Love . . . Tell Me How You REALLY Feel

Recently, I received a phone call from a potential client who had been referred to me.  She shared that a particular contractor said I was the person who could solve her interior problems.  Of course we chatted and in the process, we discovered she was at a crossroads. Either keep the house and fix it or put it on the market.  When I got to the bottom of things, the word ‘depressed’ rose to the top. 

(There’s an irony to this photo.  Notice the ‘shift’ key below ‘love’?  Sometimes you need to press both.)

Yes, her home made her feel that way and it made me sad for her to know that’s what she walks into, every day.  I’m sure there will be more to this story, later, as I’m in the process of some upcoming remodels so the summer docket has been pretty well claimed.  She feels my process is worth the wait. 

. . . . I hope.

Not to sound as if I don’t have the capabilities of being the “design whisperer” – as my husband so fondly calls me – but when it comes to loving your home, there is no amount of “pretty” that can solve underlying issues.

(Aren’t these beautiful? What’s not to love?)

(Love these fairly lights for a pathway.)

(I’m in love with this Greek Key border. Love the bold design against the panel.)

You see, love is a tricky thing in a home.  There are many elements which determine our reaction to our surroundings.  Sometimes it’s as simple as rearranging the space to allow for better organization, movement, or if you’re a feng shui enthusiast, opening a wall for better ‘chi’ or flow.  It could be a new color palette or refreshing a tired design.  Those are pretty easy.

But . . . If the emotions go deeper and are buried in issues such as life experiences, no amount of surface work will do the trick. 

(One person’s ‘love’ can be another person’s dislike.)

Years ago, one of my dear clients had a major illness which certainly incapacitated her ability to do much in her previous home, but once well, she never changed a thing.  What changed her outlook was literally leaving the past behind, as she built a new home. 

I can tell you, she is really LIVING in this home and you can feel, not only from the design work I’ve done, but from her inner glow, she’s so happy there and L-O-V-E-S it because she continually wants to feather this nest with the things she enjoys and shares this happy experience with family, friends, and visitors.  Parties and entertaining are a regular happening.

I’m not saying everyone can walk away from a home or knock it down and start over.  Sometimes that’s just not practical.  But I am saying it’s possible to put on a different set of glasses to correct your vision – a change of outlook, so to speak.

Every now and then, it’s a good idea to hit the ‘shift’ key.

Thibaut – A New Line For WSH Interior Design!

There are so many gorgeous lines available to interior designers.  It can be overwhelming in deciding which ones to choose.  Some; however, are absolutely outstanding and Thibaut has been at the top of my go-to list for many years!  I’ve always loved their aesthetic for wall coverings and fabrics. 

My clients have benefitted from the convenience of my firm being able to order through a local showroom.  During the High Point Furniture Market, Thibaut decided to unveil their new upholstered furniture line and what a reception they received!  Even more beautiful than imagined.

(Ridgewood Headboard in Papagayo Pattern – Color:  Cream)

So . . .  I did what any smart designer would have done . . . I decided to take the plunge and open a direct account.  I’m so excited to share that I’m now a Thibaut dealer!  Yes!  Their furniture, fabrics, and wall coverings are available directly through my design firm!  (It was a huge plus to discover their furniture line will only be available through interior designers.  Kudos to Thibaut for understanding custom products benefit from custom service!)

(Brentwood Chair in Starburst Pink.  So many options for placement.)

I was thrilled to see they offer fourteen wood stain and fourteen premium paint finishes, in addition to the option of any Benjamin Moore paint color, for finishing exposed wood pieces, providing thousands of custom finishing options.  (Check out the handy fan pack, above, for ease of carrying finishes and accents out on an appointment.  Thanks to Molly Walsh, their Public Relations and Media Manager, for being such an informative and sweet showroom tour guide and hand model!)

(The Carlyle Chair in a painted finish.  Enchanting!)

Their press kits provides the perfect description of Thibaut’s quality:

• “Much like Thibaut's popular wallpaper and fabric collections, every detail has been considered in the construction of its furniture line. Continuing with its commitment to American Made Products, Thibaut's top quality hardwood frames have been made from kiln-dried poplar and maple harvested from sustainable forests in the United States. Double-cone coil springs are tied eight ways and to the middle of the rail —not to the top—for a better “ride." Joints are double-doweled and glued with angled corner blocks at each corner, to provide extra strength and stability. These are hallmarks of a sturdy, well-constructed frame.”

And, I must add - I’m extremely proud the new furniture line is being made in North Carolina!

(The Dartmouth Wing Chair is amazingly comfy.  Notice how the arms roll inward for a superb resting position!)

Of course, I can’t forget to share some of the beautiful designs by Anna French for Thibaut.  Most of her fabrics can be applied to the upholstery frames for an elegant and fresh interior’s perspective.

(Longwood from the Richmond Hill Collection.  Featuring the Devon Bench.)

If you love classically beautiful designs, you’re going to love Thibaut.  And I know you’ll love having me share it with you in your design project, too!

Cerisely, Mom

Aside from a holiday created by greeting card companies, I think every woman, who makes some sort of contribution towards making our world a better place, deserves recognition on “Mother’s Day”.  Nurturing is pretty neat stuff.

There’s something decidedly feminine about pink.  The stronger version of it, ‘cerise’, just speaks a little louder . . .

And sometimes mothers have to get our attention. :)

Happy Mother’s Day!