Inspired Forever & a Day

I better get busy if...

2011-08-16T21:28:00.000-07:00

I want a giant clam shell filled with antique, alabaster grape clusters.
...and all my mismatching art framed uniformly in thin, burnished gold frames.
…and a guest bedroom with a black and white pastoral scene dressing all the walls.
…and a wildly blossoming orange bougainvillea that is blanketing a pergola.
…and some flourishing orange trees in shiny black planters that live indoors.

Ranch Wanted

2011-03-04T13:16:00.000-08:00

There is something about the rodeo that just enlivens me!!! The music, friends, two-steppin’ – it’s all so good. I love it. And I love these brilliantly rugged, western inspired homes. Oh to have a home in the country one day… I envision soaring, vaulted ceilings with rough-hewn beams, brindle hides scattered everywhere grounding my luxurious, top grain leather couches and hand carved rockers. Burlap and ikat… I’ve got to have some interesting textiles! Walls adorned with “my mans” trophy antler mounts (lmao) and you better believe I’ll have plenty of antiques (the intrigue). Nature, take me in!!!

Let's Rodeo!!!

2011-02-24T12:55:00.000-08:00

HELL. YA.

I better find some fabulous, western inspired homes!!!

S_______pace.

2011-02-19T20:47:00.000-08:00

Space! I crave it more than a fat kid hungers after cake. I don’t need it because I feel cramped in my apartment, I adore my apartment. I actually prefer smaller spaces. Truly, I think great rooms are THE most over rated thing in contemporary house design (just a personal opinion). Cozy, inviting, engaging, charming, and warm are all my favorite ways for a space to be. So, after diss-ing the thought of too much space, now I will go back to talking about how I want more of it, lol. I have this thought regarding how I want to design/arrange my living room (if I had a bigger one). Imagine a dreamy, cloud like couch (with a deep seated bench cushion, so there is no falling between the cracks) that just soaks you and that special someone in. Now, what’s behind that sweet sofa is what I am excited about. It’s not a console or an art filled wall… it’s a desk!! Aaha. I love the idea of having a desk behind my couch. My laptop, stacks of all my favorite design glossies, a flourishing plant, a Kelly-green porcelain lamp, and a crazy comfy chair. Go figure, I can’t find all of the images I have of that layout. Oh well, I will just post other pretty pictures.

This and that...

2011-02-16T21:13:00.000-08:00

Ready yo-self for my most dizzy, slaphappy post evaaaaaa!

First off, eBay… I WON! I freaking, flipping, stinking WON!!! I have bid on so many things… and I am always a big-fat looser. Not this time, oh no. I usually deserve to loose since I try to take it easy on the pocketbook. It was pretty dimwitted to think that I even had a chance of winning with my pathetic, bargain-basement bids, lol. This time I bid like a baller and I won… and I had to pay for it… dammit. Anyway, I am stupid-happy that I am about to get these 18 antique, milk glass vases that I have absolutely no where to display them or room to store them away…

Numero dos, painting!!! Tomorrow… Texas Art Supply... I am there and I am buying brushes, a canvas (or two) and some paint. Slapdash creativity = (hopefully) frame-worthy art. I totally missed out on my dads artistic gene. He used to paint, freelance, on water towers!!! Yaaa…

3. My new dream bathroom. My God… drool.

The fourth is wedding-ish stuff, lovely stuff. It’s been so neat to watch my affianced bestie's dream wedding unfurl… Love love love. A girl can’t help but to get lost in her own fanciful ideas of their own dream wedding.

Here is my wedding…

Here is my reception. If I could marry bentwood, I would!

Here are my flowers. Maybe I'll have a use for those milk glass vases one day, eh?

Here is what I would LOVE to have the groomsmen wear. Do you think the Avett Bros would play at my make believe wedding? Lol... I would have to get married in January.. because their song... "In jaaaannua-a-ary, were gettin' married..."

...and the photoshoot. I would be happy with one perfect shot in that sumptuous pink settee.

Next… or, 5…
This makes me want a creepy attic so bad, its scccaaaary… I don’t want a legitimately spine-chilling attic. I want a sweet home with a TOTALLY UNHAUNTED attic and I want to creep-ify it my self. Those beds are eerily and alluringly awesome. It would be the perfect first two pieces to the perfect guest bedroom quarters where my easily spooked friends can sleepover!

Sixth-ly (new word). My backyard. Again… a dream backyard… But a totally attainable one, because it’s so tiny! I would change one thing, the bottom half. I would want that to be all plush with grass.

And lastly, but not least-ly… the pics below, I just love em’.
The lamp, the pillows, the salon-style art filled walls, that subdue, washed out minty colored teal… and just the rooms in general. No words.

Antiques of the future...

2011-01-21T21:37:00.000-08:00

Below are some of the pieces I will be romancing starting tomorrow… seems like a simple enough task.

Aren’t these pieces irresistible?

I would love a custom camel leather Chesterfield sofa of my own with a hide for it to float on, and a newly constructed piece reminiscent of an antique map cabinet to house my media (oh, and a 19th century gilded Louis Philippe mirror for good measure).

How about this rustic, yet contemporary Klismos styled chair? Would you believe this design dates back to the 5th century? Those ancient Greeks sure did have a great eye for design!

And these frames… how gleeful!!! I love the colors…

Positively positive...

2011-01-15T14:34:00.000-08:00

What a whirlwind of a week. This girl is dog-tired. The first week of my last two is over and much was accomplished. I did the last floor move I may ever do for MMA. I snapped some photos for nostalgic purposes.

This Sunday will be my last leisurely one for a while. I plan on spending it in a dreamy way, full of naps with my sweet little Abby (my precious pup). If I think about the future and what it holds it can be overwhelming, but its all good things… and I shouldn’t let goodness bread anxiety! That’s just absurd. Each moment is a brand new opportunity to embrace the vitality of newness.

Happy Sunday everyone.

A wee bit of change is on the horizon…

2011-01-13T17:17:00.000-08:00

I am shifting from antiques to antlers with the “rearrangement” of my career.

Although change is always a bit unnerving (and in this case, totally unexpected), this transition is a welcomed one and I am eager to see what transpires!

I will miss my antique world.

The pictures below are inspiring… they show me how I can introduce rustic sensibilities while still embracing my love for all things old and gold!

The one above is so me.

Urban Market Finds

2010-11-08T15:58:00.000-08:00

A vintage miniature globe to replace my cheesy Pottery Barn purchase.

My very own Thonet Bentwood chair!!!

...and a sweet little painting of a colorful arrangement.

It goes along with the watercolor my aunt drew when she was in junior high... and the stunningly beautiful ballerina that I just moved from the hallway to above my bed. The ballerina was a gift from my shop too!

This is my...

2010-11-05T15:46:00.001-07:00

desktop background.

so pretty

Miami or Hollywood?

2010-11-05T13:21:00.000-07:00

What do you call this look… Hollywood Regency meets Miami retro chic? I know most won’t feel the same as I do about that gilded Marginata (I know my plants -- thanks mom!), but I dig it! What I love most about this room is the pale lilac, argyle wall motif. I was trying to talk my roommate into letting me (with her help) do this design on her wall that her bed is up against, but she doesn’t find painting as therapeutic as I do.

In all honesty, this room doesn’t knock my socks off or anything, but I do like it, a lot. There is something about the color palate that is offbeat but totally picturesque. The pillows are a design gaffe, for sure – but hey, to each there own. So to sum it up, “gimme the gold” and I’m “all about that argyle!”

Peace out.

...with a twist.

2010-11-04T20:19:00.000-07:00

What do you want to bet that King Louis XV had a settee just like this sitting in one of his royal rooms in his regal palace?! I love murdered out antiques. ;)

Everything about this vignette I want to recreate. However, I am going to tweak it a bit because the most recent addition to my antique collection is a stunningly awesome, 18th Century French settee from Maison Maison Antiques (where I manage the showroom, it was a gift from my boss). It is newly reupholstered in a creamy white linen and its original bullion fringe was salvaged and reattached after its face lift. Splendid, don't you think?

I plan on reproducing that delicate, salon styled display of art and a mirror above my French classic with some artwork that I already have, I just need to have it all framed uniformly. I also need to find the perfect, miniature, gilded mirror (I love the one below, but its a bit $$$). Once its all finished I will post the completed look. New pillows are a must too, I've had the ones you see above for years -- they are tired and no longer my taste.

I also plan on using a rug instead of a hide... I know what I want, I just need to buy it! I am forever in love with my Anthropologie chinoiserie duvet which has branches that are a soft shade of gray. I'm pretty sure that the softly looped, gray, wool Doily rug from Anthropologie is the one. Will buy ASAP!

Now if I could only splurge on a sweet, crystal chandelier... I cannot wait for The Urban Market!

Super On Sale Post and Pre Season Decor

2010-11-02T19:49:00.001-07:00

Grandin Road is where its at for super on sale, post season, holiday decor. I just scored three of these spooky, 3' tall, black flocked trees. They were $149 a piece, on sale for $29 a piece, however... the site misrepresented the price and erroneously listed them at $12 EACH. I insisted that they honor the price, and they did... score!
Last year I stocked up on a ton of stunning Christmas decor, I cannot wait to pull it out and use it this year. That will probably be my next post. Below is one of the items I bought... they still have it and it is still on sale!

For a Halloween wreath, I withheld the birds and situated my sparkling, black skeleton inside of it... I was a bit eager to pull it out, lol.

Before/After

2010-11-01T10:17:00.000-07:00

Before

After (semi completed)

Midtown Unit - To Be Installed

2010-10-31T21:56:00.000-07:00

Restoration Hardware -7" Benson Pendant (Satin Nickel)

Eames Molded Plywood Dining Chair - Ebony

ADR - Carrara, Thassos, and Nero Marquina Combo Stone Mosaic (custom)

Atlast Homewares Zanzibar Black Leather Pulls

Kohler Karbon - Articulating Kitchen Faucet, Black w/ Polished Chrome

Midtown Unit - Counter Installed

2010-10-31T21:49:00.000-07:00

Midtown Unit - Painted/Counter Stabilization

2010-10-31T21:48:00.001-07:00

Midtown Unit - After Demo/Cabinet Construction

2010-10-31T21:46:00.001-07:00

Midtown Unit Kitchen - Before

2010-10-31T21:43:00.000-07:00

Staged Shelves

2010-10-31T20:37:00.000-07:00

Sometimes at work, I get to stage shelves! It's really fun... if your into that sorta thing. ;)

Pink Ribbon Showhouse

Bayhouse

My Apartment Shelves

Townhome

River Oaks

Country

Bathroom Redo

2010-10-30T14:35:00.000-07:00

I really have lost touch with my inner blogger… and I miss that bloggin’ feeling.

So… about 3 weeks ago or so, I got the urge to paint my bathroom. What’s funny is, I picked a color palate that is a loud and really not my bona fide style. It was more of an art project/personal challenge. Black, retro-avocado green, and creamy white painted horizontal stripes in a repeating pattern with different widths – that is my bathroom wall motif. The inspiration came from this vintage framed needlepoint “Robin bird” that I picked up in a hometown consignment shop. I love this kitschy little item because my name is Robin, and it is indeed a Robin! It also echoes the colors of the crewel I upholstered my 1920’s vanity storage bench in, (a Round Top find!) as well as the floral sconce vases that were so kindly given to me by a dealer at MAI! I also love my whimsical, little David Dear duck mirror.

So, on a whim at 8pm in the evening I hopped in my Jetta and jetted to Home Depot. I then returned home and got to painting… then taping, then painting, then touch ups, then taping, then more painting, then more touch ups and then MORE painting… then the final touch up finale.

Oh my stars, what an endeavor, it took me a whole week to complete… but it looks quite nifty and I can live with the unruliness of it for a while until I let the need for a cleaner look overpower me and cause me to prime the walls, slap on a coat of soft, Swedish gray paint and bring a sense of quietude my powder room.

Anyway, it was fun and I don’t regret it,
...cough cough, lol.

My Dreamy Office

2010-09-25T13:39:00.000-07:00

... in my dreams!

Ahhhh...

2010-05-07T14:25:00.000-07:00

Love. It.

Completed, Pink Ribbon Show House 2010

2010-04-13T20:16:00.000-07:00

Well, the show house installations are over and this event was nothing short of something spectacular to be a part of. The preview party was quite the affair, I had a blast, and I've never been to a party quite like it. For me to see 350+ people wildly entertained and enjoying the party in a space that I got to help design was so... well, totally awesome. Keep in mind, these are pictures that I took the night we were almost completely finished staging, but not totally. I hope I get access to the professional pictures that are taken! If I do, I will for sure post them, and hopefully I get to post the pics of all the other rooms as well! It's so fun.

Were all mad here...

2010-03-20T10:49:00.000-07:00

I'm sorry, but I want that...
It would be the perfect piece to fit nicely into my mad little world.

. . .

Just give me a gilded frame and some fantastic new upholstery!

Bizarrely Fantastical

2010-03-17T11:52:00.000-07:00

Queen Anne meets Lady GaGa

...and they design some chairs.

Woah...

2010-03-13T12:01:00.001-08:00

L.O.V.E it

Woah...

2010-03-13T08:54:00.000-08:00

One of the most amazing interiors I have ever seen. What is this look?

Dapper rockstar...?!?

Just look at it...

Pink Ribbon House 2010

2010-03-05T14:18:00.000-08:00

The Pink Ribbon House® project is a unique and collaborative philanthropic experience dedicated to raising funds and awareness for breast cancer research and patient care at the Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center at Baylor College of Medicine.

My boss/owner of the spectacular showroom that I manage has taken part in this event for many years now. It’s a very big deal and a huge honor to be a part of it. She is responsible for designing the workhorse areas of the house; family room/kitchen, veranda, pantry, office, utility room, and mudroom. She sought to prove that you can have functional spaces without sacrificing beauty, even in high traffic areas.

Her inspiration for the French Country family room/kitchen was a 19th century shop counter she found on one of her buying trips for Maison Maison. In keeping with the French Country theme she designed a spectacular tile with smoky gray and buttery yellow hues to evoke the warmth of that classic look.

The veranda was meant to be an extension of the family space… a living room al fresco.

For the office, she created a feminine sanctuary, a respite from the chaos if you will. Within that private space she designed a niche that housed an area for hobbies from sewing to scrap booking.
Her addition of bead board paneling in the pantry had a two fold function; one for aesthetics and one for durability.

I am fortunate enough to have had the opportunity to take part in some of the design process, from fabric and paint selections to actually being able to stage the custom built-ins, place art, and accesorize! Over a year ago I was flipping through a magazine while I was waiting to get a manicure and I saw this bizarre bookcase display, it intrigued me so that I snapped a picture of it with my phone because I knew someday I would make use of this fantastic idea. Sure enough, it is my inspiration for the show house bookshelves that flank either side of the fireplace/concealed flat screen paneling. This house is truly fantastic and I cannot wait to see the finished project.

Below are some snapshots of the work in progress. Stay tuned.

Above are the bookshelves that I will be staging. They are very shallow in depth and there will be only five on each side. I taking a more minimalistic approach and going for a more sparse effect for the shelves, they won't be as heavy as my original inspiration.

Fireplace/Concealed Media Cabinet

Laundry Room

Kitchen/Family Room

Mud Room

Office

Spring is near...

2010-03-04T14:13:00.000-08:00

Well friends, it’s almost Spring, and soon the Earth will awaken. The trees will sprout their leaves and the flowers will blossom, and even though the sun shines hot there is still a chill in the air. Gorgeous days (like today in Houston, TX) ought to inspire. For me I am impelled to show you the loveliness that is splendid Spring décor. Why not bring the cheerful outdoors in with an infusion of Spring color that is sure to lighten ones mood? There is no such thing as bad color, just bad use of color. Be courageous with your color choices… if it speaks to you, then it works. Run with it.

Our Spring inspired showroom…

2010-03-02T13:56:00.001-08:00

Humble Dream Dwelling

2010-02-16T14:25:00.000-08:00

Having moved back in with my sweet, loving, supporting parents after coming home to finish my degree, time has passed and it is about that time for me to fly the coup and create my own little nest. I have a pretty cool chick lined up to be my roomie and we found an old renovated garage apartment with a spiral staircase and hardwood floors! It's as cozy as all get out, but one problem, closet space... We are the same size and thrilled that each of our wardrobes are doubling... but where are we going to put all our fab attire?!? We'll figure it out.

Surely it doesn’t come as a surprise that I am overly enthusiastic about decorating our humble little abode. My roommate is eager as well, lucky me, she has an eye. She proved that when she brought over a back up bottle of wine (of course I had one too!) to the antiques shop (maisonmaisonantiques.com) that I manage and helped me revamp the showroom till 9pm! I felt I had gotten a little in over my head, and although I could have managed, it would have been tedious at those late hours with out a friend to help. It’s amazing how a daunting task can turn into a blast with some music, wine and a good friend! As my wise boss/shop owner says, “Must have wine to design!” I hear that!

Today is March 2nd and the move in date is soon – it can’t come quick enough. Having been in love with furniture since I was 19/20ish I have collected some fantastic pieces that I have repurposed and refurbished, some are too large to come with, but that’s ok, they will be waiting for when I upgrade – but the ones that will fit, I can’t wait to get them in there! I am on the hunt for a few key pieces as well. I will post photos of the before and after. Stay tuned.

Until then, here are just a few photos of a space I saw on apartmenttherapy.com. Who says small spaces can’t be overwhelmingly fantastic? That cloud like bed tucked away in that sun filled corner… how devastatingly beautiful is that? You could lie in bed on Sunday mornings and work on your tan… what a dream.

Is a frugal Christmas a merry one?

2009-12-21T18:39:00.000-08:00

I think it can be.

This year I have bought only two presents. One for my mom and one for my dad. The only thing that saddens me about not having bought any presents is the fact that I don't get to wrap much! And seriously, wrapping presents is one of my favorite things to do.

There is always next year...

Making memories into ghosts...

2009-12-20T16:35:00.000-08:00

Simply Beautiful

2009-12-19T12:17:00.000-08:00

GOD!!! I love this look! I mean I REALLY FREAKING LOVE IT!

Merry Christmas to Me...

2009-12-19T12:10:00.000-08:00

I came so close the other day to buying a manzanita branch, spray painting it white, setting it in a little ceramic pot and making it my new place to hang my bangles and necklaces... glad I didn't... because now I know I want a candelabra!

Just like this one...

2009-12-19T09:02:00.000-08:00

My dream room...

Green on the Inside

2009-12-07T19:34:00.000-08:00

High maintenance but totally worth it!

. . .

Smitten for this Kitchen

2009-12-07T18:54:00.000-08:00

I love everything about this adorably bizarre kitchen. The retro fridge is such a neat buy. If I lived in a small house with a cozy kitchen, I would get one for sure. All I need room for is my veggie burgers and wine…

What I also find intriguing is the dissimilar colors of “shaker style” cabinetry. It is weird, I don’t know if I would spring for that, but it is definitely interesting. I would use different hardware… maybe something from Anthropologie!

The stove and vent hood, although small, looks very high-end. Chrome is the ‘way to go’ for kitchen appliances, undoubtedly.

Everything about the kitchen deserves a mention… how about that chandelier? Once again, LOVE the idea… I would choose a different style (maybe something from here), but again, LOVE the idea! I am all about the ambiance. Imagine cooking by candle light and the glimmer of a chandelier… how pleasant.

Want to create the illusion of more space? Well, just simply lean a gilded mirror against the rear of your range! Effortlessly brilliant... and fancy!

Oh ya, and the birdcage… that was actually the first thing I noticed. I have one a little bit bigger than the one that is pictured in this kitchen. This photo has given me the idea to hang it in the kitchen (when I have my own) and use it as decorative storage.

And last but not least, the Kelly Green walls!!! My favorite color! Since the white subway tile covers half the wall as the back splash, Kelly Green serves as the perfect pop of color!

Love it all! Excellent find Marion!

Black Friday, please...

2009-11-27T12:28:00.000-08:00

For the first time in 9 years we had a traditional Thanksgiving! It was my parents and my custom to go to Galveston and feast at Landry’s every year. My dad and I would devour as many oysters as our cravings would allow and then we would start to eat! Landry’s offers such an extensive spread (buffet style) and we love it, but this year we decided to go with the time-honored home cooked meal and it was lovely.

I was always too young to cook when we went the traditional route, but now that I am 25 (and enjoy cooking) I wanted to whip up a few sides myself!

I made a celery root and potato puree, maple-glazed carrots and parsnips, and fresh cranberry sauce with caramelized ginger and sugar (this recipe came out of Domino Magazine a few years ago). It all turned out delicious; however, my timing was a bit off. I believe that is the mark of a true chef, flawlessly timing every dish to where it is served piping hot on the table. I’ve got a lot of room for improvement. We were line up at the microwave, lol.

Nevertheless, we all gobbled till we wobbled and had a great time… and I am thankful for that.

. . .

Now it’s Black Friday and I could give a rat!!! I personally know a few loons (you know I love you guys) who braved the masses at 4am for the ‘door busters’ and ‘steel of a deals’. It’s true what they say, I was told people were wrapped around our local gargantuan shopping center waiting to get into Best Buy for their PS3’s and flat screens. I know we have a lousy economy and people are itching to save, but I find myself preferring to cough up the extra bucks to save myself from that mess!

I told my boss that I didn’t mind coming into work today just in case we had any traffic, and I don’t mind, I love my little world here, but I have only been visited by two people! We don’t have any door busters… any slashed prices… sorry! Black Friday is a day for massive retail conglomerates, not charming little antique stores – and so be it, that is fine by me.

I thought I would start pondering my Christmas list of what to give my loved ones and what to answer back when I am asked, “What do you want for Christmas?!?!?!”

This is fun. :)

As we all know, it is much easier to know what we want for ourselves than for others. I pretty much want everything from Jayson Home & Garden. This Quartz Votive is so me! I love the mix of nature and opulence. Like organic meets gilded glam...

It takes time and thoughtful effort to conjure up ideas of what to gift my friends and family. I'm sure none of them would appreciate this Phrenology Head as much as me. It's fantastically weird. I want it.

And this little guy, isn't he a hoot?? (lame, I know)

I think owls are so neat, and I think he would look great perched on the floating shelves that I don't have in my bed room. :) haha

Mmmm, and this lustrous Lancaster Tea Set.... a bit of whimsy never hurts anyone.

Perfect to display in the kitchen of the house that I don't have with the glass front kitchen cabinet doors that don't exist. One day my humble dreams will come true. Until then, I shall merrily collect these objects while working my way up in this world.

And now for furniture...

The Greta table... what a perfect little gilded accent piece. I also wouldn't mind Christopher Spitzmiller shedding a little light on it either!

And it would all look damn good next to this bad boy...

Greenwich chair, won't you be mine?

I am going to buy you, and reupholster you, (not that I don't like your Zenith-Moss Silk, I just want charcoal silk velvet) and sit in you, and read my magazines, and blog, and watch Dexter, and sip coffee, and nap... and love you forever and ever!

That chair, mark my words, will be my first big purchase once I fly the coup!

Palma Desk, your second. You, with your sexy sawhorse legs... that industrial, homemade allure gets me every time!

I would LOVE to post what I intend on buying a few people for Christmas, but I can't because some of the frequent this blog.

Until next time...

Cameo, Cameo, where art thou Cameo?

2009-11-13T14:14:00.001-08:00

I was at Nordstroms last week shopping for a pair of earrings to wear with my lovely bridesmaid dress. I was torn between classic gold hoops (I had some from Stella and Dot but lost them, maybe they will come out of hiding one day) and these super cute Kate Spade grape clusters. I ended up going with the classic gold hoop, but anyway, I found this cameo ring while on the hunt and fell in love with it. It wasn't a splurge as far as cost goes, but it wasn't on my list and I always try not to stray from my list...but nevertheless, it was totally worth it. One should never feel guilty about pleasure! Of course the ring I bought from Nordstroms is a reproduction.... and that's ok, but I manage an antiques showroom and its only natural for me to want the real thing... so here it is. This is what I have my eyes set on now.

Coralie Bickford Smith's Penguin Classics

2009-11-13T13:32:00.000-08:00

These books are a pretty much "must have" on my list. I bet my mom never thought she’d see the day where her daughter asked for books for her Birthday and Christmas. For the most part I request design books, ones that get read from cover to cover. However, Christmas is coming up and although there is a ton more design books that I want, I have found something else; books that you couldn’t pay me to read in school (I could barely get thru the Cliff Notes) and now I want them… not to read, but to put on show. Does that make me a classic literature poser? I don’t’ care. These are without a doubt the prettiest books I have ever seen! So Santa, I have been a good girl… will you get me these books for Christmas? I may even read one… maybe.

I always get so excited thinking about what I want to gift my friends and family for Christmas (and what I want for myself too! I like to think I’m giving, but I’m not totally selfless, who is?) All this Christmas talk has me giddy. Anyway, check out these books. Tell me how cool they are.

Buy them here!

A Quickie

2009-11-12T21:18:00.000-08:00

I miss being able to write! I never thought I could be so busy at work, but these past two weeks is proof that I hadn’t a clue how demanding the antiques biz can be! I haven’t even had a minute to let my mind ponder a post. My thought have been besieged by chandeliers with faulty wiring, people who presume I have the ability to safely package antique pottery (uhhh duh, I will facilitate the process, NOT DO IT FOR YOU), Christmas staging, 1st Dibs, Urban Market, pillows, paintings with tears and tons more. Anyway, I am over it all… I am ready for Colorado! I figured I would post some pics of my favorite thing. Books arranged by color! Once I am in a less frenzied state of mind I can then get back into my groove. I just got home from the Houston, TX Nutcracker Market and found (thanks Michelle) the most amazing booth. I wish to bedeck my store in their Earthy, shabby chic (for lack of a better word) Christmas décor! Maybe I will!!!

Burlap, Baby

2009-11-03T12:31:00.001-08:00

Sleepless Surfing

2009-11-01T22:10:00.000-08:00

A taxicab to the Rockets game, leaving with a ‘W’, followed by being surrounded by friends in clever costumes with an extra hour to party at the Social, as expected, left me with fun memories and a tired body! How perfect for Halloween to have been on a crisp Saturday night and for DST to end too! After checking out of the Magnolia, Franks pizza, and the Texans game (with a ‘W’ might I add), I decided to make it an easy going, recuperative Sunday full of naps. Now it’s of the night and I am not sleepy! I have been lost in newly discovered blogs and websites and I thought it’d be rude not to share with you some of the neat inspirational photos I found! I love the power of the Right Click, Save Picture As, insert: preferred file name, -- it a beautiful thing.

. . .

So many friends are getting married so I have been looking at all the pictures they have been taking. This is how I want my ring (one day) to be photographed! I love it.

I think I just found the worlds most desirable vanity chair. And I love the fanciful approach with the wallpaper. It adds some life to a somewhat sterile bathroom.

On my Birthday post I commented on a pair of pretty wings mounted on a wall above a bed. I've been looking into more winged accents and I found this awesome art.

I am hung up on gray, a seemingly random neutral. I am about to make a room switch at home and I was going to paint my room a dark shade of grey by Benjamin Moore (something like Soot) but I am thinking I might go out on the limb and chose a lighter shade of gray with my tried and true favorite white, Chantilly Lace and spring for stripes! It would be a challenge and I think I'll love it.

* inspiration via here

Only though Halloween just passed it is time to start thinking about staging the windows of my store for Christmas and how I am going to lure in the passersby! I love the different colors and textures of these dazzling ornaments. The snowflake is pretty great too!

Spook-tacular Spaces

2009-10-30T18:54:00.000-07:00

When I brood over a Halloween post, black walls pierced my thoughts instantly. I in no way knew black walls could be so alive! I envisioned a gloomy, dismal feel at the notion of pitch-black walls. I was considerably mistaken; these interiors are mysterious, sexy and totally fit for human habitation. The lustrous black walls of the bathroom with the sunshine yellow chair is nothing short of spectacular. Enjoy these extraordinary, out of the ordinary dwellings.

Can I take about a 2 hour bath in this tub, please?

Amazing.

Uber cool.

I thought I always wanted a white house with black shutters... scratch that, reverse it.

That mirror looks like several we've had at my store. That gilded ornateness with those sexy black walls is pure cultivated beauty. Soooooo sumptuous.

Mmmmm.

. . .

Happy Halloween you ghouls, I hope your Saturday night is frightfully fun and your booze, bountiful!

Birthday Decor

2009-10-29T12:49:00.000-07:00

This has to be the prettiest Birthday set-up I've ever seen!

*thanks to cocokelley for enlightening me to the world of Sarah Kaye

A Beautiful Birthday

2009-10-29T08:23:00.000-07:00

This morning I was surprised with presents from my sweet mom and aunt. They got me the David Dear Duck Mirror I’ve had my eyes on for years, ever since I saw it in Domino Magazine I’ve wanted it. They also amped up my collection of awe-inspiring design books.... love you guys! Thanks :)

Last night was great too!
The best of friends + fantastic Mexican food + a Rockets ‘W’ = a perfect Birthday.

The only thing that slightly bums me out is this dreadful weather.
So I decided to post an inside that’s bright and cheery because outside its so drab and dreary.

I adore those angel wings. How peaceful to have angelic white feather wings suspended above your bed.

25

2009-10-28T15:03:00.000-07:00

Today is my legal Birthday, but tomorrow is my real Birthday. You see, I was delivered in the wee hours of the night which left everyone completely exhausted upon my arrival, including the mid wife who delivered me and wrote my Birthday date erroneously on my birth certificate! My mom tried to change it years later but encountered to many problems so she let it go. It doesn't really bother me. My friends call to wish me Happy 'legal' Birthday on the 28th and Happy 'real' Birthday on the 29th. I loved it when I turned 21 because the 28th was a Friday and the 29th was a Saturday. It couldn't have been more perfect! Will I be saying the same when I am 30? ;)

I am looking forward to those Cabo Wabo margaritas soon to some.

Rock 'n' Roll Roost

2009-10-27T12:44:00.000-07:00

This joint is badass, for lack of a better word. I won’t break down what I love, just know that I love it all, above all that tufted salmon colored couch. I wish I could call John Mayer and make fun of him for his spread in Elle Décor. He can only aspire to dwell in groovy abode such as this. Somebody tell him that this is what upscale Rock and Roll décor done right looks like! Whoever you are, musician that lives in these pictures, your loft is amaaaazing! Write on.

Thanks to Apartment Therapy for this magical home tour!

The House of Michael Penny

2009-10-27T11:22:00.000-07:00

This is the house of Michael Penny, Canadian House & Home's assistant style editor. His taste is ideal. In the kitchen he seems to have repurposed a retro dresser into cabinetry! Brilliant. And I love how he used inexpensive peg boarding to put on show his shiny, polished pots and pans. And don’t get me started on those nightstands in his bedroom! I read on MadeByGirls blog that he scored those on eBay! Jackpot! If only I could get my hands on some end tables like that. It’s impossible to overlook his accessories and light fixtures as they are so striking and unique. He even makes me like the color Maya Blue… and I don’t like blue interior elements. Enjoy these wonderful pictures and may they bring you a great deal of inspiration as they did me!

Rousing Randomness

2009-10-21T07:46:00.000-07:00

Thou shall not covet any closet…

2009-10-20T14:37:00.000-07:00

...but these aren’t just “any” closets. It’s okay to long for clothes rooms like these. Some of the photos depicted below are simply amazing while others are quite modest. I love how various ones prove that you don’t have to have a whopping walk-in to have a wonderful wardrobe.

That antique chest of drawers is calling my name! It makes me think of this one piece that my boyfriends mother has in her guest bedroom. It mimics the shape of this one but it has its original stain which makes it not much to look at. Refinished in this lovely antique white, it would be stunning.

Everything about this closet in fantastic! Is that a jewelry box, seriously? Where can I get it? I am also really digging that little glass (or is it Lucite) ball lamp. And that wallpaper is sensational. So are the wood floors. LOVE IT ALL!

Mmmmm. That shiny, black drum shade and that thin, gilded framed mirror on those glossy, white floors.

So cool.

WOW.

Who recognizes this famous closet!!! ;)

Drop dead delightful.

If this closet were a man, it would be Gerard Butler. So good looking. But I must say, those floors would be like him wearing some hideous shoes. I would have gone with some Santos mahogony floors to keep the richness alive!

Delightful Desks

2009-10-16T09:59:00.000-07:00

Glance around at your desk. What do you see? What does your place of work say about you? Are there tangles of computer and phone wires and Post-It notes stuck on every square inch of your monitor and desk (like mine, haha) or is it a pristine area with a simple flourishing plant and your fully charged, utilized Blackberry? Do you have countless pictures of your friends, family and travels or did you take the unfussy, less is more approach? Do you view your workstation as a place where mindless, mundane tasks take place or are you truly captivated by the space where you keep your nose to the grindstone? It is alarming to think that more hours of your day are presumably spent at your little work nook than curled up in your bed. So with that being said, if you loathe sitting at your desk don’t you think you should make it over into a space that you don’t mind devoting your day to? Have fun making your desk a definition of you. The inspired work spaces below are wonderful motivational tools!

I LOVE this industrial styled saw-horse desk.

This one is my favorite, totally me.

The Louis Ghost chair by Philip Stark is on my "most wanted/must have" list...

I would prefer the desk from pic #19 so my legs have somewhere to go... but I could deal :)

I'll take the Birkin bag too please!

THOSE WINDOWS!!!

AND THAT MIRROR!

omg, love it

This is pic #19 and the desk I am talking about.

Now get to work people!!!

Picturesque Pumpkins

2009-10-15T15:47:00.000-07:00

It’s pumpkin carving time!

Every evening when I drive home I pass by this colossal cathedral and they just so happen to have laid out the most amazing pumpkin patch I have ever seen! All afternoon I have been brainstorming on what to carve. I cannot wait to stop by and peruse the patch looking for the perfect pumpkin!

Here are some fun ideas that really caught my minds eye!

This ones for you Mom! :)

Pillow Talk

2009-10-15T12:39:00.000-07:00

I love pillows! Who doesn’t? Even if you’re not mad about them, you can’t deny loving the cold side of a pillow! And the cold side of a throw pillow can be just as nice. These fluffy little wonders give you the chance to embellish any décor by incorporating patterns, texture and color. Whether you throw them on the floor to create an easy going vibe or place them perfectly on a couch to create visual balance, the options are endless! The pillows shown below are fantastic. I would make the most of them all, all except for the social networking pillows; those were just too amusing not to post.

Friendly Inspiration

2009-10-14T13:24:00.001-07:00

My best friend is in the process of building a house with her fiancé and I know she is thrilled to be able to design her dream home. Who wouldn’t be?! She is unceasingly in search of inspiration that will give her ideas on how to incorporate what she loves into the new home. She tells me that her dream house will have a predominantly modern interior with a Spanish flair and a fully Spanish inspired exterior. The “Spanish flair” will provide ample possibilities for incorporating warmth and character to make their house a home. When I think of Spanish design vibrant Talavera pottery, aged Spanish doors, curvy wrought iron, mottled stucco and lustrous copper whelm my thoughts. Here are a few pictures that are sure to fire up the creative process.

to be continued...

Lacquer Love

2009-10-14T13:00:00.000-07:00

No way on Gods green earth would I ever think to lacquer one of my pieces lavender, but this photo makes me think twice. No doubt lavender would be sweet in a little girl’s room, but to my surprise it is really working on this adult piece. The console really pops against the fresh white wainscoting and the fancy wallpaper adds an air of sophistication to the overall look. Can you guess what my favorite thing is that ties the whole look together... the coordinating lilac books of course! This vignette is fantastic and it tempts me step out of my color comfort zone (a little).

Irresistible Ikat

2009-10-12T10:22:00.000-07:00

Ikat fabric is believed to be of Western Asia origin of the first millennium A.D. It’s a complex artistic technique used to create images on textiles. It obtains its name from the Malay word mengikat which means “to tie.” The process of creating Ikat fabric differs from other methods in that the threads are dyed with the designs/images before placed on the loom.

In my opinion, it has completely overwhelmed the industry because you can now find it in the inspired pages of the Pottery Barn catalog! Ikat patterns can be found on fabrics, carpets, wallpapers, wall hangings, and all over the pages of fantastic décor magazines. Below are some images of Ikat designs -- from over the top to a perfect pop.

Rustic Beauties

2009-10-11T20:47:00.000-07:00

Rustic design can be of cottage, country, western or primitive influence. The images below are stunning examples of how “rustic” isn’t just for hunting lodges or of stodgy, old-hat design. If you’re a city dweller but you love the fresh air and green earth, adorning you home with rugged beauty is a perfect way to stay connected to the outdoors and nurture you love of nature.

Wildin' Out

2009-10-09T20:13:00.000-07:00

Sometimes, in life and in design, things can seem unruly and unsystematic. But only in the sweet, sweet world of design can those appellations be welcomed with a pleasant reception. My personal style typically leans towards the absence of clutter, but sometimes I find myself wildly drawn to outrageous décor.

I am actually really digging this room. I could live in and love it fo' sho'!

What is this?

I looooooove love love those black lacquer steps. Very sexy.

A splash of Moroccan flair from the gilded pieces and the orange, pink and red pillows with a hint of oriental style by means of the chinoesere wallpaper, a pinch of old Hollywood glamour from the tufted black velvet couch and a dash of traditional style from the classic arm chairs. That’s the recipe for a disastrous, I mean eclectic room.

Some heirloom pieces with a touch of glamour.

Very ladylike.

Domino Magazine, I miss you so.

I tore this page because I loved the kelly green chairs so much!

YOWZA!
It's impressive how one can create such harmony between wild pieces and color !

Freaky Friday

2009-10-09T12:36:00.000-07:00

The weather today was ideal for decorating my store for Halloween. The skies were dark and tempestuous which created a gloomy shade through out the showroom. The cobwebs and dim lighting casted eerie shadows all over the venetian walls and 18th century furniture which educed a real spooky aura. For the night of the party only black candles and the soft glow that creeps through the burlap shades will light the room. The mysterious ambiance and good wine will surely allow for a great night!

Hint, hint...

2009-10-08T14:31:00.000-07:00

http://www.highfashionhome.com/duck-mirror.html

Charming Accessories

2009-10-08T13:16:00.000-07:00

Rainbow Stairs

2009-10-08T08:07:00.000-07:00

I wouldn’t put doing something like this past me. I think these photos are some of the most visually enjoyable I have ever seen! What thoughts do these stairs invoke from you? I thought of a box of crayons. As a child, there was nothing that thrilled me more than some new Crayola crayons. As I opened the box of sharp, bright, perfectly lined up crayons the scent of the colorful wax would delight my little nose all through my artful endeavor.

Beauty without color seems somehow to belong to another world.

~Murasaki Shikibu

I hope you all enjoy these pics as much as I do :)

WOW!

These aren't stairs, I know. But still, what a neat group of inhabitants to get together and make this statement.

This one is my favorite.

I wish I were a white crayon, that way no one would use me.

~Author Unknown

I got a giggle from that quote :)

Just wanted to share!

Mirrors, mirrors on the wall...

2009-10-06T18:31:00.000-07:00

I so wish I could have you all!

These dazzling looking glasses create an illusion of more space, reflect light and add panache to a room, could you ask for more spectacular functionality?

Mirrors aren’t just for bathrooms and narcissists anymore!
The more the mirror-y-er. Ok, that’s my lame attempt at a play on words.
These stunning reflective pieces of glass play a huge part in modern design and their fusion of form and function is second to none when it comes to multi functional design accessories.

So say good-bye to claustrophobia…and hellooooo to a cluster of mirrors!

Wise Words

2009-10-06T09:09:00.000-07:00

Inspirational Images & Quotes

"Whatever you do in your decorating philosophy, be brave....never wish you hadn't taken your vision right to the end. Make a bold statement."
Roger Banks-Pye, Colefax and Fowler Interior Inspirations

"Taste is relative and is the sum total of the intellectual and emotional experiences of the individual experiences of the individual. Taste, in order to be positive and vital, must be exercised and developed. Taste is changeable and is influenced by environment. A highly cultivated taste, a taste that is knowledgeable and eclectic, is likely to be exciting and provocative, a personal taste at its highest level."
Eleanor Brown, The Finest Rooms by America's Great Decorators

"... our objects, bibelots, whatnots, and knickknacks-say the most about who we are. They are as honest as a diary."
Charlotte Moss, A Passion for Details

"Contemporary paintings and sculpture are happy with furniture of the past. Fabrics of contemporary colors and textures are suitable and appealing on old chairs. Old patterns seem excitingly fresh when rejuvenated by a contemporary palette."
Eleanor McMillen Brown, Sixty Years of Interior Design

"Never look back, except for an occasional glance, look ahead and plan for the future. Success is not built on past laurels, but rather on a continuous activity. Keep busy searching out new ideas and, experimentally, keep ahead of the times, or at least up with them."
Dorothy Draper

"Be faithful to your own taste because nothing you really like is ever out of style."
Billy Baldwin

Stunningly Understated

2009-10-01T20:16:00.000-07:00

Two of my favorite places to find eccentric home accessories are Anthropologie and Urban Outfitters. I bought my chinoiserie duvet from Anthro- that I absolutely adore and my most favorite picture frame ever from Urban! A feeling of happiness overwhelms me when I walk into the Houston Anthropologie or when I load the Urban Outfitters web page (they mainly have clothes in their store). I knew there was some mad genius’ behind the scenes creating these inspired unconventional items, but I never knew who... until now. I was oh so captivated to learn that Urban Outfitters was the parent company of Anthropologie. And get this, the head antiques buyer of Anthropologie and the CEO of Urban Outfitters are a couple! Go figure! It all makes sense now!!!

You may not be surprised to find out that I think the apartment they share on the Upper East Side right off of Central Park is one of the most divine spaces I have ever laid eyes on. Their classic apartment has such a worldly feel. It’s truly spectacular. I love every single item in every single room, how is that even possible?! The images have me mesmerized; I can only imagine what it would be like to live in such an inspirited dwelling. I would be holed up in that nest… you couldn’t make me leave!

Eye catching! The low charcoal gray chair... that's the winner!

I never thought I would keel over for a buttery settee... pigs are flying.

Obviously the birdcage-esque lantern is my fave but that yellow earthenware pottery is fantastic as well. In our lovely showroom, we carry a variety of antique earthenware from the South of France. I am thrilled to see it in this space.

We also have a slew of antique bread boards in all shapes and sizes, just like the ones you see lying against the window. I would cook up a storm in that cozy little kitchen! All the while looking fab in an Anthropologie apron! ;)

I am trying to persuade my best friend to insist upon a set of copper cookware instead of "silver" silverware as a part of her wedding registry. They both cost several thousand... insist on gifts you'll use!

I can see my future in that vintage crystal lamp and it I think it's reading "DREAM ON ROBIN!"

Repurposing an old sculpture stand as a coffee table. Brilliant!

Subdue punk rock!

Alliteration in Decoration

2009-09-30T20:27:00.000-07:00

Interior design strives to make the world a more beautiful place, but you don’t have to be an interior designer to make your mark beautiful in this world. You just have to be fearless. Be courageous with color choices, plucky with picking patterns and audacious when accessorizing art. There are no rules. There needn’t be any rhyme or reason as to why you place an antler chandelier with a Venetian mirror or a Chesterfield sofa with a mid-century modern Danish styled chair. If it speaks to you then it works.

So many people are quite literally terrified of making all the wrong decisions when it comes to decorating their home. Working in the furniture industry I am confronted with discouraged people on a daily basis and I tell them not to be intimidated by lamps and chairs! Of course I counsel them more than that – but anyway, my point is… Those lost souls need to let the interiors below be an inspiration to them!!! Not because they love the purple leather chair or mismatched lamp shades or the peacock floor rug. But because by simply taking notice of how the accessories don’t match or how the homeowners’ style can’t be described in one word, even two or three shows there is a foolproof way of approaching design.

And if that is still too overwhelming then…

Start with one piece you love and build around it. If you love this “one thing” because it’s a family heirloom yet it serves a purpose then shop at thrift stores and take it easy with accessories. If you love this “one thing” because it’s eco-friendly yet it makes a statement then try your hands at refurbishing a piece you already own by painting it a vibrant color and adding new hardware!!!

Just have fun with it y'all!!!
That’s all I ask. :):)

Fairytale Shades

2009-09-28T19:45:00.000-07:00

What allured me to this room instantaneously were the peaceful shades of tea rose and lavender in the roman shades. Bay windows are attractive in their own right, but when dressed up they can transition from a nice architectural feature to a

spectacular room-owning statement.

I am not a pink and purple kind of girl, that’s why I am so mystified by my fascination with this room. Honestly, I would live in it, and love it. Perhaps I would feel differently if I physically stood in the room, but it translates to photo brilliantly and that’s how it captured me.

The flow of the natural light through those fairytale shades casts an enlivening spell on the room. I even love the fabric on the sofa. It looks so lively and opulent, yet calm and inviting. The luxuriousness of the “metal-lilac” stripes tie in flawlessly with the tinted roman shades while the muted gray-ish purple stripes of the sofa and the quiet pink walls soften the palate.

I also find the unexpected accessories very interesting. The Ikat bolster pillow and scratchy black art makes whose ever house this is their home.

I believe accessories should be like fingerprints, unique to you and one of a kind! :)

*Elle Decor

This pic was posted by one of my favorite bloggers, from http://www.plushpalate.blogspot.com/ I felt it was so resembling of the pic that I wrote about, I had to share it.

Candy Coated Living

2009-09-27T18:10:00.000-07:00

Lollii pop, lolli pop, ohh la la lolli lolli, lolli pop...

Hahahaha, I can’t help it! Simply looking at this room makes me hyper. Doesn’t it seem like it is infused with sugary sweetness? I bet you could get a toothache from just being in the room.

You can’t unwrap the room and you certainly can’t eat it, but apparently one can live in it. Not me, that’s for sure. Residing in said house would leave me in a frenzied state of continuous color overwhelm.
Pops of color are nice; however I think these rooms draw on too much of a good thing. Whoever the color crazed individual is that decorated these rooms, I commend them for having an unquestionable confidence in their sense of design style and personal taste. I would like to meet the person that dwells in these rainbow rooms. They have got to be a wildly upbeat, “glass is half full”, dynamic soul. I don’t think it’s possible to be down in the dumps in spaces like these.
I remember myself as a color happy child. I recall how I used to dream of having sparkling walls. I wanted to roll glue on my walls and sprinkle glitter all over them so they could twinkle like a million diamonds when the sun filled my room. I also used to find jewels deeply enticing. I loved those little packets of vibrant gems my sweet Mom use to buy me from Michael's craft store. I would glue them on everything from my school binders to the switch plates in my room. Deep down I know that carefree, cheery, colorful kid still exists within me, and from time to time she shines through and draws me toward pictures like these.

Was this what inspired the room?

Prettiest candy ever.

Although I would never decorate a room like this, I can appreciate how well its put together. The swan wall paper covers the walls with personality and surely charms all the passersby. Pop art could have been the inspiration for these rooms because there is a vintage feel that adds an air of maturity.

The bubblegum pink lamp topped with a fringed apple green shade is as kitschy as it comes. I would never get any grown up work done at this desk because it would bring the kid out in me who just wants to be imaginative and do arts and crafts.

Mora Clocks and Italian Styled Chandeliers

2009-09-25T14:45:00.000-07:00

Two accessories that have fully inundated the design world happen to be two of the most gratifyingly eye-catching objects of desire, in my mind at least. They are Mora clocks and Italian styled chandeliers.

I am in awe of their ethereal wonder.
I love the gentle, slender curves of the Italian chandeliers long willowy arms. I am also keen on the simplicity of the Mora clocks Swedish design and curvy splendor. The two pieces compliment each other so well. I hope one day their whimsical features are able to cast their enchantment within my humble little abode.

Worst case scenario: I am unable to splurge on a Mora clock (they cost $1000's)

I will just paint one on my wall!

Isn't this hilarious? Clever, nevertheless.

Ohhh to be soaking in this tub at this very moment...

2009-09-25T10:43:00.001-07:00

Another lovely design by deVargas

I am head over heels for clawfoot tubs... especially sparkling white porcelain ones.

I also adore Venetian mirrors.

This bathroom oozes opulence in a perfectly understated way.

I've Fallen in Love with Fall... again.

2009-09-23T19:40:00.000-07:00

In Houston, Weather is something to Celebrate

. . .

Us Houstonians long for days like today. A day where we are blessed with a break from the sodden humidity and blistering heat, a celebrated event known as our first cool front. I feel it should be a spontaneous holiday every year. I wished so much this morning, the second I felt the enlivening cool breeze on my skin as I stepped out my front door, to be able to spend my day haphazardly doing whatever I wanted (outside, as you would expect). I might have planted an herb garden which I’ve really wanted to do. Or maybe I would have wanted a hammock bad enough to go buy one. A picturesque picnic would have been nice too. Even a round of golf, I would have been up for almost anything al fresco! As it turns out, woefully today was not a holiday and as it goes, I went to work. But to add a cheerful note, I’m keen on what I do, so that’s always uplifting. I did however get to enjoy the comforting fresh air this evening while I walked Abby and Buddy at the park. I hope tomorrow’s weather is indistinguishable from today!

I envy the fortunate souls who experience the magnificent changing of the leaves every year. Only once have I witnessed its beauty, it was 2 years ago in Connecticut and it was unforgettable. The brilliance of the golden yellows, crimson reds, and pumpkin oranges left me speechless. I seriously recall being in shock.

Someday I intend on incorporating the warmth and coziness of fall into my own home. Be it with a new splash of color on a wall, vibrant arrangements of flowers, linens, candles, fuzzy pillows, flannel throws and seasonal rugs. Envisioning fall décor conjures up thoughts of relaxed refinement.

The Hostess with the Mostess

2009-09-23T14:27:00.000-07:00

Here at Maison Maison we are hosting the kick off party for over 50 dealers from all over the country. I am assuming it will be mainly the locals that show, but the more the merrier!

What I am really thrilled about is all the Halloween decorations I just purchased. Since it is an antique store I am going to use a lot of cobwebs, and creepy net.

It's going to be spooky, y'all!

We have this stunning harvest table in our front store window so I plan on doing a creepy harvest scene with fairy tale pumpkins, real bales of hay, and black crows. I also found these adorable little mouse silhouettes which I will place in the book shelves. I can't wait! I even decided to go the extra mile and adorn the food with spookiness... the cheese platter will be littered with rapid rubber mice and the wine bottle labels will be covered with decals that read poison and potion.

BEWARE!!! It's going to be a frighteningly fantastic.

Showstoppers

2009-09-22T20:19:00.000-07:00

Turn traditional design wisdom on its head.

Be boundless, endless & limitless.

Follow no rules.

Be a design revolutionary.

I call it a birdcage bed, but either way...

I just know I would dream of magical charm and enchantment while sleeping in this bed.

The artisan who crafted this Sheesham (Rosewood) masterpiece did it in the most subtly exquisite way.

My Love Affair with Grey {con't}

2009-09-21T20:32:00.000-07:00

This room is great.

Simply great.

The bold, chunky black & white stripes of the rug perfectly ground the refreshing grey walls, fresh white linens and honey hued ladder back chairs. I've also always been a fan of hanging an eclectic mix of frames salon style.

In this space I can perfectly envision festive family gatherings, scrumptious Sunday brunches & mimosas with the girls and lingering romantic meals with the boyfriend.

I also think this room would house holiday decorations beautifully!

I heart Houston

2009-09-20T10:07:00.000-07:00

Let's go Texans!

It's a beautiful day today...

I am looking forward to going to my best friends wedding shower

and I really hope the Texans do it up
big!

Hope everyone else is having a lovely day :)

Flight of the Imagination

2009-09-20T09:37:00.000-07:00

I absolutely adore this whimsical songbird chandelier from Anthropologie.

I want it so badly to find its home in my closet… it would be so fantastic to see those precious little finches and parakeets hovering in the air every time I opened my door. However, the price tag is not fitting for a closet light fixture, so I am going to attempt to make this imaginative piece.

Does anyone have any suggestions on how to get started?
I am going to go to my local hardware store to get 2 steel rings, like 1’ in diameter (I am going to scale it down a bit since it is to hang in my closet) and some brass or copper wire (that’s what the materials are said to be under the description on the website) and just start making a grid pattern! They sell the prettiest little birds at Hobby Lobby and Michaels and I would love to be able to find some Manzanita branches to use as the perches.

I hope to start this project soon… I will post pics if the end result is respectable!

I had this other thought. If this grid wire chandelier ends up being too difficult of a task, I was thinking I could make a bird mobile and suspend it with a exposed, low wattage bulb. There are some really cute bird mobiles out there when I started searching images for inspiration…. Check these out!

Showtime Design

2009-09-18T18:38:00.000-07:00

WEEDS

... is over. I can't believe that Season 5 went by so fast. I can't believe Shane most likely killed Pilar with a croquet mallet and I can't believe I am going to have to wait another year to find out what happened.
Oh well, at least Dexter, Californication and The United States of Tara is about to start.

I just came across the neatest article on Metropolitan Home. All these famed designers do their own take on all of the Showtime series. The pic above is a Weeds design. A forest green wing back with a twist on the classic shape, an old root turned into pedestal for a perfect table base, industrial glass shelving units with recycled green glass beakers - it's organic yet industrial. This doesn't scream Nancy Botwin to me, she is more Bohemian Vintage-Modern in my opinion. But nevertheless, its a groovy look.

DEXTER.

What a lovable sick-o. Here is a take on his Miami life style. The crazy print on the right wall is a photo taken at a downward angle of him looking down. Odd, yet interesting.
My favorite piece in the room is the mid-century rocker. I think it adds great character to the room, giving the space a break from the stark modernness. It's a simple chair where a fastidious Dexter can get lost in his creepy thoughts.

The United States of Tara.

A kooky design for a kooky character. This room is her in a nut shell. It doesn't represent her 1950's Alice alter all that well... or her beer-drinking alter, Buck... Maybe its not supposed to though. This room seems like a teens dream, so I'm sure T would like it. I really don't like this room that much. It doesn't have much going on... it seems rather uninspired. However, I can't hate everything... I do like the area rug. It's script is of a French poem saying "lets dance."

"Lets Dance"

I suppose that a fitting phrase for someone who has to constantly keep up with four alters!

Hank Moody

a sexy room

for

a sexy man

haha ;)

Relaxing Recovery

2009-09-18T09:53:00.000-07:00

I had 5 teeth pulled yesterday and it was quite the experience. Of course, I was put under so I didn’t feel a thing, and totally numb when I came to… and I’ve continued to pop my magic pills so the pain stays away… so over all it hasn't been a completely miserable experience.

I was lying in my room earlier thinking about what my perfect recovery room would look like. It would be full of creams and grays, heavy drapery so I could block out the sun and a big, fluffy down comforter. I was trying to find such a room… and I did :) However, there is one thing wrong with this picture... that little dog in the bed is not my Jooby! Jooby is what I call my precious little Jack Russel, her name is actually Abby. Named after Abagail Adams because when I got her I was obsessed with the HBO series John Adams, and believe it or not, I am actually a kin to John Quincy Adams, he's my cuz. Lol.

Anyway, back to the room. Like I said, I think its the perfect recovery room. I tend to stay away from drapery (especially heavy drapery) and a completely colorless palette, but when I want a calming little cave all my own, its a must. So pretty much, I would only want to dwell in this room while I was a "little sicky" So this post is just for fun.

. . . . .

This is who has been keeping me company while I sip on soup, nosh on mashed potatoes and watch the third season of It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia! Thanks Chris :)

This is my little Jooby.

My little Jibby Jabby.

My little lamb-bear-dog.

ABBY!!!!!!!

Giddy Up

2009-09-16T13:50:00.000-07:00

I don’t even ride, but who cares?!?
I find these horse sculptures to be magnificent.

This sculpture stands over 5' tall!

Even if I could have him, I don't know where I could put him.

He is quite the space hog... but worth every inch if you've got the room to spare.

Serve your drinks up on a wire horse bar cart why don't you?
I would. :)

I must post at least 1 lacquered piece... love my lacquer.

This is a painting, I know... it doesn't go along with the sculpture theme.
I love it though.

He is made of Zinc.

The hollow eyes are what makes this horse so interesting.

Creepy caraousel.

It wouldn't give me nightmares -- I dream of owning a piece like this.

Fabulously Flaunting Feather & Flowers

2009-09-16T10:38:00.000-07:00

This one is so simple and pretty with angelic white feathers, but the vibrant colors of the classic peacock feather would look great with the bright green, no doubt about it!

This is busy (eclectic I should say), but still lovely.

This one I LOVE! The colors are so intense... I especially love the pop of coral.

However, this one takes the cake in my opinion.

. . . . .

With all this girly loveliness, its easy to forget about the boys... but I didn't!

Look at how you can feather them up! ;)

I think that this is goooood-lookin'.

I love how they wrap the stem with leather. How handsome is that?!?!

Here is one with some flowers worked in, if you wish.

And now for the grand finale...

How ridiculously awesome is that?!?!? I know its more "run-way" than "real-way."

But, nonetheless, its fantastic.

Carrie from SITC would wear it, lol.

10.10.10

2009-09-15T13:47:00.000-07:00

I just found out the other day that one of my best friends is getting married!!!

I am overjoyed for her!

She is in high spirits and I hope that the process of planning the wedding is a perfectly blissful experience for her. She is wonderfully open-minded yet she knows what she wants. She loves the vibrant, lively, need I say stunning, color pallete of peacock feathers, so she has decided to pull her inspiration for the wedding theme from them.

With that being said, she is looking to the wedding and house party to work with her in making all the exciting preparations for the big day. If anyone has any suggestions or ideas, send em' my way :)

. . . . . . . . . . . .

Now, theres a problem. A girl can't help but to get lost in the beauty and whimsy of wedding decorations -- the flowers, cakes, invitations, favors, the fashion and the beauty. I find myself getting side tracked with what appeals to me. So just for fun, (and for my records, because one day I will refer back to this, haha) I thought I would post pics that wildly inspire the thoughts of my dream wedding.

If its not obvious, I am a bit in love with birds...

Living Large

2009-09-14T12:56:00.000-07:00

This room is one of the most visually appealing spaces I have ever seen.

The use of color and texture are out of this world. The retro carroty colored chair is striking in its own right, but alongside a blazing fire, the combo is stunning. No doubt about it, my fav piece in the room is the crystal ship chandelier. What a conversation piece! The one in the picture is from Burden Antiques, and I also found one on eBay for $24,000 (for you money bags out there) but Z-Gallerie offers one that is equally as splendid and makes the same statement for a fraction of the cost. The dusty teal, tufted leather ottoman from Mecox Gardens is also very charming. It perfectly compliments the flea market found portrait of Eva Peron. This room has an eerie playfulness about it. The majesty of the marble fireplace with the ghostly ship chandelier, male statuette and rich walnut paneled walls is made cheerful with the bright pops of retro color and light hearted accessories like the gilded bamboo legged coffee tables and circa 1970's milk glass lamp.

This room definitely speaks to me.

A Vintage Crafting Haven

2009-09-14T09:06:00.000-07:00

Crisp and clean and full of personality... this room is boss! :P

Of course I love it, its designed by Vanessa De Vargas , she can do no wrong.

The work table is so rustic and intrinsically beautiful, "the more knots the better," I say. It's the imperfections of a piece of wood that make it so stunning, and I love it when artisans really exploit that natural beauty. I can't tell for sure, but I think there is a high gloss lacquer finish on the pictured table. I am big into lacquer - the shinier the better. It is undeniably my favorite finish (lacquer lover, thats me!). I call it a piano finish because I can't think of anything shinier than a baby grand. I would love to set something up like this in my (future) garage. I would stain the concrete a pretty shade of amber, throw a stunning hair on hide on top of the concrete to give myself something soft to walk on and I would wire some Bose speakers so I could loose myself in all my fav artists while I do crafts till my fingers fall off!!! Now, I need to start searching for a great deal on a vintage library catalog. What cooler way is there to store your paint brushes, beads, watercolors, glues, ect... I love it! So out of the ordinary.

I heart books.

2009-09-12T11:19:00.000-07:00

I love books. I love to read them, but I especially love to decorate with them. Old or new, hardback or paperback, books add loads of character to any space. Personally, I find them to be the most versatile of all design accessories. Rearranging them is a cinch and they work in any room! The books in the picture above are old antique paperbacks. They are tied with twine in sets of three and strewn about it old earthenware pottery. Obviously well loved; the wear and tear, discoloration from age, and tattered corners are what makes these books such a find. They exude old world charm.

However, even though I love how books charm any space no matter how they are arranged, I do have a favorite way of displaying them and that way is by color coordination! I love to place all the greens together, all the blues, all the reds... it makes such a statement. When books are organized by color, your eye will instantly be attracted to it. There is something so alluring about that set-up, I can't quite put my finger on it, but I LOVE IT SO MUCH! Where I work we have this 18th C. Apothecary cabinet (depicted above), I staged it just last week with books grouped by color and it is a hit! It's the first thing everyone sees when they walk in the store and everybody comments on it. It's a fantastic design tip, and so easy... as long as you are not color blind. :P

I even used this functional design approach the other night when I was helping the dear, sweet boy in my life organize his MASSIVE closet (Not fair, it has a window... natural light!!! Uh, hello??? Who has that in their closet?!?!) If his closet where mine, I would have a delicate, little chandelier hanging from where his exposed bulb is, a huge mirror that covers his barren wall (where I hung all his art under his bed that he loves), a beautiful 5 foot round rug in the center and atop it a lovely dressing bench, and my Great Grandmothers Armoire (ya, its that big). But, its not my closet. :( Anyway, after completely reorganizing the whole thing, we had left all these books scattered on the floor. He didn't want them back in his closet for clutter reasons (he is quite the minimalist) but I had a plan. So I shoo-ed him out of the closet and I got to work... stacking the books vertically, horizontally, diagonally, and the finished look was very cool. Now he's sees a groovy "work of art" when he looks at those books instead of a "feng-shui nightmare"!

A Niche With a Hitch

2009-09-12T08:43:00.000-07:00

A lot of my friends and people I know in general have been purchasing new homes (built in 2000 or later) in recent years, and I have found that every single one of them have serious design challenges. I can think of three homes right off the bat that have these small little nooks/niches, some may even call them rooms (I wouldn't) that are too small to serve a purpose it seems but they have a fire place and a mantle!!! And we all know that fireplaces add value to any home and are always a main focal point! Of course all the "new home" fireplaces are electric, and I absolutely despise the idea of curling up to a fire lit by a flick of a switch.... they don't even produce enough heat to warm your back when you sit right by them, let alone emit a glowing ambiance and a warm, toasty feel. I have memories of waking up on freezing cold mornings and walking downstairs and before even turning the corner I could hear the roar and crackle of the fire in the living room. I loved it, I still love it! My mom would always get onto my dad about building such huge, blazing fires, but she loved them too. We have had to repaint the mantle a few times because the tawny shade the roaring fires give our creamy white mantle, but whats a few brush strokes compared to a warm, comfy house full of sweet memories. That was a lovable trip down memory lane, but let me get back on track, I could reminisce forever (& a day) :)

So, homes with these odd little spaces... the pic I posted above is how you work a space like that. Just draw on your own sense of style and what visually kindles you the most! Mix the old with the new. The formal with the informal. Take those two wing-back chairs (undoubtedly a enduring classic) you inherited from your grandmother with the out-of-date (conceivably never in good taste) pink upholstery and make them your own, something that you will forever cherish and love. Go to your local art store and buy a massive canvas and channel your inner Van Gogh. Don't frame it and don't hang it, let it lean against the wall atop the mantle and viola, effortless elegance! Throw in a couple of neat pillows, a fantastic floor lamp, add some accessories that have meaning (don't buy a vase on clearance from Pier One people, be imagintive!!!) and you'll have a little niche where you can read the latest best seller, play your guitar, paint at your easel, blog about your ideals, or in my case, get lost in piles of design magazines!

Soft & Warm

2009-09-11T23:59:00.000-07:00

If this room were a shoe, it would be a classic, chestnut colored Ugg boot!

Most all the elements in this room are organic, and I typically think that a room with an “organic overload” seems unadorned and lack-luster. But this room is none of those things. What speaks to me most is that leather chair, omg, I love it! It is a wing back, but not of traditional design, it has more of a mod look to me. And with that old, worn-in, well-loved, chocolaty leather, it has such a “cigar bar” feel. I also love the deer silhouette. It would be a fun project to do your own interpretation of it, an inspired reproduction if you will… an imperfect, slightly abstract outline is what I envision. That effect would make the antlers look especially awesome.

T his room seems brilliantly put together and whoever dwells in this attractive space is one lucky person! I bet the last accessory put in this room was the lush greenery. Placed in an old rusty urn, it’s the absolute perfect piece to bring everything together. The perfect pop of foliage, if you ask me! :)

My Love Affair with Grey

2009-09-11T23:49:00.000-07:00

This room is the reason for my love affair with grey. Vanessa deVarga’s designs are truly one of a kind, she is amazing. I’ve never seen anything quite like them.

The overall all eclectic design of mixing the old with the new and the the wildly ornate (like her vintage gold mirror from Wertz Brothers) with a minimalist approach (suggestive of her white Ikea console) – it’s been done before, I know. However, there is something about the way she spins it. It’s just different. Her work translates to photo brilliantly and I am sure it is even more stunning in real life.

There is such a sense of freedom when you approach design with no set “style.”

Paint color: Sparrow by Behr

Lamps: Urban Outfitters

Vintage ottomans: The Opportunity Shop

Bliss from a Burlap Bench

2009-09-11T14:19:00.000-07:00

From the South of France, this old thing arrived in need of some serious TLC… and that we gave it. I was offended when I first saw this bench with its ratty old chartreuse tassels and wildly mismatched upholstery. It was a sight for sore eyes to say the least. And look at it now, handsome as ever. Covered in a vintage burlap sack, my boss and I decided it would make a great covering, and that it did. Typically we use snow white or ivory colored linen or canvas to cover our pieces, so this neutral burlap helps in keeping our upholstered items cohesive. However, the sherbet-orange horizontal stripe and the coarse, sacking weave makes it a bit different and particularly awesome!!!

Everything is just right...

2009-09-11T11:00:00.000-07:00

Here I sit on this lovely little tuffet, at this fantastic 19th C. French writing desk, thinking about how 200 years ago some one was journaling with their feathered fountain pen, and here I am, blogging. I wish I could maintain its functional integrity, but I am a child of the technological age and my calligraphy isn’t that great, so I will preserve its physical integrity by making sure my Diet Coke stays on its coaster.

Anyway, back to my beautiful aesthetics. Leaning oh-so casually against the Venetian plaster walls behind my computer screen is this grand 19th C. Louis Philippe gilded mirror that reaches over five feet tall. A Heeley candle is burning that smells of fine leather and I can’t help but to feel so blessed that this environment is where I work.

In any case, I am feeling very inspired and I have found myself in this enthused mood all the time as of late. I have worked at this wonderful store for just over a month and two weeks ago we received a container from France and today is the first day where I don’t have a tapestry to hang or a sideboard to stage. My work here is done, for the time being. And so, to prevent my inspired spirits from going to waste by frittering away my time on the numerous design blogs that I love, I had an “ah-ha” moment… I should start my own blog.

So I will, so I am, so I have!