Grey Oaks Models Open
Hibiscus & Wisteria Model Homes Now Open
Collins & DuPont Interior Design
Grey Oaks Country Club
Homes by Gulfshore Homes
Architect by Alberto Abad, New Architectura
Two new model homes with interior design by Collins & DuPont are now open at Grey Oaks Country Club in the picturesque neighborhoods of Miramonte and Torino.
In the Hibiscus (above) in Miramonte, we’ve mixed traditional with contemporary for a simplified, clean and elegant lifestyle. With 3,777-square-feet, the Hibiscus has three-bedrooms, 3.5 baths, formal living and dining rooms, family room, gourmet-island kitchen, library/study, pool, and outdoor kitchen and spa.
Hibiscus Model Home
2237 Miramonte Court, Naples, FL 34105
Grey Oaks Realty, (239) 262-5557
Collins & DuPont Interior Design
2237 Miramonte Court, Naples, FL 34105
Grey Oaks Realty, (239) 262-5557
The Wisteria model in the Torino neighborhood has 2,897 square feet under air with a spacious master suite, two guest bedrooms, 3.5 baths, formal dining room, gallery hallway, library/study, large island kitchen, and a great room that opens to a lanai and pool. Plus, a two-car garage, golf cart garage and outdoor kitchen.
Wisteria Model Home
2087 Rivoli Court, Naples, FL 34105
Grey Oaks Realty, (239) 262-5557
Wicker Furniture: Stylish & Durable
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LIVING IN STYLE
If you live in Southwest Florida you probably spend time on your lanai or other outdoor areas for entertaining and other gatherings. Some of our clients are planning ahead for “season,” wanting to know what to do about replacing outdoor seating groups. Our advice? Take a good look at wicker furniture because you’ll probably like what you see.
Be sure to select furniture built with aluminum frames for long-lasting results. Some companies manufacture their pieces with a weather-resistant resin and powder-coated frames for the best protection against rust and harmful ultraviolet rays. You may also want an environmentally friendly wicker weave that is 100 percent recyclable, with the added benefit of being able to withstand torrential rain and relentless sunshine.
As for cushion fabrics for chairs or chaise lounges, some manufacturers use an acrylic material, making them a good choice to guard against fading and mildew. This type of cushion also makes spot-cleaning quick and easy.
This French pedigree style of seating is causal enough for poolside placement, yet can also be positioned in other areas to help keep your outdoor spaces looking refined and luxurious. Plus, wicker comes in a variety of distinctive shapes and sizes that can complement any lifestyle needs.
For more tips and tactics, give us a call or contact us now. Or just stop in, have a seat and we’ll chat!
Collins & DuPont Wins Grand Aurora Awards
Designers win both Aurora and Grand Aurora Awards
Joanna Drake, Renee Gaddis & Lana Knapp
Collins & DuPont Interior Design won three Aurora Awards and two Grand Aurora Awards at the recent Southeastern Builder’s Conference in Orlando, announced co-owners Kim Collins and Sherri DuPont.
The nationally recognized Aurora Awards honor builders, planners, architects, developers, designers, interior merchandisers and other housing-related professionals within a 12-state region stretching from Texas to Virginia.
Collins and DuPont were presented with the following:
Two Aurora Awards and one Grand Aurora were won for Interior Merchandising and Interior Detailing for the Coastal Retreat model home at Moraya Bay in Naples. The home was designed by Renee Gaddis, ASID, GREEN, AP and built by C.R. Smith, LLC.
An Aurora and Grand Aurora Award in the Remodeling, Rehabilitation or Historical Restoration category for a private residence in Bonita Bay, designed by Lana Knapp, ASID and built by Palladino Custom Homes, LLC.
The Aurora Award competition is open to builders, architects, interior designers, landscape architects and other home building professionals in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Delaware, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia.
Grey Oaks Models Opening Soon
Grey Oaks Models Set for Summer Opening |
Two new model homes at Grey Oaks Country Club with interior design by Collins & DuPont are scheduled to open in July and August. The homes are located in the picturesque neighborhoods of Miramonte and Torino, each offering one- and two-story luxury villas.
The Hibiscus model home in Miramonte is expected to be open by the end of July. For the interior, we’ve created a mix of contemporary and traditional styles for a transitional look and feel. The furnishings are traditional, while the backgrounds are simplified, clean and elegant. With 3,777-square-feet, the Hibiscus has three-bedrooms, 3.5 baths, formal living and dining rooms, family room, gourmet-island kitchen, library/study, pool, and optional outdoor kitchen and spa.
In the Torino neighborhood, the Wisteria model home is scheduled to be open for you to tour by the end of August. Like the Hibiscus model home, the Wisteria also has a transitional interior design but our designers have added some coastal sophistication elements for a lighter, more airy lifestyle. This home offers 2,897 square feet under air with a master suite and guest bedrooms, 3.5 baths, formal dining room, great room, library/study, pool, and optional outdoor kitchen and spa.
To arrange a personal tour of either home, contact Grey Oaks Realty at
(239) 262-5557.
Both models are being built by Gulfshore Homes. The Ronto Group is the developer of the Miramonte & Torino neighborhoods located off Airport-Pulling Road in Naples.
Virtual Tour of Estuary Residence designed by Collins & DuPont and available to purchase from Premier Sotheby’s
Estuary Virtual Tour of 1275 Osprey Trail (click here)
Please enjoy the virtual tour of this recently listed home in the Estuary at Grey Oaks at 1275 Osprey Trail. Collins & DuPont designed by Sherri DuPont , this custom home features exquisite detail and custom designs that were the result of great team work between the owners and designer, as well as the architect and builder for this marvelous masterpiece. Listed by Premier Sotheby’s International Realty, the on-site sales team at Estuary can assist you with further information and arrange for your private appointment to view this residence. Please contact the sales center directly at 239.261.3148.
Naples Casamore Virtual Tour
Casa Bella Vita Model at Naples Casamore
Enjoy the stunning detail and superb decor from Collins & DuPont Interior Design with the new Casa Bella Vita model at Naples Casamore offering sweeping views of the Gulf of Mexico and Hurricane Harbor. Developed by Gulf Shore Development II, designed by Stofft Cooney Architects and built by BCB Homes, this prestigious power team has surpassed the expectations for these luxurious Caribbean styled homes offering three generous floor plans ranging in size from 3743 to over 4100 square feet of air conditioned space and total space from 6500 to over 8000 square feet. Each residence is complete with a custom swimming pool and spa, boat dock , four car garage and private beach access. All in the heart of Naples just steps away from quaint shopping, charming art galleries, entertainment and fabulous dining. For sales information please contact Premier Sothebys International Realty at 239-963-4242 or visit the web at www.naplescasamore.com
New model opening at Naples Casamore
Collins & DuPont completed the design of their newest model at Naples Casamore, announced co-owners Kim Collins and Sherri DuPont.
The 6,008 total square foot Casa Bella Vita model features a transitional design created by the design team of Kim Collins, Lana Knapp and Alina Olinger. The design uses soft neutrals of sand and taupe, blended with ocean blues, sea greens and warm whites. Accents of rich brown provide eye-catching contrast as do the detail provided by patterned fabrics, styles and textures in strategic areas.
Naples Casamore is a private enclave of twelve detached grand estate homes, each with its own private boat slip, in-ground pool and spa, located at the Moorings and Coquina Sands boundary, just south of the Edgewater Hotel on Gulf Shore Blvd in Olde Naples.
The community is being developed by Gulfshore Development II, LLC, built by BCB Homes, and designed by Stofft Cooney Architects. Rothchilds International Realty is the marketing agent. Model previews are available daily at 1754 Gulf Shore Blvd North and by appointment. Please contact the sales center at 239.687.3226 or visit www.naplescasamore.com.
Fashion Art by Cheryl Draa
Anne Gelbard is a name mostly associated with the Paris Fashion scene, but she has recently transitioned to the Interior Design world. While she still designs fabulous fabrics for Christian Dior and other famous clothing designers, she is wowing the interior design field with unusual feather panel screens, lampshades, and wall panels.
I toured her studio in Paris and was struck by the beauty of her product. I was also inspired by her business acumen. Anne Gelbard is one of the few designers who has successfully competed in both fields. While I was there, one of her artists (maybe artistic lab technician is a better term) worked on dying swarovski crystals on fabric to give the fabric a shimmery, tie-dyed effect. They were infusing the crystals with color, and the effect was indeed stunning.
Stunning also was the feather fabric panels she was designing. Purchasing yards and yards of the fabric would be very costly, but a small piece framed makes an exquisite piece of art. I could just imagine a home with that hanging in a dining room for texture and visual stimulation. Imagine having a one of a kind piece of art by a modern day fashion designer! The fabrics were exquisite.
For an even smaller purchase, the fabrics were transitioned into a lampshade. Modern day art and texture, rolled into a practical purchase make the perfect gift. Anne Gelbard has accomplished turning a piece of fashion into affordable art for the home.
For more information on Anne Gelbard: http://www.annegelbard.com/interior-creations/feathers-wallcovering/
Tour Moraya Bay’s New Coastal Retreat Model
Cozy Coastal Retreat
Take a personal tour of Moraya Bay’s newest condominium designed by Renee Gaddis of Collins & DuPont. Renee created an inspiring coastal retreat, blending color palettes of the beach, the Gulf of Mexico and nature, all in full view from this spectacular third-level unit.
Collins & DuPont Completes Clubhouse Design at Bonita Bay
The newly refurbished and renovated main clubhouse at Bonita Bay in Bonita Springs is now open, featuring new interior design by Collins and DuPont. The 55,000-square-foot facility has several other upgrades, including a reconstructed entryway with waterfall, new driveway pavers, outdoor seating areas and enhanced landscaping.
Naples Casamore Model Opening Soon
This luxurious 6,008-square-foot home on Gulf Shore Boulevard in Old Naples with interior design by Collins & DuPont will open soon for you to tour. You’ll want to make time to see the fabulous interior design by Kim Collins, Lana Knapp and Alina Olinger. Construction is expected to be completed in April.1754 Gulf Shore Blvd. North
Frey Studios, Paris France
Cheryl Draa and Patrick Frey
Exclusively Pierre Frey (by Cheryl Draa)
Recently I was privileged to tour the Paris France design studio of Pierre Frey. They are by nature a fabric and furnishing house but have an eclectic selection of prints and woven fabrics. . By their own admission, Pierre Frey studios get their inspiration from a fable, a building in Paris, a mythological animal or a window display. They specialize in damasks, jacquards and moirés using luxurious silk, elegant linen and even cashmere. Most of their fabrics are still made at the company’s own production unit in Northern France….which guarantees exclusivity.
My tour started in the public design studios….where anyone can walk in off the streets and ask for samples, or help making window treatments. Seems this is the norm in Paris. They are assigned a designer from the local studios that can help them once they find their own fabrics. (Dangerous if you ask me…because while everyone thinks they are a designer….we all know they are not). Patrick Frey, Pierre’s son who now runs the show, met my group personally at the door with coffee and a warm “Bonjour!” He proudly showed us the new line of fabrics that they just released for 2011 and gave us a brief history of the company, and their vision for the future. The selection in the studio is fabulous, and I was excited to see the new colors and patterns of the future.
2012 Fabrics
I happened to be in Paris during one of the transportation strikes, so we walked everywhere that day. No worries, temperature was in the 70’s and not a cloud in the sky, and it was Paris! Patrick led us down the street several blocks, guiding us through the maze of close streets proudly proclaiming the beauty of Paris…and it is indeed a beautiful city. Since many families have owned the buildings for hundreds of years, the owners by law are required to make continual updates to their buildings…pressure wash, fix tiles, anything that needs done, every 15 years. The major cities of the US look dirty to me by comparison now. Patrick himself led us from the public design studio to where the magic takes place. His private offices and archive studio.
Patrick Frey in Paris
Since 2003, Patrick and his staff have collected over 30,000 documents dating from the 16th century. They are contacted by museums all over the world for information on colors/fabrics. It is here in the archive studio that Patrick’s passion for fabric, and the designs on them really came to light, and I was most fascinated seeing all the fabrics and hearing his stories. We discussed how the design on fabrics way back when had actually been drawn free hand by a small tool holding the colored inks. Then other less skilled artisans colored the design in by hand. Imagine how time consuming to get 21 yards of fabric that all looked the same! The most famous is perhaps the tree of life print…which started out as a tree with many branches stretching up….when they reached a certain point, the branches just stopped, and the artist started drawing another tree at the top. Imagine 120”panels today and the trouble with a repeat design on the fabrics. So to recreate the pattern for usage today, Patrick himself designed the transition, and uniformity of the design…then the artists in our computer age work with proportion, and colors on their computers to make sure when you receive that beautiful new print, you are not worried about the repeat matching or uneven patterns.
Patrick told stories of when Napoleon came into power, and how he changed everything in France from a Fleur-de- lis to the bumblebee….so all the fabrics had to be redone in the Palace at Versailles. Because of the time involved in doing all that by hand, Napoleon’s rule of 12 years was not enough….the fabrics were still in the workroom! Sometimes I hear concerns about how long it takes to get panels fabricated…..but certainly never 12 years!
Archived fabrics
Next we ventured into Patrick’s private offices where he showed us one of his personal favorites of the archives: a book dating back to the 16th century holding swatches of fabrics. Plaids, dots, patterns….all looked vaguely familiar to me, with just a color variation. It was then that I realized,” there is nothing new under the sun.” There are color changes from historical periods, such as the belief during Marie Antoinette’s time that emerald green walls in the bedroom are most soothing. But don’t some of you still like that bumblebee look? Or maybe you’ve seen the fleur-de-lis? Patrick’s artisans use the historical patterns for new inspirations, and I was privileged to see some of the latest versions of his new patterns. The new colors are set for 2012 and beyond….and the books are being laid out…fabrics coming together for new inspirations….and these exclusive patterns and colors (which are available here in the States) are available ONLY through your designer!
16th century fabrics with Stylus used to add color
Kim’s visit to charming Blantyre Estate
Curtains billow like ball gowns, framing the picturesque Massachusetts countryside. Gold-plated mirrors reflect the summer sun into every corner. Exquisite Tiffany lamps grace every tabletop, along with priceless Baccarat vases — all reflecting a time of gracious living at Blantyre Estate.
Nestled in the Berkshire Hills of Western Massachusetts, Blantyre is one of America’s only Relais and Chateaux properties. Once a private home, the castle now serves as an exclusive inn that I was fortunate enough to visit with a dear friend this summer.
Called a “cottage” by the original owners in 1901, the home was meant to be a less formal version of a vacation home. Designed by architect Robert Henderson Robertson, the estate’s main building is replete with towers, turrets and gargoyles. The house was modeled after his mother’s ancestral home in Blantyre, Scotland.
The Music Room at Blantyre
In 1980, U.S. Senator Jack Fitzpatrick and his wife Jane fell in love with the abandoned Blantyre and purchased it for their daughter, Ann Fitzpatrick Brown, who became the eighth owner. Within one year, Ann had opened the inn.
We spent such a lovely and idyllic week at Blantyre, soaking in the atmosphere created by Ann and her innate sense of style. Many of the rooms have been restored to their former splendor, with pieces from the original owners. Every architectural detail from the interior mouldings, plaster cornices, pristine white ceilings, and darkly paneled walls was inspiring.
Kim Collins
Having visited this elegant estate once, I feel the need to return sooner than later. Mud Weeks in the springtime sounds fun. Perhaps I’ll take a class with Chef Christopher Brooks.
Living in Style
Barclay Buttera and Cheryl Draa
Living in Style, the Barclay Buttera Way
By Cheryl Draa
Barclay Buttera has always been an Interior Designer that I have admired for his classic taste in home design. He works out of Los Angeles, Newport Beach, Park City and New York. I recently bought a cabin in the mountains, so I’ve poured over pictures of some of his work in Park City for inspiration of my own. I am always pleased when I look at the body of work that he performs for his clients. They are cohesive looks pulled together with his own fabrics, accessories, upholstery, and careful placement of furnishings, art and rugs. The designs always inspire.
Kravet Fabrics has recently partnered with Barclay Buttera to have an exclusive line of fabrics available to designers. They launched his new book “Living in Style” and an introduction of the fabrics with a seminar led by Barclay and held in their showroom. I was privileged to attend the seminar and speak with him afterwards. Barclay titled his speech, “Keeping Clients For Life”…and I like him even more now. He stressed that if we do a great job with our clients, they want to keep working with us as their designer. So in theory, when a client moves to a new home, or downsizes, or right sizes…for whatever reason (and there are so many reasons) they will still come to their same interior designer for help on that next home. We build relationships with our clients that tend to last through several generations, and it becomes a mutually beneficial experience. I know personally, I have several clients who signed with me in their “starter home” and now 3 or 4 homes later, we all appreciate each other even more for what we can do for each other, and also how GOOD interior design can influence and change a home and affect the personalities that reside in that home.
I had a chance to ask Barclay Buttera what he was most proud of in his career. I really think he could have told me about one of his recent installs, or his licensing agreements, or his latest book. His answer impressed me with him as a businessman….”Having a company that feels like a family, and keeping that family in tack for over 20 years.” Here is a man who practices what he preaches. Not only do his clients have loyalty to him, but so do the people that form his business team. That is actually living in style. Surrounding your self with good people and good design to promote a mutually beneficial life.
Check out Barclay Buttera’s Book, “Living in Style” for more inspiration and beautiful fabrics available through Kravet, and your own personal designer. Form a relationship with that designer, to promote a stylish home for yourself. Take care of the people around you, and along the way, go out and live the good life!
Barclay Buttera has always been an Interior Designer that I have admired for his classic taste in home design. He works out of Los Angeles, Newport Beach, Park City and New York. I recently bought a cabin in the mountains, so I’ve poured over pictures of some of his work in Park City for inspiration of my own. I am always pleased when I look at the body of work that he performs for his clients. They are cohesive looks pulled together with his own fabrics, accessories, upholstery, and careful placement of furnishings, art and rugs. The designs always inspire.
Kravet Fabrics has recently partnered with Barclay Buttera to have an exclusive line of fabrics available to designers. They launched his new book “Living in Style” and an introduction of the fabrics with a seminar led by Barclay and held in their showroom. I was privileged to attend the seminar and speak with him afterwards. Barclay titled his speech, “Keeping Clients For Life”…and I like him even more now. He stressed that if we do a great job with our clients, they want to keep working with us as their designer. So in theory, when a client moves to a new home, or downsizes, or right sizes…for whatever reason (and there are so many reasons) they will still come to their same interior designer for help on that next home. We build relationships with our clients that tend to last through several generations, and it becomes a mutually beneficial experience. I know personally, I have several clients who signed with me in their “starter home” and now 3 or 4 homes later, we all appreciate each other even more for what we can do for each other, and also how GOOD interior design can influence and change a home and affect the personalities that reside in that home.
I had a chance to ask Barclay Buttera what he was most proud of in his career. I really think he could have told me about one of his recent installs, or his licensing agreements, or his latest book. His answer impressed me with him as a businessman….”Having a company that feels like a family, and keeping that family in tack for over 20 years.” Here is a man who practices what he preaches. Not only do his clients have loyalty to him, but so do the people that form his business team. That is actually living in style. Surrounding your self with good people and good design to promote a mutually beneficial life.
Check out Barclay Buttera’s Book, “Living in Style” for more inspiration and beautiful fabrics available through Kravet, and your own personal designer. Form a relationship with that designer, to promote a stylish home for yourself. Take care of the people around you, and along the way, go out and live the good life!
Top 10 Thou Shall Not….
Top 10
Thou Shall Not…..
- Work without a plan, both strategic and architectural.
- Forego a set budget on a whim.
- Design by committee (sorry girlfriends).
- Covet possessions just “because” you have it.
- Use “inferior” products to save money.
- Forget to consider Lifestyle to use.
- Omit the principles of scale and proportion.
- Overcrowd. Less, is often best.
- Forget to honor “dual purpose” and embrace function-ability as one.
- Overlook the positive effects of ambience lighting.
Whether your interior design project is of a large or small scale, please keep these top 10 guidelines as part of your process and consideration…not just at the start, but throughout the process to keep you on the road to success. You’ll be glad you did when your project is complete!
Calascio
Harwick Homes and Collins & DuPont Interior Design teamed together and were inspired by the California countryside in creating the Calascio model. Located in the upscale Naples community of the Estuary at Grey Oaks, you will find it nestled on the 5th hole of the Estuary championship golf course offering panoramic views of the lake. This spacious home offers 4 bedrooms plus den and 4 ½ bathrooms under 4942 square foot of air conditioned space and over 7300 total square feet. Outdoor living is grand for entertaining family and friends with over 1200 square feet of covered lanai complete with a summer kitchen, fireplace, swimming pool and raised spa.
The Calascio is offered furnished and available for immediate occupancy. For more information please contact the Estuary Sales Center at 239.261.3148. For your new construction, remodel or renew of your home, contact Collins & DuPont to assist you in turning your space into timeless designs of gracious living at 239.948.2400.
Naples Casamore Broker Grand Opening Event
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Naples Casamore Broker Grand Opening Event
June 9th kicked off the first of many planned Broker Happy Hour events at the all new Naples Casamore. The developer team for Gulfshore Development II, LLC are Daniel Whitefield, Grigory Levinzon & Ryan Lang, who were all in attendance for the broker grand opening event on site located at 1754 Gulf Shore Blvd North just south of the Edgewater Hotel in Olde Naples. Also in attendance along with Collins & DuPont Interior Design were Rothchilds International Realty the project and marketing agents, BCB Homes the builder, and Stofft Cooney the architect for the private enclave of 12 detached grand estate homes, each with it’s own private boat slip and in-ground pool and spa.
The Collins & DuPont model at Naples Casamore will open in February 2011 and will feature a Luxury Coastal design theme. This theme fits the community and its location in the heart of Olde Naples. The model is the largest of three floor plans available and will face the canal and boat slips. Pricing starts at $3,995,000 with total square feet of 5941 to 6413. For more information please contact Rothchilds International Realty at 239.687.3226 or visit the web at www.naplescasamore.com.
Celebrity Design Contributors
Collins & DuPont Interior Design is pleased to announce that we will be hosting “Celebrity Design Contributors” for our blog from designers around the United States.
This month we are proud to feature our first contributor, Ms. Cheryl Draa of Marietta, Georgia. She is the owner of
Cheryl Draa Interior Designs. Please enjoy her article on “Summer Trends” which was inspired by her spring visit to the mini market in Atlanta and Joe Ruggerio.
Summer Trends
Summer brings a whole new attitude adjustment in home interiors. I find that as the sun shines even brighter, it brings on an attitude of leisure and the feeling that life in general moves at a slower pace. I find myself desiring to be surrounded with fabrics that have a luscious hand and are easy maintenance, both inside and outside of my home. I entertain more frequently and want the home to feel fresh and vibrant, echoing my guest’s laughter and the clanking of dishes. I’ve found some new fabrics that contribute to that look and the feeling of comfort that I want my guests to experience.
I had a preview recently of fabrics that are exclusive to the design trade. Kravet and Lee Jofa have beautiful embroidered linens and cottons that have an exquisite hand and luscious colors. The texture is fabulous, with the embroidery overlayed on the linens. The new designer fabrics are crisp, clean looking and ready to coordinate an existing look by adding window treatments, or even just to freshen up a neutral sofa with new pillows that include fabulous trims. The summer trend for the interiors seems to be an embroidered stitch, whether an extravagant floral or fern (bringing the outside inside) incorporating many colors, or even just a wavy loop stitch over a clean but vibrant linen. Key interior summer trends are linen and embroidery, which showed up on the entire collection.
I recently had a preview of Joe Ruggerios new fabrics for Sunbrella. He was inspired by his travels in foreign countries, including Japan where he picked up on the vibrant “Japan Blue” that is so intense. He translated that intense blue into several of his outdoor fabrics. The color options in the outdoor fabric line have never been better. Along with the blue mentioned above, there are cool greens, and calming beiges in many textures and patterns. There are so many fresh colorings and new designs available in outdoor fabric that it makes me want to recover all my outdoor cushions! (And put out some of those embroidered linen pillows on my enclosed porch). I know that with the Sunbrella name behind them they have a warranty against loss of fabric and color strength from sunlight, mildew and “atmospheric chemicals”. Imagine a fabric that you can really hose off if your barbeque lands on it! No more worrying about the dog landing on the sofa, or a small child’s dirty feet!! Key term for outdoor summer trends is ease of maintenance and fresh new color. Look around your outdoor living spaces and see which cushions need new life to them. The fabrics can also be made into panels that can be hung from outdoor (meaning weather proof) hardware giving privacy or filtering the sun as needed.
Now let’s tie the trends all together. Imagine a velvet sofa on the interior of your home…with the Sunbrella warranty. Even though the velvet is an outdoor fabric, it has the soft touch needed for indoor usage allowing us to entertain without constantly fearing what may land on it. (I had this fabric in my hands, never guessing at the beginning it was an outdoor fabric). Then imagine you have a beautiful embroidered linen that is loosely drawn across the windows to filter the sun as you read the morning paper, your back pressed up against the down pillows in a coordinating embroidered linen, when suddenly, the dog bounds across the room jumping up on you, spilling your coffee all over the velvet. No worries. You just pick it up and wipe with a damp cloth, because it is a Sunbrella fabric. Now you are ready to entertain inside or out in a beautiful home.
The main summer trend I predict…..no worries….because you planned ahead and used the right fabrics. Now is the perfect time to start working with your interior designer on the outdoor ease of living everywhere in your home. Plan now for a fresh start to a worry free summer….and in Florida, outdoor living is year round!
Collins & DuPont Open House Event
A New Life for Old Fabric Samples
A dirty secret of any interior design studio is how many of discontinued fabric and wallcovering samples end up in the garbage. It’s always hard to find a creative reuse for these samples, no matter how beautiful they are – after all, you can only make so many throw pillows before they take on a life of their own – and take over your sofa!
I recently read about the School Resource Center at the Lee County Schools Foundation, located on Second Street between Jackson and Hendry Streets in downtown Fort Myers. The dedicated staff at the School Resource Center collect corporate and individual donations of school supplies, art supplies, books, and classroom materials. Lee County teachers can “shop” for free, getting much needed supplies for their classrooms and their students. Most classroom teachers purchase supplies for their students on their own dime, so the Resource Center fills a great need.
When Collins & DuPont’s resource library had a sizable number of fabric sample books to discard, I thought they might enjoy a new life in classroom art projects. This afternoon, I’m taking our second car load of sample books to the Resource Center. The teachers are happy, our design librarian is happy, and we did our part to “reduce, reuse, and recycle!”
To make a donation, or for more information, call the Resource Center at 239-337-0433.
Speed Racer Sherri
Move over Danica Patrick , Sherri DuPont has gotten a taste of the racing world and she likes it! Sherri has always had a need for speed. In her high school and university days she used to race Camaros with her father on the East Coast of Florida.
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