Classic Design in “Show & Tell” From Donna Livingston

May 17, 2012

It’s Show And Tell Time! Today we’re catching up with Charlotte interior designer, Donna Livingston, of dl design, inc.

What Defines Your Style?
My design style is classic and timeless, with a bit of fun added into every room. I don’t follow trends. Trends are best when they are left to small accents that can be easily changed. Most of all, I believe that a person’s home should have a style that speaks to them and makes them happy to be there. At the end of the day, everyone should look forward to coming home.

What Is Your Biggest Challenge As A Designer?
I would say that it would be changing people’s understanding of value. Some people tend to want the best deal, when their focus should be on investing in quality instead. I have a quote up on my wall that I love: “No matter what the economy looks like, you should always strive for quality. Buy fewer, better things. Get a great sofa, and plan to keep it.”

If You Weren’t A Designer What Would You Be?
I’d probably be a nutritionist. I’m very interested in nutrition, health and fitness. I find it fascinating that after so much research, we still know so little about what’s good for us, and what we should actually be eating. I almost changed my major to nutrition in my third year of college – until the reality of all the science classes I’d have to take set in. I quickly realized I’d be better off sticking with design!

When Did You Know You Wanted To Be A Designer?
When I was two years old, I pulled my dresser over, and my mom has always said it was because I didn’t like where it was placed! I’ve honestly loved interior design since I was very young. As a kid, I would rearrange my room constantly. My parents were never design-minded, and I didn’t know that interior design was a “thing” until I got to college and had this “a-ha!” moment. I thought, “So this is what I’ve loved all my life! And I can do it as a career!”

Images Courtesy of dl design, inc.

Who Is Your Favorite Interior Designer?
Amelia Handegan, an interior designer from Charleston SC. Amelia is considered among the top 100 designers in the country. She has such a great eye for color, and an amazing ability to combine different design styles for a look that’s truly her own. I like that she doesn’t follow trends, and even though she keeps things simple, her designs still have so much interest. Amelia’s just an overall great talent.

As the principal of the Charlotte interior design firm, dl design, inc., Donna Livingston seamlessly blends traditional elements with a fresh and sophisticated style.

The Creativity Had To Come From Somewhere…

May 13, 2012

No doubt that in countless homes across America, Mothers have been greeted with breakfast in bed and have been showered with gifts, flowers and cards. It would be difficult, if not impossible to get into a restaurant today. Happy Mother’s Day!!!

I have always figured that I got my creative side from my Mother. I’m not a designer, but as a writer, I’ve covered every aspect of home decor for the past 13 years. When it comes to interior design, my Mother has always had an eye for detail. While untrained in the discipline, she has created some incredibly beautiful spaces.

Sixteen years ago, I moved into the home I still live in. I had furniture in one room – my bedroom. The rest of the house echoed with emptiness. Every few days to a week, my Mother would call, letting me know what “I” had purchased, and how well I had spent my money! In three months time, courtesy of my Mother’s efforts, the house was beautifully furnished. Every now and then it has received a “touch up” from her.

Me, Suzanne and our Mother at the 1963 World’s Fair.

These pictures of my Mother, sister and me are still my favorites of the three of us. We were at the World’s Fair in New York. If you haven’t called your mother today, there’s still time…

2012 Spring High Point Market: 2 Colorful Thumbs Up

May 7, 2012

I recently saw a report on the news about the Spring 2012 High Point Furniture Market. Can you tell me what we can expect to see in furniture and fabrics in the coming months. Thanks! Kaitlin

Much thanks to North Carolina Design in letting me present my view of the Spring 2012 High Point Market. I went, I saw, and I was delighted! Since the beginning of the year, I have talked about what I call the ‘Color Revolution of 2012.’ This transformation has never been more apparent than at the Spring High Point Market. There was an abundance of bright colors on painted furniture, rugs, lighting, pillows and upholstered furniture.

Images courtesy of Anita Holland Interiors

As a designer I’ve been asked, did you see anything new? Did anything jump out at you? I’d have to say that the one thing that surprised me more than anything else was the good looking leather which was such a predominant upholstery fabric. It was on display in colors as bright as possible, and also in beautiful white. I’m currently designing a dining room with 10 chairs in a kiwi green. The color takes the leather and the room to a whole new level.

I truly loved the white leather at Hickory Chair Furniture Company – it made an incredible statement next to the bright beautiful colors. What struck me was the contrast – here are these big white design elements along side the bright colors, making them really sparkle and shine. Together, they each made the other better! I came away from this market thinking ‘White is a new neutral.’ Typically, I don’t think of white as a neutral. I think of neutrals as being more toned down beiges, grays and washed colors. This was clearly a neutral, and because it’s leather, it can last a lifetime.

I moved through the day like a designer on a mission, enjoying the company of a client whose home is currently being renovated. Part of our time was spent looking at furniture for the rooms of her wonderful teenage girls. I was immediately drawn to these ‘Gossip Chairs’ by oomph & More (below). They hook together and I adore them! I can picture 2 teenage girls spending hours in them… laughing and talking about everything. Once again, here’s the clean combination of white leather punched up with bright colors.

Another thing I noticed at this Market was the quality of multi finishes on case goods. I saw pieces with lacquered tops and unfinished fronts, upon which faux finishing had been taken to an entirely new level. At the GuildMaster Showroom I did not see two that were the same. They definitely did not have the look of reproduction which we are more accustomed to.

If I were to suggest a title for this photo taken in the Bungalow 5 Showroom (below), it would be, ‘Return To The Classics.’ Certainly you notice the classic lines of the lamps and the familiar fretwork and bamboo patterns in the wallpapers. When it comes to the wallpaper, something about it is a little bit different – more playful. The green is a richer color than it originally was.

A visit to the Visual Comfort Showroom netted 2 chandeliers for my client, which was a real plus. As a rule, I make it a point to attend the Market each year. The Spring 2012 High Point Market certainly did not disappoint!

Anita Holland is recognized among Charlotte interior designers for the classic lines of her traditional and contemporary interiors.

Teamwork – The Most Essential Element Of Home Design

May 3, 2012

Designing a home is a complicated process that requires the skill and insight of a number of different professionals. As Amy Conner-Murphy of ACM Design in Asheville can tell you, a great outcome depends on great teamwork and a shared vision.


Images Courtesy of ACM Design

ACM Design handles both the architectural and interior design aspects of home design. While architects and interior designers are equally important to the home design process, they have different perspectives, different priorities and different goals. “Architects deal with a home’s broader, more practical elements, such as structure, site placement and natural lighting,” notes Amy. “Interior designers deal with a home’s narrow, more detailed aspects, such as a room’s look, feel and day-to-day function.”

This means that while an architect may be thinking about the optimum dimensions and window placement in a room, an interior designer is thinking about how the homeowners will move through and utilize the space. Each must work to accommodate the other’s perspective.

At ACM Design, having both facets of home design in-house does allow for a more streamlined process, and it can save clients time and help them get the most for the money. “We handle all of the details of a project collectively, from broad to specific, all the way through the process,” Amy explains. “We have a lot of flexibility, and we can offer a wide range of services.”

Amy does stress, however, that an in-house team is not the only way to build a project team. “Sometimes a client comes to us with an interior designer that they have worked with in the past. We are here to serve the client, whether that means providing all inclusive services or building a team of professionals to serve those specific needs. Each person on a design team should be the best possible person fit for the task.”


Images Courtesy of ACM Design

In the end, it really is all about communication, collaboration, and solid teamwork. “Bridging the different perspectives of the client, architect, interior designer, landscape designer and builder, and working toward a common goal – these are the essential elements which ensure the success of the project.”

Amy Conner-Murphy is an Asheville architect and the principal of ACM Design. Her firm is known for designing homes that suit their clients’ lifestyles, complementing the property and its natural features.

Hooker Furniture – A Rhapsody At The Spring Market

April 27, 2012

If you’re an interior designer or home goods manufacturer, the Spring High Point Market is one of the most exciting times of the year. I was indeed fortunate to catch up with Kim Shaver, Vice President of Marketing Communications at Hooker Furniture, yesterday while the Market was still in full swing. I asked Kim if there were any exciting introductions this market from Hooker. I received a resounding Yes!

According to Kim, Rhapsody is a compelling new furniture collection that Hooker introduced at the Market this past week. Casually opulent and grand in scale, the collection displays classic style with a rustic walnut finish. “Rhapsody reveals its Greco-Roman influence through timeless motifs like scrolls, rope twist molding, the acanthus leaf and flor de lis,” Kim explained. “The rustic finish is sophisticated, having a reclaimed look about it.”

From the dining room to the office, the Rhapsody Collection is definitely multi faceted. “This is a real Renaissance in the approach to wood finishes − not just light brown or dark brown or the occasional brown or black painted finishes here or there,” Kim noted. “The rustic walnut finish defines the collection, with a mixture of five veneers over solid poplar.” Hickory, walnut and ash, and the use of imperfect pecky pecan create wonderful color tones. I for one am personally sold!

I asked Kim if comfort was a key element with this collection. “Absolutely. Comfort is important from a physical and psychological perspective. The classic design elements of this collection make this easy to live with.”

I am glad I was able to catch up with Kim. Hooker Furniture is a personal favorite of mine when it comes to High Point furniture. I once had an entire room designed around one of their armoires. Thanks Kim!

High Point Market Spring 2012 – A Colorful Delight

April 25, 2012

Anyone who is remotely connected with interior design knows that High Point is the place to be this week. Wall Streeters talk so often about ‘the market,’ but right now, the market that holds the attention of so many throughout North Carolina and across the country is the High Point Market.

Spring ’12 High Point Market images courtesy:Martineau Vermillion Interior Design

I caught up yesterday with one of our favorite Charlotte interior designers – Amy Vermillion, of Martineau Vermillion Interior Design. Amy didn’t waste time getting to High Point this past weekend to see what the showrooms had to offer. I was thankful she had a few moments to chat before heading to a client’s home in Charleston, SC.

“Color, color, color. Lot’s of color! And it’s bright – and beautiful. Teal, pink, purple, and yes, since you asked, I did see Pantone’s Color Of The Year – Tangerine,” Amy said. Hickory Chair as always, was a visual delight. “The prints were vivid, favoring a mod, contemporary look!”

Color wasn’t just limited to fabrics. It was on the walls as well as the furniture. Multiple finishes, with multiple colors? That’s another look Amy confirmed that both Jonathan Adler and Hickory Chair handled quite well. Going through the showrooms, Amy took note of sleek lacquer furniture. Ok, so I wouldn’t design my entire home in lacquer furniture, however, I would select a colorful coffee table or a pair of end tables from by Jonathan Adler or Barclay Butera to punch up a room.

As for how I feel about so much color? You’d get a big ‘Woo hoo!’ from me. To know me is to know I love color!

Check back tomorrow for more Market news.

Preserving The Past – One Home At A Time

April 15, 2012

While some people relish the idea of restoring a historic home to its former glory, such a restoration is a much harder and more involved process than it may seem. If you ask Wilmington interior designer and historic preservation specialist Debby Gomulka of Debby Gomulka Designs, it’s just another day on the job.

Images of The Willaims House, Wilmington, NC Courtesy of Debby Gomulka Designs

Debby has a deep appreciation for history, and a special affinity for restoration and preservation projects. For her, “restoring a historic home is like a journey of discoveries waiting to be peeled away one layer at a time.”

Wilmington, North Carolina is well-known for its old-fashioned charm and beautiful historic homes, and that’s exactly what makes it so appealing to Debby. “I like being at the forefront of design, and in Wilmington, purchasing older homes and restoring them to their former grandeur has become increasingly popular,” she notes. “There’s a growing sense of historic pride here. People are now seeking to enliven the community by preserving its past.” The town’s architectural crown jewel is the Bellamy mansion, and many historic homeowners in Wilmington use it as a source of inspiration.

The first step to doing a historic renovation is to get the right people on board from the onset. “It’s very important to have a great relationship with your local historical commission,” Debbie explains. “They can walk you through the process and keep you apprised of restoration rules and guidelines set by your city or state, which can help you avoid costly, frustrating delays. It’s also essential to hire a good, reputable contractor and an architect who understands historic homes. Everyone involved should fully understand the plan and the ground rules of the project.”

Whenever possible, Debby uses actual reclaimed items and existing antiques from a home’s specific era for restorations. She relies on a list of trusted sources, which she makes available to her clients so they can find the perfect items for their homes. 

Restoring a home as close as possible to its original state isn’t the whole story. The home still has to be comfortable for a modern homeowner. “Part of my job is infusing the personality and lifestyle of my clients into the design. That involves taking their life experiences, travels and tastes into account. The restoration is a living space that must be true to the home’s historic roots and also fit the homeowners’ unique vision. As a designer, I add in the modern amenities they appreciate, and combine contemporary artwork and accessories with appropriately selected antiques.”

A Wilmington interior designer, Debby Gomulka Designs provides a full spectrum of design services – from historic preservation of traditional interiors to dramatic contemporary condominiums.

Interior Design: Comfortable & Cozy On Lake Toxaway

March 31, 2012

Two nights ago, I asked a friend if she were to win the big lottery, would she buy a house at the beach or in the mountains. “Both,” she quickly replied. We spent a few dreamy moments talking about what those houses might look like. For me, imagining that mountain home was incredibly easy. Only hours earlier, I had been admiring pictures of a Lake Toxaway mountain getaway, located in Western NC. The home was designed by Platt Architecture, of Brevard, with interior design by Kathryn Long, of the Asheville interior design firm, Ambiance Interiors.

Images Courtesy of Ambiance Interiors

Kathryn explained that this was her second new construction project on the mountain lake for these clients. While husband and wife both wanted this home to be smaller and cozier than the first, they had differing views on the design direction. The husband envisioned a much more rustic mood, with wood walls throughout. The wife wanted a ‘Victorian mountain’ mood. “I offered a happy compromise that would satisfy them both,” said Kathryn. “There are horizontal or vertical wood walls throughout most of the home. Most were then ‘aged’ on site with a glazing process.”

The main part of the house has an open yet warm floor plan. The faux distressed finish which Kathryn selected for the wood walls of the great room enhances the welcoming atmosphere. The adjoining dining room holds a few ‘design finds’ that were perfect for the project. “The storage / display pieces which flank the doors leading to the screened porch are absolutely ideal for the space,” explained Kathryn. “The French chandelier is circa 1900.”

I’ve said before that a beautiful mountain home is all about the view, and this home does not disappoint. The screened porch was extended to take full advantage of the lake view. Kathryn’s selection of furnishings makes it a go-to destination for dining, napping, reading and entertaining.

In the master bedroom, the bed which the clients found in their home state of Texas really makes a statement. The custom window treatments and bed coverings that Kathryn selected are the perfect completion to the room which is painted blue. I do love the powder room, where Kathryn pays homage to this home’s locale. The mirror is customized with cardinals – our state bird. A reproduction French dough box has been adapted as the lavatory cabinet.

I didn’t win the lottery, so that mountain home is going to have to wait. A girl can still look at pictures and dream though.

Kathryn Long and Linda Constable are Asheville interior designers with Ambiance Interiors, a full service interior design firm, specializing in well-appointed spaces throughout Western North Carolina.

Accessories: The Art of Pulling a Room Together

March 26, 2012

Accessories are essential. They pull together a design, and speak volumes about our personal style. However, it can be difficult to determine how to go about using accessories in our homes. We caught up with accessorizing expert June Delugas of June DeLugas Interiors in the Winston-Salem area to get some perspective.

NCD: What are the most important things to consider when accessorizing?

JD: Space is the most important factor. The accessories should fit the space, and not overwhelm or crowd it. They should be large enough to be seen and make a statement but not so large that they dominate or throw the room off balance. Color is also essential—today’s designs especially are all about bright, bold color accents.

Images Courtesy of June DeLugas Interiors

NCD: How do you know what to place where?

JD: It’s all in the eyes. My goal is always to achieve a sense of visual balance in the room. Tall items should be balanced with other tall items. Smaller items—such as picture frames–should be grouped together minimally, and the groups should be broken up around the room. Larger items should be used sparingly and should be thoughtfully placed.

NCD: How should a homeowner plan and budget for accessories?

JD: People are often very surprised at the substantial amount of time it takes to draw up a room, plan out the space and add in accessories. They’re also surprised at the substantial investment it requires. The fact is, accessories add more than anything else. Homeowners should plan to set aside 15 percent of their overall design budget just for accessories.

NCD: How do you incorporate a homeowner’s collections into a design?

JD: Using a homeowner’s collections in their design is our specialty. We love pulling treasures out of closets and cabinets! We consider the color, shape and size of the items, and then decide how and where they would best fit in the space. We encourage clients to “repurpose” things they already have, rather than spend money on new items. Using pieces that are personally meaningful adds a new perspective and a sense of depth to the design.

NCD: Do you have any special accessorizing ideas for homeowners?

JD: I love layering accessories. Layering means grouping different objects of different sizes in front one another so that they can all be seen, but they overlap slightly. You might place a mirror on a shelf, for example, then place a shorter vase of flowers in front of it to the right side, and a small sculpture in front of the vase on the vase’s left side. Instantly, you’ve added interest, dimension and balance to the space.

A Winston-Salem interior design firm, June DeLugas Interiors provides personalized design services to residential and commercial clients throughout the Piedmont. The showroom offers an extensive selection of furniture and accessories.

March Madness Invades Home Decor

March 16, 2012

I have to say that this is just about my favorite time of year. It has been for as long as I can remember. Certainly, I look forward to spring time and warm weather, but that’s not why my excitement level rises exponentially, just about … now. It’s March Madness! As the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament kicks off, it’s easy to see that loyalties for favorite teams have become a part of home décor.

Growing up, you showed your team spirit by wearing your team’s colors, sweat shirts and hats. Of course, that was also a time when flying a flag was simply patriotic. Take a drive through neighborhoods now and you’ll see collegiate flags proudly accenting the exteriors of numerous homes. Whether the flags are UNC, Duke, NC State, Florida State or several dozen others – these homeowners are serving notice that they too are experiencing March Madness.

While most people fly their flags outside of the house, my friend Laura Greeno has hers inside the house. She has a 2 story wall in the great room that I think would be perfectly suited for a lovely tapestry or quilt. This is the place, however that Laura and her husband have chosen to hang their very large Ohio State flag. Perhaps it adds to the excitement at game time. Buckeye fans are among the most avid and loyal, so I’m sure that it makes sense for this to be a major point of interest in the room.

I got to wondering about the term, “March Madness.” It seems that an official with the Illinois High School Basketball Association first penned the expression back in the 1930’s. It was CBS sportscaster Brent Musburger who first referred to the NCAA Tournament as March Madness in 1982 – and the name stuck.

A team like Kentucky has a rich basketball history and is worthy of its own room. For these Lake Norman residents, everything in the space pays homage to the history, tradition and success of the Wildcats’ program. Will they live up to the #1 ranking this year? (Many other residents of North Carolina hope not!)

I’m a Dukie, which means that things hopefully rise to a fever pitch as March progresses. I do confess I’m a bit superstitious at game time. While Duke is playing, I never wear team apparel or colors. When I do – they lose. I do have a Duke alumni chair in my den. It has a black satin finish with cherry arms. The Duke shield is printed on the top in gold. It’s surprisingly comfortable and goes well with the décor. For me, any more might jinx the team.

Do you enhance your décor this time of year based on your favorite team? You know, right now it’s not about how well that Duke chair fits into the style of the room. I just want to be sitting in it for the next 3 weekends, cheering Duke on to victory.

Much thanks to Laura, Grace, Elizabeth, Dean, Hettie and Buzz for assistance on gathering the images.

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