Post pictures of or write about your LEAST favorite room in your home on our Facebook page for a chance to win a room re-do between now and February 20th!  Leave a brief description about what you dislike and why. Encourage friends to “like” your post.  The person with the most “likes” will win. The winner will be announced Monday, February 27th. Details are below!

5 Easy Steps:

1. Log into your Facebook account.

2. Find us on Facebook at:   http://www.facebook.com/ParadigmInteriorDesignInc  

3. Click on “Photo” which is write next to “Post”.

 4. Select Upload a Photo

5. Click “Choose File” to select the image you want to upload

Contest Details:

- Submit photos of one room – post via your computer or phone to Facebook.

- Encourage friends and family to like your post and picture.  The person with the most “likes” will win.

- There are no restrictions on the location of the property.

*Winner will receive a room re-do. We start by rearranging your existing pieces of furniture to make the space more functional and visually appealing.  Next we can help you select paint colors, accessorize, and fall back in the love with your home!

- Winner will be announced February 27th via Facebook and our website/blog.  Pictures of the before and after will be posted on our blog upon completion.

 Before

After

There are two spaces in a home that people want to remodel most: the kitchen and the bathroom.  Unless your home is a new-build, it is highly unlikely that you love every nook and cranny of your bathroom.  For most of us in older homes, condo’s and apartments, there are a number of things in this space we would like to change, but don’t have the budget or ability to follow through on.  Before you decide to blow up your bathroom and start from scratch, take a look at some of the beautiful abodes we found and our tips to take your bathroom from ho-hum to your personal sanctuary.

Warm and cozy, the collection of unique mirrors in this bathroom are tied together through a simple coat of paint.  Try finding a few mirrors that have interesting frames at garage sales or thrift stores, spray paint the frames to match, and voila, your own wall-feature is complete.

Mirrors also help small spaces feel larger and reflect the colors of their surroundings so there is less need for artwork.  The use of reclaimed wood, likely from a wood shop table in this case, offers a touch of nostalgia.

A chandelier can completely change the feel of a space.  I love this wire one, it adds dimension and a touch of the whimsical to the already soft color palette.

Are you a bookworm?  Then bring some of that love for literature into your bathroom.  These backlit shelves give a very simple room color and personality.  Accessorize the shelves with a few objects that pull out the brightest color in the space.

This look is clean and fresh.  The vintage wall-mounted mirror offers some open storage, as the pedestal sink and subway tile create a balance between matte and glossy finishes.

Love the use of an antique armoire and bold colored claw foot tub.  To get a little extra spice, try adding a cool printed paper, wallpaper, or fabric as the insert panel in your storage unit.  The one shown was likely a china cabinet with glass panels.  Try painting the outside of your old claw-foot tub.  Both are easy weekend DIY projects that could transform you bath quickly.

Yay storage!!  To the women reading this, show off your shoes and handbags!  They are works of art in their own right.  This will give you a place to store them and admire them.  I also love how this bathroom makes use of the vertical space, and who doesn’t love a charming ladder.

A very easy way to change the feel of your bathroom is with a fun new shower curtain and a floor length mirror.  The chunky frame on this mirror is the perfect opposition to the ethereal shower curtain and playful tub.

This was too clever not to show.  What a great way to reuse an old bike and give a pedestal sink a little bit of storage for hand towels or other necessities in the bike’s basket. It feels funky and retro.

A great use of color and asymmetry.  This is a great idea for a small space.  You get a full length mirror, sink with vanity mirror, little bit of counter space, and 2 drawers all in one wall-mounted piece (gotta love the one leg!).

 An organic or sleek ledge is a beautiful, easy accent to add to a bathroom.  Put it on the longest wall to help elongate the space.

Storage is key in most bathrooms.  Pick a wall and turn it into a sort of apothecary cabinet.  Keep colors the same and hide unruly items like hair dryers, etc in boxes or baskets.

Ladders can be an great addition to any bath.  Simple and easy management for towels or magazines.

If you have very little space, one of the best things you could do is add a recessed Robern cabinet.  They come in many configurations and depths.  I used to have one with interior electrical outlets in our old home.  This is brilliant because it can hide razors and toothbrushes while charging so they don’t clutter the bathroom counter.  They also have a mirror defogger which is great when you are in a hurry and can’t see your mirror.

December has arrived and with it comes the Holidays.   It doesn’t matter what you celebrate or how big or small your budget, bringing the holidays into your home feels good this time of year.  In many families a Christmas tree has become an important part of holiday tradition.  This year we worked hard to find some less traditional options that take on a variety of shapes and forms.  We also scoured the web to bring you the most stunning and creative holiday decor that is fit to adorn your foyer, table, mantle, or wherever you deem worthy.  Begin a new holiday tradition with your family and design something together!  Cheers!

Vintage wood slats offer color and texture while heart appliques give it a personal touch.  A great idea for small spaces and people who love DIY projects.

I absolutely love this idea!  It is an excellent space saver or just a fun twist on your mundane book cases.

An old school shiny tinsel tree adds a touch of glamour to a simple room.  Try this is silver, white, or a bright hue like fuschia for a pop of color.  Wrap your packages in a shade of that color and dress with a contrasting ribbon to complete the look.

A playful take on a tree and a great idea if you don’t have a chandelier over your table.  All you need is a branch, ornaments, and fishing line.

Gather friends at your holiday party and ask them to each write down something they are thankful for and find a place for it on your “paper tree”.

Go natural with fruits and berries that have a rich color and interesting texture.

Give leftover ornaments, candies, or accessories a home!  Fill a glass vase with the colorful baubles.  It makes a beautiful table center piece.

Put your old cupcake tower to good use.  Combine household accents with a few holiday accessories for a festive homemade display.

Make a statement by grouping together candle holders and vases.  Try varying heights to give your display visual interest.  Add an organic element such as faux berry branches for contrast.

Embrace simplicity.  These tables are elegant because they aren’t overdone.

Entice your senses by incorporating potpourri, cinnamon sticks, or scented candles.

Select a color palette and use it for your indoor and outdoor decorations.

Construct your own wall focal point that can be saved for next year.

Who said stockings have to be hung from a mantle?  Utilize the surfaces you have efficiently and creatively.  This piano is a perfect example!

Try combining fresh greens, votive candles, a colorful fruit, and simple ornaments to create your table runner.  Add height with vases, candelabras, or family heirlooms.

Soften a whimsical wintery white palette with cozy fabrics and interesting textures.

Design your own Menorah with family or invest in one that expresses your style.

Work to build a “theme” for your holiday decor.  Select mantle decorations that can easily be mimicked on your table.

For the Home

1.  Add some great pillows to refresh your rooms.   This Hermes accent pillow offers a pop of color and a touch of class, available in multiple colors.

Or this beautiful digitally printed pillow from ABC Home.

2.  Light up a personal photograph with this freestanding picture light from Visual Comfort.

3.   Add a cloche to a window sill or side table for year around green.  This one is from Arteriors.

4.  Add a dash of color and an abundance of warmth with a beautiful throw like this one from Designers Guild.

Or this one from Missoni.

For the Ladies

1.  Express your love on custom notecards from a printer that can do letterpress.

2.  Beat the chilly air with an infinity scarf.  Many styles exist so check out Etsy for your favorite.  The one below is from deroucheau.

3.  An exquisite piece of jewelry offers the perfect amount of holiday sparkle.  I love the modern elegance of David Yurman pieces found at davidyurman.com

The Merrakesh Necklace below from Stella&Dot offers holiday glitter at a delightful price.

4.  The accessory on every woman’s arm, a hand bag.  Here are a few beauties that I couldn’t resist.

A daytime purse that can hold everything you need, from a brand that is renowned for its quality.  Find it in stores or online at Coach.

Shiny and bright, this raspberry patent leather Kate Spade bag is a steal.

Or this great evening clutch from Sondra Roberts; find at Nordstrom.

5.  Who said that plaid was just for the boys?  This Burberry jacket is a chic version of an age old classic.

For the Men

1.  Whisky Rocks to keep the spirts cold without dilution.  The natural soapstone is reusable after a quick rinse and a little freezer time.

2.  Lululemon Vent Tech Shirt for all manly activities…keep ’em dry and smell free.  An added bonus is the fun little note on the hem.

3.  A Paradigm gift certificate to spruce up the bachelor pad.

4.  Liquid Image HD Snow Goggles let you record your action on the slopes with the push of a button.  Those silly cameras head cams are a thing of the past.

5.  A personal beer holster keeps you hands free whether on a hike or in the backyard for a barbecue. Available at redenvelope.com

For the Foodie

1.  Custom Knife from either Cut Brooklyn or Middleton Knives Handmade in the USA and they are stunning…order in advance as they take time to craft.

2.  Le Cruset in a fabulous color (cassis)  like this one below.  Available at muliple locations.

3.  Cooking classes to hone or learn a new skill.  Try Escoffier in Boulder or French Culinary Institute in NYC.

For the Kids

1.  Makerbot – Let the kids design their own toy and then watch their creation come to life with this 3-D printer.  You’ll be as impressed as they are…and you can make things to use as well (note the spatula on the website).

2.   Paint a wall with chalkboard paint or white marker paint so they can paint on the walls without getting into trouble.

3.  A Downhill Toboggan…because snow is a coming and memories last a lifetime, just ask my brother.

4.  Start a tradition of buying them a themed ornament each year depicting what they are interested in at that time.  Let them open it before Christmas so they can hang it on the tree.  This is a tradition started by my Colorado “Grandparents” and I looked forward to it every year as a child.  An added bonus is they will have a tree full of ornaments once they start their own families.

For the Bookworm

1.  Interesting or beautiful books for their coffee table.

2.  The Kindle Fire – because it’s now in color and there is nothing better than being able to turn a page with one hand!

For the Oenophile

1.  Corkcicle – a reusable, nontoxic gel that freezes in a BPA free plastic icecicle shape to keep your wine cold without the large, messy bucket of ice.

2.  A classic waiter’s corkscrew from Chateau Laguiole.   Most connoisseurs prefer less gadgety items when it comes to serving a nice bottle of wine.  Featured is the oak barrel handle but for those inclined, they offer bone designs as well.

3.  Wine Bottle Tags for organizing their cellar.  Available at multiple sources.

For the Pet Lover

1.  This has to be the most stylish modern pet bed I’ve seen.  It’s from Vurv and it’s handmade in Canada.  They have other great products as well.

2.  A trendy feeding bowl for your pooch from These Creatures.

First impressions are everything…so dress up your entry before hosting your next fall gathering.  Have fun with it – grab some leaves and make a garland or wreath for a pop of color, add some lanterns for a warm welcoming glow or use straw bails if you have access to them. 

We love the scattered lanterns on the above porch and the oranges against the white facade. 

Dislike orange?  Keep it neutral with cream candles, beige straw, and dark gourds.

Like the script letter on the white pumpkin…so easy but elegant.

Keep it simple and just add a great wreath to your door.  These are from William Sonoma and Etsy.

Photo courtesy of Met Museum

Like a moth to a flame, there is nothing like hype to draw one to something.   I had been hearing about the exhibit at the Metropolitan Museum on fashion designer Alexander McQueen for a while, but I procrastinated to see it.   So two weekends ago, we tried but the wait was two hours; we bailed.  However, after reading more great reviews, I decided I should really go see this!  I thought maybe during the week would be less busy, not true.  So fast forward to this past Saturday night when, after dinner, my husband and I trekked across the park and got in line at 8:45pm (the Met extended their hours till midnight the last two days).  I thought our chances were good because it was late and it was raining.  The line moved quickly and we were inside fifteen minutes later (the building only friends).  We then snaked around the museum for another two and a half hours.  I have to say at least we had things to look at and talk about while waiting.  Finally we were at the front with all the masses. 

Not Grand Central but the Met at 10:00pm!

McQueen made use of everyday materials (feathers, shells, metal, etc) to create some of the most interesting designs for fashion.  His designs were not just fashion but theatre.  He created an emotion around each of his designs and I sensed that at each grouping.  Some of his designs were dark, some light and dreamy.  The intricate details that create the overall silhouette are stunning.   The layers, the seams and ribbing…I wondered how long it took to create each piece.  It’s one thing to sketch such imaginative designs but to be able to execute them in such a precise, perfect way is pure talent. 

Beyond the fashion, the installation was amazing.  Antiqued mirrors, intricate wood floors and walls lit with dramatic lighting all enveloped the viewer.  It was a sensory experience and I can only believe that is what McQueen would have wanted.  I’ve looked at several of his shows online and can’t help but think theatre.   He used classical music but also a little Lady Gaga.  His models don’t just strut but they act and move in a way that makes one a bit uneasy.   

I know something has influenced me when I keep returning to analyse it in my mind.  I’m sad this brilliant mind is gone but thankful to have seen the show at the Met.  So was it hype?  No, not at all.  

I choose not to copy photos from the Met because they did a great job putting so much info there.  Please explore as it is worth the time.    Enjoy!

Pictures of the exhibit from the Metropolitan Museum of Art.  Well worth the visit for the photography. 

My Favorite Pieces:

http://blog.metmuseum.org/alexandermcqueen/oyster-dress-irere/

http://blog.metmuseum.org/alexandermcqueen/ensemble-voss-2/

http://blog.metmuseum.org/alexandermcqueen/dress-highland-rape/

http://blog.metmuseum.org/alexandermcqueen/dress-horn-of-plenty/

http://blog.metmuseum.org/alexandermcqueen/dress-voss-2/

http://blog.metmuseum.org/alexandermcqueen/dress-sarabande/

I attended ICFF on May 17th.  As usual there were so many talented vendors and beautiful products that I hope to incorporate into my designs.  Here are a few of my favorites.

 Rocking Lamp by MineHeart.  I think this would be so cute in a kids room.

A great rolling credenza by AKMD – love the wheels!  Please come home with me…

A simple, rustic mirror from Grain.  Great for a powder room or a Nantucket cabin.

This piece was a favorite!  Great design and details for a bar cabinet.  Great job Urbancase!

Finally, a great functional bedside lamp.  Thank you Cerno!

Probably the most interesting product find this year…cork countertops.  You can cut on them, fabricate them like a chopping block for the kitchen or use on a vanity.  I know what you are thinking, because I was too, bacteria city!  Not so…I learned that cork is anti-microbial, naturally water & heat resistant and self healing (if you cut on it you’ll never see the slice).  They demonstrated a red wine spill and no stain!  Great new kitchen product. 

Fun lights from Iacoli & McAllister.  Available in many happy colors.

We’ve been published in the March/April issue of Denver Life magazine.  Paradigm gives tips for dining room light fixtures and bathroom mirrors.  Also discussed, the tough task of mixing different sized patterns in one room.  Pick up your issue today to see full coverage and all three project photos.

Wow, 2011 is officially here.  The beginning of a New Year is time to reflect and shoot for the stars in all that we do.  Some take to resolutions, I on the other hand, prefer to write goals and update the long term ones written in years past.  I thought it would be fun to share some of those goals with you since most of them relate to the design world.  Hopefully I’ve inspired some goal writing of your own.  

    1.  Become LEED certified - I planted the seed a year ago by taking the initial steps and classes.  I’m ready to study and conquer! 

    2.  Complete CEO certificate at FIT – I began taking classes last year and only have one class left.  I’ve learned some great new ideas for my business.  

    3.   Custom Furniture Design - I’ve been developing product designs for furniture and lighting and want to refine the initial set so I can begin discussing with manufacturers. 

    4.  Run the NYC Marathon – Training has begun and I’m excited…just as long as I stay injury free.  I’m in full recruitment mode so plan your excuses. 

    5.  Win Another Award – It’s addicting and I’d like to get another award wining project under my belt.  Will it be yours?

    6.  LED Lighting Education- It’s on the books for April 19th.  The focus is using LED’s for the home.  Class is being offered by NY School of Interior Design.  There is so much to learn from this ever evolving technology.

    7.  Have More Fun – I love what I do and I plan to enjoy it more this year by continuing to be creative and spreading the enthusiasm with my clients. 

    8.  Take Up Another Photography Class - I love photography!  I’ve taken one class already but the skills still need improvement…so many technicalities for me to learn. 

    9.  Learn the Art of Wine – I’ve long enjoyed a good glass but I’d like to understand the differences in the regions.

   10.  Give Back – I will mentor young designers or volunteer throughout the Denver and NYC communities.  If you have any suggestions please forward them.

Here’s wishing you a beautiful 2011.  Share each moment with those you love and never take a minute for granted.  Cheers!

The evenings are too quick to set in this time of year.  It’s 2:30 and looks as if it’s about to snow…the light in my office feels dreary.  Perhaps, you too, need a quick fix.  Below are some great table and floor lamps that may help us through these hibernating-inducing days.    These put a smile on my face. 

Dress by Foscarini

Zig Zag by Terzani

Duck Feet Lamp by Porta Romana

Cut floor lamp by Anta

Drink Lamp by Quintus