Brian Swartzwelder of Grey Street Studios
Interiors
When it comes to celebrating the holiday season with family and friends, there’s no more appropriate setting than in the dining room.
So, Tampa Bay Homebuyer asked several of the region’s top interior designers to bring the holiday spirit to previously unadorned dining rooms and dining room tables in two model homes—and one yacht.
Their styles and the approaches may have been different, but we think you’ll agree that the goal was achieved. Have a look—perhaps you’ll find some ideas that are adaptable to your own home.
And happy holidays from the participating designers and all of us at Tampa Bay Homebuyer.
Franco Pasquale, owner of Pasquale Design Associates in Tampa, was confronted not with a traditional home but with the outdoor dining area of a private 80-foot Lazzara Yacht. Therefore, he employed a coastal theme using such elements as hand-beaded placemats made of shells and tiny pieces of wood. A large clam shell holds the centerpiece, which includes fresh pine, white silk flowers, round pearl ornaments and pieces of coral bathed in gold glitter. Sterling silverware glistens alongside fine Jaune de Chrome Chinaware with a metallic glaze. Glittery rings with tasseled frays hold sheer bronze and white napkins together while glass cylinders filled with champagne-colored balls and cream candles add an additional touch of elegance.
Franco Pasquale Design Associates, (813) 831-9236
Patrice Valore, owner of Interiors by Decorating Den in Tampa, created a dining room (right) boasting a color fusion of champagne, brown and pearl, representing the transition between fall and winter. The holiday look was enhanced by adding greenery, including miniature trees and garlands draping the mahogany cabinet. The presentation of colorful—and delectable—hors d’ouvers is equally important in creating a festive ambience. In addition, plates filled with strawberries and other desert foods are displayed on iron plate stands, which sit next to a sterling silver fondue pot filled with dark chocolate (below). Valore states, “Fondue is not only great year round, but wonderful for entertaining your friends and family through the holidays.”
Patrice Valore, Interiors By Decorating Den (813) 671-9904
Elaine Buechler, selection center coordinator for McCar Homes of Tampa, decorated the dining room table (right) of the Brookfield model in McCar’s Brookfield in Wesley Chapel. “When it comes to holiday decorating this year, glitz is in,” she says. Therefore, Buechler employed festive holiday colors, such as red and gold, with lots of sparkle. Bright red candles soaked in glitter sit at the table’s center next to a giant red and gold bow. Buechler, a collector of angels, also used two large figurines sprinkled in gold glitter to flank the bow. China plateware with a holly design, German imported stemware and sterling silverware add an elegant touch. “It’s always nice to give your guest a little gift to take away from dinner,” adds Buechler, who included a small silver- and gold-hued ornament in the shape of a present.
Elaine Beuchler, McCar Homes (813) 930-6179
Holiday Design Ideas
What are the hot holiday design trends for 2007? Trish Brandon, owner of Designs by Trish Brandon, gives us an insider’s perspective.
Take a whole-house approach. Incorporate elements of holiday design in every room by adding a few simple touches. Tie wrapped boxes with colorful ribbon and place them by the door or on a bookshelf. Spruce up any lamp or doorknob by tying on tassels. Wreaths can be hung on doors and greenery can go anywhere.
Use lots and lots of trees. Use small counter trees to have themed holiday trees in several rooms. “Let your imagination flow,” says Brandon. For example, the kids can decorate their tree with homemade ornaments and their favorite family pictures. For the sports enthusiast, use team colors and ornaments to show your spirit. The possibilities are endless.
Make meals special. It’s always nice to have a large centerpiece with plenty of silk flowers, ornaments and ribbons; sheer ribbon is very popular. To add elegance to your table setting, sprinkle crystals or diamond shaped confetti throughout and place Godiva’s holiday chocolates in the center of each plate. To decorate the chairs, flow solid or sheer fabric over the back and tie with ribbons and tassels.?