Name: Richard S.
Location: Bayside (Queens), NY
Why I use color:
"I use color to reflect life. Nothing in the outside world is bland and so why not recreate it! Since when is everything around us white and black? Colors can refresh oneself and give a sense of realism that can engender a state of peace. I don't need 50 different colors. My walls here are cocoa brown and baby blue. Earth-toned accents balance them and the fresh green bamboo provide additional spark. "
Color Tips:
"1. Imitate Life- use colors that you see in nature, not in man-made ones. Let your greens be moss and light blues be skies. Personally, I avoid extremely bright or tie-dyed effects.
2. Nothing to the Excess- just like anything else, color in moderation. Do not overindulge when a light patina will do. Do all four walls need to be painted, when two will do?
3. It is a Process- creating good color schemes will take some time. You will create and apply, step back, start all over, scratch your head... rinse and repeat! Eventually, you will get to where you want."
Color Resources:
"1. Central Park: the exposure is unparalleled. What other place will allow you to see different plants, animals and people all in once cozy spot?
2. Believe it or not: the TV! No other medium allows you to see thousands upon thousands of different colors, shades, hues, and contrasts with the press of a button."
The baby blue doesn't show up at all on my monitor. I assume it's the wall that's not brown...
that's exactlywhat I was wondering -- blue wall is behind the bamboo in vase?
lovely place, looks very comfortably livable
Would you comment on how you decide on lighting? I am terrible at it and you seem to be so gifted...
i agree it does look very cozy but its need a little more tail!
the blue is an 'ultra-light' baby blue. hard to see the sheen behind the lighting. but it's there ;)
richie rich
cmon.. guitar, blank canvas frames with miscellaneous knickknacks glued to it. I mean who glues bamboo on canvas, I mean really. this room reminds of a story about how chocolate milk tastes like bunnies.
Hey, ape--
DO share that bunny story. It sounds simply and utterly fascinating.
Richard--
Love those bent metal sconce-things flanking the mirror, and how they relate to the bent wood table beneath. Care to reveal any sources?
Great use of color in rooms, photographs look like works of art, excellent contrast in pictures and color tips will really help me out since I am redoing my house.
Just the sight of sound and feel of colors absorb my every thought when I see this work of art you call a den. With fire-light dancing on burnt walls and bamboo stretching for the sky that seems so clear, so bright, I can almost hear the strums of a ballad between earth and wind. eyes close, deep breathe, let its song consume you, and it is clear. the song IS the meaning of the room... a song titled "chocolate milk ... tastes like bunnies" CHOCOLATE MILK!....
terry- thanks. i like centering light on symmetrical objects/things, but like off center. don't try to balance everything or it will look like you are trying too hard ;)
patrick- the bent metal sconces are from ikea at one point or another. 'sposed to be for candles, but bamboo fit as well.
bent wood is a stool. the earth toned colors just work imho ;)
fuzzy, et al. thanks.
richie rich
I very much enjoy the artwork behind the green cushions. It reminds me of a less cluttered version of a Rauschenberg.
nice touch, those cushions really feel like a b squeeze and the color makes me feel it more. that canvas of collage really has some nice strokes. i just want to give you a hug.
Exhibits both masculine and feminine qualities. Very zen. Some of the best photos taken for this contest.
The room gives off a tranquil atmosphere, a feeling not often found anymore. Looks like a great place to curl up on a cold day and read a book.
i love the colors and warm lighting...the attention to detail is very impressive...hey, do you decorate other places as well???
i love the way everything flows, nothing jumps out at you. the colors, lighting and sense of balance do wonderful things to your space. i really like the pics and your use of the mirror. how many of the walls are baby blue?
Hey Richie Rich:
Thanks for your tips on lighting. If you are amenable to the idea, would you mind discussing lighting further with me. (If this turns into a full-blown consultation, we can work that out too.)
My emal: tgraves12@yahoo.com
oh, i see...the two opposite walls are light blue. one more question, where did you get the bench with the green cushions?
thanks for the compliments, all ;)
jen, i don't redecorate others. hehe
corrinne, thanks for the allusion to Rauschenberg. i have never heard of him. looked up on google... great artist!
terry, i am flattered at your appreciation for the lighting. unfortunately, i don't consider myself an expert worthy of imparting any more knowledge. i just found a 'balance'?! i guess. :)
alison, the bench is actually a west elm coffee table. about 60 inches. the green cushions are 20x20 squares from urban outfitters. three of them fit perfectly.
Richie's little apartment is just the cats meow!
I love that he actually forces all his buddies at the dealmac forum to come and vote!
Go Richie, I love the way you kiss!
Smackers to you girlfriend!!
Its a desirable example of the use of a rich dark color on a focal wall, with lighter toned complimentary colors. Thanks for sharing and the inspiration.
Cooking Cajun
I think you're room is great! Nice work with the art pieces on the wall and indeed, the lighting does enhance the space!