(BAD) Blog About Design: December 2011

Happy 2012

http://www.setarehmohtarez.com/collection.php

Hello Readers,

Since joining the blogosphere in October, (BAD) Blog About Design has grown rapidly and I would like to thank you all for its continuous success. I hope that my fashion, design, and architecture posts have inspired you and given you new ideas. I would like to wish you all a Happy New Year! I have many exciting blog posts that will be coming out in 2012. From amazing giveaways, unique guest blog posts, fashion, design, architecture and much more, 2012 will be full of creative surprises and bold design. My next blog post will come out on Tuesday, January 3, 2012. From now till Tuesday I invite you to read and be inspired by posts you have missed. Check back Monday for a sneak peak of the week ahead! Always remember: You can add as little or as much to your space as you want. Don't follow rules, just do.

Brendan

Founder & Editor of (BAD) Blog About Design

Labels: Holiday, New Year Message

Room Symmetry

http://www.bloglovin.com

Symmetry does not mean mirror image. To me symmetry is about highlighting likenesses between two objects. For instance, the right side of your console table can have a regular blue lamp and the left side can have a shorter blue lamp. You can achieve symmetry by pairing two objects with similar scale, proportion, or color. (ABOVE) This symmetrical Living Room has elements that skew its mirror effect. The plants, and side tables are different on either side. The blue French lamps that rest atop the side tables are the same, this offsets the side tables variation. (BELOW 1) The right arm chair skews the symmetry in this space. By simply moving an arm chair or sofa you can maintain symmetry, yet give your space some interest. (BELOW 2) This Jonathan Adler vignette is very cool. The minor objects on either side of the console table skew the mirror effect. However, the monochromatic lamps and vases unify the look. The deep blue tassel on the right lamp adds visual interest. You can add as little or as much to your space as you want. Don't follow rules, just do.

http://www.kwid.com
1

http://www.debililly.com/2010/12/beautiful-boston.html
2

Labels: Design, how to

Designing In Small Spaces

http://www.elledecor.com/image/tid/5641?page=5

Furniture placement is crucial when designing in a small space. Be sure to choose pieces that serve a purpose, often times people place too much furniture in a small space. Don't crowd the center of the room with furniture. By placing pieces against the wall, or a selected few in the center, the space will feel larger. (ABOVE) This space feels open because, of the lighter color palette. By incorporating these colorful patterns and shapes, the space feels warm and inviting. I love the artwork in this space as well as the bed headboard. (BELOW 1) By grouping seating together, the space will feel larger as there will be more open areas. I love the pop of green in this relatively neutral space. (BELOW 2) Sticking with one sofa is always a good idea when designing in a small space as the room will not feel crowded. In addition, lacquered walls will make the space feel larger. You can add as little or as much to your space as you want. Don't follow rules, just do.

http://www.elledecor.com/image/tid/5384?page=3
1

http://www.kadinvekadin.net/kolyeden-masa-tasarimi-2011-11-15.html
2

Labels: Design, how to

Simply Inspired: Work Spaces

http://lonnymag.com/decorate/work_spaces

My third Simply Inspired series is all about the Work Space. The Work Space is your creative escape, you retreat to your office to get your work done and to brainstorm new ideas. The following Work Spaces have Simply Inspired me! (ABOVE) This office is filled with bold colors, from the orange rug to the orange chairs, this space is full of creative energy. The unique table base adds visual interest and is absolutely amazing! I love the clean white surface of this table. It creates a beautiful contrast with the bold orange. Overall this space works for me because it is clutter free, has unexpected touches, and is colorful. (BELOW 1) I love the chandelier in this space as well as the variation in seating. The floor to ceiling book shelves are a great choice for this space. The subtle stripe on the dark wood floor adds an elegant touch. Overall this space works for me because it is elegant, simple, and the shelves add functionality. (BELOW 2) The use of patterns and texture in this space is perfect, as is the pop of color on the center coffee table. I love the laid back atmosphere of this space. Overall this space works for me because it is chic, casual, and looks mighty comfortable to work in. Which Work Space works for you? You can add as little or as much to your space as you want. Don't follow rules, just do.

http://lonnymag.com/decorate/work_spaces
1

http://lonnymag.com/decorate/work_spaces
2

Labels: Design

Room Spotlight: Moroccan Meets Modern

http://mdesignla.com/residential/residence_8/index.html

I love this Dining Room designed by M. Design Interiors. From the red King Louis armchairs with a black and white patterned cushion, to the Moroccan accents, such as the chandelier, mirrors and painting. This space has a touch of the unexpected. In addition, the white walls and ceiling allow the accent colors to really pop. What do you love about this Dining Room? You can add as little or as much to your space as you want. Don't follow rules, just do.

Labels: Design

Happy Holiday's

Labels: Holiday

Architect Of The Week: Leandro Locsin

http://search.wn.com

Born in 1928, Leandro Locsin grew up in the Philippines. Locsin died in 1994, he was a well known architect, artist, and interior designer. Locsin choose to use much concrete for his structures. In addition, Locsin was well known for his simplistic buildings and large overhangs. (ABOVE) The façade of the structure is a two-story travertine block suspended 12 meters high, the rest of the structure is clad in concrete. I love the geometric and simple design of the Culture Center of the Philippines. (BELOW 1) The Philippine International Convention Center was completed in 1976. It is a clad in concrete brutalist structure. The overhang of the second floor is my favorite part of the structure. What fascinates you about Leandro Locsin?

http://filipinodeltiologist.blogspot.com/2011_02_01_archive.html

Labels: Architecture

Room Spotlight: Classic Meets Tropical Chic

http://www.ralphlaurenhome.com/collection/2010_spring/la_plage/

This brilliant blue and white space is designed by Ralph Lauren. I love its casual yet sophisticated feel and nautical accents. The fireplace mantle is a great natural element, it's not flat and one tone or texture. The traditional chandelier is a perfect contrast to the laid back atmosphere Lauren was going for in this space. The green plant in the white jug, in front of the curtain is a great burst of wild energy. The small chair next to the fireplace can also dual as an ottoman for one of the arm chairs. Behind the sofa is a console table. Whenever I place a sofa in the center of a space, I love to place a console table behind it, as it grounds the sofa. Playing with woods, blues, and whites in a space is a great way to create a "beachy" feel. What do you love about this space? You can add as little or as much to your space as you want. Don't follow rules, just do.

Labels: Design

Design Video: Kelly Wearstler Flagship Store

The Kelly Wearstler Flagship store on Melrose Place, in West Hollywood, is full of creative energy. From the unique custom designed mannequins that strike fierce poses, to the brilliant ceiling fixtures, the Kelly Wearstler boutique is all the rage. I love the way Wearstler has designed her boutique because, it has its own voice. From the wood walls, to the wood floors, from the vintage furniture to the amazing clothing, her boutique is rich with textures, patterns, and colors. The window displays are impeccably thought out, with custom designed backdrops. “The foundation for the look of the store comes from interiors, art and architecture,” says Wearstler. What do you love about the new Kelly Wearstler Flagship store? You can add as little or as much to your space as you want. Don't follow rules, just do.

http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/alltherage/2011/11/kelly-wearstler-opens-her-la-boutique.html

Labels: Design, video

Modern Meets Historic

Designed by De Matos Ryan, this brilliant farm home is located in Gloucestershire, UK. The home is constructed of limestone and oak. The original home was built in the 16th century and continued into the 17th century. (ABOVE) The barn is the newer built structure, I love the large windows and oak siding. (BELOW) A close up of the barn shows its brilliant old roof and oak doors. Its fresh and modern with a touch of traditional architecture. What do you think of De Matos Ryan's execution?

Labels: Architecture

The Iconic Swivel Tub Chair

Photography by Astor Place

My love of the Swivel Tub chair has grown deep in recent years. It's a piece that will remain iconic for many years to come. I believe that seating should have some type of unusual form. The Swivel Tub Chairs comes in many forms. (ABOVE) This version of the chair is great for a Dining Room, meeting room, or office space. Its more compact than the chair below and it's comfortable to sit in for a long period of time. I find this version of the chair more mid 1960s. (BELOW) This is a wider version of the chair. I would use this chair for a Living Room or Bedroom. I like the original material of this chair and thinner base. I find this version of the chair more mid 1950s. The Swivel Tub Chair is an amazing burst of energy. They're great for curling up in and reading a book by the fire. You can add as little or as much to your space as you want. Don't follow rules, just do.

Photography by Talisman

Labels: Design

Castle Design: The Bodiam Castle

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Bodiam-castle-10My8-1197.jpg

The Bodiam Castle is a 14th-century moated castle in East Sussex, England. Built in 1385 by Edward Dalyngrigge, this castle is constructed of Sandstone. The current condition of the castle is ruins and it’s owned by the National Trust. (ABOVE) This is the type of castle I have always envisioned. From the turrets to the small windows, I absolutely love this castle. (BELOW 1) A closer look of the Sandstone shows its incredible age and detail. I love the wood door and unique engravings above it. (BELOW 2) As you can see the interior of the castle is hollow. I would love to de-construct this castle and bring it overseas to the USA and then use the materials to build a home for myself. (BELOW 3) An aerial view of the castle shows that it is built on a fresh site surrounded by a water-filled moat. What fascinates you about the Bodiam Castle?

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:File-Bodiam_Castle_gatehouse.jpg
1

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Bodiam_Castle_05.jpg
2

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Aerial_photo_of_Bodiam_Castle.jpg
3

Labels: Architecture, castles

Simply Inspired: Bedrooms

http://lonnymag.com/decorate/bedrooms

My second Simply Inspired series is all about the Bedroom. The Bedroom is your sanctuary, at the end of the day you retreat to your Bedroom for some peace of mind. The following Bedrooms have Simply Inspired me! (ABOVE) This Bedroom has coastal flare, because of the light color palette, wood paneled walls, and four poster bed. The lamps on either side of the bed are clear with an unexpected design inside the base. I really like the simplicity of this space. The dark side tables add stunning contrast against the white walls. Overall this space works for me because it is clutter free, has unexpected touches, and makes me think of the beach. (BELOW 1) Normally I do not like wood beams, however, these blend with the ceiling and add visual interest. The symmetry of this space gives it much appeal. I love the side tables, because the legs have a unique wavy shape. Overall this space works for me because it is elegant, simple, and the beams add character. (BELOW 2) The use of patterns and texture in this space is perfect, as are the small end tables that fit in between the doors and bed. For a small Bedroom this idea is a perfect solution. I like how interior designer Carolina Irving, applied wallpaper to the doors. Overall this space works for me because it is chic, casual, and looks mighty comfortable to rest in. (BELOW 3) The headboard in this space really works. The use of blue in this space is calming. Overall this space works for me because it is has great reading light, good symmetry, and unique pieces, such as the paining above the bed. (BELOW 4) This Bedroom has a great touch of masculinity and femininity. The leather headboard is masculine, however, the Louis Vuitton suitcases are feminine. Overall this space works for me because it is timeless, works for a couple, and incorporates fashion. Which Bedroom works for you? You can add as little or as much to your space as you want. Don't follow rules, just do.

http://lonnymag.com/decorate/bedrooms
1

http://lonnymag.com/decorate/bedrooms
2

http://lonnymag.com/decorate/bedrooms
3

http://lonnymag.com/decorate/bedrooms
4

Labels: Design

Architecture Video: The Bluetube Bar

The Bluetube Bar designed by Dose, is a low-cost temporary bar for the annual academic festival in Porto, Portugal. This structure is absolutely amazing. When I first came across it I was quite confused. I thought it was a sculpture. At night, The Bluetube Bar looks incredible as the interior lights shine through to illuminate the structure. What do you think about The Bluetube Bar?

Labels: Architecture, video

Room Spotlight: Classic Glamour With A Twist

http://cabbagerose.tumblr.com/post/568821301/den-kelly-wearstlers-home

My heart melted when I found this fantastic space for this edition of Room Spotlight. Designed by Kelly Wearstler, this Family Room is classic with a twist. The two Terrazza DS 1025 sofas are by far my favorite. These 1970s sofas are functional as they can be joined. I love all the unique details in this space, such as the foot on the table, checkered box and orb vase. The two interesting funnel shaped lamps work beautifully with the checkered painting, accessories, and rug. The floor lamps next to each sofa are great for reading as they provide direct light. Normally I want to tear down wood paneling in a space, however, the wood paneling in this space works. It's clean, elegant, and adds a touch of classic glamour. Despite there being many unusual objects, each item in this space has its own voice. What do you love about this space? You can add as little or as much to your space as you want. Don't follow rules, just do.

Labels: Design