And that just means that our job = what we love the most. Shopping! And even if we don’t shop in the traditional manner, we bookmark these items we fall in love with, both digitally and literally, to refer back to when the time is right to purchase for a project.

So, here are some pieces that were picked out by the award-winner herself, Lisa McDennon, with her inimitable taste and style.This time we’re looking at pieces that are categorized as “modern”—whether that’s Mid-Century Modern or contemporary. Enjoy!

—Acrylic Tables by ArtStyleInnovation: Are they side tables? Ottomans? Art? All three? These pieces are so versatile, we just can’t get enough of them! Especially when you can get them in clear OR smoked acrylic. We love the smoked acrylic for our  luxury bachelor pad projects; they’re masculine and contemporary all at the same time. Don’t be shy—use more than one! They’re only $450 each and you can get custom-made pieces. They’re perfect to pull out for those occasions where you have more than the usual number of people over. Not enough room for drinks? Voilá! Pull out one or more of these acrylic tables. Problem solved—stylishly.

—Buckley Chevron Lamp by Jill Rosenwald Studio: Mmmm, this lamp is delicious! The oval base comes in white and your choice of navy, taupe or coral. What a perfect lamp to brighten up a dull corner of a room! This oval-base lamp and shade are only $395, which makes it a perfect choice for not breaking the bank. And beware: Lisa loves this lamp so much she wants to design a room around it! She’s done it before—click here for that story. Each of these slender, chic lamps come with a Belgian linen shade, a nickel plated 3 way socket, and a matching finial; it was also featured in Elle Decor, so you know it’s HOT.

—Mid-Century Modern Collection by Chelsea Textiles: Say “Mid-Century Modern style” to Lisa McDennon or Jan Smith, and watch them swoon. These ladies love the clean lines and enduring design of the period’s furniture, be it true vintage or reproductions. And we all love the collection by Chelsea Textiles. Can you say “ooh, details!”? Yes, we thought you would when you saw them. The bedside tables are to die for, and the chest of drawers are just perfect. When was the last time you saw a credenza that you liked that much? A dining table where the chairs actually slot in? If the devil’s in the detail, we’re definitely in bed with this devil…

If you’re interested in any of these pieces, let us shop for you! We can procure these pieces for you easily and at a great price. Plus, we can let you know if that chest of drawers will really fit in your spare room before you buy it. Call us to find out more: (949) 497-6806.

We couldn’t quite make this a Top Five Faves as we couldn’t whittle our choices down from six. We felt that these fabrics presented a range of reasons why we squeal when the new Robert Allen fabric books hit the studio. So, without further ado, here are our top picks:

1. Romantic: The rich cream fabric sets off the beautiful, sable-colored lace overlay, and we just love how this fabric is romantic without being sentimental or too Victorian. We use this “Royalty Lace” in Slate for window treatments and bedding, just for that reason—it’s something that appeals to women but men don’t think is too “girly”.

2. Eastern-Inspired: We had two picked for this category, but we settled on this one, as it has the Chinese-painting branches plus the addition of flowers and birds. Although this is available in three colorways, we love this Vintage Blossom fabric in Jade, as it can add a great sense of color to a room without being overpowering. Did we mention we like the birds?

3. Geometric: Another favorite, Omheining in Fog, is a graphic design print in a great neutral. So? Being a neutral allows it to be used as an accent fabric with multiple color schemes and design styles, and still have it’s own sass with the pattern. We like a fabric that’s both useful and knows how to sass.

4. Color: Pillows and smaller fabric-covered items are the best items in a room to use with bright colors, if you don’t want to be too dramatic. Why? Because it’s easier, and less expensive, to change out a few accent pillows rather than painting over the mustard yellow walls. Why not choose Mesa fabric in Lemon Curry? Not only does it sound yummy, it looks yummy.

5. Animal: We do love an animal print at LRM Interior design, and we can’t get enough of a zebra print. That’s why this one is so amazing—it’s grey on grey, rather than black on white, giving it a new subtlety. This way we can sneak in an animal print and not overpower the room! Zebra Lines in Twine is very durable and great for upholstery.

6. Stripes: Last but not least. We would love this one as a wallpaper, if we only could! True Lines in Cement is a modern classic, in our opinion, because it uses both light and dark colors and the thin lines provide an optical elegance. Interior design tip: Accenting with a bold stripe adds interest to coordinating patterns and prints.

Are you stuck on fabrics? Can we help you with a consult? Or perhaps your problems go beyond fabric and you need a whole room redesigned. Don’t be afraid to call us for the whole home or office, either; we’re ready to transform your home with your taste, and our touch. Call today to make your consultation appointment: (949) 497-6806.

We loved this photo from the Hinkley website, since it could be our own Lisa McDennon modeling!

Remember earlier this year when we announced Lisa McDennon’s inclusion in Hinkley Lighting’s website and nationwide catalog? Lisa was extremely flattered to be chosen as one of their top picks for giving “Lighting Style Tips and Ideas from Fabulous Designers“, and was even quoted in the blog as saying she looked forward to a long relationship with the distinguished brand.

And that turns out to have been quite the prediction—we don’t want to spill the beans, but keep your eye out for some exciting news here on the LRM Interior Design blog about that very thing! In the meantime, we wanted to talk a little bit about why Lisa felt so privileged to be included in Hinkley’s cadre of favorite designers.

Hinkley Lighting has been in existence for almost 90 years, and still holds a strong reputation for quality in construction, superb functionality and beauty in design. Phil R. Hinkley founded the company in Cleveland, Ohio in 1922, and the first catalog did not feature any designer style tips, only fourteen copper light fixtures made for both indoor and outdoor use.

In the 1930s, the Hinkley company started moving from copper fixtures into specially treated steel and copper plating. They also started to include crystal moss, amber cathedral and amber opal glass into their pieces. During the 40s, like many manufacturers, Hinkley Lighting’s new owner Stanley Wiedemer shipped his sons off to the war and started making airplane parts for the government. They reverted to lighting after the war, when the need for residential housing skyrocketed.

The 50s and 60s were great times for innovation both in technology and design, and in the 80s launched their landscape lighting division, which is going strong today. We’re happy that it’s still a family business after all these years, and continues to succeed based on those same values the company was founded on. We also love Hinkley Lighting’s dedication to reducing their eco-impact, with teams dedicated to creating lighting that are more efficient and less harmful to the environment, while still embodying the styling we expect. Their outdoor lighting conforms to almost every Dark Sky requirement that exists, and they continue to provide LED conversions and fixtures for fluorescent bulbs.

At LRM Interior Design, we know how a single lamp can not only transform a room, but anchor the entire design. Lighting should be something that complements, that wows, that delights—but always provides the right quality of lighting for the room’s purpose. Interior designers like the LRM team are experts at lighting, and would love to talk to you about a lighting makeover. Call (949) 497-6806 for a consultation today!

Ooh la la! Designer furniture at a price everyone can afford.

If you think that affordable furniture can only be found at Ikea, and that any piece of furniture you get through an interior designer is overpriced—we’re happy to inform you that you’re wrong!

Ikea furniture might have some cool, European styling, but it’s not built to last. And let’s be honest: you’re not in college anymore, right? But with everyone feeling the crunch of the economy, LRM Interior Design wants to remind everyone about a product line from one of our favorite furniture and fabric companies: Kravet.

Look at the photos on this blog post. Do they look “affordable” to you? Do they look “budget”? Do they look like they come from a do-it-yourself store? No, we don’t think so either. These are all examples from Kravet’s Kravetsmart line, which we can’t get enough of.

What’s to love? What’s NOT to love!

• You can have any chair, sofa, banquette, sleeper, sectional, ottoman, bed or settee upholstered in your choice of over 60,000 different fabrics
• Those 60,000+ beautiful choices of fabric are at NO extra charge
• The sofas can be ordered by the inch. Yes, that means if you want a 73-inch sofa, that’s what you get.
• Seat cushions are made from soy-based foam and recycled fibers, and all springs are made from recycled steel
• The prices are ridiculously affordable

Interested now? We thought you’d be. Have a look around your living room. Is your sofa looking tired? Have you wanted to chuck it out and get a new one, but thought it would be too expensive? What about your dining room chairs? You could transform your dining room by just replacing them with a new style in some fantastic fabric. Need a boost in the bedroom? Have a closer look at the stunning collection of beds in Kravetsmart’s line, and you might just trade your existing bed in for a new one.

The possibilities are endless! Where to start? Start by calling LRM Interior Design to go in and look through the catalogs. Our designers can give you advice based on your style and needs, and help you pick the furniture that’s right for you.

Smart? You bet it is. Call (949) 497-6806 to set up your appointment now, or click here to fill in our online form.

Sumputous leather Dartmouth chair

Endicott upholstered bed? Yes, please!

Not your average Ikea sofa: the Yale sofa from Kravetsmart

Sferra also makes a luxurious line of the finest baby bedding ensembles and blankets.

Welcoming a new bundle of joy into the family?  Babies may not be discerning when it comes to room and interior design, but as creatures that sleep the day away, they will need some comfortable bedding and sheets to accommodate their not-always-peaceful slumber. Sferra bedding is the top name in the world for beautiful, luxurious and custom-ordered linen, having manufactured the highest quality products from Italy since 1891.  We have already discussed how you can get lovely, soft, beautiful and custom bedding from Sferra (and with LRM Interior Design’s help, you won’t even have to step out your door for linen perfection!), but now you can also share this luxury with your baby.

Sferra‘s Baby Collection offers baby ensembles, blankets and basics all in true, lavish Sferra fashion. Start off with Baby Basics, the softest bedding woven from classic white Egyptian cotton crib sheet, accompanied with a gently gathered crib skirt and a soft baby pillow made of poly-fi.  Toss an unbelievably soft Nursery Stripe blanket on top of it all, and let it cocoon your little one in its 100% cotton yarn weaves.  Or, we personally love the Bambino blanket, an even plusher option, made from the softest cashmere available.

Start your little one off right with Sferra’s baby bedding collections.  You already love the feel of luxurious bed sheets, so why not share it with your baby and their smooth, sensitive skin? Your baby will appreciate the deliciously soft bedding as he or she drifts away into dreamland every night.

What better gift for a baby shower than a Sferra set? What mother would not appreciate the finest quality in blankets, sheets and bedding for their new arrival? At LRM Interior Design, we can help you create the perfect collection of items for your friend or family member who is expecting a little bundle of joy.

LRM Interior Design will help you coordinate your baby’s bedding so that the ensembles harmonize with the rest of your home’s design.  We carry all of Sferra’s samples right in our studio, so please feel free to stop by to touch, see and choose.  LRM Interior Design can also come by your office or home.  You’ll never need to shop for your baby’s bedding in-store ever again.  For a complimentary consultation by LRM Interior Design, please call us at (949) 497-6806.

Lovely, soft, CUSTOM bedding with Sferra and LRM Interior Design

Raise your hand if you don’t like a good night’s sleep….Nobody? That’s what we thought. Who doesn’t hear the siren call of a wonderfully soft bed bursting with just the right amount of pillows? We know that there’s some people out there that jump out of bed each morning with boundless energy, but even they know the delight of snuggling in for another hour of well-deserved slumber once in a while.

Did you know that LRM Interior Design is more than qualified to help you in this department? No, we don’t mean helping you sleep. We mean helping you create—literally—the bed of your dreams.

How? It’s simple. We create custom furnishings for clients all the time (see photo!), and custom bedding is one of our specialties, down to a personally designed and built headboard. But custom doesn’t have to mean expensive…

Sferra bedding is some of the top on the market. If you’re not lucky enough to have this brand on your bed at home, you may have experienced them at a high-end, luxury hotel. Yes, the ones you contemplated tucking in your suitcase because they were that delicious.

As usual, the best and most luxurious home items come from Europe, and Sferra is no exception. These world-renowned linens are Italian, and have been making their superior products since 1891. And practice makes perfect, that’s for sure. There is something for everyone—from romantic, embroidered designs to sleek, modern styles—with a price point to match every budget.

We can help you with creating your perfect bed in many ways. One: we can help you choose the ready-made Sferra bedding options that will complement your existing bedroom decor.

Two: we can provide you with all of the Sferra products without you having to step into a store—not just high thread-count sheets in beautiful colors and patterns, but also duvets, down-alternative comforters, blankets and down pillows (plus bedding for babies! More on that later…).

Three: we can redesign your entire bed with custom-made Sferra bedding, with personalized embroidery, amongst other choices. We love designing custom decorative pillows, bolsters and cushions too, as shown in the photo. Four: we can redesign your entire bedroom, with not only a bed that meets your exacting specifications for color, comfort and style, but also built-in cabinetry, flooring, wallcoverings and window treatments.

Interested in changing your bed from lumpy to comfy? Bored with your sheets and want to treat yourself to a little luxury? Does your bedroom need an entire face lift? We carry all of the samples in our studio, so please feel free to stop by to touch, see and choose! We can also come by your office or home. You’ll never need to shop for sheets in-store ever again! Call LRM Interior Design for a complimentary consultation by calling (949) 497-6806.

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!

Kyle Bunting creates stunning area rugs, furniture and wallcoverings.

In the warm climate of Southern California, we’ve noticed that many homeowners like choosing tile or hardwood for their floorcovering, which makes a lot of sense. Why have deep, plush, wall-to-wall carpeting if it’s not going to keep the house cool during the heat of the summer? And in California, our “summer” lasts longer than most areas.

But that large expanse of flooring or tile can appear a bit….well, dare we say it: naked. There could be many reasons for not putting an area rug down. First of all, many people think if they have such beautiful hardwood or tile, why should they cover part of it up? Secondly, many might find the patterns or designs of rugs too complex, and aren’t sure how to add them to their current decor.

As you know, all of us at LRM Interior Design are addicted to accessories, and an area rug is one of the best ways to add pop to a room. And, to top it off, it’s easy to change out, unlike wall-to-wall carpeting, or even an expensive sofa or some custom cabinetry. Choose the right rug and it complements that beautiful flooring, rather than covering it up.

Plus, there’s so much versatility with area rugs. They come in so many different materials nowadays, the choices are absolutely endless. Silk, leather, cowhide, natural fiber, chenille, wool…where to begin? That’s another reason people balk at choosing a rug—which kind do I choose? Do I want an Oriental pattern or something more contemporary? What happens if it doesn’t look right when I get it home?

All of these questions are easily handled by consulting with an interior designer. We love shopping for our clients, and rugs are our particular favorite. Speaking of favorites, one of our choices of rug supplier is the U.K.’s The Rug Company, who has four showrooms here in the U.S., including Los Angeles. Why do we love them so much? Because it’s not always enough to have a Diane Von Furstenburg dress or a suit by Paul Smith; why not have a rug designed by them too? The Rug Company has commissioned some fantastic rugs from these designers, and many more, including America’s own Kelly Wearstler.

Do you have a design of your own in mind? Or perhaps your interior designer wants to create a custom rug to be the perfect accent to your living room, dining room or bedroom. Alicia Keshishian‘s company can create custom rugs, and they also offer a fantastic range of existing rugs that are all made by hand in Nepal. Many of the rugs are contemporary in design, and all use vegetable or low-impact dyes which are gentle on the environment. Keshishian is a true artist, and prefers to collaborate with her clients, rather than dictate style or design.

For those with a love for tactile experiences combined with stunning beauty and creativity, look no further than Kyle Bunting‘s rug collection. This company, not surprisingly located deep in the heart of Texas, creates luxury rugs, carpets, furniture and wall coverings using cowhide. Yes, with the fur still on. Using the beauty of the cowhide and its nap, length and direction, and using dyes, they create rugs that are truly works of art.

Ready for a beautiful area rug now? Call LRM Interior Design for a complimentary consultation. We find that many clients save time and money by letting us assist them in choosing furnishings and accessories, especially since many items are only sold to those in the industry. We also save our clients from the frustrations of ordering furniture that doesn’t fit the room, colors that don’t match the room, or other problems that are easy for us to avoid. Please call the office on (949) 497-6806 or send us an email so we can set up an appointment to see how we can help you create the home of your dreams.

Kelly Wearstler for The Rug Company

"Mr. Crowley" rug from Kyle Bunting

BUtterfly rug from The Rug Company designers Edward Barber and Jay Osgerby

Sea-inspired fragrance diffusers from Zodax

Our Senior Designer Jan Smith was visiting the Montage Laguna Beach recently, and saw a home fragrance diffuser that got her thinking. Most fragrance diffusers are nothing more than a jar filled with essential oils. “Most of these diffusers use bamboo reeds that stick out of the top of the jar by six inches or so,” comments Jan. “I can’t think of a room where this is an attractive accessory. So when I saw the diffusers at the Montage, I was happy to know that there’s options!”

Many people nowadays are sensitive to the chemicals that have made their way into our homes over the last 50 years, and are trying to avoid them. Cleaners, fragrances, disinfectant sprays and other household items can actually be toxic. Diffusers utilize essential oils instead of chemically created fragrances to produce scent. Many people have made the switch to diffusers in recent years, choosing them over the more traditional “plug-in” wall-socket room scenting options.

But how to get around the ubiquitous reeds sticking up unglamorously from the diffuser? Now many companies are using shaped porcelain stoppers that absorb the essential oils by using a cloth wick, that brings the scent up to the porcelain stopper and releases it into the air.

The LRMID favorite is the coral-shaped stopper from Zodax (shown above), but we also loved the Dragonfly porcelain ball diffuser. To release the fragrance of the essential oils, this diffuser uses a wick that burns slowly. It does get warm, unlike the Zodax diffuser, but that just means that the aroma is stronger. For those who like florals, Zodax also makes stoppers in the shape of peonies, narcissus and rose flowers.

Dragonfly diffuser from Greenleaf

If you’re looking for unique ways to accessorize your home, call LRM Interior Design for a consultation. We can transform your room with some carefully selected furnishings, window treatments and accessories that will make you feel like it was completely redecorated. Or, try our Design in a Box service to completely redecorate your home one room at a time. Call (949) 497-6806 to set an appointment or send an email.

Zodax's flower-shaped diffusers

LRM Interior Design featured in February publications

As February draws to a close, don’t forget to check out Lisa McDennon and LRM Interior Design in two of Orange County’s top publications: Laguna Beach Magazine and Live Orange County.

The Laguna Beach Magazine’s feature was an interview with principal Lisa McDennon, exploring her expertise in interior design for coastal properties. (To read the full article, click here.) As Lisa is a long-time resident of Laguna Beach, she was very proud to be featured in a magazine dedicated to the wonders of her favorite town. “I definitely feel that it is a badge of honor to be featured in Laguna Beach Magazine,” comments Lisa. “Last summer we celebrated our studio’s 10 year anniversary at the Lumberyard, and I thoroughly feel part of the business community here.” For those of you who don’t know, Lisa waited for a space to become available in the Lumberyard before moving her business out of her home. “It was the place in Laguna I wanted to be. The building itself is so distinctive, and our two-level studio fits us perfectly.”

The second article in February was a more extensive feature in Live Orange County, a fairly new magazine in the area that has been getting rave reviews and trying to keep up with a skyrocketing readership. Lisa McDennon was chosen by the magazine as their resident interior design star, providing a property each month for the readers to explore. “I love having the opportunity to explain what happens behind the scenes with an interior design project,” says Lisa. “It’s so fulfilling to work with the client to provide a home that perfectly reflects their style. In fact, we emphasize that our design maxim is ‘Your taste, our touch’.”

In fact, the Live Orange County article is called “A Designer Who Listened”, detailing how Lisa and her team focus on the client’s needs and wishes to create an environment that reflects their personality and fits to their lifestyle.

If you miss the publications and would like a copy, or to consult with LRM Interior Design about your project needs, email us or call (949) 497-6806.