::Surroundings:: Guide to Decorative Living, Spring 2013, is Live!!

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIJp4UPeYEA0IwTZT3351vB4GhOqGFAI4ETLUQ6r5FIp9R_zZjJKphpLwMTAM14-BkhxrkqBhdW7UC2IV8ukDBqtCuClJaGtQT-Idt21MjPpSi9SpGXyucm6kju2fs2zkRK9Qp56XJ_1A/s1600/Spring+2013+Cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIJp4UPeYEA0IwTZT3351vB4GhOqGFAI4ETLUQ6r5FIp9R_zZjJKphpLwMTAM14-BkhxrkqBhdW7UC2IV8ukDBqtCuClJaGtQT-Idt21MjPpSi9SpGXyucm6kju2fs2zkRK9Qp56XJ_1A/s640/Spring+2013+Cover.jpg" width="496" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I feel like I've fallen off the face of the planet, but I've really just been very busy putting the final touches on my latest edition of<a href="http://issuu.com/surroundings" target="_blank"> ::Surroundings:: Guide to Decorative Surroundings</a> (among other things like client work and holding my flute student's annual recital!)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiucbOCBuZ__Oj91AY7GPzAy5YWNVVxY1F7e2qW7smaVzglzhFrfKNBn3tE_y64cWgtNm24tPwnW4hmlPydQIth8AGq-KUVj6xwGsWTpw9tuSrCAeHLZ7CR7PXar90QVHy0XvfZqFiF8-g/s1600/Photoshoot+collage2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiucbOCBuZ__Oj91AY7GPzAy5YWNVVxY1F7e2qW7smaVzglzhFrfKNBn3tE_y64cWgtNm24tPwnW4hmlPydQIth8AGq-KUVj6xwGsWTpw9tuSrCAeHLZ7CR7PXar90QVHy0XvfZqFiF8-g/s1600/Photoshoot+collage2.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><br />Last month, cover photographer <a href="http://michaeljleephotography.com/www.michaeljleephotography.com/HOME.html" target="_blank">Michael J. Lee</a> and I descended on the fabulous <a href="http://artefacthome.com/" target="_blank">Artefact Home|Garden</a> in Belmont, MA and after a bit of brainstorming, came up with our plan to create the perfect look for a Spring/Summer issue that is focused around the theme of "vacation style" living. We don't need to go out of town to be on vacation, it's more a state of mind. As you can see from images taken during our photoshoot - a beautiful space was created on what is basically a sidewalk on a busy road. Magic!<br /><br />I hope you enjoy - and don't forget to send a postcard from where ever your vacation takes you! <br /><br /><code><div class="issuuembed" data-configid="1985255/2717422" style="height: 421px; width: 650px;"></div><script async="true" src="http://e.issuu.com/embed.js" type="text/javascript"></script></code> <br /><br />If you would like my help on your design project, I would love to chat with you! Please <a href="mailto:linda.m.merrill@gmail.com">email me</a>. Thanks!<a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/blogspot/EQjz" rel="alternate" type="application/rss+xml"><img alt="" src="http://www.feedburner.com/fb/images/pub/feed-icon16x16.png" style="border: 0; vertical-align: middle;" /></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/blogspot/EQjz" rel="alternate" type="application/rss+xml">Subscribe to ::Surroundings::</a>

::Surroundings:: Guide to Decorative Living, Spring 2013, is Live!!

  I feel like I've fallen off the face of the planet, but I've really just been very busy putting the final touches on my latest edi...

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::Surroundings:: Guide to Decorative Living Holiday Style 2012

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRHw049rXm2NFyCmmR4DiKGUefCFzj2945bh9PvjrYdTtp0wfiFrjjd3lbzWk2tS_y5whysJLUdhnTuKpY06-g_9SwQADzF-ooft0ITLGMqdm5icpohDgI9JSIthnd7QnhhluYkY6QD9Rm/s1600/Cover+SML.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRHw049rXm2NFyCmmR4DiKGUefCFzj2945bh9PvjrYdTtp0wfiFrjjd3lbzWk2tS_y5whysJLUdhnTuKpY06-g_9SwQADzF-ooft0ITLGMqdm5icpohDgI9JSIthnd7QnhhluYkY6QD9Rm/s1600/Cover+SML.jpeg" /></a></div><br /><br /><div><object style="height: 445px; width: 687px;"><param name="movie" value="http://static.issuu.com/webembed/viewers/style1/v2/IssuuReader.swf?mode=mini&autoFlip=true&backgroundColor=%23222222&documentId=121202215407-3374dbf9a36e4906909d1bf5518e1c82" /><param name="allowfullscreen" value="true"/><param name="menu" value="false"/><param name="wmode" value="transparent"/><embed src="http://static.issuu.com/webembed/viewers/style1/v2/IssuuReader.swf" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" menu="false" wmode="transparent" style="width:687px;height:445px" flashvars="mode=mini&autoFlip=true&backgroundColor=%23222222&documentId=121202215407-3374dbf9a36e4906909d1bf5518e1c82" /></object><div style="text-align: left; width: 687px;"><a href="http://issuu.com/surroundings/docs/surroundings_holiday_2012?mode=window&backgroundColor=%23222222" target="_blank">Open publication</a> - Free <a href="http://issuu.com/" target="_blank">publishing</a> - <a href="http://issuu.com/search?q=decorating" target="_blank">More decorating</a></div></div><br /><br />Enjoy!<br /><br /><br />If you would like my help on your design project, I would love to chat with you! Please <a href="mailto:linda.m.merrill@gmail.com">email me</a>. Thanks!<a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/blogspot/EQjz" rel="alternate" type="application/rss+xml"><img alt="" src="http://www.feedburner.com/fb/images/pub/feed-icon16x16.png" style="border: 0; vertical-align: middle;" /></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/blogspot/EQjz" rel="alternate" type="application/rss+xml">Subscribe to ::Surroundings::</a>

::Surroundings:: Guide to Decorative Living Holiday Style 2012

Open publication - Free publishing - More decorating Enjoy! If you would like my help on your design project, I would love to chat with yo...

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::Surroundings:: Magazine sneak peek!

 <br/><br/><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/chameleon-interiors/8232756510/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="aligncenter" height="841" id="blogsy-1354287850819.9233" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8477/8232756510_f2117bc3d7_b.jpg" width="650"></a></div> I've been hard at work on my new issue of <a href="http://www.surroundingsmagazine.com" target="_blank" title="">::Surroundings::</a> which will feature some great gift and decorating ideas. So, while I'm busy with that I wanted to share the cover which I am in love with! I shot this photo myself - do you recognize it? I'll unveil the entire issue and all the details on Monday. Cheers! <br/><br/> <br/><br/><div style="text-align: right; font-size: small; clear: both;" id="blogsy_footer"><a href="http://blogsyapp.com" target="_blank"><img alt="Posted with Blogsy" height="20" src="http://blogsyapp.com/images/blogsy_footer_icon.png" style="vertical-align: middle; margin-right: 5px;" width="20" />Posted with Blogsy</a></div>

::Surroundings:: Magazine sneak peek!

  I've been hard at work on my new issue of ::Surroundings:: which will feature some great gift and decorating ideas. So, while I...

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::Surroundings:: Guide to Decorative Living - Summer 2012

<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ1Xj2R3E46cYo4FOn9E7SMuXnCZ6Z3YI8o3cUdb-cTAOE1wwK2CZdSI48M83QCDvg3KnRHpbURJCharlKDTz1wTiQSHj7uzhtCaEk0ItdcOFQazhXrdYzEp1Dc9c8qgLsKuPofhmn3BIB/s1600/Surroundings+Summer+2012+cov.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ1Xj2R3E46cYo4FOn9E7SMuXnCZ6Z3YI8o3cUdb-cTAOE1wwK2CZdSI48M83QCDvg3KnRHpbURJCharlKDTz1wTiQSHj7uzhtCaEk0ItdcOFQazhXrdYzEp1Dc9c8qgLsKuPofhmn3BIB/s640/Surroundings+Summer+2012+cov.jpg" width="494" /></a></div><br />I hope you enjoy my latest issue of ::Surroundings:: I can't believe this is my eleventh issue! Thanks as always to <a href="http://michaeljleephotography.com/www.michaeljleephotography.com/HOME.html">Michael J. Lee</a> for his beautiful photography and to my generous clients who allowed me to profile their project on my pages. <br /><br /><br /><div><object style="height: 356px; width: 550px;"><param name="movie" value="http://static.issuu.com/webembed/viewers/style1/v2/IssuuReader.swf?mode=mini&autoFlip=true&backgroundColor=%23222222&documentId=120628193629-6f7334dc05804889b2704ac2a912c060" /><param name="allowfullscreen" value="true"/><param name="menu" value="false"/><param name="wmode" value="transparent"/><embed src="http://static.issuu.com/webembed/viewers/style1/v2/IssuuReader.swf" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" menu="false" wmode="transparent" style="width:550px;height:356px" flashvars="mode=mini&autoFlip=true&backgroundColor=%23222222&documentId=120628193629-6f7334dc05804889b2704ac2a912c060" /></object><div style="text-align: left; width: 550px;"><a href="http://issuu.com/surroundings/docs/surroundings_summer_2012?mode=window&backgroundColor=%23222222" target="_blank">Open publication</a> - Free <a href="http://issuu.com/" target="_blank">publishing</a> - <a href="http://issuu.com/search?q=accessories" target="_blank">More accessories</a></div></div><br /><br /><br />If you would like my help on your design project, I would love to chat with you! Please <a href="mailto:linda.m.merrill@gmail.com">email me</a>. Thanks!<a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/blogspot/EQjz" rel="alternate" type="application/rss+xml"><img alt="" src="http://www.feedburner.com/fb/images/pub/feed-icon16x16.png" style="border: 0; vertical-align: middle;" /></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/blogspot/EQjz" rel="alternate" type="application/rss+xml">Subscribe to ::Surroundings::</a>

::Surroundings:: Guide to Decorative Living - Summer 2012

I hope you enjoy my latest issue of ::Surroundings:: I can't believe this is my eleventh issue! Thanks as always to Michael J. Lee for ...

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::Surroundings:: Spring 2012 Issue is LIVE! All about antiques!

<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPEY9vsRt-LKYeqYcnAK9-LV-p2KXjEgjc0pDGDBJJ_Gnc2OKWaEuoe_4q7wTbr4joTDAH_VHTY4i7c3xdo51EvRvsU8sg0t3j_wXTZC1393awY_DIkOXdrVXFzZyVKKcMSyyZ4V_4U6eR/s1600/Surroundings+Spring+2012+covLG.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPEY9vsRt-LKYeqYcnAK9-LV-p2KXjEgjc0pDGDBJJ_Gnc2OKWaEuoe_4q7wTbr4joTDAH_VHTY4i7c3xdo51EvRvsU8sg0t3j_wXTZC1393awY_DIkOXdrVXFzZyVKKcMSyyZ4V_4U6eR/s640/Surroundings+Spring+2012+covLG.jpg" width="494" /></a></div><b><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: x-large;">T</span></b>hanks as always to <a href="http://michaeljleephotography.com/www.michaeljleephotography.com/HOME.html" target="_blank">Michael J. Lee</a> for doing such a beautiful job on the cover shot. And thanks to <a href="http://www.trianonantiques.com/" target="_blank">Trianon Antiques</a> and the <a href="http://www.pattersongroup.org/" target="_blank">Patterson Group</a> at <a href="http://bostondesign.com/" target="_blank">The Boston Design Center</a> for providing the location and furnishings. This issue is all about Antiques and Vintage finds. Check it out for a fantastic Antiques Terms Glossary with definitions of common terms provided by Trianon Antiques and <a href="http://regencyboston.net/" target="_blank">Regency Home</a>. And, I'm very excited to present an extended interview with <a href="http://antiquesdiva.com/" target="_blank">The Antiques Diva</a> herself, Toma Clark Haines where we get an inside look at her fabulous antiques buying tours across Europe. <br /><br /><br /><div><object classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" id="0911dbf2-dedb-ec63-226a-d20c3d949254" style="height: 356px; width: 550px;"><param name="movie" value="http://static.issuu.com/webembed/viewers/style1/v2/IssuuReader.swf?mode=mini&autoFlip=true&backgroundColor=%23222222&documentId=120320004107-f09b696d0b0b44df8766b7d45cd5c279" /><param name="allowfullscreen" value="true"/><param name="menu" value="false"/><param name="wmode" value="transparent"/><embed src="http://static.issuu.com/webembed/viewers/style1/v2/IssuuReader.swf" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" menu="false" wmode="transparent" style="width:550px;height:356px" flashvars="mode=mini&autoFlip=true&backgroundColor=%23222222&documentId=120320004107-f09b696d0b0b44df8766b7d45cd5c279" /></object><div style="text-align: left; width: 550px;"><a href="http://issuu.com/surroundings/docs/surroundings_spring_2012?mode=window&backgroundColor=%23222222" target="_blank">Open publication</a> - Free <a href="http://issuu.com/" target="_blank">publishing</a> - <a href="http://issuu.com/search?q=antiques" target="_blank">More antiques</a></div></div><br /><br /><br />If you would like my help on your design project, I would love to chat with you! Please <a href="mailto:linda.m.merrill@gmail.com">email me</a>. Thanks!<a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/blogspot/EQjz" rel="alternate" type="application/rss+xml"><img alt="" src="http://www.feedburner.com/fb/images/pub/feed-icon16x16.png" style="border: 0; vertical-align: middle;" /></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/blogspot/EQjz" rel="alternate" type="application/rss+xml">Subscribe to ::Surroundings::</a>

::Surroundings:: Spring 2012 Issue is LIVE! All about antiques!

T hanks as always to Michael J. Lee for doing such a beautiful job on the cover shot. And thanks to Trianon Antiques and the Patterson Gro...

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NEW ISSUE! ::Surroundings:: Guide to Decorative Living

Please enjoy my latest issue of ::Surroundings:: on Upholstery!<br /><br /><br /><div><object classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" id="e7ca41f6-76c1-ca1c-c9b6-891875f69a90" style="height: 356px; width: 550px;"><param name="movie" value="http://static.issuu.com/webembed/viewers/style1/v2/IssuuReader.swf?mode=mini&backgroundColor=%23222222&documentId=110926203342-163e0dd57e8c4dd598db2086ee0c6671" /><param name="allowfullscreen" value="true"/><param name="menu" value="false"/><param name="wmode" value="transparent"/><embed src="http://static.issuu.com/webembed/viewers/style1/v2/IssuuReader.swf" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" menu="false" wmode="transparent" style="width:550px;height:356px" flashvars="mode=mini&backgroundColor=%23222222&documentId=110926203342-163e0dd57e8c4dd598db2086ee0c6671" /></object><div style="text-align: left; width: 550px;"><a href="http://issuu.com/surroundings/docs/sep_oct_2011?mode=window&backgroundColor=%23222222" target="_blank">Open publication</a> - Free <a href="http://issuu.com/" target="_blank">publishing</a> - <a href="http://issuu.com/search?q=decor" target="_blank">More decor</a></div></div>

NEW ISSUE! ::Surroundings:: Guide to Decorative Living

Please enjoy my latest issue of ::Surroundings:: on Upholstery! Open publication - Free publishing - More decor

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My latest article on Williams-Sonoma's Designer Marketplace

My latest post for Williams-Sonoma's Designer Marketplace has just gone live and I wanted to share it with you. I wrote on the importance of using a professional photographer vs. DIY work when it comes to shooting a portfolio. So, <a href="http://www.wsidesignermarketplace.com/content/designer/design_pulse/design_blog/when_you_need_a_proforphotos.html#3">check it out</a> and let me know what you think! <br /><br />I'm currently hard at work putting the finishing touches on my next issue of <a href="http://www.surroundingsmagazine.com/">::Surroundings:: Guide to Decorative Living</a> digital magazine. The theme of this issue is Upholstered Furniture and as it happens, I'm using an image, shot by <a href="http://michaeljleephotography.com/www.michaeljleephotography.com/HOME.html">Michael J. Lee</a> that is featured on the Williams-Sonoma site, as my cover image for the magazine. Since it's been previously published, I thought I'd give you a sneak peak before the launch of the publication:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnHuITM3Hd6OLscdjEVNED3qu7zW8oLqHn4xqapDpFvLt4NhIZolov3pVDfN4ApVCLgmwlsU8SbOuEIJjKsZR3OSygcO2ls_PeQQOse8BYVnp_dtcRCFaVECLQGA7HSZIt8CArqXsExAlV/s1600/Surroundings+Sep%253AOct+2011+cov.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnHuITM3Hd6OLscdjEVNED3qu7zW8oLqHn4xqapDpFvLt4NhIZolov3pVDfN4ApVCLgmwlsU8SbOuEIJjKsZR3OSygcO2ls_PeQQOse8BYVnp_dtcRCFaVECLQGA7HSZIt8CArqXsExAlV/s640/Surroundings+Sep%253AOct+2011+cov.png" width="494" /></a></div><br />I should have the issue published early next week (fingers crossed!). This is my 8th issue and I am so honored to have the readership that I have for a relatively small and very targeted publication. So far, I've received over 72,000 readers across the first 7 issues. Not bad for a completely one-woman operation!  So, thank you!!!<br /><br /><br /><div style="background-color: #d5a6bd;">If you would like my help on your design project, I would love to chat with you! Please <a href="mailto:linda.m.merrill@gmail.com">email me</a>. Thanks!</div><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/blogspot/EQjz" rel="alternate" type="application/rss+xml"><img alt="" src="http://www.feedburner.com/fb/images/pub/feed-icon16x16.png" style="border: 0; vertical-align: middle;" /></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/blogspot/EQjz" rel="alternate" type="application/rss+xml">Subscribe to ::Surroundings::</a>

My latest article on Williams-Sonoma's Designer Marketplace

My latest post for Williams-Sonoma's Designer Marketplace has just gone live and I wanted to share it with you. I wrote on the importanc...

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I'm still here, really!

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://michaeljleephotography.com/www.michaeljleephotography.com/HOME_files/Andoverpooldawn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>I think the last two weeks went by in a total blur since I published my latest issue of my <a href="http://www.surroundingsmagazine.com./">magazine</a>. I got a lot of great feedback about the cover shot by <a href="http://michaeljleephotography.com/www.michaeljleephotography.com/HOME.html">Michael J. Lee</a> and I have to say, I enjoy looking at it myself when I'm working away in my office!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5OTf8DxwnkodQ0mH56yM5xDfVisYMa9vI1csOiZDTSIgeYdBba1s-C8nOXXSu67wpwfXmZISLLqYKUBGVMkOYHAMQjSf5uY1hfZNB8V6gxRrPZ-Nl2rUdFbV8cru45wbP2EJGDOZAqodB/s1600/Surroundings+July+Aug+2011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5OTf8DxwnkodQ0mH56yM5xDfVisYMa9vI1csOiZDTSIgeYdBba1s-C8nOXXSu67wpwfXmZISLLqYKUBGVMkOYHAMQjSf5uY1hfZNB8V6gxRrPZ-Nl2rUdFbV8cru45wbP2EJGDOZAqodB/s640/Surroundings+July+Aug+2011.jpg" width="494" /></a></div><br />Speaking of work,  I bought myself a new iMac with a gorgeous 21" screen! It is amazing. I've been working on a 13" MacBook for years. This big screen is just a whole new world!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.bit-tech.net/content_images/2009/07/how-to-make-a-mac-killer/21l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="365" src="http://images.bit-tech.net/content_images/2009/07/how-to-make-a-mac-killer/21l.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://michaeljleephotography.com/www.michaeljleephotography.com/HOME_files/Andoverpooldawn.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>There's been a bit of a work boom over the last couple of months, which is why I haven't been able to post as much here on ::Surroundings:: or over at <a href="http://www.skirtedroundtable.blogspot.com/">The Skirted Roundtable</a>. I've been thrilled with all the fun new projects, but also swamped just getting everything done! The projects range in size. I've been advising a very handy DIY young couple on the makeover of their living room, including new cabinetry and furnishings. They are just going to town and it's looking great. I'm also working on a retirement vacation home and a completely empty new construction home for a family chomping at the bit to move in. And, for the last five weeks, I was working on a family vacation beach house which included a full new kitchen, bathroom renovation, and redecoration of the rest of the first floor living spaces. I was so excited about the project, which I profiled in my last magazine issue.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ0eDNLnuk1y2-t3eA1B86tiJixMH99IcYmCv_oeRITp21gTrFNagEqR7waYVgtSqQ6p1dRr4vlNf4soUDCJodf7OGMrkrep6aKzcDQb9WxzhwfIK5GGs_2j-1OPQllPRJ53iKAvMEoroK/s1600/Project+image.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ0eDNLnuk1y2-t3eA1B86tiJixMH99IcYmCv_oeRITp21gTrFNagEqR7waYVgtSqQ6p1dRr4vlNf4soUDCJodf7OGMrkrep6aKzcDQb9WxzhwfIK5GGs_2j-1OPQllPRJ53iKAvMEoroK/s640/Project+image.png" width="494" /></a></div><br />As you may have noticed, I am speaking of the project in the past tense. Unfortunately, after getting the project about 95% designed, with hours to go before the clients were to lay down deposits for the cabinets and contractor, etc, a newly renovated beach house came on the market near them. They put in an offer and they are now under contract. And, such is the up and down nature of this business.  While I was going to be creating a fabulous new space for their enjoyment (they are only in the States for 2 months each summer) our plans couldn't give them the 4th bedroom and 2nd full bathroom they really needed. And the new house did that and more. I can't blame them, it's just fate and timing. I was compensated well for the design and planning phase. But, aside from compensation, I am just sad that I won't see the plan come to life. They may need help with decorating in their new house, but it won't need the scope of work this current house did and besides, they are gone until next year. So, story to be continued on that score, I guess.  More time for the other clients!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8juEDej6b2r3ANnJL7I8TRYkF52DM4hjWzyCiEjulZS2ajBrNdBMgf05aYtJuPGVqlMgobXTfYMdjo0uzlJcQ_S99fXadp4evA9j8c7jD04EgizUSFtIJIOomw4AJqwk2cgZ1N6dYqC84/s1600/photo-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8juEDej6b2r3ANnJL7I8TRYkF52DM4hjWzyCiEjulZS2ajBrNdBMgf05aYtJuPGVqlMgobXTfYMdjo0uzlJcQ_S99fXadp4evA9j8c7jD04EgizUSFtIJIOomw4AJqwk2cgZ1N6dYqC84/s640/photo-1.jpg" width="523" /></a></div>On a fun note, I went to a Craig Ferguson show last week in Boston. He's the host of the Late Late Show, which comes on after David Letterman (yes, I am a night owl). I'll admit to a total school-girl crush on Craig - he's tall, handsome, talented, intelligent, funny - and has a fantastic Scottish accent. Swoon. I was sitting right at the apron of the stage on the front row. He had just walked out on stage and someone thrust a copy of one of his books at him to sign. He graciously did so, but then read his inscription out loud, which said something like "Dear Mary, Please don't ever interrupt me when I'm doing my show again. Love, Craig".  Last week he broadcast a week of shows he shot in Paris - which included funny bits like sliding on the parquet floors in the Hall of Mirrors at Versailles and smart bits like the social customs of life in King Louis' court. I could go on and on and... le sigh.<br /><br />I also wanted to share some links to articles I've written and been quoted in recently. I was interviewed for an article about wall-to-wall carpeting by an AP reporter that has showed up in many different publications, which you can see <a href="http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&biw=1575&bih=910&q=Carpet%2C+the+Bolder+the+Better%2C+Makes+a+Comeback++linda+merrill&btnG=Search&oq=Carpet%2C+the+Bolder+the+Better%2C+Makes+a+Comeback++linda+merrill&aq=f&aqi=&aql=&gs_sm=s&gs_upl=6147l11309l0l14416l28l24l1l17l0l3l319l1080l0.4.1.1l6l0">here</a>. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT69skAahNietPQYqpDJHSUD3TLxlSFEbQ3xtXQVQAmUCv1AYu1kUYiAV3DXtGEH9h1huQ28IMsWBmVl4IIduAt9D77KjJzKj6xI5mPitUoyP4Eq901JsvfVglOd_sjgUT5QNkfqKUCLft/s1600/Carpet+Article.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="311" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT69skAahNietPQYqpDJHSUD3TLxlSFEbQ3xtXQVQAmUCv1AYu1kUYiAV3DXtGEH9h1huQ28IMsWBmVl4IIduAt9D77KjJzKj6xI5mPitUoyP4Eq901JsvfVglOd_sjgUT5QNkfqKUCLft/s400/Carpet+Article.png" width="400" /></a></div><br />And have been writing posts for <a href="http://www.wsidesignermarketplace.com/content/designer.html">Williams Sonoma's Designer Marketplace</a> blog.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.wsidesignermarketplace.com/content/dam/designer/global/DM_logo_Main-01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="46" src="http://www.wsidesignermarketplace.com/content/dam/designer/global/DM_logo_Main-01.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />They have also featured posts by Tobie Fairly, Jay Johnson, Melissa Michaels and Robin Callan. You can see the list of all the great posts about the interior design biz <a href="http://www.wsidesignermarketplace.com/content/designer/design_pulse/design_blog.html">here</a>. And my most recent article is called <a href="http://www.wsidesignermarketplace.com/content/designer/design_pulse/design_blog/design_trade_showswhichonesareworthit.html">"Design Trade Shows, Which Ones Are Worth It"</a><br /><br />I wrote a recent article called<a href="http://www.networx.com/article/setting-a-table-like-a-designer"> Setting a Table Like A Design Pro</a> which you can see over at Networx. There is also an article on <a href="http://www.networx.com/article/designer-picks-light-fixtures-inspired">Light Fixtures Inspired by Nature</a> which you might enjoy as well.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://gallery.me.com/ldolnick/101491/110718_Chris_Eckert_GHK_KOTY_248/web.jpg?ver=13123083170001" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://gallery.me.com/ldolnick/101491/110718_Chris_Eckert_GHK_KOTY_248/web.jpg?ver=13123083170001" width="400" /></a></div><br />Shortly to come this week is an insider's view on House Beautiful's Kitchen of the Year by my regular contributor Lori Dolnick. Post to come in a day or so.  <br /><br />Okay, that's it for the moment. How are you doing? Vacation plans? I have nothing planned in August, aside from a few birthday celebrations strewn throughout the month.<br /><br /><br /><br /><div style="background-color: #d5a6bd;">If you would like my help on your design project, I would love to chat with you! Please <a href="mailto:linda.m.merrill@gmail.com">email me</a>. Thanks!</div><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/blogspot/EQjz" rel="alternate" type="application/rss+xml"><img alt="" src="http://www.feedburner.com/fb/images/pub/feed-icon16x16.png" style="border: 0; vertical-align: middle;" /></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/blogspot/EQjz" rel="alternate" type="application/rss+xml">Subscribe to ::Surroundings::</a>

I'm still here, really!

I think the last two weeks went by in a total blur since I published my latest issue of my magazine . I got a lot of great feedback about th...

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::Surroundings:: digital magazine - latest issue on Outdoor Living!

<div><embed align="middle" allowfullscreen="true" flashvars="mode=embed&layout=http%3A%2F%2Fskin.issuu.com%2Fv%2Flight%2Flayout.xml&showFlipBtn=true&autoFlip=true&autoFlipTime=6000&documentId=110725032700-4da1f9a29cce43bfb2eeff6a22ec1826&docName=surroundings_july_aug_2011&username=Surroundings&loadingInfoText=%3A%3ASurroundings%3A%3A%20Guide%20To%20Decorative%20Living%20-%20Jul%2FAug%202011&et=1311604134949&er=11" menu="false" name="flashticker" quality="high" salign="l" scale="noscale" src="http://static.issuu.com/webembed/viewers/style1/v1/IssuuViewer.swf" style="height: 272px; width: 420px;" type="application/x-shockwave-flash"></embed><br /><div style="text-align: left; width: 420px;"><a href="http://issuu.com/Surroundings/docs/surroundings_july_aug_2011?mode=embed&layout=http%3A%2F%2Fskin.issuu.com%2Fv%2Flight%2Flayout.xml&showFlipBtn=true&autoFlip=true&autoFlipTime=6000" target="_blank">Open publication</a> - Free <a href="http://issuu.com/" target="_blank">publishing</a> - <a href="http://issuu.com/search?q=decorating" target="_blank">More decorating</a></div></div><br />The latest issue of my digital magazine is all about outdoor living. A big thanks to photographer <a href="http://michaeljleephotography.com/www.michaeljleephotography.com/HOME.html">Michael J. Lee</a> for once again shooting a beautiful cover shot!  If you haven't checked out Michael's <a href="http://michaeljleephotography.com/www.michaeljleephotography.com/PORTFOLIO/PORTFOLIO.html">portfolio</a>, you should!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAHwjxAMRiB9hiPWFD48EMMGnAp2XQKDxxYejLaSJnY-i0kbdWR5GXqr44XnfeZxPsrNPsxIIlMjITLFhNtG8jzPviqH0S-i3etAUJ445D6RuniZ1aTZQcRFpjf_j9GrTFnvlY9oy31cUf/s1600/Surroundings+July+Aug+2011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAHwjxAMRiB9hiPWFD48EMMGnAp2XQKDxxYejLaSJnY-i0kbdWR5GXqr44XnfeZxPsrNPsxIIlMjITLFhNtG8jzPviqH0S-i3etAUJ445D6RuniZ1aTZQcRFpjf_j9GrTFnvlY9oy31cUf/s640/Surroundings+July+Aug+2011.jpg" width="492" /></a></div><br />Also, a big thanks to Peter Levis, owner of<a href="http://bggalleries.com/"> BG Galleries </a>(BG = Beyond Gorgeosity) in Hingham, MA for working with Michael and I to produce our cover shot. Peter's shop is at the Hingham Shipyard and we thought the location was perfect for capturing an outdoor "moment". While the "Spinnaker" chair is not usually considered outdoor furniture, it certainly captures the essence of taking a moment to relax and unwind. Check out Page 2 of the magazine for more about BG Galleries (and their amazing mid-century finds!) and the photoshoot.<br /><br />Here are some behind the camera shots. The vignette was set up right at the edge of the dock, beyond the safety fence. Below is Michael filling the beer glass as I nervously looked on. All I could imagine was the beer sloshing on 1) Michael's iPhone also on the table and 2) the beautiful white leather of the Spinnaker chair! Luckily, he has a steady hand! <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioSwrRLsvQXhBSkyeoZy5p92DYYOQN-GRbuc6Opj_L-kAoXq7I7BRwriqR342dmqrgi1xOpVS3xyEooOVSOWupzrppgC4LY9a5QvXcBzjOd8wTk4tgInu00Qb9k6mhyphenhyphenDmckHobUppKQkBh/s1600/DSCN5160.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioSwrRLsvQXhBSkyeoZy5p92DYYOQN-GRbuc6Opj_L-kAoXq7I7BRwriqR342dmqrgi1xOpVS3xyEooOVSOWupzrppgC4LY9a5QvXcBzjOd8wTk4tgInu00Qb9k6mhyphenhyphenDmckHobUppKQkBh/s640/DSCN5160.JPG" width="600" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This is Peter Levis' shot of Michael shooting the vignette. It was a hot but beautiful late afternoon at the Shipyard! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1mEKXD36r26eCbD9reUnFftbS9SrjZM63GzXNAHg4Ne2b7p93_GN7gMaRD7FmIN1_kRH9LZ7lhopf3jbIS7lVPpXZDJSsYw37qIzGZUSjdzTYoquoOVa1JgfdbPUJsrg62RL4r3DrRkHn/s1600/IMG_0403.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1mEKXD36r26eCbD9reUnFftbS9SrjZM63GzXNAHg4Ne2b7p93_GN7gMaRD7FmIN1_kRH9LZ7lhopf3jbIS7lVPpXZDJSsYw37qIzGZUSjdzTYoquoOVa1JgfdbPUJsrg62RL4r3DrRkHn/s1600/IMG_0403.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">If you want to view the magazine as a PDF, or print it, go <a href="http://issuu.com/surroundings/docs/surroundings_july_aug_2011">here</a>  and click the print button (see below).</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://issuu.com/surroundings/docs/surroundings_july_aug_2011"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGdfpn8ZzmPUyDuIzVdZ1NXG3Ux1s3eWfYjjgD8lt6TZNn5XKMYD2qxjsjArqkTO_2Mwa9DTrgNFgBVMPjGqKUKtYFRRi7TvpcIyQdukPGhlHbDE03VE2VGz7aw8qVnWqw20VuA17OxUlk/s640/%253A%253ASurroundings%253A%253A+July%253AAugust+2011_1311606389518.png" width="561" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I've been a bit awol from the blog recently and I apologize for the lack of posts, and more for not visiting and commenting on some of my favorite blogs!  I've been swamped with design work (yay!) and have been trying to get everything done.  I've been busy setting business goals as well and working to improve my productivity. I'm currently looking at different office spaces and will be looking for a part time assistant, which would be heaven! I just bought a new iMac computer last week that has a 21" screen (the laptop was getting a bit much) and a fast processor. Working at the speed of light.  </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So, now that the magazine is out the door, I can (hopefully) get back to more regular blogging. Meanwhile, big client meeting tomorrow (there's a sneak peak in the magazine on this exciting project). So, am off to prepare. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Have a great day!</div><br /><br /><br /><div style="background-color: #d5a6bd;">If you would like my help on your design project, I would love to chat with you! Please <a href="mailto:linda.m.merrill@gmail.com">email me</a>. Thanks!</div><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/blogspot/EQjz" rel="alternate" type="application/rss+xml"><img alt="" src="http://www.feedburner.com/fb/images/pub/feed-icon16x16.png" style="border: 0; vertical-align: middle;" /></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/blogspot/EQjz" rel="alternate" type="application/rss+xml">Subscribe to ::Surroundings::</a>

::Surroundings:: digital magazine - latest issue on Outdoor Living!

Open publication - Free publishing - More decorating The latest issue of my digital magazine is all about outdoor living. A big thanks to ...

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::Surroundings:: magazine: Behind the Cover Shoot of our new issue!

<div><embed align="middle" allowfullscreen="true" flashvars="mode=embed&layout=http%3A%2F%2Fskin.issuu.com%2Fv%2Flight%2Flayout.xml&showFlipBtn=true&documentId=110512153615-81c2ed80509c4f0a94f2c8abd3eabbd2&docName=surroundings_may_june_2011&username=Surroundings&loadingInfoText=%3A%3ASurroundings%3A%3A%20Guide%20May%2FJune%202011&et=1305307479896&er=47" menu="false" name="flashticker" quality="high" salign="l" scale="noscale" src="http://static.issuu.com/webembed/viewers/style1/v1/IssuuViewer.swf" style="height: 272px; width: 420px;" type="application/x-shockwave-flash"></embed><br /><div style="text-align: left; width: 420px;"><a href="http://issuu.com/Surroundings/docs/surroundings_may_june_2011?mode=embed&layout=http%3A%2F%2Fskin.issuu.com%2Fv%2Flight%2Flayout.xml&showFlipBtn=true" target="_blank">Open publication</a> - Free <a href="http://issuu.com/" target="_blank">publishing</a> - <a href="http://issuu.com/search?q=furniture" target="_blank">More furniture</a></div></div><br /><br />I've just published my latest issue of my digital magazine <a href="http://issuu.com/surroundings/docs/surroundings_may_june_2011?viewMode=magazine">::Surrounings:: Guide to Decorative Living</a> and wanted to share the back story of the cover photo, styled by me and shot by <a href="http://michaeljleephotography.com/www.michaeljleephotography.com/HOME.html">Michael J. Lee</a>. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsGwCkg16gdyVmfevRA8xrb5gADtKGltJFvOfzOqReo-QT4AJYEKmxECl94FuUXjNLazY6yB-Ge1jYXjMMVHEKcr8xo9ihVo_WtFew8D4a4aUtCfPiRatHR29vzfYAQwNKabVtVcL6HSwW/s1600/Surroundings+May+June+2011cover.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsGwCkg16gdyVmfevRA8xrb5gADtKGltJFvOfzOqReo-QT4AJYEKmxECl94FuUXjNLazY6yB-Ge1jYXjMMVHEKcr8xo9ihVo_WtFew8D4a4aUtCfPiRatHR29vzfYAQwNKabVtVcL6HSwW/s640/Surroundings+May+June+2011cover.jpg" width="494" /></a></div><br /> As we did with the last issue, the cover shot was done in a design showroom. This time, we took over <a href="http://www.thecabinetry.net/">The Cabinetry Kitchen and Bath Studio</a> which is located in Hingham, MA.  I took some scouting shots to start the planning process of figuring out which of their beautiful kitchen set ups would work as the backdrop of the cover shot.  I sent the pics to Michael as well. I was leaning towards the white kitchen wall below because it seemed so classic. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh38dnlW75H5amc6FXkP0DyF9ynSGTqPyPBNfoqpqniv3Ing-hs0iwu7fPSZcbFFNpP-g_UIRoSfl89jtxXlwBISkdg4d6jPeKxyMyJBGzfP1BAG5mIuHwJAKk7OH75SGYy2IPygzCu3azk/s1600/DSCN4723.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh38dnlW75H5amc6FXkP0DyF9ynSGTqPyPBNfoqpqniv3Ing-hs0iwu7fPSZcbFFNpP-g_UIRoSfl89jtxXlwBISkdg4d6jPeKxyMyJBGzfP1BAG5mIuHwJAKk7OH75SGYy2IPygzCu3azk/s320/DSCN4723.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />From the images I sent him, Michael liked this one for the cross windows and vent-hood and that it was a stove set up, plus we thought we could use the butcher block island as a table for the foreground.  <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSZBFlfmhAYYarYlDZuMOZYAhE6Q-hGU-XCbRxRM4ehES4rItmU7HBsGGk_JbZes33xDI2_4W4BdvlduhfcjsZxLn8YjN-uWSgmI5bn_rk5RABlWZZIGcXpc4povKVWYl-LX7HcUxU7ERZ/s1600/DSCN4722.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSZBFlfmhAYYarYlDZuMOZYAhE6Q-hGU-XCbRxRM4ehES4rItmU7HBsGGk_JbZes33xDI2_4W4BdvlduhfcjsZxLn8YjN-uWSgmI5bn_rk5RABlWZZIGcXpc4povKVWYl-LX7HcUxU7ERZ/s400/DSCN4722.JPG" width="287" /></a></div><br />My personal favorite was this sink and bead board cabinet set up. I liked that it had natural light coming from windows on the left, but was concerned that the gray paint would be too dull for a spring photograph. Never underestimate the power of Michael and his camera to make magic!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgboZxJF7nmH3c5sInXeZ8zo3Z78zugVc8pJ1suN7Pth5xOkDmu2kenCNvHrFvof9oYoeuBsSol2inArvYzX3IM4LHD9Ay7NnXlaUCocLvj_tvYZxxG2JPLLG0xSMTlNZcot4Uzg28f1E12/s1600/DSCN4785.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgboZxJF7nmH3c5sInXeZ8zo3Z78zugVc8pJ1suN7Pth5xOkDmu2kenCNvHrFvof9oYoeuBsSol2inArvYzX3IM4LHD9Ay7NnXlaUCocLvj_tvYZxxG2JPLLG0xSMTlNZcot4Uzg28f1E12/s400/DSCN4785.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /> Here's a shot of the big room in the design studio with all our stuff piled about. Luckily, The Cabinetry was closed on Monday (yes, we shot the cover only four days ago!) so we had it completely to ourselves. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikIbgwbj_Nlbc5m9UPyT8gKvbShbaFaO3pOk91tQY1ODxEQ2fqeNOM9-I3E8JVrixGtHTv16RVWWyR8V9kx4maqVmBwmUSTS9U0pD9-DPy1D763hzC9xZ1wlxjgt6r1f_rLk5stiTKED7Y/s1600/DSCN4747.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikIbgwbj_Nlbc5m9UPyT8gKvbShbaFaO3pOk91tQY1ODxEQ2fqeNOM9-I3E8JVrixGtHTv16RVWWyR8V9kx4maqVmBwmUSTS9U0pD9-DPy1D763hzC9xZ1wlxjgt6r1f_rLk5stiTKED7Y/s400/DSCN4747.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsGwCkg16gdyVmfevRA8xrb5gADtKGltJFvOfzOqReo-QT4AJYEKmxECl94FuUXjNLazY6yB-Ge1jYXjMMVHEKcr8xo9ihVo_WtFew8D4a4aUtCfPiRatHR29vzfYAQwNKabVtVcL6HSwW/s1600/Surroundings+May+June+2011cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>My "story" for the shot was an indoor lobster bake with a table set up in the foreground and the kitchen in soft-focus in the background. Since I didn't design the kitchen, I wanted to focus more on the styling with the kitchen itself as a backdrop. I borrowed a some pieces of blue patterned Portuguese pottery from a friend who has a large collection and I had the red/white mini-check table cloth and toile napkins. So, the red and blue color palette was set.  We borrowed the<a href="http://dunesandduchess.com/"> Dunes and Duchess 4-arm Chandelier</a> which I thought would add a unique touch to the look.  I didn't want things to be too "July 4th" since this is the May/June issue, so we skewed the accessories towards a more vintage look. <br /><br />So, when Michael and I got to the showroom on Monday morning, many bags and boiled lobsters in hand, we hadn't actually finalized our shot selection. Ultimately, we did decide to go with the Medallion Cabinet set up which required us to squeeze a very, very heavy table into the room.  The problem was that the room simply wasn't big enough to accommodate the table set up and the camera. Of course, as the designer, I look at the photographer and said "well, that's your dilemma". <br /><br />As you'll see below, Michael set up the camera outside the room, in a hallway, effectively shooting through two doorways. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG9Ag7aW69kVOfA2DzgO0AbIV3zAv53UlgRr045nzdI69vq7WR1wdKEIO_Qw7t5uZDqY_O7P5C5T8YNxYe0Uo6NaEWMFoySsZxMmlBRwB3NR3nb5Pt2gxzsE8agO6SpsiYczqrY8t2mwBY/s1600/DSCN4771.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG9Ag7aW69kVOfA2DzgO0AbIV3zAv53UlgRr045nzdI69vq7WR1wdKEIO_Qw7t5uZDqY_O7P5C5T8YNxYe0Uo6NaEWMFoySsZxMmlBRwB3NR3nb5Pt2gxzsE8agO6SpsiYczqrY8t2mwBY/s640/DSCN4771.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPZ9FjsLSfCyGFG6Cafqh1ODwVkjCdfuBjGiVrzdeOBfFHa2Dn8sKrAQWv8DROthklah88aDe_rU1rpg_p08-loZ2XNxqcOlLqVgn6ZH6uBSLDnjHTNWfU2oPjqc2Xb4gNdvRslr5QdkQV/s1600/DSCN4772.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPZ9FjsLSfCyGFG6Cafqh1ODwVkjCdfuBjGiVrzdeOBfFHa2Dn8sKrAQWv8DROthklah88aDe_rU1rpg_p08-loZ2XNxqcOlLqVgn6ZH6uBSLDnjHTNWfU2oPjqc2Xb4gNdvRslr5QdkQV/s640/DSCN4772.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br />Another issue was that the side cabinets were not the same color as the central cabinets, which looks fine in a showroom setting, but wouldn't have worked as well in a tight shot. Plus, the Dunes & Duchess candelabra wouldn't stand out the way we wanted it to. So, with the power of photoshop, Michael was able to "paint" the left hand cabinet to match the lower cabinets. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUoCXm15JqBlerc78_wkhQ_-0RIRhx5isqrKSVT-3gW2w9o9vO88Fm3xWPTkCCv4gaVC1fHqcm7k46yjES2pMiabMo8MIdzQhR5eIiVCRK0JFe7MZGIXiBiK1L5EbyOkoUTft4w4Tbi-Wp/s1600/DSCN4788.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUoCXm15JqBlerc78_wkhQ_-0RIRhx5isqrKSVT-3gW2w9o9vO88Fm3xWPTkCCv4gaVC1fHqcm7k46yjES2pMiabMo8MIdzQhR5eIiVCRK0JFe7MZGIXiBiK1L5EbyOkoUTft4w4Tbi-Wp/s640/DSCN4788.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br /><br />And the final outcome... <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkHobh2WUd4pi07dG_wWVQSugqNranPx4KzpUn04RvYjuxurQoiGlQ1gHuExc4FGYlaCC-4jfvlN0daD7a_2wF9pAyYg_uv9LNcEWc6ddb7NMD91S428hbQwtjdg8WK-UNiDkeQ3QY7sck/s1600/SurroundingsKitchenCover72dpi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkHobh2WUd4pi07dG_wWVQSugqNranPx4KzpUn04RvYjuxurQoiGlQ1gHuExc4FGYlaCC-4jfvlN0daD7a_2wF9pAyYg_uv9LNcEWc6ddb7NMD91S428hbQwtjdg8WK-UNiDkeQ3QY7sck/s640/SurroundingsKitchenCover72dpi.jpg" width="494" /></a></div><br />Thanks again to <a href="http://michaeljleephotography.com/www.michaeljleephotography.com/HOME.html">Michael Lee</a> for his beautiful photography and to Marlene Ketchen at <a href="http://www.thecabinetry.net/">The Cabinetry</a>!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsGwCkg16gdyVmfevRA8xrb5gADtKGltJFvOfzOqReo-QT4AJYEKmxECl94FuUXjNLazY6yB-Ge1jYXjMMVHEKcr8xo9ihVo_WtFew8D4a4aUtCfPiRatHR29vzfYAQwNKabVtVcL6HSwW/s1600/Surroundings+May+June+2011cover.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>Also,<a href="http://michaeljleephotography.blogspot.com/2011/05/linda-merrill-and-i-entered-cabinetry.html?spref=fb"> check out Michael's blog</a> for his take on the photoshoot! <br /><br /><div style="background-color: #d5a6bd;">If you would like my help on your design project, I would love to chat with you! Please <a href="mailto:linda.m.merrill@gmail.com">email me</a>. Thanks!</div><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/40/61AD69B5456EE9E48D48218DA34439B1.png" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; border: 0pt none ! important;" /></a> <br /><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/blogspot/EQjz" rel="alternate" type="application/rss+xml"><img alt="" src="http://www.feedburner.com/fb/images/pub/feed-icon16x16.png" style="border: 0pt none; vertical-align: middle;" /></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/blogspot/EQjz" rel="alternate" type="application/rss+xml">Subscribe to ::Surroundings::</a>

::Surroundings:: magazine: Behind the Cover Shoot of our new issue!

Open publication - Free publishing - More furniture I've just published my latest issue of my digital magazine ::Surrounings:: Guide t...

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