers will be high on my must-have list this Fall.

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Still not sure you can pull off the entire monochromatic look?  Here are a few accessories for fashion and home that will make it easy to integrate this hue into your life:

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Laters, Baby.

Something Wicked This Way Comes

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Bordeaux, oxblood, burgundy, whatever you want to call it, it’s hot…it’s now….and it’s slightly vampy.  The perfect color to blog about on All Hallow’s Eve! Here are a few inspirational frocks from a few top designers’ most wicked styles from Fall 2012:

Two fabulous little dresses from Christian Siriano

Gucci.

I took this inspiration and translated it into a few key purchases for my own wardrobe.  These three items have successfully satisfied my craving for this trend!

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If you read my regular blog, then you know that I recently returned from Paris. While I was there, I was able to visit one of my favorite European home shops, Zara Home. I managed to snag up a few of their newly released Bordeaux pieces to ship back to the States!

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Happy Halloween Everyone!


Decked Out for the Holidays

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It’s that time of year…when we go out on the town, dress in fabulous frocks and support a good cause.  It’s event season!  As most people do, I have my usual events that I attend and support locally.  Since the dates are getting closer and closer, I have been scouting out the perfect ensembles from some of Little Rock’s top local shops.

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The first place I stopped was Vesta’s Boutique. Those girls are super relaxed and just plain fun! They are my definite go-to for boots, jeans, and great sweaters, but I also love finding great little cocktail and girl’s night attire there.

This outfit is so chic and simple – very ‘hippie rocker’. All it took was some oh-so-on-trend sequin shorts, a simple tank, a carefree cashmere cardigan, lots of edgy accessories…Et voila!

Here is another comfortable and flattering look inspired by this versatile cashmere sweater – it can be worn off the shoulders or as a cowl neck. I chose to expose the shoulders and pair it with a sequin skirt and some strappy heels. I’m ready to go!

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Second, I hit another favorite boutique – Scarlet.  These ladies are always on point with every new trend.  If I ever crave a little edginess in my outfit, I know I’ll be able to find it here.

As soon as I saw this dress, I knew I had to try it! I’m not sure which part I loved more – the sequined bodice, the layered tiers of ruffled chiffon, or the open back! So romantic…Loved the earrings too!

Is it obvious that I felt a little sassy in this ensemble?! Yes, the bordeaux silk chiffon pleated dress by Alice + Olivia was amazing, but I could not keep my hands off of this amazing shearling jacket by J Brand! It’s reversible! Geez…I Want.

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Finally, I stopped at my local staple, Barbara Jean. If you’ve seen it on the Ready To Wear runway, chances are they have it. They carry all of the major designers and are very laid-back and super friendly.

This pairing from Roberto Cavalli was a little daring, yet still very ladylike. The pattern and Victorian collar on the sheer top was amazing and it worked beautifully with the wool and silk skirt.  Love the pleated chiffon at the hem!

Va va voom! What more can I say about Rachel Zoe’s red pintuck halter dress? With the accessories, I kept it simple – adding nude shoes and subtle pieces from Alexis Bittar – letting the focus stay on that dress…and what’s in it!

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Well guys and gals, I’ve played dress-up and chosen my own party and cocktail attire. Hopefully, I’ll see you out there! In the meantime, be sure to ‘Like’ these Facebook pages: Vesta’s Boutique, Scarlet, and Barbara Jean – they’ll keep you looking good! Also, if you like my fashion, be sure to ‘Like’ MLH Designs on Facebook.

XOXO,

Off to See the Wizard

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If you are in the know, then this will come as no surprise…In December, Pantone announced their color of the year predictions for 2013.

 
Along with these color predictions, they select one color in particular to be awarded with the honor of Color of the Year.  This year it was Emerald.
 
I’m sure that most of you know that Emerald is not one of my go-to colors.  However, after reading about this ‘gem’ of a color, I am seeing it in things I adore everywhere!
 
Love these mugs from Pantone…I swear, if I had glass-front cabinetry in my kitchen, I would have a rainbow of these on display!
On my next trip to Norway, I’ll be propping my feet up on this cool Emerald sofa in the junior suite 208 at Grand Hotel, designed by Fargerike.
 
A modern classic, the Goddess Chandelier by Currey & Co.
 
Adore this inspirational grouping that Walker Zanger posted on Facebook as one of their “Montage Monday” pics.
Can’t forget to bring the color of 2013 into your kitchen! Oolong Kettle, Le Creuset
 
I would feel like Hollywood royalty in the Deco Era if I walked into this ah-mazing bathroom every day!!
Love shopping locally! I happened upon this great refurbished Louis armchair at Massimo Interiors on Kavanaugh Boulevard in Little Rock.
 
…or if you prefer a more contemporary look, then you may like the Louis Ghost chair by Kartell.  It’s this chair’s tenth anniversary you know 😉
 
You didn’t think I was going to leave out the use of Emerald in fashion did you??  I mean…this dress…stunning.
 
Look at these Emerald toned baubles from another of my favorite local shops, Bella Boutique in Little Rock!
 
More from Bella…Seriously, I go into this shop way too often!!
 
Michael Kors | Serapian | Tom Ford  For all of my super trendy male readers 🙂
 
No matter if you have brunette, blonde or auburn locks, this hue is flattering on the eye.  I heart my Dolce & Gabbana Emerald Sparkle liquid liner…

Vera Wang | Burberry Prorsum | Michael Kors  All from the designers’ Spring 2013 Collections. I need all of these. Period. Ok…I’m off to…um, fill my home and my closet with Emerald!  Until next time blog readers!

XOXO,
 
 
 

Trends from NYC Fall Fashion Week

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Since the fashion weeks of New York, London and Milan just finished and with Paris in full force this week, I have been absolutely up to my eyeballs in runway shows!  I am loving what I am seeing for Fall 2013 so far and I want to give you a rundown of my favorite trends from New York’s Fashion Week…

 Vera Wang      |      Kenneth Cole      |      Michael Kors
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Gloves! Long or short, a bare-handed model was well within the minority.

Badgley Mischka      |      Donna Karan      |      Badgley Mischka
 
Donna Karan      |      Carolina Herrera      |      Zac Posen
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It’s a bird! It’s a plane! No…it’s just one of the most surprising trends I spotted – Capes.
 
Reem Acra      |      Naeem Khan      |       Vera Wang
 
 
 Monique Lhuillier       |       Reem Acra       |       Ralph Lauren
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No surprise here – (Faux?) Fur spotted everywhere!
 
Donna Karan       |       Monique Lhuillier       |       Rachel Zoe
 
Badgley Mischka       |       Naeem Kahn       |       Marc by Marc Jacobs
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Last year, Mad Men made the impact on the runways…This year, Downton Abbey?  The post-World War II era definitely inspired several designers.
 
Jenny Packham       |       Carolina Herrera        |        Zac Posen
 
DKNY       |       3.1 Phillip Lim       |       Donna Karan
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Color blocking is SO last season…Fabric and texture blocking is what’s now. Who says you can’t have leather, quilting, felting and herringbone all in one outfit? It’s fine for Fall 2013, as long as you keep it monochromatic.
Calvin Klein Collection       |       Calvin Klein Collection       |       Michael Kors
 
 
Naeem Khan       |       Donna Karan       |       Jenny Packham
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Gowns were embellished with beading, sequins, crystals and other sparkly things. Most creations had head to toe sparkle.
Monique Lhuillier       |       Reem Acra       |       Badgley Mishka
Michael Kors       |       Anna Sui       |       Milly
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Color! Get rid of the winter blahs with saturated, bold hues! Do not be afraid of neon!
 
Michael Kors       |       Rebecca Minkoff       |        DKNY
 
 Calvin Klein Collection       |       Elie Tahari       |       Calvin Klein Collection
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Menswear continues to have the slender, crisp look of the 1960’s.
 
Michael Kors       |       Kenneth Cole       |       Michael Kors
   Calvin Klein Collection       |       Michael Kors       |        Rachel Zoe
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Sporty chic – Whether it’s a dressy sweatshirt (is that an oxymoron?) or a sporty texture, this urban look is hot.
 
Milly       |       DKNY       |       Nanette Lepore
 
 Anna Sui       |       Nanette Lepore       |       Badgley Mischka
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Girls, grab your fishnets! This texture was on several runways – on the legs, added as sheer panels, or draping evening gowns.
 
Jenny Packham       |       Reem Acra       |       Reem Acra

. Whew! Got all that? Happy Shopping!

 
XOXO,

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