Designer Diaries

Check Out Our New Web Site and Blog

2012-02-14T12:06:00.000-08:00

We’ve remodeled!

We’re excited to introduce our new Web site and blog.

Our new site features our extensive portfolio of:

Residential Design
Commercial Design
Lobbies & Public Spaces
Architectural Consulting
Corporate Offices
Sustainable & Healthy Design

View our complete portfolio.

And, be sure to check out and subscribe to our new blog. You can sign up to receive it via e-mail here or via RSS feed by clicking on the RSS button at the top of our site next to the search box.

Happy browsing and reading!

Join Us December 1 for Our Holiday Trunk Show

2011-11-14T09:01:00.001-08:00

Looking for the perfect presents?

Let our interior designers help you select gifts for everyone on your list!

Susan Fredman Design Group Opens in Milwaukee: Join Us Saturday to Celebrate

2011-10-20T14:23:00.000-07:00

SFDG has landed in Milwaukee and we're having a Grand Opening to celebrate!

Join us Saturday from 11-5 to enjoy presentations from design and building experts, a Michael Aram trunk show, an exclusive shopping discount and yummy treats. View the complete Grand Opening schedule.

Here's a sneak peak of our new space, which includes a design studio and store:

We're excited to be sharing our new home with James Hoffman Homes.

Stop by as your schedule allows or stay for the entire day. RSVP to Jamie Fields at jfields@susanfredman.com or 312 587 8150, ext. 222.

Thank you to our sponsors:

Chicago Interior Design Hall of Fame: Vote for Susan Fredman

2011-10-05T11:56:00.000-07:00

We're thrilled that Susan Fredman has been nominated for the first-annual Chicago Interior Design Hall of Fame sponsored by the Design Center at the Merchandise Mart and Luxe Interiors + Design!

This recognition program acknowledges interior design talent who have made an impact on Chicago’s design community. Ten nominees have been selected by a jury of Design Center and Luxe Interiors + Design representatives.

Help honor Susan's impact on the Chicago design community by voting for her here. You can vote once a day per e-mail address until December 15.

The ten nominees and winner will be honored at a ceremony in February.

Thanks in advance for your support!

SFDG Wins Dream Home Award for Best Custom Home 7,500 -- 9,000 Square Feet

2011-09-26T14:21:00.000-07:00

A big congratulations to SFDG designer Terri Crittenden for winning a 2011 National Dream Home Gold Award for Best Custom Home 7,500-9,000 square feet!

Below is the information that appeared in the 2011 Winner's Publication:

A family of six in suburban Illinois wanted a large, luxurious home that was flexible for lots of entertaining, but still fostered a sense of intimacy. They coveted a space that was both warm and authentic, feeling like it had been there for decades, and were willing to push the envelope when it came to the design.

Upstairs, a loft connects the bedroom of two teenage twins, providing both personal and communal room. A variety of outdoor spaces extend the living area, allowing the family to enjoy the warm summer months. Like the indoors, the exterior spaces flow together and can accommodate both intimate and large parties. The home also features a spa, yoga, exercise, crafts and sports rooms and a sauna, allowing them to maximize their time spent at home and further fostering a sense of intimacy.

View the complete publication to see the beautiful work of all of the winners.

Congrats to Terri!

Tips for Healthier Indoor Air Quality When Your Windows are Closed

2011-09-15T13:24:00.000-07:00

Did you know the EPA has classified indoor air as five to ten times more polluted than outdoor air?

Our very own Jill Salisbury was recently featured in an ABC 7 news segment about removing invisible toxins and contaminants from your home.

In the warmer and cooler months when windows and doors are typically kept shut (to keep out the blazing heat or blustering cold), harmful toxins and contaminants become trapped, continuously circling throughout your home’s ventilation system.

Here are some of the tips Jill shared with viewers for creating a healthy home and removing invisible contaminants:

Keep a clean air filter in your A/C
Create your own fresh air exchange
Buy safer cleaning products
Take your shoes off at the door
Use a test kit

Click on the photo above to watch the segment and find tips for easy ways you can help reduce the harmful toxins in your home.

Thank you to Activeion and Rabbit Air for letting us borrow their products for this segment!

SFDG 35th Anniversary Video: Behind the Scenes

2011-09-08T08:57:00.000-07:00

The SFDG team took on a new role as actors and actresses, getting in front of the camera to film our 35th anniversary celebration video, which commemorates our 35 years of enhancing lives through design and those who’ve helped us get there.

The day was buzzing with anticipation as we each awaited our chance in the spotlight.

We were lucky enough to get our hair and makeup done, giving us the opportunity to look and feel our best before getting in front of the camera.

Ruth Delf admiring the finished product:

Judy Maier getting all gussied up:

Ever the good sport, Tony Nie agreed to some primping before getting under the hot camera lights:

We got to rehearse the script and perfect our lines before entering the studio. We were each prepped and given the opportunity to experiment with different hand motions and tones of voice. We worked together offering helpful tips and positive feedback to make sure everyone could have their shining moment.

Jamie Myers, Sarah Davis and Erica Bay getting some pointers:

Rocky from accounting waited in line at The Doughnut Vault to help keep everyone's energy high (and yes, they were worth it!). Even our designers from Michigan made a special trip to Chicago to be a part of the film.

Here are a few of our favorite behind-the-scenes shots:

Susan Fredman, Amanda Zitlin and Jean Kaiser sharing a group hug:

Lonnie Unger, Susan Fredman and Susan Rossie posing for the camera:

Kathy Hoffman and Ruth Delf enjoying their 15 minutes of fame:

Barb Theile and Barbara Ince being silly for the camera:

Even our Marketing and PR Director Jamie Fields and Director of Retail and E-commerce Nanette Mortell spent time behind the camera:

After ten hours of filming, the lights and camera were shut off to close an unforgettable day of bonding and collaboration. Everyone enjoyed the opportunity to celebrate those who have helped make these past 35 years a success.

Click here to watch the finished product; for every click, we’re donating 3.5 cents to Designs for Dignity.

We are, you are, and we all are… Susan Fredman Design Group.

Help Us Celebrate 35 Years of Enhancing Lives Through Design

2011-09-06T12:46:00.000-07:00

Since 1975, our goal has been simple – creating beautiful and nurturing spaces for our clients.

To commemorate this special milestone, we created a video showcasing our passion for our work and celebrating our team and everyone who has helped us get here.

For every click on the video, we’ll donate 3.5 cents to Designs for Dignity, a nonprofit organization founded by Susan Fredman.

Click on the photo below to watch the video. We'd love for you to help us celebrate by passing along the link.

We are. You are. We all are … Susan Fredman Design Group.

One-stop Shopping at susanfredmanathome.com

2011-08-26T14:17:00.000-07:00

We're excited to let you know that our retail Web site, www.susanfredmanathome.com, has been remodeled and is now available for one-stop shopping from both our urban and retreat collections.

It's easier than ever to shop our distinctive collection of tabletop items, glassware, home décor, furnishings, accessories, gifts and a bridal registry, all curated with the eye of an interior designer.

View the complete selection or sort by price and/or collection and even shop by brand.

It's fabulous shopping for your home made simple!

We welcome your feedback and would love to hear your thoughts about our revamped site.

Happy Shopping!

Creating Your Signature Style with SheKnows & SFDG

2011-08-16T10:40:00.000-07:00

SheKnows recently asked Susan Fredman to provide advice for creating a signature look and feel in your home.

"Before embarking on a design project, it’s important to understand who you are, how you want your space to function and what your taste is so you can choose items carefully," the designer explains. "I truly believe that your environment has a profound effect on how you function. Your space should nurture you, and everything in it should make you happy when you look at it."

She shares her tips with the Decorating Diva for creating a space that makes a statement.

Think about what inspires you

One of the best ways to create a personalized look that really represents who you are is to incorporate art pieces or photos that make a statement about you, your style or a favorite place or experience, Fredman explains. One piece of art or a large photograph (possibly an amazing photo from a recent vacation) can change the entire look of a room, she says. Framing doesn’t have to be expensive, either. A simple black, white or metal frame lets the piece shine.

Add wall coverings

Sometimes making a style statement means going big, and a great way to create a dramatic look is with wall coverings, which add texture and can transform the look of a painted room, Fredman says. This could be anything from a large decorative scroll to a large framed section of textured wallpaper you love to an eye-catching textile you picked up in your travels – anything that will turn a naked wall into something that gets noticed.

Update with accessories

It’s easy to show off your personality and make a statement with accessories. Update and personalize your space with a new rug or throw pillows – an affordable way to incorporate colors and textures you love. To really save money, before buying new pieces, look around your house to see if you can swap or mix and match with pieces from another room, Fredman suggests. If you have neutral furniture, add punch with items in bright, eye-popping hues, which will instantly give your space some character.

Focus on family
Bring out any family heirlooms that have been in storage or collecting dust in the basement and update them to fit into your space, says Fredman. This is a great way to give older pieces new life -- and, of course, show off your heritage through the home décor accessories that have been passed down through generations. If you don’t have any heirlooms, you can still focus on family by displaying items that are near and dear to your heart on bookshelves, mantels or coffee tables.

Repaint and re-stain

Think about repainting, re-staining or reupholstering furniture for a fresh new look, Fredman says. "A funky upholstery fabric and some glossy paint can breathe new life into a vintage chair and create a focal point for your space," she adds. Old photographs and posters can also be updated by painting the frames or buying new ones. Finding ways to make a statement with items you already have is a fun and affordable way to breathe new life into your home.

Create groupings
If you have any collections you love, be sure to show them off. Have a few vases that look good together? Take them out of the cabinet and display them on a regular basis. Fredman suggests creating groupings with an odd number of items (a group of three always works) for a look that shows off the things you love while also giving the room a visual anchor or a visual arrangement that catches the eye immediately on entering. Even a wall that features a group of three or five mirrors of various sizes, or a cluster of large candles in ornate holders offer a simple way to put your stamp on a room.
Fredman wants to stress that good design comes in every price range, and knowing what you want will help you make wise decisions. "Incorporating a sense of history and rich textures will help your space tell a story, regardless of your budget."

Healthy Home 2010 Master Bedroom Window Treatments Win Green Award

2011-08-15T13:05:00.000-07:00

Windows Fashion Vision recently honored SFDG designers Susan Fredman, Ruth Delf and Kathy Hoffman with the Envision Design Competition award in the Green-Inspired Windows and Rooms category for the Healthy Home 2010 master bedroom window treatments.

The designers' goal was to create a serene, luxurious retreat where the homeowners can relax and unwind using healthy products that don't compromise luxurious design.

The Hartmann&Forbes window treatments add a rich contrast to the room and meet the healthy standard of the home since they are made from natural fibers that are sustainably grown and harvested and are GreenGuard certified. The designers were able to adhere to the healthy guidelines of the home without compromising luxury and create a beautiful transitional treatment that complements the rest of the room and the home.

The window treatments are a great example of how green, health and beautiful design go hand in hand.

Congrats to Susan, Ruth and Kathy!

SFDG Wins Award for Outdoor Space

2011-08-04T10:56:00.000-07:00

Congrats to SFDG designer Barb Ince and landscape architect of Scott Byron & Co. for winning a Chrysalis Award for Remodeling Excellence for this beautiful outdoor kitchen, living area and garden.

Barb and Scott collaborated to organize this outdoor space into four functional zones that can be used for warm-weather entertaining. After remodeling their kitchen, the homeowners wanted to transform their backyard and deck into a flexible outdoor space that expands the living area of the home.

The Chrysalis Awards are given to designers that produce award-winning work in remodeling projects across the country. Entries are evaluated on a project’s overall design, use of space and materials and the degree to which the project enhanced the original structure.
Check out our blog post Creating a Chic Outdoor Space for tips from Barb for creating your own outdoor oasis!

SFDG Retreat Home Featured in Kitchen Trends Magazine

2011-08-02T14:18:00.000-07:00

SFDG designers Barbara Ince and Jamie Myers were recently featured in Kitchen Trends magazine for their work on a retreat home in Michigan.

Here’s the article:

A vacation home can teach us a lot about what's really important when it comes to kitchen design. The kitchen-living areas in most vacation homes put the emphasis firmly on the family. Large islands are invariably gathering places where everyone lends a hand to help and the cook is never isolated.

This kitchen in a lakefront vacation house epitomizes such a family-friendly design, says designer Barbara Ince of Susan Fredman Design Group.

"For their vacation home, the owners wanted something very different from their Chicago house," Ince says. "Comfort was a priority, and it needed to be able to accommodate the couple and their four children, plus visiting friends and family.

"They wanted a relaxed, fun feel to the kitchen-living area, but didn't want to go overboard in terms of color." Ince says the inspiration for the white and soft watery blue palette came from the lake, which can be seen from the kitchen. The design was also influenced by traditional beach house and farmhouse architecture.

"The five-panel cabinetry design references farmhouse furniture, but it is more clean lined. Similarly, the door pulls have that traditional farmhouse association, but the look has been modified."

Ince says the large 11ft x 6ft island, which has a Carrara marble top, was another key element of the design.

"The owners requested an enormous island where the whole family could congregate. Everything takes place on the island – the food prep and serving, and casual dining."

The traditional look is enhanced by an integrated refrigerator and matching pantry doors flanking the cooking center. Chalkboard paint on the pantry doors provides a creative outlet for family members. The pantry includes a mini wet bar and a prep sink.

A backsplash featuring watery blue glass tiles adds a splash of color to the rear wall. The color is repeated in the furnishings, including a dining table and banquette seating in a bay window that overlooks the lake.

"The banquette seating was a way to ensure lots of people could sit around the table," says the designer.

In the main living area, large comfortable sofas are upholstered in a soft aqua-blue fabric that has a chenille look, not unlike beach towels.

Other key design features include wide plank flooring that reinforces the farmhouse ambiance. And a river rock fireplace surround features light-colored stone that's in keeping with the soft palette.

Congrats to Barb and Jamie!

NKBA Top 10 Trends for Kitchen and Bath Design Features SFDG

2011-07-28T12:32:00.000-07:00

SFDG designers Susan Fredman and Aimee Nemeckay were recently recognized by the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) in its Top 10 Trends from the NKBA Design Competition for their work on a suburban Chicago master bathroom.

The NKBA Design Competition represents the latest in modern kitchen and bathroom trends, including color, design details, personalization, and visual elements. From their nearly 500 submissions, the NKBA chooses designs that represent the newest overarching themes in kitchen and bath design to include in their Top 10 list.

Susan and Aimee's bathroom represents the trend "Tactile Appeal through Textures." According to NKBA, the use of actual and implied texture offers a tactile and visual feast. Lines, colors and patterns can act as either a point of interest in a given space or a mellow background to a more prominent component.

The textured touch is apparent through an oversized glass mosaic tiled rug inset into the limestone floor, creating the effect of an actual textured and patterned area rug.

In the shower, a quilted effect, also seen in fashion trends, was created using custom-made glass keystone tiles, adding a shimmering surface to the wall.

Congrats to Susan and Aimee!

Rustic Chic Lighting for Any Room

2011-07-20T09:58:00.000-07:00

Rustic [rhus-tik]: of or pertaining to the country

Chic [sheek]: attractive and fashionable

Rustic Chic: the perfect combination of distressed and elegant

Add some antique charm and glam to your space with this candelabra-inspired lamp.

La Gray Table Lamp: $375

Check out our complete collection of rustic chic table and pendant lamps:

Structure Table Lamp: $225

Beam Table Lamp: $575

Caravan Table Lamp: $365

Eufaula Pendant: $895

Chaplin Lamp Pendant: $225

Join Us Sunday at the Dearborn Garden Walk

2011-07-13T14:05:00.000-07:00

Join us at the Dearborn Garden Walk this Sunday, July 17 from 12-5pm to enjoy our vignette inspired by Elizabeth Taylor and her role in Father of the Bride.

We’re repurposing materials found in nature and combining them with glamorous décor a la Elizabeth Taylor to demonstrate how you can create a beautiful table setting while limiting your impact on the environment.

We'll be doing presentations about healthy design at 1pm and 4pm.

Here’s a sneak peak preview of our vignette:

Tickets can be purchased here.

We hope to see you there!

A Kitchen Fit for Entertaining

2011-07-12T12:52:00.000-07:00

A kitchen designed by our very own Barbara Ince and Sarah Davis was featured this past Sunday on WGN’s Bring it Home, a TV show making about making fabulous design accessible to all, as well as in the July/August issue of Chicago Home + Garden magazine.

Built for an avid chef, the design features separate functional zones for easy cooking and entertaining.

The center three islands, unified by custom cabinetry and quartzite countertops, are each used for different purposes. The island in the foreground is for baking, the center for cooking and preparation (and includes a built-in sink and dishwasher) and the final section is a counter-height table for casual family dining.

A built-in window seat, adjacent to the beverage center, is perfect for relaxing with a morning coffee.

Opposite the cooktop, a wet bar provides plenty of countertop space for preparing drinks and appetizers for entertaining in the adjacent great room, while custom storage throughout makes preparation and cleaning up a breeze.

Congratulations to Barbara and Sarah!

Spread the Health: SFDG Featured in Traditional Home for Healthy Design Work

2011-07-06T14:52:00.000-07:00

SFDG designers Susan Fredman, Ruth Delf, Kathy Hoffman and Jill Salisbury are featured in the July issue of Traditional Home for their work on Healthy Home 2010!

The eight-page article features photos and details about how the team created the home that took green design and building one step further to focus on healthy interiors … there wasn’t even a new-home smell!

Here are twenty highlights from the article about how the design team incorporated healthy elements into each and every space. You can read the entire article here.

Natural Upholstery—the living room sofa by Cisco Brothers is made of sustainable wood with no added urea-formaldehyde (ciscobrothers.com).

Low-Emitting Paints—the walls and trim in the house are finished with Benjamin Moore low-VOC Natura paint (benjaminmoore.com).

Vegetable Dyes—the naturally stain-resistent wool rug (above) is colored with vegetable dyes (shabahangcarpets.com).

Sustainable Woods—Designer Maria Yee created the living room bookcase and coffee table (above) with sustainable woods (mariayee.com).

Nontoxic Finishes—the dining room table and chairs from Lorts have low-VOC finishes and no added urea-formaldehyde (lorts.com).

Gentle Fabrics—dining-chair fabric from O Ecotextiles is softened with a finish of beeswax and aloe vera (oecotextiles).

Low-VOC Cabinets—cabinets from Holiday Kitchens have no added urea-formaldehyde and are finished with low-VOC stains and topcoats (holidaykitchens.com).

Nonporous Countertops—GreenGuard-certified nonpourous quartz countertops by Cambria require no sealers or toxic cleaners (cambriausa.com).

Energy Star Refrigerator— Liebherr is uber energy-efficient, and the company leads in eco-responsible production processes (liebherr.us.com).

Induction Cooktop—induction is the most energy-efficient and safest method of cooking, using no gas that can pollute the air (mieleusa.com).

Water-Based Floor Finish—Locally sourced and sustainable white oak floors are finished with a low-VOC stain and water-based topcoat (bona.com).

Organic Wool Area Rug—the family room rug (above) is a blend of undyed wool fibers that create a variation in neutral hues (shabahangcarpets.com).

Reclaimed Lumber—the sofa table and fireplace surround were locally made with wood from a walnut tree felled in a storm (el-furniture.com).

Locally Made Bronze Tiles—Chicago artist Denise Siegel's tiles are bronze, a metal that can be recycled repeatedly (denisesiegelbronze.com).

100% Organic Sheets—Indika Organics uses only plant-based dyes on its cotton sheets (indikaorganics.com).

Quartz Tub Surround—the Kohler tub is framed by quartz surfacing from Cambria, a U.S. company practicing eco-kind processes (cambriausa.com).

Water Sense Fixtures—faucets, toilets, and other Kohler plumbing fixures are Water Sense-certified to conserve water usage (kohler.com).

Vintage Furnishings—low-VOC paints renewed a vintage bed and side tables for a girl's room (above).

Reusable Artwork—A fairy-tale mural painted on canvas is framed by white molding. It can be removed, rolled up and used elsewhere.

Dimmable Lights—Light fixtures throughout the house are on dimmers to save energy. Compact florescent bulbs were not used because of their mercury content.

Congrats to Susie, Ruth, Kathy and Jill!

For more tips for incorporating healthy aspects into your own home, check out these blog posts:

Healthy Design Tips for Reducing Allergies: Part I

Healthy Design Tips for Reducing Allergies: Part II

Healthy Design Q and A: Part I

Healthy Design Q and A: Part II

Anatomy of a Healthy Kitchen

Thermador Cooking Demo Recipes

2011-05-27T09:41:00.000-07:00

Thank you to those who joined us on Saturday for Revive Your Retreat—we hope you enjoyed the day!

A big thank you to Anjelica Onischuk and Amber Carlson from Thermador for showing us how to use our brand new Thermador steam and convection oven. Here are the delicious recipes they prepared during their cooking demos. Bon appetite!

Roasted Salmon Fillet

Equipment

Paring knife

Teaspoon

Solid insert pan

Ingredients
1 salmon fillet

Bottled pesto

Salt and pepper

Directions
-- Check the fillet for bones and remove any bones with tweezers or paring knife
-- Make small 1” slits in the flesh of the fish, going with the grain of the meat
-- Using the tip of a knife or spoon, fill each slit with a little pesto
-- Lightly salt and pepper

-- Preheat oven for 375º on steam convection/combination

-- Place the fish, skin side down, in the full size solid insert and place in oven on rack position two

-- Cook until salmon flakes when tested for about 15-20 minutes

Roasted Mixed Vegetables

Ingredients

1 lb. carrots, cut into ¼” rounds

1 tsp. fresh thyme
1 lb. fresh asparagus

1 clove garlic, chopped

1 onion, cut into 8 wedges

2 Tbsp. olive oil

¼ tsp. salt

⅛ tsp. pepper

Directions

-- Put carrots, onion and garlic in a plastic bag with the olive oil. Close the bag and toss veggies with oil to distribute evenly.

-- Place vegetables in the bottom of a two-piece broil pan lined with foil

-- Sprinkle with salt and pepper

-- Roast in a non-preheated convection oven at 400º for 15-20 minutes (Carrots should be just pierceable)

-- Add asparagus and mix together.

-- Cook 10-15 minutes longer, or until tender

-- Remove vegetables from oven, add thyme, stir and serve

Ham and Egg Brunch Cups

Equipment

Non-stick spray

4-6 oz. custard cups

Perforated insert pan

Ingredients

4 slices, deli-style ham

4 eggs

Salt and pepper

¼ cup cream

Shredded cheese and/or snipped herbs

Directions

-- Preheat oven for 350º on steam convection/combination

-- Spray 4-6 oz. custard cups or ramekins with non-stick cooking spray

-- Arrange on perforated insert

-- Line each cup with piece of ham, pleating to fit

-- Break an egg into each cup and sprinkle with salt and pepper

-- Drizzle a spoonful of cream over each

-- Bake on rack position 3 for 8-10 minutes or until whites are opaque and eggs are done

-- Garnish with cheese and herbs if desired

Enjoy!

Revive Your Retreat This Saturday

2011-05-24T08:31:00.000-07:00

Join us this Saturday for our 5th Annual Revive Your Retreat!

Come celebrate the kitchen with presentations, cooking demos and trunk shows.

11:00am – 5:00pm EDT

Susan Fredman at Home
15998 Red Arrow Highway
Union Pier, MI

Schedule of Events:

11:00am: Cooking Demo by Thermador
Enjoy a bit of brunch courtesy of Amber Carlson and Angelica Onischuk of Thermador

12:30pm: 3 P’s of Entertaining: Planning, Prep and Presentation
Learn how to entertain like a pro with Barbara Ince of SFDG and William Collins of Kohler

1:30pm: Extraordinary Grilling with Lorenz Appliances
Come hungry to try little bites with big flavor

2:00pm: Healthy, Green and Fabulous
Discover ways to make your space healthy, green and fab with Kathy Hoffman and Jill Salisbury of SFDG

3:00pm: Cooking Demo by Thermador
Nibble on an afternoon snack courtesy of Amber Carlson and Angelica Onischuk of Thermador

5:00pm: RYR Happy Hour
Enjoy our “Revive-a-ritas” frozen or on the rocks!

ALL DAY: Find ideas and décor to update your summer home at ongoing trunk shows.

Stop by as your schedule allows or stay for the entire day!

RSVP to Jamie Fields at jfields@susanfredman.com or 312 587 8150, ext. 222.

We hope to see you there!

A special thank you to our sponsors:

Gold Sponsor:

Thermador

Silver Sponsors:

CAI Designs

Grand Home Automation

Lorenz Appliances

The Kohler Store

Bronze Sponsors:

Aldo Bernardi

Genuinely Jill

The Art of Stephen Winer

Trunk Show Sponsors:

Covered Bridge Studio

Christina Root

Marco Alexzondra Floral & Event Services

Neighborwood

Re-Imagine

Smykman Primitives

Steven Shroder

Media Sponsor:

CS Interiors

Custom Framing Basics: Part II

2011-05-10T11:48:00.000-07:00

In our last blog post, Silver Cloud Galleries shared important tips to keep in mind when embarking on a custom framing project.

Below you will find more helpful hints about the structure and aesthetics of framing.

Structure

The structural integrity of a frame, or moulding, must always be taken into account to make sure it can support the weight of the finished product.

A good rule of thumb to keep in mind -- if the height and width of the moulding is 1” by 1” or smaller, it may not support the weight of a piece that has an overall size of 24” by 30” or more.

Of course, there are exceptions. If no glass is required, a thin frame may work because the piece will weigh much less than its glazed counterpart. Plexiglas is relatively lightweight and will not put as much stress on the frame structure as glass. Also, some frame materials, such as metals and hardwoods, are more durable and can handle the weight of a large piece.

Aesthetics

Now for the fun part (which can actually be the most challenging) – aesthetics!

Do you want your frame to be traditional or Baroque? What about contemporary? Gold or silver? Black lacquer or other wood? Oak or cherry or walnut? Contoured or ornate?

Remember, framing is in and of itself an art, so there’s no “right way” to do it. What looks exciting to one, may not appeal to another; what looks spectacular in your eyes may seem boring to your neighbor.

There are endless combinations of shapes, styles and materials to choose from. What’s most important is that you have confidence in the professionalism of the framer with whom you are working and that you love the end result. At the end of the day, you will be the one to enjoy your custom framing project, not your framer, neighbor or mother-in-law.

Custom framing is 20% technical and 80% personal. Delight in your decision!

Custom Framing Basics: Part I

2011-05-10T11:46:00.000-07:00

We're very excited that Silver Cloud Galleries offered to share some tips about custom framing. This two-part series will provide all of the information you need to know before embarking on a custom framing project.

We know that many people feel intimidated with the custom framing process and that it can be time consuming and even costly. We hope these blog posts will help to ease your concerns by illuminating some of the key parts of the process.

Custom framing should be something to be excited about! There are three essential things to think about when embarking on your custom framing adventure: preservation, structure and aesthetics.

Preservation

It’s important to consider the preservation qualities of a custom frame when working with pieces that are valuable, delicate or simply cherished. When framing original fine art, memorabilia, certificates, diplomas and awards, be sure to consider the preservation attributes of such components as matboard, glazing, linen and hinging techniques.

There are essentially three different types of matboards: regular matboard, acid-free matboard, and rag board. In the Chicago area, the two most prevalent brands of mat board are Crescent and Bainbridge.

To be certain you are getting the best matboard with regards to preservation, always specify Museum Board. This product is ph neutral, 100% cotton rag, and therefore will not damage, fade or emit harmful chemicals onto your artwork. It’s slightly more expensive, but look at it as a one-time insurance payment. If it’s done right the first time you won’t have to worry about doing it over.

Glazing is also a must-have for protecting your art. Many options are available and vary in their level of protection and clarity. The type of glazing used depends on how long you'd like your piece to last, the environment in which it will be living and the size. This list will help you decide when each is appropriate:

Type of Glazing: Regular glass
Characteristics: No UV protection, most economical, prone to glare
Use: Posters, reproductions, non-original or non-cherished items

Type of Glazing: Regular plexiglas
Characteristics: Light-weight, prone to glare, will scratch
Use: Large posters, reproductions, non-original or non-cherished items

Type of Glazing: UV glass
Characteristics: Blocks 97% of UV rays, prone to glare
Use: Photos, diplomas, reproductions, lithographs

Type of Glazing: UV plexiglas
Characteristics: Blocks 97% of UV rays, prone to glare/scratches, lightweight
Use: Large valuable pieces, including vintage posters, textiles, tapestries, signed/numbered prints, lithographs

Type of Glazing: Non-glare glass
Characteristics: No UV protection, cuts glare by diffusing light
Use: Pieces that may use a picture light or are placed in a brightly illuminated area

Type of Glazing: Museum glass
Characteristics: 97% UV protection, best clarity, cuts glare by absorbing light
Use: Fine art, signed numbered prints, delicate textiles/tapestries

Check back for part two of the series to learn how structure and aesthetics play in important role in the custom framing process.

Design Inspiration from Spain: Part I

2011-05-05T07:42:00.000-07:00

SFDG designer Jean Gutheim Kaiser recently took a trip to Spain. Below she shares her thoughts about and pictures of what inspired her:

I love to travel. I love the planning…where should we go, where should we stay, what should we do and see. I love the excitement of seeing how each day becomes interesting and varied.

This year I was lucky enough to travel to Spain to visit my daughter who is studying in Sevilla this semester. I thought that the first weekend we would go somewhere exotic, but reachable from both Madrid, where I was flying into, and Sevilla.

We decided on the Canary Islands. After booking our flights, I did an online search for an interesting resort. I found the innovative Sandos San Blas Environmental Reserve Resort, which was inspired by both the natural and cultural values of the island, as well as the shapes, colors and textures.

The resort was designed to be integrated into the landscape and reduce its environmental impact. It was built adjacent to an environmental reserve, which has amazing hiking paths, archeological sites and unique species of flora. Design inspirations were everywhere, from the beautiful rhythm of the wooden slat sunshades around the bar and spa to the infinity edge pool looking over the ocean. Wherever you looked you had to be grateful for the detail that the designers used. The fact that they could do this and make it eco-friendly too, now that really is good design.

This is a photo of my son Matt when we were hiking in the environmental reserve.

This is me hiking.

The infinity edge pool was right on the ocean. The island had black volcanic rock and sand, which made for dramatic and beautiful views.

We also had time to go to Tenerife to see the beautiful concert hall, which was designed by Santiago Calatrava. It is one of the most striking and graceful structures I have ever seen. You could see how Calatrava was inspired by the work of Gaudi, especially how he used white mosaic tile to clad the exterior of the building, which flows and shimmers in the sun. This Auditorio really creates a welcoming entrance to the beautiful city of Tenerife by the sea, which is definitely worth the drive!

P.S. If you don’t want to travel this far, go see his fabulous addition to the Milwaukee Art Museum.

Stay tuned for more of Jean's design inspiration from Spain!

Revive Your Retreat June 4

2011-04-26T08:22:00.001-07:00

Save the date for our 5th Annual Revive Your Retreat!

Saturday, June 4
11:00am -- 5:00pm EDT
Susan Fredman at Home
15998 Red Arrow Highway • Union Pier, MI

Join us as we celebrate the kitchen:

Enjoy live cooking demonstrations

Learn how to create a healthy space for your family

Get expert tips for entertaining

Plus, browse our trunk show for beautiful products for your home.

Stop by as your schedule allows or stay for the entire day.

RSVP to Jamie Fields at jfields@susanfredman.com or 312 587 8150, ext. 222.

Stay tuned for complete event information.

Healthy Home Tips for Reducing Allergies: Part II

2011-04-14T11:19:00.000-07:00

In our last post, SFDG designers Ruth E. Delf, Kathy Hoffman and Jill Salisbury shared their advice on minimizing indoor allergies.

Here are some more tips and pointers from their Q&A with Everyday Health.

Everyday Health: How can I improve my indoor air quality?

SFDG: Taking off your shoes as soon as you get home is a great way to keep outdoor dirt and germs away and your floors sparkling. Make sure there’s easy and accessible shoe storage next to the door.

Open your windows each day! Not only does this conserve energy, but it helps to eliminate harmful chemicals in the air.

Consider using natural hemp or grass cloth or American Clay (an all-natural, non-toxic, environmentally-friendly product made in the United States) instead of traditional wall coverings. Use a clay-based adhesive to attach the hemp and grass cloth to the walls to eliminate chemicals. The plaster can be applied in four different styles, providing a variety of options for color, texture and overall look. You can even wet the wall to add moisture into the air to replace a humidifier.

Replacing cabinetry hardware is a great way to refresh a space. Consider using bronze hardware, which is antimicrobial, so it reduces germs and doesn’t require harsh chemicals to clean.

Try to avoid wall-to-wall carpet, which traps allergens, and install Forest Stewardship Council-certified hardwood floors with a GREENGUARD-certified floor finish, and place luxurious 100 percent organic wool rugs with natural vegetable dyes on the floor. Wool is inherently flame-resistant and soil-resistant, so there is no need to have chemical treatments added. Incorporate antiques; they have already off-gassed for centuries!

Make sure that all new furnishings, millwork, and cabinets contain no added urea-formaldehyde, a carcinogen which has no odor and cannot be detected.

Be cautious when using new appliances for the first time. For example, avoid running the self-cleaning cycle on self-cleaning ovens, as this may release unacceptable levels of harmful VOCs into the home. At the very least, upon first use, evacuate all pets, children, and adults from the space; open the windows and run the exhaust fans on high to flush the house. Upon first use (and only the first use), the extreme heat causes the materials to emit very high levels of chemicals including formaldehyde, which is known to hurt and even kill small pets.

Everyday Health: How can animal lovers keep pet allergies at bay?

SFDG: Make sure you vacuum, clean your flooring, and dust regularly. Consider upholstery options that are easy to clean without harsh chemicals, are machine washable, and easy to remove. Slipcovers and removable pillow covers are great options. If that’s not possible, consider covering areas where the pets sit with washable throws that you clean on a regular basis. Not only will they keep the furniture free of pet hair, but they are also a great way to add a pop of color to a room.