Friday, March 4, 2011

Live from Martha Stewart Living Radio

I was recently invited back to join Betsy Karetnick and Kim Fernandez, the hosts of Martha Stewart Living Radio, to speak about "Good Ideas for the Bedroom".  Having met with both of them before, it's always a pleasure to get behind the headphones and chit chat.  Being on the radio show is a wonderful outlet to express my ideas about Interior Design.
The topic discussed was all about making your bedroom more inviting for relaxation.  We spoke about de-cluttering.  Take a good look at your space and let go-the things that are unnecessary.  Store the TV in the armoire or take it out completely to allow for communication to flow more freely between you and your partner.  Other things to store away are your laptops and phones.....I know this can be tough but give yourself a little escape from the chaos of life to get reenergized.        


Another great piece of advice is to add a piece of artwork or image that uplifts your spirit.  Look for things that will inspire and ignite you first thing in the morning and as you lay down for bed.  Don't forget to treat yourself with good high quality sheets, we spend so much time in bed.....almost 1/3 of our lives....we deserve to be comfortable!  And lastly add a little color....you know I couldn't leave without talking about color.  Whether you are starting with a blank canvas or the room is fully furnished, look to see how you can pop in some color.  Reach for what attracts your senses.....or be bold and try something new.  A simple accessories can do just the trick.  Best wishes as you tackle to get your bedroom into relax mode.  A huge thank you to the crew at Martha Stewart Living Radio for having me on again.


How beautiful it is to do nothing, and then to rest afterward.  ~Spanish Proverb
       

Wednesday, January 26, 2011

The Table is Set for The Winter Antique Show 2011

Dressing up the table with a little old-world charm....  When I was asked by friend Susan Egan, of Antiques Magazine, to set a dinning vignette for the Winter Antique Show I was instantly thrilled and excited to get started.   Though I've participated in many showhouses over the years, this project had a special appeal to me because of the pedrigee of amazing items at my disposal.  To say the show offers the finest Antiques in the world is an understatement.  Everything is breathtaking! 

I approached this entire project as I would getting ready for a black tie event.  What do I need first?  A killer pair of shoes....It was love at first sight when I laid eyes on an Oushak Rug from Peter Pap's Oriental Rug company which became my starting point.  I started envisioning bright pops of pink, blue,and green.... Before I knew it my outfit starting taking form!  
Looking through the plethera of exhibitors and their inventory I found the perfect table and chairs.  Liz O'Brien has a beautiful Karl Springer Table that I paired with Loop Chairs after Frances Elkins.  My neutral scape was screaming for a color blast.  As usual, Clarke & Clarke fabrics delivered exactly what I was looking for - Show stopping prints, textures, & colors! Little Insider Secret - rejevente a classic piece from your home by just simply adding an unexpectedly textured pillow or a bright bold colored throw - it's quick, easy, and makes a huge statement.  I tried to inject that wow factor, with these classic armchairs from Clinton Howell Antique.  Mix it up and get playful!  
We all know that no outfit is complete without a jewelry statement.  Lost City Arts has a great selection of objects.  On the sideboard from Liverant and Son Antiques we placed Melt Coat Panels by Harry Bertoia, a little necessary bling!  Saving the best for last....The Wedgewood china selected tops the entire table off with a lasting glisten.  Be sure to take a trip to the Amory on Park Ave to check out  the inspiring display of Antiques....It's on view until January 30th.  Let the dining begin!  Bon Apetite!

"Breathe.  Let go.  And remind yourself that this very moment is the only one you know you have for sure."-Oprah Winfrey

Tuesday, January 11, 2011

Shine Bright in the New Year

For the past year I have been fortunate enough to team up with the talented Mark Moussa of Arteriors Home on his latest stroke of genius, Mottega, custom lamps, affordably priced, and designed by you - the consumer.  Here's my latest lamp creation ....I'm all about power orange right now and I have a perfect spot for this show-stopper....    





If you didn't catch it in the latest House Beautiful you must acquaint yourself with this new amazing product.

When aiding with the color selection for this innovative lamp line, I was so thoroughly impressed by the great minds behind this company.  I feel truly, truly blessed to have been a part of this adventure.
So get started on your designer custom lamp! 

Eileen Kathryn Boyd

Monday, December 13, 2010

'Tis the Season: Mantles & Tablescapes Galore

Red and green are so last year! Instead try a creative color combo with this modern take on holiday décor. Or try re-purposing your home accessories with this bohemian table setting.
Money Saver: Bring the outdoors in with this fabulous mantle display that won't cost you a penny!
I hope these suggestions are helpful in your home...Check out FOX NEWS iMag for the latest tips & trends
How to Decorate a Small Mantle
Modern Holiday Table Décor Ideas
Tips for a Bohemian Holiday Table
How to Update Your Holiday Mantel
Make Your Holiday Wreath Stand Out
How to Use Ivy on Your Mantel


Happy Holidays from all of us at EKB Interiors!
"The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched. They must be felt with the heart. Wishing you happiness." --Helen Keller

Friday, December 10, 2010

Lonny Magazine's Holiday Issue...Giving the Gift of Inspiration

Christmas came early this year for me!  When I found out that I was going to participate in the Holiday Issue of the incredible Lonny Magazine, which in my opinion has completely revived and ignited a new liveliness to the disappearing shelter mags, to say I was ecstatic is an understatement.  Not only did it force me to get my Holiday Decorating in order but I was able to challenge myself to reinvent those traditional sentiments with a new fresh Holiday Spirit.... 





To read the rest of the article and view the issue in its entirety please click through the latest issue of Lonny Magazine.  Special Thank You to Michelle, Patrick, & Ellie....Michelle I appreciate your enthusiasm towards my home and I can't wait to work with you again....Patrick you captured my home perfectly, you have an amazing eye....And Ellie you are such a doll and thank you for all your hard work.  What terrific and talented people....It's no wonder Lonny is the great success it is!
Happy Holidays!

"Blessed is the season which engages the whole world in a conspiracy of love."
-- Hamilton Wright Mabie

Wednesday, October 27, 2010

Duralee Delighted at The High Point Market

This past Market I was invited again to collaborate with the very talented Terry Galliani who is responsiable for creating showrooms for Duralee. We work closely together to set the color forcast for Fall 2010.... and I am continually inspired by them as a company...This fall Clarke & Clarke's fabrics were highlighted. The showroom was divided into three color spaces, yellow, fushia and teal. I attached some of my favorite vingettes to show all of you....It's no secret that I've been designing a textile collection for Duralee Fabrics set to launch in the Spring of 2011.  During this time I've had amazing experiences, being challenged creatively and truly forced to recognize what makes me the designer that I am today....and for that I am very thankful to the Duralee Family.  This showroom really sparkled this year and I can't wait to hear all of your thoughts.... 


The detail on these pillows provide such a couture look for a bargain price.
That Savory fabric on those chairs is such a rockstar fabric and the bench is a must-have

Notice the Screens....They are to die for and I love using them with clients

Strong pops of pink on a quiet gray backdrop....Tres Chic

Such a Memorable Moment

Timeless Furniture


Lee Clarke and Duncan Clarke of Clarke & Clarke Amazing Fabrics!
"Truly great friends are hard to find, difficult to leave, and impossible to forget." - Anonymous



Thursday, October 21, 2010

Highlights from High Point

To say that the Furniture Market at High Point, NC provides me with endless inspiration is an understatement of great proportion.  I literally walk around this enormous venue with my camera and a notebook and desperately try and soak up all that inventory. Here are some of my favorite moments from the trip.
         
Bunny Williams debuted her beautiful shop Beeline Home - So much inspiration! 
Oly Showroom - Clean & Fresh 
Jeff Jones Home at Verellen Showroom - Love the use of lamps on dining tables
E. Lawrence - So clever!  What a great way of creating art with books
Larry Laslo - Spectacular Showroom....I have to find a place to use this art
Mr. Brown was introduced by Julian Chichester - So Inviting & Approachable
Snug Furniture - Gorgeous Showroom & Inventively Innovative
Julian Chichester - Timeless & Always on Key!


"Sometimes you cannot believe what you see.  You have to believe what you feel." - Morrie Schwartz



Wednesday, October 6, 2010

Bundle Up Your Table

Does anyone else feel like September never happened?  It seems like I went to bed after a long summer day and woke up in chilly October.  I absolutely love the Fall but am overwhelmed by the busy....Work gets so crazy, kids are back in school, and the Holiday's are looming!  
Part of the stress & excitement of the Holiday's is the anticipation of entertaining family and friends, which for me is always centered around the Dining Room Table.   


I am a big proponent of keeping the dining table set year-round.  I really love using the dining room as a second family room - An inviting place that isn't reserved for Holiday's but supports everyday life.  Something I started doing to my table that my clients have commented on is placing actual table lamps and stacks of books on the dining room table.  This anchors the table giving it some additional mood and task lighting.  I love this look because it feels very library-esque. 
Seating is so important for those long family dinners.  The use of these Queen Anne Arm Chairs at the head of the table give the table a very cozy and comfortable feel.
I am crazy about Banquets!  I have one at my kitchen table and I'm always intrigued when I see them in dining room settings. 


Size doesn't matter!  I love these two intimate dining tables.  Kelly Wearstlers beautiful blue tablecloth dresses this tiny table up instantly & John Saladino's clean crisp tablescape paired with those lust-worthy lilac slipcovered chairs is so elegant & effortless.   






This table is my inspiration for this Holiday season.  I love using unpredictable color stories and making them feel just as Holiday-like as those traditional ones.  This gold, orange, and blue does just that!  Don't be afraid to experiment and play around with your favorite color combinations. 

Layering, Layering, Layering!  Layering is definitely the key to a cozy Fall Holiday table.  In addition to lamps on the table I started using scarves as table runners and thin throw blankets to add extra texture and interest.  Touches of Fall foliage and other outdoor elements give any table that bundled up feeling that the season just exudes.  My advice for this years Holiday Table is to experiment with items and fabrics you have at home that mean something to you.....I think you might surprise yourself at what actually ends up sticking!


"If you walk into a room and it does not move you, then the room is a failure." John Saladino