A box is just not a box…….

It’s a place to eat, gather, entertain, feel safe and a place to sleep.
But simply it’s home

Enters COVID into our space

In the past year and a half with COVID we “Lived” in our spaces more than ever. Changing our space to include, working at home and not just from the kitchen table. But from a converted corner table or shelf , or the best in yet that spare room closet! Our homes became playgrounds in between school lessons, and the family & friend ZOOM hangouts. Plus we had to remember to wear lipstick AND pants! But above all we were maxing out our spaces for our lifestyles. We flocked to DIY stores to tackle new ides and project lists grew. We began to retreat outside more than ever……(an RV Center beside me is nearly sold out of weekend leisure trailers - now just a  vacant lot -  who would have thought!) seeking restful space in the garden and patio living increased…….but at the end of the day we learned how to live, I mean really live in our homes.

Then with all this comes creative thought, which leads to the possible thought of hiring a professional to help?  What about a decorator? And what a time it is for people to engage in design. The whole time the mantra of Rampant RED has been - helping people create real spaces for real living, so in this regard COVID has been a positive as we learn how to live again in our homes - and that’s exciting!

With this the dawn of e-design has finally come into the realm of play. With the simple push of a button on the tool we all have - a cellular phone with a camera, and a ‘space/room/ Selfie’ defines the ‘Start Photo’. Then a collaboration is born, I can see the Room/Space Selfie and the work begins. I review and send you a decorators curriated directive called, “Space Notes’’. I may also include vendor insight, and refer to skill trades when the scope of work calls for it. 

But what I love about e-design, is now more than ever it  allows everyone at any time with a click of a button to engage in making their homes better, and YOU deserve it!

What’s the next step? Take that Start Photo or that design concern you would like to share, them reach out to me about my e-design services ~simply send me an email.

Wishing you the Best day…..

Jacqueline 

Of Rampant RED Design

Under Construction

Hello, I am still here! I noticed a year has officially past since I made my last blog post.....wow what a fast year!

Right now I am like everyone else at home keeping safe, reconnecting and relaxing from differnt aspects of life. Doing alot of exploring & walking through these uncertain times..... with patience,curisity, and caution. But when frusrtatuion hits aka its raining..... cleaning and sorting drawers and cupnoards. (YUK!) I admit that I am loving the break, being outside puttering  in  my garden 'patch' and revamping my patio oasis for when real life returns. I will be ready!
But Rampant RED...... what is she upto? Thats the big thought lately......whats next in store? So with that I am posting this Under Cobstructuon as I process the  work on revealing the next chapter of Rampant Red. 

Until then Be Safe, Share the Love, Be Strong and Stay Healthy.....

❤️ Rampant RED

Hello its been a while.........

I can’t believe its been so long since I made a blog post, so much has happened! I have taken on a new work challenge that I love. where I work in the realms of TV/Film here in Vancouver………I job I absolutely love from the people I collaborate with to the work that is executed. Its never the same and always amazing when its realized for the camera…..WOW we did that!

I have taken some time off for the last month or so, and had time to first refocus and relax, that is one thing with the film industry its full speed……and sometimes its a long time before you stop and take a break. I like to use the term 'set dec years' and every show is one set dec year, so some years are two or three long! The time I was away was kick started by Mum having surgery and I was to be her respite and care person so that gave me a great change to spend time with her, from being there and now in the rehab, she is gaining strength and mobility everyday! So this gave me time to think what is the next chapter going to be for Rampant Red?

Well I have changed my Design mantra from home design and carried it over to tv/film and with that insight have helped my fellow workers build and create, and also have taken the big step of Decorating on some small films and tv networks. Which I absolutely love, as each time I use my insight and skills and also learn new skills for the next gig project. I have learned that my strengths are in textiles and lighting.....and helping build a room for camera, with the small details that build a story or highlight a character.

So with that insight I am happy to say I will be sharing more details on the Life and Work of the realms of Set Decorating Department which I work in as a Dresser, and insight on transferable skills I have used in other projects as the Set Decorator/Designer. Sharing my insights on how the design can be similar from your home space to a set space.

Plus I will announce some collaborations too!

So I am back………and look forward to still collaborating with you and your design needs from the home space to the set!

Cheers,

Jacqueline aka Rampant RED

Hello Room, what do you have to offer?

Retreatfull spaces can simply be started with having a conversation with a room. This is what us designers do when we walk into a space, looking at the potentical, seeing the flaws and enbracing them to inspire an amazing place to dwell in.......a home. 

Today this Mood-board design was created simply by selecting a wallpaper and a Blue Sofa, then continuing by building a space to enhance the design elements of a neutral brown oil rubbed hardwood floor. Not too worry dark wallpaper does work when shared with  large windows, that will be dressed in faux blue satin drapery. - I know too delish! But the outcome can be found here.........

A conversation plus design elements equals a collaboration. 

Design4Life and Real Living with Jacqueline at Rampant RED Design 

Does your space need to be found? Does it have potential........then let me have that conversation with your space and make it happen. Simply email me.....jacqueline@rampantreddeisgn.com  services include in person consults and eDesign. 

Wednesday Whimsy

As we retreat again indoors and start to recreate our spaces, it can be easy to get so focused we loose ourselves in serious planning. 

So for Wednesday I want to encourage you to act on the whimsy for your homes decor needs, as by tapping into this intuition we add personality to our homes. 

Whimsy can be found in design elements such as  art, sculpture,  wallpaper, and of course bold colour accents. The best way to inject whimsy is with found objects, they will bring the most presence and bring a smile as you reflect on the FIND of  it. I have added the SPOT pillow above simply because of my love of Dalmatians, but this is truly an unexpected pillow for the sofa or fireside lounge pile! Four legged friends can still be found on all sorts of design accents and especially in pillows. Pillows are on of the most amazing accents, as you can add texture, colour and ye....prints! You will still see  trending prints this year of stag heads, octopus, whales, and all sorts of hounds.....whats hot? Foxes! 

Reynolds Flying Pigs

Another injection of bold whimsy are definitely 'Flying Pigs'!  These characters can be added to the entry hall....just a reminder that no matter what you encounter outside on your travels......keep perspective! Do Pigs Fly? No, but if you remember the skit from Kids in the Hall.......Pigs maybe found entertaining you at ATM lineups....simply look up and smile as you wait ') 

Wishing you nothing but whimsy on your design adventures always........

Jacqueline at Rampant RED Design

 

Need help adding whimsy to your space? Or maybe just organizing a Design Plan that speaks to your home? Please feel free to contact me here via email.......jacqueline@rampantreddesign.com  -services include in person consults or  eDesign options that fit your lifestyle. 

Please note: The items shown above can be found here, on the SHOP tab, with Free Shipping! 

RUN!

WARNING!!!!!!

Art Sale in Progress  

Hazen Horses, on canvas

It's not time to 'horse around', excuse the pun! But its really time to take a hard look your  the wall space, cluttered or vacant. With the thoughts of hmmmmm its time to mix it up again or start something a new. 

Why not? This is the time of year we retreat indoors, either to watch all the shows we saved as we were way too busy to sit inside compromising missing out on amazing weather outside. Or we are retreating inside to read, sip scotches and relax in warm spaces.....maybe even fireside. Oh how divine!  The love of winter is pure magic that  can be created with any style and space in your home. But hey, lets not get too far off my topic! Its about dressing your space with art you love and you can easily achieve this now with so many options from my SHOP. I know, crazy right! Picture your walls with a canvas or art print from a wide variety of not just animals, but maps, technical drawings, whimsy, and of course a few select vintage sign photographs. Plus hello, FREE SHIPPING! 

Cain, photography print

Perfect for the kitchen or dining room..........visit the SHOP for more conversation pieces like this. 

Biddle, canvas or print. 

So don't just sit there, pop in and find something amazing for your space as you retreat indoors.

Cheers,  Jacqueline - Rampant RED Design

Need help finding something? Need help with that Design Plan? Don't fret, just send me an email.....jacqueline@rampantreddesign.com and lets get it started. Remember I am that designer that listens to your needs guiding you to that perfect space to call HOME. Real Design for Real Living. 

***The above art peices can be found in the SHOP. 

Sunshine

As we retreat indoors with the fall weather, remember you can still bring some sunshine in. Just add light and colour with a fabulous lamp,.

What to Look for? Simply a lamp with presence like the one above. Seek out a shade that is over-sized, a drum shade works great and are easily found now. Compliment it with a bold pop of colour, or texture....hammered metals work fabulously! A designer touch it knob hardware, you can change these out if you like. Add a glass, crystal or pottery knob....found at your lighting stores or big box outfits. 

Make it your mission this Saturday to seek and find an amazing lamp either in a store or at a market. 

Need more assistance with your lighting schemes.....simply contact Rampant Red Design to make it happen. 

Cheers, 

Building

When BUILDING  a space its important to focus your thoughts on  how the space will harmonize with the objects that will dwell in it. The first task is to start compiling what you love in images from furniture to colour. As you put more energy into the task you will see easily what you gravitate to. Each space should have a key piece or textile that pulls the space together. I know sounds easy but its actually quite an art. We can all easily start pinning and filing images we like but putting it into your personal space is another story! But don't give up.....compile your love story and then seek professional Designer assistance to coordinate and finish  what you want to tell. 

To give you an idea, say you are BUILDING  a bedroom. The focus point will be the bed! So you start here and build a story with accents around it.  This includes other furniture, such as a accent chair, dresser and of course lighting. Here I have selected a strong bed, a contemporary accent chair and a key piece dresser. For lighting I have selected two pendants in place of side lamps! These items have now created the base for the build,  and  when you work with a designer, they can take it to the next level.....edit and finesse. Which will create function, harmony and mood..........a completed Build story. 

Here is a sample build to get you inspired.......

Center Bed 

Woodoft Area Rug

Coachella Chair 

Manitou Dresser 

Leonas Bedside table 

Leicester Pendant Light 

I hope this has got you thinking as to your own build, and starting your own story.  When its time to edit the Build  contact me,  your Designer  to complete the story. 

All items selected were from the SHOP tab right here at Rampant Red Design. 

Cheers, 

Jacqueline 

The Shops OPEN

In news today, I took another step of  laying  bricks on the Yellow Brick road of Rampant Red-  I Opened a Shop today!  That's right.....today right here in the world wide web of advice and design Rampant RED opened a SHOP page!

I am thrilled to finally be  able to share with you some of my favorite home design options from  Furniture &  Lighting, to  Decor and Accent Rugs.......taking  those endless possibles in creating an amazing personal space  a little more attainable.  Just like this stunning tuffed accent chair.....the perfect perch or why not tell the world its YOUR  time with the amazing cuckoo clock - both available in my SHOP, intrigued? 

Hadano Accent Chair

Please take a moment to browse the SHOP  in the comfort of your home over a cup of coffee or a glass of wine. Knowing that these delish  Designer options are available right to your front door with NO shipping fee.....FACTUAL! I know amazing, it doesn't get better than this!  

As always, if you need assistance with an item, or a space that needs that finishing something something........always feel free to reach out and inquire. 

On your mark, get set..........GO SHOP! 

Rampant Red

Mother's Day Makeover MADNESS!

Share The Love this Mother's Day

with a

Mini Room Makeover

From Bedrooms to Boudoirs to the Gathering in Shared Spaces, set the stage for YOUR Mom this Mother’s Day with a Mini Room Makeover. Give the gift of timeless elegance captured in the Elements of Interior Design.

Ready?

Simply contact Rampant Red, Identify the Space & I will bring the flowers! 

Rampant Red  will use elements that exist in the room  and from throughout the home, to  stage the space as necessary. While sharing Designer Tips with Your Mom  along the way.

**Please note that should you want to add specifics to the job, please notify designer at time of booking.

For Booking arrangements & pricing  please contact

jacqueline@rampantreddesign.com

Bedroom Design by Rampant Red. 

Imagine the gift that  gives comfort and peace for today & tomorrow- priceless.

**Mini Room Makeover Special must be book before November 15th, 2015.

Perfect Palettes

By: Stephanie Hoppen 

Publishers Clarkson & Potter New York- 2009

Rampant Red's shared thoughts....The Perfect Palette is a book that breakdown the basic colour theory for the individual use and as a resource for the designer. One of the hardest choices in colour is selecting in your own light and then adjusting the colour by sheen levels. This book is one of the best explanations on sheen levels and finishes, when and where to use them for the best results. As the author Stephanie Hoppen is an international art dealer extraordinaire whose practical approach to art and colour theory shines through in Perfect Palette. I find that when a person has a well trained eye in art and colour theory they are able to seek the complex colour combination with ease and style. This is so obvious here. 

The Perfect Palette walks you through colours like  Yellow in the means of sunshine to citrus, Blues for sea to sky and colours of orange to brown explained in Earth n Clay. The relation from colour to design is beautifully explained  in breakdowns of colour chips and then into stunning photographs. I don't think this book will never date as it doesn't reflect trends, but it allows you to create a palette of colour in all styles. One of my favourite sections was Night n Day as it relates to the greys that we see in many homes today. From the house country to that of the city dweller, and from vintage, modern to traditional styles  it is a fantastic design tool. 

Inspire Photos from the pages of Perfect Palettes

Blue Sea to Sky - colour breakdown

Night and Day colour breakdown

Inspire Photos from the pages of Perfect Palettes

If I had to rate Perfect Palettes, it would be an easy 8 out of 10. This is a book that is defiantly a 'go to' resource for the designer library.I know that I will be adding it to my shelf.  At the same time its also a stunning book for a coffee table where colourful conversation gathers. 

#RampantREDapprovedREAD2Resource

Timeless Subway

It Tile Tuesday in the world of Social Media. So please ensure you are following me on #Twitter and #Facebook for today's posts. 

Green Subway Tile, off set pattern. 

This month I am talking about Greens and sharing Green in various elements of design for the home. In tiles the classic subway style comes in many colour palettes, although we tend to stay with whites, black is equally as stunning! The wonderful thing about subway tile is not only is cost efficient but its not going to date a room or wall space. So to inspire YOUR design practices  today, I have posted above a Green subway tile and  wallpaper combo. In this space the design comes across vintage, especially with the retro sink and due to the fact of the half tile wall. But this design is very current and (what I call Designer Delish!) can be used in your space today. Mix it up, you can see how this designer has achieved this by installing the same tile in the shower,on the vertical? 

So today, like always I encourage you to Take the Tile and think outside the box. Be a wee bit bold and I assure you - your space will Thank-You! 

Cheers, Rampant Red xox 

Subway Tile here in British Racing Green in a modern kitchen. 

Currently a mist the stacks of design magazines and books (currently Carolyne Roehm and William Morris!)  in my studio home office. I also have books that  seek words to build and inspire me , my thoughts and actions. I have been following Brendon Burchard for just over a year now and have learned a lot about what drives the mind and heart in us and in myself. Its fuels  the hunger to be better and I love to learn new things everyday while also  learning from those around me. I strongly feel that we all learn from each other, that no one person is perfect but our strengths are brought out in the services we give to others together - realizing this we are Building LIFE.  So with these thoughts, I want to share from my current read, 'Motivation Manifesto' by Brendon Buchard. Here he discusses the Seven Temptations which are impatience, disappointment, desperation, aggression, hurt, loyalty and power.

In particular for this Monday Mantra from the 'Temptation of Aggression'............."If I removed my anger or hurt from this situation, and acted from my highest self, what would I do now?" Responding well to such a question is what made Gandhi and KING and Mandela so focused and true and admired.            

 The world will push at us and enervate us and seek our conformity and obedience. People will be rude and mean and absentminded. So let us choose a higher road, maintaining our values and standing for peace even in the midst of what feels like war. Over time, we will always find that patience shall overcome aggression and LOVE shall overcome hate. 

From the Motivation Manifesto, by Brendon Burchard 

What beautiful words of inspiration.........Happy Monday Beautiful People of the world make this YOUR Mantra this week, for Life.  

Designing 4 Life - Love Rampant Red, xox 

BE the change - It can change the World. 

Friday Shared

 

Last weekend I was setting up a dressing room and vanity space on one  of my latest projects  in Set Design for interdependent Films in Vancouver.  I have added the photos in below for your viewing pleasure.... here the main character Julia is applying her makeup in Back Too Soon.  Working as an interior designer on a  movie set is really different from  working in real time with a client. I have to create spaces for characters! This scene  was  such  a treat to set decorate and stage -  The Boudoir.  An area  in our home where we tend to overlook for this purpose  as the  space is at a  $$$  premium we tend to use it more practically. Or simply we don't all have the luxury of such a space. This is a simple vanity area design, showing personal items and treasures from travels. But it goes deeper than that it shows taking space away for a specific task other than the norm. So it was good to dream! 

Julia in Back Too Soon, Indi Film Vancouver.

The Dressing Room, Vanity set dec created. 

Creating this scene brought to mind a prior project I LOVED working on too. Not just for the sense of helping create a functional and design space that was savvy. But in terms of working with a very special  client, who  had hired me to create a bedroom space for her daughter. The daughter had  recently gone through a tough break up and after all was said n' done the furniture was divided and sorted.  She was left with a mattress on the floor of  her bedroom and a patio side table to place her mementos on.....and of course that feeling of 'empty'.  I think we can all relate to this feeling or situation at one time of our lives. ;( We pick up and go on........

However here it was  Designer Magic to the rescue! After meeting with the client to discuss interests and colours I viewed the space and got the feeling of what the client liked and how she  currently used her bedroom.  My feeling was she was she not only needed a proper bedroom, but maybe a  dressing with a place for makeup PLUS an area to escape from the world when the door was closed.  Later my client arranged a pop over a kind of ' join me for a wine at my daughters place'? Where I had the pleasure of meeting this amazing vivacious spirit which gave me more inspiration to complete her unique room. 

The colour scheme was make up of greens and purples - with a mix of textiles from cotton to faux raw silk. It was a complete overhaul from furniture and lighting to bedding textiles and  drapery, seating to storage with all the finishing details in-between (candles, sweets, notebooks, and of course flowers!) . Plus it was completed when the daughter was at work as a total surprise! It was the transformation that as a designer we all dream of, as  when the clients daughter walked into the space she was moved to tears.....as were we! Mission Accomplished.........wine to celebrate! 

Close Up of the make up vanity.

To create this boudoir area in the large walk in closet, I reconfigured the space to the max on one side. Opposite from the vanity. I also installed storage boxes with ligerie symbols for whimsy and a small stack on the floor beside the vanity. I installed new lighting in the walk-in, a large semi flush drum pendant complete with crystal accents! The lighting made a huge difference in this area increasing the bulb power to three from one! I also added a table lamp on the vanity with a burlap shade with Paris designs. To play on this I took a wallpaper sample of the damask in black and white and did a custom painting of the Eiffel Tower in the insert calling the space the Boudoir! Mixing new and vintage pieces completed the look and of course the Lime and Silver Damask paper was the jumping off point. I like to always add the finishing details and touches, and here added fresh daisies to complete the new space. 

The Boudoir Walk-In Closet transformed...........stunning! 

By adding this vanity section to the walk in closet space, I was able to create a bonus  zone in the bedroom.  While maximizing the function of the space. The conversation did arise of what if I need more closet space........put his stuff in the guest room closet Dharling! ;)  In the main bedroom  floor plan,  the bed was installed on a low platform with drawer space underneath so a dresser was not needed. This again enlarged the room allowing  for a reading area and medication space. It really pays to use a designer to help you rethink the movement of living space and assist you on maximizing it with a revamped floor plan. 

So this is my Friday Feature shared, and if you should be inspired to create your very own Boudoir space in your bedroom. Please feel free to contact me, your Design Expert together lets make it happen. 

Cheers!

Rampant Red, xox  

Have An Amazing Weekend! 

Paint Panic!

Presenting the Sample Wall

Does this image look familiar? Ahhhhh I hope it doesn't because this means you have entered the realm of uncertainty which is a tough place to be. That feeling of uneasiness and despair in the bottom of your stomach. Followed by questions of hmmm I wonder, and maybe and well maybe?  You need clarity on your colour choices!  The above photo shows this, with too many colour spectrum's.  If you are in this situation, follow these 3 Tips to overcome the delima and refocus. 

1. The best way to test your colour samples is of course with a painted sample square usually 2' X 2' on a white wall space as in the sample snap below. Ensure you are using the wall that has the most diverse  direct natural light. This way you can observe how the light changes the colour throughout the day.  If you don't have any natural light, ensure you use the existing lighting to the max or if you plan to add a light, do this when looking at the colour. You don't want to paint in a  corner, as this  will reflect the old colour into the new colour with lighting or on a wall with no natural light.  So you will view the colour incorrectly. Plus you don't generally stare into the concerns for clarity! 
2.  No white paint available? Paint out large white poster boards with your samples let them dry and hang them on the wall. Attach a Pure White colour chip to the sample so you can see how it will work with the millwork (baseboards). Painting the poster board also allows you to test it again the floor, which is huge. As your floor will reflect colour with the lighting from the room. (as seen in the blue colour board samples below) 
3. Edit your selections to 3 - this will make it way easier to decide the YES colour. You will gravitate to one colour all the time when you come in and out of the room. Then you will begin to notice the colour intensity with the other elements (lighting, flooring, you begin to SEE the colour)  If your samples are similar in hue value that is ok, meaning you may have two light shades and one dark shade or vice versa.
4. BONUS Tip: When getting ready to paint, use a paint product that is paint and primer in one, or tint your primer to the colour your are using. It will give you the best  consistent colour coverage over the old paint. 

Colour Samples on the painted White Wall. 

Colour Samples on painted White poster board. 

I hope these tips have helped you focus your colour choices, and  now you are Happy and  Painting with confidence! But if you still are feeling overwhelmed and stressed with the process, then its time for us to  ....Talk!

Call on  me YOUR Design Expert for not only clarity,  but for peace of mind on your walls.      Have the Best Day! 

Rampant Red, xox 

The Painted Wall of perfection! Here with Guildford Green by Benjamin Moore, colour of 2015. See how it changes with lighting? 

#Tile Tuesday

Here are two of my favorite tile sources.......Fireclay  and Gemstone Tile makers. Both make handmade tiles and are equally stunning in there own way. Gemstone uses precious stones to create there tiles and Fireclay uses natural elements to create new and classic tiles. 

Today on my 'Talk it Up' Tuesday Facebook 'chat- in',  I spoke of the Greens as a kick off to March. Seems fitting enough! I also spoke about two of my favorite Greens at the moment, Guildford Green by Benjamin Moore (also the colour for 2015 by them) and Asparagus Green by Behr one of my 'go to' designer colours. Check it out if you missed it today, it sure to inspire you. 

Also my latest #Design creation again inspired by a wallpaper, 'Green Brocade' by Jonathan Adler. 

The Green Dining Lounge see more of my designs at Olioboard

Here are my two Greens for #Tile Tuesday.........

Mohave Green by Gemstone Tile and Stone.....Delish! 

Isfahan by Fireclay Tile 

Persian Star by Fireclay Tile 

Have a wonderful Tuesday! Remember if you should have  a need for a Designer Consult for your home please contact me, YOUR expert Designer to help your bring YOUR  Style Savvy to your home today.  

Cheers! 

Rampant Red, xox 

Size Matters?

Yes it does! Especially in Lighting.....and this got me thinking as clients often have a hard time with bedroom lighting.  Not just trying to decide on what style, but also how to  add enough lighting for task and mood can be tricky. So here are a few ideas to help you keep it all in good lighting and perspective!  

What size? Size and scale is determined by height of the headboard and side table. For a fairly high headboard, use a tall table lamp. Keeping the lamp in proportion to the headboard, I would suggest at least a 20" lamp and 14" shade - placing a lamp that is too small will make the space seem out of balance. Try it. 

Abacus Lamp, White Milk Glass by West Elm

A Glass base allows for height, yet does not take away from the space. Hourglass Lamp by Anthropologie

If you have a floating bed or no headboard, choose a table lamp that is smaller. Possibly one that has a wide/chunky base paired with a small or again wide shade will work perfectly. 

Be  bold in your choices, try a colourful base paired with a suttle shade or vice versa. If you are looking at a cotemporay design that will not feel dated, incoroporate a Hotel Line style lamp. This will generally have a white shade, and crystal or glass base. 

A table lamp in the bedroom is general task orientated, to make a unique statement incorporate a task lamp. Contemporary or modern will work perfectly too! Here is one of my favs......the globe lamp by Kate Spade! #Delish

Industrial Task Light

Kate Spade - Saturday GLOBE Lamp

Another  place a table lamp on your dresser for that mood lighting touch. This lamp should be contemporay and again can be placed in perspective of the hight of the dresser. A long dresser should have a decent hight for a lamp, a short wide dresser should be paired with a smaller wider lamp. 

Antoher lighting style I love in the bedroom, is pendant lights instead of side table lamps! This not only gives impact and added light, but also frees up your side table! For intersting vignettes, clocks, books n' such! 

With this said, take a step back and look at those side lamps and ask yourself are they working for the space? Or just there? Make it part of your #Monday #Mantra to Light your space.......UP right. 

Your Design Expert, 

Rampant Red, xox 

Wallpaper Factuals & Beauty

Rampant Red's Shared Thoughts on.............

The Wallpaper Book by Genevieve Brunet 

Published 2012 Thomas & Hudson in London

It seems fitting that I open my review with a quote from Genevieve Brunet, as it speaks to why wallpaper and how it really it not just as I describe dressing on the wall, but it has a deeper foundation in our daily living space and that of the designer palette. Genevieve says, ".........proved extraordinary creative medium, a forum of decoration that bridges the spaces between art, craftsmanship, and industry. It changing textures, colours and motifs have not been chance developments; even before the advent of modern design studios wallpaper was already foreshadowing social change, embracing new technology and anticipating fashion."

The Wallpaper Book is one I have now checked out of my local library on more than two occasions, and each time I learn something new as I open at whim reading forward and back through the text and studying the pattern papers. The book begins with the history of wallpaper and how the explorations  of the Silk Road China silks murals inspired so many early wallpapers. Not only then but continues today as wallpaper is continually influenced by our society then translated into art and design, covering all time periods from wars to times of pop culture followed by many influences of today captured in paper.....wallpaper! The Wallpaper book covers the  patterns of some of the greats such as William Morris, Andy Warhol, and  Vivienne Westwood and new designs of Veaemsch like 'RoundezVouz'. I think this is why I too am drawn to wallpaper, with my art background its the canvas spread on an entire wall - its amazing! Like art wallpaper will not just going bring colour and pattern to a house it will also make a  statement that works for country, modern, traditional, contemporary and transitional design styles. Reading this book will give you insight to wallpaper, and I am sure you will look at it differently and possibly be bold enough to dress a wall or two! 

Vivenne Westwood

William Morris 

Viaemsch 'Roundez Vouz'

We all have bucket lists of places to travel, and in reading The Wallpaper Book I have learned of the Musee du Papier Peint or Museum of Wallpaper in Rixheim France. This is designer must visit when touring  France, as it not only houses machinery and papers dating back to the 17th century - it has permanent wallpaper collections. It must be an amazing palette of colour to dwell in! 

Musee du Papier Peint, France. 

This book is truly a designers dream to look at, its compilation covering the beginning of wallpaper through to the colour and patterns galore of  today. Accompanied by over 200 illustrations I have enjoyed reading this book over a cup of coffee, and in the evening perusing articles defining the wallpapers over a glass of wine. If you are like me, I look for go to and real books of reference in my home design studio office.....this is one for the shelf! I would rate this book 10 out of 10. I can easily see The Wallpaper Book inspiring your design projects, as I can in mine. Even if  you are not a designer, but an enthusiast it makes the most delish coffee table book......so yes I am looking at ordering a copy!   Also note that it is a fantastic reference and resource tool  with its noted wallpaper collections,  bonus of directory that  includes designer contact information and website of wallpaper houses. 

I want to close this review quoting Genevieve Burnet, "We may fall in and out of love with wallpapers as the decades roll by, but somehow the affair never truly ends". 

I couldn't have said it better myself.........#myloveaffaircontinues

Cheers Dharlings your Design Expert, 

Photos from The Wallpaper Book 

Top Jonathan Adler #PINKs

Jonathan Adler is known  first his pottery and then as a designer that continues to delight us in  pattern and bold colours,in a variety of mediums. Recently Jonathan Adler collaberated with Formica and has created a collection for them too. Oh yes and he is  also an author!  Jonathan Adler is one of my favourite designer and artsits and therefore as I continue to search out the different #Pinks for the month I wanted to share my Adler favourites. As truth be known that most of my designs are inspired by wallpaper or a textile as a starting point. If you look through my previous works you will see that Mr. Adler has inspired a few client spaces.......

Here are my top three, starting with Garland which is a softer side of pink and suitable for any surrounding in any style. This paper will give depth and make the space feel bigger. Then Malmo is this play on pattern with a mix of hot pinks and purple  colours. Again this would be amazing in any space, remember to design outside the box! Think here of a statement entry wall, a poweder room or framed out in a lounge -there is always potential with paper. The last one is just pure fun and whimsy with SUN in pinks. This would be delightful in a kitchen......in a play space or in a workspace that needs energy. Remember pinks inspire creativity and warmth.  ;) 

Malmo - hot pinks n' purple 

Sun - Pink 

Garland - soft pink 

So embrace the bold and beautiful Pink wallpapers on your wall in true Jonathan Adler style. For information on purchasing wallpaper rolls and other amazing decor items,  please click here.....Jonathan Adler.  

Need help with your space? Maybe focusing your style for wallpaper or have a question about the pinks? Feel free to contact your Design Expert, me. 

Cheers Dharlings, xox 

For the Love of sharing the Pinks.........

Agate stone in PINK coaster an Adler decor accent...the perfect perch for you glass!