Monday, October 31, 2011
Monday Obsession: Tabletops by Martyn Lawrence Bullard
I'm in the process of restyling a double pedestal mahogany dining room table with Chippendale dining chairs (pics to come!) and I got to thinking about what I want to do for a centerpiece. I began flipping through several design books and was really struck by the incredible tabletop focal points created by Martyn Lawrence Bullard. I just love when design makes sense- when form and function come together in perfect harmony. There are many things you could stick in the center of a table just to eliminate that awkward bare space that begs for attention- but Martyn's placement of candlesticks and serve ware is not only visually striking, it conveys a sense of usefulness and permanence on the table. In terms of Martyn's design genius, this is only the tip of the iceberg, but for now I'm absolutely obsessing over his tasteful tabletops.
Saturday, October 29, 2011
Spooky Style
It's the spookiest weekend of the year-but that doesn't mean it has to be the tackiest. Covering my pad in cob webs and garnishing my balcony with skeletons and flashing lights has never really been my thing but I don't want my place to have to miss out on all the festivities either. On my mission to make my apartment a little less cozy and a little more creepy I found some really great items to create my haute haunted house. Happy Halloween!
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Thrifty Thursday: Moroccan Poufs
When I first saw these cute little poufs popping up in decorating magazines I was immediately drawn to them. There's something so adorable and fun about this small, multi-functional accessory that compels me to believe every home deserves to have one (or two).
I'm loving this look of opting for a pair of poufs at the foot of a bed instead of a more conventional looking bench or trunk.
Or simply sporadically placing one in your family/living room
Here's some not-so-pricey poufs- from ekenoz.com- the absolute best bargain shop for Moroccan-style furnishings and accessories.
$89.00 for a pair
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Trendsetter Tuesday: Ikat Amore
I can't get enough of ikat, and thanks to it's recent spark in popularity, ikat can't get enough of me. This distinctive pattern creates an over-the-top, ultra invigorating, aesthetic that captures the essence of an exotic Indian retreat. The best part about this vibrant pattern is that a little bit goes a long way. Mixing in a few ikat textiles or accessories with what you already have can instantly revamp your place. Ikat may be in today, out tomorrow but I will always remain a loyal fan of this playful print. I'm loving the indigo variety right now- it's cool and rich at the same time.
Image decorpad.com
Sunday, October 23, 2011
Sunday Obsession: Dash and Albert
Discovering the fabulous collection of Dash and Albert area rugs at Snappy Turtle yesterday made my weekend! I am absolutely, undeniably, obsessed with them. Usually when I make a mad dash for an item that catches my eye- I'm stopped short by the price tag, but Dash and Albert delivers the uncommon combo of quality and affordability. The plethora of contemporary prints, patterns and sizes provides endless options to coordinate with every room in your house. As if that wasn't enough, laylagrayce.com is offering free shipping on all Dash and Albert rugs so you can transform your floor with the flick of a finger. Check out some of my absolute favorites!
Friday, October 21, 2011
Fashionable Friday: Everything that Glitters is Gold
Simply put: Silver is fine, but gold is divine. If I had it my way, me and my home would be all gussied up in gold. Right now I'm dying to get my hands on an antique gold mirror and a gold-sequined top. Is there anything better than twirling around on the dance floor during the holiday season dressed as a christmas ornament? Getting ready in front of a perfectly ornate antique gold mirror would have to be a close second. I might just have to splurge and get both. Afterall, they are both timeless staples, essential... and worth every penny. Buyer's remorse, shmuyers remorse, this is an investment people. Here's some of my favorite gilded items that have found their way into my heart!
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Thrifty Thursday: Lighting for Less
I absolutely love the look of a sleek drum pendant shade. Hanging solo over a dining room table or lined up in a row in a hallway, drum pendants are truly versatile and come in a variety of sizes and colors. When I moved into my apartment I was determined to switch out the monstrosity of a light fixture that resided in my dining room. Since I'm renting, I knew it would be foolish to invest largely in the project, so I set out to find the best bang for my buck. After hours of searching I stumbled upon this little gem..
$49.95 cb2.com
The great thing about it is that it plugs into an outlet so it can literally be removed and rehung at the drop of a hat. I'm tempted to get another one to hang over my bed- but maybe I'll get this one instead..
$119.00 smartbargains.com
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Trendsetter Tuesday: Painted Portals
I'm constantly looking for thrifty ways to add interesting design elements to my apartment. I'll admit that along the way there have been some hits and misses but I'm always up to try a fresh idea with some spunk. These days I'm fanatical about the look of a painted door. I love how it's a dramatic, yet severely simple idea that everyone can try- and not to mention it sure beats having to paint an entire room! Enticing and mysterious, a painted portal becomes the center of attention in any home or apartment making this a trend that will stand the test of time.
decorpad.com
Housebeautiful.com
Monday, October 17, 2011
Rustic Elegance
If I were given the task of designing a formal dining room I would be at a grave disadvantage. The idea of filling up such a momentous space with impractical, stuffy furniture irks me to the core. My ideal dining room is one that, above all, is inviting. A place that elicits putting your elbows on the table and devouring family-style meals as memorable as the infamous conversations that take place. Glowing candles, fresh flowers and glistening mirrors are no-brainers for creating a charming ambiance, but pair them with a distressed farmhouse table and streamlined chairs and you get a look that exudes effortless elegance from every angle.
Here's some pieces I found to recreate the look
Clockwise:
1. Sheffield Side Chair in Antique Blue- $169.00 homedecorators.com
2. Garden Roses
3. Star Mirrors-$79.00 potterybarn.com
4. Athenia 5 Light Chandelier- $99.00 smartbargains.com
5. Crystorama Traditional 6 Light Chandelier- $649.00 smartbargains.com
6. Kensington Dining Table- $199.00 Worldmarket.com
7. Princeton Upholstered Linen Dining Chairs- $182.00 for a pair o.co
Sunday, October 16, 2011
Pillow Talk
When it comes to making a bold statement, pillow talk is not to be underestimated. More than frequently, I find myself tempted by the feel of a luxurious Egyptian sham or seduced by a gutsy throw pillow that really speaks to me. My on-going love affair began when I discovered how much a seemingly small sack of feathers truly has to offer. Although modest in size, the right pillow can bring life to an outdated sofa, add drama to any room and transform a bed into a cloud. They truly are the quintessential accessory to take your home from drab to fab without breaking the bank. I'm currently infatuated with these...
Friday, October 14, 2011
A Girl Can Dream...
So here it goes. After months of contemplation I am finally jumping on the blogging bandwagon! I'm a recent college grad and newlywed living in the heart of South Beach and despite my many other pursuits (and my Political Science Degree) I have been overtaken with the desire to decorate. I envision myself living in an uber posh pad equipped with sparkling chandeliers, vintage artwork and handwoven area rugs but, unfortunately, my bank account says otherwise. In my mission to overcome barren walls and sparce furnishings I have developed a sixth sense for a bargain and an even greater appreciation for affordable luxury. From one idea to the next, I hope to inspire you to create your own personal haven that's not just decorated, but Designed to the Nines.
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