ML's BLOG

Fun townhome

2012-01-20T07:54:00.000-08:00

We had the pleasure of working with a client to create a Chapel Hill retreat. During our first conversation I was taken with him immediately as he said, "it is not so much about the destination as it is the process." We enjoyed this project from beginning to end! We are thrilled to share with you photographs of the townhouse, enjoy.

Winter Whites

2012-01-06T08:13:00.000-08:00

While perusing the streets of New York City I came across this beautiful window at Bergdorf Goodman. I have always loved winter whites, I instantly think of candles, pearls, feathers, crisp linens, gardenias, fresh snow and warm fires. I hope you enjoy this window as much as I did! Let us know how you like to use winter whites.

Happy New Year!!!

Holiday topiary and original art party

2011-11-20T06:12:00.000-08:00

Our art has arrived and WOW, it is beautiful! Our holiday party this year is December 1st, 10:00am until 5:00pm. We are having fresh topiaries flown in from California and this year we are adding original art. The art came in this week and I feel sure you will be surprise, it is beautiful. The best surprise may be the phenomenal prices! We have yummy goodies and great door prizes, we look forward to seeing you soon.

2nd Annual Topiary Party!!!

2011-10-20T17:45:00.000-07:00

We are so excited to have the 2nd Annual Topiary Party scheduled! It will be Thursday, December 1st from 10:00am until 5:00pm. We will have fresh topiaries flown in from California with beautiful holiday accessories. We have all kinds of holiday treats and fun door prizes. As always we take special orders. We can't wait to see you for the festivities!!!

Fall is in the air and colors

2011-10-07T05:28:00.000-07:00

This time of year I always find people are wanting to 'cozy' up their home. As the temperatures dip, leaves change color, and autumn finds us (ready or not) we begin nesting. We are no longer outside as much and decide it is time to enhance our indoor surroundings. People always want to create a warmth in their rooms. A simple solution for me is layering. In a family room, library or kitchen nook I always find a nice throw added to a chair inviting. It adds depth, texture, a pop of color and creates a retreat. Your home should feel like your sanctuary.

Orange has been all over the fashion runways for years, now that fall is among us, we see it eveywhere too! I love how these client's used fall colors. Let us know how you have used the fall palette browns, golds, oranges, grays and green. Happy Autumn, enjoy!!

Multiple Patterns

2011-09-28T06:55:00.000-07:00

I have always been drawn to a mixture of different patterns, textures and styles. Don't be scared to mix floral, stripes, polka dots, toile's etc. It adds interest to your room and brings excitement. If multiple patterns in one room over helms you, try to go with different patterns and textures in the same shade. Let us know your favorite mixtures!!!

Some pictures for inspiration!

2011-09-21T09:50:00.000-07:00

Here are a few pictures that inspire me. I love the details, I think that is what makes a room! I love a grouping plates, art or photographs. A chandelier in a bedroom is one of my favorites, actually a chandelier anywhere is a favorite. I also like mirrors, they give the illusion of a larger space, but what a great picture through the mirror. Let me know and or see your favorite designs.

NYC inspiration!

2011-09-14T05:52:00.000-07:00

I was lucky enough to get away for a quick girls weekend with my Granddaughters to New York City. I always find New York to inspiring and energizing! I love walking the streets looking at architecture, museums and shopping. However, with a six and eleven year old museum time was minimal at best. I have included some pictures that I took while shopping. I enjoy all the grouping of art, plates and photographs. Of course we ended up at Dylan's Candy Shop, what trip ( with kids ) to NYC would be complete without Dylan's?

A true Dinning Room transformation

2011-09-06T15:31:00.000-07:00

I love, love, love this room! Can you even tell it is the same space? The window treatments add height and interest to the small dinning room. The mirror opens the space up and reflects the lovely living area. If you ever thought color could change the feel of a room, here is a great example. The blue ceiling is always a creative option. I am looking for a dinner invitation in my future.

A Sun room surprise before and after

2011-08-30T07:34:00.000-07:00

I love a sun room, the natural light that comes in is so inviting! This sun room turned out beautiful and I love how the plates look. The art in the center of the wall is an original of the owners and beautiful I may add. Not to mention behind the art is a hidden television. What a wonderful way to hide the tv without a piece of furniture. I love the black and white, a fresh and fun space. Let us know what you think of this before and after.

Fall is in the air

2011-08-24T05:28:00.001-07:00

Hello and excuse our summer break. Living in Chapel Hill, summer always brings a slower pace of life. The students leave and for a moment you are excited to drive around without pedestrians everywhere. As soon as you get use to zipping around campus,they return. While it may take longer to get anywhere, I enjoy their arrival. I love the energy the students bring, it reminds me of all the reasons I love Chapel Hill and am proud to call it my home.

The new blog will post every Tuesday and as always I look forward to hearing from you!! I hope everyone enjoyed their summer.

Master Bath Before and After

2011-06-17T05:52:00.000-07:00

Here are a few before and after pictures of the master bathroom. This was a fun project! You can see what a difference taking out a wall makes. The bathroom looks twice the size, and is very functional. The natural lighting from the windows can now shine through. I want to take a bubble bath!

Bar Renovation

2011-05-14T08:30:00.000-07:00

This is one of my favorite changes to the house. The pantry was small and not very pleasing to the eye. The new bar is classic and dresses up the space, while providing function. Looking forward to mixing a drink!!!

More Lighting

2011-05-04T08:40:00.000-07:00

We are still having so much fun with the Villa project. The fixed lighting is all in, we are thrilled with the outcome. Know we are working with lamps and art. Looking forward to hearing what you think!

Oh the difference a light makes!

2011-04-05T07:04:00.000-07:00

Renovations! The electricians are here and I am swinging from the rafters with excitement. You don't realize how much lighting changes the feel and look of a room. It takes a bedroom from boring to romantic, a bathroom from dark to bright and airy, and a dinning room to elegant. Here are a few of the lights that are going up......I can't wait to see the finial product.

You can see how much color on the ceiling adds. We did all the ceiling in this house a lovely light blue.

Renovations, stage 1

2011-03-28T07:29:00.000-07:00

We are having so much fun with this renovation, I couldn't wait a week to post pictures. Here are a few pictures remember we have just begun. The transformation in the master bath is one of my favorites so far. I look forward to what will happen in this pantry area. Exciting times!

Let the Renovations begin!

2011-03-24T08:05:00.000-07:00

We are so excited to share our new project with you. We have just started a renovation we are calling 'Living Large in a Small Space.' Each week we will update the blog with the new challenges and improvements to the home. Included are a few pictures of the home as purchased. Next weeks photos will be great before and afters as the renovations have already begun!!!!

Class Schedule

2011-02-23T08:08:00.000-08:00

We are so thrilled to offer our spring class again this year! It will be held at the showroom location, 2209 Leah Drive, Hillsborough. We will have fun new topics: Window Treatment Designs, Furniture Placement, Color Theory, Before and Afters, How to Accessorize and much more!!!! The dates are March 29, April 5, 12 & 19, we hope to see you there!

A Pet Friendly Home

2011-01-25T14:50:00.001-08:00

I was thrilled when I learned that some of our favorite clients wanted to incorporate their love for pets into their home. As a pet lover, and dog owner myself, my least favorite task is moving the dog gate. A recent new construction project incorporated a wonderful idea to divide interior space and keep dogs in designated areas, and I love the way it turned out! I welcome your great ideas for a pet friendly home.

Living Large in a Small space

2011-01-17T07:22:00.000-08:00

I am so thrilled with our new project. ML Designs is renovating a villa for a couple who are downsizing and want to live large in a small space. I thought if we are having this much fun with it, it might just be something to share. The first of every month will be dedicated to the villa, the challenges we face, victories and loads of pictures. I hope you all enjoy this project as much as I am looking forward to starting.

January, January

2011-01-03T06:48:00.000-08:00

After the holidays wrap, I am ready for a long vacation on a sunny beach with an umbrella cocktail. I am a summer person in general, but enjoy the cold weather until.... January arrives. January and February seem like endless cold months. March offers some hope of warmer days in the near future. I have included some pictures from our last photo shoot that make me long for my lounge chair and a great book.

Happy 2011!

2010-12-31T08:46:00.001-08:00

For many years I have made New Year's resolutions, some of them I have kept and some I have not. As I look back on 2010, I simply feel blessed. I hope 2011 brings many blessings and happiness to you all! I am thankful for my husband, children, grandchildren and health. Over the years my clients have turned into my family and friends, I am so thankful for each and everyone of you! This year I will be ringing in the New Year with dear friends as I look forward to all that 2011 has to bring. My resolution is to enjoy and welcome, all this year has to offer - and this resolution I am certain to keep ! HAPPY 2011!

2010

2010-12-16T16:46:00.000-08:00

I find it hard to believe 2010 is quickly coming to a close. The winter weather has set in and the holiday season is here. We at ML Designs wish you and yours continued blessings through the holiday and 2011!!!

Holiday Party, thanks!

2010-12-08T06:57:00.000-08:00

The Holiday topiary party was great fun and a huge success! It was such a pleasure to see so many friends and experience the happiness the holiday season brings. All of us at ML Designs, wish you and yours a holiday filled with health, love, family, friends and blessings throughout 2011!

Topiary Party

2010-11-29T04:58:00.001-08:00

We are thrilled this year at our holiday party we are offering fresh topiarys, flown in from California. We will have a variety of shapes and sizes. They make the perfect holiday gift and add a lovely touch around the house. We hope you can join us Thursday, December 2, at the showroom location.

Before and After laundry room

2010-11-10T09:05:00.000-08:00

This is my favorite of all the transformations in the townhouse. The laundry room door is always open and they didn't want to look at an ugly washer and dryer (even though they have improved in looks). A stackable was the way to go. We created a lovely vignette and a space they could use, and enjoy looking at. There is a window in the laundry room and because the door is open now the natural light is an added bonus.

Before and After, Kitchen

2010-11-10T08:48:00.000-08:00

This is still in the townhouse, for the family downsizing. The kitchen looks twice the size and so much lighter. They love the kitchen and how it functions.

Before and After

2010-11-08T13:35:00.000-08:00

I have found that several of our clients are starting to downsize. These new projects are exciting and really get the creative juices flowing! For the next few blogs, I am going to show you some before and afters on this precious townhouse. You will not believe the transformation.

The new fireplace gives the room an architectural focal point, before it was a black hole. Adding the mirror and lamp on the furniture adds light and makes the space feel bigger.

Vincente Wolf seminar

2010-11-03T16:43:00.000-07:00

We had the best time in High Point at Furniture Market this year! We were lucky enough to attend some terrific seminars. Many years ago I saw Vincente Wolf, we were able to see him again this market. He was promoting his new book 'Lifting the Curtain on Design'. He spoke on how to get to the heart of what your client wants, and how to simplify their dreams into a livable reality. I found him to be uplifting, motivating, and hilarious. I have enjoyed his book and I appreciate his talent and knowledge very much.

Shells, shells and more shells

2010-10-23T12:37:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful time at market this year! Shells, shells and more shells seemed to be the theme. They came in every shape and color. We enjoyed traveling from showroom to showroom to see how they would utilize the shell. I am spending Thanksgiving at the coast this year and will be making something fun for the tables, with shells. Check back after the holiday and I will post pictures, wish me luck!

A Finished Project

2010-10-11T06:31:00.000-07:00

We just began moving furniture into a brand new office building. It was like Christmas morning watching the clients see their office come to life. By the end of the day we were all smiles and thrilled with the outcome. I hope they enjoy their office for many wonderful years, thanks for letting us be a part of it!

Happy Birthday ML

2010-09-28T07:31:00.001-07:00

My birthday this year couldn't have been any better. It is hard to pull one over on me, and boy was I surprised! A number of wonderful friends gathered at the studio for a luncheon and celebration. It was a delight to slow down and enjoy great friends!

A Finished project

2010-09-14T08:02:00.000-07:00

Happy 4th of July

2010-07-02T08:32:00.000-07:00

Happy 4th of July! Have a great, safe Holiday weekend.

http://mldesignsinc.com/

2010-06-29T07:22:00.000-07:00

Here are a few pictures of our Coastal home and you can see how the outside colors were incorporated inside. I hope you are all enjoying your summer and as always we love hearing from you.

http://mldesignsinc.com/

Natural Inspiration

2010-06-08T19:11:00.000-07:00

When I arrived at our coastal home this past weekend I was stunned by natures beauty. The blooms were in full, color was everywhere. I realized nature is my true inspiration. I took pictures of our garden, and enjoyed them. While looking back, I realized every room in our home, shares a color in our garden. Although obvious, the colors on our walls, fabrics, tiles and floors reflect nature. This week I have included pictures of our garden; please compare next week with the pictures of our home.

As always please let us hear from you, contact us at http://mldesignsinc.com/.

Perfect Porches

2010-05-20T07:03:00.000-07:00

The outdoors begs to be enjoyed this time of year. Our porches, patios and outside living areas become rooms we love. Here are a few tips to spruce up these areas. Incorprate plants, container plantings can leave a lush feel. Vines that climb can provide shade to a bright area and add simple beauty. Light up the night, lamps outside on a covered porch add ambiance and bring the space together.

We love how our friends expanded their porch with tents, what a GREAT party and idea!

Enjoy your outside areas and as always we love to hear from you.

http://www.mldesignsinc.com/

Celebration in High Point

2010-05-06T07:21:00.000-07:00

I was thrilled to be in High Point at Furniture Market, while Joe Ruggiero was there. It was a treat to celebrate his 10th anniversary of the Joe Ruggiero collections. He is a wonderful Designer and HGTV host. His upholstery collection is all about a comfortable style with numerous options and 100's of fabric choices, including his Sunbrella fabrics. Sunbrella has taken the marketplace, with not only beautiful fabrics, but the most durable material in the industry. The ability to wash and clean Sunbrella is simply amazing, and a lasting quality, that easily sells itself to anyone. Miles Talbott is pleased to offer his collection, and we just loved it! He has a sleek edge and the ability to mix traditonal with modern for the perfect blend.

As always check us out, we are always here to answer questions and hear your comments.......

www.mldesignsinc.com

Spring is in the air, color is everywhere!

2010-04-07T05:27:00.000-07:00

I find great happiness as the air warms up and flowers start popping! I love to go for long walks, garden and find great joy being outside. The Spring Season welcomes our annual trip to Key West, with great friends, to leave the chilly weather of North Carolina behind us. Surprisingly, this year the weather was beautiful in North Carolina as well. I consistently find inspiration in nature and this year I was lucky enough to visit a beautiful butterfly house. Enjoy a few of the pictures and let the color inspire you!

Party, Party, Party!!!!

2010-02-16T07:54:00.000-08:00

We look forward to seeing everyone this Friday for the grand opening on the new showroom! It's floating from 10:00 am until 10:00 pm, join us for a toast and a tour.

Directions from I40, exit at the Hillsborough exit, head toward downtown. Go about a mile and take a right onto Millstone Drive, go .3 and take a left onto Leah Drive, we are the second left, follow the balloons.

2209 Leah Drive

919.644.0400

Happy 2010!

2010-01-07T12:43:00.000-08:00

Happy 2010! We are looking forward to all the adventures the new year has to offer. The new showroom/warehouse will be opening on February 19th, please join us for a tour and a toast. One area of the showroom has been dedicated to Dorothy Draper as a tribute to her style, attitude and hard work. While Dorthy Draper may not be a household name, she certainly changed the world of interior design. Dorthy Draper was born in 1889 in Tuxedo Park, NY. In 1923 she surprised everyone and opened the first interior design company in the United States, during a time where it was extremely daring for a woman to open her own business. She revolutionized the concept of "design" breaking away from the norm and adding her own modern flare. Vibrant colors, painted furniture and her 'oh so famous', dull white and shiny black, were just a few of her signature styles. I always think of her in association with The Greenbriar Hotel, in West Virginia, which she decorated. My personal favorite accolade of hers: in 1950 she designed a pink polka dot truck for Packard and Chrysler. Dorthy Draper was an inspiration, artist and pioneer for interior design. I think it is only fitting that we honor her in our new showroom. Stop by and see our tribute to the woman who still inspires us today!

The picture above is a sneak peek at the new showroom, we can't wait for you to see it!

Color on Us

2009-11-23T05:42:00.000-08:00

We loved all the GREAT questions, thank you! Here are a few of our favorites....

1. How do you make a small space, with limited natural light, look larger?

Mirrors are always a great way to enhance light and make any space look larger. Lighting, lighting and more lighting....make sure the space has enough light. If you are working with a high ceiling, "bring the light down to you," with some of the beautiful pendant lighting available. Depending on the space, and ceiling height, recessed cans are an easy way to add light. Never underestimate the power of a lamp.

2. When and where is it okay to use a bold color?

Don't be scared of color! Bold colors make a space look larger (one of the biggest misconceptions I know). The only place I wouldn't use a bolder color would be a bedroom. I believe a bedroom should be ones sanctuary.

3. How do I choose the perfect color?

This is a questions we get a lot. And remember every one's perfect color is different. You need to consider how you use the space, here is a list of questions that may help.

1. Look in your closet, what color do you see most?

2. What color makes you happiest?

3. What color calms you?

4. What color was your favorite bedroom growing up?

5. What color do you never wear?

6. What color was your favorite prom dress?

7. What is your favorite gemstone?

8. Do you love nature? What stands out to you?

9. What is your favorite flower?

10. What color is your china?

11. What color would you like to be fearless enough to use?

Review these, and I bet you will realize a common thread in the answers. You want your home to be a reflection of who you are. Don't be afraid to introduce color on the walls - in your home.

We love hearing from you!

Color your Personality

2009-11-01T11:50:00.000-08:00

Before, the color on the wall is enough. See below for the after, the chair looks great white.

check out the before and after
use of color.

As we start our new venture in the blogging world we are filled with excitement! We hope to entertain, inspire, encourage and empower you with helpful tips. Please share with us things that inspire you. We love questions, feel free to ask.

We couldn't think of a better place to start than the breath taking days of fall, and quickly approaching days of winter. As the leaves change from green to beautiful shades of red, goldens and even browns we are in awe of its beauty. And, as quickly as they fall we are in the bare, and what could be colorless, winter. There are many ways to still incorporate color into your winter landscape. We love pansies and the punch of color they bring to the yard, porch or window boxes (don't forget it is time to plant your amaryllis in time for the holiday season). Our passion at ML Designs is color, and just like nature, color provides inspiration and warmth. Color brings life - and brilliance - and should reflect your vision and spirit. Don't be afraid to mix, and bring colors that will nurture any interior space. When you finally find that perfect color, it will feel like putting on your most favorite pair of jeans (and looking like Jennifer Aniston in them).

Color is the best way to convey your personality.