Alpharetta’s $10,000 Room Makeover Unveiling!

Before and After Photos and Summery of the project

  Meet the Winners…  Ed, Lynda and Nicole Shubert

Before and After     

Thanks so much to our sponsors

Corporate Sponsors

Peach Tree Fabrics

Monfort’s Fine Art Gallery

Donald Mitchell Design, Inc

Business Sponsors

digital scientist

Armistead and Sons/Benjamin Moore Paints

Fast and Great Upholstery

Anthony Carter Painting

The Cannery

Twigs and Lace

Ivy Interiors

Vintage Green Pillows

The Galerie…boutique

Botanica

Main Street Art Co.

Tinder Box/Vino 100

Before and After… 

                              After…

 After meeting with  the family, we sought to create a more gracious and comfortable great room for the family.  Apart from the newly upholstered sofa,  we added a new estate rug that now fits the room.    The old rug was an 8′ x10 which was too small and the new one is a 10×14′.  This makes a huge difference as it matches the rooms color scheme as well as creates a wow factor.  Many folks make the mistake of having a rug that’s too small and it only makes something look too awkward.  Its kind of like walking around in shoes that’s too small, they don’t work and it hurts the interior.  We also added a new end table with inlaid parquetry and beautiful carved detailing.    I also wanted to add a large chandelier to lower the two story ceiling and give the room a more intimate setting.  It also helped to add more ambiance to the room. 

 Before…

A  white fire place mantle and hearth.  A lovely one but it hardly stood out in the crowd

I also wanted to add an accent wall behind the mantle to add interist and a focal point as you

entered the home.   I borrowed from the russet tone paint in an adjoining room and had wall paper hung

in the room.  We also added…

 hurricane lanterns, Twigs and Lace

 Antique candle sticks, book ends and globe,  Ivey Interiors

 Photo Frames, candle and vase, The Galerie…boutique

 Sizing for the walls and faux, Anthony Carter Painting and Mike Castleberry

  Paint and faux Products, Armistead and Sons Paints  

  Humidor Box, Tinder Box/Vino 100  

  Marble Beverage Table, Main Street Art Co.     

After…

 The silk drapery and other fabrics were provided by Peachtree Fabrics

 They helped to soften the room and frame the windows.  The Shuberts didn’t want drapery panels as they would have blocked the beautiful view of the back lawn, pool and pond.

 Notice we removed the white furniture as it was not really practical for a home with three Vishnu dogs.  We also added a sofa table that had black iron scrolling and an open feel.  We have the antique candle sticks on it from Ivy Interiors and the humidor from Tinderbox/Vino 100.  Also notice on the mantle we added these wonderful cut crystal hurricane candle holders from Twigs and Lace. 

 Some of my favorite rooms are those that have a heirloom like quality to them.  By this I mean those that have multiple fabric patterns and colors that are unexpected.  Furniture that is mixed and not too matchy matchy.  That furniture store look should be left there in the store.  High end interiors have a mixture of patterns and styles that are layered effortlessly.  Rooms that appear to be too fixed are boring far too common.  I believe a room should look well traveled and gathered over time.  

Before… A big white cabinet in the

center of the room. 

After… 

 The entertainment center was literally a white elephant in the room .  Sometimes they need to be toned down to fit in the room and look more like furniture.  I am not usually a big fan of too many built-ins as they limit your ability to change the room later.  But a faux finish applied to the cabinet was just the ticket.  We also applied this finish to the mantle and hearth.  It was a 3 phase application but well worth the effort.

The Lamps in the room were added by those found at The Cannery.  They were tall and commanded a presence in the room.  We also continued to use an antique lamp that the family already had in their possession.

Sofa Before… 

      Honey, someone call the interior design police this sofa needs to be arrested!  We had an emergency on our hands! 

 Sofa After…

This sofa was reworked and springs added  to replace the outdated pillow back sofa and the cushions shortened to allow for a more ergonomic seat.  Ideally the seat should be about 22-25″ from the front to the back.  The pillows added the red to continue the color scheme along with the contrasting piping.   Thanks to Karen Dutson at Peachtree Fabrics, this paisley fabric and contrasting trim, this sofa got the makeover it drastically needed.  Can I hear an amen!  The arrangement is made with preserved florals by Brian McCrae of botanica and will last for years to come.  Dried plants obviously will soon dry out but the preserved florals have oils in them which allow them to look fresh and live.

Holger, Fast and Great Upholstery

Myra,   Vintage Green Pillows

Brian McCrae,  Botanica Floral Co. 

 We have really enjoyed meeting the Shuberts and working with them in this room makeover!  They are kind and grateful people that also happen to be a ton of fun to work with. 

Through this process we have met many wonderful people, our sponsors have been chief among them.  Without their generous support and contributions, this contest would have not been possible.  This contest was conceived with the idea of helping to spur business in a tough economy.  Please support each of them by buying locally and helping to sustain the livelihood of these fine vendors.  We have an abundance of fine customer focused businesses and they are truly the backbone of any thriving community. 

If we can help you with your design projects please don’t hesitate to call.  We at Donald Mitchell Design, seek to be helpful and relevant.  We love what we do and  we strive to do quality work on every project.  Call today 770 475 4629 and let’s start something beautiful!  Thanks Donald

Twigs and Lace!

As a part of our great businesses series.  I want to spotlight this fun little gift shop, Twigs and Lace in the heart of historic Alpharetta.   Audrey Hensley is the proprietor of this fine establishment.  She is one lady that is full of spunk and charisma!  Always seen as the lady in white, this is one lady who knows how to give customer service.  Her shop designed by architect, Dick Debbin and is done in the Georgian cottage style.  It sits on the corner of Main and Church Streets and is just charming.  You really must go in and browse her extensive collection of gift ware.  You are sure to find a gift for most any occasion.  She recently had a customer from Palm Beach in and because of her competitive pricing, she bought a ton of gifts and had them all shipped back.  Audrey is most accommodating in any way.  She and I both sit on the Downtown Alpharetta Trade Association Board and she has contributed so much to our local endeavors.  What ever you buy there  gift wrapping  is included, so this makes it the perfect place to shop for those bridal and baby gifts.  Twigs and Lace contributed a wonderful cloisonne hurricane, cut crystal lantern for the mantle of the Alpharetta’s 10,000 Room Makeover Project.  Read more about her shop in the coverage from the AJC http://www.ajc.com/homefinder/content/living/homeandgarden/stories/2008/07/14/Twigs_Lace_Alpharetta_0714.html

64 N. Main St., Alpharetta. 770-772-5136. Hours: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday.

Monfort’s Fine Art Gallery

WOW what a treasure in our midst!  I am blown away by  the quality of Art that is located here in Alpharetta.  Owned by Dr. Ray and Merium Hoyum formerly from Racine WI.  The Hoyum’s run a successful gallery there as well as this one based in Alpharetta.  This Galley features published artist from around the world and those with a national following.  This juried gallery is some of the finest art north of the perimeter without question.   It is easily a strong rival to any of the fine galleries inside Atlanta.  Needless to say I love the vast variety and qualityof the art at Monforts. 

Currently they have an artist there that specializes in circus themed pen and ink drawings that without a doubt will be in high demand.  ” During his long commercial art career, Lance Raichert perfected his fine art skills with numerous portrait commissions. Most notably, he embarked on a 30+ year thematic adventure into drawing the circus environment in what he describes as a ’somewhat off – beat direction”. He gives great attention to detail providing his audience with spectacular and stunning images. Many of his Silent Circus series images (over 30 images) required more than a year to create. Lance has set himself apart as one of the truly great pen and ink artist of our time. A true master of his trade.”
Mark my word his work will one day be worth a ton of money!  His mechanicized circus is something to behold  especially while it is still affordable.  If you love cirque du soleil www.cirquedusoleil.com you will love his works.  I personally think cirques founder Guy Laliberté, needs this collection in one of his homes.  I think even he would be thrilled by the detailing of this art, it is that amazing!  

Montfort’s art ranges from traditional, contempory, impressionism to art glass and sculpture.  In my estimation they should be charging an admission price for entry to this small museum like gallery.  The good thing is it is all for sale!  Right now they have some wonderful Christmas ornaments that is priced right for gifting!  What better gift than original art for that person who has given you so much!  Either way make a visit to this Alpharetta Treasure, Monfort’s Fine Art Gallery and give yourself a wonderful christmas gift.  

PS Monforts was a gold level sponsor in Alpharetta’s $10,000 Room Makeover and we appreciate them and all their contributions to our community.  Thanks Donald

41 Church Street, Alpharetta, Georgia 30009, 770-837-3004   www.monforts.net

Mainstreet Art Co.

Wow so many wonderful shops to choose from.  Mindrey Shi with Mainstreet Art Co.has now moved over to Old Alabama Square Shopping Center, 3005 Old Alabama, Suite 120, Alpharetta GA 30022, 770 360 9797.  Just look for the Fresh Market and she’s to the left of it!  

Many of you knew of her when she was back on Main Street but has moved over to her new location.  She has wonderful Art, Tabletop, Gifts, Home, and Jewelry.   She and her staff really search hard to find the unique pieces.  She donated a beautiful marble top table with hand forged base to Alpharetta’s $10,000 Room Makeover!  This is a store you can go in and get lost thinking of all the possibilities you have.  Something unique for everyone and for those folks that have everything.  One will certainly find something with a flare for fun.  It is truly like going into a museum except everything is for sale at reasonable prices.  Mindrey believes that original art should be available and within the reach of everyone.  In addition to all of this Mindrey and her entire staff is just so nice and pleasant to work with.  Go in and see them and visit their website:http://www.mainstreetartco.com/newsite/aboutus.asp  Here is a picture of Lyndia Shubert and Mindrey shopping in Mainstreet Art Co.                                                       

Also Dec. 3 2009 Mindrey is sponsoring The Old Alabama Square Holiday Affair from 6-8 pm.  She also has 10 other businesses participating.  So be sure and go to see her!

The Gal’erie…boutique!

This trendy boutique, owned by Kathy An Kessler is located at One South Main Street, in the heart of Downtown Alpharetta.  Now I have heard through the grapevine that Kathy’s selection of unique clothing and accessories have been sought after by many celebrities and entertainers that live in the Atlanta area. As a buyer, she has a very discriminating eye for apparel,which has not gone unnoticed. Kathy An is the first to spot the trends and have them long before most of the other boutiques in Atlanta.  This is a gift Kathy has and she is there to share her discriminating taste with you everyday except Sunday. Many of the designer that she represents in her boutique are
usually only found in L.A. and South Beach, such as King Baby Studio, Virgins Saints and Angels, Laguna Beach Denim, Alp-N-Rock and 7 Diamonds.  GALERIE has been a part of the Alpharetta scene for 21 years, therefore Kathy knows her customers and they love her.  She really does give the extra touch when serving her clients.  You will find the personalized attention from Kathy and her staff, which is another reason that GALERIE has been a favorite shopping destination for more than 20 years for men and women that seek out the unique for their wardrobe.  It is like having your own personal shopper and stylist right here in Alpharetta.  Kathy has also donated to Alpharetta’s $10,000 Room Makeover from her selection of home accents from Brighton.  Go in today and see for yourself what I am talking about and tell her Donald sent you!   Watch for her new website to launch in December: www.galerie-boutique.com

Armistead and Sons Paints and Anthony Carter Painting

In my spot light of local Alpharetta Businesses, I want to feature two more that have also sponsored Alpharetta’s $10,000 Room Makeover!

Armistead and Sons, Benjamin  Moore Paints    Owner, Tom Armistead and his staff are experts in the entire painting process.  They feature the finest paint products on the market.  Benjamin and Moore features the Aura line of colors that over 100 designers selected to coordinate with each other.   This line is possibly the greatest paint ever made as far as color fastness and smooth application.  They have an environmental line called Natura that is odorless and zero VOC.  Great for nurseries, kids rooms and those suffering from allergies.  Go by and meet Tom and his staff they are very professional and attentive to your needs.  They will go out of their way to assist you and your needs. 

Anthony Carter Painting is the next contest sponsor.  Now Anthony is a nice man who believes in painting the old fashioned way, by Hand and Roller.  You will not find a spray machine in Anthony’s van only brushes and rollers.  He believes the best coat for the exterior of a home is that applied properly by hand.  It takes longer but the finish last longer.  The spray technique applies a thin coat of paint to the wall surface and is seldomly sufficient for the interior or much less the exterior.  I agree with Anthony and I think once you see his work you will too.  His number is 678-339-9889 call him today for any of your painting needs.  He is a nice guy to boot and is one of those rare individuals who believes that his work is a direct reflection of his good name.

Alpharetta’s $10,000 Room Makeover’s Winner

Introducing: Ed and Lynda Shubert

This nice couple is getting ready to experience a new look for their great room.  The timing couldn’t be better, as their daughter is getting married in a few months.  They are so welcoming and eager to see the new room.  Here’s a look at their existing space.

As you can see, the room has great structure and detail. The potential is limitless!  However, it is a bit predictable now and it lacks detailing.  On one side of the room there is a huge entertainment built-in, painted white. One of the challenges will be to find a way to incorporate this piece into the design scheme of the room, and to make it look more like a piece of furniture.  Notice the mantle detailing that is buried in the white glossy paint, and the white chair.  There is currently a white sofa on the other side of the room that needs to be moved into a more protected room of the house.

The Shuberts have three beautiful Vishnu dogs, who play like children around the room… Needless to say, whatever fabric we find for the sofa needs to be “dog proof.” The Shubert family is wonderful and open-minded. Exactly the kind of client a designer would hope for when attempting a remodel of a room.

Here another photo of the room, taken from the balcony that surrounds the great room:

More details to follow in upcoming blogs on what needs to be done to give this room a complete new look. In the meantime let’s just say that the secret to a great make-over is always in the details and finishing touches.  In this context accessories can be very helpful, and I frequently remind my clients that accessories in a room are like jewelry on a lady… you don’t need that many, but what you have needs to be of  great quality and in proper placement.

Coming back to the image above, you will notice that the current rug is too small for the room, and the color scheme should be more exciting to match the couple’s fun-loving personality. I am looking at maybe a russet tone of red… Stay tuned in, and see how we are going to transform this space. It is going to be fun!

On a final note: Donald Mitchell Design would like to put the spotlight on our great event & contest sponsor.

The first is Debbie Zimmerer of Ivy Interiors.  She is delightful and a ton of fun!

Debbie’s shop is visually appealing, and offers an interesting mix of all things “English” – think hounds, birds, maps and purses.  Ivy Interiors is a great destination for gifts, so please keep them in mind for the upcoming gift shopping season.  For our Room Makeover contest winners we found bookends, paintings, a globe and other accessories.  They are going to look great, and the pricing is very reasonable. Folks in Alpharetta are fortunate to find such quality shops and boutiques in the downtown area.  Go in today and see Debbie, and tell her Donald sent you!