Do you love the ocean? I do! I love it all year long. Yes, most certainly to cool off and play in the summer but also to appreciate the resounding power and beauty all year long. I find the ocean to have a rhythm of nature that calms my soul to its core. It is… Continue reading The Ocean Color Story
Tag: amy dutton home
Blue Pottery
What is special about Jaipur Blue Pottery? When I was in India, I couldn’t resist visiting one of the famous Jaipur Blue Pottery manufacturing plants and store. And… I brought home some very special finds just for you! Jaipur Blue Pottery is created from mixing quartz stone powder, powdered glass, Multani Mitti (Fuller’s Earth), borax,… Continue reading Blue Pottery
How to Strategically Place Bathroom Windows
Windows in a bathroom are really important! Why? They create light, feel and fresh air. They must be balanced with privacy. Because I live in downtown Portsmouth, I can sit at my kitchen island and see in 3 different bathroom windows. Honestly, it’s not good. My neighbors all laugh about it but it makes me very… Continue reading How to Strategically Place Bathroom Windows
Building Techniques in India
I recently returned from a trip to India and wanted to share some insight into the building techniques in an absolutely amazingly resourceful country To my surprise, the nicest homes and hotels I have ever been in were in India, counterbalanced by small shacks with tin & rocks for roofs. My brain tried to make… Continue reading Building Techniques in India
Backsplash 101
Are you working on a kitchen renovation? If so, you are probably working out what to do with your backsplash. Fundamentally, you need a backsplash to keep water and other spills from ruining the drywall behind your counter. You have two choices: A standard 4” backsplash that is the same material as your countertop. This… Continue reading Backsplash 101
Why Architecture is an Important Part of Design Inspirations
When I design, the beauty of buildings inspires me. From the very simplistic to the extremely intricate, I appreciate what Architects – both current and historic – have created. With these in mind, I designed a line of fabric. My graphic line of fabric is inspired by architecture. This line has a very defined and… Continue reading Why Architecture is an Important Part of Design Inspirations
Where Old Meets New
We do a lot of additions and renovations! And they are fun! Why…? I love the renovation challenge and no two homes are alike. I love taking an old home with old floor / ceiling joists and pushing the design to adjust to modern dimensions and building codes. Existing foundations and stair codes are rarely met… Continue reading Where Old Meets New
Reality Hits When a Backhoe Shows Up in Your Front Yard
Do you have a backhoe in your front yard? Most people are really excited the day that the backhoe shows up and construction begins… then they are even happier when the contractor’s truck pulls away at the end of a project. The beginning part of a project is not only exciting for homeowners; it is… Continue reading Reality Hits When a Backhoe Shows Up in Your Front Yard
The Benefits of a “Whole Home Design” Approach
Why a holistic strategy delivers the best in architecture, interior design, and landscape for a connected whole home design When I’m starting a new whole home design project it feels like Christmas Eve – every time I am SO excited! There are so many possibilities, each more thrilling than the next. These beginnings are always… Continue reading The Benefits of a “Whole Home Design” Approach
Finding Simple & Functional Designs in New Zealand
New Zealand Travel I find New Zealand to be an incredibly powerful, spiritual and simple country. The Maori Culture is alive and well and integrated with the British influence. These native Polynesian heritage people fought hard for their rights and land so they still strongly influence the country. Sheep, greenery, mountains and ocean are visible… Continue reading Finding Simple & Functional Designs in New Zealand