Showing posts with label New York Interior Design. Show all posts
Showing posts with label New York Interior Design. Show all posts
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
BLOGFEST 2011 - THEY'RE HERE!!
Monday, October 18, 2010
THIS CELEBRITY ROCKS!!
& ROLLS & SWIVELS & RECLINES!! ARRAY MAGAZINE'S Design Dish ASKS THIS ISSUE HOW WE FEEL ABOUT CELEBRITIES WHO MOONLIGHT AS DESIGNERS. ARE THEY GOOD FOR THE INDUSTRY OR SHOULD THEY LEAVE IT TO THE PROS?
MY ANSWER? I THINK A VERY SUCCESSFUL PAIRING MADE MANY YEARS AGO WAS TODD OLDHAM WITH LA-Z-BOY. THE HUGE DIFFERENCE IS THAT HE IS A FASHION DESIGNER WITH A WONDERFUL QUIRKY SENSIBILITY- PERFECT TO ELEVATE LA-Z-BOY FROM THE MAN CAVE STAPLE TO SOMETHING MODERN AND FUN.
Friday, April 16, 2010
GET FRESH! STRIP - - -AWAY THE UPTIGHT WHITIES ! GET PAINT!
HOMENOWFINALLY! BLOG #7
Wow! It finally is Spring! Always our time of fresh outlooks and new beginnings. In the design world color is often our best friend. And good colors are never fair-weather friends. And the good NEWS is paint is most often the simplest and LEAST COSTLY solution to dreary uninspired spaces.
This episode we'll be hearing from Master Paint Meister - - Peter Trezza, owner of Shosha painting. (for photos contact glennlawson.1@netzero.com )
1. Peter, do you see any emerging techniques that are revolutionizing the painter's world?
I have to say that technology has helped so much as of late, I don't know how we ever worked without it. Running my business smoothly is all about communication between myself, my customers and my workers. All of a sudden, everyone has a mobile device with email and a camera! We recently did a job in Manhattan for a customer in Singapore. Everything from my proposal and insurance certificates to paint samples, progress pictures, and the final invoice went over the ether. I haven't (and may never) meet the client in person, but she loves the job and has already recommended my work to a friend.
2. Some time ago Venetian Plaster was very hot. Do you see the demand for that fading away or is it still very big with your clients?
Venetian plaster is a major commitment not only because of the time and expense to do it, but it can't be removed and takes cept for clients with a big budget who intend to stay in their homes for a long time. Every time you do Venetian plaster, your room gets 1/2 inch smaller!
3. Since the economic downturn starting 15-18 months ago are your clients more conservative with their color choices?
I wouldn't say conservative about color choices, but they are all of a sudden concerned about durability, whether it be paint or wallcoverings. The rule of 'form over function' has been stood on its head, and I welcome it! We used to have customers insist on flat paint in a bathroom, disregarding my warnings, and then a year later call me annoyed that it needed to be redone.
4. How do the newer Eco Friendly paint products perform? Are there any drawbacks?
I could spend days on this question, but in short there are lots of exciting new products out there. It is important to fully understand what has changed and how to deal with it in order to get the performance you're looking for. The Eco products are usually more expensive and require more coats to cover which is not very important unless cost is of utmost concern. Only time will tell if the durability is there. Then there is the issue of continuity from can to can. For a quick example, Benjamin Moore has reformulated its famous oil "Satin Impervo" line three times in the past two years. What you have to watch out for is that when stores mix you a custom color, each version requires a different formula, and often they don't get it right. Usually I mix most of my own colors, so it just takes a little more time to get it right. They don't last well in storage either, so don't buy too much extra and plan on having to re-mix for touchups later.
5. What do you do when your client approves a paint sample and then shrieks when the whole room is done?
This is the stuff nightmares are made of! Haha- Fortunately this doesn't happen very often. First off, I don't give color advice unless I've worked with the client before and trust the relationship we have. Also, a lot of our jobs are billed per-diem so another color means another day's pay. The worst situation is when more than one person has an opinion like a husband & wife team or building committee. Then you have to sit on the sidelines while they duke it out and hope for the best. It's nice to have a decorator to buffer difficult clients too- let he or she absorb all the uncertainty and angst!
6. Do you work with the foot-traffic crowd as well as designers? How do those experiences compare?
Sure, the business is all about building clientele. As long as the budget is such that we can do a nice job, I'm glad to do it. We don't advertise whatsoever; our happy customers are enough to keep us busy. At times we tackle some light commercial, insurance and building work, which puts our work in front of so many new faces. Water damage repair is one of our specialties, and as you can imagine, those clients have already been through the wringer with damaged property, a big mess, and a constant stream of men in and out disrupting their lives. It's not easy to work for someone who wasn't looking to have any work done. Regardless, after a little hand-holding and therapy, we're able to go in and restore the place to like-new condition, and usually earn customers for life.
7. What colors do you rarely paint walls? Besides white, off white & beige what colors do you sense are in demand now, Spring 2010?
We have such a variety of clients, I would have to say that no colors are off limits. This year though, I am seeing a lot of sage greens mixed with warm yellows, and also a return to strong accent colors, whether one wall of a room, or the inside of built-in cabinetry for example. It has been a long winter, and people are getting cabin fever!
8. What kind of training do you recommend for budding painters, whether they intend it as an occasional endeavor, a hobby or a profession?
With the internet, anyone willing to spend a few hours can find a wealth of information. Benjamin Moore has a great site where you can test color ideas and immediately see what they will look like in a variety of rooms and lighting situations. While you're there you can also learn about what kind of paint to use for the job, and what other supplies you will need. If you're ready to tackle a job, it always pays to buy the best tools and paint. A good paintbrush if taken care of can do hundreds of rooms! Prepwork is the most important, and especially plastering can take a long time to master.
9. How far outside your home base (Pelham Gardens) will you travel & still have it be worthwhile for you?
We regularly travel within about 60 miles of NYC for good clients. Once in a while, we do a job in the Hamptons or Upstate New York for our regular clients who have a vacation property. As long as they're willing to house the workers, we're happy to tackle it. I love pulling my truck into a long driveway, hearing the birds chirping, and not having to worry about meter maids and street sweepers. We also get to see new things and meet some really great subcontractors.
10. You're old enough to remember when premier paint jobs meant only oil. Do the new laws regarding fumes, toxicity and young children make your job a nightmare?
I have my first baby coming in May, so this question is particularly timely! I welcome all of the new regulation. Anything built before 1974 probably contains lead paint which is the most dangerous in my opinion. Extra care should be taken so ensure that kids are not exposed to old paint dust or chips. I am also concerned about my safety and my worker's safety. Our high insurance rates reflect the sad fact that historically painting was just about the most dangerous profession. While customers might be bothered by a few days of fumes when getting a job done, we're exposed to it on a daily basis. Fortunately, every year paints are getting safer, while keeping most of the performance. The new latex paints require more care and time, but produce a nice strong finish. The new oil paints are very good as well, and have just about eliminated all of the bad solvents. Unfortunately they haven't come up with a good water based floor finish yet- I would recommend an old fashioned shellac or wax, both of which are non toxic and pretty easy to work with.
____________________________________________________________
Senior Assisted Living
Put your loved ones in good
Wow! It finally is Spring! Always our time of fresh outlooks and new beginnings. In the design world color is often our best friend. And good colors are never fair-weather friends. And the good NEWS is paint is most often the simplest and LEAST COSTLY solution to dreary uninspired spaces.
This episode we'll be hearing from Master Paint Meister - - Peter Trezza, owner of Shosha painting. (for photos contact glennlawson.1@netzero.com )
1. Peter, do you see any emerging techniques that are revolutionizing the painter's world?
I have to say that technology has helped so much as of late, I don't know how we ever worked without it. Running my business smoothly is all about communication between myself, my customers and my workers. All of a sudden, everyone has a mobile device with email and a camera! We recently did a job in Manhattan for a customer in Singapore. Everything from my proposal and insurance certificates to paint samples, progress pictures, and the final invoice went over the ether. I haven't (and may never) meet the client in person, but she loves the job and has already recommended my work to a friend.
2. Some time ago Venetian Plaster was very hot. Do you see the demand for that fading away or is it still very big with your clients?
Venetian plaster is a major commitment not only because of the time and expense to do it, but it can't be removed and takes cept for clients with a big budget who intend to stay in their homes for a long time. Every time you do Venetian plaster, your room gets 1/2 inch smaller!
3. Since the economic downturn starting 15-18 months ago are your clients more conservative with their color choices?
I wouldn't say conservative about color choices, but they are all of a sudden concerned about durability, whether it be paint or wallcoverings. The rule of 'form over function' has been stood on its head, and I welcome it! We used to have customers insist on flat paint in a bathroom, disregarding my warnings, and then a year later call me annoyed that it needed to be redone.
4. How do the newer Eco Friendly paint products perform? Are there any drawbacks?
I could spend days on this question, but in short there are lots of exciting new products out there. It is important to fully understand what has changed and how to deal with it in order to get the performance you're looking for. The Eco products are usually more expensive and require more coats to cover which is not very important unless cost is of utmost concern. Only time will tell if the durability is there. Then there is the issue of continuity from can to can. For a quick example, Benjamin Moore has reformulated its famous oil "Satin Impervo" line three times in the past two years. What you have to watch out for is that when stores mix you a custom color, each version requires a different formula, and often they don't get it right. Usually I mix most of my own colors, so it just takes a little more time to get it right. They don't last well in storage either, so don't buy too much extra and plan on having to re-mix for touchups later.
5. What do you do when your client approves a paint sample and then shrieks when the whole room is done?
This is the stuff nightmares are made of! Haha- Fortunately this doesn't happen very often. First off, I don't give color advice unless I've worked with the client before and trust the relationship we have. Also, a lot of our jobs are billed per-diem so another color means another day's pay. The worst situation is when more than one person has an opinion like a husband & wife team or building committee. Then you have to sit on the sidelines while they duke it out and hope for the best. It's nice to have a decorator to buffer difficult clients too- let he or she absorb all the uncertainty and angst!
6. Do you work with the foot-traffic crowd as well as designers? How do those experiences compare?
Sure, the business is all about building clientele. As long as the budget is such that we can do a nice job, I'm glad to do it. We don't advertise whatsoever; our happy customers are enough to keep us busy. At times we tackle some light commercial, insurance and building work, which puts our work in front of so many new faces. Water damage repair is one of our specialties, and as you can imagine, those clients have already been through the wringer with damaged property, a big mess, and a constant stream of men in and out disrupting their lives. It's not easy to work for someone who wasn't looking to have any work done. Regardless, after a little hand-holding and therapy, we're able to go in and restore the place to like-new condition, and usually earn customers for life.
7. What colors do you rarely paint walls? Besides white, off white & beige what colors do you sense are in demand now, Spring 2010?
We have such a variety of clients, I would have to say that no colors are off limits. This year though, I am seeing a lot of sage greens mixed with warm yellows, and also a return to strong accent colors, whether one wall of a room, or the inside of built-in cabinetry for example. It has been a long winter, and people are getting cabin fever!
8. What kind of training do you recommend for budding painters, whether they intend it as an occasional endeavor, a hobby or a profession?
With the internet, anyone willing to spend a few hours can find a wealth of information. Benjamin Moore has a great site where you can test color ideas and immediately see what they will look like in a variety of rooms and lighting situations. While you're there you can also learn about what kind of paint to use for the job, and what other supplies you will need. If you're ready to tackle a job, it always pays to buy the best tools and paint. A good paintbrush if taken care of can do hundreds of rooms! Prepwork is the most important, and especially plastering can take a long time to master.
9. How far outside your home base (Pelham Gardens) will you travel & still have it be worthwhile for you?
We regularly travel within about 60 miles of NYC for good clients. Once in a while, we do a job in the Hamptons or Upstate New York for our regular clients who have a vacation property. As long as they're willing to house the workers, we're happy to tackle it. I love pulling my truck into a long driveway, hearing the birds chirping, and not having to worry about meter maids and street sweepers. We also get to see new things and meet some really great subcontractors.
10. You're old enough to remember when premier paint jobs meant only oil. Do the new laws regarding fumes, toxicity and young children make your job a nightmare?
I have my first baby coming in May, so this question is particularly timely! I welcome all of the new regulation. Anything built before 1974 probably contains lead paint which is the most dangerous in my opinion. Extra care should be taken so ensure that kids are not exposed to old paint dust or chips. I am also concerned about my safety and my worker's safety. Our high insurance rates reflect the sad fact that historically painting was just about the most dangerous profession. While customers might be bothered by a few days of fumes when getting a job done, we're exposed to it on a daily basis. Fortunately, every year paints are getting safer, while keeping most of the performance. The new latex paints require more care and time, but produce a nice strong finish. The new oil paints are very good as well, and have just about eliminated all of the bad solvents. Unfortunately they haven't come up with a good water based floor finish yet- I would recommend an old fashioned shellac or wax, both of which are non toxic and pretty easy to work with.
____________________________________________________________
Senior Assisted Living
Put your loved ones in good
Sunday, January 24, 2010
SHINE ON BRIGHTLY! Lighting for Us Now & Today: Vaughan Lighting
Yes! A few of you remember that brilliant recording by Procol Harum! Anyway the title message translates perfectly to our subject today. We are here today with Lighting Professional and Sales Rep Extraordinaire Deanne DeLessio of Vaughan Lighting, the Premier Lighting Source for Leading Interior Designers today.
1. Now that we have reached the new millennium what do you see is the product direction for the next 2 years?
Vaughan has become more contemporary in its line as the market has done so. We are always trying to provide something new and innovative. We also keep the popular traditional items, as the demand is quite strong.
2. What finishes seem to be in now and what is there not much call for? Has anything come full circle?
Brass, nickel and chrome in the natural metal finishes have been with us from the start. We are getting a lot more requests for bronze and shiny nickel. Our new rust and verdigris finishes seem to be doing quite well.
3, How much business do you see coming from the Internet vs. foot traffic in the showroom? Do you think many people buy "blind faith" from the Internet vs. seeing the product "in person"?
We are getting a lot of calls from our updated website. We do not do lighting on approval and our decorators are fine with that. We welcome people coming in to the showroom and no appointment is necessary.
4. Today how does American taste differ from British taste?
I think, as the world ‘grows’ smaller you see fewer differences. Americans always want a lot more wattage in their fixtures. The English prefer a bit less light, which really is much prettier.
5. Do you think Vaughan has more or less cornered the market or do you sense a lot of
competition our there at your level? A good company will never rest on their laurels and we compete with ourselves as well as observing others in our market.
6. Is there much pressure to sell trade price to potential clients who don't have designers?
The D&D building has a service that provides for this if we do not have someone we can recommend for their location.
7. In these times does "lead time" seem to be an issue? Do you see many who need to have a product in stock now vs. waiting a reasonable ship-to-time?
Certain products are to order, it really depends upon the item and the customer. Most people will wait for the right thing when they find it. We always trying to keep items in stock with as little lead time as possible - everyone is always happier with that.
8. These days, with many people doing their everyday reading off BlackBerrys, iPhones and PCs do you see less demand for people who insist on, say, 150watt capacity fixtures for their library or bedside sconces?
Haven’t seen that yet, they’re still very insistent for reading in a room.
9. What is your opinion of the Green Friendly fluorescent bulbs that are being pushed for table lamps, sconces and residential lighting situations in general?
I personally would like to research the mercury content and disposability factor as I think that needs to be addressed if it’s to be truly green.
That said, the bulbs themselves are constantly being improved upon. We have more and more clients expressing they want to use or will only use green lighting.
Thanks so much Deanne and Victoria for shedding so much light on the subject. We all look forward to shopping with you soon!
1. Now that we have reached the new millennium what do you see is the product direction for the next 2 years?
Vaughan has become more contemporary in its line as the market has done so. We are always trying to provide something new and innovative. We also keep the popular traditional items, as the demand is quite strong.
2. What finishes seem to be in now and what is there not much call for? Has anything come full circle?
Brass, nickel and chrome in the natural metal finishes have been with us from the start. We are getting a lot more requests for bronze and shiny nickel. Our new rust and verdigris finishes seem to be doing quite well.
3, How much business do you see coming from the Internet vs. foot traffic in the showroom? Do you think many people buy "blind faith" from the Internet vs. seeing the product "in person"?
We are getting a lot of calls from our updated website. We do not do lighting on approval and our decorators are fine with that. We welcome people coming in to the showroom and no appointment is necessary.
4. Today how does American taste differ from British taste?
I think, as the world ‘grows’ smaller you see fewer differences. Americans always want a lot more wattage in their fixtures. The English prefer a bit less light, which really is much prettier.
5. Do you think Vaughan has more or less cornered the market or do you sense a lot of
competition our there at your level? A good company will never rest on their laurels and we compete with ourselves as well as observing others in our market.
6. Is there much pressure to sell trade price to potential clients who don't have designers?
The D&D building has a service that provides for this if we do not have someone we can recommend for their location.
7. In these times does "lead time" seem to be an issue? Do you see many who need to have a product in stock now vs. waiting a reasonable ship-to-time?
Certain products are to order, it really depends upon the item and the customer. Most people will wait for the right thing when they find it. We always trying to keep items in stock with as little lead time as possible - everyone is always happier with that.
8. These days, with many people doing their everyday reading off BlackBerrys, iPhones and PCs do you see less demand for people who insist on, say, 150watt capacity fixtures for their library or bedside sconces?
Haven’t seen that yet, they’re still very insistent for reading in a room.
9. What is your opinion of the Green Friendly fluorescent bulbs that are being pushed for table lamps, sconces and residential lighting situations in general?
I personally would like to research the mercury content and disposability factor as I think that needs to be addressed if it’s to be truly green.
That said, the bulbs themselves are constantly being improved upon. We have more and more clients expressing they want to use or will only use green lighting.
Thanks so much Deanne and Victoria for shedding so much light on the subject. We all look forward to shopping with you soon!
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Fabulous Fabric Forecast
Today we are with John and Nick Lomangino, star sales reps at the major Interior Design fabric houses of Kravet and Lee Jofa. What we really want is to hear "what's going on NOW?"
1. What exactly are your clients asking for in today's design climate?
As you know, Kravet offers a wide range of product. Designers are asking for fabric that is in stock, furniture and carpet with quick delivery and a price point that is desirable.
2. We all hear so many things...since September '08 how has the fabric and furniture market really fared? Did nesters keep spending regardless?
The Luxury Market declined right after September 2008. Our top designers in metro New York were able to hold their own all through 2009. Our smaller designers had more difficult. However, many remained positive and made adjustments to their businesses. Designers still had loyal customers and projects through 2009 to keep them afloat. Overall, we were able to make it through the worst and are starting to see an upward incline of projects and sales. 2010 will be a better year and we will see a much larger increase in sales in the Luxury Market.
3. Honestly - -how many of your clients insist that their purchases be green?
Many designers have clients asking about Eco-Friendly fabric. We offer a small collection of Green Fabric which is truly all Green. We are seeing an increase in sales every month in Green product. We feel it's an important category to be in!
4. Of course the other stir is that blue is the new green (our oceans); have you heard of any or is there any product development in that direction now?
As of now there has been no discussion of Blue. We are usually leaders in the industry when it comes to trends. Maybe in the near future!
4A. What colors are really hot now? Which ones are over?
Right now many designers are using naturals, earth colors and blues. They are looking to freshen up the home atmosphere and make it a more relaxing, comfortable setting. It seems that dark colors such as browns, reds, blacks, etc... are a fading trend. Designers are looking for an optimistic approach when decorating. To make the client's home a place of rest, ease and grace; separating the outside world from the inside.
5. We all depend on our repeat clients; the question is how do YOU grow your client base?
Growing our account base is difficult. We service NYC, Westchester, Rockland, and Greenwich CT. We concentrate on our accounts regularly. We try to build a rapport and provide the best service possible. We offer them a wide range of assorted product and price points. As Barbara Berry stated in an interview with Kravet's Newspaper Inspired, "she is looking to grow deeper with her existing clients." That's what we do on the road. As for finding new accounts, networking and spending time in the Kravet / Lee Jofa showroom will enhance our account base. If you are loyal to your client, they too will be loyal to you!!!
6. Is there any pressure for you to sell to those who do not have a designer?
We only sell to the trade. Designers, Architects, Upholsters. If the end user tries to purchase our product we will direct them to a designer in their area.
7. How is the "product in demand today" different from 5 years ago?
Designers want product to be in stock. To wear like iron and to be reasonability priced. Clients (end user) are more savvy and are looking for quality. They are thinking twice before purchasing. They want to make sure they are paying for what they are getting.
8. Do the major fabric house consult with each other (forecasting / product development) or is all kept very close to the vest? Do you think there are industry spies?
As for Kravet, It's all in house. It’s a family owned business... fourth generation… over 90 years in business. We have a large design team, product development department, marketing department and sample book department. The Kravets travel the world to different mills and countries looking for new product, ideas and designs. We don't relinquish our secrets! However, I'm sure it gets leaked once in awhile!
9. What kind of efforts these days do you make to hang on to your loyal clients?
Every effort! We offer our top accounts concierge privileges, discounts, rebates, free sampling, free sample books, free marketing items, etc. We also offer our smaller accounts similar privileges. We make every attempt to services them to their every need and provide tools needed to complete the project.
10. When do you think we'll see chintz in a big way again? I mean, really - -just look at those wings upon wings in the Old Guard showrooms - -does it move? (If so who's buying it?)
Chintz does sell! Lee Jofa has a large library of hand blocked/ hand screened chintzes. Right now chenille's, textures, solids....any staple are more popular with designers. The look right now is modern/transitional. I'm sure in the next 10-15 years chintz will make a splash once again. We see a repeat in trends every 10-20 years.
Thank you so much, guys. Anytime a colleague needs a crack sales rep you KNOW I'll be pointing to you!
1. What exactly are your clients asking for in today's design climate?
As you know, Kravet offers a wide range of product. Designers are asking for fabric that is in stock, furniture and carpet with quick delivery and a price point that is desirable.
2. We all hear so many things...since September '08 how has the fabric and furniture market really fared? Did nesters keep spending regardless?
The Luxury Market declined right after September 2008. Our top designers in metro New York were able to hold their own all through 2009. Our smaller designers had more difficult. However, many remained positive and made adjustments to their businesses. Designers still had loyal customers and projects through 2009 to keep them afloat. Overall, we were able to make it through the worst and are starting to see an upward incline of projects and sales. 2010 will be a better year and we will see a much larger increase in sales in the Luxury Market.
3. Honestly - -how many of your clients insist that their purchases be green?
Many designers have clients asking about Eco-Friendly fabric. We offer a small collection of Green Fabric which is truly all Green. We are seeing an increase in sales every month in Green product. We feel it's an important category to be in!
4. Of course the other stir is that blue is the new green (our oceans); have you heard of any or is there any product development in that direction now?
As of now there has been no discussion of Blue. We are usually leaders in the industry when it comes to trends. Maybe in the near future!
4A. What colors are really hot now? Which ones are over?
Right now many designers are using naturals, earth colors and blues. They are looking to freshen up the home atmosphere and make it a more relaxing, comfortable setting. It seems that dark colors such as browns, reds, blacks, etc... are a fading trend. Designers are looking for an optimistic approach when decorating. To make the client's home a place of rest, ease and grace; separating the outside world from the inside.
5. We all depend on our repeat clients; the question is how do YOU grow your client base?
Growing our account base is difficult. We service NYC, Westchester, Rockland, and Greenwich CT. We concentrate on our accounts regularly. We try to build a rapport and provide the best service possible. We offer them a wide range of assorted product and price points. As Barbara Berry stated in an interview with Kravet's Newspaper Inspired, "she is looking to grow deeper with her existing clients." That's what we do on the road. As for finding new accounts, networking and spending time in the Kravet / Lee Jofa showroom will enhance our account base. If you are loyal to your client, they too will be loyal to you!!!
6. Is there any pressure for you to sell to those who do not have a designer?
We only sell to the trade. Designers, Architects, Upholsters. If the end user tries to purchase our product we will direct them to a designer in their area.
7. How is the "product in demand today" different from 5 years ago?
Designers want product to be in stock. To wear like iron and to be reasonability priced. Clients (end user) are more savvy and are looking for quality. They are thinking twice before purchasing. They want to make sure they are paying for what they are getting.
8. Do the major fabric house consult with each other (forecasting / product development) or is all kept very close to the vest? Do you think there are industry spies?
As for Kravet, It's all in house. It’s a family owned business... fourth generation… over 90 years in business. We have a large design team, product development department, marketing department and sample book department. The Kravets travel the world to different mills and countries looking for new product, ideas and designs. We don't relinquish our secrets! However, I'm sure it gets leaked once in awhile!
9. What kind of efforts these days do you make to hang on to your loyal clients?
Every effort! We offer our top accounts concierge privileges, discounts, rebates, free sampling, free sample books, free marketing items, etc. We also offer our smaller accounts similar privileges. We make every attempt to services them to their every need and provide tools needed to complete the project.
10. When do you think we'll see chintz in a big way again? I mean, really - -just look at those wings upon wings in the Old Guard showrooms - -does it move? (If so who's buying it?)
Chintz does sell! Lee Jofa has a large library of hand blocked/ hand screened chintzes. Right now chenille's, textures, solids....any staple are more popular with designers. The look right now is modern/transitional. I'm sure in the next 10-15 years chintz will make a splash once again. We see a repeat in trends every 10-20 years.
Thank you so much, guys. Anytime a colleague needs a crack sales rep you KNOW I'll be pointing to you!
Monday, September 14, 2009
Home Now Finally! by Glenn Lawson Interior Design
Welcome Interior Design enthusiasts. Today's blog is Chapter One for Home Now Finally! by Glenn Lawson Interior Design. Each Chapter will explore exactly what's going on Now in this exciting ever-changing industry.
So - - -let's be real and start from the ground up. We walk on it, stamp on it and hopefully admire it every day. It's our rugs, it's our carpets. They tend to stick around for a long time, so let's make sure we get it right the first time.
Today I interview three celebrated sales reps from three premier New York carpet and rug sources: Fred Hall of Einstein Moomjy: handles both retail and wholesale; Mike Blechner of Stark Carpet: handles wholesale in stock and custom goods; Mark Nelson of Mark Nelson Designs: handles high end wholesale goods, primarily custom.
The question begins "what gives under foot?"
GL: What are people really looking for these days:
FH: Style, luxury, beauty and value in that order.
MB: New designs, more modern designs and by named decorators.
MN: People are looking for value. They want to feel like their money is being well spent.
GL: How is this different from a year or two ago?
FH: The economy has changed the way people purchase home goods. They are not so impulsive. They want the best BANG for the buck!! Value!
MB: No change.
MN: A year or two ago people were on the Wall street money train. Conspicuous consumption. the higher the price, the higher the appeal. Everything was about showing wealth and good taste. Now people are selecting high end goods but without all the sizzle. People are more apt to buy a very expensive worsted wool custom piece instead of the silk and wool, or even viscose and wool for that matter. It's all about restraint, good taste and being understated.
GL: What colors are now on the A list?
FH: There is a wide range of color requests. Color is in the eyes of the beholder. Most customers request the color of their eyes: blue, brown, classic greys are at the top of the list. However it's important to note that clarity in color is number one. That real silky look in natural or artifical light is what customers look for today.
MB: Beige and browns.
MN: This year I am finding the soft greys to be very popular and the very muted jewel tones like lavendar, green and pinks.
GL: Which ones are so 2 years ago?
FH: The muted straw colors are currently OH SOO 2 years ago.
MB: Dark colors.
MN: 2 years ago everything was brown and beige.
GL: Let's settle the debate: what wears longer? wool, nylon or blends? and which cleans best?
FH: Wool by far wears better, looks better longer, ages gracefully, cleans better and oxidizes at a slower rate than nylon. However it is true that nylon is stronger - but eventually uglies out.
MB: Wool.
MN: I am a firm believer in 100% wool. Period. Every different manufacturer will extoll the virtues of what they make. I recommend wool.
GL: Why should people consult with an interior designer before purchasing a rug or carpeting?
FH: A good interior designer is like a good doctor: they ease the pain of decorating. They know the current trends. They have all the knowledge and resources to solve your decorating needs. More importantly a good interior designer can reflect the client's personality throughout their home.
MB: The designer has a better idea of how to put everything together.
MN: A designer most importantly will size the rug, give the room texture and set the tone for the atmosphere that he or she is trying to create. The most common problem with people buying rugs themselves is that they buy them too small. For the most part a rug shouldn't go in front of a sofa and loveseat and under the coffee table. To make the room look bigger the seating arrangement should be partially on the rug.
GL: On a scale of 1 to 10 when you enter a room how much impact should the carpet have?
FH: Between 5 & 7. It really depends on the space. For example a beautiful wood floor acts as a picture frame for Oriental rugs. A nice wall to wall carpet acts as the backdrop for beautiful fabrics and appointments.
MB: 9
MN: I'm in the business....so I say a 10!!
I'd like to roll out the red carpet and thank our three celebrated participants - -and thank YOU for joining us.
HOME NOW FINALLY! by GLENN LAWSON Interior Design - Chapter One
So - - -let's be real and start from the ground up. We walk on it, stamp on it and hopefully admire it every day. It's our rugs, it's our carpets. They tend to stick around for a long time, so let's make sure we get it right the first time.
Today I interview three celebrated sales reps from three premier New York carpet and rug sources: Fred Hall of Einstein Moomjy: handles both retail and wholesale; Mike Blechner of Stark Carpet: handles wholesale in stock and custom goods; Mark Nelson of Mark Nelson Designs: handles high end wholesale goods, primarily custom.
The question begins "what gives under foot?"
GL: What are people really looking for these days:
FH: Style, luxury, beauty and value in that order.
MB: New designs, more modern designs and by named decorators.
MN: People are looking for value. They want to feel like their money is being well spent.
GL: How is this different from a year or two ago?
FH: The economy has changed the way people purchase home goods. They are not so impulsive. They want the best BANG for the buck!! Value!
MB: No change.
MN: A year or two ago people were on the Wall street money train. Conspicuous consumption. the higher the price, the higher the appeal. Everything was about showing wealth and good taste. Now people are selecting high end goods but without all the sizzle. People are more apt to buy a very expensive worsted wool custom piece instead of the silk and wool, or even viscose and wool for that matter. It's all about restraint, good taste and being understated.
GL: What colors are now on the A list?
FH: There is a wide range of color requests. Color is in the eyes of the beholder. Most customers request the color of their eyes: blue, brown, classic greys are at the top of the list. However it's important to note that clarity in color is number one. That real silky look in natural or artifical light is what customers look for today.
MB: Beige and browns.
MN: This year I am finding the soft greys to be very popular and the very muted jewel tones like lavendar, green and pinks.
GL: Which ones are so 2 years ago?
FH: The muted straw colors are currently OH SOO 2 years ago.
MB: Dark colors.
MN: 2 years ago everything was brown and beige.
GL: Let's settle the debate: what wears longer? wool, nylon or blends? and which cleans best?
FH: Wool by far wears better, looks better longer, ages gracefully, cleans better and oxidizes at a slower rate than nylon. However it is true that nylon is stronger - but eventually uglies out.
MB: Wool.
MN: I am a firm believer in 100% wool. Period. Every different manufacturer will extoll the virtues of what they make. I recommend wool.
GL: Why should people consult with an interior designer before purchasing a rug or carpeting?
FH: A good interior designer is like a good doctor: they ease the pain of decorating. They know the current trends. They have all the knowledge and resources to solve your decorating needs. More importantly a good interior designer can reflect the client's personality throughout their home.
MB: The designer has a better idea of how to put everything together.
MN: A designer most importantly will size the rug, give the room texture and set the tone for the atmosphere that he or she is trying to create. The most common problem with people buying rugs themselves is that they buy them too small. For the most part a rug shouldn't go in front of a sofa and loveseat and under the coffee table. To make the room look bigger the seating arrangement should be partially on the rug.
GL: On a scale of 1 to 10 when you enter a room how much impact should the carpet have?
FH: Between 5 & 7. It really depends on the space. For example a beautiful wood floor acts as a picture frame for Oriental rugs. A nice wall to wall carpet acts as the backdrop for beautiful fabrics and appointments.
MB: 9
MN: I'm in the business....so I say a 10!!
I'd like to roll out the red carpet and thank our three celebrated participants - -and thank YOU for joining us.
HOME NOW FINALLY! by GLENN LAWSON Interior Design - Chapter One
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