Leslie Sinclair's Blog, page 18

The Power of Finishes-Exterior Edition and The Kappa Pilgrimage!

Hi Friends!  Last week we saw how one house could have two totally different interior looks by changing the finishes on the interior. This week we will see how finishes can alter an exterior!! Stay tuned as well as The Kappa Pilgrimage home tour is finally here!!

Here is the exterior before! An incredible home designed by Robert Dame and built by Abercrombie Builders, its architectural features and quality, of course, are exceptional!  After lightening up the interiors, these homeowners wanted to see what we could do with the outside. Loving the natural stone, they didn’t want to paint it solid and loose the Mediterranean feel of the home.

So, I was pulled outside to consult! These homeowners were so happy with the lime wash applied over their interior brick and stone, they wanted to see what the same technique would look like on the exterior. After we felt we had gotten a color for the topcoat which would mask the undertones of the stone and still remain translucent, we put two samples up on the wall.  One was a bit heavier on the coverage than the other but the colors used were the same.  A tremendous change and a whole different feel!

And what do you think? A major change for sure!! It was very important to these owners that all the natural variations of the stone show through. They wanted it lighter and less orange-more taupe.

It was so fun seeing the difference side by side. Even my guys had to sit back and admire their work!

Here is the back before.  And….

…after! Notice how the stucco was also painted a much lighter tone!

Want to see the big picture?  Before, and…

…after! It really doesn’t look like the same home. We decided to leave the headers above the windows untouched because we liked the accent and interest they gave.

Before…

…after. I hope you enjoyed this before and after–This one has been so fun for me.  First, I loved the homeowners, and second being challenged to come up with a beautiful creative solution, is one of my favorite things to do!!

“Celebrating Traditions of Giving.”

The holidays are one of my favorite times of the year and seeing homes decorated for the holidays just puts me in the Christmas spirit! I have always attended the Kappa Pilgrimage even before my youngest became a Kappa!! It’s one of Houston’s oldest home tours and the proceeds are for such a great cause!!! Current beneficiaries of Pilgrimage funds include: Amazing Place; Baylor College of Medicine; BEAR…Be a Resource for CPS Kids; The Brookwood Community; Camp For All; The Nehemiah Center; The Rose; Texas Heart Institute’s Center for Women’s Heart & Vascular Health; Trees of Hope; The Women’s Home; Yellowstone Academy; Houston Alumnae Panhellenic Association Foundation and the Kappa Kappa Gamma National Foundation.

Whew, they do a lot of good!!

This year I am especially excited as Segreto did finishes for all homes featured!   Houston’s own Kara Childress was the designer for three of the homes on the tour as well as the home hosting the kick off event.  Charlotte Moss was the designer for the last home.  Two great talents, but knowing Kara so well, I wanted to share a bit of her with you. Not only is she AMAZINGLY talented, but also so super sweet, creative and just a joy to be around!!

In her interiors for clients, Kara Childress exudes ardent and timeless style which marries Old World European, with fresh compositions of modern and livable design, always personalized to her clients and their lives.

She works closely with top architects, builders, and vendors in all aspects and phases of her design creations. Her residential projects tend to evolve into continuing relationships with her clients and traverse from homes to commercial office spaces and second homes.  Her team is well known for handling and styling events at clients’ homes after the design job is completed. Look how beautiful this event was!! If you have Segreto Style, flip through and see if you can see which home this dining room belongs to.

One of my favorite kitchens!  It is featured in Segreto Vignettes!  Come out and see all the homes and support this wonderful organization!!  Home Tour tickets are $20 and include admission to all four homes on the tour. Tickets may be purchased in advance at Bering’s Hardware, Cornelius Nursery, Out of the Box, Back Row Antiques and The Paisley House or on the day of the event at any of the Tour homes.

The Pilgrimage includes a tour of four homes in the River Oaks and Tanglewood areas decorated for the season by Houston’s top floral designers. Tour times are Friday, Dec. 7 and Saturday, Dec. 8 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Per the Houston Chronicle.

Tour-goers will get a special treat with book signings by noted New York City interior designer Charlotte Moss for Charlotte Moss Entertains and New Orleans-based entrepreneur Jane Scott Hodges for Linens: For Every Room and Occasion. They will be at 3030 Inwood Dr. from 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. on Dec. 8.

Now that you know Kara , say hi to her at one of her many homes!!  For more information visit www.HoustonKappas.org.

I am looking forward to our visit next week where I share some fun gift, craft and holiday table top ideas!!  Till Next week!

Xo, Leslie

 

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The Power of Finishes- An Amazing Before and After-Interior

HI Friends!!  I am excited to show you a home in which finishes both before, with the previous owner and finisher, and after, where Segreto worked with the new owners to make the home their style- really created two quite different looks both inside and out! this week I will show you the inside transformation and next week stay tuned for the exterior!!

The first owners definitely had an over the top, Mediterranean, old world style. The opulent fabrics and a darker ambiance created a home which was formal in feel.  The new owners, more causal in style, loved the homes architecture but preferred a less is more aesthetic and a light bright interior. That’s when Segreto was brought on board.

Here is a shot of the same room from the upstairs balcony.  The ceiling was a textured Faux brick. For the new change the goal was to simplify the finishes so we plastered over the textured walls and faux brick ceiling lending one backdrop.

We also decided to lime wash the stone to soften the look and tone all surface colors simplifying the palette.  Are you ready for the change?

A major transformation and a much lighter, airier look and feel!! It is hard to see here, but the shadow lines of the brick ceiling show though a bit, much like a slurred brick.  It really turned out so beautiful!  If you look to the right you can see they took out the fish tanks and opened up the entrance to the bar and study!

Here is the before of the other side of the living room which is the bar and study.  The two fish tanks became openings to the living room. It was decided to paint the wood to lighten up the look and change the counters and back-splash. If you look through the opening you can sneak a peak of the existing entrance walls. These walls were plastered over is the same tone as the living room area.

Hardly the same room.  The beautiful detail on the ceiling and the lovely floors really show now!!

Before we move to the kitchen, I wanted to show you the new entrance! The dark red and copper walls which matched the tile ceiling before, were coated to a light plaster.

The kitchen den breakfast room were situated on the opposite side of the living area. Before and,………

After! Can you count how many surfaces were painted or plastered to simplify the finishes, only allowing certainly elements to become focal.

Did you spot them all?

Here is the list!!

The stone was lime washed.
The cabinets were painted and glazed.
The leather embossed ceiling was painted a solid paint color allowing he pattern to show but be subtler.
The beams were lightened and given a reclaimed feel.
The counter tops and backslash were change.
The lighting was changed.

The den off the kitchen received the same transformation. Before and………….

… before, and………..

………..after!  The two large ornately carved columns dividing the space were removed, the ceilings painted, the walls plastered and the stone lime washed.

The dining room also takes on a whole new perspective by just changing two things!!  What were they?!!!

The walls were plastered and the decorative crown was painted in the same tone and then softly highlighted to bring out its carvings.

Here is the bedroom before.

There are some really cool details in the house like these custom hand carved doors!! To lighten the space the homeowners decided to paint the walls in the tone of the plaster and ……

Lighten the fireplace.  It appears a bit golden in the photo but in actuality is a soft warm gray. Not even the same room!

The master bath, very dramatic for sure was also lightened up!!  We liked the pattern on the ceiling–also a raised fauxed design but wanted to soften the finish so the beautiful pattern would show and not the strong variation in color. It must have taken the previous artist a long time to complete this!!

Here is our Segreto artist putting his second layer over the ceiling!! It was difficult to cover the copper tone so the ceiling did not read pink!!

After two more layers, the outcome was beautiful, accentuating the ceiling, one of building designer Robert Dame’s signatures, without lowering the space. On the web if you google Robert Dame on Zillow, 17 came up for sale!! I loved looking at so many of his homes and it was fun to see how many of these same homes that Segreto had done the finishes for! Well I hope you enjoyed this before and after!!  It is amazing to see how finishes can totally change the way a home can look and feel. Next week, we will tour the homes exterior transformation–it’s just as dramatic! Want to move in? Stay tuned next week and I will share who to contact. I hope you all have a truly wonderful week!  Till next time!  xo Leslie

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A Parisian Picnic-Create a Charcuterie board for any Occasion!!

Hi Friends!!  Fall is in full swing and Thanksgiving here and I wanted to share with you a shower that I helped put together for one of my daughter’s friends who was getting married! The theme was “Parisian Picnic” since the destination wedding was in…. you guessed it -France.  I had written a post about creating harvest boards in the past and thought this would be perfect for the theme and perfect to share with you for your fall entertaining!

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So of course armed with my Pinterest boards I started my research on the look and foods I wanted to include. Apartment 34 shared their inspiration and used the harvest theme for an outdoor dinner event!! I love the fact that with a trip to the store, it is something that can be quickly put together and offers such a variety for all to try!

Lexi’s Clean kitchen gives their tips and suggests including something sweet with the spread. I purchased way too much food for mine so it is suggested to have 3 ounces of cheese per person. Armed with all my inspirations and ideas I went to Costco and was able to purchase all with one stop shopping!

So How did mine turn out?  Filled with meats, cheeses, fruits, nuts and spreads it was a big hit and so much fun to put together!!

I did look for new harvest boards but the long ones are not inexpensive. So I mixed and matched.  I used and borrowed cutting boards-remember they are mostly covered up so don’t stress too much on the way they look.  By creating heights and different levels any platter can have an impact! You can even use festive cans or vases filled with fruit to create a platform. Using decorative toothpicks adds to the festivities and can serve the duel purpose of utensils!!

I have always loved having having easy things for people to grab and eat without having plates or utensils!!  These veggie cups were a big hit and super easy to put together. I purchased the 5oz cups on amazon and have plenty of left over for my next event!!!  they are super cute filled with deserts as well and you can pick up baby forks or spoons to go with.

For a shower it is always fun to put photos of the happy couple scattered on the tables.

Front and center of the room we had a French wine tasting! By grouping the bottles in different buckets, the guests could easily serve themselves, so the hostess could enjoy the party too. Remember height is the key!!  I brought a side table from my home and put it tight in the middle of the table.  The flowers were potted plants from Trader Joe’s that we wrapped in brown paper and tied with twine.

I loved how one of the hostess. frames descriptions of the wines that the guest would be tasting!!!

The deserts were all ordered from Central Market, except for the cutest coolies with Eiffel towers on them.  I love all the themed baked goods you can now customize. Ohh-La-La!

Your can’t have a picnic without sandwiches, quiches and chips!! Cutting the tops off mini sandwich bags creates the perfect grab and carry tote! The lentil dip is my go to easy to put together from Trader Joe’s!  Both in the refrigerator section where the fresh veggies are, one package cooled lentils mixed with a container of pre-made Bruschetta sauce.

Well as much as we tried to make the shower as pretty as the Parisian country side the actual event was way more magical!!  Daughter Kirby attended, and really had a wonderful time!!

With the table set the rehearsal dinner had the back drop of a French Chateau and fields of lavender.

The bridesmaids looked like they were having so much fun–and who wouldn’t in France?!

Sarah made a picture perfect bride with such an amazing backdrop! Knowing her since she was a little girl, it is heartwarming to be able to be a small part of this memorable event with my gal pals!!

Before you start to think about autumn decorating and holiday entertaining, consider the harvest board! A harvest board is as simple as it sounds: a big, beautiful board ready for your food, flowers, meats or sweets. Think Thanksgiving, holiday open house, or any gathering that calls for a feast! This is definitely my new favorite fall trend!!! Have fun making your own feast board this season!

I hope everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving with Family, friends.  Typically my Brother and family come but they could’t this year, so it will be a smaller group. My son Matthew came in last night so I will have all three of my kids together!!  I am sooooooooo thankful for that!  I want you to know I will say a little blessing this year for all your support!  We have a had a great year with so many new things and you have been there with me every step of the way!! Gobble Gobble!!  xo  Leslie

 

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What’s Segreto Up To?

Hi Friends!!  I am loving the cooler weather and feeling of excitement in the air or  for us it might be the adrenaline needed to finish up some projects before the holidays!! Either way, there is lots going on at Segreto!

We were so honored to be a part of this stunning room for a showcase home by Designer Lindsey Herod! The SegretoStone coffee table has a cross design for support, which is perfect for tucking these ottomans under!!  Visit her website-pretty cool and if you love the ottomans or this coffee table both are for sale at showcase prices!!!

Well Segreto artist Alex is at it again!! I spy a vent and a spot light that he has already blended in to this stained veneer wall covering!!  There is nothing he can’t make disappear!!

He doesn’t only mask things, but in this sweet girls bathroom, his ombre walls fade from dark to light! Clever how the homeowner used the space on either side of the vanities as hidden storage, making it easier for her little princess to keep her things put away and the bathroom tidy.

the vestibule to the bath has a simple pink stone block effect.

Dinning rooms are perfect places to create drama and ambiance. In this salle f à manger we coated the walls with a rich Venetian plaster and painted a moody mural on the ceiling. Imagine with the sconces furnishings  and drapes what an impact this room will make.

The trim was glazed in a two toned effect with gold leafing embellishing the wood details and showcasing the elaborate hardware.

Loving the understated sophistication this embellishment brings to woodwork, the master suite received a beautiful combination of creams and golds.

Creating a stronger contrast against the light walls, this black staircase also is adorned with gold, highlighting  the design in just the right places. This can be done with gold leaf paint, metal papers or, in this instance, 24 karat gold leaf!

Here is a beautiful powder designed by Architectural Consultant Sarah West!! The lime wash on the walls are a perfect compliment to the antique elements!!

Creating a pattern on the ceiling can be a mathematical feat!!

Lining those corners and edges up perfectly, when he ceiling might not be straight is not a simple task…but the outcome?

Well worth the effort in this girls room designed by Lindsey Herod!!

Wanting to recreate their walls just as they were “before Harvey”, their existing wall-covering had been discontinued.  Going off of photographs of the space we were able to recreate the look exactly but this time with no seams!!

A beautiful bathroom by Blailock Designs –don’t ya think–especially if imagined all cleaned up!! I can’t wait to share more transformations of this home. Although this space stayed as is, others throughout the home are stunningly different. As you can see adding a bit of bling to your decor is all the rage now!! Like jewelry for you home!!  I hope you all have a wonderful week!! Remember the holidays more than anytime of year are a time to spread hope and a bit of joy to all you come in contact with!! Tis the Season!!  xo  Leslie

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DIY Pumpkins and Succulents!!

Hi Friends!! Thank you for all of your well wishes for the Blog award!!  It means so much to me and I absolutely could not have done it without each of you-so I am very grateful!!

Fall is here, and in Houston I don’t know if I am more excited about the temperatures dropping or making these fall decorations!  Last year I saw the most beautiful succulent, pumpkin arrangements at a sweet client’s home.  I was so excited to make them, but there were no mini pumpkins to be found… so, this year I am starting early.

As you know there is nothing I like better than setting the table. I thought these would would be the perfect place card holders or a beautiful way to dress up the dinner plate. I probably will let each person leave with one as a party favor to remember our day of thanks!!  But before the big day, I have some lovely decor to spread around my house and get me in the mood for fall!!

The first step is to purchase pumpkins-this time of year most grocery stores have a wide selection, I purchased mine at Trader Joe’s for 99 cents a piece. Most of the dark spots were dirt and washed off.  Be sure you look for pumpkins that sit flat on the bottom and curve in at the stem forming a dip to place your decorations!

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Next you will need succulents.  Look for a variety of styles and it your find some that will drape down that will add interest to your project. I purchased some at Trader Joe’s, but the selection and variety was not the best.  IKEA carries them and most Loews and Home Depots at reasonable prices, but the best bang for the buck I saw was on Etsy for $18.99 at tray!!

Micheal’s  is always my go to store for crafts if I need to see the items to decide what I want.  Amazon has a large selection of all sorts of fall supplies.  Search  moss, maple leaves, acorns and gourds, mini pine-cones and table scatter for a huge selection to browse.  While you are shopping don’t forget spray adhesive, glue stick and a glue gun, and an empty spray bottle to mist your masterpieces when you are done!!

Don’t just think small!! The larger pumpkin arrangements are perfect for back door entrance ways.  these pumpkin arrangements should last as is for a couple of months. For best results, keep outside in a frost-free cool spot and give it a healthy dose morning sunlight to keep plants healthy looking. Place pumpkin on a trivet if outside (will decompose if sitting right on top of concrete) or on a plate or platter inside to prevent any staining if you are using for a centerpiece.When the pumpkin starts softening you can cut the tops off and plant the arrangement in a pot full of soil!!  How great is that!!

Now let’s begin! The night before your craft day cut your succulents so the roots and trimmings are a bit dry.  Pick your pumpkin of choice and wash and dry to remove any dirt.

Spay adhesive on the back side of your moss and press to the top of the pumpkin.  You may have to hold down a bit until it sticks. Don’t worry if it overwhelms the top you can use scissors to trim to any size.

Just use a glue gun to glue your arrangements onto the moss, starting with the larger ones in the middle.  And be sure to fill in the holes with trailing succulents, leaves and your various table scatter.

Here is one all finished!!  I am so thrilled with the outcome!!

They look great in any color and you can see that by mixing different elements they are much more interesting!!! To keep them alive just mist the tops twice weekly with plain tap water. Don’t over water…pooling water on top of the pumpkin will cause it to decompose. Remember, when the arrangement has faded or you are ready to start decorating with a more winter theme, don’t throw the succulents away. Instead carefully peel them from the pumpkin moss, remove any dead leaves and plant in some light cactus mix. Any roots that have shot out will grab onto the cactus mix and the succulents should grow. Even single leaves will root and send out little offshoots that will become mature plants.

Don’t have a green thumb?  You can also make these without the live plants!!  I added a candle in the middle of the larger pumpkin and used it first for Halloween, with a black spider lace runner underneath and now for Thanksgiving with a fall leaf runner. –Two for one!!

What a wonderful craft day with friends, kids, or Mom’s. Happy Fall everyone!! Its such a busy time for us all!  Try to enjoy those special moments and make time to appreciate all of your blessings!! Next week we will see some amazing new rooms we have been finishing up just in time for the Thanksgiving!  xo Leslie

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Thank You Friends-We Did It Together!!

Hi Friends!!  I can’t believe it, but we received the Amara award for Best US Company Blog!! I want you all to know how special you are to me and how grateful I am for each of you!!  This would not have been possible without your support or your vote!!  So…. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!!!   The ceremonies were in London in the brand new Design Museum in Kensington!

Unfortunately I was not able to attend the event as we are all hands on deck working hard to help put smiles on our clients faces by giving them beautiful surroundings in time for the holidays!!  I thought it would be fun for us to attend the event together.  Using these beautiful photos by Clement Lauchard, we all get to go!!

Walking up the lantern lit blue carpet event, we are greeted with florals, lights and the buildings old world grandeur and modern opulence!

One Marylebone was built in 1826 and is in the heart of the capital. It formally was Holy Trinity Church designed by Sir John Soane to celebrate the defeat of Napoleon. It was the most expensive of the three London churches by Soane and now is considered to be the most architecturally distinguished.

Look how beautiful the  presentation room looks!!  We definitely would have felt like a-listed stars walking into venue!!  Pulling up One Marylebone’s website  they also host lots of weddings and elite parties.  It is worth taking a look at their site to see this unique venue, with all its varied room vignettes decorated in so many different ways.

With all the elaborate lighting the pink spot lights gave a contemporary glow to the space!!  How did they know pink is my favorite color!!

Accented by colorful arrangements of exotic florals the tone was set.

The cut colorful crystal looks like art work against the pink backdrop! Champagne? Yes please!

The presentation of the hors d’oeuvres definitely fit the chic style of the evening.  One dining, part of One events seems to be a part of the venue. After reading the food menu, I am still not sure which description goes with which picture, but the presentation and interesting food combinations are sure alluring!! I want a taste!!

The presenter this year was Michelle Oqundehin.  Not only has she been editor and chief of Elle Decoration but she is considered an internationally renowned authority on interiors, a writer, consultant, creative director and an award-winning editor! She was joined by interior designers and TV duo Sophie Robinson and Daniel Hopwood.

With photo ops and goody bags -it seems similar to our version of the red carpet!! With amazing sponsors from across the globe-I would love a sneak peek of what’s inside!! I did get an email that the award and gift bag was on its way to Houston, so, I will share with you all what surprises it brings!!

A big thanks goes out to the Amara blog awards for introducing us to so many exceptional design bloggers from across the globe. I have learned about designers, bloggers, products etc, which I may not have known.  Meet all the winners, you will learn so much from them!!  Marie Flanigan, my gal pal from Houston, won best design blog!! I was so proud of her and I wish we could have attended the event together!!

MOST  OF ALL!!  Thank you all for supporting Segreto!  I honestly could not do it without each of you.  Your inspiring projects that I am so blessed to be a part of, your ideas for future blogs, your friendship, comments and most of all your loyalty has meant the world to me. I can’t express enough what “my coffee with friends” means to me giving me that connection to you each week. I hope you all enjoyed our trip to London!  For you I am forever grateful!! Thank you again for your amazing support and joining me on my Segreto and life adventures!!  Also thank my team whose artistry, design and commitment have allowed me to accomplish all my imagination will allow!!   Happy Halloween and …….. xo Leslie

 

 

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Hand-Painted Walls-Timeless Elegance!

Hi Friends!!  I hope you are all not overwhelmed with the holidays approaching. Today, I wanted to spread some beauty and share some hand-painted walls  with you. I love the look of these and cannot seem to get enough. Each room so unique and one of a kind, these walls infuse timeless elegance into homes and therefore, I feel, into our lives.

Working with Marie Flanigan-she is as pretty as the rooms she designs-we were consulted to fulfill her vision of this lovely dining room. Wanting floral panels inset into molding, we were given fabrics and inspiration photos for color and style! Here is a final shot of the room, but how did it start?

Here is the room a couple of hours after we began.  If you look to the right panel you can see a sketch done in charcoal of our artist’s work.

It is so fun watching the murals come to life. You can see how the chandelier is popping now!

It was so exciting when the drapery were being hung!!

Look how beautiful the velvet is!!!

The room really came together beautifully and we were all thrilled with the outcome.  One of the first things you see when you enter the home, it really sets the tone of  what’s to come!! Marie as always great job and thank yo so much for allowing us to create your backdrops!! For a treat visit her website  and blog to see more design inspiration!

Below are a few more we have done.

If it weren’t overkill I truly could have these in every room in my home.

They are so peaceful when well done and I love the fact that with painting vs paper you can pick any color, flower or style!

Something few know is that hand-painting is much more affordable than many of the papers available today!! How great is that?!- one of a kind for less!  I can’t wait to share with you a DIY pumpkin and succulent project next week.  Super easy, and they make the most wonderful fall decor!!  Till then!  xo Leslie.

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A Halloween Dinner Party!

Hi Friends!! Last year right before Halloween I got a text from my daughters, asking if they could bring their boyfriends over to have dinner with us.  Well for those who have teenagers up through 20 something kids, you know that when they ask to be with you–yes is the answer!  This would be the first time my husband John would have met one of the boys so I wanted to make it a fun event! Being Halloween weekend, I thought a themed tablescape would be perfect!! I searched through my dinnerware to see what I had and decided to use my china (which I rarely do) and some orange glasses I had. But what for the rest?

Well my first stop was Trader Joe’s. If you arrive at 8 in the morning they have a fresh shipment of flowers everyday! I purchased white roses and green and lavender hydrangeas.  I wanted to put miniature pumpkins in the water, but seeing an entire bag of clementines for 3.99 , I felt those would infuse a bit of Halloween into the vase for a fraction of the cost.

When I was at Costco I had bought two huge mum planters for $10 each to put outside my front door.  Wanting a bit more orange I snipped some stems and added them to the arrangement. The cute little skulls with succulents were from Trader Joe’s as well and the masks, pumpkins, little witches boots and hats were from Pier 1!!

While I was there I purchased these the fallish napkin rings knowing I could use them for Thanksgiving as well.  I do always wait till the last minute, but have found its perfect timing.  The selection may not be as good but the prices are rock bottom!! There was a Marshall’s Home Goods right next door so I popped in. I saw these placemats-16 for $20 and dishtowels what were different patterns of black and white.  I love using dishtowels for napkins because they wash well and are so soft and priced well!!  I was all set.

I used my gold wine glasses purchased from the Segreto boutique a while back to finish off the look.

When googling Halloween tablescapes, many had candelabras painted in black.  I had this beautiful silver one that my aunt had given me which I thought would do the trick with leftover gold candles.  Scattering the unused napkin rings, a small vignette was created.

Wanting to give a spooky feel, I spied these led spider webs at Pier 1 for 75% off.  John helped me hang them.  They really didn’t look like spider webs but certainly made the room fun, especially at night with the lights off!  With the table set, it was time to start on the meal.

Last year I wrote about some easy Halloween inspired recipes, see here, and there was one I really wanted to use.

I loved the idea of using bell peppers as jack-o-lanterns in some way, so I decided to use them as the salad bowls!  They are so easy to make.  Just cut the tops off and clean out the seeds.  Then use a sharp small knife to make the faces.

They just take the top off and eat!  Trader Joe’s makes a wonderful harvest salad mix in a bag! It is one of my holiday favorites!!

Here are the cute couples!!  Dylan and Sammy to the left and Kirby and Jason to the right!

We all had so much fun and I really enjoyed setting the table!! Send me any of your tablescape tips!! And have a spooky Halloween!! xo Leslie

 

 

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Why Do We Love Butterflies?

Hi Friends!!! Today I’m going to be sharing what butterflies can represent in our lives, design and in giving. I have always had a special connection to the butterfly. Perhaps it originated from my southern roots from growing up in a small town in Georgia where I chased them in fields of wild daffodils-sounds corny I know!! Just like each of us, every butterfly is uniquely beautiful. They represent new beginnings, giving us hope for what the future has to bring. So… let’s chat about the beauty their fluttering brings to so many!

From across the globe butterflies are viewed as symbols of rebirth, representing change, hope, endurance and life!  The Christian religion associates butterflies to the resurrection. Butterflies come in a variety of sizes. The world’s largest species is  New Guinea’s Queen Alexandra’s birdwing, which can measure up to twelve inches from wingtip to wingtip. WOW! The world’s smallest, the blue pygmy, found in southern California, has a wingspan of just over half an inch.

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Loving these mesmerizing creatures, one of my bucket list items is to go to San Miquel, an artist community in Mexico, and see the monarch’s migration–want to join? “More than 100 million Monarch butterflies migrate deep into Mexico from the U.S. and Canada to breed from November to mid-April. They fly to mountain forests between the states of Mexico and Michoacan, where they may number 4 million per acre. Butterflies cloak fir trunks and hang on boughs in clusters of tens of thousands, turning the entire landscape a rich, flaming orange.” It must be an amazing sight!

Back in my canvas painting days I was hired to create a two panel commissioned piece which would flank either side of a window in a dining room which was designed by Triangle Interiors.

When I installed the pieces, both the designer and the homeowner were teary eyed. I had decided to incorporate butterflies into the piece. What I didn’t know was that my sweet client’s mom had passed and butterflies were a special bond between them. This will always be a moment I will never forget. It gave me a deeper feeling of how we are all connected and a greater appreciation of the butterfly.

Butterfly decor is no longer designated to kids rooms. It’s a popular design trend that can be incorporated in any room. Sprinkling them into your home décor can be a fun way to pump up texture, add life, color and dimension. Mirrors and lighting like the ones above are a wonderful way to make a space appear larger and more open. This collection can be found at Neiman Marcus and is currently on sale!

You can select wallpaper or hand-paint a design with touches of butterflies that can be installed anywhere inside your home! From an accent wall in your master bedroom, guest bedroom, to your powder room. The options are endless! Decorative elements will add a visual interest into your living space. The fun pattern can be purchased From Paisley House that really wonderful furniture accessory design studio which hosted me for a speech!!  It is best to use wall-covering when the painting is densely covered and intricate, but…

when the designs have a bit more breathing room, hand-painted options give you a one of a kind feel and are budget friendly.  This is a wallpaper sample on the left that our client loved for her dining room.  But the price of the wallpaper was a bit more than the client wanted to spend so they asked us if one of our talented muralist could reproduce this.  Of course we can! Ashley Goforth the brilliant designer behind the project was able to choose the colors and style which best suited the room.The lovely pastel and watercolor wallpaper above is a bit edgy and super fun! It’s handmade and can be found on Etsy! The designer is named, KidsColoray and is from Poland! How cool is that! I’ve always wanted to visit!

Last, but certainly not least, an easy way to incorporate butterflies is by adding fun throw pillows! One of their best aspects is their accessibility. You can find them almost anywhere and at any cost. Both pillows shown above can be found at Pottery Barn.

Give the gift of the butterfly! Now for true inspiration-Newspring!

Remember the blog that I wrote about giving back. Well, one of the organizations that I became involved with is Newspring which is a wonderful non-profit organization of Christian teachers, business leaders and artists who are dedicated to making a positive social and economic impact in the Spring Branch area in Houston. Newspring, not only helps at risk kids, but also offers two unique opportunities to develop business leaders and support small business development in Spring Branch stimulating economic growth and job creation. I have had the privilege to speak to schools about careers in art, be involved in mentoring businesses and contributing to the educational sponsorship to so bright young people!

Now they have a new project!! Inspired by the success of the Cow Parade, The Newspring Butterfly festival was created to fund college scholarships for local students who, without financial assistance, would not have an opportunity to pursue higher education.

Many of these beauties are designed and painted by the students at Newspring’s after school art programs –some are designed by other schools such as The Kinkaid School here in Houston.  When all 50 are complete, they will be exhibited at Memorial City Mall for two weeks in late November.  Afterward, each butterfly will be moved to the site chosen by the purchaser.

 

The more colorful, the better! Look at how talented these young folks are and how unique each butterfly is! I got a kick out of the butterfly with the peppers! Which is your favorite?!  Newspring does an excellent job at incorporating art and design related skills and thinking processes. “Students will learn top skills from the arts. This will include creativity, confidence, problem-solving, perseverance, focus, non-verbal communication, receiving constructive feedback, collaboration, dedication, and accountability.” The After School Art Program is offered to children aged 8-18 years old and will learn a new element of art each week. More information.

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My daughter, Kirby pictured above on the right with her sweet mentee. This economic and social opportunity encourages students and their families to value the education and financial opportunities in art. Segreto sponsors a scholarship  for a young lady at A&M studying architecture. and would encourage you to lend a helping hand to one of their many programs if you’re able to do so. I’m a firm believer in sharing my feelings and compassion through giving.

Incorporating butterflies into your home can make the perfect statement that you’ve been searching for. These mesmerizing creatures not only bring in vibrant colors, but also happiness. They can demonstrate transformation of physical spaces, but also the inner transformation of one’s soul. The art piece above can be purchase at Paisley House here in Houston! Isn’t it lovely!

Off to San Antonio for a talk and book signing Thursday October 11th 5-7!  I’d love to meet your friends in the area!!!!! It is at this truly fab home decor store  called Joyeux at 5007 McCullough Ave, Olmos Park, TX 78212

I hope to see some of  you and have a wonderful week, full of new beginnings and adventures. xo Leslie

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In The Limelight – Southern Home Fall/Modern Luxury

Hi Friends!! I hope that you’re feeling fall in the air!! It is cooler here in Houston and WOW does it feel great!! I want to personally thank each of you and give you a big hug!! With your support, Segreto Secrets was once again shortlisted this year for best US Company Design Blog!! This year your votes along with a professional panel will decide the winner of the category!! I will keep you posted!! Fingers crossed!!

We have a real treat today!! I haven’t been able to share this home that we worked on with Architectural Consultant Sarah West because it was set for publication. But now it is out and it is such a beautiful home!!! I included some additional shots I have to this already beautiful spread!! Enjoy!

Southern Home is one of my new favorite magazines!!  In EVERY spread I see something stunning and have started saving the copies for reference!! I am going to include their spread, beautifully photographed by Michael Hunter as well as some of my own shots by Wade Blissard!!

This beautiful home right in the heart of Houston was drawn by building consultant Robert Dame, built by Parker House and interiors and surfaces selected by the talented Architectural Consultant, Sarah West who has become a name-stay in Houston.  Robert’s mission was to merge Old-World elements with clean-lined concepts, creating a blank canvas for the architectural antiques which Sarah so perfectly incorporates into her homes.

The doors and mantle were imported by Chateau Domingue, and are statement pieces in this grand living space. In the Southern Home pics, you can see the room in its entirety showing how Sarah’s use of space allows for two sitting areas!  In the above shot, the cozy seating for 2 is highlighted.  In a large scale room creating informal areas invites smaller groups to enjoy the space.

The entrance above is warm and welcoming and allows space for people to congregate for larger parties. The foyer features an antique altar table that includes a 19th Century stone cross from a chapel in France. Looking down the hall there is a wine cellar framed by a 17th century stone surround and a library/office atop!

Throughout the home we plastered a one coat lime plaster but in the office wanting an older fell we used Domingue Architectural Finishes, two coat plaster to coat the walls.

I would like to say our work was the showstopper in the wine cellar, but I must say this tequila cabinet is the room’s statement piece! It is creative design elements like this that Sara is know for creating something unique for each of her clients.

The home feels like a centuries old estate. Designed for entertaining for these homeowners who are avid philanthropists, the courtyard in the front and back of the home, frames the living area creating ample room for  large gatherings. Sarah included the antique bassin carre fountain, which is a lovely welcome for anyone entering the home. The living room’s beams are from an old structure on the family’s own South Texas ranch.

I had to share one of my favorite shots–even their beautiful Shepherd feels at home!! The beautiful simplicity of the home is really showcased here. Our contribution is the coated plastered walls, the finish applied to the previously stark black wrought iron railing and on the antique settee, lending a softness where not one element stands out.

The dining room edited with no rug or drapes, also shows that sometimes less is more and undue fuss is not needed for a  sophisticated space. I adore the large china cabinet which Sarah built into the framing so it’s not taking up any of the rooms footprint. Not only are the reclaimed doors a focal architectural elements, but they house all the china and crystal. Brilliant and beautiful!!

Between the dining and kitchen is a long butlers pantry large enough for large food spreads.  By using fabric on one side, Sarah houses room for lots of storage while creating the feeling of a room.  The antique mirrored counters and lamps used as accessories further the feeling that you have arrived at a destination rather than a utilitarian space.

The breakfast room is charming to say the least, gets lots of light, and well the kitchen? –a work of art!! It was featured in LUX as well!

Stunning to say the least–all the elements mix so well together including these doors which were new and delivered to us with white primer!!

Sarah doesn’t ever do a pantry simple.  A wonderful cook in her own right, she feels like even the simple things like getting flour out of your pantry should be a special experience. Using her concept I made my own pantry distinctive in my last renovation, and you know what, it has made my cooking experience more special!!  Her attention to every space and to every detail is part of what makes the homes she works on have so much soul.

 

The master bedroom and his and hers bath are spacious and so warm and comfortable! The picture to the right is the sitting area to the guesthouse which borders the back courtyard!! These super sweet homeowners even hosted a family who was displaced from Hurricane Harvey!!!

It kitchen, the perfect size for visiting guests, also doubles as a catering kitchen!!! In both kitchens we plastered down to the counters.  Although you have to be a bit more meticulous with cleaning is is such a beautiful look.  We sealed the walls for extra protection and our artisans are well versed at touching it up!!

Thank you Sarah for choosing Segreto to help complete your vision.  I always am challenged on each job with you and learn a little something–which for me is one of the greatest gifts in life!! Robert Dame did such a wonderful job and working with Parker House builders is always a delight!! I was so excited to share their talent with you!!

Another treat was to see Lam Bespoke was featured in Modern Luxury Interiors.  Marie Flanigan Interiors are still a “buzz”  with their design of the space!! If you haven’t gone-it is worth the trip!! Exciting news too- Marie’s blog was shortlisted for US Best Interior Designer Blog!! 50 Blogs from the entire USA made the shortlist and two are from Houston!  As I am still moving people back in from Hurricane Harvey it is so good seeing Houston still staying strong! Till next week!  xo Leslie

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