Rustic Comfort

I typically follow a rule that too much of a good thing is too much of a good thing.  But a true rustic interior is my exception to that rule.   To achieve the warmth and comfort of a naturally aged space one has to really think about the authenticity of the finishes and textures.  It’s a great time to have fun with themed pieces and quirky antique accessories!   And keep in mind that back in the day, matching pieces were unheard of in most homes.   Enjoy the collecting and the collection!

To purchase items below or any goods found on included links, please contact me for price quote and lead times at :

jkern@designtheoryinteriors.com

  

I like this chair because it’s a nice comfortable piece but the natural finish legs, tiny nailheads and the ticking fabric say cozy.     by Halo Styles

Wonderful Swedish clock.  Comes in several washed colors.  by Halo Styles

This is a fun diversion.  Regency style front with reclaimed wood frame and zinc-covered drawers.    Also by Halo Styles

Pine Chest with metal frame.  Great cup-style hardware.  Also by Halo Styles

Fun Teak stool can serve as a stool or side table.  I like being able to see the naturally occurring imperfections in the wood.   by Interlude Home

Who can resist a multi-colored southwestern-style Ottoman.  Big enough to be a cocktail table if you used a tray for drinks.   by Interlude Home

Great Iron legs on this hide-covered stool!!    Also by Interlude Home

You can always find space for one or two fo this little ottomans!

by Interlude Home

Iron Scissor Small Dining Table.  Could also be a great console table with a lamp on it.     by The Old Wood Co.

Beautiful Houdini Expandable Dining Table.  Has 3 leaves that allows it to expand to 96″ long.    by The Old Wood Co

Monford Cocktail table.   Made in pecky cypress from the florida swamps.  The irregular grain and growth patterns are spectacular!    by The Old Wood Co

This is where our options have in the past been limited.   So you have a nice rustic space but what do you do with the TV?    Now, The Old Wood Company has created options for media cabinets and for mud rooms.   And these are available in other sizes as well.

OK, you have to admit these would be fun.  Steel legs and back are formed to create a faux bois look.  Also in bar height.   by  The Old Wood Co

Wine storage rack with pouring shelf!       by The Old Wood Co

Couldn’t resist showing this small bar set.  Loved the metal pedestal legs of the stools that form a root pattern.   Also by The Old Wood Co

Zuo Modern Contemporary Casual Dining Chair

Great contemporary dining chair.  Clean lines, lightweight, attractive pricing and kid friendly!  Zuo Mod is one of my favorite vendors for affordable contemporary furnishings!

Zuo Modern Contemporary Inc 

 

Interior Color Trends: The Tranquil Palette

by Jamie Kern, ASID, ARIDO
President of Design Theory Interiors

I don’t believe in color trends.   A trend is a passing fancy; a contrived style whose goal is to attract the masses for a short period of time.   We run out and spend our money on the current fad only to realize that everyone else has done the same thing and we’re now a drop in the bucket of mediocrity.  If my clients are willing to spend their hard-earned cash on my expertise, then I want to ensure they have spaces that are aesthetically pleasing for years to come.

So, let’s use the term “Color Trends” loosely and look at some really great spaces that have successfully achieved wonderful results.  This post we’ll focus on a tranquil palette that is soothing and peaceful.  And you’ll be surprised how many ways this can be achieved!

via on Pinterest

The white-on-white space is a sophisticated way to create a tranquil, relaxing space.  But you have to layer your whites; off-white, pure white, even a hint of tans/neutrals so that it doesn’t feel institutional.  and add punches of any color to relax the eye.  I love the unusual marriage of the pink and gold in the pillow and tabletop accessories in this photo.

via on Pinterest

How romantic is this?  Seafoam green walls with lots of white and hints of pink and neutral upholstery.  The French-style carved legs of the sofa and chair are ethereal and I love the contrast with the primitive bench.  I can almost feel the summer breeze blowing through the gossamer window treatments

via on Pinterest

Now this space achieves the same goal in a very different way.  Very calming and yet much more traditional.  Formal, yet still casual.  Pale blue walls and wonderful white painted trim is yummy with the wide plank painted floors.  Add a simple French provincial-style table and the room starts to relax.    Wonderful addition of texture and interest with the crystal chandelier and the metallic dining chairs

via on Pinterest

This is for the bohemian hiding in all of us.   Striped walls, alternating paint and wallpaper are so clever.  I love the asymmetrical placement of the antique frame.  Sets the casual tone of the room.  Again, a lot of white but in this case, toned down with a barrage of pastel accessories and even a hint of red to add  a little sexy.

via on Pinterest

This bedroom is the epitomy of sophistication.  Much more going on in this room with the patterned wallpapaper, rug and bed throw, but the cool colors paired with white bedding is stunning.  And any space is enhanced with a hint of black to add visual depth.  Notice the finish on the chandelier.  That’s a topic I’ll be pursuing in the next couple of weeks so stand by!

via on Pinterest

And finally, we have sleek and contemporary.   This space pairs whites and neutrals in a range of shades so that you get nice rich browns without feeling like you’re in a cave.  The space is still bright, crisp and soothing.

Check back!   Next I’ll be introducing my favorite color palette . . . . . .