Asparagus Interiors Inc.

Thinking about adding texture to your walls or ceiling?  How about adding a relief on a column, pattern up a staircase or emphasize a focal wall.  Looking to add a little shimmer with seashells or texture with cork or silk?

This week I’ve been introduced to new methods of adding natural materials to the walls and ceilings creating texture, pattern, color and drama.

I spoke with Karen Navaro, of Twig & a Feather , this week.  She is a faux finisher who works with eco-friendly finishes from American Clay , Modern Masters and concrete.  Karen is one of 20 people world wide that have been selected and trained to install the following products from Modern Masters:

- KORUKU: A cork-like substance made from the Japanese Cypress tree bark
- KAI: A shimmering seashell based mold and mildew resistant finish
- KYOTO: A gorgeous nubby silk fabric like feel can be achieved with a plaster like finish from small bits of recycled plastic

In addition to the plaster and mixed mediums above, Karen also uses concrete to create wall accents (wall bling! and stained concrete surfaces.

I’ve wanted to use American Clay for some time in my home to create a focal wall and add emphasis to the fireplace.  I’m now thinking of a much more dramatic approach.  An intimate use of the shimmering sea shell product may be just the ticket to spice up my bedroom.  After all, why can’t my sleeping quarters become a sanctuary?

Margarido House .  The first new home in the country to be LEED-H certified by the USGBC , and GreenPoint Rated by Build it Green .

A beautiful custom home comprised of my favorite architectural details, the use of eco-minded and sustainable materials and finishes plus super energy savings.  Could this dream house become our future reality?

After shopping this past weekend at my favorite home store, Dwellings in Le Claire, IA, I stumbled upon a Marooshka graphic print.  Marooshka, that’s funny, my last name is Marusin.  Art inspiration or serendipity?

We picked up the Bittersweet print with it’s striking orange screen print on a natural linen fabric.  Bittersweet is shown above next to the vintage sand dollar Marushka. The designs are similar to the Marimekko designs we love. The new print is a great addition to our living room.

After doing more research, I found that Marooshka originated as Marushka.

Marushka prints were made by Michigan in the 70′s and 80′s by Michigan Rag Company in Grand Haven.  Founded by Richard Sweet, the graphic prints were simple designs mounted on linen and fabric canvas.  Inexpensive prints that featured many sea side creatures and natural themes.

We’re heading to the Grand Haven area in August, I’m gotta be on the lookout for some vintage finds.

Sites, I found related to the Marushka / Marooshka art work:
The Art Farmer
http://marushkaprints.blogspot.com/