Trick…Treat…And… Design!!!!

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bar, bars, bathroom, bathrooms, black, design, designs, ford, halloween, home, interior, orange, sinatra, trend

Spooktacular Colors!!!!!!

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

Spirit of Orange and Black

In the spirit of Halloween there’s no better time for orange and black color design.  Orange being a huge trend recently in home décor and black being the classic, these two colors although opposite bring a fresh and exciting vibe.

The second most commercially successful holiday in The United States is Halloween.  The Snickers candy bar is the number one choice or popular candy.  With candy revenue of over two billion dollars annually in the United States, we understand why it is the second most celebrated holiday.

“There is no blue without yellow and without orange.”- Vincent Van Gogh

“Orange is the happiest color” – Frank Sinatra

According to feng shui specialist, the two energies are opposite in spectrums however both have powerful meanings and promote an energy that is creative.

Warmth, bright, lively, fire, sun, are all words that are used to describe the color orange typically. Much of the same descriptions or meanings are the symbolism of this color. In combination of red and yellow the color orange is associated with enthusiasm, sunshine, joy, happiness, determination, encouragement, etc.  The color is very hot especially to the human eye, and translates to the brain as a motivator that increases the oxygen and stimulates the mental state.

 

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

The “orange” scented crayon that was released by Binney and Smith Inc in 1994 was part of their ‘Magic Scent Crayons’ and was actually retired as too many children had been reported as eating the scented crayon.  Later the scented crayon “orange” had a name change and was then called “tulip” as a way of keeping the product but limit the consumption by the consumer.

Throughout the world the color orange is used for safety and to grab the attentions of civilians.  In China the color orange actually holds meaning to symbolize love and happiness.  In the Netherlands’ it represents the national color and the Dutch War of Independence and rebel Prince of Orange, whom was Protestant English king and Dutch Stadholder.  In the United States the color is used both in construction as well as national security.  In compliance with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, it is required that particular construction equipment be painted orange for safety, and is also used to set things apart such as traffic cones, zoning devices, etc.

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

“People can have the Model T in any color- so long as it’s black.” – Henry Ford

Considered the unknown, black actually has a lot regarding it to be known.  A color of power, formality, mystery, elegance, yet classical and full of possibility, Evoking strong emotions the color black is authoritative and assertive.  The prestigious color gives depth as well as plays with perception.  In fashion wearing the color black can improve the appearance of an individual by making them look “thinner”.  Other times when one wears a black suit they are considered more powerful or successful.

A contrast to all other colors black stands out and is special.  Black is unique as it goes with all colors of the color wheel.  Combination of the color accents dimensions.  Another powerful term in the design industry is the saying, “the new black”.  Many times in fashion of all sorts a new hot color or trendy color is considered the “new black” of its time.

Dating back to in history to at least the Roman Empire in the West, the color black was worn for times of mourning.  The Aztec culture due to the black obsidian glass that was used to cut the edge of battle swords the color now signifies war.  Priests would dress only in black as a symbol of religion.  China holds the color black meaning to a variety of things.  Black is associated with winter, the north, and water.  Traditional apparel worn by boys was black.

Black also has a prestige to it and gives definition to an event by dress code, “Black Tie.”

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

Black however also has meaning or symbolism to it in which some may interpret as negative.  The color can be known to represent emptiness, voids, emptiness, or the feeling of inconspicuous.  Yet all of this relates back to the mystery that is evoked by the color black and the unknown possibility that darkness that can be known as fear.

This color really makes us appreciate the empowerment it embodies with elegance.

The masculine yet sophisticated black in combination with the hot and vibrant orange add statement with swagger.  This usage of colors together isn’t just for the fall harvest or spooky night, but is a great combo for the home year round.

Not so “black and white”…Orange and Black develop harmony with excitement drawing the eye directly; catching the attention with a bold statement.

Happy Halloween!!!

Style and Design,

Sabrina Alexis

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The Golden…Touch!!!!

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art, au, color, design, designs, gold, history, interior, room, rooms, space, star, sun

Gold…Rush!!!!!

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

Gold is always in close relation to the sun that shines above us, giving meaning that represent:  success, warmth, happiness, attainment, close truthful friendships, and prosperity.  Overall, the color brightens all things and has a character that is optimistic.  Divinity has also been connected with the color Gold.

Regal in genre, gold is perceived as the color of and the credibility of financial well-being.  Not only a symbol of riches and lavishness, gold is also represented as the highest monumental achievement award; i.e. gold mental.

Gold is a variety of orange, yellow, and brown tones blended together to give the color its elemental appearance.

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

Gold Mine in Time:

Tutankhamun’s mask was made of gold.  Gold was also first recorded as a word to describe the color in 1400 in the English language.  The Crayola crayon color gold was first introduced in 1958.  A symbol of monarchy for the British Empire would be the golden lions.  Byzantine art often used metallic gold.

Throughout history, Gold (Au) has been the element that is the standard of all value pertaining to monetary currencies.  The standard economic unit of an account was measured by the weight in gold and is the only standard monetary system or policy as it is always measured in weight which is fixed.

The Golden Age also known as the Utopian Lifestyle was a past era in which the highest quality of artwork would be produced.

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

According to the American Society of Civil Engineers; The Golden Gate Bridge is considered and cited as one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World.  California was also considered the Golden State as it was best known for the Gold Rush that began in 1849.

When it comes to décor, Gold has been the color of choice by many royalties.  However the most famous known for the usage of the color gold would be the bedchamber of the Queen in the Versailles Palace.  The main reception or ceremonial hall as well as the throne were called the “Chrysotriklinos” which translated means Golden Reception Hall.  The bedchamber of the grand apartment in Versailles Palace is also decorated and themed in gold, this would also be the room in which the wife of King Louis XVI of France slept, Marie Antoinette.

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

Gold is unique in décor as it truly does conform and match any other color in a palette. No matter what the trend or color scheme is of your décor, gold adds accent and grace with a touch of sparkle and glamour.  The color also can be related or considered an earth tone as it is a blend of the earth tones.

Another special attribute about gold is that it looks great in any and all rooms.  It is not limited by a destination or space, but rather universally appealing for all spaces.  It doesn’t matter if it’s a wall of a hallway, a bedroom, a bathroom, or kitchen, the color gold embraces the beauty, enhancing a variety of rooms in your home.

The extravagance that leads by gold will shine in all tones, leaving you feeling that you’ve got the pot of gold in your home and have found the gold mine.  In conclusion we give the color gold a ‘gold star’!!

 

Style and Design,

Sabrina Alexis

‘Works of Art’…On Display!!!

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art, arts, design, furniture, gallery, history, museum, paint, paintings, style

Art On The Wall…..

 INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

“Painting is just another way of keeping a diary” – Pablo Picasso

Showcase:

Paint your walls with the gallery of your desires, personality, truths, fantasy, inspiration, and create the world accented by the art that surrounds.  Your home is where your heart is and reflects the inner most character.  A simple wall comes to life when a picture, panting, or other type accessory is placed on it.

The art brings wonder to the wall with a splash of color and style.  Just like the wonders of art are limitless so are the possibilities that can clothe the walls of your home’s.

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

Displaying History With Art:

The Ennigaldi-Nanna’s Museum was the first museum dating back to 530 BCE, which showcased Mesopotamian antiquities.

Originally the concept of a museum or display of art was not for the public eye.  But rather it was the elite, wealthy, royal, etc families or individuals in which kept private collections of the art of their choice.  The individual’s private collection would be shared with his or her preference and was sometimes considered: cabinets of curiosities.

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

Similar to today’s home décor, many people collect art whether it is by their favorite artist or style of art, including color etc.  Same holds true as it did years prior, “ART IS CONVERSATION AND SPEAKS LOUDLY WITH TONES OF IMAGINATION”- SABRINA ALEXIS

By placing artwork on our walls we are opening the door for conversation of the minds and interpretation of meaning to.  The walls dance to a song of our creativity, there’s a blank canvas our walls, waiting to speak through our art.

Today, we don’t always have to designate one room to the display of our creativity but rather lead with our artwork on the hallways, walls, entrances, etc at home.

Throughout history it has been known that the significant or famous museums would not be in existence until the 18^th century, also known as the Age of Enlightenment.  The Louvre Museum in Paris was the first to allow all people of status, gender, stations to view the royal’s collection of art of all landscapes.

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

The British Museum actually required in writing an application in order to receive admission ticket(s) to enter and see the collections.  A process that would take up to fourteen days before the decision would be made and granted entrance into the museum with permitting tickets.

In the 19^th and 20^th centuries “The Museum Period” was developed as it became an increased interest in knowledge of history, scientific, and artistically focused.

The word museum is derived from the Latin word “musea or museums”.  Formerly developed from the Greek word “Mouseion” which means a temple or dedicated to the arts; Muses.

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

Paintings or other types of artwork can be accented and make a room pop by the furniture in which is placed near, around, and or under the particular piece of art.  The key here is that the art work on display is a key piece to the elements of décor, together they complete the design puzzle and can finish the style in which is desired.

By adding pieces of art to any area along with furniture makes the picture come alive.  Detail to the eye, dessert for the mind, art is the creativity that speaks through our individual souls.

Create your own ‘Works of Art’ through the placement of your “art” with style bursting in design!

Style & Design,

Sabrina Alexis

 

The… “GREEN”…Room!!!!

Tags

decor, design, environment, green, history, interior, nature, room, rooms, symbolism

Green Light!!!

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN 

Green Affects:

Interior design uses green often as it is the color that surrounds us most when we are outside or with nature.  This common familiarity to the color makes it the perfect backdrop or theme to be used inside the home as it stimulates protective energies.  It has been said that when asked what someone’s favorite color is green is second in the response; blue has been noted to be the first favorite color.  The apparel industry has a superstition in relation to the color green; which is, it brings bad luck to the designers or design house if used and sewed with on the eve of a fashion show.

The history of the word green derives from the Latin word “viridis” which means green or to grow.  The word also comes from the Old English words grene or groeni.  Circa 700AD the term was recorded as the word for the color term.  Lust and love have also been known to represent this color in Medieval times.

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

Green is not a primary color according to the primary colors however it is considered to be an additive primary color.  Green is evoked by light and perception in the subtractive color system.  The association with the color is due to its close relation to nature and chlorophyll that gives plants the green color.

Green is a refreshing balance of the cool blue and warm yellow.  This has a tranquil and refreshing effect on the emotions.

Environmentalism is represented by the color green and has become the symbol because of its association with nature, health and growth.  Sprouting recently in the past ten years has been the environmental “green party” which is in relation to more environmentally friendly products and usage of things.  The commonly known phrase to describe a person who is gifted in growing plants is “Green thumb”.  Vegetables that are green are known usually having high nutritional value.

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

The color itself has many meanings, some of which are contradictory to each other.  Symbolism meaning:  harmony, freshness, fertility, growth, knowledge, safety, medical products, healing, ambition, relaxation, hope, stability, etc.  This is a leading reason as to why many hospitals contain green walls.  Green also has meaning to the lights in which direct the traffic flow, announcing “to go” when green.  However, globally this color is the universal meaning of safety.

Green on the contrary to the positive meanings or symbolism above has been also identified with: jealousy, greed, sickness, cowardice, discord, and jealousy.

The spectrum visible to the human eye has green as the most occupied space, and has been known to enhance or improve one’s vision.  Night vision goggles uses the color green as it the eye is most responsive to the color and able to detect variety of shades or hues of green.

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

The color also is very persuasive in the natural world.  Green physically effect has been known to assist in the healing of depression.  The Heart Chakra or Anahata is represented by the color green and promotes openness allowing a person to love more, have compassion, and empathize.  The traditional color of hunters as it camouflages them into the nature.

Countries and Civilizations Around the World:

Countries and Civilizations have been known for the different meanings that they believe Green represents.  The Aztec culture, believed green to be royal.  In Ireland it represents the “emerald Isle” and is known for the color especially on St. Patrick’s Day.  In Japan, the color represents eternal life.  As the color of hope, Portugal considers it to represent the season spring.  China considers it to be beauty virtue as it is the color of Jade.  Green represents the color of honor when apparel is worn in Scotland.  According to Islamist ideology green is the traditional color and presently represents Islam in the flags of: Mauritania, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Iran.  Many religions connect the color closely to resurrection and regeneration.

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

There are ONE HUNDRED AND THIRTY THREE countries that have the color Green in their flag.

America’s first president George Washington’s favorite color was actually green.  As the tallest living thing known the tree brings relation to Judo as the color green represents the highest belt attained.  In auto racing a green flag is waved to start or continuation of a race.

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

Many brands and companies have used this color as the signature or main theme in their logo.  To name a few:  Kermit the frog, Heineken, Starbucks, Rolling Rock, John Deere, The Masters Golf Tournament, and Garnier Fructis.

The temperament of green really is significant when using it as the environment of designing the interior in a home.

Style & Design,

Sabrina Alexis