What Happens if You Have a Flood in Your Home?

You have decided to do a little renovating.  After much deliberation, you have finally decided on new tile and new carpeting. Your painter has been scheduled to do the finish work, and you are ready for the individual contractors to show up.

Monday: The first thing on the agenda is to change out the tile floor in the master bathroom, which is upstairs. All is going well and looking good and the first day ends without a hitch.

You are on your way out for dinner when you notice that your washing machine is overflowing. This has absolutely nothing to do with anything that’s going on in the master bathroom. You immediately start putting down towels and rugs to soak up the water and then place a phone call to the plumber. He returns the phone call almost as soon as you hang up and tells you he’ll be at the house first thing in the morning. It’s always good to have a plumber with whom you have a personal relationship.

Tuesday: Early morning the tile man shows up and so does the plumber. The tile man goes about his business and the plumber snakes out the lines from the washing machine.

The plumber leaves and everything is working just fine.

Two hours later there is a flood in the family room, downstairs, just beneath the master bathroom. What happened? And where is the water turnoff? And call the plumber again, but now it’s definitely an emergency. Call the service emergency response team.

The plumber discovered that the tile man, while preparing the flooring for the new tile, had hammered a nail into the new floor board. No one could know that the original plumbing had been installed so close to the floor board that the nail pierced a hole in the pipe, thus creating a flood into the family room downstairs.

The emergency crew showed up and set up fans and heaters and checked the ceiling and the wall for damage. The rug had been soaked and was immediately taken for dry cleaning. No one counted how many fans were on, but the noise was deafening. We got through Tuesday. The tile man finished the job on Wednesday.

Thursday: As originally scheduled, the new carpets arrived on Thursday morning with two installers, who began their work. Everything was moving along smoothly, until the owner of the home began to get some laundry done. The laundry room is adjacent to a small bathroom, and as she glanced into the bathroom, she panicked. The toilet was overflowing with black water. Once this was happening in this bathroom, she ran to check the powder room. Another shriek! The toilet in the powder room was also overflowing with black water. So, back to square one! Call the plumber, and call the service emergency response team.

The plumber arrived in no time at all and cleaned up the mess from the toilets. The emergency service team arrived with more fans and more heaters, and needless to say, much more noise.

There are additional precautions to be taken because of the bacteria in the water. The floors had to be replaced; wall coverings had to be replaced; the walls and floors in adjacent rooms were checked for water damage.

During the next two weeks the emergency service people would arrive daily to inspect the areas near the bathrooms and would check on the efficiency of their equipment. The ceiling in the family room was opened up to make sure there was no mold or mildew in the ceiling, thus creating the need to refinish the ceiling and paint the entire family room.

The insurance policy, fortunately, covered the costs of replacing the wood floors, and new wall coverings in the bathrooms. At this point, the owners decided to install a new sink and up-to-date cabinetry. New wood floors meant new baseboards; new paint, and even though some of the walls had not been damaged, fresh paint had to be applied to match the newly painted walls.

Water damage in a home is a major nuisance. Making arrangements to move all the furniture out of the rooms and storing all the “stuff”, replacing the furnishings and re-hanging artwork, photographs, etc., is a major job.

In looking back, and after all the hard work has been handled, the house looks beautiful and fresh. This is also a good time to make changes to your home, such as changing out wall coverings, purchasing new artwork and/or moving photographs around; changing carpeting, tile, and wood floors. Of course, if the insurance company does not cover all of this, it’s up to the homeowner to take care of the added expense.

Here are a couple of hints: If you are having a new sink and cabinet installed, please make sure the cabinet has enough room to come into the bathroom in one piece. You always think that the contractor knows what he is doing, and will supply the correct measurements to the cabinet maker. That is not always the case. In this case, the cabinet maker was called in during the installation to disassemble the cabinet, and then reassemble it in the bathroom.

Do not have the cabinet maker drill the holes for the hardware until he has the pulls in his hands. You may think that they should be placed midway on the drawers, but you may be mistaken and also disappointed.

Also, the faucet and the sink should be properly measured before the area is delineated and cut into the granite or marble, or whatever landscape you will be using. It is important to be able to manipulate the faucet without it hitting the back wall, whether it’s granite, marble, tile or mirror.

At the time of the original damage, you simply want to run away from home. But, in the end, you have a lovely new home. Enjoy.

Myrna Simon, Designer
Alicia Friedmann Interior Design

Contemporary Beverly Hills Home

Entryway - Custom designed and colored silk and wool rug from Nepal; beautiful console table with a floating glass top, by Century Furniture, and embellished with beautiful bronze candlesticks by Sculptor Tom Corbin, and original glass centerpiece by Salvatore Pollizzi.

Dining Room Window - Custom built cherry wood console table with extra shelf, which is the same width as the window (86”). The cherry wood finish matched the dining room set in the room. Notice how the outside landscaping feels as though the hillside is in the house. Beautiful accessories accentuate the table with objects from Michael Aram, Kosta Boda, and independent artists. The window was topped with a pale green cornice box to add more illusion of the outside coming in.

Corner of the Living Room – Cozy corner of the living room, accentuating the custom built coffee table by Century Furniture. Accessories include Kosta Boda vases; a coffee table book of Tom Corbin’s works and signature pieces by Jonathan Adler. The colors in the accent pillow complement the design of the area rug and the artwork.  

Kitchen - The kitchen was a delightful job for designers. The pattern of the  3-colored horizontal tile was designed by AFID, using Ann Sachs tile. Imagine a picture window over the kitchen sink overlooking the landscaped hillside, giving one the illusion again, of being able to touch the flowers.

French Kitchen

This kitchen was designed with the South of France in mind.  Bright white cabinets and tile,  with mustard colored walls and Roman shades, and raspberry colored island. Note the limestone floors and Italian chandelier. The custom-built wrought iron cafe table, is located at the bay windows, in the addition to the original kitchen. Authentic Pierre Deux fabrics from France were used on the bar stools to give the kitchen some French flair.

The banquette was designed to accommodate 8 people at the table, and was built for storage beneath the seats. Again, the same Pierre Deux fabrics appear on the banquette to match the bar stools, and the wrought iron on the base of the custom-shaped dinner table is the same as on the cafe table. Pierre Deux chairs add the finishing touch to this ensemble.  

Formal Living Room

This formal living room was designed to accommodate a large seating group in a comfortable setting. It features antique furniture, a Baker coffee table, Chinoisserie accessories and lamp as well as many of the family's cherished collectibles and framed family photographs. The back of the room is designed with floor to ceiling mirrors and two Bombe chests flanking both sides of the fireplace. The draperies were created with swags covering a self fabric rod.

HEALTH & HAPPINESS - How Color Can Affect Your Mood

HEALTH & HAPPINESS – How Color Can Affect Your Mood

By Myrna Simon, Designer
June 2010

Can you imagine starting every day with a smile? Picture this: Your room is painted a pale peach color. The draperies are a lush peachy color as well, and the bedding is very calming. It’s tranquil and very pleasant. The wallcovering in the bathroom complements the peach color, incorporating a lovely beige and off-white neutral. The artwork in both the bedroom and bathroom also take on accent colors like peach, pale yellow and a hint of aqua. The stained gold colored frames finish the punch to perfection. The colors embrace you. This color scheme is also very comfortable for men. It’s not pink and doesn’t scream feminine.

The coffee has already begun brewing and the aroma in the house is delicious, all this and it’s only 7:00 a.m. You love walking into the kitchen. The walls are yellow-mustard and the upholstery is a French cotton red. Very warm and inviting, and very French Provence. Or, your kitchen is more on the contemporary side, with apricot walls and neutral upholstery. Whatever it is, you love it. A happy person is usually in a good mood. This is very healthy.

Have you ever thought about what colors make you feel good? Perhaps you just went shopping and found the perfect little black dress; or you drive around in a fabulous little red car; and your kitchen is a very happy yellow. What do these colors say about you? Why did you select black, red, and yellow? Of course, colors don’t actually talk; however, they do evoke certain feelings within each of us. Read on to learn some fascinating facts on color and how they can actually affect our mood. Why is that?

You are now planning on doing some painting in your home, and you would like to create a feeling of warmth in the room. You would then select warm colors of reds, oranges and yellows, which are exciting and cheerful, and give the effect of liveliness and activity. By the way, these colors are important to use if your room has a northern exposure or little sun. By using yellow, you can warm up a dark, gloomy room with very little light; yet using yellow in a very sunny room will result in glare.

Cool colors, such as blues, greens and blue-greens communicate a restful, soothing and quiet environment. Although it’s easy to sit back and relax in a cool room, too much cool color can create a somber, almost depressing atmosphere.

You can alter your mood and the entire mood of a room by simply changing the color scheme. A traditional living room with off-white walls and furniture, rugs and draperies in shades of deep blue will come across as formal in appearance. Give the same formal room a warmer, more inviting look by selecting an off-white, yellow and apricot color scheme.

Color and your personality: - color can play a major role in reflecting one’s personality. Warm, earthy colors are rugged and casual. Pastels, like pinks, yellows, blues and lavenders are soft and delicate. Bright yellow and reds are extrovert colors. Yellow is the most cheerful and brightest of colors, and red is highly stimulating and exciting. Nature lovers and people enjoying leadership lean toward green. Shades of blue are the choice of tranquil and serene people. Color is a personal choice and should compliment you.

Let’s talk about the colors you might consider, and which should keep your blood pressure in check. Be mindful also, that the effect of color on one person may not always be the same on another. We each have our own personality. Colors that seem to annoy you can definitely affect your health. Walk through your home and sit in your rooms. You may surprise yourself. All it takes is a coat of paint to perk you up.

For example, have you ever experienced a major, early morning headache after you’ve used the washroom? Could it be that you’re waking up in a red bedroom? Perhaps your bathroom is predominantly green or yellow? These tones will definitely affect the color of your skin. If you are applying your make-up in this room, green and/or yellow will give you a false sense of color and not too complimentary, I might add.

On another note, sage green has become a very acceptable soothing neutral shade. It’s a very comforting color and works well with so many different palates. As I mentioned earlier, peach is most relaxing, to both men and women.

Color has a tendency to be quite emotional. One person may feel so cozy in a room painted in a warm dark blue color scheme; the second person may feel claustrophobic. Can you recall if certain rooms ever made you feel happy? sad? nervous? lazy? energetic?

Selecting colors for your home is so personal that for some couples one of the most major decisions is deciding which color scheme they can both live with. I would urge everyone to be true to themselves about the colors they are selecting. Colors are introduced yearly as “the color of the year.” Do not be caught up in following the trends if the color is not necessarily to your liking. It’s like clothing, one year the hems are up, the next year the hems are down. I would advise you to wear the clothing that feels comfortable and is becoming to you.

I hope you’ve enjoyed my little tidbits of information. Let me know if I can be of further assistance as you proceed with updating your homes. Adding color to your home will make you feel good; it will put a smile on your face! Splendid!

Myrna Simon, Designer
Alicia Friedmann Interior Design
myrna@aliciafriedmann.com
562-286-4353

HEALTH & HAPPINESS - To Clutter or De-Clutter, That is the Question....

HEALTH & HAPPINESS – To Clutter or De-Clutter, That Is the Question….
By Myrna Simon, Designer
Alicia Friedmann Interior Design

July 2010

Isn’t it interesting how the simplest things in life can give you the greatest joy? Just imagine a kitten unrolling a ball of yarn; a baby’s first giggle; last year’s orchid bursting with new blooms. How about being greeted by a sparkling kitchen first thing in the morning, or a very organized office? You get the picture.

And, contrary to the good feelings, what are those little things in life that make you feel depressed, anxious and all knotted up?

Do you get up in the morning, and before you’ve had your first cup of coffee, you have such a headache, you can hardly wait to get dressed and leave the house? Clutter, clutter, everywhere clutter. You find you’re having difficulty breathing. This is so unhealthy. You can never find exactly what you’re looking for, whether it’s a piece of clothing, or a file folder, or the teenager’s new Nikes. Once you and your home are organized, you’ll stop wasting time looking for things. You realize you need space in your home and in your life.

Everyone has heard about purging closets, and the old rule. If you haven’t worn something in a year or two, get rid of it. If you haven’t referred to paperwork in ten years, toss it. Purging your belongings, however, is not as easy as it may sound. Emotions are involved, and yes, you can hire someone to come in and take care of it, but you will be part of the process. No one knows your closets, or kitchen, or office the way you do; no one else has the attachment to your “things” the way you do.

So, what do you do with the “stuff” that is cluttering not only your home, but your life?

Give yourself a deadline for each room and each project that needs to be de-cluttered. Which areas of your home accumulate clutter?

Linen closets; purses; briefcases; bookcases; garages; garden tools; family rooms; bathrooms; home offices; kitchens; bedrooms; toy boxes.

Before you begin the task, and for the sake of time management, I would suggest you maintain a daily to-do list. Prepare at least three large boxes and label them: 1) Junk; 2) Donate; 3) Keep.

Whatever room you begin with, or whatever drawer you begin with, remove everything from the area. Empty closets and drawers. Toss out everything that is broken or beyond repair. You haven’t used it in ages; you didn’t even remember it was there, get rid of it. When trying to decide whether you should junk, donate or keep, ask yourself:
a) Do I really love this; or need this item
b) Will I benefit from keeping it; or shall I toss it
c) Most importantly – when is the last time I used this.

Categorize the items in your home that need a permanent place so you’ll know where to find them, like buttons, special edition magazines, and batteries (usually in the refrigerator).

What about the hubby’s closet. This is the most difficult because so many men are like pack rats. Don’t you dare throw out those jeans. They fit him 10 years ago, and yes, he’ll get back into them one day soon. As styles change, so do our shapes, and even though he may get back to the same size, he may not be the same shape. So, “Hubby, get over it.” We’re de-cluttering today. And again, there are many charities who would love to swing by and pick up the jeans, jackets, sweatshirts and shoes.

Another suggestion which I highly recommend is to “throw something out every day.” Just one thing…toss it or give it to a consignment store. This is a particularly good idea when you’re out shopping, either for yourself, or any family member, or even a new gadget for the kitchen. After all, how many garlic presses does one need!! Before you decide to buy something, think about where it will go and what it is going to replace.

Have you ever given any thought to what else may be causing you so much stress? Do you have friends who pop in on you unexpectedly and hang around half the day? Neighbors who are always depending on you to pick up the kids without reciprocating? The kids haven’t picked up on their responsibilities of tidying up, or taking out the trash, etc. Then, it’s time to have a chit chat with your friends and neighbors and children, and clear your mind. We are de-cluttering, after all.

I have also found that some homes have too much furniture. The couple has inherited Aunt Alice’s breakfront; Uncle Sam’s lazy-boy, etc. The area is claustrophobic and dizzying. Take some time to analyze the situation. If there are some pieces that are causing you stress, then I suggest you streamline your furnishings.

As a designer I take great pride in assisting my clients as they simplify their homes. In many instances I have worked with them and know their likes and dislikes; I know what makes them happy and what makes them fretful. As a designer I can visualize a room before it has been purged and make recommendations for bookshelves or adding space to closets; clearing spaces to accommodate files and file boxes; hanging artwork; designing bathrooms and kitchens for additional space.

A home without clutter is cathartic. You start the day with a smile, and you start the day so, so, so happy. I would consider hiring a designer or professional organizer to help with this major task. The cost will be worth it, and, most of all, it will help you maintain good health. Splendid.

I hope this has been helpful. I wish you good health and happiness.

Myrna Simon, Designer
Alicia Friedmann Interior Design

Decorating by Committee

by Myrna Simon


     Let’s pretend you are planning to “re-do” your home. It certainly can be an overwhelming task. Where do you start? How will you place your furnishings? Will you be keeping what you already have, or will you be purchasing something new?
    You have had your house painted in plain white, or in boring beige for the past ten years and you would love to have a change. What colors should you be painting, and what would the intensity look like on the walls? Where is your sunlight showing through? What side of your house enjoys the sunlight?
     This is now becoming too much for you to endure, so you decide to hire an interior designer. The most important part of hiring a designer is the chemistry between you and her/him. Of course you want to make sure that you understand each other, but be sure you are not being intimidated, and know that the designer is listening to you.
     Your designer has been trained to listen; to look around your home and see how you live; to notice colors that you enjoy living with; the formality or informality of your home. Are there children? Are there animals? What type of fabrics will work with your family, your lifestyle, etc? As I mentioned in an earlier blog, a good idea is to keep a little folder with ideas you may have taken from magazines or newspapers. This can be a great reference for you and the designer.
     So, when your homework has been done, what is the next step? Will you hire this designer? Or, will you decide to call in your best friends for their opinions? (This is referred to as your “Decorating Committee “.)You will then discuss what the designer has proposed. You will share with your friends the colors which have been selected, the fabrics, the furniture placement, etc.
     Here are some problems that may arise. Your friends may be very talented, but do not agree with your designer; one friend will tell you that you should definitely be using warm colors when you are looking forward to a very cool palette; or that you should be using florals instead of stripes when you specifically advised the designer that you do not want to live with florals, etc. And now, you are in a mess!!!
     I can give you a typical story. You have called in a designer (we’ll call Designer A), who you would like to work with. She/he may have been referred to you, or you have seen some of the designer’s work. Designer A comes to your home, looks around your home and goes over a lengthy questionnaire about your lifestyle, the colors you want to live with, what would make you smile when you get up in the morning, and what you would like your home to look like in the long run. Designer A can get a clear picture of your home-to-be and thus can make recommendations based on your conversation.
     Then, your friends come in, and with all good intentions, talk you into changing your decisions to make your home look like something THEY would like to live in. Designer A concluded that after spending time with you and listening to your ideas, and talking about colors, that you definitely wanted cool blues. Your friends suggest that you use warm reds ‘cause that’s what is being shown now. So, you change your mind. You advise your designer that you would like to go with reds. Your designer has no choice but to follow your wishes. Once the job is over, you hate the outcome. You are in tears, and it has cost you a fortune. Lesson learned.
     The Designer can do an equally good job for the client whether decorating with blues or reds, or whatever color, keeping in mind that colors affect people differently. Yellow may make one person very happy, but can give someone else a headache. Blues can be very soothing to one person, but depressing to another, and so on.
    Here is my advice to you. A good interior designer is up-to-date on new design trends; the many new fabrics, wall coverings; paint colors; flooring, drapery styles and window coverings, etc. From the many conversations with the client, hopefully, the interior designer has been LISTENING, and is able to pick up on the client’s preferences, colors, ideas, and dreams.
     Bear in mind that your friends are designing YOUR home with THEIR ideas in mind. This can only lead to disappointment, and can also be a very expensive mistake. Designers have been trained to design YOUR home with YOUR lifestyle in mind.
    The best advice to a client and to a designer is to be very careful when the client and designer are friends. I’ve seen designers help friends over and over and the jobs are overwhelmingly successful. I have also seen the break up of friendships because of a designing job. If your friend happens to be your designer, I would suggest a very frank conversation before the contract is signed.
    Please consider all this. Friendships are too important to lose over a decorating job. You will want your friendship to continue when the job is over.
    Good luck with your next project. In the long run, and after all the headaches, it’s worth it to wake up in the morning with a smile on your face!! A lovely home can do just that. And remember, at Alicia Friedmann Interior Design, WE MAKE YOUR HOME YOURS!