March 15th, 2010
We have our southern roots to thank for this month’s dish, and we hope you enjoy a little insight behind the beauty of the antler. Growing up on a farm has its perks. One of which is having a plethora of antlers at your disposal to creatively display in your decor.
As we’ve come to learn and will share with you, between January and April, deer shed their antlers after mating season when the male deer sports them to attract the female deer and fight for her affection. This routine occurs throughout the duration of the animal’s life and each season, as he matures, the antlers increase in size. The natural twists and curves of the antler are true displays of natural beauty and have become increasingly prevalent in interiors over the years.
Thom Filicia, in particular, comes to mind when associating antlers with stylish interiors. Whether used as wall art, candle sticks or mod lighting, his fashionable approach with these remarkable objects is truly memorable.



(photo credit http://www.thomfilicia.com)
Here are several antler items that caught our eye this month…

“Antlers” by Eric Cohler’s Lodge collection for Lee Jofa
While perusing Veranda’s March issue, we spotted this “Antler” fabric which was the inspiration for this month’s dish. Offered through-the-trade only. Contact us for details at info@parkersimsinteriors.com .

Polished aluminum candlesticks make for a handsome tabletop accessory for a dining or living room.
Dimensions: 6″ H x 8.5″ W x 9.5″ D
$130 pr./available through PSI

“Big Sky” Deer with brass antlers, a fun accessory above a mantle or doorway for the “wanna be” outdoorsman.
Dimensions: 33″ H x 19″ W x 18″ D
$340/Available through PSI

Catherine Ledner deer photograph Such a fascinating photograph! We used this Clarence House fabric in a former project and love the way the antlers mimic the lines of the branches.
11×14 $250; 16×20 $500; 20×24 $750; 32×40 $1700

Oly Studio Cast Resin Antler Wreath
Available through PSI
Large: 30″W x 6″D x 29.5″H
Small: 27″W x 6″D x 22.5″H

Ghost Antlers Cast Resin Coat Hooks would look amazing placed in a series.
Dimensions: 11.5″ x 12″ x 8″/Available in white with custom colors available.
$230

Aluminum Antler Lamp Base by Roost Sand-cast recycled aluminum antlers wear shades of real wood veneer in these clever lamps.
Small Base: 15” dia x 27” H $220
Large Base: 15” dia x 34” H $250

White Twig pillow The antler and bird embroidery would be perfect for small boy or girls bedroom. Sweet but chic.

Last but not least, is this Lodge Deer Head; a trophy indeed.
Available through PSI
Dimensions: 25″ H x 12″ W x 10″ D
$150
Can you see any of these in your home?
March 15th, 2010

As big fans of Garden & Gun, it’s not surprising that we were immediately drawn to Haskell Harris’s [Associate Editor for G&G and previously with Coastal Living] blog for G&G, Belle Decor. We first discovered March’s product pick from a Belle Decor post and are recently enjoying her post on chalkboard paint [love the finish it has!]. Mark as a favorite for unique finds and design inspiration…you’ll be glad you did!
March 15th, 2010

What an unexpected use of rustic appeal in this Parlor Tray from Vagabond House. This octagon shaped pewter tray has naturally shed stag horn handles and pewter claw feet. How handsome. Click for details.
February 24th, 2010
With warmer weather upon us and spring [thankfully] around the corner, we’re stepping outside the house and into the backyard. What better way to celebrate and test your creative side than to try your hand at these faux-bois planters or leaf embossed tables? The options to showcase your style here are endless…so cheers to ingenuity with these DIY garden projects.

With a simple mold you can custom create your own planter with a stone-like finish. [We love this faux-bois pattern...it reminds us of the Stark wallpaper from our Wood Wallcoverings post.]

Any leaf can be used in the embossed table top, so customize to suit your fancy. [Our suggestion: a classic fern frond is sure to impress.]
See the full article here with instructions and even more ideas from Martha Stewart’s Living.
If you try these at home, do share! We’d love to see pics. Post them to our facebook page or shoot us an email at info@parkersimsinteriors.com.
[photo credits: martha stewart online]
February 24th, 2010
We were excited to find a textile designer we admire, Lulu Dekwiatkowski, has started a new blog. She posts frequently on inspiration, behind the scenes looks, sneak previews, her design process, latest fabric introductions and favorites to her Trail of Inspiration.

She actually hand paints everything!

Inside the Lulu DK design process…which is always so interesting to see.
Be sure to check out the Lulu DK website as well.
February 10th, 2010
You may recall our color of the year post from last month’s dish. We are such fans of this turquoise hue that we wanted to share our top 10 picks for implementing these in your home. And, the countdown goes…
10. Islamic tile from Grays Antique Dealers

We love the amazing color and design of this 10th to 15th AD tile. This stand alone piece would be beautiful set in an easel resting on a bookshelf.
9. Zigzag rug from Jonathan Adler

The use of grey allows for a subtle complement to the turquoise. We recently used Jonathan Adler’s customizable line to design a rug and pillows for a client’s media room.
8. Console table from Somerset Bay

This console table in cotton candy finish would make a great entry piece when paired with upholstered chairs in a beach house or casual cottage.
7. Underwater painting from Shealeigh’s shop on Etsy

The great composition and use of color in this painting would be beautiful atop an antique wooden chest.
6. Venetian pillow from Ryan Studio

Rich colors paired with this pillow design and texture make it a glamorous way to add luster to a formal room.
5. Turquoise mirror from Studio Scroggie

A perfect example of repurposing an outdated gold mirror by adding a fun color.
4. Zinnia knobs from Anthropologie

What an attractive way to add character and pizzazz to an old piece.
3. Bagan/Peacock fabric from Schumacher

We’re smitten with this silk Celery Kemble design for Shumacher fabrics. Accent with canary yellow lamps or accessories for an unexpected complement.
2. Garden stool from Emissary

Use this as a side table to add a punch of color within a room. Try a grouping of 4 with cut glass on top as an interesting and eye-cathing coffee table.
1. Anson Ribbon Pendant fixture from Urban Electric

This charming fixture continues to draw our attention. We would love to see this used in a series in a stark white kitchen as large island pendants.
Which is your favorite?
February 10th, 2010
The widespread devestation Haiti is experiencing after the January earthquakes is still unimaginable. During the month of February, we will donate 15% of our design consulting fee on new projects to the American Red Cross Haiti Relief & Development fund .

Pass the word and help us lend a helping hand. Click here to see how the American Red Cross is helping. For further details or questions on our Haiti Relief donations, contact us at info@parkersimsinteriors.com .
February 10th, 2010
The winner of the 2010 Bloomingdale’s Big Window Challenge has finally been announced, and we love the results…
1st Place: ELLE DECOR

The Modern Woman, designed by Eddie Ross for ELLE DECOR
2nd Place: Apartment Therapy

The Writer’s Romantic Supper, designed by Maxwell Gillingham-Ryan
3rd Place: Bloomingdale’s

The Urbane Traveler, designed by Eileen Joyce
Thanks to all of our readers who weighed in on their favorites for our reader poll. Here’s what you voted for…
3rd Place: Apartment Therapy
The bold wallpaper of this room isn’t for everyone, but the funky style of this Apartment Therapy design placed 2nd in the Big Window Challenge.
2nd Place: ELLE DECOR
You loved the bright colors and ornate coffee table, but the influx of “stuff” in the room turned some of you away. This design by Eddie Ross is a mix of classic and modern meant for a modern woman. An appealing interior to appreciate, but from your comments, some would rather admire from a distance.
And Our Reader Winner Is… Bloomingdale’s
Most of you said you could picture this design by Eileen Joyce in your home, and we had a feeling this would be the winner. The simple, stylish New York City inspired room looks comfortable and inviting, a room that most of you said you picture yourself living in.
Comment below to let us know what you think of the results!
February 1st, 2010
Forget your little black book this Valentine’s Day and try this little blue book from Tiffany & Co. The turquoise shade fits perfectly with the Pantone’s 2010 Color of the Year. Tiffany Blue is one color that will never go out of style. Not to mention…always a welcomed sight on Valentine’s Day (or any day for that matter).

January 21st, 2010
We’ve been following the 2010 Bloomingdales Big Window Challenge over the past couple of weeks and finally saw photos of the installed window displays last night. Stunning.
Glance at the windows below to see if you can guess which window corresponds with the three “room titles” below. And…we’re curious to see your favorites. Please leave a comment below to share your favorite window – A, B or C.
[1] The Writers Romantic Supper
[2] The Modern Woman
[3] The Urbane Traveler
[Window A]

Designed by Eileen Joyce for Bloomingdales.
[Window B]

Designed by Eddie Ross for Elle Decor
[Window C]

Designed by Maxwell Gillingham-Ryan for Apartment Therapy
Click here to cast you vote and see if you guessed the room inspirations correctly. Don’t forget to comment below on your favorite window!