Leslie Sinclair's Blog, page 3

New Years 2023-Resolve to Change the World!

Hi friends, it’s a new year with so many possibilities ahead of us! I know many of us attempt big changes and start the year with massive goals, only to lose our momentum in a couple of months. This year, I want to focus on making small changes, which can make positive differences in the world!

Let’s make them easy and if you are goal orientated- SMART: specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and timely. Together we can create a positive change in the world one small gesture at a time.

“Big changes start with small steps”-ElizabethGeorge.com

What if every time you gave a gift, you gave two of the same thing. One for them to keep, and one for them to give to someone else so they could experience both the joy of receiving as well as the smile they will bring to others by giving. Give someone two Starbucks gift certificates for a cup of coffee and ask them to give one to someone else to perk up their day! Bake and give two boxes of cookies, one to share and one to give. Studies show the happiness one gets from giving gifts lasts longer than the joy felt from receiving them.

“Discover the joy of giving and you will discover the reason for living” – Mark Victor Hansen

Really think about what makes you smile and do it at least once a day. You will be amazed what positivity this brings to you which will also be contagious to others!!

“Let your smile change the world, but don’t let the world change your smile.”-unknown

Do something out of your comfort zone. It can be something small like eating a different type of food, waking up 30 minutes earlier, or talking to a stranger. Doing anything out of your normal routine, or anything that might make you feel uncomfortable, will build your confidence enabling you to deal with challenges and acquire new skills! Do this over and over and you will feel more passion, set and achieve more goals, and inspire others to do the same.

“Get out of your comfort zone and bring comfort to others”- Sri Sri Ravi Shankar

Ask more questions! Most of us talk more than we listen. Listen and Silent have the same letters! Commit to asking three questions and listening to the answers when striking up a conversation with a spouse, friend, co- worker or stranger. It’s amazing how much you will connect with that person. Your interest and listening will make them feel valued and you will both walk away feeling happy!

“One of the most sincere forms of respect is actually listening to what another has to say.” — Bryant H. McGill

Give someone a genuine compliment! Make eye contact, focus on substance not appearance and expect nothing in return! I read a study that in the workplace people need to hear 6 compliments to each critique to have a positive outlook. With everyone’s busy schedules it is easy to point out the negative first without really communicating the things that are well done. I am really going to work to improve these odds in all of my relationships. Receiving compliments actually boosts the brain’s dopamine levels! It will make someone’s day which inspires them to spread the kindness to others and it gives you a more grateful heart and healthier connections.

“I can live for two months on a good compliment”- Mark Twain

Kindness is contagious and a key factor in having a fulfilled life! Spread gratitude and joy to others by incorporating random acts of kindness into your daily lives.

“Kindness is simply helping someone feel less alone. That’s it. It’s really all about making people feel that they matter.”— Leon Logothetis

So, write someone a handwritten note, hold the door open, do an extra chore for someone, take your partners car to the carwash, make a meal for someone, leave a note on someone’s computer or in their jacket. The ways to be kind are infinite!

Count your blessings and make it a point to think of one thing you are grateful for everyday! This will increase your mental and physical health, give you more self-esteem and reduce your stress! The opposite of gratitude is entitlement.

“The humble person says that life is a gift to be grateful for, not a right to be claimed.”- Robert Emmons

One year I found an article from Mom Webs and shared her story about using resolutions to embrace one wonderful thing we want to bring back into our lives during the new year. It is an inspirational read!! If we all adopt a few of these small changes into our daily routine, we can make positive changes not only in ourselves but in the world. I wish to see more kindness, empathy and giving in my life and also in my children’s and all the generations to follow! I am excited to go on this journey with each of you! Till next time! XO Leslie

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In the Limelight! Traditional Home, Jennifer Martinez & Segreto!

Hi Friends!! I am hoping you are all ready for the holidays and have time to sit down with a cup of coffee to go on an incredible home tour with me!! We were so excited to receive the Winter 2022 copy of Traditional Home’s Holiday edition! It was a very special project for us as it features our sweet Segreto Sr. Designer Leslie Simmons’s sister Lauren’s home!! They had so much fun working together and teamed up with designer Jennifer Martinez, the home was colorful, beautiful, and comfortable!! The photography by Julie Soefer certainly captures the home’s essence. I hope you enjoy the article share as much as we did working on this special home!!

This is this winter’s cover to look for if you would like your own copy! And now for the tour!!

Photography: Julie Soefer

“We wanted a house that’s warm and inviting,” Lauren says. “We envisioned a revolving door of friends coming and going, a place Adam and I can have friends over and so can the kids.” To set the stage, architect Ryan Gordon gave the family an open floor plan with a wealth of connections to the outdoors through expansive steel-frame windows and doors. Then interior designer Jennifer Martinez brought in an airy, neutral palette spiked with youthful color.

Photography: Julie Soefer

“Our previous house was very French country and had a lot of gray.” Lauren says. “I still love that look, but I wanted to be bolder, to take a few risks with color and pattern while still staying true to who we are.”

Inspiration came from Lauren’s favorite color, blue, which Martinez applied in different strengths and shades throughout the house. “The bright, happy turquoise in the dining room was the launching point,” the designer says. “That and the wallpaper in the breakfast room drove the rest of the decisions. It was important to have good flow with the palette because of the open floor plan.”

Photography: Julie Soefer

Pops of pattern on pillows and sofa trim in the otherwise neutral living room repeat the vibrant blue seen in the adjacent breakfast room. At holiday time, sapphire ornaments on the Christmas tree and fresh greenery on the mantel add to the rich color story.

Photography: Julie Soefer

Plaster walls throughout the home imbue a warm, handcrafted ambience that makes the new spaces seem timeless. The plaster finishes, the hand-painted wall mural in the dining room, and the painted floor design in the breakfast room are all by Segreto Finishes in Houston, where Lauren’s sister works as a senior designer. “There was a lot of sister love going on with my sister, Leslie [Simmons], and Jennifer’s sister, Katie, involved.” Lauren Says. “It makes the house even more special.”

Photography: Julie Soefer

While all the artisan craft impresses, the dining room in particular awes, “We watched the Segreto muralist paint every branch, every leaf, every flower by hand for 11 days. It makes this truly a one-of-a-kind space,” Martinez says.

A mahogany table, French chairs, crystal chandelier, and marble fireplace reinforce the classical mood of the mural while an abstract art piece in shades of vibrant pink injects a contemporary note that speaks to the energy of a young family.

Photography: Julie Soefer

The dining room’s jewellike turquoise shade repeats in the bar that connects the space to the kitchen, where blue once again recedes to a supporting role. Wipeable barstool seats in sapphire tones provide dots of color in a sea of elegant white plaster, painted cabinetry, and marble-on counters and the backsplash. “Lauren wanted the look of marble,” Martinez says. “She doesn’t care if it stains. Each mark is a memory.”

Photography: Julie Soefer

For less formal occasions, a playroom offers extra main level gathering space and a getaway for the four Allen kids. “They’re usually sprawled across the sectional,” Martinez says. “It’s a great place for them to watch movies as a family or play Ping-Pong or board games. It’s just a really fun space.”

Photography: Julie Soefer

Upstairs, Lauren and Adam can find serenity in their well-appointed primary suite. Plaster walls and old-world antiques play to Lauren’s country French aesthetic in a way that’s clean-lined and current.

Photography: Julie Soefer

Hand-painted finishes on cabinetry and swaths of marble in the bath add to the sense of luxury.

Photography: Julie Soefer

“It’s a blessing to go through the building-and-design process, come out on the other side, and be really happy with how everything turned out,” Lauren says. “Having our first Christmas in the house last year was so special. It was wonderful to share a laid-back Christmas morning as a family and just enjoy being together.”

Comfortable and casual, functional and pretty, the house fills the family’s wish list for a forever home. “With kids running all over the place and everyone feeling welcome,” Martinez says, “it’s such a fun house-a really happy house.”

I hope you all enjoyed reading this Traditional Home article along with me! It is always so rewarding seeing our clients and their family loving their new homes! We so love being apart of the process in helping to personalize, adding to what makes their house feel like home. Thank you so much for all of your support this year!! I wish you and your loved ones a wonderful holiday season full of smiles, loved ones and memories!! Talk soon in the New Year!! Until then, xo Leslie

The post In the Limelight! Traditional Home, Jennifer Martinez & Segreto! appeared first on Segreto Finishes.

A SegretoChalks DIY Christmas Project and Give-A-Way!

Hi friends!! I hope your week is off to a great start and you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving! I love the holidays and getting together with family. All my kids and their significant others came over on Friday so that we could all be together! Loving to craft, I usually do a few fun holiday projects with the gang, which left me wanting to experiment more with our SegretoChalks line! I hope you enjoy my SegretoChalks DIY Christmas Project as much as I did as I have included a fun holiday give-a-way at the end!!

Last year, my office staff and I painted these cute wooden Christmas Trees in all of our Segreto green tones.

J.C. Penny

Although I have seen wooden trees for up to $125 each, I found these at JC Penny from North Pole Trading Co. for under $10 a piece!! Coming in sizes ranging from 7.5 inches to 10 inches, they are perfect for holiday crafting!! The larger trees in first picture were from Hobby Lobby!! What I love about crafting with Segreto Chalks is there is no prep work!! Typically, you would need to sand and prime wood before you paint. With Chalks, you can do it in one step!

Vietri Outlet

This year I wanted to experiment with more washy finishes and found these Vietri Alberini Trees at the Vietri Outlet. Currently they just have the green trees left but you can purchase the neutral tones in all sizes from Distinctive Decor right now!

I was so happy with the way the wood took the SegretoChalks! I just dipped my brush in water and then painted on the base in a washy fashion! If it gets too thick just use a damp paper towel to remove until you have the effect, you want. It is super easy to layer more paint atop for heavier coverage. On the bottom rim of the tree, I took a smaller brush also dipped in water before I applied the paint to the brush and ran it along the hemp cord. It absorbed beautifully into the natural material.

Loving the outcome, I wanted to try different color tones. Florene, Alluring Rose, and Granduca all worked great. I love the natural worn look they created with little effort!!

Whether I followed the rows of the cord or applied the paint up and down, I was really happy with the effect. Tips I would say is don’t load too much paint on your brush. It is easier to layer than take away!

Art-Segreto Finishes

Being inspired by how SegretoChalks could be blended, applied heavily or thinned down for different effects, I wanted to use them to create a commission art piece I was making for a friend. Although this is a mixed media piece, I really loved the effects of what the chalks added. They also clean up well and go such a long way!!

SegretoChalks Craft Project-Vietri

What do you think about my Christmas Tree line up? This is what I loved about using SegretoChalks!

There is no prep work!

They can be used to paint any surface! You can go over raw wood, stain, lacquer, shellac, wax or polyurethane!

You don’t need a lot of expertise with painting!

You can mix chalk paints so easily and layer if you are wanting to get extra creative!

A little goes a long way!

Easy clean up!

Because SegretoChalks is composed of minerals, it will hold up in different climates better than typical paints.

They can be sealed with wax or an acrylic polyurethane for extra protection!

If you are a craft lover like I am, I wanted to let you know that SegretoChalks are available in most of our 135 signature colors from the Segreto Palette. They can be used on furniture pieces, walls or crafting.

No time to craft? If you like to pick up some already done pieces, my staff jumped on the craft Christmas Tree train and created some super cute ones for purchase.

Reasonably priced at Small $19—–Medium $29—-Large $34

Small art pieces hung as a series is so impactful! These one-of-a-kind sculptured florals were created by our artisans in mini 4″ by 4″ size. Priced at $79 each, they would be perfect to put on books on shelves, hang as a collection or create ornaments for that special someone’s tree!! Come by the showroom at 2211 Wirtcrest Lane, call 713-461-5210 or email ellie@segretofinishes.com for any information.

Now for the giveaway! We will choose 5 winners next Friday to ship out a customized hand-painted tree. All you have to do before December 9th is sign up for the blog if you haven’t or follow us on Instagram and tag a friend!!

To Win a Christmas Tree

Sign up for the blog!

Or, if you are already a subscriber

Follow us on Instagram @segretofinishes and tag a friend in the comments section! You will get one entry for each person tagged!

Thank you all for following along my fun DIY project with Segreto Chalks! If you all create crafts or refinish any furniture with SegretoChalk Paint, be sure to share on Instagram and add #shareyoursegreto! We love to see the creative projects our clients and customers do. I hope you have an amazing week and I look forward to seeing any projects you all create! Until next time, xoxo Leslie

The post A SegretoChalks DIY Christmas Project and Give-A-Way! appeared first on Segreto Finishes.

Top Holiday Gifts for Everyone on Your List!

Hi friends, with the holiday season fast approaching I have been searching high and low for unique gifts for everyone on your nice list!

For the Chef!

The Always Pan

The Always Pan

I have been following this company for quite some time and am so enamored with both he products and the company’s give back attitude. The Always Pan was created to replace eight pieces of cookware: It’s beautiful, functional, lightweight, easy to clean, and has a toxic free coating. The company’s mission statement says it all! “We’re constantly trying to make kinder choices in every part of our businesses: from the materials we use in our products, to creating fully biodegradable packaging, to working with women-owned factories and multi-generational artisan collectives. We see every choice as a chance to make a more compassionate choice.”-Founder Shiza Shahid

Ooni Karu 12 Multi-Fuel Pizza Oven

Ooni Pizza Oven

Want an authentic stone-baked pizza right from your house? The Ooni Karu Pizza Oven is the perfect addition for your backyard! This pizza oven uses both wood and charcoal and is even portable so you can take your outings anywhere!

Sur la Table Cooking Class

Cooking Class

I love gifts that inspire togetherness! For those who are inspired to learn more cooking techniques or if you are looking for a gift for your significant other, how about a cooking class? Sur La Table offers both in person and virtual cooking classes! From date night dishes to fall favorites, they have a wide variety of cuisines to choose from.

My Family Cookbook

My Family Cookbook

Home cooked meals always bring a family together, and I am so sad I haven’t written down lost ones of my dad who owned many restaurants, or my grandmother who cooked and plated all of the dishes for her most amazing parties. The My Family Cookbook makes this easy and fun, becoming a personalized gift that can be passed down for generations to come.

The Bartesian Cocktail Maker

The Bartesian Cocktail Maker

A Keurig®, but for cocktails – genius! Now you can have premium cocktails that will make you think you are at your favorite cocktail lounge. With The Bartesian Cocktail Maker, you simply fill with your favorite brand of liquor or water, insert the Bartesian capsule of your choice (this contains all the premium mixers), select your strength and press mix! Makes the perfect cocktail or mocktail!

Kosterina Olive Oil

Kosterina

A chef can always use olive oil, even the one who has everything! Kosterina is straight from the farms in Greece, early harvested Koroneiki olive oil. Their founder puts health and wellness above all, making sure the olive oil has the antioxidant that makes it healthy for all of us to enjoy. They offer a holiday olive oil that is already pre-packaged and beautifully wrapped in a Mediterranean Blue box ready to gift!

They even have a mini version, 9 for $52, perfect for a place setting or to be divided up for stocking stuffers! Other olive oils that have caught my attention for gifts are Wonder Valley and Graza’s “Drizzle” & “Sizzle” Extra Virgin Olive Oil.

Truff Hot Sauce

Truff Hot Sauce Varity Pack

Gourmet hot sauce infused with truffle for those who love to add spice to their meals. First sweet from the agave nectar, then spicy from their red chili pepper blend, you end with the black truffle flavor! All of these components make this hot sauce one of a kind. The variety pack is the best way to try some of the multiple products Truff has to offer. All of their products use zero preservatives, are curated with organic products, and are both gluten free and vegan! Standing alone or divided into stocking this is both a healthy and tasty gift!

Mike’s Hot Honey

Mike’s Hot Honey

Also known as “Honey with a Kick!” Mike’s Hot Honey is the highest quality honey infused with chili flakes. The brand was founded by Mike Hurtz while he worked at a Brooklyn pizzeria. Originally drizzled on pizza, Mike’s Hot Honey can be found at retailers across the US. This honey is great to put on biscuits, cornbread and can be used in many recipes such as ribs and salmon. Makes a great gift for a neighbor or even as a stocking stuffer!

Kenny’s

Kenny’s Seasonings

There is no place like Texas when it comes to BBQ! Kenny Humpert, from Windthorstm a small German community in Texas, has cooked is BBQ for some legend greats such as Willie Nelson, Martina McBride, The Statler Brothers, The Dallas Cowboys, the Tennessee Titans and so many more. Not liking the salty and MSG-laced seasonings available he decided to create a tasty & healthier recipe. He also has blends with no salt and no sugar!!  This is going in everyone’s stocking as I have many BBQ enthusiast on my list.

Special Shit Products

Special Shit Products

Special Shit products have been a staple in our kitchen since it was given to us in a gift pack for, yes, a Christmas gift. Another Texas great, this product now sells across the country. It started when entertaining and grilling steaks, his guests asked what the seasoning was, and Dan said it was his own concoction. Days later his friend called asking if her could have some of the spice. Not knowing what spice, he was talking about his friend said you know that special shit you put on my steak and that is how the Special Shit series began!

For Your Techie

Apple AirTag

Apple Airtag

If you have someone on your list that like me is always losing things this latest Apple device can be attached to keys, wallets or anything else they are constantly misplacing. With the newer iPhone, they can even get turn-by-turn directions.

The MirrorThe Mirror

The Mirror

Fitting physical activity into your daily routine can be a challenge when your schedule is always evolving, whether you are a new mom or working in the corporate world. The Mirror offers streaming classes such as boxing or even a personal trainer right from your home! In the actual mirror, you can see your reflection along with your personal trainer. This sleek design can be mounted on a wall and takes up minimal room. A great gift for someone wanting flexible workout classes without leaving home! John and I have talked about this being something fun to do together!

Paper Camera

Paper Shoot Camera

What will they think of next? The Paper Shoot Camera is a slim screenless digital camera that produces photos that look like you took them with film! Great gift for an outdoor enthusiast!

3Doodler Create

3D Printing Pen

Drawing 3D images is now at the ease of your fingertips! Either by freehand or using stencils, you can create 3D structures. The best part, the plastic hardens almost instantly! I wish this was around years ago! 3Doodler Create + 3D Printing Pen is for all ages, whether gifting to a teen or a creator.

For your Glamour Gal!

Iconi

Iconi

Oprah’s top pick of most comfortable pants you have ever worn – and they donate 10% of their profits to nonprofit organizations! According to their founder, Iconi stands for “I Can Overcome, Nothing’s Impossible.” Their mission is to promote an inclusive environment for everyone, while giving back to charities. It’s the legging that gives back!

Pixie Moon Rae Crossbody Bag

Pixie Moon Crossbody Bag

Great for the traveler that is always on the go. The Pixie Moon Crossbody Bag has a built in wallet with card slots, bill compartment, clear ID window and a pouch that fits up to an iPhone 13 Pro Max! You can keep everything in one place without having to dig inside your giant purse to find it!

Nori Press Compact Iron and Steamer

Nori Press Compact Iron and Steamer

Those giant steamers and irons take up too much room in storage! With the Nori Press Compact Iron and Steamer, no board is needed and it is compact to store! This 2-in-1 compact iron and steamer makes it effortless to remove wrinkles. This would have been great when my girls were in college!

Slip Pillowcase

Silk Pillows

Sleeping on silk is said to reduce skin crevasses, wrinkles, hair loss and night sweats! Silk pillow cases even help with skin irritation and make blowouts last longer. There are many brands such as Slip, Alaska Bear and Blissy! Many of the girls at Segreto love silk pillowcases!

Tranquility Temperature Balancing Weighted Blanket

Weighted Blanket

A blanket that feels just like a hug! During the pandemic, these became even more popular. Weighted blankets have been proven to have many benefits, and they especially help reduce stress and anxiety. There are many brands out there, but this one has a washable cover and balances temperature, so you are never too hot!

Esker Terrazzo Plantable Candle

Eskar Plantable Candle

And of course, a special candle can relax and calm making any gal feel more glamorous! This Zero-Waste candle is hand poured, soy based, and infused with woodsy base notes of Cedar to reduce stress, musky Palo Santo to purify the mind, and sweet herbal Rock Rose to uplift the spirit. This luxury candle is designed to enjoy a multi-purpose lifespan by turning into a beautiful planter when the candle has finished. Each candle includes plantable seed paper and a soil pod. Esker also offers the candles in bath kits, which include some of their other products – perfect for a gift!

For the Game Enthusiast

Hues and Cues

Hues and Cues

This game is perfect for someone at Segreto- because it’s all about colors! Hues and Cues challenges its players to guess a color based on words, but you only get to use one and two-word cues!

You’re On Deck Personalized Games and Cards

You’re Ondeck

Your favorite family games are now personalized! So many memories are created around the family game table and what better way to create more memories than with a board game that reflects your family! Great gift for all ages.

The Great British Baking Show Game

The Great British Baking Show Game

This is one of my daughter Sammy’s favorite shows! When I saw this game, I knew I should share with you all. Such a fun and interactive way to watch The Great British Baking Show!

Love Lingual: Card Game

A Love Language Card Game

For a date night in, Love Lingual has 150 conversation starter questions for couples! They have been designed to create fun conversations with those you love. Great for newlyweds, just engaged couples or the couple coming up on a big anniversary!

Jiggly: Christmas Town, Heather McLaughlin

800-Piece Puzzle

Puzzles are another way to spend time with the family during the holidays. I thought this Christmas Town Puzzle was just beautiful. The company, Jiggy, has many puzzles to choose from as well. A unique gift to give your neighbors or those close to you.

qualitybackyardgames Custom Cornhole Boards

Personalized Cornhole Boards

Cornhole is always a fun game to play in the backyard with family or friends. Personalized cornhole boards would be great for the new homeowner you know or a college student. You cannot go wrong with this gift! There are many to choose from on Etsy that I found.

For the Younger Set!

Lego Christmas Wreath

Lego Wreath

Kids need all the entertaining! For boys and girls, this Lego wreath is a great way to get their creativity flowing and ready for Christmas! So while you are decorating the house and tree, have your kids can create one of these!

Little Big Playroom Ball Pits

A Ball Pit

Remember the ball pits at Chuck E. Cheese? Well, now you can have a miniature one right at home! Perfect to put younger kids in to be entertained while you are getting dinner ready or working.

Crazy Forts! Build Your Own Fort

Build Your Own Play Fort

Now your kids can build a fort without ruining or using all of your nice bedsheets! This Build Your Own Play Fort is genius. I wish we had this when I was young!

For your Dog Lover

Customizable D.O.G. Hoodie

House Doggie Hoodie

Pets need gifts too!! My family loves their furry friends and I think this customizable D.O.G. hoodie is just adorable! They even have it in bright colors! I can see this item being on some of my kids’ list this year!

Embark Dog DNA Test Kit

Embark Dog DNA test kits

Want to know more about your pet? Especially if you have rescued your dog, this is a great way to learn more about them! My family has done this test and it is so interesting!! Crazy they can do this!

For the Book Worm

What I Know For Sure, Oprah Winfrey

What I Know For Sure, by Oprah Winfrey

Oprah Winfrey has lived a one of a kind life and met some of the world’s most fascinating people. What I Know For Sure, is a compilation of her widely popular column she has shared in her magazine, O, The Oprah Magazine. The columns have been revised and updated for this book. These stories are based from all of her experiences and life lessons she has learned along the way. Will be a great uplifting book going into the new year!

The Power of Now: A Guide to Spiritual Enlightenment

The Power of Now

Personal growth is always a topic right at the new year. Why not start early and gift The Power of Now. This book has sold over 2 million copies worldwide! Wow! As a guide to spiritual enlightenment, the author takes readers on a journey to live fully in the present.

Monthly Book Subscription

Book of the Month Subscription

I love to read and love books! This is such a unique gift to give a book lover. The best part, it keeps on giving with a book per month. You can pick how many months you want your recipient to receive books as well. Great idea to gift someone in your book club!

Things to fill those stockings!

Spongelle: Bath Sponges, Buffers & Cleansers

Spongelle

There are so many beauty products out there, but this brand really caught my attention. Spongelle’s sponges have a built in body wash and buffer. With using their sponges, you can cleanse, exfoliate, massage and nourish the skin all at once. They are also vegan and cruelty free. So many other benefits as well, including a patented technology that prevents bacterial growth. You also feel like you are in a spa when you use these! The reviews are amazing! Don’t tell my girls, but they could be seeing this in their stocking! Shop their best sellers here!

Laura Geller New York 2022 Annual Party in a Palette

Laura Geller New York 2022 Annual Party

I love putting makeup palettes in stockings for my girls. This Laura Geller set comes with four different palette! Great deal! So if you have two daughters like I do, you can split it up and give each two!

Saucony Athletic Socks

Athletic Socks

You can never have too many socks! Especially when they wander away during laundry day. Socks are a great stocking stuffer for anyone! As an avid walker, I love a good athletic sock that makes your feet feel better. These Saucony socks are some of my favorite!

Manta Hairbrush

Manta Hairbrush
Fully flexible hairbrush that is so gentle! Many benefits come from this hairbrush from preventing hair breakage, to scalp care massager and a detangler! The Manta Hairbrush promotes healthier and shinier hair while being very easy to use. Awesome for anyone!

Teleties

Teleties

Tired of having your hair tangled after you tie it back? Teleties is the perfect stocking stuffer for those with long hair and they also give back! With each purchase of Teleties, they donate to FORCE (Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered). “FORCE is a non-profit organization that aims toward improving the lives of people and families affected by hereditary breast, ovarian and related cancers.”

Bob Ross by the Numbers

Paint by the Numbers makes a comeback with Bob Ross! Three pre-printed canvases with numbered sections come in this pack. There are 2 landscape art pieces and 1 of the famous Bob Ross’ face! A great stocking stuffer for any art enthusiast!

Molton Brown Stocking Filler

Molton Brown Stocking Filler

Molton Brown has some of the best selling scents when it comes to bath products, like body wash. Now, they have a whole set just for stocking stuffers! Don’t miss out on this one! You get to try 10 of their bath and shower gels!

Five Two Wool Dryer Balls

Wool Dryer Balls

Everyone loves a fluffy towel! Put these in your loved ones’ stockings. Food52 notes “Dryer balls are laundry’s miracle workers, hopping along with each load, bringing forth fluffier towels, softer sheets, and less-wrinkly shirts while also reducing drying time by 25%.”

Superwisk

Superwisk

This is perfect for the office! If you know a coffee lover, especially one who loves lattes, this is a must! Best part, the Superwisk is easy to use and travel friendly. Perfect for on the go!

Shop Segreto

Segreto ImpressionsSegreto Vignettes

Segreto Books: Impressions and Vignettes

Give the gift of inspiration with the Segreto book series. This indispensable guide is loaded with inspirational ideas, advice from design experts, and the latest design trends. Perfect for anyone interested in design- especially people renovating, building or first-time home buyers.

Segreto PaintSegreto Palette

Segreto Paint and Palette

You have heard of naming a star! What about having us develop your loved one’s signature color and naming it after them! Nothing is more soothing than living in that perfect shade. If you don’t know where to start, we have 135 curated colors to choose from. Segreto Paint is available in high quality washable matte, latex flat, semi oil, acrylic enamel and chalks! Contact us to place your Segreto Paint gift order!

Segreto Gift Certificates

For that special someone on your list what better gift than a Segreto Makeover. Whether it is a piece of furniture refinished, a SegretoStone dining table, a gift certificate for paint, or a room enveloped in plaster, this gift is truly something they will enjoy every day- all year long. Contact us or call the new showroom at 713-461-5210 to have us help you find your perfect Segreto gift!

I hope you can use some of the things that are making it on my Holiday list this year! Finding that perfect gift for all on your list can be challenging, just remember, quality time and thoughtfulness are really all that matter!! I hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving with family and friends, and an amazing start to this holiday season. Happy Thanksgiving!! Until next time, xoxo Leslie

The post Top Holiday Gifts for Everyone on Your List! appeared first on Segreto Finishes.

Southern Home Welcomes the Holidays with Sarah West!

Hi Friends! I hope you all had a wonderful first week of November! One thing I look forward to each year during the holiday season are magazine Holiday editions! I was so excited when I got an early delivery of Southern Home, one of my favs, which featured a major renovation project that we collaborated on with architectural consultant/designer extraordinaire, Sarah West.

Cover Photography: Kip Dawkins Photography: Michael Hunter

Not only did Sarah use our plaster throughout, but our coordinating paint from the Segreto Palette in “Moonbeam” and our SegretoStone products. I love how the house looked at the final reveal, I can’t wait to see how Sarah decorated it for the holidays!! Enjoy with me this beautifully written article by Tiffany Adams. Tiffany’s words are in italic, mine in regular text. I was excited to see my friend, Michael Hunter, was the photographer for our Southern Home project.

Photography: Kerry Kirk

As a designer, bringing meaning and interest to homes is at the heart of Sarah West’s mission. “Relationships are important to me, and I want to create a place where you can visualize your family making memories for years to come,” she says. When her dear friends Dana and Walter Burke called on her expertise, West put connection at the forefront of the plans, desiring to give the couple a space that was a true reflection of them.

Photography: Kerry Kirk

“They were planning to build new, but this house is on the bayou in Houston and has an amazing view,” West says. Seeing the potential to maximize this and other features throughout the home, she suggested a full-scale renovation, knocking out wall and installing new floor-to-ceiling steel windows to bring life and light into the home that was built in 2002. “This house had a very traditional look, and we took it down to the studs,” the designer says.

Photography: Kerry Kirk

In terms of flow and architectural features, one of the biggest changes came in opening up the floor plan to seamlessly connect the family room and kitchen. “They travel a lot and like to be ready to entertain at any moment when they are home. They wanted an area where they could host everyone,” West says in regard to the newly created hub. At the entry, the original grand staircase was replaced with a stylized interpretation with an undulating curve. “The exterior is very straightforward, so I thought it might be nice to mix in the curves,” West says. Throughout, a neutral backdrop turns the focus to the view, artwork, and accessories. “I always try to incorporate a few of my clients’ meaningful pieces. For this home, I selected lightly hued plaster walls which provided the ideal canvas for me to curate the other elements,” the designer adds.

Photography: Kerry Kirk

For the Burkes, these meaningful items include everything from contemporary works by artists such as Donald Martiny to antiques – both inherited and purchased on their own travels.”

Photography: Kerry Kirk

“I like mixing genres and shaking it up a bit,” West says. “Design can be timeless and still be fun.” This mix of new and old is apparent throughout the home, including the primary bedroom where a vintage, pink marble-top table is juxtaposed with a more contemporary custom bubble gum-hued sofa. “She’s a pink girl,” West says of the cheerful selections for her client.

Photography: Kerry KirkPhotography: Michael Hunter

Other significant pieces are found in the kitchen, where depression glass plates inherited from Dana’s mother and framed photos of the couple’s grandchildren line a wall near the range.

Photography: Michael Hunter

In addition to the overarching design, it was important to the Burkes and West to layer in holiday décor with a similar feel. “Dana is such a giving person that I knew she would want a Christmas moment in more than one space,” West says. Artfully decorated trees shine in the family room and living room, while pinecones and vintage snowflakes are sprinkled throughout the entertaining areas. Acorns also find a home on a gilt light fixture in the living room, where each one represents a child or grandchild in the family. “Acorns hold special meaning to them; Walter gave Dana one on a walk when they first met,” West explains. “It’s creating visual moments like these for my clients that gives me the most joy.”

This renovation project was one of our favorites! We loved incorporating not only our plaster and paint, but we included our SegretoStone products as well. A SegretoStone plaster application in one of our signature colors, Scultura, was applied over the existing living room fireplace to give it a seamless updated look! Our product provides a quiet aesthetic that pairs beautifully with many materials and different styles. With Sarah mixing new and old world materials in this renovation, SegretoStone was the perfect addition.

Photography: Kerry Kirk

The SegretoStone counter tops flanking the family room fireplace were in another signature color, Pure White. With 29 colors to choose from, SegretoStone can be paired with matching SegretoPaint and plaster for the seamless blend. Spending so many hours on the color palette, as that perfect tone is so important, is It is so fun to see it come to fruition in some beautiful homes!

Sarah and daughter Kirby had so much fun collaborating together, and we are so incredibly proud to be featured with Sarah in Southern Home again. Check our 2018 Southern Home Fall feature here to walkthrough another beautiful home. Thank you all for your support and going on this lovely home tour with me today!! If you don’t follow Sarah on Instagram, check it out!! So much inspiration! I wish you all a beautiful start to this holiday season! Until next time, xo Leslie

The post Southern Home Welcomes the Holidays with Sarah West! appeared first on Segreto Finishes.

Finding Inspiration this Fall!!

Hi Friends, although we are not wearing sweaters or sipping hot coco yet in Houston, we have crept into cooler weather just in time for long walks, fall time activities and of course, holiday table décor!!!!

With reaching another decade this year, I have vowed to get in better shape so I can live to the fullest. I have started walking with friends and one took me to Houston’s newly transformed Arboretum, which is a shaded and full of animals, different indigenous plants, ponds and beautiful trees. When my brother, anthropologist turned high school biology teacher, came to town I took him there. Living in the jungles of South America, I knew a way to engage conversation while taking my mind off huffing a puffing was to ask him to tell me 5 facts about trees. He shared with me their connectivity as they use their root systems to communicate and help each other. I was touched and thought, I wish humans could be a bit more like trees.

Copyright: Satori

It has been proven that just looking at trees can make us feel more creative, less stressed and just generally happier! When humans are exposed to chemicals released by trees known as phytoncides, for example, research has shown results such as reduced blood pressure, reduced anxiety, increased pain threshold, and even increased expression of anti-cancer proteins. Considering that, maybe it’s little wonder trees have been shown to raise our evaluations of real estate. According to the U.S. Forest Service, landscaping with healthy, mature trees adds an average of 10% to a property’s value (some estimates are as high as 20%). Research also shows urban trees are correlated with lower crime rates, including things from graffiti, vandalism, and littering to domestic violence.- Treehugger

I googled the concept of trees having a community so I could properly share my brothers’ points…. as my memory…..well???? I discovered the bestselling book The Hidden Life of Trees by German scientist Peter Wohlleben. Trees are connected to each other through underground fungal networks sharing water and nutrients and yes, communicating. They send distress signals about drought and disease and through their root system transport needed water and enzymes to each other. Wise old mother trees feed their saplings with liquid sugar and warn the neighbors when danger approaches. For young saplings in a deeply shaded part of the forest, the network is literally a lifeline. Lacking the sunlight to photosynthesize, they survive because big trees, including their parents, pump sugar into their roots through the network.” –Peter Wohlleben This has inspired me to nature this season for entertaining themes and my fall tablescapes.

The Centerpiece!

Southern Living – Photo by Laurey Glenn

Although I am a traditionalist in bringing a harvest feel to fall tablescapes, I love the ability to use color in linens and dishes to give my table a new twist each year. Centerpieces where fruits and veggies are included like this one shown in Southern Living Fall Table Decor Ideas, captures an earthy harvest and inspires many different colorful combinations!

Brit + Co

Follow the link from Brit + Co to see how to create vases from vegetables as centerpieces.. or..

Southern Living-PHOTO: LAUREY W. GLENN; STYLING: BUFFY HARGETT MILLER

..carve out smaller produce to use on each plate as place card holders!

Southern Living: photo by Helen Norman

Making trays out of pumpkins, fruits and vegetables will take your appetizer or desert spread to a whole new level!

Pottery Barn or Vietri Outlet

Mix them with leaf tid-bit plates from Pottery Barn or Vietri Outlet to complete your spread!

Dishes!

Juliska Forest Walk Collection

Dinnerware is another way to personalize your table. Juliska’s Forest Walk collection has caught my eye this year with its beautiful combination of colors framed in woodsy foliage. They remind me of my walks with my friends, connecting with each other and the glorious trees!

Juliska

I have become a bit obsessed with pewter stoneware and I guess Juliska this season. They are an investment, but I did discover two ways to get more for your dollar. They have a sale section on the top of their website which has some amazing items at greatly reduced prices. I also recently discovered that they have an outlet which features seconds and retired items. For a more budget friendly option look to CB2‘s options in stoneware. With three tones to choose from they lend a more modern flair.

Juliska Outlet

That is where I purchased these Forest Walk salad plates. Such a wonderful way to add an entirely new look to your dinner plates!!

Juliska

I purchased Martha Stewart’s mini tureens for soup years ago from Macy’s in white and have loved them, however these pewter ones from Juliska are tempting!!

Pottery Barn

The only white ones I found from you are from Pottery Barn! They are so cute and just the right size!

Glassware- It’s all about the tortoise!

Juliska

To further the natural theme, mix your fall tablescapes with tortoise inspired glassware like these from Juliska. They are currently sold out through their site but look at Neiman Marcus or Gracious Style for current selection.

CB2 Franklin Cooler

I ordered these tall ones from CB2! They are on sale now for $8.95 and you know how I do love a bargain! Z Gallerie and Novica also have some great affordable options!

Napkin Rings!

Williams Sonoma

The pheasant napkin rings are a charming touch. These from Williams Sonoma are the most reasonably priced option I found for the look. (4 for $29.99) Amazon has a large selection of feathers to add to your centerpiece or smaller ones to make your own napkin rings, either with wood or jute bases.

Tin Parade

A sweet friend, who I also share walks with gave me these lovely napkin bars. I love how the napkin can lay flat. They will be front and center on my table this year! I used similar napkin rings on my Thanksgiving table last year! Check out that blog here!

Pottery Barn

Flatware!

Bamboo and pewter or copper are my picks this season!

AmazonAmazonAmazon

Make it Meaningful!

Royal    Live Mini Magnolia    Mini Lemon Tree

I really want my family this season to look around and be inspired by how trees look out and care for each other. So maybe for Christmas this year, a wrapped version of The Hidden Life of Trees paired with one of these mini beauties will be a beautiful reminder all year long! What special traditions will you be enjoying this Fall Season? I would love to hear. Stop and look up at the trees to find inspiration this fall! Till next time! XO Leslie

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The Best of Resort Life and Italian Villas – Luxe Magazine

Hi Friends! I hope you all had a wonderful weekend! I was so excited to see this month’s cover of Luxe Magazine! This home was done in collaboration with Ashton Taylor Interiors, David James Custom Builder and Gordon Partners Design. My daughter Kirby led the design from the Segreto team and did such an amazing job! Christine Deorio wrote this fabulous article on this amazing showcase house! I thought you would love the tour as this is one of my favorite houses we have been a part of to date! Christine’s fine words are in italic followed by my adds in regular text!

Photography: Lisa Petrole

What do sultry Cabo San Lucas resorts and classical Italian villas have in common? Both have a special place in the hearts of the husband-and-wife owners of this new Houston abode. These desirable destinations also informed the design of the residence itself, which marries the two sources of inspiration with nary a seam in sight. 

I adore the architectural interest the paneling created in space. Our team created a technique to give the illusion of plaster moldings which flowed into the ceiling plaster! LOVE! We have created a similar effect in our new showroom so you can see this application up close and personal.

Photography: Lisa Petrole

Wood beams and plaster, which was custom matched to Benjamin Moore’s Sienna and applied by Segreto Finishes, give the study an old-world feel. Lounge chairs from Industry West juxtapose sleek vintage stone cocktail tables from Found. A sculpture inspired by Salvador Dalí’s melting clocks appears to drip over a display shelf’s edge.

Only certain plasters can hold this rich pigment. In this application we chose Tadelakt, a Moroccan plaster which can also be used in showers!! It is an all natural lime plaster which is a two coat process!

Photography: Lisa Petrole

The study’s sienna-colored plaster walls frame a view of the entry featuring a custom floor pattern cut from both Pietra Grey and Statuario marble slabs. An ornate mirror hangs over Glas Italia’s Bisel console in green and yellow glass. The vintage alabaster chandelier was found on 1stdibs.

Photography: Lisa Petrole

During the planning process, residential designer Ryan Gordon imagined how his clients might experience a day at their favorite Mexican seaside retreat: waking to the sight and sound of water outside their bedroom window; hitting the gym before skipping down a spiral staircase to the pool; and dressing for dinner in a spa-like bathroom with earthy plaster walls. Simultaneously, he conceived a design with arched windows and limestone walls, acknowledging the couple’s love of Palladian architecture “without being so literal as to put big columns on the front of the house,” he explains. And in homage to Tuscan country dwellings, he incorporated hefty rafter tails beneath hipped slate roofs as well as wooden beams on high ceilings.

The foyer is coated with a one coat plaster made from gypsum, lime and marble dust. The softness of the product gives an uneven sheen which envelopes a room and even in white tones gives a warmth that can be felt but not always explained. We with our new space now have the equipment to create coved molding and coat them with plaster! This home’s architecture has such a wonderful mix of graceful shapes and square off edges.

Photography: Lisa Petrole

But there’s a bigger twist. “From the front, the house is tight and classic, and as you move toward the back, it becomes more transparent,” Gordon says of the steel-and-glass window walls connecting the open-plan living room, dining room and kitchen to the poolside terrace. This contemporary contrast hints at interiors brought to life by designer Ashton Taylor Oberhauser and builder DJ Palmore, who blended elegant, coved ceilings and paneled and plastered walls with clean-lined Italian modernism. “The homeowners’ personalities are at opposite ends of the spectrum: she’s outgoing, and he’s more reserved and regimented,” Palmore says. “This home’s aesthetic reflects both of them by being bold but also structured.”

Living room neutrals include plastered walls by Segreto Finishes matched to Benjamin Moore’s Seapearl, a custom Tibetan knot Perennials rug and Giorgetti’s Skyline sofa from Casa. Mimi London’s Origami lounge chair from David Sutherland, in a Marvic Textiles striae velvet from Wells Abbott, pops below Ironware’s Celine pendant.

Photography: Lisa Petrole

For her part, Oberhauser found inspiration for the dramatic spaces in a rare vintage black marble dining table by Italian architect and designer Angelo Mangiarotti. “The contemporary lines and beautiful stone, which is worn in the most perfect way, helped set the tone for what we wanted in the entire house,” she recalls. “My style leans more contemporary, but I believe in finding a way to roughen up those sharp lines for more of an aged patina, because you still need some soul.”

The stone’s moody tone inspired marble features throughout, including the entry’s black-and-white flooring, the powder room’s pedestal sink and the primary bedroom’s fireplace surround. Its timeworn finish—reflective of ancient Italian architecture—also helped inform the plastered walls, French oak floors and full-bodied velvets, moirés and bouclés on the furnishings. “There’s a lot of depth to the fabric colors we selected that you can’t get from typical cotton velvet,” Oberhauser explains. “The living room chair, for example, had to be a striae linen cotton to provide the richness we needed.”

Photography: Lisa Petrole

The kitchen island’s burl veneer is from Custom Plywood, Inc. Cabinetry painted Sherwin-Williams’ Tricorn Black frames a Calacatta Macchia Vecchia marble backsplash from Aria Stone Gallery. In the foreground, a vintage table by Angelo Mangiarotti is from M.Naeve. An Apparatus chandelier suspends above.

Throughout most of the interiors, saturated colors float in a plane between white ceilings and dark wood floors—from the dining room’s wine-colored leather chairs and emerald-green sideboard to the living room’s red travertine coffee table and orange velvet-upholstered chair. But in the study, the color is all-encompassing—much to the homeowners’ delight. “We’re not afraid of deep colors or strong elements,” the wife says. “As much as I love a serene feel, put a leopard print in front of me, and I’m good to go.” So, she didn’t bat an eye when Oberhauser had these walls plastered in a deep sienna hue and added tall velvet drapes to match, or when Palmore proposed a dramatic ribbed alcove behind the desk. “That was one of those details we winged,” he adds. “I’m a firm believer that there are some things you can’t design unless you’re standing in the space.”

Photography: Lisa Petrole

Custom bar cabinets donning Sherwin-Williams’ Rookwood Shutter Green complement walls clad in Verias Antique marble from Aria Stone Gallery. A custom shade in Lauren Hwang New York fabric from Allan Knight softens the space. Apparatus Talisman sconces flank an antique Italian accordion mirror found on 1stdibs.

Photography: Lisa Petrole

A fluted wall niche in the study overlooks a Zanotta Carlo Mollino-designed Cavour CM writing desk and Arper chair from Debner. The Nautilus Study lamp is Christopher Kreiling Studio.

This fluted niche was a challenge to create but I can’t tell you how our Segreto Team beamed at the outcome when complete!

Photography: Lisa Petrole

Black plasterwork by Segreto Finishes in the powder room backs a solid marble pedestal sink by Stone Forest paired with a Graff faucet, both from Acero Bella. The 20th-century mirror is a 1stdibs find.

Encouraged by the clients’ derring-do, Oberhauser and Palmore proposed a few more bold choices, including a Romanesque dome in black plaster over the powder room sink and the primary bathroom’s freestanding tub encased in a cube of quartzite. What’s more, the kitchen island was wrapped in the same species of burl wood Oberhauser specified for aircraft bulkheads in her former career designing luxury jet interiors. “I was scared about that at first,” the wife notes of the latter, “but we get so many compliments about how original it is. And the running theme with Ashton and DJ was, ‘We don’t want to do the expected.’ ” The result is as different—and yet perfectly suited to this couple—as Los Cabos and Tuscany. 

Photography: Lisa Petrole

Matouk linens from Longoria Collection, a wool shag rug from RH and a circa-1840 folk art window shade, stretched on a frame, set the tone for the main bedroom. A CB2 bench and chandelier from Circa Lighting add touches of glamour.

[image error]Photography: Lisa Petrole

Walls in Tadelakt plaster bring a beach retreat feel to the main bathroom. A tub fitted with House of Rohl hardware from Acero Bella is encased in Ijen Blue leathered quartzite from Omni Surfaces. Limestone flooring from Alamo Stone runs underfoot.

This concept of having the tub and shower in one room is beautifully done. The plaster we installed creates a simplicity to the space allowing the other dynamitic surfaces to come front and center. The effect of floating shelves and beautiful fixtures without the grout lines or heavy veining creates a Zen feeling and brings the outside in!

We have worked with DJ Palmore, founder of David James Custom Builder many times and love his creative, innovative concepts. We were so excited to be a part of this talented team – Ashton Taylor Interiors, David James Custom Builder and Gordon Partners Design. They were magical together!! Thank you Lisa for really beautifully capturing the homes personality though your photography! I hope you all enjoyed the tour and that you have a wonderful week! Till next time, XO Leslie

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Moving is an Evolution!!

Hi Friends! I hope you all have had a wonderful weekend!! I am off to sunny California for a wedding with the family and then three days with just my husband! I am leaving my very capable staff moving forward in organizing our new wonderful space. It is so different than our last showroom which was in a renovated 1950’s 2,200 square foot home. With limited space, we all bunked two to three in an office and left the rest to house and display our samples. The new space is our converted warehouse, which originally was a big tin building used as a machine shop. I have always thought that one final reveal would be so fun, but I seem to enjoy letting the space evolve little by little and thinking of creative elements to incorporate along the way.

I know you have seen this picture before of my daughter Kirby selecting some colors. The paint display area was a small wall that was about 7 by 7 ft. at our previous location. I always like to test all things we offer to our clients before we do a full launch. For the last three years we have used and tested the paint line personally, as well as talked to designers about the depth of color and to experienced painters about the paint quality and coverage. With great reviews on all ends, and the line really taking off, we dedicated an entire room to our Segreto palette. Now you can meet in a room full of light with clients, designers or our staff to pick that perfect tone!

The new palette room is right off the entry when you walk in. We wanted to incorporate a SegretoStone fireplace to give a cozy feel to the space. This one also doubles as a ledge, giving a place in meetings to line up fabric and surface selections. This fireplace isn’t done yet! It has a topcoat, polish and sealer left to go!

There were lots of late nights and pizza parties with everyone chipping in to get the space functional for move in!! We really thought the cup holder hooks used to hang paint chips were a wonderful way to display chips in the old showroom, so we decided to install them at the new location the same way! Thank goodness we had a laser level and a tripod stand this time!! It was so much easier and faster to layout the grid!! It was so fun to see my two gals working together to get this part done! Of course, they were still competitive as sisters can be, racing to see who installed the most!

Segreto staffer, Ellie, installed all the new chips the next day!

We really enjoyed our painted floors in our old space. They gave the chosen rooms such individual character and for a high traffic area, they were much easier to keep clean! I forgot that years ago before the staff had grown so much, we used some of the office for retail and an art gallery! We would buy pieces to transform and paint, then offer them for sale!

Goodness, I am not even sure how many years ago this was!! I am excited that neighbor Gail Taylor, founder of Taylor and Taylor Designs, purchased our place and is going to turn it into a consignment store. With such a great eye, I can’t wait to see what she does! She even wanted to keep our paint wall! Loving our color palette, she wanted to offer it to her own clients! Now she will have two stores steps away from each other.

Our new space has a bit different feel! Wanting this room fun and whimsical, we decided to do a painted floor incorporating fun pops of color from our line. We asked Floor Designs of Houston, who had done such a great job restoring the floors at our old location, to lay a pine floor in this room. They stained in a bleached warm honey color. He first bleached and finished it with one coat of sealer, then my team went to work!!

After we completed the graphics another coat of sealer was applied for durability! The feel and tone of the base is so important to our finished product, and we were thrilled with what they had done! We love the fun and funky vibe the pattern gave to the room!! The light fixtures from Circa Lighting were a gift from a client for our old showroom 10 years ago. She originally had them in her dining room and was transitioning to something more formal. We still loved them, so they made the move to our new place!

Here is what they looked like in our old space! We had our main conference area combined with our sample library. Because we had multiple meetings going on at the same time, you were often interrupted with others pulling samples. In our new space, the library is completely separate. We are so excited about that!

We wanted to incorporate two working spaces. The production team built a SegretoStone waterfall worktable with a metal shelf for storage. With our new warehouse we now have a metal shop where we build the structure for our pieces, and we are now able to mix materials in our custom furniture!! The back wall was just plastered in this photo! You can see when wet the walls are many shades darker and take about 24 hours to dry to their intended shade.

Here is Kirby in our new entry reception area contemplating what we do next…. We were so excited when the drapes installed. Interior Fabrics is still my favorite place for an affordable, in stock white linen! We found the perfect shade to marry well with our SegretoStone plaster floors and reception desk!! I love the way our production team transitioned the plaster floors into the concrete ones, and integrated our plaster lighting line, beam and engraved logo into the space! Stay tuned for the share of each space as it unfolds! Our new location is 2211 Wirtcrest Ln, Houston, 77055. Until next time!! XO Leslie

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Why Don’t We Stay Bungalow Awhile?!

Hi Friends! Isn’t the design world fascinating? Add to that all the amazing technologies and innovations that happen so quickly!! I’ve been holding on to sharing this groundbreaking project since March, but it was one that we at Segreto were super excited to be a part of! How many of us have been to designer show-houses, trade conventions or even neighborhood home tours and wished we could just move in to REALLY see if it’s comfortable? Well now those in the design, building or architectural trade can!

Introducing the first STAY BUNGALOW, located in the historic Travis Heights neighborhood of Austin, Texas. The brainchild of CEO and Founder, Barret Morgan, Stay Bungalow intersects design, commerce, technology and creative vision. Unlike a traditional designer show-house, the Stay Bungalow means you can actually stay! Hop in the tub for a soak! Try cooking a meal in the kitchen! Check out the sheet thread count! And everything here was curated for you to interact with on behalf of your own clients.

An interactive app on your phone allows you to scan each item inside the show house individually and research the product and even order it!

We were delighted that Segreto Finishes was asked to be a part of this new concept and we loved that Elizabeth Krueger Design gave each trade or brand partner some latitude in what we wished to contribute! We premiered our new Segreto Lime from our color palette “Porcelain” and provided Segreto Paint to blend. Segreto Lime is a two coat all-natural lime-based plaster with a soft matt sheen. Also, we decoratively painted outlet and switch covers to blend with marble- our favorite game of “ISpy” and created custom furniture pieces in our patented Segretostone!

Segreto Lime has a very clean, organic and sleek feel. Virtually carbon neutral, it’s also extremely breathable, which means any biodegradable elements inside the wall such as the wood are really protected from moisture.

With so many products and vendors participating, the color of the plaster had to be just right; neutral enough to create the backdrop for everything to truly shine. We thought Porcelain married well with both warm and cool tones and would blend seamlessly with all of their selections.

Inside the kitchen, hiding those unsightly outlet covers was a priority to keep the flow of the zen feeling throughout. I’m always so proud of our team when during the final walkthrough, the work is done so well that the designers have trouble finding the covers!

Next we created three one of a kind Segretostone furniture pieces. Segretostone was a perfect choice for the cutting edge STAY BUNGALOW. Patented by Segreto Finishes, Segretostone is custom, organic, one of a kind and all natural. I love that it blends so well with other materials and effortlessly melds with any aesthetic. Each piece is handcrafted in our workshop and then the SegretoStone finish is hand troweled and polished to a soft sheen and luminous luster.

The Segretostone round dining table was created in our Segreto Palette color, Engaging White. The whole look of the table; from color to sheen truly enhanced the timeless feel of the linens, dining ware and table enhancements. We were tasked with creating similar nesting coffee tables for the living area.

And each time our amazing artisans take an inspiration and make it a reality, I’m always so proud of them. They did such a beautiful job creating these two coffee tables in SegretoStone in the color Memorable beautifully complimenting the lovely the fabric and soft good choices.

STAY BUNGALOW is designed as a member only experience. If you are in the industry and wish to be considered for membership, I’m sure they’d love to hear from you. Contact them right here!

A little gem that serves so many functions deep in the heart of Texas. Staycation bungalow, product and services show-house and a technology leap forward! And if you are lucky enough to go and enjoy the experience and all the different products, spend some time with Segreto Finishes! Touch the walls! Use the tables! Find all the outlet covers! Make yourself at home with us! It’s a brilliant idea and was a delight of a project! I hope you enjoyed your tour of Stay Bungalow as we loved being a part of the cutting-edge project.

We are still getting settled in our new place!! I will update you on progress along the way!! I Hope you have a great week. Till next time! xo Leslie

Some Things Just Go Better Together! The Segreto Finishes Showroom has moved adjacent to our warehouse! And while they have two different addresses they are now on the same campus. We are excited to better be able to show the possibilities that architectural finishes can bring to your home or project! Till Next Week! XO Leslie

New Showroom Address | 2211 Wirtcrest Ln | 713-461-5210

Warehouse Address | 11518 Kilburn Rd | 713-640-5225

For paint or furniture, please enter through the green door of the warehouse

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What’s Segreto Been Up To?

Hi Friends, although the heat is still here in Houston, school has started, and summer is over! I hope everyone had family and friend time and went on at least one big adventure!! I wanted to share with you a few stand out projects we have been working on and one big surprise!

We are so fortunate to be able to work with Eleanor Cummings on our SegretoStone furniture projects. Her style is par none- with a collected, timeless and elevated feel. I love her Idea of her double coffee tables in this large living space! This build of this project is beautifully executed with Sebastian Construction Group at its hub!! You should check out their website! It is really well done!

I was so excited to work on this house- not only because it is amazing, but I was able to collaborate with the talented James Dawson in this hood creation! Since 1994 James has been a Houston design staple and a go to for anything unique. We applied the finish to the wood, and he fabricated this beautiful mixed media hood. This house will certainly be featured in book 5 with so many wonderful elements. Although a new construction, it is a home which feels like it will be there for generations to come. Designer Sarah Liuzzi and David Hathaway with Gunn Construction have been a wonderful collaboration of talent! PS. the shiplap in this picture is painted with Segreto Paint in the color “Escape”!

Segreto teamed up with designer, Michelle Stewart to create this beauty! Struggling to find the perfect piece of art for this space, Michelle and the homeowners fell in love with our plaster roses and vines. The team loves how this art feature pulls your eye to this room at the back of the house right when you enter the front door! I love this article on Michelle’s personal house when she decorated it for Christmas!! It was featured in Southern Accents!!

This house had some simply outstanding features. I loved the staircase, plastered in Segreto’s signature tone “Moon Beam” with our coordinating trim paint to blend! The custom light fixture Designer Trisha McGaw selected, falls three stories!

This was such an incredible project brought to us by Abel Design Group!! The homeowner wanted to be able to have a beautifully done outdoor entertaining space fit for an elaborate Tuscan feast. If you look carefully you can see the crystal art installation mixed with the trees!! The SegretoStone table complimented the European way of “outdoor living” !

I have always been a fan of metal leaf details on moldings, cabinets, and more! It adds just the right element of sophistication to a piece without being glitzy. Love the treatment on this doors bead detail. It also looks beautiful on paneling, and cabinetry!

I was thrilled when we were commissioned to inlay brass into a SegretoStone fireplace for a client. It added just the right touch to this traditional design giving it a modern twist. I can’t wait to apply the same techniques to tables, consoles, coffee tables and more.

I have another work of art to add to our favorite game of “iSpy”! I was amazed at the detail that our decorative team put into masking light trims, speakers, glass breakers and more for designer Kara Childress and Goodchild Builders. By hiding these elements that stood out- the ceiling treatment really made the room.

Sometimes the favorite part of our job is to solve problems. This is an incredible kitchen where all of kitchen cabinet fronts were made from sold stone!! Because of the weight the panels from the dishwashers became an issue when they were opened and closed. UTBC asked if we were up to the task! Pull up their website and look at the Spanish Colonial on their portfolio page. This home was in our first book and since, has been totally transformed into a more modern version! Look for it as well in book 5!

Segreto’s decorative team were challenged to make the new wooden panels look exactly like the surrounding stone cabinetry to bring designer Garrett Hunter’s vision to life!

And now for a partial reveal! With the warehouse all moved in and operational, we have been working hard to transform the old warehouse into a showroom space!! Although it is going to be so great to have our operations/production facilities and staff right next to the showroom, I must admit I have been nervous about leaving 1414 Antoine Drive which has been our happy place for about 10 years! As the space is coming together I can’t tell you how excited I am getting. We will be able to show you so much more!! So on August 20th we are moving locations!! Stay tuned next week for new sneak peaks!! Till next time! Xo Leslie

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