Houston Interior Designer

Fabulous Room Friday 04.29.11

<img src="http://www.the-connaught.co.uk/uploadedImages/Connaught/Gallery/Lightbox5/CON_Apartment_SittingRoom_1.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" /> I’ve had my eye on the gorgeous Connaught Hotel in London for quite some time now and would love to stay there during a future trip across the pond. The sitting room in “The Apartment” suite is absolutely gorgeous. I love the soaring, beamed ceilings and while I am not usually a blue person, I really love it in this space. Maybe it’s the excitement of the royal wedding. Who knows! There is such a great mix of textures and fabrics from the sumptuous velvet sofa to the beautiful, show-stopping ombré drapes. The piece de resistance might just be the stunning marble fireplace, though. I love the clean, modern lines amongst the more traditional furnishings. Have a wonderful weekend!   {Image Courtesy of <a href="http://www.the-connaught.co.uk/gallery2.aspx?ID=464">The Connaught Hotel</a>}

Fabulous Room Friday 04.29.11

I’ve had my eye on the gorgeous Connaught Hotel in London for quite some time now and would love to stay there during a future trip across...

6:07 AM

Getting in the Spirit

Getting in the Spirit

I really wish I were in London right now to experience the pageantry and excitement of the royal wedding between Kate Middleton and Prince...

12:48 PM

Do Tell: What is your fitness routine?

<img height="573" src="http://deceiver.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/gwyneth-paltrow-tracy-anderson.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" width="382" /> {Gwyneth Paltrow and her trainer, Tracy Anderson} I need to work on my fitness. My crazy schedule as of late has sort of let working out fall by the wayside. Before I know it, the entire day has passed while I type away at the computer for La Dolce Vita, High Gloss, or one of my freelance writing gigs and my good intentions for exercising are blown for the day. Unfortunately, I am not one of those people who “needs” to exercise to get through the day, much like some people need coffee- I don’t need that either. I wish that I were disciplined on the exercising front or that I was addicted to something like running, but I am not. I am just a girl who isn’t exactly athletically gifted and who doesn’t particularly enjoy exercise other than pilates, mostly because I am laying down for the majority of the time. I know that I need to get back on the wagon, but I need motivation. I’ve heard good things about Tracy Anderson’s DVDs, though some people say they’re REALLY hard and that scares me. So, I’d like to know how you make time for exercise. What is your fitness routine of choice? Do you stick to the same thing or do you mix it up? How often do you work out? How do you keep yourself motivated? <img height="556" src="http://agirlnamedbong.files.wordpress.com/2011/04/cameron-diaz-workout-session-with-alex-rodriguez-01.jpg?w=325&h=855" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" width="214" /> {Do you like working out solo like Cameron Diaz?} <img height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGkuCLR4eTWfIUhT43JkvKYGCIGZcWRCwossfZ_DcziPE257FRLJpN6FuxXIA5xPzNt5TvW1vUour2h1zWLphhI5UZWIyCUH6jJhDBJyhbMc5lvKtkqDxNIvmJh4xvprfDzdw7kn02-48O/s400/lauren_conrad300+-+bg.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" width="300" /> {Are you partial to the buddy system like Lauren and Lo?} <img height="400" src="http://www.celebrific.com/wp-content/uploads/2007/01/reese-witherspoon-running-1-31-07.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" width="300" /> {Are you a runner? This is not happening for me in this lifetime. I have a bad knee.} <img height="377" src="http://cdn02.okcdn.okmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/Jennifer_Garner_Violet_Affleck_Seraphina_Affleck_March17main.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" width="500" /> {Does your work out come by the way of being a busy woman/mom like Jennifer Garner?}   Do tell- what is your fitness routine?

Do Tell: What is your fitness routine?

{Gwyneth Paltrow and her trainer, Tracy Anderson} I need to work on my fitness. My crazy schedule as of late has sort of let working out...

6:01 AM

Dream Home: Simply Seleta

Today, the lovely Seleta of <a href="http://www.simplyseleta.com/">Simply Seleta</a> shares her “Dream Home” with us. I always enjoy reading about her beautiful family, so it was nice to see how they influenced the home of her dreams. <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_FfZMBBaCF8w/TbgjFTkToaI/AAAAAAAAPOs/yZLBBTRkgGI/s1600-h/blog%20seleta%5B4%5D.png"><img alt="blog seleta" border="0" height="198" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_FfZMBBaCF8w/TbgjFwYZ4AI/AAAAAAAAPOw/LLWgQkc5DZk/blog%20seleta_thumb%5B2%5D.png?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="blog seleta" width="334" /></a> When Paloma invited me to join in her dream home series, I was thrilled. Daydreaming is something that comes naturally, so this task was right up my alley. These days a farm house seems dreamy. Lots of green with plenty of space for critters and kids would be the perfect setting for our family of six. Since we recently <a href="http://www.simplyseleta.com/2011/03/my-new-baby/" target="_blank">added a horse</a> to our brood, I would welcome a home with acres and acres of rolling hills. I'm imagining the outside would be something like this... <a href="http://www.simplyseleta.com/?attachment_id=8019" rel="attachment wp-att-8019"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-8019" height="393" src="http://www.simplyseleta.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/white.dream_.elle_.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" title="white.dream.elle" width="500" /></a> Maybe a pool in the backyard for downtime... <a href="http://www.simplyseleta.com/?attachment_id=8033" rel="attachment wp-att-8033"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-8033" height="640" src="http://www.simplyseleta.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/dreamhouse.back_.highstreetmarketblogspot.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" title="dreamhouse.back.highstreetmarketblogspot" width="436" /></a> Now for the kitchen. Crisp cabinets and direct access to nature would be a must. My dream would be greeting our horse and ponies from this spot throughout the day. I like the vibe here...just give me a whopper of an island instead of a table and you've got a deal. <a href="http://www.simplyseleta.com/2011/02/perfect-pendants/barn-light-electric-elle-decor/" rel="attachment wp-att-6941"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-6941" height="421" src="http://www.simplyseleta.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/Barn-Light-Electric-Elle-Decor-e1298321899815.png" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" title="Barn-Light-Electric-Elle-Decor" width="550" /></a> Two sinks for our command center would be perfection. <a href="http://www.simplyseleta.com/?attachment_id=8024" rel="attachment wp-att-8024"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-8024" height="460" src="http://www.simplyseleta.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/dreamy4.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" title="dreamy4" width="360" /></a> Love the effect of this dining room - I know it's an older image but what I like is the relaxed feel and connection to the outside. I would replace the wooden chairs with upholstered seating in <a href="http://www.perennialsfabrics.com/pdetails.php?topcat=195&subcat=203&start=0&pid=299" target="_blank">this stripe</a>, a pair of wingbacks in a fun solid linen and a mod light fixture to add some sass. <a href="http://www.simplyseleta.com/?attachment_id=8023" rel="attachment wp-att-8023"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-8023" height="460" src="http://www.simplyseleta.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/dreamy2.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" title="dreamy2" width="360" /></a> In a perfect world our main rooms would be highly edited and bathed in soft tones. This is a lovely look for a living room. <a href="http://www.simplyseleta.com/?attachment_id=8022" rel="attachment wp-att-8022"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-8022" height="440" src="http://www.simplyseleta.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/dreamy1.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" title="dreamy1" width="440" /></a> I always drool over this unforgettable <a href="http://www.victoriahagan.com/" target="_blank">Victoria Hagan</a> family room. Although for me to consider it family friendly, I would need a squishy big square ottoman upholstered in a small graphic pattern and a few toys scattered around the floor...without some sort of mess I'd be confused. <a href="http://www.simplyseleta.com/?attachment_id=8025" rel="attachment wp-att-8025"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-8025" height="455" src="http://www.simplyseleta.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/dreamy5-e1303881265572.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" title="dreamy5" width="550" /></a> Kid rooms. Our guys tend to bunk up at night, so I'd make each room big and friendly with plenty of snuggly blankets and fresh splashes of color. <a href="http://www.simplyseleta.com/?attachment_id=8034" rel="attachment wp-att-8034"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-8034" height="636" src="http://www.simplyseleta.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/design.kidsroom.amazing.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" title="design.kidsroom.amazing!!!" width="477" /></a> For the master bedroom it would be all about pure relaxation. Something about a canopy brings such a sense of peace to my brain after a long day. <a href="http://www.simplyseleta.com/?attachment_id=8038" rel="attachment wp-att-8038"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-8038" height="537" src="http://www.simplyseleta.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/dreamy8.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" title="dreamy8" width="358" /></a> Our bathroom would be neutral and spacious with big windows and a ball and claw tub. His and her closets? No doubt. Off the master would be a library with floor to ceiling bookshelves and plenty of comfortable seating. I would find a way to incorporate a leopard ottoman in the mix. <a href="http://www.simplyseleta.com/?attachment_id=8035" rel="attachment wp-att-8035"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-8035" height="623" src="http://www.simplyseleta.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/dreamy7.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" title="dreamy7" width="500" /></a> If I were lucky enough to have an office, it would be detached from the home and just like this. <a href="http://www.windsorsmithhome.com/" target="_blank">Windsor Smith</a> knows how to even make work look pretty. <a href="http://www.simplyseleta.com/?attachment_id=8030" rel="attachment wp-att-8030"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-8030" height="460" src="http://www.simplyseleta.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/dreamy6.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" title="Windsor Smith Residence, Los Angeles, CA" width="360" /></a> Paloma, thanks letting me dream a little and visit your blog today. It was fun so to be here!

Dream Home: Simply Seleta

Today, the lovely Seleta of Simply Seleta shares her “Dream Home” with us. I always enjoy reading about her beautiful family, so it was nic...

7:07 AM

Love it or Leave it: Upholstered Headboards

<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_FfZMBBaCF8w/TbYGY3ZpLFI/AAAAAAAAPNg/Or-A1MrIP6M/s1600-h/sally%5B2%5D.png"><img alt="sally" border="0" height="480" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_FfZMBBaCF8w/TbYGbd8e2WI/AAAAAAAAPNo/1MlaTcreeIg/sally_thumb%5B2%5D.png?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="sally" width="584" /></a> {Room by Sally Wheat featured in <a href="http://www.highglossmagazine.com/">High Gloss Magazine</a>} Upholstered headboards have been around for a long time. Reminiscent of a more glamorous time in history, specifically the 1950s and 1960s, they have made a huge resurgence in design. There are beautiful, high-end custom-made versions and really great DIY versions that can be made with a little elbow grease, some time and usually, $100 or less. I currently do not have an upholstered headboard, but I recently ordered Serena and Lily’s <a href="http://www.serenaandlily.com/Headboards-Beds-Pondicherry-Headboard-Nailheads">Pondicherry Headboard with Nailheads</a> and am anxiously awaiting it's arrival. Do you have any upholstered beds in your home? Is this another case of a classic that has been overexposed in the blogosphere or are they here to stay? <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_FfZMBBaCF8w/TbYGdU32UOI/AAAAAAAAPNs/St-6r5paOV0/s1600-h/amanda%20nisbet3%5B4%5D.png"><img alt="amanda nisbet3" border="0" height="573" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_FfZMBBaCF8w/TbYGfbCxh0I/AAAAAAAAPNw/O4_glf-3Qf4/amanda%20nisbet3_thumb%5B2%5D.png?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="amanda nisbet3" width="383" /></a> {<a href="http://www.amandanisbetdesign.com/flash.html">Amanda Nisbet</a>} <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_FfZMBBaCF8w/TbYGgH4wXcI/AAAAAAAAPN0/8RvPmw1FfuM/s1600-h/bed%20atlanta%20homes%20mag%5B5%5D.jpg"><img alt="bed atlanta homes mag" border="0" height="389" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_FfZMBBaCF8w/TbYGgt14KzI/AAAAAAAAPN4/YF3eHGlGOOk/bed%20atlanta%20homes%20mag_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="bed atlanta homes mag" width="562" /></a> {<a href="http://www.atlantahomesmag.com/">Atlanta Lifestyles and Homes</a> Magazine} <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_FfZMBBaCF8w/TbYGhFwDwNI/AAAAAAAAPN8/Y_IyfGmMjcY/s1600-h/bed%20celerie%20kemble%5B6%5D.jpg"><img alt="bed celerie kemble" border="0" height="679" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_FfZMBBaCF8w/TbYGhx5YZMI/AAAAAAAAPOE/8PXiBT85tNw/bed%20celerie%20kemble_thumb%5B4%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="bed celerie kemble" width="450" /></a> {<a href="http://kembleinteriors.com/">Celerie Kemble</a>} <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_FfZMBBaCF8w/TbYGiW0wTCI/AAAAAAAAPOI/oxDp6__O2TA/s1600-h/bed_everythingfabulous%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="bed_everythingfabulous" border="0" height="621" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_FfZMBBaCF8w/TbYGi1lMXtI/AAAAAAAAPOM/4RziclwZNVE/bed_everythingfabulous_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="bed_everythingfabulous" width="447" /></a> {Unkown} <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_FfZMBBaCF8w/TbYGjj--LII/AAAAAAAAPOQ/S6dPqqcYWOc/s1600-h/bedroom%20courtney%20giles%5B6%5D.jpg"><img alt="bedroom courtney giles" border="0" height="430" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_FfZMBBaCF8w/TbYGkH1YAmI/AAAAAAAAPOU/wu7aqf7Qlcc/bedroom%20courtney%20giles_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="bedroom courtney giles" width="570" /></a> {<a href="http://courtneygiles.com/">Courtney Giles</a>} <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_FfZMBBaCF8w/TbYGkyDJh-I/AAAAAAAAPOY/ZR7LCEKzzEo/s1600-h/bedroom%20nuevoestilo%5B5%5D.jpg"><img alt="bedroom nuevoestilo" border="0" height="662" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_FfZMBBaCF8w/TbYGlmwimdI/AAAAAAAAPOc/4FM_FBpd8ZQ/bedroom%20nuevoestilo_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="bedroom nuevoestilo" width="527" /></a> {<a href="http://www.nuevo-estilo.es/">Nuevo Estilo</a>}

Love it or Leave it: Upholstered Headboards

{Room by Sally Wheat featured in High Gloss Magazine } Upholstered headboards have been around for a long time. Reminiscent of a more gl...

6:00 AM

Patterned Palace

<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_FfZMBBaCF8w/TbWy0z4lVwI/AAAAAAAAPM8/tMKKyHkFA7A/s1600-h/kirsten-kelli32.png"><img alt="kirsten kelli3" border="0" height="454" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_FfZMBBaCF8w/TbWy2lpE3gI/AAAAAAAAPNA/vkbmZqIB1mI/kirsten-kelli3_thumb2.png?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto; padding-top: 0px" title="kirsten kelli3" width="299" /></a> It’s no secret that I have a strong affinity for bold patterns when it comes to design. Make it polished and tailored all you want, but be sure to throw in a good pattern or two. Designing duo, <a href="http://kirstenkelli.com/index.html">Kirsten Kelli</a> used a treasure trove of amazing patterns in this palatial Dallas home. The study, pictured above features a beautiful mix of ikat and ethnic textiles. I love that they’ve taken an otherwise, dark, traditional study and turned it on its head by adding so many bright and bold textiles. <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_FfZMBBaCF8w/TbWy4VHCk3I/AAAAAAAAPNE/2Ay_MPX4B0U/s1600-h/kirsten-kelli22.png"><img alt="kirsten kelli2" border="0" height="452" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_FfZMBBaCF8w/TbWy6JPO5AI/AAAAAAAAPNI/krSvScXUy-E/kirsten-kelli2_thumb2.png?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto; padding-top: 0px" title="kirsten kelli2" width="300" /></a> {The lovely dining room also features some gorgeous ikat patterns, though the colors in this room are a bit more subdued.} <img height="414" src="http://kirstenkelli.com/images/folio/lux_living/LL12.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" width="604" /> {The Grand Dining Room} <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_FfZMBBaCF8w/TbWy8ScBT2I/AAAAAAAAPNM/ef97xv97Y80/s1600-h/kirsten-kelli-53.png"><img alt="kirsten kelli 5" border="0" height="383" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_FfZMBBaCF8w/TbWy-tcXtvI/AAAAAAAAPNQ/IskJ2DQUhEY/kirsten-kelli-5_thumb3.png?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto; padding-top: 0px" title="kirsten kelli 5" width="532" /></a> {The floors in this grand hall are reminiscent of David Hicks’ La Fiorentina, which happens to be one of my all-time favorite patterns.} <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_FfZMBBaCF8w/TbWy_9Vj3GI/AAAAAAAAPNU/IdvOzNZq3qE/s1600-h/kirsten-kelli-42.png"><img alt="kirsten kelli 4" border="0" height="452" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_FfZMBBaCF8w/TbWzBVaGqPI/AAAAAAAAPNY/Y15cW9YT7CQ/kirsten-kelli-4_thumb2.png?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto; padding-top: 0px" title="kirsten kelli 4" width="300" /></a> {This glamorous bathroom features some killer floors. Doesn’t the zig-zag pattern remind you of Missoni’s signature textiles?}

Patterned Palace

It’s no secret that I have a strong affinity for bold patterns when it comes to design. Make it polished and tailored all you want, but be...

10:44 AM

This Week’s Quote

This Week’s Quote

{ Image Source }

6:05 AM

25% off at Stella and Dot!

25% off at Stella and Dot!

Stella and Dot is offering 25% off any item this Easter Weekend. Hop to it!

9:36 AM

Fabulous Room Friday 04.22.11

<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_FfZMBBaCF8w/TanLuLusnbI/AAAAAAAAPMc/YnfMxSFeL_U/s1600-h/jessica%20stam%20vogue%5B5%5D.jpg"><img alt="jessica stam vogue" border="0" height="445" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_FfZMBBaCF8w/TanLu2ymjeI/AAAAAAAAPMg/gkwElVOtqSU/jessica%20stam%20vogue_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="jessica stam vogue" width="622" /></a> Model Jessica Stam’s New York apartment was recently featured on <a href="http://www.vogue.com/">Vogue.com</a> and I loved it right away. There is a very organic, yet layered quality to her living room. The soaring windows wash the room with light and I love the stark contrast of the white walls and dark wood floors. The furniture ranges from a variety of styles, but it all works very well together and looks rather sophisticated. My favorite feature is hands-down, the beautiful carved Moroccan door leading to Stam’s bedroom. <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_FfZMBBaCF8w/TanLv4mJgSI/AAAAAAAAPMk/vISkMgluy6g/s1600-h/jessica%20stam%20vogue2%5B5%5D.jpg"><img alt="jessica stam vogue2" border="0" height="768" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_FfZMBBaCF8w/TanLw7Uxs0I/AAAAAAAAPMo/iVTaBwNCcww/jessica%20stam%20vogue2_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="jessica stam vogue2" width="526" /></a> {This little vignette in the entry leading into the living room is so polished and pretty.} I am heading back home after a fun and productive week in LA, working on the third issue of <a href="http://www.highglossmagazine.com/">High Gloss Magazine</a>. Hope you all have a great weekend! Happy Friday!   {Image Credit: Claiborne Swanson Frank for <a href="http://www.vogue.com/">Vogue.com</a>}

Fabulous Room Friday 04.22.11

Model Jessica Stam’s New York apartment was recently featured on Vogue.com and I loved it right away. There is a very organic, yet layere...

7:02 AM

Do Tell: What is your favorite city?

<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_FfZMBBaCF8w/TanHl0j4e9I/AAAAAAAAPMQ/OUWZc1B1LVY/s1600-h/P1030698%5B6%5D.jpg"><img alt="P1030698" border="0" height="611" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_FfZMBBaCF8w/TanHm4yBmUI/AAAAAAAAPMU/Ryz7IaVlCEY/P1030698_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="P1030698" width="456" /></a> What is your favorite city in the world? For me, it’s definitely a toss-up between London and Barcelona, two cities that are so strikingly different, but have so much to offer. Paris definitely round out my top 3. Stateside, I love San Francisco. It’s beautiful, romantic and home to great restaurants. Which city is your favorite?   {Photo of St. Paul’s Cathedral taken during our September 2009 trip to London}

Do Tell: What is your favorite city?

What is your favorite city in the world? For me, it’s definitely a toss-up between London and Barcelona, two cities that are so strikingly...

6:04 AM

Love it or Leave it: Dark Painted Cabinets

<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_FfZMBBaCF8w/TajRcEt_zuI/AAAAAAAAPLg/M-usn6vXUIE/s1600-h/black%20kitchen%20lisa%20epley%5B4%5D.jpg"><img alt="black kitchen lisa epley" border="0" height="448" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_FfZMBBaCF8w/TajRdIVv7dI/AAAAAAAAPLo/MJuRuiNNeeA/black%20kitchen%20lisa%20epley_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="black kitchen lisa epley" width="387" /></a> {Paper City Magazine} Last week, we debated whether white kitchens were a classic or passing trend that had seen its share of the spotlight. White kitchens definitely one the classic vote by a landslide and it seems the great majority of you love them! I was happy to hear that because I am about to update my kitchen as well. We’ve been meaning to do it for years and I finally said to my husband, “enough is enough…let’s do this!”, so we are! Anyhow, part of me is still tempted to try dark painted cabinets, grey more so than black. We painted our bathroom cabinets high-gloss black and love the look, but are a little weary of trying it in the kitchen. I’m afraid we would get tired of them very quickly. Have any of you gone to the dark side? What do you think of this look? Love it or leave it? <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_FfZMBBaCF8w/TajRdwKJ3PI/AAAAAAAAPLs/kWjjMGwzBc4/s1600-h/black%20kitchen%20farmhouse%20modern%5B4%5D.jpg"><img alt="black kitchen farmhouse modern" border="0" height="480" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_FfZMBBaCF8w/TajReodXRFI/AAAAAAAAPLw/msmaEF3XNYM/black%20kitchen%20farmhouse%20modern_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="black kitchen farmhouse modern" width="389" /></a> {Farmhouse Modern} <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_FfZMBBaCF8w/TajRffGXNcI/AAAAAAAAPL0/cGhokNLJ5nw/s1600-h/black%20kitchen%5B4%5D.jpg"><img alt="black kitchen" border="0" height="480" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_FfZMBBaCF8w/TajRgON0O7I/AAAAAAAAPL4/QPIigYFgXM8/black%20kitchen_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="black kitchen" width="384" /></a> {unknown} <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_FfZMBBaCF8w/TajRgngcBKI/AAAAAAAAPL8/n_jTFsf6ZiA/s1600-h/kitchen%20hb%20sarahs%20fab%20day%5B4%5D.jpg"><img alt="kitchen hb sarahs fab day" border="0" height="313" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_FfZMBBaCF8w/TajRhYuF9GI/AAAAAAAAPMA/AMuS00XTvdo/kitchen%20hb%20sarahs%20fab%20day_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="kitchen hb sarahs fab day" width="400" /></a> {House Beautiful} <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_FfZMBBaCF8w/TajRiV9tSUI/AAAAAAAAPME/QCdWA35OdXc/s1600-h/kitchen%20tommy%20smythe%20phot%20michael%20graydon%5B4%5D.jpg"><img alt="kitchen tommy smythe phot michael graydon" border="0" height="480" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_FfZMBBaCF8w/TajRjEwcitI/AAAAAAAAPMI/ZAuVrZuhFUw/kitchen%20tommy%20smythe%20phot%20michael%20graydon_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="kitchen tommy smythe phot michael graydon" width="371" /></a> {Could this kitchen by Tommy Smythe be the ideal solution- white uppers and black lowers?}

Love it or Leave it: Dark Painted Cabinets

{Paper City Magazine} Last week, we debated whether white kitchens were a classic or passing trend that had seen its share of the spotli...

6:14 AM

Dream Home: A Diary of Lovely

<div style="text-align: left" dir="ltr" trbidi="on"> <div style="text-align: center">Today, Helena from the London-based <a href="http://adiaryoflovely.blogspot.com/">A Diary of Lovely</a> is sharing her “Dream Home” with us. It’s fun to see how she mixes looks from both sides of the pond!</div> <div style="text-align: center"><img alt="A Diary of Lovely" height="176" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsicI-SltQHHWgT4528_-Knhu1TPUzrQOC2sosZp_BfCcKsIV8vUdN-YqRHOvcwTf1LdZb5LeGtsn6v3WJeseq00amJBkmSGyFKAd_rKZzQ-f4O5B42LlBw00W4IgdKXmLxHmm6V9o71U/s1600-r/diary+lovely+header+copy.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" width="587" /></div> <div style="text-align: center">A dream home, wow, that's a big task! And while I seat here and think about it I realise how mixed my style is, how I love so many different trends, ideas. I have found myself drawn to the white Scandinavian environments, but at the same type big eccentric colourful room also make my heart race. So where do I stand? In between I guess.</div> <div style="text-align: center">I'm a city girl, that's one thing I know. I do fantasize with the suburbs idea but I can't see it happening. So my ideal house would have plenty of rooms to enjoy, have family and friends over, relax, cook.Which is why a brownstone or a mews has so much appeal to me, it has the character and beauty in the city. </div> <div style="text-align: center"><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af28/helenadrz/brooklyn_brownstones1.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" /></div> <div style="text-align: center"><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af28/helenadrz/P1000536_sm.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" /></div> <div style="text-align: center"></div> <div style="text-align: center">The kitchen is one of the most important parts. It has to be big, with lots of storage, open shelves and a pantry! and a middle island with a breakfast nook. <img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af28/helenadrz/breakfastattoastcom.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" /> <img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af28/helenadrz/mividabonitacom.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" /> <img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af28/helenadrz/design-shimmerblogspotcom.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" /> <img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af28/helenadrz/5minutesjustformeblogspotcom.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" /> A big living room would be the heart of the house to enjoy laughs and fun. Spend lazy Sundays, enjoy of company. Here's where my style gets all confused. I just want it to feel homey, cozy, livable and classic. Warm colors, and velvets, luxurious fabrics and fun patterns and little details to brighten up the room. <img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af28/helenadrz/cotedetexasblogspotcom.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" /> <img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af28/helenadrz/designspongeonlinecom.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" /> <img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af28/helenadrz/thedecoristacom.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" /> And a big dining room, for big family dinners <img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af28/helenadrz/lonnymagcom.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" /> <img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af28/helenadrz/brightboldbeautifulblogspotcom.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" /> Like <a href="http://paloma81.blogspot.com/2011/03/dream-home-peppermint-bliss.html">Bailey</a> said, I would like a room all to myself,  but also one for N, I know it's of his dreams too. Mine would have an office and a reading area, with lots of books. <img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af28/helenadrz/70801_r4XfLPBb_c.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" /> <img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af28/helenadrz/myidealhometumblrcom.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" /> N's would be darker, with dark leathers and a manly warmth. <img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af28/helenadrz/paloma81blogspotcom.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" /> Let's talk bedrooms. A couple of guest bedrooms, very different between them, perfect opportunity to play around. <img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af28/helenadrz/bridescom.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" /> <img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af28/helenadrz/alovelybeingcom.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" /> Master Bedroom. Easy. Fabulous for both, with an adjacent walk in closet (my BIG dream) and a lavish bathroom. <img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af28/helenadrz/15littlebluedeercom.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" /> <img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af28/helenadrz/thedecoristacom2.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" /> <img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af28/helenadrz/downandoutchicblogspotcom.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" /> Do I want more? Yes! There will be kids eventually, so of we go, with playful rooms full of life! <img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af28/helenadrz/inspirationfordecorationblogspotcom.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" /> <img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af28/helenadrz/insidethelooptumblrcom.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" /> And not to forget the details. A beautiful staircase, an art wall, a beautiful entryway. <img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af28/helenadrz/livingetccom.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" /> <img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af28/helenadrz/walls.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" /> <img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af28/helenadrz/entry.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" /> And finally a small outdoor space, maybe a patio or a terrace or even a small garden.  <img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af28/helenadrz/pinterestcompin10795069.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" />Thank you so so much Paloma for inviting me to share a big dream of mine, this had definitely been a fantastic exercise and lots of fun. xo Via: 1|2|<a href="http://breakfastattoast.com/">3</a>|<a href="http://mividabonita.com/">4</a>|<a href="http://design-shimmer.blogspot.com/">5</a>|<a href="http://5minutesjustforme.blogspot.com/">6</a>|<a href="http://cotedetexas.blogspot.com/">7</a>|<a href="http://designspongeonline.com/">8</a>|<a href="http://thedecorista.com/">9</a>|<a href="http://lonnymag.com/">10</a>|<a href="http://brightboldbeautiful.blogspot.com/">11</a>|<a href="http://adiaryoflovely.blogspot.com/">12</a>|<a href="http://myidealhome.tumblr.com/">13</a>|<a href="http://paloma81.blogspot.com/">14</a>|<a href="http://brides.com/">15</a>|<a href="http://alovelybeing.com/">16</a>|<a href="http://15littlebluedeer.com/">17</a>|<a href="http://thedecorista.com/">18</a>|<a href="http://downandoutchic.blogspot.com/">19</a>|<a href="http://inspirationfordecoration.blogspot.com/">20</a>|<a href="http://insidetheloop.tumblr.com/">21</a>|<a href="http://livingetc.com/">22</a>|<a href="http://thedecorista.com/">23</a>|<a href="http://design.sabrinalinn.com/">24</a>|<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/10795069/">25</a></div> </div>

Dream Home: A Diary of Lovely

Today, Helena from the London-based A Diary of Lovely is sharing her “Dream Home” with us. It’s fun to see how she mixes looks from both...

6:28 AM