10/31/2017

PAWTUCKET – Many people who went all-in on minimalist designs or an all-Ikea home are now realizing that something’s missing, says Karla Little, operator of the Fine Furnishings Show.

The solution to a bland and boring interior, says Little, can be found in the show’s booths this weekend, Nov. 3-5, at the Pawtucket Armory Arts Center, 172 Exchange St. Those looking to beat the household blahs can find “one piece or a few pieces that make a statement,” said Little. A small but bold rug, pillow or dishtowel can help transform a home, she said.

This year marks the show’s 22nd year. More than 100 exhibitors, from seasoned professionals to students in furniture-making programs, will show and sell their work including furniture, accessories, textiles, lamps, lighting, paintings, photography, ceramics, glass, jewelry and wearables in a range of styles, materials and prices. The event is held in the drill hall of the Armory.

The show primarily attracts couples looking for special handmade items for their homes, said Little. This event is special because it allows visitors to “have it your way,” she said. Someone could come across a nightstand they like, but ask the craftsman who’s selling it to make it a little bigger or make it in walnut instead of cherry. The artists often respond, “Absolutely, I can do that,” she said.

Many people really connect with one particular vendor at the show, she said, and return year after year to see the latest they have to offer. The show motivates visitors with new decorating ideas and gets them excited about the potential for their home.

The steady rise of TV networks such as HGTV has helped with the popularity of the Fine Furnishings Show, said Little. The ideal of doing it yourself remains strong, she said, but TV shows send the right message that working with a professional “is a really smart thing to do,” she said. Chip and Joanna Gaines, of the popular show “Fixer Upper,” are great with the type of statement pieces the Fine Furnishings Show is famous for, working with local craftspeople in Texas to incorporate a handmade table or built-in cabinet.

“It’s very educational for people,” said Little.

Many people misunderstand what “fine furnishings” means, says Little. It doesn’t equate to expensive, but it does mean quality and built to last. Of particular emphasis this year will be lights, lamps and accessories.

Visitors this year are invited to be inspired to decorate with a new piece or a whole room set. See the latest innovations including secret drawers in furniture for valuables.

Watch artisans in action as they demonstrate their skills, and see the work of up-and-coming designers.

The show is also popular for holiday shopping, said Little. Thousands of cash and carry items will be available. Also, win door prizes, eat food, and enjoy music.

Join in supporting local, regional and national craftsmen and their American made, handcrafted furniture and accessories. This event, says Little, represents “the true meaning of Made in the U.S.A.”

Little said the show is again drawing from a broad area of the region after seeing a “serious shrinkage of its geographic area” when the economy was struggling back in 2009-2010. Over the last two or three years, the show is again drawing people from the “second layer,” or beyond an hour or so away.

The Fine Furnishings Show is open Friday, Nov. 3, from 4 to 8 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 4, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday, Nov. 5, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $10 for adults; children are admitted free.

Visit www.finefurnishingsshows.com or call 401-816-0963.

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Journalists are only allowed to write "tis the season" once annually, so Holding Court is going to avoid using its once-a-year opportunity and just write about the events pitched during the first-Monday-ever interview day at Holding Court instead.

Adopt a family in Dallas, and make their yuletide bright

We have officially entered the holiday season, and with apologies to Thanksgiving, Dallas Adopt a Family is getting ready for Christmas. Vickieand Richard Boer came to Holding Court on Monday to tell us about the organization’s project to benefit the Dallas community.

The program matches Dallas families with individuals and groups who adopt them for Christmas. Each adopted family receives a meal and a gift for each child in the home. The organization looks to make customized matches based on preferences of the donor and gift ideas from the families.

Last year’s program provided meals and gifts for 222 families.

“About 500 children were able to have something under the tree,” Vickie Boer said, adding they hope to benefit more families this Christmas season.

Dallas Adopt a Family is looking for signups on both sides of the equation — donors and families in need.

Families can apply to be adopted by attending application days at the Academy Building, 182 SE Academy St., Suite 200, in Dallas.

For more information, contact the Dallas Adopt a Family committee at 503-559-5373.

Families must bring photo ID and a document showing their physical address to apply.

Those interested in donating can email dallasadopt1@gmail.com to receive a link to an online donation form.

Prepare for the season with holiday open house

Speaking of the holiday season, South Salem Ace Hardware is looking to get you in the Christmas spirit with its annual Holiday Open House, set for Saturday, Nov. 4.

Donna Hyland was excited to share all the details with us. The open house will run from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the store, 706 Madrona Ave. SE.

If there’s a way to get prepped for the Christmas season, it sounds like this is the place.

“It’s going to be like a winter wonderland,” Hyland said.

The store entrance and gift shop will be transformed and will feature dozens of decorated trees and other holiday goodness. There also will be food, live music, door prizes and giveaways and an artist gallery featuring Portland artist Christopher Bibby.

The event is a way to set your creative decorating ideas into motion.

“We’re basically there to provide inspiration for people for the holidays,” Hyland said.

For additional information, call 503-763-6323 or go to www.acesouthsalem.com. 

Walk with veterans

Before Christmas comes Veterans Day, and this year, a free peace walk to explore the community's veterans memorials is being offered by Just Walk Salem Keizer.

Pat Norman stopped by to remind veterans and the community about the Veterans Day Memorial Walk, which is being held Sunday, Nov. 12.

Norman said they know Veterans Day is celebrated in the United States on Nov. 11, but she said "the vets are just too dang busy on that special Saturday, so we asked if Sunday, the 12th was OK, and they agreed."

So the 2.5-mile walk, which is not political, will start at 3 p.m. at the Veterans of Foreign Wars Marion Post, 630 Hood St. NE, and pass several different memorials or monuments dedicated to veterans of all wars, Norman said.

One of the first locations is the Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs building at 700 Summer St. NE. There, walkers will be able to see six memorials on the ODVA grounds including the Korean War Memorial, the Afghan-Iraqi Freedom Memorial, the VFW Veterans Monument and the Doughboy Statue.

From there, the walk will advance to the Capitol and pass the WWII Memorial at the corner of Court and Cottage streets NE.

Norman said walkers are invited to stroll as much or as little of the walk as they're comfortable with. "We just want to honor our veterans who continue to serve their communities every day," she said.

Just Walk Salem Keizer hosts walks most days of the month and includes a theme walk at least once per month, this month's being the Veterans Day Memorial Walk.

The club hopes to make the veterans walk an annual event. For more information, send a note via email to justwalksalem@gmail.com. 

More: November events include big wine weekend, Kenny G

Is it a quilt shop or coffee shop? It's both

Today marks the soft opening of Will-N-Bee'z Quilt and Coffee Shoppe in southeast Salem. It's in the parking lot with Fitts Seafoods for those who need a landmark.

Owner Mary Williams, a longtime quilter whose mother, Faye Jacques, helped start the Tillamook County Quilt Trail of painted wooden quilt blocks on barns, said the shop is in memory of Jacques and is a labor of love for her.

Williams, along with her mother-in-law, Dee Williams, and longtime friend Becky Brinlee (who owns the I Jive espresso shops in and near Turner) will serve no food (to protect fabrics and machinery in the shop), but they'll pour popular espresso, regular coffee and blended drinks separate from the quilt part of the shop.

"It's a coffee bar modeled after one in Helena, Montana," Williams said. "There will be tables and chairs and a coffee bar. It's really someplace for the husbands to sit and drink coffee while their wives shop."

Williams said there will be classes and times for women to quilt. A long-arm quilting machine will be available, but it won't be open to public use. She said she and other employees will operate the machinery.

"We want to socialize quilting. It'll be like those wine-and-paint classes except we won't serve wine. We want our quilters to keep their stitches straight. Quilters will bring us their tops, and we'll help with designs and quilting," Williams said.

The new shop won't be filled with a fabric and notions inventory at the start because Williams said she didn't want it to have just the items she likes. She wants to hear from her quilting customers about what they'd like to see fill the store.

Williams said initially she'll be open 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays. Hours will be adjusted as patterns develop.

In addition to the soft opening Wednesday, Nov. 1, there will be a grand opening on Veterans Day, Saturday, Nov. 11.

"We have a lot of retired Marines in our family and are very veteran oriented," Williams said. "So come see us; we'll have a variety of modern and traditional quilts on display." 

The store is at 1555 12th St. SE. Call 503-507-8052.

More: Temporary ice skating rink to begin construction Oct. 23 in downtown Salem

Annual rummage sale to help local church, community programs

It’s time for the annual rummage sale at Salem First Christian Church, and Arty Day and Rosealee Clemens came by with all the details.

The sale will be held Friday, Nov. 3, to Sunday, Nov. 5, in the basement fellowship hall of the church, 685 Marion St. NE. The sale runs 1 to 6 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday  and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday.

Most of the sale items will qualify for the $5 grocery bag sale. Buy a $5 bag and fill it up with anything that fits. There are larger items available, such as furniture, rugs and garden items that are individually priced because, well, a couch won't fit in a grocery bag.

Proceeds of the sale go to the church and its programs plus local organizations, such as Union Gospel Mission, Salvation Army, Center For Hope and Safety, Interfaith Hospitality Network and Simonka Place.

Parking is available in the church lot, but if it happens to be full, patrons are encouraged to use street parking.

Check out www.salemfcc.org for more information, or call the church at 503-363-9273.

Reach Carol McAlice Currie at ccurrie@StatesmanJournal.com or call 503-399-6746.

Reach Lee Clarkson at lclarkson@StatesmanJournal.com or call 503-399-6833.

More: McKay students to join the 'Beatles vs. Stones' Salem show

 

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For This San Angelo Homebuilder, San Angelo is a Great Block To Be The New Kid  San Angelo LIVE! Full coverage

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Stunning contemporary Marionville apartments are ready and waiting for you to move into – Stairways One to Four now complete

MNM Developments has Stairways One to Four already completed at its stunning Marionville development in the Capital.

With prices from just £260,000, the two bedroom luxury apartments and penthouses enjoy a fantastic location which is just a mile from Princes Street and the main attractions of the City Centre.

Outstanding views of Holyrood Park and Arthur’s Seat are available from the properties on the Dalgety Road side of the development, including the Penthouse terrace of Plot 27, a beautiful and spacious three bedroom design, which must be viewed to be appreciated.

Two other impressive penthouses currently still available at the development are Plot 50, a stunning two bedroom penthouse offering over 924 sq ft of space with a spacious open plan lounge/kitchen/dining area, priced at £319,240, and Plot 51 at £416,925, a three bedroom penthouse situated in a corner position and offering a luxurious balcony.

Marionville, which is now over 60% sold, is very much a benchmark for contemporary design, coupled with eco friendly credentials. Every apartment is constructed with the very latest energy efficient materials, and offers secure living with an abundance of outside space.

The apartments on the Marionville Road side of the development offer spacious balconies, whilst the ground floor apartments are complete with either private front gardens, or attractive patio areas.

It’s little wonder that sales have progressed so well with the amazing “as standard” specification included in all the homes at Marionville. The development  has appealed strongly to all market sectors, including downsizers, young professionals and investors alike.

Along with luxurious master bedrooms en-suites, bespoke Schuller kitchens from Riddle and Coghill, and contemporary ceramics from Porcelanosa in the bathrooms and en-suites, buyers will find fixtures and fittings from industry leading Vitra and Hansgrohe. The apartments and penthouses are pre-wired for the luxury Sonos state of the art sound system, there is generous fitted storage space with every home, together with lift access to all floors, and a secure underground carpark and door entry system. A full 10 year Premier Guarantee is also included with every property.

Clients can still personalise their apartments in Stair Five at Marionville, subject to build schedule and reservation time.

Michaela Teague MNM Developments Director said : “Make sure you don’t miss out here at Marionville, where we are delighted to be over 60% sold, with four stairways of apartments completed.”

“You can still personalise your home with the Stair Five properties but if you are looking to move now, we have a fantastic choice available, with some beautiful apartments and penthouses to choose from.”

“Marionville offers you a conveniently located part of the City, with an abundance of space and attractive features in our eco friendly, well specified homes – it’s a whole new lifestyle awaiting.”

A stunning, interior designed, ground floor show apartment is open for viewing at Marionville Thursday to Sunday 12 noon- 4pm.

Please call 0131 273 5257 for more information, or check out www.mnmdev.co.uk.

 

Marionville, Edinburgh enjoys a convenient city centre location, close to Lochend Park Gardens, Lochend Castle and Meadowbank Sports Centre. A selection of shops, including a Sainsburys Supermarket, is available at nearby Meadowbank Shopping Centre. Princes Street and the heart of Edinburgh is just a mile away.

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Forget about ghouls and goblins—checking your bank account after Hallo-week is the real scare of the month—not to mention the toll on the environment when all the candy wrappers, costumes and decorations are thrown out at the festivities' end. Save some money and the environment by taking a look at these affordable and eco-friendly ideas.

Compost those pumpkins

According to the USDA, the U.S. produced 1.3 billion pounds of pumpkins in 2014. After they are carved and put on display for the month, many of those pumpkins are simply thrown away and sent to landfills. Food waste in landfills isn't just bad because it takes up space, it also produces large amounts of methane, a greenhouse gas that is 30- to 70-times more potent than CO2 as it biodegrades. 

Western Disposal Services offers curbside compost pickup and also has a drop-off site for those who want to compost their gourds this year.

Consider packaging

When buying candy this year, think about the packaging. Most candy wrappers, unfortunately, cannot be recycled. If you are having a party, make festive homemade treats instead of buying individually wrapped pieces. Not only do they cost less, but they are usually waste-free! 

Save money on costumes

Don't feel like spending $30-plus on another costume for Halloween? Here are a few budget-friendly costume ideas.

• Instead of purchasing a whole new outfit, go to a local thrift store. Or better yet, swap clothes with a friend!
• Instead of buying cat, mouse or bunny ears, make any kind of animal ears out of cardboard. Use tape to shape them. Hint: If you want floppy bunny ears, cut them out of a paper bag and layer with cotton balls.
• Lumberjack: Wear a combination of flannel, blue jeans and boots for a simple lumberjack costume.
• Life/Lemons: Wear a white shirt, write "Life" in black Sharpie and carry around lemons.
• Fruit: Wear a shirt the color of the fruit (e.g. red for strawberry, purple for grapes) and then decorate! For a strawberry, draw seeds with a black Sharpie and wear green bottoms or a green hat to complete the look. 

Make your own decorations

Here are a few decorating ideas that won't give your bank account a scare.

• Recycle old toilet-paper and paper-towel rolls by cutting out eye holes and taping or gluing a glow stick inside. Place the roll inside of a bush or in a dark spot to give the effect of somebody hiding.
• Have a lot of recyclables? Make a Halloween body bag by placing recyclables inside a trash bag and taping them together in the shape of a body.
• For a softer glow, place a tea candle in a glass mason jar and fill with popcorn kernels.
• Milk-jug ghosts are an easy decorating idea. Simply rinse out a milk jug, layer the bottom with small rocks to weigh the jug down, place a candle inside and draw a ghost face on the outside in Sharpie.

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By Wendy Barton, Southern Home Enterprises

Stumped on how to decorate your living space? Ever wonder if decorating is influenced by your unique personality traits? Sure, your home reflects who you are, but are you maximizing your personal strengths and weaknesses to create the best possible home environment through design? As you thumb through Pinterest or decorating magazines for decorating ideas, you might find yourself attracted to a mix of designs that share similar themes. Pay attention to what you like and you may discover that out of the many decorating styles presented, you have a fondness for one in particular. Whether you favor contemporary decorating and minimalist designs or eclectic decor, your home is your canvas.

If still having a difficult time achieving your personality in your home, something to think about if you haven’t already done so. Hiring a professional is a smart decision if you’ve invested a good bit of money into your home and still not reflecting your personality that makes your home you. Professionals truly serve a purpose for everyone, whether you have no idea where or how to begin to decorate your home, or you have an idea but need help tying pieces together, or you simply haven’t the time to execute your style and desires due to your busy day to day schedule.

Call Southern Home Enterprises at 931-563-5556 to get help with all of your interior finish needs to achieve a home that reflects your personality and level of comfort.

 

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Whether you own a townhouse or rent a studio, you want to feel at home, surrounded by decor and furnishings suited to your tastes. If budget constraints or lease restrictions prevent you from shaping the home you want, consider these cost-effective DIY enhancements.

Of course, if you rent, you should always get your landlord’s blessing to avoid losing your security deposit. But as these changes are cosmetic in nature, it shouldn’t be difficult to obtain.

6. Rethink Wall Colors

The easiest (and most obvious) way to drastically change the look and feel of a home is by repainting one or more walls in a new hue. If you have a room with crown or picture molding, chair railing, or wainscoting, even better: Painting these to match the walls unifies the space and can heighten textural contrast, while painting the details in a contrasting color results in some period-inspired character.

“For painted accent walls, we like to choose walls that are the main focal point in the room, such as the one behind your bed,” says Cristina Casanas-Judd, partner at Me & General Design. “Or you can carve a nook within a room by using paint or wallpaper in a corner of the room or an alcove.”

For some inspiration, look to the trends and forecasts the leading residential paint brands release annually, such as Sherwin-Williams’ Colormix Forecast 2018, which is presented as different color families as opposed to a single “it” color. Benjamin Moore declared Caliente AF-290 — a hot, deep red — the 2018 Color of the Year, alongside complementing palettes. Behr unveiled its 2018 Color of the Year, a blue-green called In The Moment, and related tints, many of which possess a woodland-esque feel.

Interior designer Jennifer Levy of CAVdesign advises, “I don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to paint color. So much depends on the actual architecture and the light in the space itself.” And for anyone wondering about dark versus light hues, she adds, “I think that dark colors do tend to make a room look smaller; they tend to come in towards you. But they can create a warmth and coziness in a space as well.”

Before you paint an entire wall, pick up oversized paint chips or sample jars and paint a section within the room where you intend to use that color to see it in context and how the light in that space affects it.

5. Add Pattern or Art

Alternatively, make a bold statement with wallpaper. This treatment used to get a bad rap due to its laborious installation, designs that go out of style, and wall damage from removal, but new lines are changing the game with easy-to-remove, temporary papers.

Slightly transparent and digitally printed, Brooklyn-based Flavor Paper‘s EZ Papes line features a prepasted ground that’s water activated when you’re ready to hang. When you tire of the design, it’s just as easy to remove it, once again using water.

The 24-inch-wide, Class A fire-rated papers are mold and mildew resistant and ecofriendly, and come in a choice of 12 whimsical patterns, including an adaptation of Andy Warhol’s Queen Elizabeth portrait and an original Brooklyn-themed artwork — called “Brownstoner,” of course — by local illustrator Ian Ferguson. Just remember that because this series is slightly transparent, you’ll want to be sure the wall you’re pasting it onto is a solid, light color.

Another brand of easy-to-remove wall coverings is Tempaper, a lead-, phthalate-, and VOC-free wallpaper whose water-based inks and adhesives enable easy removal and even repositioning. However, for best results it should be used on a surface primed with eggshell, semi-gloss, or satin paint. Like Flavor Paper, Tempaper has a selection of handsome and cheeky designs such as a pink-and-gold take on camouflage and designer Cynthia Rowley’s cherry blossom graphic on a silver ground.

“We love to install wallpaper in bathrooms,” says General Judd, the other half of Me & General Design. “This is where you can go as bold as you want. Unlike one might think, wallpapers can be super durable and today there are numerous ones with texture.”

4. Swap the Lighting

Some homes have charming period fixtures that give them character, while others have builder-standard eyesores such as flush-mount ceiling fixtures that resemble female anatomy. Changing a hardwired fixture isn’t as challenging as it looks, as long as the wiring is in good condition, but we recommend hiring an electrician or handyman to do the deed for safety and liability reasons.

When shopping for a replacement wall sconce, ceiling lamp, pendant or chandelier, keep in mind the lamp’s canopy or base plate should ideally cover the opening where the old fixture was installed. Otherwise, you’ll need to do some extra filling, spackling and painting to cover what’s left of the old opening.

Some great, reasonably priced online retailers include AllModern and Lamps Plus. Renters will probably want to hold onto the old fixture to restore before moving (and take the new one with you).

Plug-in fixtures can do wonders in dark corners and rooms where hardwiring doesn’t exist. Crate & Barrel’s CB2 brand is among several retailers who carry attractive plug-in fixtures such as cloth-drum pendants for hanging over a dining table and swing-arm wall sconces for reading in bed. These will usually have decorative cloth cords that are made to be seen and long enough to install just about anywhere.

3. Spruce Up the Cabinetry

Try giving existing kitchen cabinets a facelift if they look dowdy but are otherwise sturdy and in good condition. There are two ways to go about doing this: painting and swapping hardware. The former is more involved and therefore will be time consuming, but can radically upgrade the look of your kitchen if done right.

“If it’s a rental and you get permission from your landlord to repaint, prepare the cabinets by priming with something like Zinsser Bulls Eye 1-2-3, which is specifically made for repainting slicker surfaces,” says Levy. Also, “make sure they’re super clean and degreased because that will be the thing that keeps the paint from adhering.” Note that there are several steps to take before any of this, however, such as removing doors and hardware and light sanding.

Upgrading cabinet hardware is relatively effortless. Think of it as jewelry for the kitchen: Perhaps you want to go from ornate turned pulls to minimalist bars, or from a bright and polished chrome to on-trend brushed bronze or black.

Simple knobs are typically universal in screw size so simply unscrew the old and insert the new in the same spot.

With handles and pulls, you’ll need to remove the old ones and then measure the distance between their screw holes. If you want to avoid drilling and filling holes, find pulls that have the same distance for an easy swap.

Options are abundant and varied in price, from budget-friendly knobs and pulls in big box stores such as IKEA to affordable designer products from Top Knobs and Belwith Keeler.

2. Refresh the Backsplash

There’s a demolition-free trick to enhancing simple white-tile backsplashes in kitchens or bathrooms. Jennifer Levy shares, “MIBO makes this thing called tile tattoos. If you have a basic backsplash, you can apply these little tile decals and they’re really, really cute — not tacky.”

Available in a few mod patterns and colorways, the vinyl decals are designed for application on 15-centimeter-square tiles and come in packs of eight. They’re waterproof once applied, but are also easily removable.

Some companies such as Smart Tiles make a peel-and-stick backsplash product for vertical surfaces. Smart Tile’s coverings sport a gel layer that gives the faux-tile-and-mosaic graphics a dimensional effect.

You should apply them only to smooth, painted surfaces as they don’t stay adhered to textured or imperfect walls. Be forewarned, though, that removing Smart Tiles after use can damage the paint job.

1. Indulge in a Fancy Showerhead

You might not be able to retile your 1970s bathroom, but you can at least splurge on a nicer, newer showerhead that’s free of lime scale, looks more high end, and boasts bells and whistles such as massage jet–like sprays.

Assuming the existing showerhead has a basic fixed wall arm, you can find a wide range of multi-spray showerheads that will fit the arm. Many now offer multiple sprays to suit each user.

Some of these are handheld models, which are convenient not just for bathing but also for cleaning the shower or tub walls. Hansgrohe’s Raindance Select E is a handsome choice that offers three spray modes easily changed by pressing a central “select” button.

Bathers with limited mobility might consider Moen’s Attract Magnetix handheld showers, which uses a strong magnet to mount the head back onto the arm without the strain of reaching up and over the holster.

Those who like to take their NPR podcasts or favorite playlists into the shower can add a waterproof speaker — but combining audio and shower in one is even better as it affords a cleaner, clutter-free look. Kohler’s Moxie showerhead has a built-in Bluetooth speaker that magnetically attaches at the head’s center.

Recharge the speaker simply via USB cable. Previously this product was available in chrome with an off-white face and speaker, but more recently Kohler launched the speakers with color on the rear to inject just a tiny pop of contrasting color when attached to the showerheads.

Finally, if you can take on only one of the above projects, Jennifer Levy has advice for you: “What is that one thing you see every day that is really bothering you? Ask yourself that question and then focus on getting that thing done.”

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What did our homes look like 30 years ago? From wood-chip wallpaper to coloured carpets, take a look at these decorating ideas that only worked in the 1980s…

1. Snazzy paint techniques

In the 1980’s we embraced fun paint techniques. Sponging and rag rolling were used to create a mottled, aged look found on old porcelain or rustic stoneware. It was an easy technique to master and was widely popular. However, it is rarely used in modern interiors (mainly due to the fact that it’s a pretty unconvincing way to create a rustic scheme).

Related: Living room paint ideas to transform any space

2. Artex walls and ceilings

Widely used in the 1970s, but still hugely popular in the 1980s, Artex was a way of finishing off a ceilings and walls without plastering. Artex ceilings and walls were mainly finished with familiar stippled and swirled patterns which looked hideous and are really difficult to remove! Why? Just Why?

3. Peach colour schemes

Ahh peach. It did make an appearance earlier this year on The Great British Interior Design Challenge do you remember? Kelly Hoppen was horrified when the ceiling was coated in a peach shade, as were we.  It was the colour of choice for interior design schemes in the 1980s. A simple question perplexes us…why?

4. Coloured carpets

Some contemporary coloured carpets are stunning. Fact. However in the 1980s the mix of horrible patterns complete with a selection of gaudy colourways meant that the carpets we installed in our home were simply revolting…

Looking to care for carpets? How to care for wool carpets

5. Swags and tails

Don’t get us wrong, here at Ideal Home we love an amazing window treatment, we’re also big fans of beautifully hung curtains. Unfortunately, it seems that in the 1980s we took things to chintzy extremes. Every window had more layers than a lettuce, there was no such thing as OTT in the 80s.

6. Red and black colour schemes

Remember all those black and red colour schemes? They worked particularly well with a framed picture of a red Ferrari/Porche on the wall and a grotesque mix of cheap black ash furniture. Nowadays black is used tastefully in monochrome decorating schemes and when red’s an accent colour it’s far less tacky than a car print.

Looking for colour inspiration? Read Colourful bedroom ideas to brighten your life

7. Wallpaper borders

In the 1980s we went mad for a wallpaper border and boy, did we overdo it! We had borders in every room, in bold clashing patterns to that of the wallpaper – because back then all four walls were papered, never painted.

Although the show is great for nostalgia we’re not sure we want the trend for 80s decorating trends to come back for the modern home?!

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What did our homes look like 30 years ago? From wood-chip wallpaper to coloured carpets, take a look at these decorating ideas that only worked in the 1980s…

1. Snazzy paint techniques

In the 1980’s we embraced fun paint techniques. Sponging and rag rolling were used to create a mottled, aged look found on old porcelain or rustic stoneware. It was an easy technique to master and was widely popular. However, it is rarely used in modern interiors (mainly due to the fact that it’s a pretty unconvincing way to create a rustic scheme).

Related: Living room paint ideas to transform any space

2. Artex walls and ceilings

Widely used in the 1970s, but still hugely popular in the 1980s, Artex was a way of finishing off a ceilings and walls without plastering. Artex ceilings and walls were mainly finished with familiar stippled and swirled patterns which looked hideous and are really difficult to remove! Why? Just Why?

3. Peach colour schemes

Ahh peach. It did make an appearance earlier this year on The Great British Interior Design Challenge do you remember? Kelly Hoppen was horrified when the ceiling was coated in a peach shade, as were we.  It was the colour of choice for interior design schemes in the 1980s. A simple question perplexes us…why?

4. Coloured carpets

Some contemporary coloured carpets are stunning. Fact. However in the 1980s the mix of horrible patterns complete with a selection of gaudy colourways meant that the carpets we installed in our home were simply revolting…

Looking to care for carpets? How to care for wool carpets

5. Swags and tails

Don’t get us wrong here at Ideal Home we love an amazing window treatment, we’re also big fans of beautifully hung curtains. Unfortunately, it seems that in the 1980s we took things to chintzy extremes. Every window had more layers than a lettuce, there was no such thing as OTT in the 80s.

6. Red and black colour schemes

Remember all those black and red colour schemes? They worked particularly well with a framed picture of a red Ferrari/Porche on the wall and a grotesque mix of cheap black ash furniture. Nowadays black is used tastefully in monochrome decorating schemes and when red’s an accent colour it’s far less tacky than a car print.

Looking for colour inspiration? Read Colourful bedroom ideas to brighten your life

7. Wallpaper borders

In the 1980s we went mad for a wallpaper border and boy, did we overdo it! We had borders in every room, in bold clashing patterns to that of the wallpaper – because back then all four walls were papered, never painted.

Although the show is great for nostalgia we’re not sure we want the trend for 80s decorating trends to come back for the modern home?!

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http://www.idealhome.co.uk/news/80s-decorating-scemes186600-186600

Jan Johnston is the Collection Development Coordinator for the Fort Vancouver Regional Library District. Email her at readingforfun@fvrl.org.

Today as I write this column the weather is, in one word, glorious. Blue skies and golden sun combined with the constantly changing array of fall colors make this a particularly brilliant autumn day. However, this brief interlude will pass. And that’s OK. Really. Think of it this way: If Mother Nature took a crazy pill and decided that the Northwest didn’t need its typical wet, gray fall and winter (which we all know and love, right?), something would be very, very wrong. In fact, I’m pretty sure gravity would be the next thing to go. So, we luv ya, sun, but seriously, don’t hang around too long.

Time to get ready for the autumn weather we know is heading our way. If this isn’t your favorite time of year, perhaps a visit to warmer climes is in order. Or, save some money and dive into a fall-friendly book or two. For this particular reading list I am focusing on food, nature, keeping warm, and did I already mention food? As Maria Von Trapp might say/sing, “These are a few of my favorite things.”

• “Fireplace Design & Decorating Ideas,” by Lacey Howard: Cuddling up with someone and/or something — another person, a soft blanket, a fuzzy kitty — is one way to take the chill out of autumn and winter. Even better? Cuddling in front of a warm fire. Get some ideas on how to pretty up that classic cuddle spot by checking out this guide to fireplace design and decor.

• “The Songs of Trees: Stories from Nature’s Great Connectors,” by David George Haskell: Trees are amazing. I like to think of them as citizens of nature; and I am pretty certain that trees, not humans, are the true keepers of knowledge. A tree’s trunk, roots, branches and leaves give us clues about past and present events. What are they telling us right now? One look at the leaves and their blaze of color and we know that autumn has returned. Learn how to listen to these incredible living things by reading David George Haskell’s moving tribute to “nature’s great connectors.”

• “Soup & Comfort: A Cookbook of Homemade Recipes to Warm the Soul,” by Pamela Ellgen: Chilly nights = tasty soups. Belly/soul-warming soup recipes abound in this tastebud-friendly cookbook.

• “Squirrels: The Animal Answer Guide,” by Richard W. Thorington and Katie Ferrell: I know that squirrels are year-round visitors to our yards, but fall and winter, in my opinion, wouldn’t be the same without these nut-loving rodents. If you feel like you have a low squirrel IQ, smarten up by reading this authoritative guide to all things squirrelly.

• “Winter Gardening in the Maritime Northwest: Cool-Season Crops for the Year-Round Gardener,” by Binda Colebrook: Another winter gardening guide, but this one focuses on the Pacific Northwest. Bravo. By the way, I’ve heard through the bear grapevine that our Northwest ursines really enjoy a bowl of curried beet soup accompanied by an endive and chicory salad. A bear’s wine of choice? Bearjolais, er, Beaujolais, of course.

• “The Winter Harvest Handbook: Year-Round Vegetable Production Using Deep-Organic Techniques and Unheated Greenhouses,” by Eliot Coleman: Spring and summer are a garden’s glory days, no doubt about it. But the approach of cool weather doesn’t mean that the garden has to “bear up” (i.e., hibernate) for several months. Take the advice of farming expert Eliot Coleman and cultivate a winter-friendly home garden. If bears could stay awake during the winter, I’ll bet their stomachs would growl for a tasty dinner of winter greens and parsnip soup.

• “Winter Stews & One-Pot Dinners: Tasty Recipes That Fill Your Belly and Warm Your Heart,” by Daniella Malfitano: I’ve mentioned before how much my husband loves to cook (lucky me!), and we both cheer when soup and stew season returns. There is just something so comforting about having a big pot of soup simmering on the stove especially when it’s gray and rainy outside. For help in creating delicious one-pot meals, spend some time with Daniella Malfitano’s cookbook, full of recipes for simple yet hearty suppers.

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https://www.columbian.com/news/2017/oct/29/check-it-out-welcome-autumns-arrival-with-some-cozy-reads/

Jan Johnston is the Collection Development Coordinator for the Fort Vancouver Regional Library District. Email her at readingforfun@fvrl.org.

Today as I write this column the weather is, in one word, glorious. Blue skies and golden sun combined with the constantly changing array of fall colors make this a particularly brilliant autumn day. However, this brief interlude will pass. And that’s OK. Really. Think of it this way: If Mother Nature took a crazy pill and decided that the Northwest didn’t need its typical wet, gray fall and winter (which we all know and love, right?), something would be very, very wrong. In fact, I’m pretty sure gravity would be the next thing to go. So, we luv ya, sun, but seriously, don’t hang around too long.

Time to get ready for the autumn weather we know is heading our way. If this isn’t your favorite time of year, perhaps a visit to warmer climes is in order. Or, save some money and dive into a fall-friendly book or two. For this particular reading list I am focusing on food, nature, keeping warm, and did I already mention food? As Maria Von Trapp might say/sing, “These are a few of my favorite things.”

• “Fireplace Design & Decorating Ideas,” by Lacey Howard: Cuddling up with someone and/or something — another person, a soft blanket, a fuzzy kitty — is one way to take the chill out of autumn and winter. Even better? Cuddling in front of a warm fire. Get some ideas on how to pretty up that classic cuddle spot by checking out this guide to fireplace design and decor.

• “The Songs of Trees: Stories from Nature’s Great Connectors,” by David George Haskell: Trees are amazing. I like to think of them as citizens of nature; and I am pretty certain that trees, not humans, are the true keepers of knowledge. A tree’s trunk, roots, branches and leaves give us clues about past and present events. What are they telling us right now? One look at the leaves and their blaze of color and we know that autumn has returned. Learn how to listen to these incredible living things by reading David George Haskell’s moving tribute to “nature’s great connectors.”

• “Soup & Comfort: A Cookbook of Homemade Recipes to Warm the Soul,” by Pamela Ellgen: Chilly nights = tasty soups. Belly/soul-warming soup recipes abound in this tastebud-friendly cookbook.

• “Squirrels: The Animal Answer Guide,” by Richard W. Thorington and Katie Ferrell: I know that squirrels are year-round visitors to our yards, but fall and winter, in my opinion, wouldn’t be the same without these nut-loving rodents. If you feel like you have a low squirrel IQ, smarten up by reading this authoritative guide to all things squirrelly.

• “Winter Gardening in the Maritime Northwest: Cool-Season Crops for the Year-Round Gardener,” by Binda Colebrook: Another winter gardening guide, but this one focuses on the Pacific Northwest. Bravo. By the way, I’ve heard through the bear grapevine that our Northwest ursines really enjoy a bowl of curried beet soup accompanied by an endive and chicory salad. A bear’s wine of choice? Bearjolais, er, Beaujolais, of course.

• “The Winter Harvest Handbook: Year-Round Vegetable Production Using Deep-Organic Techniques and Unheated Greenhouses,” by Eliot Coleman: Spring and summer are a garden’s glory days, no doubt about it. But the approach of cool weather doesn’t mean that the garden has to “bear up” (i.e., hibernate) for several months. Take the advice of farming expert Eliot Coleman and cultivate a winter-friendly home garden. If bears could stay awake during the winter, I’ll bet their stomachs would growl for a tasty dinner of winter greens and parsnip soup.

• “Winter Stews & One-Pot Dinners: Tasty Recipes That Fill Your Belly and Warm Your Heart,” by Daniella Malfitano: I’ve mentioned before how much my husband loves to cook (lucky me!), and we both cheer when soup and stew season returns. There is just something so comforting about having a big pot of soup simmering on the stove especially when it’s gray and rainy outside. For help in creating delicious one-pot meals, spend some time with Daniella Malfitano’s cookbook, full of recipes for simple yet hearty suppers.

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http://www.columbian.com/news/2017/oct/29/check-it-out-welcome-autumns-arrival-with-some-cozy-reads/

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Students at Northside Elementary School put their team-building skills to work just in time for Halloween, transforming pumpkins into their favorite book characters.

On display in the school’s media center were dozens of pumpkins depicting iconic children’s book characters like Captain Underpants, Fly Guy, Dog Man, Junie B. Jones, Rainbow Fish and Pete the Cat. Gandalf from “The Hobbit” and the Queen of Hearts from “Alice in Wonderland” also made an appearance on the bookshelves.

The submissions represented every class in the school, from pre-K to fifth grade. REACH classes participated as well.

“Each class was challenged with creating a pumpkin from a book character,” said Northside’s media specialist, Carla Gaddy.

Students were encouraged to “vote with money,” dropping money to show their support for their favorites. The pumpkin with the most votes earned the submitting class a cookie cake and ice cream party. Money generated by the voting process will be used in the classroom.

At the end of the week, the pumpkins were auctioned off at Northside’s annual Fall Festival, with proceeds going to the school’s Parent-Teacher Organization. But not all of the benefits were tangible, according to REACH teacher Beverly Head.

“(The project) brought the students together creatively,” said Head, whose students searched for decorating ideas online and then democratically selected their favorites through the classic heads-down, hand-up classroom voting.

Head’s students created a pumpkin figure of Jack Skellington, among others, but Gaddy said students tended not just to vote for their entries but for others as well.

“They might vote for their homerooms but they also might bring in money to vote for other pumpkins they liked, too,” she said.

Head said the experience was a positive one throughout Northside.

“It brought a fun, competitive spirit to the school,” she said.

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A touch of art at home exhibition  The Star Online Full coverage

https://www.thestar.com.my/metro/metro-news/2017/10/28/a-touch-of-art-at-home-exhibition-event-at-kl-convention-centre-showcases-various-artwork-by-young-l/

By The Hillsdale Daily News

COLDWATER – Tibbits Opera House is hosting “The Art of Holiday Food, Drink and Decor” from 6-9 p.m. Nov. 14 to get people into the holiday spirit.

The local art group, under the umbrella of the Tibbits Opera Foundation, is known for its ArtWalk in Coldwater every spring and fall as well as its themed gallery shows at Tibbits. Arts Alive is currently reorganizing and offering an event geared toward the Christmas holiday.

“This is the perfect ‘Girls Night Out’ or ‘Mommy’s Night Off’ event,” said Stephanie Burdick, event co-chair. “If you’re planning on hosting a party this season, then this event will take care of all of your needs — food, drink, décor — and you’ll even have the opportunity to do some of your Christmas shopping downstairs.”

The stage will feature live 30-minute demonstrations throughout the night. Brian Marteen and Mikayla Mock from JT’s Billiard Bar & Grill will provide recipes and feature several holiday cocktails for taste-testing at 6:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

One of the samples, “JT’s Christmas Cookie Drink,” will also be available for purchase at the cash bar.

Tom Garman from The Museum Gallery will take the stage at 7 p.m. and 8 p.m. to tackle common décor problems plus lead attendees through some fresh decorating ideas for 2017.

Towards the end of the night, several donated centerpieces as well as a large giveaway basket will be raffled off.

The lower level of Tibbits will feature a variety of artists and vendors who have been hand-selected for this event, and each will have a booth of unique gifts for purchase. From pottery to primitive décor to Michigan-themed gifts to jewelry to soaps, lotion and more, there will be an eclectic selection from which to peruse.

Complimentary appetizers provided by Tasteful Kreations will also be available on the lower level, where Chef Tricia Mayer will be on hand to provide recipe cards and talk with patrons.

Event organizers are also trying to secure complimentary chair massages for guests attending the event.

This event is hosted by Arts Alive & Tibbits Opera House and is sponsored by JT’s Billiard Bar & Grill, Museum Gallery, and Tasteful Kreations. The centerpieces for the raffle have been generously donated by Neitzert’s Greenhouse & Gifts, Modern Revival, Loveberry Farms, and Small Town Sweet Boutique.

Tickets for “The Art of Holiday Food, Drinks, and Décor” are $20 in advance or $30 the day of the event. For tickets, visit www.Tibbits.org or call 517-278-6029.

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http://www.hillsdale.net/news/20171027/event-set-to-prepare-you-for-holidays

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