Pinning My Life Away

So by now most people out there in design blog land know what Pinterest is.  If not let me explain: Pinterest is a service that let’s you store (pin) images from any website onto digital boards on the Pinterest website.  It allows you to categorize the boards to your liking.  For instance a member can have a board just for Pink Rooms or for Places I Want To Travel.  Well I signed up, waited I don’t know how many countless days to be allowed in then finally got my oh so coveted approval.  And let me just tell you it is ingenious…..and maybe the most additive website ever for a design junky like myself!

Now in the morning instead of checking my email I hop right over to Pinterest to see what new goodies have been posted.  If I’m in the mood to look up interiors with lavender I can and dozens of images pop up.  Brilliant!  If something catches my eye I can “pin it” to any of my 25 boards.  Before to save anything I would have to click and save an image then take forever to find it again.  Now it is right in front of me neatly categorized.  Oh and if anyone repins or likes a picture from one of your boards they send you a lovely e-mail (You Have New Pins and Likes on Pinterest).  Getting an email just makes my day a little brighter somehow.  When I finally make it to my email.  Anyway if you are still with me, you can follow me on Pinterest here.  Here are some recent pins for your Friday night enjoyment below.

Is It Fall Yet?

Around this time of year I am always ready for Summer to come to a close and for Fall to begin.  Already in the mornings the air has cooled somewhat.  But who am kidding I know we still have some muggy days ahead of us.  But still I am saying goodbye to the hot humid weather.

Fall is my absolute favorite season hands down.  Lets see what do I love about Fall?  So many things : the crisp weather, leaves changing, warm saturated colors like ochre, orange, brown and red, seeing school buses again, pumpkin spice lattes, butternut squash soup and Halloween. I look forward to fall clothes sometimes in the beginning of August.  Already, I have begun a quest for a new pair of brown boots to wear over skinny jeans.  Coats and jackets, already have a few on my radar . Oh and I can’t wait to start busting out tights again.  Best news to me: animal print is EVERYWHERE!  To commemorate this coming season I have some warm cozy spaces for you to delight in.

La Dolche Vida via Pinterest

Like all the warm colors together in the wallpaper. Has a marbled effect. This is another space that includes ribbon trim along the molding.  Such a pretty detail that makes a big impact.  Also loving the chunkiness of the gold piping below the sink.

Pinterest

Bright fall light shining through the window.  Speaking of window, check out those black pains!

Being Brazen Blog

Want to hang out by this fire place with one of those sheepskin throws and a glass of wine. Love a mix of super modern elements such as the chairs with more classic pieces like the mirror.

Pinterest

Great mix of textiles.  Sometimes I like a super rustic space, this one is not dark and depressing. Instead it is cozy and warm. Again I want to curl up with a glass of wine.

Pursuit Aesthetic Tumbler

This space kills it!  Sparse but the details give it a warm cozy vibe.  Sometimes super modern rooms are uninviting and cold but not here.  Also, very masculine, I feel like a hipster a fashionable but well educated guy lives here.  Probably has a job in a creative field and lives in Brooklyn.  Listens to Vampire Weekend or something like that.

Pretty Space Tumblr

Noticing a trend here with the white fireplaces and wooden beams.  Nothing wrong with that.

The Decorista.com

Had this image on my cork board forever.  Rustic, cozy and liven in. Love all the tiny details like the globes and the vintage style cages over the light bulbs.  Also, the collection of green glass above the bookcase.

Hope you enjoyed! Now back to scouring the internet for more Fall goodies to add to my wardrobe.

Teal and Gold

Today at Forever 21 (yes, I was the oldest person there) I spied a teal and gold studded bracelet. Naturally I don’t have a picture and it is not on their website.  I’ve been really into that color combination lately.  I think it stems from my Mom’s love of turquoise jewelry. She has this fantastic ring I have been obsessed with since I was five.  But even my Pinterest has quite a few pics featuring these two hues together.

Inspire Bohemia.blogspot.com

Lovely aqua grasscloth wallpaper had me a hello!  Paired with a strong ornate mirror and gold chair gives it more of a masculine edge. If I had a vanity, that chair would be mine.

From Tom Ford

Again, If I had a vanity, this would be there as well.  Not to use, just for the bottle. So I can stare at it.

High Street Market blog

Love this deep dark teal, such a glamorous color!  The green faux bois rug and wing chair keep the room from being so serious.  Just a hint of gold on the chair and picture frames gives it some spark.

Pinterest

This is a departure from what style I usually lean toward but the colors are so striking.  Also, really liking that print in the glided frame.

Pinterest

Little bit of a Moroccan feel here.  That basin is beautiful against the teal walls. Loving the fuchsia accents.

From Massucco Warner Miller

More teal and gold on a chandelier no less.  When they say jewelry for your home I think this is what they mean.

Anthopologie

Pretty floral shaped knob.  See this working on a antique dresser finished in a medium tone.

Pinterest

Such a cool vintage piece. Like that it still has that kind of beat up look to it.

Pinterest

I think this maybe one of my favorite console tables, maybe ever.  If I had a entryway that could handle such a piece it would be there in all it’s teal and gold glory.  Or it could function as a bar, hmmm.

Things to ponder while we are pounded by rain and wind this weekend.  Stay safe out there people!

Currently Loving: Digital Gallery

Has anyone heard of the New York Public Library Digital Gallery?  Well, if you haven’t let me introduce you.  It is a collection of over 700,000 images from the New York Public Library.  Everything from historical maps, sheet music, rare photographs, architectural drawings, play books and the list goes on and on.  Sounds great, right.  The part that is amazing is that you can print the images out right in your own home.  Oh and they are Free And Open To The Public!  Also, gallery prints in various sizes are available to purchase.  For example, a 30″ print framed would be $374.  Unframed would cost $124. Not a bad price. As an added bonus, you can crop the images to your liking!

This is one of the most cost effective ways to get original art for your home.  All you would pay for is the paper and frame.  If you want a series for your wall the site is perfect. It includes  pages from the same book to print out.  Such as these lovely botanical illustrations.

link

Lets take a look at some more of their offerings.

link

I printed this one out myself, the detail is crazy and the paper actually looked aged.

This would be excellent in an office or library area surrounded by old books and antiques.

More vintage map goodness.

Love the colors of this.  Would look awesome over-sized on a wall.  Similar to what Courtney Cox did in her home shown is the last issue of Elle Decor.

link

Beautiful, in a simple black or wood frame.  Completes me a little.

link

Remember all of the above images can be printed out free of charge!  When you do click on the site give yourself a lot of time, there is much to see!  I don’t have links to each picture above.  If something catches your eye email me and I can try to find it!  Have fun searching and happy printing.

Dining Room Thoughts

With all this talk about Nancy and what to do with her I thought I would share some ideas for the space itself.  Remember it is a work in progress so no judging the empty, sad, devoid of life room.

Before you say anything…yes that rod will be moved closer to the ceiling.

Picture hardwood floors possibly in cork not sadface wall to wall carpet.

Like I said a work in progress.  Notice the squares of paint on the wall, me testing out some paint color.  Anyway, the wall on the right is where Nancy is to be placed along with two side chairs for when we have extra company.  During most of the day the dining room is the darkest area of the house.  One of my goals for the space is to make it feel lighter.  One way to do this would be to add a mirror above Nancy to reflect light that comes in from the far window.  Also, this would give an illusion of more space, at least a little.  Another idea I had was to wallpaper just that far wall.  I love how wallpaper can add architectural interest to a room.  I’m envisioning something that has a white or cream background with gold or bronze pattern.  This is not till further down the road right now everything will be painted the same color.  Here are some pics that illustrate what I’m thinking .

via Amber Interior Design

This space captures exactly what was in my head right down to the wallpaper!  I would probably choose a bigger mirror however the finish and shape is spot on.  Something round would break up the boxyness of the room.  It definitely makes me consider stain instead of paint for Nancy.

via Plentyofpretty.tumblr.com

Here is the argument for white.  This is fresh and clean and open.  I am obsessed with Imperial Trellis wallpaper.  When I first started reading design blogs it was everywhere.  I kind of thought of it as a trend and did not pay much attention.  However it started to grow on me in a big way. I’m not really considering it for this project but our laundry room is a different story!

Designed by Palmer Weiss via Marcus Design Blog

In the words of Rachel Zoe….I die.  Ba-na-nas!  Totally love this room.  It has a Palm Beach regency feel but the placement of the furniture is very traditional and symmetrical.  That mirror such a pretty shape but the finish is super strong.  It maybe to big for my little ol dining room but it completes me none the less.  I bet it would reflect light like no one’s business.

Design by Palmer Weiss via Marcus Design Blog

Another view shall we. Funny thing about this room is, it is adjacent a living room I’ve always loved.  In the picture(of the room I loved) you can see this dining space.  I used to wonder what was going on back there, now I know.

This is the picture I was referring to above,  just kills me!

Well, there you have it some ideas on what is in store for Miss Nancy and our dining room.  Stay tuned for the next chapter.  Cheers to all!

Cozy Chic Brown Wall Goodness

 I had the best intentions for this little old post here.  It was going to show the logo I created for Amesbury Road Interiors.  As you can see no business logo.  Nope, not here.  I am not technical when it comes to most computer programs.  Starting this blog intimidated me, but it has been surprisingly easy.  Now Photoshop and Illustrator not so much.  I opened up what I worked on yesterday in Photoshop and would not let me tweak my design.  Tried Illustrator no luck.  So hopefully by Wednesday the logo will be up and peace will be restored to the valley. Today instead I have this to share.

Sketch42.com

For me this perfection. Rich brown walls that highlight all the other elements in the room. Love the painting and how it brings a lot of color but not overwhelmingly so. That sectional is plump and cozy but stylish with the geometric fabric. Hello, disco ballish light fixture, chic yes, yes you are.  Even the flowers add a bit of warmth.  Aw, I could go on. Back to Photoshop I go. Cheers!

Animal Print of the Month

Hello again, I’m going to introduce my very first blog series. Okay get ready people-Animal Print of the Month!  I love animal prints.  Every room can benefit from a bit of leopard, zebra, or snakeskin.  Animal prints have a lot of character and can give even the most subtle space a bit of glam.  Yet they don’t take away from the overall look.  However if you took  the print away it would most definitively be missed.

This month Veranda and House Beautiful magazine both featured spaces that had the same leopard throw pillow fabric.  It is Sabu Chintz by Rose Cumming. In House Beautiful Nick Olsen, one of my very very favorite designers, used a bit of it on a throw pillow.

This apartment is a tiny 295 square feet and the furnishing and decor are proportioned beautifully.  Just magical. Run and purchase the newest House and Garden!  I would love to devote a whole post this space, but so many blogs already have.  Back to the leopard print, a little makes a big impact and brings in more of the emerald color from the trim.  How many animal prints do you see in emerald, black, and white. Delightful, I must say.

Designer Andrew Raquet used it in a more traditional setting. Love it with the suzani  pillows and map prints on the wall!  I could not find the exact pic from Veranda, go to the store and buy it now.  This one does not do it justice.

Here it is, I have a pink office and a desk chair that needs an upgrade need I say more

And here it is again, the one one the bottom kills me.

These are the only images I could find, unfortunately.  The fabric is only available to the trade and you have to contact the company for a quote.  Hopefully, in the near future I will be able to do just that!  Happy weekend every one!

                                                                                                                                                             

Currently Loving: Luke Irwin Rugs

In my mind I said when I started this blog I would only feature items that would be attainable to all.  Not just for the super-duper wealthy.  I truly believe that a well designed home does not need to cost a fortune.  You can use what you already own, pieces from Craigslist or yard sales, Ikea and Homegoods.  With that said every so often I find things or companies that are really awesome or inspiring that I would like to share.  Here is what I found while pursuing the new issue of Lonny Magazine last night.  Which was most excellent by the way.

On page 42 is a small piece on Luke Irwin Rugs.  Their rugs  feature everything from ikats to ducks to crop circles.  They are unique, statement  making but quite at the same time.  The geometric patterns are graphic and eye popping but won’t make you feel crazy.  Ikats lets talk about the ikats!  They are bold, colorful, full of ikaty goodness. Even the neutrals are exciting.  Yet they are subtle and would not overwhelm a space. Luke Irwin states on the website that “the rug should almost be the last thing you notice when entering a room, slightly providing a basis for the harmony of the scheme“.  I feel personally that their rugs achieve that.

Another aspect is that all the rugs are bespoke or custom.  From the size, shape, color, weave, texture and design itself.  Wool, silk, or cashmere.  What would you choose?!  You can go in with an idea and they will make it custom, just for you.  All of their pieces are handmade in the foothills of the Himalayas.  Not many companies take that kind of care to create their rugs.  Okay so now we get to the good stuff, the pictures.  Feast your eyes, people!

The last one Pink Ayippa Grass I think may be my favorite. Love it!  Thanks for reading, visit Luke Irwin.com  for more and better pictures.  These I have to say do not do them justice!

 PS-I updated the services and about pages above!

Plate Wall Goodness

And now for my second post, complete with pictures this time!  Yes, I figured out how to post pictures.  I’m impressed with just how easy it is for a blogging newbie like me.  Thank you WordPress much appreciated.  Moving on.

I love a good plate wall.  Love them. It is the  perfect way to bring much needed interest  to a blank wall space.   They add color and pattern in a unique and unexpected way.  You can choose one color plate and alternate  shapes and sizes for big wow factor while still keeping it simple and neutral.  All white can be really pretty or even super architectural depending on the shape.  Or use plates of different colors.  This can be a lot of fun, each plate is like a little piece of art.  A plate wall is also a perfect way of showcasing a collection or family heirlooms.  Keeps them out of a china cupboard for all to see!  Enough chatting lets get to the pictures.

Viceroy Hotel Santa Monica

This is the one that started the love.  Courtesy of Kelly Wearstler, who is crazy crazy good.

Fornasetti Plate Wall

Makes a big impact in a small corner

Blue and White

Traditional but definitely not stuffy

Nuestra Vida Dulce blog

Fun and colorful, like the randomness of it. Also, how the plates stand out on the gray wall.

Nesting Place blog

 Whimsical but modern yet I find this whole look homey.  I could curl up and read a book.

Courtney Giles via La Dolce Vida blog

So pretty yet kind of masculine

Angie Hranowsky via La Dolce Vida blog

Rocks my face a little.  Grass cloth wallpaper plus green velvet plus emerald rimed plates with the cracked style plates.

Love.

         Tomorrow I will share the plate wall I put together in our kitchen.  As well as some tips on how to hang plates without putting nails in the wall.  Oh and a helpful video I found on Design*Sponge.  Cheers!