The mind works in mysterious ways. I was browsing Valentine’s Day cards at a local shop the other day, most of them with red the predominant color. This got me thinking about what a great color red can be, which of course led me to the jobs I’ve done using this dynamic color. The scheme for the dining room in this photo started with the fantastic red fabric from Coraggio, which I used to upholster all the walls. Counterpoint underneath was created using a dado panel, plus a bench in the bay window. The table is a magnificent English Traditional double pedestal, with Chippendale chairs. The rug is custom, the round table an antique, and the walls are full of the homeowners’ extensive art collection. But it started with the wall fabric, and the color red.

The overriding goal in this family room addition was comfort. With a fireplace, full bar and large TV, the room has all the basic features needed for entertainment and relaxation. Two comfortable club chairs with ottoman and a sectional leather sofa with recliners provides ample seating, a large robust cocktail table provides room for munchies, and the timeless print drapes installed on a small bronze rod provide the blackout needed for Super Bowl watching. A coffered ceiling tops the space with detail and solidity, and the wool sisal rug on a polished wood floor adds texture and warmth underfoot.

Laundry rooms are typically on the lower level, with a lack of light and space. This sizable room in a recently finished home features lots of cabinetry, an in wall ironing board, twin washer and driers (only one visible in photo), Kashmir white granite counter tops, slate floor and backsplash over the sink, white crackle tile with decorative insert of slate mosaic along the countertops and a colored ceiling. It’s hard to imagine a more pleasant environment to do the washing and ironing.

I’ve been exploring new flooring choices for several current lower level projects. Tile is expensive and can be too unyielding, carpet is the easy choice but there are some interesting alternatives. Wood plank vinyl flooring, in addition to being a less expensive option, is very durable, fairly waterproof and remarkably wood-like. Laminate vinyl flooring is another option, more water sensitive but also very wood-like. Considering the heavy use most people make of the finished lower level in their homes, using these new, high quality vinyl alternatives to wood floors makes plenty of sense (and cents!).

One of my clients has a son who rows for his college and has been very serious about the sport for some time. While working on his room in a vacation home I found myself in a wonderful store full of whimsical sports oriented accessories. I saw these oars and knew they would be perfect mounted above the bed. This way all he has to do to start dreaming about future boating glory is to look up and harness the power of positive rowing.