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July 29th, 2011

As we apply the finishing touches of the Design Home, I am impressed by the team work that has gone into this project. Although you cannot see this beautiful home until September 10, 2011 we need to have this finished now so that Jay Greene can take the wonderful pictures you see in the Philadelphia Magazine. Waverly Construction has finished the construction of course, and all of the sponsors have completed their tasks. I am lucky to get to know all of these talented people. As with any project, the people who install tile, wood floors, area rugs, plumbing, light fixtures, paint and furniture all make me look good; I couldn’t do it without them. This project also wouldn't be possible without my two very dedicated and talented designers, Tracy and Lindsay or without the help of Sherry Litwer from Philly Mag. So, thanks to everyone and I look forward to seeing you there in September.

First Impressions are so important! When we meet someone for the first time, we always want to put our best foot forward. Yet, it goes deeper than that for our homeowners. I believe that everyone should have a smile on their face when they enter their home. Even if it is just an area where you pass through to go upstairs, it is the place where you typically greet your guests and I know that you want them to feel welcome.

In the first foyer there was a lot to consider. The main entry was open to the family room and the dining room. It was important to not clutter the area. We kept it simple with a round table and fresh flowers. The table was elegant but not overwhelming. It was easy to maneuver around. The lighting fixture displayed some contemporary lines while the railing reflected more traditional shapes. I think that the combination of styles makes for a very interesting place. On the high walls we placed a spectacular tapestry to absorb sound and to soften the hard lines. A lamp on the table by the stairs created a warm welcoming glow on the entry level. The darker color in the ceiling added to the drama of this detail. A rich area rug softened the harder surface of the floor. It also helped to take out the echo in this area. The colors were carefully chosen to blend with the adjoining rooms.

The second foyer has a more traditional look. The rich warm colors flow in to the adjoining rooms. Since the area under the stairs is often a triangular shape, we addressed this with a collection of mirrors. When using an eclectic grouping it is always better to use an uneven number of pieces. Sometimes when I am putting the arrangement together and it just doesn’t feel right, I just have to stop and count. I always get my answer there. To create more interest, we often add a patterned stair runner. This is also very family friendly as it hides dirt and stains for an active family. Artwork is hung in the two story space and along the second floor hallway to draw your eye upward. Everywhere you look there is an inviting touch. How do you want your home to greet you?