Home Offices

The home office. It’s become quite commonplace in homes today. Here’s some inspiration.

Photo by Polsky Perlstein Architects. See more transitional home office designs

A home office in San Francisco

Photo by The Cross Interior Design. See more traditional home office designs

Chalkboard wall on one side and library design wallpaper on another in Vancouver

Photo by Foley Fiore Architecture. See more traditional home office designs

This one is about the view, and the bookcases.

Photo by Charlie Barnett Associates. See more transitional home office designs

A bright and airy upper level office in San Francisco

Photo by Leslie Goodwin Photography. See more traditional home office designs

Under the stairs in Toronto

Photo by Troy Dean Interiors. See more contemporary home office designs

Thoroughly modern in Miami

Photo by Cozy Little House. See more eclectic spaces designs

Creative use of a dish drainer!

Photo by Jackie Glass Inc.. See more traditional home office designs

Another sunny spot, with room for family or friends to sit and read or listen to music or be creative

See more traditional home office designs

Luxury, man-cave version of an office space

Photo by Cynthia Mason Interiors. See more transitional home office designs

Blue velvet and silver silk bring glamour to a woman’s home office

Photo by Abbey Construction Company, Inc.. See more traditional home office designs

An accessible main floor office in Atlanta

Photo by Peruri Design Company. See more contemporary home office designs

A variety of textures and colors create a sophisticated home office in San Francisco

Photo by Rossington Architecture. See more traditional home office designs

A closet home office can be closed off when not in use

Photo by Emerick Architects. See more traditional home office designs

Room for two in Portland, and both have a view

Photo by Kathleen Burke Design. See more traditional home office designs

A pretty desk area off the kitchen in San Francisco

Photo by Martha O'Hara Interiors. See more traditional home office designs

Photo by Martha O'Hara Interiors. See more traditional home office designs

Traditional detailing and a stylish color palette create an inviting space in Minneapolis

Photo by Valet Custom Cabinets & Closets. See more traditional home office designs

An office with a Murphy Bed doubles as a guest room

Photo by Butler Armsden Architects. See more contemporary home office designs

Light and dark decor and glass shelving

Photo by Debby Hall. See more traditional home office designs

“Homey” home office in Atlanta

Photo by iheartorganizing. See more traditional home office designs

An office in a bedroom closet in Minneapolis

Photo by Albert, Righter & Tittmann Architects, Inc.. See more traditional home office designs

Now that’s a view! In Boston

Photo by Lori Gentile Interior Design. See more contemporary home office designs

Incorporating the office into the living room with a mix of glamour and modern decor

See more contemporary home office designs

Eclectic elements come together in style in this home office in Chicago

Photo by For People design. See more shabby-chic style home office designs

Elegant gold accents in this home office in Orange County

Photo by Catherine Renae Thomas Design Co.. See more contemporary home office designs

Floating desk and shelves in a condo home office

Photo by Jute Interior Design. See more contemporary home office designs

Eclectic elements in an interior designer’s home office in San Francisco

Photo by Martha O'Hara Interiors. See more transitional home office designs

ASID-MN first place award winning office, craft and laundry room.

See more contemporary home office designs

Fun with red and white in Chicago

Photo by Jonathan Quinn Barnett Ltd. See more contemporary home office designs

Snazzy in Seattle

See more contemporary home office designs

Utilizing pull-out shelves to hide equipment

Photo by Clifton Leung Design Workshop - CLDW.com.hk. See more contemporary home office designs

Minimalist design with an artistic touch in Hong Kong

As you can see, the possibilities for a home office are endless! There are so many styles to love. What style will you create in your home?

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A Beautiful Living Room

Here’s a beautiful room that reminds me of summer. I love the dark wood floors, the white walls and furniture, the wood accents (coffee table and chair arms), the fireplace, and the wall of windows. This is a great example of bringing nature inside your home. Isn’t it inviting? The pet dog seems happy enough.

Contemporary Living Room by Portland Interior Designer Jessica Helgerson Interior Design

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Sculpture Adds to Curb Appeal

Fluid Movement Against a Brick Wall

I came across this scene in a neighborhood composed mainly of modern architecture and design. I love this sculpture outside the front of the home where it can be enjoyed by passersby. It adds an artistic element to the home’s exterior as well as providing fluid lines and movement amongst the more angular lines of the home.

Do you have any sculpture outside your home?

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Stunning Aqualens at Galleria

The other day I was at The Galleria shopping mall in Edina. As I strolled down the hallway, my attention was caught by a large, spherical fountain. I immediately went to see it up close. It was beautiful. It was located within/outside Lili Salon – Spa.

I asked Andrea, a massage therapist at the salon, about the fountain. She told me it was created by Allison Armour. I had suspected as much since I had written about her fountains and garden art some time ago. That post is titled Art in the Garden. It was such a pleasure to see her work in person.

If you’re equally enchanted by this sculpture and fountain (known as an Aqualens), make a point of stopping by to see it. Clever Lili Salon – Spa placed their doors so that the fountain remains outside the salon, allowing visitors to get an up close view any time. I didn’t have my camera to take a photo so here’s one from the original post I wrote about Allison’s work.

A lot of people find the holidays stressful. If you find yourself in need of pampering, perhaps an appointment for services at Lili Salon – Spa will bring needed relief.

Lili Salon – Spa
3464 Galleria
Edina MN 55436
952-935-5000
salonlili.com

Cool Design Product: Hang Up

Wall Organizer by Vuur Design

Clear your kitchen table of clutter and keep it on the wall. Use this multipurpose wall organizer to temporarily unload your life. It hangs jackets, scarves, bags, and hats as well as holds gloves, wallets, cell phones, mail, books, CD’s, and even spare change. The slim design is perfect behind doors and in tight spaces, and the unit is seamless and elegant. The video below shows how it works:
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These wall organizers are available in black or white. They’re constructed of steel and coated with a durable powder coat finish that is made to last. And it’s made here in the Midwest by a local company.

Like it? The cost is $55 plus shipping. It’s available directly through Vuur Design.

Dimensions (per company): 2′ long by 3″ wide by 4′.5″ high

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The Bike in the Bathroom

Interior Design or Art?
Both.

Artist Benjamin Bullins has taken a discarded bike and created a bathroom vanity. Bullins doesn’t stop with the bike vanity. The mirror has been fashioned from an old trombone case. A snare drum has been made into a ceiling light fixture. The bike’s handlebars are now towel bars (not shown). And what’s not to love about the basket as a towel holder?

Bullins aims to create sculptures that reflect the culture of his hometown of New Orleans. He successfully achieves this here and manages to be creative, functional and green at the same time.

What do you have around your house that can be re-purposed and re-used in a new way? I suspect many of you will love this bathroom bike vanity design. If you’re not the Do-It-Yourself type, contact Benjamin Bullins about buying his mixed-media artwork. Yes, artwork. And vanity and mirror. Both are available for purchase through the artist. Contact him at his artist website.

Read more about the very talented artist and photographer Benjamin Bullins.

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Furnace Filters Become Art

Relief Circles by Louise Harris

I came across this art and met the artist, Louise Harris, at the “Fall into the Arts Festival” in Edina. I was first struck by the three-dimensional aspect of the artwork. I then learned they were made from recycled furnace filters. Talk about creativity and vision!

Can you see the undulating waves of the smaller circles over the larger circles in this piece? I loved both of these pieces when I saw them.

Here’s a sampling of her smaller works. Ms. Harris is producing unique, beautiful and green art; she‘s also donating profits to non-profit organizations around the world. For more information, visit her website:

lhoriginals.com – The artwork of Louise Harris

Edina Fall Into the Arts Festival – Sept 8-9, 2012

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Trees and Terrace

Weekly Photo Challenge: Create
June 22, 2012

Washington Dulles International Airport
Wall of trees overlooking the terrace

This was the view that greeted me as I arrived on the ticketing level of Dulles last week. The window itself is beautiful; it’s further enhanced by the terrace beyond. It wouldn’t be nearly as pretty if it overlooked a parking lot. Also noteworthy is the reflection of the window, greenery and sky on the floor, all serving to double this picturesque setting.

Read more about the WordPress Weekly Photo Challenge.

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Still Made in the USA

Cool Finds and
Supporting the Home Team

If you like to support companies producing products in America, here’s a site that lists the products that are made here. Products include kitchen appliances, laundry machines, bed and bath, lawn and garden, home decor, artisan handcrafts, baby gear, toys, tools, and more.

Still Made in USA.com

I believe some of the companies sell both American and foreign products, or products that share production in two countries. I have a friend who recently had water damage in her condo. Her rugs were ruined. I came across this one that reminds me of the main rug she had in her living room with its black background and colorful floral motif.

Wayfair.com

Perhaps she can find a replacement rug or two at the Wayfair site.
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This pillow is adorable for dog lovers. It was designed by Maine artist, author, and illustrator Dahlov Ipcar. They’re made by hand in Kashmir and filled with 100% poly that’s made in the USA. These come in limited quantities and will not be duplicated. Crafted of wool thread on cotton.

ClassicRug.com

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Here’s the Grate Wall of Fire I came across. The site reads:

The “Grate Wall of Fire” high-efficiency fireplace grate makes smoke-free, self-feeding fires with exceptional warmth and radiant heat output a reality. Overall fireplace efficiency is dramatically increased when using this ingenious fireplace grate. The pleasing appearance and hefty construction of our quality grates will enhance the beauty and functionality of any fireplace or hearth.
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And a side view that visually explains the concept:

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Fascinating, eh? Clients and friends who own homes with fireplaces will no doubt find this of interest. I can’t vouch for how well it works, but if I had a fireplace of my own I would definitely research it to learn more.
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I’ve always loved artisan made things. A browse through the Handcraft Artisan section displays a wide selection of artful items that are far more unique than the mass-produced goods made elsewhere and shipped here.

Here’s their page that outlines some reasons why we might wish to consider purchasing items made here in America: Why Care Where Things Are Made?

Have fun exploring these American-made products and companies. Let me know what else you come across that looks as unique as the Grate Wall of Fire.

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Design Elements on a Deck

Photo of the Day–A Colorful Vignette
March 1, 2012

Is your deck bare in winter or do you decorate it?

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Adding Artistic Color to a Room

Pillows That Double as Art

The other day I wrote a post about getting inspired and adding color to your home. One way to do this is to add colorful pillows. Here are some that are not only colorful, but artistic.

Some of these pillows can be found at Three Rooms at the Galleria in Edina, Minnesota. Here’s information on the shop Three Rooms:

“A gallery devoted to the ingenuity of American artists and craftsmen, Three Rooms, with its 38-year history, is an art institution in the Twin Cities where you’ll find fine art, unique lighting, furniture, decorative accessories and hand-crafted jewelry.”

Three Rooms is one of my favorite shops in the Twin Cities. It appeals to the artist in me. Here is a link to the hours and directions to Galleria.

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Architectural Antiques Sale

Vintage Goods at 40% Off

Hand Hammered Iron Lantern

If you’re a fan of architecture and antiques, here’s a sale to check out this weekend. Explore a vast array of unique and desirable architectural pieces. These rescued items are the real thing, not reproductions. Categories include lighting, doors, windows, hardware, mantels and cabinets, ecclesiastical, and iron and stone items for both home and garden.

Original 1930's School Room Clock.

Glass Knobs

1904 Iron Exterior Door

Architectural Antiques has been offering their salvaged, antique decor for over thirty years. They’ve been written about and featured in most of the prominent interior design, antiques and restoration magazines. Stop in and have a look. And, yes, that’s 40% off everything this weekend.

Sale Dates and Times
Friday, September 30th: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Saturday, October 1st: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Sunday, October 2nd: 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Architectural Antiques
1330 NE Quincy Street
Minneapolis
612-332-8344

Map for Architectural Antiques

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Design by the Numbers

Quirky, Functional and Everything in Between

There’s a great variety of house numbers. Here’s a selection to provide inspiration for creating your own!

Aged and charming!

Elegantly styled in iron.

Fluid iron on solid, weathered brick.

A house number and a shamrock on a pillar.

Simplicity on a post.

Carved into a boulder.

Whimsical on a wall.

Striking in silver.

Golden on a lamp post.

Large and Lit –There’s no missing this one.
North Star Lofts Building in downtown Minneapolis.

The image matches the name: Stone Arch Lofts

The address marker for Washburn Lofts in downtown Minneapolis.
A historical site shown in a modern context.

Cool and contemporary outside a shop.

What does your house number look like? Send your photos!

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Spring Style Hunt

Finding New Uses for Vintage Objects

The folks over at The Cottage are at it again. They’re opening their doors for their once-a-month sale. Find both vintage and newer items for your home. It may not yet be spring here in Minnesota but one can still be on the hunt for style. Peruse more items and goods at the antique stores and the Mary O’Neal & Co consignment shop on Water Street. Enjoy lunch or a snack at one of the restaurants on the main street.

A sampling of some of the vintage items for sale.

A writing desk that is perfect for a small space.

Meander through two levels of rooms at the Old Maple Inn.

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Sale Dates:
Wednesday, March 9 – Saturday, March 12

9:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily

441 2nd Street, Excelsior, Minnesota

Just one block off Water Street.

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Minneapolis Home and Garden Show

Ready for a respite from winter? Check out the Home and Garden Show this week. There will be plenty to see and do. Click on the link below to get all the details.

Minneapolis Convention Center
March 2-6, 2011

More information about the Minneapolis Home and Garden Show

Save $3 off an Adult Ticket when you purchase it online here.

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Adding Curves to Boxy Rooms

I find this sofa refreshing. I can picture it in a corner, breaking up the boxy and angular feel of a room. I can envision two of them in front of a fireplace, face to face or at a right angle. Create a cozy and comfortable conversation area for two or four. Imagine the possibilities.

Available to the trade.

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William Yeoward started his career making reproductions of antique crystal. His company then added china, silver, country glass, and table linens. He’s now adding furnishings to his line.

William Yeoward Furniture Collections

William Yeoward’s tips on how to care for your crystal, china and silver.

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Sitting Pretty and Making a Statement

Garden Find: The Louisiane Bench

 

Louisiane Bench

 

Summer is nearly over here in Minnesota. People will soon be preparing their gardens for the colder weather. Does your garden have space for this French-made, red Louisiane bench? What a beautiful contrast it will make against the golden foliage of fall, the white snow of winter, the chartreuse greens of spring, and then the deeper greens of summer.

Go ahead: Imagine this curvy, poppy red bench in your garden. It has a lacquered steel base with galvanized slats and is covered in a glossy paint. The base receives the Cataphorese process, meaning it is dipped 17 times in an anti-corrosive bath, then powder-coated and baked. It can remain outdoors permanently. Wonderful lines, wonderful color. As the French say, “ooh la la”!

It was featured in the New York Times Home Section in January 2010 and it’s easy to see why. I’d love to see some of these in our city parks here in the Twin Cities. They would further enhance our beautiful public park spaces.

Available in a virtual sea of colors through American Country Wicker.

Find the Louisiane Bench at:
The Conran Shop
American Country Wicker

59″ or 79″ lengths
Free shipping

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