How to create the extraordinary from the ordinary!
A recent project of mine was to create a great wall display from simple and easy to find items. After some serious thought and with Spring around the corner I decided to use a budding tree as my inspiration.
Blank Wall
I only needed a few things to create my idea:
Colored paper to create the flowers and leaves.
Tree branches.
Hot glue.
Assorted types of moss.
Burlap rope.
Paint for the back drop wall.
I started out by cutting out the petals from the colored construction paper in assorted diamond sizes. Each flower takes 5 of each size diamond shape petal and the flowers take 15 petals. The centers are very simple as well. All you need to do is cut a few circles in a different color and fringe the edges. The final step is glueing the leaves to the back of the flowers which I also did in similar sizes to the petals.
Flower Making
Once all my flowers were constructed I had my dear friend who is very talented at painting amongst other things painted the wall a pale blue to accent the lilac and deep purple flowers.
Suspending The Branches
Next, we suspended the tree branches from the ceiling with the burlap rope. You could also screw them into a wall for a more permeant installation. With the branches securely in place It was time to hot glue the flowers and mosses to the branches and before I knew it the installation was finished! We had created a 14’ tall tree that was over 17’ wide for less than $200. Stay tuned for more as we are looking into other ideas on how to make some cool stuff with easy to find items that will not break the bank!
How many of you have ever created a slideshow video? This is a great way to present design ideas to clients, share a special event or to use in your next marketing campaign.
Now, you might be thinking this sounds too hard or that you are not computer literate enough to make something like a video. Well, I am here to tell you it’s EASY and FREE! All you need is approximately 15 images, possibly your logo and a great song.
Click the play arrow below and get inspired! I created a slideshow video for the store and it was easy.
• Once installed, open the program, begin a New Story and hit Next.
• Import and Arrange Your Pictures. This is the screen where you want to import all your images. Keep in mind that horizontally arranged images work best. Don’t worry if your image is not horizontal however do be aware the system will attempt to automatically crop the image to fit in a horizontal format. You can also choose to manually crop, rotate and add effects to each image by selecting edit under the image preview window. You can also arrange the order of your images by simply dragging and dropping. After you have cropped and arranged be sure to save your project and select Next.
• Add a Title to Your Pictures. Here you can add text to each of your slides. This is a great tool to create a title page, to label a room, describe a look or tag people in the image. After you have finished select Next.
• Narrate Your Pictures and Customize Motion. You can even narrate your slideshow and write notes for each image to make the narration seamless. My FAVORITE part of this screen is the customize motion. This is what makes your images come to life and move across the viewer’s screen. The software will automatically create motion for each slide however you can also do each one manually to get the flow and rhythm you desire. Under the Motion and Duration tab put a check mark in the box next to specify start and end position of motion. For the start position resize the box around the image to be smaller and focused on a center object. Then for the end position resize the box around the image to be the full size of the image. Now click preview. AMAZING, right! You can also select the duration each slide is displayed or let the software select it automatically. Go through each slide and be creative. For example, try starting in one corner at the start position and ending in the opposite corner of your image at the end position. Now the image is really moving!
See the Transition tab at the top? Click on that for more fun! Here you determine how you want to transition from one slide to the next. I always use the Cross Fade but there are many great options to liven up your slideshow. You could select different transitions throughout your slideshow or use the same one for all. Go through each image and be sure to save as you go. When you are finished making the slide move with the speed and rhythm you desire select Close and Next.
• Add Background Music. My biggest advice here is to make sure the song is at least as long as the slideshow. The software will automatically fade the music out with the final slide. Once the music is in place preview your slide show. You might want to go back and make sure each slide transitions well with the beat and mood of the music. Also, if you are posting your slideshow somewhere like Youtube be sure you have the rights to use the song. Once everything is to your liking Save Project and select Next.
• Save Your Story. This dialog box lets you save your project according to your needs and how you plan to share it. It will be saved as a .wmv file which is viewable on most PCs with Microsoft Windows Media Player and compatible for online uploading. Once saved select Next.
• In this last window, select View your story.
Now that you see how easy it can be get out there and make a video today!
Hope you have a happy New Year.
~Tracy
What makes you tick? What are things that you feel create who you are?
Vintage Elk Antlers
INFLUENCE… YOUR SURROUNDINGS
What do you want to be surrounded by? Is it that beautiful crystal chandelier you have had your eye one or a pair of rustic candle sticks?
Or all white linen bedding?
EMBRACE… YOUR DREAMS
What do you think about as you start drifting away when you fall asleep or while your daydreaming?
Ballon Festival in the town I am from
Everyone is inspired by different objects, feelings and scents which makes us who we are. As we start to pull together new ideas for the upcoming season I want to know what you want to see. Finding beautiful things can be easy, but finding beautiful things that inspire people is a whole different story. So I want to hear your input, Tell us what you feel like “creates your identity.” Tell us what you want to “influence your surroundings.” And share your dreams.
Brightness, intensity, vividness, luminosity and radiance are all ways I would describe mercury glass. But, what is it, really?
Well, according to Merriam-Webster it is“thin glass blown with double walls and sealed after silvering of the enclosed surface of the inner wall to produce an ornamental ware—also called silvered glass.” Between 1852-1880 mercury glass here in the States started production in Boston and New England. Painting, enameling, etching, and engraving were the techniques applied to the goblets, vases, and tableware. Mercury glass is considered one of the “first” true forms of art glass. It was made to be displayed and treasured.
Mercury glass is not only great for holiday accessories, but can be added into any interior space to create a point of interest-DRAMA. I love some drama. A tablescape, mantel, pendant or shelving unit is a perfect opportunity to incorporate this one-of- a- kind artistic piece.
Here are some pictures of our displays to spark your creativity.
For more great ideas, stop by the store to see our mercury glass collection and get inspired!
Have you ever been to Callanwolde? Now is the perfect time to make it a yearly tradition! Callanwolde, a historic Gothic-Tudor style mansion nestled in Atlanta’s Druid Hills neighborhood, is being transformed, as I speak, into a magical world sure to capture the spirit of the holidays.
RHB joined other top Atlanta Interior designers to create beautifully decorated rooms in this historic 1920’s mansion. David and Suzanne have been working hard filling the foyer with vintage finds and two 9 foot trees filled with ornaments, garland and Christmas wonder. I on the other hand am the little elf at the busy store as the holiday shopping season begins. The hustle and bustle of the season has begun so it is time to get out there and enjoy all the festivities and holiday cheer.
Once you capture the spirit at Callanwolde stop by the store to find ways to bring what you saw into your own homes. This is David’s favorite time of the year and he loves to push the boundaries of what is expected. I am sure the experience will inspire you.
Christmas at Callanwolde runs December 5th – 18th and tickets can be purchased online at www.ChristmasatCallanwolde.org .
Forget boring old paint colors, wallpaper, and decorative finishes; there is a new innovative world out there in design wall application. The most important view for me is the view from walking through an entry way or threshold of an environment. What your eye see’s first should draw you into the space.
The good news is there are so many different design options out there that would work in any space.
Below are some focal wall applications ideas that inspired me, and I hope they’ll do the same for you!
modular wall-to-ceiling system
contoured ripples creates a striking light/shadow effect through the woven material
wave wall tiles positioned within grooved aluminum framework (modular system)
modern vinyl wall decals
graphic decal great for living and working zones
decal perfect for a baby's nursery
old-growth cypress paneling glowing on its walls
mounted wooden feature wall
abstract decorative patterns
whimsical design
playful space
sophisticated elegance
great for hallways/transitional spaces
textured concrete focal wall
My personal favorite wall application are these translucent resin panels below which can come as diverse as your imagination. Me being a “green girl” I love the fact they are 40% pre-consumer recycled.
floating partion walls allows light to flow through the space
I hope these ideas spark your imagination when you find yourself wanting a new fresh look for your home or office.
5 Things I am grateful for during this holiday season:
As we all sit down to enjoy a wonderful Thanksgiving meal this coming Thursday we tend to think about all the things we are thankful for. These past 2 years my perspective on life life has changed quite a bit. 3 years ago I was living in South Beach, working 2 jobs and only dreamed that I would be in the place I am today. After moving back to Atlanta I opened Redefined Home Boutique and knew that I was making the right decision for my future. Sharing beautiful objects with everyone that walks through our doors brings me so much joy. The following 5 things I am going to share with you are only a handful of thing I am grateful for but they are on the top of my list.
Redefined Home Boutique
My Family:
My family is at the top of my list! Their caring and continued support is something I am so grateful for! Having all of them believe in my during every step through the journey of my life has meant so much to me through.
My Parents in the 1950's
My Parents/ Brother and Sisters with their Spouses
My Dad and Sister on a Typical Fishing Trip
Store and Staff:
I remember the day my father and I decided to create Redefined Home Boutique. It was right around Christmas 2 years ago. We were a few hundred miles apart but our minds were busy working during our final phone conversation before I embarked on the largest and most gratifying journey of my life. Soon after the construction started and the doors opened.
Our Beautifully Custom Designed, Locally Made Bed and Night Stands with Bella Notte Bedding!
Locally Made, Custom Designed William Table with One on my Favorite Chairs
The dedicated staff here at Redefined Home Boutique has helped create the warm and inviting experience to a place we all call “home”. Without them, RHB would not be the same. They fill the store with life, beauty and love. So I would like to say thank you to you both for your constant drive and dedication!
After Folding 1200 Origami Birds and 5 Days of Install My Staff is Still Smiling! (Next Cool Thing, The Birds 2010)
Support from the Community:
Over the past 17 months we have received so much support from the community locally and nationally and I would like to say thank you from the bottom of my heart! We have started to create a family here at Redefine Home Boutique and we always “welcome everyone home.” In addition, who would have thought that we would be getting recognition from Elle Decor only a few months after we opened listing us as one of the “Hottest places to shop around the world.” Or Atlanta Magazine and The Atlantan voting us as one of the best places to shop in Atlanta to name a few.
Atlanta Homes and Lifestyles
Elle Decor
Atlanta Magazine
The Atlantan
Inspiring Objects:
Who does not love to be inspired? I pride myself on being creative and thinking outside the box. Seeing objects that spark creative ideas makes me very happy. Here are a few things that inspire me. What inspires you? Im curious!
Antique Leather Suitcases
Old Watch Makers Sets
My Obsession, Typewriters!
Small Beautiful Details
Inspiring Places:
There are so many places that inspire me! But a few are shown below.
Ruby Falls
Flower Petal Covered Pathways
Dinner Under Strings of Lights and Bare Feet in the Sand
The View From My Living Room
Paris of Course!
So this year think of things you are thankful for and tell us what they are! From myself and the staff here at Redefined Home Boutique have a wonderful holiday!
Ready or not wreaths are hanging from street posts, holiday music is playing in grocery stores and retailers are ready with decorations and holiday displays.
With Thanksgiving only 2 weeks away, I’m sure many of you are preparing to open your homes to friends and family to celebrate and share the love. This is a great opportunity to get creative and truly create a tablescape that is sure to wow all your guests. If you want something a little out-of-the-box you might be wondering how to get started. I have some great ideas to inspire you.
THINK VINTAGE
Larger vintage pieces make fantastic centerpieces! Be experimental and be bold. A perfect example of a bold tablescape is shown here with three large antique Chinese hat molds. The contrasting purples and golds really pop against the rustic wood of the hat molds making this table sparkle for any occasion.
Also consider architectural pieces for the centerpiece. These metal balcony pieces are stunning on a table and are sure to spark great conversation during your special evening. We also added garland and silver, sparkly ornaments in the bowls for an extra wow factor.
Another fantastic idea with vintage appeal is to add old pictures of your guests and other family members around the table. These great old pictures can be scattered in the center propped up with pears, small squashes or pumpkins. Use this image I found online as inspiration.
THINK SIMPLE
I think this is my favorite tablescape! What a simple table to do as well. Just take as many mason jars of varying shapes and sizes and line them down the center of the table. Then just place small candles inside, light and voila you have a magical and romantic table for those little more intimate holiday dinners.
THINK WHITE
This year I am in love with all white pumpkins! What an elegant tablescape. Not all white pumpkins are pure white either, some are more like a vintage white making them even more appealing. If you are tired of traditional orange pumpkins and fall colors try this clean, modern take for Thanksgiving this year.
Finally THINK GLITZ and GLAM
Glitz and glam is always fun at the holidays. Whether you use mercury glass, glittered ornaments, or a string of garland pearls you are sure to dress up any table you create.
Or try royal colors like this deep purple shown here!
Now that you have a few ideas and hopefully you feel inspired get out there and create a spectacular tablescape sure to blow away all your guests!
Are you sick and tired of the same old Christmas tree? Every year pulling it up from the basement or bringing home a real tree leaving behind a pathway of needles everywhere. The good new is: these days there are more options available besides the “traditional” tree with red, green, and gold trimmings. Your Christmas tree can have a personality of its own, creating an extension of your home’s interior style.
Here are some of the lastest Christmas tree designs I find simply divine!
nordic design
And here are some other ideas to help you break away from the same Christmas tree as last year with all the white lights
A disco ball hangs from the ceiling and floats just above the crown of the tree. A bow with long ribbon tendrils gives this tree-topper a real wow factor
asian inspired tree
modern wooden plank system
an all cardboard tree
small in size, large in design impact
a DYI project, how creative!
How will this inspire your Christmas tree this year! We have a lot ideas in the Showroom, so come check us out!
As the weather starts getting cooler its a great time to fill your home wonderful scents. I know when I get home one of the first things I do is light a candle. It makes any room seem that much more inviting. Some of my favorite scents that we have are a collaboration of different blends by a company called Kobo. They are from a small town in Upstate New York called Saratoga Springs. Some of you may have heard of Saratoga Sprigs either for there amazing Racetrack or there bottled water. I also have a personal attachment to this town as I was born only 10 miles away and visit is every chance I get.
Saratoga Racetrack
Downtown Saratoga
Adelphi Hotel Downtown Saratoga Springs
Springs of Saratoga
The scent I burn on a daily basis at home and also in the store is called Leather Mahogany. Its a blend of soft leather, armoise and cardamom. It is such a soothing clean scent that pairs well with any environment. Recently we have also coined this scent as our signature scent.
Leather Mahogany
Redefined Home Boutique Signature Scent
Next on my list is Opoponax Amber which is from there latest collection. This scent has a simple semi-sweet smell that is a bit more on the famine side.
Opoponax Amber
Lastly, I would like to mention one that is perfect for the fall, White Birch Rosemary. It blends Cedar, Birch, Sage and Rosemary. The combination is just perfect!
White Birch Rosemary
The great thing about these candles is the wicks are eco-friendly as they are made in windmill powered factories. The wax is pure soy and they burn for over 80 hours and at the moment they are the most environmentally friendly candle on the market!
