October is the perfect time to visit an old cemetery. This cemetery in Wakefield MA has tombstones dating back to the 1600's. Many tombstones have the skull and wings carving. I was not familiar with that so I did a bit of research, which I share below.
Most of my current projects are in the design and planning phase right now so I don't have a recent before and after to share so I'm sharing a few past projects with tips.
With the abundance of pumpkin it's time to cook with it instead of decorating with it. I have links below to three of my go to recipes using pumpkin. Enjoy!
Thanks so much for your time and interest, ~Julie
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Interesting Info
I don't walk through cemeteries often, but on a warm fall day last week my husband and I found ourselves drawn to Lakeside Cemetery while visiting downtown Wakefield, MA. The old tombstones are so different from the ones of today so we were curious.
This living room lacked layers. Layers add depth and interest.
I created a wall of wood furniture pieces instead of built-ins. This was faster and cheaper than built-ins, but it does create the same effect.
A large rug was chosen to fill the space. The pattern is a floral that is larger than the ottoman fabric so that it contrasted.
Drapery panels were custom made to provide softness and a texture.
An open armed side chair was replaced with a skirted upholstered wing chair to add visual weight.
This dining room and kitchen makeover was extensive. I don't have a shot of the original before because there was a wall between the two spaces.
The take aways from this project are:
An island is the central component to a shared space. Make it comfortable and as big as possible. Leather cushioned counter stools with backs make seating comfortable.
Don't oversize the dining table. Use a table that suits the space everyday. Get a table with extensions if you need it for special occasions. A round table with one leaf was chosen for this dining area.
Painted ceilings the same color as the walls because the ceiling is very low.
Bring a TV into the kitchen because you will likely hang out there a lot.
This living room is an excellent example of too much stuff. There is too much going on I the space. From the opening in the back wall to the colors of the rug and sofa.
For the makeover I suggested:
Painted the back wall the same as the room (kitchen) beyond it to visually minimize the opening, which is oddly sized.
Eliminated art on the back wall and brought the focus to the pieces in front of the opening.
Created a softer color palette to keep the space light and simple.
Selected a loveseat instead of a three-seat sofa so that there was more walk around space and a place for a side table.
These are a few examples of how simple changes can have a big effect on the overall look and feel of a space. For more before and afters go to my blog. Click here.
Showroom News
Custom headboard
Julie Fergus American Home designs, fabricates, and installs custom products for your home. From window treatments, re-upholstery, custom cushions, to pillows. Anything you want made with fabric is possible. We have a team of talented seamstresses. Click here for a slide show for a sampling of our work.
Custom pillows
Board mounted valance with two fabrics
Showroom Hours
So much of what we do is out of the showroom, our showroom hours are by appointment. However, we try to be in the showroom on Tuesday and Thursday from 10-2. We suggest that you call ahead before you coming to be sure we are in. Visit the showroom pageon our website for vendor links and product offerings. We offer in-home consultations to discuss your window covering and upholstery needs.
Pumpkin Recipes
Here are three good recipes. An appetizer, an entree, and a dessert all using pumpkin.
Pumpkin stuffed shells with a sage cream sauce. Click here for the recipe.
Pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting. Click here for the recipe.
Thank you all for your continued business and interest in my design ideas and tips. I'd appreciate it if you referred us to a friend or two by forwarding this email and suggest that they sign-up for my e-newsletters. I truly thank you.
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Julie Fergus, ASID Creating beautiful functional homes for your everyday living with one-stop shopping.
Are you a busy homeowner with not enough time to devote to your home design, decorating, and remodeling projects? Are you and your spouse at odds over design style? Are you overwhelmed with the multitude of choices for home design products?
Julie Fergus American Home designs and remodels kitchens, bathrooms, and any other part of your home using a highly skilled team of professionals. You can achieve and complete all of your home design projects with one-stop shopping because we have access to everything for your home.
To get you started on creating your dream home or interior, call 603.569.8989 or email us to schedule a complimentary "get acquainted" meeting to discuss your project and to learn about Julie's 7 Steps to Design for Everyday Living.
Visit my website for blog links and more information about my services.
