The Brushed Bureau

Before & After

2012-03-06T17:40:00.000-08:00

Great idea from Salvage Dior! Can you believe this was the before?

And, with a little white spray paint and sandpaper...voila!

Leaping Lizards!

2012-02-26T16:17:00.000-08:00

Get ready for Leap Day Savings!! Blacklion is offering all customers $29 off of a $100 purchase on Leap Day this Wednesday (2/29)!

The year of movement

2012-02-20T04:55:00.000-08:00

I know this is old news to some of you but the 2012 Pantone color is Tangerine Tango. 2012 is the "5" year according to Numerology. The energy of this year is change and movement so a bright red orange color really fits 2012. To tell the truth, I have not seen much worth posting on it until today. I found some beautiful rooms and accessories today on the HGTV site and thought they would be worth sharing. I know some people find this color "alarming and too bright" but it reads "cheerful and happiness" for me!

Hail to the furniture

2012-02-19T08:38:00.006-08:00

I'm a little late posting this but all stores are currently having a President's Day Sale. Blacklion and participating merchants have marked down some of their in-house furniture pieces from 20% - 75% off. Come check us out! This white buffet cabinet that is posted above is on sale for $395.00. It needs to go to make room for new spring furniture! This sale lasts until Feb. 22.

Love is in the air!

2012-02-09T16:14:00.001-08:00

Don't forget your loved ones on Valentine's Day! A couple of my favorite gift ideas are posted below.... also great to put on YOUR "wish list"...yes, don't forget yourself! Hope everyone has a wonderful V day...filled with laughter and love!

We heart our customers weekend!

2012-02-09T16:05:00.000-08:00

Blacklion is having a "We heart our customers" event this Sat, Feb. 11. There will be a Purrfect Kids Valentine Party at the Park Rd. location. You can reserve your spot by Friday, February 10th. Also, there will be dessert sampling at the Southern Gourmet Cafe from 12-4! Yum!

Extra savings!

2012-01-19T16:14:00.000-08:00

Starting today thru Sunday, Jan. 22nd, all red tagged items in store will be reduced an EXTRA 10% off!

One lucky winner!

2011-12-29T07:04:00.000-08:00

One lucky winner will win this 3 bedroom, 4 1/2-bath ranch home worth more than $2 million. The 2012 HGTV Dream Home includes furnishings, a new car and $500,000 in cash! This 4,000 sq. ft. house includes a family room with a kids' nook; a laundry room with two washers and two dryers; an outdoor living room complete with hot tub and outdoor living center. Located in Utah, this home has breathtaking views of the mountains. For more info and to enter to win, visit HGTV.

Red hot sale!

2011-12-28T15:48:00.000-08:00

Our bi-annual red tag sale is now in progress! Holiday merchandise is also 50% off. I am making room for spring merchandise so I have marked down numerous furniture pieces. The red tag sale will conclude on Sunday, Jan. 22.

Spread the words

2011-12-11T16:59:00.000-08:00

I started carrying a new line of magnets, journals and canvas artwork about a year ago and they have been a big hit with my customers! I think they make the perfect uplifting gift! The magnets($5) make great stocking stuffers and the canvasses ($22) are also a great buy. Come check us out at our Park Rd. store (spaces 360 & 370).

Decking the halls!

2011-12-07T12:40:00.001-08:00

It's that time of year to bring out those boxes of holiday decorations from storage! Here are a couple of creative out-of-the-box inspiring photos that I have collected from Martha Stewart and Southern Living. Enjoy decking it out for holidays!!

Furniture Finds

2011-11-29T12:13:00.000-08:00

Thought I would take the time to update my blog and add new furniture pics. These are additions to the Park Rd. store. The store is really looking festive with all the holiday decor and the winter wonderland this time of year too! Come visit us at Park Rd. and also at our new store in Dilworth (East Blvd. behind Outback Steakhouse).

Tis the season

2011-11-24T18:17:00.001-08:00

Come check out our holiday decor at the Brushed Bureau in the Blacklion...lots of glitter and gifts!

Soaking up the Before & Afters on Design Sponge.

2011-11-12T16:07:00.000-08:00

Have you ever checked out the Before & After column on Design Sponge? It is one of my favorite sites to go to for inspiration. Design Sponge is a wonderful blog that features entertaining, products, before/afters, and DIY columns written by several talented contributors. I am posting some of my favorite before and after pics from Design Sponge...check it out. http://www.designsponge.com/

Furniture @ Dilworth

2011-10-25T11:40:00.000-07:00

I thought I would do a quick post of our furniture pieces available in our new Dilworth location. These are all original hand-painted vintage pieces. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me. Hope to see you at our beautiful new store....lots of talented designer merchants from furniture to draperies!

Hello Dilworth!

2011-10-07T04:35:00.000-07:00

The Brushed Bureau has now opened a new location (space 380) in Blacklion-Dilworth. Join us for our Grand Opening of BLACKLION Dilworth (1408 East Blvd.-Former Tally's Green Grocery) this Saturday, October 8th! Meet Sheri Lynch and Ramona Holloway from 11 -1. Food, fun, giveaways and more!

Urban Oasis

2011-09-25T04:32:00.001-07:00

For those of you who love big cities, Vern Yip of HGTV has designed a fabulous apartment at the Trump Towers in Chicago. HGTV is giving this luxurious 1 bed/1 bath urban oasis to one lucky winner. For more info and to enter the contest, go to HGTV.

Happy Haunting

2011-09-24T12:23:00.000-07:00

I can't believe that October is right around the corner! Unfortunately, I did not buy much Halloween product this year. However, I do have a couple of unusual fun items in stock...not too scary!! Stop by and check us out in space 370 (Park Rd. Blacklion).

Pillow talk

2011-09-15T09:20:00.000-07:00

Check out these fun hip pillows for sale in space 360 at The Blacklion!

Makeover King

2011-09-09T07:24:00.000-07:00

Before:

After:

Have you heard of Eddie Ross? In my opinion, he is the king of makeovers. He has a keen sense of style and is a product of Martha Stewart Living. I love his blog and fresh ideas and thought I would share a little with you. To see how he put this makeover together, check him out at: http://www.eddieross.com/eddie_ross/before_after/

Hippie chick

2011-08-30T15:31:00.000-07:00

Just thought I would show off some fantastic new product in my space. I am loving these accessories created by the talented Kelly Rae Roberts. She is an artist from Florida who has the most amazing "hippie chick" style! For more info on Kelly Rae: http://kellyraeroberts.com/

I heart Amy Butler!

2011-08-21T15:43:00.000-07:00

It's always the little things that thrill me...like Amy Butler's wallpaper. Of course, I love her fabrics too. But, when I found out she was extending her talents to wallpaper, I really got happy. So, watch out because I'm sure one of these designs will be lining one of my vintage cabinets or bookcases soon! Here are some of my favorites below. For purchasing info, go to Graham and Brown.

Everything is bigger in Texas.

2011-08-16T04:49:00.000-07:00

Check out the 2011 Southern Living Idea House is located in Central Texas in Horseshoe Bay on the shores of Lake Lyndon B. Johnson. I love the home’s classic architecture with it's Mediterranean details. This home includes terraces and courtyards, vaulted ceilings and a detached guest retreat casita with a boat dock below. Everything is BIGGER in Texas!
http://www.southernliving.com/home-garden/idea-houses/

Things are heating up!

2011-07-23T09:53:00.000-07:00

Our annual summer tent sale is going on this weekend. It is the biggest sale of the year! So, if you don't mind the heat, stop by Blacklion for drastically reduced furniture outside under the tent. And, if it gets too hot outside, there are also fantastic bargains inside the store!!

Market Madness

2011-07-17T18:10:00.000-07:00

During mid July when everyone is relaxing during their summer vacations, things are usually heating up in the bustling world of retail. Although I have been absent from posting on this blog, I have been swamped buying new merchandise and preparing for summer sales events. In fact, I just got back from a busy (but fun!) two day trip to Atlanta where the Home & Gift market is held at AmericasMart. I got a sneak peek at new product.... the main design trend was vintage accessories. I also got to meet Vern Vip (HGTV's Design Star, Trading Spaces). He has teamed up with Burnes of Boston and they debuted their new line of mirrors, frames and sconces. It was so much fun to buy merchandise, see celebrities and new product but I was happy to arrive back home to Charlotte, NC!

New arrivals

2011-06-06T10:28:00.000-07:00

I just added a couple of new furniture pieces to the store for the summer.
I will be adding a few more in a couple of weeks so check back soon!
Feel free to contact me if you have any questions.

upholstered bench

hand-painted white vintage french side table

hand-painted pale pink antique table with brass/pearl knobs

hand-painted pink distressed desk with cream ceramic knobs

Your chance to win green!

2011-04-15T07:41:00.000-07:00

HGTV is unveiling their 2011 Green Home located in Denver, Colo. This year one lucky contestant will win this fully-furnished house, a 2011 GMC Terrain and $100,000 in cash! This 2400 sq. ft. custom home is platinum LEED certified which means it meets the highest standard in energy efficiency. For more info and a chance to enter the contest, visit HGTV.

Under the big tent

2011-04-04T19:00:00.000-07:00

We having our annual Spring Tent Sale this Thursday, April 7 - Monday, April 11. This is when we do our spring cleaning and reduce items to make room for new merchandise. Furniture that has been drastically reduced will be under the tent but don't forget to check individual merchant spaces too. Look for the yellow tags and have fun shopping for bargains!!

Think outside the house.

2011-03-23T09:52:00.000-07:00

Since the temperatures are heating up (82 degrees here in the Carolinas today!), I just wanted to take a minute and share some lovely outdoor spaces that I found in Southern Living Magazine. Time to get outside, do some outdoor entertaining and celebrate the warm weather!

patio dining

sleeping porch

brick patio with arbor

covered porch with sectional couch

New spring arrivals!

2011-03-03T16:57:00.000-08:00

New spring items added to the store! Lots of fresh new product to update your decor. Check us out in Blacklion: space 370!

Craving a little color

2011-02-14T06:53:00.000-08:00

Signs of spring have me craving a little color. Check out this 2009 Southern Living Idea House designed by Tracery Interiors. This fresh approach to interior design makes the perfect family beach escape. Cheerful and colorful....wish I was there!!

http://www.southernliving.com/home-garden/idea-houses/texas-idea-house-2009-00400000050550/

Flower Power

2011-02-07T11:59:00.000-08:00

Last year, I started a flower pin business called Felt Happy. It was created by my desire to recycle vintage wool sweaters. Over the years, I had collected sweaters that were accidentally shrunk in the wash (according to my husband), missing a few buttons or just worn from wear. I did a little research on felting (shrinking wool to a more dense fiber) and Felt Happy was born. To my surprise, these Felt Happy flower pins have really started selling...mostly, in the store because I have not mastered the art of marketing on Etsy yet. Who knew that a little flower pin would become so popular! http://www.shopfelthappy.etsy.com

New kids on the blog (and in the store too!)

2011-02-02T06:37:00.000-08:00

I have finally added new furniture additions to the store. Both of these "new kids" are vintage (1970-80s) french provincial pieces with original hardware. They are currently for sale in Blacklion (spaces 370 & 360).

Spreading the words.

2011-01-24T16:00:00.001-08:00

I am loving this new inspirational line of journals and canvas art that I just started selling in the store. I believe the right quote can change your energy. A couple of years ago, I started collecting my favorite quotes and have strategically placed them throughout my home. I rarely have a bad day because when I come home those positive words just seem to shout out at me which always seems to make me stop, think and change my mood. So, spread the WORDS!

Where in the world is Laurie Smith?

2011-01-18T18:27:00.000-08:00

I was intrigued by an recent article titled "Trading Spaces: Where are they now?". Years ago, I became addicted to the Trading Spaces TV show. I could not wait to tune in to see what outrageous design "surprise" was awaiting the homeowner. At the time, there was nothing like it on TV and the quirky personalities of the designers were just so very entertaining. One particular designer named Laurie Hickson-Smith was my favorite because I could relate to her clean modern design style with warm southern touches. So, I did a little research on her and I found out that she is still designing. She has also published a book entitled: Discovering Home with Laurie Smith where she showcases her gorgeous mid-century home. Proof that she has not lost her talent!

article: Apartment Therapy

Make this dream a reality!

2011-01-11T15:44:00.000-08:00

HGTV has unveiled their 2011 Dream Home which is located in Stowe, Vermont. It's a beautiful 3000 sq. ft. mountain home with gorgeous views of Mt. Mansfield. This home has 3 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms which includes a ski lodge room that sleeps eight. It also has a gourmet kitchen and two family living room areas with large picture windows. And, as if that weren't enough, the winner of this Dream Home also receives a new 2011 GMC Acadia Denali and $500,000. You can enter to win at: http://www.hgtv.com/dream-home/index.html

Painted vintage.

2011-01-05T14:12:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to do a quick post to show off the latest addition to The Brushed Bureau. This piece is a vintage 3-drawer dresser distressed and painted in a light blush paint color with beautiful glass knobs. I'm not positive on the age of this piece but I would guess it is from the 1930s or 40s. Feel free to e-mail me if you have any questions!

Selling out.

2011-01-03T07:44:00.000-08:00

Blacklion's Red Tag Sale is now in progress. This sale only happens twice a year...right around market time so we merchants can sell out the old to make room for new spring merchandise. All holiday items are 50% off too! I've included few pics of sale items located in my spaces (360 & 370). This sale will end on Sunday, Jan. 23rd so hurry in and look for the red tags!

What a wonderful year!

2010-12-24T06:33:00.000-08:00

The Brushed Bureau wishes you a very Merry Christmas and Happy 2011. I have met some of the sweetest customers this year. Thanks to all of you that made 2010 a very special year. The best part of owning a retail business is meeting people and making new friends. May 2011 be a wonderful year for you all!

Keaton style

2010-12-16T18:12:00.000-08:00

Every now and then, I will do a post of a house that makes an impression on me. This one happens to belong to Diane Keaton (actress, Father of the Bride). I found this Spanish Revival mansion featured in an old issue of Architectural Digest and thought it was a gem!

Come all ye Collectors!

2010-12-08T10:19:00.001-08:00

For all you Christopher Radko collectors, Blacklion will host a Radko signing this Friday, December 10. Mario Tare', Christopher Radko's founding designer, will be present in the store from 1-4 pm, signing ornaments and answering questions about the famous Radko line. Mario developed the popular vintage themed Shiny-Brite™ collection along with various other pieces of the Radko Collection. This will be the only Radko appearance in Charlotte and one of the few in the Carolinas. So, bundle up and come on out to experience a rare "meet and greet" with one of the original Radko artists!

http://christopherradkoinperson.com/

Decking the halls

2010-12-06T10:15:00.000-08:00

I have been decking the halls in the store since October and I am actually starting to receive Valentines decor...can you believe how fast this holiday season is flying by? The store has been packed with customers getting into the spirit of the season! So, for the next couple of weeks, I will slowly start to mark things down to make room for new merchandise. Blacklion's bi-annual Red Tag Sale will begin after Christmas and some merchants will mark items down the week before. So, if you are looking for fabulous holiday decor, shop the aisles in Blacklion and deck your halls. Below are a couple of items that I currently have in stock:

Wendy Addison Santo Angels (large and small sizes)

An assortment of Angels

vintage-inspired art work

handmade holiday floral in metal wall planter

Wendy Addison glass glitter bird in nest ornament

New arrivals

2010-12-03T05:06:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to do a quick post on some new furniture additions. They are currently for sale in the store in spaces 360 and 370.

Les Baux De Palm Springs

2010-11-22T09:54:00.000-08:00

I got a request to do another post on this gorgeous French inspired estate home in Palm Springs. It belongs to Suzanne Somers and is currently on the market. Somer's decorating style is charming French country which includes velvet sofas, giant chandeliers, marble floors and more than one zebra skin rug! The elegant interior extends to the beautifully landscaped exterior which also includes a pool, outside dining and various gardens. I usually do not post so many photos but since this house is "tres fabulous", I just could not resist!

Attitude of gratitude

2010-11-18T12:57:00.000-08:00

Check out this gratitude wreath featured in this month's issue of Woman's Day Magazine. Created by designer Eddie Ross, this wreath is made from paper, wheat and gold beads. You can even tuck gratitude messages in the cones for Thanksgiving. A perfect way to greet your guests and set the mood of thankfulness. For more info, go to: http://www.eddieross.com/eddie_ross/2010/11/center-of-attention-.html

http://www.womansday.com/Articles/Crafts/Thanksgiving-Craft-Paper-Cone-Gratitude-Wreath.html

Culinary Chic

2010-11-17T10:32:00.000-08:00

While browsing for a table setting, I found a couple of unique pieces (from dinnerware to place cards) that would be perfect for a beautiful Thanksgiving table.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/61305511/thanksgiving-prayer-handmade-vintage

http://www.etsy.com/listing/48554231/autumn-woodland-birch-leaf-platter-tray

http://www.etsy.com/listing/58396639/sale-handmade-ceramic-platter-price

http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/index.jsp

http://www.etsy.com/listing/59032813/thanksgiving-table-cards

Holiday Open House

2010-11-04T16:52:00.000-07:00

Blacklion is having a Holiday Open House this weekend! There will be giveaways, refreshments, Santa and our snowy holiday wonderland opens for the season! We merchants have been busy decorating our spaces so there will be tons of beautiful holiday decor! Hope you will join us...fun for kids of ALL ages!!

Oldies but Goodies

2010-11-03T16:37:00.000-07:00

It has been soooo long since my last post. I have been a busy bee putting holiday merchandise out in the store- I can't believe Thanksgiving is just a few weeks away which means the store will be buzzing with shoppers soon! Today, it was buzzing with merchants getting ready for Blacklion's Holiday Open House this weekend. Since it has been a few weeks since my last update, I wanted to post a few furniture pics. Both pieces are vintage, over 60 years old, and have original hardware. They are oldies but goodies!

Happy Haunting

2010-09-27T09:36:00.000-07:00

Things have been busy, busy, busy around here which explains my lack of posts. However, I did want to take the time to post some pics of new Halloween merchandise in my booth. Blacklion has some of the most festive fall decor from pumpkins to halloween treat bags. Stop by and check us out!

Trash to Treasure

2010-08-18T16:43:00.000-07:00

Annie Brahler's home in Jacksonville, Illinois is the perfect place to showcase her french interior design style. Annie owns an import company called Euro Trash (http://euro-trash.hostasaurus.com/ ) where she finds these wonderful unique home furnishings and gives them a little TLC. She has mastered the art of finding European forgotten treasures and then working her magic on them. Check out these pics of her beautiful home which is actually a landmark called the William Howard Thompson House.

New Blue

2010-08-18T04:47:00.000-07:00

I am posting pics of a recent addition to the store. This dresser is from the early 1900's. I found it at a local antique auction and fell in love with it. It needed a little TLC so I painted it pale blue (Sherwin Williams, Breaktime) and replaced the old hardware with these adorable glass knobs.

Looking for shade?

2010-08-05T05:57:00.000-07:00

During these hot summer days, I've been looking for shade. That is, shades for table lamps. Here are some of my interesting finds.

anthropologie

potterybarn

anthropologie

A vanity love affair

2010-07-31T09:28:00.000-07:00

I purchased this vanity from an individual instead of the usual antique auction so I was thankful when the seller knew the "history" of this piece. The seller informed me that this vanity was special because it had survived three generations in her family. It was a wedding gift from her grandfather to her grandmother back in the early 1930s right before the Depression. They had very little money back then but her grandfather saved up and surprised her grandmother on their wedding day. As I was cleaning the inside of this piece, I noticed some faint cursive writing in pencil. It read "Elizabeth + Clinton" on the inside of the drawer. I have a feeling that Elizabeth and Clinton had a wonderful life together. And, true love does lasts forever.

Absolutely beautiful

2010-07-25T07:42:00.000-07:00

Absolutely Beautiful Things is the name of Anna Spiro's blog and the name fits. Her vintage modern style IS absolutely beautiful. Anna is the talented designer/owner of Black and Spiro, an interior design firm located in Brisbane, Australia. She has the rare talent of mixing bright colors and patterns without making a room busy. Anna's style is fresh, young and vibrant. She's a trend-setter and definitely one to watch! Thanks, Anna, for being such an inspiration.
http://absolutelybeautifulthings.blogspot.com/

Under, on and throughout

2010-07-20T19:14:00.000-07:00

Our largest clearance sale of the year starts this Thursday.... The BIG Tent Sale! Items will be under the tent outside, on the tables located inside the store and throughout individual booth spaces. Just look for the bright yellow tags! If you are looking for furniture pieces, now is the time to buy cheap. I saw many beautiful pieces in Blacklion's inventory marked down. Merchants were also scrambling to mark down their accessories displayed on the tables inside the store. Sale starts this Thursday, July 22 thru Monday, July 26. Happy Shopping!

The Brushed Bureau's clearance items (located in space 360)

Distressed Deco

2010-07-19T15:33:00.000-07:00

Just added to The Brushed Bureau's inventory.... a tall chest from the 1920s with a fresh coat of paint and new flower knobs. Stop by space 370 to check out this charming "shabby chic" chest of drawers.

Back to cool.

2010-07-18T10:44:00.000-07:00

Say it isn't so...only a couple more weeks before college students will be headed back to campus. Check out these amazing functional but very fun college dorm rooms. Inspiration for the students who have cold feet.

http://www.pbteen.com/

http://www.decordemon.com/

http://www.pbteen.com/

Red-headed stepchild

2010-07-03T05:33:00.000-07:00

One of my very witty friends named this piece my "red-headed stepchild"! I painted it in red (Red Ocher-Valspar Sig.) instead of my usual pastel palette. Red is one of my all-time favorite colors. When a room needs a "fresh" burst of color, I sometimes add red. It always wakes up a room!

Cooling it off.

2010-06-19T17:07:00.001-07:00

Summer's gonna rule at these pools. I thought I would post a few beautiful photos of summer hot spots. As the temperature gets hotter outside, I would love to chill in any of these relaxing settings!

Look for the red tags!

2010-06-14T17:03:00.000-07:00

BlackLion's bi-annual Red Tag Sale starts this Friday, June 18. Merchants will be marking merchandise down this week so look for the red tags throughout the store. Here are a couple of Brushed Bureau items that will be reduced for the sale. Happy shopping!

New summer arrivals!

2010-06-12T08:14:00.000-07:00

New merchandise has arrived for the summer season! I thought I would post a sample of a few new items. For any questions or requests about posted merchandise, please feel free to contact me via phone or e-mail.

Tickled pink

2010-06-10T05:06:00.000-07:00

I am thrilled with how this newly painted pink antique vanity turned out. Perfect for a little (or big) girl's room! For sale at The Brushed Bureau (space 360) in the BlackLion.

More new arrivals!

2010-05-09T16:02:00.001-07:00

I have finally received the remainder of my spring merchandise....now that we are into the last part of the season! Ha! If you see anything that catches your eye, please stop by the store or send me an e-mail. I and/or the wonderful BlackLion staff will be more than happy to assist you.

Peacock Tray

Botanical Canvas Art

Regency Chair Art

Rachel Rocks

2010-05-02T14:23:00.000-07:00

I'm so glad that Rachel Ashwell is back on track after a rocky 2009. Her creative eye for beauty seems better than ever! Her blog and website is full of beautiful inspiration. Check her out at: http://rachelashwellshabbychic.blogspot.com/

Seeing red in a green home.

2010-04-17T06:19:00.000-07:00

HGTV is unveiling their 2010 Green Home this Sunday at 8 pm (EST). There are many wonderful features of this house. Some of my favorites are the ruby red quartz kitchen counter tops and the red furnishings incorporated throughout the house. This three story home features an observation tower equipped with solar panels and a beautiful large covered porch. However, the BEST thing about this house is one lucky viewer will win this energy efficient house! For more info, visit their site at: http://blog.hgtv.com/greenhome/

Sew what?

2010-04-10T14:13:00.000-07:00

So what is special about this piece of furniture? It was formerly a sewing cabinet from the early 1900's that I decided to convert into a table. I screwed shut the top and front door of this piece, painted and distressed it, and added a decoupaged antique rose design to the front. Recycled, re-purposed and ready for a buyer (for sale in The Blacklion #360).

Spring Arrivals

2010-03-28T11:13:00.001-07:00

New spring product has finally arrived! Check us out at The Brushed Bureau (spaces 360 & 370) in BlackLion for these items.

Take a seat.

2010-03-23T08:23:00.000-07:00

I am LOVING the cool upholstered furniture from Anthropologie. A great way to add a little character to a not so lively room. I am always inspired when I walk into one of their unique stores.

An award-winning abode!

2010-03-06T10:14:00.000-08:00

In honor of the Academy Awards this weekend, I thought I would feature this beautiful home which belongs to the Oscar winning actress, Halle Berry. I fell in love with this house when I first saw it featured on a real-estate site. It is currently listed for $5 million. Located in Beverly Hills, this Mediterranean-style home has magnificent gardens, fountains and intricate ironwork throughout. A perfect place to display an Oscar for Best Actress!

Painted Provincial

2010-03-02T16:57:00.000-08:00

Check out the newest addition to The Brushed Bureau (space 360). This hand-painted 6-drawer chest is part of the Bassett vintage French Provincial collection. I love these old pieces from the 50s and 60s because they are well constructed from solid oak or walnut which means they are almost non-destructive. If you are in the Charlotte area, please stop by Blacklion and check out our new spring merchandise and hand-painted furniture!

Remember Spring?

2010-02-24T18:18:00.000-08:00

My favorite season will come around again...hopefully, sooner than later. Since most of us in North America are eagerly awaiting the arrival of spring, I thought I would share some beautiful spring inspired photography. So, if you are getting a little tired of this long cold winter, purchase some fresh photography to adorn your walls. It will freshen up your decor and mood!

http://www.etsy.com/shop/regandaniels

http://www.etsy.com/shop/abcdimages

http://www.etsy.com/shop/saranorris

New Mexico, New Home!

2010-02-15T15:01:00.000-08:00

Only 4 days left to enter for your chance to win HGTV's 2010 Dream Home located in New Mexico. Although, I am not a huge fan of the modern exterior architecture, I absolutely love the interior features. A few of my favorites are the colorful tile work, Brazilian chestnut floors and the open layout with enormous windows. The very best feature is the breath-taking views which can be seen from almost every side of property. It's the perfect house to watch the majestic desert sunsets!

Lovin' the LOVE by Amy Butler

2010-02-11T16:36:00.000-08:00

Amy Butler (textile designer extraordinaire) has done it again! She has created a rich, colorful, fresh and dynamic line of prints for her new LOVE collection. She was inspired by recent trips to Indonesia and England. The first printing for the new collection sold out fast- way to go, Amy! You can check out more of her LOVE collection at http://www.amybutlerdesign.com

I felt happy.

2010-02-05T08:27:00.000-08:00

I really did not need one more thing on my to-do-list. However, I did find a very creative way to recycle my old wool sweaters and it is actually a fun thing to do if you like sewing. Check out my new business on etsy.com- FELT HAPPY(http://www.etsy.com/store/shopfelthappy). I love this site because of the wonderful community of artists and crafters. I am amazed by the wide variety of artwork and cool handmade gifts that you can purchase from this site!

http://www.etsy.com/shop/ShopFeltHappy

Filicia Fever

2010-01-31T16:42:00.000-08:00

Thom Filicia is one of my favorite designers because of his fresh approach to interior design. I recently had the opportunity to meet him in person a few weeks ago. He was in Atlanta promoting his new eco-friendly line of Vanguard furniture. He was generous enough to give me a signed copy of his book, Thom Filicia Style. If you get the chance, check out this book. It is all about creating beautiful interiors while being true to your unique personal style. He even includes a page of neutral Benjamin Moore background colors which provides a great starting point for those of us who get a little carried away with color.

Back to blogging!

2010-01-31T16:00:00.000-08:00

I'm FINALLY back to blogging after a hectic but very successful holiday season. Many thanks to my wonderful customers who helped make the success of The Brushed Bureau possible! I have been a busy bee ordering and preparing new merchandise for Spring 2010. Attending the Atlanta Gift and Home Furnishings Market a couple of weeks ago, has inspired me to put together a Paris Flea Market theme for the upcoming season. More to come later on new products featured in the store.

Packing it all in.

2009-11-28T15:45:00.000-08:00

I will be M.I.A. from the blog world for the next month due to the growing length of my to-do-list. Hope everyone has a wonderful and fun holiday season! I'll be back with lots of new inspiration for 2010!

photo by Corrie Bond

Hostess with the mostess

2009-11-18T17:46:00.000-08:00

I am loving Anna Maria Horner's fabric collection. This is definitely a great example of serving up a little holiday cheer in style. For more info, www.annamariehorner.com

I'll get you, my pretty and your little dog too!

2009-10-19T10:40:00.000-07:00

Since I love Halloween, I decided to publish another post on the festive and always fun holiday. This time highlighting one of my FAVORITE retail spaces, The Curious Sofa. The talented staff at Curious Sofa really get into the whimsical and fun side of the holiday. Each Halloween season, Debbie Dunsenberry and her team get busy decorating her Kansas City store with the most interesting and entertaining eclectic assortment of props and merchandise. "Freak Show" is the theme at the store this year. If you find yourself in Kansas, keep your eyes open for the wicked witch of the west and treat yourself to the ever changing, intriguing and always theatrical decor of the Curious Sofa.

Peter Peter Pumpkin Eater

2009-10-11T19:12:00.000-07:00

My favorite creative pumpkin decor ideas from Martha and House of 3!

photos 1-3:marthastewart.com
photo4:houseof3.com

Pretty in pink

2009-10-02T18:09:00.000-07:00

This is the latest edition to The Brushed Bureau. I found this rare gem at Christies on Main (antique store in Pineville, NC). It is an adorable little vanity/dresser piece from the 1960s. Cute as a button!

Sugar and spice and all things nice!

2009-09-26T16:08:00.001-07:00

These are recent pics of the store....the feminine side of The Brushed Bureau. If you reside in Charlotte, please stop by for a visit. We are in the BlackLion (Charlotte Park Rd.) along with 300+ other merchants. It's a fun place to shop for furniture, accessories and gifts. And, a great place to get inspired for decorating ideas!

Serene Surroundings

2009-09-23T04:14:00.001-07:00

Be inspired by Phoebe Howard, a talented Atlanta interior designer, who has mastered the art of creating beautiful serene interiors. Her stately decorated rooms will give you the gratifying feeling of lavish comfort from head to toe!

Pink is the new green!

2009-09-21T12:24:00.000-07:00

Ahhh, it is good to be a girl! Check out this vintage re-claimed "shabby chic" dresser. It's hand-painted in a low VOC pale pink color with a distressed finish and glass knobs. For sale at The Brushed Bureau in Blacklion.

Magnifique!

2009-09-18T05:33:00.000-07:00

This lovely California estate was inspired by the beautiful south countryside of France. The decor is exquisite with giant chandeliers and velvet sofas. It also sits on a 65-acre piece of land with many breath-taking views. It was re-decorated and renovated by Suzanne Sommers and is currently for sale.

It's Fall, Ya'll!

2009-09-14T15:28:00.000-07:00

The store is decorated for fall! Please stop by The Blacklion to check out the Brushed Bureau's (Space # 360 & 370) new fall and Halloween accessories. Blacklion features over 300 merchants displaying gifts, furniture and unique home accessories.

Reclaim it!

2009-09-04T14:17:00.001-07:00

I find many old discarded pieces that are begging to be salvaged. The possibilities for recycling these items are endless. So, the next time you are throwing out an old shutter or cabinet in the garbage bin, consider re-purposing it. It will add much creative character to your decor, save dollars and mother earth will thank you! (Examples below: old shutters re-purposed for headboard, old picket fence made into a decorative hook, distressed cabinet with old glass knob turned into a wall ornament.)

Sayonara Sweet Summer

2009-08-27T10:46:00.000-07:00

This is the time of year when I start feeling melancholy because I know I will soon have to trade in my flip flops for boots. I am dedicating this post to my favorite month of summer featuring this fabulous HGTV Dream House of 2008. This fantastic abode is located in the Florida Keys where summer is everlasting!

Stay green in GREENSboro.

2009-08-17T14:46:00.000-07:00

Believe it or not, one of the greenest hotels in the U.S. is here in the Carolinas ...Greensboro, N.C. Proximity Hotel is one of the North America's most talked about luxury eco-friendly hotels. Proximity uses 41% less energy and water without compromising comfort. The modern chic architectural details are very dramatic with extra large windows that invite in natural light and give guests a glimpse of the natural gardens surrounding the building. This hotel also features an regenerative elevator that captures energy and feeds it back into the building's electric grid. So, if you find yourself in Greensboro, Proximity Hotel would be well worth checking out. Tours can also be arranged at http://www.proximityhotel.com/

Bottoms up

2009-08-04T00:10:00.000-07:00

Check out these innovative chandeliers made from wine bottles. I'm sure this lighting would start great dinner party discussion. Although these fixtures use new bottles, this would be a wonderful recycling idea!

Pale Pink Perfection

2009-07-29T19:44:00.000-07:00

This sweet little French Provincial table is a vintage 1960's piece. Updated with a coat of light pink paint and distressed for an aged country appearance. The pink glass knob was added for an extra little glam. This table is for sale at The Brushed Bureau, booth #360 at Blacklion.

Red hot summer

2009-07-28T18:42:00.000-07:00

I love this 1940's Harmony House 3-drawer chest with original Federal hardware. Painted in this Jalapeno (Sherwin-Williams) red orange color, it will brighten up any room as the perfect hall chest, bedside table or even kitchen storage. Available in Blacklion, booth 370 @ The Brushed Bureau.

Under the big tent.

2009-07-21T18:09:00.000-07:00

Blacklion's Annual Tent Sale starts this Thursday(6/23) and ends on Sunday (6/26). If you are looking for high quality furniture and/or a large assortment of home accessories, this sale is worth checking out! This is the time of year where we are reducing inventory to make room for the holiday season. It's the BIG DADDY of sales!!!

Our thoughts create our lives and our words indicate what we are thinking.*

2009-07-09T18:41:00.000-07:00

This blog is dedicated to interior design. However, sometimes I feel the need to promote things that bring good will to the world. The concept of what you focus on expands has been around for ages. Will Bowen's book, A Complaint Free World, was written two years ago but it is a powerful reminder that if you change your thoughts, you change your world. And, we all deserve GREAT things in our lives!

Fantabulous Fabric

2009-07-09T15:30:00.000-07:00

Amy Butler and Anna Maria Horner are two of the most talented textile artists in today's market. Their designs are fresh vintage inspired with a modern touch. Their fabric can make a dull room instantly come alive. I found these wonderful pillows made from their material lines on the Etsy handcrafted website. You can purchase these pillows at http://www.etsy.com/.
You can also check out Amy and Anna on their sites: http://www.amybutlerdesign.com/ http://www.annamariahorner.com/

Divine Details

2009-06-27T18:42:00.000-07:00

On a recent trip to St. Augustine, Florida, I discovered one of the most impressive examples of Spanish Renaissance Revival Architecture. It was once the former Ponce De Leon Hotel and now occupied by Flager College. Built by architects, John Carere and Thomas Hasting in 1885 for Henry Flager, the hotel's exquisite detailing strongly influenced the architecture of Southern Florida for the next century. Louis C. Tiffany designed the interior of the hotel which is equally as impressive as the exterior. If you are ever in St. Augustine, this US National Historic Landmark is well worth checking out.

Snap, crackle, pop, party!

2009-06-21T16:19:00.000-07:00

Check out these patriotic party ideas from the queen of party planning, Martha Stewart. The hanging stars are made from fabric, paper and fishing line. The red bucket cooler is decorated with white stars made from adhesive shelving paper. Just add a few snap, crackle and pop fireworks and your 4th of July party is complete.

Something old, new, borrowed and blue!

2009-06-15T18:34:00.000-07:00

"Something old" is this great auction find. I do not know the exact age but I would guess from its detailing, this table is from the Victorian era. "Something new" is the metal filigree hardware knobs from Anthropologie. "Something borrowed" would be my husband's saw because these old pieces often need a drawer adjustment. And, of course, "something blue" would be the lovely light shade of icy blue paint!

Color is a girl's best friend.

2009-06-15T18:03:00.000-07:00

Did you know that everyone has their own personal color that complements their characteristics and helps navigate them through life? According to Michelle Berhardt (a renowned intuitive and astrologer who wrote Colorstrology), focusing on your corresponding color that matches your sun sign on the day you were born offers insight into your true personality and nature. Check out her fun and informative site: http://www.colorstrology.com You can also send out birthday color e-cards!

Move over Ken, Jon is in the house!

2009-06-09T18:37:00.000-07:00

In honor of Barbie's 5oth birthday, Jonathan Adler has designed the interior of this fun and fabulous real Malibu home. Overlooking the Pacific, this house was chosen because of the perfect glamorous setting. Alder has added the ultimate accessories fit for Barbie: an original Warhol portrait of Barbie, a chandelier made from 30 blond wigs, a kitchen stocked with cupcake-making ingredients and a pink Volkswagen Beetle parked in the garage. A well done job for the perfect fantasy client- happy, fun and loving life!