Interior Decor

   If my decorating choices were pared down to two items they would be an antique and an element from nature. These two items bring intrigue and integrity to a room, reminding us of Victorian days when the world and nature were mysterious and travel was slow and difficult. The Victorians loved to surround themselves with nature inside their living spaces.
   A transferware tureen or platter displaying antlers, seashells, votives or even a bird’s nest can become an intriguing focal point for a table. A silver tray can also be used, not only to display objects, but to bring together smaller pieces. A collection of antique bottles, a deer skull, oyster or mussel shells, and beach stones also work well when added to silver trays. Be creative with the things you have and love along with a few select found natural elements and you can create your own special statement.  Diane Speakman, Sesame and Lilies

   Quick Bio: Diane Speakman was born in Houston, Texas and started drawing and painting at a young age. Her grandmother, who was an artist, encouraged her to pursue a painting career. Diane attended Colorado State University and received her BFA in fine art and graphic design. After graduation she worked for Meredith Corp. in Des Moines, Iowa as a graphic designer in the publication business. She then spent ten years working with design studios in Colorado and Southern California, eventually starting her own design firm. Diane began concentrating on commercial illustration and painting as well as working with interior designers. Today she and her husband Jay (who is from Maine, and they met while both living in Santa Fe) own and operate Sesame and Lilies, an interior decor shop in Cannon Beach, Oregon. This has enabled her to continue her persuit of birds and landscape painting.

Watch us in action furnishing and decorating a lovely beach home.

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Slideshow of our latest shop tour.

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See what we did at Belhaven.

Trends in Decorating

Geometric Forms: Bold yet subtle designs expressed with simple lines appear in couches, chairs, tables and fireplaces, among other items. The absence of embellishment and the visual simplicity of pure forms and shapes take these pieces beyond traditional or contemporary to timeless. (Classic)

Textural Fusion: Amalgamations of various reclaimed textiles, these hand-stitched pieces marry worn antique styling with a new character born of the blending of their previous elements. The innovative constructions result in the reclamation of the originals in a unique artisan patchwork.

Patina: The authentic hand that accompanies aged wood and leather or unlacquered brass was on prominent display in showrooms throughout World Market Center. The suggestion of wear that results from exposure to sunlight and weather conditions cannot be reproduced, creating a credible sense that they are organic and ensuring their appeal will be enhanced over time.

Industrial: Finding new interpretations of familiar items breathes new life into a wide range of products. Exposed light bulbs, metal swingarms, repurposed bar carts and multi-element sculptures stand out as bold design statements in virtually any setting.

Collections: While a single elaborate piece can be eye-catching, creative collections can become the dynamic focal point of any environment. Grouping can set a prominent tone for an entire room, whether the elements are oil cans, hanging lanterns, baskets, decorative bottles or children’s prints.

Metallics: From hammered lamp shades to gold tones incorporated into outdoor furnishings, metallics are inspiring a wide range of pieces and categories at August Las Vegas Market. Elaborate shapes and unconventional implementations make for counterintuitive features that will define the character of any given environment.

Klismos: The classic curved backs of this ancient Greek style are prominently featured in everything from dining chairs to barstools to indoor-outdoor home furnishings. Appearing with contemporary wovens and reclaimed woods, the shaped-back styling defined items suitable for any room or patio.

Wovens: Open, woven patterns are being widely incorporated into table bases, chairs, tables and screens. Appearing equally as geometric and asymmetrical patterns, the trend marries form with function to create visually appealing designs in a wide selection of pieces.

Ethnic Ikat Patterns: Tribal patterns have been around for centuries, but these textiles are making a comeback in the design world. Featuring Far East ethnic qualities and vibrant color palettes, their mainstream appeal has exploded of late, defining toss cushions, bedding, draperies and throw rugs.