White on White's Profile

Are we really still discussing what is and isn't art? I thought those type of discussions were over as soon as Jackson Pollack dripped paint on a canvas. Or actually I think they were over when Monet was so radical as to paint his impression of water lillies rather than a literal interpretation. Now that really upset the status quo!

I support creativity.

I support conceptual art.

I liked the striped blanket on the bed! It's a nice pop of color.

I think some of these comments cross the line. Yes, this is a design blog but this is also a real home. You know, with real people living there.

Can I be the one voice against a backsplash? I think it would add too much visual clutter. I would only put one in if you need it.

I do agree though with painting the walls a color you like in a gloss or semi-gloss so it is easy to clean. I have a dark red kitchen and I love it. It feels very warm, especially in the evening. Also, I agree about adding undercounter lighting. I think every kitchen should have it as it adds wonderfully to creating ambience. Adding a dimmer to overhead lighting does this too.

I recommend picking out a fun, vibrant textile (marimekko?) and having it made into a shade for the window. Also, a patterned or colorful towel hanging neatly on the stove always works for me in terms of adding some visual interest.

I have to add, that I am not a fan of adding clutter on tops of cabinets, especially baskets.

Good luck!

I love this post because I live to be cozy. One thing I do is I have pillows everywhere: on kitchen chairs for sitting and putting my feet up, on the living room floor for sitting, extras on the bed for propping myself up just right. Another thing I love for comfort is a faux fur throw. I move it with me from bed to sofa and back again.

My instinct would be to stay away from more leather. I also would go with 2 chairs. I would try upholstery with a pattern that would coordinates with the sofa. Something like this . . .

http://www.crateandbarrel.com/furniture/chairs/suffolk-chair/s259210

A lot of people got all offended by the Elle post on what trends are out for 2012 but I think those type of discussions have merit. I think there is value in understanding the difference between trend and style, whether it be in fashion or home design. This post is a perfect example of a trend. Trends become ubiquitous in a short amount of time. They are in and then people tire of them and then they are out. I would never dictate what people should buy. However, I do think consumers should make educated choices with their money. Personally, I don't want to look like everyone else. Also, I want the things I buy to last for years. Good style is about expressing yourself. It is not about copying the lastest thing. That said, if you love the latest thing and want to buy it, then buy it. Just understand the difference between spending money on something that is in fashion for a moment and something that will have style forever. So yeah, I guess neon is a trend for 2012.

Confidential to Sweet Peach: Do you see what a born star your dog is? If I were you I'd make him a regular on that blog of yours (if he isn't already).

Sorry if I repeat other's comments, I don't have time to read them all but of course I want to say something : )

1. I love the fireplace surround except for the trapezoid portion. It's the kind of thing that has real style and is not trendy. I think it is a look that could work with many different styles of furniture and decor. I'd keep it and remove the trapezoid thingy.

2. I love color but that red wall isn't working for me. If you want shelving, replace the glass with custom built wood shelving. I would then paint the wall and shelves a different color and leave the fireplace surround white. Color is such a personal thing but I'd try something torquise.

3. Remove the photos from the mantle. Keep it clean looking. If you want photos in your home I'd recommend doing a grouping on a wall. Unify the grouping by selecting similar looking frames. Black is always classic and modern or a combination of blond wood and white frames works well together.

4. Move the TV to a more subtle location. Please do not put it over the fireplace. Personally, I never think TVs should be focal points in a room. I'd put a large piece of art or a mirror over the fireplace.

5. Artfully arrange books and art on your shelves. Keeping it very neat and organized.

Good luck!

I appreciate the creativity but I'm so tired of this taxidermy trend. It's boring already.

I agree with the some others here.

1. Decluttler. Get stuff off of the counter, top of the refrig. and even those papers hanging on the front of the refrig. Put it all away. I would not put anything on top of those cabinets either. I even put my dish soap away when not is use, sponges too.

2. Change the lighting. Can you add a dimmer to the ceiling light? If not, try less wattage. Also, for warmth and ambience add under-counter lighting if you can. At the very least, add a small lamp on the kitchen counter.

3. Paint color on the walls. Don't be afraid to be bold.

4. Put some art on the wall at the end of the kitchen. I would put something large rather than lots of smaller pieces. Again, keeping it clean and simple. If you prefer many small pieces of art, group them together in a cohesive way.

5. A long runner type rug could be used to add pattern and color. I'm tired of chevron but it would work in that space. I vote for stripes.

6. Personally, I would not add matchy accessories like towels and pot-holders. Keep your potholders in a drawer and just one, nice towel out hanging on your stove.

Hope that helps!