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	<title>Musings</title>
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	<link>http://www.flor.com/blog</link>
	<description>FLOR&#039;s Blog on Design</description>
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		<title>Cozy Kids</title>
		<link>http://www.flor.com/blog/cozy-kids/</link>
		<comments>http://www.flor.com/blog/cozy-kids/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 22 Feb 2012 16:26:09 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Miriam</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Musings]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.flor.com/blog/?p=20098</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[It is rare in this over-saturated day and age of Pinterest and Shelter Blogs, that I come across something that actually stops me in my tracks.  This next image is one of those.  As I was scoping out images for my post on cozy spaces earlier this week, I came across this delightful reading room. [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>It is rare in this over-saturated day and age of Pinterest and Shelter Blogs, that I come across something that actually stops me in my tracks.  This next image is one of those.  As I was scoping out images for <a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/?p=20096" target="_blank">my post on cozy spaces earlier this week</a>, I came across this delightful reading room.  I am in LOVE with the design of the space from an architectural standpoint &#8211; the gorgeous flooring and built-in shelves and daybed are to. die. for. &#8211; but it was the stunning curtains and matching, velvet cushion that truly captured my heart.  I can imagine any child would absolutely love to spend time in this cozy nook, reading up a storm!</p>
<p><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/red-hallway.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-20108" src="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/red-hallway-e1329231838548.jpg" alt="" width="519" height="367" /></a><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/closet-book-nook.jpg"></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">(<a href="http://annwolfid.com/projects_houston_wu.html" target="_blank">source</a>)</p>
<p>Here are some other inspirational cozy kids spaces that I found.</p>
<p>Sarah of <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2011/05/closet-turned-book-nook.html" target="_blank">Thrifty Decor Chic</a> turned a closet off her playroom into this amazing, cozy reading nook for her son:</p>
<p><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/closet-book-nook.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-20106" src="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/closet-book-nook.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="600" /></a><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/top-of-stairs.jpg"></a></p>
<p>Of course, the best part about cozy spaces is that you don&#8217;t really need that much room to make one.  Amanda over at <a href="http://www.soulemama.com/soulemama/2009/04/just-a-few-more-corners.html" target="_blank">SouleMama</a> created this beautiful reading nook in a space at the top of her stairs.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/top-of-stairs.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-20109" src="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/top-of-stairs.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="353" /></a><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/Luxury-Anne-Black-interior-Scandinavian-Design-Tradition.jpg"></a></p>
<p>One need not even have a book shelf to create a cozy space for kids.  Just check out this corner configuration &#8211; perfect for a little snooze.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/Luxury-Anne-Black-interior-Scandinavian-Design-Tradition.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-20107" src="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/Luxury-Anne-Black-interior-Scandinavian-Design-Tradition.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="353" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">(<a href="http://www.joindes.com/interior-design/anne-black-decor-inspiration-scandinavian-design-tradition/" target="_blank">source</a>)</p>
<p>Lastly I wanted to share this cozy space in my sons&#8217;s big boy room&#8230;yup we FINALLY finished it and the cushion and shelves for this little corner were the last things to be installed.  I&#8217;ve taken some pics and will share them with you soon, but in the meantime, I couldn&#8217;t think of anything more appropriate to share with you for a post on cozy kids spaces than my son&#8217;s own reading nook.</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-20211" src="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/reading-nook-1-e1329421241586.jpg" alt="" width="519" height="415" /></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">(<a href="http://www.otherpiecesofme.com" target="_blank">source</a>)</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Do you have a cozy kids space in your home?</p>
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		<title>The Wall House</title>
		<link>http://www.flor.com/blog/the-wall-house/</link>
		<comments>http://www.flor.com/blog/the-wall-house/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 21 Feb 2012 20:24:36 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Cynthia</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Musings]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[architecture]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[interior design]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Messana O'Rorke]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Modernism]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[The Wall House]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.flor.com/blog/?p=19710</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[I have followed the work of the talented team of Brian Messana and Toby O&#8217;Rorke for some time. Together, they are Messana O’Rorke, an interdisciplinary design firm founded in 1996 in New York City. They believe that the  value of design has the power to enhance the quality of life. I couldn&#8217;t agree more.&#160; I recently came [...]]]></description>
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<div><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/RORKE1_520.jpg"><img src="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/RORKE1_520.jpg" alt="" width="520" height="327" /></a></div>
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<p><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/RORKE4_520.jpg"><img src="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/RORKE4_520.jpg" alt="" width="520" height="327" /></a></p>
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<div>I have followed the work of the talented team of Brian Messana and Toby O&#8217;Rorke for some time. Together, they are <a href="http://www.messanaororke.com">Messana O’Rorke</a>, an interdisciplinary design firm founded in 1996 in New York City. They believe that the  value of design has the power to enhance the quality of life. I couldn&#8217;t agree more.&nbsp;</p>
</div>
<div>I recently came across &#8216;The Wall House&#8217; on the architect&#8217;s website. It is simple in form, and conceptually sound. The long concrete wall forms a barrier from the public realm, a blanket of privacy and separation from the activity of the street. On the flip side, the home is open, light filled and inviting, an exercise of transparency, and comfort of proportion. I would love to move in.&nbsp;</p>
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<div>From the architects:  &#8221;The Wall House is conceptually a house as  described; a massive concrete wall, which divides the public realm from  the private house beyond. A single opening in the wall provides access  to the habitation, which conversely is based on a simple box with glass  walls. The wall is a metaphor of a medieval rampart and is also a  natural billboard, where shadows of trees and clouds race through  daytime and moon lit nights. The three bed roomed house is arranged along the wall, whose edge  becomes the communicating spine along which the various spaces are  accessed. An open sided courtyard separates the main house from a  guesthouse and gym. A one hundred meter lap pool, like a moat, runs the  length of the house.&#8221;</div>
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<p><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/RORKE4_520.jpg"></a><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/RORKE3_520.jpg"><img src="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/RORKE3_520.jpg" alt="" width="520" height="327" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/RORKE5_520.jpg"></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/RORKE5_520.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-19732" src="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/RORKE5_520.jpg" alt="" width="520" height="327" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/RORKE6_520.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-19733" src="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/RORKE6_520.jpg" alt="" width="520" height="327" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Images and excerpts sourced at <a href="http://www.messanaororke.com">www.messanaororke.com</a></p>
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		<title>Color Story: Pink, Lemonade + Beige</title>
		<link>http://www.flor.com/blog/color-story-pink-lemonade-beige/</link>
		<comments>http://www.flor.com/blog/color-story-pink-lemonade-beige/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 21 Feb 2012 15:46:41 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Erin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Inspiration]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Musings]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[color]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[color combination]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[color palette]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.flor.com/blog/?p=19878</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[It&#8217;s not often that I gravitate toward pink in the world of design, but for some reason (could it be that spring is coming, perhaps?!), pink is all I&#8217;ve been eye-ing today. Particularly, this perfect color combination: [Image Credits: Home Life &#38; BCBG] Perfectly feminine with a touch of bold neon and a classic beige [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>It&#8217;s not often that I gravitate toward pink in the world of design, but for some reason (could it be that spring is coming, perhaps?!), pink is all I&#8217;ve been eye-ing today. Particularly, this perfect color combination:</p>
<p><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/pink-lemonade-and-beige.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-19879" src="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/pink-lemonade-and-beige.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="430" /></a></p>
<p>[Image Credits: <a href="http://www.homelife.com.au/home+ideas/galleries/neon+decorating,17569?pos=2#top" target="_blank">Home Life</a> &amp; <a href="http://www.bcbg.com/product/index.jsp?productId=12509659" target="_blank">BCBG</a>]</p>
<p>Perfectly feminine with a touch of bold neon and a classic beige neutral, the look is balanced, pure and light. And because dusty pink acts as a backseat neutral when paired with a nude hue, there&#8217;s plenty of room for that bright, bright yellow to shine.</p>
<p><strong>What do you think? Would you incorporate the above color palette in your own home? And how are you feeling about all of the neon we&#8217;re seeing these days? </strong></p>
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		<slash:comments>2</slash:comments>
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		<title>Collection: Greta Magnusson Grossman</title>
		<link>http://www.flor.com/blog/collection-greta-magnusson-grossman/</link>
		<comments>http://www.flor.com/blog/collection-greta-magnusson-grossman/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 20 Feb 2012 18:22:17 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Cynthia</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Musings]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[architecture]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Greta Magnusson Grossman]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[interior design]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[mid century modern]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[R 20th Century]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[R Gallery]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.flor.com/blog/?p=19782</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Grossman&#8217;s own residence, on Claircrest Drive in Beverly Hills. Image Architect Greta Magnusson Grossman&#8217;s work is virtually unknown. Born in Sweeden, she moved from Stockholm to Los Angeles in the late 1930&#8242;s. She was a rising star, in a male dominated profession. Beautiful lines, sculptural forms, and a refined simplicity, her work reflects sophisticated detail [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/Greta7_520.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-19999" src="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/Greta7_520.jpg" alt="" width="520" height="418" /></a></p>
<p><em>Grossman&#8217;s own residence, on Claircrest Drive in Beverly Hills. </em> <a href="http://www.tulsaworld.com">Image</a></p>
<p><em> </em></p>
<p><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/Greta1_520.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-19979" src="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/Greta1_520.jpg" alt="" width="520" height="422" /></a></p>
<p>Architect Greta Magnusson Grossman&#8217;s work is virtually unknown. Born in Sweeden, she moved from Stockholm to Los Angeles in the late 1930&#8242;s. She was a rising star, in a male dominated profession. Beautiful lines, sculptural forms, and a refined simplicity, her work reflects sophisticated detail and proportion.  Since 1998, <a href="http://www.r20thcentury.com">R Gallery</a> of 20th Century Design in New York City, has been committed to the preservation of Grossman&#8217;s vital contributions to 20th century design. The gallery houses a large portion of her estate, including original drawings and photographs.  &#8221;She was definitely ahead of her time.  She was successful at incorporating new materials such as Formica into her designs. And there&#8217;s a sense of composition in her work that you don&#8217;t see elsewhere &#8211; this sense of lightness, with the pieces of furniture that seem to be floating on these bug-like legs. Her work seems almost animated in that way.&#8221;  &#8221;Grossman&#8217;s most enduring work in Los Angeles came in the form of her built architectural commissions. Between 1949 and 1959 Grossman designed at least fourteen homes in Los Angeles, one in San Francisco and one back in her native Sweden. Of these, at least ten are still standing. The homes were often perched on stilts at the top of a hill, overlooking a canyon, with magnificent views through curtain walls of glass. The homes featured extensive built-in shelving and the uniquely open and free flowing floor plan popular at the time. She worked several times with celebrated landscape architect Garrett Eckbo on the outdoor spaces. Grossman&#8217;s houses are designed to the diminutive scale of the Los Angeles based Case Study House program &#8212; most of them have a footprint of less than 1,500 square feet . Her architectural work, as well as her design work, was featured extensively in Arts &amp; Architecture, the magazine edited by Case Study program founder John Entenza.&#8221;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/Greta2_5201.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-19984" src="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/Greta2_5201.jpg" alt="" width="520" height="482" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/Greta6_520.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-19997" src="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/Greta6_520.jpg" alt="" width="520" height="400" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/Greta4_520.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-19987" src="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/Greta4_520.jpg" alt="" width="520" height="482" /></a> <a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/Greta5_520.jpg"></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/Greta5_520.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-19988" src="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/Greta5_520.jpg" alt="" width="520" height="482" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>All images and excerpts sourced at <a href="http://www.r20thcentury.com">R Gallery</a>, unless otherwise noted.</p>
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		<title>Cozy on Up</title>
		<link>http://www.flor.com/blog/cozy-on-up/</link>
		<comments>http://www.flor.com/blog/cozy-on-up/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 20 Feb 2012 15:09:02 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Miriam</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Musings]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.flor.com/blog/?p=20096</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[If you haven&#8217;t heard, the winter we&#8217;ve had here in the Northeast this year has been anything but impressive.  My poor 2.5 year old son keeps running out of the house every morning with his boots on, bound and determined to make it snow just through sheer will.  So far, it hasn&#8217;t happened.  And while [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>If you haven&#8217;t heard, the winter we&#8217;ve had here in the Northeast this year has been anything but impressive.  My poor 2.5 year old son keeps running out of the house every morning with his boots on, bound and determined to make it snow just through sheer will.  So far, it hasn&#8217;t happened.  And while I&#8217;m not a huge fan of winter, I do like snowy days&#8230;mostly for the opportunities they provide for snuggling up someplace cozy.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/79798224617346464_TqyVZScK_f.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-20101" src="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/79798224617346464_TqyVZScK_f.jpg" alt="" width="374" height="500" /></a><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/laurenelisecrafted_rect540.jpg"></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">(<a href="http://www.bosworthhoedemaker.com/new-construction3.php" target="_blank">source</a>)</p>
<p>Seriously&#8230;can&#8217;t you just imagine yourself in the space above with a mug of hot coffee and a good book?</p>
<p>In lieu of haunting the owners of the home above, and not having need (nor time) to snuggle up in my own home, I&#8217;ve been living vicariously through these cozy spaces&#8230;</p>
<p>I&#8217;m not entirely convinced I could climb myself into, what is essentially, a closet every night for slumber&#8230;but for a daytime cat nap, this encased bed looks divine:</p>
<p><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/laurenelisecrafted_rect540.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-20104" src="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/laurenelisecrafted_rect540.jpg" alt="" width="304" height="540" /></a><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/68994-reading-nook-r-l.jpg"></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">(<a href="http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/cozy-alcove-beds-142591" target="_blank">source</a>)</p>
<p>And while this nook is bit more public, it certainly doesn&#8217;t lack for charm:</p>
<p><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/68994-reading-nook-r-l.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-20100" src="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/68994-reading-nook-r-l.jpg" alt="" width="240" height="320" /></a><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/home-library-shelves-5.jpg"></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">(<a href="http://www.myhomeideas.com/room-galleries/airy-reading-nook-00415000068994/index.html" target="_blank">source</a>)</p>
<p>Cozy spaces are often associated with more traditional design, so I&#8217;m totally digging this modern loft:</p>
<p><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/home-library-shelves-5.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-20102" src="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/home-library-shelves-5.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="750" /></a><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/kitchen-view.jpg"></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">(<a href="http://www.shelterness.com/15-creative-home-library-shelves-organization-ideas/pictures/7207/" target="_blank">source</a>)</p>
<p>And thankfully, just like anything in design, a cozy space need not be relelgated to reading rooms and napping nooks.  Just look at how cozy this beautiful eat-in area is in this kitchen &#8211; the view may take you far away, but the enclosed bench seating and dropped ceiling make this space just as cozy as a dimly lit room with a roaring fire.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/kitchen-view.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-20103" src="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/kitchen-view.jpg" alt="" width="305" height="400" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">(<a href="http://www.veranda-interiors.com/search?updated-max=2011-02-18T05%3A00%3A00-07%3A00&amp;amp;max-results=20" target="_blank">source</a>)</p>
<p>Where&#8217;s you&#8217;re favorite cozy space?</p>
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		<title>Modern:  In Black and White</title>
		<link>http://www.flor.com/blog/modern-in-black-and-white/</link>
		<comments>http://www.flor.com/blog/modern-in-black-and-white/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 17 Feb 2012 18:16:18 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Cynthia</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Musings]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[architecture]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[black and white]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[interior design]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Joseph Dirand]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Modern Design]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.flor.com/blog/?p=19908</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Designing with black and white can create drama and a visually powerful space. It requires a thoughtful and deliberate approach, positioning objects in such a way that they are read in contrast. The design work of Architect Joseph Dirand, is a gorgeous example of this stylistic approach. It offers an unparalleled simplicity, which suggests a [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/dirand2_520.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-19968" src="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/dirand2_520.jpg" alt="" width="520" height="360" /></a><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/dirand1_520.jpg"></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/dirand1_520.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-19969" src="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/dirand1_520.jpg" alt="" width="520" height="360" /></a></p>
<p>Designing with black and white can create drama and a visually powerful space. It requires a thoughtful and deliberate approach, positioning objects in such a way that they are read in contrast. The design work of Architect Joseph Dirand, is a gorgeous example of this stylistic approach. It offers an unparalleled simplicity, which suggests a carefully curated experience of space. When I look at these images, I find myself focusing on each object and its artful position in the room, as part of the overall composition. Really, isn&#8217;t that how we experience space? As we walk through a doorway and into a room, we are positioned to see a layering of objects, which creates our impression of the space. When designing with black and white, the limited palette allows us to focus on the details, and minimize the chaos or &#8220;noise&#8221; in the room. Try it. Take a black and white photograph of your room. When you look at it this way, it helps to understand the level of contrast in the space, and the powerful opportunity it provides to design.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/dirand3_520.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-19970" src="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/dirand3_520.jpg" alt="" width="520" height="360" /></a></p>
<p>Images of the work of <a href="http://www.josephdirand.com/">Joseph Dirand </a> sourced on the <a href="http://www.josephdirand.com">Architects website.</a></p>
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		<title>House Tour: Marshall Field&#8217;s Mansion</title>
		<link>http://www.flor.com/blog/house-tour-marshall-fields-mansion/</link>
		<comments>http://www.flor.com/blog/house-tour-marshall-fields-mansion/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 17 Feb 2012 07:40:04 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>FLOR</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[House Tours]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Musings]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.flor.com/blog/?p=19902</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Nestled into the South Loop neighborhood of Chicago, Prairie Street has seen its share of famous residents throughout the years. This particular mansion was the home of Marshall Field, Jr; of the prestigious Marshall Fields department store on Chicago’s famous State St. When it was converted into condos,  the homeowner found a clean slate just [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a name="_GoBack"></a><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/Outside-of-House.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-19903" title="Outside of House" src="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/Outside-of-House.jpg" alt="" width="520" height="320" /></a></p>
<p>Nestled into the South Loop neighborhood of Chicago, Prairie Street has seen its share of famous residents throughout the years. This particular mansion was the home of Marshall Field, Jr; of the prestigious Marshall Fields department store on Chicago’s famous State St.</p>
<p>When it was converted into condos,  the homeowner found a clean slate just waiting for their design fingerprints to be applied. And when we arrived for our catalog shoot, waiting for us was an amazing space.</p>
<p>Check out these fantastic images:</p>
<p><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/Island-Waterfall-Countertop21.gif"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-19924" title="Island-Waterfall-Countertop2" src="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/Island-Waterfall-Countertop21.gif" alt="" width="520" height="347" /></a></p>
<p>Sleek white cabinets dominate this kitchen and provide a clean, uncluttered look, with plenty of space to entertain.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/Den.gif"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-19925" title="Den" src="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/Den.gif" alt="" width="520" height="780" /></a></p>
<p>This inviting den/office is perfectly sophisticated with just the right touch of color to give it some personality.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/Dining-Room.gif"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-19926" title="Dining-Room" src="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/Dining-Room.gif" alt="" width="520" height="780" /></a></p>
<p>This elegant dining room is flawless and ready-made for hosting a dinner party with friends.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/Downstairs-Room.gif"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-19927" title="Downstairs-Room" src="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/Downstairs-Room.gif" alt="" width="520" height="780" /></a></p>
<p>Comfortable modern furniture is the foundation for this cozy family room, making it the perfect place for relaxing.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/Stairwell-down.gif"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-19928" title="Stairwell-down" src="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/Stairwell-down.gif" alt="" width="520" height="780" /></a></p>
<p>Need we say more? Whether you’re coming or going, this foyer just begs to be walked through with eyes wide open.</p>
<p>We’d like to extend a HUGE thank you to the homeowners for welcoming us into their home and sharing their story.</p>
<p>If you have a House story that you would like to share, email it to us at pictures@flor.com (subject: House Tour) and you may get the chance to be featured on the FLOR blog.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Ceiling the Deal</title>
		<link>http://www.flor.com/blog/ceiling-the-deal/</link>
		<comments>http://www.flor.com/blog/ceiling-the-deal/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 16 Feb 2012 18:00:16 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Miriam</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Musings]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.flor.com/blog/?p=19829</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[I had so much fun finding the inspiration for my most recent post on decorative ceiling treatments.  But the fun definitely doesn&#8217;t stop there.  As always, kids&#8217; spaces have so much more leeway to be creative in bold and playful ways.  Ceiling treatments in a kid&#8217;s space can take a room from amazing to extraordinary. [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>I had so much fun finding the inspiration for <a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/?p=19827" target="_blank">my most recent post on decorative ceiling treatments</a>.  But the fun definitely doesn&#8217;t stop there.  As always, kids&#8217; spaces have so much more leeway to be creative in bold and playful ways.  Ceiling treatments in a kid&#8217;s space can take a room from amazing to extraordinary.</p>
<p>Case in point, look at how lovely this nursery is.  The design as a whole is beautiful with various textures and graphic elements; but it is the ceiling treatment that truly brings a warm glow to the space.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/pink.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-19836" src="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/pink-e1328644200610.jpg" alt="" width="519" height="407" /></a><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/yellow-coffered.jpg"></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">(<a href="http://www.amymeierdesign.com/blog/behind-the-design/peanuts-room-reveal/" target="_blank">source</a>)</p>
<p>This bold, mustard-yellow ceiling is such a creative way to up the playfulness of this tray ceiling.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/yellow-coffered.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-19839" src="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/yellow-coffered.jpg" alt="" width="426" height="640" /></a><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/teen-pink.jpg"></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">(<a href="http://www.atlantamagazine.com/homeandgarden/insidelook/Story.aspx?ID=1393656" target="_blank">source</a>)</p>
<p>This beautiful, shared bedroom space succeeds because of the interaction of the patterns and bold colors.  The hot pink ceiling certainly takes it to a whole other level!</p>
<p><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/teen-pink.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-19837" src="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/teen-pink.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="375" /></a><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/library-stripes.jpg"></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">(<a href="http://artisticdesignsforliving.com/portfolio/living/" target="_blank">source</a>)</p>
<p>This library nook has shown up on so many shelter blogs for good reason.  The floor to ceiling, forward facing library shelves make a big impact.  But perhaps the most appealing part of this project is the striped ceiling.  Evoking a canopy, it truly defines this small nook by making the ceiling seem lower&#8230;always a comforting goal for a quiet, reading space.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/library-stripes.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-19834" src="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/library-stripes.jpg" alt="" width="480" height="640" /></a><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/yellow-stripe-nursery-e1328644231645.jpg"></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">(<a href="http://www.elizabethsullivandesign.com/Not_Too_Sweet_Nursery.html" target="_blank">source</a>)</p>
<p>And I would be remiss to count out this stunning nursery ceiling treatment, no matter how popular it is.  Even better&#8230;the next picture shows how that same room transitioned perfectly into a toddler room.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/yellow-stripe-nursery-e1328644231645.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-19840" src="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/yellow-stripe-nursery-e1328644231645.jpg" alt="" width="519" height="648" /></a><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/yellow-stripe-toddler-e1328644257495.jpg"></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/yellow-stripe-toddler-e1328644257495.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-19841" src="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/yellow-stripe-toddler-e1328644257495.jpg" alt="" width="520" height="520" /></a><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/trellis-e1328644216134.jpg"></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">(<a href="http://habituallychic.blogspot.com/2009/08/jenna-lyons-home-complete-view.html" target="_blank">source</a>)</p>
<p>If stripes aren&#8217;t your thing, there is always the option of wall paper.  The trellis pattern here creates a perfect balance of play and design.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/trellis-e1328644216134.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-19838" src="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/trellis-e1328644216134.jpg" alt="" width="519" height="699" /></a><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/flower-ceiling.jpg"></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">(<a href="http://www.andrikaking.com/portfolio/detail/plays_on_pattern" target="_blank">source</a>)</p>
<p>Another really inspiring idea is to use wall mural decals for your ceiling treatments.  Both of these children&#8217;s spaces up their sweetness antes considerably with minimal effort (other than applying the decals).</p>
<p><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/flower-ceiling.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-19832" src="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/flower-ceiling.jpg" alt="" width="289" height="375" /></a><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/decal-ceiling-e1328644161861.jpg"></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">(<a href="http://projectnursery.com/projects/sloans-bright-and-modern-with-a-twist-of-vintage-nursery/" target="_blank">source</a>)</p>
<p><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/decal-ceiling-e1328644161861.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-19831" src="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/decal-ceiling-e1328644161861.jpg" alt="" width="519" height="561" /></a><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/Milo-wallpaper-ceiling-e1328644184285.jpg"></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">(<a href="http://www.haciendoelindio.bigcartel.com/product/nuevo-mural-de-puntitos-new-polkadot-wallmural" target="_blank">source</a>)</p>
<p>I had to include these amazing ceiling treatments, even though they are considerably more tricky to apply.  In Milo&#8217;s room, <a href="http://www.grahambrown.com/us/product/52050/Frames+%3A+Black+%26+White+Wallpaper/-1" target="_blank">Graham &amp; Brown&#8217;s frame wall paper</a> was used on the ceiling to create a beautiful, graphic surprise&#8230;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/Milo-wallpaper-ceiling-e1328644184285.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-19835" src="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/Milo-wallpaper-ceiling-e1328644184285.jpg" alt="" width="520" height="520" /></a><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/graphic-3d.jpg"></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">(<a href="http://simplicityphotography.com/blog/?p=2212" target="_blank">source</a>)</p>
<p>&#8230;While in Tyler&#8217;s room, a full, artist installation was created with wooden panels and over sized graphic elements&#8230;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/graphic-3d.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-19833" src="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/graphic-3d.jpg" alt="" width="320" height="480" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">(<a href="http://www.roomzaar.com/rate-my-space/Nurseries/Modern-Baby-Boy-nursery-on-a-Budget-/detail.esi?oid=526111" target="_blank">source</a>)</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">&#8230;and these sweet embroidery hoops create a beautiful display of texture and variation that add amazing dimension to the ceiling.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/2712092916_77fa74df58_b.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-19933" src="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/2712092916_77fa74df58_b-e1328819608403.jpg" alt="" width="519" height="777" /></a>(<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lorena-david/2712092916/sizes/l/in/set-72157606427491279/" target="_blank">source</a>)</p>
<p>Have you ever applied a treatment to the ceiling in a kid&#8217;s space?</p>
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		<title>FLOR Story: Providing Balance</title>
		<link>http://www.flor.com/blog/flor-story-providing-balance/</link>
		<comments>http://www.flor.com/blog/flor-story-providing-balance/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 16 Feb 2012 07:22:23 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>FLOR</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[FLOR Stories]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Musings]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[cozy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[designing with pets]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[FLOR story]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[FLOR tiles]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[FLOR.com]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[pet solutions]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[soft]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.flor.com/blog/?p=19963</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Dear FLOR, The hardwood floors underneath my beautiful new FLOR carpet had become hazardously slippery to my sweet three-legged wonder pup, Celia. Her travels through my home &#8211; from area rug in the living room to area rug in the master, for instance &#8211; forced her to cross &#8216;little oceans&#8217; of hardwood floors, where she [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Dear FLOR,</p>
<p>The hardwood floors underneath my beautiful new FLOR carpet had become hazardously slippery to my sweet three-legged wonder pup, Celia.</p>
<p>Her travels through my home &#8211; from area rug in the living room to area rug in the master, for instance &#8211; forced her to cross &#8216;little oceans&#8217; of hardwood floors, where she would often lose her balance and slip, causing pain and potential injury to her one back leg. I know this issue to be a concern for owners of older pets, as well, who see their animals&#8217; balance grow unstable over time, and heartbreaking falls become more common.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/celia-FLORESSE.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-20127" title="celia FLORESSE" src="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/celia-FLORESSE-764x1024.jpg" alt="" width="520" height="780" /></a></p>
<p>I had tried non-slip booties for Celia &#8211; really, I had tried everything &#8211; as I honestly thought that deploying carpet would be a true sacrifice in style and cleanliness in my casa.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/Hallway-Into-Room.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-20129" title="Hallway Into Room" src="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/Hallway-Into-Room-768x1024.jpg" alt="" width="520" height="776" /></a></p>
<p>However, after visiting the <a href="http://www.flor.com/storelocator/location/map">FLOR Store</a> in <a href="http://www.flor.com/store-dallas">Dallas</a> and working with Sean (FLOR’s design consultant at the store), I came away pleasantly surprised.  I absolutely LOVE my FLOR carpeting &#8211; the gorgeous patterns designed (one for entry and master, another for living &#8211; and all flowing seamlessly, smartly together!), the quality of the wool line, the smooth install process.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/flor-shot-crop.gif"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-20128" title="flor-shot-crop" src="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/flor-shot-crop-1024x618.gif" alt="" width="520" height="318" /></a></p>
<p>FLOR warmed up the entry, living and master so much &#8211; in terms of both style and coziness. And the flexibility of changing out a tile should there be an accident of any kind (pet? wineglass? : ) is just fantastic.</p>
<p>Celia is SO happy, too. Literally, she stretches out and smiles.</p>
<p>Thanks loads to Sean for his TLC and the amazing design work he did for the new FLOR wool carpeting in my home! I absolutely love the finished product, and have received so many compliments!</p>
<p>-Melinda</p>
<p>Dallas, Texas</p>
<p>_________________________________________________________________________________________</p>
<p>Such a sweet story! For more stories like this one<a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/category/flor-stories/"> click here</a>. If you have a FLOR story that you would like to share, email it to us at pictures@flor.com  and you can receive 10% off your next purchase.</p>
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		<title>What&#8217;s your dream decor?</title>
		<link>http://www.flor.com/blog/whats-your-dream-decor/</link>
		<comments>http://www.flor.com/blog/whats-your-dream-decor/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 15 Feb 2012 20:00:51 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Rebecca</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Musings]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[decor]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[design]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[louis vuitton]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[trucks]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.flor.com/blog/?p=19816</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Ok, I&#8217;ll admit it. I am a Louis Vuitton design lover. For many years, I have been searching for and discovering the amazing handbags, store interiors and my all time fave item &#8211; the Louis Vuitton steamer trunk. While I personally have a super small Louis Vuitton collection (a bag here and a bag there [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/lv1.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-19817" src="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/lv1.jpg" alt="" width="486" height="509" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Ok, I&#8217;ll admit it. I am a Louis Vuitton design lover. For many years, I have been searching for and discovering the amazing handbags, store interiors and my all time fave item &#8211; the Louis Vuitton steamer trunk. While I personally have a super small Louis Vuitton collection (a bag here and a bag there &#8211; thank you, eBay), I certainly covet and dream about that steamer trunk.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/lv2.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-19818" src="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/lv2.jpg" alt="" width="480" height="334" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">I love the style, the elegance and the philosophy of the brand &#8211; all things that continue to guide my dream decor love for Louis. In some ways, this has led me to discover other decor and furniture in similar styles, colors or textures and opened up my eyes to new things.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/lv3.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-19819" src="http://www.flor.com/blog/wp-images/2012/02/lv3.jpg" alt="" width="486" height="387" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">And I also discovered that enjoying pictures of my pretty dream decor is perfectly fine &#8211; especially when the above dream decor has a price tag of, oh, $25,000.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Do you have a piece of dream decor? Share your favorite design styles with us.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><em>:: Images by Rebecca Orlov ::</em></p>
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