~ q & a ~
Q. Who are we?
A. Whether you've just stumbled upon our web site, or happily are revisiting us, we are delighted you have asked about us. We have long believed that anything handmade must be the store recipe not just of beauty and elegance, but of ecologically responsible techniques.
Our products are all original, and combine with other collections harmoniously found throughout the United States and Canada. Most use entirely recycled materials, and do the planet a good turn.
Fairweather House and Garden represents a timeless collaboration between designer, artist, craftsman and artisan. Every piece is made individually, for us, by hand.
Our artists, painters, and sculptors are our designers. They work with us first, and are the very best we can find, many are local talents, quite a few are regionally recognized and several are notable and have received national accolades. The products offered are to be viewed as art. We are always perfecting our recipe of crafts and products.
And that's the sense of dedication at our store. The rare world of hand made art.
Q. What are the top colors for the next season?
A. Bold colors are being introduced for the Spring 2010 season in addition to the continuing interest in purple. Colors that are able to be paired with neutral-tones are a win-win solution.
Overtly trendy colors are to being aside once again this season, and bright tones that are able to be used throughout any given season are being embraced. Look for a soothing hues of turquoise, a twist in the orange family in the coral tone, a delicate wispy pink champagne, a practical gray with greenish hues (simi liar to dried herbs), a red that reads like a tomato pure 'e, and , once again this year...the fashionable purple tones... eggplant hues that are not cycling out of style.
For inspiration, visit upscale design and fashion boutiques.
Q. How to find a calming nesting and at-home color scheme?
A. Your home is a place to create a serene, peaceful environment where you can rest and "get away from the world". A low contrast, monochromatic color scheme with variations on a favorite primary hue is an option.
Amethyst and its siblings, plum and aubergine are colors to consider. The favored color of artists and musicians, a preference for purple suggests depth of feeling and high self-esteem.
Natures blesses us with variations of purple in wisteria, irises and hyacinths. Violet light has the highest energy level. Aubergine, French for eggplant, paired with chartreuse textiles will create a riveting contrast to earth tone neutrals, off white compositions and textural elements. Discover the color that best reflects your at-home personality. Peace and harmony are the desired moods of the time.
Q. I find it difficult to decide the "what" and "where" of accessories.
A. At no point in decorating endeavors are preferences more important than placing the finishing accessories that individualize a space. Gather favorites then edit carefully to select an overall effect that is calm, unified and orderly. Link items through subtle but luxurious details so that no single piece overpowers another. Contrasts of light and dark, textures and minimal foliages balanced with focal points will complement each other. An array of glass and metals will add interest to the natural elements of handcrafted pieces or flowers. And, as always, for visual interest group elements in odd numbers. Study table scapes and display techniques created in upscale boutiques and ask questions. Professionals enjoy sharing ideas.
Q. What are the latest color inspirations for the home?
A. Trade resources forecast the colors, textures, and fabrications that impact home decor decisions. Did you know refined home decor mimics high fashion?
Look for metallics, aged or brushed, hammered or woven nickel, pewter and copper continue to be neutral for home decor...the same finishes found in fine jewelry.
Nature continues to influence with a palette of moss greens, light carmel browns, and stone grays that are aged and quite weathered. Expressionistic accent colors include light gray blues and some berry reds as well as soft sea shell pinks.
Sophisticated, haute couture drama styles feature classic, understated camel, seaweed, grass green and a moody mid-toned red.
There is a fashion attitude toward multi-cultural interiors with unexpected color combinations and organic patterns. Inspirations> are to be found in high design books, fine shelter magazines, the interiors of boutique hotels and interior design boutiques.
TRADE SECRET!!! Visit the tie department in a quality men's wear section of a department store. There you will find the latest color and pattern trend soon to be found in home decor.
Q. What is a designer show house event?
A. Civic organizations partner with professionals to present shows in significant residences in cooperation with sponsoring companies. A limited number of the area’s top designers are selected to offer expertise and talent for the event. Designers participate as a group toward the restoration of an important house. The event offers many the opportunity to see residences that are usually closed to the public. Thanks to the generosity of participating designers and sponsors, the houses receive lasting improvements and working capital to help persevere their status as the great houses in America. A.S.I.D., the American Society of Interior Designers presents show houses in partnership with regional benefits. Show houses are featured often in the finer home shelter magazines like Southern Living, Architectural Digest and Veranda.
Q. I need help visualizing change. I know what I want but not the best way to get it. How do I find the best possible solutions?
A. Professional interior designers can do so much more than recommend furniture, fabric and colors. In addition to having an in-depth product knowledge, an accredited designer has the disciplined eye to help you visualize your ideas. One way to ensure you are working with a professional is if he or she is a member of the American Society of Interior Designers (A.S.I.D.). A.S.I.D. members must meet the profession’s education and experience requirements, as well as adhere to strict code of ethics and conduct. An accredited designer is one who has passed rigorous scrutiny and testing. You get the benefit of an experienced professional who can solve problems, avoid costly mistakes, and most importantly, create an attractive, affordable space designed specifically to meet your lifestyle needs.
E-Mail questions to: fairweatherhouseandgarden@gmail.com
Visit fairweather house and garden's new blog to view past questions.
