tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-89843298562021858122024-03-19T00:40:25.806-07:00take it to the floorMeredithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04389149372685458532noreply@blogger.comBlogger27125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984329856202185812.post-71055238486710591822015-01-12T12:55:00.001-08:002015-03-26T12:14:19.592-07:00Design Inspiration - Bolivian frazada blankets<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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About 9 years ago, my now husband and I took a 6 month trip to South America and Central America.<br />
It was the coolest thing I had ever done.<br />
Along the trip we collected many things that are in our home today and remind us of our travels.<br />
In the majority of the countries we visited, textiles are a prominent piece of the culture.<br />
In Bolivia, frazada blankets, are often found in vibrant color combinations. This was one of our favorite items that we brought home with us.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gJjkAnbstUY/VLQx5WQCH-I/AAAAAAAABT8/G1kB2wbAFPM/s1600/Untitled.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gJjkAnbstUY/VLQx5WQCH-I/AAAAAAAABT8/G1kB2wbAFPM/s1600/Untitled.jpg" height="317" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Bolivian Frazada blankets / throws - <a href="http://www.leifshop.com/collections/living/products/bolivian-frazada-rug-blanket-pink-emerald">Leif shop </a></i></td></tr>
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In recent years, the trend of hand-woven, cultural authenticity in textiles such as pillows and throws has continued to grow.<br />
Products that incorporate the colors, textures and patterns found in these ancient hand-woven pieces add depth and interest to homes.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I_ZiWFnPGsQ/VLQvzvoKcyI/AAAAAAAABTY/oVubyxDzHJI/s1600/img47o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I_ZiWFnPGsQ/VLQvzvoKcyI/AAAAAAAABTY/oVubyxDzHJI/s1600/img47o.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>pillows from <a href="http://www.westelm.com/products/hand-loomed-facet-pillow-cover-pale-harbor-t1567/?cm_src=AutoRel">West Elm</a></i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eCaxTR5Ap7U/VLQxLpJVkuI/AAAAAAAABTw/Sm4ar_TnPqY/s1600/item2.rendition.slideshowHorizontal.cindy-crawford-rande-gerber-05-living-room.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eCaxTR5Ap7U/VLQxLpJVkuI/AAAAAAAABTw/Sm4ar_TnPqY/s1600/item2.rendition.slideshowHorizontal.cindy-crawford-rande-gerber-05-living-room.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>The home of Cindy Crawford and Rande Gerber as seen in <a href="http://www.architecturaldigest.com/celebrity-homes/2013/george-clooney-cindy-crawford-rande-gerber-mexico-baja-houses-slideshow_slideshow_Living-Room_3">Architectural Digest</a> show <br />that using vintage, hand-woven textiles add interest to a white sofa. </i></td></tr>
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Inspired by this trend and the Bolivian frazada blankets, similar to the one I brought back from my trip, I decided to design some rugs that mimic this style.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>I focused on placement and overlap of color</i></td></tr>
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Keep an eye out for more design inspiration posts with 2015 trends.<br />
~Meredith<br />
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Meredithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04389149372685458532noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984329856202185812.post-62674550312688164122014-06-23T08:40:00.002-07:002014-06-23T08:40:47.443-07:00Get Outside<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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On a recent trip to San Francisco in May, I found myself in the most pleasant setting for an early morning cup of coffee with my husband.<br />
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Outside at the<a href="http://stablecafe.com/"> Stable Cafe</a>, was this wonderful, shared garden space. The light was gorgeous and the whole environment, with the plants and pebbled ground was so peaceful and inspiring.</div>
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It had me looking forward to getting our outdoor space ready for that long awaited New England summer. </div>
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Morning coffee on the deck and nights of outdoor dinners and lounging. </div>
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I was mostly inspired here by the plants and the natural element that made this space so inviting. </div>
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When it comes to outdoor spaces, sometimes all it takes is a few simple steps to make your space into that setting you dream of.<i> (especially after long winters!)</i></div>
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Whether you live in the city, the country, or on the water, prefer an eclectic mix or clean and simple, here are a few images for your outdoor inspiration. . . </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HY5jYlJKOx0/U6g_QJ9IBZI/AAAAAAAABO0/06QlKgwrLQM/s1600/summer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HY5jYlJKOx0/U6g_QJ9IBZI/AAAAAAAABO0/06QlKgwrLQM/s1600/summer.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Adding string lights and flowers is a simple and easy way to make a space feel warm and inviting.</i><br />
<i><span style="color: #444444;">Image via <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/281686151668366543/">Pinterest </a></span></i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4k1Y8X2SvOE/U6g_YKqW1-I/AAAAAAAABPQ/pFYZzPHpJp8/s1600/7ce471efef05ae509a8cfd213a046d10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4k1Y8X2SvOE/U6g_YKqW1-I/AAAAAAAABPQ/pFYZzPHpJp8/s1600/7ce471efef05ae509a8cfd213a046d10.jpg" height="640" width="403" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>A small balcony becomes a cozy outdoor hang out.<br /><span style="color: #444444;">Image via <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/281686151668366535/">Pinterest</a></span></i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iLw_y6yC2gg/U6g_XqJpPnI/AAAAAAAABP0/pC4y5PJU8co/s1600/0d4859eec34a2241e0709ef5b7246806.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iLw_y6yC2gg/U6g_XqJpPnI/AAAAAAAABP0/pC4y5PJU8co/s1600/0d4859eec34a2241e0709ef5b7246806.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>A traditional deck adds a lounge-like elegance with over-sized cushions and chairs in bright white.<br /><span style="color: #444444;">Image via <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/281686151668400758/">Pinterest</a></span></i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xjj5R2vHeMY/U6g_ZfaudNI/AAAAAAAABPg/Y1Kux9RZiA8/s1600/de2617f7b6d4a3c7121fea8d0817299d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xjj5R2vHeMY/U6g_ZfaudNI/AAAAAAAABPg/Y1Kux9RZiA8/s1600/de2617f7b6d4a3c7121fea8d0817299d.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Traditional meets rustic for a look that is truly New England.<br /><span style="color: #444444;">Image via <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/281686151667130223/">Pinterest</a></span></i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NRkTIuQS3u0/U6g_Xs1gPFI/AAAAAAAABQY/D3ZW_dvLdNo/s1600/49fce5799ad1beb34140ed7ebc7e2221.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NRkTIuQS3u0/U6g_Xs1gPFI/AAAAAAAABQY/D3ZW_dvLdNo/s1600/49fce5799ad1beb34140ed7ebc7e2221.jpg" height="640" width="515" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>A gorgeous view needs only natural pieces that blend with the surrounding environment.<br /><span style="color: #444444;">Image via <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/281686151667091503/">Pinterest</a></span></i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi862V0sZk4h846QocrnB9__MixIp8XMd5fg4nCXsBO9gMSGHmp2rtLhJM7sKmEIVG3NyCMhMFCgd67BfeAnraXX0UU0NiNURdpW2dsmNov9_8jUaTSNmr8QlhAmt5qgDtwRZv9IfJhoPY/s1600/outdoor-decorating-ideas-Decks-and-terraces-ED0509_GreatId18-3-lgn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi862V0sZk4h846QocrnB9__MixIp8XMd5fg4nCXsBO9gMSGHmp2rtLhJM7sKmEIVG3NyCMhMFCgd67BfeAnraXX0UU0NiNURdpW2dsmNov9_8jUaTSNmr8QlhAmt5qgDtwRZv9IfJhoPY/s1600/outdoor-decorating-ideas-Decks-and-terraces-ED0509_GreatId18-3-lgn.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>An extension of the indoors.<br /><span style="color: #444444;">Image via <a href="http://www.elledecor.com/design-decorate/ideas/great-ideas-decks-terraces-56146-8#slide-4">Elle Decor</a></span></i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tki0T_lxxs0/U6g_XnNHZeI/AAAAAAAABPI/0MldGJinQ_A/s1600/6fb3ea913cf149fae07a0480858cb779.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tki0T_lxxs0/U6g_XnNHZeI/AAAAAAAABPI/0MldGJinQ_A/s1600/6fb3ea913cf149fae07a0480858cb779.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>A traditional home mixes modern pieces and patterns in black and white, with a touch of natural tones and textures.<br /><span style="color: #444444;">Image via <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/281686151668400764/">Pinterest</a></span></i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zEfHRmGzHN8/U6g_bnjmxSI/AAAAAAAABQU/QGC-4A-zfdE/s1600/party+color.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zEfHRmGzHN8/U6g_bnjmxSI/AAAAAAAABQU/QGC-4A-zfdE/s1600/party+color.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>A patio full of greenery gets an eclectic mix of pattern and color.</i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F3YvZwtWo5A/U6g_aZdv5-I/AAAAAAAABPw/Eb6P6FKf0p0/s1600/e52583b1c5f9cf1848b7c2e92db28d1f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F3YvZwtWo5A/U6g_aZdv5-I/AAAAAAAABPw/Eb6P6FKf0p0/s1600/e52583b1c5f9cf1848b7c2e92db28d1f.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Traditional covered porch with Moroccan-style influences.<br /><span style="color: #444444;">Image via <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/281686151666122754/">Pinterest</a></span></i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MCEpLSpaDGk/U6g_bOJG1kI/AAAAAAAABQI/d89-Osu6GtE/s1600/outdoor+space+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MCEpLSpaDGk/U6g_bOJG1kI/AAAAAAAABQI/d89-Osu6GtE/s1600/outdoor+space+2.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>This porch keeps it clean and simple.<br /><span style="color: #444444;">Image via </span><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/281686151666994638/" style="color: #444444;">Pinterest</a></i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-O6NnmYRPx6w/U6hJEuMJ-5I/AAAAAAAABQk/DYR6gm6dSLs/s1600/4eacf461bbff71369bab2ce5cf9a999f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-O6NnmYRPx6w/U6hJEuMJ-5I/AAAAAAAABQk/DYR6gm6dSLs/s1600/4eacf461bbff71369bab2ce5cf9a999f.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>This one says it all. . .<br /><span style="color: #444444;">Image via <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/281686151668400800/">Pinterest</a></span></i></td></tr>
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Summer is here! Time to get outside.</div>
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~Meredith</div>
Meredithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04389149372685458532noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984329856202185812.post-33233615869996182402014-05-06T10:01:00.004-07:002014-05-06T10:02:32.402-07:00A custom rug for a 6 year old . . . <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This past April, my daughter's 6th birthday seemed like the perfect time to convince myself and my husband that we should make over her room.<br />
All of a sudden the age of 6 seemed to call for the kind of room that went beyond just stuffed animals and play houses, to something she could really grow with. . . and keep organized on her own!<br />
A real bed, paint in a color other than pink, a shelf to hold her new found love of chapter books, and of course. . . what every 6 year old wants, "a cool rug."<br />
She is my kid after all.<br />
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Although we were making her room feel a bit more "big kid," I still believe in a kids' room being a kids' room. Meaning, there has to be some element of fun and chaos or mismatching happening. It has to <i>feel</i> like a kids room.<br />
So when deciding on a rug, I wanted to do something different. I wanted it to be playful and colorful, but soft. I also wanted to challenge my manufacturing team a bit to see if they could achieve the look I was going for.<br />
My inspiration was to have something geometric with stripes, which is how I came up with this initial drawing.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u7aPub2l2IM/U2kQnldxPgI/AAAAAAAABNI/LN651eYoh28/s1600/nayeli+rug+drawing.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u7aPub2l2IM/U2kQnldxPgI/AAAAAAAABNI/LN651eYoh28/s1600/nayeli+rug+drawing.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>initial rug concept </i></td></tr>
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Our manufacturing team was on it and had no problem with the design, creating the separate pieces for each section, cutting them and piecing them together.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j6WkCisDtxs/U2kQsHD7ONI/AAAAAAAABNk/pzQrVJ5p3UE/s1600/Nayeli+rug+pieced+in.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j6WkCisDtxs/U2kQsHD7ONI/AAAAAAAABNk/pzQrVJ5p3UE/s1600/Nayeli+rug+pieced+in.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>the rug is pieced together in sections</i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3e4bKqDddXg/U2kQr04I96I/AAAAAAAABNg/fu1VJ7JqgCU/s1600/nayeli+rug+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3e4bKqDddXg/U2kQr04I96I/AAAAAAAABNg/fu1VJ7JqgCU/s1600/nayeli+rug+1.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>almost complete . . . awaiting fringe </i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YkBi1XhFSMs/U2kQqi5PuvI/AAAAAAAABNU/iIXzn2_U0xw/s1600/nayeli+rug+final.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YkBi1XhFSMs/U2kQqi5PuvI/AAAAAAAABNU/iIXzn2_U0xw/s1600/nayeli+rug+final.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>final rug in Nayeli's room </i></td></tr>
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The rug came out exactly how I had hoped. I love the yellow stripes and how it gives her room both color and softness. She was very happy. :)</div>
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~Meredith</div>
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Meredithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04389149372685458532noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984329856202185812.post-83366219463374361112014-04-09T11:21:00.000-07:002014-04-11T06:58:50.440-07:00Small accents<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The last couple of months have been full of designing, creating and refining as we get ready to launch our newest offering of storage items this spring.<br />
One focus has been on using new materials for some of our handle options.<br />
Small accents can really make a difference in a piece such as storage.<br />
Take a look to see what we've been up to.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-05w9ttnTQ9Y/U0WKlEeL3ZI/AAAAAAAABMI/13lE7By9B4w/s1600/cotton+rope.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-05w9ttnTQ9Y/U0WKlEeL3ZI/AAAAAAAABMI/13lE7By9B4w/s1600/cotton+rope.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>cotton rope from <a href="https://www.knotandrope.com/store/pc/viewCategories.asp?idCategory=6">knot & rope supply</a></i></td></tr>
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This soft and simple cotton rope from Knot & Rope Supply is a perfect accent for those nautical / coastal inspired products.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ukAhbvlQ14I/U0WKo3C1-GI/AAAAAAAABMY/9HyK7Axtj2g/s1600/cotton+rope+tote.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ukAhbvlQ14I/U0WKo3C1-GI/AAAAAAAABMY/9HyK7Axtj2g/s1600/cotton+rope+tote.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Tote-style basket with long cotton rope handles.</i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Kz2KoZzQKk4/U0WL2hnPtWI/AAAAAAAABMw/m35Lfwzqnfo/s1600/AU01+-+Navy+%2526+Red.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Kz2KoZzQKk4/U0WL2hnPtWI/AAAAAAAABMw/m35Lfwzqnfo/s1600/AU01+-+Navy+%2526+Red.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Our new Nautical Stripe storage basket with cotton rope handles.</i></td></tr>
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For something with a bit more contrast and some serious texture, I found this manila rope. Manila is a form of hemp, so it takes on that real natural feel.<br />
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I love how this simple change makes such a difference in these baskets on a kid-friendly shelf. The natural tones and texture provides a nice balance to the bright colors and white accents on the shelf.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-45uE1Wc-r4U/U0WKpAnNwWI/AAAAAAAABMc/PdqI0gsXnAg/s1600/Manila+Rope.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-45uE1Wc-r4U/U0WKpAnNwWI/AAAAAAAABMc/PdqI0gsXnAg/s1600/Manila+Rope.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>manila rope from <a href="https://www.knotandrope.com/store/pc/showsearchresults.asp?idcategory=3&customfield=&SearchValues=&priceFrom=&priceUntil=&withstock=&sku=&IDBrand=&keyWord=manila&exact=&resultCnt=10&order=&iPageCurrent=1&pageStyle=M&incSale=&IDSale=">Knot & Rope Supply. </a></i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nMps0h5Ewhg/U0WL2ZQ6QmI/AAAAAAAABMs/DT5Ginf4xj0/s1600/manila+rope+basket.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nMps0h5Ewhg/U0WL2ZQ6QmI/AAAAAAAABMs/DT5Ginf4xj0/s1600/manila+rope+basket.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>manila rope handles on kids shelf storage.</i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OpEhPDbzmQM/U0f0poM1L4I/AAAAAAAABNA/ZeHhC4YTW6g/s1600/wool+blend+shelf+baskets+with+rope2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OpEhPDbzmQM/U0f0poM1L4I/AAAAAAAABNA/ZeHhC4YTW6g/s1600/wool+blend+shelf+baskets+with+rope2.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
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~Meredith<br />
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Meredithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04389149372685458532noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984329856202185812.post-5107719740169967672014-03-06T08:54:00.000-08:002014-03-06T08:55:01.940-08:00Custom rug with Simply GroveA few months back, we had the privilege and honor of working with Kirsten Grove, of the very awesome blog Simply Grove, on a custom rug design for a special project.<br />
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The rug and entire room look amazing! Check out Kirsten's feature on her blog <a href="http://www.simplygrove.com/house-tour-kayla/">here </a>.We love it!<br />
<i>Read on below for details about the process of creating this custom rug.</i><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-G9eotirrV0g/Uxilb9FbyJI/AAAAAAAABLw/lTzfzX-3sAA/s1600/Simply+Grove+blog+image2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-G9eotirrV0g/Uxilb9FbyJI/AAAAAAAABLw/lTzfzX-3sAA/s1600/Simply+Grove+blog+image2.jpg" height="640" width="425" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>photo credit ~ Kirsten Grove of Simply Grove</i></td></tr>
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We started out with some basic concepts around the style Kirsten and her client were looking for: striped or geometric, vintage and southwestern styles.<br />
They settled on this image of a rug I had modified from other designs and actually created for my own home.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tguC6FAT_sQ/Uxigyx-z2cI/AAAAAAAABK4/Ow9k3psCkQo/s1600/sketch.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tguC6FAT_sQ/Uxigyx-z2cI/AAAAAAAABK4/Ow9k3psCkQo/s1600/sketch.jpeg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>sketch modifying a previous design</i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oAsREUIvOos/Uxiho2ssjfI/AAAAAAAABLI/au2FWh4kVzU/s1600/MT+hall+rug.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oAsREUIvOos/Uxiho2ssjfI/AAAAAAAABLI/au2FWh4kVzU/s1600/MT+hall+rug.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>finished rug in my foyer </i></td></tr>
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Now that we had nailed down the design direction, it was time for us to talk about color!<br />
I sent Kirsten a colonial mills' yarn pom, which is basically a big ring of all the yarns and fabric we carry in house. We encourage designers to use this pom as a working tool from which they can pick color combinations for their designs.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o7GMWbDcSJE/UxijPCSI0vI/AAAAAAAABLU/vkb5wLAeNMQ/s1600/yarn+pom+-+simply+grove.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o7GMWbDcSJE/UxijPCSI0vI/AAAAAAAABLU/vkb5wLAeNMQ/s1600/yarn+pom+-+simply+grove.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Kirsten's client, Kayla, getting ready to pick her colors from the yarn pom! <br />photo credit ~ Kirsten Grove of Simply Grove</i></td></tr>
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They decided on a black and off-white color scheme for some real pop. The rug, meant for a dining room, also needed to be larger than the original design we were working from. Therefore, we had to work on the appropriate scale for the diamonds to get just the right look.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iemWk_l4yx8/UxijPGerxaI/AAAAAAAABLg/tcWP28cnzVQ/s1600/simply+grove+rug.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iemWk_l4yx8/UxijPGerxaI/AAAAAAAABLg/tcWP28cnzVQ/s1600/simply+grove+rug.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>The rug getting some finishing touches in our Rhode Island factory</i></td></tr>
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Thank you to Kirsten Grove and Kaley for including us in this project.<br />
We had so much fun!<br />
<br />
~Meredith<br />
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<br />Meredithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04389149372685458532noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984329856202185812.post-69780642829107117522014-02-19T17:45:00.001-08:002014-02-19T17:45:08.908-08:00New Design FavoriteA new addition to Colonial Mills' standard line of rugs is a collection by the name of Windsor.<br />
A wool blend design that applies a method of weaving small amounts of slightly contrasting colors for an overall look that adds both texture and dimension.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Fg1Uy3D_OuM/UwVdFCMKHHI/AAAAAAAABKk/DJm4KmuE5vg/s1600/Windsor+-+thayer.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Fg1Uy3D_OuM/UwVdFCMKHHI/AAAAAAAABKk/DJm4KmuE5vg/s1600/Windsor+-+thayer.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Windsor - charcoal</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1s7HPFQ5Bk8/UwVdCVuyaDI/AAAAAAAABKc/oEWuWZxpSBU/s1600/Windsor-vegas.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1s7HPFQ5Bk8/UwVdCVuyaDI/AAAAAAAABKc/oEWuWZxpSBU/s1600/Windsor-vegas.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Windsor - charcoal shown at Las Vegas Market Winter 2014</td></tr>
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Part of our new licensed Panama Jack collection, Windsor will be available on our website March 2014 and other major rug websites this spring.<br />
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~MeredithMeredithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04389149372685458532noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984329856202185812.post-43500159418949283662014-02-07T14:33:00.001-08:002014-02-07T14:33:14.736-08:00This week in prototypes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It's been a flurry of a week. . . no pun intended.<br />
Snow and prototypes and projects have kept us all so busy here!<br />
A couple of quick pics to show you a bit of what we've been up to.<br />
Getting excited about the new items we'll be adding this spring!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sbHsGmdwhVc/UvVenF8jK2I/AAAAAAAABJg/I9zK_-pck6U/s1600/basket+prototypes.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sbHsGmdwhVc/UvVenF8jK2I/AAAAAAAABJg/I9zK_-pck6U/s1600/basket+prototypes.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New storage prototypes</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nuaV_rcKhCc/UvVeycXbbsI/AAAAAAAABJs/_hzEj_SEt0s/s1600/braid+mix.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nuaV_rcKhCc/UvVeycXbbsI/AAAAAAAABJs/_hzEj_SEt0s/s1600/braid+mix.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Colorful new weave</td></tr>
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<br />Have a great weekend!<div>
~Meredith<br /></div>
Meredithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04389149372685458532noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984329856202185812.post-87813399219848844832012-07-31T15:16:00.001-07:002012-07-31T15:30:34.701-07:00Las Vegas Market Summer 2012ok. . . post time. . . finally.<br />
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Been a while.<br />
I'm currently at the Las Vegas Market at the World Market Center.<br />
This market we introduced new yarns and fabrics that will be turning up in 2013 product, as well as private label and custom projects.<br />
Pretty excited about these. Some fabulous color popping up and of course. . .texture.<br />
Take a look!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pn-xMx9eW-s/UBhPp4SUmTI/AAAAAAAABEc/MZsVHgTYjao/s1600/IMG_0318.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pn-xMx9eW-s/UBhPp4SUmTI/AAAAAAAABEc/MZsVHgTYjao/s400/IMG_0318.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>37 colors of polypropylene yarn</i> </td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lYNxj__U7Lc/UBhPcFnBgHI/AAAAAAAABD0/ChEDxXbYhKE/s1600/Kid+wall+spacedye.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lYNxj__U7Lc/UBhPcFnBgHI/AAAAAAAABD0/ChEDxXbYhKE/s400/Kid+wall+spacedye.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;"><i>New spacedye yarn in bright colors displayed as a wall mount.<br />Chenille bobbins and storage add to the pop of color.</i><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NN-Q30IPHRQ/UBhPnQNx2KI/AAAAAAAABEM/VIfdQOXDAOg/s1600/IMG_0311.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NN-Q30IPHRQ/UBhPnQNx2KI/AAAAAAAABEM/VIfdQOXDAOg/s400/IMG_0311.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>New spacedye blend of warm tones</i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EPOPXKTyhEU/UBhPqmYeMJI/AAAAAAAABEg/wVgKs-a1AoA/s1600/Vegas+shrwm-collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EPOPXKTyhEU/UBhPqmYeMJI/AAAAAAAABEg/wVgKs-a1AoA/s400/Vegas+shrwm-collage.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Image collage - A glimpse into all things CMI . . . prototypes, factory images, <br />yarn, special projects and events</i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oXTRaCeynaE/UBhPpAE7b-I/AAAAAAAABEU/jSjqt-cXnxQ/s1600/IMG_0313.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oXTRaCeynaE/UBhPpAE7b-I/AAAAAAAABEU/jSjqt-cXnxQ/s400/IMG_0313.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Natural wool and soft chenille combine for some serious texture</i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0iGVSdaeepM/UBhPraehNBI/AAAAAAAABEs/5DIFB0Ch0So/s1600/Vegas+shrwm-natwoolbskts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0iGVSdaeepM/UBhPraehNBI/AAAAAAAABEs/5DIFB0Ch0So/s400/Vegas+shrwm-natwoolbskts.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>A natural wool storage</i></td></tr>
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Stay tuned for some upcoming posts about more new product and color stories. . .<br />
Thanks for reading!<br />
-Meredith<br />
<br /></div>Meredithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04389149372685458532noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984329856202185812.post-58933531188482861182012-04-30T18:58:00.000-07:002012-05-01T09:15:36.183-07:00Organized ChaosIt's a fast-paced world out there.<br />
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Technology is booming. </div>
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Your new smart phone is probably already being replaced by a better, even faster model. </div>
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More apps.</div>
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More ways to share.</div>
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More info, quicker. . . all at your finger tips.</div>
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And then there's the financial crisis. </div>
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We try to keep up with the advances in technology and the various platforms and we work to thrive and succeed through a financial crisis.</div>
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This fast-paced, ever-changing and, at times, stressful world also makes for a busy home.</div>
<div>
The environment of the outside world directly impacts the environment we strive to create in our homes.</div>
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In times of chaos, it is typical that we begin to feel a pull towards things that will make us feel comfortable, more organized, less cluttered. </div>
<div>
We gravitate towards nature and bring more of the calming aspects in nature into our interior spaces, as well as the comforts of family, friends and food.<br />
Additionally and somewhat contradictory, we are drawn to bright pops of colors.<br />
In <a href="http://www.pantone.com/pages/pantone/index.aspx">Pantone</a>'s first issue of <a href="http://www.pantone.com/resources/tones/v3-1/en-na/index.html">Tones</a>, an edition exploring color trends in design and consumer reactions, <a href="http://www.colorexpert.com/about-leatrice/">Leatrice Eiseman</a>, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute explains how these bright and invigorating hues boost confidence in consumers, while natural tones provide versatility that is more practical.<br />
<br />
This increase in offerings in the storage category, goes hand in hand with consumer reactions to the economic and technological climate of recent years.<br />
Consumers are purchasing these various forms of storage as a way to bring more organization to the home while adding natural elements or bright pops colors, depending on their space and preference.<br />
In product design at CMI, we have been busy creating storage in various sizes, shapes and constructions in natural materials, as well as bright, fun colorful options in materials that can be meant for both indoor and outdoor applications.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L5OA7f3yxXQ/T58_3YzXnbI/AAAAAAAABDk/jphQvaocmAo/s1600/Untitleddrawing+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="476" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L5OA7f3yxXQ/T58_3YzXnbI/AAAAAAAABDk/jphQvaocmAo/s640/Untitleddrawing+%25282%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>left to right clockwise</i>: indoor/outdoor dipped storage, solid storage (image via <a href="https://www.jossandmain.com/">Joss & Main</a>), <a href="http://bit.ly/IC6TBc">Parkview</a> baskets bring indoor comfort and storage to a three-season porch, Natural Style storage for entry way and the bedroom (images via <a href="http://www.onekingslane.com/">One Kings Lane</a>), rectangle storage for linen closet (image via <a href="http://www.onekingslane.com/">One Kings Lane</a>), bright indoor/outdoor storage in a houndstooth tweed, <a href="http://bit.ly/JKfoq4">Natural Wool Houndstooth</a> basket in 100% natural wool.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Check us out in some of these upcoming sales:<br />
May 2 - <a href="https://www.onekingslane.com/sales/14111">One Kings Lane</a> indoor&outdoor storage<br />
May 4 - <a href="https://www.onekingslane.com/calendar">One Kings Lane</a> kids' corner storage<br />
May 20 - <a href="http://www.ruelala.com/">Rue La La</a> outdoor storage<br />
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Get organized . . . be happy.<br />
-Meredith<br />
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<br /></div>Meredithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04389149372685458532noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984329856202185812.post-52874646636326391562012-04-09T06:41:00.002-07:002012-04-09T06:41:48.212-07:00March. . . color and clean-up take us into spring<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e_CRRfRyu-M/T4LjmmPUZ_I/AAAAAAAABCU/ersNutSVgAo/s1600/March+Instagram.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e_CRRfRyu-M/T4LjmmPUZ_I/AAAAAAAABCU/ersNutSVgAo/s640/March+Instagram.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>left to right : </i>over 40 custom rugs coming through for a hotel project, fresh new colors in the works for 2013 fabrics, 2012 color swatch featuring new wool blends, chenille and polypropylene, bulls-eye basket in bright orange, work day with mommy, mini baskets in bright-colored tweeds, CMI branded event on <a href="http://www.ruelala.com/">Rue La La</a>, office organization, kids rug prototypes for a customer, porch make-over with naturalized polypropylene rug and baskets, new cablelock tweed design, more prototypes.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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We're ready for spring with all this color and clean-up.<br />
Lot's to do in April . . . looking forward to another great month!<br />
<br />
-Meredith<br />
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.Meredithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04389149372685458532noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984329856202185812.post-84743098666442543282012-03-02T11:26:00.001-08:002012-03-02T11:34:42.920-08:00February. . . a little love and a whole lot of product<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Check out what kept us busy throughout the month. . .<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7rm6q6N4gbY/T1Ec2PUUyeI/AAAAAAAABCI/Dg3j1DntLDA/s1600/FEB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="478" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7rm6q6N4gbY/T1Ec2PUUyeI/AAAAAAAABCI/Dg3j1DntLDA/s640/FEB.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>left to right </i>Going green with some natural yarn, storage event on <a href="http://www.onekingslane.com/">One Kings Lane</a>, meetings in NYC, tote bag prototype, wrapped up a great <a href="http://www.lasvegasmarket.com/">Las Vegas market</a> in our new showroom, cmi love, kid rug prototypes, my new <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Business-Design-Keith-Granet/dp/1616890185">read</a>, new basket design I'm loving, CT skyline a good start to the day and time to head back home, prototypes freshly sewn, <a href="http://www.restorationhardware.com/catalog/product/product.jsp?productId=prod1677344&categoryId=cat1696087">Restoration Hardware</a> 2012 Outdoor catalog featuring Sunbrella rugs.</td></tr>
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All in all a busy, but great month with so much to do. A successful Las Vegas market and meetings with some wonderful customers. . . thanks to all!<br />
And now onto March. . . looking forward to some spring.<br />
-MeredithMeredithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04389149372685458532noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984329856202185812.post-81414207381001244892012-02-17T14:56:00.000-08:002012-02-17T14:56:59.524-08:002012 New CollectionsThis year, we debuted 4 new collections at the 2012 markets in both Atlanta and Las Vegas; Natural Wool Houndstooth, Elmwood, Tiburon and Brooklyn.<br />
The trends this year consisted of natural tones, warm hues and texture.<br />
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In response to the expanding palette of neutrals in the market, we added 8 new polypropylene colors to our offering that includes grays, browns and naturals.<br />
Additionally, we introduced new constructions and color pairings that provide style and design that is both transitional and practical.<br />
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Take a peek below for additional info and photos of the new collections.<br />
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Natural Wool Houndstooth<br />
All natural, un-dyed wools come together in a unique cablelock tweed design creating a Houndstooth pattern. A highly durable and eco-friendly option that adds sophistication and comfort.<br />
Available in 6 colorways: Cream, Latte, Tea, Caramel, Cocoa, Espresso.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6ir3cZc737k/Tz7QK23V1HI/AAAAAAAAA_k/cpOKb5-6izY/s1600/DSC_7789.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6ir3cZc737k/Tz7QK23V1HI/AAAAAAAAA_k/cpOKb5-6izY/s320/DSC_7789.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Natural Wool Houndstooth Collection - HD36-Espresso, HD31-Cream, HD33-Tea</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H1QN5AuaVPQ/Tz7Pp4c0L6I/AAAAAAAAA-k/UTVKHy50fus/s1600/DSC_7781.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H1QN5AuaVPQ/Tz7Pp4c0L6I/AAAAAAAAA-k/UTVKHy50fus/s320/DSC_7781.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Natural Wool Houndstooth Collection - HD32-Latte, HD34-Caramel, HD36-Espresso</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bywIkWw0tgQ/Tz7ULFnyJXI/AAAAAAAABA0/LRSLOyWjNO0/s1600/hds.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bywIkWw0tgQ/Tz7ULFnyJXI/AAAAAAAABA0/LRSLOyWjNO0/s320/hds.JPG" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">texture shot of natural wool houndstooth - HD36 Espresso</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-i6e6IXDcPew/Tz7UWIAvGpI/AAAAAAAABA8/dnxBQZM88Sk/s1600/hd35.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-i6e6IXDcPew/Tz7UWIAvGpI/AAAAAAAABA8/dnxBQZM88Sk/s320/hd35.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Natural Wool Houndstooth Collection - HD32 Latte rug and basket</td></tr>
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Elmwood<br />
A soft, easy blend of natural tones with just a hint of color creating a design that works with any pattern. Ideal for bedrooms and living rooms. Constructed of flat braid wool-blend and polypropylene yarns.<br />
Available in 6 colorways: Stonewash, Denim, Tarragon, Rosewood, Evergold and Bark.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-82HEDT0u1U4/Tz7Rw7FFbFI/AAAAAAAAA_0/rxmRFgVnTv0/s1600/elmwood.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-82HEDT0u1U4/Tz7Rw7FFbFI/AAAAAAAAA_0/rxmRFgVnTv0/s320/elmwood.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Aixew8PuUl8/Tz7PJUVdh7I/AAAAAAAAA9s/fEMwBW0v-e4/s1600/DSC_7775+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Aixew8PuUl8/Tz7PJUVdh7I/AAAAAAAAA9s/fEMwBW0v-e4/s320/DSC_7775+%25281%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Elmwood Collection - EM59-Denim, EM79-Rosweood, EM99-Bark</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hgkHxGgFv94/Tz7PybUubSI/AAAAAAAAA-0/VObH08ABtHI/s1600/DSC_7784+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hgkHxGgFv94/Tz7PybUubSI/AAAAAAAAA-0/VObH08ABtHI/s320/DSC_7784+%25281%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Elmwood Collection - EM49-Stonewash, EM89-Evergold, EM69-Tarragon</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hHRHBS2cTrU/Tz7Rx75Td3I/AAAAAAAABAE/TBPGMLKM8Dg/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hHRHBS2cTrU/Tz7Rx75Td3I/AAAAAAAABAE/TBPGMLKM8Dg/s320/photo+2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Tip: If you're a fan of lots of pattern, try the Elmwood rug under a bed dressed in multi-colored quilts or use it in a living room to create a soft, beach-like feel.<br />
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Brooklyn<br />
A fun, updated design to a traditional shape in natural, earthy colors.<br />
Combining both flat and cablelock constructions gives this rug the added element of texture.<br />
Made of 100% polypropylene<br />
Indoor/outdoor<br />
Available in 7 colorways: Brownstone, Slate, Blue Haze, Moss, Terracotta, Natural, Amber Way<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_2fQDydResg/Tz7XHrhwpmI/AAAAAAAABBE/cAIabdgQa_Y/s1600/brooklynmix.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_2fQDydResg/Tz7XHrhwpmI/AAAAAAAABBE/cAIabdgQa_Y/s320/brooklynmix.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RHSUGO1cpQI/Tz7Pkk8z-II/AAAAAAAAA-c/ooMvekk6lO8/s1600/DSC_7780.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RHSUGO1cpQI/Tz7Pkk8z-II/AAAAAAAAA-c/ooMvekk6lO8/s320/DSC_7780.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brooklyn Collection - BN19-Brownstone, BN89-Natural</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u8BbLdHdcBU/Tz7RwC7OMrI/AAAAAAAAA_s/lz7tRQxlI2A/s1600/brooklyn.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u8BbLdHdcBU/Tz7RwC7OMrI/AAAAAAAAA_s/lz7tRQxlI2A/s320/brooklyn.JPG" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brooklyn Collection - BN79-Terracotta</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZgT5qOyyf9g/Tz7RzRt32_I/AAAAAAAABAc/LZMZSWL5i5k/s1600/photo+5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZgT5qOyyf9g/Tz7RzRt32_I/AAAAAAAABAc/LZMZSWL5i5k/s320/photo+5.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Tiburon</div>
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An updated shape takes a traditional flat braiding mix of natural and earthy tones to create warmth and style.</div>
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100% polyproplene.</div>
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Indoor/Outdoor</div>
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Available in 6 colorways: Stone Blue, Dockside, Misted Gray, Spruce Green, Rusted Rose, Sandstorm.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s-M7f6SEXhg/Tz7ZybmSsRI/AAAAAAAABBM/FO_MoFKzjKw/s1600/tiburon.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s-M7f6SEXhg/Tz7ZybmSsRI/AAAAAAAABBM/FO_MoFKzjKw/s320/tiburon.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tiburon Collection - TB69-Spruce Green, TB79-Rusted Rose, TB49-Misted Gray, TB09-Stone Blue</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AdezDs1-9Zk/Tz7QGs9ay3I/AAAAAAAAA_c/tfWrKT0QKpo/s1600/DSC_7788.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AdezDs1-9Zk/Tz7QGs9ay3I/AAAAAAAAA_c/tfWrKT0QKpo/s320/DSC_7788.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tiburon Collection - TB19-Dockside, TB89-Sandstorm, TB49-Misted Gray</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DuEjQphpJd8/Tz7RxbZ8wXI/AAAAAAAAA_8/dRFlIEEXfMI/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DuEjQphpJd8/Tz7RxbZ8wXI/AAAAAAAAA_8/dRFlIEEXfMI/s320/photo+1.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tiburon Collection - TB79-Rusted Rose runner and basket<br /><br /><br /><br /></td></tr>
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New collections are currently being added to our website and will officially be ready to order March 1.</div>
<div>
Please feel free to contact us for more information regarding these new collections.</div>
<div>
Comments welcome!</div>
<div>
Thank you! </div>
<div>
Meredith<br /><div>
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</div>Meredithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04389149372685458532noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984329856202185812.post-49507807626515883892011-09-28T09:35:00.000-07:002011-09-28T09:39:07.677-07:00shapes and stripes and black and white. . . fringed<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hW-kfDJWrH4/ToNIo-hIxtI/AAAAAAAAA9A/DHQgQrVyz-A/s1600/Untitleddrawing+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="473" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hW-kfDJWrH4/ToNIo-hIxtI/AAAAAAAAA9A/DHQgQrVyz-A/s640/Untitleddrawing+%25281%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">1. zig zeb necklace - <a href="http://www.howkapow.com/zig-zeb-necklace">howkapow</a> via <a href="http://www.designsponge.com/2011/09/howkapow.html">design sponge</a>, 2. braided rug - cmi, 3.layland embellished cami top - Diane von Furstenburg at <a href="http://www1.bloomingdales.com/catalog/product/index.ognc?ID=521095&PseudoCat=se-xx-xx-xx.esn_results">Bloomingdales</a> 4. feathered geometry scarf - <a href="http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/catalog/productdetail.jsp?id=22600159&catId=ACCESSORIES-WRAPS&pushId=ACCESSORIES-WRAPS&popId=JEWELRYACCESSORIES&navCount=96&color=030&isProduct=true&fromCategoryPage=true&isSubcategory=true&subCategoryId=ACCESSORIES-WRAPS&templateType=subCategory">anthropologie</a> 5. lourdes sanchez zebra fish pillow cover - <a href="http://www.westelm.com/products/zebra-fish-pillow-cover-t041/?pkey=call-pillows">west elm</a> 6. zebra shoe - <a href="http://www.topshop.com/">topshop</a>, 7. code vase -<a href="http://www.cb2.com/new/accessories/code-vase/f6961"> cb2</a></span></i></td></tr>
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Geometric patterns and play with shapes, stripes and animal prints has been a current trend in fashion, and mixed with the sharp contrast of black and white. . . the look is bold and certainly creates a statement.<br />
I thought I'd take part in all the fun and came up with this runner shown above.<br />
The flat braid wool blend yarn helps to play down the sharpness of the geometric shapes in the design and contrasting color and the added fringe gives an element of texture and fun.<br />
Hope you like it!<br />
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-MeredithMeredithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04389149372685458532noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984329856202185812.post-75742486406926267642011-08-30T16:04:00.000-07:002011-08-31T09:16:35.328-07:00An Inside Look. . . Rug Design<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bP5P96qjZi8/Tl5eVmGtfoI/AAAAAAAAA8w/Akk74SrNRUY/s1600/photo+%252819%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bP5P96qjZi8/Tl5eVmGtfoI/AAAAAAAAA8w/Akk74SrNRUY/s400/photo+%252819%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">At CMI, rug design doesn't fall into one category. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Yes. . . we make braids. . . but trust me, the possibilities for how those braids come together are truly endless. From color, yarn type, shape, design and braid construction. . . the outcome of each design can vary significantly.</div>To show you, I'm going give you a bit of glimpse inside how some of these designs come together.<br />
We'll take a look at 4 different designs and the process taken to achieve the desired style, aesthetic, color palette and design.<br />
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There are a few things to take into consideration when beginning the design process:<br />
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1. Yarn preference - polypropylene for stain resistance or outdoor placement, all natural wool, wool blend, chenille, spacedye, fabric<br />
2. Color<br />
3. Design - geometric, solid, multi, tweed, etc<br />
4. Construction - flat braid, double braid, cablelock, fabricord, fabraid<br />
5. Shape - oval, round, rectangle, square, octagon<br />
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It is important to note that none of these factors above work alone. They are all dependent on how each is used in conjunction with the other. Whether you are creating a solid colored rug that incoporates various constructions for texture in a geometric design or a blend of various yarns and fabrics that come together to create a desired color palette, each element plays a role.<br />
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As with most design processes, there is typically an inspirational element with which to start from.<br />
For this particular rug, I was initially inspired by the pattern seen int hese Nerokomi ceramic cups designed by Japanese artist <a href="http://far4.net/shop/?main_page=product_info&cPath=2_47_54&products_id=633">Yusuke Aida</a>.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7_i4vY6RP_4/TlarXYFAvlI/AAAAAAAAA7I/Y2v9QVCrs28/s1600/yusuke_aida_nerikomi_cup_saucer_far4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="272" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7_i4vY6RP_4/TlarXYFAvlI/AAAAAAAAA7I/Y2v9QVCrs28/s400/yusuke_aida_nerikomi_cup_saucer_far4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Below is a drawing that follows a similar pattern and serves as a guide for manufacturing to follow.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zguWPRlvoPo/Tla1lfAKoaI/AAAAAAAAA7c/Za3JiMpFdaw/s1600/stripediagnol2b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zguWPRlvoPo/Tla1lfAKoaI/AAAAAAAAA7c/Za3JiMpFdaw/s320/stripediagnol2b.jpg" width="228" /></a></div><br />
Because of the sharp lines and geometric angles, I decided to incorporate some natural elements to break it down into something quieter. You can imagine how using deeply saturated and bright colors could have a completely different effect when using this design. The 100% natural wool yarn gives an overall soft texture and appearance, however the placement of the colors maintains some contrast allowing the design to still stand out. By then incorporating a few different textures through various braid constructions we were able to create an additional dimensional quality.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b_16VTauLB8/TleNI2u1SCI/AAAAAAAAA70/_d9lM0S3YK8/s1600/Untitleddrawing-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b_16VTauLB8/TleNI2u1SCI/AAAAAAAAA70/_d9lM0S3YK8/s400/Untitleddrawing-5.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cablelock and Flat braid in 100% natural wool<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SZ9CxdcLqsA/Tleel7SpIzI/AAAAAAAAA8A/ohvDDou0HNs/s1600/photo+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SZ9CxdcLqsA/Tleel7SpIzI/AAAAAAAAA8A/ohvDDou0HNs/s400/photo+3.JPG" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The rug is sewn first as one large piece, cut, finished on the inside edges, then pieced together, as shown here. The final finishing will be the serging of the edges.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DOeulwAzVOg/TleiKeAKSAI/AAAAAAAAA8E/RglEspf286U/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DOeulwAzVOg/TleiKeAKSAI/AAAAAAAAA8E/RglEspf286U/s320/photo+1.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finished product shown in the cmi Las Vegas showroom</td></tr>
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The criteria for this next design was that it had to be indoor/outdoor, solid neutral color with a lot of texture for interest.<br />
To do this, we came up with a diamond style design that incorporated smaller sized diamonds throughout the rug to add a linear aspect and create a pattern. Within each diamond, we used alternating constructions for texture and dimension, but kept the pattern in sync by alternating these 2 constructions consistently throughout the rug.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3PWgaz6nLP4/TlpT5C-MZ8I/AAAAAAAAA8M/n3K1YIbU3fI/s1600/2735Fig1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3PWgaz6nLP4/TlpT5C-MZ8I/AAAAAAAAA8M/n3K1YIbU3fI/s400/2735Fig1.jpg" width="290" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Drawing of rug pattern and direction of braid</td></tr>
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Additionally, we used a taupe colored, naturalized polypropylene yarn. This yarn is suitable for outdoor applications and through a process where the fibers are wound, the yarn is given a texturized and natural aesthetic.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kYe-EWwoeRI/Tlu5rZXzgEI/AAAAAAAAA8Y/D6-YULSnHwU/s1600/texturedrug1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="385" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kYe-EWwoeRI/Tlu5rZXzgEI/AAAAAAAAA8Y/D6-YULSnHwU/s400/texturedrug1.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finished product<br />
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In some cases, the rug design is based on color alone.<br />
When using our yarns or fabrics in creating a braided rug, durability is a known factor. The reality of braids having been a floor covering tradition due to their ability to withstand high traffic areas and last for generations, makes choosing a braid based only on color, completely doable and worry free.<br />
As in the image below, where a designer used their fabric choices and paint colors to then create a coordinating rug.<br />
A simple flat continuous braid construction combing both wool and polypropylene in green and natural will serve as the perfect floor covering to compliment the fine detail in the fabric and pick up on the more subtle colors being used throughout the space.<br />
A flat continuous braid is best described as a hair braid, with 3 parts. <br />
You can see the designers came up with 2 options to work with.<br />
One option using 2/3 green polypropylene yarn, 1/3 natural wool; the other using 2/3 natural wool, 1/3 green polypropylene yarn. Even this simple change in where you place the color, can impact the entire rug and therefore overall space.<br />
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">(this project is currently in the works. . . blog post soon to follow!)</span></i><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SchOVx2eUPE/TlvAhR_6TkI/AAAAAAAAA8c/xl9952_SS2c/s1600/taylor2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="322" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SchOVx2eUPE/TlvAhR_6TkI/AAAAAAAAA8c/xl9952_SS2c/s400/taylor2.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two coordinating options to work with fabrics, painted floor and wall colors.</td></tr>
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This last design incorporates a banded style that allows for some division and clear definition of each color pattern, but requires a focus on color agreement to create a design that is attractive and coordinating.<br />
In each band, the color combination is different and the use of this color is dependent on how it combines with the other colors in the band, as well as in the adjacent bands.<br />
The yarn choice was chosen for its indoor/outdoor quality, as well as it's bright colors.<br />
We wanted a fun rug that could liven up a space indoors or out.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BMXR_GOnEwE/TlvKPlWivKI/AAAAAAAAA8g/YXOmpsvxaDs/s1600/montego2+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BMXR_GOnEwE/TlvKPlWivKI/AAAAAAAAA8g/YXOmpsvxaDs/s400/montego2+copy.jpg" width="261" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Nr7e0BJSWj0/TlvKohiXgAI/AAAAAAAAA8k/_6_4QATo5b0/s1600/Rolled+%2526+Lifestyle-93.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Nr7e0BJSWj0/TlvKohiXgAI/AAAAAAAAA8k/_6_4QATo5b0/s400/Rolled+%2526+Lifestyle-93.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Using a flat braid construction enabled us to play around with a lot of color.<br />
You can see how color combination and band placement places a role in the overall design. For example, by using the lightest combination of green, yellow and white as the center band, it allows your eye to not get "caught" in the middle of the rug and adds a softness to an otherwise, not so soft rug. Keeping the boldest band on the outside with the most color gives you that defined border from which to then work inward and your eye continues to do so because of the replication of the orange color once again on an inside band closer to the center.<br />
Below, interior designers at <a href="http://wellsfox.com/">Wells & Fox</a> used the same pattern and idea, however selected colors specific to their customers interior needs.<br />
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You can see how the designer chose blues, taupes, reds and some green to be used in the rug. As mentioned above, the color and band placement is important. The 2nd blue band stands out and your eye continues through the rest of the rug when it picks up the blue used in the center in another combination.<br />
The rug, seen below in the customer's home, is used in a pool room, therefore making the use of polypropylene yarns significant so as to prevent mildew and stain. Looks great!<br />
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This is only a glimpse into some of the design possibilities!<br />
I hope you'll be back for more. . .<br />
Thanks for reading!<br />
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-Meredith<br />
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Meredithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04389149372685458532noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984329856202185812.post-18197478012754415152011-08-08T07:27:00.000-07:002011-08-08T07:27:58.651-07:00Trending BraidsDuring a recent flight back from designing our new showroom in Las Vegas at the World Market Center, B431, I was looking through some fashion and home magazines.<br />
<div>In the pages of Elle and Traditional Home, I found a few products by some of the world's top designers utilizing a new trend. . . braiding!! You can only imagine my excitement! Braids!?! ok. . .but it was pretty cool to see Balenciaga by Nicolas Ghesquiere and Ralph Lauren incorporating the idea of braiding into their products as a way to add texture and dimension.</div><div>Texture is a story and trend that continues to be a strong piece in the fashion and home furnishings markets. </div><div>How we use these textures and incorporate pattern and design is what keeps it interesting.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Mn3sFcNVNkw/Tj_pbV76m_I/AAAAAAAAA6s/utPi26tNdrk/s1600/Balenciaga-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="571" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Mn3sFcNVNkw/Tj_pbV76m_I/AAAAAAAAA6s/utPi26tNdrk/s640/Balenciaga-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Braided clutch - Balenciaga by Nicolas Ghesquiere Fall 2011. image via <a href="http://www.purseblog.com/balenciaga/fashion-week-handbags-balenciaga-fall-2011.html">purseblog</a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L1webVoJtCI/Tj_pdLHgbFI/AAAAAAAAA6w/_oTywlyikhk/s1600/Balenciaga-18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="446" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L1webVoJtCI/Tj_pdLHgbFI/AAAAAAAAA6w/_oTywlyikhk/s640/Balenciaga-18.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Braided leather clutch - Balenciaga by Nicolas Ghesquiere Fall 2011. image via <a href="http://www.purseblog.com/balenciaga/fashion-week-handbags-balenciaga-fall-2011.html">purseblog</a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-seiLa7SNf9k/Tj_piVovYzI/AAAAAAAAA64/Hykdng1UH2A/s1600/RL16031BN-L.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-seiLa7SNf9k/Tj_piVovYzI/AAAAAAAAA64/Hykdng1UH2A/s640/RL16031BN-L.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pierson Floor Lamp in Saddle Braided Leather - <a href="http://www.ralphlaurenhome.com/products/Lighting/item.aspx?haid=14&collId=153&shaid=&sort=&itemId=25666&phaid=14">Ralph Lauren Home </a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oRmK_BMLn3M/Tj_plVAsi9I/AAAAAAAAA68/kx2Hq4efolM/s1600/anthrobraidedbag.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oRmK_BMLn3M/Tj_plVAsi9I/AAAAAAAAA68/kx2Hq4efolM/s640/anthrobraidedbag.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Braided Tote bag - Anthropologie<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a83bQnKh0nc/Tj_uztP4kUI/AAAAAAAAA7A/OasZ6JiBlu4/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a83bQnKh0nc/Tj_uztP4kUI/AAAAAAAAA7A/OasZ6JiBlu4/s640/photo.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">CMI double braid<br />
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</tbody></table>A fun and innovative way to use texture and pattern to create some stylish new looks.</div><div>Hope you enjoyed! </div><div>~Meredith</div><div><br />
</div>Meredithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04389149372685458532noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984329856202185812.post-87471299399709294162011-07-14T14:45:00.000-07:002011-07-14T14:45:12.343-07:00Pattern Play<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>I was recently asked to create a collection of rugs for a company who focuses primarily on bedding . On my desk last week sat 2 of their best selling pillow shams.<br />
Both fairly traditional motifs that appear frequently in many of today's well known catalogs.<br />
The first being a blend of various patterns and colors that evokes that warm, welcoming home feeling and remains to be somewhat of a timeless style. The second drawing upon the recent Mediterranean style trend with bright white and blue and pops of green.<br />
Here is a quick glimpse. . .<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8hOzUq-ms0E/Th9DYqxhiiI/AAAAAAAAA4I/gori30lT_4M/s1600/linensource.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8hOzUq-ms0E/Th9DYqxhiiI/AAAAAAAAA4I/gori30lT_4M/s400/linensource.JPG" width="298" /></a></div><br />
So this raises the question. . .what kind of braided rug coordinates with something so packed with pattern and color?<br />
Each pattern is beautiful and the options for coordinating rugs seem endless.<br />
The answer, ultimately lies in the taste and style of the end consumer. However, I think there are 3 key areas we can focus on that will help make that choice easier.<br />
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<i>1. Neutral and Natural with texture for dimension.</i><br />
The natural color palette continues to be a strong trend that is mixing with texture to pump up an otherwise bland rug. The play on texture gives a simple rug the extra dimension needed to keep the floor from falling flat when combined with various patterns and colors, but maintains that natural and earthy feel.<br />
This style is seen in many of the most popular home furnishing catalogs today.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HilDC5mjUBI/Th9E6dWhN1I/AAAAAAAAA4Y/uaU-C_qe0cM/s1600/westelmgreek.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HilDC5mjUBI/Th9E6dWhN1I/AAAAAAAAA4Y/uaU-C_qe0cM/s400/westelmgreek.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.westelm.com/products/greek-key-duvet-cover-shams-b634/?pkey=e|greek|1|best|0|1|24||1&group=1&sku=3206364&cm_src=NLASEARCH||NoFacet-_-NoFacet-_-Common%20Rule%20Top%20Wide%20FALL11-_-">West Elm</a> - Greek key duvet cover and shams shown with natural textured rug</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pTbN7daZq6g/Th9E5aj_8BI/AAAAAAAAA4Q/2N8qkdTrQPs/s1600/potterybarnpwork2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="358" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pTbN7daZq6g/Th9E5aj_8BI/AAAAAAAAA4Q/2N8qkdTrQPs/s400/potterybarnpwork2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.potterybarn.com/products/poppy-butterfly-patchwork-quilt-sham/?pkey=cpatterned-quilts-shams">Pottery Barn</a> - butterfly poppy quilt shown with natural textured rug</td></tr>
</tbody></table>By mixing various braid constructions and patterns, these rugs create a texture that provides style and comfort<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nPfm_jSb9uA/Th9Gc_WTUbI/AAAAAAAAA4c/_yEyVi7YVqc/s1600/roundtextureheather.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nPfm_jSb9uA/Th9Gc_WTUbI/AAAAAAAAA4c/_yEyVi7YVqc/s400/roundtextureheather.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">cmi rug - air-entangled polypropylene rug in alternating flat and cablelock braid constructions</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Kv8egaPdtSM/Th9GdM4F4MI/AAAAAAAAA4g/Lk89Q0ZHzng/s1600/solidtexture.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Kv8egaPdtSM/Th9GdM4F4MI/AAAAAAAAA4g/Lk89Q0ZHzng/s400/solidtexture.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">cmi rug - naturalized polypropylene rug in a wide stripe design using flat and cablelock braid constructions<br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table><i><br />
</i><br />
<i>2. Soft and Understated</i><br />
To bring color into a space that already seems to have a lot going on can seem like a challenge if you tend to shy away from too much color.<br />
Selecting a softer hue or tone of the color in your bedding or using one of the less dominant colors can work to create a soft and complimentary color palette that will not challenge those in your bedding.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HPYxnrES3Ug/Th9JLT2O4VI/AAAAAAAAA5Q/5pyH7UdWdLg/s1600/ghill.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HPYxnrES3Ug/Th9JLT2O4VI/AAAAAAAAA5Q/5pyH7UdWdLg/s400/ghill.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.garnethill.com//spot-on-quilt-and-sham/bedding-home/quilts-coverlets-shams/view-all-coverlets-quilts-shams/131924?evtype=CpgnClick&langId=-1&intv_id=55104&storeId=10054&mpe_id=14147&catalogId=10054">Garnet Hill</a> - Spot on Quilt with soft green rug</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sHEclvDJ83I/Th9IVX5iY0I/AAAAAAAAA48/1eRo-SLY2Ew/s1600/potterybarnpwork3color.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="356" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sHEclvDJ83I/Th9IVX5iY0I/AAAAAAAAA48/1eRo-SLY2Ew/s400/potterybarnpwork3color.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.potterybarn.com/products/neena-patchwork-quilt-sham/?pkey=cpatterned-quilts-shams">Pottery Barn</a> - Neena patchwork quilt with soft blue rug</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z8C-F2v5kRk/Th9IV8Yjo-I/AAAAAAAAA5A/3k_Mi3ZzO_c/s1600/softoval.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z8C-F2v5kRk/Th9IV8Yjo-I/AAAAAAAAA5A/3k_Mi3ZzO_c/s400/softoval.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">cmi rug - soft blues and taupes in a flat braid oval construction</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hwxTZAPTa98/Th9IWaaHlrI/AAAAAAAAA5E/7QnqLtdV2Pg/s1600/softrect.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hwxTZAPTa98/Th9IWaaHlrI/AAAAAAAAA5E/7QnqLtdV2Pg/s400/softrect.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">cmi rug - muted brown and neutrals in a flat braid contoured rectangle construction</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5qiacJeOMcc/Th9IW0MKcQI/AAAAAAAAA5M/PZg-625-xS8/s1600/tweed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5qiacJeOMcc/Th9IW0MKcQI/AAAAAAAAA5M/PZg-625-xS8/s400/tweed.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">cmi rug - grays, taupes and pale green combine in a flat braid tweed design</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TFrDcBqWCzQ/Th9X5F1PXxI/AAAAAAAAA5U/1vP2zNTgd2k/s1600/herringbone.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TFrDcBqWCzQ/Th9X5F1PXxI/AAAAAAAAA5U/1vP2zNTgd2k/s400/herringbone.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">cmi rug - all natural wool in a herringbone tweed</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<i><br />
</i><br />
<i>3. Bold and Linear to add the perfect amount of contrast</i><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>One more approach that is a bit more daring for some, but certainly pays off in creating some fun and inspiring spaces.<br />
By adding color in a geometric and linear dimension, you are creating a contrasting design to the pattern play that is happening in your bedding selection. Using a stripe or geometric design gives the eye a nice diversion to the various patterns and colors that repeat themselves in the a floral or paisley motif. It provides you with that clean line that creates order and draws your eye to the other areas of the space.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-krlr5Y3Vz6c/Th9bDxe7WII/AAAAAAAAA5Y/QyOM0IpBkGQ/s1600/patchworkandstripes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-krlr5Y3Vz6c/Th9bDxe7WII/AAAAAAAAA5Y/QyOM0IpBkGQ/s400/patchworkandstripes.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">photo via <a href="http://lookbook.elledecor.com/Bedroom-Beach-/id4423">Elle Decor</a> - interior designer Michael S. Smith</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yI3w6y-iCuI/Th9cuim7cvI/AAAAAAAAA5o/qt-35Vsn970/s1600/3_1303842336_sig_bergamin_0411_12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yI3w6y-iCuI/Th9cuim7cvI/AAAAAAAAA5o/qt-35Vsn970/s400/3_1303842336_sig_bergamin_0411_12.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">photo via <a href="http://lookbook.elledecor.com/Bedroom-Traditional-Beach-Global-Style-Hits-the-Beach/id15518">Elle Decor</a> - designer Sig Bergamin<br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--NsjADmo8FI/Th9eZXbSKiI/AAAAAAAAA5w/Nia2Y5H1s0Y/s1600/193880-11-09.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="328" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--NsjADmo8FI/Th9eZXbSKiI/AAAAAAAAA5w/Nia2Y5H1s0Y/s400/193880-11-09.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">photo via <a href="http://lonnymag.com/decorate/bedrooms">Lonny Mag</a> - designer Bunny Williams</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PUqiEDqMtoI/Th9eveN4ZgI/AAAAAAAAA50/_VFXeQo_KUU/s1600/stripesWS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PUqiEDqMtoI/Th9eveN4ZgI/AAAAAAAAA50/_VFXeQo_KUU/s400/stripesWS.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.wshome.com/products/p522/index.cfm?pkey=cduvet-covers-pillow-shams">William Sonoma</a> - block printed medallion duvet with red stripe rug</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GrQoIXJsjHs/Th9fM7CShoI/AAAAAAAAA54/rjrqLeJvkQo/s1600/texturestripe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GrQoIXJsjHs/Th9fM7CShoI/AAAAAAAAA54/rjrqLeJvkQo/s400/texturestripe.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">cmi rug - heather-ed gray and white stripe alternating flat and cablelock braid</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3RyZwHz5U6o/Th9fi3O-pQI/AAAAAAAAA58/kmHiy7vbVTs/s1600/ovalstripe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3RyZwHz5U6o/Th9fi3O-pQI/AAAAAAAAA58/kmHiy7vbVTs/s400/ovalstripe.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">cmi rug - blue and white stripes in an oval construction utilizing both flat and cablelock braids</td></tr>
</tbody></table></div><div><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-niIg4JNXeOg/Th9ghTGpvEI/AAAAAAAAA6I/0ra5xQYtKDg/s1600/diagnolstripe.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-niIg4JNXeOg/Th9ghTGpvEI/AAAAAAAAA6I/0ra5xQYtKDg/s400/diagnolstripe.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">cmi rug - diagonal stripes using heather-ed yarn </td></tr>
</tbody></table><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7WWDU4_kSi0/Th9gPNL2jBI/AAAAAAAAA6A/ATCLxD9fpTM/s1600/AL89-Haystack.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7WWDU4_kSi0/Th9gPNL2jBI/AAAAAAAAA6A/ATCLxD9fpTM/s400/AL89-Haystack.jpg" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">cmi rug - <a href="http://www.colonialmills.com/allure.html">Allure Haystack</a> wool blend stripe</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_HeAOvAmZGw/Th9gXPiGxvI/AAAAAAAAA6E/rKb0Sn-rtfI/s1600/PO79-Chile.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_HeAOvAmZGw/Th9gXPiGxvI/AAAAAAAAA6E/rKb0Sn-rtfI/s400/PO79-Chile.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">cmi rug -<a href="http://www.colonialmills.com/portico.html"> Portico Chile</a> polypropylene stripe</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Patterns can certainly provide you with various looks and styles and rugs can help to accentuate the design and bring the space together.<br />
Enjoy!<br />
-Meredith</div>Meredithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04389149372685458532noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984329856202185812.post-90785998433835434262011-06-22T09:48:00.000-07:002011-06-22T09:57:16.408-07:00Hues of BlueNothing new about blue. . . right? Been around for quite some time.<br />
It holds an element of nature as seen in the ocean and the sky. Historically, it has been used in military clothing or, in some countries, to signify royalty and later used as a social staple in the blue jean.<br />
Home furnishings have used blue for its ability to create feelings of stability and masculinity when deep and saturated or brings a calming and serene atmosphere in lighter shades.<br />
<div><br />
Recently, however, there has been a new trend of blues that has been popping up in home accessories, wall coverings and clothing. Bright blues, dark blues, soft blues, green blues, purple blues. . . and they are all enticing and refreshing.<br />
When combined with texture and pattern, blue can really bring your room alive and give you that bold, fresh pop or calm, soothing effect you need. In fact, it can often do both in one space.</div><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uB54lXeZW38/TgFYJxtkUcI/AAAAAAAAA28/dDnjFvMHyI0/s1600/BLUE-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="474" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uB54lXeZW38/TgFYJxtkUcI/AAAAAAAAA28/dDnjFvMHyI0/s640/BLUE-4.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1. chandelier - <a href="http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/catalog/productdetail.jsp?id=063262&catId=HOME-LIGHTING&pushId=HOME-LIGHTING&popId=HOME&navAction=top&navCount=654&color=040&isProduct=true&fromCategoryPage=true&subCategoryId=HOME-LIGHTING-CHANDELIERS">anthropologie</a> 2. print - <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/thecyclingartist?page=3">Tina Mammoser</a> via <a href="http://www.designsponge.com/2011/05/sneak-peek-kimberly-ludy.html">design*sponge</a> 3. dress - <a href="http://www.jcrew.com/womens_category/dresses/day/PRDOVR~42449/42449.jsp">j.crew</a><br />
4. notebook - <a href="http://www.lestoilesdusoleilnyc.com/products_inner.php?category_id=96">Les Toiles Du Soleil</a> via <a href="http://www.elledecor.com/image/tid/6373?page=7">elledecor </a>5. shoes - <a href="http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/catalog/productdetail.jsp?id=20694907&parentid=QUICKSHOP&navAction=jump">anthropologie</a> 6. pillows - <a href="http://www.tamaramagel.com/index.php?page=shop.browse&category_id=13&option=com_virtuemart&Itemid=66">Tamara Magel</a> via <a href="http://www.elledecor.com/image/tid/6396?page=1&pause=1">elledecor</a><br />
7. ottoman - <a href="http://www.serenaandlily.com/Benches-Ottomans-White-Chakki">serena&lily</a><br />
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</td></tr>
</tbody></table> <br />
These interior spaces make use of various shades of blue to create an overall look that is stunning, clean and comfortable.<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>(take a look <a href="http://www.elledecor.com/decorating/articles/color-code-blue">here</a> to see what top designers have to say about decorating with blue</i></span>)<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z9JqfmqamzM/TgILWjcpLxI/AAAAAAAAA3c/yoypXhSZAwE/s1600/stripes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="459" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z9JqfmqamzM/TgILWjcpLxI/AAAAAAAAA3c/yoypXhSZAwE/s640/stripes.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Room design - Michele Bonan via <a href="http://lonnymag.com/decorate/living_rooms">Lonny Mag</a><br />
Portico rug in nautica - <a href="http://www.colonialmills.com/portico.html">cmi</a>. Parkview rug in night sky- <a href="http://www.colonialmills.com/parkview.html">cmi</a><br />
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</td></tr>
</tbody></table></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jzGDCObYyIQ/TgIMJBoXiEI/AAAAAAAAA3k/E02JMSi78JE/s1600/VHroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="449" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jzGDCObYyIQ/TgIMJBoXiEI/AAAAAAAAA3k/E02JMSi78JE/s640/VHroom.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Room design - <a href="http://www.victoriahagan.com/">Victoria Hagan Interiors</a><br />
Westminster rug in federal blue - <a href="http://www.colonialmills.com/courtyard-and-westminster.html">cmi</a>. Allure rug in polo blue - <a href="http://www.colonialmills.com/allure.html">cmi</a>. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JhX_jN8PKmA/TgINNdl9P3I/AAAAAAAAA30/bj4n6AfT-EE/s1600/rustica.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JhX_jN8PKmA/TgINNdl9P3I/AAAAAAAAA30/bj4n6AfT-EE/s640/rustica.jpg" width="536" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Room design - <a href="http://www.gvinteriors.com/">Ghislaine Vinas Interior Design</a><br />
Montego rug in blue burst - <a href="http://www.colonialmills.com/montego.html">cmi</a>. Ridgvale rug in whipple blue - <a href="http://www.colonialmills.com/ridgevale.html">cmi</a>.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6Fw1u5SR57g/TgINmrtSozI/AAAAAAAAA4E/gdwINMdjciw/s1600/jefferson.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="460" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6Fw1u5SR57g/TgINmrtSozI/AAAAAAAAA4E/gdwINMdjciw/s640/jefferson.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Room design - <a href="http://www.michaelsmithinc.com/">Michael Smith</a><br />
Parkview rug in puddle blue - <a href="http://www.colonialmills.com/parkview.html">cmi</a>.<br />
Jefferson rug in blue ribbon - <a href="http://www.colonialmills.com/jefferson-and-monroe.html">cmi</a>.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
I hope these images provide some inspiration for you to get decorating with all the hues of blue out there today. Enjoy!<br />
For more blue rugs and accessories from cmi and where to buy click <a href="http://www.colonialmills.com/colors/?color=1">here</a>.Meredithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04389149372685458532noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984329856202185812.post-89128645424159942332011-05-20T11:14:00.000-07:002011-05-20T11:46:27.175-07:00The Hour of the FlowerFlowers are everywhere it seems. Just budding across the spreads of fashion magazines and right into our clothes and accessories . . . <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Qb1a6Pb-QAA/TdQmxwa2mKI/AAAAAAAAA1g/XIyDvB3aWic/s1600/001-floral.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" j8="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Qb1a6Pb-QAA/TdQmxwa2mKI/AAAAAAAAA1g/XIyDvB3aWic/s400/001-floral.jpg" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">photo via <a href="http://www.elle.com/Fashion/Fashion-Spotlight/8-Spring-Wardrobe-Essentials">Elle</a> - Spring 2011 Fashion Essentials</td></tr>
</tbody></table>It is spring afterall, and it's time for gardens, weddings, sun dresses and even flowy flowery hair (see <a href="http://cocokelley.blogspot.com/2011/05/flowers-in-her-hair.html">coco+kelley</a>)<br />
<br />
Feminine, flirty and fun. These flowers are adding just the right pop of color in a very sweet way. <br />
And guess what. . . <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4gIK2zSjaUI/TdVmLc9wQYI/AAAAAAAAA1s/-PnvVF8fZhE/s1600/20646170_085_a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" j8="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4gIK2zSjaUI/TdVmLc9wQYI/AAAAAAAAA1s/-PnvVF8fZhE/s400/20646170_085_a.jpg" width="299" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">photo via <a href="http://www.freepeople.com/clothes-shorts-skorts/sheer-yoke-floral-skort/">free people</a> </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
I've got some fun little flower treats for you. We took some floral fabric and mixed them together to create some baskets and rugs to bring some flirty fun to your life. Because who doesn't need a little of that to remind us that those warmer, sunny days are just around the corner. . . right?<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jpUGHlVhWrQ/TdatU_50gwI/AAAAAAAAA2A/FQ4v8kzNyws/s1600/floralround.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jpUGHlVhWrQ/TdatU_50gwI/AAAAAAAAA2A/FQ4v8kzNyws/s640/floralround.jpg" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">spring mix floral rug - cmi</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G8wcqPajtxc/TdatYMk3jCI/AAAAAAAAA2E/fvke0gqbVQ8/s1600/floralround2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="478" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G8wcqPajtxc/TdatYMk3jCI/AAAAAAAAA2E/fvke0gqbVQ8/s640/floralround2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">spring mix floral rug - cmi</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zSZ2UNdRPAg/TdatRnGcL9I/AAAAAAAAA18/Sxa-wBFXqQk/s1600/floral2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="368" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zSZ2UNdRPAg/TdatRnGcL9I/AAAAAAAAA18/Sxa-wBFXqQk/s400/floral2.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">spring mix floral basket - cmi</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Contact <a href="http://www.colonialmills.com/contact-us/">cmi</a> for more info and where to get some. thanks! or email <a href="mailto:mthayer@colonialmills.com">here</a><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Meredithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04389149372685458532noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984329856202185812.post-64354066453192371822011-05-13T13:26:00.000-07:002011-05-13T13:32:50.899-07:00Porch PunchIt's Friday and the sun is shining. . . finally!<br />
<div>Busy week and I am so grateful to be sitting here on my front porch with my daughter (upstairs having "quiet time.") singing to herself about flowers and coloring. </div><div>Been a bit since I posted so I figured why not just jump right in. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uQMtQPtwkpE/Tc2N1W0jgqI/AAAAAAAAA1U/qaChy3diVXQ/s1600/porchNikes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="475" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uQMtQPtwkpE/Tc2N1W0jgqI/AAAAAAAAA1U/qaChy3diVXQ/s640/porchNikes.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br />
</div><div>The truth is I've been wanting to post about my porch makeover that was focused around my new rug, but I've been waiting until I get all things in place. Well. . . sneak peek into my daily life. . . it's not all in place.</div><div>At least the RUG is in place. </div><div>Here's where we're at so far. . . </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q9M86inyupI/Tc2Nv4J8MxI/AAAAAAAAA1M/hMOLFx53VKs/s1600/porch3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q9M86inyupI/Tc2Nv4J8MxI/AAAAAAAAA1M/hMOLFx53VKs/s640/porch3.jpg" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div>I chose a color palette that had various neutral tones with just small pops of color to liven it up a bit and be a nice contrast to the wood floors and slatted ceiling, but compliment the white trim as well. I'm thinking of even painting the shingles white.<br />
The yarn itself is a mix of both Sunbrella acrylic and polypropylene. They are both stain-mildew resistant and extremely easy to take care of. First color and then content were my priorities and I actually like how the softness of the acrylic and the slight sheen of the polypropylene work together. </div><div>Also, I chose for the braids to run the length of the rug so as to really expand the space and tie the two ends of the porch together. They've always seemed to function so separately and now the space is far more cohesive, and even feels larger. The rug brings you from one end to another.</div><div>The size is a bit narrower so that it functions somewhat like a runner and allows for the floor to show. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aZlWurrOTNE/Tc2NyF072PI/AAAAAAAAA1Q/HfaXdq-8nAU/s1600/porch8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aZlWurrOTNE/Tc2NyF072PI/AAAAAAAAA1Q/HfaXdq-8nAU/s640/porch8.jpg" width="478" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-d_oUATnc2Nw/Tc2N40QsAgI/AAAAAAAAA1Y/Lcwbol2pIXg/s1600/porchNikes2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="476" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-d_oUATnc2Nw/Tc2N40QsAgI/AAAAAAAAA1Y/Lcwbol2pIXg/s640/porchNikes2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div>Enjoy the weekend! Off to get ready for my porch cocktails. . . </div>Meredithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04389149372685458532noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984329856202185812.post-7145849994547818242011-05-04T20:20:00.000-07:002011-05-04T20:20:00.254-07:00ESKAYEL Fabric Baskets<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ebcd5423mGk/TcIG5ICcINI/AAAAAAAAA0Q/8Z4941Y4dcE/s1600/small_Dynasty_slate_expanded.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ebcd5423mGk/TcIG5ICcINI/AAAAAAAAA0Q/8Z4941Y4dcE/s400/small_Dynasty_slate_expanded.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://eskayel.com/shop/dynasty-slate-fabric/">Eskayel Dynasty fabric</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nElBw6C4wrY/TcII7-Zf4gI/AAAAAAAAA0c/Iy1wckZ_r5A/s1600/small_dynasty_galileo_basket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nElBw6C4wrY/TcII7-Zf4gI/AAAAAAAAA0c/Iy1wckZ_r5A/s400/small_dynasty_galileo_basket.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://eskayel.com/shop/dyanast-galileo-basket/">Eskayel Dynasty-Galileo basket</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<br />
Very excited to be writing about these new baskets created for NY based design studio, <a href="http://eskayel.com/">Eskayel</a>.<br />
I first came across founder, Shanan Campanaro's designs when her new Era Collection was featured on <a href="http://www.designspongeonline.com/2011/02/eskayel-the-era-collection.html">design*sponge</a>.<br />
Immediately I was drawn to the intricate and detailed patterns and thoughtful use of color. Her collections are modern and elegant, yet calming and artistic. Beautifully done.<br />
So you can imagine my delight when we got together to create these one of a kind baskets using her fabrics.<br />
Shanan hand selected some of her fabrics and grouped them together according to pattern and color to create the overall look of each basket.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-43GHjTyxPMs/TcIHXqs-70I/AAAAAAAAA0Y/HuTqR65REnE/s1600/small_aquarius_sapphire_expanded.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-43GHjTyxPMs/TcIHXqs-70I/AAAAAAAAA0Y/HuTqR65REnE/s400/small_aquarius_sapphire_expanded.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://eskayel.com/shop/aquarius-sapphire-fabric/">Eskayel Aquarius - Sapphire fabric</a><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P9dvSi6RsAo/TcIRDjCK_dI/AAAAAAAAA0k/0T412IWYTtQ/s1600/small_aquarius_sapphire.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P9dvSi6RsAo/TcIRDjCK_dI/AAAAAAAAA0k/0T412IWYTtQ/s400/small_aquarius_sapphire.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://eskayel.com/shop/aquarius-sapphire-fabric/">Eskayel Aquarius - Sapphire fabric</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_3VE8ywd8ok/TcIGu24DajI/AAAAAAAAA0A/B5cp4NKm7lE/s1600/photo7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_3VE8ywd8ok/TcIGu24DajI/AAAAAAAAA0A/B5cp4NKm7lE/s400/photo7.jpg" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fabric sliced and in cord form ready to be sewn into basket</td></tr>
</tbody></table> <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tUqDOzSFySc/TcIGYyTUVZI/AAAAAAAAAzk/2te7TgyF8uI/s1600/photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tUqDOzSFySc/TcIGYyTUVZI/AAAAAAAAAzk/2te7TgyF8uI/s400/photo.jpg" width="297" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fatima sewing the base of the basket</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bjkfT0bNv6g/TcIGheLn3OI/AAAAAAAAAzw/1tObwynPKBs/s1600/photo3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bjkfT0bNv6g/TcIGheLn3OI/AAAAAAAAAzw/1tObwynPKBs/s400/photo3.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finished - <a href="http://eskayel.com/shop/aquarius-feudal-facet-basket/">Eskayel Aquarius Feudal Facet basket</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div><div style="font-size: medium; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">The fabric itself is pretty amazing so it was cool to see how it would translate into this form. I'm loving it.</div><div style="font-size: medium; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">You can view and shop Eskayel's entire collection of fabric, wallpaper, wall hangings, artwork, pillows and baskets <a href="http://eskayel.com/shop/">here</a>.</div><div style="font-size: medium; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">A huge thanks to Shanan for being so great. . . and talented!</div><div style="font-size: medium; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">Check Eskayel out at the ICFF May 14-17. more info <a href="http://eskayel.com/1751/eskayel-and-design-week-nyc/">here</a></div><div style="font-size: medium; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">For more photos follow after the jump. . . </div><a name='more'></a></div><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zLpMzYOCRso/TcIM94v3EsI/AAAAAAAAA0g/wH5hMfjrwtQ/s1600/small_Splatter_Spell_granite-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zLpMzYOCRso/TcIM94v3EsI/AAAAAAAAA0g/wH5hMfjrwtQ/s400/small_Splatter_Spell_granite-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://eskayel.com/shop/splatter-spell-granite-fabric/">Eskayel Splatter Spell fabric</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Jo_F-h6pe6c/TcIHVKctN6I/AAAAAAAAA0U/_c8-vDMuLz8/s1600/small_splatter_spell_granite_expanded.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Jo_F-h6pe6c/TcIHVKctN6I/AAAAAAAAA0U/_c8-vDMuLz8/s400/small_splatter_spell_granite_expanded.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://eskayel.com/shop/splatter-spell-granite-fabric/">Eskayel Splatter Spell fabric</a><br />
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</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-n0ZX9SAJOfA/TcIGkiA5WmI/AAAAAAAAAz0/yQkJQYsiJpQ/s1600/photo4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-n0ZX9SAJOfA/TcIGkiA5WmI/AAAAAAAAAz0/yQkJQYsiJpQ/s400/photo4.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fabric in cord form</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Jepo3YfYyk8/TcIGbrRUVoI/AAAAAAAAAzo/kL3rBVokPw0/s1600/photo1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Jepo3YfYyk8/TcIGbrRUVoI/AAAAAAAAAzo/kL3rBVokPw0/s400/photo1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finished - <a href="http://eskayel.com/shop/splatter-spell-basket/">Eskayel Splatter Spell fabric basket</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Meredithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04389149372685458532noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984329856202185812.post-6040692952801201422011-05-04T10:13:00.000-07:002011-05-04T10:19:30.754-07:00Graham & Brown<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Super stylish and easy to use wallpaper from Graham & Brown can be seen here in the displays and vingettes of our updated showrooms which debuted in Atlanta and Las Vegas this year. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pZAqIcWSUok/TcFaK85mRFI/AAAAAAAAAs4/CuK6MSn8zhg/s1600/Atlanta+Showroom+040.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="478" j8="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pZAqIcWSUok/TcFaK85mRFI/AAAAAAAAAs4/CuK6MSn8zhg/s640/Atlanta+Showroom+040.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">cmi's Atlanta showroom using Graham & Brown's Nottingham Cream wallpaper</td></tr>
</tbody></table> <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5xsZN6kfi44/TcFa208UENI/AAAAAAAAAs8/xPBDpiIUvh0/s1600/746d3745-ba0f-4b8e-b09a-79148e5be425.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" j8="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5xsZN6kfi44/TcFa208UENI/AAAAAAAAAs8/xPBDpiIUvh0/s400/746d3745-ba0f-4b8e-b09a-79148e5be425.jpg" width="321" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.grahambrown.com/us/product/30-440/Nottingham%3A+Cream+Wallpaper">Graham & Brown - Nottingham Cream</a> wallpaper</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I loved this wallpaper for many reasons. At $60 a roll I was able to find something that was both stylish and incredibly easy to use. We had a fairly tight budget for the redo of our showroom interiors and were doing all of the work ourselves. Therefore, we need something that was going to be quick and easy. And of course. . . it had to look good!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The interior space was to introduce our 7 new collections, our stunning photography (<a href="http://www.madaes.com/">Adam Schneider</a>) and reflect cmi's fresh new image.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I wanted the space to act a bit like a home. So when you walked into the showroom you really felt you were experiencing a space you could live in. The wallpaper worked to tie all of this together and give it an additional dimension. And with Graham & Brown's paste the wall technique, you just had to stick it on. Granted . . . I was not the one that did the actual pasting of the wallpaper. But, my "workerbee" (boss) did say he was impressed with how easy and quick it was. Wish I could say the same for all the painting we did.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The first vingette, shown above, highlights rugs from our Perspective Collection, offering a more modern look through construction and content. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Shear Natural, a 100% un-dyed all natural wool adds a wonderful element of texture while being eco-conscious, a very current trend in design. (see <a href="http://takeittothefloor-cmi.blogspot.com/2011/04/nature-texture-responsible-style.html">Nature + Texture = Responsibile Style</a>) The modern contoured rectangle shape with small accent stripe keeps the form simple, yet updated. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The Allure collection offers a striped, rectangle design in a sophisticated color palette of grays and neutrals with gentle pops of muted green, teal and mauve. All wool blend adds to the softness and warmth of this collection. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The organic and natural feeling of it all made the Nottingham Cream wallpaper a perfect fit with it's forest-like design, neutral tones and soft metallic highlights for a bit of contemporary flare. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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<tr><td style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVWPkUrLCGZMCqsGE8cIJ8v-pju2YywJR_L-uGGWTMyWpZqnxYuZHBs02MIFFJKW-Z9_R0QAuwZ9w-pLvfvfaM0DzqHDiGjWFmYD3qiUjxfu13S5QmsnrhJKTW4I36zVP_pMz2bJYqAgY/s1600/ATLShowroom2011+005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" j8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVWPkUrLCGZMCqsGE8cIJ8v-pju2YywJR_L-uGGWTMyWpZqnxYuZHBs02MIFFJKW-Z9_R0QAuwZ9w-pLvfvfaM0DzqHDiGjWFmYD3qiUjxfu13S5QmsnrhJKTW4I36zVP_pMz2bJYqAgY/s640/ATLShowroom2011+005.jpg" width="588" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">cmi's Atlanta showroom using Graham & Brown's Frames wallpaper</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ConCU6MCYTY/TcFp4_5ktcI/AAAAAAAAAtQ/Rv_R0HXXzEQ/s1600/52050-main.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" j8="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ConCU6MCYTY/TcFp4_5ktcI/AAAAAAAAAtQ/Rv_R0HXXzEQ/s400/52050-main.jpg" width="323" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.grahambrown.com/us/product/52050/Frames+%3A+Black+%26+White+Wallpaper">Graham & Brown - Frames</a> wallpaper</td></tr>
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<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">The first time I saw this wallpaper was quite a while ago, but I couldn't wait to use it somewhere. So I just bought a roll thinking I would put it on a wall in my daughter's playroom at some point. At $45 a roll. . . why not?!</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">As I began developing our product line and concept for the showrooms, I realized this would be the perfect fit for our Generation Collection display. It's funky, fun and creative.</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">The softness of the chenilles and gentle ticking colors in our juvenille rugs offer a nice balance next to the black and white of the wallpaper. And with the uneven edges of the frames, the playfulness really comes through.</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">It also creates a space for visitors and customers to leave their mark! I can't wait to see how the wall develops over the next markets. </div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><em>In Las Vegas, our 2 national sales managers (who I will leave nameless) chose to get a little creative with the wall as we will be moving spaces for the August 2011 market. Quite entertaining. But, don't look too close. . . they were in Vegas after all. </em></div> <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-h73_HtvRTH4/TcFvcqVVfGI/AAAAAAAAAtY/tivIzykc1LY/s1600/photo+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" j8="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-h73_HtvRTH4/TcFvcqVVfGI/AAAAAAAAAtY/tivIzykc1LY/s320/photo+%25282%2529.JPG" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">vegas</td></tr>
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<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">For a full peak at our showroom makeover with before and after photos follow after the jump</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">Let me know what you think!</div><a name='more'></a><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GWU0Rf-Yhmg/TcF3ao_dkaI/AAAAAAAAAt8/UGwren2EuDA/s1600/Atlanta+Showroom+002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" j8="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GWU0Rf-Yhmg/TcF3ao_dkaI/AAAAAAAAAt8/UGwren2EuDA/s400/Atlanta+Showroom+002.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">break down </td></tr>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gcAF0gAVF-g/TcF3apUjNfI/AAAAAAAAAt4/3CStCPNDKWI/s1600/Atlanta+Showroom+004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" j8="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gcAF0gAVF-g/TcF3apUjNfI/AAAAAAAAAt4/3CStCPNDKWI/s400/Atlanta+Showroom+004.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HpNERGIbrLA/TcF3ax9ANoI/AAAAAAAAAuI/GC2vWqghhQk/s1600/Atlanta+Showroom+005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" j8="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HpNERGIbrLA/TcF3ax9ANoI/AAAAAAAAAuI/GC2vWqghhQk/s400/Atlanta+Showroom+005.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">why isn't she working? </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cBkenmIo7SQ/TcF3a_c6p-I/AAAAAAAAAuE/8BAjI6l_vzs/s1600/Atlanta+Showroom+006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" j8="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cBkenmIo7SQ/TcF3a_c6p-I/AAAAAAAAAuE/8BAjI6l_vzs/s400/Atlanta+Showroom+006.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Graham & Brown - paste the wall</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-afT-Rry9tkY/TcF3bWHtbWI/AAAAAAAAAuQ/mGpQ-eIJArY/s1600/Atlanta+Showroom+012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" j8="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-afT-Rry9tkY/TcF3bWHtbWI/AAAAAAAAAuQ/mGpQ-eIJArY/s400/Atlanta+Showroom+012.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Graham & Brown Frames wallpaper </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KehMJIHNF1A/TcF3bgDFQoI/AAAAAAAAAuY/PaCHTPiBZtw/s1600/Atlanta+Showroom+013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" j8="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KehMJIHNF1A/TcF3bgDFQoI/AAAAAAAAAuY/PaCHTPiBZtw/s400/Atlanta+Showroom+013.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Graham & Brown Nottingham Cream wallpaper</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lJgWwJXvyKM/TcF3b84n1aI/AAAAAAAAAug/kL7UodJnLt0/s1600/Atlanta+Showroom+016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" j8="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lJgWwJXvyKM/TcF3b84n1aI/AAAAAAAAAug/kL7UodJnLt0/s400/Atlanta+Showroom+016.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">painting</td></tr>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7D58f23AAss/TcF3cZawGfI/AAAAAAAAAuk/uJX3YXJx_CU/s1600/Atlanta+Showroom+018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" j8="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7D58f23AAss/TcF3cZawGfI/AAAAAAAAAuk/uJX3YXJx_CU/s400/Atlanta+Showroom+018.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oujdV_KGaiQ/TcF3dICm4tI/AAAAAAAAAvA/e3a2Aj5cp7o/s1600/Atlanta+Showroom+028.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" j8="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oujdV_KGaiQ/TcF3dICm4tI/AAAAAAAAAvA/e3a2Aj5cp7o/s400/Atlanta+Showroom+028.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">later purple. . . </td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IHehhffN9dU/TcF3cimk9EI/AAAAAAAAAu0/U99m6RxSw0g/s1600/Atlanta+Showroom+020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" j8="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IHehhffN9dU/TcF3cimk9EI/AAAAAAAAAu0/U99m6RxSw0g/s400/Atlanta+Showroom+020.jpg" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">still painting . . . </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B-ZTgkDLtTA/TcF3dPFYgHI/AAAAAAAAAu8/yHp53FJckWo/s1600/Atlanta+Showroom+030.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" j8="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B-ZTgkDLtTA/TcF3dPFYgHI/AAAAAAAAAu8/yHp53FJckWo/s320/Atlanta+Showroom+030.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">back wall</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YFDh3JS-aWo/TcF3dQK4abI/AAAAAAAAAvI/LvU7sM_IFnM/s1600/Atlanta+Showroom+032.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" j8="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YFDh3JS-aWo/TcF3dQK4abI/AAAAAAAAAvI/LvU7sM_IFnM/s400/Atlanta+Showroom+032.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">is it straight?</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NTbK1lkhATA/TcF3eaJhysI/AAAAAAAAAvo/msCF8nUIDiA/s1600/Atlanta+Showroom+040.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" j8="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NTbK1lkhATA/TcF3eaJhysI/AAAAAAAAAvo/msCF8nUIDiA/s400/Atlanta+Showroom+040.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oeNPhFKSUzg/TcF3YMOcL0I/AAAAAAAAAto/26NK1B4i_nY/s1600/Atlanta+2009-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" j8="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oeNPhFKSUzg/TcF3YMOcL0I/AAAAAAAAAto/26NK1B4i_nY/s400/Atlanta+2009-2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">cmi Atlanta showroom - BEFORE</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9uEkzFP3QKc/TcF3l1Eo-YI/AAAAAAAAAv4/c3mhwA8xODI/s1600/ATLShowroom2011+001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" j8="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9uEkzFP3QKc/TcF3l1Eo-YI/AAAAAAAAAv4/c3mhwA8xODI/s400/ATLShowroom2011+001.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">cmi Atlanta showroom - AFTER</td></tr>
</tbody></table> <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uSPv2hJJdqI/TcF3Yc1c23I/AAAAAAAAAts/EQN2l4kwA4U/s1600/Atlanta+2009-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="258" j8="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uSPv2hJJdqI/TcF3Yc1c23I/AAAAAAAAAts/EQN2l4kwA4U/s400/Atlanta+2009-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">cmi Atlanta showroom - BEFORE</td></tr>
</tbody></table> <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zZIxzGqe_nc/TcF3mAMukdI/AAAAAAAAAv8/TAP-UDQfyMU/s1600/ATLShowroom2011+002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" j8="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zZIxzGqe_nc/TcF3mAMukdI/AAAAAAAAAv8/TAP-UDQfyMU/s400/ATLShowroom2011+002.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">cmi Atlanta showroom - AFTER</td></tr>
</tbody></table> <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HQCQ8rPXvC4/TcF3a1R0xjI/AAAAAAAAAuA/CaZxiMb5Bfs/s1600/Atlanta+2009-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" j8="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HQCQ8rPXvC4/TcF3a1R0xjI/AAAAAAAAAuA/CaZxiMb5Bfs/s400/Atlanta+2009-4.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">cmi Atlanta showroom - BEFORE</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-95hUCTHnXsU/TcF3lxiFGII/AAAAAAAAAv0/xMq72sor6Tw/s1600/ATLShowroom2011+003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" j8="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-95hUCTHnXsU/TcF3lxiFGII/AAAAAAAAAv0/xMq72sor6Tw/s400/ATLShowroom2011+003.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">cmi Atlanta showroom - AFTER</td></tr>
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</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sMyXqgBvTw0/TcF3Z_svfqI/AAAAAAAAAtw/HDWQnsxoE7M/s1600/Atlanta+2009-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" j8="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sMyXqgBvTw0/TcF3Z_svfqI/AAAAAAAAAtw/HDWQnsxoE7M/s400/Atlanta+2009-3.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">cmi Atlanta showroom - BEFORE</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GfZUh3Q8vbo/TcF3rgmkpBI/AAAAAAAAAwA/wQAv2hM2PlA/s1600/ATLShowroom2011+004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" j8="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GfZUh3Q8vbo/TcF3rgmkpBI/AAAAAAAAAwA/wQAv2hM2PlA/s400/ATLShowroom2011+004.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">cmi Atlanta showroom - AFTER</td></tr>
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</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div>Meredithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04389149372685458532noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984329856202185812.post-46532219003008536442011-04-26T09:40:00.000-07:002011-04-26T15:52:35.502-07:00Modern Traditionjust a quick post today. 2 pictures I love and had to share to show you how traditional can be oh so stylish when used the right way.<br />
Becuase this could totally be my bedroom.(minus the guitar - if it were in my room it would only be so I look cool, not because I can actually play) Or even someone youngish and super hip.<br />
Regardless. . . it all works and doesn't take a huge amount of effort. <br />
Understated, somewhat modern, but also a bit traditional to keep it simple yet comfortable. <br />
The braid here is a very traditional use of color, where the yarn itself is dyed incrementally creating what we call a "space-dye." When braided together the colors fall somewhat randomly throughout the rug. It is 100% wool.<br />
The shape, however, is a contoured rectangle, adding a bit of updated flare, rather than the traditional oval.<br />
Loving the color and the vibe this room is giving off.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MzOLR-7Th_U/TbbwPajwiWI/AAAAAAAAArE/yhZ40Z2Ggo4/s1600/Rolled+%2526+Lifestyle-81.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" i8="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MzOLR-7Th_U/TbbwPajwiWI/AAAAAAAAArE/yhZ40Z2Ggo4/s640/Rolled+%2526+Lifestyle-81.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.colonialmills.com/ridgevale.html">ridgevale classic medley - cmi.</a></td></tr>
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Here is a very traditional, wool blend rug. Both pattern, shape and content are traditional. However, the color palette incorporates grays and purples and used in this kind of setting it takes on a completely different style than one may expect from this kind of rug.<br />
Exposed brick and the vanity with vintage looking stool. . . all comes together so nicely. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wmKJOZrAFoc/TbbyEaRDMZI/AAAAAAAAArI/UTyOWdEk4LE/s1600/Rolled+%2526+Lifestyle-91.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" i8="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wmKJOZrAFoc/TbbyEaRDMZI/AAAAAAAAArI/UTyOWdEk4LE/s640/Rolled+%2526+Lifestyle-91.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.colonialmills.com/boston-common.html">boston common purple haze - cmi.</a> </td></tr>
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photos - <a href="http://www.madaes.com/">Adam Schneider</a>Meredithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04389149372685458532noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984329856202185812.post-53230879792449454022011-04-21T13:08:00.000-07:002011-04-22T05:59:34.913-07:00Nature + Texture = Responsible Style<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>There is no question that today we are becoming more aware of the products we use in our homes, put in our bodies, and lay our children to sleep on. Sustainable, local, natural, organic, eco-friendly are all words that over the past few years have become a regular part of our vocabulary and increasingly large factors for how and what we buy.<br />
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</a>In a NYTimes <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2011/04/18/arts/18iht-design18.html?pagewanted=2&ref=sustainabledesign">article</a> about the 2011 Milan Furniture Fair, sustainable design was sited as one of the strongest design trends.<br />
Despite the recent recession, many companies have found a niche in offering sustainable and natural products due to the continued growth in demand in this area. Consumers are able tap into their need to be environmentally conscious, without sacrificing style or function.<br />
Additionally, the emergence of the sustainable, natural product has had a significant impact on the developing trend of texture. The two often going hand in hand, merging together to create a pleasing aesthetic that lends itself to another popular trend of mixing styles.<br />
As many of us adjust to the current economic situation, changes in technology and global influences, as do our tastes and style. Design is enormously affected by what goes on in our world. The sustainable trend along with the idea that we want to make our spaces more personal and reflect "us" versus one particular style has designers incorporating various products and elements. Take a look below for some natural things (cmi rugs, of course) and spaces that are "mixing" it up. enjoy!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Olh8LMzspDY/TbB0KxWzk_I/AAAAAAAAAq4/-dAK7Tuc3bs/s640/naturaltexture.jpg" width="494" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">clockwise from top left: <a href="http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/catalog/productdetail.jsp?id=974384&catId=HOME-CANDLE-HOLDERS&pushId=HOME-CANDLE-HOLDERS&popId=HOME-CANDLE&navAction=middle&navCount=66&color=014&isProduct=true&fromCategoryPage=true">driftwood hurricane</a> - anthropologie, <a href="http://www.westelm.com/products/rouched-throw-r950/?pkey=cthrow-blankets">organic ruched throw</a> - west elm, <a href="http://restorationhardware.com/catalog/category/category.jsp?categoryId=cat1535014">natural flooring</a> - restoration hardware, <a href="http://www.garnethill.com/eileen-fisher-organic-linen-cargo-pants/womens-fashion/pants-shorts/view-all-pants-shorts/194929">eileen fisher organic linen cargo pants</a> - garnet hill, <a href="http://www.sundancecatalog.com/product/home+decor+catalog/dining+room+furniture/rustic+dinnerware/valencia+bowls%2C+set+of+4.do?sortby=ourPicks">valencia bowls</a> - sundance, <a href="http://restorationhardware.com/catalog/product/product.jsp?productId=prod90130&categoryId=cat1519020">wool flat-weave herringbone rug</a> made by cmi using 100% natural wool- restoration hardware<br />
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</tbody></table><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px;">Interior spaces that beautifully combine natural textured elements with both traditional and modern pieces . . . </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_819182991"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nO8qcl1hK3U/TbBijEFJleI/AAAAAAAAAp8/-a_JemD4LQU/s400/country-home-design-ideas-0511-05.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Interior space of the barn at the California home of designer, Patrick Printy and his partner Dan Holland. The space incorporates a reclaimed wood console, antique French chairs, vintage Eames chairs and other found items. Click <a href="http://www.elledecor.com/home-remodeling/articles/contemporary-meets-colonial">here</a> for the entire story and gallery from elleDECOR.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vf07k0JHLco/TbBiegJUgeI/AAAAAAAAAps/h3EUzIMZGbI/s1600/2_nancy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vf07k0JHLco/TbBiegJUgeI/AAAAAAAAAps/h3EUzIMZGbI/s400/2_nancy.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Living room as seen on design*sponge sneak peek featuring a reclaimed barn wood coffee table and other various finds. click <a href="http://www.designspongeonline.com/2011/03/sneak-peek-nancy-aebersold-dana-blumrosen.html">here</a> to see the post and images on design*sponge online.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="390" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hItDZ0i0L4I/TbBisTJkGuI/AAAAAAAAAqM/0bcwyPFwbRw/s400/prod90128_av1.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Restoration Hardware bedroom featuring 100% all natural wool flat-weave herringbone rug made by cmi<br />
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</tbody></table>Shear Natural collection from cmi's standard line, featuring 100% all natural un-dyed wool in a flat braid construction.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nQvT9BaoVwg/TbCGcfBFndI/AAAAAAAAAq8/hupT2OSQgzs/s1600/Rolled+%2526+Lifestyle-73.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nQvT9BaoVwg/TbCGcfBFndI/AAAAAAAAAq8/hupT2OSQgzs/s640/Rolled+%2526+Lifestyle-73.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.colonialmills.com/shear-natural.html">Shear Natural Collection</a> - Rockport Gray - cmi</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_mnlu0JVOdI/TbCGeYbHEcI/AAAAAAAAArA/KfL8upLLL8A/s1600/Overheads-58.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_mnlu0JVOdI/TbCGeYbHEcI/AAAAAAAAArA/KfL8upLLL8A/s640/Overheads-58.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Texture shot of dark gray all natural wool</td></tr>
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</div>Meredithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04389149372685458532noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984329856202185812.post-37418979120864438222011-04-20T06:43:00.000-07:002011-04-20T06:44:43.287-07:00CMI article in HFN<a href="http://www.hfnmag.com/floor-coverings-rugs/cmi-debuts-redesigned-website">http://www.hfnmag.com/floor-coverings-rugs/cmi-debuts-redesigned-website</a>Meredithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04389149372685458532noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984329856202185812.post-14601036369803170542011-04-19T11:03:00.000-07:002011-04-19T13:13:14.505-07:00Orange you glad<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Spring is here!! The sun is starting to shine (not quite today but it did yesterday for a bit) and I'm starting to feel like I need some blasts of color in my life. Winter is thankfully over and all I keep thinking about is how much I am loving the signs of spring. Cheery days ahead!</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bJuVgxwsj0s/Ta2oz5Ev54I/AAAAAAAAApI/eLjKkZZRfK0/s1600/nayeliDafffodil.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" i8="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bJuVgxwsj0s/Ta2oz5Ev54I/AAAAAAAAApI/eLjKkZZRfK0/s200/nayeliDafffodil.jpg" width="158" /></a>My 3 year old has been freaking out at the site of any and every flower sprouting in our yard and I have to say I love and share her enthusiasm.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Orange has been a color that has certainly been showing its popularity over the last year. And as we enter the spring/summer months, its bright and inviting hues have us feeling good. So before this cheery color leaves us for other emerging trends, I want to share some products that add just the right punch of orange to carry us through these fun few months.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XKSnHDjPRB4/Ta3AGXrF0NI/AAAAAAAAApM/5KqHYor6k4Q/s1600/untitled.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="596" i8="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XKSnHDjPRB4/Ta3AGXrF0NI/AAAAAAAAApM/5KqHYor6k4Q/s640/untitled.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">1. <a href="http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/catalog/productdetail.jsp?navAction=jump&id=083181&parentid=SEARCH_RESULTS&color=080"><span style="color: #444444;">Climbing Vines Curtain-Anthropologie</span></a> 2. <a href="http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/catalog/productdetail.jsp?id=073848&catId=HOME-ROOM&pushId=HOME-ROOM&popId=HOME&navAction=top&navCount=240&color=089&isProduct=true&fromCategoryPage=true&subCategoryId=HOME-WALL-VASES"><span style="color: #444444;">Artistic Avian Vase-Anthropologie</span></a> 3. <a href="http://www.colonialmills.com/montego.html"><span style="color: #444444;">Montego Tangerine Rug-CMI</span></a> 4. <a href="http://www.crateandbarrel.com/decorating-and-accessories/vases/lorrie-orange-vase/s145826"><span style="color: #444444;">Lorrie Vase-Crate&Barrel</span></a> 5. <a href="http://www.elledecor.com/image/tid/6117?page=6&pause=1"><span style="color: #444444;">Orange Bathroom-ElleDECOR</span></a> 6. <a href="http://www.elledecor.com/image/tid/6117?page=6&pause=1"><span style="color: #444444;">Positano Diamonds Pillow-Jonathan Adler</span></a> 7. <a href="http://www.jcrew.com/womens_category/accessories/hatsscarves/PRDOVR~24826/24826.jsp"><span style="color: #444444;">Silk Driving Scarf-J.Crew</span></a> 8. <a href="http://www.serenaandlily.com/Baby/Baby-Boy-Ben"><span style="color: #444444;">Fabric from Ben Collection-Serena & Lily</span></a> 9. <a href="http://www.jonathanadler.com/Moroccan-Pouf/?cat=370&initial=8602"><span style="color: #444444;">Moroccan Pouf-Jonathan Adler</span></a></div>Meredithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04389149372685458532noreply@blogger.com0