Lighter and Brighter

Here is another design idea that appeared recently in one of Expert Advice submissions to the St. Pete Times!

Exposed brick can be beautiful in the right setting. But there are instances where a brick fireplace or a brick wall can seem somewhat heavy or forbidding.

This room had been completely refurbished, but when you stood back to look at it, all you could really see was a dark brick fireplace. It almost seemed like a "black hole" in the living room. By painting it the same color as the trim in the room, it suddenly fit into the room decor as a complement rather than a single focal point. It also brought appropriate attention to the built-in cabinets on either side.

Swallow your fear! Brick painting is a little tricky because of the texture, but a good, long-nap roller can help. All masonry should also be primed using a special primer in order for the paint to adhere and cover properly.

It might be just the thing to lift the spirits in the room!

As Seen In The Paper

For the past several months, Interior Spaces has been a regular contributor to the Expert Advice column, printed in the Home Section of the St. Petersburg Times most Saturdays. I thought it would be fun, periodically, to share some of the ideas we send in that are picked up, for those who don't catch them in the paper.

Green Idea: Metal/Glass Tops for Tables and Mantles

Don’t throw older furniture pieces away. Update your favorites. Sometimes a quick—and removable—top can refresh a small table, nightstand or your mantle. We’ve used stainless steel, bent like a box-lid—sometimes as a solid piece, sometimes combined with glass—to bring a “today” look to yesterday’s keeper. It’s just dropped on.

Most metal shops—in this case Hillsboro Sheet Metal (813-252-5191)—are more than capable of following your sketch for fabrication. Glass shops, too, can provide the square insets. Make sure all edges are “eased” for safe handling.

We also had these bedside tables painted with a high-gloss automotive finish. This is another fun way to add a fresh perspective to existing furniture. Most automotive shops can help you with this.

These are simple treatments, but transformative!

I'd love to hear what you think of these tips.