Designer Inspiration/Trends, For the Kids

Top 5 Must Haves for Back to School!

 Bust out those backpacks! It’s back to school time- we’re sad that summer is coming to a close, but look forward to cooler temperatures and crisp autumn air.  We’ve made our list of back to school must haves- so sharpen that No. 2 and jot these down.

1. The I-Pad. You know you want one.  Judy says of hers, “It’s having all the things you love to do in one place!” She listens to music, peruses the news, checks the weather, and reads on her device.  Molly adores the speed and clarity of the I-Pad.

2. Home Office Organization – Remember how new school supplies inspired your grade school self? Organization tools can also motivate you. Design Lines loves the Container Store of Raleigh- where you can find boxes, calendars, pin boards, shelving, etc. 

3. The perfect after school snack – It’s still hot out in the Triangle. Take a break with popsicles or a cool refreshing glass of peach iced tea.

  

    

4. Inspire your space – Find something that is your signature that makes you smile and use it- it could be the stamps you use or something like gold paperclips (Brittany’s favorite)- Use a beautiful glass container rather than a boring pencil cup or a shell from that summer vacation as your paper weight.  Consider the addition of wallpaper to the homework spot or beautiful new hooks to hang those backpacks from!

5. A back to school outfit – Reenergize now with an addition to your wardrobe- even if your back to school routine only includes a college class, the carpool line, or the PTA.

 

Some trends include colored denim, blazers, & stripes everywhere.   Consider the perfect bookish trend: new specs!

Be sure to check out last year’s list here. 

 

images – 1.  ballardbunch.blogspot.com 2. etsy.com 3. weheartit.com 4. magicmarkingsart.blogspot.com  5.  redbookmag.com 6. poppytalk.blogspot.com 7. williams-sonoma.com 8. southernliving.com 9. bhg.com 10. madebygirl.blogspot.com 11. grosgrainfabulous.blogspot.com 12. hm.com 13.  longenecker-storyshort.blogspot.com

A Closer Look Series

A Closer Look: Mickalene Thomas

I visited the North Carolina Museum of Art this week, and there was a great surprise in the contemporary galleries – a new large scale painting by Mickalene Thomas called The Three Graces. Painted this year, the piece measures an impressive 9 feet by 12 feet, and is made of thousands of rhinestones and acrylic paint.  And it’s absolutely beautiful!

The painting re-casts the Three Graces from Greek Mythology as African American Women dressed in 70’s clothing.  According to the artist’s website, she “introduces a complex vision of what it means to be a woman and expands common definitions of beauty.  Her work stems from her long study of art history and the classical genres of portraiture, landscape, and still life.”

Mickalene Thomas has gotten a lot of attention recently – a similar painting now hangs permanently in the window of the Museum of Modern Art in New York.  I  feel lucky to have one of her most significant paintings in the permanent collection of our local musuem.

-Robert

image 1: mickalenethoms.com

image 2: artknowledgenews.com

image 3: lehmannmaupin.com

Current Projects

Current Projects: A Living Room with Classic Southern Charm

 

One of our clients phoned DLL late last year after feeling like something was missing from their Raleigh home.  We began the design process together and started in the living room- as it is the central space where our clients entertain with their family and friends.  Keeping in mind the needs of the family with three kids and two dogs, we started with a nice canvas as the room featured beautiful symmetry, excellent natural light streaming through a trio of arched windows, built-in bookcases, a coffered ceiling classic, columns, and a gracious fireplace. 

 

Before Shot of a Design Lines Ltd. Project

 

A traditional Oriental rug with hues of copper, chocolate brown, cream, grey, and red presented the color scheme, and lounge chairs were in great shape so we were able to reupholster the pair. In order for the room to undergo the style transformation from builder’s best to beautiful- we went through the following processes:

 

 

Step one:  Wall Paint

Builder beige painted walls received a weathered French blue paint treatment. The color saturation is my favorite element of the room and the texture adds an aged look to keep the house from looking too new. 

 

Step two: Let there be light

Before- the architectural millwork wasn’t receiving any attention and the evenings were dimly lit. We searched for the perfect addition and this wooden chandelier from Currey & Co. won the prize.  The room benefits from another layer of light and the decorative fixture adds dimension and detail to the ceiling.  Personally, I like the shadow that’s reflected upon the ceiling- I think it feels like magic!

  

Curry & Co. Light

 

Step three: Consider more seating

Instead of utilizing the oh so average sofa plus cocktail table and a pair of chairs seating arrangement- the room was large enough for the space plan to include the clients existing pair of chairs (recovered), a new sofa upholstered in a dog friendly fabric, a leather cocktail ottoman, a small leather chair with French details that has become the daughter’s favorite, and what I call the “Papa chair” or a modern wingback with an ottoman. For any party, this space can reasonably sit 9! 

 

Step four: Personalize the space with great art

This beautiful Brian Hibbard painting, purchased at Artsource of North Hills above the mantle was a wedding anniversary gift exchange between my clients.  I love that the gift is something they can both enjoy daily and it adds a serene element that feels at home upon the textured walls. 

 

 

As a designer, the beauty of this room is found in the mix and composition of the finishes- wood, paint, metal, leather, and upholstery fabric.  When all was said and done- I think we achieved a classic Southern aesthetic without being too fussy- a room where my clients can look forward to relaxing with family after dinner or playing the role of hostess. The texture of the walls feel like what you might find on the ceiling of a sweeping porch, the dainty French chair is something that Bonnie Blue eyes would pull up in, and the character of brass upholstery buttons on the cocktail ottoman remind me of the buttons of a soldiers coat.   

What interior elements characterize Southern style and beauty to you? 

-Brittany

 

Design Lines Special Events, Hickory Chair

We Need Your Votes For The Hickory Chair Furniture Contest!

Hickory Chair Cenntennial Design Challenge Screen Shot


 


We need your votes for the Hickory Chair Furniture Company’s Centennial Design Challenge! Entries receive $10,000 worth of Hickory Chair product or the opportunity for Hickory Chair to make your own entry.


Design Lines Ltd. Submittal for Centennial Chair Contest


Rob has entered his design of a The Gothic Chair. The chair has an elaborate cut-out back inspired by English Gothic Architecture, which can be used as a dining chair or hall chair. Made of Mahogany with an upholstered seat and brass tack detailing, this chair would be equally suited to a traditional or contemporary setting.


So, go to Hickory Chair’s Facebok page and vote for Rob’s entry! You can vote for as many people as you want so be on the lookout for more entries from our firm. We will let you know when the submit their entry!


images: DLL

A Closer Look Series, Architecture

A Closer Look: Julius Shulman

You may not have heard of Julius Shulman, but I bet you’ve seen his photos.  Schulman (1910-2009) was the foremost architectural photographer of the 20th century, and was responsible for spreading the popularity of California modernism all over the world. 

Shulman lived in Los Angeles, and got his start when the architect Richard Neutra saw a photograph that Shulman had taken.   In the early 20th century, new ideas about architecture were spread mainly through images and publications.  Much like today, most people experienced design through photographs rather than personal experience.  At the forefront of architectural photography, Shulman shaped the way the rest of the world saw the newest buildings.

His unique way of composing photographs was true to modern aesthetics, and architects from around the world continued to seek his expertise until his death in 2009.  He was known for employing single-point persepective in his pictures; he held the camera horizontally so that all lines converged toward a vanishing point in the center of the frame. 

It may sound simple, but this trick allowed him to emphasize the clean lines, sweeping views, and dramatic perspectives inherent in modern buildings.   Tom Ford, famous Gucci designer,  once remarked that Shulman actually made buildings appear more beautiful than in real life. 

I highly recommend the 2008 movie Visual Acoustics, which chronicles the life and work of the photographer.  The film is narrated by Dustin Hoffman and features interviews with Frank Gehry and Tom Ford.  It also features numerous photographs and footage of modern landmarks – the next best thing to seeing these great buildings in person.  Here’s the trailer:

There is also a gigantic three book set on Shulman available from Taschen –  it’s defintely worth a look, though its price is equal to its heft!

I hope you’ll take a closer look and find that Julius Shulman has already influenced how you see the world.

-Robert

image 1: New York Times

image 2: blogspot

image 3: fascina

image 4&5: design kultur

Architecture, Community Involvement, Current Projects

Current Projects: NCSU Chancellor’s House Update

The Chancellor’s House at North Carolina State University is really starting to take shape!  We wanted to share some of the most recent photos with you.  The exterior is beginning to look awesome with the addition of concrete patios and planter boxes (below).  When all the landscaping is complete, it will be an inviting backyard retreat, and a great place to hold university functions.

Since we last posted, the interior has undergone major transformations with the addition of drywall, paint, and cabinetry.  Below, you can see one of the house’s 8 fireplaces, newly fitted with its stone surround and wood mantle.  This room will serve as the living quarters for the Chancellor’s distinguished guests.  A built-in desk will make it a comfortable place to work.

One of the biggest transformations happened when the staircase was painted.  The sensous curves of the stair are newly accented by black picketts lining both sides.  It looks really smart!

Upstairs, work is nearly complete on the Chancellor’s family room, a lofty space with tons of natural light.   Below, you can see a few of the home’s finished doors.  All the doors will be painted black and accented with polished chrome hardware.

The floor stain was finalized last week (below).  Applied over a beautiful oak floor, the timeless color we chose will complement the mahogany woodwork throughout the first floor.

When we visited, the kitchen cabinets were still being installed.  They are looking great! (above)

The master bathroom is starting to come together – marble tile of different sizes is being applied throughout.  Glass panels for the shower will be one of the finishing touches.

There are so many new things to see everytime we visit the house.  It’s exciting to see how quickly things are coming together – but there is still a lot  to be done!  Above, you can see the fireplace in the Dining Room waiting for its wood mantle (above left).  One of the most impressive features of the house (yet to be installed) will be the front door and flanking windows.  Currently, a temporary plywood partition protects the opening (above right).  I can’t wait to see how beautiful the entrance hall looks when it’s finished!

For more on the Chancellor’s house, check out our previous posts:

March 23, 2011

July 19, 2010  

-Robert

images: by DLL

A Closer Look Series, Architecture

A Closer Look: Francis Cape

Can woodwork be fine art?  After seeing the work of Francis Cape, the answer is a resounding “yes.”

This artist, originally trained as a woodworker in England, has brought the mastery of his craft to galleries and museums in the US, and he’s getting a lot of attention.

But his work isn’t quite what it seems.  Taking paneling techniques from the Shakers and other traditional sources, Cape takes woodworking to a new level.  Unlike its traditional inspirations, the only function of these cabinets is visual.  The doors, even with their carefully-installed hinges, don’t open.

Cape’s removal of function casts cabinetry in a new light,  opening new possibilities for the medium.  Many of his installations reference history and memory, serving as mediator between the physical present and a romanticized past.  His works force us to consider the spaces we inhabit, while reference meaningful architectural spaces outside of the gallery – from church confessionals to historical monuments.

Most of Cape’s work is painted, but his choice of color is anything but expected.  Not-quite-garish colors that are clearly out of fashion set many pieces apart from their contemporary background.  Perhaps these are a historical reference, or a way of bringing an overlooked art more clearly into the open.  Either way, Cape certainly has me thinking differently about cabinetry these days.

For me, Cape’s work hits close to home.  We spend a lot of time as Design Lines creating cabinetry for our clients.  Of course, it almost always serves some purpose. It was an eye-opening experience to see how Cape turns this functionality on its head, transforming simple wood panels into something loaded with meaning.

-Robert

all images: http://www.franciscape.com & www.murrayguy.com

 

Uncategorized

Blogfest 2011: Eye Candy from New York Design Center

 

Enjoy this visual feast for your Tuesday morning!

 

 

 

 

During Blogfest 2011, Hilarie had the opportunity to explore many showrooms at the New York Design Center! First to visit was Atelier, which was an assortment of sleek, innovative, and contemporary designs.

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Next – the Palecek showroom expressed their effortless ability to mix and weave natural fibers into unique statement pieces. Palecek’s extensive and award winning line draws inspiration from all over the world as well as using renewable materials.

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Arteriors is known for their unique accessories, furniture and lighting with timeless appeal and a nod to latest trends.

 

 

The Arteriors showroom featured a new and custom lamp line, Mottega, created by designer Eileen Kathryn Boyd, who is known for her eclectic style and impeccable taste. With choices including shape, color, base, finial, and shade type anyone, even you can design a one-of-a-kind lamp.

 

 

 

 

With a hundred years under their belt, Hickory Chair has an enormous selection of furntiure, all of which  are timeless and authentic designs drawn from significant periods and places.

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images 1-3. Atelier 4-6. Palecek 7-8. Arteriors 9. Mottega 10-13. Hickory Chair

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June and July Birthday Lunch!

The months of June and July were full of Design Lines Birthdays. Traditionally, we all go out for a nice lunch to celebrate the current birthdays. We took the opportunity to enjoy the delicious and custom menu at Flights which is located in the Renaissance Hotel at North Hills.

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Ashley’s husband, Dean Thompson, is one of the executive chefs at Flights and worked hard on our amazing three course meal. We also had the pleasure of touring one of the new and modern Club Suites in addition to the Club Lounge. Everything was beautiful including the food! 

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images – 1-4. Personal 

A Closer Look Series

A Closer Look: The Farnsworth House

Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, often called Mies – was one of the most important pioneers of modern architecture.  He began his career in Berlin, where he soon established a reputation as a talented and capable designer, despite lacking of a formal education.

In 1937, Mies reluctantly emigrated to Chicago, where he began a program of teaching at the Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT).  He became well-established in Chicago and designed many projects over his 31 year career there.  Many of his buildings, including the Federal Court Complex and Lakeshore Drive Apartments are still an important part of the city’s skyline.

But one of the most unusal projects that the architect undertook was a home for a physician named Dr. Edith Farnsworth.   Built in 1950-51, it is a one-room weekend retreat in a once-rural setting, located 55 miles southwest of Chicago.  The building consists of simple slabs of concrete supported by steel columns.  The entire perimeter of the home is made of plate glass that stretches from floor to ceiling. 

This building is simplicity at its best.  And it’s no surprise, considering Mies van der Rohe is sometimes credited with coining the phrase “Less is More.”   But the building’s simplicity belies the fact that it was actually very expensive, at a cost of $74,000 (that’s about $1 million in today’s dollars).

The main materials are wood cabinetry, travertine floors, steel structure, and silk curtains.  Inside, everything is simple, harmonious, and plain.  An ingenious in-floor radiant heating system even eliminates the need for air vents.

The home is open for public tours – and it’s definitely worth the trip. Check out the wesbite: http://www.farnsworthhouse.org/

-Robert

image 1: http://projects.cbe.ab.ca/glendale/showcase/2011gr56/inquiry_karshproject.html

image 2: flickr

image 3: philobiodesign.blogspot.com

image 4: ifitshipitshere.blogspot.com

image 5 & 6: picasaweb.google.com