And in our world, we find it hard to put anything in front of style, even if it is branded as “eco-friendly”. Our clients’ happiness is based on our successful designs, and how well we match the idea they had in their head of their beautifully remodeled room, office, restaurant or home.

Now, if they want an entirely environmentally friendly space, or just a few pieces, we do know where to look. And we’ve put together a list of some of these companies here for you to see that nobody has to sacrifice style to be green:

1. Montauk Sofa: These Canadians have been concerned about their effect on the planet since day one. And even though they admit that they aren’t quite 100% there, they have been a carbon-neutral company since 2006. That said, you look at the designs Montauk Sofa creates, you don’t care that they’re “green” or not—it’s just icing on the cake. They are committed to providing the market with the most fashionable, comfortable and stylish sofas they can, while making no impact on the environment. Their designs have an impact! We love this chaise lounge, with its turned-wood legs and—our favorite—upholstery nails that line the edges.

2. LEE Furniture: Who isn’t going to like a company who makes its product in the U.S. of A? Since the 80s, they’ve eliminated any products that used chloroflourocarbon (CFC) gases in their manufacturing components, and they did this on their own, without any government rule or regulation. They use computers to reduce waste and recycle almost 100 percent of their raw materials for use in other products. And the fact that you can choose from a “Natural Lee” collection is fantastic too: soy-based cushions, recycled fiber filling for pillows, organic and natural fabrics, FSC and SFI-certified wood frames and water-based finishes. This is one of their many furniture options, and of course we picked this wing chair to feature because it rocks the upholstery tacks, too.

3. David Rasmussen Design: Hands up—who doesn’t know that LRM Interior Design is a fan of mid-century modern furniture? Nobody? Good. We love the quote from Interior Design magazine about this man’s furniture: “Anyone who says things aren’t made the way they used to be should consider David Rasmussen…” And we have. This Curve A Linear easy chair is very easy on the eyes, and we love the stainless steel details and that it’s inspired by “the very best of Danish design”. The arms are made of figured claro walnut which complement the green wool upholstery, but it is available in many fabrics. He also works directly with architects and interior designers to bring their ideas to life, and everything is handcrafted using traditional joinery techniques. That’s craftsmanship.

4. Uhuru Design: The name might remind you of Star Trek, but there’s nothing “Trekkie” about this company’s products. Many of their pieces are made from “materials that have been reclaimed, recycled, repurposed, reused or otherwise rejected from their original function,” as they say themselves. And we’re glad they were rejected, because now we have furniture like their Cairns Credenza. A blackened steel frame surrounds leather-clad walnut. Leather on the front of a credenza? We love it. As with all of their pieces, this is available in custom sizes and finishes, and is hand-built to order, signed and numbered by the maker in Red Hook, Brooklyn.

5. John Beck Paper & Steel: This welder-turned-furniture-maker from Illinois tells it like it is: He’s not “green”, he’s responsible. Using water-based patinas, eco-friendly clear coat, recycling what they can, planting trees and giving back to the community is what they do because “it’s the right thing to do, makes common sense and holds us accountable for our actions.” We like that. We also like his style, especially in this Wood and Steel table, which uses 100-year-old reclaimed wood stained black and waxed, with white steel frame and top dividers. Although custom colors and sizes are available (we think it would make an amazing boardroom table), quantities are limited. There can’t be too many 100-year-old reclaimed pieces of wood lying around.

Are you looking for a more ecological solution to your home design? Did you assume that all new furniture was contributing to global warming? LRM Interior Design always has a solution for the needs of their clients, whether it is an eco-friendly rocking chair for the nursery or a dining table made from a naturally fallen tree. Call us now for a consultation to see how we can help you with your interior design needs, residential or commercial. (949) 497-6806

We wanted to share with you some easy, fun and affordable table decorations for Thanksgiving that didn’t involve pumpkins, corncobs, turkeys or cranberries. We love tradition, but we love to mix it up at this festive holiday time of year. All of these items can be purchased online, except of course the Martha Stewart item, which is more of a do-it-yourself. But that just makes it all the more special when everyone sits down at your beautiful Thanksgiving table.

1. Rona Amber Placemats and Aubergine Napkins: Who can resist Crate & Barrel? We can’t pass the store without going in and browsing their products, which are always made with that perfect combination of good design and great styling. This combination is no different—the richness of the purple cloth napkins bring out the berries’ color and bring out the sparkle of the metallic leaves. And we just love the embroidery that gives these placemats a wonderful texture! Hopefully no one will spill cranberry sauce on them at Thanksgiving…

2. Acorn Vase Fillers: Even though these are made of plastic, we don’t have real acorns lying around here in Laguna Beach. We could head out to the foothills and find some under the oak trees, but Pottery Barn has us covered if we don’t have time to forage in the forest. We love the combination of the hanging jars, candles and acorns, and we’d leave these up all holiday season for a festive look that doesn’t scream “Thanksgiving!” Just please do remember to extinguish all candles before you retire for the evening, even though these are in glass jars.

3. Grape Centerpiece: Ahh, Martha Stewart. No one makes you feel lazier than Martha Stewart when it comes to decorating. What we forget is that she has a team of people creating all these stunning ideas, so don’t beat yourself up about it. What we loved about these centerpieces is that they are edible and, as Ms. Stewart reminds us, please make sure to use washed grapes and non-poisonous leaves to accompany them, just in case your guests start nibbling. With all the farmer’s markets around these days, it shouldn’t be a problem to find some big, beautiful grape clusters to use for your centerpiece! Do note in the photo that Martha has added them above the fireplace, too.

4. Gold Nest Runner: Give your table that extra sparkle with this beautiful woven gold runner from Z Gallerie. This piece adds texture and interest to the center of the table, and best of all, can be used all year round for special occasions! This would work well with the grape centerpiece and the purple napkins, but keep the placemats simple with this runner. The trick is to dazzle your guests, not give them a headache!

5. Hobnail Pitcher: We usually think “clothes” when it comes to Anthropologie, but they’ve got the same unique tastes when it comes to home goods, too. We loved the rich color and texture of this pitcher, which would be perfect to have as a water server on the table. The pitcher feels vintage, but with such a modern look that we know Jonathan Adler, one of our faves, would adore it too. And did you notice, this would definitely go with all the other pieces mentioned above…

Are you ready for family visiting for Thanksgiving? Do you need a few rooms refreshed, or perhaps new furniture to accommodate guests? Call LRM Interior Design now for a consultation—there’s no time to spare now that we are so close to the holidays. We would love to help you get your home in tip-top shape for your holiday guests. (949) 497-6806

This week we present the guru of mid-century modernity, Senior Designer Jan Smith. Jan is a true fan of classic styling, and appreciates the quality that only good craftsmanship and design can provide. She’s also a stickler for comfort—Jan is not one to take beauty if it’s uncomfortable. As the Bauhaus motto enforced “form and function”, so does Mrs. Smith.

To the point, this girl knows what a good dining room chair looks like! Let’s get her top five picks:

1. Møller Model 77 Side Chair: Our Lady of the Table loves the clean lines of mid-century modern, and this is a great example. “Danish furniture is close to my heart,” explains Jan. “I love the use of bent wood, the clean sweep of fabric on the seat and the overall feel of this chair.” The bent-wood back makes it perfectly comfortable for long, leisurely dinners like Thanksgiving—which is right around the corner! This chair is also very versatile, and could be used in other seating arrangements, like a guest chair in a corporate or home office.

2. Wegner Wishbone Chair: Too much Danish furniture is never enough, and especially when they’re a classic like this one. The Wishbone is one of Hans Wegner’s most identifiable designs, and it was introduced back in 1950. This Danish Modernist created a frame of solid wood, and the seat is made from “papercord”, a resilient rope woven of paper that was developed in Sweden. “I love everything about this chair,” says Jan. “It has lovely lines and a timeless style that speaks to me.” We’re sure it’s saying “Take me home, Jan!”

3. Caribou Club Armchair: Moving from Northern Europe to the Wild Wild West with the weathered look of the Caribou Club armchair. The exposed wooden frame is complemented by the dark tones of the leather and the meticulously hammered upholstery tacks that line the wings and the arms. “I love this clean yet rustic take on the wing-back chair. It makes the art of dining almost business like,” explains Jan. This would be a great chair to have at both heads of the table for a fine family gathering.

4. Coral Side Chair: After the imposing nature of the last chair, this is a softer, gentler side of Jan’s selection, with the beige seat offsetting the almost pearlescent white of the base and back. The row of upholstery tacks make this chair less feminine than it could be, allowing it to cross into more grown-up territory like the dining room. Jan comments: “I like the sculptural elements of this chair. The coral detail can go either beach-chic or glamorous.”

5. Settee: Any of them. Jan’s right when she says “I am a huge fan of settees at a dining table. It encourages snuggling and leisurely dining.” And many of us have lost the tradition of lingering over a meal, enjoying friends a food and not just finishing the food and rushing off to the next event. With a meal like the one at the Smiths’, you’ll need a settee—not just to lie down on when you’re stuffed, but because the company, the food and the libations are so wonderful you’ll never want the meal to end. And every holiday meal should be like that!

We know we’ve given you way too many choices, and some of our favorites won’t necessarily match your style or your home. Why not arrange a consultation to see how we can help you get your home in shape for the holidays? Or, if you love these selections, please call us so we can help you purchase them and get them delivered to your home. Call right away if you need the furniture before the holidays to ensure it is delivered in time.

Let LRM Interior Design provide your taste with our touch this holiday season. Call now for your consultation: (949) 497-6806.

For some young adults, this will be the first time they really have a place to themselves. Yes, they’ll still be surrounded by tens or even hundreds of other students, but they won’t be surrounded by family. So make it nice for them! But a word to the wise—don’t take over. Let them personalize the space and make it their own. We’ve compiled some of our favorite items we think would look great and be useful in a small space.

1. 10-Hook Overdoor Hanger: Umbra’s® Birdie hanger allows for hanging bookbags, purses, hats, scarves and coats on the back of a door and voila, there’s more space in the closet! And less clutter on the floor, which makes for better relations if your child is sharing a dorm room. We also like the matching Birdie wastebasket too, all available at The Container Store.

2. Pomeroy Dream Turquoise Reed Diffuser: Our young ladies aren’t as odiferous, shall we say, as their male counterparts, but that doesn’t mean that a few all-nighters with pizza boxes and way too many Starbucks cups in the trash won’t make the dorm room smell a bit. And that’s why Mom bought them a reed diffuser that looks, like, cool and stuff and not like yours. Especially not like yours.

3. BURSJÖN Stool with Storage: We think this would be a fantastic hamper, as it hides the dirty clothes (that’s if somebody bothers to put the clothes in there), has vents at the top, but is also a stool! It can be tucked in the corner most of the time, but if a fellow student comes over and seating is at a premium, they’ll be happy this stool has a dual purpose.

4. Tvilum Blink Bookcase: This compact bookshelf is 30″ square, which means you can stack two or more side by side or on top of each other to fit your small space! We love that the shelves are not evenly sized, and that there’s a wee drawer in the middle that gives not just a pop of color (it’s reversible and has a different color on the back), but also a little hidey-hole. Note: If you do stack these shelving units, please attach them to the walls so they don’t fall on someone during a “rager”—oops, we mean small get-together with tea and cakes, Mom.

5. Large Tint Stacking Drawers: These are seriously awesome, and not your regular stacking drawers. They come in six colors, plus boring “clear”, and they are perfect for clothes, stationery or any other item that you don’t mind having a little on show. If you can’t tuck these away in a closet (which would be a shame to hide them!), we recommend choosing two colors, like your son’s favorite sporting team colors, and alternate colors on the stack. We’d choose purple and gold, naturally.

Need any other tips for your young college student’s dream dorm room? How about remodeling their old room at home into that spare bedroom, office or home gym you’ve always wanted? Call LRM Interior Design now to arrange your free consultation: 949-497-6806.

It's him! Jonathan Adler!

Frankly, we’re surprised that those fashionable, stylish Brits haven’t jumped on Jonathan Adler, bundled him up and taken him off to their damp but decadent wilds of London. Luckily they haven’t, because we feel, here at LRM Interior Design, that he’s a national treasure. And he’s all ours.

Although, of course, we will allow him to have a store there, on the ever-so-posh Sloane Avenue in South Kensington, or “South Ken” to locals and those in the know. He’ll be hobnobbing with all the top names there—Paul Smith and Joseph, two of the UK’s top clothing brands—plus be right around the corner from Sloane Square and all the fab shops down the King’s Road. But don’t get us started; we’ll be booking tickets on British Airways in a minute if we keep going on about it!

It’s not opening til next month, but to give you a preview, we wanted to show you some of our top faves from the glorious Mr. Adler. So, as the Brits say, let’s get on with it, then!

1. The iPad Cover: First of all, it’s LRM policy that everyone has some form of Jonathan Adler stationery at work, be it file folders, pencil cases or a notebook. We’ll be surprised if Jan Smith, Senior Designer and recent recipient of an iPad2 for her birthday, isn’t sporting one of these very soon. For $30, you’ll have the most stylish iPad ever made because it’s covered in one of Jonathan Adler’s signature bold designs. Don’t ever let anyone borrow it; they’ll steal the cover even if they can’t steal the iPad!

2. The Adler App: What else would you have on your Adler-covered iPad but the Jonathan Adler app? Unfortunately it cannot summon the man himself, but you get all sorts of amazing, interactive goodies, from a gift finder and the “Product du Jour” to inspirations, photos and comments from fans. It’s all kinds of wonderful, and frankly, we can’t get enough!!

3. Horse: No, not the playground game, but this midnight-glazed horse head sculpture. We love horses as a masculine décor accessory, and this one has the cleanest of lines with an unusually gorgeous color. This high-fired stoneware piece is over a foot high and just over 10″ wide, and is part of the Menagerie collection. Each prototype is hand carved, then made by a studio in Peru, which Adler found through Aid to Artisans, a non-profit organization that links American designers to artisans in developing countries. Nice!

4. Bedding: Live in Hollywood wherever you are in the world with Adler’s stunning Hollywood bedding set. We can’t decide between the simpler embroidered design or the full on grey-and-white patterned version. Of course the sheets are made of 100% cotton percale and even the duvet cover has a 400 thread count. Who wouldn’t want to sleep surrounded by a Jonathan Adler pattern?

5. Ventana Mirror: Mirrors are an essential part of a home’s décor, in our opinion, and Mr. Adler certainly has a few that make our pulses race. This Ventana mirror being one of them. It comes in brass and black—perfect for our luxury bachelor pads— and nickel and white, which will fit nicely in our contemporary designs. We certainly can’t wait to use either of them. Mirror, mirror, on the wall, who’s the best OC designer of all? LRM Interior Design? We thought so.

If you need help accessorizing your home, we can help. We are constantly on the lookout for the perfect pieces for our clients’ homes, scouring physical and online sources to bring them the best pieces on their budget. Call (949) 497-6806 to arrange a complimentary consultation with Lisa McDennon, our fearless, and fiercely talented, leader. Or click here to send her an email directly.

We design the whole area and make our tile suggestions that fit within the client’s budget, of course. Then we go through all the tile selections with the client, either at their residence, business or at the showroom, whichever is most appropriate for the client and the size and quantity of the tile.

Then we create a detailed CAD drawing that measures out every little thing, down to the millimeter, down to the space for the grout. We leave no room for chance at LRM Interior Design; we want that tile installer to know exactly what we want him to do. We even make up styleboards that show each type of tile that will go in a certain area. And yes, the contractors love working with us for just this kind of attention to detail, because we help them get the job done right the first time.

But we digress. Today’s blog is not just about tile, but about cool, decorative metal tiles. Tile doesn’t just have to be ceramic, or even glass. The tile in a room, shower, backsplash or floor doesn’t have to be made from all one material. We love to mix it up!

And by metal tiles, we don’t mean those crazy tin ceiling tiles that you see in restored Victorian homes and buildings. Oh no, these are much more exciting…

Diamond Tech Tile

1. Round It Up: These metal tiles from Diamond Tech Tiles’ Metal Series™ are uber-modern and sleek, and we’d love to use them in a bathroom or kitchen backsplash in a luxury bachelor pad or other contemporary home. Unfortunately, they can’t actually be used IN the shower, which we’re trying not to be upset about. We’d love it if someone else will come up with a rust-proof version. Titanium, perhaps?

Westminster Verdigris Field Tile

2. Aged to Perfection: What’s better than copper? Verdigris copper. And Westminster Tile has this beautiful, 4″ x 4″ patinaed field tile, perfect for bathroom accents, powder rooms and kitchens. Especially kitchens—can you imagine how cozy and welcoming a kitchen would be with these tiles in it? We can. Let us show you how wonderful it would be in your kitchen.

Creative Metal Tiles

3. Waves of Water: These stunning tiles evoke the image of a clear stream, rain down a windowpane, or a waterfall, all wonderful images that make them a perfect addition to a master bathroom. They are versatile enough to be used in a traditional or contemporary setting, and if that wasn’t enough, they’re also made out of 50% post-consumer recycled content. Creative Metal Tile, we thank you.

Arizona Hot Dots

4. Straight to the Point: Don’t feel like getting all heavy metal in your interior design? Sometimes less is more, a philosophy we truly believe in. Arizona Hot Dots® have created bronze metal tile liners in a stunning Antique Brown finish. We could match these with the perfect non-metal tile for a design that you would fall in love with!

Crossville's Mixology Collection

5. Star-Crossed: For over 25 years, Crossville has created some of the most innovative tiles on the market, and their latest collection keeps to their tradition of breaking the industry mold. Their Mixology collection features seven designs in two sizes, 4″ x 4″ and 6″ x 6″, plus 10 trim options and two random mosaics  available in four distinctive finishes, providing 98 pieces to “mix” and match for commercial or residential installations. These also contain 50% post-consumer recycled content, continuing Crossville’s commitment to sustainability.

Looking to refresh the tile in your kitchen or bath? Want to create a statement with a beautiful tile design, or just need help with tile selection? Give LRM Interior Design a call to set up a complimentary consultation: (949) 497-6806.

We can’t put every one of our favorite light fixtures on the blog, but we’ve decided to round up some of the modern, edgy light fixtures that have caught our eye recently; there’s a lot of organic shapes, spaceship influences and mixed media here to be inspired by. We certainly were!

And yes, there’s more to come about our new project with Hinkley…be patient!

Box Light

1. Box Light—Design House Stockholm:”Everyday objects can be sculptural, too,” says Jan Smith, Senior Designer at LRM Interior Design. What looks like a simple, powder-coated aluminum rectangular container actually slides open to reveal a lamp. Slides open? Oh, yes. That means that you can actually control the illumination, almost like a dimmer switch, but more like an Aladdin’s lamp! Thank you to designer Jonas Hakaniemi—we love the Swedes for their design sensibility. The lamp stands 3/4-inches in height, uses an incandescent bulb and can be laid on a surface or suspended like a pendant lamp. Group two or more together for a dynamic lighting display.

Caviar Cluster

2. Caviar Cluster Chandelier—Arteriors Home: Beautiful glass globes encase what looks like illuminated, polished nickel trumpets in this dramatic chandelier. It would be like having delicate bubbles suspended permanently in your home! The organic shapes do not detract from the intrinsically elegant nature of this ceiling light fixture, and we think that it could be used to great effect in a contemporary home, or even as a surprising accent in a more traditionally styled home. Caviar is always a sign of good taste and luxury…

Infinity Pendant

3. Infinity Pendant—John Pomp Studios: How can something almost invisible pack so much punch? We’re not sure, but we think it’s the simplicity that does it. This hand-blown glass is the epitome of organic shaping, and has a slight iridescence to it, making it almost ethereal. Can you even really call it a “shade”? The pendant is delicate but stunning, and we can see a row of them over a long dining table or a single one over a contemporary round dining table. What a perfect lamp—it’s shade goes with every color and pattern!

Ice Block Pendant

4. Ice Block—Conant Metal & Lighting: This lamp perfectly blends vintage with contemporary; an old-fashioned set of ice tongs holding a lamp shade made to look like a block of ice! Our mind is spinning thinking of the fun ways you can use this lamp. Restaurant, historic property, or even a mountain lodge-style home, like the project we’re finishing up in June Lake—all would be great places to install this hand-crafted light fixture. Did we mention the glass is recycled?

Atlantis

5. Atlantis—Hinkley Lighting: We couldn’t leave off Hinkley, what with a new project in the works. This lamp is made for the outdoors, one of the more recent collections that Hinkley has released. We loved how sleek these wall sconces were, and the subtlety of the light itself, perfect for gently guiding people through a garden or outdoor space. Choose from aluminum or bronze to accent your landscaping, and Hinkley provides many variations in the Atlantis collection, including post lighting and pocket lamps.

If you are interested in any of these light fixtures, or need a consultation on your home’s lighting needs, please contact LRM Interior Design by calling (949) 497-6806 or click here to use our online contact form.

And that’s not to say that much of what they’re hoarding needs to be thrown out, but if you’re not using these items, perhaps it’s because it’s packed so far back in a cupboard you forget about it. Or, you could be like Katherine Caporale, the newest member of the LRM Interior Design team, someone who was brought up to save the best items for special occasions. “I subconsciously incorporated my mother’s philosophy into my attitude towards my possessions,” Katherine explains. “For instance, my Christofle sterling silver sits waiting for a holiday to be admired. But this year’s spring cleaning will be a rebirth for all the lovely pieces that have been leading a cloistered existence in the china closet!”

And why don’t we all take Katherine’s lead? Clear out those items that you put in the cupboard to hide, and take out the beautiful items that should be admired by all who see it, every single day. Here’s some fantastic ideas on how to showcase those items, plus some refreshing spring ideas from our fearless leader, Lisa McDennon herself!

The perfect storage solution for a shoe collection

1. SHOES: Now, we know that there are ladies out there that like sensible shoes, and there’s nothing wrong with that. But let’s face it, whether they are sensible shoes or fabulous Manolo Blahniks, most of us girls are obsessed with our shoes. So why shut them away in the closet? We love this shoe storage tower with space for 18 pairs of shoes and six handbags. Lined with pale grey fabric that keeps shoes and handbags in great shape, the cubbies can be readjusted to hold boots or specially sized shoes or bags. I don’t know about you, but I’m looking for the “buy!” button! Just call the girls at LRM Interior Design and they can get you pricing: (949) 497-6806.

Display items on this contemporary bookshelf

2. DISPLAY: Bookcases can be so, well….boring. It’s shelving, after all, right? But, as usual, Arteriors manages to do something innovative with a piece that seems to be unchangeable or unimprovable. This limed-oak bookshelf would provide a subtle contemporary styling to a bedroom, living room or home office, but it’s not just for books! It could even display items in a dining room instead of the usual china cabinet. Don’t forget that there isn’t a back to this shelving unit, meaning that the wallcovering behind it will show right through, adding another decorative element to what you display on its shelves. Carmine Grey Limed-Oak Bookshelf, available through LRM Interior Design: (949) 497-6806.

Entryway storage is key with a family

3. ENTRY: Do you have a problem with other people’s clutter? Do you have busbands, wives, children (or even visitors!) who come in to your house and drop their belongings in the entryway? This Benedict Entry Bench is the answer to all of your problems! It’s almost 4-feet long, with three deep drawers and 10 deep cubbies for storing all types of items as they come through the front door. Bookbags, purses, briefcases—even toys—can be neatly and safely tucked away. And, since it’s made from zinc, it’s long wearing and durable. Also available from LRM Interior Design. Call (949) 497-6806 for pricing.

The lines of this Waterworks tub are gorgeous

4. SOAK: “Last year I changed out my kitchen faucet,” remembers Lisa McDennon. “And it inspired me to want an entire kitchen remodel!” And it’s no surprise that this soaking tub from Waterworks is making us all think of a bathroom remodel. Is your bathtub built in? Do you only have a shower? Discover how truly delightful a bath can be with a deep, contemporary soaker like this one. As a matter of fact, this tub is so gorgeous, we dare you not to want to remodel around it once it’s installed… Call (949) 497-6806 for pricing from LRM Interior Design.

Try a wallpaper insert or a starburst mirror in the dining room

5. HANG: Is replacing your tub too big of a step to take right now? No problem. We have ways for you to start small and work your way up to the bathroom remodel. Try adding a stunning oversized object to a room, like this fantastic starburst mirror. We have used something similar over a bed, but in this case we hung it over the dining room buffet, to great effect. We have many sources for these type of striking mirrors and hung objects, so don’t hesitate to ask us to do the shopping for you. If you look at the ceiling of the dining room, you’ll see another little trick: a wallpaper insert that provides a unique touch to the dining experience. The F. Schumacher wallpaper and mirror are both available at LRM Interior Design, and other styles and colors are available; all you have to do is ask. (949) 463-8134.

So, hooray for spring, and let’s bring those wonderful items out for not just display, but use too! And make sure to donate those pieces that are cluttering up your home to a thrift store near you. Try not to be sentimental about pieces that are not adding beauty, value or usefulness to your home. Out with the old, and in with SPRING!

Mies van der Rohe's Farnsworth House in gingerbread

1. Gingerbread Modern Houses: You don’t need to throw tradition out the window; that’s not what we’re saying! But how about getting a little creative with the spiced-and-baked architecture? Gingerbread houses can easily be built from using a kit that you buy at the store, but that’s too easy. How about a gingerbread house inspired by Mies van der Rohe’s Farnsworth House? Before you think you need to be an Ace of Cakes—oh wait, yes you do. This one was created by April Reed Cake design and took over 25 hours to make! And you don’t even want to know how much it cost….but 15% of the proceeds went to the restoration project in the works for Farnsworth House when it was damaged in a flood a few years ago.

Dress up your pillows for the holidays

2. Pillows as Presents: We’re not advocating that you take your sofa pillows, wrap them up and start distributing them as gifts; not at all. (You could give someone a new pillow as a gift though!) But in the spirit of the holidays, why not take your pillows and wrap them with ribbon just like a present? Be creative: mix and match colors and ribbons to create a festive room. “It’s like a gift for your sofa and chairs!” says Jan Smith.

Z Gallerie's antler candlesticks are great alternative decor

3. Reindeer, Interrupted: Don’t worry—this is not Rudolph or Prancer, and they have not lost their antlers. These Marquette candlestick pair from Z Gallerie are cast in brass with a pewter finish. No animals were harmed in the making of these antler candleholders! Melissa Morgan says that these are “a fun, unique, and festive way to dress up your table!  Can be used for either a formal or casual dinner party.  These would also look great on a mantle or anywhere else in the home.  I love these!” But still, perhaps not the best choice for those with small children…

Use found items and gold paired with an unusual color

4. Ban Red and Green:  “I love the use of colors not normally used for the holidays like teal, brown and aqua,” says Jan Smith, Senior Designer. Many of us near the beach like to use found objects for decorating, especially for special occasions.  “I like the use of shells for not only the napkin holders but as table accents. Great for a sophisticated, beachy motif.”

Make your own centerpiece with branches and glitter

5. Get Your Glitter On: Nothing’s more fun than creating decor or gifts by yourself. With or without little ones to help you, get the Elmer’s glue out and as many kinds of glitter you can find at a craft store. Take a walk in your nearby nature area, be it a park or actual nature, and pick up some twigs and branches. Cover the table with newspaper and just go crazy! Melissa Morgan, a fan of all things glitter, found this idea from Martha Stewart, Queen of all things decorated, baked, sewn and generally gorgeous. “I love to use glitter in all of my holiday decorations, says Melissa. “This is sure to impress your friends and family, young or old.” For detailed instructions on the Martha Stewart site, please click here.

And without further ado, here’s our staff’s top picks:

Palmer by Niche Bedding

1. Palmer by Niche: Anyone who knows Senior Designer Jan Smith knows that her favorite colors are black and white, preferably together. So no surprise that she picked out Niche Bedding’s Palmer line, a modern but versatile bedding ensemble. “You can never go wrong with a crisp, white duvet cover,” says Jan. “And you can always add a pop of color to this set to make it your own.” Jan’s favorite part? “The graphic design on the shams is just delicious.” It brings a new meaning to eating in bed!

John Robshaw Indigo Turban Bedding

2. Anything by John Robshaw: Lisa McDennon is a fan of John Robshaw, and although we chose the Indigo Turban bedding pattern for the photo, all of his patterns are hits for her. “He has a great niche in the market,” explains Lisa. “His patterns have an ethnic, Moroccan and Indian influence that I love. The color and patterns are amazing—subtle yet unique.” Robshaw traveled to India as many young people do, but he fell in love with the textiles, and has decided to recreate them back here in the U.S. And we say thank you!

Giacosa by Designers Guild

3. Giacosa by Designers Guild: Melissa Morgan loves this British textile manufacturer. “They always have on-trend fabrics and wallpapers—and now bedding!” she says. And sticking with our gorgeous to touch theme, she also notes that the Giacosa collection is made from cotton sateen, so it doesn’t just look great, it’s feels great too. Those Brits understand the importance of a warm, comfy bed, we’ve realized…

Yvonne by Wildcat Territory

4. Yvonne by Wildcat Territory: Don’t worry, this bedding won’t attack you, but rather keep you snug in it’s stylish and modern design. Can you guess who picked this one? Yes, it’s Jan Smith again, loving the monochrome look. “This is a simple, classic bedding design that is like a blank canvas for whatever you want your bedroom to be,” Jan explains. “The sky is literally the limit with this ensemble,” she says, as it can be paired with either contemporary or traditional accents for a beautiful result every time.

Gate Ash by Dwell Studios

5. Gate Ash Duvet Set by Dwell Studios: This is a monochrome set too, but in a different way, as it starts with a rich, dusty brown. The bold pattern caught Melissa’s eye: “I absolutely love this pattern! Being monochromatic, you can add any color you wish to the palette.” Again, the LRMID designers are always looking at ways to customize even “off-the-shelf” products for their clients.

LRMID can create custom bedding and furniture

6. Custom Bedding by LRM Interior Design: Okay, this one’s cheating. But we were really pleased with how the custom bed turned out in this room. It wasn’t just the linens that were custom designed and made, the headboard, the curtains and the pillows on the window seat were all made to order. This bedroom won an ASID award, by the way! So when you can’t find the perfect bedding, just call us at LRM Interior Design, and we’ll design something that’s completely unique and just right for your room. Kari Seydewitz loves creating soft furnishings; she’ll be happy to get started right away. We also make custom furniture. It’s the perfect idea for a holiday gift for that person who has everything!