New Website: Feng Shui Creative!

I launched my new website www.FengShuiCreative.com but forgot to post it here, sorry!! You can find my new blog posts here. Seriously. This is not April Fool's joke! See you soon!

Vandaag: a northern breath of fresh air

Great sign and an exterior you can't miss

 

Sleek interior at Vandaag

photos: vandaagnyc.com

Needing to warm up with a cup o' joe, we popped into a new venue (for us) in the East Village. The place was called Vandaag. Maybe we were lured in by the sign outside that promised "Bierrestaurant." Or maybe it was the window framed in bright yellow. When we walked in, the initial feeling was good - an open space and an immediate welcome from the hostess. All great chi features! As a designer, I was amused every time I turned my head: an unexpected bike in the center of the space, dark sexy tiles in the bathroom. Obviously, everything was very well thought out. Coffee wasn't bad either but I just had one qualm.

Every time I picked up my coffee cup, the teaspoon would fall to the center of the saucer. Small detail I know, but as a designer I couldn't help overlook it and as a Feng Shui consultant, it bugged my chi each time I picked up my cup and wanting to place it back down, couldn't. Luckily I got smart fast and placed the teaspoon on the table. My calm quickly resumed just in time for the arrival of a delicious frisian suger bread. Since this isn't a food blog - although I often restrain myself - I won't go into the food details. Just check out their menu here.

The culprit and its accomplice

all other photos: schan

Beautiful design details

And my favorite - the orange bike!

This space gave us a reprieve from all the retro dark wood that has been infiltrating interior design in New York lately. My only one suggestion - add some lush green plants to balance out the cool textures and clean lines. Then, save me a seat!

Happy Chinese New Year 2011!

Happy Year of the Rabbit! To encourage a positive start, spend some time today doing something that makes you feel good. It can be just taking a small break to get your favorite cup of tea or even doing something nice for somebody else which in turn, will make you feel great. Positive energy is contagious!

Then have your favorite meal tonight and finish it off with aromatic oranges that will infuse your home with auspicious chi. This weekend, share a meal with friends to welcome in the new year together. We are invited this weekend to a dumpling party with some dear friends. I can't think of a better way to start the new year! Wishing you all a very peaceful and harmonious new year of the Metal Rabbit!

Feng Shui Staging on the Wall Street Journal

The sofa in the command position

The bagua, a Feng Shui tool

Giving a tour of the Feng Shui staged apartment

all photos: Natalie Keyssar for the Wall Street Journal

I have some exciting news! I was interviewed by the Wall Street Journal last week for a Feng Shui Staging job I completed in Spanish Harlem. It was alot of fun and Craig Karmin the WSJ journalist and Hilke Schellmann the WSJ videographer were wonderful in capturing the essence of Feng Shui principles.

Watch my TV debut, Using Feng Shui to Lure Apartment Buyers (I guess it's really my online video) and read the article Why Chinese Living Quarters Are Superior. Please feel free to leave your comments!

Has anyone seen my office?

An office wonderland 

photo: countryliving

As a native New Yorker, I am no stranger to space envy. I am one of those people who has dreamed about opening up a door in my current residence to discover a whole new wing that, for some strange reason, I had never noticed before. I realize that it was only my dream state but it was a lovely 3 hours in my palatial residence.

During my consultations, I am often presented with these types of questions, "What do I do with all this stuff/clutter? Why don't I sleep well? Why am I so unfocused? How do I make my home feel better and have better flow?"  Added to these challenges is the fact that many people are now working from home. Challenges 3, You 0. So how do I address these things in Feng Shui?

photos: top health blt, bottom thomas j story

If you have read Feng Shui books, it often recommends that your desk stay out of your bedroom so it can remain just that, a room for your bed. A quiet and uncluttered sanctuary for when your body is resting and in a state of rejuvenation. New Yorkers these authors are not I say. So here are my 3 main suggestions for a home office that has limited space and abundant paperwork.

1. Make your work area a place you love. Paint the room, closet or wall a cheery color. Buy binders and boxes that not only organize your papers but bring a smile to your face each time you pick them up.
2. Be in charge. If you are not facing the door or room (like the ones in the photos), place a mirror on the wall you are facing so you can see behind you. This will put you in a position of command and you will be able to focus your energy better.
3. Be sure that your chair is in the optimal position. This means that you are not up against a wall, in the direct line of the door to the room or in the passageway. If you are cramped, push your desk further away from the chair to give you ample room to be expansive and creative. If you are in line with the door or passageway, hang a crystal on a red string above so that the energy slows down and mitigates its effect on you.

I have included many photos of offices that were created in closets. Not suggested in Feng Shui, but in my opinion, they do the job well. I would just suggest putting the mirror I indicated in point #2. These definitely get my vote because the best part is - when you're done, you can shut the door and get back to what you should be doing at home - relaxing!

The Container Store must have read my mind. 

They are holding their annual 30% sale off Elpha configurations

photos: top houzz.com, bottom containerstore.com

Moving in the Right Direction

This building may be LEED certified but it's a Feng Shui eyesore!

all photo: http://www.arnewde.com

In today's CrainsNewYorkBusiness.com, the discussion is over a new regulation for commercial buildings to measure and divulge how much energy they are consuming:

This year, for the first time, owners of 25,000 commercial properties in New York must report their buildings' energy use to the city. The data will be compiled into publicly posted report cards that officials hope will shame energy hogs into making the renovations needed to improve their scores, much the same way that issuing letter grades to restaurants is making owners shape up. Read complete article here.

I am definitely eco-conscious, especially since Feng Shui is about enhancing nature in our everyday environments while seeking to deplete resources as little as possible. So I am happy to hear today's news. I took the opportunity to find a couple of buildings that are already LEED compliant in NYC. What I found was a building that I unfortunately am not a fan of - 41 Cooper Square in Manhattan’s East Village - at least not on the exterior. I do give them credit for what they have done but I can't help to cringe each time I pass it by. It seems as though the building has been slashed with a knife while it is hanging precipitously over its feeble foundation. It does not evoke a sense of serenity for me. But upon further inspection of photos on the Green Review website, I fell in love with the interiors. Not only are the light and airy but luminous and inspiring.

Interiors that inspire creativity

I am fortunate to live in New York so I will go pay a visit before I make my final verdict. Apparently the chi of the students who attend is strong since Cooper Union produces many of the most talents architects, artists and engineers that New York has to offer. Way to go NYC!

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!!

Quality time with my Lonnymag

I love Lonnymag and I love this dressing room!

all photos: lonnymag.com

I had a wonderfully long Thanksgiving weekend filled with food, friends and family. I worked on my metal element energy and throat chakra by singing some karaoke (believe it or not, I am an amateur!) and I even had some relaxing time to thumb through some of my favorite magazines. A perfect weekend. One magazine that I absolutely love is Lonnymag. It's an online magazine but believe me, the absence of the pages under your fingers will be quickly forgotten once you view all the beautiful interiors and products they feature. 

In the Oct/Nov issue, interior designer Celerie Kemble invites us into her home and it is a dream. Her black and white dressing room shouts luxury, relaxation and command. Celerie will never be startled while she is primping since she has a beautiful mirror that allows her to see behind her so that she stays rested and calm. The rest of her home is equally beautiful and elegant and you can see from the photos.

In complete command of the living room

This photo and view speak for themselves

If you haven't checked Lonnymag.com yet, do so today. Yes, I do miss the tactile feel of my now "old-school" design magazines, but I will just have to imagine now that my magazine is tucked under my arm...in my laptop. Definitely worth the trade off!

Adventurous Advent Calendars

The calendar that sparked the idea!

photo: pottery barn

Ahh, the Advent Calendar. Regardless of religion, the concept of the advent calendar is thrilling for every child. Who wouldn't want to have a little surprise or chocolate for each of the 25 days until Christmas? I saw this calendar at Pottery Barn and was completely inspired. Why not integrate the idea of it into Feng Shui? And have some childlike fun while we're at it?

A whimsical calendar that can be made to match any decor

http://roomenvy.wordpress.com

In Feng Shui, we recommend if you perform a task for a specific result, that you do it for 27 days. The number 9 and multiples of it are most auspicious in Feng Shui as 9 is the number of completion. I realize that advent calendars are only for 25 days. So here is my inspired suggestion. Buy an advent calendar that you love – or better yet, make one. When you are buying or making it, keep the intention in your mind of why you are buying it – More money is coming to me or I am powerful and inspired or a healthy, loving relationship is forming. Depending on your intention, fill each pouch or container with a saying, a poem, or an actual object that supports your main intention. For example, if you want a new relationship, in each pouch put two matching objects such as two movie tickets that would signify a fun activity that you and your partner will share. Do that each day until you get to day 26. On days 26 and 27, put these last things on your desk or nightstand so that you will be able to see them everyday and remind you of your intention.

 

 Two easy to make advent calendars

Top: www.activityvillage.co.uk, bottom: www.thriftyfun.com

The purpose of this calendar is to not only beautify your space but to actively shift your qi around your issue and to remind yourself of the wonderful changes that are already happening around you. Most importantly have fun with this calendar!

Presto Wallpaper

Wallpaper that you can actually put up in no time!

Who doesn't love the look of modern wallpaper? It's an easy way to transform a room that needs a little TLC and a shift of qi and style.

One of my favorite motifs!

photos: Lolly Props

Enter Lolli Props. They created Tempaper which offers us the beauty of wall paper but without the headache of application and the fumes of dangerous chemicals. Their fun idea uses the ease of sticker technology for that instant gratification whether you are putting the paper up or changing it out. This is dangerous territory for me since I can see myself changing the paper every other week since it's so easy to do! See the video tutorial here and check out how simple it is to do: www.tempaperdesigns.com/video.nxg

Enhancing Your Knowledge Gua

Marrying two things that I love - books and jewelry

photos: www. littlefly.co.uk

Jewelry designer Jeremy Mays is my hero. In a time where most people are downloading ebooks to their ipads or Kindle, because of Jeremy I no longer have to fret over what will happen to the overabundance of printed books. He reincarnates books into beautiful objects that can continue to enhance our lives with his literary jewelry.

This shows how this ring was literally extracted from this book!

 

On the Feng Shui bagua, there is a section dedicated to skill, knowledge and wisdom (bottom left hand corner). Wearing one of these beautiful pieces of jewelry can help you enhance your knowledge gua where ever you may be.

 

Combining symbols of love, beauty, and wisdom

Bedbugs go to the Theatre

Ballerinas are not the only ones dancing at Lincoln Center

photo: ap photo/matt moyer

It was on the news today that bedbugs were found in the dressing rooms of Lincoln Center. You're probably wondering, "What do bedbugs have to do with Feng Shui?" I knew you'd ask. Feng Shui relates to many things but especially to mindfulness, your environment and your community. In my opinion, that easily applies to this morning's news flash.

I am a resident of NYC where inhabitants groan but simultaneously relish the idea of living in such close proximity to one another. Living in such tight quarters makes the meaning of community even more so important and it's inevitable that issues will arise.

Although not a bedbug expert, I offer you a few tips to get started on right away that will help the NYC environment overall, your local community and your own home:

• Mindfulness - Buy a mattress and boxspring protector especially made to protect against bedbugs. Instead of worrying that you'll be the next victim, you can separate from that anxiety and take action. You can purchase these protectors on amazon.com or at your local Bed Bath & Beyond. Just make sure that they have a zipper protector. Also, think before you toss your bags or clothes on the floor, on your bed or on fabric chairs or couches. This helps transport bedbugs. Hang them up on a hook if you can. Not only will you prevent bedbugs from spreading, your home will be more organized!

• Environment - Start decluttering. Decluttering is one branch of Feng Shui. Bedbugs love to hide not only in your mattress and boxspring but in other things such as books, bags and other dark places. So while you are decluttering, also know that you are letting go of things that will help your qi (life force) better flow! One thing that's very important to point out is that bedbugs are not a matter of cleanliness. Anyone can get them. Just ask the residents of Park Avenue.

• Community - Share your knowledge. Inform your friends and neighbors that bedbugs instances are on the rise if they don't know already. Without panicking them, suggest that the tips you have read here. Not only will you be helping your neighbors but also strengthening the community of your building or neighborhood by reaching out.

If you'd like more information about bedbugs, I would suggest websites such as this one that I found. I believe the MOST important thing with this bedbugs situation is to remain calm while taking action. Indeed it's a growing problem but with some precautions and communication, hopefully we can help bring awareness and slow it down.

Lightbulb LOVE

 

Organically beautiful lightbulbs that are ALSO energy efficient!

image: Plumen

Why oh why is it so hard to find nice-looking light bulbs these days? Let me correct myself - Why oh why is it so hard to find nice-looking, energy-efficient light bulbs these days? As a Feng Shui Consultant and overall tree-hugger, I am thrilled beyond belief that almost everywhere you look, people are using the CFL spiral light bulbs to save energy and hopefully, the planet. But as a designer, it is depressing that we are all using the same sad-looking spiral light bulbs that are well, aesthetically depressing. And for those hard-core design junkies, they may even be reverting back to energy sucking versions in the name of style. Dilemma. 

Hark! Until I happened upon this ingenious design from English company Plumens. As their website states,

The Plumen bulb uses 80% less energy and lasts 8 times longer than incandescent bulbs, giving you the opportunity to purchase an ecological product with style. It works just like any low energy bulb but it has a lot more presence.

I'm so in love with these bulbs, I may have to travel to England to get some. Hmm, but I guess that would be negating by my carbon footprint. Darn.

See them in beautiful 3D here:

Plumen Bulb Loop from Plumen on Vimeo.

Moon Cake Update

Obviously my first thought was not taking this picture!

photos: L Lanneau

Parents are awesome! In spirit of Moon Festival last week, my dear parents gave me some really beautiful and no-preserved-egg-in-the-center moon cakes. Here's to family!

Chinese Moon Festival

Chinese lanterns seen during the moon festival

photo: southeastasia.org

Although the weather is still pretty steamy in New York, it's hard to believe that fall is already here. At least according to the western calendar. I know that most of us are bummed that the warm and carefree days of summer are soon no more, but there are many things to welcome about the fall - leaves transforming into gorgeous colors, a slight chill in the air and the hint of the holiday festivities on the way.

For the Chinese, this entry into the fall is honored by a Mid-Autumn Moon Festival or the Festival of Lanterns. It marks the end of the Harvest season and family and friends usually gather and celebrate together to eat moon cakes like the beautiful ones shown below and light incense as offerings to the gods. I personally am not a fan of moon cakes as there is a really salty preserved egg in the center! Instead, I usually eat around it, enjoying the sweetness of the red bean paste and reflecting upon what I enjoyed about the summer and what I have to look forward to in the fall. Happy Moon Festival everyone!

Beautiful moon cakes at the Hilton Beijing

photo: southeastasia.org

What are you doing this weekend?

This weekend is going to be perfect beach weather! 
image: vimooz.com

I hate to announce it, but the last weekend of the summer is upon us. Kids go back to school, days get shorter and we need to start unearthing sweaters (gasp). But hold on, we still have one weekend left and it's going to be a beautiful one! At least in New York. What are your plans to take advantage of this last summer hoorah?

Ice cream lifts my chi when I need it most!

image: susan chan

I am heading over to the U.S. Open. Oh and having some ice cream. It's free kid's day on Saturday at the U.S. Open and what better way to indulge my inner child during these last days of summer? If you plan to have a quieter weekend you can prep yourself by starting to bring some of the outdoors indoors in anticipation of the cooler months. Maybe that means bringing your herbs like mint and basil from outside and putting them on your window sill. Or making jam with the fresh peaches from the farmer's market. Whatever it is, do it slowly and consciously so you can be sure to make it an endless summer memory to lift your chi when you need it most.