New Treasures

Someone else's trash makes another person's treasure! Isn't that how the saying goes? My parents were getting ready to trash their vintage vanity stool. I decided to repurpose the stool because it was sturdy and was in great shape. Aside from it's lack of appearance with the duck taped white-pleather cushion, I saw tons of potential! I went to JoAnne's Fabric and purchased 1.5 yards. It just so happens that the fabric I selected was 50% off. I got it for $10. I reused the original foam because it was in good condition and didn't need extra padding.

The end result came out great! It only took a few dollars, a little bit of fabric, and some time to bring this stool back to life. What do you think of the before and after pictures?

Restaurant Transformation: From Cold to Inviting!

Jaimito's Restaurant located in Clifton, NJ was in need of an update. The owner wanted to make the restaurant feel more inviting for diners at night. With a few quick switches and my help; the restaurant is cozy and more romantic. For the project, I switched out the flourescent lighting and added drum pendants. I cannot stress enough how important the right choice of lighting is. By simply switching out the flourescents, the mood of the room is instantly more romantic and cozy.

I also painted the walls with a fresh coat of paint to bring out the colors in the existing tile. It's funny how the customers recognized the flooring after the new paint color was up. Everyone was asking "Is this new floor?!" Nope, by choosing the right paint color, the room is now more cohesive. I kept the room light because it is small and gets indirect sunlight. I didn't want to make the room feel smaller than it is.

I also added window treatments to soften up the harsh structural beams. I grouped the panels together in the middle to hide the beam in the center of the window.

I also picked out cherry wood furniture for the new restaurant table and chairs. The existing tile had a rust undertone and I thought the cherry wood would be nice to warm up the space. The cherry wood also compliments the darker gray in the tile and the soft gray walls.

For the round tables in front of the windows, I made center pieces that reflect the owner's personal style and culture. I also picked up candles and candle holders for each table.

I also updated the bathroom, by keeping the existing floor tile and retiling the walls. I added a new vanity and a fresh coat of paint. Not too much done - but made a huge difference!

To see the before images goto my portfolio page and also view other projects I have worked on.

Jaimito's Restaurant Before Images

 

A "Lovely" Interior for Valentine's Day

Valentine's Day is in a few short days! If you haven't thought about decorating yet, get ready! I'm here with few quick decorating tips when your on the fly! Plus, I have an easy dessert planned for you too! Can't forget the sweets :) Decorate in main areas, especially near the entry so you can surprise your honey when they come home :) I like to hang a Valentine's Day wreath on the front door.

Light a few red candles on a decorative tray or charger. Fill clear jars with Valentine's Day sweets such as m&m's, jelly beans, red hots, or even conversation hearts. It is a great way to add color to your table or mantle.

For a more sophisticated look, place faux branches of red berries in a vase for some color. You can add these nearly anywhere: an entry table, mantle, or use a center piece for your dining room table.

Speaking of dining tables, it is time to create a romantic place setting. Add a table runner, candle sticks, and a floral arrangement in the center to balance. Add red ribbon around the head chairs and sprinkle a few rose petals on the table for an extra touch.

For dessert, pick up strawberries and some chocolate chips to make Valentine's Day Sweet Heart Cabobs. Slice the strawberries into hearts by cutting out a triangle at top-middle. Melt your chocolate chips and dunk your strawberries slices in the chocolate. Slide the heart-shaped slices onto the cob, arrange on  a plate, and your done!

Don't have enough time to run to the store? Make some hot cocoa and use a heart-shaped cookie cutter (or knife gently) to poke out a heart in a large marshmellow.

Enjoy your Valentine's Day with your loved ones everyone!

Much love,

Amanda

The New Neutrals for 2014

This Spring , we will be seeing more pastels according to Pantone and Benjamin Moore, In interiors, we will be seeing less gray, and more cool blues, lavenders, pinks, and soft greens. It is a great way to add color to your walls without being in your face. A pastel color pallet will still highlight your artwork and additional pieces in your home while making your room feel happy and bright.

When I say pastels, they are not your typical "Easter Egg" colors. Pantone and Benjamin Moore have both introduced a new twist to pastels. Benjamin Moore says its the "new neutrals".

Aside from pastels, I am seeing a huge color trend in fashion, design, and graphics. Other colors that I am sure will make an entrance this year will be rich russet tones, paprika, coral, saffron, cobalt blue, peacock blue, and eggplant. Mixing one of these colors with a pastel could be absolutely stunning in your home or even an outfit! Be adventurous this year and experience with color!

For more reading on the color predictions for this year visit;
Benjamin Moore Color Trends 2014

Pantone Color Trends for 2014

Elle Decor Color Trends

Introducing Color to Your Home

For some people color is intimidating. I recommend stepping out of your comfort zone and encourage the use of color in your home. It adds excitement and life to your space! As soon as you walk in your room, you instantly feel revived and happy. If you are color shy, I will help guide you into the transition of introducing color into your space. I love subtle pops of color in neutral rooms. For example, adding soft blush tones to a creamy interior or ice blue to a grey interior. You can't go wrong with pastels. If you typically don't decorate with color, pastels are the perfect palette to start with.

If your not as timid, I would add bolder colors such as emerald, ruby, navy, plum, or indigo. These colors are bold yet deep and can transition into almost any season. With a punch of any one of these colors, automatically your room is more interesting and richer. If deep tones aren't for you, try muted colors such as a grayed out purple.

For a refreshing look, add brighter colors such as yellow, orange, pink, and purples. Bright colors will make your room feel cheerful.

Update your current dresser with fun colored hardware. It adds a subtle pop of color to your room that is not overbearing. You can also add artwork to your space. This way you are adding color and interest into your space. It's also easy to switch out if you get tired of it. I also like to stop at Home Goods and pick up some glass vases or candle holders in pretty colors. You can also play with table runners and placemats.

If you are feeling daring, repurpose an old end table and paint it your favorite color! Decorating your space with hints of color will not only brighten up your room but will add character to your room. Don't be hesitant, you can start slow by adding accessories such as pillows and throw blankets.

Here is some inspiration for incorporating color into your space! Share and comment your favorites! Don't forget to follow AMA Designs on facebook for daily design updates !!

So long for now Vermont!

Good morning from Stowe, Vermont! It is my final day here and although it rained yesterday, I enjoyed my stay with my boyfriend. Before we leave, we are heading to Stowe Mountain to snowboard. Hopefully the conditions are much better than yesterday!! It's snowing this morning so I am anxious to get on the mountain on fresh powder. We arrived Friday to the Stowehof Inn & Resort. The resort was featured in the 1981 film, "The Four Seasons". The interior is cozy and warm. There are two fireplaces in the community living room. Another fireplace in the restaurant and another in the pub. Plenty of spots to snuggle up and warm up by the fire with gorgeous snow top mountain views. Not to mention, unlimited tea and hot cocoa (my fave).

Friday night, we went downstairs to the pub for dinner. The atmosphere was inviting. I ordered the baked Mac and cheese, which was fantastic. After a long drive, it definitely was comforting. My boyfriend ordered the Stowehof burger and fries - delish!

On Saturday it rained so we cancelled our snowboarding plans. We hung out at the resort by the fireplace and a bottle of wine. We later grabbed lunch at Yoshi Sushi. Which was very close to the resort and had fresh, amazing sushi. That evening we had dinner at the resort and enjoyed a beautiful meal by the fireplace.

I thoroughly enjoyed our stay at the Stowehof Inn and all our meals. I look forward to coming back again.

But for now, it is time to head back to New Jersey, a six hour car ride listening to the same songs over and over again.

So long for now Vermont!

Winter Decorating

Greetings from Stowe, Vermont !! I am staying at a cozy lodge sitting next to the stone fireplace with my favorite tea. The warm atmosphere has inspired me to write about winter decorating. Some of you may have packed away your holiday decorations and now your home may be feeling a bit glum. The holidays may be over but we still have to endure winter a couple more months. Don't let the harsh temperatures get you down, cheer up your home and decorate for the winter.

After I take down my holiday decorations, I usually keep out a few items that aren't so Christmas-y. Sorry, Santa. You and your jolly belly have to go for now.

Instead, I like to keep the scented pine cones displayed with candle holders on a nice silver tray. When I think of winter, I am instantly reminded of thick sweaters and cozy blankets by the fire. Winter is a great time of year to incorporate rich textures into your home such as furry pillows and wool blankets.

The winter months are so magical, it is almost instinct to add sparkle to your home! I love adding a bit of glam to all my rooms with accessories. You must not forget! Accessories are the jewelry to your room.

Stay warm my friends!! :)

Color 101

Don't underestimate those paint chips, color makes an impact visually and subconsciously. How do you want your room to "feel"? This is a question that I ask my clients. It may sound silly to some but there is some science behind this question. If you were redoing your bedroom, do you think you would able to sleep in a room that was bright red? Red, orange, and yellow create excitement. You may even find these colors in gyms or recreational centers to make you feel "energized". If your favorite color is red and you want it in your bedroom - go for it! However, add this color in moderation. Throw pops of color in pillows and accessories.

For bedrooms, the goal is to keep it serene and calm. Your bedroom should be your sanctuary. I recommend tones such as pale greens and blues, maybe some cool grays.

Have you ever wanted to make your kitchen blue? We just learned that blues are relaxing colors; so what does that mean when we paint our kitchen blue? No, it doesn't mean we are going to fall asleep head first in the fridge. Blue tones will actually suppress your appetite. Which may be great way to trick your mind to not eat those late night snacks.

Picking the right color is so important. The next time you are ready to paint your home, don't rush your decision. Remember my tips and put some thought into the mood of the space.

Share your experiences with color with me. Have you ever painted a room and regretted a color choice?

Before you go, don't forget to like and follow AMA Designs on Facebook for daily updates and projects :)