Learning about innovative company Concrete Collaborative has opened my eyes to the exciting range of possibilities available withing concrete flooring and tiles. From terrazzo to pavers to traditional tile, Concrete Collaborative has manipulated concrete into all sorts of chic selections. Their products are sustainably made in the United States and available to meet both your interior and exterior project needs. Let your imagination run wild as you peruse the world of concrete showcased below!

Concrete Collaborative’s “Strands” collection is their modern take on traditional encaustic tiles, with crisp patterns and clean lines. This collection is available in a large variety of colors and patterns available for purchase by the box at ConcreteLove.com. The Strands collection is offered in 8″ square or hexagon formats. The patterned pink tiles below are also from their Strands collection. Perfect for someone with a bold & contemporary design aesthetic. Above is their ‘Hex Racing Stripe” tile and below is their ‘Stripe and Circle” tile, both of which are offered in more color varieties than shown here.

For a taste of Italy try Concrete Collaborative’s terrazzo tile creations. Above is one of their Terrazzo tile options used as a backsplash by company This is Maison in NYC. Specifically, this is Concrete Collaborative’s ‘Venice Alabaster Mixed Chip’ slab. I really like how this project turned out. Terazzo is perfect for adding texture and color all in one design element. Terrazzo can also add a touch of romance to a space. The terrazzo slab below in their blush toned option definitely has me feeling the love!

Concrete Collaborative also sells pavers. These concrete pavers add a lovely pattern to this Chicago commercial space. The project shown here is still in the works, but will be finished with a pop of green turf between the squares. Great idea for a residential outdoor space as well!

With such a large variety available from Concrete Collaborative it is really hard to choose a favorite, but these black and white triangle pavers from their ‘Trails’ collection just might be it! This selection is available by the box at ConcreteLove.com and is also offered in a range of colors as previously mentioned. Between Concrete Collaborative‘s website and Concrete Love, you’ll find all of their tile collections ready to enhance your next design project. Feeling inspired yet? I know I am!

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Exploring the world of antique architectural elements at Pittet Architecturals was an inspirational afternoon filled with history and amazing design finds. Pittet Architecturals is located in Dallas and houses a wide variety of antique architectural elements ranging from antique fountains, to unique doors, ancient basins, antique European columns, sculptures, and a large selection of antique stone and marble mantels. I was shown around their retail space by Robinson Pittet, a second generation antique and architecture lover who shared the fascinating histories behind many of their products.

Take a look at our video feature to get a sense of Pittet’s stunning and rare architectural offerings, while listening in on the vast histories behind these architectural elements.

Browsing Pittet Architecturals feels as if you’re exploring a hidden world of European history amidst their showcasing of the world’s finest architectural features. Their team travels to nations across Europe several times a year sourcing some of the oldest architectural finds in excellent shape, with a large portion of items from France, all to add a touch of antique beauty to your home or next commercial project. Shopping at Pittet Architecturals is the kind of experience that makes an antique lover out of everyone, and is the apex of exclusivity for those wanting to add one-of-a-kind architectural elements to their property.

Many of their pieces are quite transitional despite being antiques, and would make a wonderful addition to many spaces. This antique door turned coffee table, topped with custom glass, is a fabulous example of just this point. See also the carved wood furniture piece below – it’s fantastic!

Pittet Architecturals also offers antique mantels in a range of amazing finishes. I was especially interested to learn that you can take any of their antique mantel silhouettes and have a limestone version of it cut fresh in the necessary dimensions for your space.

“Shopping at Pittet Architecturals is the kind of experience that makes an antique lover out of everyone, and is the apex of exclusivity for those wanting to add one-of-a-kind architectural elements to their property.”

-Jacquin Headen, Interiors by Jacquin

My favorite architectural element during my tour with Robinson Pittet were these amazing doors! They have an especially interesting story about how they came to be in their Dallas shop that you can hear all about in the video. Pittet Architecturals’ inventory of such rare antique elements truly makes this shop a special gem in Dallas. You can visit Pittet Architecturals at 318 Cole Street in Dallas, TX or their store can ship any item you would like to purchase direct to you nationally. This store is definitely worth a visit for for the antiques guru and design lover alike!

Photo credit: Kristen Chilstrom // Video credit: Kendall Zapoli

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As with all things, trends in interior design tend to shift and change with time. Some trends come and go, while others remain long past the time of their conception – like the long-lasting love of mid-century modern style pieces and recreations that many tend to possess today.

New Traditional is a design style that reaches further into the past than mid-century modern, although some mid-century pieces could be incorporated into this kind of decor style: the New Traditional wave is less about choosing one design era as inspiration and more about the juxtaposition of styles old and new..

To recreate this style, think very old and very new: ornate crown molding is considered interesting and unique, neoclassical-inspired decor is so old that it’s new again.

Due to its nature, the New Traditional style can take shape in multiple ways: it can lean more eclectic, more traditional, or more modern. Typically, its colors are more classic and subdued, but the space is never boring and the pieces incorporated should possess either clean lines, ornate and classic detailing, or some callback to past design eras.

Try Combining a Traditional Planter Urn with an Ornate Ceiling Medallion:

This Perigold planter is the perfect place for a high-reaching palm or bird of paradise plant – plants are a nice way to add literal life to a room, as well as visual vibrancy and interest when placed amongst a room full of well-styled but traditionally-inspired pieces. $710 – Perigold

Ceiling medallions – especially when atop a midcentury-style light fixture – are peak New Traditional. They are making a comeback, adding an extra touch of classic style to one of the most underrated but most impactful parts of a room – the ceiling. $320 ea., buymbs.com

Pull it all together with this unexpected, contemporary chandelier!

This is the Ian K. Fowler Bistro Chandelier from Foundry – $2,175

Are you ready to give traditional decorating a try with a contemporary twist?

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Brenda Bogart is a Dallas-based artist with a fascinating background. I had the opportunity to visit Brenda’s home to interview her and learn more about her artwork recently, and I was beyond impressed. Brenda has worked multiple careers over the decades, ranging from operating a children’s clothing business to working as an interior designer for decades before picking up a paintbrush in 2006. She is a testament that the artist inside doesn’t just fizzle out because you may be working in another profession but simply re-emerges in your life when the time is right. I had the opportunity to chat with Brenda Bogart on this particular topic and more as she welcomed me into her stunning home for this video interview. (You can watch the video at the end of this post.)

Brenda Bogart’s Artwork

“Big Al,” Oil on canvas, Brenda Bogart.

Brenda Bogart, collage (2013).

“Dictators and other dicks” series.  (Discussed in our video interview!)

From the “Peace,” “Patience,” “Kindness” collage trio, Brenda Bogart.

Brenda Bogart’s art forms include painting and collage primarily, which she executes with great creativity and precision. You’ll find that she does not shy away from controversial or political topics but rather tackles these difficult topics through her own creative perspective. Brenda Bogart has featured subject matters ranging from politics to current events and even history throughout her art career. My favorite works of Brenda’s are her collages which contain so many layers within the created image.

Brenda Bogart’s newly constructed home

A contemporary masterpiece

After watching my video interview with Brenda, I’m sure you’ll be convinced that Brenda’s home is just as interesting as her artwork. Brenda worked with seasoned architect Bentley Tibbs to convert her newly constructed home into a contemporary masterpiece. Tibbs’ attention to detail is evident throughout Brenda’s home, with architectural gems featured in each homeroom. Brenda’s background in interior design takes her home to the next level with her curated selection of art and sculptures around the home. Look closely at the video to catch all of the amazing design features. I absolutely love how Brenda installed a sculpture on her oversized kitchen island; such a nice design surprise that I don’t typically see!

Visiting the home of Brenda Bogart.

It was truly an honor to interview Brenda Bogart and tour her newly renovated home for this project. I was incredibly encouraged to hear Brenda share her life story about starting her career as an artist later in life. If anyone out there is looking for encouragement to resume their artistry seriously, let Brenda Bogart’s story be an encouragement to you. She has built a thriving career as an artist after working in 2 other careers while pushing the envelope with innovative ideas. Brenda Bogart is certainly an artist worthy of our Artist Spotlight. You can visit the Blue Print Store in Dallas (exclusively) to purchase an original Brenda Bogart piece to add to your art collection.

“Ring around the Rosie,” Oil on canvas, Brenda Bogart.“

Brenda Bogart collage art on display – from the Blue Print Store.

To keep up with Brenda Bogart‘s latest artwork and upcoming events, follow her on Instagram. Also, be sure to stay up to date on Blue Print Store’s art shows for an opportunity to catch Brenda Bogart’s artwork in person. You can learn more about the BluePrint Store here, where I tour the store for myself. I hope you enjoy Brenda Bogart’s artwork as much as I do! Watch our video interview and home tour below:

 

 

For more artist interviews, browse the Interiors by Jacquin “Artist Spotlight” series!

 

Looking for a great addition to your space? This tassel chandelier is just the project you need in your home to add just a touch of boho! This chandelier can be personalized based on yarn choice and embroidery hoop size so you can really enhance this and make it your own!

Here’s what you will need:

• 3-4 balls of yarn (color and thickness up to you)
• Scissors
• Gold chain pack
• 3 embroidery or gold hoops (Large 14’, Medium 10’ and Small 7’) (Varies based on how big or small you want your chandelier to be)
• Small flat nose pilers
• Translucent string (Extra Strength)
• Regular size hardcover book or 4×6 picture frame

Here’s how you’ll do it:

Step 1: Depending on thickness of your selected yarn, wrap the yarn around the book or frame about 12 times. (For thinner yarn wrap more: about 24 times)

Step 2: After wrapping, cut yarn at end and fold cut pile of yarn in half and place first cut portion of yarn around circular embroidery wire before securing your tassel with another piece of string tied around the top. See photo.

Step 3: Cut a shorter piece of string and tie it around the top of the folded yarn to secure the tassel on the embroidery ring, as seen in photo below.

Step 4: Continue steps 1-4 until you have an entire ring filled with secured tassels.

Step 5: Repeat this with the two smaller rings using yarn colors of your coice.

Step 6: Once all three rings are covered in tassels, you will need to use the translucent string to tie the small ring to the medium ring in three evenly spaced places and then the medium ring to the large ring in three evenly spaced places. For the length of string, I wrapped the translucent string around a book (or picture frame) in order for the string length to be the same length every time.

Step 7: Once all three rings are connected, grab the gold chain. Cut four equal pieces that will be connected to one another at the center.

Step 8: Connect all four chains in the middle, with a long piece of chain to suit your desired hanging length.

Step 9: Connect the longer hanging chain to the middle to hang your new chandelier from a hook in the ceiling . Then it’s ready to display!

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The Papa Bear chair is one of the original chair designs created by prolific designer Hans J. Wegner. Wegner (1914-2007) was an architect, and is still today considered one of the pioneering forces in furniture design. In his lifetime, Wegner created nearly 500 chair designs, many of which are considered masterpieces. One of his most widely utilized chairs is the Wishbone Chair, but the Papa Bear chair is also seen quite often in today’s interiors.

The Papa Bear chair received its name after “a critic had referred to its armrests as great bear paws embracing you from behind.” Looking at a few images of the namesake chair, this description seems accurate – most of the chair’s “weight” is really at the top and in the arms of the chair. There is a tapering of the chair’s width from top to bottom, and the encapsulating back of the chair really does appear to “hug” or embrace the user. Perfect for relaxing in cozy, comfort.

On its own, the chair’s shape might appear unusual, strong, or highly “retro” or mid-century modern – but the truth is, this chair style can fit into any number of different styles of room designs. Take a look at some of the following instances of the Papa Bear chair fitting in just right with other design elements.

In this scene, the Papa Bear chair’s unique shape brings a structural and stately look to a neutral room full of grays and soft tones.

Upholstered in bright colors – especially a mismatched chair and ottoman combo –  the Papa Bear chair can take on a bolder, mid-century modern look.

A Papa Bear chair in a cozy, sun-kissed nook is the perfect place to curl up, lean back and read a book or just unwind. Available in nearly endless colors and upholstery finishes, the shape of this chair can be utilized in a number of different room styles.

You really can’t go wrong with the Papa Bear chair, no matter the vibe or style you’re aiming for. The chair can take up as much or as little attention in a room as a designer or individual would like. Here, the bright magenta color of the chair is seen in other pieces such as the wall art and the leather pouf, so the color doesn’t stand out. The warm wood tones  of the credenza and an art piece seem to balance and marry the bright colors in this room, and the eye has plenty of places to wander in this space before landing on the Papa Bear chair.

Overall, the Papa Bear chair is a timeless piece of furniture that stands against the test of time, pointing high, spreading wide, showing off its beautiful strong angles balanced with gentle curves and slopes. The chair’s comfort and appearance together are probably what make this such a timeless piece.

What do you think of the Papa Bear chair? Would you ever try this piece of furniture in your home?

_{By Interiors by Jacquin intern – Christiana Metrakos}

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This is a sponsored post featuring TVLiftCabinet.com

Looking for a way to enjoy your TV without blocking your window’s view or ruining the aesthetic of your room? TVLiftCabinet.com has come up with patented technology to hide away your TV and then re-appear when needed at the press of a remote button. Their motorized television lifts are a terrific convenience that preserve the style of a room by hiding large screen TVs and monitors, bringing them out at the push of a remote control button. They also offer stunning TV mirrors that appear as regular decorative mirrors when the TV is not in use. Perfect for the person who doesn’t want their TV to take away from their room’s beautiful decor!

(1) Linear Honeycomb TV Lift Cabinet

For those of you who prefer modern and contemporary design, this Linear Honeycomb TV Lift Cabinet is a great choice. I love the aesthetic of this option and it will help you to keep your space free of obstruction when your TV is not in use. Their motorized TV lifts will allow your TV to re-appear at the press of a button.

(2) 49″ 4K UHD Seura Entertainment TV Mirror – Frameless (more sizes available!)

This attractive TV disguise is my favorite! Have you ever noticed that in interior design magazines, you never see any televisions in the editorial? Purchasing a mirror TV is the best way to achieve an editorial-ready interior without allowing your TV to cramp your style. Your mirror TV will blend in perfectly and will reflect light into the room when not in use, just like your traditional mirror would. This mirror TV model comes in various sizes and is frameless. However, they also offer a framed version that looks just like a work of art. Read on to see more!

(3) Magnolia TV Lift Cabinet in White Oak Finish

Avoid blocking the view of your wall art or window view with this contemporary, white TV Lift Cabinet. Your TV is perfectly hidden away until you’re ready to watch it!

(4) 49″ Smart TV Mirror with Frame (more sizes available!)

Here’s the second option available for the mirror TVs. This version is great for those of you with more traditional design taste. This mirrored TV is beautifully framed and looks just like a custom framing job. Allow this mirror TV to blend into your interior with ease, plus add a fine art touch to your space.

(5) Adagio Black TV Lift Cabinet

Are you looking for a black TV stand that will disguise your TV? This just may be the perfect option for you. This minimalist TV Lift Cabinet is complete with attractive brass hardware that will give your space a luxury look and feel.

(6) Magnolia TV Lift Cabinet in Grey Oak Finish

Gray is everyone’s favorite neutral shade nowadays, and with good reason. This classic option will go with both traditional or contemporary decor and is finished with luxurious gold hardware. TV Lift Cabinets are a great option for not only under a window, for example, but they are also a wonderful solution for people who prefer their TV closer to them like right at the foot of their bed in their bedroom. This compact TV cabinet fits perfectly at the foot of your bed, and will hide your television with ease.

(7) Concord Caramel Finish TV Lift Cabinet

If you enjoy the classic look of wood, TVLiftCabinet.com has a wide range of selections in various wood tones and styles to meet your nees. This is just a sampling of what is available to you. You can choose a more modern wood TV cabinet, or select a more traditional option. The options are endless!

(8) Pacifica TV Lift Cabinet (for up to 75 inch TVs)

Last but not least, here is one of their more traditional wood TV Lift Cabinet options. There truly is something for everyone. Head over to their website to see their full range of options, and if you still can’t find exactly what you’re looking for, TVLiftCabinet.com also offers custom built TV Lift Cabinets to your own specifications and style. You will truly be impressed by their motorized TV Lift Cabinets and mirror TV options. Hiding your TV when not in use will take your room’s decor to the next level!

Learn more about this brand at their website at www.TVLiftCabinet.com

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VETRO Glassblowing Studio owner David Gappa with staff Lindsey Barker.

As a creative professional I am always looking to learn a new art form, and VETRO Glassblowing Studio & Gallery in Grapevine, TX definitely delivered. You’ll be surprised by what types of hands-on creative outlets you might enjoy. The key is to get out there and try something new. Glassblowing proved to be extremely exciting!

VETRO Glassblowing Studio & Gallery is owned by artist and founder David Gappa, who interestingly transitioned from a career in architecture. David Gappa and his team not only assist visitors in blownglass creations, but they are also professional artists in their own right, creating a wide range of gallery art for the discerning eye. David Gappa’s architecture background has given him a unique approach to this art form, allowing him to construct the most advanced sculptural glass art that I have ever seen. This studio is definitely worth visiting.

During my visit VETRO’s team of expert glassblowers showed me around the studio and educated me on the history of glassblowing, which is a much older art form than I would have ever imagined. I learned that archaeologist have found glass creations as old as 5000 years old, and that today glassblowing still uses the same tools and processes that were utilized originally. Fascinating!

The Glassblowing Process

Here I begin the process of making my own stemless wine glass at the VETRO glassblowing studio. Their team assisted me in the process of making my own glass item step by step. With VETRO’s public workshops you can stop by to make a range of creations from a wine glass, to a glass flower, a bowl, and more. Sometimes they even offer wine nights where you get to create in their glassblowing studio (assisted of course) while enjoying a glass of wine.

One tip before you participate is to make sure that you wear close toed shoes and avoid wearing any synthetic fibers since you’ll be around fire and furnaces. There is no reason to be nervous though because the assistance provided is thorough and attentive. My VETRO tour guides for the day were amazing; great artisans and teachers!

I selected my custom color combination for my wine glass.

You would be surprised by how many tools it takes to create one blown glass product! It’s also generally a two person job! There is a lot more to glassblowing than you would expect. Just to create a single wine glass I feel like I went through nearly a 10 step process. Seeing this art form in person gave me a new appreciation of the skill and effort it takes to create the type of glass products we see at stores and galleries. Glassblowing artisans go to school to learn their craft and have to be aware of many formulas when creating various types of shapes and vessels.

I am looking forward to making another glass creation with VETRO’s expert staff. The glassblowing experience is really addictive!

Tools of the trade shown above.

If you happened to be wondering… glass blowing actually DOES involve blowing the glass.

VETRO also offers workshops for private groups where you create alongside a group of your own friends or co-workers, separate from their public workshop offerings. It’s a really great idea for a party or celebration or possibly for a team building activity, and everyone gets to take home their creation.

As far as the quality of VETRO’s glassblown products, I was truly impressed! The quality and heavy weight of their stemless wine glasses exceeded my expectations, and I didn’t lose out on any quality even though it happened to be a guided DIY. I have seen other glassblown wine glass products that are extremely lightweight and thin, the kind of product that would easily break, but VETRO delivers on aesthetics and quality every time. If you enroll in one of their wine glass workshops, your creation will look similar to this (see below).

Advanced Artisan Creations & Customization Options

Now for a look at one of the VETRO team’s more advance creations. Below you’ll get a behind the scenes look at them creating an artistic glass bowl with a really unique textured pattern. VETRO’s team of advanced artisans are capable of creating a wide range of custom options for your home or art collection. Being the design-lover that I am, I am always looking for home decor items with a more unique touch to them. VETRO will deliver on originality when it comes to their custom creations.

VETRO’s storefront offers a selection of ready made blownglass products and works of art that you can take home with you the same day. However, if you need inspiration for a custom product, browsing their storefront is sure to give you some ideas. I came home with SO many ideas for customizing my home with blownglass. The possibilities are endless.

From an interior design perspective, I love the idea of a collage of multiple sized glass bowls as a wall art feature like shown below. Perfect for a statement wall!

Also, consider some of their other decorative selections for enhancing your home’s decor. The works shown below are advanced creations by VETRO professionals that you can purchase or have custom made for your own home or real estate project.

Custom items to consider having VETRO create for your home or business:

(1) Wall sconce light fixtures or pendant lights

(2) Figurative sculpture art (like the incredible dinosaur head shown below) – Created by VETRO owner and artist David Gappa.

(3) Custom chandeliers – of any shape or size you can imagine!

(4) Abstract glass panels as sculptural art (shown below)

(5) A collection of oversized glass bowls for a statement wall installation

Special thanks are in order for Jorma Rahja and Shannan Shumate for showing me the ropes at the VETRO Glassblowing Studio & Gallery. I will definitely be back again! My plan is to create a matching set of stemless wine glasses and serving platters for the dining table. What will you create with VETRO Glassblowing Studio? Schedule your visit today and let them know that Interiors by Jacquin sent you!

Photography by Zoe Martinez

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via Desire to Inspire

If you’re trying to sell a home, you don’t have to accept your home as it is before you sell it. Much like with vehicles, the work you put into a home creates additional value and raises its price, and there are many smart ways to get the most impact for a limited investment. There are a spectrum of upgrades available ranging from minor fixes and patches to full-on renovation of the entire house. You don’t need to invest a lot to get a good return, however. Here is a list of one or two-day remodeling projects that can still add a sizeable boost in property value before you sell your home. 

(1) Faux Wood Beams in the Master Bedroom

Faux wood beams are all the rage right now. They provide a natural, looming beauty to whatever room they are placed in. So, where better to have them than the master bedroom? Upgrades to the kitchen, bathrooms, and bedrooms rank as the most profitable, so by installing some gorgeous wood beams, you can help give it that air of elegance and superiority that a master bedroom is supposed to have. They also look great in the kitchen as well. Check out this great faux beam installation tutorial from Jenna Sue Design blog here.

via Jenna Sue Design

(2) Outdoor Upgrades

Adding a deck to your backyard can increase the resale value of your home a great deal, attracting a wider group of prospective home buyers. Remember to properly calculate deck size to maximize your outdoor space and use hidden deck fasteners to get that clean, perfect deck look that will attract home buyers.

Furthermore, Adding areas of shade and cover to your deck or other backyard gathering areas offer relief from changing weather conditions and the glare from the sun. Gazebos, modern pergolas, awnings, umbrellas, and canopies add style and character to your outdoor areas and can increase your home’s attractiveness to potential buyers. Installing a patio ceiling creates an additional living space that will appeal to homebuyers and add value to your home. 

via DIY Home Center

(3) Garage Remodeling

Garages serve a variety of purposes nowadays, and upgrading yours will have an impact on property value. You might consider some shiny, indoor stained concrete floors, perhaps. Concrete is another trending material right now and by going with the stained variety, you’ll be ensuring long-lasting protection as well as a sheen that will leave an impression on anybody who stops by to visit. A properly polished and colored concrete garage floor is known to draw bigger numbers on the market, and is very likely to draw a good return on your investment. 

(4) Butcher Block Countertops

Wood is really popular right now, so it’s no surprise that butcher block kitchen countertops made their way on this list. The remodel is a small one, usually not taking more than two days. Adding butcher block to your kitchen gives it a more down-home feel, and as long as the wood is properly stained and finished, these countertops will stay looking great for a long time. Butcher block is the perfect way to spice up a boring kitchen.

via Chris Loves Julia

(5) Update Your Light Fixtures

Updating your lighting to something that looks a bit more luxurious will elevate the look of the entire space and will give your home the appearance of greater value when it comes to selling your home. Consider upgrading the lighting in the living room and kitchen for greatest impact.

via Bein Design

Small Projects Can Add Big Value

Just because you aren’t doing any large-scale renovations on a home, doesn’t mean you can’t significantly raise its property value. By doing any of the remodels on this list, or combining them, you can achieve a significant boost in property value, despite not investing a huge chunk of money. Try one or more of these projects and see for yourself how easy it is to get more than you ever imagined for your current home.

Matt Lee is the owner of the Innovative Construction Materials blog and a content writer for the building materials industry. He is focused on helping fellow homeowners, contractors, and architects discover materials and methods of construction that save money, improve energy efficiency, and increase property value.