This open concept floor plan was created by removing a large l-shaped wall between the living room and kitchen. This living room features ample seating with two large sofas, one includes a sleeper for overnight guests, and three accent chairs, one with an ottoman and the other with a recliner. Perfect for hosting a large gathering. There's plenty of tables around no matter which seat you are in, including versatile two toned nesting tables. The tiled fireplace keeps the large space at a comfortable temperature during each season. The dark wood stained, hand planed, hardwood flooring boasts through the entire space, with an enormous neutral shag area rug for added comfort. Recessed lighting, side table lamps and a ceiling fan with light offers ample lighting for reading or watching tv on the corner cabinet. The piano is quaintly displayed between the living room and kitchen, in the space that used to be the original dining room. The entire space as been painted using a Sherwin Williams light green paint color.

This open concept floor plan was created by removing a large l-shaped wall between the living room and kitchen. This living room features ample seating with two large sofas, one includes a sleeper for overnight guests, and three accent chairs, one with an ottoman and the other with a recliner. Perfect for hosting a large gathering. There's plenty of tables around no matter which seat you are in, including versatile two toned nesting tables. The tiled fireplace keeps the large space at a comfortable temperature during each season. The dark wood stained, hand planed, hardwood flooring boasts through the entire space, with an enormous neutral shag area rug for added comfort. Recessed lighting, side table lamps and a ceiling fan with light offers ample lighting for reading or watching tv on the corner cabinet. The piano is quaintly displayed between the living room and kitchen, in the space that used to be the original dining room. The entire space as been painted using a Sherwin Williams light green paint color.

Gorgeous Almaden Valley Kitchen Renovation featuring enormous storage and gorgeous cabinetry with marble counters. Transforming this very dated kitchen into a bright, open, inviting space was the perfect solution for this wonderful growing family~

Photography: ©ShadesOfGreen
This is an example of a contemporary backyard landscaping in San Francisco.

Photo by Erica George Dines Interior design by Melanie Turner http://melanieturnerinteriors.com/

Tuscan underground terra-cotta tile and red floor basement photo in New York with beige walls and a standard fireplace

A machined hood, custom stainless cabinetry and exposed ducting harkens to a commercial vibe. The 5'x10' marble topped island wears many hats. It serves as a large work surface, tons of storage, informal seating, and a visual line that separates the eating and cooking areas. Photo by Lincoln Barber

Interior Design by Cindy Rinfret, principal designer of Rinfret, Ltd. Interior Design & Decoration www.rinfretltd.com Photos by Michael Partenio and styling by Stacy Kunstel

Inspiration for a rustic wood exterior home remodel in Phoenix

With Pinterest, Houzz and HGTV, homeowners have more sources for inspiration than ever before. You may have found, however, that replicating what you see online or on TV isn’t always that simple. Mastering proportion and scale can be especially challenging. Let’s say you fall in love with an oversized vase which looks like it will fit with the colors and textures in your living room. But once it’s there, the vase doesn’t look the way you expected and you don’t know now to make it work. Fortunately, designers are experienced not only in dealing with proportion and scale, but in handling multiple elements at once. In the meantime, here are a few tips to help you understand some of the considerations regarding size. Proportion Tips 1. Less is more In the home shown here, the rooms are on the smaller side, where it would seem counterintuitive to use oversized pieces. But using smaller pieces can look busy—and can actually make the rooms feel smaller, especially when you add personal belongings to the space. 2. Keep it simple Several oversized pieces can create clean, simple lines. We put this principle to work using oversized items as anchors on both sides of the fireplace in the living room. On one side, we have two oversized blown-glass vases with amber, silver and purple tones. The irregular shapes in these beautiful pieces create interest and contrast; you can see through them and you can see the room reflected in them. On the other side of the fireplace sit two oversized brass lanterns filled with driftwood and greenery; the contents can be switched out seasonally, as well. The vases on one side and lanterns on the other side establish pattern (two of each, in descending order), balance and simplicity. 3. Embrace the unexpected On the mantle above the fireplace rests another oversized piece—a painting of a barn. Its neutral colors pick up the tones in the stone behind it and again, it works to bring simplicity to the space, rather than overly fussy detail. Nearby, just up the stairs, is an unusually spacious landing. A bench and pillows transform it into a special reading or conversation spot. The pair of hammered nickel vases on the window sill repeats the pattern established on either side of the fireplace. Using oversized vases in lieu of a window treatment is unexpected—as is incorporating sleek, modern-shaped vases like these in a farmhouse-style home. Yet because of the other oversized objects nearby, the vases feel distinctive and delightful. 4. Coordinate pattern and rhythm Another oversized item is the table lamp in the living room. It’s a powerful light; aside from the overhead can lights, it’s the room’s only light source. The ridges on its ceramic base echo the pieces of wicker in the stunning basket behind the sofa. This oversized wicker basket, which we’re a bit in love with, features a very large weave along with elegant leather straps. It’s ideal for storing throws, cushions, board games or anything else you want out of sight. 5. Proximity matters This home’s dining room is just to the right of the entry. An immense floor mirror—double-framed in weathered wood—is placed opposite the front windows. Measuring seven feet high, it’s a bold piece. And it works perfectly in this space to reflect light and make the room feel larger. An oversized ceramic vase, with a porous, matte-stone finish, sits atop a table next to the mirror. Other regular-sized items share the small table, including a bottle of wine and a glass vase. But because of the enormous mirror, it was important to have one oversized item on that table, for balance.

Established in 1895 as a warehouse for the spice trade, 481 Washington was built to last. With its 25-inch-thick base and enchanting Beaux Arts facade, this regal structure later housed a thriving Hudson Square printing company. After an impeccable renovation, the magnificent loft building’s original arched windows and exquisite cornice remain a testament to the grandeur of days past. Perfectly anchored between Soho and Tribeca, Spice Warehouse has been converted into 12 spacious full-floor lofts that seamlessly fuse Old World character with modern convenience. Steps from the Hudson River, Spice Warehouse is within walking distance of renowned restaurants, famed art galleries, specialty shops and boutiques. With its golden sunsets and outstanding facilities, this is the ideal destination for those seeking the tranquil pleasures of the Hudson River waterfront. Expansive private floor residences were designed to be both versatile and functional, each with 3 to 4 bedrooms, 3 full baths, and a home office. Several residences enjoy dramatic Hudson River views. This open space has been designed to accommodate a perfect Tribeca city lifestyle for entertaining, relaxing and working. This living room design reflects a tailored “old world” look, respecting the original features of the Spice Warehouse. With its high ceilings, arched windows, original brick wall and iron columns, this space is a testament of ancient time and old world elegance. The design choices are a combination of neutral, modern finishes such as the Oak natural matte finish floors and white walls, white shaker style kitchen cabinets, combined with a lot of texture found in the brick wall, the iron columns and the various fabrics and furniture pieces finishes used throughout the space and highlighted by a beautiful natural light brought in through a wall of arched windows. The layout is open and flowing to keep the feel of grandeur of the space so each piece and design finish can be admired individually. As soon as you enter, a comfortable Eames lounge chair invites you in, giving her back to a solid brick wall adorned by the “cappuccino” art photography piece by Francis Augustine and surrounded by flowing linen taupe window drapes and a shiny cowhide rug. The cream linen sectional sofa takes center stage, with its sea of textures pillows, giving it character, comfort and uniqueness. The living room combines modern lines such as the Hans Wegner Shell chairs in walnut and black fabric with rustic elements such as this one of a kind Indonesian antique coffee table, giant iron antique wall clock and hand made jute rug which set the old world tone for an exceptional interior. Photography: Francis Augustine

With Pinterest, Houzz and HGTV, homeowners have more sources for inspiration than ever before. You may have found, however, that replicating what you see online or on TV isn’t always that simple. Mastering proportion and scale can be especially challenging. Let’s say you fall in love with an oversized vase which looks like it will fit with the colors and textures in your living room. But once it’s there, the vase doesn’t look the way you expected and you don’t know now to make it work. Fortunately, designers are experienced not only in dealing with proportion and scale, but in handling multiple elements at once. In the meantime, here are a few tips to help you understand some of the considerations regarding size. Proportion Tips 1. Less is more In the home shown here, the rooms are on the smaller side, where it would seem counterintuitive to use oversized pieces. But using smaller pieces can look busy—and can actually make the rooms feel smaller, especially when you add personal belongings to the space. 2. Keep it simple Several oversized pieces can create clean, simple lines. We put this principle to work using oversized items as anchors on both sides of the fireplace in the living room. On one side, we have two oversized blown-glass vases with amber, silver and purple tones. The irregular shapes in these beautiful pieces create interest and contrast; you can see through them and you can see the room reflected in them. On the other side of the fireplace sit two oversized brass lanterns filled with driftwood and greenery; the contents can be switched out seasonally, as well. The vases on one side and lanterns on the other side establish pattern (two of each, in descending order), balance and simplicity. 3. Embrace the unexpected On the mantle above the fireplace rests another oversized piece—a painting of a barn. Its neutral colors pick up the tones in the stone behind it and again, it works to bring simplicity to the space, rather than overly fussy detail. Nearby, just up the stairs, is an unusually spacious landing. A bench and pillows transform it into a special reading or conversation spot. The pair of hammered nickel vases on the window sill repeats the pattern established on either side of the fireplace. Using oversized vases in lieu of a window treatment is unexpected—as is incorporating sleek, modern-shaped vases like these in a farmhouse-style home. Yet because of the other oversized objects nearby, the vases feel distinctive and delightful. 4. Coordinate pattern and rhythm Another oversized item is the table lamp in the living room. It’s a powerful light; aside from the overhead can lights, it’s the room’s only light source. The ridges on its ceramic base echo the pieces of wicker in the stunning basket behind the sofa. This oversized wicker basket, which we’re a bit in love with, features a very large weave along with elegant leather straps. It’s ideal for storing throws, cushions, board games or anything else you want out of sight. 5. Proximity matters This home’s dining room is just to the right of the entry. An immense floor mirror—double-framed in weathered wood—is placed opposite the front windows. Measuring seven feet high, it’s a bold piece. And it works perfectly in this space to reflect light and make the room feel larger. An oversized ceramic vase, with a porous, matte-stone finish, sits atop a table next to the mirror. Other regular-sized items share the small table, including a bottle of wine and a glass vase. But because of the enormous mirror, it was important to have one oversized item on that table, for balance.

This open concept floor plan was created by removing a large l-shaped wall between the living room and kitchen. This living room features ample seating with two large sofas, one includes a sleeper for overnight guests, and three accent chairs, one with an ottoman and the other with a recliner. Perfect for hosting a large gathering. There's plenty of tables around no matter which seat you are in, including versatile two toned nesting tables. The tiled fireplace keeps the large space at a comfortable temperature during each season. The dark wood stained, hand planed, hardwood flooring boasts through the entire space, with an enormous neutral shag area rug for added comfort. Recessed lighting, side table lamps and a ceiling fan with light offers ample lighting for reading or watching tv on the corner cabinet. The piano is quaintly displayed between the living room and kitchen, in the space that used to be the original dining room. The entire space as been painted using a Sherwin Williams light green paint color.

With Pinterest, Houzz and HGTV, homeowners have more sources for inspiration than ever before. You may have found, however, that replicating what you see online or on TV isn’t always that simple. Mastering proportion and scale can be especially challenging. Let’s say you fall in love with an oversized vase which looks like it will fit with the colors and textures in your living room. But once it’s there, the vase doesn’t look the way you expected and you don’t know now to make it work. Fortunately, designers are experienced not only in dealing with proportion and scale, but in handling multiple elements at once. In the meantime, here are a few tips to help you understand some of the considerations regarding size. Proportion Tips 1. Less is more In the home shown here, the rooms are on the smaller side, where it would seem counterintuitive to use oversized pieces. But using smaller pieces can look busy—and can actually make the rooms feel smaller, especially when you add personal belongings to the space. 2. Keep it simple Several oversized pieces can create clean, simple lines. We put this principle to work using oversized items as anchors on both sides of the fireplace in the living room. On one side, we have two oversized blown-glass vases with amber, silver and purple tones. The irregular shapes in these beautiful pieces create interest and contrast; you can see through them and you can see the room reflected in them. On the other side of the fireplace sit two oversized brass lanterns filled with driftwood and greenery; the contents can be switched out seasonally, as well. The vases on one side and lanterns on the other side establish pattern (two of each, in descending order), balance and simplicity. 3. Embrace the unexpected On the mantle above the fireplace rests another oversized piece—a painting of a barn. Its neutral colors pick up the tones in the stone behind it and again, it works to bring simplicity to the space, rather than overly fussy detail. Nearby, just up the stairs, is an unusually spacious landing. A bench and pillows transform it into a special reading or conversation spot. The pair of hammered nickel vases on the window sill repeats the pattern established on either side of the fireplace. Using oversized vases in lieu of a window treatment is unexpected—as is incorporating sleek, modern-shaped vases like these in a farmhouse-style home. Yet because of the other oversized objects nearby, the vases feel distinctive and delightful. 4. Coordinate pattern and rhythm Another oversized item is the table lamp in the living room. It’s a powerful light; aside from the overhead can lights, it’s the room’s only light source. The ridges on its ceramic base echo the pieces of wicker in the stunning basket behind the sofa. This oversized wicker basket, which we’re a bit in love with, features a very large weave along with elegant leather straps. It’s ideal for storing throws, cushions, board games or anything else you want out of sight. 5. Proximity matters This home’s dining room is just to the right of the entry. An immense floor mirror—double-framed in weathered wood—is placed opposite the front windows. Measuring seven feet high, it’s a bold piece. And it works perfectly in this space to reflect light and make the room feel larger. An oversized ceramic vase, with a porous, matte-stone finish, sits atop a table next to the mirror. Other regular-sized items share the small table, including a bottle of wine and a glass vase. But because of the enormous mirror, it was important to have one oversized item on that table, for balance.

With Pinterest, Houzz and HGTV, homeowners have more sources for inspiration than ever before. You may have found, however, that replicating what you see online or on TV isn’t always that simple. Mastering proportion and scale can be especially challenging. Let’s say you fall in love with an oversized vase which looks like it will fit with the colors and textures in your living room. But once it’s there, the vase doesn’t look the way you expected and you don’t know now to make it work. Fortunately, designers are experienced not only in dealing with proportion and scale, but in handling multiple elements at once. In the meantime, here are a few tips to help you understand some of the considerations regarding size. Proportion Tips 1. Less is more In the home shown here, the rooms are on the smaller side, where it would seem counterintuitive to use oversized pieces. But using smaller pieces can look busy—and can actually make the rooms feel smaller, especially when you add personal belongings to the space. 2. Keep it simple Several oversized pieces can create clean, simple lines. We put this principle to work using oversized items as anchors on both sides of the fireplace in the living room. On one side, we have two oversized blown-glass vases with amber, silver and purple tones. The irregular shapes in these beautiful pieces create interest and contrast; you can see through them and you can see the room reflected in them. On the other side of the fireplace sit two oversized brass lanterns filled with driftwood and greenery; the contents can be switched out seasonally, as well. The vases on one side and lanterns on the other side establish pattern (two of each, in descending order), balance and simplicity. 3. Embrace the unexpected On the mantle above the fireplace rests another oversized piece—a painting of a barn. Its neutral colors pick up the tones in the stone behind it and again, it works to bring simplicity to the space, rather than overly fussy detail. Nearby, just up the stairs, is an unusually spacious landing. A bench and pillows transform it into a special reading or conversation spot. The pair of hammered nickel vases on the window sill repeats the pattern established on either side of the fireplace. Using oversized vases in lieu of a window treatment is unexpected—as is incorporating sleek, modern-shaped vases like these in a farmhouse-style home. Yet because of the other oversized objects nearby, the vases feel distinctive and delightful. 4. Coordinate pattern and rhythm Another oversized item is the table lamp in the living room. It’s a powerful light; aside from the overhead can lights, it’s the room’s only light source. The ridges on its ceramic base echo the pieces of wicker in the stunning basket behind the sofa. This oversized wicker basket, which we’re a bit in love with, features a very large weave along with elegant leather straps. It’s ideal for storing throws, cushions, board games or anything else you want out of sight. 5. Proximity matters This home’s dining room is just to the right of the entry. An immense floor mirror—double-framed in weathered wood—is placed opposite the front windows. Measuring seven feet high, it’s a bold piece. And it works perfectly in this space to reflect light and make the room feel larger. An oversized ceramic vase, with a porous, matte-stone finish, sits atop a table next to the mirror. Other regular-sized items share the small table, including a bottle of wine and a glass vase. But because of the enormous mirror, it was important to have one oversized item on that table, for balance.

With Pinterest, Houzz and HGTV, homeowners have more sources for inspiration than ever before. You may have found, however, that replicating what you see online or on TV isn’t always that simple. Mastering proportion and scale can be especially challenging. Let’s say you fall in love with an oversized vase which looks like it will fit with the colors and textures in your living room. But once it’s there, the vase doesn’t look the way you expected and you don’t know now to make it work. Fortunately, designers are experienced not only in dealing with proportion and scale, but in handling multiple elements at once. In the meantime, here are a few tips to help you understand some of the considerations regarding size. Proportion Tips 1. Less is more In the home shown here, the rooms are on the smaller side, where it would seem counterintuitive to use oversized pieces. But using smaller pieces can look busy—and can actually make the rooms feel smaller, especially when you add personal belongings to the space. 2. Keep it simple Several oversized pieces can create clean, simple lines. We put this principle to work using oversized items as anchors on both sides of the fireplace in the living room. On one side, we have two oversized blown-glass vases with amber, silver and purple tones. The irregular shapes in these beautiful pieces create interest and contrast; you can see through them and you can see the room reflected in them. On the other side of the fireplace sit two oversized brass lanterns filled with driftwood and greenery; the contents can be switched out seasonally, as well. The vases on one side and lanterns on the other side establish pattern (two of each, in descending order), balance and simplicity. 3. Embrace the unexpected On the mantle above the fireplace rests another oversized piece—a painting of a barn. Its neutral colors pick up the tones in the stone behind it and again, it works to bring simplicity to the space, rather than overly fussy detail. Nearby, just up the stairs, is an unusually spacious landing. A bench and pillows transform it into a special reading or conversation spot. The pair of hammered nickel vases on the window sill repeats the pattern established on either side of the fireplace. Using oversized vases in lieu of a window treatment is unexpected—as is incorporating sleek, modern-shaped vases like these in a farmhouse-style home. Yet because of the other oversized objects nearby, the vases feel distinctive and delightful. 4. Coordinate pattern and rhythm Another oversized item is the table lamp in the living room. It’s a powerful light; aside from the overhead can lights, it’s the room’s only light source. The ridges on its ceramic base echo the pieces of wicker in the stunning basket behind the sofa. This oversized wicker basket, which we’re a bit in love with, features a very large weave along with elegant leather straps. It’s ideal for storing throws, cushions, board games or anything else you want out of sight. 5. Proximity matters This home’s dining room is just to the right of the entry. An immense floor mirror—double-framed in weathered wood—is placed opposite the front windows. Measuring seven feet high, it’s a bold piece. And it works perfectly in this space to reflect light and make the room feel larger. An oversized ceramic vase, with a porous, matte-stone finish, sits atop a table next to the mirror. Other regular-sized items share the small table, including a bottle of wine and a glass vase. But because of the enormous mirror, it was important to have one oversized item on that table, for balance.

The Fiery Fleur-de-Lis Modern Firebowl is a tour de force in fire and steel that adds a regal flair to any setting. Whether you are hosting an intimate gathering of your inner circle, plotting an award winning landscape design or seeking an intriguing focal point for a trendy new French Bistro, bring a touch of royal elegance to your outdoor setting with the Fiery Fleur-de-Lis. Leaping from the coals you can clearly see the fiery steed of a chevalier manifesting the ancient symbolism of faith, wisdom and chivalry associated with this design. The history of the fleur-de-lis design goes back centuries but its message and ambiance are as timeless as the steel from which these firebowls are born. Think warmth of design. Think style and elegance. Long said to be a symbol of divine favor, the stylized flower design of the Fleur-de-Lis is found in nearly all cultures throughout history and is associated with a rich constellation of meanings. My favorite is the archaic variant fleur-de-luce or "Flower of light" which so precisely describes this firebowl. Gaze upon the flames flowering like a night blooming lily from this stylized design and savor the daytime silhouettes, shadows cast like a sundial upon the soil. While it may not be possible for everyone to recreate the enormous French paterre, formal gardens like those seen at the brilliantly opulent Palace of Versailles, the price of the Fiery Fleur-de-Lis brings it well within the reach of modern formal gardens. No matter how humble the size of your estate the Fiery Fleur-de-Lis can add majesty and class that expands the feel of your garden to the far horizons. Create your own version of these well-known odes to green, with affordability and individual expression. Your Fiery Fleur-de-Lis Firebowl, with its rich and spirited history will lend the strength of the ages and an air of sophistication to your own private retreat. Each one is crafted from hand-finished 100% recycled steel and sized to reign prominently over your kingdom. In an effort to showcase the natural beauty of the steel itself, the bowl is finished in a natural rust patina, which lends its beauty and protection for years to come. The firebowl can be left outdoors year-round, requiring no maintenance and guaranteed to last for generations. The Fiery Fleur-de-Lis is an example of my commitment to crafting work which endures the flux of fashion as readily as it outlasts the elements. I try to create objects that will never go out of style by drawing from primal metaphor and classical elements of design that speak to what it means to be human and alive. A dramatic modern take on a classical design, the Fiery Fleur-de-Lis will gracefully preside over your garden, patio or pool area.

The Fiery Fleur-de-Lis Modern Firebowl is a tour de force in fire and steel that adds a regal flair to any setting. Whether you are hosting an intimate gathering of your inner circle, plotting an award winning landscape design or seeking an intriguing focal point for a trendy new French Bistro, bring a touch of royal elegance to your outdoor setting with the Fiery Fleur-de-Lis. Leaping from the coals you can clearly see the fiery steed of a chevalier manifesting the ancient symbolism of faith, wisdom and chivalry associated with this design. The history of the fleur-de-lis design goes back centuries but its message and ambiance are as timeless as the steel from which these firebowls are born. Think warmth of design. Think style and elegance. Long said to be a symbol of divine favor, the stylized flower design of the Fleur-de-Lis is found in nearly all cultures throughout history and is associated with a rich constellation of meanings. My favorite is the archaic variant fleur-de-luce or "Flower of light" which so precisely describes this firebowl. Gaze upon the flames flowering like a night blooming lily from this stylized design and savor the daytime silhouettes, shadows cast like a sundial upon the soil. While it may not be possible for everyone to recreate the enormous French paterre, formal gardens like those seen at the brilliantly opulent Palace of Versailles, the price of the Fiery Fleur-de-Lis brings it well within the reach of modern formal gardens. No matter how humble the size of your estate the Fiery Fleur-de-Lis can add majesty and class that expands the feel of your garden to the far horizons. Create your own version of these well-known odes to green, with affordability and individual expression. Your Fiery Fleur-de-Lis Firebowl, with its rich and spirited history will lend the strength of the ages and an air of sophistication to your own private retreat. Each one is crafted from hand-finished 100% recycled steel and sized to reign prominently over your kingdom. In an effort to showcase the natural beauty of the steel itself, the bowl is finished in a natural rust patina, which lends its beauty and protection for years to come. The firebowl can be left outdoors year-round, requiring no maintenance and guaranteed to last for generations. The Fiery Fleur-de-Lis is an example of my commitment to crafting work which endures the flux of fashion as readily as it outlasts the elements. I try to create objects that will never go out of style by drawing from primal metaphor and classical elements of design that speak to what it means to be human and alive. A dramatic modern take on a classical design, the Fiery Fleur-de-Lis will gracefully preside over your garden, patio or pool area.

Coast live oak, November, Los Altos, CA Photo by Bill Marken
Photo of an eclectic landscaping in San Francisco.