Last week we posted an article regarding our website tool that helps you determine what your type of style is.  This week, we’d like to share our website tool that allows you to learn all about our different products.

At the top right of our website, you’ll see a box titled “Enhancing Your Existing Home“.  From here you’ll click on “Product Information” and it will lead you to the correct page.

There are several products that we offer here at Chateau Interiors & Design.  All of our products also offer several different subcategories.  Once you click on one of the following products, it will open each of their subcategories.

1. Carpet
2. Stone
3. Porcelain/Ceramic Tile
4. Grout
5. Hardwood/Laminate Floors
6. Sheet Vinyl

An example of a subcategory of one of these products is as follows:

There are several more related to Carpet then what you see above; however, this is just a small example of all the information there is out there for you to learn.  We hope you find this information useful!

With all of your guests over this Thanksgiving day, there’s always the possibility that someone may accidentally spill their plate on your carpet.  If this happens, don’t worry, we have the best stain removal techniques.  Try one or all of the below tips to help bring your mind to ease.  We hope you have a very happy Thanksgiving!

Nail Polish Remover – Two types of nail polish removers are available. One type contains acetone, a dry cleaning solvent. Use the same precautions as with other dry cleaning solutions. The second type contains amyl acetate, which is used in many paint, oil, and grease (POG) removers. Many POG removers leave residues that may cause rapid soiling. When using a POG remover, always rinse the area thoroughly with a dry solvent.

Solvent - A non-flammable spot removal solution, or dry cleaning type solvent, is preferred. Exercise caution when using a solvent. Never pour it directly onto the carpet or allow it to reach the backing, because it can damage the latex that holds the primary and secondary backings together. Acceptable solvents include Carbona®, Energine®, K2R®, Goof-Off®, etc.

Detergent Solution – Mix one fourth (1/4) teaspoon of a liquid dishwashing detergent per one (1) cup of lukewarm water. NEVER USE A STRONGER CONCENTRATION! Thorough rinsing is necessary to remove detergent residues that may cause rapid soiling. It may be necessary to rinse with warm water several times to completely remove residues. (See Residue Precautions.) Care should be used in selecting a detergent. Never use a laundry detergent of any type, because laundry detergents may contain optical brighteners (flourescent dyes) that dye the fiber. Do not select an automatic dishwashing detergent because many contain bleaching agents that destroy dyes and some fibers.

Vinegar Solution – Mix one (1) cup of white vinegar per two (2) cups of water. White vinegar is a 5% acetic acid solution. It is used most often to lower the alkalinity caused by detergent solutions or alkaline spills.

Warm Water - Lukewarm tap water should be used in most cases to rinse the cleaning solutions from the fiber. Failure to completely rinse the solutions from the fiber may cause accelerated soiling.

Ammonia Solution – Mix one (1) tablespoon of household ammonia per cup of water. Please note: Be aware that ammonia, if used improperly, can cause a color change. Be sure to test a hidden area.

When in doubt, call a professional – Professional cleaners have the ability and the equipment to use more aggressive cleaning solutions to remove stubborn spills. Always consider consulting a professional cleaner regarding any spot removal question. Carpet and Rug Institute – 1-800-882-8846.

Some of us know exactly what we want when designing our homes; however, a lot of you may not.  “What Is Your Style” is one of our best website features.  This is a website tool that allows you to see pictures of different styles that are available and then you can pick your favorite.

The available styles are as follows:

• Traditional
• Country
• Contemporary
• Eclectic
• Tuscan
• Craftman

We hope this helps you find your style!

Thanksgiving is exactly one week away!  Here at Chateau Interiors and Design we like to share our ideas and thoughts with our customers.  In honor of the holiday, we thought we’d share one of our favorite recipes with you!  Enjoy!

Ingredients

• 4 large clove garlic, smashed
• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
• 1 medium yellow onion, sliced
• 1 red pepper, peeled, seeded and diced (3/4 cup)
• 1/4 cup dry white vermouth
• 2 pounds Yukon gold or other waxy potatoes (about 4 to 5), peeled
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
• 1 pound plum tomatoes
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.

Rub 1 of the garlic cloves all over the inside of a large 1 1/2 quart oval casserole dish. Smear some of the olive oil all over the inside of the dish. Mince the rest of the garlic.

Heat the rest of the oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the garlic, onion, and pepper, season with the salt and pepper, and cook until tender, about 8 minutes. Add the vermouth and simmer to reduce by about half.

Using a mandoline or vegetable slicer, slice the potatoes about 1/8-inch thick and add them to the pan with the water, salt, pepper to taste. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook, stirring, until the mixture has thickened slightly, about 2 minutes.

Stir in the basil.

Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and shake the pan to distribute the potatoes evenly. Season with salt and pepper. Slice the tomatoes about a 1/4-inch thick and arrange them in a shingled pattern on top of the potatoes. Season with salt and pepper and drizzle with olive oil.

Bake, uncovered, until the potatoes are tender about 1 1/2 hours. Sprinkle the cheese over the top and bake until brown and bubbly, about 15 minutes more. Remove from the oven and let casserole cool 10 minutes before serving. This can also be served at room temperature.

Do you dream of having a beautiful space all to yourself; designed specifically for you? Not sure where to start? Start with a basic question. What is your favorite color?

Wall covering or paint color render the greatest effect on a room. Paint just so happens to be one of the easiest things to change. Take a chance and pick your favorite color as a starting point. This will also give you inspiration.

Select furniture (case goods) with simplistic lines and sexy curves. Look for pieces that can multitask, provide storage and look neat. Incorporate a mixture of materials. For example: a metal table with a glass top, a desk made of wood and metal. Mixing a variety of materials give any room appeal. Matching each piece is the easiest, most unchallenging approach to decorating; plus it looks monotonous. Don’t be afraid to mix it up, as long as the furnishings have clean lines and a sleek appearance you can’t go wrong.

Fabrics within the space should be simplistically beautiful, pleasing to the touch. Keep drapery straightforward; this is where you really want to aim for a tailored look. For upholstery choose fabrics that feel comfortable and supple. For the most part select neutral fabrics, however some accent color and an interesting pattern should also be incorporated. As a general guideline- select neutral/comfy fabrics for the main upholstered pieces and choose a fun pattern or print for a secondary piece, such as an occasional chair or ottoman.

Accessories should be items that you really adore, family photos, your favorite books and art that speak to you. Adding items that are black make great accents; frame your art with white matting and a black frame. Add comfy items as well, such as a chenille throw and a thick wool rug. All rooms should have greenery. In this space add a simplistic flower, like a bouquet of lilies. Lavender scented candles can really put your mind and body in a relaxed, content state.

When designing your special space, don’t rely on other people’s opinions or suggestions. This room is for you and only you; therefore go with your instincts and decorate it with your favorite things!

When updating your home, consider flooring, paint and lighting. Choosing the right lights can feel challenging, but if you consider a few factors you will be well on your way to getting the style you want at a price you can afford.

Start with your budget. Factor in every light you want to replace. If your budget is limited, there’s nothing wrong with updating over time. Or you could go simple in a few rooms to allow you to splurge in the entryway or dining room.

If you are handy or know someone who is comfortable working with electricity, replacing a light fixture is managable for a skilled do-it-yourselfer. However, changing a light fixture is not the best place to begin your handy-person efforts. Better hire a licensed electrician.

Next, determine the style of lighting you want in your home. If you have a strongly coordinated home, you may want to look for a family of light fixtures that carry your theme. If your style is more flexible, your lighting choices can be also. Make sure the proportions and style of your lighting choice complement your space. For example, in the photo shown, the chandelier in this room is perfect in terms of both style and scale. When viewed from a distance, the light connects the room with its vaulted ceiling and adds a special design touch.

Be sure to factor in any special lighting needs for each room. This includes both lighting and ventilation. Some rooms may be better off with a ceiling fan. A light with a heat fan included is particularly nice for showers or baths in the winter. Whatever your needs, be sure to keep those in focus when you’re making lighting choices.

Finally – make your choice based on what you like. Most people never change light fixtures, and very rarely do people change them more than once. Take the time to find what suits you personally. Your fixtures reflect more than light –they reflect your personality and sense of style.

When choosing a bathroom mirror, function is the most important factor to consider, but you also want it to look great. Finding a bathroom mirror can be difficult. More than likely you are going to encounter size restrictions. The area you have to work with between the light fixture, sink, faucet and or backsplash (4” of tile or laminate that extends from the counter up the wall to protect the wall from water splatter).

Take a close look at the existing bathroom. The goal is to find a mirror that compliments the space. Bring a picture with you, this will help!

You need to decide if you want the mirror to blend in with the wall, or contrast. If you prefer the blended look, possibly opt for frameless. A frameless mirror looks best when it’s shape has character. An oval frameless mirror looks clean and elegant (a nice choice for a powder room).

If a contrasting frame is the look you are going for; keep in mind the finish of the faucet and light fixture. Chances are your mirror will be in the middle of the two.  Therefore the mirror should compliment that particular finish. If those two items have different finishes, ask yourself the question- Are theses finishes light or dark? Then choose a light or dark frame color depending on your situation.

If you are having a hard time finding a mirror in the style and size you want; you can go to your local Art/Portrait Framer and have one made. This allows you to choose the size, shape and frame. If you prefer frameless, you can also get a piece of mirror cut to a particular size and shape at any local glass company. This method allows you to choose the bevel size and style.

The bed is generally the biggest object in any bedroom and the larger the objects, the more attention it receives and becomes a focal point. With that said, the appearance of the bed should tie into the theme of the room. Bedding can be changed seasonally because the needs of the person sleeping usually change depending on the season. Here are some pointers to help you achieve the perfect look:
• Like all furniture, the bed should be proportionate to the room. There should be at least 30 inches (minimum) width on either side of the bed. More room should be allowed at the foot of the bed, at least 36 inches (minimum) clear space is necessary because the room can feel cramped if there is not enough clear space around the bed. Measure your bedroom and keep in mind the sizes of other furniture pieces you are working with.

• Selecting colors and patterns can work for you or against you. You have to consider that a bedroom where you rest and unwind. Calming colors such as earth tone shades, light shades of greens and blues tend to put people in a calm mood. Energetic colors tend to be orange, red and yellow and provoke energy and restlessness. Choosing bed sheets in a darker or lighter hue than the wall color can do wonders. This approach creates just enough contrast and adds harmony. Pattern size should also be proportionate to the size of the bed and the room. If a bedroom was on the small side and the bedding pattern chosen was a large one. The room will feel overwhelming. The opposite is true for a large room- a small/boring print or pattern can look dull and vanilla.

• Seasonal bedding is great because you can switch it up and give your bedroom a different look.

• TPI or Thread Count Per Inch relates to softness desired. Higher the TPI the softer your bed sheet will be. A TPI less than 200 is not recommended and can feel scratchy on skin.

• Generally people favor cotton sheets, for they are comfortable and soft. However, you can choose flannel, cotton-mixed, silk or satin.

Rest well!