Blog

Veteran’s Day Free Screening of “Is Anybody Listening”
11.10.15
On Veteran’s Day, you can attend a free screening from 7 to 9 p.m. of “Is Anybody Listening?” a film by Paula Joan Caplan at St. Mark Presbyterian Church in Newport Beach. The film will be followed by a panel discussion with Dr. Caplan, along with veterans and nonveterans.
“Is Anybody Listening?” is based on stories from her father, who served in the Battle of the Bulge, and her award-winning book, “When Johnny and Jane Come Marching Home: How All of Us Can Help Veterans.”
The film shows the healing value of listening to veterans’ stories and challenges standard treatments to returning veterans. You can learn more about how to help veterans on the road to healing and reduce nonveterans’ illiteracy about war and trauma.
St. Mark Presbyterian Church is at 2200 San Joaquin Hills Road in Newport Beach.
interiors

Basic Design Principles of Modern Décor
11.10.15
By Design by a Chameleon
Modern decor has been quite popular for years now and the look is not going anywhere! Creating a modern feel in your home doesn't have to be difficult but there are a few basic rules to keep in mind if you want to go this direction. If you go overboard in any one area, you may end up with something that's cold or uncomfortable, when what you really want is warm and relaxed. It's possible to get there if you follow these simple guidelines and before you know it, you'll have a modern decor that you'll love:
Simplicity
This word describes modern design better than anything, so make sure that you're always considering it when decorating your space. As we mentioned, don't go to the extreme and think you only need a few items in each room. But do go for an uncluttered look, with clean lines, which will naturally simplify things and be more cost effective in the long run.
Photo by Chameleon Design.

Functionality
Once you’ve nailed the simplicity by using clean lines and minimal artwork and accessories, you also need to make sure everything in the space is functional. This will vary from room to room, but the key is being able to walk into any area and easily access the items in it. For example, the room below utilizes extra wall space for a built-in desk/computer area that’s not at all out of place in the open family room.

Open Spaces
If you are going with a modern decor, then you will want to have lots of open space in your home. This won’t be as easy if you don’t have an open concept but you can still create the appearance of open spaces by using color, fabrics and furniture. You can also keep windows coverings that are light in color and airy in feel to create an open feel in to the room even if it isn’t.
Photo by Chameleon Design.

Character
Last but not least, don’t forget to always inject character in each space. Whether it’s done with color or a fun pattern added to an otherwise neutral palette or an incredible statement piece such as a chair or chandelier that packs a punch, don’t neglect to add some personality to each room.
Photo by Chameleon Design.
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