Category Archives: Architecture

Fireplaces and Color

black fireplace wallAerin Lauder's Aspen Fireplace
My new home has a fireplace. I’ve wanted one forever. I’ve given a lot of thought as to what makes a stand-out fireplace. In terms of intricate, carved, period fireplace surrounds, they can be wood, marble or plaster, for instance. They grace homes of every imaginable style. The mantle is a prized location to add an ever changing array of bibelot to match your season or your mood. But three styles really inspire me in a fireplace. First- modern, almost austere in their simplicity and clean lines, I like low fireplaces on plaster walls which have no surrounds or mantles. Using the ancient Moroccan technique called tadelakt creates a surface with subtle texture and color and a slight sheen from the beeswax used in the tadelakt.… Continue reading...

A Shutter Story. House Shutter Colors.

Homes with green shutters
One of the most appealing details on a home, shutters work with so many architectural styles . They were first used in ancient Greece to provide light control, ventilation and protection in that scorching environment. Eventually, the concept of shutters spread throughout the Mediterranean, and the form began to change. Soon movable louver types were born to allow varying amounts of light and air into a room and provide privacy when needed. With the louvers pointed in the downward direction, the shutters also shed rainwater. Solid varieties provided more insulation and were able to prevent insects from entering the home. As the Spanish started colonizing in the Americas, they brought shutters to the New World.… Continue reading...

Wood paneling: Beyond Wood Trim

Horizontal Wood paneling
Wood paneling Stained or unpainted wood trim has been a go-to decorating idea for homes and spaces for generations. Recently the use of horizontal wood paneling has been gaining traction speedily. Sometimes shiplap or nickel gapped, the wood is often reclaimed in keeping with that growing trend. Sometimes it’s pickled or has a translucent stain applied to allow grain to show. The result is occasionally sleek ( think cherry or walnut or fir) but more often very rustic and  organic looking and works for properties as divergent as beach homes, lofts and country homes. The color of the wood dictates what paint colors look best with it.… Continue reading...