A Swinging 60′s Chic throwback! Here’s a teaser from my upcoming Matt Dusk Photo Shoot Yesterday.

Needless to say I was totally bewitched that Chic Crooner Matt Dusk invited me into his beautiful home to create a space that play’s homage to 60’s swinging glamour and of course Matt’s larger than life voice!

I can’t wait to share the rest of this retro outdoor space but I must keep it under wraps until the magazine is out, but here’s just a small

www.mattdusk.com

]]> http://www.rosaci.com/?feed=rss2&p=487 0 http://www.rosaci.com/?p=456 http://www.rosaci.com/?p=456#comments Thu, 07 Jul 2011 16:49:03 +0000 Nicholas Rosaci http://www.rosaci.com/?p=456

Hey Chicsters! Here’s the link to today’s Cityline!

Watch Tracy and I make chic concrete like planters made from Hypertufa which is a mix of Peat Moss, Perlite and Portland Cement.

So easy just add water and viola you’ll have the chicest planters on the block!

http://video.citytv.com/video/detail/1034322090001.000000/Hypertufa-Planters-Jul-7-2011/

I made these colourful concrete like planters from an inexpensive Umbra waste paper basket I picked up at Home Hardware. I loved the organic shape of the basket and thought it would be perfect as a mold for my Hypertufa creations!

I went to Ikea and found a $2.95  container for the large urn and used wicker baskets “also from Ikea” for the textural ones!

This was a perfect mold as it was flexible and had great detailing on the inside! Super important  ” find containers with molded detail on the inside as this will be mirrored on the outside of your finished Hypertufa planters”

I made this one using the wicker baskets! I first wrapped the outside of the basket  in duct tape to prevent the Hypertufa mix from oozing out between the wicker, then I oiled the inside of the basket with cooking oil to make the basket easier to remove later. Once dry after 24hrs,  you will cut away the basket with scissors to reveal the mirror image of the woven wicker!

Here are some highlights from yesterday’s Show

A very intimate and sexy DIY as we oil up the baskets!

Here’s  the steps to try it on your own Chicsters!

• In a wheel barrel or large plastic bin,  thoroughly  mix equal parts of Portland cement,  peat moss and perlite.
• Slowly mix in about an equal  amount of water to the dry ingredients, until the mixture resembles  a cottage cheese like texture.  You should be able to form a small ball of mixture in your hand that is slightly moist and retains its shape without  crumbling apart.  Let the mixture set for about 5 min
• Coat the inside of the outer mold with vegetable oil.
• Using a garden trowel ,  add a 1 inch base of the mixture to inside bottom of the mold.  You can use your finger to create drainage holes in the base if desired.
• Place the inner mold  centered  on top of the base.
• To form the sides of the pot, pour in additional mixture to fill the space  between the outer and inner molds.  The walls should be about ¾” thick for smaller pots and up to 2” thick for larger pots.
• Tap gently  with a rubber mallet on the outside mold to help settle  the mixture to settle and minimize air pockets.
• Place the entire pot inside a large garbage back or cover loosely with a sheet of plastic and let the pot cure.  Do not expose the pots  directly to sunlight  uncovered.
• After 12  hours, very carefully remove the inner mold.
• Spray mist the Hypertufa pot lightly with water and then re-cover  for an additional 24 `Hours before removing the outer mold.   The pots should cure for about 3 weeks in order to reach maximum strength.
• When the pots are cured, dilute acrylic paint with a very small amount of water , and apply  to the pot to add a touch of colour.  You can use undiluted acrylic paint  or spray paint for a more saturated colour look
• Finish off the pots by soaking them with water several times to help wash away any lime and to provide moisture to the pot prior to planting flower, herbs, and other greenery inside.

Such an amazing Canada Day! I was so excited  to receive my copy of Canadian Home Trends Magazine today featuring my latest outdoor project.

A stunning  oasis I Chic-ed up last month. Check out the article below and be sure to get your copy of  Canadian Home Trends Summer 2011 issue!

www.canadianhometrends.com

I absolutely adore the front cover space so enchanting and eclectically elegant!

Heres a peak inside the Summer 2011 issue and my latest outdoor oasis!

SUMMER SIZZLE

BOLD COLOURS, GREAT TEXTURES

AND THE HOTTEST OUTDOOR ACCESSORIES

Summer truly speaks to Canadians – after months of dreary isotoner clad depression, Summer offers us cheer, comfort, delight, and the joy of lounging luxuriously in warm bliss. By far my favourite season of the year, summer has always held some chic memories for me. From dinners on the patio with great friends soaking up chic rays by the pool to sizzling night time garden soirées, you got to admit summer is the season that reigns supreme!

How thrilled was I to be asked to create the perfect relaxing retreat for summer entertaining, and of course backdrop to some unforgettable moments beneath the sun and stars. I absolutely love decorating for the outdoors – there is something magical about creating outdoor spaces. Maybe it’s the way the sunlight touches every piece bathing it in glorious light, or the fact that the heavens provide the most dreamy ever changing sightlines. Whatever the secret, decorating for the outdoors is about fun and fearlessness, experimenting with bold colours, and testing out new patterns. It’s fresh, alive and uninhibited and couldn’t be easier to achieve in your own oasis.

The best way to envision your garden is to walk through your space as if you were a guest, paying careful attention to where your eye naturally travels and stops.  As a rule of thumb, major details and architectural elements should be highlighted, not disguised. Rather than going on a mad summer shopping spree and placing a multitude of accessories “wily nilly” I focused on just a few key spots – “vignettes” to personalize and create emphasis.

The client wished for a space that reflected their love of worldly travel. To create the design scheme, I choose to decorate without borders, finding inspiration in exotic colours, textures and unusual objects from different cultures seamlessly blended with this season’s hottest hues and textiles.

The Pergola was the defining architectural detail and the natural place to create a WOW moment and was framed with custom chartreuse and teal banded Sunbrella draperies. “Great colour pulls you into a room and makes you want to stay there” so it was only natural to go green, a colour as fresh as the season and notoriously the colour of envy. Hits of silver surround and ground to subtly amplify the chic Moroccan vibe while green, teal and purple emphasize the gardens own inherent personality.

The soft neutral and grey resin wicker rattan sectional plays homage to the history of wicker furniture which predates the ancient Egyptian Pharaohs, while the corner Flamenco Hanging Chair – with its chic faux cane detail – echoes as timeless as when it first appeared in 17^th century furniture design. Whether as an accent piece or oversized sectional, today’s new takes on these timeless textural must haves are easy care and eternally chic.

Here’s a tip – metallic automotive spray paint was used to spray inexpensive garden urns a dazzling and durable high-gloss shine for a high-end look that’s totally affordable.

Whether your space is big or small, a balcony, or a pergola, one thing remains true when decorating outdoors – true chic-ness is not about how much something costs, but rather what you make from something simple that comes together to make a backyard bloom, and that is truly at the heart of many an unforgettable day in the great outdoors.

5 STUNNINGLY SIMPLE SUMMER TIPS

1. Dream A little

Before you worry about budgets or patio sets, sit down with a cup of coffee (or glass of wine), a few design magazines and search out images, flowers, and spaces that speak to you.

2. Think Like a boy Scout

Their motto, “be prepared”.  Gardening can be deceiving as simple is not always cheap. Limit the number of different elements, materials, and accessories to achieve the most chic effect.

3. Material Girl

If you already have urns, pots and lanterns purchased from last summer, don’t relegate them to the garage but rethink and reinvent their image. I used Silver Metallic automotive spray-paint to chicly recreate the look of costly hammered metal planters for a look that is totally “fool you”. Inexpensive jewellery from the “dollar store” was used to tie back curtains in glam style. Use what you have and you’ll save money so you can splurge on larger items.

4. Hot like Fire

Fireplaces and fire bowels come in a variety of styles, sizes and price points and are natural focal points that invite guests to gather around. Not only do these warm wonders provide the ultimate in ambiance but they act as a visual anchor giving the eye a place to focus and rest.

5. In living colour

Sun-kissed colours and bold patterns give a space personality and let’s face it, colour is fun. So drink it in, throw caution to the wind and create a space that’s both vibrant and extra ordinarily juicy.

]]> http://www.rosaci.com/?feed=rss2&p=418 0 http://www.rosaci.com/?p=437 http://www.rosaci.com/?p=437#comments Wed, 29 Jun 2011 06:51:21 +0000 Nicholas Rosaci http://www.rosaci.com/?p=437 WARNING! The July/August issue of Dabble Mag may cause screams of joy!

Check it out my latest DIY and more dabble Mag goodness at the link below.

http://dabblemag.com/issue3/files/52.html

Also catch the July 12th episode of CityLine and check me out making my uber chic DIY

http://video.citytv.com/video/detail/1042446431001.000000/elegant-etagere–jul-12-2011/

“A whole new stand on Upcycling indeed! Give a pair
of inexpensive side tables a colourful reinvention”

“Don’t panic- This chic and colourful
shelving unit couldn’t be easier to Divide and conquer”

“ETAGERE EXTRAORDINARE”

FIND THE
PERFECT TABLE

Visit local vintage shops and markets for
inexpensive but eye catching occasional tables that have sculpted or detailed
legs.  A slightly longer and more slender
leg provides a nice weight and distance between the shelves.

2. SPLITS-VILLE

Use a table saw to cut the table  width in half.  Separating  the table top from the leg frame (typically
unscrews)  makes it easier to cut the
table top and leg frame in half.

If you
don’t have a table saw, many box hardware stores and millworkers offer an inexpensive
cutting service.

Reassemble each table
top half to the legs if previously separated.
For this project we started with two tables and ended up with 4 “half”
tables – each with 2 front legs!

3. SPRAY IT BRIGHT!

Prep the tables with a light sanding  and spray paint each table half a different
colour of your choice.

Using a variety
of spring inspired hues, I created a colour story of orange, blue, lemon yellow
and crisp white.

Don’t be afraid to
experiment with paint finishes – Gloss, Semi-Gloss, Eggshell, Satin,  and Matte all provide a pleasing effect giving
each table its own distinct personality.

4. HARDWARE FIX

Use
short #8 screws  to attach 2 metal
corner braces (L brackets)  to  the
underside of the tabletops, one brace at each end.

Ensure that the vertical part of the corner
brace (L bracket)  is flush with the
unfinished cut edge at the back of each table.

5. STACK IT UP!

Artfully arrange your tables stacked  vertically against the wall in your desired
colour story.

Secure each table individually
by affixing the corner brace L bracket at the back of each table into the wall
or wall stud using heavy duty screws and anchors.

MATERIALS REQUIRED

2  small
occasional side tables ideally on long legs

A saw (i.e. table saw)

Spray paints in your desired colour selection
and finish i.e.

Rust-Oleum
Painters Touch Orange, White – Gloss Finish

Rust-Oleum Painters Touch Aqua
Blue, Yellow – Satin Finish

220 grit sandpaper for light sanding

Metal Corner Braces (L Brackets)

i.e. Stanley 2 ½ “x 5/8^” (63mm x
15mm)

Screws and Anchors I.e.

EZ Anchor Self Drilling Zinc Alloy
Anchor (Stud Solver) with 1 ¼” screw

Rating:
50 lbs Shear

#8 Metal Screws (Length of screw varies
according to tabletop thickness)

Thanks Andrew Richards!!!

Chic and Repeat! Greg Higgins Sharyn Smith and I sadly left our feathers at home:(

Setting a relaxed scene with Kathy Seale and Victoria Drainville Dabble Magazine Chic-sters!

Andrew Richards sure knows how to get a party started!

View from the top

“Implied lifestyle models” make a “real”  statement while enjoying “The Silhouette” Andrew Richard Designs award wining show piece!

Spinning some hott tracks

Some of the chic Daniel Et Daniel Delights

The Champagne Life

Jump into Luxury

ARD’s philosophy is that any backyard, balcony or terrace can become a tranquil and chic outdoor, entertaining and living space – with the right furniture.

www.andrewricharddesigns.com

From its humble beginnings in the small Quebec town of Saint-Antoine des Laurentides in 1956, Jardin de Ville has grown to become one of the world’s most respected names in high-end outdoor furnishings and accessories. The company’s commitment to excellence, innovative spirit and keen sense of refinement have set it apart since its earliest days and it has been honored with numerous prestigious awards for quality and design.

The store offers a wide array of collections that provide consumers a stylish extension of the refinement of their interiors, enabling you to take advantage of the great diversity of your outdoor space all while not comprimising any details or comfort.

I absolutely adore this mirrored dining table, reflective and refined although I’m sure this might require alot of windexing to keep fingerprints at bay.

This was so chic! An area carpet made entirely of recycled bow ties. I think I may try to tackle this on a smaller scale like a chic DIY bowtie pillow!

Of course what evening of glamourous design would be complete without a look at my outfit:)

President Of Radiant Design Group Ron Perruzza strikes a relaxed pose in one of the many chic creations.

Jardin De Ville gave a great show with eye-catching, comfortable and of course chic pieces to bring the living room outside. Definitely a new level of luxury for the the uber chic consumer. For me I can only dream and live through the pictures, I may never want to lounge in anything less now:(

Here’s some chic inspiration from the June issue of Home Decor and Renovation Magazine on newsstands now featuring a Tech Savy backyard space I recently stylized!

Today’s technology can cross the divide of interior to exterior living using the finest electronic components in the most luxurious finishes to create a functional but aesthetically pleasing, relaxing and entertaining oasis.

www.radiantaudiodesign.com

www.rad3sixty.com

What I love about the summer is it’s the perfect time to throw caution to the wind and inject some hot sizzle into your summer style. Go bold and be inspired by nature and choose colours that are vibrant and juicy and recall your favourite plantings.

Nature is the perfect backdrop to play off and perhaps the easiest to find inspiration.

RAD ADVICE:  HERES SOME SUNSATIONAL TIPS TO HELP MAKE YOUR OUTDOOR SPACE A SUMMER SHOWSTOPPER…

1. Think Inside Out

Your patio is no different than your living room.

Think of Fencing as walls that can be dressed with mirrors, trellises and objects of art.

2. Colour Yourself Chic

Design has to have an expressive value otherwise it becomes old very quickly. Be bold and paint a planter or gate the colours of your love.

3. Global View

decorate without boarders, find inspiration in exotic colours, patterns and unusual objects from different cultures.

4. Bloom Box

Planters, urns and chic containers are an outdoor essential. From hammered aluminum, reclaimed barn-board to colourful fibre glass and resin, define and dress your patio or balcony with the season chicest. Try using automotive spray paint to give urns a custom dazzling and durable metallic makeover

Hello Chicsters!

Check my super easy and tres elegant DIY headboard out on today’s CityLine! Tracy and I will be walking you through the simple steps.

Here is the episode link:

http://video.citytv.com/video/detail/941612560001.000000/diy-headboard–may-19-2011/

One more chic highlight was the special guest appearance by Ivanka Trump who dropped in to chat with Tracy about her va va voom pregnancy body as well as her role as ambassador to the Magnum Ice Cream chain bringing with her the sinfully delicious caramel filled bars which Erin and I got to sample in-between scenes!

Designer Erin Mercer and I take a moment to experience what can only be described as money melting in your mouth!

Such a fun day made all the more better with ice cream for breakfast!

Got Straws? Using 1,000 sublime drinking straws, I created this mind-blowing chandelier, sure to quench your thirst for something cool.

www.dabblemag.com

MATERIALS REQUIRED

- 1 roll ¼” x ¼” (24” x 5’) welded hardware mesh, 24 gauge
- Approx. 25, 4” miniature plastic ties
- Approx. 1,500 plastic straws – colour of your choice; quantity varies according to shade size
- Pendant Light Wiring Kit (swag lighting kit) with socket (available at IKEA, most hardware stores)
- Low voltage LED light to avoid heat build-up and fire risk
- Old or inexpensive drum-shaped lampshade of desired diameter
- Scissors
- Miniature wire cutting pliers (end-cutting).

1. STRIP A SHADE

Remove the fabric from the drum shade to reveal the metal rings that create its top and bottom shape.

2. IT’S A WRAP

Wrap the hardware mesh around the top of the lampshade’s ring to form a cylinder about the same diameter as the ring. With miniature plastic ties, attach the top and bottom rings of the shade to the edge of the top and bottom rows of the mesh. Space the ties about 6” apart. Using wire cutters, trim the mesh to your desired shade height.

3. GRAB A STRAW

Cut the plastic straws in half. Fold each half straw in the middle and insert from the inside of the lampshade. Push the straw through the ¼” square openings of the mesh. (Make sure the crease, where the straw was folded in half, is wrapped around the wire of the mesh.) Insert the other end of the straw into the adjacent ¼” square. Continue inserting the straws, row by row, into all of the ¼” squares until the shade is completely covered.

4. STAND OUT

Assemble the socket/swag lighting kit into the center of the top ring of the lampshade. Attach a white or colourful party LED bulb into the socket. We used a cool touch LED light bulb which offers the equivalent light output of a normal 75-100 watt incandescent bulb but only consumes a mere 3-13 watts. Plug lamp into a receptacle, turn on the switch and enjoy the light show.

The bed is the focal point of any bedroom, so give it the attention it deserves with my elegantly easy padded headboard.

Here’s the step by step as seen in this month’s spanking brand new Dabble Magazine!

www.dabblemag.com

“Making something with next to nothing is the magic of DIY”

Using an inexpensive artist canvas I created this chic custom headboard!

A sneek peek into my bedroom dressed for summer 2011!

1. CHIC PAD

Cut foam to match size of the front of the canvas

2. COVER ME SOFTLY (APPLY BATTING)

Place batting flat on floor and center  the  foam on the batting. Place the canvas face down on foam to cover.

Stretch the batting firmly to the back wood edge of the canvas and secure using your staple gun.  This will hold the foam and batting in place.  Space your staples about 2” apart.

3. APPLY FABRIC

Once the batting is in place, repeat STEP 1 using your desired fabric ensuring your fabric is tightly stretched smoothly over the canvas front.  I used a neutral taupe cotton fabric with a mid-weight and linen texture.   Staple the corners last, carefully folding the fabric to make neat and consistent corners, just as if you were gift wrapping!

4. STAND OUT

Using colourful ribbon you can style the headboard in a variety of ways.  For this project, I chose to stripe 3 sides of headboard about 3 inches from the outer edges.   Apply clear 1 ½” non permanent double sided tape (carpet tape) to the back of the ribbon and press the ribbon into place. To create the illusion of tailored corners, fold the ends of the ribbon on a 45 degree angle and iron the edges beautiful.

Using non permanent carpet tape gives you the option to change the look and colour on a whim.  For a more permanent application, use iron on fusing tape to apply the ribbon to headboard.

5. GET THE HANG

Position the headboard 1” above your mattress height and attach mounting hardware (flush mount picture cleats) to the back top corners of the headboard and wall. Slide headboard onto the wall cleats to lock into place.

MATERIALS REQUIRED

A  2” deep  Artists canvas (sized 30” x 60” for Queen bed)

Fabric  (45” x 75”) Cotton batting cut to the same size as the fabric – available at fabric craft stores

Flush mount picture frame hangers (cleats) available at hardware stores