A Breath Of Fresh Air

A Breath Of Fresh Air

"Despite the forecast, live like it's SPRING" ~ Lilly Pulitzer

1) Turquoise Sconces   2) Acrylic Mirror   3) Blue Sofa   4) Lilac Accent Bowl   5) Oblong Motif Garden Stool   6) Driftwood Club Chair   7) Multicolored Rug   8) Decorative Pillow Set   9) Abstract Fine Art

We hope you enjoy this colorful room scheme and have a Happy Easter.

Cheers!

Melissa Mathe

*Contact mathedesign.com for specialty pricing, non-priced items and other Interior Design needs.

Sham-Rock Your Space with Gorgeous Green Decor

Sham-rock Your Space With Gorgeous Green Decor

"St. Patrick's Day is an enchanted time – a day to begin transforming winter's dreams into summer's magic" ~ Adrienne Cook

Camile Styles

Camile Styles

As we celebrate the month of March and the turning of the season.  We are inspired by watching nature wake up from it's long winters nap.  Suddenly pops of green are more vibrant and lively,  daffodils appear and what was windy and cold turns warm... sun drenched.  We invite you to take a nod from the start of Spring and this coming weekends festive holiday to color your world with shades of green — the color of nature and a restful color for the eye.

Add these decor items into  your space and you will be ready to rock into this Spring with something new and colorful to enjoy.

Cheers!

Melissa Mathe

*Contact mathedesign.com for specialty pricing, non-priced items and other Interior Design needs.

Women in Architecture and Design

women in architecture and design

"I'm going to make everything around me beautiful – that will be my life." ~ Elsie de Wolfe

 

In celebration of 'National Women's History Month' we're highlighting inspirational women who have made great strides and contributions in the field of Architecture and Interior Design.  Their captivating stories show how they've dared to push limits and prove the nature of their creativity.  These women have championed careers which you will see continue to influence the landscape of design today. 

Photographed by Cecil Beaton

Photographed by Cecil Beaton

ELSIE DE WOLFE

INTERIOR DECORATING

A historical design icon born in 1859 Elsie de Wolfe was an Actress, Interior Decorator and Author, a pioneer of her time.  She made her mark transforming wealthy homes from dark Victorian interiors into light and airy spaces with an emphasis in 18th-century French furniture and accessories.  A celebrity in social circles Elsie took New York City, Los Angeles and Paris by storm.  Her style influence included chinoiserie, lattice, muraled wallpaper and leopard fabrics.  Many of her distinguished clients included Condé Nast, Paul-Louis Weiller, Cole Porter, Amy Vanderbilt, Anne Morgan, the Duke and Duchess of Windsor, Henry Clay,  Adelaide Frick and other tinsletown stars.  She authored several books including "The House in Good Taste" and is revered as one of the most famous decorators in the world.

RAY EAMES

ARCHITECTURE  |  FURNITURE DESIGN

Part of a dynamic duo, Ray Eames born in 1912 was an American artist, designer and film maker. Along with her husband Charles Eames the couple made significant impact in modern architecture and furniture design. You will notice how the furniture of today is greatly influenced by the Eames mid century modern designs. We used a version of the Eames Molded Plastic Armchair in the 2016 Designer House. 

Eames Lounge Chair & Ottoman   |   Eames Molded Plastic Armchair Dowel Base

Barbara Barry, Inc.

Barbara Barry, Inc.

BARBARA BARRY

INTERIOR DESIGN  |  PRODUCT DESIGN

An award winning Los Angeles based Interior Designer, Barbara Barry founded her internationally renown design firm in 1985.  Her style influence in both the residential and commercial-hospitality interiors is widely known for being elegant, sophisticated and serene.  She has broadened her offerings into the realms of product design including fabrics, furniture, carpet, lighting and much more.

PATRICIA MCLEAN

INTERIOR DESIGN

A true American traditional Interior Designer, Patricia started Patricia McLean Interiors in 1985 located in the Atlanta, Georgia area.  Having been featured in several interior decor books and magazines as an Allied Member of the American Society of Interior Designers.  Bringing a refined and fresh approach specializing in customizing paint colors, fabric, finishes and the addition of antiques and accessories to complete her lasting style influence.  As an understudy of Patricia's early on in my career, I am truly grateful and appreciate the experience of learning from such an accomplished Interior Designer.

We hope in sharing these brilliant women in architecture and design you have discovered new stories to be inspired by, design styles to seek out and women to celebrate this month in our field.

Cheers!

Melissa Mathe

*For all your Interior Design needs contact mathedesign.com

The Whole Nine Yards In Mink

the whole nine yards in mink

"Simplicity is the ultimate form of sophistication" ~ Leonardo da Vinci

Bernhardt Furniture Company

Bernhardt Furniture Company

As our economy continues to slowly rise, we see color trends warming up.  Grey will still be around, but you will see the use of warm grey and "greige" (the term given to a grey/beige color). Enter: Mink.

Dreamy neutral interior spaces can transport the aesthetic to an elegant and luxe state.  While subtle accent colors, pattern, and texture play a supporting role in bringing added interest.  We have our eyes on a color we affectionately call "Mink"... doesn't it just sound pretty.  Well, we're pretty excited about adding this decadent color into design schemes to create that neutral clean contemporary feel.  Mink is a rich color that is confident and warm. Using soft creamy colors to provide a serene base and layering in this deep color provides  a sense of grounding to the overall interior style.  This color can be found in all interior furnishings: fabrics, wood tones, tile, and stone.

As you can see these fabric selections, trim and carpet are lovely examples that can easily be pulled in - to compliment.  As we've recently sourced furniture and lighting for this aesthetic we have an assortment to share along with a to-die-fo…

Here are details on neutral furniture and fixtures for your resource. Plus a to-die-for paint color to tie everything together.

We hope you enjoy our new color crush discovery and also hearing more about this luxe style.  We wouldn't hold it against anyone to casually use this color for there next professional manicure either... because we've done it ourselves.

Cheers!

Melissa Mathe

*Contact mathedesign.com for specialty pricing, non-priced items and other Interior Design needs.

Trending: Sophisticated Cottage

Trending: Sophisticated Cottage

"The voice of the sea speaks to the soul" ~ Kate Choppin

Here are details for the furniture and finishes we've shared in this - Sophisticated Cottage trending style.

Nadine Winged Headboard  /  Sheffield Strip Rug  /   Margate Shell Mirror  /  Lauralie Capiz Shell Lamp  /  Brett Iron Table  / Ming White Lacquered Dresser Miller Lantern  /  Bell Navy Blue Lacquered Desk

Enjoy!

Melissa Mathe

*Contact mathedesign.com for specialty pricing on non-priced item links and all your Interior Design needs.

Spotlight On Commercial Design: The Bar Method Richmond

spotlight on commercial design:
the bar method richmond

"Keep your heels, head and standards high." ~ Coco Chanel

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This past May of 2017, The Bar Method of Richmond opened it's doors to welcome barre babes to get fit while tucking and shaking in their new studios.  We couldn't have been more excited to jump at the opportunity to be a part of this Commercial Design project.  While working with the owner, Nicole Davis, we developed a bold and chic design that both met the owner's personal style and also met the requirements within the national brand.  The dramatic entrance of the lobby area is anchored with rich dark floors, a bold striped feature wall behind the welcome counter and lit to perfection overhead with an over-sized black chandelier.  A stylish way to start a workout any day of the week in our book.

Located on the Three Chopt Road in the Village Shopping Center, near the University of Richmond - conveniently situated between Carytown and Patterson Avenue.  This is a great location to get to from any part of the local Richmond Virginia area.  In working to design a commercial space there are several key players that come together to make a project like this come to life.  In this case the owner, commercial general contractor and his team, along with us at Melissa Mathe Interior Design worked together to keep the project scope and opening date in focus.

The lobby space is complete with a sophisticated seating area for clients to relax before and after classes.  Featuring a tufted sofa, glam end tables, acrylic chairs and chic graphic elements on both the throw pillows and rug.  Attendees are welcome to grab a cup of water or coffee and shop the retail boutique section filled with barre merchandise professionally displayed.  All the activewear, water bottles and totes a fitness goer can utilize... situated on racks, shelving and mannequins displayed in the front window.  Seeing the dream of this commercial space for the owner, Nicole Davis and the instructors come to fruition is quite a thrilling and rewarding experience for us. We appreciate hearing positive feedback and were pleasantly surprised to  read this response from one of The Bar Method clients on their social media.

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"Stopped by the @barmethod_richmond this morning. Such a pretty studio and a cute boutique in the front!
Oh yes, and a definitely solid workout." ~ Megan Marconyak

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The palette in the studios is minimalistic and clean to create a sense of balance and not detract from all those raised heels and concentrated long holds going on during class. Special added touches in the locker-changing area and bathroom were installed with modern lighting and sparkling wall covering.  Set to give everyone a little feeling of pampering while getting a workout in at the start or end of their day.

We hope you enjoy seeing this commercial design space as much as we have being a part of it!

To learn more about The Barre Method studios, owner and instructor Nicole Davis and why this workout is so special check them out here.

Cheers!

Melissa Mathe

*For all your Commercial Interior Design needs contact mathedesign.com

Color Inspiration: Ultra Violet Pantone Color of the Year 2018

color inspiration: ultra violet
pantone® color of the year 2018

"Color is like food for the spirit — plus it's not addictive or fattening." ~ Isaac Mizrahi

Something exciting about the new year, a fresh beginning and new discoveries to enjoy.  As a global influencer in color systems Pantone has released it's "Color of the Year" for 2018, Ultra Violet 18-3838.  This rich and vibrant shade of purple is forecast to be a color movement evoking creativity in imagination, ingenuity and visionary thinking - pushing all limitations.  In celebration of this we are thrilled about discussing ways to bring this lush and regal color into your interior spaces.

As this color is bold - in and of itself - we've taken thought to how it might be applied as to not overpower a room.  A subtle way to integrate Ultra Violet can be to use it along with other neutral tones of color such as grays, taupes and ivory.  This exudes a peaceful and serene environment.

Jane Lockhart Interior Design

Jane Lockhart Interior Design

Molly Ray Young Interior Design

Molly Ray Young Interior Design

Monochromatic shades of color whether lightened or subdued have a luxurious effect in a space.

House Beautiful Magazine

House Beautiful Magazine

Creating an interesting color story is another way to incorporate unique colors in design.  For instance Ultra Violet is well mixed with other colors such as navy, turquoise, peach, green and golden hues that come together quite nicely.  Wallpaper is a great way to introduce a color story weaving in several nuances of detail in color combinations.

Credited from left to right This Old House - Farrow and Ball, Molly Ray Young Interior Design, Parker Kennedy Living.

Color Pops are a great way to bring whimsy and inspiration of thought into a room or creative environment.  This can be done in several ways with artwork, fabric, furniture, accessories, tableware or fresh florals.  Whether a kitchen, living room, powder room, children's bedroom or playroom these color pops are incredibly inviting.

Traditional Home Magazine - Eileen Kathryn Boyd Interior Design

Traditional Home Magazine - Eileen Kathryn Boyd Interior Design

The combination of these pops of color and white paint can create a very impactful space. This royal color pairs very well with both brushed gold and silver metallic finishes to create a next level magic.

Tarafin Gold Interiors

Tarafin Gold Interiors

We hope you are inspired to be daring and incorporate this beautiful luscious color Pantone Ultra Violet 18-3838 into your life and interiors in 2018.

Cheers!

Melissa Mathe

*Contact mathedesign.com for specialty pricing on non-priced item links and all your Interior Design needs.

 

Year in Review: Melissa Mathe Interior Design, LLC

Year in Review:
Melissa Mathe Interior Design, LLC

"May the seeds you plant today be the flowers that bloom tomorrow!"

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In wrapping up an exciting 2017 here at Melissa Mathe Interior Design, LLC we wanted to share some "Year In Review" highlights from projects and life in the Interior Design world. We couldn't be more excited to reflect on the great things this year has brought us and the incredible new things to come.  Enjoy a peek into our 2017!

Project Highlights

Commercial Interior Design

This past Spring I attended High Point Market to see all the new things in furniture and finishes, while connecting with other Interior Designers there. This is always one of my favorite places to get inspiration!

Project Highlights

Residential Interior Design

In office news we hired a new design assistant Deb Smith and had a helpful summer intern Kaylyn Rice. We have also expanded our office space with completion of  a brand new office build-out, to house a larger catalogue and more work spaces. This was a fun project that will be revealed in the early part of next year. We can hardly wait for you to see it! 

Feature & Recognition Highlights

It has been a thrill and honor to be featured and recognized throughout the year by some of the most highly regarded publications locally and online.  This fall we attended the Richmond Time Dispatch Best Fest to celebrate with all of the Industry Category winners, taking home a third place honor.  Most recently I've accepted being on board as an Interior Design - Industry Expert for the Richmond, Virginia - River Road Living Magazine.  So keep your eyes open for my new articles!

Another exciting part of this year has been expanding the Melissa Mathe Interior Design Blog.  Sharing lot's of tips, design crushes, travel interior highlights, projects and our finds in Interior Design decor. We hope you enjoy reading what we have taken interest in showing you every month.

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We want to say thank you to our wonderful clients, vendors, reps, crew and design team for helping make 2017 and beyond a big success.  We at Melissa Mathe Interior Design appreciate all of your support and warm friendships.

From our office to you have a safe and Happy Holiday!

Melissa Mathe

*Contact mathedesign.com for specialty pricing on non-priced item links and all your Interior Design needs.

Design Crush: Capiz Shell

design crush: capiz shell

"If life is like a box of chocolates, then heaven is an oyster" ~ LJW


The shimmery luminous glow of Capiz Shell has gotten us locked-in to it's luxurious quality.  How fitting it is in this winter holiday season for us to share about our infatuation considering it's history in the Filipino culture, where it derives from on the province of Capiz.  These beautiful shells have long been used in star ornamental lanterns called Parols — an iconic symbol of the holiday,  adorning homes and buildings throughout the Christmas Season.

The soft translucent textured shells are made available in a wide variety of furniture and home decor items. For example with inlaid patterns on furniture, cascading down on chandeliers, overlaid on lamp bases, mirror frames, table tops, trays and decorative boxes... you name it. We have recently sourced Capiz Shell furniture and decor for our clients and the result is a "showstopper" experience for all who encounter it's beauty — completely mesmerizing.

3 Looks To Dress Up Your Thanksgiving Table

3 looks to dress up your thanksgiving table

"I come from a family where gravy is considered a beverage." ~ Erma Bombeck

As the leaves have changed and the air becomes crisp it's clear that Thanksgiving is upon us. In planning for the holiday one can be mindful of a well dressed table to make surroundings warm and inviting. Whether you are having friends over for a casual "Friendsgiving" or you look to impress your guests for a large feast. We've come up with three different looks to help you complete your tablescape. So step away from the burlap and fake leaf garland...we're going shiny and fresh this season.

Our first look is "Elegant" and it includes all the bells and whistles you can think of for setting a table. Including things like a beautiful fresh floral centerpiece, colored mercury glass pumpkins and candles...lots of candles. Using a variety of seasonal flowers to arrange such as mums, sunflowers, and eucalyptus adds a rich and vibrant element of bounty to the table. Golden chargers create an jewel effect to add a shiny pop...and don't be afraid to mix metals with your table decor too.

Candle sticks and lanterns are a great way to do this and using varying heights of candles creates added ambiance. Make unique hand-made napkin rings with fresh rosemary and copper wire for an added natural element.

The second look is a more "Casual" inspired table setting using decor items you may already have around your home like a throw blanket and real mini pumpkins. Using low candle lighting with simple hurricanes lined up gives a clean and modern table center where conversation can easily flow. This look is great for having friends over or for that last minute soiree.

Natural paper tags are a simple way to combine a napkin ring and place card element for guest seating with this look.

Let's include the little gobblers in the table looks with a "Kids" tablescape that's fun for everyone. Line the table with inexpensive craft paper as a runner or tablecloth to keep the youngsters occupied while pulling together the final dishes to serve. The kids can draw their own version of a turkey or play games like tick-tac-toe with their neighbor. We've carved out a mini pumpkin to add a pop of color and usefulness for storing crayons on the table.

Cute thanksgiving day inspired paper napkins, plastic forks and paper tag napkin rings complete this easy-does-it look.

We hope you have a wonderful time sharing great food and warm conversation around your table with family and friends this Thanksgiving! We're incredibly grateful to each and every one of you for being a part of our design inspired world.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Melissa Mathe

Contact us for all your Interior Design and Decorating needs @mathedesign.com

Eye-Catching Tile Inlaid Floors

eye-catching tile inlaid floors

"Charm is a product of the unexpected" ~ Jose Marti

Inspiring design lies within
the details

One particular area of design that can be impacted to create interest is in specialty flooring—and graphic encaustic cement tiles are making quite a statement. In this French bistro-styled kitchen we collaborated on, the tile is inlaid like a "rug" connecting the area between the kitchen island and cook top serving two purposes. As a design element and as a hard surface for this high traffic zone. In looking for the tile for these floors we discovered many varieties of designs and patterns.

 

 

 

Photo Credit: Byrd Design

Photo Credit: Byrd Design

Whether your kitchen or bathroom needs a full remodel or just a spruce up, encaustic tile is a stunning way to use pattern and color to draw the eye in. With all of the options available you can customize your look with either a bold or more subtle palette.

Photo Credit: Kate Marker Interiors

Photo Credit: Kate Marker Interiors

Tile inlaid floors are a great way to dress up a room and create the right kind of drama for all the ooh's and ahh's!

Here are some encaustic cement tiles that have "caught our eye" to use as a resource.

Have you considered changing out your floors lately?

We can help you find the right solution to create an inspired space.

Melissa Mathe

Contact us for all your Interior Design and Decorating needs @mathedesign.com

A Bright French Bistro Kitchen: Bon Appétit

a bright french bistro kitchen: bon appétit

"The only time to eat diet food is while you're waiting for the steak to cook." ~ Julia Child

Photography Credits: Ansel Olsen Photography

Photography Credits: Ansel Olsen Photography

With each of our clients we have a special opportunity to create a space that is completely custom made for them. This project started out with an older chopped up kitchen and has now been transformed into a family-friendly open kitchen with a french bistro feel.

Photography Credits: Ansel Olsen Photography

Photography Credits: Ansel Olsen Photography

As you can see in these before and after photos two walls and a doorway were removed to create a more open kitchen layout. By taking down the main wall separating the original space and adding this beautiful custom island it opens up the kitchen and adds more usable counter space. Creating fluid areas for morning routines and coffee conversations. The unique custom built shelving systems were inspired by the owners and fabricated by the contractors to suit the organized coffee station, displays, and for additional light filtering. 

Photography Credits: Ansel Olsen Photography

Photography Credits: Ansel Olsen Photography

Classic french bistro kitchens are filled with blacks and whites with natural finishes. Leathered Granite perimeter counters in a dark color with white cabinets combined with a honed granite that mimics a classic carrera marble, but with additional durability, on the kitchen island with darker cabinets give a sense of the "French Bistro" feel our clients were looking for. The existing paneling was salvaged and painted white along with maintaining the original fireplace for added character. Bright and airy white paint connects the newly opened up butlers pantries to the main room as well as the matched dark iron pulls, making the kitchen more cohesive. This space is sure to be the topic of conversation during future entertaining and dinner parties!

Using a custom contractor we were able to reuse existing cabinets that were combined with new cabinets - made to match existing. A true craft. We were also able to truly customize cabinets for the client. Under the range you will find open drawers to easily locate that particular pot - and in the butler's pantry a base cabinet was transformed into a space for those dog bowls. No more sliding around the floor and water being sloshed all over. 

The integral team who worked in conjunction with the clients on this remodeled kitchen space include; Interior Designer: Melissa Mathe Interior Design, LLC, Architect: Melissa Vaughan, Construction Design: Chopper Dawson.

We hope you enjoy seeing the incredible transformation of this kitchen space!

Melissa Mathe

Contact us for all your Interior Design and Decorating needs @mathedesign.com

Design Crush: On Bedside Tables

design crush: on bedside tables

"Keep a notebook and pencil on your bedside table.Million-dollar ideas sometimes strike at 3 A.M." ~ Jackson Brown


We're seeing fresh things in bedside tables... Lacquer with it's glossy elegant finish is catching limelight and sure to elevate the nighttime book in hand unwind. Specialty hardware and bases in different metallic finishes such as gold leafed bamboo pulls, chrome tassel pulls and brass bases show off a sense of refinement. Current textured finishes that fascinate us are the pearl like capiz shell drawer fronts and wrapped geometric grasscloth. These luxurious finishes and intriguing textures create furniture that feels custom, fresh and eye catching.

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Here's a detailed list of these nightstands 1) Marcus from Worlds Away  2) Adagio from Bernhardt 3) Hedy Regency from Kathy Kuo Home  4) Brigitte from Bungalow 5  5) Cooper from Worlds Away  6) Nantucket from Bungalow 5  7)Brittany from Bungalow 5  8) Loren+End table from Wayfair.

Enjoy!

Melissa Mathe

*Contact mathedesign.com for specialty pricing on non-priced item links and all your Interior Design needs.

 

Pumpkin Spice Up Your Space

PUMPKIN SPICE UP YOUR SPACE

"Life starts all over again when it gets crisp in the fall." ~ F. Scott Fitzgerald

For information on the items shown above click on these links: athena laurel leaf mirror, chunky rug, colorful throw, knit pouf, gold vases, colorful zig zag pillow, greek key lumbar pillow, gold wire basket, lamp, dish towel and potholder, place card pumpkins

Happy Fall, Ya'll!

Melissa Mathe

*Contact mathedesign.com for specialty pricing on non-priced item links

Contact us for all your Interior Design and Decorating needs @mathedesign.com

 

Your Ceiling: The Fifth Wall

YOUR CEILING: THE FIFTH WALL

"Look up to the sky. You'll never find rainbows if you're looking down." ~ Charlie Chaplin

Melissa Mathe Interior Design - Ansel Olsen Photography

Melissa Mathe Interior Design - Ansel Olsen Photography

When meeting with my clients, I like to let them know they have a "Fifth Wall" option to create the unexpected in a room. Whether it's a bold or a subtle contrast the design treatment of painting your ceiling adds a special touch of excitement and elegance in any space. Often times the ceiling is overlooked in the design. In some rooms a traditional white ceiling is just the right color. However, it is important to keep this fifth wall in mind while developing the design of a space. For example a boldly painted Van Deusen Blue by Benjamin Moore color creates a stunning backdrop for this golden chandelier.

Here are more examples of painted ceilings we can't get enough of.

Melissa Mathe Interior Design for Richmond Symphony Orchestra League Designer House 2016 - Ansel Olsen Photography

The Wolf Gordon - Scuffmaster Environmental Brush, Color EM729B adds a gilded luminous, metallic luster that other paints can't match along with ultimate durability. The metallic ceiling allows the light to reflect back down into the space. The texturizing of this Van Deusen Blue Benjamin Moore painted bathroom ceiling creates an artistic element that melds seamlessly with the patterns of the rooms wallpaper and floor tile.

For an intense drama add deeper colors like the Baltic Sea Benjamin Moore teal blue in this Lindy Allen designed room photographed by Jessie Alexis and Black Benjamin Moore paint that can be used for a black and white room such as this sophisticated design by Brooklyn Limestone.

Just in case you may not feel up to taking a bold plunge we've found a few lighter applications. The peachy painted ceiling in this nursery from 1oo Layer Cakelet is a fresh splash of color for any one to wake up to. Their client created a custom mixed color however a good alternative we've found is Peach Cloud from Benjamin Moore. Another example of this is by bringing to life a narrow hallway with a soothing color like Cool Breeze from Benjamin Moore creating a dreamlike transition from room-to-room - Lindy Allen designed photographed by Jessie Alexis.

Melissa Mathe Interior Design

Melissa Mathe Interior Design

This teen room from a client of ours has a pretty color popped Amethyst Cream Benjamin Moore painted ceiling that is the icing on the cake against the Chantilly Lace Benjamin Moore white walls.

The possibilities are endless when you imagine new ways to create magic in your home by painting this "Fifth Wall".

Here are some examples of Benjamin Moore colors listed above:

Share your painted ceiling with #fifthwalldesign and we'll share our top pick.

Never underestimate the power of paint and a great design!

Melissa Mathe

Contact us for all your Interior Design and Decorating needs @mathedesign.com

Tips to: Get Your Home Ready for Back-To-School


tips to: Get your home
ready for back-to-school

"You can find magic wherever you look. Sit back and relax all you need is a book." ~ Dr. Seuss

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With the school season in full swing comes busy schedules and a lot of new activities. This gets us excited to create and find ways to show encouragement, get organized... and let's face it pick out some cute desk accessories too. Prepping for school isn't just for the backpack and classroom it's also for the home by continuing the learning environment and providing appropriate spaces and supplies. Make going back-to-school fun and easy for everyone with these simple tips.

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clear the clutter

 

from counters

Create clean desk and homework areas that well define where tasks can easily get done. A clear desk equals a more free and creative mind. Store artwork and remarkable school work from the previous year in a clear bin in the attic, to be remembered. Recycle empty jars and repurpose or donate older paints, craft and school supplies.

 

 

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get crafty and break out the glue gun

Make fun décor to get in the "School Spirit" with this perfect "Apple and Chalkboard" DIY Wreath. Have your kids help with creative decor projects which turn into great backdrops for pictures on the first day of school. This wreath is super easy. Start with a burlap ribbon base add floral apple accents that just poke into the ribbon. Glue the crayons on the chalk board, hand write Back-to-School and put it all together to hang.

 

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use tools to

 stay organized

Keep supplies easy to reach and clearly labeled. Make organizing fun by using a label maker, chalk pens on chalkboards or markers on acrylic accessories. Personalize your space with monograms and name plate stickers. Strategically place magazine file holders, paper bins and desk sets so you can keep things orderly and tidy for simple productivity on a daily basis.

 

Photo Credit: Pottery Barn Kids

*Contact mathedesign.com for specialty pricing on non-priced item links

Committing to stay organized does take time, make it fun and it will feel effortless!

Melissa Mathe

Contact us for all your Interior Design and Decorating needs @mathedesign.com

Fringe Benefits: All The Pom Poms And Tassels

fringe benefits: all the pom poms and tassels

"Life should be chic, glamorous and colorful—and so should your home." ~ Jonathan Adler

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Some of our favorite "fringe-pom-tassel" ready-made home decor

Happy Decorating,

Melissa Mathe

Contact us for all your Interior Design and Decorating needs @mathedesign.com

Interiors And Travel Highlights From The South's Holy City ~ Charleston

interiors and travel highlights from the south's holy city

"The South: Where love, family and tradition are the sugar in our tea"

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Recently, our very own design assistant ventured south for a summer family retreat. Amidst all that Charleston offers, she discovered some delightful interior gems. Charleston is well known for it's history and architecture. Staying in the Historic District has it's obvious appeal, along with the laid back locale of it's vast beaches. However, The Beach Club Charleston on the marina, is a luxurious and stylish alternative. A perfect location between excursions, having dramatic marina sunset views that draw you in and make you feel relaxed and pampered.

Here are some highlights from this "Southern Charmer". Walking into the grand entrance, is like walking into an immaculate showroom, that looks out over a beautiful pool covered in palms. From the light fixtures, to the trimmings these interiors exude a delightful "Custom and Coastal" decor.  The definition of southern hospitality, including the cheerful doorman... I mean, who wouldn't want the door opened for them with a warm welcome upon arrival everyday.

This upscale decor flows into the lobby guest bathrooms, showcasing a clean coastal palette. With mosaic inlaid marble floors, glowing jewel-like blue sconces and enchanting blue stone vanity counters. Giving you the feeling of a palacial retreat, when entering the powder room.

The nautical inspired theme, custom covered pillows and furniture show great attention to detail. Large bedroom suites painted with colorful pastels in soft turquoise and blues welcome you to "stay a while". The individual butler doorbells to every room are quite a thrill too. If you have the opportunity to visit the south, you will be well taken care of while staying at The Beach Club.

Additionally worthy excursions in and around Charleston include a tour of the USS Yorktown Aircraft Carrier, or short drive to one of the local beaches in Isles of Palms and Folly Beach. Taking a water taxi over to the mesmerizing South Carolina Aquarium that has an incredible gift shop - filled with nautical home decor, kitchen accents, jewelry and toys for the little sea creatures. A definite must is a carriage ride down through the Charleston Peninsula. Learning about the history, traveling through the market and historic district to see colorful architecture, numerable churches, stucco facades and stone walkways around every corner. Visiting the well known Pinneapple Fountain on a stroll down Queen Street to have dinner at Poogan's Porch or Husk and getting coffee at Carmella's Dessert Bar. The perfect ending to visiting this special lowcountry city, filled with eye catching splendor.

Cheers to happy summer travels, in beautiful places!

Melissa Mathe

Contact us for all your Interior Design and Decorating needs @mathedesign.com

Fresh Ideas In Outdoor Decor

fresh ideas in outdoor decor

Summertime, and the livin' is easy ~ Ella Fitzgerald

With summer upon us outdoor living is ever enjoyable. Freshening up this space can be done in a few easy ways. By creating defined dining and living space areas, rearranging existing furniture or adding a shiny new piece of decor. This can prove to be just what is needed to brighten up your outdoor oasis.  We've found some unique ideas in outdoor furniture and decor to share with you. *Contact mathedesign.com for specialty pricing on non-priced item links

The epitome of escape is to lounge and let the relaxing begin. These creative loungers, daybeds and furniture say "whisk me away".

Let an outdoor rug define your spaces. For example these neutral rug options will lend a clean foundation for furniture and accents to be set on.

Photo Credit: Frontgate

Photo Credit: Frontgate

Placing beverage centers and stunning centerpieces, like this fire table, will create the perfect space for entertaining.

Sunbrella fabrics on pillows and cushions are well known for having legendary performance, resisting weather and sun exposure. In adding finishing touches like pillows, planters, throw blankets, lanterns and table top accessories. Your outdoor space will transform from day to night into a magical retreat.

Happy Summer!
Melissa Mathe

Contact us for all your Interior Design and Decorating needs @mathedesign.com

Bringing Blue And White Decor Outdoors For Simple Holiday Decorating

simple blue and white outdoor holiday decorating

"Ev'ry heart beats true 'Neath the Red, White and Blue"  ~ George M. Cohan

Summer holidays mean firing up the BBQ and getting together with family and friends entertaining outdoors. While blue and white decor is an Interior Design favorite, creating stylish outdoor spaces can be made simple. Celebrate our countries Independence Day in style with adding pops of color to this classic foundation. With colorful chairs, lanterns that glow, a great rug and plenty of throw pillows. After sweeping off the patio and setting the stage add elements of nature with bright red roses and soft white hydrangeas placed in ginger jars from inside. This will welcome your guests and make them feel at home. Here are a few decor resources to get you started.

A great armchair is a smart way to make a statement. These chairs from Wayfair, Safavieh and Bungalow5 are a perfect example of this.

Garden stools and sides tables can be used inside and outdoors for added surfaces. For example this Safavieh garden stool is very classic, the Annie Selke and Wayfair tables are more of a modern touch.

You can find these vividly patterned rugs at Annie Selke, Safavieh and Safavieh.

Create a pattern play with these stunning indoor outdoor pillows from Birch Lane, Surya and Birch Lane.

Finally go out with a bang and make your guests swoon with these accessories located at Annie Selke, Birch Lane and Wayfair.

Stay safe and have a great July 4th!

Melissa Mathe Design