International Window Coverings Expo

I am just back from a whirlwind trip to Washington, DC for the International Window Coverings Expo. I look forward to this event every year - for design inspiration, vendor resources and industry networking. This year I also had the opportunity to spend some time with my family as I grew up in nearby Bethesda, MD and my son lives and works in DC. I didn't see a Cherry Blossom, though, despite the fact that it was Cherry Blossom Weekend, because the weather was too severe for the delicate flowers.

The highlight of my trip was sitting next to New York Interior Designer, Jamie Drake, at lunch prior to the presentation of his book - New American Glamour. It turns out that we have some New York friends in common!!

His talk was inspiring and the interior photos in his presentation stunning. His unique mix of luster, texture, color and "the curve" define his style.

Next time...design trends from the floor of the vendor trade show.

Spring has sprung!!

Ahhh...the windows are open and the smell of hibiscus waft through the house. Even in southwest Florida, where most days of the year are balmy and breezy, spring is eagerly awaited. I always look forward to spring, not only for the cool nights and cloudless days, but for the magic in the rebirth of our beautiful world. It is no wonder, then, that springtime is traditionally a time for cleaning out our environments and lightening the look of our homes.

Here are some tips to get you started on your spring cleaning journey:

1. Clean out the clutter. Clutter is the #1 enemy in feng shui and a known energy drainer in the western world. Cleaning out your clutter will help you feel freer and lighter. Clearing the clutter is not about organizing - it's about getting rid of STUFF. The easiest way to contend with clutter is to follow this rule: for every new thing coming into the house, 3 things must go. Sell your clothing at a consignment shop and donate your household items to Habitat for Humanity.
2. Repair what is broken. Gather up the small appliances that don't work, the skirt with the falling hem and the stained towels. Fix them, wash them, or throw them out.
3. Rearrange for change. Move your furniture, switch out your artwork, arrange your accessories in a new way, put things in different locations. This forces your brain to learn different pathways and your body to experience new traffic patterns. Your whole perspective will suddenly be fresh and new.
4. Clean your house yourself - yes, yourself!! Even if you normally contract with a cleaning service take the time to actually clean your space yourself. Not only is this humbling, it is also the best way I know of bonding with your environment. Think about it this way - who truly cares about your home more than you do?