A Journey Of Friendship and Renovation: Kitchen Epiphany.

Part Four

Ten months after meeting my new neighbors, I felt as thought I'd known them forever. We shared many great times together which consisted of, late night conversations, gardening projects, wintry Sunday dinners (always with a roaring fire) to late summer lunches on the patio with music filled air as we sipped on great wines. There was always an impromptu visitor or two or three, turning an ordinary day into an unpredictable evening.

The rear of the house and once open porch.

During this time, there were many conversations about rescuing their home from the existing 1970's look-a-like kitchen that was installed in 2002! On their own, they had already begun this project prior to our introduction. They had a basic kitchen plan from a big box retailer and had taped out an Island plan on their kitchen floor. Initially I kept my thoughts and ideas to myself, respecting their direction. They both had a sense of style all their own, I didn't want to impose, but this was a challenging project and eventually they asked me to chime in. I tried not to dominate the discussions with my ideas.  These were my friends first, not my clients. However, I did the best I could in trying to help them find their way...my thoughts were restless.

 Shawmut, "the perfect dog," stands on the imaginary island in the old kitchen.

After a long day in August 2013, I put my head on my pillow but could not fall asleep. I was reviewing a few meetings we had with a contractor friend of mine who I suggested help us with the project. He had some great ideas for the current kitchen space but something still was not sitting right with me. This was a beautiful big house with a small kitchen that fell short of facilitating all of their needs...then suddenly it hit me! The current kitchen space just wasn't big enough! We were in the wrong room! It would never suit all of their needs and didn't rise up to how they lived. There was a family room that was not being used to its full capacity, it would soon become the focus for me.

Originally the family room, which is located in the rear of the house, was an open porch with supporting columns that was eventually enclosed. It showcased a bead board semi-barreled ceiling that framed a grand palladium window. There was not need for another moment of indecision! YES! This is our new kitchen!

That night with some hesitation, I sent a late night text. Although I felt this was the best way to go, I always expect a mixed bag of emotions from a homeowner when broaching on a new direction. The text started with, "What do you think about relocating the kitchen to the family room?" Well, all I can say is, the excitement on the other end kept me up all night! I could not imagine the kitchen being any where else. Time to scrape all previous plans and get to work!

 Once the open porch, now enclosed family room...soon to be the new kitchen.

Barrel ceiling, palladium window and columns reveal the rooms history.

Shawmut oversees our landscaping project in the spring of 2012. More to come...  -Michelle

A Journey Of Friendship and Renovation:The Flask!

Part Three

Early to rise as I was running errands on a Saturday morning in the summer of 1998, a yard sale would distract me from my mundane chores. I stopped to parooze hoping to find something out of the ordinary. There were some interesting pieces, one of which was an old Flask. I wasn't in the market for a flask, nor did I need one for any particular reason. However, there was something special about this old beverage container. It sported a silver cap and was wrapped in well worn leather that bared the La Crosse marking on its underside. I don't know why I felt so inclined, but I purchased it and I held onto it for 16 years, until one day in 2013.

La Crosse Draper flask

While visiting neighbors at an open house, a discussion about my friends home was holding my interest. Apparently, the family who original built my friends home were, John Draper and his wife back in 1902. In fact, many of the neighboring homes belong to various members of the Draper family. All beautiful, some stately, would give one the impression that the Drapers lived very well. To this day the Drapers run and operate The Draper Knitting Co., which produces a wide variety of textile based products.

As I listened intently, a thought came to mind...

The next day, I opened the red Chinese sideboard where I kept little treasures that I rotate for display and found the flask. Although it was old and worn, I knew that if I gifted it to my friend JD and AD, they would see the beauty in it and appreciate it. You see, the day I bought that flask, I bought it from a yard sale that was held on their front yard. The women who sold it to me had mentioned that the flask once belonged to the Drapers. It seemed to me that it was only right to take it home.  

Today, I can tell you it is appreciated and even gets used on occasion. For some odd reason, this makes me very happy!

More to come.... -Michelle

*Referring to our home owners as JD and AD to respect their privacy.

A Journey Of Friendship and Renovation: The First Invitation.

Part Two

In December of 2012, I attended a holiday party not far from my home. It was the first formal invitation my husband and I received from the homeowners. The house was nestled comfortably on a generous one + acre parcel and setback approximately 100 ft. from the street.This stately brick 1904 home and its circular driveway exhibits grand curb appeal for all who come to visit. Steps onto the main entry are anchored by supporting columns necessary to feature the grand balcony above. Charles Mingus and jazzy blue notes play from outdoor speakers, gently escorting its guests toward the pristine front door.

Beyond the entry, I became energized and excited by the mix of traditional, vintage and industrial elements. The living room walls were painted a pewtery grey with a beautiful white fireplace for a focal point. A gold French oval mirror adorns the wall above mantel. A pair of collected leather chairs sit to the right of the fireplace, separated by a small occasional table. Directly across from the chairs, a large sofa flanks the opposite side of the fireplace and is set in front of a pair of extra long windows with crisp white casements. In the corner, an elevated large red Paris subway sign reads, "METRO." A 5' high free-standing wine rack guards the entryway, while most of the furnishings rest in their proper places on a red and navy oriental rug. The vibe is cool and current and it's evident that the owners have a story to tell.

It was a memorable evening in so many ways. There was no shortage of great food, atmosphere or fabulous music. What I found most impressive was the hospitality and sincere energy of the hosts and their friends. My expectations were exceeded by the warmth and welcoming arms of everyone attending. Little did I know...that night would be one of many more shared moments with these two lovely gentlemen, who I now refer to as dear friends.

The next few post will touch on our journey and our collaboration to complete the renovation of their new home and all the fun we had along the way!  More to come...  -Michelle

A Journey Of Friendship & Renovation: A long walk.

Part One

 My connection to this house and its residents all began with a long walk...

It all started on a well rehearsed brisk October walk. A route taken many times before with Nancy, my dear friend and walking buddy. Our walk was nearing its end as we approached one of my favorite homes on the historic and scenic way. We both spotted the couple we assumed were the new home owners. Spontaneously Nancy and I proceeded to greet them with a long overdue "Welcome to the neighborhood!". Our brief introduction turned into a two hour tour and visit. We repeatedly insisted on leaving them to their day, but quite frankly we were all having such a great time it was hard to pull ourselves away. This was the beginning of a friendship between myself and two lovely transplants from the south end of Boston, which ultimately led to a dreamy kitchen project that became a labor of love.

                                                More to come... - Michelle



Illustrations are my own and enhanced via Waterlogue. 

EASING INTO THE NEW YEAR!

It's been a while since I've sat at the keyboard to check-in, but I hope this post finds you well and enjoying the holiday season! As the New Year comes upon us, I hope you are at ease, without the pressure this season can often bring. I wish for you the time to reconnect with family and friends, reaping all the benefits of your efforts for the past year. Some of you may be on the party circuit for the New Year while others may be looking forward to a pause or celebrating at home. I dream of calling out for Chinese take-out/sushi! In my book, this is not settling. Alone or with friends, keeping it simple can be stress free and lots of fun.

I had a lot of fun pulling this table together for this Sushi inspired New Years table. I didn't purchase anything, I only used things that I've collected over time. Hunting and gathering throughout my home always reminds me of what I have and how I can make it work in other ways...that's the fun part!

A patch-work Asian inspired piece of fabric was used for a tablecloth. The gold tray was bought at a yard sale this past summer for $2.00! Normally it lives on my credenza. The lavender glass candlesticks I purchased at Anthropologie several years ago.

Loving this glass votive gift I received at Brimfield, from Rue La La! I used paper and cloth napkins for multi-use and contrast. White square plates add a bright spot against all the color. 

Gold French ribbon is tucked under each plate...just because. 

Amethyst and malachite colored bento box bowls for miso soup, compliment the amethyst glasses.  

Different  chop sticks at each place setting.

Teacups for green tea and small leaf bowls for wasabi and soy sauce.

These are one of my favorite pair of chop sticks. The more worn they become, the more I love them!

Okay, so maybe I'll have to order some flowers along with the take-out! Ha! Willow or and orchid would be nice! 

I hope you've been inspired to have a festive New Year 

how ever you choose to spend it! 

Happy New Year!

2014!

INSIDE AYERS LUXURY COLLECTION

Longing for artful and luxurious pieces that tell your story?

 

AYERS EBONY BOWL

Beautiful spaces are thoughtful and speak to detail. A home layered in collected beauty exudes depth, fine taste and personality. Often our lives are void of the time, effort and expense that it requires to carefully select global pieces. AYERS is a NYC based luxury home décor company and at the helm, Manhattan-based interior designer and Principle of Irwinteriors, Penelope Irwin. Ms. Irwin's extensive travel has made it convenient for you to attain these desirable pieces from the comfort of your own home.


The Ayers Ebony Bowl (shown above) is the first of a few vessels I selected to feature:
*The Ayers Ebony Bowl is a completely one-of-a-kind piece that is as beautiful as it is interesting. These bowls are "found" Ebony wood that has been collected in Indonesia and have a natural, shiny finish. This is a treasured decorative piece that makes a stunning impression. These bowls are beautiful and unique pieces of art.

 

I recently asked Elisa Hetmanski, Media Marketing Manager of Ayers International, LLC, to explain in her own words what to expect when acquiring a piece from Ayers Collection?

 

"When acquiring an Ayers piece, one can expect it to enhance the space with a quiet, modern yet classic, interest. Each Ayers piece has a subtle statement to them—nothing too loud or obnoxious—just a quiet tone. All pieces —new and old—have an extensive story to them. The curated pieces are distinctly different and rare; the created pieces are handcrafted works of art, which are meticulously created by artisans in New York City."

 

AYERS TIBETAN SPICE POTS

 

*The Tibetan Spice Pots are an example of vintage, handmade Tibetan art and were meant for daily household use. Each piece is carved meticulously from a single piece of wood and decorated with carved geometric lines. These pots exhibit a subtle glow of patina, which is the result of years around wood-burning smoke and very buttery hands. All pots are vintage, from the mid 20th century. Each unique in their own way, these pots tell a story on their own or as a collective group. Perfectly suited for holding rice, lentils, sugar, coffee, tea, spices, or simply as a beautiful decorative piece.

AYERS GLASS SCULPTURES

I love the varying heights and hues of these graceful vessels!

*The Glass Sculptures are striking, one-of-a-kind vessels that are produced by NY based artist Michael Anchin. No two pieces are exactly alike and each adds visual interest either on its own, or in a group of varied shapes, sizes and colors. Michael began glass blowing at a cooperatively run community hot shop on the famed Mulberry Street in Manhattan in the 1980's. He went on to hire many of his teachers, highly skilled glassblowers, to help him produce over 100,000 long neck sculptures that were sold worldwide.
 

Each piece is a beautifully unique art form that is hand-made and individually signed by Michael Anchin himself. The color present in the glass is made from real earth minerals that are added in while each vase is blown. Each sculpture is a colorful, organically shaped figure that is formed in a 2000 degree oven by a true glass artisan. 

Elisa explains the luxury companies aesthetic goal, "The Ayers aesthetic mission revolves around the culmination of modern luxury and precise design. The concept is a balance of modern designs complementing a vast array of fascinating curated pieces. Pillows, throws, trays, bowls, baskets and global artifacts are all designed to give visual and tactile pleasure in the home.  Beautiful fabrics such as cashmere, linen, silk and cotton complete the look. The designs and objects are a bit posh in the most relaxed sense. If one identifies with an effortless style and appreciates being surrounded by sensually sophisticated items, objects and art, then one understands Ayers." 

AYERS D'OR VASE

*The D'Or vase is a hand-made ceramic pot, crafted on a potter's wheel in the Netherlands. The beautiful, golden luster is created with pure, 24k gold, which is hand applied to the final product. In order to give our ceramics a premier quality, they are baked once without a finish at 1250 degrees Celsius and then again with the finish at the same temperature. This is 2-3 times the industry average and creates a more durable and beautiful end product.

 

Elisa, what can we expect in the near future? "The new horizon for Ayers is the upcoming Fall season. Fall is all about a "Relaxed Glamour". While the designs will continue to have the same relaxed feel, it will combine seamlessly with the glamour of amazingly luxurious fabrics. Linens will be at the forefront of the collection, but cashmeres and silks will also play a strong role. The upcoming seasons will also begin to introduce furniture. While the focus will be upholstery, there will also be a few metal pieces to compliment the look." 
 

Elisa further explains, "Ayers mission is to represent the highest standards of quality, service and creativity within the luxury lifestyle marketplace. We believe in the invention of design and the curation of talented artists and craftsmen from around the globe."

 

I am truly impressed with this collection! The pieces are exquisite and I cannot wait for the opportunity to use them on an upcoming project!  More to come....         -Michelle

 

 

 

*Product descriptions and photography provided by Ayers International, LLC

#BRIMFIELD VIP TENT EVENT!

Ready for the this! #BRIMFIELD VIP TENT is going to be the best Brimfield event yet!
In addition to 6,000 vendors showing their best treasures at the antique fair, the #Brimfield VIP Tent will be the social media hub for all thing design at on of the largest antique fairs in the world! On Thursday, May 16th - May17th, interior designers, decorators,design and fashion bloggers, celebrities and media will gather at the tent hosted by Fashion + Decor.  What makes the event so great you ask? Well besides the obvious, the sponsors will be: Benjamin Moore, Robert Allen Fabrics, Sunbrella, Rue la la, Polar and Director, Jen Hoyda! I'm looking forward to chatting and hearing what's new and exclusive from all of them!

 

NEED SOME EYE CANDY???

Cari Cucksey of HGTV and Jamie Drake of Drake Design Associates are just a few of the celebs that will be attending. Here are a photos courtesy of Cari Cucksey of a chaise lounge "Before and After," now covered in:

Robert Allen Naturals II of course! Can't wait to see it up close at the tent!

Robert Allen has a few more surprises in store with their latest digital release! Can't wait!

 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Need a break from shopping? You can catch up with all your Brimfield friends, get the scoop on exclusive trade news, tweet to your followers about market finds, have a chair message or lounge by the bar designed/built by Interior Designer, Shane Inman. I'm looking forward to seeing what else Shane has been up to in the tent for the past couple of weeks!

Now back to the bar! Liquid indulgences will be flowing by Mixologist - Warren Bobrow, also known as the "Cocktail Whisperer." Warren is also a food writer and has a wealth of knowledge you can tap into on pairing culinary delights and spirits.

Enough said, "Rain or Shine" I'll be there with bells on or maybe even Wellies! Regardless, this is an event not to be missed. I'm looking forward to seeing all my Brimfield friends and shopping till we drop!

Stay tuned for live tweets from Brimfield! You can follow me @cortizointerior.

Brizo/Bon Appetit Video:Jamie Bissonnette and Seth Fritz

DESIGN NEWS EXCLUSIVE! Brizo once again is paving the way by teaming up with Bon Appetit! Have a look at this special release video: Featuring Brizo's Lead Designer Seth Fritz with "Chopped" winner and Boston Chef/Restaurateur, Jamie Bissonnette of the famed Toro and Coppa. Together they exchange their creative process and share how critical decisions lead to excellence in each of their fields.

 

Passport To Design Blog Tour

Just imagine having a passport with an itinerary of five style packed destinations without ever having to wait in line at the airport or suffer the consequences of jet lag!

 

Thanks to Boston Magazine,Yvonne Blacker of Designer Bath and participating showroom's, our lovely group of bloggers shared an inspiring adventure at some of North Shores finest showrooms.

 

Between the month's of October 2012 and March 2013, you too can get your tour on the road! Just register for a Passport and get it stamped at each of the participating showrooms for inspiration and have the home of your dreams! Click here...

 

 PASSPORT TO DESIGN SHOWROOM BLOG TOUR

 

Our day began at 10AM in Danvers, Ma. at Circle Furniture!

 

 1st. CIRCLE FURNITURE

 

This bench caught my eye in these deep beachy tones. Terrific seating at the table or anywhere else. Tufted details and welting with two great pillows for visual interest and added comfort.

 Love these ottomans in pink and gray fabric!!

This was one of my favorite finds of the day. Can you believe this is a recliner!!

Best recliner I have ever seen and comfortable as well. This actually made me excited about sourcing a recliner. Trust me, that's a first! P.S. Our co-host Sean William @BostonMo was fab!

 

 

 2nd. DESIGNER BATH

 

So many faucets to choose from...so little time. Many brands and varieties but this is just one of my favorites by BRIZO. The Vuelo is like a piece of sculpture!

 Doesn't this sink give you the urge to garden? Love it!

Black matte super sexy soaker by Zuchetti!

 

 

 

 3rd. TILE BY DESIGN

 

Iridescent glass = undulating beauty.

 Teak tile!! Yes, wood tile that can go anyway with the exception of a back splash or shower interior. It resist moisture and can take a beating. I loved this tile, it is really beautiful in person. There was a wide selection of wood tiles in a variety of finishes. Another favorite was the herringbone wood tile that came in a weathered grey option. Stunning!

 

 

 

 4th. LANDRY AND ARCARI
 

 Silk rugs that look like paintings line the walls and floors of Landry and Arcari. You could spend an entire day marveling at their delicious textiles. Consummate professionals are there to educate and advise you. Our group was highly impressed with the knowledge that was so generously shared on the artistry that goes into crafting a fine carpet.

I couldn't get enough but they certainly had enough!

 Loved this little spot of Suzani and Ikat textiles!

 Woven beauty!

 

5th. LUCIA LIGHTING

 

Last, but certainly not least, the final stop of our tour is Lucia Lighting. Lucia has an abundance of traditional to contemporary lighting products. Two stories of illumination with a vast variety to choose from. When you go, say hello to Lucy! I'm convinced she is the source of all the energy at Lucia!! Lucy and her staff were very accommodating and provide custom services to meet every need. I look forward to visiting again!

Thank you to Yvonne Blacker and all of the participating showrooms for their time and service.
It was especially nice to see familiar and as well as new faces. Waving hello to:
Kristina Crestin, Erin Greene, Katherine Hawkins, Danika Herrick, Linda Holt, John Kelsey, Megan Meyers, Linda Merrill.

Cheers! To a day of inspiration and great company!

Budget Friendly Before and Afters!

Thirty years ago my mother decided to update her old dining room set, so she passed the old one on to me! I happily embraced the old cabinet with all of it's peeling veneer and blemishing chips. I loved its bones and bowed glass doors that made it so special. The veneer was beyond lovingly worn. The damage was extensive enough making it difficult to repair, so I painted it! Yes, I know this upsets some, but I truly believe that paint can hide a multitude of furniture sins. Besides, why settle for a so-so finish job, when you can have a piece that makes a statement, while making you happy at the same time. Our china cabinet has sported several different shades over the past 30 years and each time it displays a new shade, I fall in love all over again. It's hard to give up on a piece that has so many memories attached to it. Recently I decided to start updating my breakfast room and the old china blue on the exterior lacked depth, so I added a little more saturation by giving it a few coats of Ben Moore "Wool Peacoat" on the exterior. 

BEFORE: The cabinet interior was too dark in this sunny breakfast room. I wanted vibrant and it was more like a black hole. So Ben Moore's "Green Hydrangea" was my pick to brighten it up a bit and give it a bit of a face lift.

AFTER: Big difference!! Don't you think? I'm very happy with the outcome! Now the space feels bright and welcoming. The deeper exterior helps to create a stronger contrast between it and the vibrant green on the interior. Even the dishes look happier!

****

Here's one more simple adjustment that made a world of difference. Changing out the old standard candle bulb to a filament tubular bulb, took this sconce from ordinary to extraordinary. Now it's current, interesting and easy on the eyes.

 

I had lots of fun making these few updates and I hope these few examples inspire you to find simple and economical ways to make anything old, new again in your home!

Happy 2013!

May this year bring you much love, growth, good health and prosperity. I'd like to think the best is yet to come as we continue to aspire and inspire! Happy 2013!

Merry Christmas!

I am feeling blessed and fortunate to be surrounded by my family and loved ones. Given the recent events, I am sure that many of you must be feeling the same way too. Continued prayers for those who are working through the grieving process over the loss of a family member or loved one. I hope the support of those around you and the addition of faith will help along your healing journey.

 

Coming together for the holiday is all about the gathering of friends and family. Simple holiday decor is one way to avoid getting stuck in holiday overload.  Try using things that you already have in different ways to spruce up your home this season.  

 

Here are just a few images from my table this Christmas. I will be giving thanks for all the many blessings of faith, good health, family and friends.

 

Silver tree branches used as a centerpiece with a few ornaments to keep it festive.

Some of you already know how much I love a faux fur stole on my wine bottles. These were gifts from close friends with a wonderful sense of humor but mostly a great sense of style.

Silver lined chandelier shades add to the theme.

Beautiful glasses are key when planning to have great spirits to bring in the New Year!

A dashing Santa rings the dinner bell as he hurries along!



We will be curing our sweet tooth by sharing a traditional Spanish Nougat "Turron"...Bueno!

 

Truffles also work really well to satisfy the chocolate lovers.

Ornamental snowflakes hang in the balance from the centerpiece.

I will be thinking of all our loved ones passed as God blesses our table.

My casual chairs felt a little sterile, so I used napkins and buttoned straps to adhere to the chairs giving them a more formal look. I also used pine cuttings and ribbons to dress picture frames that will act as place setting markers.

Simple solutions: These button strappings came with the napkins to hold them together!
Talk about a "no sew" project!

No need to guess what this gathering is all about, this napkin says it all!

SPEND MORE TIME CELEBRATING!

JUST ADD A FEW ORNAMENTAL BEAUTIES!

KEEP IT FESTIVE AND SIMPLE!

I TRULY HOPE THAT YOU SPEND YOU HOLIDAY FILLED WITH LOTS OF LOVE, LAUGHTER AND GODS BLESSING! WISHING YOU THE VERY BEST THIS HOLIDAY AND NEW YEAR!

                                                          -Michelle