Rachellabelle Interiors: Edmonton Interior Decorator & Home Stager

Guest Post: Re-Organize with Robyn

noreply@blogger.com (Rachellabelle) — Wed, 16 May 2012 16:06:00 +0000

This marks a first for Rachellabelle Interiors: we have a guest post! Today's words of wisdom are brought to you by my friend, and fellow REALTOR, Robyn Fisher. She is also a Professional Organizer able to transform your home from chaos to calm.

Take your garage from a disorganized mess to a clean multifunctional space you’ll enjoy using with these organizing tips.

1. When in doubt…..Throw it out! Go through your garage, identify items to either be “Donated or Dumped”

2. Categorize before you Organize. Before you run out to Home Depot and Lowes and start buying cabinets, hooks, & racks be sure to start by organizing your items into groups like; automotive, tools, gardening tools, sports equipment, camping equipment and cleaning supplies.

3. Organize to Visualize. Built-ins, such as cabinets and shelves, are especially helpful. rubbermaid containers with labels or even see through containers are very helpful. You can purchase these types of storage savers in all sizes to meet you every need, from tiny drawers for screws and nails to large-scale tubs for tents and sleeping bags. Be sure to get some large shelves for containers and racks that allow you to display frequently used items.

4. If it’s on the Floor, it’s time to Store. Elevating everything makes cleaning the floor easier and reduces hiding spots where critters might make nests. Also, the garage floor is poured to naturally slope towards the garage door for drainage, so cabinets and etc. on the floor may get damaged or wet depending on the season and location in the garage. My grandpa used to have a large store organizer made of a type of particle board that has all the small screw holes in it. He put a bunch of nails through it and used it to hang all his small hand tools and screw drivers and etc. It was really quite a brilliant idea that is apparently more and more common these days. The point here is that cleaning out the clutter first and the organizing what you have so you can now see what you have makes grouping and storing things away a lot easier and less hassle!

Re-Organize with Robyn (Robyn Fisher)

Are you ready to Re-Organize with Robyn? Contact her for your free consultation at 780.718.6042!

Rachel Schofield, IDDP® 780-999-3021 Your Edmonton Interior Decorator + Home Stager + Green Specialist

Design Style: Hollywood Regency

noreply@blogger.com (Rachellabelle) — Mon, 14 May 2012 16:19:00 +0000

Glitz, glamour and gorgeous: that's how I sum up the Hollywood Regency look. This design style focuses on making the home a showpiece for guests. Lacquer your furniture, hang velvet drapes, and make your tufted sofa a centre piece. This style can be achieved by combining classic pieces with flea market finds. Have fun, and relive Hollywood heydays!

Rachel Schofield, IDDP® 780-999-3021 Your Edmonton Interior Decorator + Home Stager + Green Specialist

Design Trend: Closet Conversion

noreply@blogger.com (Rachellabelle) — Sat, 05 May 2012 15:45:00 +0000

There's a new trend that popped up in the design field. Many DIY decorators have been tearing off the doors from their closets and converting these spaces to open-concept living & working areas. I first spied this trend on Pinterest and knew that it would be a hit with my clients. Back in March, I even wrote a blog post about this emerging design trend.

Well, fast forward a few months and I've completed a closet conversion of my very own.

1. Here is our closet looking rather sad and bare. Her shelves had been emptied and doors had been torn off.

The "Before" minus the mirrored doors

2. The space needed to be redefined. The ceiling was dropped and new walls were framed.

The closet being re-framed to define the space

3. Once the new walls and ceiling were in place, it was time to beautify it. Beadboard panelling was applied to the walls, and trim was added to the exterior.

Half way there. Bead board & trim has been added

4. Finally, I had found some furniture to fit perfectly into our new closet. It looks like a custom fit!


Furniture added to the space to make it functional

5. And finally, she's remodelled and prettier than ever.

Oh, and I can't forget to mention, I was interviewed by the Edmonton Journal about this project. Read all about it here.

Do you want your stuff to "come out of the closet"? I can help you get started!

Rachel Schofield, IDDP® 780-999-3021 Your Edmonton Interior Decorator + Home Stager + Green Specialist

Latest Staging Project: Downtown Condo

noreply@blogger.com (Rachellabelle) — Wed, 02 May 2012 02:18:00 +0000

Wow, long time no blog! It's been busy around these parts with Staging, Decorating and Real Estate. But, I am NOT complaining. :) Below is the latest staging job I completed. The home was listed, and an offer was accepted less than 6 hours later. Yes, that is the power of professional decorating and staging meets professional real estate services.

Want to sell, decorate or stage your home? I know just the person...

Rachel Schofield, IDDP® 780-999-3021 Your Edmonton Interior Decorator + Home Stager + Green Specialist

Shopping with Rachellabelle: Bouclair Home

noreply@blogger.com (Rachellabelle) — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 19:25:00 +0000

Here's the latest edition of Shopping with Rachellabelle. A new chain of stores, by the name of Bouclair Home, recently opened up in our neck of the woods and I just knew I had to pop in. They are very similar in inventory and price point as the likes of HomeSense. Here are a few of my favourite things:

Chrome and glass "x" tables

White and silver accessories

Variety of tabletop light and chandeliers

The "it" colour of the season: apple green

Smokey glass lamp with coordinating mirror

Brushed silver lamp with coordinating mirror

Folding cube ottomans

Marilyn Monroe prints on canvas

Apple green and plum accents for your patio

Rachel Schofield, IDDP® 780-999-3021 Your Edmonton Interior Decorator + Home Stager + Green Specialist

Design Trend: Oversized Furniture

noreply@blogger.com (Rachellabelle) — Fri, 13 Apr 2012 23:21:00 +0000

Raise your hand if you've ever been accused of "blowing things out of proportion." Yep, me too. Don't sweat it. In fact, it's stylish to blow things out of proportion. I've noticed that oversized furniture (and patterns) is a MAJOR design trend this year. What do you say? Do you like it? Are you ready to blow things out of proportion with your furnishings and decor items?

Oversized tufted chairs

Oversized chaise

I believe they call this "The Hug" chair

Oversized patent leather tufted chair

Oversized white leather tufted chair

Curvaceous furniture

Oversized headboard

Oversized wall pattern

Oversized wall paper pattern

Ok, now that you've seen all those pretty things, I leave you with a word of caution. The #1 mistake I see people make, time and time again, is buying furniture that is TOO large for their space. Please, please don't make this mistake.

Should have hired a professional

Rachel Schofield, IDDP® 780-999-3021 Your Edmonton Interior Decorator + Home Stager + Green Specialist

Kennedy Real Estate: The Pick of the Crop

noreply@blogger.com (Rachellabelle) — Thu, 12 Apr 2012 00:46:00 +0000

I'm pleased to announce a new dimension to my career: I am now a licensed REALTOR®.

A career in Real Estate has always been part of the big picture for me. As a Certified Interior Decorator and Home Stager, I get many requests from clients to give them "Real Estate friendly" designs. Having had a lifelong interest in the housing market, I decided it was finally time to pursue my licensing as a REALTOR®. It gives me great pleasure to offer value-added expertise, to my Real Estate clients, in the realm of Interior Decorating and Home Staging, and vice-versa.

It's this one-of-a-kind expertise that has earned me the nickname "The House Whisperer." However, a career in real estate isn't just about assisting clients with buying and selling homes. There's so much more than that, and I knew I had to find a brokerage that understood that concept. And just like Isaac Newton discovering gravity, the "apple" fell in my lap in the form of Kennedy Real Estate.

A little about the Kennedy Advantage:

We bring “Local Experience” back to the Edmonton real estate market.
At Kennedy Real Estate we focus on being your Area and Lifestyle Specialists to better serve the needs of our clients on an individual basis in a unique way.
As lifestyle home marketers we understand the importance of customizing your home’s marketing to attract the right kind of buyers: connecting these dots are crucial when it comes to selling your home at your target price.
Kennedy Real Estate is a full service MLS Edmonton brokerage that believes in the power of “we” – our mantra reinforces our belief that a team can achieve more than a single individual.
We operate more like an ad agency for homes offering professional photography, stand out printwork, and virtual staging.
Using custom branding and lifestyle marketing our Edmonton and area listings stand out in a sea of generically presented homes.
We offer flexible partnership opportunities, customized marketing packages and awesome promotions for all our clients.

In my opinion, there is no other Real Estate Brokerage that does it like Kennedy Real Estate. See some of our listing packages, and compare apples to apples.

I Love Lucite

noreply@blogger.com (Rachellabelle) — Tue, 10 Apr 2012 15:33:00 +0000

You may call it acrylic, or even Plexiglass, but I prefer Lucite. It is common to find this plastic resin used a lot in vintage furniture, jewellery and accessories. However, this trend, towards transparent furniture, is increasing in popularity. In fact, it was reported that Blue Ivy Carter (daughter of Beyonce and Jay-Z) lays her head in a $3500 Lucite crib. But, be it old age, or new age, I don't really care because I love Lucite.

Lucite "Ghost Chairs" by Philippe Starck

Lucite table with tufted chairs

Lucite office chair

Lucite legs on office desk

Lucite desk

Lucite legs on tufted chairs

Lucite picnic table

Lucite coffee table

Lucite sofa table.

Rachel Schofield, IDDP® 780-999-3021 Your Edmonton Interior Decorator + Home Stager + Green Specialist

Good Friday: Easter Treats

noreply@blogger.com (Rachellabelle) — Fri, 06 Apr 2012 03:51:00 +0000

I decided to take a break from the norm, and do an Easter themed post from some of my favourite Pinterest items. Enjoy!

Cheesecake Filled Chocolate Eggs

Source: raspberricupcakes.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Easter Egg Bird Nest

Source: chocolate-candy-mall.com via Rachel on Pinterest

White Chocolate Bark

Source: verybestbaking.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Cadbury Creme Egg Martini

Source: divinepartyconcepts.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Pastel Oreos

Source: bargainshoppingonline.info via Rachel on Pinterest

Decoupage Easter Eggs

Source: countryliving.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Easter Vase of Tulips

Source: inspiredesignandcreate.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Egg-cellent Pet Furniture

Source: fab.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Rachel Schofield, IDDP® 780-999-3021 Your Edmonton Interior Decorator + Home Stager + Green Specialist

Edmonton Interior Decorator

noreply@blogger.com (Rachellabelle) — Sun, 01 Apr 2012 00:02:00 +0000

Decorating a house yourself can be like planning a wedding. Most people don't do it very often so they can make a lot of costly mistakes and end up with something that does not give them fulfillment or joy.

But, Rachel. Interior Decorators are SO expensive. Many people have the impression that Interior Decorators are just for wealthy home owners. People also hold the impression that if they hire a decorator their home would not reflect their tastes, desires or requirements. As an Interior Decorator, I provide an essential service in saving time, eliminating frustration an disappointment and providing cost savings to you.

I'm intrigued. Tell me more. Do you like lists? I do...

As your Interior Decorator:

Help you define and enhance your own style
Help you decide how best to allocate the dollars in your budget
Help you mix and match pieces from different furniture manufacturers so that your home doesn’t look as if you opened a catalogue and simply checked off everything on one page.
Make informed selections from a vast number of product resources, many that only trade professionals have access to.
I understand the Principles of Interior Design: texture, pattern, rhythm, colour, proportion and balance.
I have studied Colour Theory. I can show you how to use colour to make a small room seem larger, and a humungous space feel cozy.
I can help your renovation process move along smoother and get you the most bang for your buck.
I will simplify your life

Read more about my Interior Decorating services & packages here.

Rachel Schofield, IDDP® 780-999-3021 Your Edmonton Interior Decorator + Home Stager + Green Specialist

Mirror, Mirror

noreply@blogger.com (Rachellabelle) — Fri, 30 Mar 2012 18:22:00 +0000

Mirror, mirror...but not just on the wall, but above a fireplace, on the ceiling ("Yeah, baby") and above a console table. Mirrors are one of my favourite-go-to tricks in Interior Decorating and Home Staging. Mirrors aren't just for checking out your royal hotness, but they are effective in creating a sense of greater space by reflecting light. I also use them on walls that would benefit from a window, or other source of daylight.

A collection of Golden Mirrors fit for the Evil Queen of Snow White

Golden Starburst Mirror Collections

Golden Geometric Mirror

Wooden Porthole Mirror

Wall of Mirrors

Round Geometric Mirror

Gold & Rhinestone Mirror

Oversized Mirror

Blinged Out Beauty in the Bathroom

Hall of Mirrors Chateau de Versailles

{All images via Pinterest}

Rachel Schofield, IDDP® 780-999-3021 Your Edmonton Interior Decorator + Home Stager + Green Specialist

Edmonton Home Stager

noreply@blogger.com (Rachellabelle) — Thu, 29 Mar 2012 01:54:00 +0000

While this is typically a photo based blog, I thought it was important to clear up some common misconceptions about what Home Staging is. The easiest way is to start with what Home Staging is NOT:

Home Staging is NOT removing every last stick of your furniture, and replacing it with showroom quality furniture.

Home Staging is NOT about removing every trace of the existence of human life in your house.

Home Staging is NOT about styling your home in a way that is out of sync with your home type, neighbourhood and price in the marketplace.

Home Staging is NOT outrageously expensive.

What Home Staging is:

A skilled Home Stager can work with the furniture and accessories that you've already got.

A skilled Home Stager starts the process by decluttering and editing your home.

A skilled Home Stager is able to look at your home objectively to make it most appealing to prospective home buyers.

A skilled Home Stager knows how to reposition your furniture and accessories to highlight the true beauty of your home.

A skilled Home Stager will only recommend furniture rentals for sparse or vacant properties.

A skilled Home Stager's professional services will give you a great return on your investment.

See this picture? This is an ACTUAL photo posted on MLS. Both the seller and the Realtor agreed to photograph and list the home in this state. Do you think this home is honestly presented in its best light? Call me crazy, but I don't think there's any place for wigs or chickens in professional MLS photos.

Learn more about my Home Staging services and packages here.

Rachel Schofield, IDDP® 780-999-3021 Your Edmonton Interior Decorator + Home Stager + Green Specialist

Printemps

noreply@blogger.com (Rachellabelle) — Mon, 26 Mar 2012 23:07:00 +0000

Spring has sprung and Mother Nature's bouquet of fresh hues will soon blossom across our landscape. From sunshine yellow, grassy green, petal pink, to sky blue -- I can't wait for these colours to wash away the "greige" of winter. And of course, there's nothing like a great floral print to welcome a new season.

What colour and pattern combinations remind you of spring?

Pantone's Spring Colours

Perfect pastels

Vibrant florals

Juicy colours of spring

Rich florals

Floral & stripes

Robin Egg blue floral

Pastel florals

Serene florals

Sky blue & florals

Rachel Schofield, IDDP® 780-999-3021 Your Edmonton Interior Decorator + Home Stager + Green Specialist

Celebrity Style: Rachel Zoe Edition

noreply@blogger.com (Rachellabelle) — Thu, 22 Mar 2012 22:53:00 +0000

If you don't immediately recognize her face, this is fashion-obsessed uber stylist, Rachel Zoe. Her insane devotion to fashion (Chanel in particular) along with her quirky persona, has made her as famous as the long list of clients she serves.

I'm always interested to see how people's personal style translates to their home, and my name-sake Rachel Zoe is no exception. In fact, I spy with my little eye, some of my favourite design elements. There's a lot of black, white, chrome, lucite, stripes, and animal prints. More specifically, I see (and "I die" for) her: Eero Saarinen Tulip Chairs; Warren Platner side table; and the Barcelona day bed by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe. My gosh, it's almost as if we were separated at birth. Except, her life has a lot more 0's in it than my does. Both in her clothing size and bank account. But, I digress...

Here's a little virtual tour of her LA home. It's bananas!

The one, the only, Rachel Zoe

Tufted cream sofa & glass coffee table

Rachel Zoe living room

Rachel Zoe kitchen

Rachel Zoe dining room

Barcelona day bed & Platner side table

Eero Saarinen Tulip chairs

Acrylic (lucite) chairs & Saarinen Tulip table

Rachel Schofield, IDDP® 780-999-3021 Your Edmonton Interior Decorator + Home Stager + Green Specialist

Animal Instinct: Zebra Edition

noreply@blogger.com (Rachellabelle) — Sat, 17 Mar 2012 18:40:00 +0000

It's true. I've never met an animal print I didn't like. Giraffe, leopard, cheetah or zebra. I love them all. However, I must stress, I prefer my animal prints of the "faux" variety. We don't need to kill beautiful, endangered animals for the sake of fashion and decorating.

So, are you ready to open the doors to a wild, world of zebra?

Zebra Panelled Doors

Source: crushculdesac.tumblr.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Zebra rug in art deco bedroom

Source: houzz.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Zebra rug in Hollywood Regency bedroom

Source: Uploaded by user via Rachel on Pinterest

Zebra rug in Contemporary Bedroom

Source: images.search.yahoo.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Zebra rug in a glam bedroom

Source: houzz.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Zebra rug in an eclectic living room

Source: loftlifemag.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Zebra rug in a traditional living room

Source: images.search.yahoo.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Zebra rug in a formal living room

Source: imgzip.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Zebra rug in a formal dining room

Source: littlegreennotebook.blogspot.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Zebra rug in a modern living room

Source: google.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Zebra rug in a contemporary house

Source: centralinteriordesign.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Zebra chairs in the living room

Source: diynetwork.com via Rachel on Pinterest

A wild mix of animal prints

Source: Uploaded by user via Rachel on Pinterest

Rachel Schofield, IDDP® 780-999-3021 Your Edmonton Interior Decorator + Home Stager + Green Specialist

10 Rooms fit for a Princess

noreply@blogger.com (Rachellabelle) — Fri, 09 Mar 2012 22:56:00 +0000

When you think of a "girly" bedroom room, chances are visions of fluffy, pink things come to mind. But I think a room fit for a princess can range from serene white to hot pink. If you could relive your childhood dreams, which room would you be most drawn to?

Bright juicy colours & patterns

Source: google.ca via rachellabelle.com on Pinterest

Elegant canopy bed

Source: tobifairley.com via rachellabelle.com on Pinterest

Little Girl Blue and her tutus

Source: ohdeedoh.com via rachellabelle.com on Pinterest

A pale fairytale room

Source: goldsnowdrops.blogspot.com via rachellabelle.com on Pinterest

Fluffy and tufted in white

Source: nurserynotations.com via rachellabelle.com on Pinterest

Storybook princess room

Source: interiorandproperty.com via rachellabelle.com on Pinterest

Great mix of patterns and purple

Source: tobifairley.com via rachellabelle.com on Pinterest

Shabby chic for your little girl

Source: inthefunlane.com via rachellabelle.com on Pinterest

Black, white, pink and Barbie all over

Source: 2.bp.blogspot.com via rachellabelle.com on Pinterest

Shades of pink for her

Source: ocalastyle.com via rachellabelle.com on Pinterest

Rachel Schofield, IDDP® 780-999-3021 Your Edmonton Interior Decorator + Home Stager + Green Specialist

15 Great Closet & Organization Ideas

noreply@blogger.com (Rachellabelle) — Sun, 04 Mar 2012 17:35:00 +0000

There's more than one way to crack and egg, and there's definitely more than one way to store your stuff. I love finding new and creative ways to maximize and transform spaces. Use shelves to create storage where closets don't exist, or open up your hallway closets to create accessible storage nooks. Another favourite trend I see is converting closets to home offices.

Masculine home office

Source: apartmenttherapy.com via rachellabelle.com on Pinterest

Feminine home office

Source: decorpad.com via Janet on Pinterest

Source: pinkwallpaper.blogspot.com via rachellabelle.com on Pinterest

Perfectly organized front hallway closet

Source: google.ca via rachellabelle.com on Pinterest

Create-a-closet

Source: iheartorganizing.blogspot.com via rachellabelle.com on Pinterest

Another great create-a-closet design

Source: urbankandy.com via rachellabelle.com on Pinterest

Open concept closet

Source: refinery29.com via rachellabelle.com on Pinterest

Create-a-space between closets

Source: sarahrichardsondesign.com via rachellabelle.com on Pinterest

Comfy closet nook

Source: thislovelyhome.com via rachellabelle.com on Pinterest

Compact & modern laundry room

Source: qualityappliancereviews.com via rachellabelle.com on Pinterest

Elegant and open foyer closet

Source: prettypinktulips.com via rachellabelle.com on Pinterest

Organization meets comfort

Source: thehouseofsmiths.com via rachellabelle.com on Pinterest

Create-a-closet space

Source: bhg.com via rachellabelle.com on Pinterest

Vintage inspired office space

Source: athomealterations.com via Sylvia on Pinterest

Source: rebekahgough.blogspot.com via Lauramy on Pinterest

CONTACT ME FOR A FREE CONSULTATION Rachel Schofield, IDDP® Interior Decorating + Home Staging + Green Living

10 Perfect Powder Rooms

noreply@blogger.com (Rachellabelle) — Mon, 27 Feb 2012 19:16:00 +0000

Wonderful things come in small packages. Powder rooms are no exceptions. Despite the petite dimensions, they are the perfect opportunity to stretch and exercise your design style. Which one is your favourite?

Sparkle & Shine

Source: townrealestate.com via rachellabelle.com on Pinterest

Beach meets bathroom

Source: google.com via rachellabelle.com on Pinterest

Detailed from top to bottom

Source: sadieandstella.blogspot.com via rachellabelle.com on Pinterest

Peaceful in Paisley

Source: houzz.com via rachellabelle.com on Pinterest

Classic elegance in chocolate

Source: vintageandchicblog.com via rachellabelle.com on Pinterest

Masculine meets feminine

Source: houzz.com via rachellabelle.com on Pinterest

Art Deco Divine

Source: thisoldhouse.com via rachellabelle.com on Pinterest

Bathroom blues

Source: houzz.com via rachellabelle.com on Pinterest

Stainless Steel Mod

Source: thehousehome.tumblr.com via rachellabelle.com on Pinterest

Rustic Refined

Source: theperfectbath.com via rachellabelle.com on Pinterest

CONTACT ME FOR A FREE CONSULTATION Rachel Schofield, IDDP® Interior Decorating + Home Staging + Green Living

Honey Bee-Beautiful

noreply@blogger.com (Rachellabelle) — Sat, 25 Feb 2012 23:03:00 +0000

Black and Yellow isn't just a hit song by rapper, Wiz Khalifa, it's also an energetic, high contrast colour combination for your home. When I think of black and yellow, I think of the bustling of NYC yellow taxis, cheerful sunflowers and the buzz of honey bees.

According to the experts, yellow is intellectually stimulating. It's great for conversation and also memory recall.

Just like the rush of NYC, black and yellow isn't for the timid. Yellow is tart and refreshing. It will stimulate your senses. It's a great way to get the energy back into your home. So, will you refresh your room with a twist of lemon?

Black, yellow & white bathroom

Black, white & yellow kitchen

Black, yellow and white bedroom

Black, yellow and white livingroom

Black, yellow & white

Black and gold in Coco Chanel's apartment

Black, yellow and white in the bedroom

Black white and yellow dining set

{All images via Pinterest}

CONTACT ME FOR A FREE CONSULTATION Rachel Schofield, IDDP® Interior Decorating + Home Staging + Green Living

Art Deco Design

noreply@blogger.com (Rachellabelle) — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 04:00:00 +0000

Those who know me well, have heard me say that I was born at least 50 years too late. I'm in love with times past, and the 1920s-30s is no exception. The design style that evolved during this time was know as Art Deco. This "new age" style combined facets of the industrial age, along with geometric shapes and the charm of the silver screen.

Art Deco is famous for its use of high contrast colour schemes, industrial materials and clean lines. Typical decor elements would include: glass block, neon, chrome, mirrors and panels of opaque glass. Colour palettes would most likely include cool shades such as purple, green and black. Creamy neutrals and metallic accents would provide contrast to these dark shades.

If you're looking for a little touch of luxury, and striking elegance of the 20-30s, look to this moodboard for your inspiration.

{Click to enlarge}

Did you like this post? Check out my Aqua Ambition moodboard, which also features excellent ideas for an Art Deco influenced style.

CONTACT ME FOR A FREE CONSULTATION Rachel Schofield, IDDP® Interior Decorating + Home Staging + Green Living

Masculine Rooms

noreply@blogger.com (Rachellabelle) — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 00:42:00 +0000

Move over man cave. Farewell Frat House. Forget the ubiquitous black leather sofa, beer fridge and oversize TV. These standard trappings of the XY-zone have got to go. Masculine retreats can be stylish without sacrificing comfort. But, how do you get this look?

Think:
More animal prints and less animal heads;
More metallic accents and less aluminum cans;
More framed art and less sports posters;
In short: More Bruce Wayne and less Beavis and Butthead.

CONTACT ME FOR A FREE CONSULTATION Rachel Schofield, IDDP® Interior Decorating + Home Staging + Green Living

Luxury Living

noreply@blogger.com (Rachellabelle) — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 01:22:00 +0000

Sometimes you want to forget about ugly words like "budget" and just get lost in a fantasy of luxury...

Serene Sitting Room

Modern & Funky Livingroom

Striking Bathroom

Glamorous Dining Room

Bathroom fit for a princess

Blinged out boudoir

Spa-like retreat

CONTACT ME FOR A FREE CONSULTATION Rachel Schofield, IDDP® Interior Decorating + Home Staging + Green Living

Aqua Ambition

noreply@blogger.com (Rachellabelle) — Sat, 11 Feb 2012 06:30:00 +0000

Lady Gaga's outfit choices are a topic rarely left untouched. From prosciutto frocks to armadillo shoes, she has worn it all. This colour theory/mood board was inspired by "Mother Monster's" decidedly restrained ensemble she paraded at the 2011 Fashion Icon awards.

I love the bold combination of aqua and black. It brings to mind images of mythical creatures like mermaids and endless oceans. Like these two things, this combination can be both mysterious and moody.

If you feel like you've got "Aqua Ambition", this palette lends itself well to the contemporary and art deco periods alike.

{Click to enlarge}

So, I have to ask: Are you "gaga" for aqua and black?

CONTACT ME FOR A FREE CONSULTATION Rachel Schofield, IDDP® Interior Decorating + Home Staging + Green Living

Bedside Tables

noreply@blogger.com (Rachellabelle) — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 19:16:00 +0000

Whether you call them bedside tables, night stands, or night tables, they all serve the same function: a gathering place for our clock, glass of water, and whatnot.

Most people, when they purchase a bedroom set, they get the whole kit and kaboodle, including the matching bedside tables. This isn't necessary. Not only is it unnecessary, but it's not always space efficient. I see a lot of small spaces that can't always accommodate the typical bedside table.

Here are a few alternatives for you to consider. As you can see, it's easy to re-purpose furniture found around your home, to serve as a night stand in your bedroom.

Half Table

Floating Shelf

Floating Decorative Shelf

Wall Mounted Basket

Drum Table

Geometric Shelf

Lucite Table

Nesting Tables

Half Table

Illuminated Cylinder

Occasional Table

Painted Stool

Vintage Trunk

CONTACT ME FOR A FREE CONSULTATION Rachel Schofield, IDDP® Interior Decorating + Home Staging + Green Living

Going Coastal with Capiz

noreply@blogger.com (Rachellabelle) — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 18:46:00 +0000

Looking to add a breezy, coastal feel to your home? Select decorative accents adorned with Capiz shells. Just like coral, I see this becoming a major trend in decorative accessories.

Capiz shell is a flat, semi-transparent shell with a pearlescent appearance found in the Phillipines. Lamps, pendants, mirrors and other accessories work best in this delicate, mother-of-pearl finish.

{Click image to enlarge}

Liked this post? Check out my post on Coral Craze.

CONTACT ME FOR A FREE CONSULTATION Rachel Schofield, IDDP® Interior Decorating + Home Staging + Green Living