In the News
News
-
February 23, 2010
When Decorating, Don't Forget the Staircase
You walk up them, you walk down them, perhaps countless times a day. When you look down, though, do you see any sign of your personal style?
Staircases, once decorated with detailed, elaborate runners in the Victorian era, have been forgotten in many homes, or at least bumped down on the decorating to-do list.
''Stairs are ignored. Period,'' says Genevieve Gorder, host of HGTV's ''Dear Genevieve.''
''People think of stairs and hallways as strictly utilitarian -- a place to get somewhere else,'' she says. ''But they are some of the most beautiful places to decorate.''
^First Impression
Adding a runner to a staircase in the front of the house can help make a good first impression, especially because entryways often don't have the space to feature fabric-covered furniture or windows.
A runner can add color, texture and pattern to a space. And the carpeting can cut down on noise and provide a safer walking -- or in the case of kids, running -- surface.
''People want a more finished feeling, but they forget the stairway,'' says Christopher Lowell, host of Fine Living Network's ''Work That Room.'' ''An upholstered staircase can give them that feeling.''
^Simple vs. Traditional
The traditional Oriental style is a runner mainstay, offering lots of colors around which to decorate.
''They're somewhat timeless and classic, and a lot of times they're not going to tie you to a particular trend,'' says Eileen Hunyadi, who owns The Stair Runner Store in Oxford, Conn., with her husband, John. ''Traditional styles can be around for quite a long time and you can work other things in without being stuck in a time warp.''
On the other hand, Lowell favors something simple and neutral, like a textured sisal wool runner.
''The idea is to add texture and luxury to the space but not drown the space or lock in any overt patterns,'' he says.
Hunyadi, whose store sells mostly traditional styles, says more people have been asking for something nontraditional.
Her store has started to carry tonal looks, and runners with scrolls, trellises and fabric-type patterns -- styles that made up about 30 percent of sales during the last few years.
However, carpeting with more pattern will show less dirt and dust than a more solid carpet, she notes.
^Bye, Bye, Wall-to-Wall
Since hardwood floors have made a comeback over the past few decades, many homeowners are shopping for runners because they've either ripped out wall-to-wall stair carpeting or have moved into new homes with all hardwood floors.
Homeowners also want runners to combat stairwell echoes, or for safety.
''We have people who have fallen down the stairs, and we also have people who have dogs who have fallen down the stairs,'' Hunyadi says. ''A hardwood stair is certainly more slippery than something with carpet on it.''
^Making It Work
Hunyadi advises coordinating a runner with the colors and style of the home's main floor, not the upstairs.
''The lower part of the house is really where you're going to view the stair runner,'' she says.
Many homeowners try to match the runner to a color in the home, Hunyadi says, which can be tricky, so she points them to a complementary hue.
As Gorder puts it: ''It's not about matching so much as creating a sense of flow. Pull colors that are in your home that you like, and connect them to the staircase.''
The staircase is also a good place to try something new. ''It's a great place to debut something, but make sure there are connective qualities that make it feel like it's supposed to be there,'' Gorder says. ''This is an opportunity to play. You can introduce more color and be a little bit more bold.''
^Raw Materials
Besides style, consider price. Runners are generally made of wool or a synthetic fiber.
Hunyadi says her wool runners generally cost 25 percent to 30 percent more than synthetics, but there is some price overlap among higher quality synthetics and lower end wools.
Wool is softer to the touch, she says, has more of a matte look and releases dirt more easily. Synthetics, which used to look a little shiny, still catch the light differently than wool, and hold onto dirt more.
While wool carpeting can actually wear away from use, synthetics do not.
''If you put the two side by side, you can tell the difference,'' says Hunyadi. ''But when you take the other one away, many can't.''
Whichever material you choose, take care of it.
''Take off your shoes, vacuum, vacuum, vacuum and have it professionally cleaned as appropriate,'' once every year or two, she says.
^Carpet Alternatives
If you want to add style to your staircase without carpeting, Gorder suggests tiling the risers -- the vertical part of the stairs that gets scuffed easily. Or try making a paint ''runner'' in a bold shade of marine paint, or sanding one, creating the look with contrasting wood colors.
''Painting a runner down the stairs in a pattern, stripe or polka dot is a really contemporary way to attack the stairs,'' she said.
Source: The New York Times
-
February 6, 2010
Christopher on WKYC.com at the Great Big Home & Garden Expo
Great Big Home & Garden Expo opens at the IX Center
CLEVELAND -- Design expert Christopher Lowell has some advice for homeowners at the Great Big Home and Garden Expo.
Source: WKYC.com
-
February 5, 2010
Christopher Lowell: De-Clutter your Home
Host of "Work that Room" Christopher Lowell tells us how to get rid of the clutter in your home and he talks about his new book, "Seven Layers of Organization."
Source: WKYC Cleveland
-
February 4, 2010
Decluttering will give you a bigger house
The Great Recession could be the best thing ever to happen to pack-rat homeowners.
Instead of moving to a bigger house that you can't afford, you should just declutter the old one.
"If you purge, you could pick up 50 percent more living space," said Christopher Lowell, who went national after he owned a Chagrin Falls interior design shop from 1992 to '97.Cancel the real estate agent. Call Goodwill.
Reminding do-it-yourself decorators that they can do much with less is what Lowell does best. The author and host of "Work That Room With Christopher Lowell" (Fine Living Network) will take the stage at 2 p.m. Saturday at the Great Big Home & Garden Expo at the International Exposition Center in Cleveland.
The working title of the how-to book he's writing now (his eighth) is "Downsize Up." Spending less and being happy about it is just what Lowell did when he moved from Los Angeles to cozier and less-expensive Santa Fe.
Americans having to live cheaper is a good thing, he said. Really. The dour economy has forced Americans to re-invent themselves. Their homes can reflect that renaissance with a new, clean look, he said. But right now, he said, "we're drowning in our clutter."
The money crisis was a wake-up call that many needed, said Lowell. "We looked around and said, 'Where did I get all this crap?' "
Need more room but suffer separation anxiety about giving away your accumulated treasures? Here's what Lowell suggests, borrowing from his "7 Layers of Organization:"
Step 1 of how to let go: "Walk outside and come back in as if you've never been there before," he said. Examine each room, corner, closet and shelf with new eyes, "then ransack your house."
Be brave, Lowell said, and be quick. The purge has to be done all at once, or the excess just gets moved from one room to another.
Make a list of what you find that "doesn't tell your story accurately now," as Lowell put it. Then call the charity truck.
What else will Lowell, a national spokesman for Cleveland-based Jo-Ann Fabric & Craft Stores, talk about at his I-X Center appearance? How cohabitating men and women can compromise on their design tastes.
Home decor has to be "luxurious enough for her and tailored enough for him," said Lowell. Otherwise, "that kind of stuff starts fights." It wouldn't be a problem, he said, except that men no longer are content to let their female partners have complete control of decorating. That's a great thing, he said, because men have a good sense of what a long-lasting classic is. "Look at their suits."
His advice to women: Let your husband pick the sofa. He'll go for a solid with classic lines. You can do the floral, print or plaid thing with throw pillows. It'll work -- and keep domestic peace. Lowell swears it.
"Women and men together are great shopping partners," he said. "They just don't know it."
Source: Cleveland.com
-
January 17, 2010
Christopher will be appearing at The Great Big Home and Garden Show in Cleveland, Ohio
I-X Center - Saturday, February 6th
Sponsored by Jo-Ann Fabric and Crafts Store
Designer Christopher Lowell's mix of practical advice and infectious enthusiasm have made him one of America's most recognized and trusted authorities in the home improvement category. The Emmy Award-winning host opened the doors to his first home arts center in Chagrin Falls, Ohio in 1992 with the idea of eventually creating his own television show. Over the next four years he débuted a line of office furniture and accessories, formed a production company that produces home design shows, authored award-winning books on design and continues to enlighten audiences on his website www.christopherlowell.com. Christopher will make appearances on February 6.
-
January 15, 2010
InTouch Weekly - "Fashion Trauma"
Christopher has always been known for his personal style and playful sense of humor. Check out Christopher's take on Hollywood's "Fashion Traumas" every week in InTouch Weekly magazine!
Click here to see the full article!
Source: InTouch Weekly
-
January 12, 2010
Your Favorite Advice from Design Books
Christopher's book "Small Spaces" is a must have for apartment dwellers.
We can’t be alone in our love of looking through design books, old and new, for inspiration for our own homes. Our own collection is mostly old books saved from bargain bins and a few newer books given to us as gifts.
Source: ApartmentTherapy.com
-
December 3, 2009
Art of Living Magazine with Olivia Wilder
Listen to Christopher talk to Olivia Wilder on the "Art of Living Magazine".
Christopher joins the show at 45:45
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/olivia/2009/11/23/art-of-living-magazine
Source: BlogTalkRadio
-
December 2, 2009
JoAnn Fabrics Grand Opening in Darien, IL
Christopher talked with Fans and signed autographs at the JoAnn Fabrics Grand Opening in Darien, Illinois.
-
November 6, 2009
Crafty Holiday Lighting Ideas - 'Tis the season to keep holiday decorating simple
While a traditional holiday will always have a place in our hearts and homes, once in a while it’s fun to try a different approach. Something fresh, modern, and unexpected can brighten the season without stepping on ceremony. Of course, the goal is always to keep decorating as stress-free and simple as possible during an already hectic time. These holiday lighting tips will provide you with fun, simple, new ways of decorating.
Unexpected Light Sources
In my book, The Hassle-Free Host, we focus on using clear containers in a variety of ways. They can become such a valuable and inexpensive staple to your entertaining inventory. Well, here’s another idea just to prove how indispensable clear containers really are: Add white twinkle lights to containers for a romantic glow.
Cellophane-Filled Containers: The clear containers are so simple. Printed cellophane (available from most craft stores or in wrapping paper aisles of other stores) is crumpled together with a string of white twinkle lights. They’re then packed into a clear glass cylinder—leaving the prong end of the cord to feed over the rim of the container and long enough to plug in below the table. The printed cellophane helps to camouflage the white electrical cord. When the bulbs are lit, it helps to diffuse and refract the light for an enchanting ambiance.
Frosted Containers: If you think that’s easy, the frosted containers are even simpler. Since the containers are already opaque, simply pack them with strands of white twinkle lights and you’re good to go.
These versatile columns of light can then be used as lifts and levels to support a variety of serving dishes of your choice. We advise placing something warm on them, as they can heat up. With the addition of clear floral globes, they can be used as centerpiece holders to add height and interest to any surface they adorn. On their own, the lit cylinders can be inverted with the twinkle lights inside and simply clustered together, at various heights, to create glowing tableaus anywhere in the room where an outlet is handy.
Lighting up Your Windows
Next, let’s take the same twinkle lights a step further, as a background focal point. We’ve replaced the standard curtain rod with a 1 ¾-inch acrylic tube. These are available in 6- and 8-foot lengths from most building outlets or plastic supply stores and are easily cut with a standard handsaw. A string of white lights is then threaded through the tube from one end. Once the drapes are back onto the tube, the additional cord simply hides behind the fabric on its way down to the outlet.
To create a hip, modern window wreath, we simply took a 30-inch wire wreath frame and wrapped it with several strands of the same twinkle lights. Then, we wrapped 2 to 3 yards of inexpensive marabou feather boas, which available in most notion sections of your local fabric store. Although it may look complicated, the entire window treatment can be done in less than an hour. And that’s the whole point--although it’ll be our little secret!
Source: HomeFurnishings.com
-
November 5, 2009
Work at Home Secrets - Versatility is key to a modern home office.
If you have the opportunity to work from home, you have two options: a dedicated room as a home office or a work center in the main part of the house. Which one you decide to create all depends on what business you’re in.
A Whole-Home Approach
If most of your time is spent word processing—skip the dedicated home office. Personally, I work from home about 65 percent of the time. The last thing I want to do is relegate myself to a small room in the back of the house—it feels like self-imposed exile. The great privilege of working from home is that you have a lot of inspiring places in which to choose to work from, so you can actually enjoy the whole house.
For me, I got rid of the stationary, big mother ship of a desktop computer in favor of a really good laptop. This allows me to work from anywhere in the house. If I’m in my home office too long I get fidgety, so I move to the kitchen while preparing myself a tasty lunch. When the weather’s great, I like to be in my outdoor spaces. To make this happen, I put wireless airports everywhere possible so that I can remain online 24/7.
The Hidden Office
While part of your work will undoubtedly require a scanner and a printer too, it doesn’t mean they have to be hardwired into your laptop. Here again, wireless is the way to go. It solves the cord management issue and if placed centrally in the home, this still allows you the freedom and mobility you need.
Try converting a kitchen broom closet into a built-in cabinet where you have outlets and slide out drawers for your printer, scanner and fax, if you need it, or an all-in-one to save space. The kitchen is central to all the places you want to be: living room, family room and outside.
As far as being comfortable working on the laptop itself—purchase a lap desk. They usually have a beanbag style base that conforms to your legs. And now many have compartments and pouches for the post-it notes, clips, a small pad and whatnot. I know because I’ve designed them myself.
A Traditional Space
If you choose to have a dedicated home office, the decorating process is just as important here as the rest of your house. We’ve gotten so used to treating our offices like strictly utilitarian spaces that we forget these workspaces can be inviting too. Follow these tips to integrate your living style into the place you work:
* Pick your favorite room and duplicate it in your office.
* Use lamps instead of overhead lights.
* Add color to those plain white walls
* Instead of builders-grade blinds, try some window treatments.You’ll find that these additions will make you feel more relaxed and productive. Just because you’re working hard doesn’t mean it has to feel like work.
Source: HomeFurnishings.com
-
October 19, 2009
New Jo-Ann Store Opening October 22nd
Don't miss Christopher at the new Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Superstore opening in Darien, IL on Thursday, October 22nd at 11am.
Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft (Superstore)
Chestnut Court Shopping Center
7511 Lemont Road
Darien, IL 60561
Source: Jo-Ann Stores
-
October 15, 2009
Christopher is a Design Advisor on HomeFurnishings.com
The National Home Furnishings Association announced Thursday that its new consumer Web portal for home decorating, HomeFurnishings.com (http://www.HomeFurnishings.com), is now online and available for consumers to use.
Consumers visiting HomeFurnishings.com can learn how to pick the perfect sofa from Candice Olson and how to find their decorating inspiration from Jane Seymour. Christopher Lowell shares his thoughts on holiday centerpiece magic along with work from home secrets. Color specialist Kate Smith uses her background as a color strategist and creator of sensationalcolor.com to answer questions such as how to create a monochromatic tone-on-tone color scheme and how to find the perfect kitchen color as part of a regular "Ask Kate" column where consumers can send in their color questions and challenges.
Christopher Lowell said that "having been the first to demystify the home design process for millions of TV viewers I've always wished there was a single source where leading retailers, manufacturers and design experts could come together in a nonpartisan way with a united voice. Together we can offer great 'lifestyle' advice with candor and transparency to really help consumers define and re-define their lifestyles with the click of the mouse. So I'm thrilled to lend my voice as a contributing expert."
"We are bringing consumers all of the tools that they need together in one place," said Trisha McBride Ferguson, editor of HomeFurnishings.com. "At HomeFurnishings.com they can get inspired and educated with fresh new decorating articles and photos, make a design plan and then find a place to shop, all on one site. And unlike other sites, HomeFurnishings.com will not be limited to just one look or budget level but will cover a wide breadth of design styles and price points for every room. We will have something for everyone and we will be continually adding new features and updates so we encourage consumers to visit often."Source: Home Furnishings Business
-
September 28, 2009
Celebrity designers to write for Homefurnishings.com
NHFA to launch consumer site in October
Articles by celebrity designers Candice Olson, Jane Seymour and Christopher Lowell will be among the items featured on HomeFurnishings.com, the National Home Furnishings Assn.'s consumer Web portal for home decorating, when it launches Oct. 15.
The designers will dispense advice on topics ranging from picking the perfect soft (Olson) to decorating inspiration (Seymour) to holiday centerpieces (Lowell).Source: FurnitureToday.com
-
September 24, 2009
Christopher on CBS's 'Wake Up Alabama'
Christopher sits down with CBS's 'Wake Up Alabama' to talk about how men and women can both be involved with design. He was in Alabama promoting his appearance at the Jo-Ann grand opening in Hoover, where he also redecorated the library at the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Alabama in Birmingham.
Afterward, he spoke to representatives of Hoover City Schools at Spain Park High School and Jo-Ann Stores donated sewing machines and materials to many of the schools.
Source: CBS42.com
-
September 24, 2009
Christopher Presents Gifts to Hoover, AL Schools
Hoover-area students are gaining another creative outlet, as home design guru Christopher Lowell was on hand Sept. 23 at Spain Park High School to present design materials to all Hoover schools, including Spain Park, Berry Middle School and Greystone Elementary School.
Lowell, the star of “Work that Room with Christopher Lowell,” was at Spain Park on behalf of the Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft company, which is opening a new store at the Riverchase Promenade in Hoover.
He spoke to the gathered students and teachers about the importance of being creative.
“Use your own homes as an incubator for creativity,” he said. “Nothing is more incredible than getting yourself involved in a creative process. Figure out who you are.”Source: Shelby County Reporter
-
September 3, 2009
Christopher Shares Fun Tips on Fresh Nest
Shopping in Your Jammies by guest designer Christopher Lowell
Christopher shares fun tips on how to shop online for home decorating projects and avoid the driving, the crowds and the anxiety of making on the spot decisions. The Internet gives you time to compare and investigate, from the comfort of your own home.
Recently on "Work That Room", Christopher did a segment on window treatments and showed how to use the Internet to do the leg work. Reliable retailers such as Joann Fabrics & Crafts and Smith & Noble make it easy for you to shop on the Internet from home "in your jammies".
Check out the article and more at Fresh Nest.
Source: FreshNestDesign.com
-
June 26, 2009
Fine Living Network Launches Home Design Weekend Lineup on Saturday, June 27
Work That Room with Christopher Lowell Will Feature as a Centerpiece of the New Programming Block "FLN is in the House"
Beginning June 27, Emmy Award Winner Christopher Lowell's hit series Work That Room will anchor Fine Living Network's (FLN) new Saturday lineup "FLN is in the House" featuring home and design programs from 9:00am to 4:00pm throughout the summer. Work That Room with Christopher Lowell will air
Saturdays at 10:00am ET/PT. FLN General Manager Chad Youngblood announced the return of the show and the new programming block was featured in Media Week and Broadcasting & Cable magazines this week.Source: Fine Living Network
-
June 8, 2009
Christopher Shares Paint Color Tips
Christopher Lowell shares some tips on choosing paint color for your home with Fresh Nest Design and points out that it’s often not the color itself, but how we pick it that goes wrong. Paint is the cheapest and easiest way to transform any environment. But the first mistake most people make is heading to the hardware store only once.
Here are some excerpts from Christopher’s article:
“Choosing paint color is a two-trip process, like it or not. The reason there are so many paint strips is that they expect you to take a lot of them home. On your first visit, grab lots. Once home, place them on a surface in the room your considering painting. The next morning you’ll pass by and eliminate half the colors wondering what you were thinking in the first place. That’s because we’re all schizophrenics. What looked great in a busy store, under pressure, will look completely different in the stress free environment of your home. After one week, by the sheer process of elimination, you’ll narrow it down to the three colors you can live with—one for the walls, one for the trim and yes, one for the ceiling.”
Source: Fresh Nest
-
June 3, 2009
Watch Christopher on Great Day St. Louis
Christopher Lowell sits down with Great Day St. Louis to talk about how newlyweds can combine their style for that perfect love nest.
Christopher's segment will air tomorrow Friday, June 5th on Great Day from 10 - 11 AM central time. It can also be watched live online if you don't live in St. Louis. Go to greatdaystlouis.com.Source: Great Day St. Louis
-
June 2, 2009
Lowell's Ronald McDonald House Visit
Want to see video of the decor improvements Christopher Lowell did to the Ronald McDonald House in St. Louis? Watch here!
Source: KMOV.com
-
May 28, 2009
Christopher Lowell on Y98 Radio in St. Louis
Christopher joined local St. Louis Radio Station Y98 while in town, and spoke about his new connection to the online world, how he got started in design, and how your home says a lot about your personality. To listen, click here.
Source: Y 98 Radio Station
-
May 27, 2009
Christopher Lowell on KSDK St. Louis
Christopher Lowell gave some design advice this morning on local NBC station KSDK when he was in St. Louis, MO. Watch Christopher Lowell's interview here.
Source: KSDK - St. Louis
-
May 26, 2009
Christopher in St. Louis Metro Area
Christopher Lowell will be in the St. Louis Metro area in the next few days. Watch for him on "Show Me St. Louis" on KSDK-TV (NBC) and Great Day St. Louis airing weekdays at 10am.
Source: Great Day St. Louis / KSDK
-
May 21, 2009
Follow Christopher Lowell on Twitter!
You can now follow Christopher Lowell on Twitter! To sign up for his tweets, click on the Twitter icon on the bottom right hand side of any page on christopherlowell.com.
Source: www.christopherlowell.com
-
May 20, 2009
Christopher Lowell to Redesign Room at Ronald McDonald House
Celebrity interior decorator Christopher Lowell will be visiting the Ronald McDonald House of Metro St. Louis on Wednesday, May 27 to redesign a common room and supplying all the materials from his line of fabric and design accessories to furnish the room.
Click here to see a picture of the 'before' room. -
May 20, 2009
Meet Christopher at the Jo-Ann Fabric Store in Ballwin, MO!
Come meet Christopher at the Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Store Grand Opening next Thursday, May 28th at Central Plaza in Ballwin, MO at 11am.
Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Store: Central Plaza
15355 Manchester Road, Ballwin, MO 63011Source: Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Store
-
April 15, 2009
From 'Blah to AAh'-A Living Room Makeover
In this article of From House to Home, Christopher Lowell gives expert decorating tips for a blah living room that is all white with no curtains or accents whatsoever.
Christopher helps make this room from blah to aah by going through three categories:1) Accent Fabric: Print motifs often date a room so Christopher suggests sticking with solid or texture-driven fabrics.
2) Paint: Don’t make your decision on your first visit to the paint store, Christopher says. Take swatches, place them in the room, and walk by the colors every day for a week. Process of elimination should really help make the decision easy.
3) Architecture: Add shelves to overhead spaces, which gives more use for the space and allow personal touches to be added such as pictures or special objects.
Source: From House to Home
-
April 8, 2009
Win a $10,000 Window Treatment Makeover By Christopher Lowell!!
If you win the sweepstakes, America's most trusted designer will come to your home!
Every Smith+Noble order placed between 3/9 and 5/8/2009 automatically enters you in the Christopher Lowell Makeover Sweepstakes, co-sponsored by Metropolitan Home.
You may also enter by filling out the form on the Smith + Noble website by clicking here.Source: Smith + Noble
-
April 8, 2009
Heraldnet features Christopher Lowel's "Seven Layers of Organization"
Heraldnet features Christopher Lowell’s "Seven Layers of Organization” and reviews the final Layer, how to maintain after you’ve finally decluttered and reorganized your home.
Now that you’ve worked so hard, don't let it all be for nothing. Lowell recommends spending a couple of hours every week decluttering, purging unnecessary items just to stay on top of the inevitable influx of stuff.
From the book, Lowell suggests, "train yourself to be uncomfortable if everything is not in its place. Don't wait till the end of the month. Things can get mighty out of control in 30 days, believe me."Source: Heraldnet.com
-
April 8, 2009
Spring Clean Your Closets!
It’s Springtime and that means spring cleaning! The Arkansas Traveler got ideas from Christopher Lowell how to best clean out your closet and update your wardrobe!
Although the entire book, "Seven Layers of Organization," is helpful for your home, layers two and four are highlighted when it comes to closet maintenance. Lowell suggests in layer two to detach yourself physically and emotionally from your stuff, then purge all of the clutter. You are creating space for yourself to work with, which experts say frees half of your closet or a third of your drawers, so you can really revamp the closet.
In layer four, Sort and Contain, Lowell says the nearest is the dearest. When actually organizing your clothes and anything else in your closet, take your habits into consideration.Source: The Arkansas Traveler
-
March 25, 2009
Christopher Says Enjoy the Home You Live In
Interior decorator, Emmy Award-winning television host and best-selling author Christopher Lowell says now is the time to get back to basics.
"The idea now is to take a look at the world around you," he says. "Stop by that boutique hotel and check it out, and ask yourself, 'Why do I like it here?' Break it down. Use this time while you feel stuck in your house to enjoy it."
Don't downsize, but "right-size," he says.
"This is the time to do some serious personal growth, using your home as that metaphor. Take a look at the stuff around there, and if it doesn't reflect your life today, then you're hanging on to an old life."
Source: Idaho Statesman
-
March 23, 2009
Christopher Shares Economical Renovation Tips
Christopher Lowell, along with other home and design experts, shares with SignOnSanDiego.com some tips at how to renovate and rediscover your home in this downturn economy.
A big part of that rediscovery, Lowell says, is “rethinking how we live in our homes and rethinking the true value of what we have.” Lowell – whose message of empowerment is evident in his book "Seven Layers of Organization" – says “Americans are drowning in useless clutter. This is the time to purge.”
“Ransack your house,” Lowell says. “Take a look at what you own. If you don't use it, donate it. Pay it forward.”
Source: SignOnSanDiego.com
-
March 12, 2009
Meet Christopher at the Jo-Ann Fabric Store in Boise, Idaho!
Want to meet Christopher Lowell? Well, here is your chance. He'll be at the Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Store Grand Opening on Thursday, March 19th at the Milwaukee Market Place in Boise, Idaho at 11am.
Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Store: Milwaukee Market Place
1085 N. Milwaukee St., Boise, ID 83704Source: Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Store
-
March 10, 2009
Watch GSN LIVE on Thursday, March 12th to chat with Christopher Lowell
Watch GSN LIVE tomorrow, Thursday, March 12, from 9am-10am pacific/12pm-1pm eastern for your chance to chat with Christopher LIVE, 888-4-GSN-LIVE, and to enter the sweepstakes!
Imagine having Christopher make suggestions on your living room, bedroom or family room! Now is your chance.
GSN Live and Christopher Lowell are ready to make your dream come true. Enter the GSN Live "Dream a Room" sweepstakes and you could win a "virtual room make-over." Be an on-air contestant, 888-4-GSN-LIVE, with GSN Live this March (weekdays at 12-3pm ET) or mail a 3X5 card with your name, address, phone number, email, and date of birth for your chance to win. Mail the card to: GSN Live Prize Coordinator, 10101 W. Washington Blvd., Culver City, CA 90232. See GSN Live for the official rules, additional eligibility restrictions and complete details.
Best of luck!
Source: GSN Live On-Air Contests
-
February 26, 2009
Christopher Lowell Featured in Art and Living Magazine
Christopher Lowell is the creator of what he calls “an American brand in the decorative arts,” spreading his knowledge and expertise through his popular T.V. shows, radio, newspaper columns, best-selling books, products and of course, his official website which is chock full of demos, videos and tips.
A believer in the psychology of space, Lowell explains that “our mental interior always matches our physical interior. My job is to help people get the two interiors to sync up accurately.”
Keeping an eye on design trends, Lowell notices that people today are interested in taking designs they see in public spaces and translating those ideas back into the home. Another current trend is merging two distinct cultures into one American lifestyle. So when it's time to design, Lowell is there to help.To read the full article, click here.
Source: Art and Living Magazine
-
February 19, 2009
Christopher Lowell on Good Morning Memphis WHBQ-TV
Christopher Lowell helps stretch your dollar by giving tips and advice on budget decor in these hard economic times on "Good Morning Memphis."
He suggests not necessarily downsizing but 'rightsizing' which means you should purge your home of the things that no longer have meaning to you but also, if you need furniture, it's ok to buy because everything is on sale right now.
However, Christopher Lowell suggests that less is best, and "by being deliberate, it's amazing how much you can do for very little."
Home design today is driven by paint and fabric, so don't be afraid of rich wall color or accessories. However, Lowell points out that you should try to avoid "room dandruff and be deliberate about your accessories."
To watch the full interview, click here.Source: My Fox Memphis
-
February 10, 2009
Meet Christopher Lowell at Jo-Ann Fabric Store Grand Opening!
Need your Christopher fix? On February 19, 2009 come meet Christopher Lowell at the the Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Store Grand Opening in Memphis, Tennessee at 11am.
Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Store - Centennial Commons
7746 Polo Grounds, Memphis, TN 38125Source: Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores
-
February 5, 2009
Smith + Noble Partners with Christopher Lowell
Smith + Noble, maker of custom design window treatments, has partnered with Christopher Lowell. The company's interest with Lowell was not only based on his impeccable reputation but also because of his emphasis on "keeping home improvements practical and relatively inexpensive."
"His simplicity approach really fits what we're trying to convey, and this is important because of the way people are dealing with this economy," says Matt Smith, marketing Vice President at Smith + Noble. In addition, Lowell stresses the importance of catering to couples when it comes to home makeovers and design. "He's got to be as into home design as she is," Lowell says. "It's got to be luxurious for her, but tailored for him."
Lowell has chosen and designed new window-treatment products from more than 100 fabrics, colors and materials. Check back soon on www.christopherlowell.com for ordering information.Source: PE.com: Christopher Lowell
-
January 20, 2009
Advertising Age Interviews Christopher Lowell about his Home Design Brand
Dan Levin, Lowell's business partner, speaks of Lowell's unique combination of marketing expertise and emphasis on affordability. "When you buy a Christopher Lowell product, you know it's a good product but also good value."
These new and difficult economic times are making us consider upgrading our homes. Christopher suggests, "take a look at the home you're in right now, understand what your lifestyle is, think about what your parents did and throw it out the window. If you have a table sitting in the middle of a room all by itself, get rid of it!"No matter what, though, home design is universal. Christopher shares that "personal creativity is built into all of us; it's inherent. It's buried, but it's there. You may not have three-dimensional talent, but you do have enormous creativity, especially as we move to a much more entrepreneurial and spiritual society.
Click below to download a PDF file.
-
January 19, 2009
Power Talk Radio Show Interview with Christopher Lowell
Christopher Lowell shares success tips and his personal journey to create a home improvement and design empire with Andrea Sittig-Rolf on the radio show Power Talk.
"Power Talk: When Talent and Passion Collide, Success is Inevitable" showcases professionals who have succeeded in sales, business, entrepreneurship, and life.
Click here to listen to the show.Source: Power Talk: Christopher Lowell
-
January 13, 2009
Retail Customer Experience Magazine Interviews Christopher Lowell
Applying the seven layers of design isn’t just for your home but for retailers as well suggests Christopher Lowell in this interview done by Retail Customer Experience Magazine. The architecture and color of the room is where to start and is what should dictate the space, but choosing the colors themselves is about the story and feeling that the retailer or brand wants conveyed.
Christopher explains, “There are credibility colors that allow a retailer to piggyback on pre-sold ideas. Bright red means self-serve, variety and ultimate “supply”; it’s why Office Depot, Staples, Target and independent warehouses and fast food companies use it. Medium blue says “trusted service”; it’s why financial and medical institutions and corporate agencies use it. It’s not fun, it’s credible.”
When asked what colors retailers should avoid, Christopher suggests that “acid colors, shocking pink, highlight-pen yellows and greens all say urgent and therefore translate to the customer as panic mode, or as cheap.”Click below to download a PDF file.
-
January 13, 2009
From House to Home: A "Sketch-Over" Challenge
Revisiting the contest entries of the past, Christopher Lowell looks at space challenged rooms and redesigns them by sketching solutions. Some tips: If you can’t build out, build up. To maximize every inch, build wall-to-wall.
Click below to download a PDF file.Source: From House to Home: January 2009
-
December 3, 2008
Pure Contemporary: Back To Basics
Trendwatchers and Trendsetters beware! This year, there is no trend. In this interview Christopher states "For the first time, people are gaining the self-confidence and freedom to do what they want in their own homes." He explains that for the first time men and women are working together to make design decision which leads to blending of two distinct traits.
"Women are natural story tellers, and so they gravitate to prints. Men tend to prefer the more tailored looks and straight lines." Christopher suggests using a mixture of prints and solids.
Source: Pure Contemporary
-
December 3, 2008
US News and World Report
The Doctor of Design
Christopher Lowell is the man many women seek out to get over home-decor hang-ups Check out this exciting profile of Christopher in the current issue.
Source: U.S. News and World Report
-
December 3, 2008
From House to Home: The Seaside Supper
You don’t need a beach house to host the perfect beach supper.Celebrate the warm summer nights with a seaside supper even if you are miles from the shore. Christopher shows you how.
-
December 3, 2008
O at Home: "Overcoming Decorating Paralysis"
Christopher's 7 Layers of Design is featured in the Fall 2008 issue of O at Home Magazine. Martha Beck proclaims, "I love Christopher Lowell's Seven-Layer system, which you can learn in detail from his books and television demonstrations. But even the following highly abridged version can ease your fear of tackling a room makeover:"
Click here to download a PDF of the article.
Source: Oprah At Home
-
December 3, 2008
From House to Home: Color Courage
Are you still living with white walls? Let Christopher help you overcome your fear of color as he re-themes a living room with vibrant wall color, accent fabrics and accessories. Click here to download PDF file.
-
December 3, 2008
From House to Home: Color and Fabric
Nothing more affordably defines rooms than paint color. Add the second secret element, fabric, and see the transformation. Click here to download a PDF file.
-
December 3, 2008
From House to Home: One Table, Three Ways
Here’s an easy project showing different ways to decorate the same setting. Christopher shows three great vignettes using the same table with different accessories. Click here to download a PDF file.
-
December 3, 2008
Virtual Room Makeover Contest Winners
The results are in! Take a look at the fabulous before and after pictures of the winners of the From House to Home Virtual Room Makeover Contest. You might see some ideas for your own home.
-
December 3, 2008
From House to Home: Backyard Resort
Unlike days past, a new generation of hyper-tasking, dual-income young households are taking the “don’t fence me in” idea to a whole new level. Outdoor spaces can be a true extension of the home and can stretch your communal living area. Done right, it will also increase the value of your home.
-
December 3, 2008
From House to Home: Floating Bed
Don't feel pushed against the design wall! Design elegance around your space challenges.The floating bed is a viable option for space-challenged rooms.
-
December 3, 2008
From House to Home: The Future of Furniture
Wide open spaces and the need to and multi-task define the furniture needs of today and tomorrow. See what's in store for the future of furniture.
-
December 3, 2008
From House to Home: Quick-Fix Kitchen
In a down-turned housing economy where competition is fierce, letting a run-down kitchen remain as is will have a buyer in and out the door without even seeing the rest of the house. Simple design changes to update your home’s most important room, the KITCHEN.
However, there are a few designer tricks that can take a dated kitchen and make it presentable with a few cosmetic add-ons.
