2013 Room Service Atlanta Update!

I am so beyond excited about how amazingly generous my friends are!  I am truly blessed to have them in my life.  They support, honestly, everything that I do.  It's like a reflex!  I literally just express a thought, idea, need, whatever; and they are there with a means, a resource, a hand, an "I got you, don't worry about this" way of supporting me!  These are the kinds of people we all need in our lives that enrich it and makes us so much better for their presence!

 

The 2013 Room Service Atlanta project is underway and many designers have begun the process of getting their spaces ready.  I've yet to start the physical work, but I have been busy putting all of the pieces in place.  Erika Ward and Dayka Robinson are the charitable geniuses that gave birth to this incredible organization!  You so need to click on their names and visit their sites to get to know them!  I can say that I genuinely adore both of these women.  They are very different from each other, but they each are reflections of my personality collectively!  Weird, huh?

 

 

My color inspiration for the lounge!  I cannot wait to get started on the painting!  Well, hmmm...I'm not quite sure how much of the painting I personally am going to do, but I can't wait to see it!  You know what I mean!  I'm sure I'll paint something because I'm a little too much of "I see things that need to get done, so I need to do them" kind of person; so my hands will have paint on them, I'm sure!  SPECIAL THANKS TO GLIDDEN PAINTS FOR SPONSORSHIP AND DONATING THE PAINTING SUPPLIES for the entire project!  Wow!  Such an awesome contribution!

 

The sofa sectional has been donated by another incredible RSA sponsor, Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams, Atlanta!  Jonathan White and his team in the Atlanta store are totally the best!  I've had the privilege of working with Jonathan, and I promise you, he is the real deal!  What you see is what you get!  I love him!  I may have to reconsider the lighting, as I'm thinking that if the guys get a little rowdy tossing a ball around and hit this amazing fixture, it may not end so pretty!  I'm not 100% on the coffee table; I'd actually like four cubes that will serve as a coffee table and additional seating if needed.  Maybe I'll make them...again, not "Me", but I'll have them made!  Shaking my head!  You guys should know better by now!

Okay, so totally excited about the gaming area!  I may have to visit from time to time to get in on the action!  My husband had the sweetest idea of having multiple televisions in the space for television viewing and for gaming.  He was getting a little carried away with all of the TV's he said to do, but his idea was fantastic and I am running with it!  I plan to paint the furnishings featured here in bright colors.  I will need help with that, as I have not ever painted furniture before!  You Tube will be viewed quite a bit in the next few weeks!

 

Words seem to escape me when trying to describe her, my friend Deirdre Frutiger purchased the laminate flooring for the lounge area, and the tile for the small restroom that's located inside of the lounge!  Did I not say in the very first paragraph that I have the most supportive friends???  Well, here ya go!  I cannot tell you how much this means to me!  Sometimes all I can say is "Wow"!  And for those of you who know me, it speaks volumes when I am rendered speechless!

 

 

This donation is so overwhelming!  My client/good friend Dale Oudems, assisted me with getting the flooring, that Deirdre purchased, to the cottage one rainy day.  He just happened to look up at the roof and says, "Have they had this roof inspected?  It looks like they could use a new one.  Have them send me some information about the organization and I'll see what I can do to get them one."  He was so matter of fact when he said it, so I was like, ok.  I got the information to him and two to three days later, the company where he is the human resources manager; CertainTeed in Peachtree City, Ga...was calling the CEO of the United Methodist Children's Home to find out how many tiles they needed in order to replace the roof!  Shut the front door!  Speechless!  Again, I am so blessed; so much so to the point where I can't do anything except say "Thank you, Jesus"!  We are all blessed to be a blessing, and my friends totally walk in this!  Again, Thank you Jesus!

 

 

Make it AMAZING!

Rhonda

 

*Quote

 

***Although I've not taken any additional pictures of the space, please visit the RSA tab at the top to keep up with the progress as I move forward with this incredibly amazing project!

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Inspirations from the Paris Metro

Okay, so I'm working on a new project that I am so excited about!  It is with Room Service Atlanta, a community service organization that enlists the help of local interior designers to create better living environments for children's homes, shelters, and other non-profit facilities, that aid in the support of making Atlanta a better place for as many as possible. 

 

While in Paris riding the Metro, I was struck by the architecture of it's stations.  I loved the walls, the lighting, and the iron details that were specific to each.  This one station in particular really stood out for me, and I immediately thought of my project with Room Service Atlanta.  I have chosen to do the lounge in the Boys Cottage.  This is a place where the young men can gather and watch television or just hang out with each other for some fun and fellowship with their housemates.

 

 

I'm not much for doing one wall as a focal wall, and I guess that's why something like the wall above really appealed to me.  I think it would be really cool to do something like this on all four walls, but in a fun, very imaginative color.  Right now I'm toying with a medium orange or peacock blue!  I feel like a kid with a new box of crayons when I start thinking about color palettes for projects!  I typically like keeping the walls somewhat neutral and introducing color in the accessories, draperies, rugs, and such; but for this space I want color, color, color!  Not so much until it's distracting and overwhelming, but where it's inspiring and totally cool!  You know that place where you're like, "I so want to spend time here!"



 

This is the part of design that really gets my creative juices flowing!  Trying to figure out how to translate inspiration into realization.  Even if it isn't the exact same thing, it's okay.  The idea is to capture, in some form, the look and/or feel of the inspired element.  Yes, I do realize this is very industrial and has a cold feel about it, but that's when all of the elements such as light, color, and texture really becomes important.  You have to be diligent about selecting elements that will be a soft yet complementive contrast.

 

I love this lighting!  I can't wait to begin sourcing for something like it.  Isn't it incredible???  Of course, with this being a lounge, I want it to be comfortable and a place the guys want to hang out.  It needs to have a bit of intimacy, while inspiring their creativity and dreams.  For me to be able to design a space where they will feel at home and foster genuine, lasting relationships that will become a part of their support system will be absolutely amazing for me!

 

 

If you would love to help support my efforts in helping to create a wonderful lounge for these deserving young men, please contact me at rhondae@rhondaepeterson.com.  I will be posting updates as progress is made to keep you guys in the loop.  Also, please visit Room Service Atlanta to learn more about this amazing organization!

 

Make it AMAZING!

Rhonda



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Monday's Office

Wow! I so totally love the striking contrast of the dark color paired with the crisp white!  A very classic and sophisticated space that is made comfortable and casual with the open bookshelf, the basket of miscellaneous items in the corner, and the zebra rug placed randomly on the floor.

 

I have one of these types of desk chairs and was considering getting rid of it, but now I'm thinking I may just let it be my next DIY project and change the fabric and try to zhoosh it up a bit.  It's a great chair!  It moves so easily on the casters; it just needs a little makeover to make it not such an eyesore in the space.  Funny thing, I'm always drapping a jacket, scarf, or something over it until I can put them away.  I guess that's why the one shown in the photo appeals to me so much!

 

The classic urn lamp, you simply can't go wrong with anywhere in your home.  So, why not place it on your desk and use it as a task lamp?  This one sure is awefully pretty sitting on top of the cabriole leg desk!  I'm not certain my desk would ever be this clutter free, but one can dream...

 

Make it AMAZING!

Rhonda

 

P.S.  Yes, I had the most incredible time in Paris and I will be sharing many photos and my thoughts about the city of lights in upcoming postings.  I hope to see you there!

 

*Image via Pinterest.com

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With a Man in Mind

I was having a conversation the other day with a friend of mine where we were discussing trends in interior design that had staying power.  The one that we both agreed that is here to stay is the impact that men have had on their living spaces.  Obviously, women's voices will always be heard in design just because that's still considered more of what we do, but with the family dynamic undergoing some changes with stay at home dad's and/or men working from home; their needs and desires must be addressed.  Not to mention with more and more men wanting nicer, more stylish and sophisticated diggs, they are taking more of an active and deliberate role in creating environments that speak to who they are and their lifestyles. 

 

 

Men tend to think more about function first and then aesthetics.  That's not to say they put a small amount of value on nice looking things, it's just that it needs to suit the purpose first and then be great looking.  Oh my gosh, let's not forget about convenience and their interests.  These are the jumping off points for their design endeavors.  Once these are satisfied, they can then move on to the task of making it amazing.

 

 

Linen, denim, a pocket square, and a nice watch!  I would say this is a great way to do casual.

 

Leather totes are a very stylish and handsome way for men to carry their work essentials.  This tote would look good whether he's wearing jeans or a suit.

 

 

Bed and bedding... Now obviously not everyone is okay with a mattress on the floor; not even the average guy.  However as shown above, as long as the space is clean, organized, and clutter free it can work.  This is totally a bachelors bedroom!  The wall color is subtle with a couple of great framed images, and the on trend brass details in the art lights and light fixture, well I mean, it's fabulous.  The draperies hung simply from discreet hardware, along with the no nonsense bedding...hmmm, just smart.  This room would not offend me at all.  I would date this man.  Well, I would have dated him!

 

 

Okay, so I had to throw Lenny in for a little eye candy!  Wow, just beautiful.  I remember when I was a little girl, my dad's facial hair would tickle my face and I didn't really like it all that much.  My how things have changed!  I love a nicely groomed beard.  Yes, I really do (nodding approvingly as I smile from ear to ear). 

 

What can I say about this Bugatti Veyron?  Sexy?  Absolutely.

 

Accessories are the details that speak volumns and yet they are most often the last to be given any thought at all.  I do think this is changing with the guys.  I don't know, there seems to be an evolution of sorts happening.  I am so glad about this, too.

 

 

Really!  The high ceiling along makes this bathroom incredible!  Come on!  The contrast of the wood planks and the beams is striking!  The dual vanity, reminiscent of cross-legged trays that are used in living areas to hold anything from bar essentials to collections of pictures and treasures is totally handsome in the rich walnut finish.  I'm loving the louvered window treatments.  It is a very clean and clever way of letting light in and also having privacy when needed.  The wall tiles make a huge statement in large part because of their size and in part because of their finish.  Interesting also is what appears to be wood slats in the walk-in shower.  Do you see this?  Only what is convenient, necessary, and functional in a very sophisticated design.

 

 

Classic.  Both the wardrobe and the club chair.

 

Obvioulsy, women aren't the only ones that need organization in their closets.  There is a place for everything here; even a place to sit, which by the way is a very smart chair with a hide underfoot to add a little warmth and texture. 

 

Make it AMAZING!

Rhonda

 

*Images via my All About Men Pinterest board



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Wouldn't Take Anything For My Journey Now...

Ahhhhh...it feels so good to be back home!  Well, back in the "home office"!  The Inspiration House wrapped Sunday evening and I experienced mixed emotions of it coming to an end.  On the one hand, I am so glad it's over because it's been such a long journey.  On the other, I met some of the most talented and wonderful designers that will forever have a place in my heart and my memories!  I want to mention William Mclure (Bill Ingram Architects), Sherry Hart (Sherry Hart Designs), and Lori May (Lori May Interiors, LLC).  These three were my compadres on the lower level of the house and we had the best times together!  I don't know how I'm going to get along without them!  Everyday spent with them was like spending it with long time friends.  We talked about everything under the sun.  They totally made my first show house experience one that I will never forget!

Sherry Hart, Lori May, William Mclure

  

 

You've just feasted your eyes on images from Sherry and Lori's feminine Stone Room!  Why Stone Room?  Because the space had these stone walls that were just begging for the two of them to come in and make them amazing!  Oh, and get this, they added wood planks to the ceiling!  The juxtaposition was just so beyond!

 

 

William and Bill Ingram of Bill Ingram Architects did the Hearth Room, which is just a doorway away from Sherry and Lori's room.  Upon first glance, one would think that both rooms were done by the same designers or that the designers collaborated on their plans for their spaces.  Not!  William and Bill's room is such a comfortable masculine antithesis to their space of cozy femininity.  The painting is the creative genuis of William!

 

The boys from upstairs, Jonathan Gonzalez (Petite Maison) and Bryan Alan Kirkland (Bryan Alan Kirkland Designs), became quick pals of mine too. Bryan designed the living room and kitchen in the attic apartment and Jonathan designed the bedroom and the bathroom. Their design aesthetics couldn't be any more different! Polar opposites actually! Bryan's use of color in an Art Deco inspired space is so refreshing and energetic. Jonathan's French inspired interiors were very lovely and lady-like, but not so much so until a gentleman wouldn't feel comfortable. The one thing that the lower level had in common with the upstairs attic is that both levels had to undergo renovations in order to get our spaces to a workable blank canvas. Maybe this is why we all felt an immediate connection? Hmmm, probably not! The six of us all have this amazing energy that just worked and the last week of the show, you could usually find us huddled together doubled over in tears of laughter that resonated throughout the main level of the house!

 

Jonathan, Me, Bryan

 

Jonathan's French inspired Boudoir and bath; so feminine and lovely!

 

Bryan's Art Deco pad takes away your blues immediately!

 

Jonathan and Bryan's spaces are polar opposites, right???  That's one of the wonderful things about show houses; there's something for everyone.  Even if it's not your taste, you can still have an appreciation for the aesthetic.  If you've not ever toured a show house before, I certainly hope that after seeing these incredible images, you will!  My new designer friends are totally talented and truly fantastic people!  You would love them all if you had an opportunity to meet them!  You would!  Really!

 

Make it AMAZING!

Rhonda

 

*If I'm not mistaken, my blog title is from one of Maya Angelou's books.  If you know, please send me an email so that I can give proper credit! :)

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Oh The Places You Will Go! Entry's, Foyers, and Hallways...

Not that I've not ever given entry's, foyers, and hallways much thought in the past, I can honestly say not as much as I have in the last couple of months.  Since submitting my proposal and being selected to do the lower hallway of the upcoming 2013 Cathedral Antiques Show Inspiration House, I've imagined, sketched, and researched to create just the right concept and theme for my space.  The Inspiration House is all about integrating antiques and vintage furnishings and elements into our more contemporary interiors today, and doing so seamlessly.  So, I think it only natural for me to notice these spaces more than I have in the past.

 

 

It is quite common to overlook these transitional spaces; not giving them the thought and consideration they deserve.  We often look at them as a means to move and transition from one space to another, not recognizing the wonderful opportunity to create something that makes this journey through our homes more adventurous, exciting, and beautiful.

 

 

I know, I know, typically these spaces aren't very large, so coming up with great ideas may elude us.  These are some of the most difficult spaces to design because you do want to consider the size, where they're located, and to what areas they lead.  But these obstacles shouldn't deter us from being creative and designing the most impactful spaces that we can.

 

 

Doing a faux finish, a beautiful wall covering, tile even, or a mural is a wonderful way to go.  If this isn't possible, there are numerous designs that can be done with paint; whether it be stensiling, stripes, etc., etc. just find what works best for your home and your lifestyle.

 

 

Zushing the space with art, interesting lighting, appropriately scaled furnishings, plants, you name it, will also make a tremendous impact and probably one that is completely unexpected to those who experience the space for the first time.  Also, be sure not to neglect the ceiling and floor!  Let me tell you, a little here and there on these two planes go a very long way!

 

 

If you're fortunate to have a larger space, go ahead and treat it like a room!  Add the furnishings, the rugs and draperies, and all of the elements that make a room an incredible place to live in.  There is no reason to do less just because you don't spend a great deal of time in them.  In fact, you should do more to make your travels from space to space one that is pleasureable and makes you happy that you did!

 

 

Make it AMAZING!

Rhonda

 

*Original image credits can be found via my All In The Detail board on Pinterest



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Draw Me a Bath and Let the Day Melt Away!

You know, it's actually quite funny; I'm not much of a "bath" person.  Honestly, I think them to be quite gross in fact.  However there are times when I feel a little stretched beyond my limits, when I think a bath is just what I need in order to regroup, refresh, and renew.  Surely, some of you know exactly what I'm talking about...Anyhoo, I'm having one of those moments! 

 

One of these days I am going to get the courage up to photograph my bathroom for you guys to see.  I like it, I do.  I've just not done very much to it since the builder selected their less than lovely elements.  Sure, I've painted the walls with Restoration Hardware's Stone paint finish.  Hmmm, that's about it!  But, I will say, that went a long way in making a difference.  It has a separate soaking tub and shower, and a nice size double vanity with a slab of a mirror, and those tragic makeup lights above!  Oy!  It also has a separate water closet, with no door, but I'm okay with that, as I think a little claustrophobia may set in if I were to hang one.  Definitely wouldn't want that!  Nothing that can't be changed and done so pretty inexpensively!  Oh, and let me not forget the hideous brass fixtures.  Ugh!  Although brass is making a comeback, just not "this" brass!  The ceiling is vaulted and I could do a beautiful chandelier!  I could really trick this space out!  And I will...one day!

 

 

This window is fantastic!  There's nothing better than applying makeup in natural light.  The tub strikes me as being very comfortable and relaxing.  You know, almost cocoon like. 

 

 

Although much of the bathtub isn't seen here, I do like the small silver and glass etagere standing charge with the necessary bath salts, loufahs, towels, and books at the ready.  That shower looks really tempting to me!  Loving the marble application on the walls and ceiling!

 

 

I think this to be a handsome bathroom.  Not necessarily because it has masculine elements, but because it's linear, simplistic, and seemingly very functional.  I like the louvered skylight above and the slated shelf below the vanity for towels or other bath acoutrements.  Hmm, so maybe masculine is not the word that I'm looking for.  Maybe, "smart"?

 

 

What I love about this bath:  The tile!  The draperies framing the tub!  The small chair!  Last, but certainly not least, that freaking incredible chandelier!  Moving on...

 

 

One word...STRIKING!  Is that a swan fixture delivering the muscle relaxing, mind soothing water into the tub?  Could that be an arm chair in the corner with a throw draped casually about the arm awaiting my exit from my tension relieving bath?  I wonder what music am I listening to?  Oh, I know!  Shirley Horne with a little bit of Coltrane...ahhh "Here's To Life (and the joys it brings)". 

 

 

Make it AMAZING!

Rhonda

 

*Images via my Tumblr

 

P.S. If you're so inclined, I would appreciate your support in being listed as one of the Top 100 Interior Design Blogs on Modenus.com! Just click on the link and scroll down until you see STYLISH SPACES DESIGNED FOR LIVING! Many thanks, my Friends!



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Living In Layers

When the temperature drops, I truly go into layering bliss by adding that extra shirt, sweater, or jacket!  I even pile on more accessories like scarves, necklaces, and bracelets.  Oooh, and let me not forget deeply saturated colors and a little sparkle dashed about!  I typically will go for a bolder lip and nail color as well.  To me, colder weather can handle more layers and so I go for it! 

 

The same can be said, in much the same way, for our homes. I'm not suggesting that you go and pile in more "stuff", however what I am encouraging is for you to introduce stunning colors, bolder patterns, wonderful to the touch textures, and varying finishes that add warmth, shine, and maybe a little bit of glamour (obviously depending on what you want to accomplish)!

 

 

 

Fur vest, cashmere sweater with a lovely scarf thrown about the neck, gold bracelets, and nice leather bag; hmm, what a very chic look for a chilly day!

 

 

There aren't a lot of pieces in this space, but it is maximized using strong patterns in the chairs, ottoman, rug, sculptural wall art, and fireplace.  The finishes of the lighting, mirror, and floor adds warmth into what would otherwise be a somewhat cold interior.  This living room is a great example of how to make the biggest impact with a few key elements.

 

 

Not sure what else I can say about this look other than L-O-V-E!  Well, that's not necessarily true!  Let me tell you what I love most about it... It's the pairing of such a soft flowy fabric of the dress, with the cool lace-up ankle boot, and the heavy fur-lined coat!

 

 

A great play on neutrals that are nicely layered and work extremely well together.

 

 

Are you kidding me!!!  Anyone who knows me, knows that I am absolutely giddy over this look!  It is so polished and sophisticated, yet totally current and right on point with what's hot right now!

 

I want to live in this room!  It is so well executed, in my opinion, layering the elements of design (color, pattern, texture, light)!  I'm usually turned off by accent walls, but this one works incredibly well with the amazing painting and the crisp white walls and low shelf.  I love how they used two chairs that couldn't possibly be any more different from one another!

 



 

These are basics that everyone's wardrobe needs!  A classic black blazer, sparkly sweater, and chambray shirt!  Really?  That's it and look how great these came together!

 

 

I don't have a hair on hyde rug anywhere in my home!  It is next on the list of things to purchase!  It looks fantastic in this space with the saddle leather chair sitting on top!  Just a perfect combo!

 

 

You can never go wrong with a leather jacket, scarf, and sunnies!  No Ma'am, never go wrong!

 

 

I don't think I need to dissect this space!  However, I would like to point out the floor!  There is always a place for pattern!

 

Make it AMAZING!

Rhonda

 

*Images via Pinterest



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