Multiple Accents

A simple weekend project

photo: Thomas J. Story

Lose 10 pounds.....eat better.....get to sleep earlier.....spend more time with loved ones.....These are some usual new year's resolutions. Mine luckily is much easier - to paint an accent wall. I will take some of my own Feng Shui medicine and become my own weekend warrior! Our hallway wall is empty, sad and begging for some Feng Shui love. I know, most people are terrified to choose paint colors and can seem like a daunting task since there so many colors out there. But here's an alternative way to think about it, trembling commita-phobes. Instead of feeling overwhelmed by a whole home or room, choose just one accent wall to paint.

A fun idea for a kid's room

photo: pennycarnival.typepad.com

As you can see, it doesn't have to be complicated. I am always asked if there are colors that pertain to Feng Shui sections in your life. As a Feng Shui consultant, my answer is yes but what is most important is to choose a color that makes you happy and feel uplifted when you see it. As a designer, I emphasize using color to emphasize what you want to "pop" and make what's less flattering recede. So go on, buy a can and splash on a new color. Worst case if you change your mind, do it all over again. It can be a very dramatic change in a space that is very wallet-friendly!

This wall is comprised of cork! Beautiful AND sustainable!!

 A great solution for slanted ceilings

top photo: www.thedesignfile.net, middle photo: www.reliableremodeler.com, 

bottom photo: odietamoblog.blogspot.com

An Ancient Wonderland

A wonderful client and entrepreneur, Hayko

photos courtesy of www.hayko.com

 

When I walked into Hayko Fine Rug and Tapestries on the Upper East Side this summer, I was transported instantly to Istanbul. Ok, I have never been there, but it's what I imagined it to be. I was honored to be called in for a feng shui consultation by Hayko Oltaci, owner of this magical store. Hayko and I discussed what he was trying to achieve and together we used this information and various feng shui adjustments to help enhance his business. 

Believe it or not, this respite is right in the middle of New York City!

Many people usually ask me, "Is it ok to have old things in my home?" My answer to will vary according to what the person is referring to. If the objects in question are things left over from exes that make you cringe each time you look at it, I'd say better to get rid of them! But, if it's something that is infused with beautiful energy and brings you joy each time you see it, like one of Hayko's rugs, I would say cherish it and if possible, highlight it by putting it somewhere in your space where you see it all the time. This way you'll lift your chi each time you see it.

Get a glimpse of this talented man and his exquisite products and services in this video:

Hayko Oltaci from mehmet demirci on Vimeo.

Glorious. That is all I can say about the results of his hard work. If you are in the market for a fine rug, a rug weaving class or just haven't had time to take a vacation, go visit Hayko's store and have a cup of hot tea with him in the cafe. You too will be transported and well-taken care of.

Hayko Fine Rug and Tapestries, 857 Lexington Avenue at 65th Street, 2nd Floor. New York, NY 10065. 212.717.5400

An Organic Chi Boost

An unexpected chi enhancer

Looking for a holiday gift for that special someone? Me too. Luckily, my friend Pamela has created a new luxury organic beauty product called The Vanity Pillow. These beautiful pillows are for those who want to look and feel fabulous. It's a simple organic way to prevent wrinkles and relieve pressure on existing wrinkles, by gently supporting your head while you sleep, eliminating facial compression. Sign me up!

You know the scenario, you curl up on your side or on your face (egads!) and in the morning you end up looking like you aged another 20 years. I'm a light sleeper and I think this pillow will help me sleep more comfortably on my back. Not only will that do wonders for my face but also for my chi since I'll sleep better and feel more rested in the am. Yay!

Most people think that Feng Shui is just about moving furniture which affects the energy of the space and eventually you. That is true. But it can also work in reverse - if you have good, strong chi or energy, your space will be infused with your good energy and you'll get more work done, have happier relationships and more energy to do all the things you want to do.

It's that easy to look and feel rested! Your chi will thank you!
photos: Beth Schneck Photography

Best thing of all is that The Vanity Pillow team is generously offering iheartfengshui readers a 15% discount! Thanks Pamela! Just go to www.vanitypillow.com. and use coupon Code: vpholidayheart at check out. Happy shopping and happy sleeping!!