Fauxology: Studying the Visual Magic of Faux Finishing and Interior Design (brought to you by Garay Artisans)

Hi, Everyone!  Well, tomorrow (Saturday, 8/16) is The Day!  I’ve talked about The Fauxtastic Four before and gave you a preview of what was coming.  Well, we’ve decided to change our moniker and re-christened ourselves: The Wall-nuts!  (No offense is intended to any ceiling or any other surface.  My name is Regina Garay and I approve this message.) 

We are getting together to check out the recipes in Gary Lord’s book “It’s Faux Easy”.  (Do click on the Fauxtastic Four link above to read a little more in-depth about our plan…it’s been a long day and Momma’s tired.) 

My husband, Chris, and Sharon Adelman’s husband, Chad, have been working diligently this week to put our podcast tech tools together to ensure that the four Wall-nuts can talk all about our first adventure.  Thank you so much, Chris and Chad!  I’ll try to post the entries up as fast as I can.  Not sure the world is ready for us gabbing away (someone is bringing Mimosas, I think) but there it is…

Until then!

A few years ago, we helped a designer avoid a crisis with these doors.  Ever since then, I have begun taking a second glance at this oft-overlooked surface…and sometimes the sheer artistry and creative detailing brought to them might take you by surprise. 

I’ve gathered up a few pics I’ve had in my “Idea Book”.  Take a look…

I almost had a heart attack when I saw this pic.  Let’s see…beautiful dominant color?  Check.  Intriguing curved moldings?  Check.  Some decorative work inside the door’s panels?  Check.  Making what would have been just a pair of pretty doors into something extraordinary?  No more calls, we have a winner!  So, I wandered around my house to see which door would be so graced.  To my utter chagrin, no doorways were going to work well.  Oh, how I shook my fist at the faux gods!  Still waiting for that perfect client to come along…

Here are two different examples of decorative painting surfaces on doors– one is the wood itself and other on the tiles surrounding the door.  The painted wood door on the left is from the 18th-century and comes from Morocco.   

These are along the same idea as the first pic but dialed down a bit and executed with the color white.  Isn’t the bird detail so sweet?  I love them both!  

Sometimes, entrance doors can come in just the one color.  It works nicely with some exterior design schemes but you can always throw in a bit of interest.  Here, I like how a bit of gold was used to highlite the frames and center design.  Really makes you appreciate the scrollwork even more.

Thought I’d throw in this door just because it was so interesting.  The pic on the right is a close-up of the detail of the door.  Unusual, no? 

…and this one I thought I’d throw this one in because it’s welcoming…but it’s got a slight Tim Burton vibe to it.  Looks like a lovely garden, too.

Amazing what a difference a beautiful doorway can make.  Even just approaching one with an artist’s mind can open the door to a world of wonder.  (smile)  Yes, I had to go there, LOL!

Black & White is probably not the first color combo that jumps to an artist’s mind when seeing a new area.  However, when I saw the fun way they were used in these rooms, I knew they would now jostle for attention in my mind (”pick me!”) along with all the other colors and finishes.  (Yes, I have a vivid imagination.)  Thought I’d share the pics.  

What I like is that paired with the furniture and treatments, the wall treatment doesn’t make this room look too “cute”…

Columns — so many finishes to choose from!  Two of the three here get a touch of whimsical stripes and a matching accent wall.

For a bright dash of color, faux flowers are glued onto the painted branches on the wall for a more three-dimensional effect.  You could build the “tree” using the Garden Room Designer Range or Exotic East Panels 114A or B.  You could also forego the flowers and try it in full relief. 

Although Black & White will always be striking together and can be more of a serious combination, it’s nice to remember that you can still have a bit of fun with it, too.  Cheers!

OK, so was there ever a doubt I would pick this book as our Book of the Month?  Especially since we were chosen to be a part of it?  I do have to say, in all seriousness, that this book is a wonderful resource for decorative artists.  It is chock-full of photographs of gorgeous rooms using the Modello decorative masking patterns in innovative and creative ways.

Modello by Design - Inspiring Images from Artists’ Portfolios is authored by Melanie Royals.  She put out a nationwide call for artists to submit their best images featuring Modellos.  As I understand it, the plan is for it to be a series of books with this one being Volume 1.  Her goal was to provide a beautiful visual guide for decorative artists to show their clients a smorgasbord of design ideas.  This book will be valuable during consultations because it is hard for some clients to visualize the proposed finished room.  The old adage certainly rings true: a picture is worth a thousand words.  These photographs will help get your ideas across or will jumpstart a new level of creative brainstorming between you and your client. 

Here are some images — it doesn’t even touch the amount of good ideas the book contains.  I didn’t even have room to post up most of my faves!  I’ve also provided the links to the artist websites, when available.  Enjoy!

Walls by Heather Mueller, Todd Oberndorfer & April Long of Metamorphosis Designs in Ogden, Utah.  The idea of “pattern everywhere” in the wrong artist’s hands could go so badly but this is Absolutely Perfect.

The stunning curved ceiling is by Katherine Enguita of the Final Detail in Fort Myers, FL. The flooring is by Joan Kingsbury of Joan K Design in Canton, MA.  Check out the floor’s curves and corner designs – super cool work.
 

I actually saw the left pic on Talk Faux a few months ago and LOVED the room.  The work is by Kris Kuchavik of Casa Bella in Waxhaw, NC.  The gorgeous ceiling on the right is by Barry Harris of Painting Elegance in Homestead, FL.  I like the idea of an additional layer of design starting outside the fixed medallion.

The accent wall on the left is by Joanie Valenti of Joanie Valenti Decorative Wall Finishes in Pittsford, NY and the peacocks on the barrel ceiling is painted by Carolyn Hewitt of Lasting Impressions in McKinney, TX.  Both are samples of outstanding work. 

The windows at left are by yours truly and the cool sink design (with the great faux on the walls) on the right is by Michele Molek of Fashionable Finishes in Southern Pines, NC.

We had three projects chosen for the book.  The first one is this room with the full ceiling view here, the second is featured above and the third is pictured below.  As a bonus, I put in the “before” pic.

Please click on the links for the available websites of the artists above — there is more beautiful work to be seen.  Love these pics?  Maybe one of them is in your area!  Have a great day!

The Fauxtastic Four. What is it? Who are they? Is there really a faux superhero team? Well, no…and yes. The Fauxtastic Four came about as an idea I had to take the faux recipe books and videos that come out every year and actually test them. See if the recipes hold up and if anyone really can achieve those looks. Then, I thought, “Why just test them on my own when a group with varying degrees of training can do so?” The idea started to take shape and the group started to evolve. I narrowed it to four participants: [1] a faux-as-a-hobby enthusiast with no professional training, [2] a professional faux finisher starting their career, [3] a professional faux finisher more than a decade into her career (that would be me), and [4] a university-trained muralist.  In short, the Fauxology readers will each have a person whose experience they can relate to.  I thought we each would bring a certain outlook into our tests and reviews while helping the readers (that would be you) make an informed buying decision on a “how-to” purchase.  

Here’s how it works: Once per quarter, our group chooses a book and/or video we’d all like to review. After picking the finish in the book/video we’d each like to try the most, with no repeats, we get together in the studio for one day to test our chosen recipes and talk (and eat and drink and have fun).  No actual formulas will be posted online but there will be pictures taken of the process and of the final results. All four of us are pretty positive personalities so we will be fair but not be vicious or derogatory — we’ll leave that to those who like to tear others down.  Our ideal goal is to have a great experience with the book/video and share our findings with you.  We will also have a podcast where you can listen to the four of us dish on our day and the results.

So, who is the lucky recipient of Review Numero Uno? Why, it’s Gary Lord! We’ve picked his book “It’s Faux Easy” to test out. Our studio day is planned for Saturday, August 16 – look for the next Fauxtastic Four entry after that to see and listen to the results! Until then, here are the pics and bios of each of the Fauxtastic Four members…enjoy!

The Faux Enthusiast: Sharon Adelman

Hoping to Inspire: All the DIYers out there!

I have always been very active in the arts. In middle and high school, I loved “still art” and anything that was abstract. With my parents’ “push” to learn classical music since I was 5 years old, it also fueled my passion for music as well. I went into Audio Engineering and Digital Media degree programs, but eventually got tired of the competitive nature of the music business. Four years ago, I tapped into the teaching market after a revelation: teaching has always been in my blood since the women in my family were all teachers. This has taken me into a new career and I now teach at a children’s school. Art and faux has always been something of a fantasy for me, meaning that “one day, I will learn it” but I never knew where to start. After meeting Regina, it sparked my interest even more. I enjoy cooking, entertaining, traveling abroad, indigenous craft and music.

Ye Olde Timer: Regina Garay

Hoping to Inspire: Like-minded professionals and anyone with an interest in decorative painting as a hobby or business

Regina Garay is of Hispanic heritage and has traveled internationally to receive training from world-renowned Master Artisans. She is a member of the Stencil Artisans League and the company is an ASID (American Society of Interior Designers) Industry Partner. She was one of the first faux finishers in the country to be recognized as a Certified Faux Consultant by the Paint and Decorating Retailers of America. She has taught faux finishing courses for the Southern Women’s Show and her firm’s work has been featured in newspapers and magazines (and now, a book: Modello by Design) in addition to a commission featured in the Frontgate catalog which reached 40 million homes. She was recently asked by TalkFaux, an international faux finishing forum, to be a Global Moderator on their site. Her firm, Garay Artisans, was established in 1998 and the artisans have since worked in many beautiful homes and notable commercial projects including hotels, restaurants and boutiques. She also teaches beginner’s faux finishing workshops in Orlando in conjunction with Benjamin Moore and maintains the Fauxology blog. She personally enjoys traveling, socializing, dancing, reading a great book and going to the movies. She hopes to tackle her garden as a project one day.

The New Professional Faux Finisher: Debbie Jackson

Hoping to Inspire: Those who are just starting their faux careers or are thinking of jumping into one

Debbie Jackson is the owner of Debbie’s Designs, a Central Florida faux finish and custom painting business that was established in 2006. Debbie’s interest in art began in elementary school, where she began drawing portraits of her family, friends and an assortment of pets. Over the years she developed an interest in making her surroundings more appealing to the eye and decided to take the next step and start her own business by sharing what she loves with others. Debbie continues to learn new techniques yearly at different faux studios and schools. When not painting, Debbie enjoys photography, visiting with family and friends and playing with her animals. Debbie is also passionate about animal rights and volunteers for a local no-kill shelter.

The University-Trained Muralist: Monica Zeuli

Hoping to Inspire: All fine artists who have an interest in faux finishing as well

I did my first painting when I was 7 years old. My dad was an established artist and my first art teacher. When I was young, he taught me the correct ways of drawing and painting. This is the best thing you can do for a child who enjoys art since you receive more of an education than what you learn at school. I used art as my therapy as a teen during my parent’s divorce and my Grandfather’s death. It helped me heal in so many ways and it teaches you to look inward and grow.  In high school, I took weekend classes in Boston’s finest schools and was nominated as Best Artist.   I went to a four-year art program at Notre Dame College where I got a BA Degree in Commercial Art. I started my own business in 1998 in Massachusetts and was astounded at the fact that I could actually get paid for what most people consider a hobby. I moved to Florida in 2000 and since then, have been painting regularly and been steady with referrals.  My work is getting more defined and recognized everyday.  I sleep great since there is nothing more satisfying than being wiped out from painting all day.

All of us are so excited — we hope you are, too! 

One of the most wonderful opportunities we’ve had this year is working at the Orlando International Airport.  We received the call and had to adjust the schedule and split the crews in order to make it happen for them.  My brother, Jason, took on the project while I headed another one at the same time.

Working in an airport means you have to take into account all the security measures.  Every morning, the cargo van would be checked thoroughly (even underneath with the long-handled mirrors) and there was a mandatory dress code.  Plus, all the construction site regulations were followed to a T.  I would definitely call it the most securite site Garay Artisans has ever been involved in! 

The finish was Venetian Plaster and it was imperative that it be done quickly and well since it was a public space on a serious deadline.  Since the site was open 24 hours (and had revolving crews), we were able to be provided with lifts that we shared with other trades. 

Here are the before, during and after pics of the work.  If you’re ever in Orlando, stop by the food court at Terminal B and look up — isn’t it nice to see the beauty Venetian Plaster can add?

Before & During

After Shots  (BTW, I particularly like how Jason and his team were able to work around the immobile vents and not make them look like they had a Venetian Plaster halo around them.  They were able to continue a seamless look.  The things I notice, right?)

A big THANK YOU! goes out to one of my best buds (and amazing artist), Jeff Huckaby, for taking the “after” pics on his way home from Paris. He took them without being asked — just because he thought we might like to have more pics. (You need a plane ticket to get into the terminal…so it was a pleasant surprise to receive them!) Thank you for always being so thoughtful, Jeff!

Our business is divided about half and half between commercial and residential work.  I love commercial work - dealing with different firms, finding the right solutions for the interior designers and the rat-a-tat pace it seems to go in.  Plus, the added benefit that many people can see the work. 

Residential commissions are enjoyable as well, trust.  Creating the right finishes for someone’s house is a labor of love but it’s satisfying when a homeowner can’t wait to come home…nice!  I’ve definitely found the two right niches for my business — but today, dear readers, we’re going to talk about another kind of niche: the dreaded ones.  Most people have them in their homes and drive themselves crazy trying to find something cool to do with them.  A niche could stand out on its own (a Wow! finish) or be a showcase for a work of art (a finish that provides a great background and doesn’t compete with the art).  I thought I’d post a few niches we have done…maybe one will be an inspiration…

This one has a custom-tinted plaster with a gold wax overlay. 

This Venetian Plaster niche and accent area have been seen before, but I do think the technique and color showcase the area nicely.  Both the finish and color were specifically chosen by an architect and his wife — their home is one of my favorites ever!

The striking papers from Vahallan.  It takes a while to install them (laser levels, balance of color, etc.) but the effect is worth it.  (One regret: I do wish I had painted the trim border a nice deep walnut or coffee bean color…)

This niche and surround has gold leaf embedded within several tinted plasters.  The Modello designs are coming from under the light fixtures (which we fauxed as well — they were white originally.)

Sometimes all it takes is a little design work or a bit of color…

This niche was done for the Faux Showcase 2005 here in Orlando.  We went back and forth on what to do with the niche and decided on a a decorative design that could be seen behind crumbling plaster.  This is actually about 6 layers worth of work.

This one has also been seen before, but I thought it would be nice to include it again in our niche post.  The background is Faux Effect’s Lusterstone and an embossed Modello with aged schaibin highlights. 

Last but not least, is the niche within this cabinetry.  We woodgrained the cabinetry (including painting the trim on it black) and also did the ceiling in its entirety (Venetian Plaster, glazing, aged metallic panels, painted medallion, etc.)  The niche has a plaster background and is also embossed with plaster.  It’s nice to run your hand over it and feel the relief of the design.  A cool “oh!” is that the designer chose the border of the design panel to match the panels on the ceiling — square but with curved edges.  I thought that was a nice subtle touch by her.

I hope you’ve found something you liked…have a great weekend!

Inspiration for a finish or a technique comes in many forms.  Visuals from magazines, recipes from books, new products and/or new classes from masters in the field or just a beautiful stroll through nature can bring about a flurry of new ideas. 

This particular technique for our client’s wine cellar came from the book Spectacular Walls by Jeannine Dostal.  It took a bit of practice to master the “sculpting” but it was worth it when we presented the sample board to the client.  When we were done with the room, all they kept repeating was “That is so cool!”.  Another client loved it as well so we are doing it for the exterior walls leading into his wine cellar.  In Florence, he commissioned a custom-made large tile plaque with grapes & leaves and his family’s name engraved on it — we are going to bring in the grapes and leaves to intermingle right where they meet the tile & wall.  I’ll post a pic soon! 

Here are the two sides of the cellar (the full pic came out fuzzy, darn it!):

Here’s a close-up:

Until next time!

In the midst of all the walls and ceilings, sometimes an area that is normally ignored becomes the center of attention.  Staircases fall under that category.  Many don’t realize that they do not have to live with a staircase they dislike — the color can be changed, the wood tones made deeper and richer or just have a little bit of metallic oomph added to the ironwork.  Here are some pics:

This is a light change.  The ironwork was installed in its original format: totally black and lacking warmth.  Our clients just wanted metallic hints added throughout the design.  It was all the change it needed.

This one is more of a medium change.  The designer thought the black was way too heavy for the home’s new stylings and so asked us to make it a lighter and warmer.  Here’s the Before:

…and After.

                                     
           

           
This staircase underwent a big change.  In the smaller Before pic, you can see that the balusters were a stark white and both the handrail and newel posts were a light pine…kinda blah.  In the After pic, we warmed up the balusters with an off-white base and color glaze, darkened the wood tone and created a newel post that was topped off by an aged gilded finish.  (Oh, the walls were glazed also…)

Hope you enjoyed the pics!  Until next time…