Asparagus Interiors Inc.

Looking for a renewable, stain resistant, no-voc, recyclable, washable – eco-friendly flooring material?
I’m giving Forbo’s Marmoleum a second look.  Working with clients on their kitchen we were discussing a solution that’s eco-friendly, durable, washable and rapidly renewable.  Although bamboo is a great option, mixing in another flooring product can introduce color, pattern and if it’s marmoleum stain resistance and ease of maintenance.

Marmoleum has been widely used by schools, commercial buildings, hospitals, and residences for many years.  The trick to marmoleum will be to create a fun atmosphere without the institutional look.  There are so many colors out there, the design possibilities are endless.

I’m starting to get that spring time – get my act together – start organizing – design freeing vibe.   I’ve got so may design ideas started in my head and yet am feeling the pressure of unorganized chaos in my workshop.   I’m really and organized person… just very visually and in piles.

I’ve been reading a lot about how labels and containers can help you cut the clutter and yet become design elements in their own right.  In the February issue of Domino magazine, “the (wacky) art of labeling” by Cynthia Kling, explains how many of the most successful designers use a labeling system to keep their mind focused on design and their workshops in order.  I decided to use her advice and get a Brother P-Touch labeling system.  I’m gonna give it a go.

Other ways to get organized and still be creative:

• Bamboo Office Dividers – become jewelery organizers and corral clutter.
• Rattan and woven baskets – are homey, cute and an eco-friendly way of gathering loose ends.
• 

  Hooks – help organize coats, bags, backpacks and come in lots of shapes and sizes.  Try Container Store, Anthropologie or Restoration Hardware for unique hook options.

As part of my New Year’s Resolution and #1 on my “greenie tips list” below, I decided to refinish furniture that needed to be freshed up.

First, Mike’s cadet blue dresser, I refinished with milk paint years ago needed some handles.  New handles mixed with pull knobs gave it the stature it needed and the functionality it deserved.

Mike’s mom also gave us his old cedar chest.  The solid oak construction was brown and tired.  I used Bioshield, low VOC and water based floor stain in chili pepper red.  It turned out to be more Pagoda red after 3 coats, but the finish is exactly the red patent leather look I was going for to spice up the mud room.

Consider refinishing some of your tired pieces.  There’s still life left in the good ones.