lucky little stars

Summer Slacking

2011-08-29T19:30:00.018-04:00

While the season of Summer still has a few weeks to go, the reality is that Summer is quickly coming to an end.

School is starting, parents are out shopping for their kids’ new clothes and school supplies already, and college students are preparing for their annual return to campus.

What’s a person to do with the last few remaining weeks of Summer???

Jam in as much stuff as humanly possible before the reality of the Fall hits.

That's what!

My list includes, time at the park, boating on Lake St. Clair, hitting a few flea markets and tag sales, and the end of Summer street fairs.

Early Morning at the Pier Park.

Boating on the Lake.

Although I took the whole, entire summer away from blogging, I've been keeping up with all of my favorite bloggers. I'm so inspired and motivated seeing the cool projects you all have gotten done... I can't wait to get going myself.

I'm on to tackling house projects in ernest. These are my inspiration pics...

Via Hodge:Podge

I got some serious inspiration from Barbara, over at Hodge:Podge.

I spotted this fabric (Richloom's Lucy Eden) on her lovely blog

and was instantly smitten.

She graciously researched the fabric for me and sent me a link...

Thank you for your help and for the mention today... I am much obliged!

(And for those of you love a good DYI, you've got to pop over here and check this talented lady out!)

This is the vibe I'm shooting for in my Living Room.

I love the casual, colorful, comfy look of this room... it's totally my style.

Via Pintrest

I really like this one too... I love pink and I'm a total book nerd so

naturally, I'm all about this room!

Via Pintrest

WARNING!

I think you should all sit down before scrolling any further.

Because this is what I'm working with. It's a little rough,

but it's all mine!

I'm starting in the Living Room, which is connected to the Dining Room on the left side and connected to the Office on the right side.

Good blank slate... Right?

Uh, yeah... Removing the old window treatments, patching and painting

is first on my agenda... Then window treatments, light fixtures and

the floors after that... !!!

All in all, the Summer has been a great time to relax, recharge and re-organize my resources and my life. Not just my outside life, but my inner life as well. It was great to take stock in how things are going, what changes I'd like to make, and set the plan in motion for the fall. Because once September comes, all

h-e-double-hockey-sticks usually breaks loose and time once again becomes a commodity much in demand, but short in supply.

So until then, enjoy the rest of your summer and I’ll do the same!

What are your end of the Summer plans?

Let the Sunshine In!

2011-05-10T12:55:00.005-04:00

Anyone who lives in the Mid-West knows that the weather has been dreary...

very dreary.

So I've decided that the only answer is to let a little of the sunshine in

by finding pops of yellow to inspire and energize

me and my home.

I think it's working!

Forsythia bush outside.

House Beautiful.

Domino.

I'm obsessed with this Jonathan Adler pillow...

Jonathan Adler.

Coastal Living.

Look what I found on Ebay... I could easily find a spot for these

Hollywood Regency faux bamboo caned chairs.

$199 for the pair.

Ebay.

I recently found this super talented textile designer named Holli Zollinger. This is one of the fabrics in her "Forsythia & Earth" collection. You can check out all the designs here at Spoonflower.

Holli Zollinger, "Forsythia & Earth" Collection.

Nothing says Spring to me like a lovely wicker purse.

I think I need this little Kate Spade bag!

Kate Spade, Eastward Avenue Quinn.

Perhaps I'm going too far now but

isn't this Chanel nail varnish in "Mimosa" yummy?

Chanel.

Even my toes are in on the action!

What do you do to bring the sunshine in?

Preserving the Past

2011-04-11T21:56:00.006-04:00

Those of you who know me, know that my first love has always been history. More specifically, the Civil War era and the grandeur of the antebellum homes of the South.

While perusing my latest Garden & Gun magazine, I came across a fascinating story about a book called "Gone: A Photographic Plea for Preservation."

Photographer and architect Nell Dickerson began her exploration of antebellum homesteads with encouragement from her cousin-in-law renowned Civil War historian and novelist Shelby Foote. Her passion for forgotten and neglected buildings became a plea for preservation.

Lives were not all that was lost during the Civil War. Many of the South’s grand antebellum homes that weren’t burned by Union troops were left to fall into decay. But Nell Dickerson’s new book manages to capture some of these culturally important structures—and the history held in their eaves.

House, circa 1859, Restored 2010, Bolivar County, Mississippi

Parlor, circa 1859, Bolivar County, Mississippi

House, circa 1843, Fayette County, Tennessee

House, circa 1861, Claiborne County, Mississippi

House, circa 1860s, Ste. Genevieve County, Missouri

House, circa 1859, Bolivar County, Mississippi

This circa 1845-1850 house was photographed a year before Hurricane Katrina in Hancock County, Mississippi.

Dickerson’s haunting photos depict trees growing through grand parlors, crumbling mantles, and ghostly columns standing silent. The images are accompanied by Shelby Foote’s “Pillar of Fire” (a fictional account of Union troops burning down a family home in front of its owners). The book ends with a plea from Dickerson: “Do whatever it takes to keep the stories alive. Our personal history is part of our national history, and we should pass it to our children with great reverence, because it is not just who we were, but who we are.”

I would love to find one of these structures and turn it back into a home.

Maybe someday...

Off the Usual Subject

2011-03-21T14:34:00.009-04:00

I don't know why, but lately I've been obsessed with baby clothes.

I love shopping for my nieces and nephews and dressing them up.

Next to interior design... this really floats my boat!

Unfortunately, I don't know the sources for many of these pieces

but they are too cute not to share!

Little Mouse Mary Janes.

Hand Knit Button Front Sweater Dress.

Kids Moto Jacket.

Cloud Leggings.

Flapper Ruffle Dress.

Newsboy Cap and Kitty T-shirt.

Hand Knit Asymetric Cardigan.

Black Ruffle Front Button Down Coat.

Chevron Onsie.

Swingy Trench with Burberry Wellies.

Hand Knit Ice Skate Slippers.

Most of these things are from zulily.com

and some of the sweaters and slippers are hand knit

and can be found on Etsy.

If I figure out the sources, I'll update this post.

Happy Saint Patrick's Day

2011-03-17T04:55:00.008-04:00

May your home always be

too small to hold all your friends.

~Irish Proverb

Hand Knit Starmore Traditional

Aran Cable Blanket.

Restoration Admiration

2011-03-15T16:58:00.004-04:00

The Spring 2011 Restoration Hardware catalogue is really something. My copy is worn, dog-eared and flagged. It is that good. Here are a couple of my favorite things that I can't live without.

Victorian Hotel Pendant Light.

I love the intricate open metalwork with the internal candelabra, in a

polished nickel finish.

Want one!

Professor's Leather Double Chair.

Covered in this buttery vintage cigar leather with

hand hammered brass nail head details.

Flatiron Collection.

These awesome handmade tables are solid reclaimed elm doors.

Each table top is selected, planed, sanded and finished by hand

for a warm antique, industrial patina.

L O V E !

Astoria Hotel Magazine Rack.

This magazine caddy is crafted with cast ball joints and

the gleam of old brass. Nothing ordinary

about this magazine rack.

French Academie Iron Bed.

I'm loving the use of industrial materials

and masterful finishing techniques,

this reproduction looks very much like it's

early 20th Century French predecessor.

Comes in all sizes, too!

Arc Bracket.

I'm all about this architectural ironwork...

Just like the stuff found in the grand

20th century train stations that

have inspired these shelving brackets.

Unexpected goodness!

And who knew that Restoration Hardware carried baby clothes?

Their pure organic cotton layette looks so soft,

it's got to feel great against baby's skin.

Everything is unisex and machine washable.

The prices are quite good too!

If you haven't seen this catalogue, you have to get your hands on one.

It feels like a big glossy design magazine of years gone by.

It's stuff like this catalogue that has me resisting

the on-line digital magazines.

Which do you prefer?

Valentine's Day

2011-02-13T23:13:00.004-05:00

This Valentine speaks to me.

You can get it here at Owly Shadow Puppets

Etsy Shop.

So original and unexpected!

Totally LOVE it!

That one little word frees us of all the weight and pain of life.

You can never lose by loving. But you will always lose by holding back.

Happy Valentine's Day!

And remember to spread the love around today!

xoxoxoxo

-ME

Malm Fireplaces

2011-01-23T21:37:00.007-05:00

I know there seems to be a bit of a theme developing here... but it's so dang cold here that all I can think about is how to get warm.

As most of you know, I moved last year into a sweet little place...

with no fireplace. What a mistake!

I've always lived in homes with a fireplace and I guess I didn't realize until now, just how much I'd miss it!

So, here's my idea.

MALM!

via Apartment Therapy

Malm has been manufacturing fireplaces since 1960, in Sonoma County California, not far from the internationally-known California wine country. Their fireplaces come in either traditional designs or more sophisticated and modern styles.

Malm's most unique features include its use of a broad range of materials and its willingness to custom design fireplaces for interested

(code word for wealthy)

customers.

via The Estate of Things

Besides the obvious design advantages of a freestanding fireplace, having the fireplace in the center of the room means more heat can radiate into the air, improving the fire's efficiency. The use of lightweight metals has advantages over the heavy stone typical of "old-style" brick- since there is no need to heat hundreds of pounds of bricks, these fireplaces heat up much more quickly, radiating useful amounts of heat into the room sooner.

Finally, viewing angles for the fire in a freestanding fireplace are much larger than would be available otherwise. Huge bonus!

Malm fireplaces are available in many porcelain colors as well as brass, stainless steel, nickel, copper plated or matte black finishes.

I'm convinced!

via Malm

I'm blown away that they still make these beauties...

I soooo hope I can make one work in my place!!!

Cold Days, Warm Blankets.

2011-01-18T10:33:00.010-05:00

As the temperature continues to dip today, thoughts of snuggling up under a great blanket take over. And the blanket that always comes to mind is the classic Hudson Bay Point blanket. These blankets just ooze cozy, rustic, and old school charm. I really noticed a resurgence in popularity of these blankets that seemed to coincide with the 2010 Winter Olympics last February in Vancouver. Although the design has remained largely unchanged for 230+ years, they still manage to look modern, streamlined, and cheerful in any room. They seem most appropriate for log cabins but would be just as home in a modern downtown loft.

via The Marion House Book.

via Elle Decor.

via Houzz.

via The Marion House Book.

The Hudson Bay Point Blanket might be the oldest and most identifiable Canadian tradition. These blankets were originally created in 1780 for fur trappers, traders and natives to survive outdoors in frigid Canadian winters. The point system is used to rate the warmth and size of the blanket. These blankets are such high quality and so highly valued that they are often handed down through families and found for hundreds of dollars on ebay and in thrift stores.

via Re-Nest.

If you ever happen upon one, grab it up!

They are worth every penny!

I'm Not Worthy!

2011-01-15T21:13:00.011-05:00

I'm so excited to have gotten a "Stylish Blogger" award from the uber talanted Fran from Green Street. Truth be told, I'm not so sure how stylish I am but one thing is for sure...

I love me some awards!

It's funny, but anytime someone says "You've won an award" (which doesn't happen very often, incidentally) my mind goes right to that "Christmas Story" movie where the father wins that hideous leg lamp and brags to all his friends and neighbors that "I won it... it's a major award!"

I don't know why, but that just kills me!

Now, for the 7 things about myself...

1. I don't wear socks. No matter the temperature, outfit or occasion, never.

I hate the little seams that go across the toes.

They bother me to the point of distraction.

It would take 30 minutes in the morning before school

for me to adjust and re-adjust the location of the seam

just to be able to put on my shoes.

2. I have been to all 50 States and all the Providences in Canada.

3. I attended Catholic school for 12 years (4 of which were girls only) before going on to college

where I was majoring in Nursing and Biology.

4. Back in the day, I had a huge crush on Steve from the children's show,

"Blue's Clues".

I thought he was so sweet and so good with children.

Very "boy next door-ish".

I wont get all into that weirdness...

(In fact, maybe we should just keep that one to ourselves, OK?)

5. While I was in College, I worked at Grosse Pointe Indoor Tennis Club

as a USPTA tennis teaching professional.

I helped develop and implement the tiny tots program.

Super fun job!!!

6. Some of you may already know this, but I have an incredible weakness for fabric. All kinds of fabric. It's my achilles heal.

I also collect skeleton keys from all over the place.

In my last home I had them displayed on a wall in the entryway.

7. Last but not least, I started this blog because of my Sister-in-Law.

We live quite a long distance from each other

and even though we were always friendly with one another,

we weren't exactly good friends.

Almost one year ago, I was in Connecticut visiting.

It was on that trip that we discovered our mutual obsession with interior design.

We really bonded over blogs and decided to jump to the otherside

and start our own blogs.

Without her encouragement, support and ever positive attitude,

I would never have started blogging.

Thanks Fran!!!

I would like to pass this award on to:

Cara at Lilac and Grey

Carmie at The Single Nester

Elisa at What the Vita

As part of accepting the award, they'll...

+ Thank and link back to the person that awarded them {me}

+ Share seven things about themselves.

+ Pay it forward to some recently discovered bloggers.

+ Contact those bloggers about the award!

8500 Square Feet of Goodness

2011-01-11T12:35:00.007-05:00

Over the Christmas holiday, my fabulous Sister-in-Law (who I don't spend nearly enough time with) and I had the opportunity

to go to Ann Arbor to check out

The Treasure Mart.

It was gooooood!

Open since 1960, The Treasure Mart has been committed to reuse, recycling and repurposing. The constantly changing inventory of gently used merchandise includes beautiful antiques, nostalgic collectibles, a wide variety of useful household items. They sell everything on consignment which means money spent at this store will go back into the hands of the local community.

I love that.

Another interesting feature of shopping at The Treasure Mart is the monthly price reduction on all items priced at $5.00 or more.

An item that has been in the store for a month from the date on the ticket is 10% off, 2 months 20% off, 3 months 30%, etc.

This ensures quick turnover and great deals!

While wandering around the three floors and 8500 square feet of "packed to the rafters" goodness, we came across this little beauty for $75.00.

I had to have it.

And now, I can't get this image out of my head...

Is it too crazy or should I be like Nike and

"Just Do It"??

I know it's only paint, but I'm a committment phobe... hahaha!!!

I'd love to hear your ideas!

I Have a Confession.

2011-01-05T22:21:00.005-05:00

I have a confession.

I am not a fan of the whole “New Years Resolution” thing.

It’s not that I don’t get the appeal. Believe me, I do.

A New Year feels untarnished by bad choices, untouched by drama.

It feels full of possibilities and second chances.

We all know that a turn of the calendar does not absolve us of our choices,

or rid us of our demons,

or serve as a free pass for a do-over.

So this year,

instead of setting silly goals and

making a bunch of promises to myself

about living like I ought to anyway...

I'm just going to

spend more time with these guys.

nieces & nephews

My favorite people in the whole wide world!

Welcome 2011!

All Roads...

2010-12-24T22:10:00.006-05:00

On Christmas Eve... all roads lead home!

Last minute Christmas gift suggestions:

To your enemy, forgiveness.

To an opponent, tolerance.

To a friend, your heart.

To all, charity.

To every child, a good example.

To yourself, respect.

Merry Christmas Friends!!!

I Wish...

2010-12-16T14:20:00.001-05:00

I wish I was here...

Telluride, Co.

DYI: A Little E.R. Inspiration

2010-12-08T16:28:00.009-05:00

Remember this little number from Eddie Ross? I still love it and I still haven't made one.

This Christmas, I'm trying to be a little "craftier". And I have a lot of you ladies out there to thank. I've been so inspired by some of your projects that I've decided to try an easy one myself. So, I'll start out with a simple "Eddie Ross" inspired outside wreath.

I like the idea of using non-tradional colors. It's fun and less expected than the usual Christmas colors.

I really like this ribbon for some reason... I'm using it!!!

So I pulled out a couple of lengths, and fashioned this bow.

(Always the hardest part for me)

Next, I went to my favorite Big Lots and found these great shatterproof ornaments for $2.99 a box.

I sorted through all the ornaments and decided to use only the matte finished ones.

Then, I found an old wire hanger and bent it around into a circle with a little hook on each end.

Then, I just started stringing the ornaments onto the wire.

When I used all the ornaments, I bent it back into a circle and attached the two ends using the hooks I fashioned on either end of the wire hanger.

Then I just fastened on the bow... and DONE!

Now as I look closer, I wish I would have changed some of ornaments around for better color distributation and made a bigger bow... !

It's no "Eddie Ross Wreath" but it's not bad, huh?

Rent the Runway... Brilliant!

2010-12-06T19:03:00.013-05:00

The attic of my parents' house is a graveyard of dresses from years gone by. Prom dresses, bridesmaid dresses, dresses worn to formals – you name it, and you can find it up there. Seriously, I put Katherine Heigl’s 27 dresses to shame. And the worst part of it all is that these precious and costly dresses only saw the light of day once in their entire existence. They got all prettied up, made their debut, and then got stuffed back in the closet never to be seen again. Honestly, it’s a little heart-breaking.

In this day and age of recession and cutbacks on my wardrobe, I simply can’t afford to keep on living this way. Which is why RentTheRunway.com is such a lifesaver. Their slogan is “Love. Wear. Return.” and one look at their website will have you clutching your chest believing the "big one" has finally struck.

This mail-order service (I liken it to Netflix for fashion) allows women to rent high-end fashions and accessories for about one-tenth of the retail price. Running from $50 to $300 for a four-night loan, that M.Missoni dress you've been eyeing will be delivered to your doorstep, in TWO SIZES just in case. After you’ve had your fun, you simply mail it back to the company (at their expense) and they take care of the dry-cleaning. It’s so effortless I may slip into a fashion coma.

Do you know what this means? Never spending a fortune on a dress you’ll probably wear once before it goes out of style. Always looking better than everyone else at the party because you’re in the latest Christian Siriano design. And finally, the end of outfit-repeating. I’m literally hyperventilating at the thought.

Praise be couture, Rent the Runway is Mecca. Now I just need somewhere to go.

Meet the Masterminds, Jennifer Hyman Co-founder and CEO.

And Jennifer Fleiss Co-founder and President.

Check out a few pieces in their collection that are available to rent today...

California Dreamin' gown by Matthew Williamson

Retail price $2,195

Rental price $300

Sailor Bandage Dress by Hervé Léger

Retail $1590

Rental $150

A Formal Affair Dress by Carlos Miele

Retail $1,575

Rental $200

Sail Away Dress by Milly

Retail $425

Rental $50

Princess Sweetheart Gown by Bibhu Mohapatra

Retail $3500

Rental $350

Varsity Dress by Pency

Retail $475

Rental $75

Aqua Ombre Bacall Earrings by Elizabeth Cole

Retail $196

Rental $25

Miriam Haskel Interlocking Pearl Necklace

Retail $300

Rental $35

Midnight Blue Blait Necklace by Gemma Redux

Retail $680

Rental $50

Cherry Bomb Handbag by Judith Leiber

Retail $1595

Rental $150

Dreamweaver Clutch by Judith Leiber

Retail $1695

Rental $150

Coeur De La Mer Clutch by Judith Leiber

Retail $2295

Rental $225

With Christmas and New Year's upon us and party dresses a must...

What do you think of renting a dress? Is it kinda gross or is it a totally fantastic option considering the money you could save??

I'd love to hear what you think!!

P.S. I got a little sidetracked on my DIY's. I'll post them very soon!

Dreaming of a White Christmas...

2010-12-02T22:22:00.005-05:00

Today, we got our first good snow of the Winter.

Everything looks so clean and bright!

I hope this is what Christmas will be like!

I'll be spending the weekend decorating, baking and finishing up a couple of DIY's.

Tune in on Monday for the finished projects!

Merry Weekend, Friends!!!

Wait just a minute... Upside Down Christmas Trees?

2010-11-30T05:10:00.012-05:00

Over this past weekend, I took a lovely walk through my neighborhood to check out the festive Christmas decorations. For me, this time of year awakens a feeling of warmth, family, and tradition. In my travels, I was a little taken a back to see my neighbor setting up his beautiful Christmas tree, upside down. Stay with me here... It’s not April Fools. Now, upside down Christmas trees look a bit surprising (to say the least) but it seems that they might actually be the real deal. With a little research, I found out that this tradition may actually go back way further than the upside right ones! Apparently, when the tradition was first established, people wanted it to be obvious that the tree was not some trivial floral decor idea. To give it more meaning, they had to hang it upside down... of course! Ok, that's my slightly skewed, super-duper abridged version of the story {you're welcome!} but if you're interested in the real story you can go here to read more! And if you are really feeling adventurous this year, go here for a complete "how to" guide for hanging your own tree upside down.

Tampines One Mall, Singapore.

Traditional Trinity of Fir Branches.

St. Peter's Rectory.

via

Whether or not you’re into the idea yourself, the fact is that it seems to becoming a fast growing trend. And trends catch on pretty quickly. Come to find out that nearly any tree shop will sell upside down artificial Christmas trees. White upside down Christmas trees, pink ones, plastic ones, or even real ones. No joke. You can call yourself a traditionalist, but if the real tradition is in the upside down tree…

Then where have I been?

B & B interviews Tom Buckley

2010-11-19T14:41:00.010-05:00

I'm still catching up on all of my required reading, so some of you will have already read this. But for those who haven't read it yet, there is a great interview on Balustrade & Bitters with Los Angeles-based interior decorator Tom Buckley. Buckley relocated from New York to LA in 1969, after 20 year at the legendary design firm McMillen. He’s been crafting beautiful rooms in Los Angeles ever since. Unfortunately for design mavins, examples of his talent have rarely been published. Being the perfectionist that he is, photographs didn't adequately capture his use of color, so he did not have them photographed at all. Such a shame for us fans! I do know that what photos we do have, I absolutely L.O.V.E.! Bottom line, Tom Buckley has exquisite taste!

I particularly loved this part of the interview about following your instincts as a designer:

I believe instinct is that little inner voice that says to you, “Do this, do that, or that is it, that’s the right chair.” Every time I’ve violated that rule, I’ve gotten into trouble. My little inner voice says,”I don’t think you should do this.” And I think, “Oh, shut up, I’m gonna do this, it’s gonna be fine.” Sometimes it works out and sometimes it’s been a disaster. I should have listened to that little inner voice. I believe we all have those little inner voices, all we need do is listen.

Go here to read the entire interview. It really is fascinating glance into the mind of one of great designers of the last century.

All images via Balustrade & Bitters.

I think his room designs are just as relevant now as they were 40+ years ago...

What do you think?

Blog Makeover

2010-11-12T17:53:00.003-05:00

I think I've been going through some *ahem* seasonal things... so I decided to spiff up the ole blog and get psyched up about posting again. Well, we'll see if this works!!!

A very special thanks to the wonderful and talented Jenna, over at {q.a.} design for the makeover! If you ever need a little change or a whole new look for your blog... seriously, she is your girl!!! If you have a little time, jump on over to her etsy store to do a little Christmas shopping! Great stuff!

Fall Clean-Up

2010-10-15T10:21:00.005-04:00

I'm off to the Irish Hills to help my parents with the Fall clean-up. Leaves to rake, boats to put away, furniture to store and cover... it should be a beautiful weekend!

Via Getty Images.

Any Great Fall Weekend Plans?

I would love to hear about what you're doing!

Painted Furniture: Lucas Rise

2010-10-11T16:46:00.009-04:00

After my last post about whether to refinish or paint my newest find, I was perusing the interweb to find some images of painted furniture. I came across this incredible artist named Lucas Rise. Based in Buenos Aires, Lucas creates incredible mural-like paintings on furniture that range from 1960 psychedelic to tribal-themed patterns. I am blown away by the level of detail in each piece and immediately felt the urge to bust out my paints and get to work on something in my house. Being a realist, I know that I would wreck anything I painted, so for now I’ll have to live vicariously through Lucas’ pieces. Check out his full portfolio here.

Lucas Rise... easy on the eyes.

All images via Lucas Rise.

Good Stuff, Huh?

Look What I Found!

2010-10-08T20:16:00.007-04:00

Look what I found... My friend just moved and he was trying to sell everything that wouldn't work in his new place. Guess how much I paid for it? Go on... guess! Would you believe he gave it to me in exchange for a batch of homemade cookies! Awesome, right? This piece has great bones but the finish is a little worn.

Here's my question.

Should I paint it or refinish the wood? I've been in to painting pieces but lately I've been enamored with the wood look too.

If I paint it, what color should I use?

Help!!!

Happy Weekend My Friends!

Painted Floors... The Other Fifth Wall

2010-10-05T18:42:00.015-04:00

Are you looking for a great way to spruce up your space? How about painted floors? If you need to disguise a less that beautiful wood floor, this is a great trick. Not to mention what a big bang you get for your buck. Check out these examples and get inspired!

Mary McDonald has made this soft blue and white bathroom a little bit snazzier with a painted chevron pattern on the floor. There's nothing that I don't like about this bathroom.

Domino

This costal motif stenciled onto a painted wood floor adds a playful touch to the decor. The checkered wallpaper reminds me of an old tablecloth. This draws your eyes upward to showcase the beautiful copper cookware collection.

Coastal Living

Check out this black and white faux bois treatment. It almost looks too pretty to walk on. This hand painted pattern takes the traditional wood floors from standard to stunning.

Coastal Living

This kitchen is an absolute beauty. I've been kind of obsessed with the idea of having checkered flooring somewhere in my house.

Elle Decor

This wood floor has been stained with two colors and painted on the diagnal. This makes a big bold statement, don't you think?

Elle Decor

Domino Mag had a guide on how to stencil your floors with custom patterns. Here is a playful spiral design. It really is a great way to inject some whimsey into a space.

Domino

I'm really taken with this macro gingham.

Cottage Living

This Nancy Boszhardt interior uses a wood stain to create a "rug" in this entryway. Such a clever idea. Check out that hat rack. Awesome, huh?

Alicia B Designs

This black and taupe floor is a bit dizzying at first but it shows that painted floors can also be elegant.

Joel Woodward

Painted wood floors are one of those things that you either really like or really hate. I think if they are done right they have the potential to be real show stoppers. I love them because they create interest and have the ability to make people stop and say "WOW"!

What are your thoughts on painted floors? Or as I call them, "the other fifth wall."

Fired Up About Flame Stitch

2010-09-26T23:57:00.028-04:00

Hello friends... I've returned from a rather long sabbatical (if you will) from blogging and I've missed it and you all so darn much! The busy summer didn't leave much extra time to just sit with my blogs and coffee. And quite honestly, I was a little uninspired over the last month or so. Thankfully my interior design fire has been re-stoked. I've actually got a list of things I want to post about. Typical for me, feast or famine. Maybe this is the reason why.

I really enjoy the online version of Lonny but for whatever reason, I'm the kind of person who really loves to hold a big glossy magazine. I just got my issue for 34 bucks but for me, totally worth it!

Ok, so I was wandering around doing a little window shopping and spotted a little chair in a boutique. It was covered in a beautiful a flame stitch fabric. Love at first sight. I actually had to go in and move the stuff that was draped on it to see the chair. (Naturally I didn't have my camera) but it looked very much like this.

Bargello Chair, Zoffany

I have a terrible thing for fabric. I love these swatches but looking at these is nothing compared to holding them in your hands. Ahhhhh!

Clarance House

Lee Jofa

An oldie but a goodie...

F. Schumacher

M Design Interiors

I'm a big fan of Company C, but I would really like to see their rugs in a room. It's hard to get a feel for size and scale with just floating images. I'm just sayin'.

Company C

"Dial 911, 'cause this room is on fire!"

David Hicks

Love, love this wallpaper. This colorway is sublime!

Osborne and Little Volte Wallpaper

I can't imagine how long it took to tape this off! Dramatic result though!

Apartment Therapy

I would be remiss if I didn't include a little M. Missoni in this homage to flame stitch. I've been totally crushing on this long dress!

M. Missoni

What do you think of flame stitch? Totally HOT or has that fire been extinguished?

Lighting Dilemma and Arco Lamps

2010-07-29T14:59:00.008-04:00

I have been trying to solve a lighting dilemma in my living room. There is no over head, hard wired lighting and the two lamps are just not cutting it. On one of those rainy summer days last week, I was thumbing through my old Domino magazines and came across this image... EUREKA! An Arco lamp!

Image via Domino.

The Arco lamp is one of those classic designs where form and function meet and live happily ever after. Designed in 1962 by Achille and Pier Giacomo Castiglioni, it is so practical and functional — It's a floor lamp and an overhead light! The Castiglionis' functionalism makes this design complex in its simplicity. (Whoa...That was pretty profound, huh?!)

Image via Apartment Therapy.

Image via Houzz.

Achille Castiglioni in his Milan studio in the late '60s, reading under the Arco lamp he designed with his brother.

Image via Apartment Therapy.

Image via Cote Maison.

Image via Houzz.

Image via London Homes.

I know that I'll never be able to afford a real Arco but there are some great copies out there... What do you think of these lamps? Are they over used and and cliche or do you think they are timeless classics?

P.S. Project Runway starts tonight at 9:00, so excited!

Master Bedroom Make-Over. The Plan.

2010-07-25T20:47:00.010-04:00

Hello, Hello, Hello... out there! {echo sound effect} I'm back and totally dying to blog! I've really missed all of you! It has been quite a CrAzY couple of weeks around here. Vacations, birthdays, funerals, graduation parties, more birthdays, nursing school girlfriends in town, going from working part time days to full time days all while trying to squeeze doctors appointments in... I have a whole new admiration for all of the working Moms out there, I really do not know how you manage it!

Many props and much respect!!!

Well, I'm finally starting the master bedroom make-over and while thumbing through my Anthropologie and Pottery Barn catalogues I got really inspired by the quilts. My only hesitation comes from my fear and loathing of all things "shabby chic". I think there is a fine line that you don't want to cross! The PB room below is on the good side of using quilts in bedroom design.

Image via Pottery Barn.

The room below has gone horrifically wrong... hence my long standing and totally justifiable fear!

Image via Ugliest House Photos.

Then, I saw the name of one of the Anthro quilt designers. Her name is Denyse Schmidt and she is awesome! She grew up in an old textile factory in Massacheusetts with a Father who built furniture and a Mother who was a seamstress. So naturally, she started sewing at a very early age. Later, she studied graphic design at the Rhode Island School of Design, and had several different careers over the years. She finally patched together (pun intended!) her many eclectic experiences and created her business ten years ago.

Here are a few of my favorite designs....

"What a Dish" nursery quilt. Image via Denyse Schmidt.

"Drunk Love in a Log Cabin" Image via Denyse Schmidt.

"String Theory" Image via Denyse Schmidt.

"Big Zig" Via Denyse Schmidt.

"Four Crosses" Image via Denyse Schmidt.

So here's my plan. I'm going to try to make a modern, colorful quilt as part of my bedroom make-over design. The thing is that the only quilts I've ever made have been nothing more complicated than sewing straight lines. This ought to some kinda interesting project!

This is a super simple patch work type quilt that I made for my adorable baby nephew. I sewed ric-rac around squares to hide the less-than-perfect corners and to serve as the actual quilting.

And this is one of the quilts I put together for the "Linus Project."

My Mom (who is a fantastic teacher) and I found these fabrics while in the lower level of their house during a tornado warning, in the dark, without electricity, by candle light. I'm not sure what I'll use or which design I'll try but as soon as I figure it all out I'll do a follow-up post.

What do you think of designing around a quilt?

Green Street Giveaway!

2010-07-15T12:09:00.005-04:00

My girl, Fran is having her first giveaway... a very lovely giveaway from CSN! Swing on over to Green Street and check out her beautiful blog full of great design ideas and DIY projects! Fran is super talented, with great style and taste. She never ceases to amaze with her budget friendly finds!

Green Street.

Fran and her sweet little Luke.

I'll be back with a proper post soon. The last couple of weeks have been interesting, to say the least! I'll fill you all in tomorrow! Thanks for hanging in there with me!

Happy 4th of July!!!

2010-07-01T13:45:00.002-04:00

THOSE WHO EXPECT TO REAP THE BLESSINGS OF FREEDOM, MUST… UNDERGO THE FATIGUE OF SUPPORTING IT.

Thomas Paine

Have a Safe and Happy 4th of July!

See You Back Here on Tuesday!

Musical Inspiration & Gig Posters

2010-06-28T06:32:00.024-04:00

"I've got the music in me, sweet music in me; I've got the muuuuu-sic in MEEEEE!" Ok, enough of that...

These words could very well be my life's theme, as I have always loved or been involved with music in one way or another. From the ear-splitting screeches of violin in grade school, to the constant banging on the piano through middle school and the musicals through out high school. I have been attempting to play or sing since I was a youngster.

So naturally you ask yourself, "Why haven't I heard of her on Broadway, or seen her name on the Billboard charts?" Well, let's just say that while the music may be IN me, what comes OUT of me doesn't even remotely resemble music. Heaven knows it's not something you'd ever pay to hear! I can remember Sister Corinne (our grade school music teacher) saying to us "God asks us to make a joyful NOISE unto the Lord." Thankfully, He doesn't say anything about it being in tune, on tempo, or in perfect harmony.

That is why I pay to hear others who are in tune, that play magnificently, or can actually dance while singing brilliantly. Concerts are a huge source of joy for me. Whether it be rock, classical or anything in between, I have always ponied up to hear musical acts that inspire me.

So here's where I'm going with all of this. Over the years I've amassed an extraordinary collection of concert t-shirts and gig posters. The shirts haven't fared so well over time but a few of the gig posters have. Here are some of my favorites...

Also, Nate Duval.

Again, Jason Munn.

Dan Stiles.

Mikey Burton.

Jaimes Cervantes.

Robert Lee.

So, what do you think... should I resurrect a couple of my besties, frame them and make them a part of a gallery wall?

Update

2010-06-24T13:45:00.005-04:00

I just returned from the Gastroenterologist and this latest Crohn's flare-up seems to be improving. He advanced my diet from liquids only to a low fiber/soft diet. HURRAY, no more soup and Jello! The CT Enterography is tomorrow. That should tell us definitively whether surgery needs to be scheduled ASAP or if we can hold off for a while and really prepare properly for it. I am so relieved.

Thank you all for the prayers, well wishes, and encouraging

e-mails! It really means the world to me! xo!

My 5 Summer Must Haves

2010-06-22T20:23:00.014-04:00

Rene, over at Cottage and Vine is having a linky party! She wants us to share our five "must haves" for a weekend at the beach. And being a girl who loves spending a lot of time at the beach, this one is pretty fun and easy for me. Here are my 5 must haves...

1. Givenchy Mascara. I love this applicator. It sort of grabs your lashes and applies the product from the roots to the ends. It's waterproof and it does a great job of separating and curling your lashes. It doesn't get clumpy or cakey. Totally worth the price!

2. Frederic Fekkai Wave Spray. Don't you love the nice curl/wave that your hair gets after a day on the beach? This product is great because it encourages the "pretty waves" and subdues the "frizz bomb". Which is huge for me and my ginormous head of un-ruly hair. (Bonus: it smells great too!)

3. Outlast Lipstain. I am such a fan of this stuff. It really does last for a long time and the "Nude Kiss" and "Everbloom Kiss" are my favorite summer shades. My only complaint is that it's not really moisturizing. So I put the lipstain on in the morning and apply a little Burt's Bees Lip Balm throughout the day. Perfect!

4. Essie Nail Polish. I really think Essie makes a great nail polish. And if you haven't seen the 2010 Resort Collection, you should... here. This color is called "Turquoise & Caicos" and it looks great with sun kissed skin.

5. Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch Sunblock. This sunscreen, with Helioplex technology... blah, blah, blah! I have no idea what that means, all I know for sure is that it's super sheer and drys almost instantly. There's nothing I hate more than sticky or greasy lotions. Blech!!!

What are the 5 things you can't leave home without?

Decorating Style in One Picture

2010-06-22T10:48:00.007-04:00

From the Right Bank has thrown down a challenge... Define your decorating style in one picture. This was difficult for me. My design crushes change frequently. But for right this minute, this is mine. Can you hear that? (Boom, boom, boom... That's my heart pounding!) I love the super high ceiling, the exposed beams and the wall of windows flanking the room. I think the neutral walls and furniture is nothing short of dreamy! What you can't see is the view of the ocean out the right side windows. Let me explain my obsession a little... I am a girl who grew up right on The Great Lakes in Michigan and spent a great deal of time vacationing in the Outer Banks of North Carolina. This is where my never ending love affair with large bodies of water and great rooms with a view began.

SO DARN BEAUTIFUL! Don't you think?

Image via Costal Living.

The Man Cave

2010-06-17T21:24:00.017-04:00

Does the guy in your life have a "man cave"? You know, that sacred spot he's carved out for himself in your home, the one outfitted with the ugly recliner he can't live without and the other dubious furnishings you've banned from the rest of the house? Yeah, I know. Well, this post is in honor of our guys on Father's Day.

All righty then... let's just get right to it. Men are not your "typical" decorators. (At least the ones I know!) They don't care about window treatments, paint colors or nice accessories. But if you give them a little of their own turf.... they will come up with decorating ideas galore. These "manctuaries" come in all shapes, sizes and themes. The one thing they all have in common is tons of testosterone.

I personally have trouble understanding why the XY's in our lives need their own space to watch sports and drink beer or whatever it is they do in there. And I certainly don't understand why the "bro-zone" should be where the wagon wheel coffee table goes to die; after all, isn't that what craigslist is for? (I'm just sayin'!) I really think they ought to pitch the threadbare recliner and put the collection of baseball caps or hockey jerseys in the attic. Call me crazy, but clothing is meant to be put on the body, not hung on a wall... right?

(I must confess that somewhere, deep down, I secretly like the idea that men can perform all the Cro-Magnon like offensive behaviors in there and come out when they want to rejoin the civilized, 21st century. I'm a walking, talking contradiction...)

To keep it all straight, these retreats aren't ordinary recreation rooms. Au contraire. These are rooms that fall strictly under the jurisdiction of the man of the house. In other words, NO GIRLS ALLOWED! But not all man caves are created equal. They cover a huge range of themes and styles. But they all span the ingenious depths of drinking, debauchery and self-indulgence. And some include such man-tastic features that you will have to see them to believe them.

Let's start with with this hockey themed man cave. Not too bad. Huh?

How about a little virtual golf?

Or for the Harley enthusiast...

Or the NASCAR fan.

This is a little bit crazy... looks like some kind of militia weapons cache.

Or his own personal temple packed with his favorite junk. ( I mean treasures.)

There always seems to be room for just one more piece of memorabilia… or maybe not.

And now for a couple of man caves gone terribly wrong...

I have no words, no words what-so-ever...

I can practically smell this one from here... eesh!

Now, if us girls had anything to do with it, the man cave would probably look something like this...

Or this...

Or even this.

I do think men get nervous when we get involved.

I think that they think we'll want to join them in there if it's not repulsive, stinky and uber masculine.

After all, that would defeat the whole purpose... yeah guys, we get it.

Man caves are so popular now; they even have their own TV show, cleverly called "Man Caves" on the DIY channel. The Man Caves team has renovated and built some spectacular caves and any guy would drool at the prospect of getting this team into their basement or garage. Check it out here.

The bottom line... you fellas aren't cave men. You’re just guys who haven’t shaved in three days. Now, go wash off your Pleistocene funk, turn off the football game, step away from the kegorator and for heaven's sake, stop grunting.

Does the guy in your life have a dedicated space of his own? I'd love to hear all about it!

Oh, and Happy Father's Day!!!

Graduation Season 2010

2010-06-14T09:07:00.012-04:00

I'm back... feeling better and getting inspired. Thanks to all of you for asking! Well, graduation season is in full swing and that means parties, parties and more parties! And that's just fine with me because I love, love, love to see different decorating ideas and theme set-ups. This year my God-daughter, Melissa graduated from Sweet Briar College and her brother, Richie graduated from Grosse Pointe North High School. My big sis put a lovely party together this weekend for her graduates. I'm so proud of my niece and nephew! They really are awesome kids!

Little Richie

Sweet Melissa

Beautiful garden party table set up with flowers cut right out of the garden.

And another...

And a tent shot...

Congratulations Graduates!!!

BTW, did anyone see "Design Star" last night? I DVR'ed it and haven't watched yet... was it any good?

In Search of Inspiration...

2010-06-08T11:08:00.002-04:00

I've got nothing. I am right in the middle of a huge slump. I'm feeling uninspired and a step behind the entire world. I've been here before, and I'll snap out of it eventually. But in the mean time, I'm going for a walk down the street. This is where I live. And this is where I go for some quiet, peaceful time.

Isn't it beautiful?

The above photo was taken on Lakeshore Drive, Grosse Pointe Woods. That's the G.P. Yacht Club in the distance.

This one was taken by the lakewall on the Edsel and Eleanor Ford Estate, in Grosse Pointe Shores.

OKL and Martyn Lawrence Bullard

2010-06-05T10:59:00.012-04:00

Ok, let me start by saying that I don't know how I got so into One Kings Lane.... Oh wait, yes I do... Fran! This site is kind of like those potato chips that you can't eat just one of. It's addictive! (You've been warned!)

Here's a little description ripped right from OKL... I think this description of his work is absolutely lyrical! (If it ain't broke, don't try to fix it!)

Look at the color in this room... so vibrant!

How about this pair of custom drum lampshades?

Or this cobalt biscuit barrel.

Sultan Suzani pillow.... gets me every time!

Green Étagère, to die for!

And for the piece de le resistance... The MLB "Cher" Sofa!

Now, if I only had some $$$$$!

Dream on, ME! Dream on!!!

All images via OKL.

And The Winner Is...

2010-06-04T08:25:00.003-04:00

Number 16... Erin from Skoots and Cuddles!

Who said... "oooooh! i love yummy candles!"

Erin, I couldn't agree more!

This giveaway was so much fun for me. Thanks to everyone who stopped by my little blog!

Don't Forget!

2010-06-01T13:16:00.004-04:00

Don't forget to sign up for my first giveaway.

If you have ever strolled through Anthropologie, you know of that wonderful scent that permiates the entire place. That incredibley yummy smell comes from their awesome candles! These candles are formulated to burn for hours with an enduring fragrance. The natural essences and cobalt containers crafted from recycled glass add something special to every room!

-100 hour burn time.

-Paraffin-soy wax blend, fragrance.

-5" H, 4" D.

-24 oz.

-Made in the USA.

*Tropical fruits, sugared oranges, lemons and limes, with light notes of exotic mountian greens
I will be randomly drawing the winner on Friday, June 4th. If you're feeling lucky... leave a comment!

Memorial Day

2010-05-29T16:58:00.002-04:00

Thank a veteran this weekend!

Blogging it Out?

2010-05-26T09:20:00.013-04:00

Well, I'm back in the hospital for this persistent Crohn's disease and these continued unpredictable obstructions. I know that surgery is in my very near future... I'm just not sure when.

OK, follow along because here's what I'm thinking.

Maybe I can chronicle my journey back to health... right here on LLS? Of course I'd still post about my favorite things but you know, when I started writing this, I had no idea where it would take me. I just kind of planned not to plan this blog too much. And I could probably save fists full of fabric money on psych consults by just "blogging it out"! How about that for a silver lining!

I'll keep you all updated on how things progress! Thanks friends!

Lisa Whatmough- Hippy Chic

2010-05-24T21:55:00.015-04:00

What coud be funkier than a patchwork pillow? How about a room full of patchwork sofas, chairs and ottomans! I realize that I'm a little late joining the Lisa Whatmough fan club... but better late than never, right? Well, this amazing furniture designer from London, England designs and manufactures these incredibly fun pieces of run down furniture and reupholsters them in a quirky mix of vintage and modern fabrics. She magically selects fabric in colors that ought to clash, but somehow seem to totally work. So talented! Her one-of-a-kind work is for sale at her East London shop called Squint.

Lisa Whatmough. Image via mydeco.

Images via Marie Claire Maison.

Chanel Bottle designed for a charity auction. Image via Trendhunter.

All other images via Squint and Luxury-Insider.

Such insprational happy pieces. I'm not really that much of a Boho girl or a Hippy chick... but I could totally see myself cuddling up on one of these lovelies! How about you?

I'm Done... I Think.

2010-05-22T22:20:00.015-04:00

Well, I finally finished re-styling my book case. I totally "shopped the house" and gathered up the books that I reference on a regular basis, my favorite photos and art, vases, baskets and boxes. I think that I like how it all came together but my editing eye isn't exactly seeing 20/20 lately. So I may have to live with it like this until I can decide if I've gone too far.

I may be sporting a new pair of these bad boys if my design eye continues to fail me. Hahaha....

Here is the very tragic before picture....

And *drumroll* here is the after! What do you think? Too much? Ughh!!! I just don't know!

The little vingette on top... consists of a couple of topiaries, artwork scribbled my niece when she was 2ish, a photo taken by my big bro of a house from the "Heidelburg Project" and a little "Keep Calm" print. I love these personal pieces, they make me smile!

Please forgive the very poor picture quality. My camera phone is the only functioning camera I own right now. So Mom and Dad, if you're reading this, I only have one word to say.... Birthday. (hint, hint!)

Tell me what you think... go ahead and be honest, I can take it!

My First Giveaway!

2010-05-22T10:03:00.007-04:00

-100 hour burn time.

-Paraffin-soy wax blend, fragrance.

-5" H, 4" D.

-24 oz.

-Made in the USA.

*Tropical fruits, sugared oranges, lemons and limes, with light notes of exotic mountian greens.

To enter this giveaway, do one, two, three or ALL of the following things!

1. Leave a comment with your name and e-mail.

2. Become a follower of my humble little blog.

3. Blog, and leave the address.

4. Twitter/facebook and leave the address.

The lucky winner will be randomly chosen on Friday, June 4th.

GOOD LUCK, FRIENDS!!

It's Nice...

2010-05-21T22:18:00.002-04:00

I hope you all have a nice weekend!

Nice biscuits... a personal favorite!