How To Warm Up Your Space With Layering Texture

How To Warm Up Your Space with Layering Texture

“In the depth of winter, I finally learned that there was in me an invincible summer.” ~ Albert Camus

Gabby Home

While winter has settled in quite nicely and the frigid temperatures are chilling to the bone. The comforts of home call for a much needed cozy retreat. As the days are getting darker faster and after the holidays have ended…interior spaces can seem a bit barren and cold to the senses. The perfect time to warm up your spaces using layering and textures to fill in those empty spots and gather around the warm fire. In adding elements of woven texture, wood, leather, velvet and furry finds you can transform your interiors to settle in to with ambiance and comfort.

Annie Selkie

Creating those zones to curl-up in is essential to our desire in hibernating when the chilling temperatures are too hard to bear. The perfect time of year for hot cocoa and a great book covered up in a chunky textured throw blanket…ahhh! We’ve sourced some pillows and throw blankets with different patterns and feel. It’s hard to say no to a super soft faux fur blanket in the middle of winter.

Mathe Design

Pine Cone Hill

Layering rugs is a sophisticated way of adding texture and softness on floors to ground defined spaces. This look is achieved with combining hand woven, hand knotted, sheep skin and cowhide rugs on top of each other. Which is just what the toes need to stay warm when walking on floors that seem icy cold.

CR Laine

On those days and nights when everyone is gathered around for a movie or game night… having soft surroundings to sit on makes the company want to stay a while.

Filling in corners with lanterns and ginger jars adds those special design touches to make a room not feel too empty. The fireplace takes center stage during cold months… having stylish functional accessories to hold firewood and blankets is key. The glow of candles especially helps to create an ambient glow at night to warm the soul. This can simply be done by hanging candle sconces, adding candleholders and hurricanes around the house to fill with luminous candlelight.

Chelsea Robinson Interiors

In the dining room covering chairs with slipcovers and adding in elements of nature can give the room warmth… like adding an extra sweater or coat to your room. Play with different patterns to find your style “simple and elegant” or more “cozy cabin”. Using woven and wool fabrics can make a clean and smart looking winter style statement.

Pine Cone Hill

We haven’t forgotten the much needed layers in the bedroom either. Velvet quilts and furry throw pillows speak for themselves saying “get under the covers”… and can be great seasonal decor items to swap in during the winter for staying warm in bed. This hand knotted rug adds comfort under the feet while another tip is to add simple clean white ceramics… in the form of stools and vases to give a room a boost of freshness.

We hope you enjoy using these tips on layering different textures in your own home to stay warm this winter season. Soon enough it will be spring… but for now we’ll light a candle, read a good book and enjoy the cozy evenings while they last.

Cheers!

Melissa Mathe

*Contact mathedesign.com for all your Interior Design needs.

Color Inspiration: Living Coral Pantone Color of the Year 2019

Color Inspiration: Living Coral
Pantone® Color Of The Year 2019

“Colours are the smiles of nature.” ~ James Henry Leigh Hunt

With each new year comes the anticipated announcement of Pantones new color of the year. Much like waiting to open new presents during the holidays… in early December the color trend forecast is made. To our excitement the 2019 Color of the Year is Living Coral 16-1546. As a global influencer in color systems Pantone sets color trend standards in multiple industries for fashion, home furnishings, industrial design, as well as product, packaging and graphic design.

A vivid color inspiration choice that mesmerizes the eye and mind with an optimistic fresh and cheerful presence. Durived from marine and sea life as well as present in our daily digital imagery. This warm, peachy color with golden undertones nurtures and supports other colors in it’s midst and fulfills the desire for playful expression. It also happens to be one of our favorite colors… so adding this “it” color into our clients interior projects is a welcomed second nature.

Annie Selke

Taelor Fisher Painting

Here are a few sources that we love who embody this color in their product lines. A visionary designer – Annie Selke has offered quality Dash & Albert rugs and luxurious Pine Cone Hill sheets and bedding for over 25 years. Providing happy colorways to fill your home with joy, the herringbone and striped area rugs and throw blanket are the right pop of this color. The ‘Farm Girl’ painting done by the well studied Taelor Fisher is full of this fresh Living Coral “Color of the Year”. A prime example of the way this color attracts your eye as well as creating harmony with other colors.

In a recently designed clients living room we included this bright color in the shown color palette. You can see some of the ways we balanced the room out with fabrics, furnishings and wallcovering. As the ivory and blue in the geometric wallcovering and sofa compliment the backdrop of the sand linen color in the area rug. The coral and green colors in the chair upholstery and throw pillow fabrics add a playful vibrance giving the space liveliness and balance.

Color Palette

We are delighted to introduce this new color inspiration to you and hope you enjoy the examples we’ve shared. We hope you find special ways to incorporate the Pantone Color of the Year 2019 - Living Coral in your interiors and surroundings this year.

Cheers!

Melissa Mathe

*Contact mathedesign.com for all your Interior Design needs.

Melissa Mathe Interior Design: A Year In Review

Melissa Mathe Interior Design
– A Year In Review –

“To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow.” ~ Audrey Hepburn

We’re taking a look back at 2018 and the many projects we’ve had the pleasure of working on with our wonderful clients. Just like each new year a new project has it’s hopes and expectations and most often times the finished result is even better than envisioned. We love talking with our clients about how they wish to use a new space and how they want it to feel. While each project has it’s new adventures and obstacles to overcome we cherish the laughs and victories along the way. Whether a client wants to show a more stylish side of themselves or simply have more functioning light and flow in their space. We guide them on a journey helping to make their interior design dreams and visions come true. Here’s a look inside the highlights of 2018

We started the year out showing design concepts to work on furnishing a new custom built home with large spaces to be filled. Beautifully coffered ceilings and a blank slate were outfitted with a light palette in mink and muted blue. The before and after of the entryway show it’s grand nature, with neutral tones and clean finishes to make an elegant statement.

As the construction was complete in the spring we were ready to start installing. In the dining room the accent color painted in the tray ceiling along with a paint-style patterned custom drapery fabric give the space an uplifted serenity.

This past spring the Mathe Design team attended High Point Market taking in new inspiring finds for the season. Connecting with other designers and meeting with our manufacturer reps to see more details about whats available to designers.

Spring Market is a highlight of the year as designers enjoy time amongst others in our industry… as you can see we have our fair share of fun there too. Shortly after spring market we wrapped up a kitchen remodel that had been in conception since the previous fall. This refreshed crisp classic kitchen is now equipped with brand new custom built cabinetry and an updated dining space.

Photography by Ansel Olson

Along with several client installs this year we have had a pretty large project that’s been underway since May 2018. This project is a home renovation that includes eighty percent of the home. A full master bathroom and master closet area renovation is a major part of the project. Most of the other rooms with exception to the kitchen have new lighting, furnishing and rugs. As we come to the completion of a few of these projects into 2019 we’ll get house tour images up to show you.

While we had been serving our clients Melissa Mathe Interior Design also entered into a presentation for a room design at the Richmond Symphony Orchestra League Designer House 2018. To our excitement we were selected to design a bedroom upstairs in the recently restored historical victorian mansion – Holly Lawn. This started the adventure of bringing together the classic contemporary black and white room design to show during the event. We were more then ecstatic to have the honor of working alongside other esteemed Virginia designers at this charitable event, a definite highlight of 2018.

We’re also excited to share the honorable mentions Melissa Mathe Interior Design humbly received in 2018 press with you.

a new face in the mathe design office

This fall Charlie, the Mathe family’s new puppy, joined the shenanigans in design. Wrapping up a project filled 2018!

A warm thank you to our wonderful clients, vendors, reps, crew and design team for helping us to make 2018 a big success.  Melissa Mathe Interior Design appreciates all of your support and warm friendships.

From our office to you have a safe and Happy Holiday – Cheers to 2019!

Melissa Mathe

*Contact mathedesign.com for all your Interior Design needs.

Make It Match Holiday Decorating

make it match holiday decorating

“One of the most glorious messes in the world is the mess created in the living room on Christmas Day.”
~ Andy Rooney

Better Homes & Gardens

It’s the holiday season… the time of year to make all things merry and bright! From the top of the tree to the center of the Christmas dinner table. You can find pictures of beautifully decorated rooms and you end up with visions of candy canes dancing in your head dreaming of ways to make your home seem just as picture-perfect. But how does this happen?! The approach to making your home feel festive is to ensure your holiday decorations are in the same design style and similar color palette with your everyday interior decor. Bringing these styles together will bring a sense of harmony and flow to your living space. We’ve gathered up ideas for you on ways to achieve this look in your holiday decorating.

rich and bold

An elegant combination of purple and green — from the furniture fabric to the ribbons and ornaments — is brought throughout the wrappings to keep everything looking lively and magical. The simple hanging greenery wreath and table floral arrangement add an element of nature that accents the rich and bold garden inspired color theme.

Southern Living

golden glow

Pops of color with a golden glow delightfully blend with this rooms glam furniture, window coverings and fabrics. Dripping icicles, natural pine cones and simple paper garland are what makes this room sparkle and shine.

Traditional Home

neutral nature

The natural textures in this neutral color scheme bring a sense of the woodlands indoors. Owls, feathers and natural fabric — effortlessly used as a tree skirt — help make the space feel fresh and woodsy sitting upon the large pine boughs. This grand tree is sure to be the center of guests attention.

Traditional Home

snowy winter white

A light filled neoclassical interior is the perfect clean backdrop for simple holiday touches such as fresh cut sprigs. While the traditional use of bold reds and greens can be busy this space feels bright and airy.

Traditional Home

smart style in black and white

Creative yet sophisticated black and white design makes a striking statement. Stripes, polka dots and plaids layer in pattern to enhance the neutral gray decor. Bringing this space to life for those special family moments.

While the merry bells keep ringing Happy holidays to you!

Cheers,

Melissa Mathe

Contact @mathedesign.com for all of your Interior Design needs.

Design Crush: Bar Cabinets

design crush: bar cabinets

"You can’t buy happiness but you can prepare a cocktail. And that’s kind of the same thing.”

Bernhardt Furniture

With the holidays right around the corner everyone will be gathering around to share special moments with family and friends. We couldn’t help but think it to be the perfect time to talk about great furniture in entertaining. Whether in the living room or dining room a stylish Bar Cabinet can certainly up your cocktail game.

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Arteriors

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Vanguard

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Lillian August

Bar Cabinets are an elegant way to serve your guests. They also free up kitchen space and help provide added storage.

Worlds Away

You will find there are quite an array of designs, shapes and finishes available in the marketplace. While shopping for your Bar Cabinet furniture keep in mind what your particular needs are. Whether it’s added glass storage, bottle storage or utensil space — there are cabinets with all the bells and whistles including pull out shelves and lighting to suit your fancy.

Lillian August

With all the excitement around the cocktail hour we’re sharing a few go-to aperitifs for your holiday entertaining!

holiday cocktail recipes

cranberry smash

Ingredients
1 bottle of Gin, 750ML
2 C of fresh cranberries, a few extra for garnish
4-5 sprigs of fresh rosemary
fresh lemon juice from 1 lemon
ice
Instructions
1. Soak Cranberries in gin 1 week.
Put in a large mason jar, and cover tightly.
2. Drain gin into a new bottle and toss
the cranberries.
3. In a shaker, muddle a pinch of chopped
rosemary and lemon.
4. Add 3-4 oz of gin to the shaker with ice.
5. Shake until chilled, strain into a
cocktail glass.
6. Garnish with cranberries on a sprig
of rosemary.
Source: Thyme of Taste; Photo: Aubrie LeGault

bourbon apple toddy

Ingredients
6 cups filtered apple cider
1 cup spiced simple syrup (recipe below)
1/4 cup lemon juice; 1 1/2 cups bourbon
Spice Simple Syrup
1 cup raw sugar
1 cup dark brown sugar; 2 cups water
Add water and dissolve sugar in the saucepan
Bring to simmer over medium heat
Add to saucepan 2 oranges Peels
1 1/2 inch fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
1/4 cup crystallized ginger, chopped
4 cinnamon sticks 10 whole cloves
8 whole allspice berries; 1/2 tablespoon sea salt
2 sprigs rosemary; 2 bay leaves
Simmer for 8-10 minutes; Let steep for 2 hours
Remove rosemary, steep overnight
Strain into container
Source: Jamie Coffey Creative Director
at Williams and Sherrill Interiors

Enjoy these sweet sips while having a holiday filled with warm memories of love and laughter…and a few pop. fizz. clinks.

Cheers!

Melissa Mathe

Contact @mathedesign.com for specialty pricing and inquiries regarding your Interior Design needs.

Get The Look: Modern Farmhouse

get the look: modern farmhouse

“Autumn is a second spring, when every leaf is a flower” ~ Alan Campus

Kelly Nutt Design

With this fresh fall season comes crisp air, warm spicy scents and lovely orange glowing landscapes to be enjoyed. Everything that sets the tone for cozy campfires and curling up in a chair for some quiet weekend reading. The symbiotic balance of two worlds coming together with simplicity and comfort. This reflects the Interior Style we recently seem to have gotten swept up in: Modern Farmhouse. By intertwining these two design styles, your space will come together with warmth and welcoming in a current and inspiring way.

Ivory Lace

Finnie Gray

Beach Glass

Hudson Bay

Clean lines and neutral palettes set the tone with an emphasis on practicality and functionality. Allowing furniture and storage to take the limelight. Your color palette has base Creams and Greige tones paired with colors in earthy shades. While adding subtle vintage colors giving the feeling you get from the comfort of home. Furniture styles entice you to “mix-it-up” using traditional styles paired with more contemporary details including pickled and limed wood finishes. While lighting fixtures and accessories take on another life in matte black or wrought iron and light wood finishes.

1) rectangle chandelier // 2) swing arm sconce // 3) original artwork // 4) weathered oak coffee table // 5) textured rug

Melissa Mathe Interior Design | Ansel Olson Photography

Use natural fabrics of wool, cotton, and linen in stripes and plaids. Lots of textures paired together create that comfy cozy feeling. Add in layers with layered area rugs and chunky throw blankets.

Kelly Nutt Design

We’ve sourced some furniture, fixtures and accents to get you started diving into this sought after design style. Don’t be afraid to add a ship lap wall, replace your mantle with simple reclaimed wood or hang a sliding door to close off any space. You will be inspired to keep things simple and clean by adding lot’s of intentionally placed organization… helping to keep you on your way in getting the Modern Farmhouse look.

As you enter autumn’s golden glow remember that a well designed room will bring out the best in you.

Happy Fall y’all!

Melissa Mathe

Contact @mathedesign.com for specialty pricing and inquiries regarding your Interior Design needs.

A Refreshed Crisp Classic Kitchen: Grab Your Apron

A Refreshed Crisp Classic Kitchen: Grab Your Apron

"A party without cake is just a meeting" ~ Julia Child

Photography by Ansel Olson

The Mathe Design team got a call for a kitchen renovation and we were pleased to find a nice space that needed some life brought back into it. This previously 90's style kitchen had natural wood stained cabinets which were beginning to fade and sag. Functionally it worked, but yet not as well as it could. So we grabbed our aprons and got to planning.

The homeowner was interested in a kitchen that is fresh and clean, but also warm. We settled on a clean white cabinets and warmed them up with matte black jewelry - I mean hardware. 

Before Pictures

We closed in the doorway that led from the kitchen to the dining room. The dining room had another adjacent entry, so by losing this door we were able to grab more lineal square footage for the kitchen while maintaining access to the adjoining dining room.

We settled on a U-shape design that increased their counter and cabinet space. It was a little adjustment getting used to the idea of no island - and so far nothing has been placed/dropped on the once-upon-an-island space where a rug adds warmth to the room. 

With our clients desiring an updated transitional style we sourced lighting from Currey & Company, Visual Comfort and Arteriors Home in a beautiful silver toned finish. Keeping the themes of fresh and warm in mind, we used large lighting to create a sense of space within a space and intimacy. The large pendant over the table gives definition to the eating zone, while the large semi-flush defines the prep/work space. Additional recessed can lighting properly lights the space for prepping without taking away from the focus on the main decorative fixtures. All the lighting is dimmable for flexibility in light levels depending on how the space is being used. 

We finished out the kitchen adding a fresh and warm tile backsplash that adds texture but is easy to wipe clean from Ceramic Technics. And grounded this delightful space with an exciting blue pearl royal granite. That creates contrast against the clean white cabinetry as well as adding warmth. 

This once outdated kitchen is bright, fresh and a perfectly inviting place for our clients family to come together. Can't you just hear the dinner conversations in this space....

Melissa Mathe

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

High Point Market Highlights

High Point Market Highlights

"It's a new season, a perfect opportunity to do something new, something bold, something beautiful"

In April thousands of designers descend upon High Point, NC for the bi-annual Market. Commonly referred to as “Disney for Designers”, High Point Market is the largest furnishings industry trade show in the world. It is comprised of 180 buildings, more than 2,000 exhibitors, and 11.5 million square feet of show space. There is so much to see and only four days to see it in. So, Melissa Mathe Interior Design put on our sneakers and hit the streets to check out this year’s hottest trends.

Melissa Mathe at High Point Market

Trend: Color

The first trend we saw is color and the bold use of it. We’re not talking pops of color here and there, we’re talking flooding a room with lively fresh color. Setting the tone for this trend is Pantone’s Color of the Year: Ultraviolet. This bright purple can be paired with lots of vibrant jewel tones: greens as rich as grass, pinks bright as a raspberry, blues that look like the Mediterranean. All of these colors filling a space creating a sense of happiness and life.

Simple Saturday Makeover: Add lots of bright pillows and accessories to liven up your space. Some new table lamps, you can even throw a fun color on your ceiling in high gloss to really make a statement.

Jill Seale Design Studio

Another way to make a bold use of color, is the absence of color with the classic combination of Black and White. Kate Spade and Audrey Hepburn have proven this color combination to be a thing of natural beauty. While being a classic combination, we are seeing black and white being used in strong patterns such as wide stripes, polka dots, and even zebra.

Simple Saturday Makeover: Paint your walls white and your trim black and throw a faux zebra rug on top of a sisal rug for layers of texture.

Bernhardt Furniture

Trend: Greige is the new Grey

While we are seeing a shift to more colorful spaces, the neutral room is still en vogue. However, grey is out and greige is in. Greige is the word used to describe “grey-beige” – or warm greys. This is moving back towards the browns, ever so slightly. Greige is the new contemporary sophistication palate for those that may not want to go all in on bold colors. In 2018, we are seeing neutrals in warm tones with subtle uses of complimentary tonal colors paired with pickled wood tones.

Simple Saturday Makeover: Use Benjamin Moore’s Manchester Tan or Collingwood on your walls to set the warm tone for your room. Keep things simple with greige, brown, and white. If you want a pop of color, pick only one color and use it sparingly.

Hickory White

Trend: Fabric on Furniture

One of the hottest trends that I just adore is fabric-wrapped furniture. We saw this some last year, but in 2018, fabric covered furniture has really made its appearance. We are seeing this trend appear in Chests that are wrapped in linen, Bar cabinets with velvet doors, Shagreen-topped game tables. This added texture speaks to your senses. Furniture that you can not only see, but also truly feel.

Simple Saturday Makeover: Update your bedroom with a grass-cloth covered dresser or night stands. It is sure to compliment your existing pieces.

Bernhardt Furniture

Interior Design trends are always evolving. Find classic pieces that you can update with the latest trends to always keep your home looking fresh.

Cheers!

Melissa Mathe

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

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

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.

... say yes to green lacquer and see our collage product list below

1) Carson Overstreet Price Fine Art   / /  2) Gold & Green Lacquer Etagere   / /  3) F. Schumacher Twiggy Paperweave   / /  4) Empire Birch Parrot  Green Ribbon Pillow   / /  5) Lattice Lacquer Side Chair  / /  6) Nesting Trays  / /  7) Nara Nail Head Accent Table   / /  8) Table Lamp   / /  9) Jasper Square Jar   / /  10) Echo Carpet Runner

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

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.

Di Frasso Living Room, Simon Watson

CreateSpace Publishing

The Interior of the Dance Pavilion

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

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.

Barbara Barry for Baker Furniture

Visual Comfort Lighting

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

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.

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

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.

"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

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

Molly Ray Young Interior Design

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

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

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

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!"

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.

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.

Here's a detailed list of these Capiz Shell furniture and decor items:

1) Adagio buffet from Bernhardt  2) Manor Empire Chandelier from AllModern  3) Frances floor mirror from Worlds Away  4) Lauralie table lamp from Safavieh  5) Scalloped Chandelier from Serena & Lily  6) Litchfield accent side table from Bernhardt  7)Brick pendant light from Worlds Away  8) Miranda round mirror from Pottery Barn  9) Andria pearlized tray set from Pigeon & Poodle  10) John Richard decorative box from Wayfair.

Enjoy!

Melissa Mathe

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

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

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

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

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

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

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