girl meets glamour

Get lost...get found

2009-03-20T10:47:00.001-07:00

I'm back. Yes, it's been a realllllll long while. Each time I thought about getting back to my blog, something else in my life happened, to keep me from it...from you. But, it would seem that the rain has stopped finally. And I'm ready now, more than ever to be back to blogging.

New me...new life...new apartment...new career...well you get it. I've put everything I needed to back together, and now...I'm really happy and ready to take on whatever life sends my way...well, except for rain...and maybe an IOU from the CA state tax board :)

So, soon I'll post pictures of my new apartment, that I've spent that last couple of weeks working to get everything moved in and looking good...and much more will come from there.

I hope all of you are well, and I look forward to your comments and posts (my blogger friends)!!!! and thank you so much for your comments while I was away....

It's good to be back...yeah!

New from Schumacher...

2008-09-10T21:15:00.000-07:00

it's fall and that means new fabrics, new products, new things you must have and old things you must do away with (or cosmetically alter)...

which is why you might need some fresh new fabrics...but, have you checked out Schumacher's website lately, well their new fall collections are available for preview...

among them is a collection from Celerie Kemble, featuring some great graphic prints, a floral, and some solids as well...

I'm really excited about this one called Betwixt, esp. in this color: Spark/Ivory...it might just make it into my home this fall!!

Simple Beauty...

2008-09-10T06:37:00.000-07:00

I am up to my ears in deadlines this week and probably the next...I haven't been this busy in a long time. But, with all this work I always find time for inspiration...

Simply Beauty, like this vignette, pulls me back and helps me remember not to neglect the areas of my home that require small scale style and a personal touch...

Image: House Beautiful/Oct. '07

Paneling to love...

2008-09-08T06:05:00.000-07:00

This is one thing I wish we had in our home...paneling. I don't know why, but it just really speaks to me!! Whether it's new or not, there are so many ways to treat these walls! Of my favorite is the painted version, but done right all wood paneling can look fresh as well...

(Southern Accents/Sept. '08)

My favorite...all one color, and this color is just right! A slightly masculine style to this office, but with this color, it becomes more balanced...

(House Beautiful/Aug. '08)

I fell in love with this house when I saw this room and it's unique paneling. I say unique because framed out in these panels are grass yoga mats!! Creating a very comfortable dining room, where without could be left a bit too formal.

(Elle Decor/Sept. '08)

This is my kind of wood paneling, Nate Berkus you've done it again!! I love the contemporary grid pattern and what looks to be the leather inlay!!

(House Beautiful/ Sept. '07)

Go for a contrasting look and you'll make the right statement, this room is all about the paneling choice! Designer Garrow Kedigian used a black linen wallpaper here, but I'm sure a paint would do the trick if you're on a budget!

(Domino/April '08)

A more simple but affective approach is beadboard paneling, can have a modern feel, if you run it floor to ceiling with minimal moldings. But I love that designer Peter Dunham even thought to panel the door!! What a great place for more art!!

See you next week!

2008-08-28T14:13:00.000-07:00

We're taking off for Labor Day weekend and hitting the road for a quick trip to Lake Tahoe...so, see you next week and Bon Weekend!!!

High style finds...on Etsy!

2008-08-27T10:34:00.000-07:00

I was so excited when I heard about Kelly's shop High Street Market a few weeks back...which features little chic vintage finds at great prices even! So I've been frequenting every so often to see what's new in store, of which I am always excited and surprised, that I thought I'd feature a few items for you to check out...

(Cute stool with KWID's giraffe print!!)

(Vintage brass bamboo magazine stand)

(What a cute cake plate, I'm was eyeing this one!!)

(And these George Briard glasses, there's 6 of them available)

Feeling blue...and red!

2008-08-26T07:25:00.000-07:00

I think blue is one of the easiest colors to work with, I mean it pretty much goes with everything...but one of my all time favorite combos is pairing this color with red! One minute it's super sophisticated the next is simple and sweet. Here are some examples I found of these colors, that I thought I'd share with you...

(House Beautiful/ July '08)

How bout this combo of a cobalt blue dresser and the red painting above...

(Domino/April '08)

If only this was my office and Ruthie Sommers was my designer, love the pale blue walls and the red armoire!

(via amadteaparty blog)

Layering these colors in a tablescape can be fun too; in books, boxes, art, etc...

(Domino)

Adding other colors to the mix even works, but really they make a great pair on their own!

(California Home + Design/April '08)

Combine them together in a case piece like here, this combo sold me the moment I saw it...

(Living Etc./July '08)

For simple beauty -- red flowers against a blue way, so sweet!

(Domino/May '08)

You could even build a whole room around these colors, and it works cause I just love this little girls room!

Just playing around...

2008-08-25T11:50:00.000-07:00

So I spend the weekend unloading boxes, breaking down boxes, painting a few chairs from ebay (below), and playing around a bit with some of my unknowns...

which is this pair of chairs that I'm still trying to figure out what fabrics I like with them...unfortunately one of the chairs has an area of torn fabric so they have to be reupholstered, I guess that's what you get when you go ebay.

So, I'm toying with keeping the chair color still a pale yellow or maybe going wild with Alan Campbell's Zig Zag print in Brown...oh, and I purchased some ikat fabric from UzbekAlive shown above too, which I think will make some great lumbar pillows...

Rugs for days...

2008-08-21T12:07:00.000-07:00

Hot off the press...Patterson, Flynn & Martin, a boutique floorcovering company based out of New York, has just launched a new website featuring all they have to offer, in a searchable format!!
I swear this is the future, having everything accessible at the click of a mouse, no more product binders taking up library space!

I was really impressed with the website and their products of course and here's just a few that caught my eye that I thought I'd share with you...

Oh and maybe you know that Kelly Wearstler designs rugs for PFM as well, shown above is one of them called Emerald Cut...

But there are so many more to choose from and patterns that offer various colorways as well!!!

My new find...

2008-08-19T15:00:00.000-07:00

Yup and I'm pretty fond of him thus far, and thought you ought to know! I'm thinking he is just what I needed for my house and that's probably I why I didn't bat an eye when I bought him a week ago in a little boutique.

Funny, right as I saw him I thought of blogger Courtney and her love for elephants too!

Yes, little guy, you will go perfect in the Family Room, with a few stacks of books on ya and maybe a small vase...but then maybe nothing at all, cause I'm not sure I want to cover you up!

You know what they say...

2008-08-19T06:39:00.000-07:00

and it's true in many ways, but it's what's on the inside that really counts when it comes you home....but you knew that already I'm sure!! But, when opening up my favorite magazines this month, I found this to be true in one particular way especially...Kitchen cabinets with colorful insides!!!

In House Beautiful, I feel in love with this coastal home...but the Kitchen especially, with it's white cabinets and aquamarine interior, adding depth and punch to the owner's collection of white dishes. I have a tall built-in cabinet in my Kitchen with glass, that I was planning on doing the same thing too!

Then this crimson red, which screams out against a once plain set of white cabinets in the Kitchen of designer Michael Bastian featured in Domino, caught my eye. Filled with with a "high-low cache of dollar-store champagne glasses, hand-me-down fine china and Tiffany candlesticks", a background that can make even missed matched collections come together!

Well, anyone here that's pained their cabinet interiors? If so, I'm curious as to what color?

Text exert from Alison Griffin/Domino Magazine

A retro redo in Bel Air...

2008-08-15T07:14:00.000-07:00

In a 60's ranch style house, designer Molly Luetkemeyer transforms a home that hadn't been touched since it was built into a whole new world: "Paris in the 70's became the theme"...

With a bit of Hollywood Regency flair, here this Dining Room features a built in floating sideboard in a glossy orange and then the rest of the palette went from there...

What can you say about this Powder Room...but wild! An interesting mix of more contemporary style cabinetry and ornate gold hardware (and faucets)....then, add the most colorful wallpaper you can find, and voila! What do you think about the mix of these pieces here?

Keeping the original marble fireplace in the Living Room, Molly reupholstered some of the existing vintage furniture left in the house, to make for a more stylish (less dated) vibe...

If you are not familiar with Molly or her company M.Design Interiors, above is an image from their office...um, can I work there!! But, you can check out the rest of their site for fun projects!

(Images vis California Home + Design/Sept. '08 and M.Design Interiors website)

Materials girl...

2008-08-14T06:56:00.000-07:00

I don't know about you, but I'm really excited any time I hear there is something new going on over at KWID...

...and right now it's the new fabric and trim collection for Groundworks, that 's getting all the buzz! Said to have inspiration from Japanese art, filled with linens and plush velvets and interesting color combinations like lilac, magenta, and gray...I got a tiny preview from Lee Jofa's SF showroom when I was there (a few weeks back), but now I really want to see it all!!

How bout you, excited to see this new fabric line for yourself? I wonder if any of the pieces will take off like Imperial Trellis has...

(Image and text excerpt from Elle Decor/Christine Lennon/Sept. '08)

Consider this combo...

2008-08-13T07:03:00.000-07:00

A craze that is sure to continue...zebra-mania. We see it everywhere from printed bed linens, and faux to real rugs. I think there's some lasting power to this animal print, but...

consider new ways of using it, to keep it fresh! I've read some great posts on zebra rugs and their use, and we've all seen this rug in different settings...what comes to mind is the zebra rug over seagrass combo (seen alot of that)...but check out this image I found in my files, of a different pairing...

What do you think? Is this a combo that works in your opinion??

A bedroom trick...

2008-08-12T07:50:00.000-07:00

Okay, not that kind...get your mind out of the gutter. I'm talking design trick in the bedroom...a switch up if you will, by taking that plain old headboard you're so bored of looking at, and changing the style around by draping fun textiles over it!

(Domino/June/July '08)

A seersucker headboard just so-so...but not nearly as exciting when Lee Jofa creative director Stephen Elrod draped a Indian rug over it...a rug, what a great idea!!

(House Beautiful/June '08)

A subtle touch can do the trick too, here coarsely woven antique hemp fabric is laid over a finer white linen headboard...for a more bold statement I could see a pale yellow being used as well!

(Domino/June/July '08)

This doesn't have to just work with fabric headboards, above is Seagrass headboard (which can be found at Pottery Barn), makes a great statement doesn't it!?!

And not only a bedroom trick, but works just the same on a sofa, one of my favorites above from the home of Amanda Peet featured in Domino...

Well, any similar tricks up your sleeves??

A few pieces just in...

2008-08-11T10:23:00.000-07:00

and very worthy in my opinion, I'm just amazed at how many good finds on every website...

Love this new ottoman at Horchow...in a fun leather and nail head design...this site seems to get better and better, and did you see their new Chesterfield sofa...

Pieces, always getting new inventory, but how cute is this fiberglass side chair (pair) with the pink cushion!

CBell has some new items on their latest page, of them I love this mirrored desk...

Hollywood goes to Sydney...

2008-08-07T06:36:00.000-07:00

in a meet up that channels a classic '60s Palm Spring vibe mixed with Modern day glamour, what is now called the "Ivy" in a once rundown Sydney spot is open for business...

This hot new party spot features 18 bars, 9 restaurants, a swimming pools, and 2 rooftop penthouse suites...

The lounge is backed full of bamboo chairs, marble tables, mirrored consoles, and loads of lush velvet drapes...

Courtyards through out create an indoor outdoor feel with sunlight, plantery, and more lounging opportunities...

Amidst the various outdoor areas, you can find spots too cool off with a shower (fit for several) like shown above...

This place is bold with color and shapes, but just looking at this image I can tell all the detail that went into each piece, from the custom booth seating and tables, to the over-sized light fixtures above...I would love to dine here!!

Reminiscent of the "Viceroy" in some ways, I have no doubt that this joint is already a huge success...and now on my list of places to visit if I'm ever in Australia!!

*Images via Vogue Living/Photographer: Hugh Stewart

Blogger buzz...

2008-08-06T11:01:00.000-07:00

Read all about, I was so happy to hear about Katie and her recent bio on 1st Dibs blogosphere, that I thought I'd spread the word to check it out...

Way to go Katie...and way to go 1st Dibs and all the great bloggers (you know who you are) that have been featured thus far!!!

Hurry up already...

2008-08-05T13:10:00.000-07:00

That's right, hurry up all my favorite retailers and home stores and get going on your new Fall product. Summer is almost over and I wanna know what's new already!!

I don't know about you, but I'm on pins and needles to see what's going with Shine Home, Arteriors, Anthropologie, and others...for this next season!! I understand they want to showcase all their new goods across the country in markets and fairs before they release them to the public. But for me, I just end up feeling teased, like this shot above from Shine Home's recent press release...tell me more!

Maybe a Fall Preview online would hold me over, like J.Crew's online. Which I just can't get enough, and know that cute yellow coat will make it's way to my wardrobe one way or another!!

Out and about...

2008-07-31T10:19:00.000-07:00

So, it's been a crazy two weeks for me, lot's of shopping like I mentioned, but also a bit of running around for work and play. And next week, I should be back to normal with posts and a consistent sleeping schedule...but, I thought I'd share some of the things I've been up to while I've been away...

Museums visits-- Yup, first I went to the De Young to see the Chihuly exhibit which is going on now until September 28th...a whimsical show that went beyond my expectations. I snuck a few shots (without my flash) so you could see too...next up is the Frida exhibit at the MoMa!!

Snacking -- Yes, I make a point to find new treats when I can! Who wouldn't stop into this cute lil shop if they saw it on the street. Kara's cupcakes just so happens to be the best sweets I've had in a while, perfect with a tall glass of milk!!

Shopping -- Checking out new collections at the SF Design Center, on the left is some new wallcoverings from Osborne and Little and on the right is a "Trellis" fabric (one on top) from Kelly Wearstler's new line for Groundworks/Lee Jofa, which will be release in a couple months. I had a chance to preview the line and take a sample with me...

I've been doing lots of antiquing too, found my a first edition of "I Married Adventure" for only $25...my bargain shopping is getting out of hand. This Sunday, I'll be making another trip to the Alameda Antique Faire in hopes of finding some more buys!!

My House -- Wrapping things up, finished a quick sample board, getting my sisal carpet installed this week, and waiting for the furniture to arrive...

So that's about it for the last few weeks, can't wait to get back to blogging, see you Monday!!

Busy shopping, sorry...

2008-07-15T12:19:00.000-07:00

I am neglecting you, I know...but I'm a girl with good reasons. See, to put it simply, I am just too busy shopping for my house that it's consuming every ounce of my spare time this week. So I hope you understand!! But to keep you in the loop, as I usually try to do...thought I share some of my recent purchases...

I've been waiting to get a pair of these Parsons Mirrored tables from Arteriors for awhile cause I think they're the best think since sliced bread...

Got to get my carpet guy in and my carpet ordered, it's driving me nuts...but I'm excited since I've got the green light to do a dark sisal like this one offered by Merida...

and some Flokati to throw on top of it, like this rug from Pottery Barn...

and I desperately need to cover my dining room chair seats, so I'm going use the Java Java pattern from China Seas...this Brigette table is another piece I'll be getting, from Bungalow 5, I really can't wait to see it in person!!

And there's more where that came from, but then I'd be doing more blogging than actual shopping, so I got to get back to it!! See you soon!

Sandberg,it's all new to me...

2008-07-11T17:44:00.000-07:00

I could call it a new crush...course I have so many, but these prints from Sandberg fabrics are just so fresh and fun that I want to start all over with my house! Of course, they're Swedish, handmade and fab too!!

Of my favorite prints, this Leopard fabric stands out for me...all the color ways are great and the installation shots even better!

Drapes, I would have never thought that, but they look great! Check out their site for more fun prints...and have a Happy Weekend!!

Bedroom on a budget...

2008-07-10T17:41:00.000-07:00

I'm just getting back to civilization now from my break, and stumbled upon this cute "budget" bedroom on Domino's site, thought you should check it out if you haven't already! Hard to believe it was all done of only $1,248...

Red...White...and Blue prints

2008-07-03T09:53:00.000-07:00

(Red Blue Line Floral)

Happy Third, soon to be Fourth of July...I'm headed up North to fight traffic and get out of dodge for a little while. Hope you're weekend if filled with yummy treats, some R & R and a bit of laughter whether it's a Holiday for you or not.

So, I'm leaving you for a bit, with some fun India influenced prints from designer Kerry Cassill...

(Cobalt Swirl)

(Big Blue Coral Floral)

(Cool Star)

(Cranberry Shadow)

(Dark Bandana)

Check out her site for fabrics, pillows, quilts, clothing and much more...

See you next week!!

Pick a side....

2008-07-01T08:14:00.000-07:00

(Southern Accents/July/Aug. '08)

I mean you don't really have to pick a side, both sides are fine...but sometimes going with a bold print or switching fabrics on that back of a chair can really make the difference. This scenario is ideal in a Dining Room setting where the backs of the chairs are always on display...in my case, in our Family Room, I'm planning to do a few slipper chairs and switch up the fabrics on the backs since they face the entry...but really, it can be quite fun...so here's some inspiration for you!

(Elle Decor/March '08)

(Elle Decor/March '05)

(California Home + Design/July '08)

(Elle Decor/July/Aug. '08)

(House Beautiful/July '08)

(Domino/August '07)

This works both ways though, even if you're looking to do a large print on the chair fronts, like shown above, you could could always pick a coordinate for the back to frame out nicely as well...

Bungalow5's got new goods...

2008-06-28T06:00:00.000-07:00

Just in case you haven't seen these new items, thought you should know some new stuff has been added over at Bungalow5...take a peek!!

Brigitte 3 drawer table, available in light blue, black and white. I'm torn between this new style and the 3 drawer Jacqui for our Master...

Marco Console, similar style is also offered in a side table too!

A four drawer version of Jacqui table, measures 40" wide x 20" deep x 32" high

++You can purchase through Tonic Home, check out their site for Bungalow5 and more++

Me + Bike = Happy Weekend!

2008-06-27T09:22:00.000-07:00

Yup, that's it, I'm getting a bike! Really, I've been telling everyone that I'm going to start biking to work...I mean why not! For exercise, for fresh air...and to bypass the pump, it just makes sense. I'm only 4 miles each way to work (not that close but not too far) ...which makes me believe I can do it...but people are surprised by it. "You on a bike!" or better yet, my mom said "Yeah right honey!"

(via CopenhagenCycleChic)

But, they don't know how chic biking can be...see that could be me up above, with my boots on and a basket full of goodies riding around the city!! So I've been on the hunt for cute city bikes and really anything that catches my eye...here's what I've found so far:

This Skeppshult Ladies Bike has a nice classic look to it and includes a basket...this could be in the running I think!!

But, I couldn't help myself when I saw this Gucci Bike, made special for this Summer's 2008 Olympics in Bejing...it's perfect in all red, I would go everywhere on this thing, but then again with it's price tag ($3,420) it might just end up being an indoor bike...

This is a Jorg and Olif Bike, modified for U.S. conditions...apparently their first two customers were stylish celebs Chloe Sevigny and “Splash” star Daryl Hannah. (Sourced from BikePortland.org)

And then there's the cute Cynthia Rowley beach cruiser, with it's aged leather accents (and classic bell)...it comes in pink, green, and blue. I think this would make a good city bike too!!

This red beauty is called "One Fine Lady" from Velorbis...great color options, styles and even better are all the accessories!!
And already since my post a few hours back, two readers suggested I take a look at the Electra bikes, cute and moderately priced...on REI I found this Amsterdam Classic Cruiser above....so cute, and only $600

So, do you bike to work? Just started (because of gas prices) or always have??
Or just plain don't ride a bike, I wanna know...

NIBA rug crush...

2008-06-26T10:17:00.000-07:00

Maybe you're familiar with NIBA and their gorgeous rugs and maybe you're not...well they have been showing up in magazines much more so recently, for their modern eclectic designs and dramatic palettes.

The Dragonscale rug shown above, is on my "must have" list...

The Belair rug is another one I was immediately drawn too, for it's animal print inspired design...but who's picking favorites!!

Among the recent press, Vogue Living did a spread on Doug and Gene Meyer's and their recent additions to the NIBA collection...whose designs were inspired by a recent stay in Morocco and their fascination with rich color and texture...

From Gene's collection, the Crossroads rug shown above...a play on color combos and different piles to add depth...

I could see this rug in so many schemes, it showcases nicely above in a Miami home...

Then from the same collection, this Try-Angular rug, taking almost every color from the rainbow...

There are so many more rugs featured on their site, be sure and check them out...any of these make your favorite's list too?!?!

*all images and information from NIBA's website

The Happy Chic contest...

2008-06-24T09:39:00.000-07:00

That's right ladies and gents..."PointClickHome and Jonathan Adler are on hunt for the happiest and chicest home in America!"

So if you think you've got the look check out this link for details on the Happy Chic contest...I know you wouldn't want to pass up a chance to win $2500 to Jonathan Adler stores!!!

A shade of green...

2008-06-23T09:59:00.000-07:00

Why not green? I don't know...why not though! I think everyone has color's that they tend to use...for me it's whites, yellows, and blues. But, stepping out of my comfort zone today, I'm thinking green and how versatile it can be...vibrant, lots of colors pairing options than you'd think weren't possible too, so here's some inspiration for some fun shades of green...

(Domino)

My favorite pairing, green with orange...I just can't get enough of these two!!

(O at Home)

Green can be feminine and pretty, but in a way that is suitable for both sexes...

(Rooms to Inspire)

I love how this room pairs two similar shades of green to create a subtle contrast between the walls and trim...

(House Beautiful)

Blogger Brown Turtleneck Sweater was thinking of painting her office this green when she saw this feature in House Beautiful...

(House and Garden)

Green pairs great with other shades of greens, this simple rustic room is a perfect example...

(House and Garden)

(House Beautiful)

A great idea for a small space, create an impact with a pear green and white stripe like shown above...

(California Home and Design)

A shade of green with a tint of blue, combos great with reds as well...

(Domino)

Always a favorite is Nick Olsen's apartment, where he pairs it nicely with black and white accents...

(Domino)

Here again in a small space, Domino demonstrates how color can make a bold statement...and why not green!!

(Elle Decor)

Green, can be elegant too...this is a perfect example!!

**I just wanted to say Thanks to Terri over at the Washington Post for the mention this week!!**

---And check out This is Glamorous for a lovely Summer "Green" post---

For your furry friend...

2008-06-20T10:34:00.000-07:00

Check out this great "Doggy" paper from Whimsy Press...

I found them when I stopped into House Martin blog today...so cute right?!?

Ask and I shall tell...

2008-06-20T04:00:00.000-07:00

I've been tagged...by my friend Katiedid, and from one Kate to another...thanks a bunch:) So in the spirit of this Friday, I thought I'd partake in a Q & A, and offer up some tid bits about moi!!

1)What did you do 10 years ago?

Let's see 10 years ago...I was riding an Ojek in Bandung Indonesia (fastest taxi service), drinking lots of Chai Tea (before Starbucks new what it was), going to weird discotheques (sorry Dad, I was young and stupid) with poorly done American band covers, and sampling every other bit of their culture I could get my hands on...

(lighting fast transportation...)

2)Five items on your to-do list today?

1. Figure a way to get out of Jury Duty, some way...some how!!

2. Call mother to tell her to pick up her naughtily Jack Russell I've been babysitting for a week...

3. Buy treat's for the retired neighbor lady that so kindly volunteered to walk our dog daily...

4. Furniture budget for the house...what am I getting and how much is that going to drain our wallets..

5. Start painting the Living/Dining Room walls the new color I picked out...

3)Snacks I enjoy...

All...yes, I'll take that aisle to go thank you very much...I love popcorn especially, and manage to some how have a bag every night!!

4)What would you do if you were a billionaire?

Buy every house next door to Oprah's and be that annoying neighbor that brings over homemade baked goods, and has a knack at making her late for work (like my neighbor Jim does to me)...and I'd say things like: "Hey girl, you on your wait to work...I'll be watching!!" or "Tell Stedman I said hi, let me know when you want to get together"...

5)Places I would live...

Oprah's house...Well, I'd live anywhere, but places I'd like to live is a whole other story, but a...

----A large flat in all the major cities...London, Paris, NY, SF...would suffice----

(Madonna's Flat in London)

So, now I've got to tag some people back to participate as well...let's see...how about:

Oh, and Happy Friday!!

Horchow sale, and I caved...

2008-06-18T15:39:00.000-07:00

So, every morning I go through my emails and click/delete for 10 minutes...but out of the corner of my eye today I saw one that said: "Entire Horchow site 20% off for 1 day only..."

And I caved, I caved like they were waving a chocolate cupcake in front of my face at a Weight Watchers meeting...and I bought the Porcupine Mirror I've been lusting after. I never really wanted to spend full price on it, and so that was that, and it should be at my house in a few weeks...

I'm going to put it above my fireplace, once I put the new paint color on the walls...and hopefully it's everything I've ever wanted and more!! Check out the sale though, before it ends...

(Elle Decor/Jan/Feb '06)

I'm just getting the one, but a pair could work nicely too! In the home of John Dransfield and Geoffrey Ross (of Dansfield and Ross) they paired the two above like a work of art to balance nicely in the room...

Summer greetings...

2008-06-18T06:58:00.000-07:00

I've been looking to switch out the wreath on my front door to something more Summery, and the one below has really been growing on me, so I just thought I'd share...

Seashell Wreath at William Sonoma

So much "Moor"...

2008-06-17T11:18:00.000-07:00

It seems like you can't open up a magazine these days with out being swept half way across the world...to places full of color and life! Different cultures and their styles have great influence on today's designers...and this is why it's gracing the pages of your favorite reads almost every month...

Featured on the cover of House Beautiful back in Nov. '07, this bedroom designed by Robyn Bell, has a nice blend of light airy fabrics and rich woods, not to mention the "Moorish" inspired frieze on the walls...

Taking you from Florida to Morocco, this bathroom ties the client's favorite colors blue and white to a perfect fit with the rest of the home's design...

Browsing through Rooms to Inspire, this quaint outdoor escape (by Martyn Lawrence-Bullard) caught my attention...it seems very achievable even in the smallest of backyards. Featuring rich fabrics, lanterns and vintage Moroccan finds through out...

A 18th century Moroccan home of Caitlin and Samuel Dowe-Sandes gets a major makeover, including in handmade tiles by Popham Design, refinished furniture that contrasting nicely with the white walls...there's some fun symmetry going on here too!

And each room in the home, has the same unique mixture of modern and vintage finds, making this a perfect feature in this year's April issue of Elle Decor...

Katie Ridder who's been popping up in magazine after magazine, has distinct design influences from her many travels, here this girl's bedroom featured March of this year in Elle Decor showcases lively bold prints in unique cutouts...

Then featured again this month, Ridder clearly mixes it up with Indian textiles, Moroccan poufs with Scandinavian Modern chairs (in another home design)...demonstrating how easily these pieces work together!!

A similar design approach was used, with her clients daughter's room, isn't so cute?? I wish my room had been like this growing up...

Taking it the bath, simple lines but bold colors can make an impact and actually be calming...featured in an Elle Decor spread back in March 05, featuring "great baths that evoke worlds within rooms..."

Featured again in Rooms to Inspire, another great outdoor escape designed by Lawrence-Bullard, who decorates a patio with an array of vintage lanterns and antique pillows...

Care for a Moroccan bath...Sig Bergamin uses antique tiles on his terrace's whirlpool, inspired by his many trips to North Africa, featured in Elle Decor/So Chic book...

Notice anything similar to the bathroom featured above...well, it's the same Floridian home actually (I didn't catch that till I took another look at the exterior shots featured)...but a few years prior, with a different designer (Robert Couturier), and featured in Elle Decor ('05).

This room here designed by Stephen Di Renza (featured in Elle Decor/April '06), takes the bright colorful approach that I often envision in my head when I think "Morocco"...

Even subtle inspiration can turn into a big impact, I love this blue hand blown glass chandelier in Sarah Jessica Parker's weekend home, designed by Eric Hughes and featured in Elle Decor/October '05...

Designer's and their foreign intrigue has left me wanting "Moor", what about you? Too much of a good thing, of loving these worldly influences gracing your favorite design magazines??

Trunk love...

2008-06-14T17:23:00.000-07:00

Everywhere you look these days you can find people and their trunks...showcasing a piece commonly thought for storing junk, as the focal point to a space. It can fit itself into many arrangements, from just another accessory to the perfect furniture piece. I'm quite fond of vintage trunks and luggage and their many applications, so here's a bit of inspiration I've found so far...

(image via HGtv)

In Tommy Hilfiger 's home, a vintage Louis Vuitton trunk is used as a coffee table, designer Cindy Rinfret says: The trunks make the room feel well-traveled, as if things had been collected over time...."

(image via Desire to Inspire)

At the end of the bed in another great option, I love the simplicity of the room that designer Nathan Egan has created, it contrasts nicely to detail in this vintage trunk...

(Elle Decor/Sept. '07)

And as a side table another great scenario here, designer Ray Both creates a rustic natural feel to his own living room with a vintage trunk combined with newer transitional pieces...

(House Beautiful/July 2008)

Luggage works great too as furniture, when I opened up the pages of this month's House Beautiful to find a lovely cottage designed by Ken Fulk...and then was even more pleased to see this creative bedside table made up of two vintage Louis's stacked atop wood blocks and with a serving tray...well I thought to myself, "now if only I could find someone on Craigslist selling them with out a clue..."

1st dibs of course has a great collection of vintage trunks of all styles, above is a leather Campaign trunk from Marianne Stikas, which has great detail in the nailhead design...
Donna Parker Antiques has done some of the work for you to make this Steel trunk into a side table by adding the wooden base...
This is a fun one with the wicker inlay, leather banding, and castors from Laurin Copen Antiques...would make a great lil coffee table!!

Retail furniture companies are hopping on the bandwagon too and producing their own vintage trunk inspired pieces...

Above is the Williams Trunk from William Sonoma Home, it's available in a couple colors and also a side table version called the Williams Cube...

Ralph Lauren Home put a nice twist on a classic piece by adding this brushed aluminum frame to their version, called the Mayfair Trunk...check out their site for additional trunk inspired pieces as well...

Casasugar was craving this Sundance Steamer's Coffee Table Trunk a while back, you have the option of a top grain leather or stainless steel inlay, and even includes canvas lined drawers for storage...

For a contemporary twist on this idea, check out Turquoise LA for this piece designed by Jordan Cappella, featuring a vintage Goyard inspired trunk under a lucite base...

See, not just for junk...these trunks have real character in a room setting. I've been searching for a vintage one myself and hitting up all the antique shops till I find the right one!!

Do you have a trunk that you love, and if so how is it used??

She's got the look...

2008-06-12T09:56:00.000-07:00

Has anyone else been thinking, "where is Emma these days..." like me. I mean, I feel like I just don't get enough of her fabulous style and with the website being under construction for what feels like a year now...you can imagine how happy I was to see some of her most recent work featured on Elle Decor's website...

A great read you must check it out, called the "Light Touch", which is certainly is in this case of the airy Hampton's home of the Cuomo's, of which Pilkington styled with a fun tailored approach...

One of my favorite rooms here, featuring mirrored side tables from Arteriors and vintage swivel chairs upholstered in Madeline Weinrib’s Purple Luce...

Adding yellow to this Kitchen feels so fresh and those Philippe Stark stools are just perfect with the lil cushions...

I'd like to be a guest in this house, with the much coveted Anthropologie bed I'd like to see in my own room and this lovely Cole & Son wallcovering...

Be sure to visit the link to see more wonderful photos and all her great tablescapping ideas...

Article: Written by Christine Schwartz Hartley /Photographed by Roger Davies

Thinking slipper...

2008-06-12T07:59:00.000-07:00

So, I'm on the hunt, as you may know, for some additional chairs to go with my new table. Not so easy, because I want then to be fun...but also comfortable, because "somebody" thinks these bamboo chairs are not so friendly to the back ...

But, I still plan on keeping the arm chairs in the room, just off to the side, and use the side chairs as back up when we are entertaining...

(Elle Decor)

And then in my search though, I came across this image above and thought...I could do a slipcovered Parson's chair...I was thinking they'd be great China Sea's fabric...but what do you think? Should I continue the search for the perfect chair??

Tote"ally"

2008-06-10T20:41:00.000-07:00

I have officially decided that my Summer will not be complete without this "Liz tote" from Periwinkle online, and currently I am taking donations...actually though, it's cute and affordable!!

I went Pagoda over it...

2008-06-10T15:15:00.000-07:00

The clutter inside Flutter...(Image via Sidney Ann blog)

That's right, not only is Flutter, the cute store out of Portland offering "free shipping" this Summer on any online orders over $75...but, even better is they seem to be crazy about Pagodas, just like me.

Take a look at what I found...

Pagoda Pillow/12 x 12/ $58.00

Red Pagoda Lantern/$50

Pagoda Linen Pillow/16" x 16"/ $95

Jade Pagoda Lantern/ $75

Pagoda Hook Rugs/$95-$195

Back to back...

2008-06-09T07:47:00.000-07:00

I wasn't always fond of this approach, but that's probably because I'd seen some bad examples, but really when you have a large living room with multiple seating areas...back to back sofas can do the trick and make a perfect statement...

Elle Decor/May '05

You could go the mirrored approach, identical back to back sofas...here Alex Papachristidis took it one step further with matching floor lamps and rugs!! I just love this style and think it creates such a focal point for the room...

Elle Decor/July/Aug. '07

Or, how bout making your two couches into one, like Jeffery Bilhuber has done above...takes some committing though, because it's not so easy to move a piece of furniture like this. But, again it's a perfect fit with creating two separate entertaining spaces...

House Beautiful/June '07

With two sofas back to back, this creates the a spot to place a slim console table between the two for lamps, accessories and such...

Domino

No reason you have to have it identical either though, this set up works really well too, going with separates that are similar in style...

4 walls and no place to sit...

2008-06-07T09:53:00.000-07:00

It's time to put some furniture in this lil house that could, I'm mean really even the Mail Carrier asked, "What's with the no furniture, I know you guys didn't just move in??" So with that, I'm off and have started taking on the task of really finishing/furnishing the Living/Dining Room area...

First off, are the walls...I originally picked a "neutral paint" because we were in a hurry to wrap up construction and I just didn't want to settle on a real color till I knew the direction I was going with the rest...

So, I decided these walls with no life and needed another paint job and went on the hunt for inspiration...and I remembered this image of a Steven Gambrel design from a Style Court post with light blue walls mixed with orange and all sorts of colors and that got me settled. These walls are going blue!!

I had no intention of buying furniture before we started painting, but then I was in a local antique store and found this dining set sitting in the back corner with a ton of junk piled on top and my eyes nearly popped out of their sockets...when the owner told me, "Oh, yeah I'll take $250 (total) for it..." I opened up my wallet, cause I knew that was a deal, right?!?!

The plan is to reupholster the seats on them, but put the arm chairs off to the side by the window (side chairs as back up because the table seats between 4-8) and get 4 new side chairs for daily use, but what those are I don't know...

And I've been playing around with fabrics and colors, and picking out furniture like we have a money tree growing in the backyard!! So far, I have no doubt that this is the fun part!!

To be continued...and Happy Weekend!!!

Dog days are coming...

2008-06-04T16:49:00.000-07:00

Are you ready for Summer? I'm just starting to be...thought I'd share some of my favs, not really a shopping guide, but just some things I end up buying when Summer rolls around...

(Domino)

Buy some Summer decor to brighten up the house, I just purchased 2 of these Ikea striped rugs shown above. You'd be surprised how much just switching out a few pieces in the house freshens up the space...

And I always end up buying something for "outdoor" entertaining, for an affordable approach I love the new collections from Cynthia Rowley at Target...

Something about heat really brings out the chef/hostess in me, but when I get to cooking I still want to make things that are easily prepared with fresh ingredients too...check out this recipe for Watermelon Ice...

Since I'm pretty fair, I need to use sunblock every time I leave the house, and I usually try and buy something that is kind to my face (not all that easy with some of the products out there)...but I just added this La Mer SPF treatment to my daily regimen really helps...

Sunblock is one thing, but I just can't help but buy a new pair of sunglasses, nowI'm on the Aviator bandwagon...check out these gold frames from Ralph Lauren...

Can't forget the pup when I'm out shopping, since the weather's so great we're bound to be out on more walks...this cute collar says Summer and it's so affordable too...

And no matter what I have a lot of cool Summer drinks, like this yummy Mojito above...check out this food network recipe here.

less than the cost of lunch...

2008-06-03T10:39:00.000-07:00

Ebay is my new best friend these days...I just bought some chairs I plan to reupholster and so forth, but I saw some great buys today under $20 (something that won't break the bank), so I thought I'd share...

loved this pineapple lamp when I saw it, going $16 right now, if you can believe that, check it out here...

and these cute lil ceramic quails going for $1.99 right now, you can find them here...

Insta runner...

2008-06-03T07:24:00.000-07:00

while going through my binder of "good ideas" to do with paint, I came across this lil piece from Domino (April '06)...

Paint just does wonders on everything, much like duck tape...the possibilities are endless. But this "insta" runner bit was one of my favorite...I love the small detail above with the small black border against the red!!

(via Homebug)

This is the perfect approach in an older home in my opinion...with the ratted ol' heater and the painted wide plank floors...

here's another example of taking taking those boring faded oak steps and turning them into an eye catcher, and to learn how easy it really is, Domino has a "how to" guide here...

Seer joy!!

2008-05-28T13:11:00.000-07:00

it's every where, you really can't miss it...that is the Seersucker madness this summer...

while in PA last weekend, doing a little shopping of course, I couldn't pass up this JCrew belted jacket, I mean come on...let's just dive right into this fabric, cause it feels right. What do you think??

and then I almost got this Seersucker Mini Tote while I was there because it just seems ideal for summer...but I just needed to stop myself because I have totes comin' out of every closet!

and how adorable is this Seersucker pump by Christian Louboutin, just love the little bit of red on the heel as well... a perfect touch!!

um, I don't even mind it on men...very sharp and preppy. I saw this one at Brooks Brothers as well, but don't think the Hubby could (or want to, rather) pull it off...

from clothing to home accessories too, I found this lovely shower curtain on India Rose today...so feminine and cute!!

even William Sonoma Home has hopped on the bandwagon, offering Seersucker bedding and coordinates..

and if you didn't already know all the fun you can have with this fabric, Etsy seller: tinarie21 is offering this white pillow with a red and white seersucker flower...

Ficks my habit....

2008-05-21T16:23:00.000-07:00

New lines at Ficks Redd caught my attention at HD Show, love all the pieces from the Carleton Varney collection...esp. the Dorothy Draper pieces which you'll have to go online and see more of...

Hemisphere Lounge Chair...

Dorothy Draper Coffee Table...

Dorothy Draper Dining Chair...

Dali Dining Table...

then I saw this beauty, the Galleria chair in red and just had to sit in it...

I did this a lot...stop to try things out! Walking the show in heels can get tiring, so thought I'd try this chair on for size and love it, esp. the red!!

Well, I'm off again on a jet plane, going to see family in PA...be back next week and hopefully with some pictures from my trip...

Allow me to introduce...

2008-05-19T16:46:00.000-07:00

the David Qian collection...

I nearly stepped over people when I came across this booth at the HD Expo last week in Vegas...very eye catching to say the least. I was just drawn in my the beautiful work that I had to stop and see about this Shanghai company...

Amazing detail and an array of samples to view from those large scale pieces that made up the booth and about 10 actual books full of examples that I only wished I could have looked through completely...

I immediately went for the Chinosorie scenes and got in real close to view the detail, which is impeccable!!

So many prints and they can be painted on basically any type of paper is my understanding...

The website is still a work in progress, but shows some great installation shots...just thought I'd share with you, and expect more posts from this show through out the week...

Revving up...

2008-05-13T13:44:00.000-07:00

Every year I attend the "NeoCon" of the West in Las Vegas, the Hospitality Design Expo. What an event, each year it gets bigger and bigger and a great place to see all the new product releases for the year. Not just for "hospitality designers", there is everything from fabric, tile, wallcovering, accessory lines, rugs etc...

Once just one floor in the Sands Expo, know it's two floors...adding more mileage to cover and another day to the trip. I really can't wait to go and I will be taking as may pictures as my camera holds to share with you...so see you on Monday with lots of exciting images!!

Stair "scapping"...

2008-05-13T10:34:00.000-07:00

I've always thought, "scapping" in general takes talent, I'm so fond of a well decked out table and often look to masters like Mary McDonald, Michael S. Smith and Ruthie Sommers for inspiration and techniques to follow...

(House Beautiful)

but what about stair"scapping", that just seems to be a whole other challenge all together. My interest was sparked after revisiting some miscellaneous clippings and now I'm on the hunt for more examples of well dressed stairs...

Reader inquiry...

2008-05-09T10:53:00.000-07:00

I've received some really great emails and comments regarding my "Serenity Now" post already, one reader in particular though, mentioned that my shower curtain closely resembles the one featured below in Kate Spade's bathroom, which I adore!!!

(image via Peak of Chic)

...and this is exactly the image I had in mind when I happened upon it at a local Target, I searched online but couldn't find it to include with this post, but if you like the style, might want to pop into a Target next time your near one...

Serenity Now...

2008-05-08T07:05:00.000-07:00

Well, we're done with our remodel...sort of done, I mean you're never really done when it comes to your house. But, for now we are putting down our tools and taking the summer off to bring "normalcy" back into our lives (whatever that is). I spent the last two weeks away from blogland to wrap things up, I guess you could say my role was that of the designer/contractor/superintendent/taper and painter in this lovely year long first time homeowner's dream...

(on the left is living room before we moved in, then on the right is at it's worst...)

..lessons learned and then some, out of it we realized that I'm pretty stubborn. I recall one morning in particular, over a cup of coffee, we discussed how to resolve the horrible wall finish through out the house and I said "If we have to have popcorn texture walls, I might just throw up and never stop..." Must have been decaf in that cup...but to clue you in to the work ahead of us, see the above disaster...

So when a girl wants smooth walls, well she just has to pick up the spackling knife and do it herself, and I really did! Any imperfections and that's all me...it looks a lot better, but after just one bedroom I was ready to shoot myself in the foot.

I'm really happy though, with the fireplace, we lucked out when we found a lil old carpenter to do the custom mantel for hardly anything and we used the left over marble from our bathrooms to do the surround...

(on the left is the lovely mirror above our vanity, and the right well uggg!!)

Our guest bath just wasn't very welcoming to say the least. A gem I know, but it all had to go...

Can't wait to finish this one up, I have roman shade and curtain fabric to select and I just can't decide. And then there's the rug and linens too! I rushed out the morning it was done and grabbed what I thought could work from Target (above), not too bad, but explaining to my hubby that it's only temporary was another thing...

(different angles, but the after is on the left showing the white painted wood work and the before is on the right)

We opted for a quick fix in the Kitchen/TV room, so we painted the woodwork white, replaced the counters and appliances, and soon the ugly carpet (yes, carpet in the Kitchen) will become lovely hardwood.

My poor parents came to visit not too long ago to see the progress and they said "What happened to all your furniture???" We got rid of everything from our college days, and we were left with the few pieces, our bed, tv, and two Ikea barstools (above). No kidding, so when I say I'm happy to get going on furniture, I really mean it!!!!!!

Underneath the ugly carpet was the ugly hardwood on the right, which refinished very nicely and I have to say I'm just so excited to have a whole house full of dark hardwood!!!

Okay, that's all for now...I just started purchasing furniture, my first pieces were some vintage chairs off of ebay, that I'll be reupholstering soon. Oh, and I plan to include you in some of my design decisions, cause ya'll have good taste and why not!! But, I'm glad to be back to blogging, it's been two weeks but feels like forever...

New beds at Oly Studio...

2008-04-29T09:20:00.000-07:00

As I'm preparing to leave the construction phase of our house and move into the furnishing phase, I've been stopping by lots of sites to revisit some old favs, and see what's new. Well, I was surprised to see some new additions to Oly Studio this morning and I just had to share them with you...

I loved the Hanna Chair when I first saw it on their site and now the same style of this chair is being offered in a daybed!!! It has the same hand carved details as before and comes with a tufted cushion available in several fabrics, um so cute...

Then I saw this lil beauty, hard to believe it's not a one of a kind, the Margaret Bed is perfectly balanced an antiqued finish and raffia upholstery...

Gone MIA, returning shortly...

2008-04-28T14:37:00.000-07:00

I've been gone my friends, busy as can be these days. You should know that my absence from blogland will be shortly lived...see I'll be returning sometime this week with new pictures of our "Lil House that Could"...yup, we've been working to take the disaster out of our home and it's finally paid off. But, you'll have to stay tuned for the transformation pics...I know you can't bare to wait, I'm sure!!

New pillow at Henry Road...

2008-04-24T13:23:00.000-07:00

I've been waiting to see what new additions Henry Road will have this year and was happy to see the Fleur pillow in all it's colors: sage (shown above), teal, and pink...just thought I'd share with you!! Check the website for more new stuff...

Not your momma's wicker...

2008-04-22T09:21:00.000-07:00

Indoor, outdoor...either way this table is fab...

Here it's all done up, I'm loving the yellow of course and the combo of black and white is perfect. These shots are of the "Deco" dining table from Jason Champion Outdoor...

I saw some pictures of this piece before, but seeing these photos above really sold me, and now I can see the may styles it can take on once you begin pairing it with other pieces...
A profile shot shows the detail of the piece, including the L shape legs...
They come in almost any color: red, blue, green, yellow, and pink of course!! Available in side tables and dining tables, but the best part is they are indoor/outdoor...

The company's slogan is: "Not your momma's wicker," which I think is just great. Check out their website for more outdoor offerings like the Cube cabana above...

Put me in a cocoon...

2008-04-21T10:08:00.000-07:00

I never thought I would say this, but please do...

I'm ready for some R & R and when a rep came in the other day showing some new outdoor pieces to their lines, my jaw almost dropped when I saw Henry Hall's Cocoon Hammock...

I love it so much I just had to share it with you...and sorry for the sporadic posts, I'm working like a mad woman on our home right now...

Double take...

2008-04-16T11:18:00.000-07:00

Yup that's right...that's exactly what happened when I got my most recent Pottery Barn catalog. At first I said: "Ooooo, Pottery Barn's getttin' good these days. Might have to clear some room on my credit card...".

(Pottery Barn's Moorish Tile Rug on the left, Madeline Weinrib's Brooke Orange Rug on the right)

And then came the double take: "Hey...I've seen something really similar somewhere else...hmmmm." You know what they say, imitation is the sincerest form of flattery...and what do you think? If you were on the other end, would you be flattered??

(Pottery Barn's Bradley Lamp on the left, Jonathan Adler's Nelson Lamp on the right)

In my opinion both these lamps have great style even if they are very similar...but maybe not similar in price...

(Pottery Barn's Ikat collection on the left/John Robshaw's Bukhara collection on the right)

I love the colors in both of these, one with the pink accent and the other orange. Thinking about it though, over the past year of so Pottery Barn has really brought color and life back to their products and I really appreciate that even if there inspiration is easily noticed...

Console"ing"...

2008-04-15T15:37:00.000-07:00

I'm a busy bee lately, this remodel is consuming me, so my posts may be a bit more geared in that direction for the next week or so...

(Angie Hranowsky)

After work, there's more work to be done...I go home and sand walls, paint...you get the drift. And if I'm lucky I get to do the fun stuff like pick out furniture and fabrics!! So, today I was thinking about the console table I'm putting in front of our big window in our living room, and what to put under it...and I love what's done in these photos cause it looks great, but also provides more seating for guests. So console yourself with these interior shots here...

(Vanessa De Vargas)

(Jonathan Adler)

(Ashley Whittaker via The Peak of Chic)

Frame it out with paint...

2008-04-14T09:37:00.000-07:00

(Steve Miller Design)

I'm thinking about doing this in my house, because I love this idea. Right now, I've got just plain white walls in our living/dining room space...but to add some life to them I've been looking for ideas that are less expensive and non-permanent (so to speak) and came across these images recently, what do you think? Worth the effort??

(Woodson and Rummerfield)

You go Ikea...

2008-04-09T11:28:00.000-07:00

Not bad for Ikea right?? With a little hardware, this could be a pretty cute sideboard (maybe check out Anthropologie's hardware line). Sometimes those Scandinavians really surprise me, I guess you just never know, right! Check it out here, selling for $349...

Speaking of outdoor furniture...

2008-04-09T11:01:00.000-07:00

(image via NY Social Diary)

Have you seen the new furniture line from Sheila Bridges, it's available at Arthur Lauer...and it's fabulous if you ask me. This could me another option for my ideal outdoor set up...what do you think??

Bridges Loveseat

Bridges Lounge Chair

Bridges Armchair

My ideal outdoor set up...

2008-04-09T10:26:00.000-07:00

Are you familiar with Brown Jordan's Calcutta collection, well allow me to introduce you!! A Chinese Chippendale inspired look made from sand-cast aluminum, which means it's ideal for the outdoors.

It was the winner of the California Design Award in 1967, and this classic design is as timeless today as it was 40 years ago, wouldn't you say?!?!

In a perfect world, this would be my outdoor furniture...but, I think I need to work on getting furniture for the inside of my house before we go there! Maybe you need some though, and I can live vicariously through you...find it at Gumps online!

The perfect luggage...

2008-04-08T19:55:00.000-07:00

in a recent post I mentioned that I may have to use my luggage as furniture this year because I doubt it will be getting the use it once did...and I just had to share a recent Ebay find with you, this vintage Louis Vuitton hard suitcase. I know, you want it too, but I must warn you it's latest bid was for $1480...

All wrapped up!!!

2008-04-08T14:51:00.000-07:00

(Kelly Hoppen Designs)

I'm just crazy about this look...the fact that these two chairs just so happen to be a lovely shade of yellow is great, but what I'm talking about it is their feet...what a look to wrap them up like that. Kelly went with the color coordinated approach (above), but I dig on the multi colored look below too!!

(Jake Fitzjones Photography)

What do you think, liked the wrapped feet look too??

Ivanka's design eye...

2008-04-07T18:35:00.000-07:00

Now look at you go girl, turning your assistant's Darcy McNutt's one-bedroom apartment into a stylish lil' pad if you ask me...

I spy an Ikea "Saarinen table" look a like, a John Robshaw quilt, and a West Elm day bed just to name a few...

Maybe Ms. Ivanka's next venture should be an Interior Design business like Turquoise Chic suggested in her post about this today (which I'm so glad I stumbled upon)! And, who could forget her own apartment of course, which you can view here in case you need another peek...

What do you think, could this be a new career path for Ivanka???

(Image via Turquoise Chic blog, originally from Glamour magazine May '08)

Puttin' it to good use...

2008-04-07T14:52:00.000-07:00

I'm thinking with all the hard work we've been doing on the house lately (we really have, can't wait to show you the photos!), that it's time to plan a getaway...I say this because we really need one, something tells me though that our suitcases will not get much use this summer...

(via Terramia)

instead, maybe since they're getting so much time at home, I could put them to good use...and trust me I'd love to because they just might make a cute side table...

A few red accents...

2008-04-07T08:47:00.000-07:00

nothing is going to ever change my mind about red being one of my favorite colors, especially to use as an accent in a room...

Tom Scheerer

I've posted about this color before, but here are just a few additions that you may or may not have seen...I just love the railing in the picture above!!

Markham Roberts

Betsy Burnham

a perfect color choice for this piece here...

Blogger/Designer: Vanessa De Vargas

and when Vanessa took a rather plain Chesterfield sofa and dressed it up here...

Let's get "Nautical"...

2008-04-01T10:09:00.000-07:00

yeah, I think we should, it's just a great casual look...

(Luella, Ralph Lauren and L.A.M.B., via ThriftyChick)

(and this JCrew bracelet...)

Well, it's about that time of year, when I start thinking "I'd really like to sign up for sailing lessons this summer, better get on that list"...but I probably won't even sign up, because I say that every year and haven't yet, so I'll get nautical in another way, through home decor...

start small with some nautical inspired accents, like these window shades that Suzanne Kasler designed...

and maybe get this Columbia Sailboat model instead of a life-size one, which would go great in a Study...

what about a nautical pillow from Pierre Frey"Oceane" collection...

and if I needed a doorstop, this would be the one I'd get...
I just love these Nautical Andirons from Gustavo Olivieri...

and this fun "round tire" mirror from Chapman Radcliff...

Of course another William Sonoma Home find, these rope pillows are great...

A lantern with an modern twist, this if from Ralph Lauren Home...

Iomoi has great custom lucite trays, like this "anchor navy" one here...

and reader/blogger Easy and Elegant Life mentioned her love for port holes in a comment, so I just had to add these ones from Cottage Home Maine...

Happy Friday...

2008-03-28T13:25:00.000-07:00

and may you have time to frolic a bit this weekend...

(photo: Mark M. Gong)

Look for less...

2008-03-27T15:40:00.000-07:00

I have always loved Oly Studio's Pipa Cocktail table since the moment I saw it...but recently I spotted what could just be this piece's "look for less" at ZGallerie!!it's not quite...but, this Obi Coffee table is available in Ivory and Brown and is offered in a side table as well...what do you think??

What a knob!!!

2008-03-27T09:05:00.000-07:00

We all know that details make the difference and in the case of knobs this is true...but where do you go to find the hardware that might restyle a furniture piece or cabinetry all together?? Here are a few companies I've found that I know you are sure to love...

E.R. Butler & Co.

Rocky Mountain Hardware

Crown City Hardware

A new blog in town...

2008-03-26T09:29:00.000-07:00

(Spanish artist/designer Jaime Hayon)

Did you know that Brocade Home has a new blog...featuring everything from design that they love, fashion, and hot furniture and lighting...

Head over heals...

2008-03-26T07:30:00.000-07:00

Did you get a chance to see the color issue of this month's Instyle magazine....well, you can't miss their short series of "A Room with a Hue"!!

In just a few pages they featured Mary McDonald and her passion for pink (which you can see here)...and several other great designer's and their favorite hues. But, not to be over-looked, is Kishani Perera and her blue Master Bedroom (above), which features one of my latest design crushes: Metallic Mexican Headboards...

You can find a similar headboard by Casamidy over at Vivre...and even the great Miles Redd used one recently at a client's apartment in the Urban Glass House, check this New York Times article here...

a working environment...

2008-03-24T12:58:00.000-07:00

we all seem to do it, either we bring our work home with us or we actually work at home...this is why we need some type of office space there, whether it be a tiny corner of the bed to use a laptop (like me) or an office suite with his and her separate areas (like my clients)...

(Richard Meier's study/House and Garden, Nov. '07)

but what makes a good working environment, and better yet one that has some great style?!? here are some examples below that I found; each unique in design and conducive to working from home...

(designed by Philip Gorrivan/Elle Decor March '07)

spice up your work with a vibrant space, and place your desk in the best spot in the house...between the gold -foil chinoiserie paper and all the natural light washing the space, I know I'd never fall asleep at my desk here...

(designed by Peter Dunham/Domino home tour)

if your work takes you over, then just let it I guess...here Peter Dunham turned his dining room into an actual study/workroom...no that's a great way to get real use out a dining table if you don't gather there every night!!

(designed by Brian McCarthy/Elle Decor Dec '07)

the Master Bedroom suite can be ideal for a writing desk and chair...again with a great view I'm sure, but you could also double your desk as your vanity too and add a mirror!!

(designed by Mary Mcgee/House Beautiful April '08)

make the distinct separation (here this working environment is clearly separated from the living room space) and go all out with this area in my opinion, from rugs, lamps, fun desk chairs, etc...I think I could definitely spend some time here, flipping through my magazines and maybe write some checks too...

(designed by Katie Ridder/Elle Decor, March '08)

maybe you need your own study, I know I would (my magazines and books are getting out of hand), but with a room to yourself, you could add a signature touch, here there's no missing the details and those lavender tones...

(home of Richard Marshall and William Georgis/Elle Decor March '08)

get creative, I just love this idea especially if you just need a small space to use a laptop and scribble a few notes, but your books require a home of their own...what's even better this office/study fits nice and compact in a bedroom!!

(home of Carolina Herrera Jr./Vogue Living Winter '07)

make your working environment one that works for you...if there's organization to your chaos then so be it, at home no one can tell you how your desk should look (insert "cubical" humor here)...i love a desk full of inspiring pictures, magazine clippings, fabrics...

(designed by Juan Diego and Gernando Gerscovich/ California Home + Design, Sept. '07)

you could make your home office a tad more on the "office side" and have it entirely separate from your home itself, with it's own entrance even...not quite sure if that's what they've done here, but the idea of not hearing the "home" phone ring, or being compelled to watch TV and work at the same time might make a more productive work environment...

(designed by John Turck/California Home + Design, Aug. '06)

make sure you plan an escape route...just kidding, but having a great view is one thing, but being able to take breaks and step outside for some fresh air is even better...

(designed by Emma Jane Pilkington/House and Garden, Nov. '05)

and if you're like me and space is limited, maybe have a home office that could work as a guest room too...saving the best for last, because I love everything about this room and it's decor!!

what's your home office like???

A "Berman" Moroccan bath...

2008-03-22T09:08:00.000-07:00

well, you're probably familiar with LA designer Michael Berman whose client list includes several Fortune 500 CEO's, and whose comprehensive furnishing line features pieces with an American Trans-Modern flair...

of my favorites, is this Dresden Mirror...

and this Hathaway Cabinet, which is all about the details in my opinion...
and these Tangier Hassock ottomans, which have a bit of a Moroccan vibe...

but, when I opened up this month's Western Interiors and saw his most recent design work, I became even more intrigued with this man...the space above; a Moroccan inspired spa bath, that combos a fresh modern feel with an antique touch...

the BainUltra tub is focal point of the main space, but it's this Walker Zanger tile work, that I love most of all...this shower includes a skylight for natural light, and over sized marble bench with niche and even warming drawers for robes, towels and slippers...this space is ideal for pampering, if you ask me!!

(Furniture images via Michael Berman website, Interior images via Western Interiors magazine, and bio information via Bravo.com)

Closet envy...

2008-03-20T15:52:00.000-07:00

the Star's "seem" to have it all, including a wardrobe that never repeats itself (which I am most jealous of), and you can only imagine where these fabulous clothes, shoes and purses they own actually get to reside!!

closets usually the size of average person's bedroom and filled with wall to wall custom cabinetry, above Eva's shows off her master closet in the recent Instyle magazine...

of course they couldn't plan the issue with out featuring one of the Hilton sisters, and here Nicky's is kept behind closed doors and is said to house more than 200 handbags...

who could forget Mariah's closet, I remember seeing this on cribs and then when Brilliant Asylum featured this glamorous wardrobe as part of her "Closet Lust" series...I knew I needed figure a way to make an entire room for my shoes (and start buying more shoes to fill it with...)

Birds of a feather II...

2008-03-20T09:46:00.000-07:00

Um, check out these pillows I found! Since it's Spring time now, and the birds are up earlier than you and chirping like mad in the yard... but these birds are cute and they won't make a peep...Bliss Studio: Magpie pillow

Bird pillow cover from Kanodia Hosiery Bliss Studio: Fruit Pillow

Peacock pillow cover from Kanodia Hosiery

Let's "Toast"...

2008-03-19T08:19:00.000-07:00

for simple, pretty bedding...

Stunning catalogue scenes and beautiful goods...I just recently became familiar with Toast, and now I'm in love...

this is a detail of the organza ribbon bed linens...

What the flock ?!?!

2008-03-18T20:25:00.000-07:00

Yeah, I know. But what are we doing, are we still flocking our walls? See daily, I have sensory overload, with fabrics, wallpaper, and trims...from showrooms to rep meetings, I see a lot of this stuff!!

(Paris Apartment stumbled upon some flocks while visiting Paris...)

And this is why I ask..last year it was flock this and flock that, every paper had it...

Designer's Guild keeps on flocking...

so does Romo wallcoverings with this Lasari Flock collection...

even Brocade Home stocks tons of flocked papers. So this style has hit mainstream for sure...and what do we think? On the way out or still a hot style??

I'm in the clear...

2008-03-18T12:40:00.000-07:00

see, my search is over for the right console table to put in front of my picture window...I'm going Lucite, and that's all there is to it...

(Home of Monique Lhuillier, featured in Elle Decor)

see I want the drapes to be a big feature but need a console to go in front...so what perfect material to work with then Lucite (similar style above)..I think this material can create a nice balance to various pieces that might have more weight to them...But Lucite in general can be a nice feature, you don't want to over do it...but, one way to go is lighting, it can look so classic..I could see this pair of lamps from Pieces as key part to a great tablescape...

In a post by Jennifer she features Amy Fine Collins' apartment and this fun Lucite chair; a perfect fit, don'tcha think?...

Lucite trays are hot lil items, here this one separates from the table for serving which you can find through La Moderne...

I'm crazy about this idea, a piece within a piece...featured at the OMD Showhouse, this space is designed by Vanessa De Vargas and you can find a similar coffee table is available at her showroom...

in keeping with yesterday's "Moroccan" theme, these White Webb Lucite side tables are available through Hollyhock...

(Image via Domino)

and last I love this little set up from SoSylvie's shop Blossom Home, it's probably glass but could work for Lucite as well...

Style icons unite...

2008-03-17T14:20:00.000-07:00

What do you get when you combine Drew Barrymore's Flower Films production office with a style icon like Ruthie Sommers, well...amazingness of course!! You probably already know about domino's April issue, but...

I just thought I'd share a little sneak peak into this offices interior with this pic above ( a domino team member was kind enough to provide me)...here Ruthie painted an antique hutch matte red, which looks amazing against the "powder blue" (Farrow & Ball) wall color, don't you think??...well, um I can't wait to get this issue...

also, check out Style Court's "Remember this Sofa?" post for more on this issue...

an invite to Marrakech...

2008-03-17T07:15:00.000-07:00

well, sort of...a glimpse into a unique retreat, built as part of a Mosque complex, this18th century Moroccan home of Caitlin and Samuel Dowe-Sandes gets a fresh new look and here are just a few shots from Elle Decor...

an essential indoor outdoor experience, I love these chairs with Waverly fabric cushions...

who won't want their own roof top terrace...and how gorgeous is that tile!?!

I fell in love with these Wink-on-One tiles by Popham Design and this bright red side table that was a former movie prop...

a perfect breakfast nook...bright red and full of life, pairing these Saarinen-style chairs keeps it fresh...

going from one colorful room to another, they all seem different and yet they add to the character of the home...

(Photos by Roger Davies)

and all the while, you can find some vibrant Moroccan inspired products over at Vivre...

Square Keshte Ottoman by Ankasa

Almidi Star Mirror by Casamidy

Round Ikat Ottoman by Ankasa

Almidi End Table by Casamidy

Moroccan Sequins Pillow by Ankasa

MIA update...

2008-03-13T09:28:00.000-07:00

I've been absent the past week or so...but I plan to return to blog land this coming Monday and I just thought you should know...see last Tuesday, a good friend of mine, passed away after losing a long battle with a rare terminal disease. It's been a real difficult time for me...

Portrait "Innocent Blonde" by Etsy seller: Aussiepatches

but I am looking forward to getting back to my daily usual, which most definitely includes new posts and keeping up my blog banter...so see you then!

Lulu DK goes contract...

2008-03-03T13:18:00.000-08:00

Puzzle

That's right, these are new prints from LuluDK's contract line, designed with wear and good looks in mind of course...

Rope in Navy

Minerva in Navy

If you're not familiar with "contract quality", this line of fabric, is perfect for use in high traffic areas such as family rooms, kid's rooms, etc...and can even be used in commercial spaces...

Chainlink in Navy

Sandbox in Navy

I picked out some of my favorite prints in blues, but you should go online and see all the prints and the colors available, you'd be amazed!!!

Paradiso

Just got back from Texas and I had a blast in San Antonio...but as always it's good to be home. Thanks for all you're wonderful comments on my last post, they really made me smile!!

So Chic, indeed...

2008-02-27T14:59:00.000-08:00

What better reason for two bloggers to get together, then being in the same room as Margaret Russell (Editor in Chief of Elle Decor magazine)...and so we did!!! We being, Katie and I, at the Ann Sacks showroom in SF.

(Below, that's me on the left, with my cheese eating grin, and blogger (Katie'did') next to me, looking no less than chic herself...)

With a crowded showroom, Katie and I chatted away, sipping wine and sitting on the edge of a showroom tub. Our conversation pretty much went: blogs, bloggers, Margaret, blogs, what's with that gold crushed velvet wardrobe malfunction over there, and how do we know when we spot possible other bloggers...

All with the So Chic book in hand, which consists of a great collection of Elle Decor's more recent fab interiors, you can find this book on Amazon here...but those aren't signed :)

Now on to Margaret, whom I almost accosted had my trunk not been filled with carpet books and swatches...a real doll in person and a delight to speak with; talking blogs and the importance of crediting the photographers (which I must admit I don't do enough of) she was so intrigued by what "we bloggers" do. Wait, shouldn't be the other way around, we're at your book signing I thought!! Needless to say, Margaret was so great to chat with and uber chic!! Overall, I'd say this was a successful blogger meet up...

And now I'm off to San Antonio, TX...wish I could meet up with blogger Joni in Houston, but that's not the case on this business packed trip! See you when I return!!!

A delightful tray...

2008-02-27T14:52:00.000-08:00

I love, love, love..did I say love, this chic Butler's tray from Decorative Things. I don't have a butler, probably won't ever, I think I'm my own butler and so therefore I need this tray!! So glad I was reminded of this company when I stopped into Turquoise Chic blog today...

A floral story...

2008-02-27T09:59:00.000-08:00

Starring Osborne and Little and Nina Campbell...

++Stanza collection++
(note: this wallpaper in green can be seen in an installation
shot on Absolutely Beautiful Things...)

Swinburne from O & L

Okay, I'm becoming a floral fanatic...it's hit me hard. After viewing new swatches from O & L...and then all the recent buzz from magazines to blogs about chintz, I think my liking has turned to obsessing...

Chatterton from O & L (Similar colorway to below)

This one was stunning person and would really make some knock out draperies in the right space...

++Perroquet Collection++

(Chardon from Nina Campbell)

Much more vibrant in person and wonderful scale...this print comes in a wallpaper too!!!

(Orchis from Nina Campbell)

I love this print because of all the colors you can pull from it...the websites show great installation shots of all these prints...

j'adore the new store...

2008-02-26T10:54:00.000-08:00

(image via Style.com)

yes, ladies and gents the Dior flagship store in Paris has gotten a face lift...and it's pretty darn fab if you ask me!!

when you sell couture you "raise the bar of luxury" so to speak, and this from time to time means raising the bar of your store too...

and that's what they did, by pulling out all the stops...including commissioning Claude and Francois-Xavier Lalanne to create this ginkgo-leaf inspired entry piece..

almost homey in a way with the living room like furniture and the fireplace...could you imagine if this were your own dressing room!!

couture is all about details, and I love the one on the back of this chair!!!

great idea to use a blown up map of Paris on the cash wrap...and through out the store you'll find the artwork of Rob Wynne (mirror-back molded glass letters)...

this screen has constant footage of catwalk shows to keep you entertained, but for me just being able to visit this store would be entertainment enough...

...well do you j'adore this new store design !?!?!...

(Dior store images via Interior Design magzine/Feb. '08)

A must see...

2008-02-25T07:05:00.000-08:00

Maybe you're already obsessed like me, but I can't wait to see this movie...it will be released in theaters on March 7 !!!. The film is actually based on a book by Winifred Watson, which was originally published in 1938, and I believe must have raised some eyebrows for that time...

Frumpy and forty, poor Miss Pettigrew ( Frances McDormand ) is barely getting by. She's on her last penny and the rent is coming due. Her last hope is to find work as a governess. When she's given the name and address of a Miss LaFosse, her world will change forever...

She expects to apply for a job looking after children, but Miss LaFosse (Amy Adams) is anything but matronly. She's greeted at the door by a beautiful young woman in a negligee who's in a bit of a tight spot. There's a young man in her bed, and she needs to get rid of him. It's all quite shocking for Miss Pettigrew, but she rises to the challenge...

Miss Pettigrew Preview Clip Plan to go shopping
Uploaded by misspettig

Besides a delightful plot, the movie takes place amongst the glamorous apartment of Miss LaFosse, covered in lush textiles and unique furniture pieces (even saw some Chinoiserie wallcovering too!)...check the video clip above for a look into LaFosse's dressing room...

(Images via Rotten Tomatoes, Movie clip from Daily Motion, Text excerpt from A Work in Progress blog)

Just a lil monkey business...

2008-02-22T16:34:00.000-08:00

Steven Sclaroff ceramic monkey

Sue Fisher King's Paravincini tableware

Carl Chaffee ceramic monkey

Monkey Tray from Vivre

Monkey place holders from Vivre

Love the monkey's in this Clarence House fabric

I don't believe it, part II...

2008-02-22T10:15:00.000-08:00

Batik is $14.98/yd.

That's true, it happened again. More fabric finds for under $15/yd. and it's no joke. In just a short time searching on Lewis & Sheron Textiles Co., I found these prints that are some what John Ro bshaw inspired, all are priced well and better yet you can order swatches just to be on the safe side...

Acorn Filigree is $13.98/ yd.

Calasis Linen is $13.98/yd.

So forth checking this site out if you haven't already, let me know what you think??? Happy Friday and Hope you have a great weekend!!!

It's all new...

2008-02-20T15:55:00.000-08:00

in case you didn't know...Schumacher has launched a new website!! Yup, I have long awaited this day, and now it's come. I just stopped in to check it out...very user-friendly and love that I can see my fav swatches up close, but also view them in some installation shots!!

**Over the next month more products will be added, but I like what I see so far...you should check it out!!**

Pairing up II

2008-02-20T09:02:00.000-08:00

(image via Newlywed Diaries)

One way to really ground a room (like you saw in my last post) and create some symmetry is to pair up on your pieces!! Simple right, but very effective in my eyes...Take this Emma Jane Pilkington design for Ivanka Trump below (that we all love)...

I spy a pair of lamps, side tables, foo dogs, and even pillows with the same fabric...did I miss anything...

(Elle Decor)

Here, just even pairing these yellow ceramic lamps makes a huge impact and adds some drama even...

(Elle Decor)

This is a perfect example of symmetry, not to be confused with boring cause it definitely is not that...just love the balance created with these armoires...

1stDibs is a great place to look for pairs of any kind...you can even just type in "pairs of" and millions of choices will come up, here are a few from my search...(above: top left: regeneration lamps, top right: Gallery 33 mirrors, bottom left: Lawson Fenning side tables and bottom right: Biggs Powell armchairs)

So are you big on pairing up, do you have any other great pairing examples?!?!

Pairing up...

2008-02-18T16:06:00.000-08:00

(House and Garden)

Whether it be a guest room or a kids room, it just seems the best outcome is to pair up and match your pieces....as if you could draw an invisible line down the center, and you'd find an exact mirror on the other side, this I love...

(House Beautiful)

Always a fan of black and white, and esp. love the design of those roman shades...

(Domino)

(House Beautiful)

Love the design on these beds, it brings the perfect touch...

(Met Home)

Here are some "perfect" pairs I thought I'd share with you...I just can't think of a better place then in a bedroom where this is just so fitting, how bout you?!?!

Vacation Friday...

2008-02-15T08:56:00.000-08:00

Let's take a break and getaway, I'm ready to drop everything!! Even though it was just Valentine's Day, maybe you're ready to plan your next romantic outing....

Consider Kelly Wearstler's suggestion for the most romantic hotel room featured in Town and Country magazine...a suite at the The Katikies Hotel on the small island of Santorini, in Greece!!

Each suite comes with their very own terrace where breakfast is served, a private jacuzzi, and a masseuse waiting in the closet (just kidding)...

This luxury boutique hotel is posted high above the water, so you are guaranteed a spectacular view...you're already sold, right!?! Well, happy Friday and hope you have a great weekend!

(Images courtesy of Luxury Travel Magazine)