The term “faux” is actually a French word meaning fake, false or imitation.  In the world of design, we always prefer to use elements that are real.  But very often limitations such as availability of products, time or expense  prevent REAL elements from being incorporated.  The solution is to explore options that IMITATE  items found in nature.  If it involves paint, you need to enlist the talents of a faux finish artist.

Done correctly,  faux painted elements become exquisite additions that add value to a home.  The artistry must create the illusion of a REAL element of nature. . . so real that you must feel it and touch it to believe it.

The Design Process:

Interior Designer, Michelle Nettles of MJN and Associates Interiors recognized that these columns were an integral  part of this design project.  The foyer of this grand home had magnificent custom marble floors.  Four stately columns outline the perimeter of the space.  Marble is ideal for spaces where a more formal, refined and glamorous look is desired.  The goal was  to paint the columns to create an upward extension of this natural element.

These columns appear as if they were produced from the same quarry as the marble floor.  Look closely at the colors and graceful movement of the patterns.    Over millions of years, rocks and granules were exposed to heat, pressure, liquid and chemical actions.  Years of compression transformed these elements into the elegant stone we know as marble.   The artistic process  begins with a visual image in my mind about the forces of nature that occurred to create this beauty.  The many layers of decorative artistry tell this story.  Fortunately, it only takes a couple of days to paint it!

It is always a privilege to be able to create elements that represent the beauty of nature.  That  includes wood, stone and  aged patinas on metals to name a few.  If your wish list includes adding an element that appears REAL, consider the option of PAINT!  Any surface can appear so authentic that you must see it, feel it and touch it to believe it.

This project was filmed by CBS for Better Atlanta.  Take the full tour and meet the team.  Then, let us know what you think.

So often we think of neutral colors as being a “safe” option.  But, plain vanilla is not always the best or most interesting choice.  That is why there are 57 flavors!  The process of decorating your home creates a story about you . . . your personal style, the things you love and expressions of your personality.  It is the job of a design professional to listen carefully and explore your goals.   Then they use their creativity and resources to help you define a space that is a reflection of you.

Upon meeting this client, it was apparent that they were comfortable with a traditional style.  Yet, presentations of original art pieces throughout their home are a reminder of their appreciation for things that are unique and unexpected.  Their love for the color red gave us the direction needed to make this dining room tell their story.

The Design Process:

Interior Designer, Michelle Nettles of MJN and Assoc. began with a selection of glamorous reflective fabrics that would become a custom window treatment.  This was our inspiration for developing an innovative faux finish for the walls.  “Whatever you do with the walls is the final detail that is needed to complete the total look of a project.” says Michelle. “I appreciate the creativity that faux finishes offer.  It is like selecting and designing the perfect gift wrap for a special present.”

These were our objectives as we identified and developed the perfect painted wall finish to complete the design of this space:

1. Create a contrasting backdrop that would allow the neutral furnishings to stand out.
2. Remain consistent with a theme of traditional elegance.
3. Incorporate a special artistic touch to make this space unique.

Due to the size of this space, an allover pattern (like wallpaper) would have been too overpowering and predictable.  Instead, we incorporated a traditional damask design that magically fades in and out at specific places on the wall.  This is a subtle way to draw your eye toward the beautiful features that embellish this room . . . the window treatments, the crystal sconces and the custom art.  This soft reflective painted wall finish in multiple tones of red and bronze is now the perfect compliment to the glamorous style of this home.

This project was filmed by CBS for Better Atlanta.  Take the full tour and meet the team.

The next time you are planning on making changes to a space,  go beyond the ordinary.  Be willing to explore options that are not expected.  These are the details that will make your home uniquely yours.

What is the story that your home tells about you?  Please share your comments about this project below.

Be sure to visit www.kasswilson.com for more inspiring ideas.

The purchase of a new television set was the catalyst for change in this keeping room.  It became apparent that this cabinet would need to be adapted to accommodate  the new electronics.  Once that was done,  a lot of repairs would be necessary.  The initial request was to return it to the original cabinet finish.  Based upon all of the changes that were going to be made, this cabinet was destined to be completely repainted.  With some imagination and creativity, we decided to go in a whole new direction.

The design process:

This cabinet is the largest architectural detail in the room.  Yet, it didn’t stand out as a focal point.  Contrast was the answer.  A faux finish using a wood grain technique (faux bois) was the obvious choice.  Tones were chosen to blend with the hardwood floors and bar stools in the adjoining kitchen.  The painted  illusion of wood was extended out to the drywall on the sides.  Since the new TV was so large, the additional width made it appear more in proportion with the cabinet.

The deep colors of the faux wood grain  flow effortlessly where it meets the flooring.  Then it carries your eye all the way to the tall ceiling to emphasize the height.  This painted cabinet has become the feature attraction of the space.  The addition of the rich faux finish of wood offers warmth and an unmistakable  perception of quality to this home.

For more detailed information about this project, watch our new video on YouTube.

To see endless creative ideas for interior design and decorating, visit our website at www.kasswilson.com

Good design is all about creating focus.  The journey begins by identifying  key features in a space.  Then,  embellishments are added that speak to other elements in the room. This is where the clever use of faux finishes and decorative painting are a designer’s best kept secret.  They will elevate a project from “very nice” to “WOW“.

The style of this home is sleek, sophisticated and elegant.  That description is often used in conjunction with the term “minimalistic”.  We all understand that less can be more.  Yet, there also comes a point where too little is NOT enough.  The challenge is to find the delicate balance of achieving  richness in content without being cluttered.

The design process:

Look at this dramatic staircase.  Yes, it was large.  But, it needed the right “piece of  jewelry” to become GRAND.  The objective was to keep attention on the graceful curves below rather than allowing your eye to become overwhelmed with the height and vast open areas of the entire space.  A hand painted accent wall is an innovative solution that is often used by designers to achieve this goal.

The BEFORE photos show the beginning of the process.  The wall below the staircase was painted one shade darker than the rest of the walls throughout the home.  Now, notice the impact that was made with the addition of  the elegant hand painted stencil pattern.  This particular allover pattern was chosen because it relates to other elements in the space such as the leaded glass doors and the side board on an opposing wall.  The design offers a subtle departure from traditional damask patterns which  gave it a unique character.  Painting it with two tones of brilliant bronze and gold kept the emphasis on elegance.   The result was a wall that has become a personalized piece of art . . .  in the perfect colors, perfect size and perfect style for this sophisticated home.

* On another note, the cost of the decorative painting on this wall was estimated at 40% less than a comparable wallpaper.  It took about 30 minutes to select the pattern and choose the colors, and one  day to paint the decorative pattern.  There are no seams, it is easy to repair and can be changed with a coat of paint.  Never having to strip wallpaper. . . PRICELESS!

A special thanks to Jason Smith at Summit Design and Build . . . on time, on budget, quality results and so easy to work with!  You made it fun.  Contact Jason at:   summitdesignbuild.net OR 404-512-3419

We welcome your feedback.  Please let us know what you think by posting your comments below.

Inspiration for interior design and finishes . . . it is everywhere! Many times it comes from  something we see.  It can even be generated from a simple verbal suggestion.   For example, while exploring creative options for white cabinetry in a great room, a designer was searching for a faux finish that would be organic in nature.  This client’s home was a treasure chest of unusual textures and rich earthy colors.  Just plain paint wouldn’t do.  It called for something beyond ordinary. . . something warm, something inviting and something unique.  Mention was made of driftwood . . . and the challenge was on!!!

STEP ONE . . . RESEARCH:

Driftwood is different from barn wood.  Eliminating any interference from man, these branches have been free to twist and turn without restraint. The result is graceful curves, rich texture and magnificent depth of colors. Each piece takes on its own unique personality that ultimately becomes nature’s work of art.

STEP TWO . . . FIELD STUDY:

To fully experience this “chic organic” style, a visit to Restoration Hardware was in order.  The showroom revealed ideas of how to incorporate natural elements that compliment a deep neutral color palatte.   Using hues of brown, gray and tan,  dramatic textures and clever accessories have been celebrated creating an environment of intrigue.  It was hard to resist the desire to touch every fascinating detail!

STEP THREE . . . FINAL EXAM:

The test  was to translate this concept into a faux finish that could be applied over plain white cabinets.  The process  evolved into a 3 dimensional faux bois (faux wood grain) that is reminiscent of driftwood. Having control of details such as the amount of texture, the variety of colors that can be used and the exact placement of each curve, offers the ability to provide infinite possibilities.   This cabinet finish  can be perfectly blended with other organic features in a space. What an unexpected and rich compliment to stone, granite, tile and fabrics!  The unusual texture offers a warm invitation to gather in any space.

As a decorative artist, it is always an honor to create an interpretation of the greatest artist of all.  So what do you think . . . would it fool Mother Nature?  Let me know.

Do you have cabinetry that could become something special?   Make it an unexpected feature that everyone wants to touch.  For more cabinet transformations, visit www.kasswilson.com.

What defines “prime” real estate?  It is a reference to quality of the perfect location  in an environment that is both visually appealing as well as inviting.  In our home, we are often looking for the “prime” space to feature items that are important to us.  At first glance,  it is rarely exactly as we want it.   Having a vision of what CAN be is the key to designing the space of your dreams.

In this craftsman style home, we needed a location to feature the client’s art collection.  Their dining room offered a large  expanse of walls that would accommodate all of the pieces.  Immediately off of the foyer, the french doors provide a sense of importance to this space.  They act as an invitation to enter and view something special.

The Design Process:

The goal was to create a warm “envelope” filled with subtle textures in neutral colors.  As described by the client, “I want my home to be elegant but livable.”  Knowing that she had an appreciation for the unexpected, a faux finish was designed for the walls and ceiling that would be uniquely hers.

The harsh contrast of the white trim against the deep wall color was the first thing to address.  Then, a faux finish of rich reflective texture was carefully woven together with tones of the blue accent color for interest.  A rectilinear pattern gives a tailored impression that is consistent with geometric lines of the craftsman style.  More warmth is achieved by the addition of a complimentary faux finish on the ceiling of deep bronze.  Subtle shifts of neutral values within this room now echo the color palate that flows throughout the home.

In the end, these faux finishes offer a  stunning backdrop for the display of cherished treasures.  It has become “prime real estate”.  This space is more than just a place to gather and dine . . . it is an experience!

Do you have a place in your home that is “prime real estate”?  Are you making the most of it?  We welcome your comments below.  Visit www.kasswilson.com for more transformations.

It was wonderful working on this project with interior designer, Janie Smith of 3 Gates Interiors (404-368-9490).  Her energy and creativity made it fun.  I am proud to be a part of it.

OUR SPACE BEFORE

Nothing speaks of creative artistry more than James Cameron’s Avatar.  This became our very ambitious theme for an exhibit at The Next Cool Thing event. Rather than copy the mega-blockbuster movie, the concept was to create an “Avatarization” of Atlanta.  It soon became known as “Avatlanta.”  Who wouldn’t want to travel to the magnificent land of Pandora?  We decided to present a living room that might be found in this fascinating world.  To create the illusion, there needed to be a blending of both 2 and 3 dimensional elements.  Here is the result. . .

COMPLETED EXHIBIT

Here are the 8 elements that made it come to life:

1)  The mural.  A beautiful room begins with a beautiful view.  A huge 10 foot by 20 foot canvas mural stretched on a curved wall offered the perspective of a vast vista for the background.  Details were carefully scaled and designed by muralist, Megan McKeithan to give the illusion of looking over the edge of one of the Hallelujah floating mountains.  Familiar landmarks of Atlanta were incorporated like the King and Queen building of Perimeter Center and the Chattahoochee River.

2)  Dimensional Branch.  The transition to a 3 dimensional experience began with a textured faux tree branch on the mural.  This element was complete with the appearance of twisted bark and knots.  It was fitted into the mural at the studio but actually attached when we arrived at the exhibit space.  As a final touch, moss and botanicals were added for even more dimension.

3) The path.  The exhibit space had concrete floors.  Large stepping stones were created on pieces of laminate.  Additional shadowing was incorporated for the illusion that they were dimensional.  This provided a durable path to lead visitors through the environment.

4) Custom Furniture.  Rafael Fernandez of Upholstery House Plus designed and created innovative furnishings that were consistent with the theme.  Once fabrics were selected for the seating, the details of the color scheme were fine tuned.  He also fabricated the graceful leaf table that was finished in  textured bronze to compliment  the trim on the chairs.

5) 3D Leaves.  The innovative craftsmen of Malone’s Design and Fabrication assisted with more of the custom 3D elements.  The basic concept was, “If they can build it, we can paint it!”  The large graceful leaves brilliantly set the scale for the exhibit and camouflaged support columns in the front of the space.  Special touches were added to each of these 49 leaves (some over 5 feet long).  Three colors of  reflective texture were tinted and blended to replicate the colors of the seating.  They had the appearance of shimmering silk that everyone wanted to touch.

6) Flying dragon.  Malone’s talented sculptor, Frank Yokulan, was also responsible for the hanging mountains, the illuminated fiberglass cypress knees and the flying banshee that came to be known as “Fred”.  This element made a dramatic entrance as it broke through the picture plane of the mural into the exhibit.  The 3D and 2D elements of Fred were painted  to combine an effect that every visitor wanted to examine. Mounted on a fulcrum behind the wall, it came to life as his head moved in the breeze.

7)  Foliage.  Anything that sat still long enough was fair game to be painted!  Andy Schwartz of Labs Inc. provided all of the foliage and custom flowers.  This was the finishing touch that gave the appearance of an exotic tropical forest.  He graciously allowed me to scavenge through his warehouse to create fantasy flora and fauna.  Armed with cans of spray paint, metallics, multiple colors of interference and plenty of hot glue, my mission was to use parts and pieces of botanicals to create fantasy flowers that would only be possible on Pandora.

8)  Floating seed pods.  Paint brushes and trowels aside, what would Avatlanta be without those mystical seed pods from the tree of souls?  Simple elements were engineered and assembled in a not-so-simple way.  The process took over my dining room!  Illuminated with fiber optics, over 200 of these wonderful little creatures floated gently throughout the space.  Catch one if you can!

I have never worked so hard but had so much fun.  We had an incredibly talented team.  It was an opportunity to utilize our skills and travel beyond what we are traditionally asked to do for our clients.  Imagine what we can create for YOUR special projects like a theater room, wine cellar or play area?  My mind is already exploding with  ideas for next year’s event!  But for now, all elements of Avatlanta are safely stored and available for purchase.  Contact me for more information.  770 777 7020

My Partners:

Megan McKeithan of Visionary Mural Co.  www.VisionaryMuralCo.com

Rafael Fernandez of Upholstery House & Plus  www.upholsteryhouseplus.com

Andy Schwartz of LABS, Inc. botanicals  www.labsinc.com

Frank Yoculan and Geoff Markiton of Malone Design/Fabrication  www.maloneinc.com

Special thanks to Barbara English of To The Trade Only  www.tothetradeonly.com for creating and organizing The Next Cool Thing.  For more information about this event visit: http://www.nextcoolthingevent.com/

*   *   *   *   *

Upon first glance, it is apparent this home owner loves color, has sophisticated taste, and an appreciation for things that are unique.  Our goal was to create a sense of warmth in this space through the innovative use of artistic finishes. The mantel is the largest architectural detail in the room.   Enhancing this element provides a prominent design statement and offers a spectacular feature to compliment the art collection.

The design process:

As you look at the mantel, the first observation is that it is wider on the top.  This makes the ceilings appear low.   Fluting was added to the lower portion of the sides to create straight vertical lines.  This simple addition gives it balance on the wall.

We also wanted to draw attention to the interesting architectural features within this piece.  More than just one faux finish would be needed to accomplish this. The deep rich color of the hardwood floors visually grounds the space.  Painting a faux wood grain finish (faux bois) on the sides and along the ledge offers a seamless connection and a bold outline to the mantel.

For the interior surfaces, we looked to other artistic elements in the room for inspiration.  The metal framed mirror stands prominent on the adjacent wall.  This was our guide. But, mirrors are tricky.  It is important to consider the image you will actually see as you walk by.    As you enter this space, notice how the mantel appears in the reflection.  That image now becomes an important part of the design.  Therefore, we chose to incorporate a subtle faux finish that gives the illusion of textured tin similar to the mirror frame. This unifies the color palate.  With the help of the mirror, it has now become art within the art!

In the end, it is the innovative use of artistic faux finishes on the mantel and clever placement of the artwork that gives this space a sense of intrigue.  It is an innovative way to “reflect your personal style”.

Special thanks to the creative talents of Joann and Kelly of Kandrac & Kole Interior Designs:  www.kandrac-kole.com. It is always a pleasure to be a part of their vision.

View more decorative painting enhancements by Kass Wilson of Wallstreat Studio, by visiting www.kasswilson.com.  We welcome your comments below.

Tall cathedral ceilings . . .  multiple angles . . . large mirrors . . . many focal points . . . hard surfaces . . . blending of styles . . . sophisticated color palate.  These were just some of the design challenges  presented in the remodel of this grand master bathroom.

As in all good design, we began by identifying the main focal point of this space.  The garden tub is the first thing you see when entering this vast master bath.   Above it, a large mirror spans the full length of the wall.  As a result, the vanities across the room are viewed in the reflection and they become a critical element of your first impression.

The Design Process:

Attention is drawn to the dramatic 15 foot cathedral ceiling with a series of complex architectural angles.  To bring the vanities in proper scale, a solid deep color was used on the back walls emphasizing that they are recessed.  This acts like a matting around a piece of artwork, visually punctuates these two walls and gives the vanities more importance.  The same color was added to the back of the alcove above the door for symmetry.  These three surfaces are now established as a consistent visual plane.

The rest of the walls were treated with a slightly different finish to define and celebrate all of the angles.  It gives the illusion of interesting architectural elements that almost appear to be structural features.  They were softened with a simple and elegant faux finish that gently compliments all of the other surfaces in the space.  A random design was embedded into the finish consistent with the metallic colors of the mirror frames and hardware.   This faux technique blends effortlessly to offer a touch of timeless traditional style among the contemporary elements.

This master bathroom remodel is a perfect example of how to “divide and conquer” through the subtle use of color and dimension.  Thinking of wall surfaces independently rather than all one element will allow you to add interest to a space.  It is yet another tool used by skilled designers to provide outstanding options for challenging design dilemmas.  These are the kinds of details that will help you get the maximum return on your remodeling investment.

Special thanks to designer, Erin Stephenson (770 656 1340) and her passion to explore unexpected solutions that make her projects stand out from the crowd.

Please offer your feedback below.  Visit www.kasswilson.com for more transformations.

Once in a while, something really special comes to town.  My latest find is a new kitchen and bath studio called “The Works”.   It is a full service resource for design professionals and homeowners.   But, this is a showroom unlike any other . . .  it allows you to experience new and innovative ideas that can be incorporated into your home that will make it a WOW!!!

Bette Raburn is the designer who put this concept together.  She has gathered a team of artists, products and craftsmen that value the opportunity to offer options that are well beyond ordinary.  I was honored to be invited to contribute to this outstanding showroom.

The design process:

Our challenge in this space was to add interest to a standard and predictable kitchen island . . .  something that would compliment the beautiful glass tile in the back splash, blend with the richness of the wood cabinetry and reinforce the image of  quality.  Bette is always looking for innovative solutions.  Together we came up with this idea . . . when you have something that is already good, just make it even better!  So, with some creative brainstorming, this was the result.

The addition of these panels gives the illusion of a stunning 3 dimensional pounded copper sculpture.  After determining the exact colors to blend, I created them in my studio.  Working with the carpenters, they were cut for an exact fit and installed during the final construction of the island.

One of the advantages of this process is versatility.  In the future, these panels can be easily removed and/or replaced.  As a result, if your colors change or your personal style takes a turn in a different direction, new panels can be designed and made to your exact specifications.   One client said to me, “When you decide to change, I want to have those framed.  They will become great pieces of art on my walls.”  Keep in mind,  we can easily do that, too!

Be sure to stop by The Works to see this and many more creative options in person.  You must see it, feel it and touch it to believe it.   It is filled with inspiration for anything you need for your home.  Hence the name, “The Works”!

Located in Roswell, GA at Hwy 9 and Mansell Rd.   10800 Alpharetta Hwy., Suite 240, Roswell, GA 30076

(770) 649-9993        theinteriormotive.com

Please leave your comments below.   Be sure to visit www.kasswilson.com for more ideas from Wallstreat Studio.