This room offers a unique blend of rustic style with traditional furnishings.  The original white mantel was inconsistent with the cozy ambiance of this space.  An element was needed to act as a bridge between the rough sawn beams and the antique bricks around the firebox.  The mantel wall was the obvious dilemma.

The design process:

Since this is a small space, utilizing just one faux finishing process would have still left this feature element appearing too large.  Dividing it into sections returned it to the appropriate scale.  It needed to be a careful blending of techniques that were consistent with the style of this home.

To compliment the rustic beams of the ceiling, an aged wood grain technique was applied to the mantel.  Contrasting the color of the  surrounding mill work acts to frame the mantel.  The palate was chosen to act as a unifying element of the different details within the space.  Contrasting the color works to define each feature.  The undertones of the crackle were selected to blend with the wood.  The top layer is similar in color to the painted cabinetry in the kitchen directly opposite of this wall.  The richness of the wood framed by dramatic antiqued/distressed mill work gives the best of both worlds.  These faux finish techniques are a reflection of intricate beauty that only happens over time.

The Concept: So often I am asked, “Where do you come up with the ideas for your finishes?”  I would like to believe that there is some kind of divine intervention that takes place!  But in reality, it is just thoughtful and innovative planning that guides the development of the perfect faux finish.  A collaborative effort of creative individuals is the key.  This seminar was intended to present an

	We first identified a surface that was in need of some TLC. It was small but visible the instant you enter the showroom. We wanted elegant, updated and unexpected. The goal was to allow this wall to grab your attention with a personality all its own. In essence, we set out to create a focal point where originally there was none!
	The design process begins by selecting a palate which continues the visual flow of colors that exist in nearby spaces.  We evaluated a number of possible options.  It was determined that reflective tones of gold as a base with accents of red would be the most complimentary blend.  This photo from “Wallovers” best represented how these colors would “read” on a wall.
	Next, we look at techniques. Everyone likes to include an element of the unexpected. Together we paged through my portfolio looking for ideas. What captured their attention was a faux finish from my project titled “Wake up call”. The surprise is the way it blends the traditional damask design with an updated twist . . . the geometric shapes. The voting was unanimous. There would be random rectangles of a design but in the colors that we had already determined.
	Now, for the fine details. It was time to select the exact pattern that would be applied to the inside of the squares. I love working with talented designers. The only thing that is predictable is that they will think of something clever and UNPREDICTABLE! They gathered a few accessories as a source of inspiration and the ideas started to flow. They brought fabric samples with different patterns and held them up to the wall. This helped to visualize how a design might look as a square. It was exciting to watch them understand the process and imagine the endless possibilities. One of the designers was wearing a skirt with a zebra pattern. This was the winner. What a testimonial to the quote, “inspiration is all around you . . . just keep your mind wide open” !!!
	I took some artistic liberties by using multiple shades of red within the pattern. This included a blending of brick reds, Christmas reds and burgundy. Being a retail showroom, it is subject to frequent changes. Introducing a variety of similar tones was a method of ensuring that this wall is versatile. It will always compliment any vibrant red accessory that is placed next to it.

This was a day of great fun.  Design lessons were applied, innovative minds were stimulated and a beautiful wall of wonder remains.  In the end, a new finish had evolved.  We titled it “walk on the wild side”.  Everyone learned how to take standard faux finishing techniques and elevate them to a higher level of decorative artistry.  We were challenged to think outside of the box.  Each project is an opportunity to revisit this creative process.   I am able to leave behind the gift of a personalized piece of custom art for every client.  This is why I love my work . . . it makes people smile.  It is a joy to make their visions become reality.

I am always happy to do a “demo day” or presentation for any group functions.  I love to teach and have plenty of ideas on topics that would be appropriate for your event.  Please feel free to contact me at 770-777-7020.

Special thanks to DOTI (www.dotiduluth.com) for sponsoring this great event, Wallovers (www.wallovers.com) for providing the initial point of inspiration for this finish and all of the attendees who shared their talent and creative ideas.

This project took place in a large furniture and design showroom.  The challenge was to define the reception area.  Changing the “accent wall” into a true “focal wall” creates a stunning backdrop.  The clever addition of a dramatic texture technique and rich metallics offers a treat that is both visual and tactile.  It immediately captures your attention and draws you in.  To further emphasize the desk, the inset of the cabinetry was enhanced in a complimentary palate to showcase the raised architectural details.

This reception area may be small in proportion to the rest of the space.  But it is now rich with intrigue and defines a place of importance and purpose.

The Design Process:
The quality of a faux finish is often more valuable than quantity.  In this scenario, the goal was to frame the desk and create a contrasting backdrop that would make this area stand out.  The clean lines and the black color act to visually “underline” this space.  High lighting the center panel of the desk with brilliant bronze tones creates enough contrast to punctuate this feature.

The wall finish needed to be equally as dimensional.  The trowel technique is more dramatic with a structured rather than random pattern.  This emphasizes a crisp and tailored style.  The size of the squares was determined according to the scale of the space.  If they were too large, it would overpower the beauty of the front panel . . . too small and they would lack definition in this open area.

The colors are complimentary to all of the fabrics, furnishings and accessories.  The warmth of the metallics outlined in black are a neutral yet stunning way to capture your eye.  This reception area is now readily identified as an invitation to explore the creativity within this showroom.