apartment therapy changing the world, one room at a time

This is a fun, if over the top space, but its also my circus sideshow nightmare of what my home would look like if I gave free reign to my affection for toys and knick knacks. I'm not sure this is so much a thoughtful use of color, but rather a visual accident of someone who is a compulsive collector.

i'm sorry, but i need somewhere for my eye to rest and this just scares me.

This looks like a curio shop more than a home. Very busy. Not trying to be rude: Do you run a business in there?

Damn, girl! You sure got some stuff. Obviously, you're a collector. Would you consider storing some of it and just displaying one or two themes at a time--Statue of Liberty, angels, Disneyana, etc. I think that the sheer volume small collectibles overwhelms all the bold colors and patterns. It's as if your eye doesn't know where to rest. Also, it seems like you have too much furniture in the room--the display cases, seating for lots of people. There doesn't seem to be enough visual "breathing room". Would you consider editing down your furniture too? Maybe paint all the wood pieces the same color for cohesion? Keep the two overstuffed white couches and just one of the patterned chairs? Your vibe is definitely reckless, but I think the overall tone of the room could benefit from an editing down. The overall effect might be more "organized confusion" than "reckless abandon".

I have a feeling these pix don't really do the space justice. Yeah, there's a lot going on in there, but I think if you were actually IN the room, it becomes much more interesting.

Um, I'm pretty sure LA is west of the Mississippi.

It looks like Karen would be fun to go flea-marketing with. This is a room I'd love to visit but couldn't live in -- I'd be going around putting things AWAY. But I do like how the polka-dot wingchair ties so many of the major colors together.

I agree with Adam! This is terribly busy, but it seems like it would be tremendous fun to actually be in. Appeals to the side of me that likes bee motifs and action figures.

where is the black ribbon for no way in hell
forget the advil, pass the lithium

You're kidding with this, right??!!

There was an interesting article fairly recently (I think it was in Elle Decor) about a man who was such an avid collector that he literally built a new, very streamlined house, and used his old house to store his collections.

Your collections look so interesting, but I think the fact that all the items are so small makes it really hard to focus on them properly. I think that a rotation might do the items more justice.

I'm a humongous coward (I can't watch a horror film to save my life) but I find that mannequin with the clown mask terrifying. And I don't even have clown issues, like 90% of the public.

I love it. The art is great too. Fabulous. I wish I had the wontons to decorate like this. (I probably couldn't take too many rooms of it - but it's spectacular nonetheless - like a circus carny sideshow caravan crashing into the side of Miss Havisham's house.)

Not my cup of tea but it sure reflects your own unique expression of personal space and that is honestly very commendable. Color though is probably the last thing your space needs but if it does it should probably something that complements and not compete with your collection. Like Charles and Ray Eames, they too are collectors and playfully filled every flat surface, nook and cranny of their modernist home with stuff accumulated from all sources during their lifetime. As long as your collection provides meaning and is a source of inspiration in whatever you do, you should go for it. It is a mistake to let others dictate or influence you on how you should live in your space.

delicious! don't listen to these cry babies, they aren't living there so what do they need to complain about? maybe i'll do stripes in a room of my own. -katie

wow
thanks for having the guts to send that in to a site like this!

live free or die, as they say . . .

FABULOUS FABULOUS FABULOUS

Everybody who wants this girl to Martha-fy her existence - Jeez! There's no conformity like nonconformity, indeed. I thought this was about being OPEN TO COLOR.

I think you should win a Special Achievement prize for being colorful without looking like a cookie-cutter Urban Outfitters display. And that mannequin is tops! Hold your head up high woman!

The pictures at first made me want to scream and run, but then I got this visceral feeling that maybe if you were actually IN the rooms for a while, you'd just give in and go into a sort of comfy coma. I imagine that if it was my home and my own stuff, this could be one interesting cycle: think deciduous trees. Put everything you love and enjoy having your eyes fall upon in every square inch for a month or so, then go winter minimal!

Aulaire

OOOOPS!

Sorry! I somehow posted my message twice---I know not how. Anyway, l'd like to add that I think Karen's Color Tip #2, "Change It!" is right on, no matter what the decor. Everything else in life changes all the time! Why not go with the flow? If you've got the paint, the brush, and the time, take your impulses out of confinement and HAVE all the different color aspects of your being out there, one-by-one on the walls for a while, no?

The second I saw this photo I knew all the apartment therapy-bots would come out to scream. If I might generlize, it seems that many visitors to this site tend on the ascetic side, I've noticed. The spaces you seem to enjoy are rarely funky or original, and lack any sign of inhabitance. No signs of life. (Remember the uproar over an unmade bed in a previous Inside out--oh the horror!!) Is that the manifesto of this site--B&B Italia whores only? I love this site and everyone is entitled to his or her opinion but it’s getting a bit one dimensional in terms of critique.

I'm not much of a clutter fan myself (if I had to live in it) however, it doesn't mean I can't appreciate a good cluttery cozy look and I think this apartment has it! I'm amazed at how all this stuff fits together to give a french boudoir on LSD look. I love it, and it truly is uniquely colorful, exactly what this competition is about!

Jess--French boudior on LSD--I couldnt have said it better myself! Eye candy galore--I love this space--it is original, fun and crazy colorful!

Hey Rosie,

I actually think that Karen has gotten about 50% glowing reviews, so I'm not sure your post holds true. Plus, I think the vast majority of the critiquing has been quite reasonable and not personal. Not everyone can handle such a vast amount of small items everywhere, and that's fair to comment on, I think. Karen certainly doesn't have to listen.

More power to her. I couldn't live here myself, but no one's asking me to. As long as Karen is happy with it, that's all that matters. I would lie awake staring at the mannequin and dolls, but like I said, I'm a huge coward. Karen is obviously a lot more rational and brave than I am!

I LOVE this room! And yes, it's so different (in a good way) than most of the semi-sterile, intimidating examples on this site. Every day would be like Christmas living in a place like this. How could you possibly even consider being depressed in a room with a hot pink ceiling? Congratulations!

I have to say, I admire the courage to decorate a home the way the inhabitant wants and not simply follow the decor-sheep. I'd be stressed living there, but it isn't my place. I appreciate the chance to see the pix.

As for comments on her style, some of them remind me of my college days on a liberal arts hippie type campus. So many students were walking around trying to look all anti-establishment and unique that they ended up all looking alike. Let's hear it for the guts to be yourself - woo woo, Karen!

I like the way the figurines at the top of the first picture line up with the stripes in the wallpaper.

rosie--
Um, it might stay less "one dimensional" if, instead of harping about how one dimensional you think we all are, you just focused on what you love about this approach to interiors and enlighten us.

But perception is a funny thing, since I think a big part of the AT audience seems to like things more "lived in" and on the funky side.

And, folks, it's entirely possible to say you like or dislike something without condemning those with another opinion, so let's leave the "-whore" and crybaby references to your own personal ads, shall we?

(contest entrant) karen--
You go! On a gray day like we're having here in NYC, I will take zeal and zest (and an obvious sense of humor) in any form!

Hey people, keep it civil! feel the love in this room. feel the love!

Jumping back in, I'll tell you some of the stuff I like about this room: The person who lives here loves living life as an aesthetic experiment - with unapologetic abandon. And that is a beautiful thing. That alone is worthy of finalist status.

But what makes this room special is the attention to detail that's been placed in carrying it out. The figurines do line up with the stripes. Everything is done as if by a pro. The colors - and there are a lot of them - ALL have consistency in terms of tone, which is a MAJOR accomplishment given the sheer volume of stuff! And even with all that stuff, it doesn't look claustrophobic - it works and looks homey and inviting. (The neutral couches were a very wise decision - all kinds of stuff can go on in the background, and the creamy white of the trim and couches provides lightness and negative space.) The items are very well chosen. ...I know a lot of collectors/artists with this kind of stuff. I can't tell you how hard it is for even creative designer types to handle a room with these colors and collections, and with this VOLUME of stuff. The fact that Karen did it with panache, and without looking like a loony's house, is MARVELOUS.

...It's true that you can just have too much going on. But it is ALSO true that too much can go right around the circle and become exactly just right.

"Where is the black ribbon for no way in hell.
Forget the Advil, pass the lithium"

"You're kidding with this, right??!!"

"I’m sorry, but I need somewhere for my eye to rest and this just scares me."

I apologize if I came off as harping (and for the mean tone), It's just that these above posts (admittedly in the minority) in response to the entry raised my ire, and I just felt like they are reflective of many that I read on this site: Snarky, spiteful and overly judgmental. I suppose I wrote in a flash of anger, and realize that most AT readers are open-minded design freaks such as myself looking for good CONSTRUCTIVE criticism.

As for the room, I love it, am a collector of ephemera myself and think Karen achieved a great balance of clutter and calm. I DO feel the love!

Cheers all.

i love it!! really fun
i agree though, these pictures probably don't do it justice

I think it's fabulous! and rather daring... Iconoclastic and Museum-Like... Kind of like a country store run by Antonio Gaudi on mushrooms in the nineteen-fifties...Originality is becoming scarce in our puny little republican microcosm. We need more people like Karen who are willing to take the risk; and not only inside her house, but outside the home as well...

This looks like the Bee's Knees! What a knock out! This inspires me to go thrifting and hopefully meet someone like Karen.

Thanks Karen,

Marcus

This is one of the most incredible houses I've ever been in!You can look at very cool things for hours, and find more later. I'm glad I don't have to dust it, though, but I wouldn't mind if somebody else did that. Kudosto you Karen! Alan.

With the exception of the collection displays, this scheme is reminiscent of a style my sister employed. She's a graphic designer and would incorporate the antique (body form for clothes), the nostalgic, the music world and a love for flamingos in an eclectic presentation. Your place tells me it would be fun to party at your place or to do the taro cards!

Hey everyone. Take a chill pill. The entry says "reckless abandon". There are some pretty snooty remarks here. First, many of you obviously have never been inside victorian homes. Consider that. While it may be busy for some of you, it's quirky and filled with life. Some people like clean esthetic (witness Anna's east coast bedroom). It's about taste here. Anyone can offer cold remarks about colors they don't like. There are some uncluttered entries here that look like bad motel rooms or 1980s cocaine parlor crashpads. Go easy and consider the individual entry on its own merits.

And, sheesh, stop taking yourselves so damn seriously as critics. Gag me.

wow..getting out my paintbrush now that I've found inspiration

reminds me of something i've never seen before.
a true inspiration.
fine work and grand illusion abound. take a real close look.
                       you'll in there for hours.

It wouldn't be for me (dolls and figurines leave me cold), but I do like the "lived in" look. I also like the furniture: the polka dot chair, the display cabinet, the chandelier, etc.

What I appreciate most of all in this entry is the feeling of exuberance that comes through. Here is something who is happy with who she is and who lets that come through loud and clear. Let's hear it for being yourself!

awesome! so much cool stuff... and so creative- never seen anything like it. love it.

You go Karen, the most creative amazing home ever seen. The pictures don't do you justice what so ever!!

Wow, woman wanna do my place?

For those of you who haven't seen this spectacular home "live", it is the most amazing place....and it is so Karen, my friend and this town's best artist.
To the individuals who have lost their imagination and who wrote negative comments: remember what you write says more about you than about Karen. Karen is kind, generous, warm, spunky, sensitive and obviously deserves to be the blue ribbon winner!
Cudo points to you Karen and thanks for using your amazing talent to make team R... (you know who) get recognition again and again.

This is the most wonderful place. Can I move in? I am so sick of white/beige houses with one piece of eames. Great job, Karen. You must be an artist!

I dont understand all the fuss about negative comments. If you put pictures up you should be willing to take the criticism/praise good or bad. Her style is not my cup of espresso and i just wanted to express MY OPINION. Last time I checked,freedom of expression still existed in this country
As for the B&B Italia whore comment, I'm proud to be a card carrying/cash spending charter member!

Yowza baby, that's some kind of wonderful. Rooms like this have so many personalities, as do I. So I LOVE being in homes like this. Little altars everywhere, eh?

Groovy! Love the use of vibrant colors. I would never get bored living here!

This space is extremely fun!!!!!! Karen must be a hoot.

It's not fun, it's fearsome. I'm a big fan of color, but it's not used well here. This room is an instant migraine. Reckless abandon, indeed. More like an abandoned wreck.

Well, I looked at all the contestants. I beleive Karen is the only one that actually read the name of the contest "I've Got Color" Everyone else seemed to be quite ordinary in their use of color...nice, but NOT colorful. Karen takes the cake!! and the blue ribbon- Because no one has used color like KAREN. I think the world needs more polka dots and stripes...you go fun girl!! bb :)

I love the color combo...and that chandelier! Where'd you get that? Fabulous! I personally can't take collections in my own life, but I'm not a collector, and just don't "get" it, so I wouldn't understand. One thing i might do if I were you is do a different arrangement of furniture...something seems unbalanced. But, that has nothing to do with color, and I think the color scheme is great.

Fantastique! Unique, creative, FUN!! Karen's room is a Marvel!

Oh, how I'm enjoying reading all the commentary on my living room! Keep 'em comin! I especially like Kristen and Judes' remarks. I decided it was ok to vote for myself (as I am now going to do) - in my Healdsburg (just north of San Francisco) home - not LA!

Made me smile.
Certainly not my style but nice to see something different.

What a wonferful room! I wish I could see it in person.

lovely! it sparks conversation & inspiration.

this room is SO cool! i love it:) its so different!

Extraordinary! I can't wait until you come out with your own line of athletic clothing.

Karen's room is outrageous, funky and fabulous. With every color imaginable used but notice the white sofa's, window dressing and trims! Being actually in this room I can imagine would be a real treat as photos don't give us its true dimension and balance. I love it for itis so unique!

It's even better in real life! Always an inspiration. Karen is a true stylist. She has more energy for decorating than everyone else I know put together. Way to go Karen. Patty

Seeing is believing.....this home is instant happiness...like a kid in a candy store ...but better.
You haven't even seen Karen's "junque" sculptures....it is when monochrome takes a left turn!

One room is better than the last.

I've actually been in Karen's pad and the pictures cannot do justice to the feeling of the place. I'm not a minimalist, nor a clutter-bug. The method to Karen's madness is extremely organized and enjoyable to be around, as well as look at. Because she has organized her treasures as true collections it doesn't feel frenzied but invigorating and inspiring. Her use of color is more sophisticated than - wow, look at the cool green wall. In a world of faux tuscany ala Pottery Barn aesthetic Karen's place gives me something to think about. One human's opinion.

I've been there folks and the pics are just the beginning. The pics may look like 50's bed-sit, but the in-person colors have exactly the correct values. Looks like it's done with brushes too - not rollers.

Wait til the Christmas tree gets set up next to the pink chair!! Then there's the holiday party when dozens of people bring any missing bits of color into the rooms. You do inspire, you know!

Karen,
in life you color outside the lines. Keep it coming! Jane

Karen is incredible! I have never met any with so much creativity in my life! She is a whirlwind of color and delight.
Cathy

Yo pienso que es una casa muy alegre y cualquier persona le gustaria entra y admirar cualquier rincon de esa hermosa casa.
Ingrid Vera de Irapuato, Guanajuato, Mexico

this looks like the home of an artist....someone who is passionate about life and color! what fun!

I love this room! It is such an inspiration to see someone express themselves so honestly and outrageously. It makes me want to reveal myself, too.

Karen is an artist and her house is an expression of her art. Karen lives in her art.
I do art and having someone slam my art is one thing, but to slam the rooms I live in would be something else. I know Karen and I was guided to this site. I've seen her houses evolve through the yrs. and I know that she can handle what ever you say, yet I find it strange to hear people speak about someone's personal home in such a way. I think people say things on line they would never say in "real life".
For me, it is interesting to think that one can get an idea of a person by the style of the decore of the house. I think when you walk into an artists house you don't. All these remarks (in guise as critiques)are perfect examples that Karen's entry (which is only photos of a wonderful place)is a wonderful testament to what color can do to bring forth feelings,thought and discussion. That alone should make her the grand prize winner. Stand up Karen and take a bow.

This looks like the kind of place where I would enjoy being invited to spend the weekend and wake up Sunday morning to the smell of freshly pressed coffee, then sink into the overstuffed couch in the front window with the Sunday paper...but where would I put my coffee cup? Who cares? It would always be a uniquely lovely experience.

I'm very spartan and minimalist. But you know what they say about opposites attracting. My kinda lady--where can I find one like this?

The Room as ART--truly fabulous, whimsical, and reflective of a truly creative spirit

My goodness but there's a lot of red!

I'm yet another of the lucky folks who've been in Karen's home. Inside the space, you can take in the warmth and the color, and don't really need to be caught up in the thingness of the collections. The waves of color tones and textures are a sensual delight. It's not busy in a frenetic way...but definitely energetic. Karen has courage, flair, whimsy and such a great eye and is the antithesis of drab. When you're there, you know you're livin'.

Hooray for you, Karen. Laura

Karen, your place is so alive and so much fun. You are the winner hands down.

I agree with you the way you view the issue. I remember Jack London once said everything positive has a negative side; everything negative has positive side. It is also interesting to see different viewpoints & learn useful things in the discussion.

I absolutely adore this room! Where did you get that pink chair? Have you ever been to Burning Man? Just curious, but I bet you have!

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someone who is passionate about life