I recently interviewed Houston artist, John Palmer http://www.johnpalmerart.com/ on the show.  I thought it was a terrific way to discuss how art is business, not only for the artist, but for designers, decorators, architects, framers and many other related vendors.  

First and foremost, in the world of interior decorating, clients need and want art.  The reasons are varied and can include such simple needs as a desire to fill space, add color, add texture, express individuality and personalize an area.  More complex needs for art can include the desire to collect for both personal and financial reasons; an interest in being a patron or sponsor; to encourage certain artists or mediums; a format in which to express or subscribe to certain political, religious or personal views and even a way to express emotions.

Since types, sizes and prices of art can vary widely, having guidance and expertise is tantamount to a successful approach.  At Room Redo we frequently assist with art.  Our commercial and residential clients often need help with placement of current pieces, use of existing, inherited and/or family pieces and the acquisition and placement of new pieces.

We also advise on framing and matting, particularly with older or outdated pieces that still have value or perhaps even emotional meaning to the client.  One of my favorite decorating projects is to give outdated art new life.  My clients are always delighted at how wonderful their art can look when it is cleaned up, framed and matted properly and hung in just the right spot. 

John Palmer is a smart and talented artist who knows his business.  He does a wonderful job working with clients.  He can personalize a piece for a family or a firm.  We have had many successful projects where he was able to do anything from produce just the right piece to fill an entire wall or 18 different pieces for an entire clinic, all designed specifically to blend with the décor and appeal to the patients who visited the office. 

The business of art boils down to providing and placing the right art for residential and commercial environments.  The way those needs are addressed can be a very rewarding experience on many levels. I highly encourage my clients to give this some thought the next time they are staring at a blank wall. 

-Check more pictures here.

Pamela O’Brien is having a great time visiting Northern California this week and enjoying the food, wine and style of this beautiful part of the country. Here’s a photo of her in the lobby of her hotel in Sonoma.  Note the warm colors, shabby chic details and weathered wood accents — all great features of Wine Country design.

With summer winding down, many of us probably have house guests.  Having a great guest room is a wonderful way to make your family and friends feel more welcome in your home.

The guest room can be colorful and dramatic — Have some fun with it!  Make it express your favorite colors, hobbies, places you have traveled, whatever inspires you.

Some nice additions to a guest room can include: 

A bench at the end of the bed can be useful not only for putting on shoes, but also for unpacking a suitcase.

Comfortable cotton sheets with a high thread count are a must whether on a bed or on a fold-up futon.

Towels and a basket of essential toiletries are also nice considerations and help provide that spa-like ambience.

Empty out the entire closet or at least a clearly accessible area for hanging clothes. The same is true for the bureau or dresser.  Guest rooms tend to become storage sheds so be sure to have some space for your guests and their belongings.

And the best tip of all – always spend a night in your own guest room so you can get a good feel for the level of comfort and any additions you nee to make to turn your guest room into a 5-star retreat.

During a recent visit to the Seattle area, I really enjoyed the cool, casual style of the Pacific Northwest .  This part of the country has great design that combines coastal influences with a cool-weather feel – perfect to help beat the heat here in Houston .  Here are some of my favorite design trends:

1.) Craftsman bungalows with cedar shakes and siding in muddied hues like brown, tan, taupe, olive green and gray.

2.) Lots of River stone and field stone accents, used for foundations, columns, pillars and fireplaces and stucco with stacked stone on newer homes.

3.) Fabulous, glorious, vibrant flowers EVERY WHERE!  Gardens are lush and full of color year-round.  The long days and abundant rainfall make for truly spectacular specimens.

4.) Lots of natural influences in art, rugs, accessories and architectural details.

5.) Appreciation of Native American art including baskets, pottery, carvings, totem poles and prints proudly displayed in public buildings.

Check out the slide show that shows many examples of good design here.  Note the classic style in home exteriors.  The beautiful Bellevue Athletic Club has a very laid-back yet luxurious style that perfectly captures the spirit of the city.  Whether it is a new way to display a favorite piece, an item you pick up during your own travels or perhaps using cooler hues and natural elements, try a few Pacific Northwest decorating techniques and appreciate the cool, calm look in your home and office.

Men, as a rule, are excellent about purchasing for value.  Even though the average listener may not very often think about professional interior decorating, having professional help in putting together a home or an office is a great value for anyone who needs and/or wants functional, attractive and comfortable spaces, whether at home or at work.  Some ways Room Redo assists the Gentleman who needs some decorating help include:  assisting with moving from one home or office to another, reusing existing furnishings to their maximum potential, finding and purchasing new furniture as needed, pulling the look together with art and accessories.    The result is a great new home or office that looks great, works really well and was nearly effortless for the client.  What a deal!