Just got info from a great source about wood flooring made from various parts of wine barrels. They are oak wood and have that great old patina. These floors would be great for informal areas like recreation spaces, wine cellars and other casual spots. Great idea for loft spaces!

I would like to make everyone aware of an article called In Honor of Veterans which was written by my friend and mentor Bill Bartlett for The Business Ledger. You can read it by going to news@corporatestrategies-il.com and clicking on the link to the article. Isn't it interesting that a lot of the qualities that good soldiers possess are the same qualities that good business people possess?

Bill is also offering free salestraining to any soldier who has recently returned home who is interested in a sales career. Spread the word. You can see the details on his website. He is a phenominal mentor.

Just found some great old french shop signs. I believe the translation is Produce and chickens, "Produits Alimentaires Coq Hardi". The shop proprietor's names are all different. I just bought one myself. If anyone is interested let me know.

I had the opportunity to attend a very informative event Thursday, October 1st at the Cabinets at Danada location in Geneva, IL. The subject was green design for kitchens and baths. I learned about some interesting new products and production techniques that fall into the "green" and "sustainable" categories.



Bamboo is a material you may have seen used for flooring and cabinetry. It is extremely hard when manufactured for either purpose, harder than maple or oak in fact. It grows very quickly, requires no pesticides, little water and absorbs 5 times more greenhouse gas than trees. To be considered green the end product must be manufactured using no urea formaldehyde resins.



Lyptus is another material used for cabinetry that is considered sustainable because it can be harvested in just 15 years. It has a grain that is closed and harder than oak and it looks very similar to mahogany. It naturally darkens like cherry and is grown in South America.

A Fall Floral Open House featuring floral creations by Hues In Harmony is happening Friday October 9th from 6:00-9:00pm at 408 West Jefferson Ave.,Naperville,IL. Can't seem to get the date to register on the posted invite no matter how I post it. The event will feature Fall and Holiday life like florals. Also on hand will be my network of trusted business professionals for you to meet. Hope to see you there and be sure to tell me how you found out about the event when you introduce yourself.

Doreen Schweitzer Interiors

Doreen Schweitzer Interiors: "Slideshow"

Just came back from a short trip to NYC and upstate NY. I stayed at a great B&B called Mt. Beacon Inn in Beacon. It was everything you imgine when you think of a B&B. The house is a beautiful Georgian Revival from the early 1900's. Very special. I am still thinking about the fireplace mantles and the great interior color choices. It really was a warm inviting place and Barbra and her daughter were great hosts. It's one of those places that I will call on for inspiration. The town has great restaurants and an interesting modern art museum. If you go don't miss the garden. Bannerman Castle was also interesting from a historical and design perspective.The people working on the restortion definately have a passion for their work. Also had a chance to check out the floral dept. on the 7th floor of Takashimaya. Their floral designs always inspire me. If you are in NYC check it out.