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Ole Decor Magazine

Autumn Arrangements

by Ole Decor Magazine October 15, 2018

written by Ole Decor Magazine

“Fall in love with Fall”

Written By Kathryne Pulkingham

We love this time of year, as the weather cools and the colors start to change. An Autumn arrangement, whether it be a fresh rosemary wreath for your front door or fireplace, can make the season feel special and festive. A beautiful gathering of greenery, small grasses and orange and yellow flowers con-jures up memories and traditions from days of old with family and friends at this time of year.

You could think of it like decorating a room … with color, texture and form. Branches and kingwood torch adorned on a wall of your outside facade or porch with different colored gourds, pumpkins and leaves and everything fall, welcomes everyone who passes the threshold as an invita-tion to the coming season. Perhaps your favorite ornaments from younger years, such as little wooden birds or owls, could be incorporated into your arrangements within your inside decor as well. A carved out pumpkin serves as a great vase for your fall flower arrangements.

“Add a billowy bow to bring more dimension or even a rustic, burlap type ribbon for a perfect finishing touch. It’s a door Delight!”

Pumpkins are my favorite fall decorating element, too. Try using both real and faux together for a beautiful dis-play. When mixing, real with faux, gather them in a lovely low-sided basket or tray for added texture. Tiny pumpkins perched on top of candlesticks low and short will give you multiple levels. I suggest grouping pumpkins in threes, lining them on your mantel or a shelf. Remember pumpkins look best alongside other fall elements. They play nicely with acorns, leaves, moss and pinecones. Just make sure to add these beautiful gifts of autumn to your decor and enjoy them while they last.

A carved jack-o-lantern with a candle inside is fun for kids of all ages. Perhaps you could hang or nuzzle into your fall arrangements a small chalkboard with the words gather, harvest or Autumn written on it. If you live on or near the beach, sea oats would be wonderful or maybe even a scare crow holding them would be oh so festive! Hosting a dinner party? Your guests will love to see a little white pumpkin sitting atop the napkin at their place setting. The main thing is to have fun and be festive with your autumn arrangements. The possibilities are endless and it’s all up to your personal style and flair and that’s the fun! So go ahead and fall in love with Fall!

If you’re not a fan of orange or the other traditional colors of the season you could decorate with pumpkins of neutral colors. I like to add fresh greenery like seeded eucalyptus or olive branches. I think even though you’re look-ing for neutrals, a little green can really help give your fall decor some extra excitement. Throw in some faux gold pumpkins for a bit of glam! A grapevine wreath for your front door is always nice, but here’s the secret: They are actu-ally using two grapevine wreaths. All you need to do is wire the two wreaths together on top of each other. Use tiny gray galvanized wire so it won’t be seen. As for embellishments, feathers are a nice choice, they are both natural and interesting and all this will give you a full and lush-looking grapevine wreath.

October 15, 2018 0 comments

Decorating With

ART IN ARCHITECTURE

by Ole Decor Magazine August 13, 2018

written by Ole Decor Magazine

Throughout the past few thousand years this world has seen countless efforts and combinations of architecture and art.

Written By Lynn Walker Hoverson

In 2018, without leaving the Rio Grande Valley of South Texas you can, and quite likely have seen several examples of Architecture Embellished with Art.

Doctor’s Hospital Renaissance complex in Edinburg, Texas has especially fine modern details. DHR’s many facilities which were built by Cantu Construction Company have been “decorated” with variations of a famous image known as the Vitruvian Man.

If you are viewing this magazine online or in print, chances are very good that you have an interest in architecture, art or both. We count on you enjoying the pretty pictures! Maybe you are deeply interested in or invested in one or more of these fascinating endeavors of creative people or you happen to be a talented person. These special areas of human activity are often reflected in one another and have been interrelated through the ages. Time periods, eras and styles have overlapped. It is difficult to pinpoint single days that mark the exact moment that one Time period ended and the other began, simultaneously. Some architectural structures, writings and artworks have survived the ravages of Time better
than others.

“ Some architectural structures, writings and artworks have survived the ravages of Time better than others. ”

Throughout the past few thousand years this world has seen countless efforts and combinations of architecture and art. There is plenty of existing, yet ancient residue of this. Maybe you are fortunate enough to have traveled the world and seen, in person, some of the great surviving ancient architecture and art; or if not, hopefully, you have viewed and enjoyed awesome videos and photographs of them online.

While you enjoy electronic viewing of those kinds of treasures, try having the perspective of an anthropologist, who is searching for what makes us human and you just might feel a little like you are Time Traveling.

Imagine if visiting in the past of human history is as easy as taking a stroll down a covered two-way sidewalk that is demarcated by cracks, dividing into partitions with each major section representing one hundred years.

Which time period would you choose to visit? Not sure? As your present literary guide for this imaginary, artistic, architectural adventure, let me suggest one of my favorite eras of the past: the Italian Renaissance which lasted approximately 300-400 years beginning in the 14th century (1400 A.D.).

So, six hundred years ago, when people were actually living in Italy during that very active era of extreme cultural changes,
the term, “The Renaissance” had not yet been formed and applied to those times. In the year 1856 a Frenchman named Jacob Burckhardt wrote a book titled THE CIVILIZATION OF THE RENAISSANCE IN ITALY. Also, a French historian, Jules Michelle, used the term in his writings in 1858. French military invasions of Italy beginning in the 1400s began to play a part in the exposure to the expressive and expanding culture of that energetic Italian era.

Now that we have those Time era descriptions identified and established are you ready to go to Italy?

OK! Let’s jump onto that imaginary, magic sidewalk that was mentioned earlier and make it go straight to Florence, Italy in 1466 into the very fine workshop of the artist known then as Verrocchio, where fourteen-year-old Leonardo da Vinci was beginning his apprenticeship in the many fields of work in which he would excel. There he was to learn and acquire skills in these areas: metalwork, chemistry, plaster casting, leather working, mechanics, carpentry, painting, sculpting, modeling, drafting and drawing.

“ Throughout the past few thousand years this world has seen countless efforts and combinations of architecture and art. ”

The foundational training Leonardo received in addition to the talents he was born with served him well in his lifetime of extraordinary achievements. He filled notebooks throughout his life that contained writings and drawings of the vast amount of things he observed and studied.

Leonardo da Vinci also spent time in Rome. Sometime before he drew his Vitruvian Man, he made a note in one of his books about where he could obtain a copy of a multi-volume work by a Roman man generally referred to as “The First Roman Architect”, Marcus Vitruvius Polonius.

Vitruvius, as he is known, was alive during the first century B.C., almost 1500 yeas before Leonardo was participating in the fueling of the Italian Renaissance. For Leonardo and his peers, Vitruvius’ original, illustrated, Latin language volumes were considered the lone survivor of architecture books from classical antiquity and were known as De Architectura. On the paper that Leonardo drew the Vitruvian Man, he also inked notes about Vitruvius who served in the Roman military under Caesar Augustus.

It is easy to believe that Leonardo studied the guiding principles of design found in the works of Vitruvius. Artists, craftspeople, engineers, architects, scholars, philosophers and other people of the Italian Renaissance were seeking beauty, truth balance and order, striving to rise above some of the less-enlightened, prior times in history.

In 1519 in France, Leonardo da Vinci died, leaving works of art and technology for this world to be inspired by. Leonardo’s home and villa, Chateau du Clos Luce, where he was living during his final years, is available for sale now in the 21st century after being renovated. Great photos of it are on thegoodlifefrance.com

When you are back safe, in the reality of 2018, look for more about the Vitruvian Man on sites such as:

• leonardodavinci.net

• museumsinflorence.com

• gallerieaccademia.it

De Architectura is now known as the TEN BOOKS ON ARCHITECTURE and has been translated into English. It can be purchased online.

August 13, 2018 0 comments

Indoor/Outdoor Living

The Value of Landscaping

by Ole Decor Magazine August 13, 2018

written by Ole Decor Magazine

When a buyer sees beautiful, well-planned landscaping the assumption is that the rest of the home is equally as spectacular, hence the power of landscaping!

Written By Glenn Simpson

The first impression a buyer gets from a home is from the landscaping. Before they ever see the home, their eyes are drawn to the lawn, trees, and gardens that frame the home. That first impression is priceless and should do two things:

• Shorten the time that the unit is on the market.

• Optimize the return on the investment in that unit.

When a buyer sees beautiful, well-planned landscaping and features such as a state of the art outdoor fireplace and high-end pavers, they develop an assumption that the rest of the home is equally as spectacular. Research has shown that the highest return on investment in preparing a home for sale is in the outdoor living spaces, especially landscaping. To properly understand the value of investing in outdoor spaces one must view it in two aspects. One is for the aesthetics of the home in its entirety and the second is a user-friendly outdoor
living space.

The homeowners of today desire to extend their living area and that is why they choose to create outdoor living spaces. Landscaping can be thought of as a room without a roof. When you think of it in those terms it is easy to understand why backyard renovations have a high return on investment. Most homeowners start yard projects without considering the potential impact they could have when they eventually sell the home. By proper planning they can not only enjoy their day to day use of a beautifully designed yard but get a handsome return on the dollars they spent when it is time to sell.

“ The homeowners of today desire to extend their living area and that is why they choose to create outdoor living spaces. ”

So, what is the best investment to improve appearance and return on those investments? One must remember that just planting vegetation because there is space is not the same as planting for current appearance and how the vegetation will flow when it matures. Many times, a little professional assistance in the early stages can yield a great benefit in the later stages of planting. Trees are one of the things that increase in value over time. Planting small trees is a better investment over time. A sapling from a local nursery for $20 can be planted on the property and when mature that same tree can add $1,000 to $10,000 to the value of the home. That is an outstanding return on investment. On the other hand, if the planning for sale horizon is projected for three to five years, then planting a larger tree would be the best course of action. There may be a greater expense, but the full effect on the yard can be realized much quicker.

“ Proper placements of shrubs help frame the rest of the garden ”

Proper placements of shrubs help frame the rest of the garden and define certain areas and use. The mid-story* plants really bring the outdoor space together. They can add color, texture, and cover for certain support areas of the yard. They can lead you into a path or form a visual screen for the water management equipment needed for the garden. Shrubs harmonize the trees, flowers, and lawn creating that beautiful overall appearance.

Flower beds are a little more difficult to plan because many of the flowers that really make a landscape pop are annuals. By planting annuals beautiful spring flowers can add that splash of color that really sets off the entire yard. However, there is a downside. If a large part of the garden is planted in annuals that area will have to be replanted each year. This highlights the importance of good planning for combining perennials and annuals. Obtaining the pizazz that brings attention to the home and getting the best results from the investments is much less stressful when the gardening is not labor intensive.

The use of grasses is very important in developing the texture and dimension of the outdoor area. Although it is important to have a base layer which brings the spaces together, many times with lawn grasses, less is more. Lawn maintenance can be very intensive and expensive. The lawn’s purpose is to give the feeling of openness and define pathways. If too much of the yard is filled with grasses, it can give a stark appearance instead of having a desired, inviting warmth.

Although many neighborhoods require a pool to be competitive, adding a pool to an existing property can be a risky move. Studies have shown that when remodeling a home, for every dollar invested in an addition of a swimming pool, only 39 cents are returned when the home is sold. When considering a pool addition one must value their enjoyment and realize they will probably not be getting a great return on that part of their investment.

It is a struggle to quantify the exact return. Some claim as much as 150%. That seems a bit optimistic, but not out of the question. I owned one home that had been on the market for nine months. It appraised at $486,000 which was less than I needed for the home. So, I brought in a landscape planner who did a great professional job. The cost for his services of planning, planting and landscaping was about $6700. When the house went back on the market it sold in 2 weeks for $510,000. The increase in value was great, but the rapid sale was truly an added benefit. Many times improving the landscaping brings such an added return.

Real estate agents have found that home buyers are more excited about touring a house that looks inviting on the outside than one that is sad and dreary unless they were focused on buying a fixer-upper. Factors vary relating to the exact return on investment that may be realized. The consistent benefits of getting the client in the home with a positive impression will increase the value and rapid sale of any home.

Perhaps the best way to think of the landscaping is to equate it to staging for the outside of the property for the same desired result as staging the inside. Although, extensive landscaping could be negatively viewed by a potential buyer as a possibility for requiring excessive and costly maintenance.

Several minor changes can bring big benefits:

• Keeping the yard free of weeds entails some labor but it is easy, if done on a regular basis.

• The front door may need some potted plants to frame the setting and add a splash of color to the entrance.

• Planted areas benefit from mulching which gives a nice and well-kept appearance.

• Obviously, mowing is critical for that best first impression.

• Dry or wilted plants and grass may give the buyer the impression that the entire home might not be maintained.

“ By planting annuals beautiful spring flowers can add that splash of color that really sets off the entire yard. ”

Despite not being able to pin down an exact ROI from landscaping, the positive first impression of a home can mean the difference between a buyer just driving by or stopping to take a closer look. Just like the importance of making a good first impression when meeting someone new, with a little attention to the landscaping of your home, you can increase your chances of a better outcome when selling your home.

If changes are needed to best present the home, I suggest hiring a reputable designer for recommendations. Do not over plant but also, do not cut too many corners.

A nice home with a fresh appearance will sell quickly and at the best price possible.

August 13, 2018 0 comments

Magnificent Homes

A Perfect Blend

by Ole Decor Magazine August 13, 2018

written by Ole Decor Magazine

Mediterranean and modern. You love the casual elegance of a classic Mediterranean home, but you are also attracted to the geometric shapes and clean lines of modern design.

Written by Linda Lewis. Photography by Chris Casperson

Innovation occurs when two seemingly dissimilar styles become seamlessly integrated into a new hybrid. Let’s say you are torn between the two architectural styles that are currently the most popular in the Rio Grande Valley: Mediterranean and modern. You love the casual elegance of a classic Mediterranean home, but you are also attracted to the geometric shapes and clean lines of modern design. There is a solution to this conflict: combine them. Our feature home, by Castle Bridge Homes, does just this by effortlessly pairing old world charm with new-age aesthetics.

Mediterranean design is an eclectic mix of ideas culled from countries that border the Mediterranean Sea but particularly from Spain, France, and Italy. Design elements, from these countries, are applied to the home’s exterior. Large windows, a low-pitched hip roof, stone accents, and stucco are commingled with the geometry of the modern design. There are no curvilinear elements like arches. Windows are tall narrow rectangles. Bump-outs on exterior walls create a Tuscan look. Traditionally, Tuscans added extra rooms to their homes over time, with each addition having its own roof. This gave the home a unique character. Our home’s exterior reflects this tradition by adding bump-outs that resemble towers, to the facade. Each bump-out is topped with its own roof, creating a complex of roofs that are covered in ceramic barrel tiles.

“The Oversized front door Provides a visual cue for what will be seen inside the home”

The facade is composed of three areas: left, right and center. Each area contains three tall rectangles. A unifying element of
horizontal bars is placed somewhere within each area. The rectangles are inset with windows or alcoves, or combinations of the two. Windows are combinations of single hung and fixed glass and relatively free of mullions. A few have horizontal bars to keep the style fresh. The overall effect of these geometric forms is the creation of interesting patterns, enhanced by the interplay of light and shadow. The vertical lines cause a rhythmic movement from one element to the next. All these elements result in a balanced asymmetrical design.

The oversized front door provides a visual cue for what will be seen inside the home. A path of cement rectangles leads the way, and together they create a strong focal point. This door would be a point of pride for any homeowner. Entering through a door like this will be an experience that people will talk about.

The selection of a pivot door grabs your attention immediately because the language is unmistakably modern. A “pivot door” refers to a swinging door that rotates on a spindle that is placed within the door. This creates a different swing pattern than a hinged door. When the door is opened, there is a space on either side. The spaces depend upon where the spindle is placed in the door, and that depends upon the width of the door. Pivot doors are normally larger and heavier than typical hinged doors. The door is constructed of a large steel frame, wood panel insert, and horizontal etched glass windows for privacy. There is also a two-foot tall glass transom above the eight-foot door.

Where the exterior can be described as transitional (something between traditional and modern) the interior is primarily modern, but with a distinctive application of RGV design elements. Modernism is a global architecture and design movement that emerged in the 1920s as a response to accelerated industrialization and social changes. This philosophy emphasized function, simplicity, and rationality, functionality and created new forms of expression with a fresh aesthetic.

This resulted in buildings characterized by clean lines, simple geometric shapes, pure cubic forms, ribbon windows, flat roofs, and functional, flexible open interior spaces with plain exposed structures that were considered appropriate for all nations and cultures.

“The Vertical Lines cause a rhythmic movement from one element to the next. All these elements result in a balanced asymmetrical design.”

The RGV is a treasure trove of mid-century modern design. Architect Merle Simpson designed the Hidalgo County Courthouse and local artist and art patron Ann Maddox Moore’s home. Max Burkhart built structures utilizing state of the art materials such as “tilt-wall” concrete panels. The Burkhart Home in McAllen is typical of modern houses, in that the whole site is treated as the living area, not just the interior.

You can see examples of modern architecture influenced by Mexican architect Luis Barragán around the valley. Most evident, are buildings that have been painted in bright colors. While he was influenced by European modernism, he ultimately rejected the concept of “functionalism,” stating that a house should not be a “machine for living.” Instead, he strove for an “emotional architecture” and stressed the importance of serenity. Barragán always used raw materials such as stone or wood. He combined them with an original and dramatic use of light, both natural and artificial. His preference for hidden light sources gives his interiors a particularly subtle and lyrical atmosphere. I believe it is safe to say that today’s students of architecture are influenced by history, but ultimately strive to develop their own unique designs.

“ The architects did not constrain themselves to one style, the structure can be considered to be a contemporary home. ”

That is particularly evident in this Castle Bridge Home. Light from large picture windows, on the back side of the house, floods the all-white walls and floors of the foyer and high vertical walls of the living spaces. Furnishings are minimal and modern in design. Colors in the formal living area are gray and white with shiny materials such as chrome, glass and polished stone. A bright-red sofa, in the informal living area, breaks the monochromatic color palette. Glowing chandeliers add warmth to the rooms.

Continuity between the exterior and interior is maintained using narrow horizontal bars and rectangles found on the exterior of the building. The rails and slats on plantation shutters bring some same elements indoors. Decorative ceilings are a distinctive characteristic of homes in the RGV. Insets in the ceilings carry the element of lines and bars throughout the home. There are unique and inventive variations of coffered ceilings in every room that all contain indirect and/or recessed lighting. Vertical rectangular niches in the informal living area flank the television.

The modern house finds a good balance between indoor and outdoor living rooms and public and private spaces. Public spaces are large and open and private spaces are small and intimate. The main living area of this home is focused on public life, with sittings areas and functional spaces, such as the kitchen.

Both Mediterranean and modern design are in perfect sync when it comes to outdoor living. With modern architecture, the line between indoors and outdoors has been blurred through the use of window walls. The large picture windows, in this home, offer an inviting view of the outdoors. A shimmering swimming pool with a spa and three waterfall features awaits. The turquoise blue of the water and the striking color of the tile make it a statement piece. The covered patio is large enough to contain a seating area, dining table, and a full kitchen.

Because the architects did not constrain themselves to one style, the structure can be considered to be a contemporary home. The blending of traditional and modern is a perfect compromise and solution to these two popular, but disparate styles. I have always found it a bit jarring to come across an isolated modern home in a neighborhood filled with traditional homes. It is especially obvious with zero-lot-line homes because there is no buffer between the homes like land containing trees and greenery to create a transitional area. Any kind of design, whether it be a subdivision or a work of visual art, requires a cohesive blend of elements.

So if you’re a buyer looking for something fresh and new, that is both modern and nostalgic at the same time, Mediterranean modern may be the choice for you. It offers you the best of traditional and modern design with a contemporary flair.

Mission, Texas | Builder- Castle Bridge Construction- www.CastleBridgeHomes.com

August 13, 2018 0 comments

Public Spaces

Kapal Stone Precision Countertops Manufacturing

by Ole Decor Magazine July 26, 2018

written by Ole Decor Magazine

Quality on every piece, exact dimensions and high efficiency are some of the benefits on choosing Kapal for your large scale countertops project. With the latest technology in-house to cut Granite and Quartz and the recent addition of 20,000 SqFt manufacturing space, we can now provide to the Multi-Family Industry with fast turn-around on both Cabinetry and Countertops.

Our expertise in manufacturing lends itself perfectly to designing and engineering all aspects of your project, from kitchen cabinets to multifamily and hospitality jobs, we can do it with the use of top of the art machinery and advanced manufacturing techniques.

“Exact dimensions and high efficiency are some of the benefits on choosing Kapal”

July 26, 2018 0 comments

Indoor/Outdoor Living

KAPAL THE NAME IN KITCHENS

by Ole Decor Magazine July 26, 2018

written by Ole Decor Magazine

We believe that custom designed wood pieces for your home are like fine works of art. That’s why we make each of our pieces 100% customized to suit your home or business. Whether your taste is sleek and modern or classic and contemporary, together with one of your designers, you can see your unique artistic vision become a reality. Our specialties include custom cabinetry for kitchens, baths, and closets.

Residential: At Kapal we supply our customers with a full-service experience, making us the best option for a made to order residential cabinets. Extensive selections of new trends door styles plus beautiful Granite and Quartz countertops, coordinated with a professional installation all in one place.

The new store located at 3321 W Expressway 83 in McAllen is dedicated to the residential customer looking for Exotic Granite and Quartz Slabs. In a fully air-conditioned indoor state of the art showroom for your commodity, the customer will also be able to see Kitchen, Bath and Closets Displays.

Multi-Family: Kapal has been specialized in multi-family apartments providing cabinets and countertops at the same time, reducing lead time for developers and builders. As a local cabinet manufacturer, we can offer competitive pricing with quick turnaround timelines. Over the last 3 years, we have built cabinets for more than 1000 apartments per year.

The new trends for 2018 are Matte finishes either Slab or Shaker style, with more fresh neutral colors to choose, but matte black finish is particularly popular in kitchen and bathroom décor. You can see more at our Gallery Store located at 3321 West Express-way 83 in McAllen where you can enjoy our live kitchen hosting a Chef once a month. Visit us for more information!

July 26, 2018 0 comments

Commercial Building

We Are A Full Service Design Studio

by Ole Decor Magazine November 29, 2017

written by Ole Decor Magazine

NOMA Studio reflects the modern tastes and design demands of today’s discerning global clients. Our bilingual and well-traveled team brings the best global design innovations, luxurious finishes, cutting-edge trends in color and patterns, and trusted building materials to our discerning clients.

Located in McAllen Texas, NOMA Studio is a design firm that provides building and space planning services.

The key to our success is the integrated approach we take to deliver excellence and client satisfaction in every solution. We listen to your needs and operational strategies. We study your needs and goals. We cultivate a personable collaboration with you to ultimately capture your vision.

We deliver design the way you see it, with the technical expertise and sourcing flexibility to implement it. We listen closely to your needs and work to ensure the construction documents fully reflect your design requirements.

“Passion, Excellence, Service, Respect, and Integrity are not just ideas but the values that we truly believe in.”

Passion, Excellence, Service, Respect, and Integrity are not just ideas but the values that we truly believe in. Our success rests on our considered approach to every project. Taking the utmost respect for a client’s brief and the unique character of the area or street in which a project is located, we are able to ensure that the finished product not only sits well within its environment but also meets the needs and expectations of the client. A winning combination which has translated perfectly to projects ranging from luxury restaurants, office spaces and private clubs to large-scale residential developments and private homes.

“The key to our success is the integrated approach we take to deliver excellence and client satisfaction in every solution. We listen to your needs and operational strategies. We study your needs and goals. We cultivate a personable collaboration with you to ultimately capture your vision.”

Mrs. Claudia Chanin was born in Arlington, VA. She got her degree in Architecture at the University of Monterrey, in Monterrey, Mexico. After a brief stint designing and building houses and commercial buildings in Monterrey, she moved to the United States to continue her career.

Claudia is the Principal of NOMA Studio, a small firm in the Rio Grande Valley. With more than 8 years of professional experience in building design, Mrs. Chanin has established a solid reputation as a talented contemporary designer. Her vast portfolio of building designs comprises an ample and diverse variety of projects, most of which are directed to private sector clients. Her portfolio includes a number of Commercial Strip and residential projects.

November 29, 2017 0 comments

Indoor/Outdoor Living

Modern Monochrome

by Ole Decor Magazine November 29, 2017

written by Ole Decor Magazine

A small city apartment is given a contemporary facelift with the clever use of space, strong colors and a touch of minimalism.

The office nook might be in the bedroom, but it is arranged to create the illusion of being a separate space.

When you put two creative people with big plans in a small space yet to reach its full potential, the result is guaranteed to be interesting. That’s what happened with couple Janine Mollentze and Ruan Vermeulen. They were in the market for a small renovation project, and the one-bedroom dwelling they purchased fit their vision perfectly. Janine works as a production manager and digital content producer, and her keen eye for interiors has prompted many a friend to ask for her help with decorating their homes.

The couple created a feature wall behind the bed by sticking old world-atlas pages to the wall. An old office file cabinet was hung above the bed to create more storage.

The area has a great sense of community, and even though it’s within walking distance to popular restaurants and shops, the suburb is quiet and green with trees. Their old art deco building is on a cul de sac with a cobbled road, and the lush gardens are home to all kinds of animals, including six cats, two ducks and two tortoises. ‘We even have a hadeda ibis staying with us,’ Janine says. ‘He injured his wing and ended up staying for good!’

Floating shelves in the lounge and a vintage sideboard are filled with plants in simple white pots and quirky market finds.

In the year and a half, the couple has lived in the flat, they’ve made substantial improvements to what used to be a crowded, limiting space. ‘We moved in with the idea of renovating, but wanted to live here first before deciding on a plan,’ Janine says. ‘We haven’t spent much money in the kitchen, bathroom and bedroom areas, but we will eventually open up the ceiling for a loft conversion.’

The kitchen may be small, but it can comfortably seat four people at the wooden table. The sterile white tiles were painted black and a gas stove and custom-made shelving were put in for a clean and industrial look.

The couple enjoys cooking and having dinner parties, but the kitchen was the area of biggest concern when they moved in. It had tiled white walls, white cabinets and a big brown kitchen island being utilized as the kitchen sink. ‘It looked terrible,’ Janine says. ‘We didn’t want to spend too much on renovations, but we also didn’t want to compromise on aesthetics.’ The cupboards were all pulled out and the tiles got a slick of matt black paint, with a simple wooden dado rail dividing the walls into a monochrome palette. The couple wanted freestanding kitchen counters with an industrial feel, so had it custom-made by a friend. Wooden shelves were put up to maximize the space, and they decided to stay within a specific color scheme when buying crockery and other kitchen accessories. With its solid poplar wood table and French doors opening up to a small balcony with panoramic views, it is no wonder the kitchen is Janine’s favorite spot in the house.

The bathroom was given a stylish makeover by painting the white tiles grey and the bath black. Hanging planters bring in color, and reflecting mirrors make the space appear bigger.

The open-plan living and dining area echoes the monochromatic coloring of the kitchen, with grey and white walls, a light-gray floor and a charcoal corner couch. ‘My decor style can best be described as “Scandi vintage”,’ Janine says. ‘I love Scandinavian interiors, which are warm and unassuming, and by combining contemporary pieces with vintage accessories I get to have that vintage/modern appeal.’ The moody gray wall is the focal point of the room and is filled with artworks, botanical prints, photographs of their travels, and sepia pictures of Janine and Ruan’s grandfathers. The decor was chosen to fit with both the gray painted floors and an eye-catching pair of art deco armchairs, with the sofa an affordable find from a retail chain that fit perfectly with the layout of the room. Similar shelving in the kitchen provides generous space for the couple’s quirky collections of retro desk clocks and typewriters, as well as various pot plants lending pops of green. The room is filled with special pieces, books and images from their travels, with a prized pair of etchings by Ukrainian artist Oleksiy Fedorenko still waiting to be framed. The couple regularly hunts for vintage treasures to add to their collections – ‘any antique market or vintage shop is the death of me,’ Janine says. ‘I can’t walk past without going in, and I can’t leave without buying something!’ The imposing dining room table and imbuia sideboard were inherited from Ruan’s grandfather, and the history of the pieces imbues the dining area with a sense of home and belonging.

Move to the bedroom and the couple’s clever maximizing of space again becomes evident. The awkward placing of the bathroom entrance hampered plans to make the layout more practical, but by transforming a corner into a small office space, the room becomes multi-functional without looking forced. The desk and shelving repeat the motifs of solid monochrome colors used with wooden accents, with numerous pot plants mirroring the greenery outside the window. The most striking aspect of the bedroom is the papered wall behind the bed, an idea Janine saw on Pinterest. ‘We had to scavenge every second-hand bookshop to find vintage world atlases to use,’ Janine says. The bathroom had similar white tiles to the kitchen, which also swiftly disappeared under a fresh layer of gray paint. The hanging planters above the bath are from an urban gardening company, and installing them was the easiest way to make plants part of the bathroom. Mirrors were strategically placed to give the impression of more space and to add character, like the boat-shaped wall mirror Janine picked up at a vintage market.

Thriving green pot plants provide the only spots of color in this slick, urban kitchen. Instead of being an eyesore, the industrial black bin blends in with the black wall, becoming a style statement in its own right.

Janine says a compact space needn’t be a design challenge – the secret is in choosing furnishings and decorative elements that offer maximum functionality. ‘When you live in a small space, each room tends to have more than one use. Built-in storage nooks also help you utilize every available corner.’ With plans to open up a loft and add more bedrooms and a bathroom for future little creatives, this unassuming little flat is still full of surprises just waiting to happen.

The old kitchen cabinets were torn out and open shelving installed. Janine and Ruan decided to only buy crockery and utensils in certain colors, to ensure the open shelves become a design feature of their own. A wall-mounted dish rack makes the most of the limited space.

November 29, 2017 0 comments

Designer Profile

Sisters Interiors Design Studio & Home Furnishings

by Ole Decor Magazine November 29, 2017

written by Ole Decor Magazine

Create a space that stands out from the crowd.

Retail and Design The best of both worlds.

What began as a small boutique at the southern end of South Padre Island, has expanded into a newly built 5,700 square foot space now located at 2901 Padre Blvd. While the retail business has stayed strong for the past 31 years, the interior-design side has grown by leaps and bounds. Although Sisters Interiors has been working with interior design for over 20 years, the time came to showcase their design team and the quality and unique aesthetic that has become known as “Sisters.” Owners Ann Hunsaker and Linda Golden designed their new showroom to be a living example of the type of work the company can deliver. Shiplap and beadboard accent the walls throughout the store, inviting customers and design clients an opportunity to visualize an example of a cottage or coastal feel for their own home. At the center of the design, the area is a fully working Sub-Zero Wolf kitchen that allows consumers an opportunity to see an example of integrated kitchen cabinetry versus built-in cabinetry. Throughout the store, clients will find inspiration for their home from the beautiful art, furnishings, and décor. Sisters is truly a one-stop shop for almost everything. If you don’t see it there in the showroom, the staff at Sisters will find it for you. Design consultation is available for those who are seeking some suggestions and direction rather than having a designer working on their project from start to end.

“The designer’s goal is always to achieve the client’s vision, and to help them see how their vision can be taken to its full potential.”

Standing Out From The Crowd

Sisters Interiors has a distinctive signature look. Like any artist, lead designer Ann Hunsaker treats each design project as a canvas where elements of design are used to create a work of art. Leading her design team by example, she sets the bar for their studio with her ability to be creative and think outside the box. Instead of a paintbrush or clay, the materials are quartz, marble, porcelain or glass tile, crown molding, corbels, wood trim, mirrors, and glass. You certainly won’t get a cookie-cutter approach to your design. Ann emphasizes that the designer’s goal is always to achieve the client’s vision, and to help them see how their vision can be taken to its full potential.

One-Of-A-Kind Design

Clients frequently come to Sisters looking for something unusual, a focal wall, an artsy backsplash, custom-designed iron gate entrances, hand-painted furniture, murals; you name it. These are things for which the company has become known. Kitchens and bathrooms are especially where Sisters’ design team delivers innovative, fresh ideas. Combinations of tile that transition seamlessly, accent pieces in borders, lighting in cabinetry, and niches for artistic display or practical use all come to play when thinking about what your space can look like.

A Step Beyond Design

In an age of do-it-yourself and video how-to’s, why solicit help from a designer? Whether the project is large or small, a seemingly “easy” project can run amiss. The consumer shouldn’t be afraid to reach out to a designer. Many people want to do the work themselves, but they often encounter problems or something unforeseen once they begin. A unique aspect at Sisters Interiors is the combination of both designer and project manager. The team has their own crew in place, and they manage each project from start to finish. Selecting the color palette, flooring, and tile is just the beginning. Making sure that everything is installed properly, the correct cuts are made of the quartz or granite, the finishes on the fixtures are the ones the client ordered…all the fine tuning is endless. The design team at Sisters handles all aspects for the client. They know the design inside and out and manage the entire project so that the client has a turnkey delivery. Homeowners shouldn’t be afraid to reach out to a designer no matter the scope of the project. The company is happy to work on smaller projects and work within a budget.

Today’s Trends

While trends speak to broad audiences, it’s important to keep the principles of design present and foundational to the design concept. Using principles of balance, repetition, unity, color… your home has a solid basis: something classic, something timeless. Trends are fun and can always be addressed with accessories or accents so that when the trend swings in a different direction, the consumer isn’t left with a dated look but rather just a few pillows and a piece of art to update. Ann says the key is “having solid bones in a home.” Having a designer guide the selections to keep the bones of the home classic is invaluable. Whether there is a farm sink, vessel sink, or under mount sink are examples of a fun trend that can be easily changed later.

“They know the design inside and out and manage the entire project so that the client has a turnkey delivery.”

The Next Generation

Sisters Interiors was born of love for design and love for family. Both Linda and Ann appreciate beautiful things, which were the genesis of their company. Another commonality is that they each have one daughter. The two sisters, at the heart of the company, will have their two daughters carry their vision into the future. While Jennifer McGee and Stefani Harrison are first cousins, they spent most of their childhood together and have a very close sisterly relationship. Jennifer’s art and design background and Stefani’s retail background complement the various aspects of a retail and interior-design business. Jennifer and her husband have recently moved to the island from the north Dallas area while Stefani has been involved with the business for many years and will be resuming a full-time status when she and her husband return to SPI in the next year. Both daughters have been buyers for the company for the past two years and now look forward to a new chapter where they are present full time. Instilling a strong work ethic, caring for their clients, and doing everything with excellence is the family motto. As the sisters often advocate, “What matters the most is for our clients to know we care” and the next generation is hard at work brainstorming ways to make sure their mothers’ legacy continues well into the future.

“While trends speak to broad audiences, it’s important to keep the principles of design present and foundational to the design concept.”

November 29, 2017 1 comment

Featured Builder

Mario Treviño

by Ole Decor Magazine November 29, 2017

written by Ole Decor Magazine

When you are looking to build a new home, you must find a builder you will have confidence in. Finding a builder that works for you is no easy task, but when you visit with Treviño Construction you will know you have found the right one. Owner Mario Treviño is a young man with over a decade of experience. His passion and attention to detail will help you realize the home you desire.

Mario, as his clients like to call him, is the youngest builder in the valley. His successes at a young age are a testament to his talent for building homes. His homes are built to fulfill clients’ needs and to meet their budget. He likes to say: “I fit design into the budget.” His passion for drawing and design fuels him in each project. He is hands-on in every aspect of the work.

“His successes at a young age are a testament to his talent for building homes.”

For example, when picking materials for the interior of a home, he meets the client at the store. He shows up hours in advance of his appointment and puts items together to make the selection process easier for them. When you speak to him about his work, you can see the passion in his eyes for what he is creating. Through his descriptions, he builds you a mental picture that allows you to see the end result. Ultimately, his work speaks for itself. For him, “Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.”

Mario was educated in the valley. The character that he needed to succeed at school was molded by his grandmother and his mother. If he faltered at school, they taught him that “falling isn’t the problem it’s knowing how to get up and correct your path that makes you a man.” He took inspiration from their encouragement and graduated from PSJA North and then earned a degree from South Texas College.

“Falling isn’t the problem it’s knowing how to get up and correct your path that makes you a man.”

After graduation, he started in sales with a local builder and ultimately learned every aspect of home building. Within a few short years, he developed a desire to become his own boss and to be the best in his trade. He began to take an interest in elevating standard building materials through creative design. His special attention to details helps him to create a cohesive environment. He compares this approach to cooking. The dish you prepare may have the same name as someone else’s, but the ingredients you use give it your own flavor.

Treviño Construction is six times, back-to-back, award winner for design in the Parade of Homes and also recognized as the youngest builder with success in the Rio Grande Valley. It is no coincidence that Treviño Construction has succeeded. It is fueled by desire, creativity, and thinking outside the box, that has put him where he is today. When asked what inspires him, he loses himself in thought and says My Passion for my clients’ new home and the desire to build something nobody else has.

He also humbly adds that he cannot take all the credit for his success, because it’s a talent that was given to him, by our Christ Jesus, and he is only His instrument through which He works.

November 29, 2017 1 comment