Seasonal Plantings

This last week in June in the northeast seems to be the best time to get your seasonal planting done for the upcoming summer season. It is probably my favorite time of year because it is the beginning of the Summer season. I love late May and early June. The air is sweet and there is some much beautiful color around. Each year , as most people do, my garden gets better because I learn what works and what doesn't. Also they are constantly coming up with new varieties of plants and new colors so it is a new deal each May. This year I love a few things in particular. One  plant I adore is Ageratum, Ageratum start of small and unassuming but quickly grow and bring gorgeous purple flowers to you beds and pots. They are deer resistant and last until you have to pull them out in the fall. Tuberous Begonia is another favorite. They have an intense rubbery rode like flower that comes in may colors. They are striking and give intense color in a shade environment. Coleus is another shade loving plant. Although they do produce flowers it is intense leaves of purple, burgundy and citrus green that shine. Take a ride to a local garden center this week and get inspired while there is still plenty of stock,

Flooring solutions

Today there are more choices for flooring than ever.  There is hardwood, engineered hardwood, laminate, cork, bamboo, tile that looks like wood, tile that looks like tile and of course carpet.  It is important that you choose the solution that is the most practical for your needs. I tend to always go for hardwood and engineered hardwood throughout the home with the exception of bathrooms. The big thing today is consistency of surfaces. Don't have too many different types of flooring in one space. Also flooring is often fashion driven. Today we are seeing a lot of grays. Keep in mind that flooring is an investment so I suggest picking something in the middle and not too trendy. It will stand the test of time and help in resale.

All About Lighting

It seems to me with the trend towards more of an industrial look that lighting is becoming increasingly more important in your home. Things like pendants over an island, large drum fixtures and open lanterns with no glass are all the rage. The modern farmhouse look is still white hot and things like Edison bulbs and  chandeliers with wood on them have never been more popular. Here are some recent purchases for my clients homes: