organic curves with impactful boldness for your spaces!

Arteriors, one of my personal faves, successfully highlights organic curves within a curated luxe environment with impactful yet quiet energy that is simply stunning.

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Creativity, in my opinion, is where art and science meet. The artistry is full of the unknown, the unexpected, the inspiration, while the science is the logistics of creating said artistry with well-thought out schematics and technical aspects that execute the WOW!

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Simplistic elegance….yassss!

You guys know I absolutely love exploring trends and finding creative, yet resourceful solutions to embracing trends that may have longevity within an environment, hence, curating a timeless + edgy space. Over the last few years, our industry has evolved with organic movement in spaces, furnishings, lighting, wall coverings, case goods, art, and accessories all revolving around curvature and one of God’s perfect design: natural elements. Professionally, I have explored countless showrooms from many markets that have encapsulated the natural elements in luxe formations with exquisite form and function. So, I decided, to take you guys on an organic curves journey of what is now being categorized as modern, edgy, and timeless.

Architecture has developed into more sweeping and organic curves which add intentional interest and edge.

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Rich walnuts, luxe oaks, textured acacias, stunning mahoganies, exotic wenge woods, jaw-dropping quartzites, exceptional limestones, + impressive marbles: they all make my heart sing especially when paired with muted metallics like brushed brass aka champagne gold, as I lovingly refer to her as or bold matte blacks. Our industry is engulfed with some of these natural beauties in almost every shape and form. From striking drink tables to textured wall coverings to plush upholstery to gawgeous sculptural art, we are redefining a renaissance of the natural essence of design elements that are evoking wellbeing and thoughtfulness to every environment we touch. I absolutely love the reemergence of exploring textures with shapes and unexpected collaborations from showroom to showroom intentionally focused on some of God’s precious gifts: natural beauty.

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As I stated before, we are seeing curves in all the right places from showroom to showroom such as Bernhardt, Arteriors, and Eichholtz!

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I’m here for it all. My VIP clients love when our team hones in on the discerning design details; that is where the magic and luxury always resides. My perceptive obsessions with visual and tactile experiences throughout a space highlights how my clients interact within their curated environments, which electrifies me wholeheartedly. Simply put, I am in LOVE with the curves.

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Embracing and utilizing curvature adds noticeable + welcomed interest to a space, whether it is introduced as cookware or bakeware or serving platters. I’m intrigued with the limitless possibilities and variety, especially with the upcoming holidays knocking at our doors. You, as the hostess with mostest, can curate dynamic dinner parties with timeless style and cleverness just by altering to organic curves. Feels like a fresh approach on your typical rectangular serving platters with added whimsy and vitality. Yasss!

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No matter which types of spaces harness the impactful boldness of organic curves, it always seems to elevate that experience, which is delightful. Just a simple arch in a space evokes a luxurious sentiment.

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Fabrics and wall coverings make use of the shapely aspects with enthusiasm as well as restraint; well-edited. Cabinet jewelry beautifully explores natural element trends of the oceans, mountains, deserts, and valleys using organic curves. Softly curvaceous lighting and accessories for the win! And I am here for IT! #GawgeousDahling

Instead of frequently relying on sharp geometric angles in every space, shapely upholstery like this vignette warmly welcomes your body. Try it with something small if you’re anxious or uncomfortable with embracing this stable trend, like a drink table or accent chair or chandelier. You’ll be pleasantly surprised of the dynamic of cleverly mixing shapes and the impactful boldness it embodies.

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I’m truly inspired in almost all ways; through travel, exploration, and nature, through food journeys or color stories, I’ve appreciated my innate ability to experience and envision dynamic spaces utilizing my surroundings.

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What are your absolute faves? Annnnnd how could you introduce curvaceous design elements within your space? I love hearing from you guys, always inspirational.

Until next time,

Live…Love…Design!

xo Renae

dark + moody….and oh so good!

One thing I constantly hear as a professional architectural designer from many residential clients besides the need of transformation + change of course is what they think and perceive as being too dark as it pertains to their home’s color palette. I hear ‘that’s too dark’ sooooo much, that I just had to speak on it, plus completely provide another design perspective on just how beautiful and fabulous a dark + moody aesthetic can actually be in your dwelling. Just how appealing and comfortable and livable a dark + moody aesthetic can precisely deliver, is exactly the reason I want to share some inspiration your way.

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Yes, darkness is a mood. Issa vibe. But, did you know that with any and everything in life and beyond requires balance? Of course you knew! So with darker aesthetics, designers, including myself have to balance the space with lighting, contrast, movement to create an arrangement in a way that does not allow any one element to overpower another….and that is strategically accomplished through the design principles.

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Let’s say bye bye to the all white kitchens. Yesssss! Even the most beautiful white kitchen needs some type of contrast to make it pop, make it sing, make it timeless. I mean let’s be completely honest, what exactly were we thinking, an all white kitchen is not even practical. But, I know that most love white kitchens, so what I propose is simply adding layers, contrast, and textures to give depth and set a mood. White upper cabinets will do the trick. It will help create a light and airy space, but ground that baby with darker base cabinets and if you have an island, try a dark + moody color to ground the island as well. Your cleaning routine will thank me later.

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I mentioned textures + contrast before….when you are creating a dark + moody aesthetic, offset with mixing textures throughout the space as well as adding contrast with the furnishings to make the space pop.

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This also applies to the exterior of your home. Dark + Moody strikes again! #Yessssss

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The energy that exudes from these darker hue palettes is calming, sensual, relaxing, chill….and I am hear for all of it! Grown + Sexy.

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Would you live here?

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Ok, so when I create a custom color palette for my clients, I can specifically determine and curate where a dark + moody aesthetic can play well in your home. It may be in small batches, like furnishings or accessories, or on your trim and molding, or simply as an accent wall, but if you are open to creating drama using a darker hue, I will find the perfect solution for you. Oh snap! I rhymed.

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Color saturation, shades, hues, and tones all play critical roles in selecting your perfect dreamy moody palette for your space. Based on natural or artificial lighting, architectural features, existing interior materials, I will most definitely assist you with selecting the perfect color balance that will deliver that mood or that vibe you are seeking to achieve. In design school, color theory was extremely important and still is. I use the science of color theory every single day, because particular hues and colors can create different types of feelings, emotions, moods, etc. so I’m strategic in where and what intensity I propose the color to be utilized. As your design professional, I can set the mood you are wanting to achieve in the space and there is a darker hue for almost every mood, hence, dark + moody aesthetics. See, we are definitely going full circle.

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Well, I hope you kinda shifted your perspective on what is ‘too dark’. However, if you haven’t, I’d like to add that just a touch can go a long way. You do not have to go to deep end to simply enjoy a dark + moody aesthetic, but you can definitely see that the amazing use of these customized color palettes can successfully impact different effects while creating the desired emotions in your space.

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Say hi Jaedon!

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Issa Vibe. Issa Mood.

Until Next Time,

xoxo

Renae

Harmony with the Three Ls: Layers + Luxe + Lighting!

I live + breathe by true design principles + subjective layering with almost every single thing I do! Yes, more than likely you may too! And you may do it without actually thinking about it intentionally, well I know this is 100% accurate for me which ultimately stays true to my forever mantra: Live..Love..Design!

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LAYERING is the one single component that can make or break the space. Too little feels stark + cold, too much feels cluttered + obsessive. That right balance, that right pop, that right contrast of textures + finishes will channel the most curated eye to attention to detail. It’s phenomenal, it’s eye-catching, it is design! And if you did not notice from the caption, it’s imperatively important!

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“More smiling, less worrying. More compassion, less judgement. More love, less hate.”

— Motivation from Renae’s heart

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“Whatever you do, be intentional + impactful. That’s layering on its own, if you ask me.”

— renaeism 101

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I am a self-proclaimed maximalist! Yesss! For sure! And one primary step of being a great maximalist is balance. To have restraint when designing is an extremely delicate talent but oh so needed when layering a space, especially with lighting and luxurious textures + finishes. I tend to believe that added levels of textures, contrast, color, proportion, scale, and lighting will amplify your space in an extremely positive way but will also allow you to explore beautifully + organically using all your senses.

LAYERS: USING TEXTURES, COLORS, SHAPES, SIZES, + CONTRAST TO CREATE A HARMONIOUSLY COHESIVE SPACE.

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Who doesn’t love luxury?

I mean helllllooooo. Luxury is what drives the senses in every way. So I love to use it to my advantage by making sure all of your senses: touch, smell, sight, hearing, and taste are embodied in all of my projects. I use a lot of various smell factors like candles + incense and fresh plants + flowers in a space to balance the space and layer the totality of your flow. I love luxury and ya know, luxury loves your girl. Please believe. By successfully utilizing the simplicity + complexity of layering, spaces always seem majestic and flow oh so beautifully.

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Try your hand at layering by using contrast + textures while adding lots of lighting! Ok, we will definitely touch on that, because that single-handedly can positively impact the entire look and feel of a space with general lighting, ambient lighting, task lighting, and accent lighting. My husband used to joke that he knew I was home alone when he came around the corner and saw the house “glowing” up the hill. Ok, I will admit, I am extremely afraid of the dark, but only because I like to see what is exactly in those shadows. I primarily use various lighting methods to enhance spaces but also for function and security. And you should too! A true great design aesthetic should never eliminate the power of lighting and what it can do for you. That’s real talk.

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Due to my detailed nature as it relates strictly to design, layering with luxurious textures can be highly impactful in a space. I loooovvvveeeee to touch, see, smell, + taste luxury. Honestly, it all started when I was about 8 years old and my Barbie dolls had to have the right features in their home with their specific clothes + outfits being just right and of course hair + makeup…of course! But honestly, what my parents noticed then at that moment was that I absolutely + wholeheartedly loved luxury. My dolls had fur coats, leather skirts, pearls, lace, silk, satin…you name it, Barbie had it. I did not want “the” Barbie dream house, I wanted to construct my own house that I thought was worthy of my Barbie dolls. So I begin with layering her actual dream house to ensure that life for Barbie was simple + chic. And let’s be honest, Barbie’s life was hella fab! I just enhanced it using design principles I had no idea of then. Fast forward to now, I have mastered the art of layering luxury. It is simple yet complex, and that to me is absolute thrill of it all! Just remember, if you ever have challenges with accessorizing and layering, always think of balance + harmony and if that does not work, your girl is a phone call away!

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As always, thank you for rocking with Sola for all these years, stay safe + chat soon!

Until next time…

xoxo

Renae

Happy Juneteenth my BEAUTIFUL Brothas + Sistas!

Issa Celebration, but we still have plenty work to do + accomplish!

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I’m proud of my vast heritage…the challenges and the accomplishments! We are a resilient people full of love, joy, pride, and sauce! Sometimes, I reflect back throughout my early childhood and young adulthood and feel SO guilty for not knowing all of my history, but I must remind myself daily that this is still a blessing to keep moving forward, even if it’s inch by inch, millimeter by millimeter! Celebrate all the victories…big or small. Enjoy this day as a time of pure reflection and as a time to strategically plan and abundantly achieve your goals. We are ALL in this together. One Love!

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As a thank you for rocking with me + my team for all these years…here’s 30% OFF of ALL Onsite Design Consultations! As a minority owned business, I want to extend my joy and pride with you and your loved ones! Happy Juneteenth!

• So, what exactly is Juneteenth?

  Juneteenth is a federal holiday in the United States commemorating emancipation of enslaved African Americans. It is also often observed for celebrating African American culture. Originating in Galveston, Texas, it has been celebrated annually on June 19 in various parts of the United States since 1866. Also called Freedom Day, Liberation Day, Jubilee Day, and Emancipation Day in Texas.

• What does it signify?

  The emancipation of enslaved African Americans. On June 19, 1865, the Union Army made it to Texas to tell the last known slaves and slave owners that the Civil War had ended and slavery was officially abolished.

• How do you celebrate Juneteenth?

  Various ways indeed, but our family celebrates with reflection, fun, and BBQ!

• When is Juneteenth again?

  June 19th of every year, now a federal holiday signed in by President Biden in 2021.

As always, thanks for rocking with me, stay safe & chat soon!

Live..Love..Design!

xo Renae

r.e.n.a.e. speaks on it….all! (the great countertop debate)

Ask me again and I’ll tell you the same. We have to get down to the bottom of this debate of all times! Quartz versus Natural Stones (Granite, Marble, Onyx, Quartzite, etc.) in regards to COUNTERTOPS!

LIKE HONESTLY, WHICH COUNTERTOP IS PERFECT FOR ME???

Help is on the way! So you ask, which is actually BETTER, and even more so, WHAT THE HECK IS THE DIFFERENCE? No worries, my friend, I will guide you through the big countertop debate regarding placement, durability, maintenance, and of course, the most important: COST of the world’s countertop options!

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I will completely guide you through the differences between all the slabs and selecting the best countertop option for YOU and your family! Let’s talk this one out….Once I break it all down, you will choose your battle and see who reigns supreme in your household…well, kinda sorta.

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Honed, Leathered, Polished….

So many choices, so little time, well yeah…we are definitely not promised tomorrow…

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GOD IS GOOD!!

All the time! Yessss…Marble…Yessss!

Let’s start with my fave, Marble! Why is marble my favorite? Well let’s start with the obvious, marble is timeless, elegant, unique, and high-maintenance, which is why I love and admire her so! She is a true beauty, with the most exotic veining anyone could imagine. Marble is definitely a “refined taste” like no other. Soft yet durable, marble is the top choice for stone sculptures and almost always is the preference for countertops globally. Now with that prestige, nobility, and opulence comes a pretty price tag and lots of maintenance. Marble is a porous natural stone, made by God, yes God via Earth, or Earth via God, that is created by minerals in the Earth’s crust before crystallization of a limestone. You can travel the entire world and see marble at every turn. From Carrara to Calacatta to Bianco to Statuarietto , you will discover its cultural symbolism and tradition. It’s beauty and composition is unmatched, but the less veining you prefer triples or even quadruples the price point. Marble needs to be sealed twice a year at a minimum and once it is penetrated without proper sealing, it is there FOREVER. Yes, FOREVER! So if you are entertaining guests and a glass of red wine is set on your countertop, oh boy oh boy, you will have a forever red wine tattoo etched in your marble, and NO, it cannot be removed. So for those of you that prefer less maintenance or no maintenance at all, stay clear of marble! But for those of you who are extremely mollycoddle and indulgent, this stone is for YOU!

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More views…Less worry!

You too could spend less time cleaning, more time for life…real life…like for instance this view. I’ll take three for 5 thousand, Alex! (Rest in Peace)….

Which, brings me to Quartz. What is so special about Quartz? Well lemme break it down for you. Quartz is a non-porous material that is highly resistant to stain, scratches, and heat. Now one would automatically say, “well why would I not choose a quartz countertop?” That’s a good question and I will touch on that. Quartz is a man-engineered material that consists of natural material pieces, glass, etc. Quartz is extremely popular now with the high resemblance to natural stones, especially marble. Unlike marble, all quartz will be the exact same as it comes off the assembly line, well there is not really an assembly line, but you get the idea. Same quartz, same look, same everything. So when you are entertaining that same guest with the red wine, you are indeed in luck my dear, as quartz will stay in tact, without any stains and requires no sealing! That alone is why people pay $$$$ for quartz, absolutely no maintenance required. None. Zilch. Zero. Nada. Nothing…..you get the point!

Quartz is sooooooo

versatile, I mean let me put it this way, quartz has a pre-determined movement, since it is man-made. With that being said, you can calm the space with quartz, spice up the backsplash with some oomph, or just simply design your true dream aesthetic…but remember if I have this particular quartz, and my neighbor down the street has this particular quartz, we are indeed identical…and let’s be honest who really wants that??

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Granite is a fan-favorite with one-of-a-kind speckling, movement, and variations, also produced by none other than the almighty God via Earth. It is a durable natural stone, that also requires sealing, but only once annually versus marble twice as much. Let’s face it, if it can develop from the Earth’s many crust layers with the amount of heat that comes with the layers itself, it can survive in your kitchen, hopefully. Granite is resistant to scratches, cuts, chipping, but you still need to maintain it for beauty not durability. Granite is also timeless, but the slabs we have seen in countertops of the past are making a COMEBACK. The more negative space of a granite, the more $$$ you will spend. No two are alike, and in fact, within the same family, you will still have a unique aesthetic that is unmatched. That is what one with a refined taste absolutely loves about natural stone. The unexpected, the unknown, God’s natural randomness. Granite is popular due to it being readily available all over the world. You can pretty much find granite in almost every region and corner of the earth, so it remains sought after for that purpose alone. Granite makes for a great countertop option for busy families, as it is the best of both worlds: unique beauty and heck yeah, lower maintenance. A win-win for sure! I’ve always laughed at how my kids would hide crumbs on our granite countertops, because in all honesty, it is extremely difficult to see dirt, which is another reason why it is so popular amongst active families. For those teenagers who try to finesse the chore of cleaning the kitchen properly, especially countertops, use the ever so clever “hand test” and swipe all the crumbs to the floor. Parents, you can thank me later!

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Quartzite…not to be confused with quartz, is a natural stone that is exotic in nature and highly porous. Also created by God via Earth, quartzite is worth every single coin you will muster to come up with to pay that price. The richness and depth of colors and variations that this natural stone offers is second to none. Quartzite is harder and more resistant than most other natural stones, which makes it a fabulous option for a countertop, in my opinion. With all that beauty comes with high high high maintenance and the price tag to match it. The character of quartzite, alone, by far exceeds any aesthetic you will ever find, in other words, you WILL NOT be disappointed!

OH, HOW I LOVE THEE…..

Lemme count the ways…..and mula!

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Can you see me now?

Yes, indeed!

Onyx…well, it is typically not the best choice for a countertop, but when I tell you, eyes will pop….hunti, that is an understatement. Onyx is fragile. Onyx is rare. Onyx is soft. Onyx is EXPENSIVE, but that means not a thing to the client who loves its beauty and translucence, especially when making a statement. But, but, but she is a beauty! For sure! Great option for basements bars or as a cool backsplash…but I will continue to focus on countertops…

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Do’s and Don’ts when it pertains to your countertops, especially all of the natural stone countertops!

• Do clean up spills immediately with a wet cloth.

• Do use trivets or mats under hot dishes and cookware, even though it can technically stand the heat, why would you burn your investment?.

• Do use place mats under china, silver, and other objects that can scratch the stone’s surface.

• Do use coasters under glasses, especially if they contain alcohol or citrus juices, get dem babies used to using coasters on a regular basis.

• Do clean surfaces with mild soap and water.

• Do seal your natural stones, at the minimum, twice a year for Marble, Onyx, Quartzite and once a year for Granite…none per year for Quartz.

• Don’t use abrasive cleaners, like Bleach and Fabuloso. If you cannot use on your body, do not, and I repeat do not use on your countertops.

• Don’t use scouring powders and abrasives because they will scratch the surface.

• Don’t cut food directly on your countertop, use a cutting board.

• Don’t use vinegar, ammonia or other general-purpose cleansers and if you do DILUTE with warm water.

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Take good care of your countertops and I promise they will take good care of you! Routine cleaning, care and maintenance with sealing, and avoiding direct contact with food will ensure a beautiful countertop for years to come!

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Sola Design’s team wants to wish you and your family a safe and abundant New Year! We have truly shown ourselves just how important life can be over the course of 2020 and we will continue to speak life, love, blessings, and abundance into our futures and within ourselves. As always, thanks for rocking with me, stay safe & chat soon!

Live..Love..Design!

xo Renae

Relax…Relate…Release…and R.E.P.E.A.T.

During these uncertain times, we know for certain that taking care of ourselves and our loved ones is number one priority. I’ve witnessed countless situations and circumstances that although are beyond our immediate control, can be altered or revised with just how we think things through and how we react. The change starts in YOU. In ME. Together, we will get through this.

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“Herstory....My TRUTH.”

— Renae

ADMIT IT. YOU GOT A DOPE SOUL. STOP REGRETTING BEING A CARING PERSON. WHO EVER GOT TO EXPERIENCE YOU, NEEDED YOUR LIGHT AT THAT TIME. YOU STAY KIND, AND COMMITTED TO YOUR LOVE. DON’T YOU DARE DOUBT YOUR WORTH OR THE BEAUTY OF YOUR TRUTH. JUST KEEP ON SHINING LIKE YOU DO.

This is so ACCURATE. Speak what you seek until you seek what you’ve said. Don’t let someone dim your light, simply because it’s shining in their eyes.

I know this all too well. All too well. One day, I will consider publishing my memoir as an inspiration for others, telling my unique story, my testimony. I have started over in life so many times, that this particular time I am learning and re-learning that when comfort sets in, so does mediocrity. That is my biggest enemy: MEDIOCRITY. Keep pushing, keep moving forward, even if it is millimeter by millimeter. Do not STOP moving. God will carry you, when you no longer can crawl, walk, scoot….He has you in the palm of His hands.

My grandmother, Clara Ann, said this to me ALL THE TIME. I appreciate her words of wisdom immensely now in my 40s and I thank my ancestors for guiding me alongside God to my destiny. This road is definitely not for the faint at heart, or for the easiest and safest route. There is no such thing. Stay on course and continue to pray and ask for guidance. Remember what your parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and elders used to tell you. Money cannot buy manners, respect, love, trust, character, morals, integrity…just “things”. That is all. And those things are replaceable. Things that money cannot buy are NOT replaceable.

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Stay true to YOU. A.L.W.A.Y.S.

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Let’s Stay Safe Together!

For everyone’s safety, you are required to wear a face mask in accordance with local regulations in Atlanta, Georgia.

HEAD TO “LET’S SHOP” TO GRAB YOUR LATEST DESIGNER MASKS….

Please take these steps to avoid spreading germs:

• Wash your hands frequently for 20 seconds with soap and water

• Do not touch your eyes, nose, and mouth

• Cover your mouth with your elbow when coughing or sneezing

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick

• Clean and disinfect objects you use or touch frequently

• Do not shop if you’re exhibiting signs of COVID-19

• For more health guidelines visit cdc.gov

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I vow this day to remember I am infinite unlimited consciousness and to act accordingly.

His name is Large Black Male. My body guard. My best friend. My ride or die. My lover. My children’s papa bear. My please-let-him-breathe. My please-let-him-live. My he-deserves-equality. My protector. The man who puts a geniune smile on my face and lights the fire I will continue to blaze. My partner. My soulmate. My boo. My husband of 20+ years and going. #BlackLivesMatter

We can disagree on many things and still remain friends. Racism isn’t one of them.

Deuteronomy 28 Affirmations

I am blessed in the city.

I am blessed in the country.

My products and services are blessed.

My business expansion is blessed.

My investments are blessed.

My food is blessed.

My land is blessed.

My work is blessed.

My stores are blessed.

I lend to many nations.

I am blessed when I come in.

I am blessed when I go out.

I am the head and not the tail.

I am above and not beneath.

“IF YOU ARE NEUTRAL IN SITUATIONS OF INJUSTICE, YOU HAVE CHOSEN THE SIDE OF THE OPPRESSOR.”

— Desmond Tutu

IF YOU ARE A CHRISTIAN, AND CANNOT HEAR #BLACKLIVESMATTER WITHOUT FEELING THE NEED TO RESPOND WITH CRITICISM THAT, “ALL LIVES MATTER,” THEN CRACK OPEN YOUR BIBLE AND HIT UP LUKE 15.

DON’T HAVE IT HANDY? LET ME SUMMARIZE.

THERE ARE 100 SHEEP, BUT ONE GOES MISSING. JESUS LEAVES THE 99 AND GOES AFTER THE ONE.

THE 99: “BUT….WHAT ABOUT US? DON’T WE MATTER?”

OF COURSE THE 99 STILL MATTER, BUT THEY ARE NOT THE ONES IN DANGER.

THE ONE IS.

I’LL SAY IT AGAIN, #BLACKLIVESMATTER.

Until next time,

Live…Love…Design!

xo Renae

Some Design Love…Coming at You!

HIYA…GUESS WHAT?

Calling all SHOPPERS!! Sola Design is heading to Market in High Point, North Cacalacky! Yessss, THE biggest furnishings market WORLDWIDE! I’ve been before and it was bananas…or should I say bananas and cream!! Yum Yum Yum!

Hunti, anything you can dream up, I can assist you in executing. I can personally shop for your business or home curating each piece to build the desired aesthetic! Yesss! It’s CandyLand for designers and retail establishments! This is where we get our goods!

Shop with me wholesale and see what I can curate for you and your space!

See what all the rave is about! The quality, the selections, the customized features, and yesss the pricing! Don’t shop your local furniture retailers feeling stuck in a box, imagining the space looking quite differently, but yet they do not offer those amazing options. I’m your concierge of interior decor and furnishings. I got you!

I can show you variety that you have never seen before!! Do you want your space to look like Karen’s or Susan’s? Noooo, you want your space to reflect YOU personally OR your end users (your clients) commercially. Either way, I have your brand aesthetic in mind!

Save the date! And contact me if you’re looking for something special or something specifically for your needs! I got you! #Promise

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Until Next Time,

xo Renae

Live...Love…Design!
(Photographs Courtesy of my iPhone Photo Album)

Everybody loves a GOOD before and after!

Now we all know the “After” pictures of your design work speak for themselves, but a lot of clients do not know what we have to do to get to that beautiful finished piece. It starts with good design and total function. Everyone loves to see what you began with and the challenges you faced to get to the after. So here is a sneak peak of a GREAT before and after of one of my favorite clients.

I assist builders, flippers, real estate brokers, and developers find their “perfect product”. Let me assist you in finding what best suits your product. I do everything from design to execution. We find simple but awesome solutions for your challenges.

How Can I Assist You in Design???

All we did was paint, add a backsplash and new flooring and freshened the existing counter tops. #Winning!! Just remember, in 2020 prices for Sola Design will increase slightly due to expansion and more interesting ways to help our communities.

EXCITED FOR 2020!! HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!

Until next time,

xo Renae

Live..Love…Design!

(Photographs courtesy of my photo album)

Happy Holidays from Sola Design!

The holiday season is officially amongst us. It is a special time of year for most, and in our household, it is no different. I wanted to share with you some traditional and non-traditional ways to be festive this time of year.

Of course, it all starts with a tree! I love an awesomely decorated Christmas tree in non-traditional colors. I absolutely adore metallics, so this tree is by far one of my favorites…. Gold and Silver! Yessss! Nicely done!

But, if you definitely want to pack a punch, this Christmas tree by Martha Stewart is just for you! Especially if the house is totally feminine.

I love glam! And I love to incorporate it during the holidays. This beautiful tree by Modern Glam sums up my dream holiday aesthetic. Layers of goodness with serene colors. Just gorg!

And you cannot forget about the fireplace mantel! This one by Melbean Interiors showcases blue, one of my favorite colors also. Lovely, isn’t it?

Anywhere you can add festive decorations….just do it, like this beautiful design by Tammy Damore. Simple yet elegant.

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Now after all the decorating, you must not forget that fabulous dinner table setting that creates the appropriate mood for this time of year. I love a gorgeous table setting with all the yummy food that comes along with it. The food IS everything to me. I will share a couple of great recipes with you this season that have been passed down to me over the decades and I have added my own touches to it. My absolute favorite recipe is my incredibly delicious and scrumptious SEVEN CHEESE Mac and Cheese that I will share this time. This is my GO TO but it is so rich in taste and in price, that I only make a couple times per year.

Renae’s Mac-N-Cheese

 Ingredients:

Pasta (Use what you like- I love shells, bowties, rotini, and penne)

Cheese (Use what you like- I use a variety of at least 7 cheeses)

Gruyere

Havarti

Smoked Gouda

Asiago

Mozzarella

Vermont Sharp Cheddar

Colby Jack and/or Monterey Jack

1 Jar Cottage Cheese

1 Jar Sour Cream

1 or 2 Cans Evaporated Milk

1 Can Campbell’s Cheddar Cheese Soup

2 Large Eggs

Real Salted Butter

Seasoned Salt

Black or White Pepper

Fresh Garlic

Olive Oil

Preheat Oven to 350 degrees.

Boil water with a teaspoon of salt and a tablespoon of olive oil. Add Pasta of your choice and cook as directed on the box. 

Drain Pasta in Colander and add butter to melt.

In a blender: Add the following:

Cottage Cheese

Evaporated Milk

Sour Cream

Cream of Cheese Soup

2 Eggs

White or Black Pepper

Garlic

Blend until smooth 

In a Casserole Dish do the following, rotating back and forth:

Add a portion of cooked pasta

Add the variety of cheeses (I prefer to grate my cheeses and gently mix them together in a large bowl)

Last topping is of mixed cheeses

Pour all the blended ingredients on top at the end.  Bake for 45 minutes to 55 minutes uncovered, checking for moisture.  YUM YUM YUM!

And this is the ABSOLUTE TRUTH! hahaha

And there is nothing MORE special than the entire family in MATCHING PJ’s. I cannot WAIT! This is one of my beautiful friends and her family, The Wortheys, doing just that. Go check out their blog also, they have great recipes and excellent entertaining secrets to share with you and your family.

I’ve been personally going through my own battles this holiday season, as my daddy finally got his wings last month. The holiday season won’t be the same anymore, but I am grateful and thankful for the precious memories I have of him during my lifespan.

Rest in Heaven Daddy. I love you!

From my family to yours…enjoy this season to love and be loved. To give and to celebrate. We thank you here at Sola Design for a great year and cannot wait for what 2020 holds for us!

Merry Christmas, Happy Kwanzaa, Happy Hanukkah, HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

Until Next Time,

xo Renae

Live…Love…Design!

(All photographs are courtesy of my Pinterest and Family Album)

Somehow…Someway…You will be GREAT!

It’s been a LONG pause since we have last spoken…not to say, nothing is going on, but a lot has transpired and is currently on my plate. I have had a roller coaster of year. What this year and decade has already taught me, is to persevere through the challenging times, the times you want to QUIT, the times you have lost all feeling and you feel absolutely numb, the times your inner soul is being subjected to situations beyond your control. Remember CHAMPIONS are born in the last quarter. So as we embark on this last month of this decade, the LAST quarter, we have to remember to finish STRONG!!!

Set your goals HIGH and reach beyond the stars! I am totally ready and mentally prepared for what the new decade, the new year has for me. Are you?

It is the START of something NEW!!! I am remaining CALM as I am preparing for the bountifulness of 2020!

Yessss Somebody YESSS!!!

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Slay this last quarter!! Finish STRONG!! Get your creative side going and SEIZE each day and opportunity as if it is your LAST!

I’m in BEAST MODE now. I have my side blinders ON, my focus is ultra CLEAR. I am READY!!!

My dreams WILL come true and that is for anyone who thinks it, it will be! I have a daily chant that I would love to share with you. Say this to yourself in the mirror with a lot of genuine cockiness. Like say it LOUD and PROUD!

I am blessed.

I am strong.

I am successful.

I am intelligent.

I am loved.

I am beautiful.

I am loved.

I am beautiful.

I am wealthy.

I am talented.

I am grateful.

I am creative.

I am supportive.

I am thankful.

I am covered.

I am at peace.

I am healthy.

I am growing.

Unapologetically YOU!

It is the absolute truth. Be truthful yet accountable to yourself. Love beyond love. Just do you…the BEST version of you! We can do THIS! We GOT THIS!

I am completely and utterly ready as I have been saying all along. I have had a lot of loss this year, a lot of setbacks this decade, a lot of failures, but I have been abundantly blessed to know that this is only a season…my next season is to bear the fruit I seeded a long while back. Be ready for the new decade, the new year! Be ready!

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I like to end this on a funny note…Everyone thinks their life is hard and the next person has it so easy. Remember everyone is at different stages of their particular season, but like all seasons, it too shall pass. We all go through challenges, that’s life. But it’s the way you bounce back and also the way you make it look to others that makes you different. Go through life one day at a time. Go through it in BEAST mode, and make it look EASY, like Kendrick Lamar says. Love you guys!! Happy Last Quarter and Month of the Decade! Say that three times over!!

Until next time,

xo Renae

Live..Love..Design!!

(All photographs are courtesy of my Pinterest board)

Entertaining with Pumpkins!

Soooo, it’s that time of year again where we see the most bang for our creative buck! Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas all rolled into fabulous centerpieces, decor, hanging art, and well you know: everything one can think of!

I have some great ideas to spice up your decor inside as well as outside. I also have a great pumpkin adult beverage to jump start your fall holiday just right. When I think of fall, I think of amber colored leaves, crisp air, fabulous boots, and cute sweaters. I also think of comfort foods and specialty drinks, like the simple recipe I will introduce you to. Fall is literally my favorite season, and this time of year is my favorite because to me, it means family, food, and fun!

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Simple…yet elegant! A beautiful statement for your entryway! I love simplicity when it pertains to design because you can add and subtract components to change it up if you’d like.

I also LOVE a little accent here and there like these stunning pumpkins for your fireplace!

And of course a great table starts with awesome imagination and a perfect centerpiece! Add some greenery to your tablescape and you’ll have a beautifully decorated table for your guests.

Executed nicely! What do you think?

Have your kids help with artfully painting your pumpkins, small or large, with a chevron pattern, which keeps it updated and fresh for the new season! I absolutely love this!

Another cute and fun way to decorate is to dress them in little sweaters, I mean that has got to be the cutest? A half dozen of these could make a fabulous centerpiece on your table or fireplace or entryway. Chic!

My grandmother loved owls and it has made my love for owls that much more special. This is an excellent idea to carve and decorate a pumpkin for this fall. Really cool and yet so fresh and new. I love it and will try to incorporate this theme into my fall lineup. Now to that drink I promised……

It’s called the Great Pumpkin Punch and is very simple to make for you and your guests!

Ingredients:

1 Pumpkin

1 Part Apple Cider

2 Parts Ginger Ale

1 Part Rum

Instructions:

Mix altogether and serve in a hollowed out pumpkin with floating pumpkin chunks. See, simplicity on fleek! Enjoy!

Until next time,

Live…Love…Design!

xo Renae

(All photographs are courtesy of my Pinterest)

Somewhere over the rainbow…

There is always something magical when you hear “somewhere over the rainbow”, even as children, I grasped that there was definitely a magical place over that rainbow. Today is not any different. I get obsessed with magical things around me all the time, like for instance this morning I noticed several packs of deer frolicking in the woods taking over the streets of Johns Creek. It was quite fascinating to watch and to realize that nature takes place in their magical little worlds regardless of what is going on around them. I love the saying, “somewhere over the rainbow,” because to me that means there is another destination that remains to be seen. And that somewhere is approaching fast. Appreciate where you are for where you are going will be THAT much better!

Those blue skies….let’s go find them!

I’m a sucker for blue skies and a turquoise blue ocean….Lordt! I love the scenery and the architecture is just pure bliss….this is in Italy, btw. One of my bucket list items! But back to my topic of discussion…believe me I’m going somewhere with this…..

Sometimes we look at our problems and only think of how hard and challenging it is to come out of the situation, that we miss the rainbow. God gives us rainbows after storms and trials. You ever notice that it is MOST beautiful after a storm?? Somewhere over that rainbow, troubles do melt like lemondrops….now that can be awfully hard to imagine but I have a few ideas…

This.Is.Magical. Enough Said!

This is my dreamy backyard in my mind…how I would love it to be…somewhere over the rainbow, you know? Anyway, what I’m getting at in a roundabout way is that you can always take your mind somewhere else to temporarily distract you from your current situation. Now I love to take myself to exotic trips or fabulous eateries or just somewhere relaxing and promising to be magical in my own eyes….I love to dream and dream BIG! I love to think of the why nots? But most importantly, I know there’s something magical over that rainbow and I want you to know it too!

Here’s to a beautiful Friday, and beautiful cake….I’m going to enjoy this weather as I keep my mind over the rainbow.

Until Next Time,

xo Renae

Live…Love…Design!

(All photographs are courtesy of my Pinterest)

Do you know what today is?!?

It’s my 21st Anniversary of meeting my soulmate face to face...also the day he proposed and the day we were to be married! Such a special day to me and my husband. Almost just as important as the day I married him 19 years ago! Yes, we celebrate TWO anniversaries but this particular one has more meaning and more memories. Happy Anniversary to the most enduring, romantic, loving, strong, faith-filled man I know! 

Until Next Time, 

Live...Love...Design! 

xo Renae  

August Closeout! Who’s ready to BUY, BUY, BUY????

Happy Monday everyone! I know it’s been a minute since my last posting, but I’ve been busy in the lab cooking up extra delightful blog posts to share with you, so my sincere apologies! 

I want to share a flyer with all of you that are looking to purchase a new home! Please contact Lisa Jones Peek, one of the best agents in the business, for all your real estate needs! She’s partnering with me to help a homeowner get a dream space in their new home!

I would LOVE to design a space for you! This special ends the end of this month, but I can tell you that Lisa and I WILL be cooking up great specials for our clients! She’s extremely knowledgeable, full of great experience, and is a delight to work with! Please give her a call! 

Enjoy your Monday peeps! 

Until next time,  

Live...Love....Design!  

xo Renae  

A Remembrance to my Chloe + Ferdie….

This St. Patrick’s Day I want to pay tribute to my grandmother, Clara Ann “Chloe” Butler and my grandfather, Algernon “Ferdie” Butler. Today marks the day that 11 years ago, she quietly left this earth. Very bittersweet day because one of course, she was reunited with her true love, my Grandpa, who died in December 1993, & two she LOVED St. Patrick’s Day as it is very prevalent in our British West Indian culture! 

She was a strong woman and my grandfather adored her so much so that he always told me how once he left his native island, Dominica, to go to Montserrat, he wanted to make the darkest woman his beloved wife. That makes me giggle and of course it restrengthens my love for my own husband. I miss them dearly & today I just wanted to tribute them on one of their favorite holidays! Rest in Paradise Grandma & Grandpa!! Happy St. Patrick’s Day!  

Until next time, 

Live... Love....Design! 

xo Renae  

(Photograph courtesy of my mom)

Now lemme introduce myself….Pantone Color of the Year 2018!

Soooo I know it's March and most times the Pantone Color of the Year is already announced....but because this particular color is one of my favorite hues, I had to share with you this incredible worthiness of Pantone's colorway: ULTRA VIOLET! Now if you don't know what or who Pantone is, it's the world-renowned authority on color and provider of color systems and leading technology for the selection and accurate communication of color across a variety of industries. "The PANTONE® name is known worldwide as the standard language for color communication from designer to manufacturer to retailer to customer."

Now let's talk about the hue...WOWZERS!

"Complex and contemplative, Ultra Violet suggests the mysteries of the cosmos, the intrigue of what lies ahead, and the discoveries beyond where we are now. The vast and limitless night sky is symbolic of what is possible and continues to inspire the desire to pursue a world beyond our own."  And that is just the beginning......

"Enigmatic purples have also long been symbolic of counterculture, unconventionality, and artistic brilliance. Musical icons Prince, David Bowie, and Jimi Hendrix brought shades of Ultra Violet to the forefront of western pop culture as personal expressions of individuality. Nuanced and full of emotion, the depth of PANTONE 18-3838 Ultra Violet symbolizes experimentation and non-conformity, spurring individuals to imagine their unique mark on the world, and push boundaries through creative outlets."

Pantone does not hold back with the varieties of uses this color attributes to in design, fashion, architecture, beauty, etc. 

This space entices the senses of using Ultra Violet subtly but making a huge impact!

In architecture, just a simple expression to the door makes a bold statement using ultra violet.  I love this!!!

I just love this color....so rich and royal.....love love love!

I just designed a space using this hue with the crystal rocks that helped to bring a pop to it.  Very exotic color choice....extremely elegant and still fun!

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Beauty is no exception here....just stunning!

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Even through iconic imagery, it is not exempt from the beautiful hue....playing tribute to one of my favorite ultra violet legends....PRINCE! Art is a beautiful representation of life...and this is no different.

Let's end on a true beauty wearing ultra violet, my West Indian sister from another mister, Ms. Rihanna!  Rocking the heck outta that hue.  Go Ri Ri!  Those shades are dope!

Here were a few examples of how the Pantone Color of the Year 2018 were expressed through art, fashion, beauty, architecture, and of course design.....Ultra Violet is my ultimate fave! What do you think about it?

Until next time,

Live...Love...Design!

xo Renae

(All photos are courtesy of my Pinterest)

What should I wear today?

Most women wake up wondering what they're wearing today for work.  I have staple pieces in my wardrobe that can of course go with just about everything.  Then I have those special pieces that pair well with some of my wardrobe that can make statements.  I'm here to share a few ideas of what to wear throughout the work week and even on weekends....Before I begin, I want to warn you that my personal style is urban classic with a tinge of romanticism, so my choices will likely reflect that. So let's begin, this should be fun!

Simple blazer, which is a staple piece, can pair well with just about anything, I love a nude shoe and an A-Line dress! This outfit is our Monday look to get started off right for the week.  How do you like?

For Tuesday, I like to get a little less dressy and more casual with still a sleek attire, like this ensemble.  That coat is everything, and with the weather we are currently experiencing, I would need this all day long, and still would be extremely stylish.

Hump day is casual with a dressy element using a white button down blouse and cardigan.  Spice it up mid-week with a little red.  Nicely done for a Wednesday!

As you can tell, I adore neutrals and love navy.  Very classic!  That purse though...yummy!

We finish the work week in style with pumps, pencil skirt and a romantic blouse to soften the look a bit.  TGIF!

Who says you can't run errands in style on Saturdays?  I say YESSSS!! Stylish riding boots with a jean dress is perfection!

Sunday best is always a requirement for me! I love this look for church! 

So you see, I have given you some great ideas to get you through the work week.  Don't be shy, tell me what you think?

Until next time,

Live...Love...Design!

xo Renae

(All photos courtesy of my Pinterest)

South African Treasures….Treasure Tuesday!

I accidentally came across a showroom at America's Mart, South Africa Lifestyle Hub, that has changed my design life!  I mean everything in the showroom is HANDMADE by South Africans within their provinces....OMG!! When you see the treasures I found, you'll definitely agree!

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Designers, when you visit America's Mart next time, be sure to stop by South Africa Lifestyle Hub on the 13th floor! You will love it and tell Cynthia I sent you!

Until next time,

Live...Love...Design!

xo Renae 

(All photos and videos courtesy of my iPhone)

Lighting from the GAWDS! Wait until you SEE!

I have written a post or two about how lighting is imperative to designing a space.  In some instances, it's the be all end all to design.  I take that last statement with a grain of salt, BUT I know in my heart of hearts that lighting stands premiere in MY book!  So let's browse through Arteriors Home and see what my top 12 of lighting should be in regards to kicking butt in interior design.  

Now lookey lookey here! This sconce is reminiscent of royalty but in the modern day sense.  I absolutely want this in my master bathroom vanity area.  The crystal rock is just lovely (in my British English accent).  Absolutely worth all the hype!

This classic rendition is timeless and can be installed into lots of settings: traditional, transitional, glam, modern, etc.  Very classically done.

So unique and simply stunning...reminiscent of the historically renowned architect, Frank Lloyd Wright.  Don't you think?

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I had to add these in the mix! Love Love Love!

I love every simple thing to this sconce! Just beautiful! I have a little something for everyone!

A little gothic in a modern kinda way! I love it!

Red Light, Green Light....I'm ready to go right now TO PICK THIS UP and put in my guest bath! This is gorg!

This reminds me of a cave in an exotic place....now don't ask me how, but that's what I see....what does it remind you of?  Where would you put this sconce?

I would install these in a movie theatre as they remind me of rolled film....really chic and handsome!

I love love love this pendant, and WILL use for an island installation....OMGEEEE!! I love the simplicity but pure elegance of this lighting...just gorg!

This lighting would complement a gentlemen's study very well.  It has a unique shape with a simplistic bulb and luxurious finishes.

Now this chandelier would sit perfectly in my formal dining room, the silvertone almost champagne finish is so stunning, that I could easily pair this well with my capiz shell dining table and navy blue velvet chairs.....pure elegance!

A room is not complete until you think of all the elements, and one major element is lighting.  It can help to enhance the look you're going for but on the other hand, it can make the space look unfinished without great choices of lighting. Choose wisely, or just contact me, I can be of assistance to you!

Until next time,

Live..Love..Design!

xo Renae

(All photos courtesy of Arteriors Home)

Design Finds from Spring Market…..

It’s always exciting to see what is the newest, latest, and greatest at Market. I’ve been so consumed with clients and designing that I almost missed Spring Market at AmericasMartthese past couple of days. No, it’s not as busy or as large as the Winter and Summer markets, but you still get to see the newest trends and fab furniture.

I was pressed for time unfortunately, so I only made it to two floors and a handful of showrooms, but wanted to share a few of my findings...the pillows and other textiles as well as some accessories and furnishings were just a taste of what’s to come this spring.

Remember, I told you guys before that gold is on the rise, it has been so for a couple of years, and you will see it everywhere now. You’ll experience it in pillows, art, accessories and furnishings. Just fab! Tell me what you think about the new new.

The glitter and sparkle alone makes my heart pitter-patter.... This showroom, Cloud 9, was a dream come true, especially for my online store. Stay tuned for some of the updated inventory that will make your heart and your wallet skip a beat...lol. This showroom had great price points so that I can pass those savings unto you guys.

Hide on Hide items are the new rave! Look at these coasters....yassss!

Layers & Layers of goodness! Those lamps are everything and that mirror is the star of the show!

You guys, I love pillows! This array of pillows are spectacular! Yassss!!

This chair...OMGEEEE! I told you about the gold: so chic! This showroom, AB Home has lots of great finds...LOTS! 

You guys know how I feel about unique table settings. Well this dinnerware is so petite and cute with of course: GOLD! It’s really really good. Look at the charger also, GLAM GOOD! I love it! 

Also fur whether faux or not, is trending hard! Fab, right?

Surya is more than just textiles. They have a great line of furnishing accessories. So good!

I love these mirrors! Classic, glam, eccentric: you name it they have it at Surya! 

This was just a taste of Spring Market, I plan to go back today, but if not I’ll definitely be at the one in July & hopefully the big one in Highpoint next month. Exciting times!  

Until next time,  

Live...Love...Design!  

xo Renae  

 (All photos courtesy of my iPhone)