Where I'd like to...

GARDEN

Like many designer's I'm drawn to aesthetics that run the gamut. I'm inspired by incredibly chic spaces, but I'm also drawn to the beauty and comfort of a country bungalow. Lately I've been tossing around the idea of starting a garden. It would be a mix of flowers, fruits, + vegetables. The layout, beauty and organization of this garden featured in this month's Country Living magazine {a publication I hadn't looked at in years, but as of late have been reading again} is amazing. I love the idea of cultivating and then serving my own organically grown food to family and friends. {there I go again, with the casual lifestyle talk}. This isn't going to happen this Summer. The best way to begin a garden {as with any design} is to devise a PLAN. Maybe I'll start sketching that out this winter!!

I love having fresh cut flowers around the house. These giant Dahlia are amazing.

Don't you just adore this outdoor entertaining space?

Another beautiful garden - on a much smaller scale

Images: Country Living

A Sunny Spot

Happy Monday - I hope you have time to relax in a sunny spot this morning; the perfect way to start the day! I can't wait for the sun to return.
I only have time for a quick note. My mother and I hosted a beautiful shower for my sister yesterday, so it was a busy weekend. I'm not sure if I have any post worthy photos, I didn't have much time to take many. I'm now off to a client meeting and have an equally crazy week. If you are on vacation, ENJOY! I'll return with a longer post soon!

Friday Finds.. By the Beach

I never tire of a home that feels livable!! Especially if it's by the ocean. I cherish the days of summer in New England. It's such a short lived season. I think I'm becoming more laid back in style with age. Maybe it's because I have a young child or maybe it's because I run around all week, so during my down time I just want to relax by the ocean with a cold cocktail, family and friends. Either way this house is inspiring - laid back with a little bit of luxe - just the way I like it!! {I remember this one from Domino}

The simplicity of Zoe Chicco's sea and sky line is beautifully elegant.

This one's my favorite!! I've just added it to my wish + "saving for" list [no more credit cards in my life}!

Images: Francesco Lagnese

Beautiful Floors....

I often begin my designs from the ground-up. Not only can a beautiful area rug make a room, it can be the impetus for the entire design! I love the three dimensional quality of these hand tufted rugs from Gan-Rugs. The product designer is listed below each creation! {so click on each photo for more info + a closer peek}

Gan Rugs - Valencia, Spain.

PET PORTRAIT

Have a furry friend that you'd like to capture? These creative images by photographer Charity de Meer are available through Jonathan Adler's NYC and Miami locations. For a personal portrait please contact: 877-287-1910 for details!

{I'm not sure how I feel about the tension created in this shot?}

Where I'd like to...

Welcome my guests

If needed the beds could be pushed together! This room is by one of my favorite designers, Tom Scheerer. The funny thing is it looks remarkably similar to the room below {posted a week ago on Shelter} and from Domino magazine. Hmmm, who inspired who? This doesn't seem to be the same home!

LOVING..

this Sister Parish Design, Inc. fabric {Burma-available in a # of colors...i'm currently using it for large pillows in a project}
which in a loose way reminds me of this beautiful note card from Linda and Harriet. {thanks Pink Wallpaper for reminding me of this great source - I am on the hunt for some simple "client" note cards!}

Friday Finds.. Rain, Rain, Go Away Part II

Wishing you a sunny, bright and green weekend! I guess the plus side to all this rain {i'm trying to think positive here} is our grass and flowers will bit more colorful when the sun returns. If you live where the sun is shining, Lucky you!! Have a great weekend everyone!

Images: My home ideas.com, ?

Good Design is in the details..

Embroidery - I still haven't tired of this beautiful room

I love incorporating interesting upholstery details into my designs. They can be done very inexpensively but in the end make all the difference..Here are a few ideas I like to use...

Nailheads + contrast banding - I love these ottomans

More nailheads + a centered print

Grosgrain ribbon, or fabric trim details {on sofas, chairs and headboards}

Create a fixed cushion {makes a comfy place to sit}

A head board made of individual panels secured to the wall

Contrast Welting + Banding

Box Pleat Skirt

Images: Domino - Krista Ewart {an oldie but goodie}, House Beautiful, House and Garden, Elle Decor, Elle Decor, House Beautiful, Tom Scheerer, Palmer Weiss, Thank you for the info guys. This fabulous stool image is via flythroughmywindow

Latest Collection..

Manuel Canovas fabrics are always on my "hit list" when I shop the Boston Design Center. Here's a peek at their latest collection. The fish print is fun and the colors are beautiful..Of course the computer never does anything justice.

{Calypso}

{Trieste}
The coral and linen version of this is gorgeous. They were out of samples..{see below}