Kitchen Progression

January 31st, 2012 § 1 Comment

A few photos to satisfy your curiosity. How did I know that you lay awake at night wondering how our kitchen is coming along you ask? I have my ways.

Looking Down the Kitchen Toward the Foyer

Kitchen Stove Wall

Kitchen Stove Wall with Cabinets and Stove

The cabinets were custom-made and finished to match Benjamin Moore Revere Pewter. You know how much I love grey! The stove is by Jenn-air.

Kitchen Stove Wall with Cabinets, Stove and Counters

The Soapstone for the counters was quarried right here in Virginia by Alberene Soapstone. The trim and frame of the opening/doorway and the baseboards were carefully designed to replicate the originals. Trim seems like such a small detail but the craftsmanship of the contractor and his team makes you take notice. When completed the transition between old and new should be nonexistent.

Kitchen Sink/Fridge Wall

There is a pretty awesome view out that window and now the sink is in front of it. Even better.

Kitchen Sink/Fridge Wall with Sink and Fridge

The fireclay farm sink is by Rohl. The cabinet above the fridge was a tragedy of contracting. The cost of home renovation is that there are always a few errors. Do you brush yourself off or make the rest of the project a drudgery. It’s really up to you, because having a project go off without a few mistakes is not humanly possible. If you think about it…in the grand scheme these aren’t really “problems”.

Kitchen Sink/Fridge Wall with Counters and Missing Cabinet

Ahh…there it is, and the counter too. BTW – the back splash is 3×6 honed Carrera marble tile from Mosaic.

Kitchen Sink/Fridge Wall with Dishwasher Panel.

And finally the dishwasher panel. We still have a ways to go, but things are wrapping up. Stay tuned.

Secret Obsessions…I LOVE LOUISE CRANDELL!!!

January 8th, 2012 § Leave a Comment

There I said it. Such a weight lifted. I do this with clients sometimes. I call it “Getting things off my chest”. It doesn’t have to be a big deal, but sometimes you just need to clear the air and let that thing you’ve been sitting on out. Good or bad.

Louise is an artist that Shawn and I have had the pleasure of getting to know over the last few years and after moving from New York a year ago I miss her terribly. She has one of those legendary artist lofts in Tribeca. Yes, they really exist and not just in the movies. I don’t want to divulge too much of the mystery as half the fun is just imagining the life and persona of a true new york artist, but I will say she is a real girl (however inspiring and god like) just like you and me and I do…love her.

Her pieces can be purchased through Clodagh Collection and Boltax Gallery or contact her through her website and ask for a tour of the studio. Yes, this can actually happen.

Here is a massive piece hanging in the lobby of the Caledonia building in Manhattan as seen in Interior Design magazine.

Traveling Light - series

And a few more from her portfolio including one that we own. I know…who do we think we are?

Heaven on Earth - series

Heaven on Earth - series

Eye of Gustave

Bird Brain or The Crow Knows

Traveling Light - series

Traveling Light - series

Don’t be mad…we own the next one.

Traveling Light - series

A Host of Butterflies for the Holidays

December 29th, 2011 § 4 Comments

Posting once a month just isn’t acceptable, I know. Hopefully it was worth the wait.

So, once again I found myself in Miami beach close to the holidays. Yes, it is tough to be me.

This is what my vision of Christmas in Miami Beach looks like:

12' Butterfly Tree

Miami Butterfly Holiday

If you want to go for a look like this yourself here are some tips on how to do it:

1) Put the lights on first, turn them on while you do it, and don’t “wrap” the tree. Just shove them in there and make it look good. This doesn’t have to be difficult, or tedious, or take hours. If lighting the tree is all those things to you, then stop what you are doing and go buy a fake pre-lit tree. Who cares! Christmas isn’t about the tedious exercise of decorating (If you find it tedious). It’s about celebrating, and having fun…being joyful.

2) You can never have too much ribbon, and yes, ribbon is step 2. If you put your ornaments on 2nd they will be all over the floor by the time you get all your ribbon on. I love ribbon, it is like holiday making magic dust…just sprinkle (place) it everywhere and wallah! Instant holiday vibe. Make sure that if you are making bows you use “wired” ribbon. It will save your life. (Who new decorating was so dangerous?)

3) If you don’t want to spend the money on unique one of a kind collectible ornaments, and it is expensive because you need an abundance (abundance is key when holiday decorating), then go for many of one thing (or many of a few things). Here we used these butterflies that were purchased at a commercial floral supply. Google “Floral Supply” in your area. I think we paid $6.00 for 12. That is a ton of bang for the buck. We also purchased all the gold balls and ribbons from the floral supply. If you have never been run, don’t walk. It is a paradise for anyone who really wants to decorate for the holidays like a pro.

4) Another thing I like in abundance – candles! We purchased these battery operated (child friendly) pillars through Candle Impressions. You are welcome to buy them through us (at well below retail). They are about the same price as a regular candle, but last forever. A great investment in holiday cheer. Not to harp on this idea of abundance, but we used 30 in this one room.

Lastly just some friendly advice from someone who comes from a home where holiday decorating could sometimes be…stressful.

Not everything has to be perfectly placed. Relax! It’s Christmas! Let that ribbon do what it wants. Stop overworking it. You raised it well and taught it everything you could. Now if you love it set it free. Wait, what were we talking about? Oh, ribbon…here’s the thing, it has great shape and body coming right off the spool. I can’t really give you more than that because there are no rules…use your eyes. Does it look good to you? Yes? Great! No? Try again. It’s just ribbon. Take your time and enjoy. If you just can’t relax, and this whole decorating thing is driving you to drink, then I say skip it. Have another glass and save your pennies to hire me to come decorate for you next year. Not everyone is going to be good at this and that is ok. I’ll bet you know your wines better than I do and that is going to serve you all year. My Christmas decorating skills only serve me on one day. See! Now don’t you feel better? Well, maybe that’s the wine, but you at least feel better right?

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!

More excuses for you to give me your money.

November 30th, 2011 § Leave a Comment

I’ve often expressed that I’d take payment in cheese and more often than not when a client asks how I would like to be paid my response is, “I’ll take your money however I can get it.” But what do you get in return? You saw the modern lighting the other day and the selections for the country guest room (version one and two), but what else…

Well, you can always check out the catalogues and links on our (hidden) product page. Bookmark the link - there is not a tab to it on the website. Note – many of the catalogues and links are marked as “wholesale” which designates companies with merchandise that we can give the largest discount on.

What you won’t see on that page is furniture from Sarreid and it’s affiliates. Lucky for you here is a sample of my favorites:

If I had a shop this is exactly what it would look like, but then I wouldn’t be able to offer such amazing prices. Shawn won’t let me have one anyway…sad.

Honestly you can save hundreds and sometimes thousands of dollars purchasing these products through David & Daniel Design. Wanna hear more? Sure you do. Send us an email and we’ll discuss…
info@davidanddanieldesign.com

Now my favorite color is gray!

November 16th, 2011 § 1 Comment

“What, thought I could be duller, More depressing, less gay? Now my favorite color is gray!” Fifty cents to whoever names that song and writer.

So my Mother bought me this new Le Creuset braising pan a couple of years ago and my girlfriend Rebecca, hearing that it was my favorite color, guessed that it was blue. “Um, no” I said. To which she responded, “Oh…gray!” I think her subtext sounded a little like “Wah…Wah…”.

Contrary to popular belief White, Beige, Black, and yes…GRAY are all colors.

Here are my favorites:

Here’s the thing - I LOVE gray! And you should too. What, do you live in a gallery? Probably not, and for me I just find that white walls leave a home feeling unfinished and, lightning may strike me for saying this…unintentional. SINNER!!!

Take a look at how many doors, windows, mirrors, pieces of artwork, etc. are breaking up your walls. Don’t be such a worry wort, it’s not going to feel like a gray box, I promise.

One more promise – take a risk and paint the walls of your bedroom in rich, moody, Rockport. Not that you need a daily reminder of what you should be doing in there, but this definitely wont let you forget.

Once you go gray you’ll never stray.

Don’t MESS WITH MY KOUSA!

November 15th, 2011 § Leave a Comment

I came down the driveway to discover we had been invaded by giant dinosaurs, or the drill had arrived to dig the geothermal wells.

…all I could think was, “Poor Travis.” He worked so hard seeding the island in the middle of the circular driveway. I have a feeling this won’t be the last time it needs to be redone. Honestly the contractors are being as careful as they can, they just have massive machinery and can only do so much.

That’s my Kousa on the left, its leaves haven’t changed yet. It is one of the most perfect specimens I have seen. Keeping our fingers crossed that all is still well when everyone has cleared out.

There’s my Kousa again on the right. The rig is actually gone now, and our two 400′ wells are complete, but we still have a 5′ deep by 3′ wide trench leading over to the house. We’ve tried to find some bodies to throw into it (just seems like the thing to do), but haven’t had any luck yet.

Oh, BTW – if you want your own geothermal HVAC system you should check out Renewable Energy Solutions, Inc. Ask for Shaune Roop and he’ll hook you up. (Even if you don’t need a place to put the bad people.)

Design – “On the House” Take Two

November 1st, 2011 § 1 Comment

“The surest way to artistic failure is to stick to what you know.” I don’t know who said that or where I heard it, but something reminded me of this gem and I got to thinking that maybe I could do better with my country guest room. So, this is “Rural Modern”. If I’m lucky we’ll end up with something that hasn’t been seen too often (ever.) Well, a boy can dream.

The guest room has now become a suite with a sitting room and full bath:

Guest Room Inspiration Board - REVISED

Sitting Room Inspiration Board

Bath Inspiration Board

At the risk of sounding like a broken record…yes, most of the furnishings can be acquired through David & Daniel Design. Please inquire for specifications, pricing, and availability. We accept cash, personal checks, Visa, Master Card, and American Express (Read: We’ll take your money however we can get it.)

A tribute

October 31st, 2011 § 2 Comments

I intended to post about a revision to my country guest room, but it will have to wait…

I mentioned briefly our gardens, a small part of the legacy of one woman, and the product of a quarter century of diligence. These are the best of this past season:

It is only goodness which gives extras, and so I say again that we have much to hope from the flowers. – SIR ARTHUR CONAN DOYLE

RIP GD

Design – “On the House”

October 26th, 2011 § 2 Comments

How do you feel about me giving away design for free? It makes me want to cry… (j/k)

I have some new projects I’m working on and I thought it might be an interesting exercise to post my inspiration boards and layouts as they come together. Having your opinion would be invaluable and it would be a good forum for creative expression. Bonuses: Most of the featured furnishings, as well as fabrics are available for purchase through David & Daniel Design at exceptional values. So if you want to use (steal) my designs and are feeling guilty you can always absolve yourself by placing an order. If that all seems like way too much trouble just throw some money in the hat.

Guest Room Inspiration Board

  • Wall color: Benjamin Moore “Natures Essentuals”
  • Drapery Fabric: Nicholas Herbert - Chalvington Yellow. Available through Claremont New York (To the trade only…we’d be happy to purchase on your behalf)
  • Mirror: Handcarved Solid Walnut, 34″w x 2″d x 58 1/2″h, Antique Gold Schlag Finish. Available through David & Daniel Design
  • Desk Lamp: Barbara Cosgrove Antique Drafting Lamp, h.16″-36″ x base dia.10″, Pewter and Antique Patina on Brass. Available through David & Daniel Design
  • Table Lamp: Triple Gourd Lamp h.33″ x dia.20″, Oxblood Glazed Ceramic, Lucite Base, Pearl Dupioni Fabric Shade (Made in the USA). Available through David & Daniel Design
  • Sconce: Emma, 9w x 4.5d x 13h, Hand-blown glass, iron in flat black finish. Available through David & Daniel Design
  • Arm Chair: English 18th Century Country House Arm Chair, h.42″ x w.24″ x d.25″, Solid Mahogany Rush Seat, Ebonized Highlighted Walnut Finish. Available through David & Daniel Design
  • Writing Desk: Lady’s Desk, Solid Walnut, 43″w x 20″d x 31″h, One Drawer. Available through David & Daniel Design
  • Chest: Three Drawer Gustavian Chest with Black Top, h.32″ x w.35″ x d.18″. Available through David & Daniel Design
  • Credenza: Sideboard with Four Boxes in Bleached Pine, h.34″ x w.71″ x d.22″. Available through David & Daniel Design

Our price for this room (not including rug and drapery)  – $4,925. Their (“them”, “those guys”…you know the ones) price – $9,455 (minimum.)

I suggest a custom, wall mounted, tufted linen headboard and crisp white bedding as well as contemporary, locally procured artwork for the walls. Perhaps:

Modern Photography by Local Artist

This modern country bedroom provides all the comfort you’d expect to find in Virginia horse country and all the charm of the 1800′s, but reminds you, “Yes, we know it’s the 21st century.”

Adventures in Gardening

October 20th, 2011 § 4 Comments

We have just under 7 acres at the Rectory and it is daunting. Not to worry, the majority of it is woodland areas and fields of wild grass that get bush hogged ( [boosh-hawag, -hog] noun – device, pulled behind a tractor, having one or more blades spinning parallel to the ground and attached radially to a central axis, used for cutting vegetation and clearing land.) twice a year. However…we still have about 2 acres of proper lawn that needs to be maintained. Through multiple discussions with Travis over the Spring and Summer we came to the decision that in the long run a beautiful and healthy lawn would be the most economic choice, some investment up front, but ultimately easier and less expensive to keep up.

Front Lawn

Partial front and side yard lawn in the distance.

Not trying to give you a panic attack but these two photos equate to about 1/4th of the total lawn area to be maintained. Ha! (slightly hysterical out burst) As mentioned in earlier posts on this subject on our FACEBOOK page, the woman who owned the home for the last 25 some odd years was a passionate gardener and we have made a few decisions that have not gone over so well with some members of “the community”. Any resemblance to the title of an M. Night Shyamalan movie intended. These folks who whisper however are all people we have actually never met. Our friends know we have nothing but the best of intentions and that we are doing a maximum of research in order to preserve this landscape in the best way possible. Woah. I got so serious there for a moment. That brings me to our amazing tress. Yes, to benefit the greater good some (7 of over 150) have needed to be removed, but 5 of those were dead or dying. At any rate, a couple need to be replaced and we also have one area that we want to provide a natural screen for so I finally made a visit to Springtime Garden Center in Front Royal. They came highly recommended (by literally every one we know) and I was not disappointed. The owner spent an hour and half giving me the gardening master class and 1/3 of that time was after they had closed. I wouldn’t expect this level of service from a nursery where I was paying three times as much and from what I could tell at most other garden centers you can expect to pay three times as much. I think that is what happens when you buy anything from someone who is truly passionate about what they are selling…you get value.

These are the recommendations - Dramatic, fast to moderate growers, dear tolerant, and made to last:

Black Gum - Wildfire

Norway Spruce

Just a few of our trees (that we didn’t remove) that are starting to show off for the Fall:

American Dogwood

Maple

Beech and Japanese Maple

Cercis Canadensis Forest Pansy

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