Well my house renovation is in full force and underway!!  My bathroom is gutted and I am trying to finalize all of the selections. Marble is the topic today!!

Here is my inspiration picture!  I love the way the marble comes down onto the cabinet!!!  As you can see, we are going a totally different direction than the original floors —from brown to white!! I have been shopping the globe for slabs and finally realized it is best to find your flooring first. It is easier to get a sample of the floors that you can take with you to make sure your slabs match! With the help of architectural consultant, Sarah West, we purchased the Calcutta flooring from Materials Marketing, a 12" x  24" tile that we will run as a running bond pattern. The smaller tiles will be used in the shower floor.

I originally wanted a quartzite. It is a more durable material than granite but has the soft veining look of marble, perfect for a bath!! Here are some beauties!  Princess White, Sea Pearl, Taj Mahal to name a few!!

I ended up getting This Calcutta slab from Walker Zanger. Stephanie was a great help and so patient with my back and forth decisions!!  I love the veining in this piece, it's very irregular with soft tones of warm grays and gray greens.

Then there are all the decisions about finish. Should you hone the marble for a matt look or polish it for a higher sheen? My bathroom previously had polished marble which has been slated as a no no but I never had issues with it scratching. After researching the web and getting so many varied opinions this is what I found: A polished marble is beautiful and gives you that sleek look but can be slippery on floors(this is true) It is recommended to hone  your floors, which gives you a bit more traction when getting out of the bath!! 

As for countertops there are pros and cons to the different sheens. Polished is more durable as far as withstanding stains, however it scratches more easily and the scratches are visible. The good thing is that most of the time natural stone responds very well to restoration and repair. It is, after all, a natural material and not a surface with a laminate top.  A honed surface is more susceptible to staining, but it doesn’t show scratches as much.  All natural stone should be sealed to protect the look and installation and sealing honed stone can help to protect from staining. It should be resealed periodically. I went with honed countertops this go round, mainly because I thought that it would look better with the fixtures and mirrors I purchased.  

When cleaning any stone, you should only use products that are specifically manufactured for natural stones, sometimes even products that are nature friendly contain ingredients that can harm your stone (like vinegar and lime juice)! I guess I will need to be careful of that makeup and toothpaste! Walker Zanger recommends Ocean Care sealers and cleaners and Berings recommends "Intercare Cleaner" by Marblelife and the "Marble, travertine, limestone & slate cleaner and resealer" by "Custom Building Products". 

I am so excited about the mirrors I found at the Marburger Farms Antique Show from Art and Antique Hunter. Such a unique design, I was so excited that they had a pair!!!  They are a bit large for my space but oh well!! I purchased a matching pair--How lucky was that!!!!!

.......AND THEY ARE HAVING A WAREHOUSE SALE IN DALLAS--  Tuesday the 22nd and  WEd. the 23rd 10-5

 My gorgeous new mirrors were not the only great piece at the Art and Antiques Hunter booth! Owner and hunter, Mitra Kilburn started the business when she was ready to leave the corporate world and follow her passion for hunting for beautiful antiques! She is known for her exceptional pieces, especially mirrors, lighting and decorative arts. She travels to Europe several times a year and her collection is mainly Italian but includes pieces from Sweden, France and the Netherlands! If you're in Dallas, you can visit her brick and mortar location at 1130 Dragon St., Suite 170.  I wish i was in Dallas to go!!!!

...and WE are having a Trunk Show with other vendors at Back Row Antiques!!!!   Come see us to find one of a kind mothers day graduation and wedding gifts!!!

I am so looking forward to sharing the completed look with you and having my bathroom back in order!! The project continues!! Until next week... XO Leslie 

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I have researched the web high and low to find the best solutions for altering my exterior brick. My husband for the last 28 years has loved the brick and finally is letting me change it. I debated between a slurried brick finish (mortar troweled or brushed a top of the brick), a painted brick or a lime washed surface. I finally decided to go with the lime wash.

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Lime washing can be done many different ways. It can be applied to give full coverage over the brick or you can let some of the brick show through. It can also be used as a transparent wash where the brick is toned to a different color but you still see an even variation in the bricks tones rather than chips of the true color to show through like above! It is important to decide this up front before you begin, rather than test all different options on your home like I did!!!!  

The first true paint was made from lime and protected ancient monuments, and it still protects European cathedrals and museums. As lime paints age, they develop unique patterns and shadings that bring out color in the embedded lime. Time also leaches out white lime, lending a sun-bleached look.

Lime wash covers bricks with a coating that absorbs into the masonry without trapping moisture. It's made of natural, nontoxic ingredients and it even has a fungicidal effect. The crystals that form on the exterior cling to the bricks and concrete for a protective finish that is porous to vapors, but resists stains. Owners of historic buildings apply lime wash to bricks for a natural, aged appearance.

The aesthetic changes in the lime wash come from ongoing carbonation as lime reacts with atmospheric carbon dioxide and starts to become limestone again. Crystals within lime adhere tightly to the surface, creating lasting coverage, but they also refract light for a unique depth of color. With patience and care, you can paint like the ancients -- and enjoy the same enduring results.

The beginning of my home’s transformation!  We bought our lime wash though Roma, a company in Atlanta.  They will tint it for you with all natural ingredients, which is a wonderful option.  We had some un-tinted stock and had a gap in our schedule so we tinted it ourselves. If you go in this direction make sure there is enough mixed for the entire job to insure the colors are the same.

It is very important to clean the surface well before you start—we power washed the brick. It’s best to apply in temperatures from 46-86 degrees. I have to hurry temps are rising here!!!

We thinned the product by 50% and have tried many different application methods, a few include brushing and using a no nap small roller. Both lent different outcomes. In all my internet research I also happened across a recommendation to apply in a crosshatch pattern, I will try that today! The instructions for the cross hatch say to first brush the paint vertically then horizontally and then vertically again. Use an even stroke and apply steady pressure.

I have found that when using a light color lime wash you have the perfect variation in tones when you are doing the application, but hours later the surface becomes much whiter and the overall variation changes, giving you a more solid look.  We are attempting to power wash off some of the surface since it is fresh  to get back some of the variation.

I did read that you could add extra color depth,  by apply a small amount of darker paint as a shadow around the edges of the wall and paint in lighter areas elsewhere.

I will let you know how it turns out!  I do think I like the lime washes tinted a bit darker, my husband likes bright white so we compromised on a soft white. Keep your fingers crossed for me! Whoever said doing your own home is easy?

Lots of new art and jewelry at the Segreto Showroom! Come by and pickup all your Mother's Day and graduation gifts! 

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Thanks everyone for the sweet supportive comments about the limewashing at my house!!!  I will send you pics when we are done!!  The new Antique Shops & Designer Magazine is out and I wanted to share a portion of my latest article about the Color Gray and give you a sneak peak of my upcoming book Segreto Style!!!!

The room below, one of my all times favorites, is from the talented Talbot Cooley From TC Interiors!!! I loved the soothing polished plaster we applied in this bedroom!!!  This house and the ones below will all be featured in their entirety in Book #2  Segreto Stlye which I have been working around the clock to get to press so it will be out for the fall, fingers crossed!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I love all the gray rooms and accessories that are in home design today. With the busy lifestyles of working parents and children juggling countless activities, I hear repeatedly during consultation with homeowners that they want their home to be a retreat – a relaxing haven separate from the hustle and bustle of their schedules. I almost always point these clients to tones of grays. After reading the definition of gray from the dictionary, though, I’m a little perplexed as to how the color became the chosen neutral of designers and homeowners alike. The Dictionary by Fairlex defines gray as “ Dull or dark: a gray, rainy afternoon. B. Lacking in cheer; gloomy: a gray mood.”

We glazed this amazing kitchen for the ever so talented Munger Interiors!!  What a transformation it was!!  

From this description, gray communicates a void of movement, emotions, warmth of any identifying characteristics. So why do I find homes using gray as a background color serene, soothing and elegant? I think this very lack of emotions is what makes gray so calming! Because gray isn’t expressing much of anything, it remains simply restful, quiet and tranquil. It not only allows different colors to pop while also cooling their intensity, but it gives the ability to layer textures and patterns without looking overwrought.

This bathroom which we did for cute designer, Leslie Strauss, has a metallic stencil atop gray plaster walls.  I love the way the metallics layer over the plaster!!! 

Think of the walls of your home as a sophisticated, all gray outfit. While it may be drab and dreary on its own, the ensemble comes to life when layered with jewelry, scarves, shoes or a jacket. The same basic backdrop can create entirely different tones and styles from dressy to urban, contemporary to romantic.

A gray dress can go from business casual to a night time statement ensemble, just as a home’s ambiance can change from room to room depending on the textures and accents of color. To subtly elicit the mood you would like your room to have, try mixing gray with yellows, teals, blues, greens, pinks, lavenders or my favorite “Blaygeen” color.

This newly built bar we did for Barnett Custom Homes. Full of age and character, it is truly one of my favs.  The worn and distresssed look marries it well with the old brick and wine label tiles!!

For instance, charcoal gray is a wonderful choice if you wish to impart the strength and mystery of black without its negative connotations. Gray truly goes with any color, don’t be afraid to do something unusual and give your trim the gray undertone while incorporating some color on your walls or cabinetry.

Since there are as many shades of gray as there are of white, picking the right color can be difficult. To start, look at the other fabrics, rugs, furniture and surfaces in the space. Do they have a warm undertone (yellow-based) or a cool undertone (blue based)? To ensure a cohesive design, pick the shades of gray with the same undercurrent.

Left: Sherwin Williams Sensible Hue 6198, Right: Sherwin Williams Aloof Gray 6197

Sherwin Williams Colors: Dorian Gray 7017, Dovetail 7018 and Repose Gray 7015

Some of my go-to colors for warmer grays are Seed Pearl, Revere Pewter, Collingwood Gray and San Antonio Gray from Benjamin Moore and Colonnade Gray, Worldly Gray, Repose Gray, Dorian Gray and Dovetail from Sherwin Williams. For cooler grays, I like Gray Owl from Benjamin Moore, Blackened from Farrow & Ball  and Passive from Sherwin Williams.

Are you ready to bring some gray into your home?

It’s the perfect color if you want: 

•  To foster and environment where compromise is encouraged.
• To engender a neutral, non-invasive feeling.
•  To reduce the intensity of another color while still including it.
• To create an isolated getaway.

What's New at the Segreto Boutique...

Left Moonstone bracelets: $52 each, Middle Druzy pendandt necklace: $325, Right Moonstone earrings: $180

Moonstone and Aquamarine earrings: $150

Long Smoky Quartz and black necklace: $325

Left: Cork lace earrings: $49, Right: Cork lace bracelet with magnetic clasp: $89

Long dainty side cross necklaces: from $109-$189 depending on the stone

Hope everyone has a great week!!!  Till Next Monday!  xo Leslie

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I hope that everyone had a wonderful Mother's Day!!! I spent it with my husband and two daughters and Mom and Ken.  My son in Dallas couldn't make it but this 25 year old son sent me flowers!! First time!  Well a lot is going on at the Sinclair homefront with the home renovations, here is a bit of an update.

My dream would have been to do the amazing renovation that Newberry Campa Architects did for the exterior renovation. Their creativity and insight as to what I wanted was brillant!!  After getting back the timing that this extensive project would have taken, we decided that we would postone this for when the girls were gone! Please read about his vision for my house here. 

So for now, we are doing just a purely cosmetic redo for the outside and replaceing the plumbing and bathrooms on the inside!!! The house is coming along and although we have tweaks with the limewashing I think that I am getting used to having a white house. I am trying to picture the entire exterior done complete with landscaping, gates and new lighting! These elements make such a difference in the overall look of a home, much like dressing up an outfit with jewelry, shoes and a great handbag.

I bought 4 of these awesome pots from Joyce Horn Antiques!  We are putting a bench in the inside of the brick wall with a little garden around it--they would look great there--or..... so pretty by the front door.... or in the back yard by the pool!! P.S.  She just got in a new shipment so hurry on over there, beautiful things!!!

I saw this article from the online version of Southern Living about a Georgian makeover!  I wish I had seen it before my Limewashing experiment--they added sand to the mix!!!

Below are the sources they used to dress up the Southern Living home!! Loved some of the ideas and wondered if I should mix in some of the planters with the Mediterranean ones I bought?

Lantern & Bracket: 5001 in Rust by Fourteenth Colony (fourteenthcolonylighting.com), from $1,322, available from Brandino Brass; 205/978-8900

Door Shutters: Western Red Cedar Horizontal Louver with Radius Top (in Artichoke; prattandlambert.com) from $700/pair; timberlane.com

Roof Tiles: Majestic Slate in Midnight Gray by EcoStar (ecostarllc.com), $4/sq. ft., available through Emack Slate Company; emackslate.com

Planter: 24-Inch Cube Planter in White, $186.53; cedarwoodfurniture.com (Reader deal! 10% off entire site with code SOUTHERNLIVING)

We purchased these beveled glass  doors in 1987 when we bought the house. Such the rage in the 80's.  To simplify the look I repaced them with plain beveled glass instead.  My plans are to refinish the doors to look like old found pieces.

Although I loved the lantern in the Southern Living home, I had heard about Sheryl Stringer, a local artist here that had a line of lighting. I emailed her and she came out that day to show me a few!!! I really liked the copper one we are hanging above my window to the right.

I had originally thought it would be nice to have it hanging by a chain but she said because of the wind and the glass window that I would have to use three chains.  I didn't feel that look was right for my house so I opted for the Yoke, which means it is suspended by the iron rods drawn. Well patience is a virtue, as I tell my sweet clients who wait for me, so the unveiling will be in about 3 months.

Moving to the inside, I have been working with my good friends from Goodchild Builders! Here is Steve himself along with his right hand men Juan and Henry.

The main project we are doing is gutting three bathrooms and replacing all the plumbing in our home (this is the issue that started it all).  Today we are having a meeting about the master cabinet design.

Remember I bought two of those amazing, very huge, mirrors.  They will be installed over double sinks and on the opposite side of the bathroom will be a vanity for me.   The architectural piece on the right from Joyce Horn Antiques will hang over the tub.

I like these two styles. I fell in love with this Danish commode by Niermann Weeks so we are using this as inspiration for the vanity and sink basins and the cabinet style to the right will be around the tub surround.

This picture is just to show the towel bars under the sink that I love--I ordered some from Acero Bella so we will see how they look on the cabinets after they are built! 

The project continues!!! Hope ya'll have a great week!! Until next Monday!  XO Leslie 

 What's New at Segreto--

Lots of beautiful new earrings! 

Aquamarine necklaces, soft scarves and Horn chain link necklaces! 

Super cute beach bags perfect for this summer! 

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We have been busy at Segreto! My favorite transformations are when we alter existing elements in the home to give them a whole new feel. 

This house has some pretty substantial beams in their great room!! Although the owners liked the architecture of them, they didn't like their dark shiny finish. We were brought in to make them look older and transform the tone to a weathered gray.  If you look in the top left to the right of the red scaffolding you can see our sample!

Here is a big section done-- it makes a huge difference. If sanded well, you can go over the existing stain without having to strip the beams - which is expensive and smelly!!!

Here is an aged cabinet finish we are working on in a secondary bath.  I would like to do a two toned treatment here where the inset pieces and corners remain lighter than the rest of the cabinet. We currently are on the second layer--two more to go!!! 

In this study, the owner wanted to go from ranch to a contemporary feel for her existing study!  She loves the texture of the pecky cypress wood just not the tone so we put several layers of a white wash on it to give it a whole new presentationl! 

We do many houses where we tweak the finishes on existing elements. We plastered this house in a soft white and the cast stone surrounds had a yellow tone that just didn't go with the new decor. 

You can see how paint can alter the tone of the cast stone--it's starting to happen at the top!!! 

In the same home, the owner didn't like the tone of the mantel or the lines that the joints of the stone made. By plastering over the surface, we were able to give her a seamless look.  This is the first coat of two that we are applying now!

The client loved these light fixtures but wanting to add a bit more interest. We took these from a solid  black and added some gold detailing and a decorative element to give them a bit more charm. Perfect for their new home!!

This kitchen had a flat molding piece at the top of the cabinetry which looked plain even after the glazing had been done.  To lend interest we stenciled and hand embellised a design to give them a personality all of their own. 

Kitchens, always fun to do, feel more like a room with glazed cabinetry and a plaster hood.  We are currently finishing up by creating a reclaimed look on the doors that lead to their mud room area in the back right. 

Love the gray tones of their cabinetry with Calcutta marble!!! This previously white cabinet takes on a whole new look when distressed and finished!!

Come visit my pup Charlie at the store this week!  He is ready to meet and greet at our front door which was previously stained orange! We repurposed, distressed and finished it in gray to give all our visitors a Segreto Welcome!!!

What's New at Segreto

We have a beautiful new shipment of Minerals and Corals! Perfect for decorative accent pieces or as gifts. Here are a few of the newest pieces, come by to see our whole collection! 

Left: Apothalite crystal $385, Middle: Poca Coral $225, Right: Yellow Apothalite crystal $195

Pair of Agate bookends $250

 Large Arican White Quartz $450

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I hope that everyone has a great Memorial Day weekend! With Father's day fast approaching how do you celebrate that special man?  Here are some ideas on how to decorate a "Man Cave"  for him and some fun  Father's Day gift picks! 

"Man Caves" are not a new concept. A space where " a man can be a man" and enjoy his hobbies or have a place to think. These spaces can either be a place to be alone and think or a place to entertain friends. Throughout history, there are some wonderful examples of great men and their "manly" retreats, from Ernest Hemingway, Theodore Roosevelt, Winston Churchill and many more! 

Andrew Carnegie's decadent study has a beautiful painted mural above the paneling of one of his favorite inspirational quotes "The Kingdom of Heaven is within you." 

Contemporary Man Caves include many of the same elements and serve the same purpose. Leather couches, hunting trophies, books, cigars, sporting goods and music equipment can all still be found in modern man caves. Now they may be joined by techno gadgets like giant flatscreen TVs and gaming systems! Below are some modern man caves that have caught our eye! 

This is an amazing man cave housed on the third floor of a home that we just completed! So much thought was put into how to house each item for this avid sports collector. 

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Man Cave accessories would be perfect for Father's Day gifts! Here are a few ideas from the Segreto Boutique!

Tizo watch box $225, Mounted Minerals (left $175, right $340), wood coasters $105

 Pair of side tables made from vintage bicycle parts $550 each

Burled Wood tray $115

Leather, Bamboo and Acrylic Tizo frames from starting at $79

Celebrating Dads who Rock! 

Father's day is a great time to spend time with your family and do activities together. John's favorite Father's Day events are when the kids cook him a big pancake breakfast or when the family spends the day together hanging out by the pool and he and Matthew can catch a round of golf!  

Here are a couple of fun ideas for Father's Day gifts! 

Make some personalized art for Dad's study with the kids. These ideas are artistic and easy for anyone to do! 

Source, Source, Source, Source

Plan a family barbecue in the backyard and you can present the Dad's with fun new grill tools! A spatula with a funny card is a great simple present. These spices from "Special Sh*t" were a huge hit with John, who thought they were hilarious and tasty! Cleaning the grill is never fun, but this new GrillBot might be a huge hit. It's supposed to clean the grill all by itself! We definitely need one of those! 

Cute Spatula Idea Source, Top Right: Special Sh*t BBQ supplies, Grill Bot

No matter what kind of gift you're giving, big or small, thoughtful presentation adds a special touch! For some "Dad" themed wrapping you can make the package as simple as using a bow tie or tie as a ribbon or, if you are feeling ambitious, try one of these cute DIY shirt cards or wrapping! Instructions for the card here and for the shirt box or bag here. 

Segreto is off to celebrate the wedding of one of our own Leslie Carrigan (soon to be Simmons)!!! We had a wedding shower for her with the whole team on Monday morning. Everyone contributed and we got her a beautiful Beatriz Ball tray engraved with love from the whole Segreto Family! We can't wait for her to have all of us over for dinner! Congratulations Leslie and Charles!

Hope you all have a great Memorial Day weekend! Until next week! XO Leslie 

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When I went for the book signing in Baton Rouge at Rodgers and McDaniel Home, a must see home furnishings store, filled with anitique and contemporay furniture, acessories, and lighting,  I was so fortunate to meet a wonderful Southern lady.  She invited me to an early coffee at her personal home that Rodgers and McDaniel had done the design work for.  Meeting her at 8am before I started the trip back to Houston, it was such a treat both to visit with her and to tour this lovely historical home. Although much of the bones were left as is, there was definitely a complete change in aesthetics of the home through paint colors, wall coverings and furnishings. I hope you enjoy the tour even with my not so professional photography!!

As you enter, you are immediately met by lovely antiques, period furnishings, and a graceful staircase that give a very warm and welcoming feeling.

The hand embroidered drapery, with the stunning Zuber Wall covering and antique rug, provide such a dramatic statement but in a subtle, refined manner to the homes dining area! Truley using her home, she was working on a schooll project for her kids onthe dining room table! Oh those days!!

The living room is just to die for! It mixes luminous fabrics with antiques and stunning art.  I love the pop of leopard and her accessories, which take this very formal room to an enticing entertaining space that would make any visitor feel comfortable sitting in. 

 I of course adore all the painted pieces in the room!!

The mantel and the mill work are quite exceptional!!

 This is a little keeping area.  Love the old marble floors, antique mirrors and the beautiful period grate in the floor!!

The master bedroom is as lovely as the rest of the house and changes the color tones to a soft green.  There is that same fun pop of animal print!

 I adored her master closet.  Revamped with the mirrors and brass panel insets, it was so charming!!

The powder tucked under the stairs has that beautiful marbled antique mirror and faucets to die for!!!

 This is the butlers or staging room, perfect to lay out a food spread or use a a staging place and close off while entertaining!!

The den kitchen area was completely revamped is so well done!  Looking outdoors to the beautiful backyard it is so warm and inviting!!! I adore the beams and wooden ceiling mixed with the green of the kitchen cabinetry!!

 A fab mix of benches and stools!!  Plenty of space to chat with the cook!!!

There is something about the decor in Louisiana that is elegant but no so serious. It creates an inviting feeling in each space.  This pop of color mixed with playful fabrics makes me just want to pull up a chair!!!

 A tapestry hung over the tv hung with a simple curtain rod!!!  Brilliant!!!!!

The gameroom and den are comfy and beautiful with their ceiling details!! 

The outside as pretty as the inside. It definitely has that New Orleans flair to it!!!  I hope you enjoy taking it all in!!  Thanks so much to this gracious sweet lady for opening up her lovely home so early in the morning!!! It was such a treat for me!!!

Hope everyone has a lovely week!  Till next Monday!!  xo  Leslie

Whats new in the boutique......

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I was so excited for this home to be published in Veranda! This beauty, set on the beach in California, incorporates reclaimed surfaces that give it an authentic European feel. It’s almost as if a Villa was transported to the west coast shores! Led by my sweet friend Ohara Davies- Gaetano, California designer – extraordinaire, this project was truly a joy for me to consult on!

As you approach this unique beach front property, you are greeted by these amazing reclaimed doors!! Because of the travel distance and project deadline, Segreto did not do the plaster work inside. Instead, we consulted with the design team to create a tone perfect color scheme to complement the wonderful antiquities within!. I hope you enjoy the tour of this exquisite home!!!

Ohara and the Texan homeowners did such an amazing job!!! Seeing this home completed is such a treat after getting sneak peeks all of the stunning fabrics and pictures of the reclaimed architectural elements during the planning process. The final installation went above and beyond my expectations. I am so pleased to be even a small part of this West Coast Splendor!!   Vist here, here and here, to see more of Ohara's work and to visit her store Bliss Studio, feautured on the blog.  She is as sweet and kind as she is talented and beautiful!!!!!  I hope you have a wonderful week!!!! xo  Leslie

What's New at Segreto...

Accessorize your vanity and store your treasures in style with enamel jewelry boxes!

Small turquoise enamel jewelry box: $49, Large turquoise enamel jewelry box: $225

Small white enamel jewelry box: $139, Large white enamel jewelry box: $249

Keep your jewelry safe and tangle free on all your Summer vacations with one of our adorable travel jewelry cases! Available in 3 different sizes and many different patterns! Small $38, Medium $54 and Large $64

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If you haven't heard of Joyce Horn Antiques, the founder Joyce is one of the most long standing French Antique dealers in Houston! Although I knew her before, I really got to know her when I worked with her on the finishes in her home over 12 years ago. Now I am lucky to call her my friend.

Her home, as beautiful as her store, features a beautiful French blue tinted sheetrock mud applied to appear as if it had been chipped away to reveal the under layers. Published in Segreto: Secrets to Finishing Beautiful Interiors, page 224, Country French, and on the cover of Antique Shops & Designers magazine, it is one of my most published entrances.

This is her hide away office/studio in her home. I would love to say I painted those beautiful floors, but Miss Joyce herself was the artist here!!! If she ever wants to quit her day job she definitely has a job with me. Such talent!!!

Although she has been in her new space for a bit she just had her premier opening party last week!! We were so lucky to take a sneak peak before the event began!!! This space previously held purple carpet and purple walls.  It's hard to imagine that now with the amazing trasformation that Joyce and her design team- daughter Reid and her contractor husband David- accomplished!!!  

Known for unique and fairly priced merchandise, the new space is 10,000 square feet and filled with such lovely things!!

I don't know if i like the table better or the French macarons!!  My favorite!!! Joyce now travels much of the time with her daughter Reid to France. They go every 6 weeks to bring in containers filled with one of a kind items.

Look at the finish on those doors!! Such inspiration for me!!

These antique shutters line the commercial windows of the space, really creating the allure of upscale store one might find in Paris or the South of France!!

 People were starting to arrive and it was definitly a wonderful affair!!!

We ended the night with a fun Happy Birthday to Will, Joyce’s husband, who just turned 70!!  He doesn't look a day over 50 for sure!!!

Thank you so much for hosting such a wonderful party and most of all for supplying us with such beautiful things for our homes!!! Here is Karen, Andrea, and Leslie from my office having so much fun. The Joyce Horn Group follows with  Will and Joyce, Chris, Reid and Susie!!! To see more of her shop go here, her old location here and to her website here.

My bathroom is starting to look like a room, thanks so much to the efforts of Goodchild Builders!  We were putting up the architectural piece, from Joyce Horn Antiques, above the tub to see where to set the faucets. Stay tuned next week to see more!!! Hope you have a wonderful week!!  xo Leslie

Whats new at  the Segreto Boutique?

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Well the house project continues... This week I had to finalize my pool decking and coping materials. Since my house is lime washed brick that leans to the gray side, I didn’t want the stones to turn creamy or yellow which many do. 

When I first was looking at inspirations for my pool, I was really drawn to the ones that had a coping detail and grass. 

The large inset stones into the grass are my favorites!!! I wondered how furniture would set up around them and if it would be hard to places since the legs may be at different levels. At my shop we used air conditioning pads at 40$ each to create this look around the back patio. 

I even considered doing brick coping and lime washing it like my house! I really like the look here with inset stone with grass in between! It is also very cost effective. Two drawbacks with this for me--the first is brick does snag the girls' bathing suits if they are sitting on the ledge of the pool.  And secondly,  I have tried to keep grass up in between features like this before but I think I just don't have a green thumb.

Soooooooooooooo..........after going to many really wonderful stores and seeing so many beautiful options......

I settled on some quartzite options from Thorntree! Budget friendly and beautiful, I narrowed my choices to Keegan green quartzite (below) and white quartzite (shown above), I was torn between the two! Quartzite is the most durable surface and can withstand the wear and tear of everyday use while maintaining its pristine look. These two particular versions are much more consistent in color than some of the other options. I really wanted consistency in color.

This picture and the one below looks like Pennsylvania Blue stone, or Belgium Blue stone, both more expensive options, but so lovely!!! 

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Established in 1980, Thorntree has two locations in Houston! One is at the Houston Design Center, and the other at 10105 West Gulf Bank is their remodeled 60,000 sq. ft. full-service showroom and warehouse facility, where you can see an extensive collection of slate, quartzite, granite, limestone, glass and porcelain. For everything from backsplashes to fireplaces to pool coping, they have a broad array of ideas to fit any need, whether you are building a new home or remodeling an existing one. 

Here is the Keegan green quartzite sample at their showroom. 

Here is the white quartzite. Always wet your outside surfaces to see what they will look like--Around a pool they may look wet more than they do dry!!!

I have seen these tiles that look like wood at so many homes I am working on right now!!  They look so real when laid, and are so indestructible!!!!

How fun would these be laid either in one color or mixed to make a pattern!!! I had such a great experience at Thorntree and was so surprised at the many different options and surfaces they had displayed.  Their staff was so nice and helpful and now I can't wait to see how it all turns out!!! Although they have two locations in Houston i know they sell products around the world!!  I hope everyone has a wonderful week! We are off to Boca Grande Florida for work in an historical home there. Can't wait to share what we did!!!  xo  Leslie

Whats New at Segreto...

In these cute jars are assorted hair ties and headbands! They are perfect to put in a care package to send to girls at camp!

Come by the shop and check out our new summer stuff! We have cute beach bags, towels and much more! 

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This 4^th of July, in celebration of our Declaration of Independence, We have some dynamite recipes to try!!!

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 Drinks to start!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 Source recipe from here

Drinks for the kids!!!  Not only does this drink fit the  star spangled banner theme, but involving your kids in making them will give your kids a science lesson on how liquids separate!!!! Make sure to add ice with each layer; it helps with the separation. And if you’re supermom, make star-shaped ice cubes!!

4th of July Kiddie Mocktails
Adapted from Family Fun. Makes 1 12-ounce (tall) glass. 

3 ounces fruit punch
3 ounces blue Gatorade (not sugar-free)
3 ounces diet 7-Up or Sprite (must be sugar-free; so diet only)
ice

Fill glass 1/3 full with ice cubes. Pour fruit punch almost (but not quite) to top of ice cubes. Fill another 1/3 with ice cubes and slowly pour blue Gatorade almost to top of cubes. Fill final 1/3 ice cubes and slowly pour sugar-free Sprite. Add straw and voila!

Time for the main course!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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Whiskey Barrel Burgers

 These mouthwatering hamburgers taste even better with the addition of a juicy whiskey-cheddar filling. Prepare them the night before for a 20-minute grilled dinner solution.

Ingredients

2/3 cup finely chopped green onions
1/3 cup whiskey
¼ cup fine dry bread crumbs
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons butter, melted
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon seasoned salt or garlic salt
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
1 pound ground beef
1 pound ground pork
8 lettuce leaves
8 red onion slices
8 red and/or yellow tomato slices
8 kaiser rolls or onion hamburger buns, split and toasted
½ cup barbecue sauce

 Directions

The day before:

1.   In a large bowl combine green onions, whiskey, bread crumbs, Worcestershire sauce, melted butter, garlic, seasoned salt, crushed red pepper, and black pepper. Add ground beef and ground pork; mix well. Shape meat mixture into sixteen 1/2-inch-thick patties. Place 1 tablespoon of the Cheddar-Whiskey Filling on the center of each of eight of the patties (reserve remaining filling). Top with the remaining eight patties; pinch edges together to seal. In a storage container layer patties between sheets of waxed paper; cover and chill overnight.    

Party day:

2.  For a charcoal grill, arrange medium-hot coals around a drip pan. Test for medium heat above pan. Place patties on grill rack over drip pan. Cover and grill for 10 minutes. Turn patties; cover and grill for 5 minutes. Top each patty with 1 tablespoon of the remaining filling. Cover and grill about 5 minutes more or until done (160 degrees F). (For a gas grill, preheat grill. Reduce heat to medium. Adjust for indirect grilling and grill as above.)

3.  Spread bottoms of rolls with barbecue sauce; top with burgers, lettuce, red onion, and tomato.

    
Cheddar-Whiskey Filling

 Ingredients

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (8 ounces)
1/3 cup finely chopped green onions
2 tablespoons whiskey
1 ½ teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
2 cloves garlic, minced

Directions

 In a food processor combine shredded cheddar cheese (8 ounces), finely chopped green onions, whiskey, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic, minced. Cover and process until nearly smooth.

 Loaded Baked Potatoe Salad

 YIELD: 8 servings

PREP TIME: 45 Minutes

COOK TIME: 10 Minutes

TOTAL TIME: 55 Minutes + 2 Hours chill time

Ingredients:

1 ½ lbs. Red Potatoes, cut into ¾” chunks - peel ½ of the potatoes, leave skin on other ½
1 oz. Hidden Valley Ranch Dip Mix packet
¾ c. Low-Fat Sour Cream
¼. c. Mayonaise
½ tsp. Garlic, minced
½ tsp. Ground Pepper
1 tsp. Dijon Mustard
2 tsp. Minced Cilantro
¾ c. Shredded Cheddar Cheese
5 slices Bacon, cooked and chopped
2 Tablespoons minced chives

 Directions:

1.     In a medium pot, place chunked potatoes and cover with 1” of water. Bring potatoes to a boil over high heat and reduce to medium, allowing to simmer for 10 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

2.     When potatoes are done, drain and place on a lined baking sheet. Immediately sprinkle with packet of ranch dip and fold potatoes over with a spatula until the dip mix is evenly distributed. Place baking sheet of potatoes into the fridge for approximately 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are cool.

3.     While potatoes are chilling, fry and chop 5 slices of bacon and shred cheddar cheese.

4.     In a large bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayo, pepper, garlic, mustard, and cilantro.

5.    When potatoes are cool, pour into large bowl of sour cream mixture.

6.     Fold in shredded cheddar cheese and bacon. Sprinkle chives on top of potato salad.

Chill for two hours until flavors meld. Devour.

Patriotic Taco Salad

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 TOTAL TIME: Prep: 10 min. Cook: 20 min.

MAKES: 8 servings

Ingredients

  1 pound ground turkey or beef
  1 medium onion, chopped
  1-1/2 cups water
  1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
  1 envelope taco seasoning
  6 cups tortilla  corn chips
  4 to 5 cups shredded lettuce
  9 to 10 pitted large olives, sliced lengthwise
  2 cups (8 ounces) shredded cheddar cheese
  2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

Directions

1.     In a large skillet, cook beef and onion over medium heat until meat is no longer pink; drain. Stir in the water, tomato paste and taco seasoning.
Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 20 minutes.

2.    Place chips in an ungreased 13-in. x 9-in. dish. Spread beef mixture evenly over the top. Cover with lettuce. For each star, arrange five olive slices
together in the upper left corner. To form stripes, add cheese and tomatoes in alternating rows. Serve immediately. Yield: 8 servings.

Editor's Note: If you wish to prepare this salad in advance, omit the layer of chips and serve them with the salad.

And now on to dessert!!! We had to test these out to make sure we approved. Here are our easy and festive tips for Fourth of July Dessert! 

We made this first recipe in less than 10 minutes! 

Berry Covered Angel Food Cake!

I love this recipe because it's ridiculously easy and looks like it's straight out of Martha Stewart!

All you need is:

• premade Angel Food Cake from the grocery,
• cool whip
• patriotic colored berries.

First, slice the cake in half like a hamburger bun. Then add a layer of cool whip and berries. Replace the top and add the rest of the cool whip in the center of the cake and on the top. Cover with more berries and Voila! You're ready to go!

This second dessert is also super easy and make an amazing display at the party!

Cupcake Berry Flag!

Cupcakes are always a hit and these are made even more delicious and beautiful with the American flag berries on top. A perfect activity for kids to help with too! We chose "Funfetti" cake mix to be festive like fireworks, but you can use any kind of cake you like!

Here is what you need for this easy dessert

• Cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil and water
• cupcake papers and muffin tin
• icing
• berries

Mix and bake your cupcakes. Let them cool and then add the icing. Arrange them on the tray in a rectangle. Final step is to add berries to the cupcakes to make a flag pattern. Super easy and delicious!

Segreto Crew is ready for Fourth of July Dessert! YUM!

Hope you all have a wonderful 4th of July! Enjoy some of these fun treats with your family and friends while watching the fireworks! Until next week! XO Leslie

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Being so busy in Houston, it is rare that we accept a job out of state! When a designer/client Kathy Johnson with KB Designs asked us to go to Boca Grande Florida to help restore a 1920’s Spanish style home it was just too hard to say no. I was so charmed by this town, with its architecture, beautiful beaches and historical homes that I wanted to share a bit about this little gem tucked away in Florida. It will be my next family vacation spot.

The Historic Village of Boca Grande is on the island of Gasparilla, known for its quaint downtown, sugar sand beaches, blue water and world class fishing. Located at the southern tip of the Cape Haze Peninsula on Florida’s Southwest Coast midway between Sarasota and Ft. Myers, this lush barrier island has been blessed with seven miles of powdery white beaches and cerulean waters—the colors of the ocean one would typically find in the Caribbean.

 
Known for fishing and shelling, the shoreline is both pristine and productive and contains one of the most enriched ecosystems in the world.

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Boca Grande’s 2nd Street, also known as Banyan Street, is lined with century-old banyan trees.

These trees which reminded me of the tree of life in Disney Land are natural works of art!!!!

Where to stay!!!!!!!!!!!!

Originally built to appeal to wealthy Northerners who could go anywhere, The Gasparilla Inn & Club is one of Florida's last remaining exclusive family-owned Gilded Age resorts. This establishment is even listed as a National Historic Landmark and among the Historic Hotels of America! Walking through the Inn’s pillared entrance and into the lobby, you experience the feeling of Florida as it was meant to be. Guests are instantly embraced with the tranquil civility of a time that once was.  A premier destination on Florida’s Gulf Coast since 1913, It offers 137 rooms, suites, and cottages in a pristine environment at the tip of Boca Grande Island. Owned by the William S. Farish Jr. family, The Inn has had many notable guests throughout its storied history, including Henry Ford, Harvey Firestone, Thomas Edison, Katharine Hepburn, the George H.W. Bush family as well as members of the DuPont family.

Accommodations are located in vernacular cottages surrounding the property extending from 250-slip waterfront marina to the championship Pete Dye Golf Course golf course to the beach front cabana club and tennis courts.

The Resort's Decor!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I love the Florida style décor which has remained in the same style for the generations of annual visitors have been able to call home for family gatherings.

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Boca Grande’s wonderful architecture……………

 The house we were working on was designed by Frances Burrall Hoffman Jr., who is best known for his design of Vizcaya, the Biscayne Bay mansion of industrialist James Deering.

1882-1980

Hoffman, from an affluent New York family, was born in New Orleans and spent the early years of his life on a plantation in Louisiana.  Graduating from Harvard he enrolled the École des Beaux Arts in Paris, then the preeminent architectural training program in the world.  Having homes in Europe and New York, he left his mark on Boca Grande.

In 1938 Hoffman designed the Cowperthwaits' house for his brother, William Wickham Hoffman a New York Banker. Being located in the town's historic district, the main house was designed with a high-ceiling in the second-floor living room, now the master bedroom.

 I love the ceiling in the den  and living rooms with the hand stenciling!  What a beautiful room to take in the beach views!!!

Built in 1940 the Shaw House has two separate wings separated by a central courtyard and connected by a covered walkway. These lovely pale aqua shutters have become our inspiration for the home we are working on.

Hoffman designed a Southwest Santa Fe-inspired compound in 1938 for Mrs. Michael Van Beuren, the daughter of Standard Oil president John D. Archbold. What an entrance!!!!

Hoffman's Renaissance-styled chapel was the first Catholic Church on the island! A small bell tower rises above the Spanish oak doorway.

I love the plaque which is right outside the door!!

Another beautiful home, the Crowninshield studio, was designed in 1927 by Albert Ely Ives for Francis B. Crowninshield and his wife, Louise DuPont. Tarpon fishing aficionados, the Crowninshields first bought a beach front cottage before World War I. They rapidly were joined by other  DuPont family members and Boston friends.

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The town is pristine, clean, quiet and has a charisma all of its own.

I fell in love with this home which we are helping to restore at first glance!  Its charm and beautiful beach side views created a magical work environment.   I hope you enjoyed the fun tour of my new favorite town!!!  Stay tuned for progress pictures of this historical home's revival.  Till next week!  Xo Leslie

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I found this article in the New York Times about a renovated farmhouse and barn in southern Germany that was turned into a family home and wanted to share it with all of you! This couple, a fashion texile producer and actress, bought the home for $857,000 and spend about $612,000 on the renovation, which was achieved in just 9 months. Hope you enjoy the home as much as I did! Photographs by Benjamin Antomy Monn and written by Nick Amies.

In the town of Moorenweis, in southern Germany, there are a number of imposing Alpine-style chalets. But the house that Michael and Bernadette Schnabl chose to make their own was a 19th-century Bavarian farmhouse that they integrated a rundown barn on the property.

Instead of feeling cold or cavernous, said Mr. Schnabl,38, the 3,100-square-foot home he shares with his wife and children, Josephiner 4, and Julian, 6, is surprising cozy. "Every person has their own area, we can meet in different rooms."

The farmhouse's attic was opened up to create a loft space, and the wooden beams were exposed and sandblasted.

Inside, the aestheticis modern and the furnishings are spare.

A living space in the renovated catthle barn.

Throughout the barn and the farmhouse, modern elements like a black steel staircase stand in contrast to the white walls and light floor.

Ornate wrought-iron grilles protect the farmhouse's original doors and window frames.

The minimalist kitchen epitomizes the traditional- farmhouse-with-a-modern-twist aesthetic.

In the adjoining dining area, a chandelier by Louis Poulsen hangs over a steel-and-pine table.

A black steel ladder leads to a sleeping area in what was once the attic space of the farmhouse.

A bathroom in the old barn is outfitted with a Keramag tub and Villerory & Boch sinks.

From the outside, the farm house retains its original appearance.

Hope you enjoyed this unique home! We can't wait to show you all the beautiful renovations in our new book-sneak peak of the cover next post! Until next week!!!  XO Leslie

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Well my house is really moving along! With my dream team of Newberry Campa Architects , Goodchild Builders  and architectural consultant Sarah West, my master suite area is really taking shape!!!

I found this picture of the master bath when we purchased the house in 1987! 

 Here is how we changed it way back then! What you can't see is the shower across from the tub.  We tore down a linen closet and made it into a shower so the shower was very very small.

At a later date we built on a Master closet addition behind the doors and made the old small master closet into this sitting area in the bathroom!

Our house was built in the late 60's and our old pipes started bursting so we had to replace them all leading to a master bath redo!!! Tired of a very small tub and shower, we hired Ken Newberry and his team of Will and Gina from  Newberry Campa Architects to help us out! The bathroom was gutted and the three small areas it previously held was made into one larger space.

Here is the new Jason tub from Acero Bella, which is where the sitting area used to be. Ken wanted a window there looking out to gardens lending the illusion that the space was larger and allowing more natural light to flow in.  This would have been beautiful, but my husband who is so concerned about break-ins didn't want exterior access to this part of the house.  Soooooo... I found this wonderful piece at Joyce Horn Antiques. I posted on Facebook should I put a mirror there, hand a painting, leave it as is or paint something decorative on it.  What do ya'll think?  I hope I can keep those open shelves (not yet painted) neat!! 

Here is my inspiration picture which is a piece from Tara Shaw for my sink cabinets.  Remember the beautiful mirrors which I found from Mitra Kilburn at Marburger Farms Antique Show, I thought they would look amazing over pieces like this. 

With the mirrors hung, faucets installed, walls plastered and counters on, I was getting excited!!! Now for the paint!

Here is Jerry, my head cabinet guy putting up the samples, and the finished sample. 

With the paper pulled off the floors and the counters, I could really start envisioning the space.  I did change my faucets which I had posted in the original blog on my house. These mirrors were so large that I had to drop my counters to 34 inches and there was no space for wall mount faucets!  I love these French Gold, New Port Brass Victoria faucets I purchased from Acero Bella, the marble from Walker Zanger fabricated by Olympus Marble and Granite, and floors from Materials Marketing. The old faucets are for sale at a great price!!!!!!!!!!!

Opposite of the sink vanities is a dressing table for me! I loved this piece of furniture from Niermann Weeks and used it as my inspiration. 

Goodchild Builders  did an amazing job building the pieces-now for the paint!!

Here is Ricki, one of my furniture refinishing guys working on the piece. It’s not done yet, but I'm loving the gold accents. Any ideas on sconces?

Because the space has a lot of elements in it I didn't want to visually break it up with marble tiles in the shower.  Instead we plastered it with a water proof plaster.  All the walls and ceilings are coated with the same material!!  All I need now is the glass!  Note to all. The finish on the hardware that I purchased is not available on handles and brackets needed to install the shower doors.  I am having to re-plate them which is an additional cost.  Same with the drain.

Stay tuned for more updates, there is lots going on around my home!!  Til next week!!  xo  Leslie

What's new at the shop!!!!

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I have been reading so much on Pinterest on natural ways to better clean your home. I searched the blogosphere and pulled some of my favorite to share!

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Rub it on dulled copper, rinse with water, and polish clean with a soft rag.

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Douse the spot with white wine and blot with a clean rag to absorb the spill.

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Just slice open a lemon, rub the lemon on the faucet and rinse!

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Hydrogen Peroxide, a magical cleaner!!

Wonderful for cleaning windows, mirrors, toilets and bathtubs, replace the cap with a spray bottle head but keep the liquid in its dark container or it will lose its powers!! Just spray on and wait 30 seconds for the streaking to go away and for your windows or mirrors to sparkle!

It also is the best fountain cleaner of all time. Green, murky fountain water will transform to crystal clear in 24 hours. Because hydrogen peroxide turns into oxygen within 24 hours its safe for the wildlife!

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Before you begin, double check that the bottle of hydrogen peroxide is a 3% solution. Anything higher and you've accidentally stumbled into purchasing industrial strength and it is NOT safe for your mouth. As with most things teeth related, check with your dentist (because I'm not one) before letting children under the age of 12 use this solution and discontinure if you experience any discomfort or redness in your gums. There are all the same warnings you'll find on any theeth whitening product.

1. Brush your teeth with a fluoride toothpaste
2. Rinse with a diluted solution of hydrogen peroxide for 30-60 seconds. There are dilution directions on the bottle, but is is usually half water and half hydrogen peroxide. When the hydrogen peroxide comes in contact with your mouth, a chemical reaction will take place and it will begin to foam. Start by swishing with a small amount so you don't end up foaming at the mouth and scare your roommates into thinking you have a plague.
3. Spit out the rinse, do not swallow hydrgoren peroxide
4. Don't eat or drink for 30 minutes
5. Again, I am not a dentist, but according to my dentist (who is, in fact, a dentist), if you follow the previous directions this can be done every day.

• For whiter whites, add one cup of hydrgoen peroxide to a load of white laundry
• To prevent wilting, spray a mixture of 1 tablespoon hydrogen peroxide and 1/2 cup water on lettuce, drain, cover and refrigerate
• Kill weeds by spraying with hydrogen peroxide

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Clean the grout on your floors!!

Here are two cleaner recipes for cleaning very dirty floors!

1.  1/4 cup white vinegar, 1 tablespoon liquid dish soap, 1/4 cup baking soda, 2 gallons tap water, very warm
2. 7 cups water, 1/2 cup baking soda, 1/3 cup lemon juice and 1/4 cup vinegar for-the-home

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 Its smells heavenly, and avoids exposure to toxic chemicals

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Clean your silver!!

Line your sink with aluminum foil, add 1/2 cup table salt, 1/2 cup baking soda, fill with hot water. Put in all your silver and let sit for 30 minutes, while the tarnish transfers to the foil!

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Protect your marble!!

Clapham's Salad Bowl Finish- typically used as a food-safe coating on unfinished wood- adds luster to honed marble and granite, and boosts their resistance to water spots. Its butter-like beeswax formula is easy to apply. About $20 for 8 ounces.

 I am busy trying these tips at my house!!  Let me know how they work for you!!!Till next Monday!! xo  Leslie

Come see us at the Segreto Boutique!!! 1414 Antoine m-f 9-5. Unmarked house across from St Regis School!!!

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 Yahoo!!!!!!!!!!!!! My next book Segreto Style, due to be released in November has finally shipped off to print!!!  With 524 pages I found I had too much to share for just one book,  so I separated the material into a series of two publications and Segreto Style 2, slated to be published in Spring of 2015 was born.  I am blessed to have so many amazing projects to write about and share with each of you.

With so many beautiful rooms, it was nearly impossible to pick the cover shot of each book.  This dressing room from a historical Houston home, designed in the early 1900’s by architect John F. Staub was chosen for Segreto Style.  Photographed by Terry Vine, with interiors by famed designer Kara Childress, the illustration showcases a new finish on the rooms original paneling.

 Segreto Style is a tour of 39 homes in which we have had the honor of providing the finishes for. Similar to the format of  Segreto: Secrets to Finishing Beautiful Interiors, Segreto Style (304 pages) gives more tips from the talented designers, architects and builders whose wonderful creations are featured, as well as more information as to color and technique styles from me. The book includes some incrediable before and after transformations which are so fun to see!!

 The cover of Segreto Style 2, photographed by Blake Mistich, features a plastered entrance hall complimenting the wonderful interiors of Talbot Cooley, principle of TC Interiors. Focusing on the  boutique vignettes of decorative finishes, this 220 page design resource, highlights a wide range of finishes with chapters on painted walls, painted floors, plastered rooms and furniture finishes as well as extensive sections dedicated to kitchens, bedrooms and bathrooms.

I can’t tell you how grateful I am for each of you, who have truly supported me during this project.  Big hugs to the The wonderful homeowners, designers, architects and builders who entrusted me with their finishes and allowed me to share their homes and projects with you. Lots of love to my amazing staff who have really worked double time to compensated for my time away working on the books, and my family who I have learned really miss me when I work such long hours. 

 Segreto Style will be here for the Holidays!!!  With two books to print we are only printing a limited quantities of each. If you would like to pre-order, 85$ for Segreto Stlye and 65$ for Segreto Stlye 2, or give your email to be notified when the books arrive please contact books@segretofinishes.com.

If you know of any stores in your area that may be a good fit to carry the book, I would love the recomendations. We self-published these next two books as well, so your help and tips are so appreciated.  Feel free to email me at leslie@segretofinishes.com.  Thanks again for all of your support!!!  xo  Leslie

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One of the home renovations we've been working on is redoing the kids' bedrooms upstairs. My middle child Kirby, almost 24, works for TC Interiors and was up to the challenge of redesigning her own room.

Her bedroom has a little nook for a sleeping area and a larger space for a sitting area! This a before shot of her room which we had done when she started high school. Nine years later, she was ready for a change.

We plastered her walls and painted the trim in BM 0C-19 to match. This is a great gray white! Wanting a very dressy bedroom, she custom made this beautiful headboard. On a budget (ha-ha sorta), the fabric was from High Fashion Home. I love the tufting!!!

This chaise lounge, originally purchased for her "jungle" room when she was in elementary school, came with a leopard print on it. I bought it for $350 from Costco, and it didn't have a skirt. I guess it's handy that I have a hard time purging! Kirby recovered the piece in a linen from High Fashion Home and added a gentle ruffle! What a change!

She was so excited when all the bedding came in that she, believe it or not, immediately made her bed!!! The bedding from Longoria Collection pulled in the warm pearl and champagne tones she wanted. Searching high and low at the Decorative Center, she designed and had all the pillows custom-made! The B. Viz pillow from my boutique was a graduation gift from her godmother!!! But wait........

The final touch to her bed wall was a cornice she found at 2Lucy's in Back Row Antiques. Kirby worked with my finisher to change the original gold finish to silver. Look at the detail on those drapes! The silk in front from Interior Fabrics looks wonderful with the sheers in the back that she found at a fabric store on Harwin Drive for $10 per yard! The blue trim really was the perfect detail. 

Wow!!! It's certainly fit for a princess! Borrowed from my dining room, the starburst mirror from Joyce Horn Antiques added the finishing touch!!! I had found the (VERY INEXPENSIVE) chair at Denny Register Antiques, a fab store from a guy who buys up all sorts of things from estate sales. Originally covered in orange velvet and stained in mahogany, the piece was painted and recovered using a reasonably priced velvet from High Fashion. Notice the lamps and side tables of my grandmother's, which we had painted years ago, were also part of her old room's decor. 

Another view! The drapery treatments were repurposed from her previous room. 

Here's a shot of her sitting area! (Sorry for the very bad pic!!!) The rug from Pottery Barn was used in both her last room and her college apartment! I just love the Aidan Gray coffee table, purchased at Segreto Boutique! And the chair to the left - what a transformation!!!

Formerly used in my bedroom, this chair was bought probably 20 years ago!!! Kirby's vision totally transformed the piece! Like mother, like daughter, she loves what finishes can do!!!

We had repainted these two pieces of my grandmother's for Kirby’s room about 10 years ago.(another bad pic-forgive!) She took them both to college, and now they are back home!  Still loving the finish, she wanted them just a bit softer, so we washed over them with a whitish glaze to blend with her new room! Oops, looks like the vanity needs a new drawer pull!

Having very little closet space, we use curtains instead of doors. We hired Programme Martin years ago to get the best use of the closet! They are sheer genius when it comes to closet design!!! And, since her brother is no longer at home, Kirby has taken over his closet as well!

We found this jewelry box which hangs on the wall and looks like a mirror when closed. It's been a great way for both my gals to keep their pieces organized. 

Here's Kirby working at her first trunk show for TC Interiors! Talbot not only beautifully designs interiors, but she also has her own jewelry line. Kirby really was blessed to find a job in which she gets to work with two of her favorite passions!!! There I am in the mirror - the proud momma taking a pic! 

Kendall Boggs Artist

A big thanks to the blog Design Chic (one of the best design blogs out there!!!) who featured me on their blog about artist bloggers!  With such a wide range of talent I was truely honored to be mentioned!!! Please check out thier blog if you don't follow it! The mother and daughter team that puts it togehter are as sweet and nice as they are TALENTED!!!!  You will become hooked!!!   I hope everyone has a wonderful week! We're headed to California for a little vacay with my husband's sweet family!!! xo Leslie

To purchase "Segreto: Secrets to Finishing Beautiful Interiors" on our website click here or to purchase through Amazon click here.

To subscribe to the Segreto Blog click here.

Looking for lighting for my new home remodel, the timing couldn't be more perfect when Lauren, the daughter of a sweet client of mine called to ask to come in and give a presentation to my staff about The Urban Electric Co - a premier lighting firm based in Charleston, SC. which she works for.  I was so impressed I wanted to share!! 

Each light fixture is bench-made and then hand-finished by local craftsman and artisans in their 65,000 square foot warehouse right here in the USA. Their commitment to quality craftsmanship is amazing - all of their products carry a lifetime warranty and I must say personal pride. I love the industrial twist to this classic lantern.

Add a different color to the inside and chrome to the outside and the fixture totally changes.  So fun!!!!!

Notice the bulb on this one-half is frosted. Customizing large pieces and giving little tweaks to other fixtures is one of their specialties. While many finishes are available, you can also provide a color from a paint deck or even give them a fabric swatch and they'll match it to perfection.  How great is that!! 

Purchasing an existing lighting firm which made much of Charleston's exterior lighting, they've expanded to have more than 300 different fixture designs for both indoors and outdoors!

I think their pieces go with pretty much any decor. This pair adds a whimsical, French feel.  Love the color!!

Adding so much to this oh-so-chic kitchen, this fixture can be a single, or constructed as a double as shown here.  This glass finish, just one of the many to choose from, gives a lovely illumination when lit.

Many of their pieces are new twists of historical styles. The "Malplaquet" style above reminds me of an industrial factory or warehouse, but the pop of green certainly brings it into the modern age.  This one was made originally very very large for a well know hot-spot restaurant and then scaled back for residential use.  Any one been there and recognize the place?

Another great fixture--so original! For this eclectic dining room,  the basic "Belmont" style lantern was redesigned and made into a much larger three light fixture.

Here are a few more of their hanging fixtures. Single or double-stunning!!

They also make beautiful sconces. Look at that patina-well done Urban Electric!

Another thing that really impressed me was their customer service! They work one-on-one with you to make sure you get an heirloom quality piece. "We believe that our designs are not simply fixtures, but a vision specific to the project - a vision that will create value for the owner for decades to come."

So versatile, this sconce design works just as well in this staircase area as it did in the bathroom above.

A few more wall fixtures from their collections. I'm kind of in love with the brass and acrylic one on the right.  The mirrored one top left also caught my eye!

They also make table and floor lamps. Look how perfectly they matched the color to the fabric!

This video tells you all about their Made in America approach and takes you behind the scenes. I loved the pride their craftsman and designers take in what they are creating.  To see their entire collection, go to The Urban Electric Co. website  or contact Lauren who is very well versed on her product line!! Let her know Leslie sent you!! We also have a catalog and finish choices at our shop is you want to browse.

I was so excited to see that the up an coming blog to watch Portobello Design picked up the story about Segreto's new books being released!!!  Please check out the blog--a great source of information and presented so beautifully!!!!!! Thank you so much Portobello Design! 

Hope you all have a great week! coming back from California tomorrow! xo Leslie

With the healthy eating craze focusing on organic and fresh I am loving the idea of incorporating a small organic garden into my new landscape plans.

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When I was little my father thought it would be a fun activity to have a garden.  Plowing an acre, my brother, Mom and I were left to hoe, weed, and pick. I began to not think gardening was not so fun.  After 40 years, I am ready to give it a try again. Searching the Pinterest sphere, I found so many ideas which would if scaled back, be manageable and beautifully work into my yards new look.  

This stunning outdoor garden has a beautiful combination of vegetables and flowers and is featured on the cover of  photographer George LeVeque's book French Garden Style, available for purchase here!)         

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How pretty is this herb garden combined with stepping stones?

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Planting vegetables inside boxwood patterns and mixing them with flowers really creates an artful impact!  

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This beautiful garden has some wonderful elements which could be used on a smaller scale like mixing dark and light wood tones, using metal arbors, or creating planter boxes from basket weave.  

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Foregoing traditional boxes and planting within the limits of existing pathways allows you to get creative without too much commitment!  

This herb and vegetable garden designed by Statile and Todd Landscape Contractors is lovely!

Here is a garden at one of my client's houses. I love the gravel around it and stone surrounds!  So French!

A full producing garden, it also adds so much to their exquisite landscaping!

Here is another client's home who is just beginning her raised garden.  By raising the beds it is easier to get the proper irrigation.

Here is the same client's charming rose garden in its beginning phases.  When complete it will feature a French fountain.

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 If you want something with little maintenance this kitchen counter herb garden is beyond adorable.  What a great gift this would make!      

Need a bit of inspiration before you begin? Check out these Garden Box Layout Ideas published by Better Homes and Gardens !  One of my besties son’s, Matthew, and his friend Jacob started an agricultural development company in Houston called Old School Produce. Drawing upon their shared passion for organic eating and Jacob's degree in biological science, they now sell fresh vegetables at a farmers market, provide organic, exotic produce to restaurants, and help people set up their own organic gardens! He and Jacob were the perfect ones for me find out a bit more info. 

I was most interested in the rare and unusual varieties of plants which they grow. Right now the ghost pepper is their favorite; a real pure heat to kick up anything without adding a pepper taste. The scorpion and purple cayenne pepper they produce may be too hot for your liking.  If so, let them sit in a jar of olive oil or apple cider vinegar then remove the seeds. Wonderful flavor without the burn!

They grow their produce to sell out of their trademark hydro planter - an automated raised garden that utilizes water in a closed loop to minimize water loss. Mixing this with innovative composting methods, they are able to grow almost anything all year-round.  

This would be a wonderful sized garden to start with and pretty on the patio, especially with the right finish on the wood. If you are in Houston, visit Matt and Jacob at their Old School Produce booth every Sat from 9-1 at the Farm Stand at Petrol Station or you can visit their website by clicking here!  

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If you don’t want to grow your veggies but want home grown and organic, check out Farmhouse Delivery!  I had a client tell me about them and I am now getting fresh, locally grown, organic produce and dairy delivered to my home once a week. I have found that it is no more expensive than the grocery and it saves me a trip to the store! I know they deliver to Austin and Houston, but to see if they are available in your area check out their website. My favorite purchases were the vegetables, eggs, and milk.  I hope everyone has a great week!  Next week- a house update-promise.  We are now living in two rooms—so fun!!!  Xo  Leslie  

What's on sale at the Shop! 

Aidan Gray Croix Framed Mirror: $650.00 - Sale price $500

Ice Milk Aprons: Adult $75.00 & Children’s $34.95 - Sale price $46 and $25                   

Aden & Anais Swaddle Blanket Gift Pack: $45.00 - Sale price $35

 Jolie USA Jeweled Headbands: $22.00 - Sale price $12 

Geode on Lucite Base: $385.00 - Sale price $295

To inquire about these items email Jessica@segretofinishes.com

To purchase "Segreto: Secrets to Finishing Beautiful Interiors" on our website click here or to purchase through Amazon click here.

To subscribe to the Segreto Blog click here.

You always hear that working for someone in the design business on their own home is the hardest. I’m sure the team on my project feels the same way since I am constantly changing my mind! The day we moved the girls back upstairs I decided to proceed with redoing the staircase. Since it is the only access to their bedrooms and baths, the girls are sleeping in John’s office while John and I are still camping out in the media room.  

As you can see, my staircase literally originated 3 feet from the front door, beginning narrow and widening at the top. I have had numerous architects look at the project during other renovations, but due to the narrowness of the space combined with its steep slope, none could come up with a solution which appealed to me.

Ken, Will, and Gina of Newberry, Campa Architects gracefully solved the problem! 

Bless Steve, Henry, and the wonderful crew at Goodchild Builders who thought they were almost done!!! Goodness, it looked so much better with just the railings gone! Having the whole staircase removed made such a huge difference!

When they first started building the stairs, I was a bit confused as to how it would work. The back right and left walls used to end the same at the top of the stairs. By removing an upstairs closet located on the right side of the hall (say goodbye to storage!) they were able to create a landing to walk down from. Initially, I was worried that it might look odd for the left wall to go back farther than the right one...

But it didn't look off-balance at all! Not only was a landing created but the hallway upstairs also looks much larger!!! There is Sammy, sad she can't get to her room.  

In the new design the staircase shared the music room's wall, blocking majority of the entrance. Ken's plan widened the entryway into the music room and dining room, solving that problem and giving me a much more open feel which I love!!! As is the nature of renovations, one thing leads to another which leads to so many different decisions. Help!?

This is the view looking from the living room through the entryway. Look at the big hole where the staircase used to be! Yikes - new floors! Decision 1: Wood or stone? If wood, what type? What pattern? If plank, how wide?

                  The cased openings in the living room and dining room previously had more substantial trim which interrupted the crown moldings in the rooms. When removed, an 8 foot gap in the crown was created. Not able to patch it, the crown in both rooms needed to be removed. Goodbye worn gold finish! Decision 2: Do I put crown back up or have the cleaner look of no crown? If crown, what style?

I have always loved the way Joyce, owner of Joyce Horn Antiques, accessorized this vignette by placing antique French crown in the olive jar, so I asked the Goodchild gang to save mine. Not sure 1960's American molding I have will be as pretty but I'll give it a try!

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Decision 3:  What type of railing do I want? Having decided on wrought iron, there are so many choices and so many beautiful staircases to choose from!

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Should the banister be wood or wrought iron?

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Decision 4: Do I want the sides of the steps to show as seen in the picture above......

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..... or do I want a runner of wood or plaster on the side with the step inset like this staircase?

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Would stained wooden treads look best?

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Or stained treads and painted risers?

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This one is pretty incredible -- plaster stairs!!! My dilemma - I love them all!!!  Thoughts, my friends; what do you think?

I saw this picture in Veranda and loved how it was very open and simple with such a graceful air. I sent the picture to Bill Pena of Alba Custom Iron to make a sample. We also decided to refinish our existing floors so all of the furniture is currently out of the house. Unfortunately, this now means no access to the kitchen, den, or breakfast area confining us all to an even smaller space.  Lucky for Sammy, she just left for school! I would love all of your comments and suggestions on which direction I should go in the choices I have to make.  I hope you have a great week!  xo.                       

 Labor Day Sale at the Boutique! One week only. All sale items final sales

Lollia Luminaries: Wish, At Last adn In Love $38.00 - Sale price $25.00  

Kitchen Papers Assorted Placemats: $30.00 - Sale price $ 19.25

Austrian Crystal Crosses on Cut Crystal Pedestal: $75 each Sale price $ 48.50

Good Works Make a Difference Leather Wrap Bracelets: $26.75 - Sale price $ 19.25 each

I can do all things through Christ who strenthens me....

For I know the plans I have for you declairs the Lord....

Because you believed, it has happened....

(right) Black & Bronze Leather Handbag: $79.00 - Sale price $ 48.50   

(left) Brown Suede Handbag: $159 - Sale price $ 115

 Bracelet: $150 & 135 - Sale price $ 89

 Tuquoise, Druzzy and Vintage Gold Medallion Pendant Necklace: $450.00 - Sale price $ 325

  Fresh Water Pearl  and Champaign Diamond Pendant Necklace: $665 - Sale price $ 450

Immaculate Conception Medallion and laberadite necklace: $425.00 - Sale price $ 300

Onyx Bead and Gold Plated Amber Stone Necklace: $325 - Sale price $ 250

To inquire about these items email Jessica@segretofinishes.com 

or vist us at 1414 Antoine.

To purchase "Segreto: Secrets to Finishing Beautiful Interiors" on our website click here or to purchase through Amazon click here.

To subscribe to the Segreto Blog click here.