Design Direction
“I have a cape cod contemporary two story on the water with large windows facing east. We have a beautiful whitewashed cedar ceiling. The floor has stark white 10″ floor tiles that are very hard to keep clean. I’d like to replace it with porcelain floor planking that looks like wood. I’m stuck trying to decide on the color for the floor. There are so many options. By the way, the doors are all whitewashed with a bright white wood trim. My style is classic with a bit of contemporary thrown in. We are planning on a redo of the fireplace as well as well as the kitchen.
Here is a summary of my decorating challenges:
- What color floor planking (porcelain) to put on the floor.
- What color to paint the new wood around our new fireplace.
- The kitchen cabinets are white washed. I’m selecting white painted ones. What color granite – light or dark for more or less of a contrast?
- The wood doors are all white washed too. As is the railing going up the stairs. Do I paint the railing white or?
- Do I paint the walls a lighter or darker color?
Whitewashed Cedar Ceiling
Here’s what Vastu senior designer Sarita Peresada had to offer: Read more
Stoking the Flames
Stix Fireplace by EcoSmart
This morning in DC was a little chilly, which only served to remind me that summer is just about over.
And while it’s been great and fun, I can’t help but get excited for Fall! The air smells different. There are some great holidays right around the corner. Fall clothing brings rich textures and colors to outfits everywhere. And there’s always the opportunity to cuddle up with your loved one under a cozy blanket, preferably by a warm fireplace.
Fireplaces are great in that they can serve as a fully functional heating source, a beautiful design element in your space or both! Regardless of how they’re used, fireplaces (in all their shapes, sizes and styles) bring a touch of character and romance to your home.
Check out how Vastu’s designers have incorporated fireplaces, originally existing or not, into their designs! (Pictures Below) Read more
How to revitalize an unused fireplace
Revitalize an unused fireplace by placing the Scope 700 into your existing fireplace and experience the transformation of your room into a cozy and comfortable sanctuary.
The Scope 700 is an easy solution that creates a warm, dancing flame. Fueled by clean burning bio ethanol, the Scope 700 has no need for a vent or gas connection, and does not emit smoke or soot.
The award-winning EcoSmart Fire collection offers over 30 fireplace solutions.
NEW! from EcoSmart Fire…
…the Scope 700 grate range…
and the XL 700 burner kit (perfect for incorporating into your own design)
All EcoSmart fire ranges burn denatured alcohol, an energy efficient, renewable biofuel. The clean burning nature of ethanol means that the Ecosmart Burner does not require a flue to remove toxins, making installation, or placement of one in your home, a breeze.
Not only are the EcoSmart fire ranges environmentally friendly, but customers that purchase one before 12/31/2010 are eligible for a tax credit of 30% of the purchase price up to $1,500. Can’t beat that!
Design Direction
Do you have a challenging space or need some design guidance? Design Direction is a chance for you to submit photos or videos of your design challenge(s) and a Vastu interior designer will provide you with some help. Every Wednesday we will feature one reader’s submission.
“The living room in my new house has a huge green marble fireplace which I think is very dated. How could I decorate around it so that I do not have to spend money to redo the fireplace? Thanks a lot for your help.”
Would a tax credit fire you up?
In February 2009, President Obama announced there would be a tax credit available for the purchase of energy efficient fixtures for all non-business properties. Under this “Recovery and Reinvestment Act” the purchase of an EcoSmart fireplace qualifies buyers for a 30% tax credit (up to $1,500). The innovative and unique ranges also fulfills the cutting edge design enthusiast in all of us.
The EcoSmart ranges are flueless units that burn on clean, natural denatured ethanol (alcohol). The fireplace below happens to be freestanding.
Fusion Fire
Have a traditional fireplace? No problem, EcoSmart has also developed a line of ranges that can be retrofitted into almost any existing fireplace as well as an array of artistically inspired pieces. Don’t just take my word for it, stop into our showroom and have a look.
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