Between the Halloween magic that October brings, and the announcement that all of the Harry Potter movies will be heading back to theaters for a very magical week, I thought it was time to share a little magic (decorating) trick of my own. I've talked before about re-upholstering vs slipcovering to revitalize and renew a sad or tired piece of furniture, or make it better fit with your new space. And while slipcovering is definitely less costly that re-upholstery, sometimes yo

Look around ... from purses and jackets and sweaters to homegoods of every type ... the humble dot is adding a lot of dash. I've always been a fan of polka dots, the classic white on navy or the retro-blast bubble gum on turquoise. They add energy without overwhelming and bring youthfulness without being babyish. As I look around my office I see spots. There's the dotted fish ceramic mug that hold pens. A mat on a favorite print. Samples on my office board. And the stun

I love a good red. Say ... a cab, merlot, montepulciano, or even a syrah. In my glass. In my home ... not so much. So when Pantone released their 2015 "Color of the Year" -- marsala -- I was less than enthusastic. Recent years have featured emerald and tangerine tango ... and this seemed like a step to the dark side. But whether you like it or not, the design/decorating industry will respond. 50 shades of marsala will be the new norm. For those who don't know, marsala is

Time to cozy up, cuddle down, and wrap up in warmth to embrace the inevitable -- winter in Chicago. And for that, I’ve got just one word: layers! You’ve probably got the idea mastered for yourself. Starting with a base layer, perhaps a cuddly sweater over on top, a lush scarf as an accent (and another layer of warmth), a jacket over that, and – just in case – a rain jacket to shield against the threat of water. Practical. Chic. And why should you limit this to your look